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whatdoessunshinetastelike · 2 months

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the first five nights at freddy's game was one of the first things i remember seeing when i was younger that gave me a feeling similar to those that "liminal space" photos give off

this shot of pirate cove in particular was one of them

the star pattern felt like something i would have seen somewhere as a baby or something

also cold take ik but the animatronic designs from the first game were some of the absolute best in the series

they manage to look like they could be animatronics from an actual children's establishment during the 80s or 90s like they look friendly on stage (this is one of my favorite fnaf images of all time)

but with different lighting and just the right angle they are creepy as shit (i know this image has been memed to death but it is still freaky on its own i mean the later games can barely ever come close to this)

and these two sides of them manage to coexist. their creepiness FEELS like it could have been unintentional. they're not too cutesy to not ever be scary at all but also not overdone to the point where they just look goofy and unconvincing (looking at you, FNaF Plus)

they remind me of the Cyberamic style of animatronics from chuck e cheese where they look cartoony and cute to some but unsettling to others (as a cec/rock afire fan myself i can understand both sides)

also another cold take that i really agree with: another part of why the first game was so cool is because of how subtle the lore was

i'm not trying to be all "WAAAAAAHH BOOO THE OLD DAYS WERE BETTER THE FNAF STORY SUX" because i don't hate the story (at least in the older games) and i don't at all disagree with the choice to flesh out the story more. it was a necessary part of continuing the title at that point and turning it into a series (also, people probably wouldn't still be talking about it today)

but part of what made fnaf 1 so intriguing is that you knew nothing. you didn't KNOW who these characters were. you didn't KNOW the history of the company, or anything about those involved in creating it. you didn't KNOW if the place was really haunted or if you were just hallucinating. hell, you didn't even know much about phone guy, YOUR ONLY COMPANION, other than that he Worked In That Office Before You at some point (who knows how old those messages really were?)

the only real hints of a backstory you get are things phone guy mentions OR the chance to catch a rare glimpse of the newspaper clippings in the east hall corner

even going into freddy's knowing nothing, you can tell it's pretty run down. there is garbage all around the office and hallways, cobwebs under your desk and in the doorways, weird grime covering the walls, and clumps of wires hanging from the ceiling. multiple of these aspects can be seen in that one above image.

all of that combined with the ambient noises (the ghostly wind-like sounds, weird random knocking, distant carousel music to name a few) work to give you a sense of dread. the whole building felt haunted, not just the robots. even if you haven't read about the tragedies or heard from phone guy, you might still get the sense that something terrible happened here.

but there is one thing you do know: Fazbear Entertainment is a shady, deplorable organization. five children lost their lives to a sick individual, and they stay open. company's gotta survive, after all. assuming foxy (or any of the others) did the Bite of '87 (we are looking at a fnaf 1-only universe here) they just keep it in the building and don't bother to even remove the contraption that took out someone's brain.

and of course if you, the employee who has to look after this dumpster fire of a pizzeria, get hurt or killed on the job, to quote phone guy: "A missing person report will be filed within 90 days, or as soon as property and premises have been thoroughly cleaned and bleached, and the carpets have been replaced"

i think that quote speaks for itself

(i despise how they made the sketchiness and apathy of the company over-the-top in an effort to be funny in the later games i much prefer it being a little more subdued like this but i am getting back into boomer complaint territory so blagh)

this post is getting MUCH longer than i expected it to so here is a small list of Little Things i love about fnaf 1 that add to its overall feel that doesn't really carry over to the other games

the groaning noises sometimes made by bonnie and chica when they reach your office. what is that exactly? is it their voice boxes or whatever else inside them breaking apart? or is it the ghosts? what if those kids are still fucking alive?

the "IT'S ME" phrase that appears relatively often during gameplay. what does that mean? who is trying to talk to us? is it the ghost of someone we know, like phone guy? or one of the kids? did we know one of the kids?

the whole power outage sequence. still chilling

the foxy attack sequence. you're just playing normally when suddenly this animatronic you've never even seen before runs down the hall and pops into your office to kill you. even though the scare really only works once it's still well-done

the fact that we know nothing about our protagonist. it works in this game because it raises several questions that could be asked. who is mike schmidt? why does he keep coming back to freddy's, even though he knows it's deadly? does he want answers? or is he just that desperate for money? is he familiar with freddy's? did he know someone involved? was he the killer?

ditto but for the killer himself. back then, we didn't read about him in the paper and think of the mad scientist furry who co-founded the restaurant and built robots that killed his kids. we read about him and wondered who he was. are we him? or was it phone guy, our only friend? was the person they arrested really him, or is he still out there? and most of all, why did he do what he did?

what the hell was golden freddy? hallucination? ghost? nobody knew

the fact that foxy's eyes are always glowing while the others don't. this has no significance i just think its neat (this is true for all his future appearances too i think)

idk how to conclude this so here are some more pics that i find creepy. happy 10th anniversary fnaf heres to another 10 years of fantasy and fun

(can you tell i find chica the scariest)

#this took too long to write #five nights at freddy's #fnaf 1 #fnaf #fnaf 10th anniversary #freddy fazbear #bonnie the bunny #chica the chicken #foxy the pirate

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testosterone-perkacola · 8 months

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For the CODZ ask game: 1, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10 and 11! :D

TY FOR ASKING MULTIPLE AS WELL ILY

What game introduced you to Call Of Duty Zombies? (non-Treyarch games included) Do you remember the first ever map you played?

This is my fave question ever bc I love telling people how I fucking hated CoD at first.

I know for a fact I played/watched Nacht Der Untoten on WaW around when it first came out but I was, funny enough, terrified of zombies so I couldn't get into it at all.

Then early into Black Ops 1 being released I was so deeply invested into Left 4 Dead that I despised CoD bc people were going to Zombies instead of L4D lmao. My stepbrother was really into it and was like "PLEASE JUST PLAY A FEW MATCHES OF KINO WITH ME" and I begrudgingly did. Almost immediately I was like "Oh..... oh yeah this is.......... I enjoy this." And then I never stopped playing, 13ish years later BAYBEEEEEEEEEEEEE

5. What maps do you think are getting slept on too much/not talked about enough?

Verruckt and OG Der Riese. Maybe it's bc I'm an old man but they're so fun. People hate on Verruckt a lot bc the hallways are narrow and hard to navigate but that's why it's fun imo

6. Favorite COD Zombies quartet/squad in general, and why?

THIS IS SO HARD BC I LOVE PRIMIS AND ULTIMIS EQUALLY SM. But I'll have to go with Ultimis because they're the OGs both literally for the games and for myself. Also they're so dumb and goofy, gotta love em

8. Favorite individual CODZ character(s), and why?

Dempsey. 100 years Tank Dempsey forever. I am holding him in my teeth and shaking him violently like a dog.

He's stupid and funny as both Primis and Ultimis and I based a lot of my personality growing up on how he acts to get me thru a lot of stuff lol He's also hot but that's besides the point

(Primis Takeo is a super close second)

9. Least favorite individual CODZ character(s), and why?

I hate Misty idc

10. Any popular characters you think are overrated?

Ultimis Nikolai, don't come after me

(Primis is love tho)

11. Any characters you personally find to be underrated?

I think he's gotten more love as Primis developed but definitely Ultimis Takeo. He was the punching bag of the squad for a long time.

Also Samantha, she's such a tragic character lol (This is also speaking on WaW to Blops4 bc I haven't played any Dark Aether stuff)

#cod #tysm for the ask i love talking into the void about cod UGH #ask

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wallacejwriting · 2 years

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The Last Batch of Characters (For Now) From Book of Farside/City of Fractured Dreams

These eight (plus the minor characters) were either going in three posts or in one and frankly I'm not about to make more posts if I don't have to. Less organization.

So! This batch as Aeliana, the leader of the only "official" political party in Underside, her right hand, one of Kat's friends, the kitty cat Topside family, and my favourite forbidden romance. Enjoy!

Accessible text version below the cut.

Aeliana (She/Her) | Queer

34 yr old Undersider

Upstart politician determined to get Underside a seat at the table and a voice in Tairkyda politics

Older half-sister of Janus

Ambitious, courageous, assertive, and charismatic. Tends to get tunnel vision.

Despises Shahin and will do anything to get rid of him, as she sees him as a blight on Underside

Dog beastie with floppy ears and a tail. Also has a keen sense of smell that she can use to detect sweat and some pheromone changes, giving her an image of being able to tell when someone is lying/stressed/emotional when no one else can

Runs a massive political movement in Underside that doubles as an activist and terrorist unit

Emiko (She/Her) | Trans, Queer

28 yr old Undersider

Aeliana’s third-in-command, under Aeliana’s wife

Aeliana’s biggest fan and defender. Takes criticism of Aeliana extremely personally

Aggressive, mistrusting, observant, meticulous, insecure

Despises Kat for unclear reasons

Otto (He/Him) | Queer

22 yr old Undersider

Genius inventor who is always going underappreciated and getting dismissed by others

A close friend of Kat and her partner in finding Cináed

Deeply dislikes Aeliana and her movement, believing it’s only going to make things much worse

Fascinated by EthosTech and ArTech, but has never been able to crack either

Proud, a little goofy, excitable, and mostly just wants people to listen to him

Hitomi (She/Her) | Queer

49 yr old Topsider

Masaru’s wife and Selene’s mother

Head of the Topside spy network and a strong spy in her own right

Highly trained martial artist with beastie modifications made to accommodate her wall clinging abilities (something rare in cat beasties, but possible)

Generally good natured and good humoured, hides barbs behind teasing comments, sees far more than she lets on, pretends to be a bit of a ditz to anyone who will fall for it

Masaru (He/Him) | Queer

54 yr old Topsider

A cat beastie with big fluffy black ears with white tufts, fangs, and a long black tail with a white tip

Head of the military & the military academy of Topside

Believes strongly in law, order, and justice

Selene is his daughter. Hitomi, his wife. Loves his family, is very protective

Never recovered from losing his son, Kichirou, in class riots several years ago and still searches for answers. Blames Underside for it

A little too fanatical

Selene (She/Her) | Trans, Queer

20 yr old Topsider

Daughter of Hitomi and Masaru

A cat beastie with big ears, a tail, and fangs, as well as a cat nose

Very shy, very content with her life at the moment, doesn’t want to get in trouble or danger because she fears what happened to her brother happening to her

Very cautious and fearful. Often jumps at things

Becomes increasingly disillusioned and angered with and at the system

Eventually ends up with Kat

Hakim (He/Him) | Trans, Intersex, Queer

25 yr old Topsider

Son of a pair of wonderful mothers, one of whom is head of the Commerce & Trade Guild and is a Council member

Quiet, shy, insecure, perpetually anxious and worried

A secret Farsider. He manifested young and lost few memories, and he and his mothers have worked together for years to hide his status

Hakim can control minds and bodies via touch or song, which terrifies him and he never uses it

Tao (He/Him) | Queer

26 yr old Undersider

Xion’s older brother (unofficially adoptive)

A monkey beastie with big round ears and a long, prehensile tail strong enough to hold him and another person

A thief and a reckless adventurer always sneaking through Topside and taking what he can

Childhood friends with Hakim, from that time he broke into Hakim’s house and they became friends instead of enemies, because they’re both lonely dorks

Adores Xion and Hakim and would do anything for either of them

Minor Characters

Deceased/Missing Characters Kichirou | Selene’s older brother

Aeliana’s Crew Kasia | Wife

Shahin’s Cohorts Yazhu | 44, she/her, right hand

#writeblr #character intro #character blurb #character profile #fantasy writing #wip: farsiders #wip: city of fractured dreams #series: book of farside #c: hitomi #c: masaru #c: selene #c: aeliana #c: emiko #c: hakim #c: tao #c: otto

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eemoo1o · 2 years

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The Servant Problem

Edit: outdated opinion

Otherwise known as "The Baldroy, Finnian, and Mey-Rin Problem", because fuck them.

I get that because they're only human, and Sebastian's a demon/demonic entity, Sebastian is going to be better at them at doing their jobs and in every other way (looks, intelligence, etc), but pushing their competence down so that Sebastian's can go up is certainly not the way to do things.

It's a problem in a few shows, actually, where it's a common denominator (or should I say 'demoninator'?.. No I should not), and trope where one aspect in several characters is minimalised to almost goofy or painful levels for either comic relief or to allow the main character/deuteragonist to shine.

In Black Butler, it is unfortunately both.

How do I know? Well, from the second they walked on screen, I knew that they would annoy me.

Well, no, allow me to rephrase: I thought I was going to like them, mainly Baldroy, until Mey-Rin opened her mouth, Finnian said his first word and their first 'blunder' happened. Yeah... there's a lot of blunders.

Not only are their accents over the top - especially when sided with Sebastian's or Ciel's - but all three of them are so whiny and childish and incompetent that one must wonder how they had even scored these jobs to begin with.

As for the animation and character designs, as far as I'm concerned, their designs work. The symbolism with their hair colour works. It's one of the few things that do work with them, so lets put a pin in that for a moment.

What is also one of the very few things that I like about them is that (because they're the comic relief, and the recurring cast's own little blunders) they, unlike Sebastian and Ciel and whoever else apart from that old butler guy that's also just... there for some reason, are always drawn in a cartoonish manner. Seldom are they drawn seriously, with depth and shading and everything else. Heck, where the hell even are Mey-Rin's eyes, anymore? Does she even have them, still?

