#was it casual when we went to a football game with your family and you introduced me as your girlfriend?

[lilacwants]

any advice for a girl whose love life rn is LITERALLY the song casual by chappel roan? my whole heart is in this man’s hands. hes the reason ive been so inactive…. (boo 👎🏻) pls help im going insane.

[onsomenewsht]

De pelearnos y odiarnos y amarnos después

About when she was everything for you, but you were just one more fan

《 shout out to @p0orbaby for putting up with this shit, making it less shitty and being the only reason Alexia has feelings in the first place

》 Alexia Putellas x Reader

》 words count: +3.7k

》 player [noun]: 1. a person who participates in or is skilled at some game or sport; 3. an actor: a theatrical performer, a person who plays parts on the stage; 5. a person who engages in casual and indiscriminate sexual relationships.

Barcelona is not that big of a city if you stop and think about it.

Especially when you end up in the same places with the same people, especially when your circle of family and friends is pretty tight. Especially when you work in a world as small as the women’s football one.

You and Alexia Putellas crossed paths a lot of times before coming up with the brilliant idea of braiding and twisting your lives together.

And it was fun.

Until it wasn’t anymore.

“I got your coffee”

“Oh, you’re still here”

The smile on your face doesn’t falter, even if her words will ricochet in your mind for a long time, so you keep sipping your coffee and mindlessly scrolling through your phone after booking your ride back home.

It’s quite early, you know she has training in an hour, but the late-night activities you indulged in must have tired the Catalan more than she expected as you woke up before her.

Usually, you don’t even find her in the apartment when you drift out of sleep, slowly collecting your things and leaving the empty place with a pair of keys to hide under a plant vase.

“I had time to go to the cafeteria around the corner, you slept through your first alarm”

“Why didn’t you wake me up?”, it’s not really a question as she sprints up to the bathroom.

It’s known Alexia is quite strict with her routine and her absolute devotion to her passion and profession, you’re not really phased about her rush. Eating the pasties that came with your drinks is a good enough distraction as you leave the blonde to her morning rituals.

Your ride is going to be ten whole minutes later than expected anyway.

“Thank you”, she smiles at you.

When she joins you in the kitchen, already dressed in training attire, it’s clear she will not indulge and sit to have breakfast with you. Not deeming her of a look, you hand the footballer her coffee and favourite treat.

How Alexia manages to turn your day upside down in a matter of moments, just with casually cruel words or well-placed kisses, still goes beyond you.

Her lips on your neck are a proven method and a really effective distraction to keep herself on your good side, she’s out of the door as soon as she hears your moan and feels your shoulders relax under her hands.

~

The club is packed as you make your entrance, the sudden change of temperature causing a shiver to go down your exposed back.

Despite the number of bodies dancing around each other, you spot your friends pretty easily – the loudest group in the most secluded corner of the place. Laughs and screams are thundering above the reggaeton music as you get closer.

“Here she is, the princess herself, blessing us commoners with her presence!”

“Fuck you”, you hit your best friend Jordi with a forceful punch on his shoulder but a genuine smile lighting up your features.

“Not my fault we can barely remember your face nowadays”

“Yet I still have to look at your stupid one”

He doesn’t mind your hand on his face, annoyingly shoving him off as you take a free seat at the table and greet all your other friends. It’s been a while since the last time you went out with them.

The night gets intense quickly as you finish your third drink and hit the dance floor with Jordi. You two have been friends since even before you can remember, learning to walk together and bonding over shared happy memories and sad heartbreaks.

He was the first person you came out to, not regretting telling him even when he laughed in your face, claiming he knew as well as your high school Maths professor did – maybe your crush was not as good of a secret as you hoped for.

You were the first person he confessed his fear of turning into his own father, not regretting telling you even when you booked him an appointment with a therapist and assured him that people are allowed to not like their own parents, but still love them in some twisted way.

Jordi is a great friend, the one you’re most comfortable with. That’s how you find yourself with your arms around his shoulders and his hands on your waist as the music blasts in the club.

It’s a freeing sensation, to be able to let yourself go in the secure embrace of someone you love.

You knew it was a matter of time.

A strange feeling crumbles from the pit of your stomach as another pair of hands circles you from behind, but you don’t think too much about it. Your body is always reacting to Alexia.

She doesn’t even have to touch you, somehow feeling her eyes on you the moment she entered the club with a bunch of cheering friends.

“Can I steal you for a dance?”

You nod with a smile before turning around in Alexia’s arms.

Jordi shoots you a raised eyebrow and a silent question, not amused with the whole situation and not quite happy with the way you’re handling this relationship with the blonde girl. He’s too supportive to say anything right this moment, but you know he has opinions – strong ones.

“He doesn’t like me”, her hands on your waist but her eyes fixed on Jordi.

“You don’t even know him”

“I don’t need to, he looks at me like I kicked his dog”

The tension is quite annoying for you, so you don’t even dignify her with an answer, merely acknowledging her disappointment by tracing her frown with your fingers. The Catalan hands are firmer as she pushes your bodies closer, following the music and the beats of your hearts.

“Wanna come to my place?”

“I’m here with my friends”, you half-smile, you told her a couple days ago you were going out to celebrate a colleague’s promotion.

“I leave for camp tomorrow”

You know, you plan a lot of your commitments around her crazy schedule.

~

All Alexia needs to do to convince you to leave the club is move her surprisingly caring hands up and down your exposed back, whispering nice words in your ear.

She has you wrapped around her fingers, and she has no shame in turning it in her favour.

Football is a family business, flowing in your veins for generations with a grandfather who played for Barcelona and both your parents involved on some level in the sport.

You played for a bit, realising quite early you didn’t have what it takes to go professional, but you found your path toward the green pitch anyway. Making a name as a sports lawyer was quite eventful, now you watch a football game with one eye on the ball and the other on paperwork.

Finding time to just sit there, be present, and enjoy your favourite club play without thinking of the legal repercussions is not easy, yet you manage. It still comes with huge repercussions on your mental health, but that’s part of the fun.

When Alexia crushed your life, you thought it couldn’t really influence your already massive passion for the sport. You already watched Barça games, and you even already know some of the players.

Oh, how wrong you were.

The Blaugrana captain is like a magnet, always able to catch your eyes and lock them on her for the entire 90 minutes, filling your mind and somehow making you body reacts to her every movement. You don’t miss a game, you spot her immediately on the pitch or on the bench.

You smile just knowing she’s doing what she loves.

“They better win or I’ll personally go down there to kick their ass”

You laugh at Mapi outburst. Despite her attitude, you know it pains her to be in the stands to support her friends on the international stage, hidden behind a cap. Telling her how much you admire her stance on such an important cause, no matter the consequences on her own life, is not enough. You’re committed to changing the game for her too.

“Three goals are a lot to overcome”, Ingrid points out with a teasing smile.

“What side are you on?”

“Yours, always”

Seeing the Norwegian kiss her girlfriend’s hand puts a smile on your face, making it easier to bite down the bittersweet taste of jealousy for the amazing relationship they have.

Like if something shakes you, you drift your eyes on the pitch right on time. Alexia is going for a run as Aitana sends her a beautiful pass on her left. You’re on your feet even before the ball finds the back of the net and the crowd erupts in cheers.

Then Jenni is on her side and Alexia lets the tall woman hug her, smiling.

The celebration is cut short, there isn’t time to lose, but you can see something sparkling in the footballer’s eyes as she indulges in it a little, spurring the supporters to be louder when she retrieves the ball to restart the game as soon as possible.

Her teammates pat her back as they get back in position, getting just nods and prompts to keep the momentum going.

Is strange, the uneasy feeling that spreads inside your stomach. Your hands are closed in fists but your legs are trembling, as if your body can’t tell you’re on quite cramped seats.

Spain doesn’t manage to overcome the three goals, despite the team’s best efforts. You know the captain will be in a sour mood for who knows how long, and she’s not going to come to you for comfort – not the one you’re willing to give her anyway.

~

You don’t mean to overhear the conversation, you don’t even mean to be there in the first place.

A national team representative pulls you aside after noticing you on the stands and asks to talk to you – or better, trying to talk you out of a legal wrangle between the federation and one player you represent.

It’s a useless attempt, but you’re not ashamed to admit you enjoy quite a lot letting those men think they can overpower you.

You were just there, right behind the doors.

He guides you just outside the stadium, talking over himself. The first argument is reasonable enough, you can admit, but you lose interest pretty easily.

As soon as the players start to exit the facility, post-game rituals cut short after the defeat, you immediately take it like the best way out of the conversation.

“Cheer up, Ale, let her kiss it better!”, Jenni mocks the blonde with a tattooed arm around her shoulder.

“Shut up!”

“Don’t tell me there’s trouble in paradise already”

“No paradise, no troubles”, Alexia mumbles back, stopping by the door.

They’re probably waiting for someone, unaware of your frozen form just around the corner. A couple of steps, and they would see you. A couple of steps, and this torture would end. Yet you can’t move and they’re still arguing.

“She’s around a lot more, she sleeps at your place–”

“That happens when you have a fuck buddy, I can’t control what she does”

You never hear her talking about you with such spite, such annoyance in her voice. Alexia is not the best one when it comes to expressing her feelings, but you think she’d talk about your relationship with some emotion. Any kind of emotion, but this.

“Oh, come on! You’re cute together–”

“Jenni, drop it”, the Catalan’s tone is harsh and final, “We’re nothing at all”

You’d hope some respect is granted with the intimacy of it all.

Well aware your relationship is not defined by any terms, the casually cruel honesty in her words makes your head spin regardless.

You know the nature of the bond between the two of you is built on sex, physical attraction, and convenience for more than one reason.

When a couple of players finally exit the facility, Alexia is in the back of the group with a deep frown on her face. Your eyes meet immediately and you can easily tell she wishes you could disappear as much as you do.

~

“Are you fucking joking?”

“I said I’m sorry!”, the blonde scoffs as she reaches for her abandoned shirt in a corner of your bedroom.

Hiding the marks on your neck and on her thighs will be more difficult.

“That’s it, you say you’re sorry and that’s it for you”, you fear she doesn’t even know what she’s sorry for.

“I genuinely don’t understand, what do you want from me?”

“I want you to fucking care!”, you rise from your bed, marching toward her before she has the time to leave the room – not minding the height she has on you, “I want you to at least acknowledge your mistake, to really apologise for disrespecting–”

“My mistake?”

When she snorts right on your face, you lose it, shaking your head in disbelief. It’s pretty easy to believe though, it’s not the first time Alexia does or says something that genuinely hurts you and doesn’t even realise what the problem is.

This one time her dismissive behaviour and stubbornness are a bit too much.

The athlete tries to get your attention back, seeing you dressing up and pretending she’s not even in the room anymore.

It takes everything on you to ignore her hands and pleading words.

“You’re overreacting”

“You really should go, Alexia”

“Can we talk about it?”

“About what? You don’t think you have anything to apologise for, you have no idea how much you keep hurting me. Fuck, you were ready to leave a moment ago!”

Opening the front door for her, you feel her eyes studying your body as to read your mind and her action burning inside you in a way you can just hope will not scar you permanently.

Alexia has so much power over you.

You want to hold it all against her, keeping close to the last amount of respect you have for yourself. You want to scream in her face how disregarding she is, how much she keeps shaming your relationship. You want to lay out for her all the actions and all the feelings she has shown you so far, both full of love and full of shit.

“I’ll call tomorrow”

“Please, don’t”, you plead as you invite her to leave one more time.

“Then happy birthday”

Her lips on your forehead burn like a mark.

~

“This is bullshit!”, Alexia mumbles as she drops the papers with the speech you helped her write and rehearse for the past hour.

She has an interview on a famous British sports TV show in a couple of days, they give her a whole segment to talk about the development of women’s football in Europe, about her foundation, and her plans for the future. Then they informed her she should do it in English.

“I think is impressive you can hold your own in your third language, but you can’t pronounce this phrase to save your life”

“I think you’re making fun of me”

“I am, indeed”, you admit with a genuine smile on your face, reaching for her speech to find a way around the words for her.

The footballer watches as you revise the script one more time, her frustration softened looking at your pen dancing around the papers and your tongue trapped between your lips – a sign of your focus, she learned.

“I will cook dinner while you’re on it”, she states, rising from the spot on the sofa before you can meet her eyes.

It happens sometimes, Alexia could prove to you her effort, even her care, with nice little gestures out of nowhere.

A full breakfast could appear on your kitchen table as you wake up late after a long and rough night with the blonde, who left the apartment with the first rays of sunshine.

A ticket for a concert could light up your phone with a few days’ notice, making you cancel any plan and jumping in anticipation for what looks a lot like an actual date.

A bunch of flowers could be delivered at your place without an apparent reason, following weeks of radio silence, but you learned to read her inability to express gratitude with words when you hold her body and soul firmly after a particularly tough training session or media day.

There could be random gestures and small details, making you feel a fleeting sense of stability and a bittersweet taste of how it could be to be loved by Alexia.

~

“I think she could actually love you, if she tries”, Jordi states out of nowhere, half-empty drink in his hand and eyes fixed on your friends having their first dance.

“Excuse me?”

“The fucking queen of football”

“Yeah, I figured. Where’s that even coming from?”

Trembling hands find invisible creases to smooth on your dress, not a good enough distraction from everything around you. Your friends really went on and beyond with the wedding reception, soft music surrounding them as basically all the guests form a circle around couple.

“Just saying”

“You don’t even like her”, you bite back.

“I don’t like how she makes you feel”

“She makes me feel good too”

Letting her hurt you in the process, waiting for a change of heart that may never happen, makes you hate yourself a little bit. Never Alexia, just yourself.

The pity you let wash over yourself is enough to turn your cheeks red with embarrassment and something else you’re not quite ready to admit.

You know she’d love you, the signs are all there.

You know she knows too.

“You should put yourself first”, he finds your hand, holding it firmly.

The music changes subtly as your friends start to join the couple at the centre of the dance floor with their partner.

“You should go dance with Angelica, she can put up with you only so much”

~

You start to question if your love alone can bridge the gap between your lives.

Alexia welcomes you into her apartment more often, having dinner or sharing silent coffees in the morning instead of just letting you stay long enough to satisfy your needs.

