#we all just need our own arlo

[harrysfolklore]

matchmaker - op81

summary: oscar finds a puppy wandering around the streets of monaco that leads him to meet his lucky charm

folkie radio: AN OSCAR FIC FINALLY OMG!!!! i have to say thank you to @cambrayficsrecs for sending this idea !! i LOVED IT and i hope you like this

MASTERLIST | MY PATREON

liked by alexandrasaintmleux, yourbff and 209 others

yourinstagram meet the newest monaco resident: arlo 🤍 swipe to see the goodest boy helping me settle in my new home 🐾

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yourbff HE'S PERFECT!! miss you already but so happy for you 😭

username1 the cutest addition to monaco!!

username2 remember when you said you'd never get a dog? 😂

alexandrasaintmleux my new favorite neighbor!!! can't wait for our puppy playdates 🤍

↳ yourinstagram arlo and leo are going to be bffs 🥹🥹

username3 told you moving to monaco was the best decision

username4 i'm visiting asap just to meet this angel

yourbff2 can't believe my best friend lives in monaco now

username5 you're living the dream with the goodest boy!

username6 look at that face!! when can i visit?

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texts between alex and yn

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liked by landonorris, charles_leclerc and 583,827 others

oscarpiastri Enjoyed being a temporary dog dad today 🐾 glad this good boy made it back home safe! might have to get one of my own now...

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username1 MY HEARTTT

username2 OSCAR YOU CAN’T DO THIS

maxverstappen1 Don't let lando see this

↳ landonorris too late. getting a dog.

mclaren Best teammate and dog sitter 🧡

username3 OSCAR WITH A PUPPY THIS IS NOT A DRILL

username4 the wholesome content we needed today

alexandrasaintmleux arlo already misses his rescuer! thanks again oscar 🤍

username5 get this man a dog asap

username6 the way he took care of a stranger's dog 🥺

username7 okay but imagine oscar with his own puppy

username8 JUST GET A DOG

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yourinstagram has added to their stories

replies:

yourbff ARLO OMG 🥺🥺 what happened to him?

↳ yourinstagram sneaky little minx disappeared from the balcony.. he’s safe tho

username1 omg poor you! good thing you found him

username2 is this knight in shinning armor who saved arlo cute?

↳ yourinstagram STOP 😭

username3 i need to visit so i can meet arlo

alexandrasaintmleux I could give you his insta… or his number 👀

↳ yourinstagram STOP IT ALEX

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texts between alex and yn

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liked by alexandrasaintmleux, oscarpiastri and 28,724 others

yourinstagram turns out the nice guy who found arlo last week also happens to be pretty good at driving cars 🏎️ congrats on p2! @/oscarpiastri

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username1 GIRL WHAT IS YOUR LIFE RN

username2 you move to monaco and suddenly you're in f1 garages???

alexandrasaintmleux told you you'd love f1 🤍

↳ yourinstagram love you !

username3 OMG OSCAR

username4 SHES THE OWNER OF THE DOG

username5 this plot twist though 👀

mclaren 🧡

username6 the way this all started because arlo escaped

charles_leclerc I won you know? 🤔

↳ yourinstagram congrats charles !

username7 YOUR LIFE IS A MOVIE

username8 the best meet cute ever??

oscarpiastri Couldn't have done it without my good luck charm 🐾

↳ yourinstagram arlo says you’re welcome!

username9 IS THIS THE OWNER??

username10 the cutest storyline of the season

username11 THE WAY HE COMMENTED

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oscarpiastri sent you a direct message

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liked by username1, username2 and 14,826 others

f1gossip Oscar Piastri spotted having coffee with the owner of the now-famous beagle puppy in Monaco this morning 👀

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username1 THE WAY THIS STORY KEEPS GETTING BETTER

username2 from rescuing her dog to coffee dates we love this journey

username3 this is better than drive to survive

username4 THEY’RE SO CLOSE HELLO

username5 this is the cutest thing ever help

username6 the fact that the dog is there too 😭

username7 someone check on lando he's losing his bachelor buddy

username8 the good luck charm strikes again

username9 living a wattpad story fr

username10 HE LOOKS SO HAPPY

liked by oscarpiastri, alexandrasaintmleux and 47,935 others

yourinstagram turns out there's more to monaco than just fancy cars 🤍

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username1 THE WAY YOU MOVED TO MONACO AND IMMEDIATELY LIVING A ROMCOM

username2 OSCAR?????

