#theres so much left to be done of course

[nabaath-areng]

Being brought up on a farm and only ever going back indoors to head right back out again for my whole life, the decreasing amount of insects has been extremely noticeable and it's been going on for years. Of course it's been worrying with the climate catastrophe, and once I became a beekeeper and learned more about my village's local flora it became even more glaring.

So imagine my surprise this year when there are more insects than I can count. Sitting on my porch (practically my room during summers) I'm noticing species I haven't seen since I was at least a young teenager, and there are more butterflies of different varieties than I even remember from my childhood!

There are so many bees flying around too, probably from the hives down by the old homestead buildings by the church and school, owned by the woman I know from the local beekeeper's association.

What's more is that this year there has been no drought OR flooding, so there are a lot more flowers blooming for longer, and everyone in my village as well as the surrounding villages are reporting a burst of activity in their hives... as well as higher activity from the wild bees and pollinators. For the first time in years it's starting to resemble the way it was when I was younger.

All that is to say, the climate catastrophe is real, and in my area it's causing a lot more violent thunderstorms... but oh my god all this reminds me why I persist despite the despair that tries to dig its claws in.

I may not be able to do major change on a global scale, but you can bet me and everyone here will at least try and support this little place. We can keep going in the fight against the municipality that wants to urbanize at the cost of our precious biodiversity, and we can continue to fight to keep out the cities that tries to enroach on us and get closer.

It is rare for villages in Götaland to remain this free from urbanization despite being nestled right in the middle of multiple major cities, and there's no excuse to destroy what little there is left of it down here in the south.

[marsixm]

i also think the fact that i had such a stunted and isolated upbringing and now that im an adult all my friends are on atypical life paths (and honestly even my friends as a kid were like this too) means i find things that are usually very common life stages really interesting. like knowing someone who has a house and a wife and 2 kids (with that wife) and a job with a salary feels like meeting fucking paul bunyun to me. or hearing the kids i work with talk about graduating high school and going to college and being on a real path with that stuff is neat? or even sometimes knowing cis/het people who are like going thru that coming of age stuff that i never really experienced the way you see it in the movies bc of transness/queerness/neurodivergence. its like woah they said the name of the thing in the thing. do u know what i mean???

[dirt-str1der]

Quivering and hooking my fingers into my mouth and biting down hard on them sobbing because the anime

[crescentmp3]

hi! hi hello

[4giorno]

HELLO ? i fucking sniped the 4th copy of ichiros event card from the 3rd box wtf??????

[strawbebyjam]

i think i’ve reached my breaking point

[timeisacephalopod]

On the bus the other day I saw the fuckin cutest tiniest most adorable little Chihuahua ever in a lil pet backpack and I would LOVE to get a Chihuahua (from a shelter, mix is fine I knew someone with a corgi Chihuahua mix and Bert was adorable). Granted I dont think my cats would like that much and I'd have to reorganize like. My whole life for the dog, but if I ever move to a bigger place and end up with the opportunity to shop around for another pet (I'd love a rat, but I don't think it would be good to keep a rat when I know Mrs Jackson would do everything in her power to kill it 🥲🥲🥲). I've considered a beta fish too, that's kind of useful because it's also cat entertainment, but again bigger place needed lol. I'm not putting the fish in a teeny tiny ass tank that'd fit my place when the tank should fit for the FISH if course

Anyway the Chihuahua was fuckin adorable and they seem like quite chill dogs. Bet 10$ watching me try to deal with a dog would be hilarious because every time I do I get confused because I'm so used to Cat Lingo, and that's not how dogs work even if all animals like to give Cursory Sniff to ensure you are Not Threat and also to see if you have lickable fingers lol

[freshxsturniolo]

WISDOM TEETH - chris sturniolo / triplets x reader

REQUEST - anon : Just saying that I would die for a Chris x reader wisdom teeth fic where reader gets her wisdom teeth out and the boys take care of her 🥹 or really any protective Chris taking care of reader.

"you good, babe?" chris asks, his hand coming to your thigh and his thumbs running small circles around your leg. you look down at his hand before putting your own under his, wrapping your fingers together and then placing your other hand on top before looking towards your boyfriend. nick is in the passenger seat singing along to both of yours favourite songs from the new billie eilish album, something you know he had done to calm your nerves as matt drives you to the dentist. you've been feeling sick for the last few days at the prospect of having your wisdom teeth finally removed, only braving booking yourself the appointment after nick had told you it was nothing to fear after his own, but you were still nervous on the lead up. it was currently 10am and you were officially 12 hours completely fasted, so your dry mouth wasn't helping. all you were dreaming of was your favourite iced coffee, which matt had promised to drive you too as soon as you were done.

you give your boyfriends hand a squeeze as he moves slightly closer to you, and you lean over to rest your head on his shoulder, not being able to find the words to speak. chris understands, of course, and plants a kiss on your head as you drive the rest of the way in silence, listening to the three triplets who chat and sing away.

when you finally pull up you let out a sigh before nick springs into action, his energetic energy easing you at once.

“okay, let’s go! this will be over and done in an hour” he says as he opens the door to get out of the car, you laugh at his words as you finally remove your head from chris' shoulder, but as you move to get out of the car his hand comes up to your cheek, turning your head back to look towards him. you smile as your eyes meet his, his hair still a little damp from the shower he took before you set off, and you lean forward to give him a soft kiss, which he accepts gratefully as he kisses you back. but as you pull away, your door is flung open and nick stands waiting for you to get out of the car. you let out a laugh as you remove yourself from chris, swinging your legs out of the car and stepping to the side. you expect to take the hands of your boyfriend, but theres no time before nick hooks his arm around yours and pulls you in the direction of the entrance.

"come on. i cant wait to see you high from the local anaesthesia" he chuckles, and you give his shoulder a playful shrug with you're own. you can hear matt and chris talking behind you as you enter the building, nick dragging you across to the front desk, greeted by a woman not much older than yourself. she smiles at you as she asks your name and when you give her your full name, she scrolls through her computer a second.

"ah, yes! its this way" she says, stepping from behind the desk and walking down the hallway behind her. "im not sure the dentist will allow all of your friends in, though" she says whilst looking back at you, and you give her a laugh.

"oh im not letting them see me whilst this happens" you joke, and nick lets out a joking shocked gasp at the side of you, his arm still wrapped with yours. the receptionist laughs at you both as she comes to a stop to a small waiting room and tells you all to sit and wait, and you'd be called when it was time.

matt starts wondering around the waiting room, looking at the posters and photos on the wall, whilst nick sits to your left and chris comes to your right.

"do you really not want any of us in there with you?" he asks.

"babe, you aint seeing me with my mouth forced open for the next half an hour whilst i lay there with no recollection of whats going on. its bad enough im about to be high as a kite" you say, and a laugh escapes his lips.

"let me come in whilst you get put under, at least." he says, grabbing your hand now, and you have to admit having him there whilst you get prodded with needles would be a huge comfort.

it takes no more than a few second for the dentist to emerge from the room to your right, calling your name with a smile on your face. you give him a small wave as you stand up, chris immediately standing with you.

"is he okay to come in. just for a bit, before we start?" you ask, and the dentist holds his hand out for you to shake as you reach him.

"of course! they all can, if you want. i'll just need them to leave when you undergo the procedure" he says, moving now to give chris' hand a shake.

"oh, thats more than fine. i dont want them seeing that" you say, stepping into the room. the dentist lets out a laugh as chris steps beside him and into the room with you, and you turn to see nick and matt looking at you with a hopeful glint in their eyes. you roll your eyes as you look at them, the dentist irrupting into laughter again as you raise your hand for them to come with you.

"they way you all are so desperate to see me in this state is unbelievable" you say, stepping deeper into the room so the two brothers can join you and your boyfriend.

"you saw me!" nick squeals.

"yeah, when you were home!" you say back.

"theres a video of me on the internet for the whole world to see, you'll be grateful is just us 3" he says, and you give him an eye roll again. matt chuckling behind him as he finally steps into the room.

"okay, pop yourself on here" your dentist says, tapping the large chair as he sits down at his computer. chris comes to your other side, hand on your shoulder in a comforting rub as chris and matt stand down near your feet. you give them all a small smile as the dentist starts to explain the procedure. you were only have two teeth removed so he predicted it would take around 20 minutes complete, but said to prepare for at least an hour to allow the anaesthesia to kick in and then wear off again enough for you to leave.

he puts on gloves now as he gets out the equipment needed to pop a cannula into your arm, which would give you the anaesthesia and then an IV drip afterwards to help bring you back to normality a little quicker, and as he wipes at your arm ready to stick in the needle you turn your head towards your boyfriend.

"talk to me, please" you say, eyes closed as you feel the tip of the needle on your skin.

"you're good, baby. so good. an hours time we can go and get you that coffee. maybe some ice cream." he says, his hand coming to your and grasping hold of it, running circles across your skin. you nod, before looking back at matt and chris who are staring at you already.

"can we go get ice cream, matt?" you ask, distracting yourself some more as you feel the needle go into your arm, chris notices' you flinch and gives your hand a squeeze.

"hell yeah we can. we can go anywhere you wanna" he smiles.

"ice cream and then bed, you're going to be so tired" nick says now, and the dentist lets out a chuckle at the side of you, you look towards him just as he's finishing up putting the cannula in your arm.

"he's right" he says, looking towards you. "the anaesthesia usually makes people very tired once it wears off." he confirms.

"bed and movies it is" chris says now, and the dentist looks up at him with a smile.

"boyfriend?" he says, and you watch as chris' smile doubles.

"yeah" he nods, looking back down at you with a doting smile which you reciprocate.

"you live together?" he asks, and chris nods.

"plenty of rest and painkillers over the next few days. dont let her do anything too crazy. soft foods. ice cream is good" he laughs, and chris gives him a nod. "coffee after this may send her a little crazy though" he says now, and you whip your head around to look at him as he pulls out the anaesthesia.

"you ready?" he says. "this wont hurt, but its gonna take about 10 minutes to kick in" he says, and you nod ask you turn your head away, not wanting to see the liquid flow into your arm. as you do so, chris brings his free hand to your face and rubs gently at your cheek.

"dont you dare record me when im out if it" you whisper, gaining a laugh from all 3 of the triplets.

"okay, i'll leave you too it for a sec. i'll leave this door open a while as you may start to feel a little warm. i'll come check on you in 5 minutes." he says, and you all say thank you in unison.

as the dentist leaves the room, chris perches himself on the edge of the large chair you're sat on. "how you feeling, baby?" he says, and you give him a smile.

"okay for now. he's lovely, isn't he" you say, nodding your head to the door in the direction the dentist just left. chris smiles.

"see, i told you nothing to be worried about." he says.

you're distracted by nick and matt who are laughing at something between themselves and you spend the next few minutes listening in as all three triplets start chatting amongst themselves. but then you feel it. it hits you almost like a ton of bricks and you let out a yawn before looking towards matt, who's furtherest away from you as you try and make out his features. when you hear all the triplets stop talking, you almost snap back into reality, but you can tell you don't feel your usual self.