Let's start with the least ruined character, in my opinion: Finnian.

I don't like his voice. Like, really, I don't.

When he was first introduced, I took him for the same age as Ciel, and even if he is or isn't (I'm vouching for is), why make him sound like that? Let's presume he is the same age as Ciel: why is he voiced by a grown man and not a woman, like Ciel (whose voice I also have problems with, but that's another post for another day), or - at the very least - a child actor?

Let's presume he isn't. Why the fuck does he look like that, then?

Let's go back to the child thing. That could work in a way that it currently does not. Make him the blunder because of his age and naivety. Make him the anti-Ciel. His blunders because of his age could have contrasted against Ciel's stoicism and dreariness in a manner that could highlight Ciel's maturity and alienate his and Sebastian's bond/characters more than what it naturally does to itself.

Mey-Rin's next. As much as I despise her voice, it's a good casting choice for the sole ('soul') reason that they got what they were going for and it works for her character.

I don't like her or Baldroy's incompetence, though. They're meant to be long-serving, grown-up servants, and yet they're idiots. Complete and utter idiots.

Mey-Rin's fix is easier than what you'd expect: Keep the voice but quit the whining, and make her a character who's a bit more reserved and hard working, and who keeps her head down and does her job.

Oh, and get rid of the immediate crush on Sebastian, too. All it is is something that's awkwardly thrust into the plot for what I can only assume to be a barrel of laughs (I'm being being sarcastic - not only does it make me uncomfortable, just as the aunt touching up a visibly unnerved Sebastian in episode two did, but it's also a bit creepy).

Mey-Rin and Baldroy could work as guardians for Finnian, too, as a child working can't be too good, but as far as I'm aware stuff like this did, and still does, happen. But it was more common back-when.

They could be his guardians, respectively, in a sense that derives from but also contrasts Sebastian's relationship with Ciel, only in a more wholesome and perhaps natural way that we see progress as the series goes on.

Mey-Rin, acting as the second servant to Sebastian (third, if we're including the Old Guy, who for the life of me I can't remember the name of), could be silently bitter towards Sebastian for serving Ciel for less than what half of her time at Phantomhive Manor has been, and she can be privately seething, passively venting to Baldroy or maybe even the unresponsive Old Guy as she cleans or prepares trays of meals/beverages. But mostly Baldroy.

Now for Baldroy.

Firstly, let's take the pin out of the hair symbolism thing. Given how Ciel and Sebastian's black hair (and accents) alienate them from the rest of the staff/cast, I genuinely thought that Finnian and Baldroy - who are both blond - would be the ones to contrast the deuteragonists' relationship. Genuinely. Like, I'm not even shitting you.

When Baldroy was first introduced, I thought he'd be my favourite, but I was wrong. Unfortunately.

For one, he needs a better voice. It's too generic. Like, why didn't you get Jeffrey Combs? He would have been perfect. He nailed Ratchet, so he could have nailed this character. This character would have suited Ratchet. I mean, Jeffrey Combs. Jeffrey Combs would have served Baldroy well. Especially if you're gonna keep that chewing-cigarette in his mouth.

Secondly, I thought Baldroy was meant to be the cook? He's certainly dressed the part for you (and me) to assume so. So, his little 'blunder' in episode one with the meat really doesn't make any sense. Neither does him trying to catch rats in episode two out in the hallway, instead of chasing them out of His Kitchen as Finnian is the one to try and trap them and then Baldroy loans him some rat-traps.

Baldroy could have been fixed by being a competent cook. A grumpy one at that. Perhaps a father figure to Finnian (like begrudgingly, and calling him 'kid' and all that jazz). Definitely some sort of shoulder/ear to Mey-Rin as she vents about Sebastian, and how she envies/hates him.

Bonus: while Mey-Rin's venting, the camera angle could pan behind her where Baldroy's just forced to listen at this point, as he tries to seem disinterested, arms crossed, and there's that thing where Mey-Rin unintentionally shows jealousness/begrudging interest in Sebastian's attractiveness, inevitably and briefly catching Baldroy's attention.

Maybe there's this little plot point where Baldroy has a small crush on Mey-Rin, but she's too ravelled up in her one-sided hatred/rivalry with Sebastian. But I'm not so fussed about any romance stuff, as long as it keeps Mey-Rin (or anyone, for that matter) from being all creepy around Sebastian.

Personally, I just think these three guys deserved better characters and plot points. They could have had so much more.

#black butler #swear warning #sebastian michaelis #baldroy #mey rin #finny #finnian #character arcs #tropes #character improving #kuroshitsuji

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dapandapod · 3 years

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You bring me colours

Hello and welcome to mean and angsty hours. Today I bring to you a soulmate fic, but it is sad and hurtful.

Thank you my lovely enablers for helping me bringing this to life, despite my very weak protests. Be mindful, my loves, if you are having a bad day you might want to skip this one. It ends happily, do not worry, but the way there is ouchie.

Warnings; Implied character death (real and not real), vauge description of drinking and depression, just, sad in general. A little bit soft too, and hopeful, but mostly sad. Im sorry.

On Ao3 here

Everybody has a soulmate. When your One comes into the world, they bring colors with them. And when they go, so do the colors. Many a poet sings of a world gone gray, of a love unknowingly lost. Because you don’t always meet your one. For some, it is enough to know they are out there. For some, the hunt lasts their entire lifetime. Some lucky few find each other, and some never do, settling in peace anyway.

---

For Vesemir, he had color for almost a century. But a witchers life is rough, and he knows not to seek them out. Not to give hope, not to feel greed. Just gift them with colors as long as he is able. He has an inkling who is His. His One. They must know too, but they never say.

Vesemir sits at the teachers table. It is lively in the hall, the children are laughing and making a mess as children do. They are his pride and his burden. Not all will be allowed to grow up, but he will do his best to give them a fighting chance. He raises his spoon towards his mouth, the soup smelling warm and rich.

The spoon falls with a clatter to the table.

Everything is black and white.

He is in front of everybody. In charge of so many lives. He was gifted with color for such a long time, this was to be expected. But if his One is who he thinks it is, then….

The screaming begins outside. The sacking of Kaer Morhen has begun.

---

Jaskier has always seen color. Always seen the color of the sky, the flowers and the nuances of snow.

When Jaskier is six years old, that changes.

He runs to his mothers, tears streaking down his face. Her dress used to be a bright green, her eyes a rich blue.

“Where did the colours go?” He cries. He knows he is too big to cry, but he is scared and sad.

Mother seems to be sad too. Heartbroken in fact, and she picks him up and holds him close.

After that day, the only color Jaskier can see is yellow. The color of the sun, of buttercups, some cat’s eyes. Of puss, of stains and of age.

There are many ways to die. The old Geralt dies when his knife plunges into Renfri's neck.

Geralt's colors came some years ago. When it happened he didn’t panic. He followed Vesemir's advice and pushed it as far back as he possibly could. It was only a small disappointment that the world didn’t turn grey when Renfri died. Because that is what Geralt felt like.

The colours stay, and he despises them. They glare at him, blaming him for still being there. How can he think he ever deserves happiness?

-----

In Posada, Jaskier finds someone with yellow eyes. They call to him like no other, so he goes. It is the best decision he has ever made, if the most difficult one. But with Geralt around, it is almost as if his memories of colours are springing to life. Sometimes he remembers that poppies are red, that water can be rich blue, and that autumn leaves can look like a fire. The fire he remembers from his past, but around Geralt they are so vivid they almost look real.

His mother told him not to tell. To hold those memories close. She taught him the colors through names and pictures, so that if someone asked, he would know.

Jaskier knows that his lost colours means that his One is dead. Some kind of dead, at least, if the professors are to be believed. If you get to keep a colour, even if it’s just the one, there is a chance. So Jaskier leaps at every chance he gets. He is one of those who chase, and will continue to chase.

----

Geralt is reluctant to Jaskier. Reluctant, because when he is around he is starting to feel alive again. Jaskier pokes and prods and smiles and sings and talks, and it is all Geralt can do to fight it.

---

A hot summer day Geralt finally gives in and they're just being goofy and like wrestling in a river. All the sudden Jaskier can see the color of the grass and he freaks out and scrambles out of the river and just lays down in front of a tuft of grass like 'holy shit geralt look at that.”

The bard is absolutely mesmerized for a moment, but when Geralt comes to look at what caught his attention, before he catches himself. Shit. Geralt can’t know.

So he plays it off, especially when the tuft of grass slowly fades back to grey. There is a lump in his throat, hope so big in his chest he wants to explode. They are out there, his One. They are still here.

---

There are many changes during their travels. Yennefer, for one. It is with her arrival that Jaskier realizes he is in love with Geralt. Deeply, desperately in love with him.

Another change happens on a cold and lonely mountain top. Geralt finally breaks, breaks everything, and Jaskier feels a spark inside himself diminish.

The further away from the mountain he gets, the more muted the world becomes. Even his memories stay out of his reach, as in fear of the pain he feels.

----

The moment Jaskier leaves the mountain, his world goes gray. Things click into place. He closes his eyes against the pain, letting it tear through him, cut him open.

Jaskier was his One.

And he killed him.

---

Geralt doesn’t know why the sky is still blue. He doesn’t understand how Ciris cloak is not grey, her eyes as startling blue as the love he once lost.

He thought he lost Yennefer on Sodden hill, but when he meets her, she is wearing a dress the color of Jaskiers eyes.

He breaks down at her feet, finally crumbling after all this time. He tells her everything, and she wipes his tears with infinite patience. How he deserves that from her, he doesn’t know.

“Why blue?” she asks him. “What relationship do you have with blue?”

And Geralt thinks about it. It is Ciri who finally puts the pieces together. Blue as Jaskiers eyes, he had said. And if you get to keep a colour, even if it’s just the one, there is a chance, or so a bard had told her in her grandmother's ballroom.

---

There are many ways to die. Jaskier is drowning. Drowning in pain and alcohol, sinking to a bottom, looking up at a golden sun. Not even the bright yellow can cheer him up, not when it reminds him so much of Geralt's eyes.

He doesn’t chase anymore. He accepts. Accepts that he will be alone, that nobody wants to be with someone destined for no one.

---

Geralt finds him in a tavern. Geralt walks in, so Jaskier must out. The one thing Geralt asks of him, after all these years. The least he can do is listen.

But Geralt follows him outside. Grabs his arms. Cups his cheeks. Asks for forgiveness. It takes time for Jaskier to register his words, he is deep down, he is drowning. But the sun seems closer now, becking him upwards.

He doesn’t understand why Geralt is here, but his broken heart is held together with Geralt's arms around him.

---

Geralt is scared to tell the bard. After all the pain he caused, how can he possibly make things right.

Geralt does everything he can to get the colours back, but they won’t come. Now that he has had a taste, now that he knows that it was his words, not his hands, that took them, he fights. He won’t make Jaskier follow him anymore. He tries something new.

They walk beside each other, a careful pace forward is set. It takes time, but his colours return. Jaskiers smiles are brighter, his eyes cornflower blue.

Then Jaskier confesses to him, he sees no colours but gold. How he carried it inside all this time, hoping that his One is out there, and Geralt can’t wait any longer.

“I want to give them to you. The colours that you bring to me, I want to give back to you.”

And he tries. Everyday he tries. And Jaskier holds his hand all the while.

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niksixx · 4 years

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Plus One

Welcome to part 5 of Plus One. We are approaching the end of this mini fic, but do not worry my loves. We still have a few parts left. I hope you enjoy part 5, and please remember to leave comments, reblog, and add tags. It motivates me to continue writing for you all. 💜

Note: Just a reminder, though this fic may seem fast, it takes place over the course of a few months!!

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*Pia’s POV*

Eight bright, colorful beanbags are scattered around the floor in a private room at the back end of the library. It’s quiet, far away from small children who squeal excitedly when they spot their favorite comic book and a good distance away from the college students who gather at the old wooden tables to recite chemistry flashcards in one big study group.

Black coffee and burnt wood is the signature smell of the book club room. Only a few windows are open, allowing just a bit of sunshine and breeze to fill the room. The aura is comforting.

“Okay, everyone,” I say, setting the book in my lap. I believe The Catcher in the Rye is a classic, but various opinions, both positive and negative, have been directed toward the book over the years. Romance is the genre I’ve always been drawn to, fiction or nonfiction, but I can certainly appreciate a coming-of-age novel. “How did we feel about the story?”

Margaret, an elderly woman with curly gray hair and silver glasses, raises her hand timidly. It’s the first time she has volunteered to speak since the start of our club. I give her an encouraging smile, nodding. “I enjoyed it very much, though it was slow at times.”

A small contribution, but a contribution nonetheless. “Thank you Margaret. Would anyone else like to share?”

Shayne, a third-year college student, wiggles his fingers and clears his throat. “I would.” He snaps the book shut with one hand. “The book itself is enjoyable. There’s a lot of important themes that are entwined in the storyline. But Holden, and let me be clear, I feel terrible for saying this about a sixteen-year-old, was insufferable.”

“I thought I was the only one who thought so!” Stacy chirps from her beanbag. The thirty-year old mother of two crosses her ankles, drumming her fingers on the spine of her novel. “I was under the impression that Holden believed he was better than everyone else. His personality alone was enough to make me despise the book and it’s a shame. I wanted to love it.”