username3 arlo the ultimate wingman

username4 this storyline keeps getting better

username5 OMFG WHAT IS THIS I NEED THE CONTEXT

alexandrasaintmleux told you he was cute 😌

↳ username1 OMFG ALEX

↳ username2 i love her

↳ charles_leclerc 😂😂😂

username6 need full story time asap

username7 the way this all started because she lost her dog 😭

username8 living for this plot development

oscarpiastri arlo approved ✅

↳ username1 OSCAR STOPPPPP

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texts between oscar and yn

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liked by yourinstagram, landonorris and 986,033

oscarpiastri Great weekend with the team 🧡 Ready to head back home to Monaco though... missing my favorite good luck charm 🐾"

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username1 OSCCCC

username2 is he talking about the dog? 😭

landonorris which one? 👀

↳ oscarpiastri 🤫

↳ username1 HELLO???

↳ username3 DECODE THIS

alexandrasaintmleux someone's eager to get back 😌

↳ charles_leclerc Your matchmaking services working well

↳ username1 LET ME INNNN

georgerussell63 The power of puppy love

username3 WE ALL KNOW WHICH GOOD LUCK CHARM

username4 the way he said "home" to monaco 🥺

username5 did anyone else catch him waving to someone on facetime after the race??

username6 some of this comments saying “the dog” his name is ARLO and he’s an icon

username7 i’m going to call it right now oscar is dating the dog owner

username8 OSC 😩

yourinstagram 🤍

liked by username1, username2 and 8,739 others

f1gossipinsider Straight from Barcelona to dinner in Monaco... Oscar Piastri spotted at Le Grill with a certain someone 👀

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username1 THE WAY HE DIDN'T EVEN GO HOME FIRST

username2 man flew straight from barcelona to take her to dinner i'm crying

username3 not me zooming in to confirm it's her

username4 THATS DEFINITELY YN AND ARLO UNDER THE TABLE

username5 fastest post-race exit we've ever seen

username6 Le Grill?? Man's not playing around

username7 our favorite story continues...

username8 this man SPRINTED from the circuit

username9 the commitment >>>

username10 our boy's got his priorities straight

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liked by lilymhe, oscarpiastri and 45,099 others

yourinstagram turns out watching someone drive in circles for 2 hours isn't so bad after all 🏎️ proud of you @/oscarpiastri 🧡

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username1 OMGGGG

username2 look at little arloooo

francisca.cgomes So lovely meeting you! Welcome to the family ❤️

yourbff we have soooo much catching up to do

carmenmmundt You're a natural! Can't wait for Hungary

alexandrasaintmleux look who's becoming an f1 expert

↳ charles_leclerc Stop taking credit for this

↳ alexandrasaintmleux never 😌

↳ username1 HELLO??

username3 the WAGs adopting her immediately >>

username4 ARE THEY DATING??

username5 oh what a plot twist

username6 THIS IS GIVING ME LIFE

username7 so the key go getting an f1 driver to date you is getting a dog i see

username8 ARLO IS SO CUTE

oscarpiastri Best good luck charms ever 🤍

↳ username1 OSCAR STOP

↳ username2 i simply cannot do this

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liked by carlossainz55, yourinstagram and 1,099,832 others

oscarpiastri First Grand Prix Win. Incredible 🧡 Thank you to the two lucky charms who changed everything

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username1 IM CRYING

username2 HELLO TWO LUCKY CHARMS ??

landonorris GET IN THERE MATE!! Proud of you 🧡

alex_albon THATS MY BOY

username3 IS HE TALKING ABOUT ARLO AND YN??