"you good, kid?" matt says, and you see a smirk playing on his lips before a chuckle escapes nick. you snap your head to him immediately, before a laugh escapes your boyfriend too.

"fuck sake," you say. "this is why i didn't want you guys in here"

but your words are mumbled and the triplets can't help but laugh again, this time causing you to laugh with them. you let out a sigh as you rest your head back on the head rest, reaching out for chris' hand.

"im so tired" you whisper, and you slowly start to drift off just after you feel chris plant a kiss to the top of your head.

_____

you let out a groan, your throat feeling dry and your mouth feeling numb as you let your eyes adjust to the brightness of the light in the room. looking around, your eyes catch the dentist just at the same time as he spins around to look at you.

"ah, you're awake!" he says with a smile.

"what time is it?" you ask.

"10.45 exactly" he says with a smile as he looks down at his watch, "i told you it wouldn't take long at all." he says.

you bring your hands up to your eyes, rubbing at them vagariously before bringing your hand to your mouth.

"i can't feel my tongue" you say, and the dentist laughs.

"thats very normal. the feeling will come back within half an hour i should imagine"

you continue patting at your lip, unaware you're even doing it, when you open your eyes wide.

"chris" you say, and the dentist lets out another laugh.

"he's outside. do you want him?" he says, standing up and walking to the door.

"please" you mumble, all of a sudden feeling emotional. the procedure, the anxiety you had been feeling in the lead up to this morning, the anaesthesia working through your body, you had an overwhelming urge to cry.

"the other two as well? or just chris?" he asks. you don't even feel as the tear comes down to your face, but you feel the lump in your throat.

"just chris" you manage to choke out, and he nods in understanding.

the dentist leaves you alone for a short moment, shutting the door behind him. you're unaware that he's letting all three triplets know you've come over emotional, which he assures them is completely normal and will likely wear off after speaking to chris who you had asked for, and matt and nick wait patiently as chris opens back up the door.

"baby" he says, rushing straight over to your side. the tears are flowing now, but the minute you see his face you let out a laugh of happiness. you look towards the dentist as he laughs with you.

"you did so good, y/n" he says to you, and you nod your head as you look back to your boyfriend, who gives you a smile.

"don't cry, princess. its done. its over. you did so so well." he says, grabbing your face in his hands. you can't feel a thing, so you bring your hands up to rest against his, the warmth of his hands underneath yours bringing immediate comfort.

"please don't tell me you saw me with my mouth forced open like that" you say, and chris chuckles.

"no, babe. i didn't."

"thank fuck. you'd never come near me again" you say, the dentist sniggering behind you as he types away at his computer.

"i promise you, i absolutely would." chris says with a smile as he places a kiss on your forehead, moving his hands away from your face.

"don't flirt with me" you say now, snuffling away the last of your tears and using your hands to wipe away at the tears you couldn't even feel running down your face.

"you're my girlfriend. if i can't flirt with you who can i flirt with?" he says, reaching out his hand across you, when you look to the side you realise the dentist is passing him a tissue. as chris grabs hold of it, you try to grab it off him, but he pulls away and gives you a stern look before wiping at your cheeks.

"no one. absolutely no one" you say.

"well then, shut up princess" he smirks.

you sit in silence for the next few minutes before the dentist stands up again, looking at you both.

"how you feeling, y/n?" he says, and you smile.

"good!" to which he chuckles.

"give it 5 more minutes and im happy for you to leave. im sure chris here will take good care of you."

"you bet" chris chimes, and you give him a smile.

"you can tell matt and nick to come in" you say now, and the dentist nods as he goes to open the door, summoning them both in, but your eyes widen when you see matt pushing nick through with a wheelchair.

"am i hallucinating?" you say, looking around the room, a deep cackle coming from your dentist.

"you are not" he proceeds to say. "i imagine my lovely receptionist bought this to them for you."

"for me?!" you almost squeal.

"you carriage awaits" nick chimes, arms open wide as he gets out of the wheelchair.

"not a fucking chance. i've had my teeth removed i've not broken my hip" you say, scrunching up your nose. all 4 of the men in the room let out a deep laugh, chris holding your shoulder to steady himself. "im so serious" you continue, and you swing your legs off the chair you're sat in, moving forward to stand up.

"wooooahh" matt chimes, in front of you and holding your shoulders within a second before you feel warm hands on your waist from behind. matt and chris holding you in place so you can't move any further.

"i dont think so, kid" matt says, giving you a stern look as you look up at him, giving him your biggest dead eye, which only makes him laugh as you feel chris' hands pulling you backwards.

you roll your eyes as you sit yourself back down, and you realise how stupid of a move it was you just made, hands coming to your head as you feel a huge wave of nausea push over you.

"im gonna be sick" you say, feeling sensation in your mouth for the first time, and before you know it a paper sick bowl is shoved under your nose. you lean forward instantly, chris and matts hand coming behind your back both rubbing at it to ease you.

"this is very normal" you hear the dentist say as you keep your eyes closed, willing the feeling to pass. "dont let her do anything vigorous. straight to bed until at least this evening" he says, and you let out a sigh as you lean your head back.

"i told you" matt says, and you open one to look at him, genuine concern on his face.

"are you mad at me?" you ask now, that overwhelming feeling to cry hitting you again. what on earth do they put in these drugs?

matt only chuckles. "no, just chill" he says, and you look up at your boyfriend.

"are you mad at me?" you ask, extenuating the 'you', a warm smile spreading over his face.

"only if you dont let me take care of you" he says.

you groan again, closing your eyes.

"you're so cute." you whisper, and you hear a soft laugh escape him. you stay laid back for the next few minutes, allowing the nausea feeling to ware off as the IV drip finishes flowing into your system, when the dentist announces you can leave if you feel ready. you open your eyes and give him a nod before he passes matt an after care pack, explaining to them whats inside and how to help me over the next few days.

"you ready?" nick says from behind you, but it takes only a second for him to emerge with the wheelchair. you give him an eye as he gives you a cheeky grin, but you accept defeat you need it. you swing your legs off the side, the dentist removing the cannula in your arm, before matt and nick both reach out their hands for you to take. you grab hold of them, slowly standing yourself up, taking a deep breath as you do so.

"im good" you say to no one in particular, and matt and nick guide you over, helping you turn around to sit down. as you do so, your eyes catch chris', who you can tell is trying not to laugh. pointing your finger, he slaps his hands over his mouth.

"dont even start. boy" you say, the room irrupting into laughter once again.

you say your thank yous to the dentist, who gives your hand a shake and opens the door for you to leave, before nick spins you around and starts to push you out and down the hall way. once the receptionist from earlier sees you, she gives you a smile before coming out from her desk to follow you out the car so she can take the wheelchair once you're done.

when the fresh air hits you, you let out a sigh of relief, chris running off in front to get ready to help you into the car not to far away, but your eyes widen and your hands grip the arm rests as you start to feel nick run with him.

"nick!" you squeal, but a laugh escapes your lips before chris turns around to look at you both.

"nick!" he echoes you. "shes just nearly threw up in there."

"oh, fuck" nick says, coming to a dead stop.

"im okay" you say through your laughter, realising the giddy stage of the effects of the drugs you'd been pumped with kicking in. "im so okay" you say again, and nick laughs from behind you.

when you reach the car, door open, chris comes in front of you, arms out for you to hold onto.

"im good, chris, i promsise" you say, but he gives you an eye.

"let me look after you, babe."

"if you wish" you whisper, but inside you're grateful as you hold onto his hands, nick sliding the wheelchair from under you as you stand up.

"its my job" he says now, placing your hands on his shoulders as he placing his hands on your hips and guides you into the back seat. when you're in, and his hands are no longer on yours, you quickly grab at them.

"thank you" you whisper, and he leans forward to place a kiss to your forehead, no words needed. he hated when you thanked him for anything, his motto was that he would always take care of you no matter what. his hands slip from yours as he shuts the door at the same time as matt gets into the driver seat in front of you, immediately turning on the ignition and then turning around to you, holding out his phone.

"your song choices the whole ride home" he smiles, chris opening the door and climbing in at the side of you.

"we did that on the way here" you say, remembering the entire sing song from nick. matt laughs.

"and we can do it again."

you smile as you take the phone from him, opening up his spotify.

"you still want that coffee?" he says now, and as you look up at him, chris leans forward.

"she was told no coffee"

you hold out your arm to push him back into his seat.

"actually," you start. "i was told coffee might make me crazy."

chris gives you an eye before looking back towards matt, which you do the same. "coffee, please."

matt chuckles as he spins back around, nick now jumping in at the side of him.

you lean back, scrolling back on matts phone to find one of your favourite songs, a cheer from nick as it starts to play and matt starts to drive off to your favourite coffee shop. placing the phone back in your lap, you take a look over at your boyfriend and a smile immediately comes to your face as you notice he's already looking at you.

"you okay?" you ask, and he chuckles.

"you're the most stubborn woman i've ever met" he says.

"and you love me for it"

he grabs your hand immediately. "damn right i do"

you smile as you lean back, rubbing small circles around chris' hand with your thumb and you stay in silence again as you drive your way to the coffee shop.

but before you know it, hands are on your shoulder, softly shaking you. you sit up in an instant, forgetting where you are and everything that just happened as you let your eyes adjust. the headache is immediate. the pain in your cheeks is almost unbearable. you let out a wince as you see chris at your door.

"we're home, baby" he whispers, and you look outside to see the inside of the triplets garage.

"my coffee" you say, but you close your eyes and hold your hands to your cheek immediately. "fuck. im in so much pain, chris."

"i know, y/n. i know. come on, lets get you inside."

chris grabs hold of your hand as you slide out of the car, his free hand coming around your back and holding your hip to guide you. when you step out far enough, his foot kicks the door shut, not wanting to let go of you.

"did i fall asleep?" you ask, eyes adjusting to your surroundings as you make your way to the door that would lead you into the house.

"yes, but we got your coffee." he chuckles.

"my saviours" you say, and he only chuckles deeper. making your way into the house and up the stairs, a smile illuminates your face as you see matt setting up blankets on the couch, nick scrolling through netflix as you notice your favourite show ready to be played. chris guides you over to the couch, helping you sit down before you swing your legs up, laying back on the pillows matt had already prepared. when chris' hand finally leave you, they immediately come to the blankets at your feet and he covers you up.

"thank you" you whisper, as he leans forward to plant another kiss on your forehand. you close your eyes, feeling comfortable and grateful for the most attentive boyfriend and friends, before matt appears, opening your eyes to see him holding two painkillers and your beloved coffee.

"here you go, kid" he says, passing them to you. you smile as you sit yourself up, taking the painkillers one at a time, a pleasurable hum leaving your lips as the coffee hits your system.

"thank you. so much." you say.

"anything for you" matt says, walking off into the direction of the kitchen.

nick presses play on your favourite show, and you get yourself comfortable again before chris appears again, a can of soda in his hand. he takes a sip before placing it on the table as you open up the blanket, summoning him to get underneath with you.

he chuckles as he slides in, and you shuffle up to give him more room as his hand comes behind your head, pulling you into his chest.

you stay like that for hours, sipping on your coffee, watching your favourite show, drifting in and out of sleep, all whilst the triplets wait on your every move.