And then fall off the face of the earth, ignoring your futile attempts to reach out.

Alexia invites you to nights out with her friends. Her hand holds possessively any part of your body within reach, sending cold stares to anyone who could move too close around you or no less touch you in a shy effort to get your attention.

And then pretends you’re not even there in the first place when someone calls her out on her behaviour.

Alexia saves her jersey for you after an important win, putting the piece of clothing on you herself in the family and friends section. She ignores her sister’s tease to turn the conversation around, talking about details of the game and weekend plans.

And then asks you to come up with some excuse to not attend the same plans she made right in front of you, the same plans you’re invited to by the people she loves most.

Alexia gives you something that looks a lot like love and then takes it all back, ripping away your affection and care without looking back at your deeming light.

“We need to talk”, she greets you into her apartment with unusual gravity and her lips curved at a strange angle.

“Hello to you too”

Fighting fire with fire is one thing you had to learn as your relationship with the Catalan grew, both in your heart and in your life – intertwining and rubbing off every single moment of your day and night.

Alexia takes the cold shoulder with almost a guilty nod, knowing inside she’s the reason for your harsh words and uneasy attitude around everyone lately. You show her colours she didn’t even know existed, and she manages to take them away from you.

“We should stop this”

You turn her voice off as soon as you register her decision.

The footballer tells you that this relationship, this agreement, isn’t working anymore. That you’re hurting each other. That she’s hurting you. She admits she needs to focus on herself, on giving everything she still has in her career.

She says you deserve better, you deserve someone who gives you as much attention and care as you give to them.

Not a sentence, not a single word, or apology matters.

A wave of shame washes over you as soon as you realise she has to be the one to end it all, granting you more respect than you had for yourself.

You stop her speech midway with a raised hand, you accept her decision with a knowing grimace, and you leave her apartment without looking back – allowing her to make any trace of tears disappear from her face.

~

In the weeks that followed, it became clear how deeply your lives intertwined over the time you spent together.

You have to buy a new set of your favourite body wash, your last one still in Alexia’s bathroom. The book you’re reading is still unfinished, letting you questioning if the sister was actually the murderer, as you remember you left it face down somewhere in her apartment. You accept the promotion they offered you months ago, booking a one-way ticket for a city that’s definitely not Barcelona but looks a lot like a new beginning.

You park up memories and try to let go of the hurt, both for yourself and for the end of something you know it’d be beautiful.

It was beautiful, but it was ugly and painful too.

When you find yourself in the stands of a filled stadium, surrounded by high-profile men in suits and the most influential people in football, you can’t hold back your genuine smile as soon as Alexia scores a last-minute goal, securing her team the victory.

You’ll always be Alexia’s supporter, even if that’s the only rule you’ll ever play in her life.

fine.

[msheadcannons]

first meet

lena oberdorf x reader headcannons

after transferring from chelsea to bayern in august 2021, you were relieved to finally have a club that might recognize your efforts

its not like you were a bad player. in fact, you were a highly rated midfielder--but chelsea didn't make you a regular starter anymore after your third season there, which started to affect your national team callups.

the first bayern vs wolfsburg game in november, you were starting as an attacking midfielder. this excited you, you haven't faced wolfsburg since the champions league back in 2020.

did you know lena oberdorf? not personally. you knew of her though, and she knew of you too.

in the 35th minute of the game, lena mistimed her classic side tackle on you. after you weaved around popp and hendrich, you found yourself being tripping onto the ground after feeling someones foot kick right into your ankle.

of course, you stayed on the ground due to a little bit of pain. lena stood back, looking at you as the ref held up a yellow card. after going to the sidelines and checking back into the game-- lena put her hand on your shoulder to make sure that you were okay.

you were fine, but you weren't too happy about the tackle. you regret it to this day, but you told her annoyingly, "I am, but maybe you should time it correctly next time."

after the game, everyone gave their handshakes.

lena held your hand and at the same time, you apologized to her for being a smartass.

"hey, I'm sorry about being rude on the pitch."

"its no worries. I should've timed my tackle correctly." lena responded back in a strong german accent.

you didn't know this, but lena already found you attractive. ever since that champions league game back when you were at Chelsea, she's wanted to find a time to get to know you more-- and maybe the time is now.

"wait--" lena says as you let go of her hand.

you turn back to lena with a smile, wondering what she needed.

"I'll be in munich for a couple of days, I'm supposed to hang out with lea tomorrow morning but maybe we could go out for dinner tomorrow evening? just to get to know each other more." lena whispers in your ear, just so lipreader with the cameras can't catch what she is telling you.

"are you asking me out on a date, lena oberdorf?" you smirk.

"I am." lena boldly says.

"well, we can certainly have dinner tommorow. I'll get your number from lea so we can text before then," you smile as you rub your hand up and down lena's waist.

"see you then." lena smirks before jill roord came over to speak to her.

the first date, just a day after the game, went perfectly. you went to the italian restaurant in a casual ivory colored sweater and blue jeans, while lena wore black cargos and a army green hoodie with a few branding logos on it.

the both of you discussed long distance (#uhaullesbians) and agreed that communication would be key to making everything work

you knew that you had feelings for lena after the dinner, when you realized that most of your conversations didn't center around your jobs. everything else was talked about. family, friends, your home country, video games, other hobbies, just not all of it had to do with football.

after the dinner, you took lena back to her hotel where wolfsburg stayed in. you got out of the car and the both of you talked more for another twenty minutes outside of the hotel.

it was fast, very fast, but the both of you kissed goodbye.

she already had feelings for you, but it seems like you're falling harder for the german woman.

[tooneys-russo]

Do you write for Chloe kelly

Also Lauren hemp need more fics of them and loved the deyna one definitely need more fics of her

Hi Anon!

I have written a little something for Chloe Kelly, let me know if you like it and I can maybe write a part 2. I will get started on a Lauren Hemp one too

The Crossover We Needed

Women’s sport in England had been gaining traction and with both rugby and football becoming more and more popular the top players had become a perfect marketing option. Ridley was the Captain and the scrum half of the England rugby 7’s team, she had been asked to feature in an interview with one of the Lionesses. Chloe Kelly was incredibly excited to be the face of the Lionesses for this interview, she had seen the England 7’s team take home their very own European Championship, she was in the stands cheering them on with her family. But she couldn’t make it obvious to the girl that she was going to meet.

Chloe showed up in her Lionesses training gear, she looked over to see a 5ft10in brunette with dimples and green eyes standing there wearing a red tank top showing off her biceps and blue running shorts that exposed her toned legs. Chloe’s eyes raked over the girl as she walked over, Ridley looked over at Chloe and quickly checked her out, very impressed by the smaller girl’s muscle tone. “Hey I’m Ridley.” The taller girl held out her hand to shake Chloe’s. “Hi, I’m Chloe.” They shook hands, trying to pull away at the socially appropriate time. They stood next to each other as they were given a brief of how the day was going to go. Firstly they would do an interview together then do skills for each of the sports to see who would win the overall challenge. 

They sat across from each other as the producer handed them a stack of questions, Chloe read hers out first. “What football team did you follow as a kid?” Chloe looked up at the other girl’s face. “Um, I go for Manchester United actually.” Ridley let out a laugh and looked at the girl across from her. “Oh so you are a red?” Chloe raised her eyebrow. “Through and through.” Ridley had a small smirk. “Gross.” Chloe pretended to gag, Ridley laughed at her reaction. “Hey, at least I follow football. I was at Wembley when you scored that banger in the Euros, saw the celebration and everything.” Ridley smiled proudly. “Nothing better than someone with some appreciation for the world game.” Chloe smiled softly.

Riley was up next to ask a question. “Do you follow any rugby teams?” Chloe thought for a moment and smirked. “Saracens. They are my local team from when I was growing up. Pretty sure they are top of the ladder in the women’s too.” Ridley rolled her eyes. “We are one point behind with a game in hand. We could be top of the ladder after next weekend.” Ridley replied quickly. “Oh so Gloucester-Hartpury is going to win the league?” Chloe crossed her arms over her chest. “We certainly could. When we do you have to come present the trophy I think while wearing one of our jerseys.” Ridley laughed.

“What is your favourite memory?” Chloe looked at Ridley intently. “Probably winning the European Championship in the Sevens for England. It was the first time I captained the country and being able to lead us to win was phenomenal. You?” Ridley smiled fondly at the memory. “Mine would definitely be the Euros win. Being able to score a goal that won us the whole thing was crazy, the most incredible thing I have ever done.” Chloe smiled wide. “One of the best sporting moments for the country I would say.” Ridley looked at the blonde across from her. “I think your Euros win was just as special, especially scoring two tries.” Chloe said softly. “You watched?” Ridley leant in slightly waiting for the answer. “Yeah, my family loves rugby almost as much as they love football. We all went to watch England completely dominate. Even better that it was a home tournament too.” Chloe relaxed as their conversation continued.

There was some casual flirting during the whole interview with both of the girls promising to catch up again the following week when they had a lunch event for England’s sporting elite. Chloe laughed at Ridley’s jokes and gently touched her arm, Ridley tried to hold back the massive grin and blush that was making its way up her neck to her face. Ridley returned the favour of making the other girl blush when she ran her fingers through her hair making her biceps flex, Chloe’s eyes locked on the muscle straining against the rugby player’s shirt. 

Once the interview portion was over they headed out to the field, on their way their conversation continued as did the flirting. Chloe gently bumped into Ridley when the taller girl teased her about the way she took penalties and the time she got hit in the face by Katie McCabe at a throw-in. “Oh my god shut up! I saw you get absolutely destroyed by the New Zealand Captain last year, you seemed too busy looking at some of the other girls.” Chloe laughed and this time it was Ridley’s turn to bump into Chloe. “Hey what can I say? Blondes seem to be my weakness.” She winked at the striker next to her as they got to the challenges.

The first game was a rugby passing drill, there were four targets lined up with four balls across from them, Chloe grabbed one of the balls and threw it to Ridley who caught it easily. “We should make this interesting. Want to make a bet?” Ridley looked at the blonde. “Sure. When I win, you have to give me your training shirt. If you somehow win, I will give you my shirt.” Chloe said confidently the two shook it and they both smirked at one another. Chloe tried to throw the first ball into the target and missed completely, she let out a groan and pouted after she missed the second one. Ridley smiled and handed Chloe another ball. “Just relax, try twisting your shoulders more rather than your hips. Nice and tight core.” Chloe listened closely and did what the girl was saying, she hit the target right in the centre on the last two shots. She jumped into the rugby player’s arms who spun her around cheering. “We might just be able to convert you into a rugby player.” The two laughed together and Chloe smacked Ridley’s arm gently. 

When it was Ridley’s turn Chloe just stared as the ball was thrown with minimal effort into the targets. Each movement had been practiced a million times and it definitely looked like it, the muscles flexed in her arms and Chloe was unable to do anything but watch. There was part of her that would have loved to know what else those muscles would be able to do to her, maybe even how they would go lifting her up and throwing her down on a bed. “Four from four, easy as you like.” Ridley’s voice snapped Chloe out of her trance. “Okay, show off. Now its time for football.”

The two walked over to four footballs set up for a crossbar challenge. “Let’s see how you go superstar.” Chloe smirked and stepped back for Ridley. The brunette looked at the crossbar then back at the footballs. “Oh man, haven’t kicked a ball in ages. Promise you won’t laugh.” Chloe nodded and motioned to the balls. “I promise. Now show me how to do it.” Ridley took a deep breath as she lined up for her first kick, it wasn’t the best but she was close to hitting the bar, she groaned and threw her head back setting up for the next ball. Her next two kicks were unsuccessful making the girl frustrated, on her last kick she glanced the crossbar and fist pumped. “Finally!” Ridley cheered and turned to the blonde who jumped on her in celebration. As Ridley put her down Chloe bit her lip as she stepped back. “Sorry just got swept up into it.” The striker said softly. “Don’t be.” Ridley stood back for Chloe’s turn. The striker made it look easy, she hit the ball so sweetly that it was hard for Riley not to stare at the girl in front of her. “Wow.” She said out loud as Chloe hit three of the four balls against the crossbar. “Now that was impressive. I think you win, you got more in rugby than I did in football. You easily win.” Ridley held out her hand which Chloe immediately shook. “Good game.” The two laughed as the video cut. 

They walked towards the changerooms to get into more casual clothes for the rest of the day. Ridley had no sooner walked in and her shirt was off exposing her abs and toned back along with her perfect arms. Chloe stared obscenely at the girl in front of her, she forgot to listen as Ridley held out her shirt to Chloe. “A bets a bet.” Chloe took the shirt from the scrum-half and swallowed hard. “Congratulations.” Ridley smirked knowing that the girl was struggling to focus. “Th-thanks.” Chloe finally choked out, Ridley pulled off her shorts and grabbed her jeans, sliding them on right in front of Chloe who was almost drooling. Ridley pulled on her oversized acid washed black shirt and a beanie. “You okay there Chloe?” Ridley walked closer to Chloe who was still standing in the middle of the room. “Yeah. Sorry. Just got distracted.” Chloe looked up at the taller girl. “By me?” Ridley moved a piece of hair from Chloe’s face as their eyes locked. “Maybe.” Chloe said and leant in to kiss Ridley, the rugby player closed the gap as their lips finally touched. Ridley wrapped her arms around Chloe’s waist and lifted her up as they kissed, she leant her against the locker door and deepened the kiss. The build up of tension during the day finally leading up to them getting what they wanted. Their makeout session was cut short by Chloe’s phone ringing, her agent was on the other end wanting to know if she was almost ready to leave, Ridley tried to distract her during the call kissing along the blonde’s neck. Chloe blushed and pushed Ridley away as the call ended. “You are a bad influence.” Chloe gently kissed Ridley and took off her shirt, it was the scrum-half’s turn to stare at Chloe as she got changed. Chloe put on a white crop top with some blue jeans. “I guess I will see you next week?” Chloe looked down, Ridley handed her a phone. “Can I maybe get your number?” Ridley asked somewhat nervously. Chloe smiled wide and put her number in Ridley phone, locking eyes as she handed it back. “I will see you next week.” Chloe kissed her cheek gently as she left. 

