#walked in the park. asked her if she would date me with the knowledge that I'll definitely be moving in a year or two. she said yes.

[neverendingford]

.

[brodieland]

.˚ 𓈒 ࣪.𝝑𝝔 10 Things I hate about you ´ˎ˗

Percy Jackson x Fem!Reader Synopsis: Where the plan of 'taming the shrew' commenced. Leo and Charles go around finding you a perfect match for Charles to snoop in on Silena!!! Warning(s): just swearing Word Count: 1170 A/N: readers only mentioned in the beginning, just a quick roll over from how the plan started. and silena and Charles should've lived idgaf. anyways idk how to feel about this one but fuck it we ball???

╰➤ MASTERLIST pt1

An abrasive feminist who does nothing but hate on men, that's what you were known for. Silena, a beautiful and kind girl who was adored through out school, that's what she was known for.

No one would've guess you two were sisters.

As you walked out of class, music ripping through your headphones, you found your sister out by the parking lot talking with a guy. Luke Castellan to be exact. You couldn't help but roll your eyes as you approached her.

"Yo Silena, time to head home," you crossed your arms as she turned. She knew of your opinion on the single brain-celled men of the town, but she seemed to think the opposite.

"Um, you can go home without me. I have-" she looked back at Luke, flashing a quick smile-, "a ride already."

You rolled your eyes once more, fake gagging as you headed down to your red car. "Whatever."

As you walked off, Charles Beckendorf couldn't keep his eyes off Silena. "She's beautiful."

"Not a chance," Leo said from behind him. "Her dad has a strict rule with no dating. Don't even bother."

"No I need to try. I know I have this."

"Yeah okay, I mean unless you know French your not getting anywhere near her."

"Im a fast learner," Leo couldn't help but laugh at the response.

﹒º. ౨ৎ

As you sat in your car, making your way toward the exit of the parking lot, you saw the most infuriating sight possible. It was your sister riding in that douches convertible. 'Oh what dad would say,' you laughed to yourself.

When you got home, you were sitting in your living room reading a book when your dad walked in with the mail. He saw one with your name on it as your sister walked in late.

"Sarah Lawrence? That's across the country, what happened to staying local?"

"Dad, that's what you decided, this is my dream," your dad turned around, noticing your sisters presence. "Would a certain someone like to announce who drove them home?"

You had a smug smile on your face, though Silena didn't find this so amusing. "Excuse me, what is your sister talking about?"

"Nothing," Silena exclaimed. Your dad gave her the look, the look saying I know you're lying so don't try it. "Luke drove me home."

She groaned and stomped around as your dad continued to drill into your brains how he refused to let you both date till college, absolutely wanting to avoid teen pregnancy.

"The boys here are massive incels who lack the knowledge of a shower, I like being single," you mused.

"God what planet are you even from?"

"Enough, both of you. Sit," your father instructed. "I know you hate the rule so fine, I'll change it. You can date."

Silena started squealing until your dad pointed at you. "When she does."

You snorted as Silena started yelling, "Oh my god, have you met her? She's probably gonna die alone!!"

"Then you'll never date," your dad smiled as he walked off toward his room.

"Can't you just take some tooth-gapped loser on a date so I can go out??"

"Nope," you sang out, popping the p as you walked off toward your room.

﹒º. ౨ৎ

Silena ran into the library where she and Charles met up for their French lesson. "Oh hey, um, Silena."

"Yeah hi. Any chance we can make this quick?"

"Uh yeah, we can just start with some pronunciations, or we can just get some French food and call it a day," Charles chucked, Silena stared narrowed eyed.

"Are you asking me out," Charles started stammering, "It's not like I could even go anyways."

"I thought maybe if you called it French tutoring then-"

"At least not til my sister finds a date, so yeah. Never. Going. Out," she rolled her eyes in annoyance.

"I'm sure it can't be that hard to find her a date."

Silena laughed, "Yeah right. Have you met her? She's impossible."

"I mean there's someone there for everyone, can't be impossible to find her one."

"Are you saying you would?"

"Would what? Find her a date," Silena shook her head aggressively. "I mean, if it means your let out of your prison... I'll do it.. for you."

As she squealed, Charles sat back wondering what the fuck he just agreed to do.

"Dude you're fucked," Leo said as he drank from his juice box. They were sitting in biology together as Charles was starting to freak out. "Why would you promise the impossible??"

"You don't understand. Silena is everything I've ever dreamed of."

"You spoken to her twice."

"Whats your point?"

"My point is we've asked nearly every guy in school, and they all wanna steer clear. You're cooked," Leo went on but Charles wasn't listening. Behind Leo, was a rugged raven-haired boy ripping the frog they were directing in half like it was a rotisserie chicken. He was laughing with his friends, two burly dudes. One looking like the perfect American boy, and the other with a cute baby face.

"I've found our guy," Charles pointed toward him. Leo just raised his brows.

"Dude, that kid literally went missing for like 8 months. Are you sure?"

"Whats his name?"

"Percy Jackson."

"I'm sure. I'm telling you. Got any ideas to convince him?"

"Your not gonna like where I'm going with this."

Leo wouldn't say the plan, so Charles knew it was ridiculous, but it's not like he had another plan. In the cafeteria, Charles watched from a distance as Luke Castellan drew a dick on Leo's face. When he came back, dick still on his face, he said the plans in motion.

"Okay, now will you please explain," Charles asked.

"We're gonna double agent. I convinced Luke to pay Percy into taking your crazy sister-in-law out on dates. While he's busy coughing up payments, you make your move."

"Lets just hope this doesn't backfire."

﹒º. ౨ৎ

The next day Leo made his way over toward Percy and his two other friends. "Hey guys!"

Leo greeted the three as 'baby face' patted his shoulder. "You guys know each other?"

"You know, I'm the one who got my boy here Frank with his girlfriend Hazel," Leo gloated.

"So you are a matchmaker?"

"A matchmaker, not a miracle worker," Leo rolled his eyes.

"Whats up bro?"

"I assumed Luke spoke to you," Percy nodded, clearly confused. "Perfect, we have an idea for you."

"Go on."

"You see my boy here," Leo pointed to Charles. "He'd be a much better option for the 'amazing' Silena. So we need you to make sure Luke can't get his hands on her."

"Dude, I'm getting paid one way or the other, no offense but I can only do so much."

"I'm telling you, stop stressing," the blonde one said. Leo whispered in Charles ear, saying 'thats Jason by the way.'

"Yeah, if you like her, then make it happen," Percy said as he walked off.

"God this is stressful," Charles groaned.

[yikesmary]

hi! i saw u were asking for some svt oneshots ideas so ... strangers to dating (?) w mingyu where u walk ur golden retriever and while in the park mingyu bumps into ur puppy and asks if they can play together for a while <3

PUPPY PARENTS — kim mingyu x reader

summary: where your golden retriever has the tendency to bring you things she has an interest in— sticks, frisbees that obviously don’t belong to you, and even the occasional bird. but this time, your dog brings… a man? and not just any man, only the most beautiful man you’ve ever met. maybe your dog is onto something…

notes: WOO first request! i don’t have a dog but this request is cute. also i have no knowledge on how having a dog at the park works so i’m just guessing. it’s a non-idol!au but it doesn’t really matter since it’s not really mentioned. i kinda got carried away and the plot ended up a bit different than what the request was so i’m sorry anon 🧍‍♀️

“Now, I know I’ve let you bring in whatever interesting thing you see. But this time it should stop. I mean, come on, the old lady’s chihuahua? You weren’t the one getting hit by her purse,” you told your golden retriever Winnie, who looked as if she wasn’t understanding a thing you were saying.

Which made sense, considering she was a dog and you were, you know, not a dog.

You sighed, and kneeled down to the level of Winnie and decided to give her a tiny head rub before standing up and proceeding your walk to the park.

Thankfully, the park wasn’t busy. The last thing you wanted Winnie to do was pick up another kid again by their collar and proceed to kidnap them (the first and last time it happened, the mom was understanding but also really concerned).

Once you entered the park, you looked for a bench to sit on with Winnie not too far away, her tail wagging as she walked. When you finally chose a bench and sat down, Winnie looked at you as if she was expecting you to let her roam free.

“You can’t go too far away and play nice with the other dogs,” you reminded her, and she barked in response. It was times like these where you thought she understood you. But no matter how much you reassured her that you knew how to keep secrets, the only thing she did was stare at you blankly.

You gave her one last ruffle on her head before she took off running, watching her as she zoomed past the many people in excitement.

After making sure that she didn’t immediately run away from the park, you went on your phone to watch TikTok and respond to the texts you got that you told yourself you were going to respond and never ended up doing.

However, this didn’t last long because a confused, “Miss, is this your dog?” which made you look at the person that belonged to the voice.

You froze at the sight of the beautiful man. And it wasn’t just a quick stop; you physically froze at the sight of him. But you stopped once you realized that your dog was forcibly keeping him there in front of you by biting his pant leg and not letting go.

“Winnie! I told you that you can’t kidnap people,” you whisper yelled at your dog, but it was futile, as your dog just kept on wagging her tail, no doubt drooling on the handsome stranger’s pants.

You took ahold of the dog and pried her mouth open in order to release the pant leg. “I’m so sorry, I should’ve known she would do something like this,” you apologized, putting Winnie’s leash back on.

The man had smiled at you, not bothered at all at the fact his pants were now covered in dog spit. “No worries, she was nothing but sweet when she approached me. We even did a game of catch before she decided to kidnap me,” he said, grabbing a tennis ball from his pocket and showing it to you.

“You just happen to have a tennis ball in your pocket?” You asked, raising your eyebrow.

The beautiful mystery man only grinned at you, “I like visiting the park because I like asking dog owners if I can play with their dogs,”

“That’s… adorable,” you blurted out, since the thought of the man just having the ball for the sole purpose of having something to play with dogs was adorable.

“Thanks, but Winnie here is adorable, too. I’m guessing she’s named after Winnie the Pooh?”

“Unintentionally named Winnie. My niece had a Winnie the Pooh phase when she was younger and constantly kept calling her Winnie and it was the only name she ever answered to after that,” you explained.

“So if I know the dog’s name, can I know yours?” he asked.

You told him your name feeling a little embarrassed, since you went on to call him adorable and explained your dog’s name origin without either of you knowing each other’s names. If he didn’t stop you, you would’ve probably ended up over sharing and telling him all your life problems.

“Pretty name for someone who’s just as pretty,” he complimented, which made you smile.

“Does that line work?” You questioned.

“Depends. Did it work on you?”

“How about I know your name first before I say anything?” you asked.

“Oh, right! I can’t believe I asked you for your name before even saying mine. My name’s Mingyu,” he said, finally putting a name to his face.

“Well, Mingyu, the line worked. Just a tiny bit,” you replied, putting your pointer finger and thumb close together in a pinch.

“That’s disappointing. I thought it would’ve been the perfect line to lead to asking you out for coffee. My treat,” Mingyu said.

“Well. the coffee does sound good. And you did get ambushed by my dog, so I’d feel bad rejecting you…” you jokingly trailed off.

“And I might be injured! You might have to stay with me until I feel all better,” Mingyu played along, causing you to laugh.

“You’re such a dork,”

“A dork who just so happens to know of a cafe that allows dogs and even has their very own menu of drinks and food curated just for dogs,”

Winnie interrupted your banter at that moment in order to nudge you, giving her own seal of approval at the mention of the cafe. “I guess Winnie chose for the both of us,” you said, gesturing to your dog’s sudden movement.

“Just as a warning, don’t taste the dog’s food. I tried it and I should’ve never done so in the first place,” Mingyu said, the both of you walking with Winnie beside you, trotting along.

“What made you even eat the dog treats anyways?”

“They looked like human food! So, as a result my friend, Jeonghan, dared me to try one…”

[alocon]

Incredibly Irresistible [4] - Lando Norris

Lando Norris x Fem!Reader

written by alocon

Summary: Despite all hope, Lando never lost his feelings for his best friend's twin sister. However, he still hadn't acted on it. Well, that was until the party, which led you two into a long-term secret relationship

Warnings and Tropes: Fluff, part 4

[Part One Here] [Part Two Here] [Part Three Here] [Masterlist]

Irresistible - LN4 x Fem!Reader

After the night that Max found out, you realised that there wasn't really anyone else who you worried about finding out so you decided to be a lot less secret about it, especially in the family scene. Being invited to a family dinner was the perfect opportunity to tell people who you are dating, you decided. When you got the call from your mother, you asked.

“Oh wait I do have a question,” you had said when she asked if there was anything else you wanted to know. It was common knowledge that you could bring your partners to dinner, seeing as Max brought P often.

“Alright, sweetheart, what is it?” Your mother responded, curious as you never usually had any questions.

You looked at Lando who was sat on the bed with you, nervously playing with your hand. You had told him about your family dinners before, and he said that he would, of course, be interested in coming if the opportunity was there. “I've been in a relationship with someone for about a year and a half. Would I be able to bring him?”

“Absolutely, you can. A year and a half, darling, why didn't you say anything before?”

“You know what Max gets like, right? How he's very overprotective.” She hummed in agreement for you to continue. “Well, he'd get like that… but maybe a little worse than usual.”

Lando giggled, whispering under his breath “mhm, a little.”

You chuckled before hearing your mother excitedly say “is that Lando? Can I say hi to him?” You watched as Lando quickly leant over to take the phone from your hand as you passed it to him, beginning to talk to your mother.