AHHHH I HAD SO MUCH FUN WRITING THIS I HOPE ITS OKAY POOKIES!xxx

[sturn-saturn]

just this once

pairing; fem!reader x bf!matt

warnings: cooch eating <3

a/n: im LITERALLY writing this as im in class LMAOO sorry if it sucks. writing a fanfic in class is crazy.

one thing you and the triplets knew was school fucking sucked. it sucked absolute balls. your dream since you were younger was to be in the medical field and here you are. you're currently in med school majoring in nursing but thankfully this biology course is offered online.

you woke up this morning absolutely exhausted but this class was only 90 minutes so you weren't complaining too much. you were just hoping this would be the quickest 90 minutes of your life.

matt wakes up pretty early as well but his brothers on the other hand love sleeping in. matt usually stayed in the living room while you're in your virtual class. matt lets you use his desk, which gives you the space to focus and just get through the class.

you're currently on the call and you were just exhausted, dozing off, staring off, picking at your cuticles, twirling your hair, you name it. your elbow was on the desk and your head was leaning on your hand until you hear a creak.

you turn to your right and you see your boyfriend peeking through the door. you give him a deadpan look because he knows how easily distracted you are especially when he's around.

luckily your professor doesn't mind if your camera is off as long as you're participating in class. "matt, what are you doing?"

"i'm bored, hungry, and theres nothing on netflix." he explains walking further into his room.

"babe, you know i have a class."

"i know, i know." he whispers walking to you and kissing your head. "are you almost done? i'm hungry."

"god we really need to get you and your brothers into a cooking class."

"honey, i know how to cook. i just choose not to cause i love when you cook, you put so much love into it."

"oh you know how to cook, huh? that salmon you tried to cook the other day says otherwise." you laugh. "i'll be done soon don't worry."

"but i'm hungry now." he whines. "you know what, fuck it."

matt pulls the desk chair away from his desk and sneaks under so hes on his knees facing you.

"m-matt. what are you doing i'm in class!" you yell.

"cameras off, i'm hungry, i'm taking advantage of this." he smirks looking up at you. “you need to keep quiet, sweetheart. can you do that for me?”

“yes.” you breathe out. matt begins to pull your panties down and kisses your inner thigh softly while holding eye contact.

your professor was talking at this point and the only thing you heard come out of his mouth was living organisms. “ms. y/l/n could you explain further?”

“fuck” you mouth looking at matt.

he pulls away from between you and gives you a smirk. “well ms. y/l/n? explain further.”

you unmute the zoom call and do everything you can to refrain from moaning. “a living organism is anything that has life and consists of cells as its basic unit of organization like t-trees, animals, algae, b-bacteria, as well as humans of course.”

“correct, thank you ms.y/l/n.” your professor announces.

you go back on mute and you look down at matt and spread your legs wider to give him access. he taps your legs so you can put your feet on the arms of his chair.

“you’re such a good girl.” matt whispers.

“mmmm” you hum

“and…you…taste…so…good.” he says in between kisses to your clit.

“matt, quit teasing.”

“say please.” with a deadpan look.

“matt, please quit teasing.”

with that, be inserts a finger and your head falls back into the chair. he trusts in and out until you’re a mess. “what you didn’t realize was you and your professor were the only ones left in the call.

“y/n, are there any questions you had for today?” you professor asks.

you almost jump out of your seat when you heard your name from the screen in front of you.

you quickly unmute yourself, “no, professor, great lecture today, looking forward to next week!” you ramble on before you end the call.

“fuck i’m looking forward to getting inside you. get on the bed, sweetheart.” you boyfriend says with a husky voice.

tag list:

@sturniolos4life16 @hoeforchrizz @luckyscharms @emely9274 @chrispotatos @weirdratperson @simpson12 @ilovemenwithlonghairr @angeldvstee @pussypie456 @valentinasturniolo @khalei-20 @cravingchrissturniolo @wonnieeluvvr @flouvela @zay-sturns

[banj0possum]

Alistair x (platonically) Teen Reader

In the fic he is like oh my god a bride, he walks in and instead of an adult..or a bride-

They find a teen, who literally threw a pebble at him, an angsty teen💀

I’m very happy to read ur fics and usually pair them with teen/child mc because I find it funny because they expect the love of their life

and teen mc standing there :🧍‍♂️

anyways sorry for the long request, luv ur writing, and ur art :D

Yandere! Evil King x Teen! GN! Reader

CW: platonic relationship, Alistair is a bit of a DILF so do with it as you will, Dads are hot you guys!! READER IS A MINOR.

👑 Who is this sassy lost child?

👑 His minions kidnapped you while you were on a carriage ride back to your kingdom.

👑 He was hoping for like a princess or something to marry and take over the kingdom with or whatever so like...what tf he gonna do with you???

👑 Clearly you were too young to be in a situation like this, but theres no way he's giving you back without a reward, so yes he still holds you for ransom.

👑 "Child, I am Alistair, King of-ACk!"

👑 Did...did you throw a pillow at him?!

👑 "How dare yo- AHK! Stop it!" another one..

👑 You refuse to listen to anything he says, you just wanted to go home

👑 You two had a bit of rivalry for a bit. He hated you and you hated him.

👑 He promised not to show any affection or care towards you since in his eyes, your actions didn't deserve it. How can someone be so rude to a king !?

👑 But he starts to notice you don't eat much. He never sees you in the dining hall and has only seen quick moments of you nibbling on some bread or pastries the servants gave you.

👑 He scoffed, so irresponsible! You must eat a proper meal right this second or you'll starve!

👑 You're surprised to see a meal prepared for you during your routine trip to get a snack from the pantry with a note on the plate.

👑 "Next time, ask for a proper meal. I don't want your parents to think I've been starving you. -Alistair P.S. go to bed early."

👑 Huh...

👑 Alistair smiled from the doorway of the dining hall, watching you eat up with a smile on your face. You might have been too scared of him to ask for food so you've been sneaking snacks while he wasn't looking.

👑 Of course he wasn't doing it because he cared about you, he just didn't want royalty like you to resort to such pathetic means to eat!

👑 Why are you still sad? Perhaps he should get you some things to keep your attention..

👑 He asks (threateningly may I add) about your hobbies or interests.

👑 The next morning your cell (which has been upgraded to a lovely room in the castle because he didn't want you to be filthy and gross in a dungeon) was filled with anything he could find that he thought you'd enjoy.

👑 Don't think he wants you to be happy! He's just tired of seeing you sulk everywhere!

👑 He denies everything, but you swear you could see a tiny smile on his face when you hugged him happily.

👑 You start being a little more open to him, showing him anything you've made or done with pride and he'd receive it gratefully, but he won't show it of course.

👑 "I made you this friendship bracelet!"

👑 "I've seen better jewelry."

👑 "Oh I'll take it back then I guess.."

👑 "No, it's mine now, back off."

👑 Drawings and the like that he said would be thrown out as soon as you left would be seen framed in his room

👑 It would be a..waste of good canvas..

👑 And of course he buys a few books of your choice for you to read, he'd be damned if your brain turns to mush.

👑 Bro bro he'd be the type to let you swing around while holding onto his bicep.

👑 If you ever have any problems, or come to him in a bad mood, he'd have no idea how to help other than to sit down and listen to your troubles.

👑 He's not the most physical when it comes to affection, but you bet your ass he's gonna do everything he can to cheer you up.

👑 At this point he's rewriting his demands for the ransom. Either your kingdom lets him sign some adoption papers or he's starting a war.

[hearts4golbach]

Hey can I request y/n surprising Billie at the Grammys? Thanks

Double-Winner.

Billie Eilish x Fem!Reader.

a/n: sorry this is so short, i had no clue how to fulfill this tbh but i tried my best! hope you like it x

"bil, for the last time," I sighed heavily, "im not going to be able to make it. I'll make it up to you, I promise."

billie whined on the other end of the phone, "it's not the same, ma."

I continued packing my suitcase. "I know, babe, but you know I have a huge meeting that I can not miss."

she grumbled, "I know." I heard water running and movement. "Wish me luck." she muttered as she began to brush her teeth.

"i'll be manifesting for you," i joke, walking to the bathroom to prepare my toiletries. "You're going to win the grammy." i reassure her.

i could hear her take a deep breath and sigh. "Yeah, hopefully. i think i should go to bed, big day tomorrow." she cheesed.

"Alright," i say dramatically. "If you have to."

she made a kiss noise, "i love ya."

"i love you too. Text me when you're up." i kissed her back before she hung up.

i checked the time on my phone, silently thanking billie for hanging up at the perfect time. i zipped up my suitcase and threw on my slides before walking out of the house. i double-checked to make sure the door was walked before i drove off towards the airport.

the cool winter breeze caught me off guard as i stepped out of my warm car. i dreaded all of the airport security traffic. it took me forever to get through everything, but i had finally made it on the flight that would take me to surprise billie.

i found out 3 hours before she called me that the meeting was canceled, and i decided i was going to surprise her. i booked the fastest flight and sound one that was perfect. i was surprised it was still available.

i sat peacefully on the plane, drinking Sprite and eating the iconic honey roasted peanuts. of course, i spent the whole time worrying over billies' reactions. would she be mad that i lied to her? i pondered back and forth, defending each argument for yes and no over in my mind.

the loud, robotic sounding woman over the speakers awoke me from my sleep. i rushed to get off the plane as i only had 2 hours to make it in time to see billie. i went to the nearest airport restroom and changed into my stunning dress that i had been saving for a really special occasion. it was a long, ruby red silk slip dress. it had a slit in the right legs and was long enough to trail behind me. i had straightened my hair before i left, and it had managed to stay intact. i did quick but elegant makeup and called my Uber.

the wait for the Uber was spent getting cat called by older men while waiting for billie to text me back.

me: How's your morning going, babe? i miss you

billie ❤️: it's going good, just doing hair and make up

billie ❤️: you?

billie ❤️: i miss you sm mama

me: just been thinking about you

billie: i gotta go get dressed, text you after ❤️

me: sounds goood

the Uber arrived and took me to my hotel room, which i had to rush to get ready since i was running late.

i basically threw on the dress that complimented hers, so i had enough time for makeup. luckly, i didn't like to do heavy makeup.

whenever i was finally done, billie texted me.

billie ❤️: god everything reminds me of how much i wish you could be here.

billie ❤️: theres an extra seat at the table for some reason

me: hm thats weird, dont worry, though i have the live video pulled up right now

i lied as i climbed into the Uber. i told the man my destination, and he began driving. butterflies were building up, and i couldn't wait to see her reaction.

i made it right in time, making it in time for the music related awards. i chatted with Lizzie Grant, one of my favorite music artists, as i waited for billie to leave the table so i could sneak in.

whenever they finally announced the first award for "what was i made for?" she got up and walked onto the stage.

i slid into my seat quietly, waving to finneas and claudia, who were in on the surprise.

i admired billie on stage. i was so proud of her. I couldn't contain it. a stupid smile spread on my face as i saw her bright smile on stage.