Over the week the two were texting most of the day, sending some pictures of what they were up to during the day. The day of the sport lunch Ridley took her time getting ready, putting on a navy blue suit with no shirt underneath relying on the jacket to stay where it was so she didn’t flash everyone around. Ridley walked into the large function room, looking around for anyone familiar. Chloe spotted the rugby player immediately, she walked over and touched her lower back. “Hi.” She said softly, making Ridley turn around. “Holy shit.” Ridley blurted out as she saw Chloe in a low cut red dress that finished above her knee, Ridley’s eyes stopped right at the striker’s chest. “Eyes are up here Ridley.” Chloe stepped closer and lifted Ridley’s chin so they were looking in each other’s eyes. “You look phenomenal yourself.” Chloe tugged gently at Ridley’s suit jacket covering what Chloe wanted to see. “Thank you gorgeous.” Ridley kissed Chloe’s cheek and put her hand on her lower back. “Are we sitting together?” Ridley asked as she looked around. “No sorry, I am on the football table and I think you are with rugby. Come see me after?” Chloe grabbed Ridley’s hand, getting her focus back. “Yeah I will come get you.” Ridley kissed Chloe’s hand as they both walked over to their tables. 

During the lunch, Ridley kept looking over at Chloe, causing some of her teammates to give her some light teasing as she stared at the blonde. Chloe received the same treatment as she glanced over at the brunette. “Who is that?” Georgia asked, motioning to Ridley. “That is Ridley, she is the captain of the England rugby team.” Chloe couldn’t help but blush as she mentioned the girl. “Well, she is certainly interested in you Chloe. She’s very pretty.” Georgia smirked, Chloe snapped at Georgia. “Yeah I know she is. Stop looking over at her.” Chloe turned back to look over at Ridley, who was looking back at her slightly concerned. Chloe gave a small smile and walked towards the bathroom, Ridley rushed to follow behind her. As soon as they were in the bathroom Ridley grabbed Chloe’s hand. “Hey you okay?” Chloe nodded and kept looking down. “Georgia said you were pretty and I just kind of cracked it.” Ridley blushed and put her hands on Chloe’s hips. “I am only looking at you.” Ridley leant in and kissed Chloe gently, leading her against the sink, the blonde wrapped her arms around Ridley’s neck and pulled her as close as possible. “After this, come around to my place its only ten minutes away. We can hang out and I will make you dinner.” Ridley offered softly. “A date?” Chloe asked hopefully. “Yes of course. I wanted to ask you out last week but didn’t want you to think I was going too fast.” Ridley blushed. “What after we made out?” Chloe laughed and Ridley blushed more. “Maybe.” Chloe kissed Ridley again and smiled. “As soon as this thing finishes, I am dragging you out of here.” Chloe smiled looking at the taller girl. “We should go back to our tables before people thing we are having sex in here.” Ridley said softly and they begrudgingly rejoined their tables.

[jonasiegenthaler]

hi! since the off season is dragging and i miss the devils - what are you favorite moments for each player (or select players) from this season, not just goals or plays but an interview, soundbite, off ice moment, anything

(missing pk big time because he always posted fun team content)

hiya anon, this was a fun one, thank you! this got, Long, so i'm gonna put it all under the cut (alphabetized, not ranked, and definitely not comprehensive)

kevin: 

not like one thing in particular but playing more regularly this season! especially the second half

yanking multiple guys around casually

this was more last season but there’s a bunch of guys in utica that, every time he goes over the boards for a shift, chant a call-and-response of “who’s out?” “bahls out!” and it is beautiful

nate: 

the video of him and johnny in seattle

this one of him nearly getting taken out by a football

also he’s seen the memes he loves the love

boqy: 

a lil cuddle, or two, or three

i’ve always said he’s the devils’ morgan frost so i’m just very glad he’s found some semblance of a role this season he’s very neat to me

bratter: 

hatty! 

big hat hat!

him and nico reaching milestones together talking about how special it was,

more cuddles

notably too cute to be good at chirping

gravy: 

carshield commercials - ïf you don’t call now, your wife should stop loving you.”

for some reason his goal in the oilers game early in the season stands out? keeping the winning streak alive!

smacking nico’s ass on a driveby

[30 seconds of uncomfortably polite staring as the sm admin waits for him to complete the heart]

dougie: 

the six flags promo, wild that that was this season it feels like ages ago. 

those few games where we kept going 4v3 in ot and dougie just kept scoring gwgs, iconic, showstopping. 

fully lifting bratter like a foot? off the ice? 

herding a flock of dudes 

signing off the camera with a “hi grandma”. 

floor time!

the movie re-enactments? wheres his oscar

haula: 

“this is where i want to be. this is my family” <3

single handedly bringing us timo.

getting hit with a chicken finger

facing the other way on the bench when we went to shootouts (one of us).

laughing curling up on the floor instant fetal position

nico: 

there’s. so much. because i’m nothing if not biased. 

“i’ve just got a good feeling” 

pumping up the crowd 

selke finalist! career high in goals, assists, points! 

being absolutely dominant in the rangers series. 

game 5 nico chants! 

[gestures vaguely at 1386 tag] 

having the time of his life with some kids toys

marner’s “i felt good until nico decided to take me for a walk” 

“siegyyyy! don’t worry everyone siegy is here!” <3 

“let’s not forget to have fun. stick together. whatever happens.” + all the pre/post game speeches during the playoffs. 

nate talking about how nico made him feel like he belonged + so much more

“he cares more about his teammates than probably does about himself”

timo facetiming him because he was anxious about the trade 

jack

“oh shit :d”

hatty!

devils win for hanukkah :) 

“yeah i knew that”

“those are quinn’s boys so--”

whatever him and pk were on at all-star weekend

“i want that record”

“we are off on our chemistry today, hey?”

looney tunes ass fall

[gestures vaguely again at 1386 tag]

nothing but respect for my lady byng finalist

the dance

all the hugs

luke

first goal! ot winner!

dream dinner guests: julius caesar and george washington + getting chirped about it by dawson

the entire exit interview, all of it - messy but working on it (lie, probably), doesn’t know what day it is, hasn’t retained a thought for more than 5 seconds, fidgety

marino

[looking at a children’s toy] look i’m not not saying this looks like a bong

him and gravy giggling after they pushed pally off the ice

dawson

the players tribune article

hatty!

setting the franchise record in consecutive games with a goal

the hair, it’s majestic

yegor

santagovich

a pet bird, named ham

throwing shit at sevo

messing with the camera lights during bratter’s interview

messing with tuna during his interview

vv

made friends with a bird :) 

consistently referring to himself as “the vitek”

every time akira makes a big save vitek gives huge taps over the board <3

[simmetrycal]

ash’s family dynamic ༊*·˚

i think about ash’s blood related family often, so here’s a look at that:

˚ · .

ash’s father, wayne, is a good dad. good enough.

he didn’t spend a whole lot of time with young ash though, always at the office or on the phone.

“alright pass it to me champ!” he’d yell with a smile on his sharp face. ash, chubby, small, and scruffy-haired would throw a football as hard as he could. it hit the ground a few feet in front of him, and he when looked up, he saw his dad apologetically looking at him as he takes a phone call from the company.

it was always about the company.

dad can’t make it to dinner because something happened at the company.

dad can’t make it to your 8th grade ceremony because the company needs him.

dad didn’t have time to buy you a birthday present because he was working, here’s the envelope of five hundred dollars he left you this morning.

once wayne and ash’s mother grace divorced, ash spent equal time with both of them.

although, as time went on and ash grew, his dad took him under his wing.

perhaps it was grace holding him back, even though it was always said to be the company.

still, the company is all they ever talk about. wayne taught ash everything he knows, and pushed him to go to school for business.

ash’s time at university taught him a lot. he knows his father would be proud of him for following in his footsteps so that’s what he chose to do.

plus, it makes good money.

once ash got his degree wayne hired him as an intern at the company. they spent time together— more than they ever had before.

they finally had something in common, finally something they could bond over.

although, it was really the only thing they ever talked about.

“did you get the marketing team a pseudo-manager?” wayne asks from behind a newspaper at his desk. ash sat in front of him, chewing gum and scrolling on his phone. their relationship was like that. casual in a professional setting.

“yeah, i’m working on it,” he replies.

“you’re working on it?” wayne closes his newspaper and takes off his reading glasses. “so are you done or not?”

“almost.” ash looks up, shrugging.

“hmm,” wayne says with an eyebrow, popping open a cork from a bottle of bourbon.

he pours it into two crystal glasses but ash never drinks his.

“are you coming to kylie and parker’s dinner party tonight?” wayne asks. kylie and parker are his 16 and 15 year old daughters, ash’s half-sisters.

“what for?”

“you’re their brother. be there to celebrate and congratulate.”

“what are we celebrating?” ash asks, standing up so he can head out.

“uhm..” wayne furrows his brows, unsure of it himself. he opens his calendar on his computer. “their volleyball team’s success in making it to the finals.”

ash internally sighs. he loves his sisters but they’re quick to use their fathers money to have fancy dinner parties for any opportunity. a volleyball tournament is hardly a celebratory event when you haven’t won yet.

though they probably will, ash goes to most of their games and their high school is quite reputable.

parker is admittedly better than kylie, but both are on varsity.

when ash arrives he chuckles at how empty the restaurant is.

apparently parker was supposed to send out the invites but they thought kylie was doing that. so nobody showed up.

“i at least wanted ben to come,” kylie pounts in her seat. a lock of her sandy colored hair falls in front of her bright eyes, to which she blows it away.

ben is kylie’s pathetic excuse for a boyfriend.

“okay, well boys sucks,” ash says next to her, folding up the sleeves of his pressed white button up.

“don’t you like boys?”

parker snorts with laughter across the table from the two, accidently spitting up some of their shirley temple.

they look like a shirley temple— with their dyed dark red hair and dramatic eyeliner.

“ugh! shut up,” kylie pouts again, kicking them from under the table.

“i didn’t even say anything!” they wave their arms around and laugh-scoff.

“enough, girls.” wayne says as he sits downs with ash’s stepmom cora. kylie and parker’s mom.

parker twitches their eye when wayne says “girls”. parker doesn’t identify themself as a girl and wayne knows that, but has a hard time getting used to it. he still always tries to be supportive though.

“where’s the team?” wayne says, confused and picking up a menu.

“parker didn’t invite anyone because they thought i was going to do it.” kylie says with sass.

she’s always sassy but she means well. she’s just a blonde girl in high school, what can you do about it

parker retorts, explaining their mistake.

“well, at least we won’t have tens of people to pay for,” cora smiled.

ash fights back an eye roll.. he doesn’t exactly love his step mom, he thinks she’s slightly annoying.

he does love his real mom very much though.

grace and ash’s stepdad owen are a blast, always inviting ash to come play pickleball with them.

they have a daughter as well, eva. she goes to school with ash’s other sisters and they’re all friends. in fact, she’s in some of the same classes as kylie.

it may seem odd to people who don’t know their family, but ash really wouldn’t have it any other way.

“as i was saying ky,” ash continues. “boys are gross! and ben is gross! and none of you should ever date.”

“i second that,” wayne says, holding his glass up to cheer.

kylie and parker slump in their seats but come right up when the waiter comes by, fixing their posture and attitudes.

ash ends up paying for his own meal as well as his sisters’. wayne thinks this is very kind and he gives him a pat on the back for it.

“oh one last thing, i have gifts for you both. and for eva, give it to her at school on monday,” ash tells them as they walk out of the restaurant to the parking lot.

“ooh what did you get me?” kylie chases him, putting her hands on his shoulders and jumping up and down.

she receives an elbow from her sibling, “be grateful!” parker urges.

always the respectful one of the two despite being a sophomore.

ash climbs into his backseat to grab three pink bags.

he hands it over to them and kylie rips through the tissue paper.

“oh my gosh!!” she squeals, doing a little spin making her sundress twirl around before hugging him. “i love you ash!! you’re the best!”

in the bags are little vivienne westwood pieces of jewelry. kylie received a necklace, parker got a bracelet, and for eva it’s earrings.

“dude are you kidding? this is way cool!” parker eyes the charm-like pearl bracelet.

without fail, ash always meets them with gifts. no matter how small (one time he resorted to bath and body works hand sanitizers because he was short on time)

“chantelle picked them out”

“ugh, i love her!”

“and i love you guys,” ash says, booping them on the noses before getting in his audi and taking off.

wayne and cora don’t want to spoil them but ash doesn’t give a shit. if he has the means, he’ll give them the whole world.

bonus: him playing pickleball with eva because i only wrote about kylie and parker and she needs recognition as well

˚ · .

“aw cmon bruh you can swing harder than that!” ash yells from across the court at eva, who swung the pickleball paddle with embarrassment.

she thinks pickleball is a stupid sport but her little family knows how to have fun regardless.

their neighbors have this tournament thingy every so often and ash thoroughly enjoys it

he even has a “pickleball outfit”. it’s just pleated white shorts and a white polo with a blue sweatband and wristbands

in fact, everyone on their team is wearing blue sweatbands, and the neighbors across the net are wearing red.

it’s a warm sunny evening and the two are practicing back and forth before the match begins.

“ash!” eva yells at him when he smacks the ball way over her head of dark curly hair.

she looks way more like ash than his other half sisters, they both take after their mom in a lot of ways it seems.

ash chuckles and apologizes, fetching them a new ball.

“okay this one’s for all the marbles! you have to get it!” he serves it and eva paddles it back perfectly, surprising the both of them.

