#though typically romantic relationships don't appeal to me very much

[scarlet-bee]

[Plain text:

Arospec (aromantic spectrum) people, have you ever dated/been in a romantic relationship?

- Yes, I'm currently dating/in a relationship

- Yes, I've done so before, and am now single and willing to date again

- Yes, I've done so before, but no longer pursue that

- I've dated/been in a relationship but it was not romantic/it's complicated/etc

- No, I have not dated/been in a relationship and don't want to

- No, I have not done so but I would be willing/neutral

- No, I have not done so but I want to someday

- Other/it's complicated

- I'm not arospec, show results

We ask your questions anonymously so you don’t have to! Submissions are open on the 1st and 15th of the month.

End plain text.]

We ask your questions anonymously so you don’t have to! Submissions are open on the 1st and 15th of the month.

[ahamkara-apologist]

honestly I don't really get drifter and eris as a ship to begin with. I view them very much as another fun case of trauma-made siblings. they care about eachother so much... well, that, and if they're both single there's more for me :D

To be completely honest with you, I don't really get the sibling vibe at all, but if that's what makes you happy, then you do you! To me, I can see why they make for a fun pairing, but they simply do not appeal to me romantically at all. Their dynamic reminds me a lot more of my relationship with my QPP, so that's why the romance angle doesn't appeal. It's still very much a wholeass relationship- I love my partner deeply, we live together and buy each other gifts and are labeled as domestic partners on my insurance forms and making them happy makes me all giddy and delighted- but I lack that romantic passion that everyone describes in love stories, nor do I desire any sexual relationship either. That's kind of what I see in Eris and Drifter- that need for emotional intimacy and closeness (though I also see them as being sexually intimate, but that's a uniquely Them thing that has to do with working over bodily traumas/dysphorias) without it really being romantic. More like...they're bonded in the way that rabbits are bonded. They'll care for each other and they very clearly love each other deeply, and sometimes they hump each other to prove dominance, but it's not a conventional romantic relationship.

Idk though, I'm aro and that often strongly colours how I view ships. I'm really not much of a conventional shipper; I'm usually into it exclusively to see how the dynamic would influence each character rather than the overall romance of it, with very few OTPs. Ex, right now I'm writing a Taniks/Misraaks fic just for funsies where Taniks isn't even involved for like 90% of it, it's just that the dynamic they do have when they're together (and the consequences of said dynamic) is fun to play around with. Like, it technically counts as a shipfic bc Misraaks certainly is Feeling Things, but it's not what's usually out there on the ficmarket. So my pov on why Drifteris appeals as a ship is not exactly a typical one, tbh!

(also the fandom tends to stick them in very cisheteronormative ideals and that icks me out a lot. I like them in canon, I still like the romantic things they do for each other even if I feel like it would have been better off queerplatonic, I DO NOT like how fandom portrays them. so that also influences things)

[signedkoko]

Hello, me again, sorry lol,

I was wondering, could I please get a Helluva Boss matchup? multiple characters are okay, if you think it's fitting or necessary.

I'm 21, pansexual/romantic, and polyamorous

General personality stuff:

MBTI is INFP

Ennegram types 2, 4 and 8

Zodiac Taurus sun, pieces moon and rising

Appearance: 5'3, kinda chubby, a few tattoos, somewhat muscular, tan, brown eyes, brown hair (it's usually dyed or bleached), and a few piercings. I've also got a fair amount of scars. I'm pretty plain, I'm ngl. Fashion consists of graphic tees (with puns, memes, and trippy art) and jeans or shorts. I'll wear lots of different kinds of jewelry, and don't really have a set aesthetic.

my friends have told me that I'm smart, funny, sarcastic, polite, thoughtful, strong, empathetic and compassionate. I can be jealous/envious (but I've been working on not letting it affect my relationships). I have a bad habit of taking stuff personally and dwelling on issues that I should let go. I don't love being around new People and can get annoyed/frustrated easily, especially if I'm overstimulated. I do my best to stay patient, though. I'm also very jumpy and gullible. I've been told that I'm a bit too trusting, and it's very easy to appeal to my emotions. Communication is very important to me in all my relationships.

My friends will usually come to me for advice, and I've been told I can be a good listener. I tend to daydream and can be pretty anxious. I've been diagnosed with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and ADHD. When I first meet people, I'm overly formal and will crack a few jokes, but once I'm familiar with someone, I cuss a lot and enjoy playful teasing, but I always encourage people to tell me if I go too far or set boundaries if they need to.

I collect a lot of stuff. I have a Ton of comfort items- my posters, stuffed animals, collectible figures, etc. I'm a big over thinker. I can be pretty independent and self sufficient (sometimes) but I'm also very very insecure and doubt myself a lot. I'm pretty excitable and enjoy talking about pretty much anything. Big on current events and media analysis. I've got lots of vocal stims and am pretty fidgety.

I show my love through acts of service and words of affirmation. I enjoy doing things for my loved ones and making sure they can relax, feel safe, and be happy. I could talk about my friends for hours.

Hobbies/likes- roller skating, playing video games, driving, listening to music (and singing along.. Badly), smoking weed, watching TV shows and movies, hanging out with friends, drawing, Writing, reading, going to museums/amusement parks, taking care of/watching animals, and analyzing media

I hope this isn't too overwhelming, and I apologize if I overshared a bit. Please don't feel pressured to answer.

Take care 💛

You got...Stolas!

There's no one better for you than the Ars Goetia member himself, who is one of the most considerate and caring people behind the curtains.

Stolas absolutely adored literature, but doesn't have much hand in media. Despite that, he would love to trade stories with you and look over your writing- keeping anything you write for him- and would encourage you to introduce him to your favourite shows or movies so he can speak about them with you.

His love language is mainly quality time, he can listen to you speak for hours, or tell you all kinds of things about his history. Watching movies, reading in one another's company, every second counts. He can be a bit clingy because of it, but once you tell him you are off somewhere he backs off and leaves you be. The reunion always makes it seem like he hasn't seen you in decades, though.

Stolas never kept any typical pets, unless you count his carnivorous plants! They warm up to you, as well, and you become one of few people who can feed them without any scratches. Stolas trusts very few people to care for them properly and is stern about their caretaking- but fortunately you don't struggle with it at all!

Part of his home is grandiose collections of items, mostly valuables only royals could get their hands on. Nevertheless, he keeps a shelf or two for your items and treats them with just as much respect, all stuffed animals and figures are regularly cleaned and kept safe and sound for when you need them, and your posters are likely framed with gold and glass to keep them protected and to suit his aesthetic.

If anyone is good at keeping things relaxed, it's him! Whenever you feel overwhelmed or stressed, he can take for a stroll through the stars, where everything is relatively silent, calm, and beautiful.