“That’s an interesting point, Stacy.” Setting my book on the ground, I adjust my legs deeper into the beanbag while the rest of the book club eagerly sits forward, awaiting my response. “And this is why I love reading so much. Whether the story is true or not, we know Holden Caulfield is not a real person, though there have been assumptions that J.D. Salinger modeled Holden after himself. Stacy, you said that Holden’s personality gave you enough reason to not enjoy the book. We certainly have to appreciate Salinger’s talent as an author. He was able to create a character that made you feel such strong emotions.” The club nods in agreement before I continue. “Now Shayne, you mentioned themes. Explain a bit more for me.”

“Gladly,” he answers eagerly. “Innocence. It’s the main theme. Holden, for lack of a better term, is obsessed with the preservation of childhood innocence. I do think that’s admirable, and while he was intolerable in my opinion, I can understand his desire to conserve one’s purity.”

“I assume there’s going to be a but in your next statement,” Charlie pipes up with a chuckle. The forty-seven year old retired firefighter wears a kind smile on his face.

“But,” Shayne smirks and holds up a finger. “Holden is one big contradiction, and here’s why. We know how much Holden hated the adult world and it’s “phoniness”. It’s the whole reason he wanted to preserve innocence wherever he could. Holden himself was a phony, a fake. He condemns adulthood but is seemingly unaware of his own phoniness. I now hate this word, by the way.”

A collective chuckle sounds in the room. I shake my head but can’t help the growing smile. The book club has been the highlight of my week so far.

“Anyway,” Shayne continues. “He’s deceptive and a compulsive liar. Holden is the epitome of what he hates.”

“That is a fantastic observation, Shayne, and thank you for sharing.” He bows dramatically before slinking back deeper into the beanbag. “Before we conclude our meeting and I introduce our new book, I have a question. Does anyone know why Holden’s name is symbolic to the story?”

I can see the wheels turning in their brains, and for a moment I think I’ve stumped them. Charlie looks like he wants to answer, but nothing comes out of his mouth. I take the chance to speak up. “First, does anyone know what a caul is?”

Stacy’s hand shoots up in the air. “I think I learned about this in one of my birthing classes but forgive me if I’m wrong. But isn’t the caul a part of the amnion that protects an unborn baby? Near the head, right?”

I snap my finger and point to Stacy excitedly. “Yes! And what does the name Holden sound like?”

“Holden...hold...en...hold...hold on?” Charlie asks skeptically.

“Exactly right,” I grin proudly. “Put it all together.”

“Oh my gosh,” Margaret says softly. Everyone turns toward the older woman. “In the book there was mention of Holden imagining children frolicking in a rye field. I just realized it now. He’s the catcher in the rye field, protecting the children. Holden Caulfield. Hold on to childhood innocence.”

I grin wildly, clapping along with the rest of the book club members. “Incredible, Margaret. You’re exactly right.”

“So, what’s our next book?” Shayne asks, hands tapping his thighs. “I’m feeling a mystery book.”

“Or Sci-Fi,” Charlie answers.

“Oooo, Sci-Fi,” Shayne murmurs excitedly.

“Neither,” I say, giggling at their frowns. From my purse, I pull out a purple paperback book and show it to the group. “Historical fiction mixed with romance. Our next book is The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie. I’ve never heard of it, so I’m sure you haven’t either. It’s about the same length as The Catcher in the Rye, maybe only a few pages more. Let’s all try to read the first five chapters and we’ll meet again next week.”

Stacy, Charlie, and Margaret bid farewell. Shayne stays back with me, shooting me a smirk as I gather my belongings. “Another romance novel, huh? Something you’d like to share with the class? Maybe his name?”

A slow smile spreads across my lips. I sling my purse over my shoulder, clamping a hand down on Shayne’s. “He’s a dream, Shayne. I’ve known him forever, but it’s finally official,” Two months ago, I used to cringe on the word official when it wasn’t. It still isn’t, but something between us feels different, feels real. The more I’m with him, the more I don’t want to pretend.

Shayne slings an arm around my shoulder, leading me out of the room. He’s had his fair share of relationship issues as well, but at twenty-one, he’s still young. “I’m glad one of us isn’t having boy trouble. Philip called me the other day, said he wants to get back together.”

“Are you going to?”

Shayne makes a face, opening the front door of the library. He scoots aside, letting me walk first. “Hell no, Sweets. He was a terrible boyfriend,” Shayne considers for a moment. “At least the sex was good. You think he’d settle for friends with benefits?”

I laugh heartily, pushing Shayne’s shoulder. “That’s a recipe for disaster, my friend. You want my advice? Spend some time on yourself. Find out what you really want in life.”

I head off to my car, Shayne walking the opposite way to his. Before I can slide into the seat, Shayne calls out to me. “Is he the one?”