[kendrysaneela]

I really don’t get all these bad faith reactions to Ted Lasso. Like feel how you want about the finale. But the fact that y’all are saying that the show is telling us that Ted gave in to his depression and left his family forever and will never see them ever again and all he has in his life is his son and he got back together with his ex and he’s miserable and his smile is empty while watching his son play soccer????? YALL. I need you to calm down for a second please. It’s not that serious I PROMISE. Like first of all. He is going to see his friends again. I have two friends in different countries and we still talk all the time and they’re still two of my closest friends. The only reason we don’t see each other more often is that money is an obstacle. They’re all rich. Money is not an obstacle. It’s been confirmed by Brendan that the reason that Ted wasn’t at Beard’s wedding or the barbecue is only because it would’ve been confusing and weird to show him back in England when they didn’t even show him in the US yet. Not because they’re trying to say he never saw any of them again. The UK and the US share a maritime border and the flight is not very long. it’s not difficult for them to visit. And GUYS. He was never gonna stay in England! He was never MEANT to stay there!!! He only went cause he was afraid to be close to his son cause of what he went through with his father and because his wife told him to give her space. He was never meant to stay forever. He was always meant to go home. And yeah sure he could’ve asked Michelle to move to England and uprooted his sons life has them both move to England but that would’ve been so awful. “Hey I have friends here so son and ex wife come leave YOUR friends and YOUR life because of me” that wouldn’t have been fair. Henry is a kid he deserves to live in the area where his friends are and he deserves to have his father in his life. Also I just don’t believe he has no friends in Kansas. He absolutely does. You can’t tell me this incredibly friendly man who everyone loves doesn’t have a connection with anyone in Kansas. And as to the whole “All he has in his life is his son” that’s not true??? He still has everyone at AFC Richmond. Who once again. He can visit,he can call,he can video chat,they can visit him,they can text. Your friendships don’t end just cause you live in another country that’s just not how the world works. And he’s happily watching his son play soccer (I’m saying soccer not football cause he was watching in the US) and feeling amazing about it because he missed three years of this little boys life!!!! Yeah he visited him and all that but children are not like friends. You need to be there for them on a daily basis or they’re gonna resent you and you’re gonna regret missing their life. That’s just what’s gonna happen. He wasn’t able to go to Henry’s soccer games or to his student teacher meetings or even just to hang out with him casually for three years! Yeah he would come to England for the summer and all that but it’s not the same. This season showed him depressed his son was leaving. The end of the season showed him happy he was back with his son. If you view that as “He’s empty and depressed and lonely and didn’t change at all and is still miserable” I don’t know what to tell you.

[impostorsshow]

Okay okay, I saw your Super Bowl post, and I felt the need to tell you about something very important because I felt you would want to know.

I’m not a football guy, it’s not my flavor of sportsball, I’m more of a baseball guy. But, me and my mom were bored this Super Bowl Sunday, and my mom’s team she kinda casually follows was playing. We didn’t watch the first half, and thank god, shit was boring with a 10-3 score. However, my mom turned the game on in the third quarter. Why? Well, because she discovered there was a Nickelodeon broadcast.

And no, not just that the broadcast was also on Nickelodeon, this was a fully produced thing.

Oh, I should also mention, Spongebob Squarepants and Patrick Star were LITERALLY guest commentators on this broadcast.

I don’t know how much of a Nickelodeon kid you are, but this was honestly not bad.

Some highlights include:

- Spongebob and Patrick not knowing anything about football and just doing references instead like how they brought up the rookie kicker’s age was 24 and went into the “What’s funnier than 24? 25!” joke and one of the announcers saying “This is the Super Bowl!” after a good play and Patrick went, “No, this is Patrick.”

- The first down line was called the Pineapple line, the field goal had a net like it was a jellyfishing net, and slime would descend from the heavens when touchdowns happened

- Dora The Explorer showed up to explain more in-depth plays and randomly said “Maybe they need my map to find the end zone!”

- One of the announcers randomly said that he was so excited and nervous that he did a personal foul in his pants(??? Like what???)

- The replays had goofy ahh sound effects edited into them sometimes when players would run around and it caught me so off guard

- Shots of celebrities in the crowd like LePrawn James, Fin Diesel, and Snoop Fishy Dogfish

I’m sorry that you had a bad experience with your family and the Super Bowl, but at the very least, I hope that this information can possibly brighten your mood at least just a little bit.

I would like you to know I never answered this because I was using it as a reference and talking about what you said to literally anyone who brought up the super bowl with me

[camilo-makesyousmile]

Camilo Carlos Castillo Madrigal – Character Sheet

my mama told me when i was young, "we are all born superstars" / she rolled my hair and put my lipstick on in the glass of her boudoir / "there's nothing wrong with loving who you are" / she said, "'cause he made you perfect, babe / so hold your head up, girl, and you'll go far"

Archetype — The Joker Birthday — December 28, 1998 Zodiac Sign — Rising Libra, Capricorn Sun, Virgo Moon MBTI — ENFP Enneagram — Type 7: the Enthusiast  Temperament — Sanguine Moral Alignment — Chaotic Good Primary Vice — Sloth Primary Virtue — Patience Element — Air

Overview

Mother — Josefina Carolina Madrigal-Castillo  Father — Félix Diego Madrigal-Castillo Mother’s Occupation — Assistant to the mayor Father’s Occupation — Nurse Family Finances — Middle ground? Not rich, not broke lol  Birth Order — Middle! Brothers —  Antonio [middle name] Castillo Madrigal Sisters — Dolores Adalia Castillo Madrigal Other Close Family — the Madrigals, im not listing them all Best Friend — TBD Other Friends — TBD Enemies — TBD Pets — all of Antonio’s friends Home Life During Childhood — Idyllic, loving family, beautiful house, beautiful town--happy and fulfilling childhood surrounded by love <;3 Town or City Name(s) — Encanto, Isle de Silvia, Avalor; Swynlake, England What Did His or Her Bedroom Look Like — It’s always been the same! Camilo’s bedroom in Casita is a massive auditorium with many fun house mirrors. His bed is actually “backstage” so to speak and difficult to get to if you don’t know how. (It’s a Metaphor for him hiding behind all his different faces.) It has excellent acoustics and when he was little, especially, he used to invite everyone into his theater to see him perform.  Any Sports or Clubs — Theater! Also, he’ll play some football but mostly casually.  Favorite Toy or Game — Charades, ofc.  Schooling — Primary in Avalor, was 16 when they came to Swynlake so he went to secondary in the UK; did not go to college Favorite Subject — Theater lol Popular or Loner — POPULAR! Important Experiences or Events — Getting his gift, Mirabel not getting hers, Antonio getting his (Cami was PRESSED), Avalor…  Nationality — Avalorian-Colombian Culture — Avalorian-Colombian Religion and beliefs — Catholic, tho they have a loosey goosey version of the Bible they follow lol

Physical Appearance

Face Claim — N/A Complexion — Brown skin with freckles on nose/cheeks, some pimples, but not a lot; very little facial hair, etc.  Hair Colour — Dark brown afro with some red highlights in the sun Eye Colour — Hazel Height — 5’7 Build — Wiry, but short Tattoos — Probably a few? I gotta think more about this Piercings — Nose and ears Common Hairstyle — A nice proper fro that they sometimes twist Clothing Style — Queer lol Mannerisms — Big and expressive!! Usual Expression — Smiling!

Health

Overall (do they get sick easily)? — Nah and if they do, tia Julieta got them! Physical Ailments — None Neurological Conditions — Kleptomania Allergies — None Grooming Habits — Stays pretty well groomed tbh. Loves a face mask and manicure. Sleeping Habits — Sleeps a lot bc of his powers -- will fall asleep anywhere. Eating Habits — Eats anything. At all times is snacking on something.  Exercise Habits — Doesn’t exercise a whole lot, at least not purposefully Emotional Stability — Pretty good tbh, Camilo is pretty even-keeled Body Temperature — This is always the weirdest question why is this here? NORMAL Sociability —  Extremely sociable and good with people Addictions — Stealing things, maybe a lil alcohol dependency Drug Use — None  Alcohol Use — Too much probably

Your Character’s Character 

Bad Habits — Not caring enough about things, saying whatever is on their mind, no matter the cost lol Good Habits — Always a friendly face and a good listener, tbh  Best Characteristic — Being funny and charming Worst Characteristic — Too unattached Worst Memory — Fleeing Avalor Best Memory — Getting their gift! Proud of — Their family! Embarrassed by — Their family!  Driving Style — Do not let them behind a wheel, too irresponsible Strong Points — Fun, carefree, easily excitable, loyal (these are the traits of a dog)�� Weakness — Being serious about stuff Fears — Something happening to his family Phobias — None…?  Secrets — Their stealing… Regrets — NOTHING BABY! (lies) Feels Vulnerable When — People try and make them be serious.  Pet Peeves — People trying to make them be serious.  Conflicts — Caring about their family v wanting to do their own thing Motivation — Do it for the bit!!  Short Term Goals and Hopes — Doesn’t really have any…  Long Term Goals and Hopes — Also doesn’t really have any… Sexuality — Queer Day or Night Person — Night  Introvert or Extrovert — Extrovert Optimist or Pessimist — Nihilist?  Greatest Want — To make everyone have as good a time as they are 🧡 Greatest Need — To maybe take things a lil more seriously

[fearsome-series]

Book One [Book Two]

Chapter One | Two | Three | Four | Five | Six | Seven | [Eight] | Nine

Laura’s phone.

Laura, when will you be home?

Will you be home by 8?

Your mom’s asking about your therapy group

Laura let the notifications build up, and her bus went on.

-------------------------------------------------

Alice looked over the text about helping Laura with the dog in the ditch. She could’ve laughed. Even if she wanted to go, they’d never let her out. Not on her own. Not when there were her brother’s messes to clean up.

“Cody, could you stop putting your darn Pokemon cards all over the floor?”

“They’re not Pokemon cards,” he sniffed, lost in his phone, “they’re Magic cards.”

“I thought mom and dad said it wasn’t okay for you to have those.” Anything with ‘occult’ imagery was strictly forbidden.

“They don’t know I have them.”

“What if I went and told them you have these? D’you think they’d be chill about it?”

Cody casually tossed his phone to the side. “Don’t you dare tell them.”

“I won’t,” she said sadly. “Just make sure to pick them up, then.”

“Oh, I will.” The door swung open; it was their mom.

“Alice, Cody, we want you to come out and join your father and I. We’re having a family watch party.”

Cody jumped out of his chair, and Alice trailed behind him; she wondered what the heck they’d be watching tonight. Half the time it was something normal, like what they used to watch, but half the time it was something…not so normal. Crazy, Alice’s friends would call it. Her parents didn’t even watch football anymore, not since that one quarterback started kneeling during the anthem.

Alice pulled up her seat on the couch, and saw The Princess Bride paused on the screen. Good, she told herself; she couldn’t take anymore of that pillow guy.

But…something about Laura asking for help…after Alice let her down last night…

Alice said she wasn’t feeling well and needed to lie down. They kept the movie going.

She’d never done this. Not without a cover story. Her family seemed occupied in the living room. Maybe they wouldn’t ask many questions. Maybe they’d find out she was missing and ask every question in the world.

Why am I doing this, she asked herself? Why did I let Laura talk me into this?

Didn’t take much swaying, huh?

Alice moved to the window. Lifted it up. Found her bike and…started to ride.

-------------------------------------------------

Emily’s moms were watching some PBS documentary in the living room; she was in the corner, playing XCOM 2 on her laptop. Her ranger, “Stinger” Woods, took a shot. 40% chance. Its mod triggered. Not only a hit, but it killed a mech in one hit…

She sighed. Closed her game. Listened to the narrator drone on about country music. “I’m going to go hang out with Laura.”

“Laura?” Bethany, her other mom, who was normal height with dirty blonde hair, said.

“The new werewolf,” Rebecca said. “Didn’t you welcome her to the pack last night?”

“Yes, mom, but she has a lot of questions and needs help sorting through all the crap that being a werewolf brings. I’ve been teaching her.”

“That’s right. Well, don’t be too late.”

“I won’t, mom.”

-------------------------------------------------

Manuel quickly responded to Laura’s text. He didn’t think he could go, and part of it was on a practical level he wasn’t sure he could get there in time, and another part was that he didn’t think he could handle anything more after last night, but wanting to make himself useful, he offered to help them with any information they needed from home, on his laptop.

He wanted to keep them on the phone, too. He wanted to know Laura was okay.

-------------------------------------------------

Summer buried herself in a cocoon of pillows RIGHT BEFORE Laura’s text came in, ‘cause of course, of course that’s the timing, and she thrashed and her pillows flew everywhere and a squish plush of an armadillo thwacked a Billie Elish poster covered in little notes. She was going. She was going, yeah, not ‘cause they needed her but, hell, it was some shitty drama and that’s what she got herself involved in.

Her sister Amina - once fraternal, now Summer’s twin but process of transgenderism, was in the living room with her mom, dad, and their girlfriend, and Summer flung open the door and ran out without a word.

-------------------------------------------------

“It’s not a drawing, it’s an experience. It’s an emotion,” said Claire’s younger sibling, who currently called themselves Athena; they wore a yellow jacket. “I am hoping you will be intrigued.”

“Did you eat a thesaurus?” Sophia didn’t look up from her phone.

“I am a creator. You wouldn’t understand.”

“Who do you think you are? You were watching Doc McStuffins a year ago.”

“I was not,” Athena protested. “Claire, you tell her.”

“Sorry, I have a headache…” She didn’t, though she might if she had to listen to any of Athena’s “music” again. “I’m going to go upstairs…”

“You know, I worry about you,” Sophia said. “You and your girlfriend. You’re codependent on someone who has issues of her own and that’s not healthy. I once watched this movie with a couple like that and -”

“Did the wife kill the husband, or did the husband kill the wife?” Claire asked from the stairs.

“First of all, they weren’t married. The boyfriend killed his girlfriend.” Sophia was well-read, in a sense; she had an encyclopedic knowledge of every sob-story TV movie, every misery lit book, every TikTok about “toxic people”. Her book shelves were a litany of abuse, mistreatment, and breakdowns, all commercially packaged for sale - also a lot of Colleen Hoover.

Through this conversation, Claire was aware of the text Laura had sent about a “creature” in a ditch. Claire dismissed it at first, until Summer texted her that she was helping Laura. Claire wouldn’t have gone alone, but with Summer, she considered it. She kept considering it until she was out the back door, and all the way there.

-------------------------------------------------

Laura

So there’s three people in the cave

The dog was asleep this afternoon

Manuel

If it sleeps during the day, it’s likely nocturnal

Laura

Like el chupacabra

Manuel

Yes!

Do you know the sleeping habits of the chupacabra for certain

Laura

Explain later

But I saw it during the day too so it could be asleep when we go

Summer

The three people could be DEAD

Emily

Why guard a dead person?