Even better is that Octavia finds you a lot less stressful than Stella, and thinks a lot of the media you're into is pretty neat. She doesn't speak much with you, but youll catch her taking pictures with your things a lot and see the posts later that have some pretty flattering captions.

Expect lavish parties where you get to dress up and then sneak out together when it gets boring, and lots of activities and errands to go around with Stolas doing.

Author's Note - Your runner ups were Moxie + Millie, followed by Striker! Thank you so much for being my first request and being so considerate <3

[capricious-stars]

I think I have a hard time committing to permanent hcs about sexuality and whatnot because of how wildly it varies to me.  Like, I really love the term aroaspec because it covers a massive amount of grey area, but it also doesn't provide a lot of clarity.

  With that in mind, I'll still try to shed a little more light on my hcs as a point of reference, though they're a bit fluid and could change depending on my own vibes or circumstance.

  Generally I see most Sanses as being more strictly aroace than their brothers.  The vibe I've always gotten from Sans is that he generally thrives off of close connections and a few people he genuinely trusts that are really compatible with him.  He seems most comfortable with friendship dynamics, like bonding with Toriel over jokes, him and Alphys teasing each other, looking after Grillby's bar when he needs to step out and vice versa, the bar seeming like a comfort place for him.

  While I don't necessarily think affectionate feelings are out of the question, I don't really feel like he’s a very romantic or sexual person.  If he were to be in any sort of committed relationship, I think it'd definitely fall more into the category of a QPR than anything else.  More so two (or more I guess?) people close with each other choosing to spend their lives together, you know?

  That being said, this varies a bit AU to AU.  I still feel like he’s largely aroace, but in some cases he'd want to be in a romantic relationship, or could have romantic feelings for someone special.  I think mostly those who'd be more inclined towards that would be the swapped Sanses, though probably less so the Swapped Fell Sanses.

  As for sexuality, I could imagine a decent number of Sanses being willing, not really sex averse, and some of them have jobs that entail that sort of thing, but most if not all don't personally experience sexual attraction, even if they do still have some level of libido.

  Overall, blanketly, I see Sanses as highly valuing trust and equality in relationships, but not wanting anything more "traditional" with those they care about, with a few exceptions, and a few who'd be willing to try regardless, and possibly with success even!

• As for the Papyri, I typically see them as being much more loose in aroaspec standings, more varied case to case, but still leaning pretty far from allo the vast majority of the time.

  A long standing hc I've had about classic Papyrus' sexuality and romanticism is that he's predominantly aro, only slightly ace, but very desperate for connection, which confuses and frustrates him often.

  Like, the idea of romance and soulmates and all that jazz probably appeals to him quite a lot, we can see in game how much he loves Mettaton who is a massive ham about that sort of stuff, and Papyrus trying hard to...well, kind of figure out how dates work in the midst of one.  He enthusiastically helps Frisk/the player get Undyne and Alphys together, too, I think he’s very fond of the idea of romance, but the moment he’s actually a part of the puzzle, suddenly it's not working as well as he'd hoped.

  I'd imagine, even with their own varied stances, a lot of other Papyri have similar struggles with being confused by their own feelings on the matter.  I think this largely comes from their reflective nature as well as wanting closeness and intimacy but not really knowing how to achieve that "the right way".

  I'd say over all, they all lean demi to ace on both fronts, with Fell Papyri leaning more toward the demi-aroace end, Non-Fell, Non-Swapped Papyri and Swapped Fell Papyri leaning aro demisexual, and Swapped Papyri almost closest to allo amongst them, though would probably depend on the potential partner.

  I feel like I didn't really explain any of this very well, but tbth I was looking for spicy ask prompts and realized a lot of them didn't suit my guys at all bc I Overthink Everything and go "well that depends-" about everything so I felt like trying to make a post to lay some groundwork and now I'm thinking I have perhaps made it more confusing.

  Alas.  I'm very sleepy.  Will go make coffee uhh ✌️

[allthefujoshiunite]

Hi, I hope you're okay.... Please just answer my ask whenever you're free....I just read your blog about BL manga koimonogatari, and really loved your writing....also I agree with you, I wish yuiji and yamato just end up as friends...But I think it will end up with yuiji x yamato (based on the mangaka's author note in vol 2)? It is the first manga where I want the mc and male lead not end up romantically (even though I know it's BL)...Do you think it's weird? Have you ever read a BL manga where you don't ship the mc with male lead?

I hope you're safe and sound with your loved one....

Hello, thank you for the message. I and my loved ones are safe, but being okay is a different matter because the situation somehow keeps getting worse.

About my post on Koimonogatari. It was a post that I forgot about until I received two hostile comments under it in 2021. Back in 2015, my level of English proficiency was much lower than it is today, and rereading it now, there are two points that I don't agree with my past self, and some other parts I still think the same, but I'd make sure to word my opinions much differently. After those comments, I decided to write another post on this topic but I didn't have the time. So thank you for asking about it and giving me the chance to go back.

One opinion I'd word better now is that even though my blog is my own space and I'm free to voice my personal opinions however I wish as long as I maintain a respectful tone, the line between something being wrong and something that doesn't appeal to me seems blurry in the post.

I have to emphasize that the creator(s) is the sole person who's in charge of their creation. If they themselves search for reader comments/reactions and change the course of the story of their own accord, fine. But readers should never tag the artists or comment under their tweets when their work is not going the way they personally want. You can read more on Japanese fandom policy "don't like/don't read" here.

I keep saying this like a broken record, but I CRAVE for variety. Commercial BL is highly satisfactory when it comes to tropes or settings, but I still feel like there's a lack of experimentation when it comes to interpersonal relationships, specifically romance. If I were to lay it out more openly, even though two BL titles can focus on completely different settings (let's say one is a yakuza and the other is a high school BL) and the intricacies of the plot would progress differently, the relationship still goes from point A to B and then to C, or start from B, go back to A and arrive at C. This is not me boasting or being full of myself, but it's very rare for a BL title to truly impress me with its plot structure, the way it deals with the age-old tropes, or introduce a nuanced look into relationships. This holds true regarding friendship/allyship as well. Now, it's a no-brainer that by definition, BL is a genre that focuses on male/male romantic and/or sexual relationships. So at first, it seems contradictory to expect a story to focus on the friendship between a straight-identifying and an LGBTQ+ person.

Why should this be considered "contradictory", though? Why can't friendship between a straight-identifying and an LGBTQ+ person be worthy enough to study both queer and non-queer relationships in fiction? Back when I first read Koimonogatari's first volume in 2015, I was SO mesmerized by the way Yuiji and Yamato were introduced, the way they, just by being themselves, were holding mirrors to each other, the way Yamato gained strength just by being accepted and heard and in contrast, Yuiji questioned his own stance on romantic love because, in the heteronormative world he lives in, he never suspected the typical flow of his relationship with his girlfriend before.