I don’t have to think about it. It comes out naturally. “Without a doubt.”

~~~

Janielle has outdone herself, but I never expected anything less. Desserts are on every counter in her kitchen, from cupcakes to brownies and pastries. Outside on the back deck, a long white table is filled from end to end with finger foods and appetizers. With a beer in his hand, Dominic flips burgers expertly at the grill, shooting his wife a goofy grin when she utters a stern ‘be careful’. The rest of the adults gather on the patio, laughing and drinking, while the kids swim excitedly in the pool.

It’s the hottest day in August so far, and I can’t tell if my cheeks are red from the heat or from my constant ogling of Nikki’s shirtless chest. I watch from the deck as Nikki, Vince, and Amanda clink their bottles together and down their drinks. Nikki wins, throwing his hands up in the air dramatically, before turning his head to shoot me a wink. I laugh and shake my head, holding up my glass of wine that is still half full.

“So, you and Sixx,” My laughter is cut off by Dom, whose eyes twinkle with the same amusement present in his voice. “How about that?”

My stomach flips just at the mention of Nikki. “Going on almost four months,” I answer proudly, swirling the wine in my glass. “We’ve got nothing on you and Janielle, though.”

Dom smirks, carefully plating more burgers. I take the plate from him, and he nods in thanks. “Hey, not everyone knows who they’re going to marry at sixteen years old.”

This time, my heart beats faster just at the brief mention of marriage. I try not to let myself think of a long-term commitment with Nikki just yet. To everyone else, we’ve been official for a few months. But to myself and Nikki, we’re just two best friends playing a role.

“It’s too early to talk about marriage just yet,” I reply with a soft grin.

“But it’s a possibility in the future, yes?” Dom asks, stacking the last few burgers on the plate.

All I can answer with is a subtle nod just before I feel an arm snake around my waist. I crane my neck to glance up at Nikki just as his lips press a kiss to my jaw. Out of the corner of my eye, I see Dom’s lazy smile and it puts me at ease knowing that Nikki and I have done our job at convincing everyone that what’s between us is true.

“Hi gorgeous,” Nikki greets breathily. “You doing okay?”

“Never better,” I answer truthfully, leaning back into his chest. I hand off the plate of burgers to Dom before directing my attention back to Nikki. “Are you?”

Nikki nods, arm tightening around my waist. “I’m perfect.” He holds up three empty beer bottles. “Come with me?”

I nod and take his hand, letting him lead me into the kitchen. While Nikki rummages through Janielle’s fridge for more beer, I steal a cannoli from the dessert tray, biting into the sweet cream.

“I’m having so much fun with you,” I blurt out honestly, licking the cream from my lips.

For a brief second, something flashes across Nikki’s face, almost as if my statement mimicked a bitter taste in his mouth. It’s gone just as fast as it came, replaced by an easy smile. “I am too, P.”

I bite my lip as Nikki opens the three bottles, eyes lingering on his tattooed arms. He catches me, smirking. “Pretty girl, you’re not exactly trying to hide it, you know.”

I blush, looking away like I always do when a compliment from Nikki is directed my way. And because I look away, I miss Nikki freeze in alarm, eyes wide, studying me.

When I turn back around, I notice his lips are in a thin line, jaw clenched ever so slightly. “P, I think we need to talk about something.”

His voice is serious, more serious than it’s ever been, and momentarily I fear the worst. Nikki’s fingers fidget nervously, and I can tell whatever is on his mind has been there for quite some time. “Is everything okay?”

“Yeah, yeah,” It’s not a convincing answer, but I don’t say anything as he continues. “It’s more of a question, actually.” His hands fall at his side as he steps forward, exhaling a strangled breath. “Are we...what we’re doing…” His voice goes low. “We’re still pretending, right?”

There’s a lump forming in my throat, and I try my best to speak around it without giving off the impression that I’m either extremely hopeful he wants to make this real, or going to start crying because he wants to call everything off. “Yeah. Unless…unless you don’t want to pretend--.”

“No, no,” He says all too quickly, hands skimming my arms. “I like pretending. Pretending is good, safe. I just...wanted to make sure we’re still on the same page.” He grabs my hands, pressing a gentle kiss to each, before grabbing the bottles from the counter.

And as he leaves Janielle’s kitchen with a smile, I’m left standing alone and more confused than I’ve ever been.

#nikki sixx #nikki sixx fanfiction #nikki sixx fanfic #nikki sixx fic #motley crue fanfiction #motley crue fanfic #Motley Crue #nikki sixx x oc #nikki sixx fluff #nikki sixx angst

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a-really-bad-decision · 3 years

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So. Arcane.

Overall, I liked it a lot more than I was expecting to. I absolutely went into it thinking of it as The League Of Legends Show, and looking back I wish I hadn’t brought that sort of baggage. Don’t get me wrong, there were definitely pacing issues and the inevitable goofy design choices that come with video game adaptations, and you can tell where the most care and effort went into (the fight scenes). But all-in-all it was honestly just... really, solidly good.

I stand by my impression of it as “the kind of show 14 year old me would have lost her shit over.” It’s edgy, it’s over the top, but it’s also fucking gorgeous, and I fell in love the characters and setting fast. Even the ones I went in primed to dislike, like Caitlyn (because god do I despise the “restless rich kid becomes a Good Cop” backstory).

Piltover though. Ugh. There were brief glimmers of interesting plot hooks in there, mostly involving Mel and Viktor, but I cannot overstate how aggressively uninteresting I found 90% of everyone and everything topside. Especially when they cut away from Zaun to show the council arguing about how dangerous/valuable/impressive hextech is for the 25th time. I’m willing to concede that it might just be because Jayce has that kind of golden-boy narrative framing that I find deeply irritating, but still. Woof.

So yeah, watching a show where I absolutely did not care about a good 30% of the characters and plotlines was... kinda rough at times, but if anything it proves how enjoyable the rest of it is, that I was willing to slog on through anyways. Solid 8/10, really looking forward to season 2, definitely gonna rewatch in a few months once I’ve had time to digest those first impressions.

Still never playing League of Legends though lmao

#arcane liveblog #arcane spoilers #not really but just to be safe

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theficplug · 4 years

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Wild N Out - Karlous Miller

Karlous Miller x Black Reader

warnings: none, fluff

{You are the new Wild N Out girl. Fun ensues.}

Wild N Out was never your first option , hell, it wasn’t even really your last option. So, becoming the new Wild N Out Girl never even crossed your mind.

You had met Karlous at an event on a business trip in L.A. where you two had hit off and began dating ever since. You were in school to become a dentist and did modeling in your spare time, but both were becoming something you despised.

After your boyfriend convinced you that you were the funniest person he knew and your manager agreeing with him. You finally caved and went through the casting call process. Fast forward and you were chosen to be a part of Wild N Out: New School vs Old School.

The day had finally come for the first taping and rumours were that Mo’Nique and other well known fans of the show were in attendance tonight.

Karlous massaged your sides backstage and gave you a run-down of how the show would typically flow and run.

“Bae, Keke Palmer said she liked my shoes earlier and asked me where I got em from. Bae she called me a pretty girl and everything, like, I’m really doing this.” you say talking a mile a minute

“I call you that everyday now I’mma have to come up with somethin’ else. Keke just gon’ steal my girl right in front of me.” he jokes. “You gon’ be alright . It’s like a family here so everything gon’ go smooth. You up here worrying for nothing with your fine ass.” Karlous says holding your hands and kissing them gently.

“Okay, you right. I got this and don’t think just cause you my man i’mma go easy on you! You not on my team, Old School.” you say to him teasingly and the stagehand lets you both know that it’s time to go on.

“Alright but don’t be talkin bout “you sleepin’ yo ass right on that couch” when I return that heat!” he calls after you and you just shake your head laughing as you walk out onto the set and wave at the fans. You see a few familiar faces like Tim and Justine and Chico/DC of course. But, there's also a few new faces that you didn’t recognize. Probably people who couldn’t make it to the welcome dinner so you make sure you go by greeting everyone and accepting hugs from some of them.

“Welcome to Wild N Out: New School vs Old School Edition. If you’ve been watching the show you already know what the hell is about to go down. Dj D-Wrek is going to give us some answers and we’re going to come up with some funny questions, and then rush up to this buzzer. Team with the funniest answers wins the game. I am your new host Keke Palmer and this is Hood Jeopardy.” she announces and the crowd cheers before the round starts. You blow a kiss at Karlous and his goofy self catches it and places it in his pocket dramatically.

Your eyes scan the crowd and you definitely seen some well known faces in the crowd. You even flanced over at Dulce Sloan on the upper deck.

You give a small smile to the crowd and then keep your focus on Karlous knowing that he’d either nod his head at you or do something to distract you from your nerves.

“Things Karlous Miller is built like.” DJ D-Wrek calls out

You let out a loud laugh before your team starts ooh-ing and ahh-ing like schoolyard children as you run over to the buzzer at the same time as DC.

“Aww hell naw , bae you just gon do me like that?” Karlous shouts while throwing his hands up in the air and you can hear the crowd giggling already.

“Move DC. That’s my man. You BETTA MO-” you squabble with DC and play fight over the buzzer before knocking him on the floor with your hip and he makes a show of it flying and sliding across the floor yelling “damn she-hulk damn”.

You smile softly to yourself as the bell goes off and a point goes to your team, letting the small victory ease your nerves.

“What is zaddy built like. Well, that’s easy, what is “a beautiful chocolate man” ”. you say in the White Chicks voice before Karlous adds “that’s right baby, that’s right.”

“Sike, what is Crash Bandicoot. What is Perry The Platypus from Phineas and Ferb. What is-” you blurt out as you hear the crowd and both teams in hysterics laughing and falling over each other as Karlous stands there with his lips pushed out.

The bell goes off repeatedly signaling that your team had won that round as DJ D-Wrek stands there wiping tears from his eyes and Chico comes over to join you.

“What is a small Booker T.” Chico wheezes into the microphone as you two hold onto each other’s shaking shoulders.

“Hold on I’m not done. Who is Thurgoode from the PJs. What is-” Karlous cuts you off by running over and saying “Yo baby daddy” into the mic and your team yells oop.

“Don’t be salty baby. It’s not my fault you built like a Fun Dip stick and a thermometer had a baby. You still luh me though?” you ask and he follows up with hell yeah.

The crowd eats up your dynamic as they watch the both of you interact.

“Alright, Alright , Alright. That round goes to New School. They coming with that heat for the o.g.”

You take a quick commercial break before starting the next segment “Now You Wild Out”.

“Everybody already knows how this goes. We get a topic from D-Wrek and we go in. Team with the best improvs wins the round. Let’s get it!” Keke says before going stepping back onto team New School.

Each person from the team goes with almost everyone being evenly matched with points until it’s finally you and Karlous up next with the category Date Night.

“I got this. I got this.” you tell your team as you strut to the front of the line and Karlous runs over to steal a kiss real quick while the crowd aww’s .

“Aww nothing. Get your milk dud headass over here Lous.” DC says pulling him by the back of his shirt.

“Lemme get a quick wax. Lemme get a quick wax. Now you wild out.” you say and you hear a mhm before a roar of laughs from the women in the crowd.

“Gotta wash the balls off. Gotta wash the balls off. Now you wild out.” Karlous returns with quick fire while his team copies him and dances with one leg up.

You dance to the music before patting your pockets and all over you “Where’s the plan B? Where’s the plan B? Where’s the plan B? NOW YOU WILD OUT.” you say and Karlous stands there with his hands on his hips with his mouth slightly open as the crowd and your teams laugh along.

He was standing there shook at the fact that your lil quiet shy self was standing there talking about it.

He quickly snaps into the character and starts yikin side to side yelling “I sholl did. I sholl did. I sholl did. Now you wild out.”

The audience erupts into laughter at the chemistry and comedy between the two of you.

You push him playfully and return to the back of the line as the bell signals that his team had won that round.

The rest of the episode goes smoothly and your team comes close to winning but Old School ultimately won overall. Karlous finds you waiting for him in the parking lot and in a conversation with some people from your team.

You grab his hands softly as he hugs you from behind. “Damn Justine, I've been thinking bout you too.” you joke and turn around to kiss him deeply for a moment.

“Girl you were on fire. I’ll see later. “ Gabby, one of the new girls on your team says before leaving you two alone.

“I was talking to one of the producers and baby, they loved what they saw from you. They think you add something extra to the show and in they words “you guys were off the chain”. I know you ain’t have nothing to worry about.” Karlous says mocking them and congratulating you.

“Thank you baby, for pushing me to do this. I actually really enjoyed today and can’t believe this is my new gig and my new lil found family. I love it here. I can’t believe freaking Mo’Nique was in the crowd. I got to talk to her. Queen gon’ tell me “You remind me of how comedy used to be. Just spittin’ about life and shit. We ain’t mean nothing by it. Just shooting the breeze. You’re going to go far niece.” I thought I was gonna pass the fuck out or something babe.: you say to him and he just stands there in awe of you while you give him the rundown.

“I told you. You be funny without even trying. Just doing the most random ass shit and I still be in the crib hollering.” he says chuckling softly

“Thanks baby. But the way you was looking at me all night in my lil Wild N Out shirt. You like what seen or what?” you tease as you lean in to lick over his lips and he lays you against the car grabbing your chin and kissing you.

“Where the Plan B? Where the Plan B?” he jokes and you shake your head , chuckling softly.

“Now you wild out.” you say , wrapping your arms around his neck

@arination99 @genuinedonnie @ljstraightnochaser

#karlous miller #85 south show #wild n out #fanfic for black girls #fanfic

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starlitskvader · 3 years

Note

Hmmm, I'mma toss three fandoms at you to pick from: SPOP, Pretty Cure, and (lol) Hotel Transylvania.

ALL RIGHTY

SPOP

The first character I first fell in love with: Glimmer! She was my fave in the old series and I LOVE her new design, so I was pretty hyped for her!

The character I never expected to love as much as I do now: Bow! Was pretty neutral toward him Back In The Day but he’s so good. The character everyone else loves that I don’t: Double Trouble. I tend to like fanon interpretation of them, but in-universe... I’m just uncomfortable with them. The character I love that everyone else hates: I don’t think she’s hated but I don’t think we appreciate Frosta enough. The character I used to love but don’t any longer: Catra. I was invested in her for awhile, but... eh, we’ll say I feel her arc was poorly handled and she never narratively recovered from S3′s finale, and leave it at that. The character I would totally smooch: Hmmmm Castaspella? The character I’d want to be like: Bow! He’s charming and supportive, but perfectly willing to stand up for himself. The character I’d slap: Catra. A pairing that I love: Glimmadora is my truth. :| A pairing that I despise: I am, shall we say, not a fan of Catradora.

Pretty Cure

The first character I first fell in love with: Yayoi/Cure Peace. Before I ever saw a Pretty Cure episode I thought she was adorable (and I was right). The character I never expected to love as much as I do now: Batetemoda. I just kinda shrugged at first but now Healin’ Good is divided into ‘Act 1: When Will Batetemoda Arrive?’, ‘Act 2: HERE COMES A SPECIAL BOY’, and ‘Act 3: I Miss Batetemoda’. The character everyone else loves that I don’t: I don’t know how well-loved they are per se, but I find the mascots/fairies that look like human infants to be kind of off-putting tbh. The character I love that everyone else hates: I see people say Mofurun is annoying on occasion. They are objectively wrong she’s my fave. The character I used to love but don’t any longer: Coco wore out his welcome fast when the romantic angle came up.