“Yes, Mrs. Fewtrell. I'm great thank you, how are you?... I have met her boyfriend, he's very nice. Quite an attractive man too if I do say so myself.” You could only hear one side of the conversation but you rolled your eyes at the cockiness as he winked at you. “I'd like to think so, yes. From what I've seen, he really is in love with your daughter.” He grinned at you, blowing you a kiss. “Ah, I'm not sure if I'll be able to attend the dinner, I'll have to check, but I'm pretty sure I might be having dinner with my girlfriend's family that day. Yes ma'am. Well I'm sure you'll see me soon, don't worry. I miss you too. Goodbye.”

He passed the phone back to you, grinning ear to ear.

So that's how you ended up sat in your UK house, getting ready for family dinner with your boyfriend, who was definitely freaking out about making a good impression despite knowing that your entire family absolutely adored him.

“Yes but what if I mess up or they're disappointed that you're dating me or-” you cut him off with a kiss, getting slightly fed up with his waffling. He kissed back and you felt him relax slightly in your embrace.

Pulling away from the kiss, you placed your forehead to his. “Lan, try your best not to worry. You know they already like you.”

He nodded softly. “I know I know. I just don't want them to react how Max did.”

“Well, let's hope they don't. Ready to go?” He said yes, grabbing his phone and keys.

The drive was silent, Lando having been overthrowing quietly, which was evident by the way his index finger tapped against your knee as his hand ranted on your thigh whilst he drove. You placed your hand on top of his and he smiled gratefully as he finished parking.

Turning to you, he smiled softly, the nerves still very evident in his face. “I really hope this goes well.”

“Don't worry. They love you already.”

“Not as much as you do, I hope,” he said with a chuckle.

You rolled your eyes as you both started walking up the driveway towards the door. “Who knows. Maybe that's why Max was so pissed.” You heard the oh so familiar giggle leave his lips as you knocked on the door. 

It didn't take your mother long to open the door. “Hi sweetie, I've missed you!” She instantly hugged you and then pulled away, looking at Lando. “Lando? I thought you couldn't come. And Where's your boyfriend? Did you two split up?”

Lando spoke up before you could. “Actually, I remember saying that I was having dinner with my girlfriend's family…”

“Exactly. So why are you?” She paused mid sentence, looking between the two and gasping. “Oh my god. Wait. You two are together?” You nodded, Lando grabbing your hand nervously before a squeal could be heard and you were both pulled into a hug. “Come on in, you two.”

You walked into the house and to the dining room, seeing Lando look a lot calmer as people's eyes lit up once they saw him. Well, except Max. Max was avoiding your gaze for now. You greeted P with a hug and everyone except her and Max seemed a little surprised at the two of you being together. Your older brother, Sam, made a joke about not having to threaten your boyfriend, at least, because he had been around long enough to know the threats. That made Lando relax the most.

“So,” your dad said, looking between the two of you as you sat together on one side of the table together. “How long has this been going on?”

“Since July 2023.”

“A year and a half?” Your older brother said, looking at you. You nodded. “Why didn't you tell us?”

“Because I knew that if it got back to Max through someone who wasn't us, he wouldn't be happy. I mean he wasn't happy anyway but what can you do?”

“I would be happier if you weren't sleeping with my best friend.”

“I didn't complain that you started dating P.”

“Right, let's not. Max, remember what I said about being on your best behaviour, yes?” Max nodded in response to your mother as she turned her attention to another topic that wasn't Max's distaste. “Why did you decide to tell us now?”

“Max found out and we realised it was better to be honest. I'm sorry we didn't tell you guys. We hadn't even told my family until yesterday, to be honest. We had dinner with them and that's how they found out.”

“No problem. I think we're all just glad it finally happened. It took longer than me and your mother thought, that's for sure.”

You looked at your boyfriend, and then back to your parents. “What do you mean?”

“Oh please.” Your dad chuckled softly. “You two have been head over heels for one another since you were like 13. Especially Lando.”

Lando coughed slightly, looking away from your gaze which shot straight towards him. “13?”

“Yeah,” your mother was next to speak up. “It was like, you know how some girls have crushes on their best friend's older brothers? It was like that but Max's older sister instead.”

“She is barely older.” Max finally spoke up in the conversation.

“Still older. 3 hours is 3 hours.”

“Anyways. I'm pretty sure that boy fell in love with you the first time he met you. I remember overhearing him asking a bunch of questions about you when I walked past his door.”

You laughed. “I think I was the same about him, to be honest.”

Lando looked at you, seeing your eyes already on him. “Really?” You nodded, causing him to grin, almost slightly shyly as he squeezed your hand. 

“I honestly never thought I'd see this day. Mum, Dad, Max, I believe you owe me £20.”

You looked at Sam, shock on your face. “You made a bet on us?”

“We did,” your dad responded. “Max's vote was never so I think he might be a little biassed.”

 Your family ended up loving the fact that Lando and you were together, just as you had suspected. Once you both offered to wash up together, Lando had made a comment about you being right. You talked about how glad you were that Max didn't make any snarky comments about you two, as was expected when you first turned up. That didn't, by any means, mean that he had gotten over his anger, though. He actively avoided your gazes and was being a little petty, as always. You swore quietly at Lando as he flicked more water in your direction. You flicked some back. “Behave, you.”

He walked closer to you, playing his chin on your forehead, arms wrapping around you. “Where's the fun in that?”

You dried your hands, turning around to hug him back. You felt his hand playing with your hair. “I love you. I always will.”

You smiled into his chest at his words. Pulling away from the hug, you looked into his eyes. “I love you too. Always.” You leant up to press a kiss to his cheek before pushing a towel into his hand. “Get to drying, you're distracting me.”

“Yes ma'am. On it,” He responded, moving away and grabbing a plate to dry up.

From the doorway, your mum stepped away, leaning against the doorway for a moment whilst she watched you two act so domestically with one another - almost as if you had been together for years. Messing about, talking, actually getting stuff done, being sweet. She headed back to the living room, shutting the door as she sat down. The was quiet until your dad spoke up. “I'm happy they are together.”

“I'm not,” Max replied, rolling his eyes in frustration at them.

“Max. Why do you have such an issue with them?” Your dad asked, putting his drink back on the coffee table.

“Because he's my best friend and she's my sister. I know what he's like and he doesn't stay in relationships for longer than a year usually. Plus it's weird, he's meant to be my friend!” Max looked surprised that his mother and father seemed so happy with it.

“They've been in love for years, Max. Anyone can see it. Don't you think they would've been together a lot longer if they didn't worry what you would think?” Max stayed silent at the words of your mother. “Seriously. Despite being older than you, your sister looks up to you. She sees all three of you as some of the closest people in her lives. Plus, you met P through your sister anyway. So you really can't complain because it's kind of hypocritical, Max. She loves P and loves that you guys are together, as do all of us, so seriously, you need to realise that Lando will treat her well and you need to respect it.”

Max sighed. He looked at his family. “Do you all really like them together?” Everyone agreed, including P. “Really?” He asked his girlfriend.

“Yes, Max. You should've seen how worked up she got when you tried to make Lando choose between you and her.”

“You did what?” Sam asked, now looking at his younger brother with a sense of disappointment.

When the two of you left later that day, after spending some time with your family, you spent the evening watching films and talking about the past couple of days. Not only did your family really like Lando, his family also absolutely adored him. You had spent an hour sat talking with his sister about horse riding, you had spent some time with his mother whilst she taught you how to knit, you had spent some time throughout the previous day with each member of his family, including his niece.

The pair of you sat on the sofa, your head on his shoulder as you watched Cars together for what felt like the thousandth time over the past few years you had lived together. “Do you have any objection to us making our relationship public knowledge?” He asked as you watched.

“In what way?”

“In a sense of people knowing about us, but not knowing every detail or anything, just knowing that we're in a relationship. I want to be able to hold your hand when we are out in public and to be able to hug and kiss you and stuff after races, you know?” He looked at you, placing his forehead gently against yours and bringing his hand up to hold your face. “If you don't want to, we don't have to.”

“I'm happy to make it public knowledge. You don't understand how much I've had to hold back on kissing you whenever you've got a podium.”

He laughed, getting out his phone. “Maybe I should just hard launch us on my Instagram.”

“If you do, I will too.”

He grinned, opening his gallery to a whole album of photos just of you and the pair of you together. “Deal.”

----

landonorris

Hozier - Work Song

liked by youruser and others

landonorris: I'm only me when I'm with you ❤

tagged: youruser

-view all comments-

youruser: I love you ❤

landonorris: I love you more ❤❤

user: TO HOZIER?

user2: When I tell you I screamed!! youruser: user2 same-

oscarpiastri: 2nd cutest McLaren couple

landonorris: cutest McLaren couple**

alex_albon: I believe this is what the kids nowadays call a "hard launch"

landonorris: "kids nowadays" makes you sound old youruser: He is,, another double date soon?? lilymhe: Yes, message the group chat we will plan something! x

user2: Did not have "Lando in a relationship with his best friend's twin sister" on my bingo card.

carlossainz55: Finally done something about the massive crush you had on her since you were 13, I see?

landonorris: I told you that in confidence. charles_leclerc: Mate it was kind of obvious. maxverstappen1: You looked at her with heart eyes whenever you were in the same general vicinity as her

----

youruser

Taylor Swift - Lover

liked by landonorris and others

youruser: ❤❤

-view all comments-

-comments limited-

landonorris: I love you so much ❤

youruser: I love you❤

lilymhe: Cuteeeee

youruser: ❤

riabish: So unexpected but so cute

youruser: Thank you! x

pietra.pilao: Adorable 💕

youruser: xx

maxfewtrell: Message me please.

youruser: 👍

-The End-

-Word Count: 2,143 (not including social medias-

Hi all! Hope you're well, here's another part of the Lando series!! Hope you enjoyed, have a good day. There will likely only be one more part of this!! Alocon

[cameronspecial]

Assisting In Deception (Part 4)

Pairing: Rafe Cameron x Reader

Warnings: Thoughts about Sexual Content

Pronouns: She/Her

Word Count: 3.3K 

Summary: Rafe shows his protective side for Y/N when gossip turns away. The wedding went better than they thought it would.

Masterlist

The next day, Rafe enters the office to the whispers of his employees. He can’t hear anything specific that they are saying as he glides to his office. He looks over to see if Y/N is at her desk and is surprised she isn’t there. He checks his watch to make sure he has the time right. It’s 10 AM, which means she is an hour late for work. She’s never been late before and this worries him. He heads into his office to call her but is interrupted by Jenna knocking. “Ms. Walsh, do you know where Ms. Y/L/N is?” he asks her, looking at both his work phone and personal one to see if Y/N left any sort of message. Jenna gives him a sad smile and enters his office, “Yes, sir. It’s actually why I came to talk to you. The news about you and her dating got out yesterday and the others have been saying some things she must have overheard and it upset her.”

A scowl crosses his face and he feels his blood boil. He storms out of his office into the bullpen outside. The loud slamming of his feet on the floor as he takes a stand in the middle of the room quiets everyone. “It has come to my attention that Ms. Y/L/N and mine’s personal relationship has made itself public knowledge,” he begins his threat. “If I hear anyone say anything about our personal business in this office or on a digital platform, you will be immediately fired and I will make sure you never get hired anywhere again. Is that clear?!” The crowd turns away in embarrassment at being caught and a few nod to show that his point was made. 

“I’m sorry I’m late Mr. Cameron, I overslept a litt-,” Y/N apologizes while walking into the office to hear silence and Rafe in the middle of everything. She turns to Rafe in perplexity, which is met with her being ushered into his office. He lets her settle into the couch and he sits beside her. He leaves some distance between the two because they don’t need to keep up with the appearance of a relationship in the privacy of this room. “Are you okay? I heard that people were saying things about you when they learnt about us,” he worries, hesitantly placing his hand on her back to rub it in reassurance. “Yeah, I’m fine. I have thick skin. Don’t worry about it,” she tries to brush it off. He turns her to face him, tilting her chin to look him in the eyes, “Please, don’t lie to me. I know it’s the reason why you were late today.” She adverts her eyes from him for a second. 

“Fine, they got to me. But I’m fine now. It’s water under the bridge.” As she says those words, she can’t fight the tears that form in her eyes while she remembers the insecurities she feels because of their words. Rafe brings her into his embrace and buries his head into her hair. He inhales the strawberry scent of her shampoo and presses a kiss to her hair in a friendly manner. She feels more comfortable with him, letting her sobs release into his neck. “It’s okay. They won’t be saying anything about you anymore,” he promises. She nods, lifting her head to look at him, “Thank you. Can we just get back to work, please? It’s my turn to be apathetic.” He lets out a chuckle and gets up from the couch. “Okay, sounds good. Could you book a meeting with Mr. Kingston?”

——

The workday ends later than planned with multiple meetings being longer than planned and new ones needing to be urgently booked in. Y/N couldn’t leave work for the day because he needed her to go over next month's planning. By the time they finish, it is midnight and she is getting ready to head back home by subway. They get on the same elevator together and when she goes to press the ground floor button, he stops her. “I’m not letting you go on the subway this late. I’ll drive you,” he offers, pushing the parking garage button. She looks over at him with warmth, “No, I can’t let you do that. I live in the opposite direction of where you need to go.” 

“Then you can stay at my place for the night. I have lots of empty rooms for you to sleep in.”

“Boss, I promise it’s fine.”

“Butterfly, please, let me do this so I don’t have to worry about you.” 