I understand that this is partially a "me" thing. Friendship is extremely important to me to the point where I may be bold to say it's sacred. That puts shipping in an awkward position for me; on one side I love the dynamic two characters have and I immediately want to ship them, but that also means I love them as friends as well and, as I have said in my old post, why shouldn't two people just get along well? Throughout my adolescent life, I was frustrated with other friends immediately wiggling their eyebrows at me whenever I got close to a guy. Just because I identified as a woman and my friend identified as a man and we stood next to each other and got along meant that something romantic had to develop between us, and that mindset, for me, devalued friendship.

Because of my personal views and values, and the beautiful and delicate approach to Yuiji and Yamato's friendship, Koimonogatari was a very special title for me. That post, although the language sounds brusque, was meant to underline this: friendship is valuable in and of itself and shouldn't be regarded as anything but a stepping stone toward romantic feelings. I couldn't see a romantic relationship blooming between Yuiji and Yamato in such a short span of time, and I had wished for things to stay the way they are. Despite what that commenter thinks, I'm allowed to expect whatever the F I want out of a fictional work. The creator's intentions and my engagement with the said work is a completely different matter.

I've recently reread the first two volumes and admittedly, I can picture budding romantic feelings between the two if the series were to be stretched out to four volumes in total. Another point I disagree with my past self is that, if a fandom readily jumps at the Shippy Bandwagon just because two characters stand next to each other, they can ship them. I was wrong to say fandom shouldn't ship and if something annoys me or makes me uncomfortable, it's my duty to remove myself from the circle and not the fandom's job to comply with my needs/expectations. Other than these two points, I stand by my expectations of Koimonogatari and the questions I asked back then are ideas that I still play around with in my head.

In the end, we are free to expect whatever we want from a story, and the creators are equally free to do whatever they want.

Have you ever read a BL manga where you don't ship the mc with male lead?

To answer your question, there have been such works, yes. This is usually the case when there's a love triangle is introduced, and having a Second Lead Syndrome, I usually ship the MC with the person that comes along to create strain between the MC and his unrequited love. To give an example, this always happens when the MC is childhood friends with the guy whom he has had a giant crush on for years, and one day, the second love interest comes into play. MC's feelings sway but he ends up with the childhood friend in the end. I personally hate this plot structure with every fiber of my being for several reasons, thus I avoid reading series with the love triangle + childhood friends combo. But I won't go into detail here.

Sorry, l rambled too much but as I have said I've been meaning to write about this topic. Koimonogatari will forever be a special series and ever after all these years, I'm looking forward to its completion. And it goes without saying but I fully respect Tagura Tohru's choice of ending.

Have a nice day!

[queerplatonicpositivity]

Hi, I was wondering if you might have any advice to give. There's this boy in my class that I barely knew that asked for some of my socials and I gave it to him because I was flattered and have been really struggling to make friends because I get anxious about interacting with people, so it felt like a good opportunity to make a friend. Also he just seemed like a nice kid so it was really sweet, y'know? We've been texting back and forth now and he alway seems really eager to talk to me and get to know me and my interests more which is really nice. Because of how sudden this was and the way his friends seemed to be encouraging him to talk to me initially I wonder if he did this because he had a crush on me? That's the typical 'boy asks for girl's number' thing but nothing like this has happened to me before. Maybe I'm overthinking this but if he asks me out I'm not sure what I would do. I'm pretty confident that I'm aroace, but since I haven't dated anyone, I think I'm open to the idea of trying it? Even though I don't think I'll experience any of the attraction and I definitely don't want it to get sexual, I think I could enjoy dating for the company and affection? But a QPR has always seemed way more appealing to me because platonic attraction is something I experience and I feel like I might enjoy a platonic relationship with elements traditionally considered romantic (like hand holding for example). I don't think I'd be brave enough to explain it to him and I honestly don't know where to start explaining it to him in a way he'd understand. He's not queer and he doesn't know much about being queer, at least from what I know about him. Very very few people know about my sexuality so it would be intimidating to explain that as well. (It doesn't help that some of his friends act weird and ignorant about gay people, although they claim to 'not have a problem' and probably seem fine to him. Thankfully, I've never seen him do this but still.) I doubt our relationship would go far regardless since we're both still in high school but I really don't want to ruin what relationship we have or could have because he could percieve it as a rejection or something. And I don't know if it's fair to him to say yes to a romantic relationship without being transparent about the way I feel either so I really don't know what to do if that's something he's interested in me for or if something like this comes up in the future. That got looong whoops

Hi, Anon! That's definitely a tough spot to be in. One thing I want to reassure you about is that you don't ever have to do anything you don't want to do. And also that someone else being hurt because you don't want to do something does *not* mean that you should've said yes, and it doesn't mean their feelings are your "fault."

I can see what you mean about how trying to explain queer stuff and qpr stuff is A Lot and not something you necessarily want to get into with him.

If he asks you to go on a date with him (or to be "dating" each other), then if it is something you want to try, you could say something like, "I'm not really into traditional dating, but I do like hanging out, keeping each other company, and doing things like holding hands. Is that kind of what you had in mind?" If he says yes, you could try it.

Maybe you try it and you like it, so you keep doing it. Maybe you try it, and it doesn't feel right, and then you can say, "Hey, I don't want to keep doing this together. I'm glad we met, and I'm glad we could try it out, but it's not really working for me. I hope we can be friends." You're never obligated to keep going with something if it turns out it's not something you enjoy. And maybe if that happens, he wouldn't still be up for being friends, and that's okay, too. Sometimes people just don't/can't really be in each other's lives after that, and that's okay. It's up to each person to take responsibility for just themselves and their own feelings and decisions, not anyone else.

Which is why I wanted to reassure you that you being open and honest about what you want and don't want is never "ruining" something. I have definitely felt that way, and I know it's hard to fight those messages. But one or more people in a relationship (any kind!) feeling forced to say or do things they don't really want or feel is the kind of thing that ruins relationships. Or people not respecting other people's boundaries. All you can do is take ownership of your own feelings and actions, and it's up to the other person (or people) in the relationship to do the same with their feelings/actions.

I really hope that things go smoothly and you can have the kinds of interactions with him that you want, Anon. Please feel free to come back and give us updates if you feel comfortable. =D

[letsbeoutoftouch]

Back in December 2016, during a sleepover, my friends and I decided to watch EXO's Chanyeol's most recent movie, "So I Married an Anti-Fan". It effortlessly became one of my favourite movies, so much so that I rewatch it —at least— once a year.

Therefore, when it was first announced that South Korea was going to produce a drama based on the same story, I was thrilled. The feeling only increased when I found out that the male lead was Choi Tae-Joon, whom I loved because of Suspicious Partner. Later (to be more precise, this year), I discovered that the other lead was the one and only Sooyoung from SNSD!