The character I would totally smooch: None, really... except maybe a few of the fairies as a HOW CUTE thing The character I’d want to be like: Akira. Her patience and kindness is really charming. Also she is very very cool. The character I’d slap: Dairuizen. He’s a cool villain I like a lot and he absolutely needs and deserves it. A pairing that I love: So many to choose from! But I’m in the middle of rewatching KiraKira, I’ll say Akira and Yukari. A pairing that I despise: Nozomi/Coco. No.

Hotel Transylvania

The first character I first fell in love with: Mavis! I saw the movie in the first place for her sake! The character I never expected to love as much as I do now: Johnny. I was (and still am) really annoyed that the trailers promised a movie about Mavis and then she got shoved into the background to focus on Johnny, but he grew on me. The character everyone else loves that I don’t: I don’t actually see a lot of love for the characters I find annoying or worse. I run in the right circles I guess. The character I love that everyone else hates: I actually like Eunice... I mean, she’s absolutely a ‘small doses’ character but she makes a good foil to the leads I think. The character I used to love but don’t any longer: I don’t think I’ve really grown to dislike a character I initially liked... The character I would totally smooch: Ericka I guess? Iunno, this one is a hard question for me for most fandoms. The character I’d want to be like: I want Ericka’s combination of goofiness and mindblowing athleticism tbh. The character I’d slap: Van Helsing, Vlad, there are plenty of candidates A pairing that I love: I like Drac and Ericka because I like monster hunter x monster stories. A pairing that I despise: I can’t really think of any!

#fun fact I have an AU where Batetemoda became a Healing Animal when he was purified #his partner is CURE KNUCKLE.#ask meme #thanks for asking!#twinklecupcake

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mrs-hollandstan · 5 years

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Behind His Back || Mobster!Harrison Osterfield {2}

•Caught Red Handed•

Pairing: Mobster Tom Holland Sister!Reader x Mobster!Harrison Osterfield

Warnings: sexual content throughout, language, talk of cuts & scrapes + blood, hardass Tommo, crying, more talk of minor character death

Word Count: 4,810

Author's Note: Here’s part dossssss. This is so exciting! So this part is sort of a spiced, hybrid version with new writing and the very first blurb request so if you see some of the older content, I just decided to keep pieces the same. :) Lemme know what you think and ask to be added to the taglist if you’d like!

Blurbs the series is based off of: x x x x x x x

⟵Previous || Series Masterlist || Next⟶

You wondered how you'd gone so long without Harrison. Obviously he was in your life but the details of him, the deep seeded love he showed and the way he attended to everything you could ever want or need had you falling head over heels for him every new day. Obviously you hadn't been on any official dates, no assigned nights to go to dinner or a movie, but he wanted to show you as much attention as the snippets of fun would allow. The kisses, touches of each others hands, feeding each other if on the small chance, there's something to feed to one another if Tom isn't present. Which of course was rare. That night, after you attended Tom's business deal with Martinez was one of the best of your life. A part of you wished you'd saved yourself for Harrison, and a part of you praised the gods for being somewhat experienced and able to take him on with the invigored thrusts he dished out. The way his face was held in your neck to stifle the sexiest moans and the way his skin felt against yours was unprecedented. He was sweaty in the middle of January, when a chill was running through the air and you swore that you were going to implode as your knuckles turned white in his beautiful sandy colored hair. He mumbled praise and whispered his love against you, his hands holding yours above your head and you kept catching glimpses of that little kid he used to be. That eight year old boy that used to run around your front yard with Tom and take your Barbies and giggle as you chased him around to get them back. The tears were in your eyes again when you pulled him down against you, clutching his shoulders in tense hands while he brought you to climax, following close behind with a muffled grunt. Of course you told him you loved him again. You'd thought those words wouldn't make their appearance for a few more months assuming Tom didn't find out about you two. He'd collapsed against you, skin sticking to yours, chests pressed together as he tried to calm before retreating back to his own room for the night. You muttered it into his damp hair and he hummed before returning it, snuggling you impossibly closer as if he could stay. And when he rose, he knew it'd break you both. He tossed his condom and dressed in the dark, leaning in with his fingers under your chin to kiss you. He repeated those three words before he left you alone. And that was the first night you cried over him. The first night you despised your brother for enforcing something so restricting. He had his fair share of women in and out of your house but you couldn't have anyone. He was a hypocrite and you hated it. They met with Martinez in one of his bars a few nights after the first meeting. Tom didn't tell you you had to come, but asked and you declined which he respected. They were gone a few hours before both Tom and Harrison entered your bedroom, a slash across the bridge of Harrison's nose and a little knick across his cheek, "Patch him up?" Tom dryly joked, gesturing out to the shy man behind him. You did, eyes finding Harrison’s every so often. You fought back the urge to kiss him each time you lock eyes or he winces as alcohol seeps into his cuts. But he's bandaged and heading out after Tom in a few minutes, you having not listened to a Goddamn word Tom said about the deal that went sour as you stared into those soft ocean colored eyes that were swimming in the same desperation. He wants to take hold of your hips and reassure you he's okay while you scold him but Tom is leaned against the sink watching you both. He's too blind to read the expressions you both have but you and Harrison both know the emotions are there. And when they both leave, Harrison glances back at you, eyes wandering your body. That night, he returned for a second time, dragging you into his lap and slowly letting you rock against him while you press gentle kisses to his face and mutter little things to him. And since then, about a week later, he’s back a third time, the both of you leaving a substantial amount of little red marks across the others skin, raised marks that you'll have to figure out how to hide before he leaves the next morning. His lips turn up every time you mumble you love him and he responds with the same statement. Once you've both finished, you lay on your stomach in post-coital bliss, sheet messily draped about your waist as you wait for Harrison to clean himself up. When he returns, he traces a line up over your spine, kissing your heated skin. He loves the sight of you and he could go at you again and again if you'd let him, but he can see how tired you are. He sighs as he lays next to you, pulling the sheet to cover himself, "I wanna stay." He whispers. Your eyes lock and you desperately want to tell him no. If Tom catches you, it'll be devastating. But now, almost three months deep in your relationship, you want him to stay. You want him to cuddle you against him and feel his body against yours. And in the morning, if you're found out, you have to take the risk. The big question that floats above you is if you'll stand beside the last of your family, the man that gave you everything after your parents' death, or leave with the man of your dreams assuming Tom doesn't kill him. All you can do is nod as he wraps his arm around your torso, throwing an arm under his head and leaning in to press a chaste kiss to your lips. When you lay your head over his chest, he feels like home. He feels like where you should be. He feels like the protection you crave. Harrison is the man of your dreams and you want nothing more than to show the world you belong to each other. His skin is warm, his heartbeat steady and calming. Every time he breathes, it feels like you're being lulled to sleep by waves at sea. His fingers rub over your skin and his lips are pressed in your hair as you slowly drift off. You feel at peace and Harrison feels the same. His heart flutters looking down at you and he can't believe how in love he is with you. Completely and utterly sweet on you. By the time you're asleep, Harrison's fingers have made your hair soft and there are no knots. He's quick to follow, falling asleep in perfect peace now that he has you beside him, your leg weighing his down and your skin soft and warm against his. The sunshine pouring through the window and onto the bare skin of your shoulders, bathing you in warmth wakes you the next morning. You stretch, opening your eyes to Harrison's peaceful, sleeping face, cut across his nose now almost completely scabbed over. You smile, nuzzling down closer to him, his naked body radiating warmth into your own. Leaning in, you gently kiss his lips, listening to him sleepily groan, his lips reacting instantly to you. A giggle slips from your lips when he wraps his arm around your shoulders, holding your neck to keep you kissing him, "Good morning sunshine." You rasp out. He hums, pressing his arm down to squeeze you, "Good morning my beautiful, beautiful girl." He responds, voice gravelly and baritone. You love hearing it for the first time. "You wanna know what has me excited this fine morning Mr. Osterfield?" He nods, opening an eye slowly. You lean in to kiss his cheek, "I have my love in bed for the first time. Its absolutely amazing. It makes me so excited." He chuckles, "Yeah? Me too. You're absolutely amazing in more ways than one. You're great in bed, a phenomenal cuddler... and an exceptional girlfriend." The way he says it makes your heart pound. It makes you feel scared and excited all at once as you wrap your arms around his neck and he rolls you on your back to perch over you. The cold metal necklace that holds the gang's medallion lays between your breasts, "I just... I wish we could do more. I'm in love with you. We're soulmates and I want to be with you always and this off limits thing. Tom just-" "Babe... I love you more than life itself. And if Tom found out about this... he'd gut me but... I think if it came down to it... we could run away together. Just you and me. We could get married and have a baby-" "You're really pushin for this." You giggle as he shrugs, "I think about us getting caught a lot. I've calculated risk and all that." He jokes with a wide, goofy smile. You giggle again, threading your fingers through the back of his hair as he gently leans in to kiss your neck, "Gotta get these marks figured out. I can't walk out if I look as bad as you do. Looks like you've got chicken pox. And I gotta figure out how to get out of here discreetly. Can’t turn any heads or raise any questions." He mumbles into your skin. When he leans back to look into your eyes, you hum, skin tingling, looking all over the face you love so much. "We'll figure it out." He nods, leaning in to peck your lips once, twice, three times before he descends, lips pressed firmly against yours in a head swirling kiss, the both of you pressed chest to chest. He hums, the sudden makeout session turning steamy rather quick. Harrison's blood pumps in his veins, headed straight down to his throbbing length which twitches to life, begging to have itself touched. You arch your leg, inviting Harrison to nuzzle himself between your legs. He squirms down between your now fully spread thighs, reaching between you to start guiding his cock down towards the warmth between them. He's pressing the tip into you, a caught gasp leaving your lips and you know it's a bad idea he's abandoning protection, but your brain isn’t willing to let you choke the words up and ruin the moment. Just then, the door clicks open and Tom pushes through, "Hey sis are you-" Harrison slips out of you, howling as you scream and go to cover yourself. He tumbles to the floor with a thud as Tom reels in the doorway, blinking to prove what he's seeing isn't some sick, crazy dream. Harrison springs up from the floor, both hands trying to contain his throbbing length that still twitches at the loss of contact. "What the fuck?" Tom quizzes, voice low. His eyes are deadly and angry and it scares both you and Harrison. He stands before you, pissed beyond belief in a black and white pinstripe, three piece suit. His hand still rests on the doorknob, eyes locked on his right hand man he thought he could trust. His best friend. The brother he wishes he had. Standing naked in his little sister's room, little love bites littering his tan skin. He clenches his jaw, eyes averted down to the floor now, "How long?" Harrison's heart pounds in his throat, yours just as spasmodic. You look between the both of them, lump rising in your throat as you and Harrison lock eyes. He's terrified and as much as he's thought about getting caught with you, he always panics before the plan is fully thought out and he hasn't taken into account how devastating Tom now finding out will be. He can't take into account how your relationship will crumble. You can't see this going your way. Harrison either leaves or dies. Its Tom's way or no way. "Tommy-" You start, "How long?!" He roars, not looking to you, but wide eyed, up at Haz. The blonde's breathing has grown erratic as he glances down to find his discarded boxers on the floor, "Almost three months. Tom I-" "You're done. You're outta here." "Tom, listen to me!" "You're fucking my sister! My baby sister! The one I told you not to touch! The one that was off limits Osterfield! You knew that when we started this and you still went against me!" Tom billows, refusing to listen. By now he's gathered an audience in the hall, and you're in tears as Harrison stumbles back into his slacks, at war with if he should comfort you or confront Tom, "I love her Tom." "You don't get to love her. You're done. I fucking told you." "I know but-" "No... there's no buts. You're done. You're outta here." Tom reiterates for a third time, his voice calmed but his arms crossed in defense, body tense as his rage diminishes just the slightest now that Harrison's mouth is shut as he struggles to find words. Choked sobs fall from your lips as Harrison reels over Tom not budging, as if it was a surprise. You reach down to find his button up and pull it on. Only then does Tom's tunnel vision let up. His eyes cut to you, arms relaxing just the slightest, features softening at the look on your face, the tears in your eyes. The same one you had when you found out your parents had died; absolute heartbreak, "What're you doing?" He speaks quietly. Your chest heaves, "I h-have to go with him. I can't- I can't lose him." You sob, sliding your underwear up your legs. Tom’s mouth opens as Harrison steps in front of you as you try to get to your closet and pack a bag, "Baby you can't do this." "I can't lose you Harrison." You choke out. He clicks his tongue, tears in his own eyes as he drags you into him, holding your face in his neck as you cry. His body feels limp. He has to leave you and he never imagined it'd be this hard. The lump in his throat makes it tight, Tom long since forgotten as he comforts you, the worst pain he’s ever felt in every fiber of his body. You hold him tight to you. You don't want to let him go. The second you do, he's gone forever. The love of your life has to leave and you're left alone and heartbroken. Leaving with him would be best. That way you'd avoid Tom and just be able to focus on your relationship with Harrison. Harrison strokes your hair, pulling back, "I'll let you keep the shirt okay?" You bunch his slacks in your hands, unable to let him go. "No-" "Love I have to-" "No... Harrison." He nods, holding your face, "Its for your own good angel." He reasons, voice soft, and as much as it would calm you if the situation was different, it doesn't. Turning to Tom as Harrison tries to move out of your grip you storm forward, shoving at his shoulders, "You fucking hypocrite!" You pound at his chest, Harrison quick to bind an arm around your waist. You lash against Tom as Harrison drags you back against him, Tom's eyes wide, "Hypocrite?" "You have women in here every week! A new woman and the one time I'm happy you're taking it away!" You're upset in a new way, rage taking over the anguish. Tom stares back at you. He has nothing to say, he's so shocked. Harrison tugs you away, sitting at the end of your bed with you in his lap. Your eyes are as dark as Tom's and he can see the absolute anger in them. He knows you're pissed and now he's battling himself. But he watches Harrison hold your face, making you look at him. Your eyes soften just the smallest and Tom wants to hate Harrison. He wants to hate your relationship and the fact you went behind his back to see Harrison when you had all those years before it got to this point. But he can't bring himself to. He can't bring himself to hate Harrison or you, because he sees how calm Harrison can make you. He sees how grounded you become in a matter of seconds sitting in Harrison's lap, staring in his eyes and listening to his voice. And holding himself against the wall you shoved him against, Tom listens to Harrison tell you you'll figure it out. He'll handle it. He watches Harrison lean in and kiss you and his mind is all over the place wondering how his little sister and his best friend made this happen after sixteen years of being friends. It’s mind blowing to Tom to think that how in love the two of you seem to be, you were able to keep it secret for so long, hidden from Tom and everyone around you, making them completely oblivious. Setting you on the edge of your bed, Harrison stands, taking