Knowing she won’t win this argument and that he is right about it being safer, she moves her hand from the elevator buttons and steps back. Once the elevator gets to the parking level, he leads her to his car and opens the passenger door for her. The ride to his apartment is filled with another one of her playlists, both of them being tired from the late work day. The door opening catches Dax’s attention and he rushes to his owner’s side. However, Dax finds intrigue in the girl beside his dad. “Omg, who is this little cutie?” she gushes, kneeling down to give the boy attention. She gives him the belly rubs he normally begs his father for. Dax sits up from the sitting position and she gives his face multiple kisses. 

Rafe feels jealous that her focus is on his dog. He never thought he would want to be a hairy four-legged creature. Yet, he wants to capture this moment forever. He pulls out his phone and snaps a photo of the scene. “I saw that,” she quips, looking up at him. “I’ve been thinking. And I think that you should post that picture on social media.”

“Okay, but you can see your face in this one. Let me take another one with your hair blocking your face.

“Um, that was the point. The cat is already out of the bag with who I am at the office. My cousin’s post is bound to make my identity known to everyone.”

“Are you sure? I can have my lawyers force your cousin to take it down and then get everyone at the office to sign an NDA.”

“That’s sweet. But I’m sure. That is all too much of a hassle to hide something that we are going to have to reveal later anyway.” 

“Okay.” She gets up from the floor and makes her way over to him to watch as he makes the post. In turn, she pulls out her phone, scrolling through different pictures she has taken of them. She lands on one she took while he was driving and shows it to him. “What about it?” he questions, glancing at her phone for a second and then going back to writing a caption. 

“Are you okay with me posting it too?”

“You want to post it?” He looks up at her with a glint of happiness. Rafe didn’t think she’d want to do that. Most relationships he has been in, romantic or otherwise, have had the other person want him to show them off through posts on his social media. They either wanted more followers or the chance to advertise whatever they had. And when they posted about him, it was for the same reason. Yet, he knows that’s not what it is for Y/N. Her account is private and she only ever posts about things that she loves or special events. She posts every few months and doesn’t just let random people follow her. Something about her posting him felt more intimate to him. He realizes it might be to just keep up appearances of a relationship, but he doesn’t let his excitement of the action turn down. “Yeah, you can post it. It’s actually a really good picture,” he confirms. 

A few minutes later, they both receive a notification that the other posted and they both go to like the picture. They both stare at the caption of the posts and marvel that they are both on the same wavelength. Rafe’s My Butterfly 🦋 causes Y/N to instinctively play with her hair while her My Boss 😍 causes Rafe to fidget with his rings as he realizes how much he likes the nickname. They look up at each other and smile before she lets out a tired yawn. His smile continues at how adorable her face looks while she does it, holding his hand out for her to take. He takes her to the guest bedroom closest to his room in case she needs anything. He tells her to wait for a second so he can get her a new toothbrush and some clothes to sleep in. He returns with gray sweatpants and a t-shirt that appears to be from his high school varsity days. She goes into the adjoining bathroom to change and brush her teeth. 

When she comes out and gets herself settled into the bed, he catches a glimpse of his last name on her back and he wants to melt at the sight. “I’m just next door to the right if you need anything.” As he says that, Dax prances his way to the room and hops onto the bed beside her. “Bud, you can’t sleep here. Give her some space,” Rafe orders, getting closer to the bed to get the German shepherd off. Y/N shakes her head and holds up her hand, “It’s okay. He can sleep here if he wants.” He pauses his advancement and bobs his head. 

“Okay. Well, goodnight.”

“Goodnight,” she smiles, giving him a small wave while petting Dax. Rafe leaves the room with a sigh. He gets ready for bed and he can’t stop himself from thinking about the girl in the next room. His cheeks redden at the thought of her in his clothes. He can’t explain why he feels this way. 

——

The wedding ceremony was beautiful and the reception was just as stunning. Y/N and Rafe watch the first dance with fond smiles. He leans in to whisper against the shell of her ear, “Do you ever think about getting married?” She turns her attention towards him. “Not really, I guess I’ve always been a little scared of planning my future. I can’t imagine anything more past next month,” she clarifies. The disappointment that settles in his heart is inexplicable, but he can’t think about it for too long because Nancy is asking him to dance with her. He takes her hand and leads her to the dance floor. Y/N gushes at the sight of Rafe dancing with Nancy and takes a picture of the pair. 

She goes to talk to a few family members, looking over her shoulder every so often to see her sister still dancing with her boyfriend. Her sister’s cheeks are so red that it is adorable. “Can you dance with me?” a little boy begs and by his blond hair, she guesses that he is from Gwen’s side of the family. Y/N smiles at him and takes him over to the dance floor. She takes his hands into hers, swaying them to the sound of the music. The song switches to a slow one and Rafe takes this as his opportunity to cut in, “Can I have my girlfriend back, please?” The boy pouts but runs off to find his parents. Rafe wraps his arms around her waist and she puts hers around his neck. Y/N’s head rests on his chest. They sway to the sound of the music and this is probably the closest they’ve ever been. 

Nate points out the dancing duo to his wife and she smiles at the scene. Her phone captures the moment, “I’ve never seen her so in love before.” She knew her daughter had issues with believing in love, but she always hoped that love would find the girl. She’s glad that it did. 

The music stops and the dessert is announced to be out for serving. Rafe mutters that he’s going to get them some dessert and another drink, breaking apart so he can do so. She heads back to the table. “Where’s Rafe?” Nancy inquires, looking around for her sister’s boyfriend. Y/N shakes her head, “It feels like you like him more than you like me. And he is getting some dessert and drinks.” Her little sister’s face lights up when Rafe comes into view. He is balancing two plates in one hand and two drinks in the other. A tingling feeling passes through her body as she sees the way his long fingers stretch out to hold both glasses. Rafe sets the drinks in front of his place and hers then lays a plate down for Nancy before he gives Y/N hers. Both girls give thanks for his gesture. 

Upon looking at all of her favourite sweets, she goes to toy with her hair but can’t because she puts her hair up for the wedding. Seeing that she needs something to do with her hands, Rafe takes her hand into his and fiddles with the rings on her fingers. It is moments like these that make it harder for Y/N to remember that this is all not real. 

——

Saturday means Y/N lets herself lounge around all day. The only source of substance that she consumed was coffee even though it was late into the afternoon. Rafe and her have been texting all day and she just forgot to make something for lunch. She makes the mistake of telling him in passing that she hasn’t eaten anything. Disappointment floods her when he doesn’t respond after that. About an hour later, a knock comes on her front door, assuming it is just her sister, who is meant to come over from dinner, she opens it without another thought. 

Rafe stands before her with two paper bags in hand. “What are you doing here?” she queries, letting him into the apartment. He looks back at her with crossed eyes, “You can’t tell me that you haven’t eaten all day and expect me to just do nothing about it. I’m cooking you dinner.” 

“I had something to eat.”

“Coffee is not a meal, Butterfly. So you are going to let me cook for you because I know you don’t like it. I’m making farro mafaldine with black truffle butter and mushrooms. Something I picked up when I was in Naples.” 

“Okay, but I was supposed to make dinner for Nancy. She’s coming over soon.”

“Well, now, I’m making dinner for all of us. I bought enough for four people. Is your roommate here? Or how about that neighbour you say has a crush on her?” 

“No. Juni is at her parents' place and Alexander is working a twenty-four-hour shift. So it’s just gonna be you, me and Nancy.” 

“Sounds good.”

He gets to work moving around the kitchen and she sits at the kitchen island, watching his process. She is entranced by the sight before her. He came from the office, so his buttoned-up shirt had his sleeves folded up his forearms, which always makes her drool. He unbuttoned the top few buttons and she could see the glimmer of his chain from underneath. The naughty thought of what it would look like dangling over her as he pounded into her infiltrates her mind. She imagines him bending her over the kitchen counter and slamming himself into her. The opening of the front door snaps her out of her dirty daydream. 

“Y/N/N, do you really have to cook? Last time you made me something, I’m pretty sure the rice was overcooked but the meat was undercooked. How about pizza instead?” Nancy suggests, stopping in her tracks when she sees Rafe. Her cheeks heat up and she tries to hide herself because she is wearing her paint-stained sweatpants and moth-eaten shirt. Her backpack hangs from her shoulder; a clear sign she is planning on staying the night. Rafe looks over at the girl, “Good thing I’m making dinner then. I promise your food will be appropriately cooked.” Nance giggles at the joke and sits at the kitchen island beside her sister to enjoy the view. 

They eat the meal with pleasant conversation. “Oh, before I forget to tell you, Butterfly, there is a charity event that I have to go to and I’d like for you to come with me,” Rafe informs, looking up from his food to look at her. She pauses her chewing, “I would love to go. Although, I’m not too sure if I have anything to wear.”

“That’s not a problem. We can go dress shopping tomorrow. That way I know what to get to match you.”

Nancy interrupts, “Yes, a fashion show would be so much fun. Can I please come?” Rafe lets out a chuckle at the girl's excitement. “Of course. I’ll just clean up this mess and head out. I’ll pick you guys up in the morning.” Nancy’s head moves from side to side, “Nonsense. I’m a big girl. I know that sometimes boyfriends sleep over at their girlfriends’ houses. You don’t have to change your plans on my account. And you cooked, so I’ll clean up.” After Nancy cleans up, the trio plays a few board games until they decide it is time to head to bed. Nancy goes to sleep in Juni’s room and Rafe awkwardly follows Y/N to hers. 

“You can sleep on my bed. I’ll get a pillow and blanket from the linen closet to sleep on the floor,” she proposes, moving around the room for her pyjamas.“No, I can sleep on the floor. It’s your bed after all,” he begins when another thought pops into his mind. “Or we could just share the bed. I mean if you are comfortable with that.” Y/N’s hair finds its way between her fingers, “Yeah, that can work. I…uhh… Don’t think I have any clothes big enough to fit you, so if you want, you can just sleep in your boxers.” She adverts her eyes from his and looks anywhere but near him. He agrees with the statement and she lets him go to brush his teeth before she goes to the bathroom to get ready for bed.

She gets back from the bathroom to find Rafe already under her blankets. His clothes are folded on her dresser. She bites her lip at the site of his shirtless figure peaking from the top of the blanket. His chain is now on full display and it takes everything in her not to pull him into a kiss with it. She quietly makes her way to her bed. She slides in beside him and they both turn on their sides, facing away from each other. They exchange goodnights and then let the sweet release of sleep come over them. 

——

The sunlight coming from the curtain wakes Rafe from his slumber. He feels a weight on his chest, which confuses him. He looks down to see Y/N cuddled into his side. She shifts in her sleep and lets out a sigh that would make him hard if he didn’t already have a morning wood. He moves her hair out of her face, so he can see the small smile on her face. He wants to stay within her grasp, but the last thing he wants is for her to wake up to his boner in such little clothing. He untangles himself from her hold and goes to the door to see the clothes he ordered at the door already. He heads to the bathroom to get changed. By the time he gets out of the room, Y/N is waiting for him to finish up. 

Rafe heads back to her room to get his phone and he feels guilty about how it felt to wake up with her in his arms. All he wants is for that moment to be real. For their relationship to be real.

Taglist: @loves0phelia @thelomlisrafecameron @wickedlovely121 @aprilrudgate @loving-and-dreaming @thepatriarchykeychain @abbybarnesstuff @maybankslover @wh0reforbucknasty @spencereidbasis @drewsmusee @starkowswife @mskezza

[lfghughes]

Baskets and Babies | pt. 2

a/n: got home today and just knew it was time to post pt 2 of this and dad!jack definitely fixes my mood

warning: pregnancy

The due date was close and both you and Jack at this point were ready for this baby to come at any moment. But all you asked for was to not have the baby on the 4th of July. Those were not the fireworks you were hoping for. Things were looking up because it didn’t seem like today was the day. No ones plans were going to get interrupted and the whole family had a lake day in front of them. This meant you got to sit around all day while Jack ran around getting you whatever you wanted to drink and eat.

Jack the minute you had found out you were pregnant had turned into a whole other human. Not that he wasn’t sweet before because he was. But suddenly he was consistently getting you water to drink, snacks to eat, and checking in if you needed anything. He had also gotten more protective in general and his favorite thing to do was to rest his hand on your bump.

As you sat on your lawn chair near the edge of the lake you couldn’t help but smile as you watched Jack in the water with some of his friends and family. It didn’t take long for him to get out of the water and you already knew he was coming to check on you. “Want me to get you some food? Water? Lemonade?” He asked and you shook your head. “We’re still good, don’t worry.” You rubbed your hand over your belly and you were getting more excited every day because soon enough your baby boy would be here.

“Do you think he’ll decide during the fireworks that he has to see them too?” Jack teased and you immediately shook your head. “Your son better wait until later this week.” You could only imagine the traffic you’d encounter if you went into labor now because everyone was traveling somewhere to go see fireworks and it would only be worse once the fireworks were over and everyone was heading home.

Luckily for you, the rest of the night went by easily and even though Jack teased about it, your son definitely did not care enough to make an appearance for fireworks. At the end of the night both you and Jack got into bed and you were already exhausted which was nothing new since you got pregnant. His hand went to your belly as he rubbed it gently. “Goodnight baby boy. Daddy will see you soon.” There was nothing you loved more than Jack talking to your baby.

You knew he was going to be a great dad and that wasn’t something you ever doubted. Knowing how good of a dad he was going to be definitely helped ease some of the fear of having a baby and your whole life changing. Not that all the nerves were exactly gone. You had no clue what labor would be like but you could imagine from the knowledge you did have that it was not a walk in the park kind of easy. That was only confirmed when at 3 am you woke up with what you knew were contractions and yep, your water definitely broke.