"Thank you so much. i really couldn't have done it without y/n and finneas. i love you too, and im so sorry you couldn't be here, baby." she blew a kiss to the camera, which i knew there'd be edits of later on.

she walked back, thanking all the people who congratulated her as she walked by.

she was only a few feet away whenever she made eye contact with me. her face lit up, and her smile grew. she ran towards me, pulling me out of my chair and capturing me in a tight hug. she peppered my face in kisses before finally meeting my lips. she held her lips on mine, and i didn't want her to pull away.

"You actually made it!" she exclaimed, wrapping her arms around my waist.

"How could i miss it?! my meeting got rescheduled, but i was planning on surprising you anyway. so everything worked out in the end." i explained.

"When did you get here?" she asked, her smile never fading.

"literally 2 and a half hours ago." i laughed, my arms snaking around her neck. "im so proud of you, bil."

"Thank you, mama." she pecked my lips once more, "i love you."

"i love you more." i smiled, "youre amazing. you deserve this so much."

billie went on to win another grammy. needless to say, we celebrated a lot that night.

[eir-trixa]

WOTTG SPOILERS AFTER THE CUT

.

.

.

Can you believe Rick is validating me in my Percy-is-the-most-empathic-character take? I have legal basis but boi does it feel nice to have canon confirmation.

Second that book was short af I got the gist of it all while reading for like an hour.

Third, we addressed everyone else’s trauma. Percy’s still the group therapist LMAO 😭😭😭

Fourth, my son is such a good kid yall, this is why I lose five years of my life when someone insults or when he insults himself jfc my child.

Im honestly still processing and I have to reread the ending. Did it address Percy’s issues? Im going to go with “a bit” and call it a night. I mean, I guess it did? Percy got to unload and help Gale and Hecuba. We got an insight to how he’s managing to stay up and fighting and good despite all the shit he’s put into. Honestly the fact that he saw the humanity in Gale and Hecuba, that he saw their pain and grief and thats what made them trust him, that is so good. And the way he related to them. Goodness. And it highlights again how good a person he is, how much he feels and cares. I mean, he cried cause he had to send Mrs O Leary away, I cant with this kid-

I supposed what Im left unsatisfied with is how he still perceives himself as dumb? Baby, you survived San Fran for two months as a homeless kid without memories and pursued by different monsters who cant die. Youre the furthest thing from dumb.

He cant see this of course and while it was slightly addressed(?) by Annabeth telling him to his face that she doesnt give him enough credit, that he’s pretty smart, I dont think thats enough for addressing this particular issue. There was a time in the middle that he almost snapped because he thought Annabeth probably thinks him too dumb to know what to do next. Which I understand is frustrating to him. But to be fair this book made him look at Annabeth for a solution a lot. Theres also little comments about how when he cant think of anything - which is every 60 seconds apparently according to him- he looks at Annabeth. This doesnt help the co dependent allegations LMAO. Idk, I will die on the Hill that Percy is one of the smartest people in the series, not just emotionally but also in strategy. And theres, of course, nothing wrong with looking at the genius strategist for answers. Ive mixed feelings because definitely this is more of a Percy-insecurity issue than an Annabeth-being-bossy issue. But okay. One more book, heres to hoping we get more heart to heart on that front because Im 999998% sure she doesnt mean to make him feel stupid, Percy’s just got a lot of demons to fight but this in particular they need to figure out together. Still, its obvious how much they care for each other still. If only Dave and Hana did not piss me off at the start Id probably be a little more lenient about this.

Annabeth’s fatal flaw also makes a comeback, we love to see it.

And Sally Estelle Jackson. Now we have to find out wth is Percy’s middle name cause if Sally has one odds are she gave her son too. Trust me. Im Filipino. Iykyk.

Lastly, while I will forever and ever and ever support the trio from pjotv (theyre perfect and have done nothing wrong ever) I can see Rick’s injecting their personalities into the books. Im not sure if he does this on purpose or just subconsciously LMAO. Some of Grover’s dialogue is definitely inspired by Aryan. Percy being Lanky? Walker through and through, especially with his growth spurt lmao, and Annabeth’s confidence? All Leah. I can see what Rick’s trying to do. Ive no opinion on this, just pointing it out. I do love love love the live action. Just. I can see you Rick. You aint slick.

So there. I probably would need to reread the book properly at some point.

[acesofspadess]

The End of The Road

Pt. 2 to All Roads Lead Here

Part 1 || Part 2 || Part 3

a/n: it's good I promise... aka Ace does not have the same race as Oscar... she's a long one

warnings: The Abu Dhabi GP

summary: It's finally race day, what does the future of Ace, Lando, McLaren hold.....

 “A very warm welcome to the top 3 Qualifying for the FIA Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. In third place Carlos Sainz, in second place Ace Giovanelli, and taking his eighth pole position of the season and his first here in Abu Dhabi, our pole-sitter Lando Norris. Brilliant job Lando, well done to you….”

Him and Lando chatted for a few minutes before he moved on. “Ace, let's come to you now. Your fifth career front row start for McLaren. Let’s start by talking about that final lap in Q3. How pleased are you?” She  tilted her head and sucked her teeth.

“It was eh. Nothing to write home about to me.” She shrugged but continued, “I could have pushed more on that lap -clearly- and I left some of it on the table. You know, you can’t leave anything there because you’ll get eaten alive and unfortunately I did that today, and it’s why I’m not on pole. So, proud to be front row of course, but not thrilled about my lap.” She shrugged, biting the inside of her lip. 

“And were your preparations for that second lap affected by the uncertainty to do with the track limits on your first run of Q3?”

“I mean, it didn’t help.” She shrugged with a humourless chuckle. “But I knew I was doing another lap anyway. I needed more to go for pole, and I found it for all of 2 seconds, it just wasn’t quite enough. It didn’t help, there was definitely a moment in my mind that thought that was it, but it also didn’t change the plan, it just made me push harder.” She finished. She knew there was still all to play for tomorrow though.

“Now theres been a lot of speculation coming into this final weekend as to who’s gonna have the fastest car, McLaren or Ferrari. Are you surprised with the pace of your car? We’re you expecting a front row lockout.”

“No.” She answered simply making Carlos and Lando giggle.

“I mean what else is there to say?” She shrugged laughing. “I knew the car would perform well, but I also didn’t think Charles would have grid-penalty and I thought we would be inter-coordinated.”

After Carlos went they opened the questions up to the floor. 

“Question to Ace please?” She nodded, picking up her mic. “Just about that final run in Q3, did you have to take a bit more margin at turn 1 given what happened in the first run and how hard was the challenge bearing in mind where your car was? Thanks.”

“Eh….” she thought about her words, “Well, I didn’t have to take more margin, but I did by accident and I lost a lot of time in turn 1. I knew -even with the lap being given back- that it was incredibly close, but I still gave more than I wanted to. If they hadn’t taken it away, I would have pushed more. But, I’m fine with P2.”

There was a question for Carlos and then one for both her and Lando. “Question to both Mclaren drivers. Do you dare to dream about the title? And I guess specifically for Lando having been at the team for a little bit longer and been at the lows, will it feel a little bit extra special, having ridden that roller coaster the whole way through?” When he finished she looked at Lando who made no move to speak first, so she grabbed her mic.

“I think it will be very special, if we can pull it off, you know? You dont want to speak about it too much before the race though. I think in my past two years its been a rollercoaster, but I also know Lando has had a big rollercoaster as well. It would mean a lot for myself, but I know McLaren has come close many times and just didn’t have this level.” She explained. “I would love to be one of the two drivers that brings this to McLaren, and roots them back at the top.” She nodded as she ended her answer completely.

“Lando?”

“Um yeah, the only difference for me is I’ve been here longer. Ace was probably fortunate to not go through those years that we’ve had. There’s been some fun-”

“Beginning of last year was bad enough.” Ace chuckled in response to Lando.

“-yeah beginning of last year was pretty bad.” He agreed shaking his head. “But theres been some fun ones. I started off with this guy-” Carlos. “And we made progress, stepped back, made progress, nothing ever clicked really, or continued to grow…”

Ace listened as Lando continued on talking about his history in the team and how well the team is doing now.

“...the biggest thing for me is that I’m still in Papaya. That we both are. We believed in the team and what they could do. We’ve both had opportunities to fight for wins earlier than we did here in different teams…”

The next was for three of them on what winning the constructors  would mean to them and how it really is a team sport. Since Lando had technically already answered, it flipped to Ace. 

“It would mean a lot, of course. When you join F1 as a fan, there is a lot you don’t know and see as to why the constructors is so important outside of money, which is very important for team development, but it’s not the sole reason. You’re doing it for the tons of people who are working everyday on two race cars for Lando and I to succeed in our careers. There is probably more attention on it now because it’s been such a tight fight and both teams haven’t won for a long amount of time. But it’s very important for us as drivers as well.” 

“Alright we will leave-” And Ace and Lando were already grabbing their bottles and walking out. On the way back they were to do their post quali thoughts for instagram. They handed them a  mini mic and Lando went first. But then a fan came up and started posing with them. “You want to be in the video?” Lando asked the kid who held two thumbs up in response. “It’s a video.” Ace told the boy again who waved before running off.

“Alright. Hello.” Lando finally started. “Great qualifying from us.”Ace and Lando smiled at the fans who cheered at them from their yachts. “Tough.” HHe continued, “Tougher than we were expecting, tougher than we would have liked. Yeah we’ve been flying all weekend, but come Qualifying we had no advantage and all of a sudden, everyone was on us and making our lives, uh, a lot more tricky than what I would have liked. So to pull it off at the end and put in a mega Q3 lap, obviously something I’m very happy about. So, big thanks to the team, incredible job. Job number one, done. Today, our target was first and second. That’s what we achieved, but tomorrow is another day and its going to be a long one. We’ll keep our heads down, keep working hard tonight and try to pull something off tomorrow. And off to Ace.” He handed her the mic with a smile and she took it with one of her own.

“Yeah, P2.” She started, “Front- row lockout for the team which is what we wanted. As for me, I left a little bit in the last lap, which is a bit of a shame, but I'll take the front row. Big opportunity tomorrow for us and like Lando said, we’ll keep our heads down. Take tonight to figure out what it is we need to fix or adjust and come back better tomorrow.” She finished with a nod. The social media admin left them and they walked hand-in-hand back to the hub.  Ace broke off when they got the meeting room and though they were in the same room, it's like neither of them existed.

Ace was determined to get everything right. Even after Lando and his team had left she was asking her engineers where she could improve, how she could improve, what she needed to do into turn 1 to get a good launch and not be under pressure from Carlos or Max, take the lead if possible. What strategy plans they had for circumstances they may be thrown in. At one point it was just her in the room. The light from her screen being the only one in the room. 