username4 im actually sobbing

username5 man won his first race and chose to be THIS cute about it

username6 SOMEONE SAID HE KEPT SHOWING HER THE TROPHY

georgerussell63 CONGRATS OSCO 🙌🙌

username7 from monaco meet cute to whatever this is im crying

username8 THIS IS ADORABLE OSCAR HELLO

username9 not to be parasocial but he's so in love

username10 THE WAY ARLO WAS THERE FOR HIS WIN

yourinstagram we're incredibly proud of you 🤍

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f1gossip From first F1 win to celebration dinner - Oscar Piastri living his best life in Budapest tonight! Sources say he couldn't stop smiling and kept calling her "my girlfriend" to everyone 👀

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username1 OH MY LORD

username2 is this oscar "i don't like pda" piastri??

username3 I CANNOT BELIEVE MY EYES

username4 the way this all started bc she lost her dog...

username5 I NEED THIS TO HAPPEN TO ME

username6 this is how we find out oscar is not single anymore

username7 EVERYBODY SAY THANK YOU ARLO

username8 lord i've seen what you've done for others

username9 the best meet cute in history

username10 THAT SHOULD BE ME

liked by alexandrasaintmleux, oscarpiastri and 60,826 others

yourinstagram home sweet home with my favorite race winner (and his trophy that he definitely didn't make me pack extra carefully) 🏆✨ still pinching myself about this weekend 🧡

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username1 CRYING

username2 the way we all watched this love story unfold

username3 most precious f1 couple no debate

landonorris Mans giving away his caps now?? love's changed him

lilymhe cutest neighbors ever! dinner tomorrow? 🤍

↳ yourinstagram count on it!

username4 LOOK AT ARLOOO I CANT

username5 i can’t believe oscar has a gf now

francisca.cgomes you two are goals honestly

mclaren Our lucky charm is back home! 🧡

username6 remember when she didn't know what DRS was 😭

username7 she's literally living the dream

username8 how to go from dog mom to f1 wag: a novel

alexandrasaintmleux my biggest masterpiece 🥹

↳ charles_leclerc STOP TAKING CREDIT

↳ alexandrasaintmleux NEVER

↳ yourinstagram arlo was the real matchmaker

username9 HOW DO I GET THIS LIFE

username10 they’re so in love i can’t

oscarpiastri My two favorite things in monaco ❤️

↳ yourinstagram three* don't forget the trophy

↳ oscarpiastri Trophy’s just a bonus 😘

liked by yourinstagram, landonorris and 1,549,022 others

oscarpiastri To the best wingman and matchmaker in F1 - thanks for running away that day in Monaco. Changed my whole life 🐾❤️ (YN says I need to stop spoiling him but look at that face)

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username1 IM FULL PN SOBBING NOW

username2 ARLOOOOO🥹🥹🥹

alex_albon most successful matchmaker in monaco

mclaren Our honorary team member 🧡

username3 i love one fairytale love story

alexandrasaintmleux YOU’RE ALL WELCOME

↳ username1 alex 😭😭

↳ charles_leclerc you're still not getting credit for this

↳ oscarpiastri It was all Arlo

username4 HE CALLED HIM HIS WINGMAN 😭

username5 from runaway dog to f1 power couple

username6 netflix writing this down rn

username7 cupid who? we only know arlo

nicolepiastri ❤️

username8 most iconic f1 meet cute ever

username9 the real mvp of the season

username10 OSCAR DOG DAD

yourinstagram our matchmaker 🤍

[jessicaloons]

Chapter 45:

Just breathe, just relax, it’ll be OK

Masterlist - Previous - Next

I woke up to soft barks and whines, Arlo gently letting us know that it was time for his morning walk.

"Charles… Charles…" I mumbled, pulling the sheets over my head "Arlo…"

"He’s your baby…" he groaned turning away and I hit him with a pillow "Our baby… fine…"

"He needs to go on a walk…"

"It’s too early…" Charles whined and I huffed, getting up slowly.

"It’s your week…" I pulled the blanket away and he covered his eyes with his arm "But because you won yesterday I’ll go. This one time." I scrambled out of bed, pulling on some shorts and a hoodie.