The drama was filmed back in 2018, and it was supposed to air a loooot sooner, but it had a few problems and it finally came out this year. Since I don't like waiting for episodes to come out each week, I waited until it finished airing to watch it... And, today, I finished it!

So, here's my review, fresh out the oven!

· · ·

So I Married an Anti-Fan is a 2021 South Korean drama, featuring Choi Tae-Joon, Choi Sooyoung, Hwang Chansung and Han Ji-Ahn. It's based on the novel "그래서 나는 안티팬과 결혼했다" (So I Married an Anti-Fan), written by Kim Eun Jun and published in 2010.

· · ·

♡ PLOT:

The story revolves around Hoo Joon (Tae-Joon), a well-known idol, and Geun Young (Sooyoung), a magazine reporter. They meet during an event, where a series of misunderstandings leads them to have a bad impression of each other.

For this reason, when Geun Young loses her job, she's under the impression that it was Hoo Joon's doing and is therefore keen on "reveal" Joon's real character. However, her retaliation backfires, and she attracts a lot of attention as his "anti-fan".

Later, a TV producer approaches them both to star in a reality show. Geun Young and Hoo Joon accept and think to give each other a hard time on set. But, as time goes by, they get to know each other better and better.

· · ·

♡ EPISODES:

It's made up of 16 episodes, running for an hour each (i.e., your typical k-drama).

· · ·

♡ CHARACTERS:

-Geun Young (FL): She's the best character, hands down (I swear I'm not being biased because I love Sooyoung).

For some reason, I've seen a lot of bad comments about this character. I don't truly understand why some people said that she didn't stand up for herself or that she was so-so, when she dealt really well with everything that had happened to her. I'd like to see all those people in her shoes—I bet they'd have cracked up quickly.

Also, she's like the least toxic character I've ever come across in a drama. She waits patiently for Joon to deal with his problems and doesn't jump to conclusions regarding his relationship with In Hyeong and Jae Joon. She lets him do his thing, is an independent woman, and tries to be as little of a burden as she can to the people she cares about. So, props to her!

▫ ▫ ▫

-Hoo Joon (ML): Although I overall liked his character, I admit that if I hadn't previously watched the movie, I'd probably be wary of him at the beginning. But, don't worry: as the story progresses, you get to know him better. He's patient and thinks of other people's feelings and well-being a lot (sometimes, a little too much for his own good, but he's a good boy).

I felt the need to include that there was this one scene where he acts... In a way that I didn't find appealing. Fortunately, he isn't like that all throughout the drama. Also, he isn't toxic like a lot of the male leads in drama-land. If you're wondering which scene I'm referring to, here's a spoiler: *SPOILER ALERT* When he and Geun Young start dating, they are requested to film an advertisement together. In the filming, he acts all "jealous" because the dress she was wearing was too short for his liking. I'm sorry, but she's the only one who has a say on how short a dress she's wearing is—not you, not even if you're her partner *END OF SPOILER ALERT*.

▫ ▫ ▫

-JJ/Jae Joon (SML): Jae Joon is the second male lead, and he was portrayed by 2PM's Chansung.

I'm sorry, but I never could come to terms with this character, not even during the last episodes. If the writers' intention was for me to hate him, they (and Chansung's acting) totally achieved that purpose.

He is incredibly selfish and keeps this attitude up to episode 13/14. Towards the ending, the story tries that the audience feels some sympathy towards him—it is shown why he acted the way he did. Nevertheless, in my opinion, while his past may explain his actions, it doesn't justify any of them. That's why I couldn't bring myself to feel sympathetic or empathetic towards him. *SPOILER ALERT* In fact, I think Hoo Joon was too nice to be there for him in the last two or three episodes. *END OF SPOILER ALERT*

He's also outright abusive. *SPOILER ALERT* I mean, he slapped In Hyeong and broke her laptop ¿?... Even though I didn't like her that much, nothing justifies that kind of violent behaviour. *END OF SPOILER ALERT*

▫ ▫ ▫

-In Hyeong (SFL): She's the second female lead, portrayed by actress Han Ji-Ahn.

Oh, man. I had a hard time trying to wrap my head around this character. I was just going to say that I couldn't stand her because she was always purposely putting a spanner in the works, making everyone's life difficult.

However, as I was drafting this review, I began reflecting on the character and felt sympathy for her. She was in a vulnerable place—leaving aside that she felt abandoned by her first love, she had trouble trying to make her career take off, and she was in a really abusive relationship. It could be argued that JJ and In Hyeon were both toxic to each other, but it was clear that he was the one with the upper hand (he was the CEO of her new agency, which brings a real disbalance of power).

Moreover, it was hinted several times that all she went through took a toll on her mental health (*SPOILER ALERT* she was always taking pills to calm down, and she freaking tried to kill herself!!!!!!! *END OF SPOILER ALERT*). I believe she needed professional help to put herself back together, so she could let go of her past and finally leave that abusive relationship.

· · ·

♡ COUPLES:

Since this drama mostly gravitates towards romantic relationships, I'm including this section.

▫ ▫ ▫

-Geun Young x Hoo Joon: They are your typical enemies to lovers.

In the beginning, their relationship was tainted by a lot of misunderstandings, which led them to hate each other's guts (but, where's the charm in a k-drama that isn't filled with misunderstandings, am I right?). Once they started to spend more time together, they began understanding each other better. In time, they were able to leave their pride aside and got rid of their prejudices (yes, the story gives Jane Austen-ish vibes, so much so that "Pride and Prejudice" is mentioned a few times).

Their chemistry was alright. I would have changed some parts of the script that made a lot of scenes to be super cringey—especially, before some of their kisses (like, what a way to ruin such an awaited moment!).

The thing I liked the most about them was that neither of them was toxic, and they knew how and when to give the other person space. They were sweet, but not unbearable sweet—just the exact amount.

▫ ▫ ▫

-In Hyeong x Jae Joon: I don't know if they can be considered a true couple, but I'm adding them here just to repeat that I HATED THEM TOGETHER.

· · ·

♡ SOME PERSONAL INTERPRETATIONS AND THOUGHTS:

For me, the story tries to show the two sides of the same coin: things that may seem completely different, but are essentially the same. You can see it with Hoo Joon/Geun Young, their friends, and even with Hoo Joon/Jae Joon. Of course, this could be argued—it is just my personal impression.

Also, while the drama condemns some of the toxic fan behaviour, it sometimes romanticises it. *SPOILER ALERT* one fan freaking kidnapped him, and everything was suddenly alright ¿¿ Nuh-uh *END OF SPOILER ALERT*

· · ·

♡ DRAMA VS. MOVIE:

As I mentioned above, there's a prior Chinese movie from 2016 that was based on this novel. It features EXO's Chanyeol, Yuan Shan Shan, SNSD's Seohyun, and Jian Chao.