a step towards Tom. They lock eyes and Harrison looks down, rubbing his clammy palms on his slacks, "I'm not going to tell you what I did was right. It wasn't. I'm your right hand man... your best friend and I have been for ages. I should have listened to you and stayed away from her but... you've guessed it for years. I've liked her since puberty and you know that. She was my first crush. I love her Tom. I'm in love with her. She's everything to me. Please... please... I know I fucked up. I know... but please don't take me away from her. Not after everything she's been through." Harrison pleads to Tom calmly, almost devastatingly, tears in his eyes. The one thing Tom hates is how easy it is to get under his skin when it comes to you. He doesn't want you hurt. Not again. Not like when your parents died. Avoiding looking at the two of you, Harrison adds on, "I don't fuck her Tom. I've been seeing her for three months. I just made love to her for the first time last week after our first business deal. And once more after the second. Getting hurt scared the shit out of me. If something serious had happened and you had to tell her... I don't think she could have taken that sort of devastation. Not again. She's my everything. Do whatever you want to me, torture me for all I care, break my hand, cut it off, I don't care, but don't hurt her. Please..." Looking down at the pendant hanging around Harrison's neck and the tattoo across his ribs, Tom's jaw clenches again. He takes one more look at you before drawing the knife from his holster and holding it to Harrison's throat. He presses as you watch, drawing blood. It makes Harrison wince but he takes it, "I should fucking kill you. If you ever, EVER go against me again, I won't hesitate. You're lucky she's all I have Osterfield or I'd string you up." Harrison stares at him. He swallows and nods, "I understand. I'm sorry." Tom presses again, piercing Harrison's skin further, rage flashing through his eyes once more before he draws back. He points his knife at you, "This isn't over. Get dressed, we're gonna talk in my office in ten." He doesn't wait for anything, just turns and leaves the room bellowing at the group of men that have collected back to their posts. Only, then do they scram, Harrison running his hand through his hair as he closes the door, listening to Tom yell commands. He turns, taking a deep breath and resting his hands on his hips, "I shouldn't have stayed. This is my fault." Standing, you walk towards him, wrapping your arms around his torso. He rests his hands on your arms, kissing the top of your head. You close your eyes, listening to the steady pound of his heart, "Its not your fault. It was mutual." "I knew there was no way I could get out of here without someone seeing. It'd get back to him no matter what. If I just... hadn't stayed-" "Harrison..." taking hold of his face, your eyes dart between his own, "if you're guilty of staying, I'm guilty of letting you. I knew I shouldn't have but... you felt amazing in bed beside me." He smiles down at you, holding your arms. He leans down, lips pressed to yours for a few moments as his nimble fingers make quick work of the buttons on his shirt clinging to your body, "Imma need this back pretty girl." When he exposes you to him, he cocks his head, "I don't know how I'm going to give up this amazing body if I have to." Pushing the cotton from your shoulders, he pulls it on and starts to button it with a sigh, eyes averted from you as you walk to your closet to find clothes. When you emerge, he's rolling his sleeves up, "What should I do? While you talk to him I mean?" Reaching up to fix his collar, it's your turn to sigh, "Go take a shower. Unwind. I'll come find you after." He nods and reaches out to tuck hair behind your ear. Leaning in, he pecks your lips, holding your hips, "Go plead your case. Please get the target off my head." You giggle, brushing the stray hair from his forehead, "I've got you. Stay put okay?" He nods and leans in to peck your lips once more before finding his socks and shoes. You leave him sat at the foot of your bed, trudging down the hall to the large, looming double oak doors and standing at them for just a moment before knocking softly. You open without hearing him allow it, but he knows it's you. He stares up at you when you enter, watching you close the door behind you and tread forward to sit in a leather chair the other side of his desk from him. He sighs, the sound ringing through the otherwise quiet room, "So what... you couldn't have started to date him, or had your fun before I put that restriction on you?" Clasping your hands in your lap, you take a deep breath, "When have you ever heard or restrictions like that working? We've liked each other for years Tom. You can't just sit here and say that I'm forbidden because you're my brother. I'm my own person." He leans back in his chair and crosses his arms, "Do you know why I did that? Do you know why I said you were off limits?" You shake your head, crossing your arms. He nods, "Exactly... I did it because Ray Walker, another mob boss down in Florida had two sisters that were both simultaneously killed by their partners because their brother didn't pay enough attention. I'm being attentive to what you're doing. I'm making sure you're safe. And if I have to go through Harrison to do it, I have to."

“I’m not one of Ray Walker’s sisters. Harrison isn’t some random guy you just hired when you got here to New York, you’ve known him forever… we’ve known him forever.”

“It doesn’t mean shit that I’ve known him that long. All that matters is how willing he is to turn his back on people like us. People that would give him everything. Who says he isn’t taking advantage of you, lowering your guard so he can stab you right in the back, use you against me? Have you thought about that?”

“No, because I’m not obsessive like the airhead in this room. Harrison is someone I can trust just about as much as I can trust you.”

“So you think.” "He's been your best friend since Year One. He barely wanted to come here and do this. Why would he blindside you?" Tom leans in, "It doesn't matter how long I've known the div, he could be doing anything. The only people you and I can trust is me and you." "Well I hate to break it to you big bro, but he is the most loyal, loving, respective man on this planet besides you. He would never do anything to hurt me and no matter what, if you kick him out, if you kill him, I'm done here." He stares at you for a moment as you lean forward, eyes locked in his. If there's one thing you've been taught, it's to never lie to each other. He can see in your eyes that resemble his and your mother’s so much how serious you are about leaving him if he lays a finger on Harrison. Sure, it'll hurt, both leaving him and possibly losing Harrison, but you'll manage, and all of it will be to prove your point. You aren't a little kid anymore needing Tom's protection against every little boy that he knows is gonna be an asshole to you. He is your older brother and he's always promised your parents to protect you, but now he sees how, if he pushes too far, he'll push you away. He averts his eyes and swallows, "If this were any random chick flick, we'd go back and forth for months just to get an hour in but... I hate to say that… you're right. I've known him since we were four. He's... basically as good as it gets as far as protection goes." Reaching up, he pinches his nose, trying to ignore the steady pound of his heart now that things are aligned in your favor. He opens his eyes and looks at you, "This doesn't mean I like the idea but... I'm giving you... the okay to keep seeing him. I just... no unprotected sex. If you end up pregnant I'll have to kill him." "I'm on the pill." "Y/N. Just... literally that's like one of the only things I'm asking of you. Please... no unprotected sex. And just... keep the PDA between the two of you. We don't need everyone around here knowing. I mean, who knows if one of these little fuckers is a traitor. They find out about the two of you and we're all done for." You nod, heart pounding. He's giving you the okay. Harrison and you can keep seeing each other without having to go behind Tom's back. Harrison doesn't have to leave, he's not gonna lose his head, you two are getting your way. Tom runs a hand over his face, "Bring him in here too. I need the marks covered up. It starts here." You nod, trying to stand without jumping for joy. It's always been a pissing match between Tom and Harrison and now, now the two of you are getting your way. Walking towards the door, Tom speaks again,

“Oh, uhm, Y/N?” You turn and nod, telling him he can continue as your hand rests on the doorknob. He swallows and stands, tucking his hands in his pockets,

“He is in love with you. I know… he’s told you that and you’ve already drawn your own conclusion but… The way he looks at you like you’ve known each other… loved each other for hundreds of years, in all these different lifetimes… I’ve never seen him look at anyone like that. I’ve never seen anyone love someone else as much as he seems to love you.” He looks down at the desk before him for a moment before he swallows and looks up at you through squinted eyes. You nod,

“And I love him too. We’ve already determined we’re soulmates. If neither of us can get over each other in sixteen years… there’s something there.” He nods in return, failing to say anything else before you open the door and turn to leave. Walking from his office quickly, you can't help but squeal and squirm in the hallway, pure giddiness coursing through your veins. You can feel every emotion build up as you head for Harrison's room, excited to break the news to your boyfriend. You start practically running after passing a gaggle of your brother's men, each of them eyeing you. Your care feet make contact with the floor harshly, but you could care less. All you want right now is to jump into Harrison's arms and kiss all over his pretty little face and tell him best news he'll ever hear. And that's exactly what you intend to do as you push through his bedroom door.

Permanent Taglist: @embrace-themagic @delicioustommy @spiderman-n @winters-beauty @smexylemony @lolabean1998 @musiclover1263

Series Taglist: @h-natale @yourmum95 @the-great-adventures-of-marvel @giuls-394 @tomhollandthing @hbmoore1986 @justkeepdreaminganddreaming @xeniarocks @abunchofsemicoherentwords

*Bolded means Tumblr won’t let me tag you*

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lovemesomesurveys · 4 years

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Disney Animated Theme Asks

Snow White & the Seven Dwarves: Which one of the seven dwarves are your favorite? Dopey and Sleepy. Pinocchio: How often do you lie? Why do you do it? I downplay things more often, but sometimes I lie. It’s generally about how I’m feeling. Dumbo: Have you ever been to the circus before? When I was a kid. I’d never go now. Bambi: Are deer your favorite forest animal? If not, which is? Sure. Cinderella: Have you ever broken your curfew when you were younger? What happened? I never had a curfew, my parents never had to set one. I was a homebody as a teenager, too. I didn’t have much of a social life. I had friends, but we just hung out at school.

Alice in Wonderland: What would you do if you fell down a rabbit hole? I mean, I do in the sense of I get caught up videos or reading stuff online all the time. I go from one thing to another. If I literally fell down a rabbit hole, well, I can’t imagine it’d feel too great. I don’t what I would or could do. Peter Pan: Are you all grown up? In which ways do you still remain child-like? Technically, yes. I’m almost 31 years old. But I don’t exactly feel grown up. I have a lot of growing up to do still. And besides the fact I have bills to pay, I don’t really feel very adult like. But then I always say how I’m so old and feel old in some ways. I don’t know, it’s complicated.

Lady & the Tramp: Have you ever shared a piece of spaghetti with someone before? No. Sleeping Beauty: What’s the longest period of time you’ve ever slept for before? Hmm. When I’m really sick I pretty much sleep all day. I mean, I get up at times to try and eat and drink, take my medicine, and use the restroom, but most of the day is spent just sleeping. There were also times when I wasn’t sick that I slept for like 12 hours or so. Then there’s the times after I’ve had surgery where I sleep full days away. 101 Dalmatians: Do you like Dalmatians? Which breed of dogs do you prefer, if any? Dalmatians are beautiful dogs. My favorite breeds are Labs and German Shepherds. Those are the dogs I’ve had and I just love them. The Sword in the Stone: Have you ever tried your hand at jousting before? Nope. The Jungle Book: Have you ever wanted to visit a jungle before? No. The Aristocats: What is your favorite type of cat breed? Black cats are cool. Robin Hood: Who is your trusty sidekick? My doggo. The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh: Who is your favorite character from Winnie-the-Pooh? That silly, willy, nilly ol’ bear. The Rescuers: Have you ever been rescued before? From what? Well, when my accident happened I certainly was. The Fox and the Hound: Do you prefer foxes or hounds? Why? Hounds. I just love doggos. The Black Cauldron: Have you ever wanted to become a knight? No. The Great Mouse Detective: Have you ever wanted to become a detective before? I loved books like Nancy Drew as a kid and I love reading murder mysteries now and trying to figure out what’s going on, as well as with mystery shows and movies. I wouldn’t want to actually be a detective, though. Oliver & Company: Have you ever seen a lost kitten before? What did you do? I’ve seen many stray cats.

The Little Mermaid: Do you enjoy swimming? No. Beauty and the Beast: Have you ever fallen for someone unattractive before? The guys I’ve liked were all attractive to me. Aladdin: If you could be granted three wishes, what would they be? An end to this virus and pandemic, good health (mentally and physically), and money. The Nightmare Before Christmas: Do you prefer Halloween or Christmas more? I love Christmastime, but I really get into ~spooky~ season as well. The Lion King: Have you ever been tricked before? Yes. A Goofy Movie: What’s the most outlandish thing that you’ve ever promised a crush before? I don’t think I’ve promised a crush anything outlandish. I don’t know if I’ve promised one anything. Pocahontas: Have you ever been in a relationship with someone who was in the army? No. Toy Story: What did your parents do with your toys once you got to be too old for them? Do you still have any toys from your childhood? We gave a lot away, but I still have my Barbies and some other things. The Hunchback of Notre Dame: How have you established your own independence? I don’t really feel like I have... Hercules: Has there ever been a scenario in which you were a hero to someone? I’m no hero. Mulan: Have you ever fought in a war or know someone that has? I’ve known some people, yes. A Bug’s Life: What’s your favorite bug/insect, and why? Ew, NONE. Tarzan: What is something you’ve discovered about yourself? Nothing good... Atlantis: The Lost Empire: Where would you like to go exploring? I want to travel all over. Monsters Inc: Have you ever scared children before? What did you do? Aww, no, I wouldn’t do that. Lilo & Stitch: Have you ever had an unusual pet before? What was it? Nope. Treasure Planet: If you could create a planet, what would you name it, and what would life be like there? Uhh. I have no idea. Finding Nemo: Have you ever visited Australia before? Would you want to? Why or why not? No, but I’d love to. Sounds and looks like a cool place to visit. Brother Bear: Have you ever gone hunting before? For what? No.

Teacher’s Pet: Have you ever wanted to be something you’re not? A functioning, happy, successful adult. Home on the Range: Have you ever been to a farm or lived on a farm before? I’ve been to one, yes. The Incredibles: What would you like your superpower to be? Teleportation. Valiant: Have you ever been delivered a message via a homing pigeon? Uh, no. Chicken Little: Have you ever had your reputation ruined? By whom? I’ve ruined my own the past few years because of the shitty person I’ve been. The Wild: Have you ever been to Africa before? Would you like to go? I’d love to see Giraffe Manor. Cars: Have you ever watched races before? My dad loves Nascar, but I never could get into it. I just find it very boring. Meet the Robinsons: What would you do/where would you go if you had a time machine? I’d love to go back to my childhood. Ratatouille: Have you ever wanted to be a chef before? What would be your signature dish? Ha, no. I’m no cook. Although, I think I make a pretty good bowl of ramen. haha. Wall-E: If you were able to build a robot, what would you want it to be able to do for you? Get me coffee and food. Bolt: Have you ever gone cross-country? To where? I’ve flown to Georgia from California, which are opposite sides of the country. Up: What is one place that you’ve always wanted to go to that you haven’t had the opportunity to yet? A lot of places in the US and other countries. The Princess & the Frog: How many frogs did you need to kiss in order to find your current prince/princess? I haven’t found him, yet. Tangled: Have you ever spent your entire life somewhere, feeling as though you were unable to escape? Yes. I feel that way in life, in my mind, and in this city. My family and I have wanted to move for several years, but we haven’t been able to. Mars Needs Moms: What would you do if you ever came face-to-face with a Martian? Uh, I’d be terrified to say the least. Arjun: The Warrior Prince: Do you have any experience with archery? Are you any good at it? Nope. Brave: Would you consider yourself to be a brave person? Why or why not? No. I’m weak and scared. Frankenweenie: Have you ever had to deal with the loss of a pet? Yes, a couple times. Wreck-It Ralph: What is your favorite video game? Have you beat it? I love Mario Bro games, many of which I’ve beat. I’ve also been enjoying Animal Crossing: New Horizons. I don’t think it’s the type of game you beat. Planes: Have you ever been in an airplane before? Where did you go? Yeah, a few times. To Georgia and back and to LA and back. Frozen: Do you prefer the ice and snow to other weather elements? Yes, and rain. I love cold weather. I despise summer. Big Hero 6: Do you have anyone in your life who is your hero? Who is someone that you look up to? My mom. Inside Out: Which emotion do you experience most frequently? Sadness, moodiness, irritability. The Good Dinosaur: What is your favorite type of dinosaur? I don’t have one. Zootopia: What is your favorite zoo animal? Giraffes. Moana: Do you ever feel as though you’ve been cursed? I don’t believe in curses. Coco: What instrument would you like to learn how to play? I wish I kept up with piano and took it more seriously back when I played. It’s been over 10 years since the last time I played. :( Onward: If you could bring one person back to life and spend the day with them, who would it be? If nothing weird happened and they’d be the same person they were before in terms of personality and such and she wasn’t sick or in pain like she was, then I’d love to spend a day with my grandma again. It’s been almost 15 years since she’s passed, SO much has happened. She and I were very close, I’d love to be able to talk with her again about things. I’d love to hear her stories again and her jokes. She had the best sense of humor. I’d love to just hear her voice and her laugh again. [a-zebra-is-a-striped-horse]