Summer

Remains of its breakfast lunch and dinner

Alice

Nobody else can help?

Laura

The only other people who know about it live underground

Alice

What

Laura

Explain later

Claire

Should we tell Jessie?

Emily

Jessie doesn’t want us running into a ditch

Alice

Jessie could fix all of this single-handed

Emily

Jessie could go in all alone and get hurt

Tell Jessie if you want but we’re still going

Laura

We don’t have to go in there and get them out

We just have to

Confirm what’s in there then let Jessie handle it

Emily

That sounds like a plan

Who’s with us

Alice

I’m on my way

Summer

Why not???????

Me and Claire are waiting for a bus

Manuel

I’ll be looking up any maps or information you might need from home

Keep me up to date

Emily

I’m on the bus

Alice

I’m taking my bike

Several people are typing…

Laura

Alice are you serious

Alice

What’s wrong with riding my bike

Emily

Alice lives closest but Al

It’s dark at night

Drivers are insane out here

Laura

Yeah there are so many accidents

Emily

This isn’t a small town. You can’t ride your bike to every mystery. You have to take public transit

Laura

What do you do if something happens downtown? Ride eleven miles?

Alice

We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it

Laura

Try not to get hit by a car before you jump into the death ditch

Alice

I’LL TRY!

-------------------------------------------------

In front of her was the meeting place. In front of her were Laura, Claire, Summer, and Emily. In front of her was…

She threw her bike down in the grass and just about fell over; they were all standing in the grass, the hill split in half by the path. They were all on the side that sharply climbed upwards into the chainlink fence separating them from the neighborhood; on the top of that hill was a tiny little band of wilderness, of trees and leaves dropped from either side.

“Told you it was too far,” Emily said.

“I made it, didn’t…” Alice coughed. “Didn’t I?”

“It’s not down there,” Claire said.

“Yeah, we’ve been looking out for the giant death dog when we were waiting for you, but it’s not here,” Summer explained.

“Manuel told us two places we should keep watch on. The curve down the path, and that treeline.” Claire pointed to both.

“We’ll take the curve,” Summer said.

“We’ve got the trees,” Emily said. “You and me.”

“I figured,” Alice snapped.

“And I’ll uh. I’ll go down the ditch and see if there’s bodies down there,” Laura said. “If you see the dog, or a boy in a white jumpsuit, whistle or yell or something.”

Emily nodded, and the plan began.

-------------------------------------------------

Laura jumped down into the ditch. See in the dark, see in the dark, see in the - her eyes were already dissolving, shifting into another way to see. Didn’t hurt so bad this time…

“Come on, ándale, ándale,” Gef cried, his fingers dug into her back.

“I’m…” She could see now. Three shapes. No dog. She crouched down. “Gef?”

Gef scrambled down her side like a horrible furry bug and jumped in her pocket; Laura crawled into the tunnel, and hurried up towards the first guy, stones cutting roughly into her fingers, muddy little rocks embedding themselves into her skin.

The first shape was…that weirdo who sold bootleg phones and vape cartridges on the edge of campus. Was he dead? He was still, completely still. She leaned in. Listened.

Heard a faint breath.

“I think they’re asleep…” Laura said. “Should we pull him out?”

“Opposed to what course of action, leaving him to rot?”

“Gef,” Laura scolded, but he was right; she wrapped her hands around his feet and yanked. Again. Again. Gef leapt out of her pocket, hopped across his body, lifted up his head -

“So he doesn’t hit his head on a rock and die!”

- yeah. Panting, Laura stepped into the fresh air, and leaned the man against the edge of the ditch. She waved over Claire and Summer, and crawled right back into the tunnel.

-------------------------------------------------

With the weird vape guy lying safely on the grass, everyone went back to their watch. Emily and Alice stood, side by side, each looking at a different section of treeline. Emily had the left treeline; it was…a bunch of trees, a fence, and the houses behind the school. The fence shook. The fence shook and so did some ferns at the base of the trees. Out of them poked a dark snout and two orange-yellow eyes…

“There it -” Emily whispered to Alice, but Summer was screaming.

“There’s the boy. The boy in the white jumpsuit. Tracksuit, whatever. It’s the boy.”

Emily looked that way, and there he was, walking steadily up the path at a high clip; she turned back to the trees, and the dog was running forward, running towards Emily, who balled up her fists and let her fingernails extend into claws, felt the sharp bone cut into her palm, little stinging cuts and pains, she opened her fist, claws wide -

“Freki!” The boy cried, and the dog rushed over to his feet and sat there. The boy smirked. “Good evening, ladies…I think?”

“Who are you?” Summer asked.

“My name’s Devin. I’m of your blood,” he said, and from here, Emily could clearly see the spikes in the dark-furred dog’s neck; see the rusty trails of dried blood in its fur. “Or…close enough.”

“You’re a werewolf. We get it. You have a weird dog that pulls people into a ditch and eats them.”

“No, it pulls people into the ditch for…” Devin pet the hound. “‘Dog’? It’s a werewolf as well, you know. It’s blessed by our Father.”

“Blessed?” Claire asked incredulously.

“It wasn’t strong - it wasn’t able to transform without a moon. But Alpha blessed it. When it was under the light of the moon, a human drove in spikes and nails. It moped in pain all night, but when the moon passed, it remained in werewolf form. Eventually, it tore apart the human who created it, and became a beast.”

“That’s horrible.”

“It’s brilliant. Its body knows that if it transforms back, it will die, so it won’t trigger the process. It’s always healing -”

“- always in pain,” Alice said.

“- always healing, always knowing it shouldn’t be like this. It was the first to survive the process and stay transformed. The All-Father, Father of Wolves, blessed it, and so dubbed it Freki. The Chosen. Its human name buried, once and for all.”

The dog growled at the mention of its name.

“What are you?” Claire asked.

“I’m Devin.” He laughed joylessly. “What more do you want?”

“You’re part of some stupid cult,” Emily answered, “you and a dozen other losers living in a bus.”

“A bus?” Devin shook his head. “Man. Freki, kill the ones in the tunnel.”

-------------------------------------------------

The second prisoner was someone Laura didn’t recognize, a man in cycling gear. She pulled him out of the tunnel, step by step; he was heavier, and his head kept bouncing towards every. Single. Big. Rock.

She emerged from the tunnel. Leaned the cyclist against the wall. Heard voices.

Black snout, orange eyes, snapping yellow teeth, jagged, rotten, in her face.

In her face. Jumping over the edge of the ditch. Bracing itself on the rocks. Snarling. She crawled backwards, back into the tunnel, no, up, I should go up -

It lunged, claws up, smelling of blood, sweat, and mud, tackled her, her body bouncing against rocks, flecks of muddy water splashing into the creature’s open mouth, snarling, its eyes hungry, she kicked around for its leg, hit air, hit air, smashed into the right leg, its grimace didn’t change, its grimace of pain and rage, and -

A flash of red and brown. Another werewolf. Jessie, growling deeply as they tackled the dog in the side, knocked against the edge of the ditch. Jessie landed on her paws, howled loud, rose her large paw high and swept it down, swept it across the dog’s body, leaving deep gashes, slammed it into its head -

Laura looked up over the edge of the ditch. Saw Summer holding on to the boy in white. “No, you aren’t getting away, no -”

He was changing too. His head changed swiftly into a wolf, he ran and leapt over the ditch and landed on four paws, fully transformed into a werewolf who snarled in Jessie’s face. Snarled again, its mouth a wide, smarmy grin, a hacking laugh from in his throat, a vain attempt to make his body laugh, he opened his jaw to snarl again -

Jessie grabbed his bottom jaw with both paws and ripped it off.

“Jesus!” Laura screamed, and the boy stumbled, blood dripping in a thick waterfall onto the grass, he turned and bounded off into the trees, a dark trail of blood in his wake; the dog jumped out of the ditch, and hastened down its master’s bloody trail.

Jessie looked back at the group, and ran off down the bike path, the boy’s lupine jaw lying in a pool of blood and muddy water at the bottom of the ditch.

Laura caught her breath, and went back into the tunnel to pull out the final shape. They, too, were alive but asleep, and with their kidnapper’s JAW LYING IN THE DITCH JESUS Laura and Gef dragged them out at a leisurely pace. When they emerged into the air, Laura let her eyes return to their human state, and when she could see normally the first thing she saw was her red hair, her pale face, her dark goggles, and she said -

“Melissa?”

[menuandprice]

Lava Rock Bar & Grill – Kihei, Maui, HI

Happy Hour at Lava Rock Bar & Grill – Kihei, HI

Updated 2/19/2023 by the Maui Happy Hours team

Happy Hour at Lava Rock in Kihei, Maui 3pm-6pm Daily

- $3 Beer Special (Bartender’s Choice) - $5 Mai Tai, Margarita, Mimosa, Well Liquor, Draft Beer - 50% off Appetizers

Lava Rock Mimosa Brunch Special

- $3 Mimosas every day until 2pm with food purchase ——————————

Address, Phone, and Website

Address: 1945 S Kihei Rd Suite H, Kihei, HI 96753 Phone:  (808) 727-2521 Website

About Lava Rock Bar & Grill

Lava Rock Bar & Grill is a casual restaurant that specializes in American Cuisine with global influences ranging from Argentina to Hawaii. Whether you’re craving a poke bowl or a steak slathered in chimichurri sauce, Lava Rock has it all. As soon as you step inside you are greeted with the Lava Rock Beer Tower with 16 different beers on tap. The bar features two quad-screen 110″ displays and sixteen 55″ screens to watch your favorite games including NFL football, or you can enjoy a game of pool in the billiards room. Are you looking for dinner with a view? It doesn’t get much better than enjoying your delicious meal while watching one of Maui’s beautiful sunsets. Our beautiful patio offers tables for your romantic anniversary dinner to your large family gatherings. Lava RockBar & Grill serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner and has nightlife events with DJ’s, dancing, and theme parties.

According to these Lava Rock Bar & Grill patrons

“Awesome happy hour! Bartender was great. Appetizers and fish tacos were delicious.” Greg W., February 2023 “While not right on the water, this place has a nice view from the deck. My friend and I got a seat right on the view side and got to see a gorgeous sunset. I got the poke nachos, and they were really good.” Elsie G., February 2023 “Food is AMAZING. We came two days in a row for breakfast lunch and dinner. We had Joseph for breakfast and he was incredible. He suggested great drinks and food for us. We had Destiny the next day and she was also a gem. And of course Joseph still took care of us even though he wasn’t our server. 10/10 recommend. Will be suggesting this place to all of our friends.” Courtney P., February 2023 “Love Lava! My husband and I spent our honeymoon in Kihei and were looking for a nice breakfast spot to start our mornings. So happy we stumbled upon Lava. $2 mimosas until 2PM and awesome food (Sunrise Burger if you need some help in the morning!) Staff is fun, attentive, and accommodating.” Brianna R., October 2022 “$2 mimosa’s with food! This is the best breakfast spot on Maui with the best breakfast happy hour! We originally were going to another breakfast spot near by but they had a very long line. Lava rock bar & grill was just opening at 8am and we were the second people in line, we were seated right away and the service was quick and friendly. We only got breakfast here, but it was so good that we came back two more times for breakfast! The staff and locals here are awesome, we made friends with one of the regulars and had a great time talking with the staff as well, an amazing group of people.” Miranda S., October 2022 “We went to the Lava Rock during our Honeymoon and we were incredibly impressed by the ambiance and food! When you walk in it feels like any other sports bar in America, but once you get to the outdoor seating that overlooks the beach in Kihei and get a taste of their food, it supersedes most of the restaurants we visited in Maui! Great food! Great service! Great prices! Had the fish tacos and the teriyaki bowl! Also who doesn’t love mimosas for $2 before 2:00 pm every day! Thanks for a great meal!” Khala, November 2021 “On our 10 day vacation in Maui during October 2021, we dined at this restaurant 3 times, once for breakfast and twice for dinner. When we went for breakfast, we were surprised that we we could get seated immediately at an ocean view table. The first time we ate dinner there, we didn’t have reservations and had to wait in line. We did get seated at the bar and had excellent service. We made reservations the second time we went for dinner and got seated immediately at an ocean view table. We were impressed with the view, food and service each time we were there. We would go there again when in Maui.” Nancy L., November 2021 “Tyler was fantastic! He took great care of us on our honeymoon. Food was amazing too. The Hawaiian eggs Benedict was delicious. Hands down would come here again.” Jake L., November 2021 “I prefer this place for breakfast than any other. Food is plentiful, affordable, and not a bunch of annoying tourists in the AM. And the staff is sooooooo nice I even made friends with one of them and told me of some good local spots.” Akemi F., October 2021 “We went to Lava Rock several times during our 5 day stay on Maui. We loved everything we ate and drank there. Our first experience was walking past a huge line for breakfast at another cafe in front of this place to sit down and be amazed with the bloody Mary’s and food at Lava Rock. You can also get $2 mimosas! The view from the balcony is great as well. Highly recommend this place while staying in Kihei!” Sunny T., September 2021 Happy Hour at Lava Rock Bar & Grill Maui is 3pm-6pm daily featuring discounted beer, cocktails, well drinks, appetizers, and burgers.

Want to make a comment or ask a question? Are you a fan of Lava Rock Maui? Tell us in the comments below.

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The post Lava Rock Bar & Grill – Kihei, Maui, HI appeared first on Maui Happy Hours. Read the full article

[crysalita]

Left Behind

Bo Sinclair x Reader

Word Count: 2439

Warnings: Suicide mentioned when Bo is telling the story about Trudy.

I had to admit that I never actually wanted to be here, on a road trip that is, but somehow I had managed to find myself getting an invite from Carly, who claimed there needed to be more girls. I reluctantly agreed to tag along, and so far I was regretting that poorly made decision.

I was a third wheel as I lagged behind Carly and Wade. I felt as if all I had done so far since we arrived in this town was either roll my eyes or sigh at their constant flirting. If I had of known that this is what my day was going to consist of then I would have said no in a heartbeat.

The small town we had arrived in gave me strange vibes, whether it was because the town was oddly empty even though we could hear chatter, or whether it was because of the two men that we had come across.