For obvious reasons, the story is shrunk down in the movie. There are a lot of things that weren't included in the movie, other things were overly simplified, and some stuff was missing and/or changed.

If you want to have a good laugh, then I recommend you to watch the movie. It's filled with non-sensical comedy that, in my opinion, China excels at. However, if you are more inclined towards drama, then the South Korean version is the one for you (you'll laugh, too, don't worry).

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♡ SUMMARY:

This is, basically, a sweet enemies-to-lovers, famous-person-and-normal-person story. If you like any of those troupes, then you're in for a treat.

It's a really lighthearted story that will make you laugh. Don't expect a complicated plot because there won't be one. It's ideal to have a break from all those dramas where you can't miss a single detail because you'll get lost, or from those dramas which plots are so heavy they end up tiring your mind out.

I loved the cast, and their acting was great (especially Chansung's, because he made me hate his character with a passion, lmao).

ALSO, if you like Sung Hoon (My Secret Romance, Oh My Venus) like me, then WATCH THIS DRAMA, lol. He has a guest role in some episodes!

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So I Married an Anti-Fan is available on VIKI!

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If you read the whole review, thank you very much! I hope you liked it.

[alastanor]

Thanks for tagging me @thalfox this took me a long time to finish, and I'm gonna be dog tired in the morning, but it was worth it. Lol. Hope you have as much fun reading it as I did writing it.

1 • What is your MC’s name? What is their name origin? What does it mean (if it ever has a meaning).

❄ Eirlys is Welsh for "Snowdrop" and it is pronounced as either Eye-r-liss, or Aye-r-liss. Depending on which part of Wales you hear the name.

2 • When is their birthday? How old are they? What about their zodiac sign? (bonus point if you give their rising or even their birth/natal chart)

♋ She was born March 10th, and she is a Pisces.

As for her age, this one has more to do with RAD. RAD stands for Royal Academy of Diavolo. An academy, if you search the definition, is typically a school of higher learning or secondary education. Like a college, if you will. But Academy doesn't always refer to a sort of college. In some cases, it can also apply to a High School. My theory is that RAD is a mixture of both. A sort of college, but with hints of High School-esque scheduling and culture. Or perhaps it can function as both. I tend to lean toward the latter, in which case I make Eirlys somewhere between 20 and 23 years old.

3 • What is your MC’s gender? And what are their sexual/romantic preferences?

Eirlys identifies primarily as female with she/her pronouns. She is demisexual, and considers herself panromantic. However, she puts a heavy emphasis on romance.

(Me personally, I don't mind they/them pronouns though I typically identify with she/her. I am also demisexual but biromantic.)

4 • What is your MC’s race? (human, demon, angel, other). If human, what are their nationality and origins?

💁‍♀️Eirlys is human. As for nationality, origins, heritage, etc... Eirlys grew up in Japan, though she herself is not ethnically Japanese.

5 • Before coming to Devildom, what was their occupation? (job, studies…)

📖 Eirlys worked part time in her school's library while attending classes full time at a college overseas.

6 • Height? Weight? Describe their body type.

Eirlys is 5'3" (160 cm) and roughly 110 lbs (49.8 kgs). Her body type would best be described as a triangle/pear shape (slim chest, breasts on the smaller side, while body widens out into voluptuous hips).

7 • Who is/are your MC’s love interest(s) (if they ever have one). Summarise their dynamic.

💛 Eirlys found Mammon irritating when she first met him, and became increasingly frustrated at how he looked down on her for being a human. But over time, as she got to know him, she came to enjoy his conversation and his company. He made her laugh, and despite being a demon he was so full of energy and life that Eirlys found not just refreshing but endearing. Before long, she realized she had fallen in love with him despite the protests of his brothers regarding her taste in men.

🧡 Leviathan was another of the brothers Eirlys found infuriating, not just in how he also looked down on her for being human, but how often he whined and complained about seemingly everything when they first met. But like Mammon, the more she got to know him, the more she found she had in common with Leviathan. Falling asleep on his shoulder watching anime with him in his room, or enjoying his company while playing games, has made it increasingly difficult not to love him in some capacity even if she loves Mammon more. Because of this, she allows Leviathan to believe she would never be interested in him. As cruel as that might be for both of them.

💜 Belphegor, on the other hand, she is fully aware of how he feels about her. She keeps it platonic between them, because even though she has forgiven him for his deceit and his attempt to kill her not once- but twice, she cannot forget it. The memory sours any thoughts of being more than just friends. Somewhere deep in his heart, she is sure Belphie knows this. And deeply regrets it.

8 • Does your MC have any specific appearance features? (Scars, marks, anything else)

She has skin pale as fresh snow, fluffy light pink hair like sweet cotton candy, and clear pale celeste blue/aquamarine colored eyes.

Beyond this, there is nothing remotely remarkable or striking about her.

9 • Does your MC have any disabilities? (physical, mental health, etc). How do they deal with it?

Eirlys has suffered some trauma in the past which has led to some issues. Don't want to give too much away as I am in the process of writing a fic.

10 • How do you imagine your MC’s voice? Describe it.

Her voice is gentle and light. Silvery, dulcet tones might be a good way to describe it. Her voice will get rather harsh and stentorian if she is angry enough.

11 • Does your MC have any tattoos or piercings? Just tell us more about it!

She has pierced ears on her lobes, she was never brave enough to get any in the cartilage as much as she wanted them. Her skin reacts badly to many kinds of metals, a kind of skin allergy, so she can never keep piercings in for very long.

12 • Describe their clothing style (if they have a favorite style). Do they have specific accessories Bonus question: how do they wear RAD uniform?

To sum it up, Eirlys dresses in typically classic chic style with a touch of hipster or grunge here and there.

For her uniform, Eirlys keeps it looking crisp and sleek. These would be good examples. Of fashion types and how she wears her uniform.

The RAD uniform images, the not quite RAD uniform one on the right, I thought the skirt may be more in line with what the uniform used. Versus the pencil skirt-esque look on the left. The boots on the right would also be more akin to what Eirlys would wear.

Is your MC able to use magic? If so, are they skilled? How do they learn? Were they able to use it before coming to Devildom?

🔮 Eirlys is still learning about her abilities, abilities that have not fully awoken though they had been stirred when Solomon allowed her to use his powers. Using his powers was like the catalyst to tapping into a yet untapped wellspring. Though the water from that wellspring has yet to fully come forward.

Before that, Eirlys fully believed she was just another unremarkable human with nothing special about her, as Lucifer often said.

14 • Describe your MC’s parents (names, jobs, personalities). Do they have any siblings? What is their relationship with their family?