#personal #text #survey #surveys #disney

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a34trgv2 · 5 years

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The Case for Live Action Cartoon Adaptations

Animation is a wonderful medium that has endless possibilities for creativity and storytelling. There have been plenty of movies, tv shows, music videos, and video games that utilize animation and have developed a strong following in there respective mediums. That said, when ever Hollywood makes a film based on an animated property, it’s typically met with groans from animation fans. This has always baffled me, as the films that have been adapted from animated properties are no different from films adapted from books or real people. Yet there’s this mentality that Hollywood producers and filmmakers don’t respect animation as a medium and that’s really not the case. Yes, there are people who mistakenly refer to animation as a genre (looking at you, Dwayne Johnson), but the people who make films based on animated properties clearly show respect to the source material and try to make a cohesive and fun film based on it. In this post, I’m going to go through the history of live action cartoon adaptations and why the most egregious complaints don’t hold as much water as you think.

The first live action film based on a cartoon was Popeye in 1980, starring the late great Robin Williams and Shelly Duvall. This film is not only faithful to the classic Popeye cartoons, but it also tells a solid story of Popeye trying to win over Olive Oyl whilst butting heads with Bluto. This film embraces the goofy nature of the cartoon and Robin Williams gives an excellent performance as he always did. The same can also be said for films such as The Flintstones (1994), Inspector Gadget (1999) and George of the Jungle (1997). The most common complaint about these films is that they’re predictable, and that’s a fair assessment. My rebuttal to that though is that it’s the execution of their standard premise that makes them unique. And now is a good time to talk about The Last Airbender.

Now, I understand where people are coming from when they say they despise this film. As a film, it’s most egregious crime was cramming in too much story in an hour and 43 minute run time. I understand what M. Night Shyamalan was going for, but the film needed more time to flesh out it’s story and characters. “No, the film shouldn’t have been made in the first place,” I here you cry out, but it was inevitably going to happen because the show was so popular. I mean, all the actors did a good job in their respective rolls, the effect and costume design was well done, and there were moments that made me chuckle. I say this is among the few live action cartoon adaptations that didn’t quite hit the mark, along side films like Yogi Bear (2010), The Smurfs (2011) and A Fairly Oddmovie: Grow Up, Timmy Turner. But, enough about that noise, let’s talk about the live action Disney remakes.

Disney has been on a role with these re-imaginings of their animated works. With the exception of Alice Through the Looking Glass and most recently Dumbo, all have their films have made bank at the box office. 2017′s Beauty and the Beast made $1.2 billion, making it the highest grossing musical film of all time. And yet with each passing film, fans of the original animated films complain more and more that these films don’t respect the originals simply by existing. I’m sorry, but that is such a ludicrous reason to dislike these films. If Disney had no respect for their old animated films, they wouldn’t make these remakes in the first place. Not only that, but these films don’t replace the originals in anyway shape or form. Another ludicrous argument for people not liking these films is because “Disney only cares about money.” 👏It's 👏a👏business. In case it wasn’t clear, remakes of old properties make for good business; not just for Disney, but for every major studio in Hollywood. The Departed, Evil Dead, King Kong, Godzilla, The Mummy, the list goes on. Not only do they make money, but they also offer filmmakers a chance to tell their version of the story.

This all boils down to my final point about live action films based on cartoons: you don’t have to see them. To quote a controversial critic, “the cruelest form of attention you can give any form of entertainment is NO attention.” By complaining about these live action adaptations of your favorite animated shows/movies, you’re subconsciously promoting them. This is why I no longer have a Top 10 Blacklisted Cartoons on my blog: if I don’t like or have no interest in seeing a particular cartoon, I won’t watch or even talk about it. Instead of complaining about the next live action adaptation of an animated property, why not talk about films you’re actually looking forward to and plan on seeing? Wouldn’t that be more productive and rewarding? I hope this encourages people to have be a little more optimistic in this cynical landscape.

#cartoon #adaptation #live action #animation #Disney #popeye #the flintstones #the smurfs #the last airbender #yogi bear #hollywood #Business #like #share #reblog #follow #inspector gadget #m. night shyamalan #george of the jungle

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sarah-bae-maas · 6 years

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For the HC thing! 12- nessian❤️

Send me a number along with a ship and/or character!

12 - The first time

***

Cassian loved her – by the cauldron he did. He didn’t care how much she snarled at him, or how cruel her words were. He saw her for what she is, who she truly is, and there wasn’t a single part he didn’t want.

Being in Illyria had forced her to quit some of her more toxic habits, but that did not mean that she was healing inside at all. They had made progress, but she was still rough-hewn and scared, even if she didn’t want to admit it.

There was a storm, an unusually brutal one, and it made Cassian tuck Nesta away in their house, much to her protest. But even the Illyrians would struggle in this weather, and they were far better equipped to it than Nesta was.

Cassian was making them a stew, his shirt and leathers hanging up to dry. Nesta sat in her soaked dress, arms crossed and scowl on her face. Cassian knew she wanted to be anywhere but with him, but he had grown accustomed to her hostility. He had tried giving her space before, and it hadn’t worked. So even if she despised his presence, he wouldn’t leave. Nesta had to know there was someone in the world who was rooting for her.

They started fighting, he didn’t even know what about. Maybe she didn’t like the stew, maybe she just hated him. When she screamed at him, “Why are you even here beyond some brutish loyalty to your brother?” he blanched back. Not from her tone, but from the inaccuracy of her statement.

“I am here because I want to help you.”

“I don’t need help.”

“Sometimes we need help and don’t even realise it.”

She threw a clock at him, which he easily caught and pushed aside. She shrieked at him again – telling him he was a liar, that he was pathetic, and he took it. Because he loved her. She didn’t know it, but he did.

So he told her.

“I love you, Nesta Archeron. And I’ll be here for as long as you need me.”

She went silent at the words. He waited. One minute. Three. Five. The wind the only sound as it made the windows creak and whistle.

“How on earth could you love someone like me?” she whispered through the darkness.

So he told her. Like a list of lovers lost, he went word by word as to why he adored her. Her ferocity. She challenged him. Her love for her sisters. Her stoic-ness. Her taste in erotica (that one nearly made her smile). The way her voice sound after she’s just woken up. Her intelligence. The way her hair catches the sunlight. Her human heart. Her Illyrian soul. Her.

She was breathing heavy as he went through the details, and he had never been more resolved to a truth. When he was done, she walked forward. She put her hands on his chest, her breasts, fuller now that she was eating healthy again, rose and fell and she sighed.

Cassian was still – more than he ever had been. She had all the control here.

Nesta leaned forward and placed her head on his chest. Her lips grazed his skin as she said, “You foolish male.”

Then she kissed him.

It was hesitant, a peck, then another, then she took him more forcefully when he didn’t cringe away. Her hand wrapped to the back of his head, where she tangled it in his hair to make him come closer. Her other hand reached behind her, pulling at the string to undo her dress.

Cassian pulled away, eyes wide from her actions.

“What – what are you doing?”

“What does it look like?”

He shivered. Was this real? Besides that one day on the last afternoon of the war, she had never shown interest. As a friend, yes, maybe, sometimes, kind of, but not as a lover. Not like Cassian did.

“Are you sure?” He was a bastard. He was nothing.

She was vulnerable when she said, “I don’t want you to fuck me Cassian.” Her voice broke. “I want you to make love to me, the way they do in my books, the way mates do it. Love me, Cassian. Please.”

He conceded.

So gently, he turned her. He slipped off her dress, kissing her shoulders. He undid her corset, smoothing his hands down her back. He stepped in front of her, naked but for her underwear, and dipped his head to kiss her again. His hands were shaking.

It was her that led them to the bed. It was her that undid his belt and pants before they lay together.

At first, they just lied on their sides and looked at each other – consumed the other visually.

Then Nesta scooted closer, nudging his nose with hers.

This time it was Cassian to take the lead. He kissed her like she was the antidote to the most dangerous poison. When she pulled him on top of her, he made himself stable, so he didn’t press into her too hard. He wanted to be gentle with her.

He spent hours making her moan in every way he could. His fingers, his tongue, everything he had he gave to her while whispering how much he loved her.

When they were done, they just looked at each other, Nesta not saying a word. She was enveloped in his arms, and he was the steadiest thing she’d had her whole life.

And the uncertainty of that certainty scared her.

They went to sleep with him cocooned around her, her face nuzzled in his chest and their legs tangled. It was the best night sleep they’d both ever had.

Cassian woke first and made them breakfast. Nesta mumbled that she wanted to sleep, so he ate on his lonesome, a smile on this face the whole time, and left her a serving while he went to work.

He spent most of his day with Emerie, who commented on the ‘frankly weird jovial mood’ he was in. He wasn’t going to say anything, but while they cleared the flooded gutter out the front of her store he confessed why.

“It’s Nesta and I… we’re together.”

She raised her eyebrows.

“What makes you say that?”

He explained in vague details what happened the night before, his goofy, love sick grin only widening. But she just looked at him in concern.

“Did Nesta tell you she loved you back?”

He opened his mouth to say yes, but no words came out. Because no – no she didn’t. But she didn’t need to. What she felt for him was her business, and she would tell him when she was read.

“Cassian, did Nesta explicitly say that you two are now together?”

Another question that’s answer was no.

Emerie looked at him with doubt and pity in her eyes, but Cassian didn’t mind. He knew what happened the night before meant something – he knew he wasn’t just another coping mechanism to her.

He continued on with his day, the scent of Nesta still fresh on him. He did his work as planned, and then a little more. The storm caused flooding, and debris had to be cleared before he returned home. He was later than usual, and on his way back picked up Nesta’s favourite desserts and a single poppy flower.

When he walked through the door, she was sitting in her reading chair with a book in her hands. She didn’t look up to greet him, even as he called her name and started excitedly speaking to her, nor as he asked if he could cut her a slice of the cake he’d gotten her.

He was approaching her with the single flower when he smelt it.

She’d been with a male today.

A male that wasn’t him.

He stopped dead in his tracks and backed up a few steps.

The scent was fresh. Only a few hours old maybe. Here while he was with Emerie. He swallowed hard and was silent. She’d had a male here after him, after what he’d said to her.

He was nothing to her.

He threw the flower in the trash and walked straight out of the house the way he came.

#nessian #headcanons #prompt #acotar4 #acomaf #acotar #acowar #fanfic

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rhapsodosu · 7 years

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Psychotherapy, Chapter 1

[x] Hi, so this is a fanfic that I've actually stopped writing a long time ago because my heart was broken. But! I figured I owe the IR fandom a thing because most people back then were an excellent support group, that's why I decided to continue.

This is also in FF and AO3.

Summary: "After a long day of hearing my patients' issues, I wake up and find a half-naked woman on my bed, staring at me like she had known me forever. Who is she? I don't know. All I know is she changed my life in many ways." Pairing: Ichiruki, T/M, AU

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Time is such a cruel thing,

But love is even crueler.

I may have known her for only a few days,

But she turned me to another person.

A better me.

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Hi, I am Kurosaki Ichigo, 27 years old, a psychiatrist at my own clinic. Actually, it also serves as my home—I live in this three-story structure without any other living soul but me.

Why, you think?

I also think about that sometimes. Why do I live alone? Because I want to be alone. I need to be alone. But why? You may be thinking about that again.

Let's go to my family.

First and foremost, my dad, Kurosaki Isshin, is a doctor at Karakura General Hospital. Don't get me wrong by saying this though—he's a good provider, and my childhood was good because he was goofy and (excessively) happy most of the time. I have two sisters—twins—named Yuzu and Karin, which are both living under my dad's custody as of the moment. The last thing I heard is that Yuzu's taking off with her culinary career, and Karin, in her soccer team. We were all happy together. Well, our house is always noisy and stuff (you get the picture), but we were happy.

Except that my mom had to die.

Kurosaki Masaki is the sweetest woman I have ever known. She always put us first even though it hurts her, and maybe that is the reason why we only knew she had ovarian cancer when it was already on its last stage. She kept it a secret, even from dad, just for the purpose of not being an inconvenience to any of us.

Her death wasn't an easy thing for us. Yuzu didn't stop crying for months, Karin didn't want to talk, and I didn't know what to do in order to forget that rainy night when my mom breathed her last in the hospital. Dad, although he was the most hurt, kept smiling at us and encouraged us like nothing ever happened—and that is why I hated him. Back then I cannot understand how he could still smile even though mom was gone, and I really despised him.

I even got to the point where I lost my faith in him and blamed him for everything. I promised to myself that when I graduate college, I'll live away from him, which exactly brings us back to the fact that I am living alone in this building.

Most of the time, during the days, my patients go in and out of the first floor in order to share their psychological and emotional problems with me. I am not an expert, though. I can only give some tips for improvement, but it still depends on my patients if they will follow me. Anyway, the second and third floors are my refuge.

No one has ever stepped inside of this except me, my friends, and my sisters.

The truth is, I never had a girlfriend, so it's just me here. It's by choice, though. I want to enjoy my life first before rushing into things like 'love', or 'commitment'. It's just not my kind of thing.

And then came this day, November 2, 2008, Sunday—a day I cannot seem to tear away from my mind.