“Jack…Jack. Wake up.” You shook him until his head popped up from his sleep, confused as to why you were waking him. “We’re about to have a baby.” You told him and it was like you threw cold water on him. Suddenly both of you were moving and getting everything you needed, making your way to the hospital. He had texted his mom but both of you knew that right now they would all be asleep but in a few hours she would wake up to the message and surely would be on her way.

You didn’t have much time to really think about what all of this meant and everything went by in a blur but also slow. Hours had passed and you still weren’t anywhere close to going into active labor. Ellen had already woken up at this point and got Jim and the boys over to the hospital. After a few more hours your son decided to make his appearance and your everything changed for you the minute you saw your baby boy in Jacks arms.

People always said that you didn’t realize how hard you could love someone until you had a baby and you realized in that exact moment how full your heart was. You loved your baby boy and finally getting to see him made you emotional. But you weren’t the only one feeling this way because Jacks face had that same emotion. “Daddy loves you so much little man.” He whispered to your son as he brought him over so you could hold him. “You did so good, baby.” He told you, pressing a kiss to the side of your head as your finger went down to your sons little hand. You wanted to stay frozen in this moment forever, to feel this kind of happiness and love forever but you knew with Jack by your side and your baby boy that this feeling would never truly go away.

[winniethewife]

It's undeniably real (Layla El-Faouly x The Moonknight system x Reader)

Chapter 4: It's true, I was made for you

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3

Words: 1234 (wow)

Layla and I were on a mission. Well more Layla was on a mission and I was stuck coming with her. She was insistent that I needed new clothes, because I had worn out a lot of my current wardrobe. We had left the apartment with me begging Marc to send Jake to save me, and he laughed, saying something about it being “For my own good” or something. And now I was in being dragged through a shopping mall being dragged into clothing stores I knew I couldn’t afford, but Layla and Marc had insisted. I was trying on some clothes that Layla wanted me to try.

“Hey Hun? I think I’m having… zipper problems in here” I call out as I try to reach over my shoulder to zip the dress up but I couldn’t reach. I hear the rustle of the dressing room curtain, and the familiar scent of Egyptian Musk enters my space as she takes the zipper and slowly pulls it up looking at me in the mirror with a smile.

“There. How’s that? Good fit?” Layla asks softly before resting her face in the crook of my neck leaving a gentle kiss. “You look stunning…” She says softly running her hands down my sides.

“Yeah, I like it…” I reply holding her hands at my hips. A smile on my lips as I think about when we went on our “trial date”

~

It felt a little silly going on a date with Layla seeing as we had known each other since we we’re little kids. Spent our school days together, both of our families were always on the move. Her father and my mother were archeologists, working on the same digs while the two of us were constantly exploring the ruins. It wasn’t until my father decided I needed to go to boarding school for the rest of my education that I was separated from my best friend and first love, Layla El-Faouly. We were constantly writing, and eventually calls and texts though our young adulthood, never truly loosing contact. She was there for me when my first serious relationship fell apart, one of them cheated on us and the other didn’t want to continue the relationship after it happened. I felt alone. I had called Layla and at the time her relationship with Marc had gone sour, unsigned divorce papers showing up at her door, Layla then disappeared for a short time, but by the next time we talked she and Marc were working things out. Later I would find out things were Steven and Jake along with their marriage.

But now I was walking with her hand in mine in the park as she carries a picnic basket, it feels like we haven’t been apart a single day. I looked over at her as she gave me a smile.

“Like when we were kids right? Picnic lunches with our parents?” She says with a loving look in her eyes

“Are you going to seduce me with nostalgia?” I laugh, she laughs with me.

“Maybe…Is it working?” She smiles at me. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her, the way her curls bounced as she moves, the twinkle in her eye like there was always adventure in front of her, even in the most domestic parts of life. I squeezed her hand tight as I smile at her. She’s always been beautiful. She’s always been the girl of my dreams.

When we get to the spot she was looking for I helped her spread out a Blanket. We sat down together and she started to pull out snacks and wine from the basket, she hands me a glass. After a few sips and some light conversation she turns to me with that jaw dropping smile on her face.

“So…Marc told me you were already going to say yes when you went on his date, are you still on that track?” She asks with a playful tone “Or did Steven’s immense knowledge of everything scare you off?” I laugh

“No, I’m saying yes, I will be your third. I’m actually really excited to start this. I mean, I can’t help but find all of you attractive for lots of reasons.” I take another sip of my wine.

“Oh yeah? I’m curious now…What are your reasons?” She asks with a smile

“Of course, we can’t just have a nice time, you gotta pick my brain.” I sigh giving her a playful look. “Alright…Well Jake, he was a gentleman the whole time, very well dressed, lots of complements, and He took me to do one of my favorite things, not a lot of guys take you dancing on the first date. Marc, I mean you’re the one who married him do I really have to go over it all? Handsome, the dry and dark sense of humor, the way he doesn’t go on about things and is always listening. He’s really just a good guy you know? Steven, well He’s just adorable, he’s like a brand new puppy everything in the whole world is amazing to him, I felt like I could do no wrong with him, he was so attentive and he’s really smart but not at all in your face about it, and he’s funny, so funny.”

I looked at Layla and I felt speechless for a moment the way she was looking at me. That look in her eyes I knew so well. “And then…there’s you. My best friend since we were so little, the first woman I fell in love with, the person who was always by my side, everyday no matter what continent we were on, different time zones, different languages…you’ve been there for me. Always.” I look at her with love and adoration and she does something I don’t expect. She leans in and she kisses me. Her soft lips touch mine and I feel like I’m seeing in color for the first time. Everything about that moment was everything I waited a life time for.

~

We walk back into the apartment with several shopping bags of clothes and Chinese take out for dinner. When we walk in we find Jake is fronting, not a usual occurrence. He looks concerned, he’s half way through getting ready to leave when we come in.

“Jake…What’s going on?” I ask as I set the bags down walking over to him

“Hermosa…It’s not good. There’s trouble.” He takes my hands in his gloved ones. Layla hangs back watching the interaction with worry. “I’ll be gone a few days…I can’t say more the less you know the better.” He takes my chin in his hand and looks into my eyes. “Volveré pronto mi amor...lo prometo.” He whispers before kissing me gently. This wasn’t a normal good bye kiss, this was an ‘I don’t know what’s going to happen and I need to feel you one last time’ kiss. In that second I was terrified.

“Te amo Jake…” I said as he pulls away from the kiss. He hums and presses his forehead to mine, taking just a moment, before he pulls away and heads for the door. Before he leaves he takes Layla’s hand for a second and they share a knowing look. After which he leaves. Layla walks over to me and holds me close, touching her nose to mine as we both silently worry.

~

Translations:

Volveré pronto mi amor...lo prometo.: I will be back soon my love...I promise.

Masterlist

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Taglist: @redeyerhaenyra @summonthesoups

[vodika-vibes]

How’s about some Waxer with “Finger tracing their bottom lip, eyes never leaving their parted lips, before meeting them in the middle again, because one time isn’t enough”? Please and thank you~~ 😊

Once Isn't Enough

Summary: You have a date with Waxer

Pairing: Clone Trooper Waxer x Reader

Word Count: 1010

Warnings: None

Tagging: @trixie2023 @n0vqni

A/N: Sorry that this took so long! I hope you like it~

You’re nervous.

But only a little. You’ve never been on a blind date before, but your friend swears, up and down, that you’ll like the man she’s setting you up with. 

You’re a little doubtful, she doesn’t exactly have a good track record with this kind of stuff, but you’re giving her the benefit of the doubt. With the knowledge that if this date goes wrong, you’ll never have to see him again.

You nervously twist this way and that, checking your outfit for anything that might make it look bad, and once you’re sure that your outfit is as perfect as you could possibly make it, you slide your shoes on and head out the door.

You agreed to meet your date near the fountain at a park nearby, and, well, you’re going to be early, but that’s okay.

It’s about fifteen minutes later when someone approaches you. He calls your name, and you look up at him curiously. He’s taller than you, with a shaved head and a goatee. “I’m Waxer.” He says as he holds his hand out for  you to shake.

You greet him with a warm smile as you take his hand, “It’s very nice to meet you,” 

“Likewise,” Waxer says cheerfully, “Honestly, I wasn’t sure you actually existed.”

You shoot him a puzzled look, “Well, it’s not exactly normal for someone to approach me and as if I would be willing to go on a blind date with her best friend.” Waxer clarifies.

And you laugh, “Yes, she’s like that. She’s been trying to set me up on dates for months now.”

“Yeah? You have another date after this one?”

You shake your head, “No. Actually this is the first time I’ve taken her up on her offer of a date.” Your smile becomes slightly shy, “I had a good feeling about this one.”

Waxer looks surprised for a moment, and then a delighted smile crosses his face. He sketches a bow, “Well then, I shall aspire to not disappoint you.”

“I’m quite sure that you won’t.” You step closer to him, “So, where are we headed?”

“Ah, well…” He pulls a pair of tickets out of his pocket, “Your friend mentioned that you’re a botanist, so I bought us tickets for the botanical gardens.”

Your face brightens, “Oh! I love the gardens. And everything will be blooming at this time of year. Have you ever been?”

“Ah, no. This would be my first visit.” He slides the tickets back into his pocket, and you hook your arm with his, hesitant at first and then a little more confident when he doesn’t pull away.

“Well, you’re in luck. I’m something of an expert.”

“Well, aren’t I a lucky man?” He murmurs with a small smile, “I’m sure you won’t lead me astray.”

Several hours later, you’re already planning a second date with Waxer. He’s been a perfect gentleman, and he actively listens to you when you talk, asking questions and making comments about whatever you’re talking about.

You can honestly say that you’ve never been on a better date. Which is kind of sad, if you think about it too much. 

He doesn’t talk much about his job, which is fair, though he did mention that he was part of the 212. Mostly, though, Waxer spent his time talking about himself and his brothers, and about weird situations that he’s been in while deployed that have nothing to do with the war itself.

And in turn, you talk about yourself and your friends, as well as your hobbies and your career. He seemed really interested in your family, when you mentioned them, and his sheepish admittance that he doesn’t know what a proper family is like, has you planning on introducing him to your parents sooner rather than later.

And before you know it the majority of the day has gone by, and you’re…not ready for the date to end yet. 

“I’ll, uh…walk you home, if you like?” Waxer offers as he smooths his hand over his head, and then rubs the back of his neck. 

“I’d like that.” You reply with an easy smile, as you fall into step next to him. It takes almost all of your courage to take his hand and thread your fingers with his, but you manage it. And you’re rewarded with a gentle smile, and a squeeze of your fingers.

And you’re halfway home, when you come to a decision.

Slowly you stop, and Waxer stops a little ahead of you, the puzzled look turning into concern, “Is something wrong?”

You rapidly shake your head, a small, nervous smile on your lips. “No. Nothing.”

“Then why did you stop?”

You take a step towards him, raise up onto your toes, and press your lips against his. You bring your free hand up to rest gently on his cheek, and his hand presses against your cheek as well.

And then you pull away. Your face is burning with embarrassment, and there’s an apology on your lips, but you stop before you can apologize.

One of Waxer’s fingers lightly traces over your lips, and his gaze is locked on your parted lips. And then he leans back in, and you meet him halfway, because you know that just one kiss won’t be enough. 

In fact, you’re pretty sure that ten kisses won’t be enough.

This time, when you separate from him, he presses his forehead against yours. His dark gaze is locked with yours, and there's a smile on his lips, “What did I do to deserve that?” He asks, his voice slightly breathless, “Because I want to make sure I do it again.”

You laugh, just as breathlessly, “I just wanted to kiss you, that’s all.”

Waxer tilts his head so that his lips are hovering just over yours, “What a coincidence. I want that too.”

“Would you like to stay for dinner?” You ask, softly.

“Yes.” And then his lips are on yours again, as if he couldn’t help himself. And, really, the feeling is entirely mutual.

[chimcess]

Waterlog (5) (Teaser)

Pairing: Jimin x Reader Other tags: Olympic Swimmer!Jimin, Ex Olympic Swimmer! Reader, Swim Coach!Reader Genre: Strangers to Friends to Lovers!AU, Coach!AU, Swimming!AU, HEAVY Angst, Slow Burn, Mutual Pining, fluff, eventual smut, I'm so soft for these two it's crazy. Word Count: 11.8k+ Synopsis: After a car accident ends her athletic career, Y/N has slowly started rebuilding her life again as a high school swim coach. That’s until she gets a request from an old friend and finds herself back in the spotlight as the new coach of Olympic swimmer, Park Jimin. Warnings: Panic attack, small argument, mental health discussions, past mental health issues, past anger issues, past violence talked about, nothing super graphic, pda, they are THAT couple, super supportive friends and family, Jimin is an angel, and he likes to call reader that ;), little to no knowledge about how swimming works but i'm trying my best; more to come in official posting... Release Date: est July 5th at 6pm est

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“What do you think of the place?” He asked.

Blinking, I tried to disguise the fact that I had not been paying attention to a single thing since we walked inside. Letting my eyes wonder, I almost laughed at how accurate Jimin’s description of his house was. 

Standing in his living room, I marveled at how dark everything was. Black leather sofas, a dark gray fluffy rug, a flat screen, and a black iron fireplace were the stand out pieces. There were a few family photos on the mantle and a fake potted plant beside it, but other than that it was completely barren. It was just as sad and depressing as he said it would be, but instead of feeling disappointed it only made me smile. Everything in here was his and now I was included in that. 