Bo, the man that works at the gas station, spent most of the time eyeing me down after the run in at the church, I didn’t know how to feel about it.

“So, Y/n. What did you think about Bo? He seems to have taken quite an interest in you.” Carly teased, nudging my shoulder.

We were in the gas station looking for whatever part that Wade needed.

“Don’t be stupid, he was just being friendly.” I scowled.

“Coming from a guys perspective, he definitely finds you hot.” Wade spoke up.

I sent him a glare. “Just look for that part.”

“He’s got everything, but a 15 inch. I’ll just have to use a 16 inch.” Wade grabbed a hold of the strap that he needed, but we were startled when we heard another voice.

“Are you planning on stealing that?” When I turned around, I was met with Bo leaning against the door frame, still in his suit and tie. I had to admit that the suit did look good on him.

“No, we just didn’t know how much longer you were gonna be, and you know, we didn’t wanna interrupt again.” Wade rushed out. “But I left you some money on the counter, but you don’t even really have the right size. You don’t have any 15 inches.”

“I do at the house.” Bo replied, not looking in the slightest bit like he was convinced by Wade’s constant stuttering, I couldn’t blame him though, Wade made us look more suspicious than we actually were.

“Look, I hope you’re not getting the wrong idea that we’re in here.” Carly attempted to ease the tension.

“Yeah, we already feel bad enough after interrupting the first time, we just didn’t want to do it again.” I smiled politely. In return, Bo sent me one of his own smiles and gestured for us to come out of the shed.

“No worries. That was in the past. We can move on from that.” Bo replied as he held the door open for us.

“You keep fan belts at your house?” Wade asked.

“I get things delivered there when I’m not here. Look, if you want to hold onto the 16, that’s fine by me.” Bo was looking more agitated by the minute.

“No, it’s okay.”

Bo led us outside of the gas station and we began our journey to the house that Bo lived at. My legs were already tired enough as it was from all the walking we had done, and I honestly wasn’t trying to do anymore.

“So, is it too late to sign Carly up for that beauty pageant?” Wade asked with a smirk on his face.

“Now unfortunately it is, well at least for you-” Bo turned and nodded in my direction. “-Because you have won, hands down.” I blushed slightly at his comment but shook it off quickly as I looked away.

“Thank you.” I mumbled. My gaze landed on Carly who was giving me a smug smile to which I rolled my eyes at.

“That house of Wax is pretty cool.” Wade changed the subject. This caught Bo’s attention.

“You went inside?”

“Yeah, it was unlocked.”

“I did try to tell them they shouldn’t, but they both happen to be very stubborn.” I didn’t dare step foot into the House of Wax. Knowing myself I would probably end up ruining the art in there, and I would never forgive myself if I destroyed someone’s art that they, more than likely, spent hours trying to create. I did manage to get quick look inside when Carly and Wade entered, and it truly was amazing.

“Everything seems to be unlocked ‘round here, don’t it? Thank you for having respect.” I was rewarded with another one of his smiles that really did compliment his face, although he did use quite an odd choice of words as it made him seem all the creepier.

I shared a look between the other two, who were also very creeped out.

“I did get a look inside though, when they opened the door that is, and the wax sculptures are amazing.” I complimented. I was a bit bummed out that I couldn’t see the artwork up close to see their full detail, but my conscious got to the best of me and now I was glad that I didn’t go in.

“Yeah, people used to come and see it from miles away. Trudy was the main artist.” I could imagine the amount of people that I wanted to see it, but for some reason there wasn’t any.

“What about Vincent?” Carly questioned. “I saw his name on a lot of the work.”

“One of Trudy’s boys.”

“That family must be very talented. Are any of them still around? I would love to meet them, and maybe they could help me out with some of my own art.” I commented.

“Oh- no. It’s a horrible story. Trudy’s husband, Doctor Sinclair, he was a doctor. He got his licence revoked for doing surgery’s on the side, you know, stuff that most doctors wouldn’t do. So, he moved him and Trudy out here to Ambrose, made a fresh start in medical practise and Trudy found her calm with the whole wax sculpture thing.” Bo explained as we walked past the House of Wax. “It was her dream to do something incredible here. Then she had a couple of kids-”

“What’s so horrible about that?”

“Trudy got a cyst in her brain, she just started rottin’ away.” My eyes widened as Bo continued the story. It was really starting to take a dark turn. “Couldn’t work no more, she went crazy, and it got so bad, that Doctor Sinclair had to strap her up to the bed. The whole town could hear her screaming from the house. And Doctor Sinclair was so depressed that he couldn’t save her he-” Bo creates a gun with his fingers and pretends to shoot himself in the head. “Blew his head right off.”

“That’s horrible.” I mumbled.

By now we were approaching the last house on the road, meaning this was where Bo was staying. The sky was getting darker and darker by the minute, making the situation all the more terrifying.

“Hey, uh, why don’t you three hop in, and I’ll go get that fanbelt for ya’” Bo opened the door to his car and gestured for us to hop in.

“No, we actually have some friends picking us up where the roads washed out.” Carly interrupted.

“I’ll give ya’ a lift there. It’s the least I could do then for making ya’ll wait.” Carly and I both turned to Wade who was nodding his head.

“Could I use the toilet?” I asked Bo as Carly hopped into the car.

“Yeah, of course. You said you need to use the can too, didn’t ya?” Bo faced Wade. He then proceeded to ask Carly the same question before he led us into his house.

The house was nothing less than what I expected, not that I expected much. To no surprise, it was quite messy, but I couldn’t hold that against Bo, as he most likely wasn’t expecting guests.

“So, where ya’ headed too anyway?”

“Uh, where just headed to a football game.” Wade answered.

“Bathrooms just down the hall. Let me get out of this jacket and tie, and I’ll get the fanbelt. I have another bathroom upstairs for ya’ to use.” I followed Bo up the stairs as Wade walked down the hall. I began feeling nervous as now I was left alone. “You interested in football?” Bo cocked his head to the side as he looked at me. I found myself staring a little longer than I should have, which Bo took notice of too, as his lips twitched up into a sly smirk.

“No, not really. Just here for Carly.” Bo nodded his head along with what I was saying before he popped another question, a very unexpected question.

“I take it ya’ single than?”

“What makes you think that?” I stammered.

“Well, considering those two are tied to the hip, that would most likely mean that if ya’ were seeing someone, then they’d be 'ere too.” Bo explained as he shrugged off his jacket. “And if it were me, I wouldn’t let ya’ out of my sight. Especially in a town I’ve never been in.” Bo opened a door that revealed to be the second bathroom he owned. I walked in and closed the door and instantly let out a breath I didn’t realise I was holding.

This man was making me feel all kinds of things, and I wasn’t sure if this was a good thing or a bad thing.

I did my business and exited the bathroom to see Bo waiting outside, this time he was dressed in casual clothing, and no longer rocked a suit and tie. I had to admit that this man could certainly pull off both looks.

“Did you need help getting anything? I don’t mind helping.” I offered.

“That would be nice, thank you.” I followed behind Bo, who led us into the garage that was covered in tools and what I could only assume was car parts.

“Is it always this quiet in town?” I watched as Bo gathered some things and placed them in crate he had. I wasn’t sure what I was supposed to do, so I waited where he had placed down the crate.

“Depends on the day, I guess. Sometimes it can be noisy, believe or not, and some days it’s dead silent. Today just so happens to be one of those days.” Bo mumbled.

All of a sudden the lights were cut off and everything went pitch black. I immediately put my arms out to reach for something to grab a hold of. “Bo?” I held my hand out in the direction of where Bo was last stood. “Bo? Where are you?” I felt his hand come in contact with my own.

“I’m right here, sweets.” I was thankful the lights were off so Bo couldn’t see the blush spread out across my burning face. “I don’t know what happened.” The sound of metal hitting the ground echoed throughout the garage, and then I heard the sound of the horn from outside.

“They must be waiting for us.” I muttered to no one in particular. The lights then turned on and I found myself extremely close to Bo as his chest was almost plastered to my back. “Sorry about that. That was childish.” I apologised I pulled myself away from Bo.

“Nothing to be sorry for. Ya’ get a little scared of the dark, nothing to be ashamed of.” Bo picked up the crate of tools. “I’m going to take this stuff out to the truck. Would you mind finding the wrench for me? It should be in one of the drawers over there.” Bo nodded his head in the direction of where the cupboard filled with drawers were before he exited the garage.

Everything felt scarier now that I was alone and everything around me was silent. I could hear my own breathing with how silent it was, and I hated it.

I searched through the different drawers before I found the wrench that I was looking for.

I began hearing shouting from outside and I quickly made my way outside, only to find the truck driving away and Bo standing outside, the tools scattered across the ground. “Bo, what happened?” I slowly approached Bo who was seething with anger, that was until he turned around to me. His face relaxed as he locked eyes with my own.

“Your little friends just decided to drive off with my truck. I guess they forgot that there was a third one with them.” My mood dulled at his words. How could they just leave me like that? “Hey, don’t let them get ya’ down. You don’t need 'em. Especially after the way they’ve acted today.” That didn’t change the fact that someone that I considered to be my best friend, had just left me behind to run off with her boyfriend, did I ever really mean anything to her. “Listen, I have another truck at the station, if ya’ like, we could walk down tomorrow morning and I could drive ya’ where you need to go.”

“That’d be great. Thanks.” Bo walked back inside, forgetting about the tools that were lying all around.

“You can sleep on the couch for tonight. I’ll get ya’ some blankets to keep ya’ warm. Did ya’ want something to eat?” Bo yelled out as he walked up the stairs.

“I’m good.” I called back. I sat down on the couch and stared off into nothing, this day was going horrible. I sighed as I placed my head into my hands and tiredly rubbed my eyes.

“Hey, ya’ know. I’d love to see ya’ some more. I wasn’t lying when I said ya’ were pretty. Definitely caught my eye.” Bo placed down the blankets on the end of the couch as he sat down beside me.

I found myself blushing for what felt like the millionth time today. “Really? I’d like to see you more too.” I whispered, looking everywhere but the man beside me.

Bo placed his finger on my chin and guided me to look in his direction. “Look at me when ya’ speak. I want to see ya’.”

Before I knew it, we had spent what felt like hours talking on that couch before I eventually got tired and fell asleep, and that was definitely the only good part about my day, getting to talk to Bo.

[hockeywhhores]

just friends?- m. tkachuk

Matthew Tkachuk x f!Reader

summary~ Matthew is your best friend, but you both want to be more. 

warnings~ friends to lovers, swearing, alcohol consumption, fight, implied sex 

genre~ friends to lovers, fluff with some angst 

word count~ 3.3K 

masterlist

Growing up next in the house next to the Tkacuk’s meant there were never any dull moments. You have been playing with Matthew, Brady, and Taryn since you could talk. Matthew was the one who taught you how to ice skate, Brady taught you how to understand American football, and you ended up teaching Taryn how to put on makeup.

Matthew was even there when your first date had stood you up. When he came you were so embarrassed about being stood up and wanted to leave, but he made you stay and ‘fixed’ your date. Really he just bought you some dinner, and then you guys went back to his house and watched a movie with his siblings. At night when you started overthinking about why your date had stood you up; he held you in his arms, and let you cry on his shoulder. Matthew made sure you knew it wasn’t because you were ugly, which you insisted that it was, by telling you how beautiful you looked. You wrote him off, because that’s what your best friend is supposed to say.

When Matthew was drafted, he insisted that you applied to colleges in Calgary. Just to ease his mind you applied to all different colleges around Calgary, and even got in. Matthew offered to share his apartment, but you decided to live in the dorms. You both knew that wasn’t really going to happen, and were right. You spent more time in his apartment than in your dorm. Your toothbrush was in his bathroom and your shampoo and conditioner were in his shower. You slept in the guest room, and whenever his family came to Canada you slept in his bed, with him. His parents would take the guest room.

You were just friends. You were reminded of that when girls would flirt with him in bars, and he would let them. You always pushed away every jealous thought. Matthew wasn’t yours, so that makes whoever is flirting with him not your problem. The team had no problem making little chirps at the two of you being in love, but at least they only did so when you were alone. Some random guy ended up on the stool next to you. He ordered a beer and started watching one of the TVs. “Come here often?” He asked you, as he looked back towards you.

“Do you ask every girl that?” you questioned him with a small chuckle.

“Only the pretty one’s,” He smirked at you, “My name’s Asher.” he said, extending his hand.

“y/n” you smiled at him and shook his hand. As corny as his introduction was, you couldn’t help but think he was cute. His blue eyes stood out, they weren’t like Matthew’s ,light blue eyes, they are a deep blue. His ashy brunette hair looked super soft, and fell slightly across his forehead. Asher looked tired, but interested in you.

“Well what do you do, Miss. y/n?” he asked you, his voice sounding deep.

“I’m a college student by day, and a mysterious girl that hangs out in bars by night.” You say so casually, wanting to mess with him a little bit. Purposely not telling him you were here with the few Flames’ players that were around.

“Well I think you're doing great at being the mysterious girl that hangs out in bars very well.” Asher's voice was smooth like honey. “I’m an editor for CalgarySun.” you could listen to him talk for hours.

“Wow, and I caught your eye?” you playfully asked him.

“How could you not have?” He asked you sounding serious. “Do you want another drink?” he noticed your drink was getting low.

“If you don’t mind. I would love another drink.” you smiled. You felt like an idiot with all the smiling you were doing. Asher ended up buying you two more drinks before you got a text that Matthew ordered himself an Uber and you could share with him if you wanted to. Deciding to save the money, and take a ride with him. You said goodbye to your new friend, Asher. Numbers were exchanged and with that you left.

When you got outside you found Matthew walking the girl to her Uber, but he didn’t get in with her. The girl’s Uber left with her in it, and Matthew turned around to find you watching him. He gestures for you to come stand by him, and you did.

“Why didn’t you go with her?” You were the first one to speak.

“She obviously only liked me, because she recognized me. Fucking groupie was what she was.” You heard the frustration in his voice. It struck you as odd, about how he never took girls back to his apartment. You always told him you would go back to your dorms for the night, but he refused. Those moments made you feel bad for being there all the time.