🎀 From what Eirlys knows of her parents through stories, her parents loved one another very much. Her mother had been her father's first love in college, and years later they had her. However, when she was still very young her family had been killed by a reckless drunk driver while visiting other family. Eirlys was taken in by her aunt, who worked as a fashion consultant in Tokyo.

15 • How many languages do they speak? Which ones?

🀄 English and Japanese, though she is wanting to learn how to read Devilish and Celestial.

16 • What is their relationship with each brother?

I already mentioned Mammon, Levi, and Belphie above. So I will leave them out here.

🖤 Lucifer - When Eirlys first met Lucifer, she didn't know what to make of him. All she knew was that he was intimidating and likely very dangerous. It took a lot of time for her to not only come to trust Lucifer and feel safe around him, but to like him and understand his motives behind his methods. But Lucifer was never her type, and instead she looks to him now like a younger sister to a reliable older brother. Even if that older brother can be mildly sadistic in his teasing.

💚 Satan - After being introduced to Satan, Eirlys did find him attractive and was excited to find another bookworm even here among all the demons. However, after she was introduced to Satan and came to find Satan smiled when he was angry, she found communicating with him equally as intimidating as Lucifer's threats. Trying to figure out when he was angry and when he was genuinely happy really did a number on her anxiety, and eventually kept her from really communicating with him overmuch for an extended length of time. It wasn't until later that she tried getting to know him better, and coming to find the source of all his anger. That information became the catalyst and foundation to their continuously building and growing friendship.

❤ Beelzebub - Beel has ever been the sweet one, even if he was a bit more distant when they first met. Beel was never outright cold or condescending to Eirlys, and the closer they became the sweeter he became. Before long, she found just how considerate and gentle Beel truly was. Despite this, Beel never appealed to her romantically. Instead, much like Lucifer, she looks to Beel as a gentle and reliable brother of sorts.

💗 Asmodeus - His penchant for lechery always threw Eirlys off balance, being the non-sexual type. When she first met him and found he was the Avatar of Lust, her first instinct was to keep ten yards between them at all times. Asmodeus was the wild card in the deck of seven for Eirlys, because though he has tendencies toward the egotistical side, she can never fully peg him. Even after getting to know him and forming a bond with him. Asmodeus, she found, has ever been able to tell when something he did was making her uncomfortable. He never pushed cuddling beyond what Eirlys wanted it to be or was comfortable with, even if he joked occasionally about doing it naked.

17 • What is their relationship with each side characters?

🐕 Luke: She was rather bemused upon meeting Luke, and seeing him standing in contrast to Simeon lit an amused glint within her eyes. Perhaps it was because he was an angel, but Eirlys bonded with Luke rather quickly. Though she cannot say she likes everything about the child-like angel, as his anti-demon sentiment has grated on her the more she has bonded with the boys (it has grown more half-hearted recently), but she counts Luke among the few within the three realms she can fully rely on.

🕊 Simeon: He was always rather mesmerizing for Eirlys, in ways the demons weren't. Perhaps it was the mystery that surrounded him despite being such a beautiful angel. His eyes, so striking against his features, were particularly what drew her in. Whenever she speaks with Simeon, she cannot help but smile. Despite all this, she has closed her heart off to anything beyond friendship with Simeon. Perhaps because she already has feelings for Mammon and more complicated ones for Leviathan, or perhaps because she feels a relationship with an angel would be too out of bounds for a human like her. Maybe both. Either way, she considers Simeon a very dear friend.

🦋 Solomon: He was one Eirlys didn't think much of when she first met him, though she was rather jealous of his abilities. She did slowly think of him in more friendly terms, however there was always something about him she didn't fully trust. Solomon has ever been the Cheshire Cat to her Alice.

🏵 Diavolo: Eirlys doesn't really have a very strong opinion one way or the other about him. Though the mere fractions of a moment she has spent getting to know him, the more she finds her opinion shifting to the positive. He has demonstrated himself to be incredibly thoughtful, compassionate (for a demon), and mature each time. Even if he hides it behind a constantly smiling face.

🐉 Barbatos: A mysterious and handsome face. This was the first thought that entered Eirlys's mind when she first met Barbatos. But after learning of his abilities and seeing them in action, Barbatos has bypassed all other demons in the intimidation department and landed himself firmly on the "never piss off under any circumstances" list.

Not exactly an accurate graph, but it's the best I can do restricted to mobile.

18 • What is your MC’s main hobbies and passions?

♥️ Her hobbies include: reading, music, dancing (hip hop and the like), anime, manga, video games, dramas, and movies (except horror, because she is a little chicken shit and will be the first to admit it).

♠️ She has a passion for dancing and singing, though she isn't good enough by any means to be considered professional, and typically her singing and dancing has been in rooms alone, in the shower, or driving alone in her car (in the human world).

She also has a big love for stories, especially fantasy and romance. Be they in books, movies, anime/manga, or dramas.

19 • Why did they end up in Devildom in the first place? What happened to them?

An email went out to all the students of high school and college age, explaining the exchange program with a world long thought to be a mere myth stemmed from religion, and nothing more. Those interested in participating could apply and send in their application for consideration. Anyone not interested could simply disregard the email. It explained a deadline, details and requirements for application, along with signing an agreement form explaining the rules of conduct within the Devildom. It was surprisingly thorough and organized for a simple email.

Eirlys was intrigued, but a part of her thought it was just an elaborate prank. Over the next few weeks, she heard more and more about people who had put in an application and eventually she too relented and sent in an application. Though her application was sent right at the last minute. Almost literally.

20 • What is your MC’s MBTI type?

ENFJ

21 • Do they have a pact with each bro? Do they often use their pacts? In which situations?

Yes, she has a pact with each brother. And each pact has left it's mark on her. However, she refuses to use her pacts unless she absolutely has to. Though there are times when she has used them out of anger (think "sit, boy!" from Inuyasha).

22 • What is their favorite place in Devildom?

Her room, the music room, and the Royal Library. Though there is an odd beauty to the old Colliseum when it is empty.

23 • Which sin fits them the most?

This one is difficult, but if I had to pick one I would say Pride or Envy.

24 • Describe their personality.

Eirlys is a rather compassionate and kind person with a passion for life and a fierce loyalty to her select group of friends. She is a genuine, honest, and caring individual and a passionate altruist. Sometimes even to a fault, and she is unlikely to be afraid to take the slings and arrows while standing up for the people and ideas she believes in.

Eirlys won't turn down an opportunity to spend time with those she cares about, even if that means going to social gatherings she would otherwise not attend on her own.

Despite all this, Eirlys can sometime be too idealistic or even selfless to a fault. She is prone to fluctuating self-esteem and may ask for praise or criticism out of insecurity, more than anything else. What's more, some criticisms can be easy for Eirlys to take to heart. Allowing it to further chip away at her self-confidence.

25 • What is their moral alignment?

Neutral good.