“Ace, baby. We have dinner.” She looked up to see Lando. She didn’t know what to do. Lando was her boyfriend. She should confide in him about what she’s feeling. But he’s also her teammate, the only person she’s ever truly racing against. “I know, I just need to go over this lap one more time.” She told him. Lando sighed sitting in the chair next to her. “Don’t do this to yourself baby. It’s the last race, I know you want to end it on a high, but this isn’t the way. You know what you’re doing. Don’t give yourself the chance to be overly disappointed if you don’t get what you want from this race.” His hand reached over slowly during his speech to the power button, which he pressed when he finished leaving them in darkness. Ace turned to him fully and he opened his arms standing up. She followed and hugged him around his waist

“You need to relax tonight, baby.” He said, rubbing her back. “It’s going to be okay no matter what.” 

Race day

“Ace I know you weren’t too happy with P2, but that’s just how high you hold yourself, how is today going to go for you and the team?” Lawrence asked her as the did the drivers parade. “Yeah, we always want to be the best, and it’s about the championship today. If I have the chance to overtake you know, I want to take it, but its more about the championship today, so it’s a team game tonight and we just need to defend the guys behind us more than anything.”

The couple were doing their best to remain calm, not show the pressure they were under. Dinner with the families calmed Ace down, made her realise that whatever happened today was for the title not the race.

The grid was buzzing with energy as the sun was setting on the final race of the season. The tension was palpable, with both McLaren cars locking out the front row. Ace stood beside her car, helmet tucked under her arm, taking a deep breath to calm her nerves. Lando approached her with a soft smile, his own helmet dangling loosely in his hand.

“You okay?” he asked, his voice gentle despite the chaos around them.

She nodded, though her eyes gave away the mix of excitement and nerves. “Yeah, just… I want this so bad—for the team, for us—but I’m also terrified we’ll mess it up by fighting each other too hard out there.”

Lando chuckled, stepping closer. “Ace, listen to me. We’ve got this. We’ve been working all season for this moment, and you and I? We’re the best team out here. We’ll race smart. We know what we need to do.”

She bit her lip, looking up at him. “I just don’t want to be the one who ruins it. I don’t want to ruin us.”

He tilted his head, his smile growing as he reached out to gently squeeze her hand. “You couldn’t ruin us if you tried, trust me. No matter what happens today, we’ll cross that line together—whether it’s first and second, or second and third. The constructors’ is ours to win, and nothing will change that.”

Ace let out a shaky laugh, some of the tension melting away. “You’re ridiculously good at this pep talk thing, you know that?”

“I learned it from you.,” he replied softly, leaning in slightly.

The moment felt almost suspended in time, the roar of engines and bustling grid fading into the background. Lando touched her cheek lightly, his thumb brushing against her skin.

“Go out there and do what you do best,” he whispered. “And if you do end up beating me, just promise not to rub it in too much.”

Ace grinned, her heart lighter now. “Deal. Same goes for you.”

With that, Lando leaned in and pressed a quick but tender kiss to her lips, his helmet momentarily forgotten. When they broke apart, both were smiling—Ace’s nerves now replaced with determination.

“Let’s make it a race to remember,” she said, her voice steady.

“Always,” Lando replied, stepping back toward his car.

The formation lap put Ace back in the racing mindset, ‘just do what you do best’, and that was to race. 

“It’s lights out and away we go at the final Grand Prix of the year!”

Into turn 1 she thinks she has it, she’s still behind Lando and then all of sudden she’s off track. “No! What the fuck was that!” She screamed over the radio getting back on track. “We’ve got it. Keep going, head down.”

“Fuck! Come on Max!” She yelled, she was last, bottom of the grid. Under the virtual safety car she got closer to Franco and at the restart managed to overtake him. She had a lock up and ended up giving Franco a puncture. “This is terrible.”

“Box, box.”

The pit stop for damage assessment and fresh tires felt agonizingly long, and as she drove off, fire burned in her veins. This wasn’t over—not by a long shot.

Ace hit the track with renewed determination, carving through the field like a blade. Each overtake fueled her momentum. A few laps later, she closed in on Bottas, her patience giving way to precision as she slipped past him with a daring move.

“P19, now P18…” The radio updates spurred her on.

She didn’t care how early she’d pitted or how much tire wear she might face later. Right now, her singular focus was climbing back up the grid. Position by position, she fought her way forward, each overtake a small victory in the battle she wasn’t willing to lose.

"P6, Ace. Doing very well,” her engineer called. “Two seconds to Verstappen ahead.”

Max Verstappen. She knew this would be her toughest battle yet. Verstappen was the best defender on the grid, notorious for making his car as wide as the track itself. But she’d faced him before—she knew his tricks. This wasn’t her first fight.

“Gasly pitting ahead of Max,” her engineer informed her.

Ace’s lips twitched into a faint smile. That would put her P5. Sure enough, a few laps later, Verstappen followed suit and pitted, giving her P4. Charles Leclerc pitted soon after, and suddenly, she found herself in P3.

“P3, Ace. How are those tires doing?”

She quickly assessed. They were starting to feel slippery, but nothing she couldn’t handle. “Fine right now. A little bit of trouble, but still fine.”

Now, she was chasing down Sainz. She knew the Constructors’ Championship was theirs in this position, but the racer in her wasn’t ready to settle just yet. She defended fiercely against George Russell, who loomed behind her like a shadow. After a few laps of intense pressure, Russell finally pitted, leaving her with a new challenge—holding off Charles Leclerc, who was closing in from behind.

“Charles 10 seconds behind,” her engineer assured her.

The race was straightforward now: keep Sainz in her sights and protect her position at all costs. Lapped cars started coming into play, and the dirty air was making her car harder to control. Her grip on the steering wheel tightened as she fought to maintain consistency.

“The dirty air is making this hard,” she reported over the radio, her frustration creeping through her voice.

“Understood. Head down,” her engineer replied calmly, grounding her focus.

By lap 54, they were halfway through the lapped field. An open gap between the cars ahead provided some brief relief, allowing her to breathe a little easier.

“Three laps left. You’re doing good,” the calm voice in her ear reminded her.

Ace’s excitement began to build, but she forced herself to stay composed. There was no room for celebration yet—not until she crossed that line.

“Last lap. Yellow flags in sector 2.”

She instinctively lifted off the throttle, her focus sharpened as she navigated through the caution zone. And then she saw it—the final turn ahead, the finish line waiting for her. With a surge of emotion, she pushed through, crossing the line in P3.

Relief, pride, and pure adrenaline flooded her as she heard her engineer’s voice crackle through the radio.

“We did it Ace! We are the champions. Great race from you.”

“YESS. WHOOOOO! FUCK! What a race. So proud of this team, I couldn't have done this without you. PAPAYA RULES.”

Parking next to Lando in parc ferme she couldn't get out of her car quicker.

She jumped out and kneeled next to the car, tears finally spilling. The cheers were deafening. She stood taking a deep breath and spotted Lando. The two of them ran to each other, helmets still on and Ace jumped into her arms. “YOU DID IT!” She screamed at him. He laughed, putting her down. “Take this off!” He tapped her helmet and she all but threw it off.

He pulled her in by her waist and hugged her again with a hand on her head fingers lacing in her curls. “I want to kiss you so bad, but I know we can’t.” He told her. “It’s okay we have all night.” He hugged her again before screaming.

 “You pulled off an amazing race! I’m so proud of you. I love you so much, this wouldn’t be possible without you.” He told her holding her head in his hands. “I love you so much andI can fully admit this was all you Lando. You kept that P1 and gave this to us. Take this in. You made McLaren champions.” She said back to him.

“No, this was a team effort. It was never just me. We’re a team.” He told her, hugging her again. Zak came up to them and they had the biggest group hug. They saw their team, their family. This was such a surreal moment for her.

“Ace, interviews.” Zak pointed, standing next to Lando. She quickly realised she was just staring and went over to Nico.

“Ace, what an amazing race from you.  Mclaren has won the championship and you came from the very back of the grid to stand on the podium.” He said and she had a big smile on her face. “Thank you. It was very intense. I’m so proud of the team and especially Lando, he’ll say this was all the team, but this was all him today. Without him in P1, who knows how today could have gone. I'm so proud of everyone. A big thank you to the team and to all our supporters. It was a tricky race, I never intended to crash into turn 1, but it all worked out in the end.”

“Ace you made history today becoming the first woman to win a constructors championship. How does that feel? And can you say anything to the woman in this sport”

“Oh that’s amazing. Honestly I don’t know how to feel about that. It’s a big achievement, to be the first to do something, but woman are taking over this sport-”

There was a big roar as she said it, making her laugh. “See?! I’ve said it before, but never stop believing and fighting. You are worth the best seat, you are worth your wildest dreams. The impossible is so very much possible. Keep fighting, and know if no one else is in your corner I am.”

“Thank you Ace, P3, and a championship. Congratulations!” She waved as she walked off, handing the mic to Carlos and finding Lando again.

“You are so amazing.” She whispered to him, head tucked in his neck. “I’m trying very hard not to cry, so stop it.” He teased her. “I know, but you just had to know.” She kissed him again and Zak pulled her into another hug. “Such a great race from you. Thank you for sticking with us. For helping us make history. We need you and Lando, we couldn’t have done it without you. You are so talented and I’m excited for everything that comes next on and off the track.”

She hugged him again and she pulled away and turned back to Lando who was now doing his interview. “I was supposed to do this tomorrow, but I can’t wait.” He looked at her and waved her over and she was very confused. Putting the mic between his legs he pulled a small box the sleeve of his suit.

“Lando…” she whispered and as he pulled the mic from one his legs, and sank onto one knee the audience roared and she clapped her hands over her face. “I was meant to do this at a much prettier setting, but it’s moments like these we can’t take for granted. From the moment you stepped into the MTC I knew we would be much more than just  teammates. You have lit up my world in ways I didn’t think imaginable. I want to spend every moment like this one with you for the rest of my life. So, Ace Jules Giovanelli, will you marry me?”

She was in a flood of tears his whole speech and the moment he was done she was nodding her head. Nico held the mic in front of her and she laughed softly. “Yes, I’ll marry you, you muppet!” The cheering was so loud. Lando placed the ring on her hand and stood up pulling her in by her waist to hug her. “A Mclaren win, A Mclaren Championship, and a Mclaren engagement. What a way to end the season.” Nico commented, making Ace and Lando laugh into their hug. “I love you.” He said with every bone in his body. “I love you.” She said with every bone in hers.

They pulled away from each other but Lando grabbed her ringed hand. They waved at the audience who was still cheering, laughing and full of smiles. They walked off and everyone around them gave them hugs, but Carlos was the most special when the duo found him in the cool down room.

“I guess little Lando and little lion are not so little anymore, huh?” Ace was sent into more tears as he hugged them. “I’m very happy for you guys. You deserve each other more than I’ve ever seen two people in my life.”

They laughed as Zak came in yelling. “I’ll have you know, sneaking that box to him was the greatest achievement of my life.” Everyone in the room laughed at his words. “That was the most stressful two hours of my life.” He concluded. “You’re telling me.” Ace groaned, grabbing her hat and putting it on.