A red car pulled up to the curb, and Matthew seemed to recognize it. You heard the driver ask if he was Matthew, and when he got a ‘yes’, he unlocked the doors. Matthew opened the door for you, and you slightly crawled inside the backseat. Thankfully you were wearing jeans, so you didn’t flash anyone. The ride back was just like any other. Matthew and you would talk about little things, and when it got quiet you listened to the radio that was lightly playing in the background. It only got quiet in between new topics. But like a blink of an eye the ride was over, and you were in front of his apartment.

Matthew opened the door for you, and you both went your separate ways. You went to the bathroom to take off your makeup and he went to his bedroom to change his clothes. After you were both done you switched, and he went to the bathroom while you changed. Walking into the room you now occupy in his apartment, the first thing you noticed was the mess you had made while getting ready for a night out. You signed and started straightening up before you gave up, and just put on your pajamas, which was an old shirt Matthew gave to you and some sweatpants. You heard the TV turn on and knew Matthew wasn’t going to be going to bed anytimes soon. You decided to join him.

Matthew was watching some Avengers movie, and you just signed and laid on the couch. He let you put your legs on top of his; letting you lay down on the couch. You phone vibrated on the coffee table. The light makes it hard to ignore. It went off again, so you just got up to answer it. You smiled when you noticed that Asher had texted you. Matthew tried to pay you no mind, and continued to watch the movie he picked out, but he couldn’t stop thinking about who would be texting you at midnight on a Saturday.

Matthew knew he should make his feelings known, but there was so much going against how could you two ever work out? He got labeled a borderline dirty player, a fuckboy, and was told he didn’t know how to manage his anger, and he was okay with it. He didn’t let it bother him. But if he ever lost you, because of his stupid feelings, he would never forgive himself. You were too precious to lose, and he could never risk it, so he hid his feelings.

After the movie was over Matthew looked over and saw that you had fallen asleep with your phone next to you. He gently moved your legs, trying his hardest to not wake you up. When he successfully got up, without disturbing you, he picked you up and carried you bridal style. He quietly tucked you into your bed, and went back to the living room to grab your phone. All he was going to do was plug it in for you, but couldn't help himself when he saw that some guy named Asher had been the one texting you. Matthew felt jealous boil up inside him, but he just plugged your phone in and left. You weren’t his, and oh how he wanted that to change.

Both of you didn’t wake up until late into the afternoon, and by that time lunch was more socially acceptable than breakfast. Matthew ordered some chinese take out, to help with both your hangovers. They weren’t bad, but Chinese take could cure anything. You came out looking a slight mess, but Matthew thought you gorgeous anyway. Your hair was all knotted, your clothes were wrinkled, and you had no makeup on. If Matthew was being honest he would pick this version of you over any supermodel that DMed him.

“Good mornin’.”your raspy, just-woke-up voice rang out across the apartment. You smiled at him, and looked confused when he did answer you. All he could think of was, who was ‘Asher’ and why was he texting you last night?

“Morning. I ordered some take out.” Matthew said back to you when he came to his sinuses.

“You are my savior!” you giggled out. Before things could get too awkward there was a knock on the door.

“That’s probably it right now.” he stated as he walked to the door. It was in fact the food, and you went to grab some silverware, and plates to help out. You also made both of you water bottles. You heard Matthew say a quick ‘thank you’ before the door closed, and he held up the big paper bag of food out as a way of showing you. You giggled and took the silverware, plates, and water bottles to the coffee table. Matthew followed behind you with the food.  

“When is your next game?” you questioned him. You needed to know what night you weren’t really going to be sleeping.

“Tomorrow, we get to stay home for the next four game, I think.” Matthew got out between taking bites of the noodles he put on his plate. “What do you want to watch?” he questioned you back.

“Umm...want to watch ‘The Good Doctor’?” you threw out between your bites of chicken.

“Sounds good to me.” he smiled at you. You knew liking your best friend was cliche, but if you pretended there wasn’t anything there; there was nothing there, right?

After eating and watching hulu, you decided it would be a good idea to get some of the homework you didn’t want to actually do, done. Matthew kepting talking to you while you sat at the really dining room table, that you never actually used, typing away on your laptop. Then he would go back and continue on doing whatever he was doing. While he was sitting on the couch in the living room, you got a great view of his face. You looked at him, you mean you really looked at him. Your heart started beating a little bit faster and your cheeks got hot. When he smiled at his show, you felt yourself wanting to smile. You never realized how domesticated this really was. You never realized how you could live with him, like this, forever. You just noticed how much you were going to miss his soft singing when he was in the shower, and his little mannerisms that made your heart beat faster. How he held every door he could open for you.

You thought back to when you were stood up. You thought about how he wouldn't let you go home. How he made you stay so he could give you a ‘proper date’. How he insisted that it wasn’t because you were ugly, and you were actually the most beautiful girl he had ever seen. Did he just say that because that was what best friends said? Did he feel the same feelings towards the other, like you did?  No. There was no way he felt the same.

The lazy day ended and you both had to go back to your normal lives. Monday was upon you, and Matthew had a game, and you had class. You were dressed in black jeans, and a flames crewneck tha Matthew gave you to wear around Calgary so people knew you were on the right side of the ‘Battle of Alberta’. Matthew was gone before you had your coffee made. You saw the note he left stating that he was going to go do some laps, and hang out with the team. After your coffee was done you locked up his apartment, and left for class.

Class was boring, but you and Matthew texted so that made things better. Your plans for the night are to now attend his game, that was getting played against the Canucks. No complaints were going to be heard from you. You loved going to watch his games.

The night came quicker than expected, and you were rushing around his apartment trying to find your jersey, that of course had his last name on it, but it was nowhere to be seen. Looking at your watch you decided that if you didn’t leave now then you were never going to make it before puck drop. Last minute decision was made, and you just grabbed one of the many jerseys he had in his closet. The jersey was several sizes too big, but you didn’t mind.

Luck was on your side, because you were somehow able to make it to your seat in time before the game started. You only have to wait a minute before the lineup is being called. Matthew looked to where you always sat, with most of the wags, and smiled bigger when he saw you sitting there in his jersey. You smiled and gave him a slight wave. The game was brutal to say the least. Whenever the Flames were able to score, the Canucks scored right after them. Nevermind all the chirping going on between the two teams, especially Matthew and Jake Virtanen. They were going after each other, and no one was able to keep them apart long enough. You thought everything was going to blow over, but then the gloves were dropped. You stood up in shock, and you were also trying to get a better view. Whenever Matthew got in fights your blood ran cold, and your hands got sweaty.

The referees got everything sorted out, and they both got pentilites. The game stayed close, 3-3, and it was now going into overtime. You could tell how frustrated Matthew was. Overtime came and went, and then shootout time was up. After two misses, it was Matthew’s turn. Your hands got even more sweaty. Then in a blink-and-you’ll-miss it type of moment, Matthew scored for the Flames. You had to sit through the Canucks last shot, but thankfully Markstrom gloved it before it could go in. You could feel the energy that was put back into Saddledome.

As everyone leaves the stadium you stay in your seat, waiting for everything to clear out a little bit. When it looked clear enough you headed to the hallway where most of the wags were already there. You kept to yourself, and quietly waited for Matthew. When the team came out everyone was congratulating them. When Matthew saw you we went straight to you. You saw him a second before he was in front of you, and jumped forward engulfing Matthew in the biggest hug.

“Oh my god. You were amazing.” You smiled, so wide your cheeks hut, but he was smiling just as big. He was holding you from under your thighs, and you had your arms around his neck.

“I couldn’t have done it without you being here.” Matthew whispered in your ear. Neither of you want to let go, but you knew the guys wanted to go celebrate at some bar. So you pulled back, and you swear you saw Matthew frown, as he put you back on the ground.

Apparently the bar everyone wanted to go to was, where you went not even three days ago. Matthew bought you a shot, and you did one with him. Then he bought you one of your regular drinks. That was when you saw Asher sitting on one of the bar stools drinking a beer.

“We have got to stop meeting at this bar.” You stated when you were close enough he would be able to hear you.

“I am not going to disagree with you.” Asher tipped his beer at you and you slightly tripped your drink back at him. “Did you come in with the hockey team?” he questioned you sounding disgusted.

“Yeah. I did. Is that a problem?” you softly asked him

“I bet you’re just some groupie, who likes men that have money and a title.” He accused you. His words were slurred, and you knew he was drunk.

“What did you just say to her?” Matthew angrily spit out. ‘Oh shit’ was the only thing going through your head.

“Oh you both heard me. I saw her get into an Uber with your Saturday night. Right after she was done flirting with me and using me for drinks.” Asher spit out just as angrily but way more intoxicated.

“Both of you stop it!” you yelled out, “Well fuck. Matthew meet Asher, Asher meet Matthew, my friend.” you tried to get everything to settle down, but after you called Matthew your friend, you saw him get even more angry, if that was even possible.

“I don’t care what your relationship is to him. Why the hell did you leave flirting with a guy to get in some other guy’s Uber.” Asher was trying to dominate over you by standing tall and looking down at you. You hated this. You wish you and Matthew just went home instead of go to this stupid bar.

“Back the fuck up, Buddy.” Matthew spits out, “y/n come on. We are going home.” Matthew grabbed your arm and dragged you to his car. It wasn’t really a drag as you were willingly leaving with him, he was just holding your arm.

The car ride was completely silent, the radio not even playing, and no one wanted to speak. When you got back to his apartment was when all hell broke loose.

“So that was Asher? What an outstanding guy.” Matthew was enraged and couldn’t help with throwing out that comment.

“How the hell did you know about Asher?” you asked confused.

“I saw your phone, when I plugged it in for you, and made sure you were tucked into bed. Like a friend would do.” Matthew wrinkled his nose at you.

“Why do you care about the guys I’m texting! You can literally get any girl you want!” you protested.

“I care because I love you! Have you ever seen me take any of those girls back here? No, that's because I was trying to show you I’m not some asshole. I love you dammit.” Matthew professed everything in that one response. Everything was said, and neither of you could take it back. The pause that followed put both of you on edge.

“I love you too.” you whispered out. “I only want to be next to you, and when I’m in class I can’t wait to see you when we grab lunch together or when you hold my legs in your lap when we are watching movies. I love you. I love you so much.” your eyes were watering with all of the emotions coming out of you.  Matthew ran up and pulled up into his arms, holding you like he was at the stadium. Then he leaned in and kissed you. It felt like time stopped, everything was still, except for you and him. You couldn’t get enough of him, and he couldn’t get enough of you.

You woke up for the first time in his bed with no clothes on. Matthew was already up and was watching. His grip was firm like if he let you go, he would never see you again. Nothing felt better at that moment.

finished.

[oddsnendsfanfics]

Thankful

Genre: Fan Fiction Pairing: Henry Cavill/Reader Warnings: It’s kinda cute? Rating: G Length: Drabble Disclaimer: a strict work of fiction, I own nothing except the original characters and the plot line. In no way am I affiliated to any of it.  

A/N: In the event I took a rare request, here you go Anon. I hope you like it. 

“What's the matter, duck?” Henry gently rubbed your shoulders. Tension seeming to melt, slightly, with his touch. “You've been off the last few days, talk to me.”

A faint smile, you wave it away, leaning into his touch. “It's nothing, Hen. Nothing to worry that pretty little head of yours over.”

What were you going to tell him? Tell him that you were homesick? Like a child at summer camp, you were devastated that you weren't able to fly home to spend at least part of the holiday season with your family. It was selfish and childish, but damn it you didn't care.

This would be the first year that you didn't get at least Thanksgiving with your family. The first year, in many, where you wouldn't spend the day listening to your dad argue with the football game on the television. The first time you wouldn't be at the brightly decorated table, enjoying your mother's prize winning cornbread stuffing. You hadn't seen your parents since early January and it was beginning to weigh on you.

You weren't the only person in the world struggling with this, why should you wallow? At very least you had Henry to share your time with. Having one another was more than some people in the world had right now. Sighing, you shake your head, trying to keep the tears away.

“I have to go FaceTime mom, I told her that I'd call before they ate dinner.” You break away from Henry. Pulling your sweater tighter around your shoulders. Leaving him with a peck on the cheek, you pat Kal on the way by.

“Tell her that I said Happy Thanksgiving,” Henry frowned, his words setting in a realization.

Watching you disappear to chat with your family, Henry would give you a few minutes before casually wandering in to have a chat with his in-laws. Allowing you to catch up, gave him a few minutes to put his sudden plan into action. Enough time to send a few quick texts and order some sort of roasting bird for the following day.

Finishing his onslaught of messages and dictations, Henry glanced at Kal who was stretched out on the kitchen floor watching him intently. The big dog yawned and rested his head on his paws. “I know bear, I know. Don't you worry, I'll save you some too.” He bent to scratch Kal behind the ears.

In the other room, Henry could hear the voices coming from the laptop. Your voice sounded more chipper than he'd heard in days. No doubt to the benefit of your family, not wanting them to worry or feel bad that you were on the other side of the ocean. Confident in his planning ability, Henry strode into the next room a deliriously happy smile on his own face as he greeted your parents.

Checking the time, Henry didn't want to appear rude, but he did have to sneak out to the shops before they closed. If he was going to give you a Thanksgiving. Kissing your cheek, he smiled fondly at the screen. Informing your parents that he had some errands to run, insisting that you keep talking when you asked if he wanted you to accompany him.

“Non sense, I can do this. I need to grab Kal some more food. You talk with your mum and dad. I won't be long, duck.” Another kiss on the cheek as he waves goodbye to your parents. Rising from his seat, preparing to head out in search of the perfect yam.

Whatever Henry was up to had kept him out longer than a typical run for some dog food. Sending him a text, he assured you that he would be back shortly not to worry. He wanted this to be a surprise, parading in with an arm load of groceries for a roast dinner would not be the easiest thing to hide or explain.

Giving up on Henry and whatever he was up to – no doubt after grabbing Kal's food, he went off to the gym. That would keep him out for at least a couple of hours. You opted to ready for bed, a little early, but perhaps a good night's sleep would refresh your feelings in the morning. Henry running off to whatever it was he was up to didn't help your homesick mood.