26 • Does your MC possess an object/something especially dear to their heart?

No, not really...

27 • Which character(s) do they consider as their best friend(s)?

If Mammon doesn't count considering he is the love interest, then I would have to say Levi and Beel.

28 • Choose a song that fits your MC.

Fight Song by Rachel Platten

29 • What are your MC’s religious beliefs?

Eirlys considered herself Agnostic, with some leaning toward Earthy religions. She had no beliefs in Heaven or Hell, so when she received her invitation that was rather eye opening.

30 • Describe what is inside your MC’s school bag.

Text books, notebooks, mechanical pencils, pens, highlighters, a zip bag for those things, reading books, calculator, and other generic school necessities.

31 • Describe their appearance (pic refs are ofc allowed).

♣️ Eirlys generally has fluffy waves of light pink hair that falls in cascades to the middle of her back, clear celeste blue / aquamarine eyes (haven't fully decided which), and snowy pale skin. She is not very tall, and has a triangle-shaped figure. Her fashion sense typically aligns with classic chic with a touch of hipster and grunge or street punk depending on her mood. And how she wears her uniform typically reflects this fashion sense as well, as her uniform typically looks rather crisp and pristine compared to the demon she loves.

Otherwise the other best examples I have are these images, one from a webcomic on Tappytoons.

The top image is probably as close as I can get, with the changes being thicker hair and eyes that are more blue like the girl in the images below. There is also the matter of her bangs being what curls inward as opposed to the tufts of hair beside her ears. The girl below, her hair is a bit too curly, though and her bangs aren't right. Plus the tufts on the side of her face down curl against her cheeks enough like the images above. But beyond all that, this is as close to an example of what my MC looks like. How she wears her uniform is portrayed above.

Tagging || @mammon-chan @mammoron @obeymesideblog @obeyme-lumos @beelzebubisbestwaifu @slavetothemocha @mammon-squad @mambeelz

And anyone else who wants to join in.

[texanredrose]

In celebration of Freezerburn Week, how about a sales pitch for those of us who totally don't get it? I don't even dislike the ship, it just doesn't make any sense to me.

Hmmm, sales pitches are typically tailored to the needs and wants of the customer, though. But! I can do my best!

I think the easiest way to see the appeal of a ship is to read five fanfics from five different authors; this allows you to see the common threads of the ship shared across those who like it, which is generally easier when it’s demonstrated in a narrative format, as well as the various ways settings and characterizations can be bent to play up certain aspects of the relationship. However, barring that, it comes down to three categories, all of which revolve around their differences and how a relationship between the two would play off them and/or bring them into balance.

Physical: There’s the smol/toll draw, with Yang being arguably the tallest member of the team and Weiss the shortest. This is often exemplified in other ways, usually by highlighting Yang’s fighting style- which is much more weather the hits, stand firm, be big and imposing and crash your fist through their face- in contrast to Weiss’ fighting style- dance away from attacks, stay back and support, dart in quickly and retreat. Brute force and versatile magic. This dynamic appeals to a lot of people from an aesthetic standpoint, but it also plays into the next category. In AUs, this is often played up in different ways- Yang’s a boxer or especially athletic while Weiss is a dancer or occasionally running but not really a gym goer- but is also something often played up in a lot of fanart of the pairing. Yang’s muscle with Weiss’ lithe form- it can paint quite the picture.

Thematic: Hot and cold, fire and ice, extrovert and introvert- in a lot of ways, Yang and Weiss are opposites, but opposites that play off each other well and are willing to meet in the middle. This can be seen when they plan the dance together, when Weiss picks up trying to tell jokes and puns, when they work together during the doubles portion of the tournament, and so forth. In a lot of ways, Weiss and Yang can represent extremes coming together to form a better middle ground, which from a narrative/romantic perspective is very appealing to some people. This is further supported by the other two categories, yes, but stands on its own as a different aspect purely because of the frequency with which it’s maintained in AUs, often with Weiss being some sort of white collar professional while Yang’s more manual labor. While other pairings will usually have some sort of common thread to link the two prospective romantic partners, Freezerburn often avoids that entirely by having them effective strangers, meeting by chance and forging a bond regardless, exploring their differences as a manner of finding their similarities.

Emotional: Last but probably most important, the emotional aspect of the relationship. In keeping with Yang and Weiss often being at opposite ends of the spectrum, they have two very different family backgrounds that have shaped them. For Weiss, she has a “traditional” nuclear family- a mom, a dad, an elder sibling, and a younger sibling- but obviously didn’t have a happy home life, is seemingly barely on speaking terms with her mother, antagonistic terms with her father and brother, and her relationship with her sister seems strained, though at least more positive than the other members of her family. Yang, on the other hand, has about as broken of a home as one can imagine, with a biological mom who abandoned her, a father who went through extreme depression, an adoptive mom who died when she was young, a drunken uncle, and a little sister, but she also appears to be on good terms with the family members she interacts with (when circumstances don’t dictate otherwise) and speaks of them fondly. Yang’s recklessness, born from the anger she’s held onto for years covered by a charming smile, is at direct odds with Weiss’ more thorough and planned approach, which can read as haughty and caustic. Weiss is about technique- about control, this thing that has been applied to her without ever being within her power- while Yang is about just powering through- because really when has she ever had the chance to do anything else? But, their similarities come into play as well: they’re both loyal, willing to stand by their friends to the very end and in the face of terrible odds. For Yang, it’s a chance to not always be the one supporting but to be supported instead, for once receiving the undiluted truth even if it’s articulated in a blunt manner. For Weiss, it’s unquestionable sincerity just beneath jokes and teasing, all with unrestrained affection. For all the differences the previous two categories celebrate, the potential for emotional support and healing is a huge draw as well. Yang can make Weiss’ moniker as a ‘spoiled little rich girl’ true where it counts, not in the way of material wealth but in unconditional love and affectionate gestures. Weiss can give Yang the structure she’s been lacking all her life, focusing Yang’s self admitted uncertainty regarding the future into achievable and fulfilling goals. For all their differences, they possess the potential to learn and grow together, forming a healthy, supportive bond that can more than withstand the trials and tribulations they’ve already faced alone. 

Together, they can definitely handle any situation that comes their way, and do it while being supportive, loving, and more often than not with a smile on their faces.

Now, while I have addressed this on a very general level, it’s all based on my personal experience in reading fics, interactions on the Freezerburn Discord, and so on, which means it’s not a 100% consensus but probably largely applicable as how most people who enjoy the ship view it any why we enjoy it so much.

[julystorms]

I think the subtlety and simplicity in the interactions of the respective ships have a bit to do with their age. Yumikuri and Petruo ar still quite young compared to MikeNana and Levihan pairs. I feel like there is a mild difference in experiencing romance in different stages of life. Maybe it's just me though. I feel like as i get older i don't experience this feeling of Strong and passionate love and "crushes" as much as i did in my teen years.