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Session 1: Pwned

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After a long day of hearing my patients' issues, I fell on my bed and buried my face on my pillows. It's like this every day. Like you're carrying your own burdens, and then my patients share their problems and place more stones on my backpack.

I fall asleep really fast but when my throat itched, my eyes automatically flew open—I looked at the clock and it was already 2 a.m. Still groggy, I aimed to get up to get a swig of water downstairs, but something restrained my movements.

I blinked in the darkness and sat up.

An arm was wrapped around my waist and it trailed to the other side of the bed. I blinked again thinking that I was dreaming lucidly, but the image didn't disappear. I followed where the mystery limb lead to and instead, I was brought face-to-face with a pale face whose eyes were very much open and were gawking at me.

A scream unwillingly escaped my throat in defense. "WHAT THE FUCKING FUCK-?!"

Before I knew it, I was on my footing, clinging to the baseball bat which was always resting on my bedside. I tapped frantically on my lampshade to reveal the trespasser-but what welcomed me was a half-naked, raven-haired woman, lying on my bed and smiling expectantly as if she had known me for years.

Well… I can say I didn't see only her face. I mean, she was wearing a blue button-down with half of the top buttons open, revealing her, ah… black, lacy,sexy—undergarment. Her bottoms weren't bad either, they were matching the top, but for a second I thought they were much thinner.

Not that I was staring intently, but she didn't have any pants on. I held on my bat even tighter.

"Hey," she said coolly and waved her hand. "I didn't mean to cause a ruckus."

"Wha-Who are you? Why are you on my bed?" Acid was quickly rising in my voice. Maybe she was sent by Renji as a joke? I remember him always telling me to screw around. "If you're sent my any of my friends, just get outta here."

She chuckled and threw me a glance that annoyed me even more. "Friends? No. And why are you staring at my legs?"

The statement caught me off-guard. Heat crept up my face and my head automatically jerked on my left. I swear I specifically intended to look angry.

"Shut up! Just get off of my bed! Take some money if you wish and go, or I'll call the cops."

She shook her head. "Sheeesh. I am not a thief, bakamono. I was just borrowing your clothes."

And that explains why the blue button-down she was wearing looks highly familiar to me. Because they were mine. Damn this woman.

"And who told you to wear my clothes!"

"You were asleep, duh. I was respectful enough not to wake you." She stretched her legs on the bed, but her eyes were slightly glaring. "And be thankful that I didn't wear your pants, because I don't like pants in general."

"Ah! So it's me to blame now! You're trespassing on my home, stealing my clothes, and then complain about my fashion sense! Really, now. I should call the police!"

I went to the drawer where my phone was and started punching in the hotline when I heard her chuckle. I threw my glare upon her direction, but the unashamed woman was wearing a rather smug look on her face. I double-took her expression. Dammit, what's with that face?

"You don't have to call the police. I mean no harm."

"And why should I believe you?"

She smiled again, but a lot softer this time. Not seductively, but warm. It felt really sincere. "Just trust me. I just badly need a place to stay." She raised her hands up like in a double pledge, the purple in her eyes easily attempting to convince me further. I wasn't aware when or why it happened, but I found myself letting go of the tension in my shoulders as well as the makeshift weapon that I was holding. Something in her attitude calmed me down without even trying-and admittedly, it was half-annoying.

I sighed exasperatedly as I rubbed the bridge of my nose-she sat on the mattress and titled her head in what appeared to be curiosity and relief, maybe. "You haven't answered any of my questions properly. Or at least thank me for not whacking you in the head, you woman."

"What if I refuse to answer? I told you to trust me."

"Well you know, nobody trusts a random stranger barging in their homes, the kind that steals clothes and shares the bed."

The woman laughed yet again, and this time, she slid down to sit on the edge of the bed with her creamy, luscious legs crossed. I noticed that they were fairly long-and creamy-but at the same time she was also kinda tiny.

Is she a… whore? I thought.

"Hey, I'm not promiscuous. Not a whore." The oddly placed bang in her forehead swung left and right as she did the same motion with her head. "As I said, I just need a temporary place. I had an emergency-"

"-And what is that emergency?"

"It's a secret." A secret of course. If she wasn't a thief then probably she was a spy from the government, I thought. Who knows? They get pretty Big Brother-ish these days. I had to press on.

"Hn. And how did you get here?"

She rolled her eyes and pointed at my balcony. "Duh, I climbed. And your windows were open."

"Whoa, whoa, that's-" I blurted out of amazement. How many women could climb up three stories high, not to mention in her undies!

"Yeah, I know. I am amazing, right? I'm the first woman you know that climbs up three stories high."

"How are you sure you're the first?" She was, in fact the first, if I'm not gonna count the characters in the movies that I've been watching.

"…You're pretty transparent." She said, her eyes meeting mine. At that moment, I felt nothing but frustration. I was a psychiatrist and I should be the one studying her, but it was the other way 'round. There's this realization that no matter how much I look straight in her eyes, or how I try to simulate her gestures, I cannot fathom what she'll do and say next.

This was new to me—usually, I could tell whatever my patients are thinking in just a glance. But she was… different.

At that precise moment, I knew I was being drawn unconsciously towards this woman I barely know. In a way, it was frightening and impressive at the same time.

"Give me back my clothes."

There was a moment of silence of just staring, and that's when her hand went to my shirt and started unbuttoning the remaining buttons, showing off more of her skin.

"Alright then."

My palms slapped on my eyes in panic. "Matte-matte! Why are you stripping in front of me? Are you crazy?!"

"You're not the type to do anything nasty." I could hear her nonchalance.

Of course I could only assume what her expression, but I knew she had got rid of my shirt completely because I heard a thud and a soft thing landed at my feet.

"Hey, why are you so uptight? It's not like I am naked."

"Shut up! Put it back on!"

"Ah?How d'you know I got rid of it? You're peeking on the spaces between your fingers."

I felt steam coming out of my ears. "I am not!"

"Then you should remove those. I am telling you, I am not naked. I have my underwear inta—"

"-Just! Put it back on—"

"No, listen to me, you dummy. I am not naked." Then I heard her footsteps approaching me, and cold hands gripping mine and yanked them away from my face.

"Stop it you—what are you trying to do-" I paused to look at her, and I saw what she meant by not naked. Of course. She had my sheets covering her body. Why didn't I think of that?

"See." She crossed her arms over her chest. "I am not naked. Blankets have other uses, idiot."

My knees buckled for a moment, a thousand thoughts running through my head. Yes, I admit. I have never seen a woman in a highly provocative outfit, and the mere thought of seeing one straight in her undies is so…

Wrong?

Sexy?

Only hormones and you're imagining things?

My head suggested me. I actually picked the third one, because it's the most logical. I mean, as a psychiatrist, I know what sexual tensions mean. But that's only because this I haven't been stuck in this kind of situation after 27 long, careful years.

"Uh-huh…" I just ran out of words as I sat on the other side of the bed. I had both hands on my head, trying to figure out what was really happening. Maybe I just needed to take care of it as soon as possible. Maybe my hormones were driving me crazy.

I mean no woman wearing undies would climb up three stories high, borrow your clothes, and take your interest. No way. This stuff happened only in porn movies.

Not that I watched one.

"Gods, I never knew I am this tension-ed inside."

My eyes darted back to her direction to check if she was just a figment of my imagination. Nope. She was still there. I had the impression that she was expecting me to offer her the bed, but I was so tired to actually do anything else. The bed adjusted well under me when I collapsed on top of it, I closed my eyes and attempted to block out any other thought. I was thinking that if I ignored her, she would just go. A few moments later and the light went off and the bed slightly creaked on the other side.

"Thanks," I heard her murmur. And then something soft pressed on my forehead before I completely dozed off.

I woke up from the loud beeping noise coming from my phone. I didn't have any problems with waking up and being disoriented though—in my childhood I had to learn how to be alert once I opened my eyes because every day my pops would bust in my room and try to kill me with his butterfly kicks. Luckily I had learned something from my taekwondo classes and I had a counterattack to whatever the mad man would do to me.

After several failed attempts, I was finally able to grab my phone to turn the alarm off. In the process, I caught sight of my blankets cast down on the floor. Then it hit me.

Oh yeah, I told myself. Was it a strange dream? Sexual tension?

The blanket was back on my bed after throwing it distractedly. Thinking of a way to ease the tight feeling in my gut, I went straight to my bathroom and… well… I stripped down and turned on the tub faucet.

Good baths in the morning. I thought, slipping to my bathtub. Actually, I was thinking of a more effective way a release, but what the heck. Baths are good no matter what.

"After that, you might want to get breakfast?" A low feminine voice came from the door.

"Ah, yeah. I think that's good." I answered without thinking, before realizing what really was happening.

I jerked my head towards the door and found a raven-haired woman leaning on its post and a squeak involuntarily found its way out of my throat.

Oh shit. It wasn't a freaking dream after all. She was still in my flat.

"Y-you! H-how did you—" My hands automatically covered my crotch. "What are you doing here!"

"You're quite forgetful." She grinned and placed a hand on her hips. "And don't cover anything, I can't see it even without your hands." Then she turned her back on me and left the bathroom.

"H-hey! You fool! Where are you going?" Too late. The stranger was gone and I hear her light footsteps on the wooden staircases.

I swear I almost had my first major heart attack back there.

I found her in the kitchen (she was still wearing my shirt, and a pair of my favorite boxers to my grimace), her back leant against the marble counter. Her arms were crossed over her chest, her eyes were focused to me as I descended the stairs, and there was an expression on her face like she won some contest.

"Hey." She simply said, gesturing over the table. I was taken aback.

"Woah." My feet carried me faster than usual, the scent of maple and bacon overpowering and taking control of them. This was definitely what a guy wants early in the morning.

"Gotta admit, this is good."

"I know, I made them." She went forward and sat on a chair on the table side across me, eyes still persistent on my face. "I'm good at cooking."

And she was right. In my mouth were the most delicious bites of strawberry-maple pancakes I have ever tasted. That plus the crunchy bacon. Plus the crisp black coffee.

I nodded, but I raised a brow at her. "This doesn't change things. You still trespassed."

"I can't say I'm sorry, your place is nice. But, I just needed this for an emergency, Ichigo."

"What is your emergency, anyway?" Then I remembered another important thing that I missed on the first question. "And who are you? How d'you know my name?"

"Sheesh. I saw it on the certificates on the first floor."

"You went on my clinic?"

"Yeah. I just peeked. But I didn't steal anything." She bit on the pancake pierced by her fork, her face contorting on a thoughtful look. "Ichigo. Your name's nice. It means strawberry."

"Yeah, I mean no!" I snapped at her, dropping the bacon I was about to bite. "Why do you roam around my house without my permission. And my name, it means the one who protects!"

She rolled her eyes. "Like I said, sorry. And. I like strawberry more. Or I can call you carrot-top if you want to—"

"HELL NO! JUST ICHIGO!"

"Fine, fine, I-chi-go." She sighed and became silent for a while as we ate our breakfast.

My mind was never at peace though. She was like a big jigsaw in front of me that I have to solve without the original pattern. The only thing I know about her is that she cooks well and she looks good on my clothes. Not to mention she wasn't a bad egg to begin with.

I cleared my throat to speak. "So, for the nth time, who are you? You seem to avoid the question."

She stared at me for a moment before grinning. "I am nobody."

"Be serious."

"Geez. You're so uptight—"

"Answer me. I want to help you on whatever your emergency is."

My stomach churned when she tilted her head and leaned forward. It was the first time I was seeing her up close. Despite the paleness of her skin and the stray bang on her face… she was more than gorgeous by any standard.

"My name is Rukia." It was a half whishper. "I need a place to stay for a few days. That's all I can tell you."

I pressed on. "Why? Don't you have any relatives?"

"No." She bit her lip, slightly hesitant. "I am an orphan." She looked away and chose to look down on her hands. That gesture meant she wouldn't answer anything personal again.

"Why did you choose me though?" I found myself leaning closer to her across the table instead. "Pretty sure there are many opened windows elsewhere."

Rukia shrugged. "I don't know, I just picked this. It was a clinic to begin with. Maybe someone was charitable enough."

"And what if I was an opportunist?"

"I know you're not. Besides, I know how to fight."

I grinned at her coincidentally at the thought of someone so tiny throwing kicks and punches. "What if I am an offender and I happened to know taekwondo and aikido?"

"Well…" She started slow with an expression that I can't read, and the next thing I knew was my back was pressed against the cold hardwood floor and Rukia was pinning my body with her legs. Her hands were on the opposite sides of my head, holding my arms in restrain.

"…I know Judo." Then she leaned in and whispered in my ear, "I am the best on the mat."

Blood rushed up to my cheeks, not to mention in other parts of my body, but before I could say anything, she was up again and a few feet away from me. How did she do that so fast?

"You can't offend me."

I got up, dusting off my PJs with a scowl on my face. "Shut up. It was just a scenario."

"No, you shut up. You are so uptight. That's why you don't have a girlfriend."

I glared at her even more for being so freaking instinctive. "How do you know?"

"You always blush when I am near. You get roused when I am near."

"That's not true! I do not blush—" But warmth is creeping on my cheeks again.

"Really? Look at you."

"I am not!"

"Oh gods." She titled her head and narrowed her amethyst eyes at me like she was accusing me of something horrible. "If you're not so stuck up then come upstairs with me Ichigo and let's have some good se—"

"FINE! FINE!" I literally growled at the petite woman, but she didn't seem fazed. I sighed as I sank back to my seat.

"Fine. I do not have any girlfriend." There were a few teenage flings, but."None since birth. Can't afford it."

"Yeah, I know." There was an unashamed pat on my hand in a feigned sympathy. "Do you want me to get you one?"

"What! Get me one! Are you a pimp, Rukia?"

"No, of course not. Let's just think of it this way." She raised a finger and pressed it on her chin like she was lecturing a child. "I teach you how to get a girl in exchange of letting me stay here for a couple of days. How's that?"

"You gotta be kidding, I don't need that."

"Oh, I know you do. You need it—"

"I do not!"

"—and you know I don't have money to pay you—"

"Then get a job!"

"—and it's the only way I could repay you for letting me stay here—"

"Who said you could stay here!" I slammed a hand on the table. "I don't know you, Rukia. Why am I going to let you stay here? Give me a reason."

She became still for a while, and what I could hear is only my puff of breaths for being so pissed off. I forgot what I was angry about the next second when she touched my cheek.

"Because you are kind. That's the type of man you are, Ichigo."

Rukia then rose from her seat and proceeded to the stairs without glancing back at me. My feet were kept grounded while my eyes watching as her figure disappeared into the hallway, and my hand grazing the warm spot where her fingers were moments ago.

It was an epiphany-I realized I had been defeated.

For not being to react nor object when her skin touched mine, albeit for the shortest time.

For staring at her retreating figure with a funny feeling in my gut.

Rukia was really something.

Something I never knew I wanted, or needed.

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A/N: So, how was it? I tweaked some minor things in the story that I thought were just funky when I first wrote it. Tell me how it went? : ) By the way, my mainblog is at ogenkiyuki if you guys wanna drop by. :)

#ichiruki #i don't wanna post this in the main fandom tag #kurosaki ichigo #kuchiki rukia #my writing #fanfic: psychotherapy

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