The race highlights played, and the very first clip was Max hitting Ace off track. “Oh!” Lando groaned and then winced. “I never want to do that ever again.” She shuddered. “Ace you were flying after that pit stop.”  Carlos complimented. I mean, I had new tires and knew everyone still had to pit. It was luck.”

“Too soon.” Lando teased. Ace giggled at his recap of Brazil. “Thank you, Carlos.” She said ignoring her now fiance. 

What a way to end the season. I’m so happy for those two. They fit together so well.

They really do. What I love is Lando said he was going to do it tomorrow for her birthday, but couldn’t wait any longer.

I know they love each other so much. Anyone can see that.

And here is one the newly engaged now. In third place, a fighting drive, the most positions she’s ever made up in a single Grand Prix, from P19 to P3, Ace Giovanelli.”

Ace walked out along the catwalk waving as she walked to the podium. She saw her and Lando’s family and waved to them with a big smile.

They were handed their trophies and she, Lando, and Zak champagne popped and sprayed each other the best they could considering it wasn’t real champagne. Ace couldn’t stop smiling and laughing. The fireworks rang for them. Lando took her ring clad hand and held it up. Everyone cheered again and they grabbed their trophies and walked off.

“I can’t believe you’ve done this.” She said looking at her ring. “I told you earlier I was going to marry you.” He laughed, before they saw a kid yelling for them. They posed quickly with the kid before going back into the cool down room to get to the paddock. “I know but I never expected it. You were going to do it tomorrow?” She asked to confirm.

“I have everything set up still. I wanted to give you everything you deserved.” He told her lovingly. “You have, and you always do.” She promised him. He squeezed her hand and rested his head on her shoulder quickly.

Walking through the paddock everyone came to the newly engaged couple. Ace was still smiling and said thank you too many times to count. Her girls found her right before she got to her garage and they all hugged her. “I’m sorry I’m so wet.” She laughed but they didn’t care.

“We are so happy for you.” Kika  told the couple. “Thank you for helping me.” Lando told them. “You knew?!” Ace gasped. “Everyone but you knew.” Kelly laughed and P ran and hugged her and Lando’s legs. “Hello P.” She said happily rubbing her back. “Are you coming with us tomorrow?” She asked and they laughed knowing she was referring to her birthday dinner. “We’ll be there cherie.” Ace promised. She hugged each one of them, Alexandra, Kika, Rebecca, Kelly, and Lily thanking them for everything.

“PAPAYA RULES!” Zak yelled the moment they walked in and they were doused in the sparkling beverage and they folded into each other to protect themselves but were laughing all the same. “Papaya rules! Papaya rules! Papaya rules!” They all chanted, throwing the drivers into the middle and handing them the constructors trophy.

They each took a side as the time started to yell lightly slowly increasing their volume until Ace and Lando thrusted it into the air. “Make a speech!” Andrea shouted. Ace laughed as Lando stepped back. “I just want to say a big thank you from both of us. We really could not have done this without you. For me personally, thank you for taking a very big step in letting the first woman race since the beginning of this sport. I wouldn’t want to have  made the history I have with any other team. I’ll pass it off to Lando now.”

Lando handed her the trophy as he spoke and the end of his speech made Ace tear up again. “...and thank you for bringing this lovely woman besides me into our team. You introduced me to my wife, my partner in crime and I cannot say thank you enough for that.” Ace grabbed his hand that was stretched out for her.

“This is just the beginning, next year is also our year, constructors and drivers.” Lando winked at her. “If I run him off track, no I didn’t.” She joked, making everyone laugh. “I still have my engine right?” He carried on from the other day.

Celebrations were put on pause as they had media to attend to. They went to the pen first and did their interviews together despite protest.

“Hey Ace and Lanod, congratulations. Earlier you both said you wanted P1, you wanted the victory, so how pleased are you with the dominant way you did that and with your team in the constructors?”

“Answer, baby.” Ace nudged Lando. “Very pleased of course. I mean, today was an incredible day for everyone, so much pressure, especially after turn 1, and Ace got taken out, it put a lot more pressure on everyone right? So, it was a tough race as much as it was straightforward and simple, one stop and all of those things, not really many safety cars and all of those things, or anything to mess things up, in my race at least. The pressure was still there and Carlos was close behind me the whole race, with the pitstop, which is where we get kinda nervous, but it was a perfectly executed stop, so well done to them and thank you to them. I’m just happy for the team, it’s a lot of work, a lot of effort, a lot of hours goes into achieving something like this, a lot of years, goes into achieving- like this is not a small feat, this is huge for everyone and so it’s a historic moment and for me to be apart of that is something i’ll remember forever.”

He looked down at you for you to answer. “I mean he’s taken the words from me. There was a lot of pressure to deal with when I went from P2 to dead last. I knew I had it in me to get to the points, but I was determined to not let Lando do it all by himself, fueled by the team telling me I still had it. P3 was a long shot by turn 2, but we did it. It’s history before our eyes, and like Lando said I’m very proud to be a part of it.”

“Your messages on the radio after the race were very similar in saying that next year would be your year for the drivers championship, both of you had made gains this year, and the confidence we’ve seen grow on track, do you both really fancy it next year?”

They both paused tilting their heads. “No..” They joked before giggling at each other. “We fancied it a bit already this year, but it was just a little too late. I’ve definitely had things to improve on and look back on and correct, we both have. But, nevertheless, the thing I’ve learned and gained the most from this year is 

confidence in myself.”

Ace smiled as Lando continued talking about how much he’s grown mentally. “And you Ace?”

She looked from Lando to Lawrence, “Oh, um,” she chuckled. “I’ve learned so much this year, confidence like Lando said, but also just knowledge about my limits and what I know I can achieve. I was too far from Lando at the time to fight this year, but next year I know it’ll be close. I want to enjoy our holiday, but I’m ready for next season to see how far we can go as a team and as drivers.”

“Congratulations on the championship and the engagement.” He bid them off, “Cheers.” They both replied, finishing their pen duties before heading to the conference room.

“Welcome to the FIA Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Post Race Press Conference. We will be joined shortly by our race winner and our third place, but we will kick things off with Carlos Sainz. How are-”

“They’ve just arrived.” He said seeing the couple walk in. “Alright let's start with our race winner. Lando Norris congrats on your 4th win of this 2024 season, and you are newly engaged so congratulations to that as well. Brilliant race, but most importantly your win gets Mclaren first across the line in the constructors championship…”

Ace and Lando looked at each other confused. 

“... how happy are you feeling this evening?”

“Uh, yeah, I mean I’m very very happy for many reasons, just as I’m sure everyone in the team is. It was a very special day for all of us. It was ours to lose today and I’m sure at certain moments people thought we weren’t  far away from it being lost, with two Ferraris and Ace getting taken out in turn 1, my heart for a second was like ‘oh God’, it wasn’t looking likely, but I just kept my head down, and kept focus. I knew I could do it and deliver, and I knew Ace would power through as well. But on the bigger side of things the constructors, um, you wouldn’t have thought that when you said the name McLaren, it feels wrong they not won a championship in 25 years, but for me to be part of it, for Ace to be part of it, it’s something we’re incredibly proud of. Achieving that has put the biggest smiles on everyone's faces. This is the biggest reward  you can give back to everyone who designs the car, builds the car, gets the partners, everyone has played such a big part so, just proud. Proud is my biggest thing. Of course I’m happy I finished the season this way, but I’m way more happy for the team than I am myself.”

“And just one last question for you Lando, how exposed did you feel when Ace was taken out in the first lap?” Lando chuckled nervously. “Yeah, very. I was watching the screens and saw Charles P8 by Lap 1. I was nervous, but I just needed to focus on myself, and make sure I was doing what I needed to. Carlos was never too far from me, and that wasn’t settling but, they were probably more nervous on the pit wall just watching everything than I was. But I felt bad for Ace, it wasn’t her fault. She did what we all knew she was capable of, which was not only getting into the points but getting a podium, which is what we wanted, so.”

They spoke to Carlos next and Lando went off to grab something. On his way back to the seat he crawled across the floor distracting both her and Carlos. “Lando’s just done a snake,” he called out making Lando jump and sit in his spot as if he were there the whole time. “The worm? A snake or a worm?” Ace was laughing quietly from her spot across from him. “What was I saying? He’s distracted me.” 

And then it was Ace’s turn. “Onto you Ace, first off congratulations on the engagement on the behalf of the Formula 1 family.  And a great race you had today, off in turn 1 in your incident with Max, and back up not only into the points, but P3. Just, how satisfied are you?”

Ace smiled, lifting her mic.  “Thank you, from both of us, but very satisfied. I was in the debrief room for our last night perfecting today and into turn 1 it all went sideways-”

“Litteraly.”

“Yes Carlos,” she laughed with him. “It threw me off a bit. The pit stop was longer than I wanted it to be, not that I wanted one in the second lap anyway, but. It wasn’t easy, but it also wasn’t hard.” She confessed. “I knew that with everyone still having to pit i would essential undercut the majority of the field, which I did. It was all a strategy game at the end of the day. Just glad I didn’t leave it all to Lando, even though he was fine on his own.” She said squeezing his leg in acknowledgment.

“Have you ever made that much progress before? From P19 to P3.”

“I don’t think here I have.” She shook her head. “Maybe in F2, I had some good starts there, but no I think that was a first.” She agreed before piping back up, “though statistically, i loss positions in the end.” She laughed, Lando’s chuckle triggering her.

“And then, how happy are you with the team, coming out champions?”

“Oh very happy, obviously. You don’t win the constructors in the last race, its a whole season battle. Everyone can say what they want about Papaya Rules and team orders, but here we are, you know?” She and some reporters chuckled. “Everything is a team game, and we played that game the best. From us here at the track to those at the factory who are putting our cars together by hand. Coming into this season we didn’t think it was possible. So, to be here now, with 6?” she looked at Lando who just shrugged not knowing what she was on about. “6 wins between the two of us, 2 sprint wins, plenty of podiums, and now the title. I would be an idiot to not be excited for the team.”

“Thank you, let’s open it to the floor now…”

Lando and Carlos got a few questions and Ace got some questions towards the end. “Question for Ace, firstly congratulation on the construction and the engagement. You had a very tricky start to the race today, but eneded up beating it, going into next year, do you think the power you should today, is going to stick, and do you think you’ll back fighting for the Drivers?”

“Thank you, I feel like I’ve been saying that all night.” She laughed. “I would like to yes, that I will always have the power to overtake everyone on the field per race, if I needed to, but we have no idea what next year is going to look like. As for the drivers, nothings changed. I came into this wanting it, and I’ll go into next year the same way.”

“Question for Ace and Lando, do you miss next season, Carlos fighting for the best position of the grid in the races? Do you understand that such a good driver is out of the top teams in Formula 1?”

Ace and Lando looked at each other as Lando picked up his mic. “Yes, we will miss Carlos.” He chuckled awkwardly. 