"You could just go on the terrace with him… for once…"

"That was just for his training! We’re not taking steps backwards!" I shook my head and slipped on some socks, then opened Arlo’s crate "Good morning little one. You’re a good boy, waiting here patiently for your irresponsible, hungover dad without throwing a massive tantrum…"

"Oh wow… not throwing shade at all." Charles mumbled and sat up slowly, wiping his eyes "I’m awake now… you can go back to bed."

"No, it’s fine, I’ll go." I grabbed Arlo’s harness and leash and walked around the bed "You look… horrible. Sleep." I kissed Charles’ cheek and left our bedroom together with Arlo. I put on the harness and the leash, slipped into my sneakers and grabbed Charles’ RayBan from the kitchen island "Let’s go, little one."

It was a warm, sunny day. A buzzing atmosphere in the air. People we passed talking about how amazing the race was, how Charles won his home GP for the second time, how proud they were on their hometown hero.

"Lizzie?" someone said behind me and I turned around, spotting a very sweaty Max "You’re awake quite early?"

"Me? Look at you! You look like you ran a half marathon…" I looked him once over.

"Almost, yeah." he chuckled and then kneeled down to give Arlo some head scratches "I mean, I didn’t have much to celebrate last night, so yeah…" he winked and I laughed.

"Oh no, poor Maxie…" I joked.

"Need to get used to it again, you know." Max shrugged his shoulders a little, a smile on his lips, as he continued scratching Arlo‘s head.

"I’m sure you’ll have plenty of opportunities this season." I laughed and he got up, lightly punching my upper arm.

"Look who‘s getting all cocky." he said and this time I shrugged my shoulders "Honestly, I’m happy that Charles finally has the car and the team around him to fight me. You can’t be the best if you’re not fighting the best."

"Such wise words from you."

"I’m not getting younger, you know." he glanced behind me and I heard the hectic voices of some fans, turning around.

"Looks like you’ve been spotted. Go on, I gotta go anyways, we’re having some busy days ahead."

"Tell Charles congrats again, and I’ll see you guys in Montreal I guess?" Max waved and walked towards the fans.

"Yep, see you then." I walked in the opposite direction, back home. Arlo happily running in front of me, all the way back to our building. I unlocked the front door and got hit with a delicious smell.

"It smells amazing, you made breakfast?" I slipped off my shoes and unbuckled Arlo’s leash.

"Just some eggs on bread, I’m not a complete lost cause, okay?" Charles laughed, bending down, feeding Arlo a piece of cheese "Good morning little one." he patted his head and then got up, grabbing me by the waist, pulling me close "Good morning my gorgeous girl." he kissed me gently, deepening the kiss as soon as I put my hands around his neck, pulling him closer "I must say… my hoodie, my glasses… it all looks way better on you than on me."

"That’s because some of the stuff you own looks horrible… sorry…" I whispered against his pouty lips "I like the simple Charles, Jeans and T-Shirt… not these weird oversized, crazy pattern clothes you sometimes put on."

"I’m experimenting…" he sighed and I kissed the tip of his nose.

"I know. But most of the time… it should stay inside your closet…" I chuckled and his grip on my waist tightened a little, as he kissed my jaw, down the column of my throat.

"Like the box with my clothes you’re hiding in your closet?" he whispered against the sensitive spot beneath my ear and I swallowed audibly "What? You think I didn’t notice that some of my… more risky clothes were missing?" his hot breath fanned over my ear, then he kissed my cheek and I could feel the smirk on his lips.

"I’m sorry, but some of that clothes are atrocious… that blue tie dye jeans? The baby blue jacket you combined with it? Basically every single one of these pants you would fit in three times?" I bit my lip, looking down "I should’ve told you something… and not just hide your clothes… I’m really sorry."

"It’s okay… I guess Doni won’t be too happy to hear that you find most of his clothes atrocious but okay…" Charles chuckled a little, kissing my forehead "Come on, sit down. Breakfast is ready…" he pulled away and went back to the stove, plating our food.

"Are you mad at me?" I asked, sitting down and Charles raised an eyebrow "That I hid your clothes?"