“I love it.”

He laughed, squeezing me impossibly closer, “You don’t have to lie. I know it’s the quintessential bachelor pad.”

“I’m not lying,” I argued. “It’s perfect. Very you.”

“Even the dusty, ugly, fake Der Rose Jungkook got me as a housewarming gift?”

“Especially that,” I joked.

“Okay clown,” He laughed, pulling away from my side. “Go sit on the couch and I’ll make us some hot chocolate. Need to warm you up.”

Giving me the remote for the very large television hanging above the fireplace, Jimin promised to be back soon and left me in charge of finding something good to watch. After flicking through a few channels, I ended up settling on 21 Jump Street and ogled at Johnny Depp and Holly Robinson Peete. My dad and I used to watch the show together when I was young, and it brought me back to the few happy times that we had. I really needed to call him.

“Damn that’s a handsome man.”

I jumped, “Jesus you scared me.”

Jimin laughed, setting down two mugs on his coffee table. They were steaming hot and I decided to leave mine to cool off for a few seconds. Taking his seat next to me, Jimin was quick to throw his arm around my shoulders and pull his legs up onto the sofa. 

“Get comfortable,” He said, crossing his legs. “It’s just me.”

“Yeah,” I snorted, curling my legs up next to me and placing my head on his shoulder. “That’s the problem.”

“You’re being extra flirty tonight,” He teased. “I like it.”

I chose to stay quiet and watch the show. This was one of my favorite episodes. Hanson, Hoff, and Loki go undercover to try and solve a string of drive-by shootings between a couple of gangs, and Booker is trying to investigate a dirty cop on the force. I always loved the scenes between Johnny Depp and Holly the most. They were so cute together and the chemistry was crazy even though their characters never ended up together.

Jimin started playing with my hair, his fingers gently caressing my neck before scratching my scalp. It felt amazing and I relaxed even further into his side. After that episode was over, he leaned down and put his head on top of mine. Another episode came on, this was the second part to the previous, and I let my eyes close. This was really nice. And to think I almost let it all go to shit because I could not keep myself from spiraling.

“I’m sorry about earlier,” I mumbled.

“Don’t be,” He whispered back, placing a small kiss on the top of my head. “Never apologize for being upset.”

Taking a deep breath, I thought about what Hoseok had said. There was no reason to tell him anything right now, or at least, the “L” word did not need to come into conversation. Still, it felt wrong to keep him in the dark. Jimin was always willing to listen and I felt awful for lying to him earlier.

“I really like you and sometimes it scares me,” I admitted quietly. “I called Hoseok to see if he had any advice. Sorry I lied about that.”

He shook his head, “I’m not upset with you, angel. Sometimes they scare me, too.”

“Really?” I had never really thought about that before.

“Of course,” He chuckled, moving away to look down at me. I lifted my head in a rare act of bravery. “I don’t think you understand just how amazing you are.”

I smiled lazily, unable to look away from him. He looked so beautiful in this lighting. The tv on one side of his face, the darkness in the rest of the house casting a dark shadow on the rest of it. I noticed his head inching closer, eyes heavily lidded as he watched me, waiting for a reaction. Heart pounding, I did the only thing I could think of. I closed my eyes and tilted my head higher.

Taglist: @ownthesunshine @screamertannie @lovelytaes-blog @pernesianparapio @tae-with-some-suga @sumzysworld @chimmisbae

[yxstxrdrxxm]

My apologies for sending another ask so soon, but a new idea popped up. It is with gritted teeth that I give Boss a single W, if only bc I’m genuinely curious as to what he’d do in this scenario::

Friend! Darling gets in a small accident and sprains their ankle, making it difficult for them to walk home. What would Boss do if he were present?? Does he drive them home?? Would he offer to carry them or only consider it if Darling asks first?? Does he insist on entering Darling’s apartment to ensure they can cross the lobby and hallway?? Does he call/ visit them the next day to see if Darling still needs his help??

P.S. Also, how fucked is the person who bumped into Friend! Darling and caused the accident to begin with?? :3

P.P.S. Ykw fuck it, Boss still deserves an L. If he dares to tease Darling, there are only so many remarks he can make before Darling lightly kicks him or steps on his foot. And ofc that has to be when they’re wearing pointy-toed high heels…….rip she didn’t exert enough force to injure Boss but it still hurt like hell （＾∇＾）

It is with gritted teeth that I give Boss a single W

Ah yes, of course he would LMAOOOO

Anyways, I'll put this under a "read more". Have fun!

The accident was something no one could've seen, but for the man who lives his life that's focused on 'keeping eyes everywhere', you can definitely say that it was more or less planned from the very beginning.

Now, he's no heathen: he did not want her in harm's way. Actually, he'd rather have her be out of harm's way. But as he drove in with his car to see the damage and the accident, his face morphs to an hard to read expression. Opening the door as he parked somewhere safe, he walked towards his soon to be lover and helps her up.

It was ironic. He was a brute without her knowledge, but his hold is firm. Gentle, even.

The way back to his car is silent. Boss is never one to joke about such things happening, and even more with a friend?. Opening the door, he gently placed her on the seat next to the driver's and made sure her belongings were kept, this time closing the door to go around and head inside.

Placing the keys in its place, he turned it and the car came alight. Still, he stayed quiet, like he was processing what happened.

...

"What happened?"

It was a tone she'd never expect from him. He's usually one to be known as an asshole, but strangely, he was not like that. Dare she say, he was... Almost angry. For her sake.

"Who was it that hurt you?" he asked her again, adjusting his glasses. "Is it your date?"

No matter what she'd say, the man beside her was eerily calm. It was like he was simply timing how long it'd take until he'd blow, but to her surprise, he simply nodded and reached over to gently hand her something.

A small box. It had a ribbon tied, the color reflecting the vivid red of his heart.

"I'm sure that date of yours had planned on ditching," he explained, scoffing. "I've looked them up when you mentioned them. They hardly give gifts to the people they go on dates with, so consider this from me."

...

Turning his gaze back on the road, he began to start the car, driving them off to her place.

It was too fast. Too fast for them, even if they are friends. He didn't want to have her go someplace she didn't exactly knew, even if he wanted to. And even if that kept screaming at him, he remained clear of what he wanted to do.

Arriving at their destination took a bit, but when they did, he parked the car and got out, heading to her side to open the door. This time, he pauses, hesitant to take her without her consent.

A sliver of reality seems to hit him, and although he done that prior without her consent, he needed to know now.

Facing her, he remained quiet, but his hand moved to gently place by the side of her seat. Do you need me to carry you? He wanted to ask, but the way his eyes shone a bit of reluctance and his hand ever so wavering said all that's needed.

And quietly, he reached over to her legs, putting his arms under her body and gently lifted her up and outside, Closing the door behind him, he adjusted his grip.

"You can lean on my shoulder," he whispered to her, voice mellow and somber as he trudged on. "I'll treat you back at your place. Is your first aid kit filled as usual?"

...

"Of course it would. You're often meticulous with it, aren't you?"

Despite the peace, both knew this behavior was a rare sight. Boss was never kind to many, but to her, it felt like he was doing this to his past lover.

And in a way, he was. But this time, he had a mission to accomplish. Whether it be by force or by wits, all he desired was one thing.

Her heart.

And that began with dealing those that tried to hurt her in the first place, including 'him'.

[all-the-things-2020]

Late Night Talking - Chapter Two

Summary: Emily and Dieter go on their first date.

Rating: PG-13

Tagging @rhoorl because Working Title inspired me to write this

I spent most of that Friday getting ready. A mani-pedi and eyebrow wax at the salon, a mini makeover at Ulta, and a blowout and style at my hairdresser. I’d debated buying a new dress, but decided to spend my money on the beauty treatments instead. I wore my favorite dress, a comfortable but clingy teal blue wrap that showed just enough cleavage.

By the time I was done at the hairdresser, it was almost 3 o’clock and I headed for Pasadena. Traffic on the 210 could be a bitch at any time, but was especially bad on Fridays, so I didn’t want to take any chances. Better to get there early and have to kill some time than to be late. Objectively, I knew that if I got caught in traffic, I could text Dieter (everyone in SoCal understood getting stuck in traffic) but I didn’t want to have to make him wait. So I left ridiculously early and for once traffic was light. I pulled into the parking lot behind Vroman’s at 4:08.

Well, might as well browse the store a bit, I thought, rather than sit in the car. It was summer and too bloody hot to sit in a car without the A/C running. I walked into the bookshop and took a deep breath. The smell of brand new books filled my lungs and helped settle my nerves a little. Just a little, though, because I was on the verge of an anxiety attack every time I realized I was actually going on a date with Dieter Bravo.

I hadn’t told anyone about my plans other than Sam. I was fully aware of the rumors about Dieter’s past, and I knew at least one if my friends would try to warn me off. I was also very aware that he’d done a stint in rehab and had stayed out of the headlines ever since. I was willing to give him the benefit of the doubt.

I wandered the aisles, reacquainting myself with the layout of the store so I could impress Dieter with my knowledge of the place. I’d talked it up so much but it had been a while since I’d had the chance to visit and I didn’t want to look like an idiot. Really, though, I was just nervous and trying to keep myself busy. Finally, at 4:30 I gave up and went into The 1894.

I took a seat at the bar and ordered a glass of wine. Maybe that will settle my nerves, I thought. I asked the bartender if I could save the seat next to me. “I’m meeting someone at five,” I told her. “I got here early.”

She shrugged. “Sure, but I can’t stop anyone from sitting there if we run out of seats.”

I understood, but so far the place was only about half full. Most people hadn’t gotten off work yet. I sat my purse on the empty seat next to me and sipped my wine. Twice people came up to me and asked if the seat was available, and I told them no, someone was sitting there. They moved on without a fuss, but it was a little annoying. When the third person walked up, I was about to roll my eyes and make a smart remark, but before I could turn, a familiar voice said, “No fair starting without me.”

I picked up my purse and he slid onto the seat, leaning his arm on the bar. He was wearing a pale blue short sleeved button down shirt, the top few buttons left undone, and a pair of dark blue slacks. Nothing too fancy, but a definite step up from the t-shirt and jeans from the other day. His hair was mostly tamed, but still a bit messy. It was a good look on him.

“Hi,” he said, with a smile.

“Hi,” I said, smiling back. “I got here super early. Traffic wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be.”

He nodded. “Yeah, I got here faster than I expected, too,” he said. “Guess the freeway gods wanted us to start things early.” He winked and I melted inside. “That dress looks great on you, by the way,” he went on. “The color really brings out your eyes.”

Now I really was blushing, and it wasn’t from the wine. “Thanks,” I said. “You look nice, too.”

He shrugged. “I clean up fairly well.” The bartender came over and asked if she could get him anything. “I’ll have the same,” he said, pointing at my wine glass. “And put it on one check, please.”

I picked up my glass and took a sip. “The feminist in me wants to insist I’m perfectly capable of buying my own drinks,” I said, “but my bank balance is telling her to shut up.”

He laughed and laid his hand on mine. “Tell your inner feminist I respect her very much, but I agree with your bank balance that she needs to mind her own business for a while.” He rubbed his thumb against the back of my hand and I took another sip of wine to allow myself to recover a bit of composure. Fortunately, the bartender brought his wine and he let go to take his glass.

“Cheers,” he said, tipping his glass toward mine.

“Cheers,” I replied, as we clinked our glasses together. He maintained eye contact as he took a drink.

“Nice choice,” he said after he’d swallowed. He pulled a menu closer and waved the bartender over. “Can we get a meat & cheese board, and some olives?” She nodded. “Sorry,” he said. “I got sidetracked this morning and didn’t get lunch before my meeting.”

“No worries,” I said. “Who knows if or when we’ll get around to dinner. I don’t know about you, but I can spend hours in this place.” I nodded toward the bookshop proper.

He smiled. “Great minds think alike,” he said. There was that smile again. I found myself smiling back, sure I looked like a total goofball. He reached out for my hand again and gave it a little squeeze. My insides turned instantly to goo.

“So, um, how was your meeting?” I asked.

His face lit up. “It was really good,” he said. “I’m in talks to do a TV series.” He took a sip of wine. “The producer has a couple of different options for my character, wanted my input on which one I liked best.”

“And let me guess, you can’t say a word.”

He grimaced. “Nope, sorry. They’d feed me to the … what’s that thing that ate Boba Fett in Star Wars, that giant sand worm thing?”

“Oh, yeah, I know what you mean,” I said. I searched my brain for the arcane Star Wars knowledge that I knew lurked in there somewhere. “The sarlaac? Is that it?”

Dieter shrugged. “Sounds about right. Whatever it’s called, they’d feed me to it.” Just then the bartender brought our food, and he popped an olive in his mouth.

“By the way, thanks for not giving me the Look,” he said. He nodded toward his wine glass. “Everybody knows I’ve been to rehab, so I usually get the Look from someone when they see me drinking alcohol.”

“It’s none of my business,” I told him. “You’re an adult and so am I.”

He smiled. “Well, thanks again,” he said quietly. “I’m in a pretty good place right now. I have my rules and they’re working for me. A lot of people judge me too harshly.”

We nibbled on the food, ordered another glass of wine, and chit chatted about work, the weather, and other boring stuff that actually seemed important and enthralling because it gave us each a glimpse into the other’s life.

He offered me the last morsel of cheese on the board, but I declined and he ate it, then drained his glass. “So,” he said, clapping his hands together. “Are we going to buy some books or what?”