“I don’t think you will. I think it’s better.” Carlos chimed in laughing making Ace and Lando join in. “I’ll miss the battles. It’s diffrent,” he paused. “You know, Carlos is someone I know well, I started racing in Formula 1 with Carlos so, you always knew he was going to be there and he was always going to put up a good fight today, In all our meetings this morning we were saying,” he looked at you, “Let’s watch out for Carlos.’ because we knew he would doing his best. Williams has been improving, and they;ve never had someone with top team experience before. Even sometimes this year there were moments where Williams was very quick so. I’m expecting to still se him on track and I’m sure Williams will take a good step forward from where they are now, but we don’t know what;s going happen. It a shame because we know how good he is fighting for wins. But I’m sure we’ll see him again soon.”

Lando ended and Ace carried on. “I mean, of course we will miss Carlos. He’s brought us some great battles and wins, and it’s unfortunate seeing all that get to put to side, but thats racing sometimes. Carlos is a great driver and an even better team player- i think is the word-” she paused double checking, “But he will find a way to excel Williams as he does with every team he’s on. He had the seat everyone goes into Formula 1 wanting, so I’m not too worried about his future. But yes, I’ll miss our battles but I’ll see him on track and give him a wave as I lap him.”

Carlos snorted and Lando giggled at her tease. “Alright we’ll leave it here-”

Speeding out of the conference room they ran to their garage waving at fans still in the paddock. When they arrived for the team photo Zak handed them their trophies, and some real Ferrari champagne. Her and Lando held up fist alongside their trophies and cheered for the photo before quickly putting them down and running away from the team who were soaking them like crazy in champagne, the damage they did to the team was miniscule in comparison.

When everyone was out of champagne her and Lando clinked their bottles before taking a final sip of them. “Can we have a picture of the fiances now?” Andrea asked them and they smiled widely standing infront of the constructors sign. Lando immediately pulled her in for kiss and she stuck her left hand out for the camera to see. 

“I know some of you will be at dinner for AJ’s birthday slash engagement party,” Lando announced making everyone chuckle, “but if tonight is our last night, let’s get fucked up together!” Everyone cheered around him.

Ace and Lando hugged in the midst of all the papaya chaos. “Papaya Rules?” She asked him making him role his eyes, “The only rules you have are getting so drunk you don’t wake up until dinner tomorrow.”

“To getting fucked up?” She asked holding up her fist, Lando bumped it as they did before every session, every video, every meeting, “To getting fucked up.”

acegiovanelli 

liked by mclaren and others

acegiovanelli What a fucking night! CONSTRUCTORS WORLD CHAMPIONS! We had a great drive and ended up P3 after my best friend tried to kill me and get a head start on next year. Thank you to @mclaren for everything you’ve done for me these past two years. I’ll continue to make you proud as long as you’ll let me. #ThisTeam

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author (just pretend oscah is ace)

maxverstappen1 if anything I just unlocked your full potential

user23 max😭😭

acegiovanelli whatever helps you get drunk tonight

user24 oh they are so for real on being out all night

mclaren our history making girl 🧡

landonorris thank you for being the second best teammate I’ve ever had 🧡

user25 THATS YOUR FIANCÉ acegiovanelli @user25 no one comes ahead of Carlos 😒 carlossainz55 @acegiovanelli damn right

•••

taglist: @unlikelystay

[zombiigrll]

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INSECURITIES. ⋆｡°✩ carl grimes x reader .ᐟ WORD COUNT .ᐟ ⭑ 1.1K ꩜ .ᐟ WARNINGS ⭑ hurt to comfort, use of y/n, spoilers for twd 6x9, carl and reader are already in a relationship .ᐟ SUMMARY .ᐟ ⭑ you help carl after he gets shot. ꩜ .ᐟ A/N .ᐟ ⭑ ive been rewatching the early seasons of the walking dead and seeing everything carl went through again makes me SOB HYSTERICALLY. so ofc i needed to write this and make you guys feel my pain 😈 my creative juices have also been flowing a little bit more recently... but its also a little short too......... hope u dont mind 🙏

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he never showed any of his insecurities to you before. he always made sure that you felt comfortable telling him things, but he would never fully open up to you.

you were aware of his mother passing, that his dads friend died, and just how he's experienced so much death. but he never told you how anybody died. he wouldn't tell you no matter what.

that was until the walkers flooded the streets of alexandria.

as always, you were by carls side. you held his right hand in line as you two along with rick, michonne, jessie, ron, and sam walked through the herd in gut-stained ponchos, attempting to lead them to the quarry nearby.

but everything went downhill. fast.

sam saw something in the herd. no one was sure what, but he freaked out. his cries were loud, and gave away his position.

the walkers killed him, then they made their way to jessie, who had refused to let go of sams hand.

and if it wasn't for you using your machete to cut her arm off, carl would've died, too.

you thought that was it, that you would just have to slash through some more walkers to get somewhere safe, but not yet.

you looked to the side and noticed ron pointing his gun right to you.

but right as he shot, michonne stabbed him.

you were supposed to get shot. but due to the timing...

"dad..?" you heard carl from your left.

you turned to face him, and you immediately noticed his eye.

it was gone. a trail of dark crimson leaking from his socket. you caught him before he could fully fall.

"no.. no, no!" you cried trembling as you held him.

rick runs over and picks carl up. you and michonne pull out your weapons and begin clearing a path with adrenaline coursing through the three of you.

you guys eventually make it to the infirmary.

rick places carl onto the bed. the rest of that night, a loud ringing played in your ears.

your mind raced wildly. thinking of all the possible outcomes, but you were sure he was going to die. i mean, he was shot in the face.

after the nurse helped patch him up the best she could, you sat on the opposite side of rick. rick held one of his hands, you held the other. you rested your head on top of his shoulder, sobbing.

rick was crying, too. praying for carl to be okay.

that's when you felt his hand hold yours back, tightly.

you lifted your hand up to look at rick, and he had the same expression. he was holding both of your guys' hands.

your sobs turned hopeful as you began to smile.

...

a few days had passed. carl was awake, thankfully. he tried to get you to leave the room, but you refused.

"i don't want you to see me like this." carl strenly spoke, his voice cracking slightly as he attempted to hide his face.

you walked over to his side, putting your hand up to his face to carefully cup his now scarred cheek. you turned his face so he could look at you. "i'm not going anywhere."

he sighed and closed his eye, knowing he wouldn't be able to make you go away. "i don't understand you."

"what?"

"after everything i've done.. you're still here with me." he lightly chuckled. "i'm really not a good person, y/n. theres so much you don't know about me."

"nothing you could tell me would make me believe that." you shook your head, moving your hand down to his and holding it tightly.

"you say that now.." he turns his head away. "if i told you what i've done, you'd think i'm a monster. you'd hate me."

"you're not a monster, carl. what are you talking about?"

"i've killed people. a kid i didn't know the name of, my dads friend.. my mom." he kept his eyes shut as he spoke, his voice and body trembling.

you held his hand tighter, looking at him softly. "i'm sure there were reasons to all of that. i don't believe you're a monster."

carl stayed silent.

you brought your other hand up, moving his hair behind his ear before holding his face.

"i love you. no matter what." you smiled at him with your eyebrows furrowed. "no matter who many people you've killed or hurt, no matter if you've done shitty things in the past, no matter how many scars, i don't care. because i love you."

he opened his eye to look at you, he quickly sat up and put his arms around you, putting his head in the crook of your neck.

"hey.. be careful for your eye." you put your arms around him carefully, your hand on the back of his head.

"i love you, too." he silently mumbled. "i don't understand how i got so lucky with you."

you laughed, kissing the top of his head. "i've done bad things too, carl. it's just something we can't avoid now. it doesn't make us monsters." you pushed away from the hug, leaving your hands on his shoulders. "i got lucky with you, too. in my eyes, you're an angel."

his eye moves all over your features. you knew he had been adjusting and learning how to see without his other eye, but seeing it happen right in front of you was a bit difficult to witness.

"i should've been the one that got shot. you saw me kill jessie." you sighed, your gaze turning down to the floor. "he was aiming at me."

carl shakes his head. "it's not your fault. it's no ones fault. if he had shot you, i think he would've really killed you. but i got shot, and i'm alive." he smiles at you, tilting his head as he continues taking you in. "i'm glad it was me."

you tilted your head, pursing your lips slightly. "i guess either way, no matter who got shot, no one would be okay with it." you laughed, trying to make light of the situation. "...you should get some rest."

"i know." he moves away and lays back down, looking back up at the ceiling.

you stand up, leaning down to give him a quick kiss on his forehead before turning back away to the door. "goodnight, carl."

"wait."

you turned back around. "hm?"

"...could you stay?" carl asked, his voice softened.

your lips curved up into a smile, walking back over to him. "of course." you sat back down next to him, holding his hand again, similarly to when he was first shot. "get some sleep, okay?"

he nodded, closing his eye. "alright. i love you."

"i love you too, carl. always."

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[midnight-mourning]

Christmas Spirit

❄️❄️Midnight's DCA December Day 12❄️❄️

woof, now we're REAL behind chat, apologies was busy but also like, feeling unwell, but here we are! hope you enjoy :)

Prompt: christmas request! Reader doesn't care for christmas since their relationship with their family isnt great and nearly ever christmas since they moved out included multiple fights or screaming matches; they just want to have a positive association with christmas and don't mind working on a holiday at their crazy but chill job with their favorite animatronic coworkers. And these fellow coworkers intend to make sure this christmas is a postive one even if theres silly mishaps here and there.

Word Count: 2048

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When you realized the date this morning, to say your heart sunk into your chest was an understatement. Sure, maybe it was a bit dramatic to go from chipper and ready for the day, to dragging your feet out the door, but to be fair, this wasn't exactly your favorite time of year. So, you think you had a little bit of a pass. 

Though, as you slam open the door to the Daycare just a tad too harshly, spooking Sun whilst he was mid-decorating, you cringe. Maybe not too much of a pass. 

He shakes it off, however, bounding over to you as happily as ever. "Good morning Sunshine! And how are we today?"

You decide to brush off your mistake. Based on the current state of things, he's very excited about the coming holiday, and you'd hate to ruin that for him. 

"I'm doing well, Sunny. And what about you? The place looks great!" You motion to how already, the Daycare is already well on its way to being totally decorated. It's impressive, to say the least. You left less than 24 hours ago, though he probably has a lot more time on his hands than you. 

He puts a hand to his faceplate, waving the other bashfully. "Oh, we're just getting started! Would you like to help?"

"Ah, I don't want to um, get in your way at all." Not to mention even the idea of touching a decoration makes you want to fling it across the room. Despite how ridiculous a notion that is. You shake your head. "I'll just get stuff set up for the day as usual!"

Sun hesitates a moment, rays shrinking. "Oh, okay then! Well, if you change your mind, just let me know! Always happy to have your touch with these things."

You're too distracted by your own discomfort to acknowledge the compliment. Instead only offering a quick nod and a smile as you march over to the craft station and start preparing. 

You'd hope that would be the end of things, but you weren't so lucky. All throughout the day, both sides of the Attendant seem to be ever curious about your thoughts on different holiday plans they have, asking your opinion on this or that. Whether they realize it or not, you can feel your weariness about the topic growing worse, and paitence wearing thin. 