You’re right, and it’s not just you. I never fell into crushes quickly as a teenager, but when I formed one, they lasted. As an adult I feel like that kind of thing appeals to me less and less--it’s gotten harder for me to form strong bonds to other people. I guess you could say that having experienced relationships before, I’m well aware of how difficult they are to maintain, and so I’m less likely to jump at opportunities to try them on for size, even in my mind. 

I’m married, and our relationship has been going on since our teenage years (we dated off and on). When we were young I feel like we were excited and in love. Everything was fresh and new. We were from different towns and had different experiences to share. That sort of brand-new excitement tapered off with the years. At our current ages, romance is more subtle and quiet. It can be expressed loudly but generally, especially in public or when we’re busy with other things in our lives, it stays muted. We don’t feel the need to be loud about it. It’s our private business. Some people our age never got past the loud part of relationship-having (PDA out the wazoo, for example), but it stops being interesting really quick I think; nobody else cares if you’re married or whatever; nobody else wants to hear about it; nobody wants to see you kissing on each other.

Anyway, that crazy romantic sparking is something that typically occurs in newer relationships where you don’t really know each other that well, yet, and everything is new and exciting. For some people it’s not ever a very big spark but I don’t think there’s any denying that it mellows out with time. You’re always learning new things about each other, but the silence that comes with knowing the majority already is something soft and comfortable--familiar. You know your significant other and you know what to expect of them in various situations. It’s nice. Besides--trust me: the older you get, the less energy you have for getting pumped and excited about getting to know someone the way you did when you were 15.

Assuming Mikenana and Levihan are older couples (30+) who have a demanding job, it’s safe to say they’re less likely to do things to 1) compromise their position at work, and 2) make their business public. The Survey Corps might be lax with relationships occurring, but there’s no way they don’t have any rules at all. Be discreet and it’s probably fine.

(As a side-note, discretion gets more important the higher your position of power. All four characters are officers. Hange and Levi might be (have been lmao) equals but Mike and Nanaba are not. That’s something they still have to look at and consider--and if other soldiers see a relationship going on, they might question it: is Nanaba a willing participant in this or is she sleeping with him to keep her position/get away with doing work/etc etc? I mean, rumors are going to fly because that’s how the real world works. You’d think adults wouldn’t be such gossipmongers but they are and in the SC they have nothing to lose so why not talk? IMO it’s impossible to keep a longterm relationship quiet in a small group like the Survey Corps, but people will talk less if they don’t catch you fucking in a supply closet or making out in a dark corridor. Keep your business your own as best as you can and that will keep gossip to a minimum.)

[anime-matchmaker-blog]

Could I request a male matchup for BSD and DRRR!!? I'm currently a student but my ideal job is would be working as a financial analyst while developing video games in my spare time. I like video games, programming, exercising, and playing with my cats. I'm extremely ambitious and a total workaholic, so I like to be in fast-paced environments and don't like just lazing around. If I'm not doing something productive, then it will drive me insane. I love socializing and making new friends [1/2]

[2/2] because my biggest strength is being insightful and knowing how people are really feeling/thinking, but I’m really bad at trusting people so I typically just keep my feelings to myself. In terms of romance, I don’t like showy displays of affection. I think it’s better to be practical, so romantic stuff doesn’t appeal to me.  Thank you!

Hello, Anon-san! I hope you enjoy your matches

Bungou Stray Dogs - Kunikida Doppo

Don’t let this guy intimidate you - he has to find a lover at some point. Since you operate behind-the-scenes instead of on the field, Kunikida doesn’t pay much attention to you - he has Dazai to deal with, after all. Still, your work ethic shines and once in a while, he’ll approach you to say good job or invite you to lunch with the other detectives. You stick close to the other clerks and Yosano, choosing to watch him from a distance. Yosano likes commenting how you work similarly to Kunikida and you can’t figure out why she says that.

You do find value in her words though. Both of you start work right on time and leave once everything is finished. You suspect that Kunikida works off the clock too, although you work on your programming than ADA work. You catch him on running trails a few times too - at first, you find it odd to see him exercise, but considering his work, it’s logical. He’s usually too engrossed in his own head to notice his surroundings so you keep your distance, until you choose to approach him one day. The two of you start talking more after that.

Work is the central focus of your conversations with him. He can rely on you to get things done and he knows you’ll complete them with absolute perfection. He does his best not to involve you in his investigative work, but your insights on people help him figure out motives and predict next moves. When both of you have the day off, the two of you will sit at a cafe together and engage in individual work, occasionally striking up a conversation. Kunikida doesn’t like talking about himself so you keep the details of your own life to a minimum, although you reveal your love for cats. He reveals he’s impartial to cats so you take every opportunity to take him back to your place to indulge him.

Neither of you are very romantic, but everyone in the agency knows that something has changed between you two. Kunikida is usually by your side when in the office, you always look for him during breaks, and the two of you often walk home together. Kunikida shows his affection bluntly, but he doesn’t get physical. He never admits this outright, but he prefers how things are with you. This kind of relationship is perfect for him and he hopes you’ll feel the same way.

Durarara!! - Kadota Kyohei

Despite appearing to be a lax, laid-back man, Kyohei lives for the thrill of life. This kind of excitement is different from your desired pace of work, but he’s often working while seeking excitement. He’s great at settling disputes within gangs and between gangs. You don’t believe you can get along with him because of what he does, but you know him through Erika. He seems nice enough and he’s always treating you to meals. You’re fine remaining as a mutual friend of his.

Still, you see him around on his own a few times. He exercises regularly - this comes as a surprise, but it shouldn’t, considering the nature of his work. He never fails to notice you and he asks for permission before joining you on your runs. You prefer sticking to marked-out trails, but Kyohei proposes taking you on his own routes that involve more of the city landscape than the neighborhood. It’s during these runs that he gets to learn more about you - he knew bits and pieces from Erika, but he wants to hear the whole story from you. He tells you what his own profession is - carpentry is vastly different from finance and programming so he admires you for being able to tackle so much. Gradually, these runs become longer and longer as the two of you dive into other topics.

Kyohei does his best to keep you away from the gang life, but after hearing how you’re observant when it comes to humans, he sometimes involve you to help him snuff out spies. You try to stay out of this aspect of his life and you’re never worried about him. He knows how to take care of himself as his own group will protect him. Whenever he isn’t working or doing something shady, he acts as your beta tester for any games you’re developing and he takes care of your cats whenever you’re in the middle of crucial work. Kyohei is able to tell if you’re holding back on him and he doesn’t pry, letting you choose when you want to reveal anything to him. He never fails to remind you that he can be your confidante whenever you choose it. He’ll always be there for you, no matter what happens.