I finished my wine and smiled. “Let’s do some damage to my bank account,” I said. He laughed, asked for the check and paid it in cash, leaving a ridiculously large tip that made the bartender break into an appreciative smile. I wasn’t sure if he was normally a large tipper or if he was just trying to impress me, but either way, I was happy for the bartender, who had been running herself ragged as the bar started to fill up with people stopping by for after work drinks.

“Shall we?,” he said as we stood up. He let me walk a half step ahead of him, and I felt his hand at the small of my back, gently guiding me through the maze of tables and customers toward the bookstore.

“Where do we start?,” he asked when we reached the sales floor.

“Anywhere you want,” I said. “Fiction? Nonfiction?”

“Definitely fiction,” he replied. I took his hand and led him toward the fiction shelves, glad I had scouted out the store layout earlier.

We wandered the shelves, pulling out a book here and there.

“Have you read this?”

“Oh, I love this one.”

Our reading tastes were not exactly the same, but we overlapped quite a bit. I pulled a copy of The Eyre Affair off the shelf. “Please tell me you’ve read this,” I said.

He shook his head, taking the book from me to read the back. “No, I haven’t. Wait, what the hell is this?” He laughed. “Dodos?”

“Don’t knock it,” I said. “It’s virtually impossible to describe this book without it sounding like the stupidest thing ever, but trust me, it’s brilliant.”

He raised one eyebrow and gave me a look of disbelief. “Interactive Shakespeare,” I said. “Time travel. An independent Wales. Neanderthals. And Jane Eyre is missing!”

He laughed. “Okay, okay, I’ll take your word for it.” He started to put the book back on this shelf but I snatched it from his hand.

“No, I’m buying this for you,” I said. “You have to read it. Non negotiable.”

“And what if I don’t like it?,” he asked.

“Then I’m afraid I’ll have to kill you,” I teased.

“I knew it,” he said, with an exaggerated groan. “My characters almost always die. It’s this face. People just want to kill it.”

“I like your face,” I said.

He leaned against the shelf. “Really?” He seemed surprised. I just gave him a look and he laughed. “Okay, so if I don’t like the book I die; what happens if I like it?”

“Then you become One of Us and must be initiated,” I said.

His eyebrows shot up. “This initiation … am I gonna like it?” He stepped closer to me.

“Oh, yeah,” I said. “You’ll love it. But you’ve got to read the book first.” I tapped him on the chest with the book. He chuckled and shook his head.

“Okay, but now I get to pick out a book for you,” he said. He took my hand and led me up and down the aisles, making a show of picking out just the right book. All the while, our fingers were entwined and he idly rubbed his thumb against my palm. Finally, he decided on a novel by an obscure Lithuanian author that sounded rather depressing to me, but which he insisted was better than the cover blurb would lead you to believe.

We continued to explore the shop, finding something interesting in every aisle. I picked up a tiny Jane Austen doll, which he insisted on buying for me. He admired a leather key fob with a Steinbeck quote, which I insisted on buying for him. Eventually, we each had a small stack of books and little trinkets picked out for each other.

“Ready for dinner?,” he asked.

“Yeah, we’d better get out of here before I find anything more to buy,” I said. We went to the registers, made our purchases and then traded bags.

“So,” he said when we’d stepped outside. “Any good restaurants around here?”

“I know a nice tapas place in Old Pasadena,” I said. “But we’ll have to drive there. It’s like five or six blocks away.”

He laughed. “Oh, you are such a Californian,” he said. “If you’d lived in New York, you’d know five or six blocks is nothing.” He slipped his arm around my shoulders. “Come on, it’s a nice night, let’s take a walk.”

We walked west on Colorado Blvd. It was still light out but starting to get dusky in the shadows of the tall buildings. I’d always found downtown Pasadena a bit “big city” and overwhelming, which I mentioned to Dieter. He laughed. “I’ll take you to New York City sometime,” he said. “Then we’ll talk about what constitutes a ‘big city’.”

I held my tongue, but the fact that he’d casually assumed we’d have a future together of some sort gave me a thrill. Even if we were just friends in that future, I’d take it, although of course I wanted more.

The walk to the restaurant was leisurely, after Dieter realized I couldn’t walk as quickly as he could (the curse of being a short person walking with a tall person), which was perfectly fine with me. He kept his arm around my shoulders as we navigated the foot traffic that always filled the sidewalks in Pasadena, especially on a Friday night. Only one person stopped us to ask for his autograph, although several others did a double take as we went past them.

We reached the restaurant and fortunately didn’t have to wait too long for a table. Most of the customers were crowded in the bar and lounge area, but we were tucked in a corner at a table.

“Nice place,” Dieter said, looking around appreciatively. As soon as he opened the menu, he grinned. “Ooh, they have oysters!”

I made a face. “What’s that face for?,” he said.

“I’m not a big fan of seafood,” I admitted.

“Well, I’m still getting oysters,” he said, with a wink. Our waiter came over and Dieter ordered a gin martini and a half dozen oysters to start with. I opted for potato empanadas and a mojito. By the time the waiter came back with our drinks and appetizers, we’d decided on a pizza to split for our main course.

“Trade you,” Dieter said, offering me an oyster after he saw how good my empanadas looked.

“Ugh, no,” I said. “Those things are disgusting. I’m very picky about what I put in my mouth.”

He nearly spit out his martini and I felt my face go red as I realized how that sounded. “I just mean, I’m a picky eater,” I protested, but he was already laughing so hard he had to wipe his eyes with his napkin.

“Oh, my God,” he said when he’d managed to catch his breath. “That was priceless. But the offer still stands. Those empanadas look really good.” He made puppy dog eyes at me and I shoved an empanada into his mouth.

“Mmph,” he said. When he’d managed to swallow it, he picked up an oyster and waved it in front of my face. “Come on,” he said. “Just try one. I bet you’ll like it.”

I shook my head.

“If you eat one, I’ll give you a kiss,” he offered.

I pouted at him. “I was hoping I’d already done enough to earn a kiss,” I said

“I meant, I’ll give you a kiss right now,” he clarified. “You’re definitely getting a kiss before the evening’s over.” He did that thing with his jaw that always turned me on.

I closed my eyes. “All right, in that case, I’ll do it, but if I don’t like it I get to spit it out, okay?”

“Deal,” he said. “Open up.” I opened my mouth and he tipped the oyster in. I shuddered a bit at the slimy texture and briny taste. “Just swallow it,” he said. I did and almost gagged, but I managed to get it down. I opened my eyes and he was smiling mischievously at me. He leaned across the table to press a gentle kiss against my lips. He tasted like gin and oysters and empanadas. “Worth it?”

“Definitely,” I replied with a lazy smile. “But I’m never eating one of those things again.”

“Fair enough,” he said. We talked about favorite (and not so favorite) foods while we waited for the pizza to arrive. After it arrived, we talked about movies and hobbies and a million other things. Finally, we’d eaten as much as we could and the waiter dropped off the check. Again, Dieter took care of it, this time with a credit card. I made a feeble attempt to ask what my share was, but he waved me off. “Tell your inner feminist she can pay next time,” he said.

We walked slowly back to the parking lot behind Vroman’s enjoying the cooler air now that the sun had gone completely down. We reached my car first and I dug out my keys, unlocked the doors and put my bag in the back seat. “Well,” I said, not sure exactly what to say.

“Well,” he said back, stepping closer, almost pressing me against the side of the car. He sat his bag on the ground and took my face between his hands. This time, the kiss was still gentle, but lasted longer. It was followed by a flurry of shorter but fiercer kisses that made my toes curl. I slid my arms up around his neck and his hands fell to my waist, pulling me closer.

“Mmm,” he murmured. “I had a wonderful time tonight.”

“Me, too,” I replied. He kissed me again.

“We should probably say good night,” he said. I nodded, and kissed him back.

“Someone’s going to wonder why we’re making out in the parking lot,” he said.

“Yeah, we should probably stop,” I said. We didn’t stop.

Finally, a woman and her kids walked past and she made a snarky remark. Dieter laughed and pressed his forehead against mine. “Okay, I think that killed the mood,” he said. He stepped back. “Text me when you get home, so I know you got there safe,” he said. “I’ll call you tomorrow and we can figure out where to go next time.”

“I will,” I said, fumbling with my car keys, which I’d somehow managed not to drop during all that. I opened the car door and dropped into the drivers’ seat. Dieter leaned in to press one last kiss against my cheek.

“Drive safe,” he said, then picked up his bag and headed for his own car, two rows over from mine. I couldn’t resist watching him walk away, admiring the view.

When he got into his car, I turned away and slid my key in the ignition. I’d need the long drive home to calm myself down.

*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^

NOTES: Vroman’s is a real bookshop in Pasadena. If you ever get the chance to visit, do so! And do it soon: the owner is retiring and the shop (as well as Book Soup) is up for sale. Fingers crossed they find a new owner who wants to carry on the 100+ year tradition of this indie bookshop. The restaurant is loosely based on a little place I had lunch with friends during a conference in Pasadena. The Eyre Affair is a real book and it is AMAZING. The obscure Lithuanian author is completely made up; I figured Dieter would be into something out of the ordinary.

[roguemage64]

I had such a fun time with this incorrect quote generator! Hope y’all enjoy what it came up with 😄

Incorrect She-ra Quotes

Catra: This is bothering me.

Adora: Well, you are digging up a corpse.

Catra: No, not that. That's, uh, pretty par for the course, actually.

Catra: So what’s for dinner?

Adora, staring at the food she just burnt: Regret.

Catra: .. .----. -- / ... --- .-. .-. -.-- [translation: I’M SORRY]

Adora: What's that?

Catra: Remorse code.

Adora: I'm even angrier now.

Catra: *Kicks the door down looking panicked*

Adora: What did you do?

Catra: Nobody died.

Adora: WHAT KIND OF ANSWER IS THAT?!

Catra: *holding a bottle* Is this whiskey or perfume?

Adora: *chugs entire bottle*

Adora: It’s perfume.

Catra, tending to Adora's wounds: How would you rate your pain?

Adora: Zero stars. Would NOT recommend.

Adora: Violence isn't the answer.

Catra: You’re right.

Adora: *sighs in relief*

Catra: Violence is the question.

Adora: What?

Catra, bolting away: And the answer is yes.

Adora, running after her: NO-

Adora: Jail is no fun. I’ll tell you that much.

Catra: Oh, you’ve been?

Adora : Once. In Monopoly.

Catra, watching the news: Some idiot tried to fight a squid at the aquarium today!

Adora: *walks in covered with ink* Well, maybe the squid was being a jerk.

Catra: Ok, maybe playing ‘whose family is the most dysfunctional’ wasn’t the best idea we’ve had. Adora's been crying in the bathroom for an hour. I can’t get her out...

The rest of the Princess Alliance:

Catra: I’m gonna need a human skull and I can't have you ask any questions why.

Adora: Only if you also don't ask why

Adora: *Pulls out 7 pristine human skulls* Take your pick.

Catra:

Adora:

Catra: This one is fine.

Catra: How did none of you hear what I just said?

Bow: I’ve been zoned out for the past two and a half hours.

Adora: I got distracted about halfway through.

Glimmer: Ignoring you was a conscious decision.

Cop: You’re receiving a ticket for having three people on one motorcycle.

Catra: Great.

Adora: Wait, three?

Cop: Yeah?

Glimmer: OH MY GOSH BOW FELL OFF!!!

Glimmer: Everyone, synchronize your watches.

Adora: I don’t know how to do that.

Bow: I don’t wear a watch.

Catra: Time is a construct.

Bow: You know those things will kill you, right?

Glimmer, pouring another glass of whiskey: That’s the point.

Catra, smoking a cigarette: We’re trying to speed up the process.

Adora: *Nods while eating raw cookie dough*

Adora: I’m an idiot.

Catra:

Glimmer:

Bow:

Adora:

Catra: If you’re waiting for us to disagree, this is going to be a long day.

Scorpia: What does 'take out' mean?

Adora: Food.

Bow: Dating

Glimmer: Murder

Catra: IT CAN MEAN ALL THREE IF YOU'RE NOT A COWARD.

Scorpia: Imagine if someone handed you a box full of all the items you have lost throughout your life

Adora: Self-esteem, haven't seen you in years!

Glimmer: Oh wow, my childhood innocence! Thank you for finding this!

Bow: I knew I lost that potential somewhere!

Catra: My moral code, is that you?

Scorpia:

Scorpia: I was just gonna show you this cool trunk my mothers left me but do you guys need a hug?

Adora: You're a loose cannon, Catra.

Catra: No, I'm not. I'm a cannon maybe, but a loose cannon? Is that what you think of me?

Bow: I think you play by your own rules.

Glimmer: No way, she think rules were made to be broken.

Adora: Those are all attributes of a loose cannon.

Catra: No, I'm just a reckless renegade. Scorpia is a loose cannon.

Scorpia: *accidentally smashes a chair*

Adora: Nothing in life is free.

Perfuma: Love is free!

Sea Hawk: Adventure is free!

Bow: Knowledge is free.

Catra: Everything is free if you take it without paying.

Catra: Poison is a magic transmutation potion that turns people into corpses.

Adora: This knife is actually a magic wand.

Glimmer: Meet me in the Denny’s parking lot for a wizard duel.

Catra: *cocks gun* Magic missile.

Bow: What is wrong with you people.

Catra: Anyone d-

Adora: Depressed?

Bow: Drained?

Glimmer: Dumb?

Scorpia: Disliked?

Catra: -done with their work... what is wrong with you people ...

Catra: We’ve been conducting an ongoing study to see what Adora will and will not eat.

Glimmer: Grass? Yes!