He knew that you were upset, the least he could have done was stay to comfort you. Whatever. You groan and step into the shower. Fuck it. No use in going to bed mad, when you are already this damn gloomy. Downstairs, you hear Kal whimper a few seconds after stepping into the warm stream of water. At least Henry would be home to snuggle a little before you went to sleep.

“Hey bear,” Henry greeted the dog, taking into account that you were nowhere to be seen. “Where is mum?” Listening he smiled at the sound of the shower. Perfect!

Secretly lugging groceries into the house, Henry was pleased with his accomplishments. He'd be up before you in the morning, naturally, which is when he would begin prepping the feast. Storing the last bit of his surprise, he made a cup of tea and headed upstairs.

Sitting the cup of tea on your night table, Henry waited for you to finish in the bathroom. A soft plume of steam escaping the door as you stepped out. Towel around you, ignoring his presence for the moment. A soft silence fell while you took time selecting your pyjamas. Henry sitting on the bed watching you quietly. Satisfied with the fuzzy blue pants and matching tshirt, you continue to ignore Henry walking back into the bathroom.

“Duck?” He calls after you, not wanting to push. He should have known that you'd be upset on his running out so abruptly.

“What?”

“When you're changed, I brought you some tea. Do you want to read for a bit? I can go let Kal out, then grab my book.”

“Sounds nice, Hen. I'll be here when you come up.” You call back, pulling your shirt over your head. A little annoyed but less homesick knowing that you will have Henry to keep you company.

Spending a home sick evening in bed cuddling with Henry and Kal, a cup of tea, while you and Henry fall into silence as you are each lost in the pages of your respective books isn't so bad. It's not your mother's homemade cranberry relish, but it is a pretty good way to end the day.

As predicted, Henry was awake about an hour before the sun thought to rise. Carefully slipping out of bed, making sure to tuck in the covers to keep you from growing cold he kisses your cheek and retreats downstairs. Kal hot on his heels. After a quick run around the small garden, the pair are back inside the kitchen. Henry staring at the turkey he had bought. He may have gone a little over board on the size. Surely you had a pan to fit.

Once the bird was crammed in the oven, as if by some strange magic the damn thing fit! He went to work on the next item, peeling potatoes. After that it was on to the yams and then the green beans. Henry was a confident cook, but making your grandmother's special green bean casserole was daunting. How bad could it be? He'd watched you make this at Christmas. Damn it, he should have insisted he helped you and not listened when you told him to go enjoy his brother's company.

Recipe on the counter top, he eyed Kal as if he would give some untapped wisdom. Kal yawned and licked his lips, his main concern was the bacon that would be topping the questionable squishy green strings.

“We can do this.” Henry tapped his fingers on his thigh. “We've got this.”

“Got what, Hen?” Your voice startled him. Flinching in surprise, Henry spun around to face you. “What are you doing?” Looking around the kitchen at the mess of vegetables, pots, pans, and...was that dough?

“I uh,” Henry rubbed the back of his neck, shrugging. “It was supposed to be a surprise. So, surprise! I am making you Thanksgiving dinner.”

“You're what?” Your brow furrows, pulling your dressing gown tighter around your body. “Henry, sweetheart.”

“I know that you're upset about not being able to go home. I know that it's a bit late, but...”

“Henry, Henry, Henry.” You coo shaking your head. Walking across the kitchen to where he stood, glancing at the recipe on the work top you giggle. “You're doing this for me?”

“I am,” He wraps his arm around you, drawing you close and kissing the top of your head. “Why don't you go relax, it will be a while and I will get your coffee.”

“Or,” You hug him tightly, “I can make the coffee, then we can do this together.”

“It's your surprise, though, duck.” Henry pouts and you kiss him sweetly.

“I know, but I want to help. Besides, Thanksgiving dinner is a huge undertaking. It requires at least two chefs and probably ten people to eat. Please, tell me we're having guests. I don't think we can eat an entire dinner this size.” You look at all the food he has laid around the kitchen.

“That part I have covered, my brother and his family will be here for four. As well as a few close friends. What do you say?”

“I say Happy Thanksgiving?” You giggle at the look of pride on Henry's face.

[bonshaquitalafawndreeah]

A bandwagoner’s ode to the Cubs

Let’s get one thing straight right away: I am absolutely not a sports fan. I hated sports most of my life because they made me feel excluded. I couldn’t catch or throw a ball or comprehend strategy. I was consistently picked last in gym class and then shunned by my classmates for making them lose a game of flag football. This made me a very bitter, non participatory person. I’m that basic betch who jokes about a football game interrupting the Beyoncé concert during the super bowl. I declare that I wish both teams could lose when the Bears play the Packers and I’m forced to watch. I don’t even join in at cookouts when people start playing bags. (And I’m sure by now you’re thinking, “wow, you must be fun at parties.”)

I am NOT a fan of sports, but I am a fan of the Chicago Cubs.

Or at least I’m something adjacent to being a fan. (I am somewhere in the “ballpark” if you will.) Is it fair to lump me in with people who bleed Cubbie Blue and can recite rosters from the 90’s? God no! I am a casual admirer at best and although I come from a long line of Cub fans I admittedly payed zero attention to the sport until the 2016 World Series. You could say I’m a bandwagoner but I’m even worse than that. Even after they won the first World Series in 108 years I was still not super interested in sitting through a game. It wasn’t until my husband dragged me to Wrigley under the guise of “spending a day together in the city” that I realized there’s something truly magical about the experience.

Maybe I also happened to be in a magical season of life. We were newlyweds and the World Series win coincided with our honeymoon. My husband wore a Cubs cap to every bar and restaurant and we were congratulated by every person we met. People who had never even been to Illinois were so happy and excited for us. I was buzzing with the kind of pride you feel when something newsworthy happens in your hometown.

I grew up two hours away from Chicago, but moved to the suburbs around 2016. During that chapter, it felt like the entire world was opening up for me and everything was exciting. I had just gotten the job I used to dream about and had coworkers that would quickly start to feel like family. On weekends David and I would take the train from Glen Ellyn to the city. As I sipped a coffee and watched the scenery roll by I couldn’t believe my luck. A friendless little girl from the boonies had found a little community she could thrive in, and it was all next door to one of the world’s greatest cities.

That first Cubs game felt like a fairy tale. I knew I would enjoy drinking beer and eating a hot dog, but I planned on being bored by the rest of it. I didn’t expect to immediately fall in love with the charm of Wrigleyville. Everyone in the stadium was twinkle-in-their-eyes friendly. The blooper reels were cute and funny. Anthony Rizzo stepped to the plate while “Bad Blood” by Taylor Swift blasted and won my heart forever. I developed a genuine investment in the outcome of the game and cheered and groaned with gusto. I somehow got to watch them win that day and we jumped up and down and sang “go Cubs go” as though we had accomplished something incredible. As we left our seats I was grinning from ear to ear like a little kid. We stopped for drinks at the Cubbie Bear and I told David I had just accidentally discovered my favorite thing to do in Chicago.

Over the years we went to a few more games. Sometimes we went alone. Other times we brought David’s family. Once we dragged along a good friend who was moving across the country the next day, and another who had just finished an overnight shift. Once we went in early April and it was so cold and rainy that I bought a souvenir blanket for $50. I wore it around my shoulders like a cape in every place we stopped. For the very first time, I understood why people passionately love and defend their teams.

In 2019 we didn’t go to any games because my mental health took a nosedive. I was having panic attacks daily and for whatever reason they were most severe when I was in a car, or basically any place where I couldn’t step away “if I really needed to.” I was pretty scary to be around. I spent the summer going to therapy and sitting around at home waiting to snap out of it. The thought of surviving a train ride or a day in a packed stadium made me queasy.

But I always said that the first thing I wanted to do when I started feeling better was go back to Wrigley. I knew that this extra special era for the Cubs would be short-lived. The current team was really entertaining to watch. They had star power that would be hard to replace and they probably wouldn’t stick around forever. I could never love baseball for stats and numbers and performance metrics. I loved the feeling of joy that these players brought.

At the start of 2020 I was doing so much better and was really excited to get back out there. I couldn’t wait to do all the things that I had caused us to miss. And then, as you know... the rest of 2020 happened.

Going to a game was at the top of my summer 2021 bucket list. But work, birthdays, and family kept pushing it back. We were finally supposed to go to a game in mid-July and it was rained out and rescheduled for September.

And this past weekend the entire core of the Cubs was traded away to other teams. Never in a hundred million trillion years did I expect to be the person to care about this, but I’ve been in mourning all weekend.

For this fair-weather fan, Javy, KB, And Rizzo made sports feel approachable and fun. As someone who DOES NOT SPORT at all, I never believed that I deserved a place in that world, but I felt welcome in the little world they created. The absence of their personalities is going to hurt. A big part of me wonders If I’m better off leaving Wrigley behind me, a rose colored memory of being young and happy in my favorite city and believing that magical things can last forever.

I’m sure we’ll go back for a game again some day. But who knows who will be on the roster then? Or if we’ll have a baby in tow. It’ll be a far cry from stacking towers out of our empty beer cups, swooning over Kris Bryant, and knowing that you have all the time in the world to recreate the fun again and again.

So to wrap this thing up in a way that makes it all about meeeeeee...

The disbanding of this group feels deeply personal. Like I’m leaving behind a slightly more innocent chapter, where I could believe my city and my team were the very best and always would be. And just as they’re moving on to new and necessary adventures, my next chapter will likely be something much more realistic and adult.

But it was sure fun while it lasted.

[tcm]

The Forgotten Screen Team: Fred MacMurray and Claudette Colbert By Jessica Pickens

Fred MacMurray attributed his film success to Claudette Colbert. Before MacMurray became a beloved father figure in 1960s Disney films or on TV’s My Three Sons, he was a romantic leading man from the 1930s and ‘50s. Seven of those films co-starred Colbert from 1935 to 1949. The screen team was born when MacMurray was cast in his first major film, THE GILDED LILY (’35). It was only MacMurray’s second credited film role, and he landed the role for an unusual skill: his ability to naturally talk while simultaneously eating popcorn. 

Actor Charlie Ruggles tipped off his brother, director Wesley Ruggles, to a handsome new actor that he should consider for his new film, THE GILDED LILY. Wesley screened MacMurray’s first credited role in GRAND OLD GIRL (‘35) and spotted him eating popcorn casually at a football game. It was important for the male lead of THE GILDED LILY to be able to eat popcorn with casual skill due to a scene where the two leads sit on a park bench as pals and discuss mundane topics like peanuts vs. popcorn. As they talk, MacMurray tosses kernels into his mouth. Since Colbert had approval of her leading men, she agreed with casting MacMurray and went to bat for him against the Paramount studio heads, as noted by MacMurray’s biographer Charles Tranberg. 

The film follows two friends, a reporter, Peter (MacMurray), and a stenographer, Marilyn (Colbert). They meet on a New York City park bench and discuss life and then go their separate ways. On the subway, Marilyn meets and falls in love with wealthy Lord Granton (Ray Milland), but she is jilted when he sails home to England to marry. Peter writes an article about the romance and creates a media heyday. He calls Marilyn the “No Girl” saying she turned down Lord Granton’s marriage proposal. Marilyn becomes internationally famous and cashes in on the fame by becoming a nightclub performer. Landing the acting job was the easiest part of THE GILDED LILY for MacMurray. Shocked to be selected since he felt that he was a nobody, MacMurray was green and a nervous wreck. Later he called himself “a basket case,” and upon arriving for his first day on set, MacMurray said he “felt all empty and hollow inside and weak in the knees. I felt drained. My mouth was dry and I was hyperventilating. I practically collapsed.” But Claudette Colbert immediately helped to put her new co-star at ease, thus starting their partnership. “When Claudette saw me standing there petrified, she put her hand on my arm and with a grin on her face quietly said, ‘Now what are you so frightened about?’” MacMurray later said. The love scenes in particular brought on anxiety as MacMurray tried to kiss Colbert in front of a large crew. “Claudette rumpled my hair and kidded me, and finally I made it,” he later said. 

THE GILDED LILY made MacMurray a star and birthed a screen team. Because of the success of the film, Colbert and MacMurray were cast in another picture together in 1935, and several others over the next 14 years, including: THE BRIDE COMES HOME (’35), MAID OF SALEM (’37), NO TIME FOR LOVE (’43), PRACTICALLY YOURS (’44), THE EGG AND I (’47) and FAMILY HONEYMOON (’48). As his career progressed, MacMurray gave Colbert credit not only for boosting his confidence, but MacMurray said that he learned more from Colbert than he did on any other film, according to Colbert’s biographer Lawrence J. Quirk. Quirk noted that part of the secret to their successful chemistry was their differences. Colbert was the pinnacle of glamour and — in contrast — MacMurray was the casual everyman who may live next door. On the sets of their films, cast and crew could see the chemical reaction that resulted in their on-screen magic. Robert Young, who co-starred with the pair in THE BRIDE COMES HOME, said that you could immediately see they were “simpatico” and “egged each other on” to give their best. “I’ve seen them take a situation that seemed intrinsically lifeless to me … and bring it stingingly, charmingly, excitingly to life,” Young said in Colbert’s biography. “And sometimes, they’d do bits of business that didn’t look like any great shakes to me at the time from my vantage on set, but that came out extraordinarily well during the rushes.” 

On their films NO TIME FOR LOVE and PRACTICALLY YOURS, director Mitchell Leisen watched the two as they planned their scenes before filming. “Many times when I was setting up the next scene, they’d go off in a corner and work it up themselves. They’d show me how they wanted to do it and it would be just right. I might edit it a bit, but they were talented natural performers, and I wanted them to do it in a way that was comfortable for them.” 

However, all good things have to end, even with a popular screen team. Colbert and MacMurray’s last two films together were not as satisfactory for the pair. Colbert’s last moneymaker was THE EGG AND I. Later, Colbert said she did the best she could with the film and “Fred was a big help with it—as always,” according to Quirk. On their last film together, FAMILY HONEYMOON, the two knew it was time to call it quits. “We had been getting together for 14 years and by 1949, Claudette knew as well as I did that things run their good and proper course and then they are simply over,” MacMurray later stated. “We had a long run, a rewarding one, and there are no complaints to offer in retrospect.”