It was only a matter of time before you cracked, and it happens at probably the worst moment to do so; puppet time. 

Sun decided to put on a Christmas themed show—of course—and had all but insisted for your help. Again, not wanting to cause issues, you agree. However, it's easier said than done. 

"—And we all just enjoy the holidays so much, don't we friend?" Sun asks, ever in character with his hand puppet.

You chuckle, awkward. "We sure do!"

"What's your favorite part of the season?" His little character does a spin on the mini stage. "Mine is making cookies, oh oh! And playing out in the snow, and wrapping presents for my friends!"

For some reason the question—which should have been expected—throws you for a loop. "Oh, well, I don't really have anything in particular. But I'd love to hear more about your favorite activities!"

"Oh come on, everyone has something that's their favorite." He presses, unintentionally pushing your buttons. 

At that moment all you can think about is all the years of arguing, fights, yelling. Family members bickering about things that don't matter, and yet, won't talk to each other for weeks afterward because of some minor slip of the tongue. Feelings of being isolated, alone, and utterly miserable creep in. 

You can't help the words that slip out then. "Well, some of us don't like Christmas very much at all!" You say, voice over the top with fake cheer.

Sun seems to take the hint then and thankfully, recovers the show from there. You're a bit embarrassed to need the save. You didn't think you'd lose your composure over a silly puppet show, but apparently, you were wrong. 

It's when you're packing things up to get ready for naptime that Sun broaches the topic once more.

"You, you don't like Christmas, Starshine?" Sun asks, voice soft. 

You take a deep breath, then shake your head. "I, no, not really. No." You see Sun's rays shrink, and put your puppet-free hand up. "But it's okay! Really don't let me bum you out any. I'm sorry I lost my cool for a moment there. It won't, won't happen again."

Before you can speak on it any further, you turn away, heading to start getting naptime mats out and such. Had you not, you would have seen Sun's hand reaching out for you, concern and care clearly evident on his features. 

After that little incident, neither Attendant talks to you about the holiday in detail again. You still discuss activities as usual, but they don't ask specifics of you anymore. You're relieved, but you do feel bad. You hope to make it up to them by having an easy day of work on Christmas itself. 

Get some organization done, clean up some things that you've been putting off, that kind of thing. Hell, maybe you'll even tolerate some holiday music while you work too. 

When you walk inside bright and early on Christmas morning however, Sun nearly jumps out of his skin upon seeing you. At least, you think he would have if he did have skin, that is. 

"Sunbeam! Wha—what are you doing here today?" He rushes over to you. 

You smile and start taking off your coat. "I work today, Sun. Obviously."

After removing your hat and scarf, you grab your apron, brushing it off once or twice before clapping. "So, I was thinking we tackle the craft closet first and foremost, and then go from there with all our usual stuff, that sound good?"

When he doesn't answer you turn, only to jump when you realize he's right behind you, rays flicking side to side. He takes hold of your shoulders and bends to your level. 

"Starshine."

"Sun." You nod. 

His grip tightens for a moment, then loosens. He narrows his eyes. "We, are not. Working. On. Christmas."

"Well I'm already here—"

He shakes his head, picking you up suddenly. "Nope. Absolutely not. I won't allow it. If you're going to be here then we're going to make this right."

"Hey! Put me down! Where are you even taking me?" You kick your legs in vein, now slightly annoyed. Before you thought he was just joking, but now you realize he's dead serious. 

You get your answer when he sets you down in a bean bag. Taking a moment to snatch up a blanket with one hand and untie your apron with the other. Before you can blink, the blanket is laid across you, you have several Christmas themed stuffed animals surrounding you, there's a set of antlers on your head, along with a coloring book in your lap. 

Sun nods once down at you, hands on his hips. "Now, you get started on that and I'll get you some hot coco. Okay?"

"What, but—"

But he's already off again, "Don't move~ I'll be just a moment!"

Deciding that you're better off to indulge for a little bit, as opposed to outright protesting, you do as he asks. And, while not your favorite thing in the world, sitting and coloring in the peace of the Daycare, holiday music playing softly around you, is nice. 

Sun's gone for longer than you would have expected. Especially for just a cup of premade hot chocolate. But, when he eventually returns you do take the time to thank him for the quick break, that you appreciate the thought, and that you're ready to actually get started for the day. 

Surprisingly—suspiciously—he agrees. 

You won't admit to longing for the warmth of the cozy nest you leave as you stand, but the longing isn't allowed to last for long. Sun's hand is tightly wound with yours as he leads you out of the Daycare and towards the theater. 

You take a sip of your drink, confused but still following. "Um, did you want to start with the theater's supply closet then?"

"Friend, when I said no work on Christmas, I wasn't kidding." He stops just short of the entrance, energy now becoming more antsy. 

He lets go of your hand and you frown. "I told you it's alright, Sunny. I don't mind, honestly."

"I know! We know, but,"—he shakes his head—"We want to, change that. Make it up to you! If, you'll let us?"

He's looking to you now. You're hesitant, of course you are, but you can at least hear him out. "Sure, bud."

"If you don't like it, that's okay too! We just, wanted to try." He turns slightly and starts to open the door.

You open your mouth to respond but are instead taken aback by how pretty the theater looks. There's warm lights strung across the ceiling, decorations of red and green that sparkle. A medium sized tree with decorations laying nearby sits near the middle of the room. Snowflakes in all intricate patterns litter the space. There's a video of a yule log playing on the screen, and music softly twinkles around you. 

While not as intense as the Daycare in terms of the level of Christmas-vibes, there's something more, comforting, about it. Something maybe a bit more familiar, that unlocks a memory you'd left behind back when you were much smaller. 

"When did you find the time for all of this?" You ask quietly. You'd been in here just yesterday and it looked nothing like this. 

Sun comes up behind you, hand on your shoulder. "Just now. We just thought that maybe something a bit more relaxed, but still festive, could be fun for you? We can decorate the tree, or, or watch movies, or dance. Whatever you would like, honestly. Whatever you want." 

"Whatever I want?" You look up to him, almost unable to speak.

He looks down to you and after a pause, wraps his arms around you with a nod. "No one should be sad during the holidays, Star. And it's, it's not our business why but, well, we just want to try and change that for a little bit. To try and make you a little happier."

The tears well up before you can stop them. 

Sun starts panicking. "Oh! Don't cry. It's okay, we can just go back to the Daycare—"

"No, no it's okay, really." You sniff. Your reaches up to his faceplate, halting his fretting. "They're happy tears. I'm very grateful. And emotional."

He relaxes into your touch, but his tone is still concerned. "Are you sure?"

"Yeah I,"—you shake your head—"You know what? Let me just show you."

Without thinking further, you raise your other hand and pull his faceplate down to your lips. You release him again after a moment, giggling. 

Sun's rays click, then—"Just to be sure, Moon would also like you to show him."

This causes you to laugh outright, and soon enough you're in the naptime attendant's arms instead. 

You spend the rest of your day in higher spirits than you would have otherwise expected for the holiday. The attendant takes turns doing the various activities they planned with you. And maybe it's only because it's with them, or because of the new relationship you've found yourself in, but you find it all to be so much more bearable than before. More than bearable really, enjoyable. Truly and completely, enjoyable. For the first time in a long time. 

"What are you thinking of, Star?" Moon asks as the two of you dance across the room. 

You shake your head, smiling. "Just about how much I appreciate the two of you, is all."

"Just appreciate?"

You scoff. "I think you know by now it's more than that. Don't even think of trying to scam me out of more kisses."

He snickers in response. 

Just the music for a moment. 

"Thank you, guys. It means a lot."

Moon bends you for a dip, leaning in. "Merry Christmas, Starlight."

"Merry Christmas, Moon."

❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️

Thank you for the request @pip-plz!! Was fun to take this and make something wholesome, esp as someone who hasn't always had a fun holiday experience myself, hope I did it some justice!

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[ombiblombi]

P.AI.nter is SUCH an interesting character to me... he's probably become one of my all time favorites, as I haven't fixated on a character this hard since since...TMC. It physically hurts to think about it in the best way possible-

That being said, I have SO MANY THOUGHTS to say about 'em... so I'm going to dump them here.

First and formost, it's so interesting that P.AI.nter has such a wide array of emotions when it comes to attacking and interacting with the Expendables. At first it's strange, like "WTF?? You're trying to kill me and you just yelled how I was boring, wdym you're sorry??" But... knowing his lore and backstory, it makes so much sense.

P.AI.nters creator was gunned down on accident by Urbanshade, which upon the discovery of P.AI.nter, then decided to trap him in a harddrive and make it mine whats essenically crypto at the Hadal Site- For years, it's stuck mining for the company unwillingly, unable to draw the lanscapes it loved. For fucks sake, P.AI.nter tried to FRY HIS CIRCUTS just to get out. He's desprate, miserable and lonely, and just wants to escape- Any way possible.

And so when Sebastian comes reeks his havoc on the site and finds it, P.AI.nter is incredibly trusting of him to get them both out. Maybe alittle too trusting, but whats he got left to loose? They've both been used by the company and want nothing more to leave, leave and never return. So when Sebastian connects it to the servers- to the Navi-Path & Turrets and tells him to stop the Expendables, P.AI.nter does.

However.

This is self preservation down here. P.AI.nter of course, is rightfully angry at times. I mean- The same company that killed it's creator before his very (nonexistant) eyes, trapped it down here, and even sucked the joy he has from creating art away is now actively getting in the way of the freedom he yearns for. But at the same time... this isn't something done that it entirely wants to be doing. Like I said. This is self preservation. And his actions, and even your deaths weigh heavy. Theres a voiceline, and its delievered so well- Of P.AI.nter pleading for the player to wake up and apologizing profusely if it kills you.

That line sparked this whole theory in the first place.

Your death, reminds it of his creator.

Isn't it ironic how it's now manning the very same weapon that killed the one who brought him sentience in the first place? That he's now the one at fault? Thats gotta be on the back of his mind each and every time it leads an expendable to their demise.

This isn't personal.

He doesn't know who you are.

But it still hurts.

It really annoys me when people in the community call P.AI.nter two faced, or god forbid, do the shitty thing of saying in a derogatory manner that he's bipolar or such as a "joke". Thats just disrespectful to both the character and folks who do have it. It's just plain rude. People do something similar for Sebastian, saying that oh, they're ruining his character by making him mean and snarky and whatnot. I know this happens in every fandom out there, and that this rant is fruitless, but... people need to understand that characters like P.AI.nter and Sebastian have reasons behind their actions and have existing trauma that if you take a moment to look at, you can go "Wowie! Thats a complex character! Everything makes so much sense now, like a puzzle peice I can see traces of in their character in almost every aspect!" Rather than doing awful things like I brought up at the start. But... I digress. I know this rant wont change much so. I hope y'all enjoyed my mini character analysis

Anyway this video has all of P.AI.nters voicelines if 'ya wanna go have a listen after this :] also I got plenty more thoughts about P.AI.nter and Sebastian if anyone wants to know!