Catra: Moss? Yes!!

Glimmer: Leaves? Ohh, yes!

Catra: Shoelaces? Strange but true!

Glimmer: Worms? Sometimes!

Catra: Rocks? Usually nah.

Glimmer: Twigs? Usually!

Catra: Scorpia’s cooking? Inconclusive!

Perfuma: How did you… test this?

Catra: You just hand her stuff and say ‘eat this’ and if she eats it, she eats it.

Perfuma: ... I don’t know how to feel about this.

Bow: IS THAT WHERE ALL MY SPARE SHOELACES WENT?

Adora: I’ve done a lot of dumb stuff.

Catra: I witnessed the dumb stuff.

Bow: I recorded the dumb stuff.

Glimmer: I joined in on the dumb stuff.

Perfuma: I TRIED TO STOP YOU FROM DOING THE DUMB STUFF!!!

Perfuma: There are seven chairs and ten kids. What do you do?

Adora: Have everyone stand.

Bow: Bring three more chairs!

Glimmer: The most important ones can sit down.

Catra: Kill three.

Glimmer: Good morning.

Adora: Good morning.

Bow: Good morning.

Scoria: You all sound like robots, try spicing it up a bit.

Catra: MORNING SCUMBAGS

Adora: You really put aside everything and came all this way for me? How did you even get here so fast?

Glimmer: Several traffic violations.

Catra: Three counts of resisting arrest.

Scorpia: Roughly thirteen cans of energy drinks.

Bow: Also, that’s not our car.

Catra: So uhhh... my question is: my friend keeps on going into the pantry and grabbing handfuls of fettuccine... uncooked...

Glimmer: I would hope they're not grabbing handfuls of cooked fettuccine!

Scorpia: In your pantry!

Catra: Yeah... and eating them raw, and they keep calling them 'chips'. ... How do I make them stop?

Glimmer: Is your friend here?

Catra, motioning to Adora: Yeah.

Glimmer, to Adora: You're a monster! Words MEAN things!

Bow: Does anybody remember- I haven't been to Olive Garden in many moons- but they DO have a like- fettuccine bottle that you can just- grab em out of and chew-

Bow: HOLD ON. WAS THIS A PRANK YOU GUYS PULLED ON ME WHEN WE WENT TO OLIVE GARDEN AS KIDS?!

Bow: NO, STOP. EVERYBODY SHUT UP. DO THEY GIVE YOU RAW FETTUCCINE TO CHEW ON IN THE LOBBY OF THE OLIVE GARDEN

Everyone else: No.

Bow, to Glimmer and Catra: YOU MONSTERS

Glimmer: YAAAAAAAAY!

Catra: THE PRESTIGE

Catra: Bye Adora! Bye Bow! Bye Glimmer! Bye Scorpia! Bye Adora!

Bow: You said ‘bye Adora’ twice.

Catra: I like Adora.

Scorpia: What did you guys get in your yearbook?

Glimmer: 'Prettiest Smile'

Bow: 'Nicest Personality'

Catra: 'Most likely to start a bar fight'

Adora: 'Least likely to start a bar fight, but most likely to win one'

Bow: You kidnapped Adora? That’s illegal!

Catra: But Bow, what’s more illegal? Briefly inconveniencing Adora, or destroying our dreams?

Bow: Kidnapping Adora, Catra!!!

Glimmer: Bow, listen, whatever I may think of you right now- these guys are counting on you to inspire them!

Bow: What, to kidnap people?!?!

Glimmer: To work together!

Bow: TO KIDNAP PEOPLE?!?!

Glimmer: Bow, we all agreed celebrities were an exception.

*The squad is over at Catra's house*

Adora: Ohhhh, we each get our own oven?

Catra: ... N-No...

Catra, laughing: How many ovens do you think I have???

Adora, motioning to their kitchen: Three, I thought!

Bow: I see a-

Catra, motioning to one device: This is a microwave.

Adora: Oh, well I-

Catra: Hey wait wait, actually- hang on- *fiddles with the buttons on the microwave*

Catra, amazed: Its got a bake setting!

Glimmer: Ohoho, you learn something new every day!

Scorpia: Do we- Do we roshambo for who gets to pick first?

Catra: Now I've just discovered I have more ovens than I thought, we don't have to roshambo nothin!

Catra: I am someone who owns four ovens...

Catra, louder and way too happy: I am someone... who owns FOUR OVENS...

Catra: I didn't know I was so rich with ovens...

Perfuma, pointing to another appliance: Also the toaster oven!

Catra:

Adora: Ohhh, toasty boy! Four- Five ovens!

Catra:

Catra, ECSTATIC: I AM SOMEONE WHO OWNS FIVE OVENS

Catra: Well, aren’t you all a rag-tag group of adventurers with unclear goals and good hearts! Oh, let me guess: you’re out to save the world!

Adora: Well, actually, that sounds like a pretty fair assessment.

Bow: More or less, I guess...

Glimmer: That sounds awesome! Let’s do that!

Scorpia: I’m new here, but I am open to the concept.

Perfuma: I thought that’s what we were doing, guys, come on!

Bow: Just be yourself.

Catra: 'Be myself'? Bow, I have one day to win Adora over. How long did it take before you guys started liking me?

Perfuma: Couple weeks.

Mermista: Six months.

Glimmer: Jury’s still out.

Catra: See, Bow?

Catra: 'Be myself'. What kind of garbage advice is that?

Catra: Everytime I hear someone talking about updog, I’m torn between not wanting to fall for it and wanting to help them complete their joke.

Adora: Okay, but what is updog?

Bow: Updog is a long sausage in a bun, often served with ketchup, mustard, onions, and/or relish.

Glimmer: Not, that’s a hot dog. An updog is when a new version or patch of an application is released.

Scorpia: No, that's an update. You’re thinking of the fourth largest city in Sweden.

Perfuma: Surely, that’s Uppsala, where’s updog is the giant spider in Harry Potter.

Catra: That’s Aragog. Updog is a symbol conventionally used for an arbitrarily small number in analysis proofs.

Glimmer: You’re thinking of epsilon. Updog is an upward-moving air current.

Bow: No, that’s an updraft. An updog is the modern version of a henway.

Adora: What’s a henway??

Catra: Oh, about five pounds.

*Everyone is standing around the broken coffee maker*

Catra: So. Who broke it? I'm not mad, I just wanna know.

Everyone:

Adora: ...I did. I broke it.

Catra: No. No you didn't. Bow?

Bow: Don't look at me. Look at Glimmer.

Glimmer: What?! I didn't break it.

Bow: Huh, that's weird. How'd you even know it was broken?

Glimmer: Because it's sitting right in front of us and it's broken.

Bow: Suspicious.

Glimmer: No, it's not!

Scorpia: If it matters, probably not, but Perfuma was the last one to use it.

Perfuma: Lies! I don't even drink that trash.

Scorpia: Oh really? Then what were you doing by the coffee cart earlier?

Perfuma: I use the wooden stirrers to push back my cuticles. Everyone knows that, Scorpia!

Adora: Okay let's not fight. I broke it. Let me pay for it, Catra.

Catra: No! Who broke it!?

Everyone:

Scorpia: Catra... Bow's been awfully quiet.

Bow: rEALLY?!

*Everyone starts arguing*

Catra, being interviewed: I broke it. I burned my hand so I punched it.

Catra: I predict 10 minutes from now they'll be at each other's throats with warpaint on their faces and a pig head on a stick.

Catra:

Catra: Good. It was getting a little chummy around here.

*The squad right before Adora (and Catra)'s wedding*

Catra: Well I have to go, I have a wedding to attend.

Bow: Wait... Oh! I have a wedding to attend too!

Glimmer: Oh, I have a wedding to attend as well

Scorpia: I THINK WE ALL HAVE WEDDINGS TO ATTEND

Perfuma, panicked: I THINK I HAVE A WEDDING TO OFFICIATE

*Squad reactions to being told ‘I love you’*

Perfuma: Thanks fam!

Mermista: oh no

Scorpia: *cries* I love you too

Glimmer: Sounds fake but okay

Adora: *A flustered mess*

Catra: can i get a refund

Adora: We need to distract these guys

Catra: Leave it to me

Catra: Centaurs have six limbs and are therefore insects. Discuss.

Bow, Glimmer, and Mermista: *Immediately begin arguing*

Perfuma, watching in horror: Oh this. I don’t like this. I don't like this at all.

Catra: Rules are made to be broken.

Adora: They were made to be followed. Nothing is made to be broken.

Bow: Uh, piñatas.

Scorpia: Glow sticks.

Glimmer: Karate boards.

Perfuma: Spaghetti when you have a small pot.

Catra: Rules.

Adora:

Catra: Time for plan G.

Adora: Don’t you mean plan B?

Catra: No, we tried plan B a long time ago. I had to skip over plan C due to technical difficulties.

Bow: What about plan D?

Catra: Plan D was that desperate disguise attempt half an hour ago.

Glimmer: What about plan E?

Catra: I’m hoping not to use it. I die in plan E.

Glimmer: I like plan E.

Adora: So are we flirting right now?

Catra: I AM LITERALLY STABBING YOU

Adora: That doesn’t answer my question

Adora: Catra, stop! This isn't you, you've gone mad with power!

Catra: Well of course I have.

Catra: Have you ever tried going mad without power?

Catra: It's boring.

Catra: Can you keep a secret?

Adora: Do you know anything about my life?

Catra: Yes I do. Good point.

Catra: You know, I'm starting to regret showing you how that blender works.

Adora, drinking toast: Why do you say that?

Catra: Don’t worry, I know exactly what I’m doing. Everything is going to be fine!

Adora: How can you still say that?

Catra: Because sometimes, when things get tough, denial is all we have.

Catra: Don’t worry, I have a few knives up my sleeve.

Adora: I think you mean cards.

Catra, pulling knives out of her sleeves: No, I do not.

Adora: How do I deal with my enemies?

Catra: Kill them

Adora: That's a bit extreme, I was hoping for a more passive solution

Catra: Kill them only a little?

Catra: Name a more iconic duo than my crippling fear of abandonment and my anxiety. I'll wait.

Adora: You and me!!!

Catra, tearing up: Okay.

Catra: I’m going to take you out

Adora: great, it’s a date!

Catra: I meant that as a threat.

Adora: See you at five!

Adora: This is such a bad idea.

Catra: Then why are you coming along?

Adora: One of us need to be able to talk the cops out of arresting us when this inevitably goes wrong.

Catra: Am I in trouble?

Adora: Take a guess.

Catra: No?

Adora: Take another guess.

Catra: You kill people for money?!

Adora: I can explain!

Catra: And all this time I’ve been doing it for free like a chump!

Adora: I was arrested for being too cool.

Catra: The charges were dropped due to a lack of supporting evidence.

These quotes are generated from https://incorrectquotesgenerator.com

[bubbleonice]

timothee and kylie were spotted talking and laughing at the innovater awards in New York. and she is wearing the matching cartier bracelet that he has in necklace form. are you sure they’ve broken up?

I have gotten many many many asks today about this particular situation. I don’t have time to reply to everyone at this moment, I appologize. ❤️And I also do not have my cards with me at the moment. However, I still want to comment a few things because I can feel the stress this is causing some of my readers. I feel the collective energy and worries.

I myself am still firm in my reply as to they have ended things. I pulled some cards of this a while back and I believe I said things ended right about the time Paris Fashion Week ended, actually a little before that. But it also can be around December. I stay firm to that reply.

I also said eventhough they end things, we will probably not know of it until months later. And form KJ side, they will still make it seem like they are together.

But to be fair, I also don’t want to say: I am absolutely right and always right. There will always be a possibility I am wrong. I do not want to get anyone’s hopes high. And we should ‘t really pray upon anyone’s misery such as a break up. But this has never been a real relationship. It was a hookup turned into a pr show. So I am even unsure about when I say things ended, that might lead to someone actually believing they had a thing for real.

So just to say a few words in comfort, I want everyone to trust their guts, stay calm and think a little about this:

- if it was indeed a real relationship, wouldn’t we have seen more candid photos accidentally snapped by fans or someone from the street? Two young people dating would be all over the place, resturants, concerts, movies, shopping, walks in the park…etc!

- the few times we have actually seen them together were always in arranged settings with lots of cameras. How does this apply to a couple in love wanting to be lowkey? And when they come out as a couple, why go in hiding when events over? Does it make any sense?

-every allerged sightings of them spread on internet were never proven by photos. But by robot accounts, telling a story. And no one else ever validates those stories but this one storyteller. And they are always very much about they are all over eachother, they look so good, they are so in love. Like why does anyone need to sound like they are convincing anyone?

-remember the Kardashians run many media and social media outlets. When I recieved these asks I had to go online to see what you are talking about, this award show. And from my knowledge Timothee was at the award show presenting an award and Kylie was there to recieve an award. They were invited for two different reasons. And now the tabloids are calling it a hot date! And Timothee being there to support Kylie. See hiw they manipulate the public into believing something that wasn’t the case? They did not even arrive or leave together. What does that say to you? How easy it is to make one thing seem like something completly different, right?

-In addition, Kylie was forward an award for her fashionline which she just launched, I think 1 day ago? This tells me she was not nominated, this award was purchased and paid for. This is planned. Her seat next to Timothee and at the same table as Martin Scorcese was probably arranged the same way. But did we see any loving interactions? Kisses? Hugs? Even a glance at eachother? No.