"No? I mean, I know that style wise you’re more into the classics, a little sporty, simple with a touch of timeless elegance… whereas me? I don’t even know if I have a style? I guess I’m still finding mine and I know that I could need all the help that I’m getting." he laughed.

"Well for starters, wear clothes in your size and if oversized then maybe one or two sizes more… and maybe not the wild patterns you’re going for sometimes? They hurt the eyes." I shrugged a little, biting into my toast "And maybe Doni is better as just a friend… and hoodie and t-shirt provider… but not pants. Definitely not pants."

"Got it… will you help me picking out an outfit for Andrea and Simon’s engagement party then?" Charles sat down next to me and I smiled "You already did… alright." he laughed and I looked at him sheepishly.

"Sorry but I was looking for what I was wearing and so I was going through my stuff and then I saw your suits and thought about something that would match my dress…" I mumbled and he laughed.

"I’m sure whatever you picked, it will look amazing, your outfit as well as mine."

Charles POV:

I looked over the bay, watched the waves gently crashing down the shore when we were called back in and I followed Daniel who apologised himself shortly after and left. As everyone finally sat down I looked over my shoulder, waiting for Lizzie to return. I ordered a bourbon for me and a cocktail for Lizzie, then talked with the two guys on my left, some cousins of Andrea, as I felt a soft hand gently stroking my neck.

"Sorry, love. It took a little longer than expected." she said and sat down on my right.

I turned to her and she gave me a little peck on the cheek.

"It’s alright, cara mia, I had a nice little conversation with Andrea’s cousins. I don’t think they understood a lot of what I was saying, well vice versa, but I was entertained." I said and she chuckled a little right as the waitress brought us our drinks "Thank you." and with a smile she was gone.

"What are we having?" Lizzie asked and looked at the red cocktail in front of her.

"Well I picked something we might later want to try out." I whispered and scooted closer, my thigh pressing against hers.

"What are you talking about?" she said and I could hear her voice getting raspy at the contact of our thighs, I leaned in even closer. My mouth at the shell of her ear now.

"I ordered you a Sex on the Beach." and as soon as the words left my lips her eyes widened and she swallowed audibly. I smirked and gently stroked her thigh with my hand under the table, pushing up her dress. Instantly she began to blush and looked around frantically.

"What are you doing?" she whispered, breathless. My hand slipped even higher, playing with the hem of her slip and she gasped loud enough for some heads to turn. Lizzie cleared her throat and looked apologetic around, her cheeks redder than my SF-24, I chuckled and pulled her dress back in place. Then I sat up and took a swig of my Bourbon.

"You look a little flustered there?" I nonchalantly asked her and she glared at me.

"That cocktail? That’s the closest you will ever get to sex on the beach!" she whispered and with that she grabbed it and got up, walking straight to Andrea and her mother. Cheeks still bright red. Totally worth it.

"What‘s up with Lizzie?" Daniel asked as he sat down opposite of me.

"Don’t know, she has some important things to talk about with Andrea I guess." I chuckled a little and took another swig from my glass.

"Maid of honour stuff probably…" he replied and I nodded "I can’t believe it… first Julia two years ago, now Andrea… you and Lizzie next. We’re getting old."

"Seems like it…" I said, a little distracted by the way Lizzie pulled her dress back into place still.

"Oh wow, you didn’t even deny it!" Daniel looked at me with a big grin and I was confused for a moment "I said you and Lizzie will be the next to marry and you just agreed! Don’t tell me you already have a ring?"

"What? No! God! It’s just… I mean, I will marry her, there’s no doubt. She’s it for me. Always was! But there are no plans or anything! At least not for now… or the near future? Honestly I don’t know, when do you know that it’s the right time?" I said quickly and he nodded.

"I don’t know… maybe you should set up a goal, for when it’s time to propose? Something you want to achieve before you ask her to marry you?"

"Like what?"

"Winning your first title?" Daniel wiggled his eyebrows and I laughed a little.

"Yeah? With Red Bull and Max being this strong? I’d like to marry Lizzie when we’re still young…"

"Oh, we’re talking about the next wedding already?" Shima sat down next to me and I swallowed hard "Don’t worry, your secret is safe with me. When will you pop the question? And I need to see the ring first, make sure it’s perfect for Lizzie!"