All I want to say is have faith and trust your guts. This is a media game. If someone is truly in love and truly a couple, there would be much less doubt. They won’t be trying this hard to show it off to the world. And they would be much more genuine and cozy around eachother. We would see more unstaged photos than actually staged ones. And no doubt, we can expect more to come.

Bless you all❤️❤️ I’ll reply to the rest of my asks this weekend. I wish everyone a pleasant day.

[yankstrash]

october 7

gabe and amelias first date was a success

and even more of a success for gabe, she said she wanted to go out again

she said she wanted to go out again.

not gabe, amelia did.

although he also definitely did want to go out again, she said it first!

it's been 3 days since their first date, and they were yet to plan their second

not that she would admit it out loud, but amelia was anxiously checking her phone to see when gabe would text her about their next date

she debated texting him about it, and part of her thought the ball was in her court to do just that since she was the one who suggested a second date first, but she hadn't.

'DING!'

amelia dove for her phone the second she heard the text ding

and to her delight, it was gabe

from: gabe

"hello miss amelia"

she waited a few minutes before she responded

from: amelia

"evening, gabriel"

she stared at her phone screen and when the 3 dots appeared she turned her phone off and pushed it aside

'DING!"

she picked it back up

from: gabe

"what are you doing tomorrow night?"

she smiled at the message

from: amelia

"nothing to my knowledge"

see the dots, throw phone down.

hear the ding, pick phone up.

from: gabe

"well then, how about that second date?"

YES!

her lips tugged upwards as she replied to him

from: amelia

"i think i could squeeze you in.."

her eyes followed the typing dots as they dashed across her screen

from: gabe

"how sweet"

from: amelia

"i know i am. so it's on me this time?"

from: gabe

"in your dreams, sweetheart. i'll see you tomorrow."

amelia rolled her eyes and smiled at his message

'in your dreams, sweetheart.'

~

gabe had texted amelia to dress comfy and that he would pick her up in an hour

she had no idea what they were doing, but she did as he said and picked out more dress down clothes

swiftly tech shirt, hotty hot shorts and oncloud sneakers

good enough.

amelia made her way downstairs when she got the 'i'm here' text from gabe

she felt a bit of wind get knocked out of her when he first appeared in her eye line, immediately taking notice to what he was wearing

oh man, amelia loves a boy in a backwards hat.

she grinned as she opened her building door

"this comfy enough?" she asks as she approaches gabe

he nods his head, "looks good to me."

"so, where are we going?" amelia asks as they begin to walk to his car

gabe looks at her and smirks

"do you know what your handicap is?" he asks

amelia scrunches her eyebrows together in confusion

"my what?"

gabe smirks again

"guess we'll find out.."

~

"what did you ask me about before we got in the car?" amelia asks as gabe drives

"your handicap?" gabe asks

"mmhmm" she hums "what is that..?"

gabe smiles and looks over at her

"you don't know what your handicap is, miss amelia?" he asks with a grin

"I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THAT MEANS!"

gabe laughs at her response

"it's a golf stat" he simply states

amelia raises her eyebrow

"and just why would i need to know that?" she asks

"because.." he begins as he turns the steering wheel and points his finger "that's what we're doing tonight."

she looks and sees where he pulled into

minigolf

she smiles and looks over at him

"romantic no?" gabe asks, putting the car in park

amelia puts her hand over her heart

"my absolute dream." she says

~

they got their putters and golf balls and made their way around the mini golf course

amelia stood back and watched as gabes ball rolled quite a few feet away from the hole

she pursed her lips together and said, "i hope you're good at hockey..."

he turned his head to her and squinted

"you saying i'm not good at golf?"

she shrugged

"i meannn..."

gabe acted fake hurt and amelia laughed

he took another shot and the ball went in

"about time.." she joked

gabe retrieved his ball from the hole and turned to amelia

"you're not THAT much ahead of me miss amelia, i wouldn't get too cocky"

"did this just turn into a competition?" she asked

gabe smirked, "i think it did."

she nodded as they walked to the next hole

"okay, spice it up then. winner gets.. what?" she asked

gabe thinks for a moment

"winner gets to plan the next date."

amelias eyebrows rose at his response

"oh so there will be a third date?" amelia asks

gabe shrugged

"you should just let me go ahead and win because i've already been planning the next date so.."

amelia giggles

"well, i was thinking more like loser buys winner ice cream after this.." she says and looks over at gabe "but sure, i'll go on a third date with you"

he looks at her and smiles

"deal."

~

amelia did in fact get too cocky and she did in fact end up losing

"yeah yeah don't say a damn word." she grunted as she picked up her ball

gabe put his hands up, "i'm not saying anything."

"so," she says as she and gabe return their putters and balls "ice cream on me?"

gabe shakes his head

"GABE!"

gabe laughs at her reaction

"what?! i'll buy you ice cream, don't worry about it." he says

she shakes her head

"no! we had a deal. i lost, so i'm buying."

gabe shakes his head again and hums a 'mm mm'

amelias hands go to her hips as she looks up at gabe

his lips tug upwards into a grin and he sticks a hand out to her

"cmon, we can go to the place next door."

trying to fight her own lips from tugging upwards, she removes a hand from her hip and places it in gabes, accepting his gesture

they strolled over to the ice cream place next door

amelia nudges gabes side with her hand that is holding his

"i'm paying." she whispers

gabe rolls his eyes

"whatever you say."

they both got their ice cream and just as amelia was pulling her card out, gabe stuck his in front of her and paid

"NO-" but it was too late.

she turned to him and glared

"i. was. supposed. to. pay." she grumbles

gabe shrugs, "gotta be quicker than that, gorg."

they went back outside and sat down on the steps

"well now i feel bad.." she says

"why?" gabe says with the spoon in his mouth

"because you won and i was supposed to buy you ice cream!!" amelia exclaims

gabe laughs

"next time."

she scoffs, "RIGHT, i'm sure you'll pull the same stunt that you just did."

gabe nods, "yeah i probably will."

she shoves him lightly, putting her ice cream spoon in her mouth

"i really have every right to call you basic now.." gabe says

"why?"

he motions toward her ice cream cup

she glares, "leave me and my chocolate ice cream alone. it's always been my favorite flavor."

she gives him a side eye

"..basic ass cookie dough." she mumbles

~

when they finished their ice cream gabe drove amelia home

"so, do you know your handicap now?" gabe asks as they reach her building

she gives him a look and he laughs

"we'll go on a real course sometime, how does that sound?" he asks

she shrugs, "sure, i'll drive the golf cart while you golf."

he smiles as they turn towards each other

"still mad that you didn't let me pay for the ice cream." amelia says and crosses her arms

gabe smiles, "i'm really getting in trouble for being a gentleman huh?" he asks

she nods

"well," he takes a step forward "hopefully you'll forgive me by the third date."

she smiles at the mention of their next date

"and when will that be?" she asks

gabe shrugs, "we have an away game this weekend, so i'll keep you updated. this upcoming week, when i'm back?" he asks

amelia smiles and nods her head

"great.." gabe says

hug her.

hug her.

hug her.

he takes another step forward and wraps his arms around her smaller frame

amelia leans up a bit to hug him back

"good luck this weekend." she mumbles into his shoulder

gabe smiles, "thank you," he pulls away from the hug "i'll see you when i get back?"

amelia smiles and nods

"great." gabe says under his breath

"don't lose." she jokes as gabe walks away

he turns back around and grins

"you owe me ice cream when we win."

[dystini]

2020 Indy 500 Prank

Some pranks are done and forgotten almost instantly. Some become sagas, stretching out over days and weeks, past the actual race. Here is one of those.

The Indy 500 in 2020 was delayed until August due to the pandemic. But this did not deter the pranks from happening. The Off Track with Hinch and Rossi episode where this was discussed is not easily available anymore but it was a good listen.

August 19, 2020 Alex Rossi, despite having a bus, does not sleep at the track except for the night before the Indy 500 and perhaps the night before qualifying. He’s said he prefers to sleep in his bed at home. This fateful morning, he was sent a pic of his bus.

He went PitFit, the gym many drivers use, and immediately accused James Hinchcliffe of being involved, going so far as to demand Hinch’s phone so search his texts for evidence. He found nothing.

As per Hinch:

“I’m standing in the gym, minding my own business, and Alex walks up in right behind me, gets really close into my ear and just goes “You’re fucking dead,” said Hinchcliffe, who needed “the better part of an hour” to clear his name. His innocence sufficiently was proved after allowing Rossi to look at various text conversations with Andretti Autosport employees.

“He was like an angry girlfriend,” Hinchcliffe said with a laugh. “‘Show me your phone!'”

With Alex’s tweet, news of the prank had spread wide and far, and it was a huge topic of conversation, both online and in interviews at the track. With Hinch cleared, Conor Daly was the next prime suspect, along with Colton Herta. Alex told all of the crew members (and likely anyone else who would listen) that he suspected them. This caused Conor to panic and he called Colton, not knowing that Alex was with Colton and listening on speakerphone. The conversation went as follows.

"Aw dude, how'd he find out," Daly asked Herta. "He knows it was us."

"Yeah, man," Herta replied. "He came into the engineering room and he looked right at me and said he knew it was us. And I didn't know what to say."

"Well, did you tell him?" Daly asked Herta.

"Nah man," Herta said. "But I'm not a very good actor."

Alex, now knowing that Conor was his target, attempted to procure Conor’s keys.

Rossi learned Daly would be on a date that night but didn’t know the woman or have her number. They talked after he reached her via an Instagram direct message, but she was unable to find Daly’s keys.

So Rossi went to the restaurant where Daly and his date had dinner and received permission from the parking valet (who was a friend) to search Daly’s Tahoe — fruitlessly — for the keys.

Rossi later learned the keys were in Daly’s right front pocket.

“The moral of the story was I couldn’t get the bus keys,” Rossi said. “I did everything I possibly could and couldn’t make it work.”

Conor also hid his golf cart somewhere on the grounds of IMS, no doubt aided by his stepfather, track President, Doug Boles.

August 22, 2020

Alex attempted his revenge, aided by Colton. This also failed.

August 27, 2020.

Conor attempted to defend himself with this tweet.

Colton denied involvement...

and went on to threaten to release Conor’s phone number.

Someone else, in a tweet now deleted, DID release Conor’s phone number.

The next day, Tim Durham, producer of Off Track with Hinch and Rossi decided to join in, aided by others, releasing the first few numbers of Colton’s social security number. This was not as dire as it sounds as those numbers are based on location and year of birth and apply to millions of people and can be deduced by knowing those two pieces of information, which for Colton, is public knowledge. It’s the last few digits that are the true identifiers so Colton was never in any real danger of identity theft as Tim and the others likely did not even know the rest of the digits.

The prank faded into the mist at this point, nearly forgotten until 2022, when Alex finally got his revenge. But that is another story.

[scarletttries]

Hey!

I found your profile thanks to my friend, and you’re doing great job! By the way, wish you everything great for your wedding!

Wanted to make a request for myself 👉👈

- “Moon Knight”

- I like all guys from here, so maybe you can choose by yourself?😅👉👈

I think that will be very interesting

- Me: https://pin.it/CIaLnTa

I’m she/her

- I’d like to have something fluffy (but I’ll accept at your ideas!)

Thank you so much for your well wishes, and your pinterest was so cool to check out I love your aesthetic! I ship you with.... Steven Grant 💞

- You would catch Steven's eye walking through one of London's parks, immediately capturing his full attention. He'd be sat on a little bench enjoying his lunch break, watching you go about your day, spending the full hour trying to build up the courage to speak to you. You look so much cooler than him it's a little bit intimidating and before he gets the nerve to speak to you he has to hurry back to work, cursing his cowardice the whole way back.

- So when he sees you walk through the Museum foyer just an hour later he's convinced it must be fate, the stars aligning to give him a second chance at a first impression. He doesn't let himself waste a second overthinking this time, scrambling out from behind his little desk and rushing over to introduce himself, offering you a private tour despite the unimpressed looks being shot his way by his manager.

- He talks your ear off as you go exhibit to exhibit trying his best to seem cool, and knowledgeable, and not at all like he's desperately trying to impress the prettiest girl he's ever spoken to.

- It would be obvious to you very quickly that he was doing his best to impress you, his blushing pink cheeks and stammering words giving away just how nervous he was to have your undivided attention. Luckily for Steven, you found his awkward nerdy demeanour endearing, thanking him for the tour and offering to meet him at the pub after his shift was finished. Poor Steven would be tripping over himself with excitement as he accepted your offer, spending the rest of his shift staring hopelessly at his watch, begging the time to pass just a little bit quicker so he could be back in your company again.

- After a perfect evening of swapping stories curled up in armchairs next to the roaring fire of a local pub, Steven works up the nerve to ask you on another date, and then another, and then another, until you become the earth that his little moon revolves around, the centre of his whole universe, the force he couldn't exist without. It wouldn't take him long to recognise your kindness and company are something he wants to keep in his life forever, planning how to pop the big question and tell you exactly what you mean to him.

- Both the proposal and the wedding would be pretty low key, any kind of public audience enough to have Steven trembling with anxiety, but he would take your every thought on planning incredibly seriously, wanting this day to be perfect for both of you. Steven never thought he would find someone to be this close with, so he gets very excited that he's finally getting married, reading up on all the traditions and insisting you spend the night before apart so that nothing can jinx his dream come true.

- For that one night he has to spend away from you, he writes you a letter you find stashed secretly in your overnight bag. It outlines the hundreds of ways that you've made his life better, telling you that he's not the same man you met all those months ago, he's happier and more confident and there's nothing that will make him happier than becoming your husband the next day, and being the best husband he can be every day after.