"There is no concrete plan, no ring, no nothing! Just us talking about it…" I rolled my eyes a little "But rest assured, when it’s time, you’ll be the third person I’ll call…"

"Third? Third!" Shima sounded offended and I laughed "Who comes before me?"

"Well first of all, Juergen, because I will ask him for Lizzie’s hand. Then Joris obviously, maybe even before Pops because he has to give me a pep talk to talk to Pops… and then you." I explained and Shima and Daniel laughed.

"You’re so traditional, Charles. But why would you need a pep talk? Juergen loves you like a son, you have his blessings already!" Daniel chuckled and I shrugged my shoulders a little.

"I think it’s romantic…" Shima sighed a little and I smiled at her.

"I heard that a special guy we both know invited you to Montreal?" I wiggled my eyebrows and she blushed a little "You and Joris seem to get along quite well?"

"Quite well? God, she’s always talking about him…" Daniel rolled his eyes and Shima threw a napkin at him and I laughed, listening to them arguing a little. I was looking up from our table, searching the crowd for Lizzie, when I realised that she was gone.

"Excuse me for a moment." I got up, looking around "Hey Simon, have you seen Lizzie?" I asked the groom to be, but he shook his head.

"Sorry, Charles. But the last time I saw her was with Andrea and our mothers…" he nodded towards the three women, Lizzie missing.

"I’ll have a look." I walked inside of the big estate, searching for her, when I heard the faint sound of a piano, played somewhere. A soft melody that I knew all too well. I followed the music and spotted Lizzie, sitting at the piano, playing a song, singing quietly. I leaned against the doorframe, watching her play, her hands dancing across the keys, her soft voice sounded almost angelic. When she was done, she smiled a little and then turned, looking at me.

"How long were you standing there?" she asked quietly and I pushed off of the doorframe, walking towards her.

"Not long enough…" I sat down next to her, kissing her cheek "That was beautiful."

"It was okay… I’m not that good at playing… need to learn a little more." she shrugged her shoulders a little and I shook my head.

"It was amazing… and your voice?" I pulled her closer and she blushed "I wish I could listen to you sing all day long."

"Oh come on. Stop it." she rolled her eyes a little but I gently grabbed her chin with my thumb and index finger, turning her face to look at me. Her big eyes softened as soon as they met mine.

"I’m serious, cara mia. I wish you would let me record a song, so I can listen to your beautiful voice whenever I want to." I looked at her intently, watched how her cheeks turned a shade darker, a glimmer in her eyes "Maybe one day…"

"Mhhh… maybe one day…" she whispered and I pulled her closer, kissing her soft lips, hoping that maybe one day would come rather sooner than later.

I watched Lizzie climbing out of her car, she looked tense and it seemed like she was limping.

"What’s with Lizzie?" I asked Andrea who followed my look "Did she have a crash or anything?"

"Not that I know of…" he replied and I handed him my helmet, following Lizzie.

She talked with Pete, her face sweaty and she smiled when she saw me approaching.

"Hey you. Good Friday sessions." she said and I nodded slowly "What’s going on?" she asked, when she saw the slight frown on my face.

"That’s what I wanted to ask you? Are you okay? You were limping?" I asked and she looked confused for a second then she began to laugh.

"When I climbed out of the car I hit my knee against the halo. I have honestly no idea how that happened and I also hope that no one saw that, or worse filmed that because I got out of the car rather gracefully after." she scratched the back of her head and I looked at her intently, mustering her face.

"Okay?" I asked and she nodded, pointing to her right knee.

"I might have a nice bruise on my knee tomorrow." she chuckled and I took a deep breath "I’m fine. Seriously! Well not fine, because it does hurt, but it’s nothing bad, it won’t kill me." she reassured me, squeezing my arm "But now I gotta go. There is a lot to talk about for tomorrow. See you later?" she kissed my cheek when I nodded and then walked into the garage, still limping a little. I walked back to my garage, where Brian waited for me.

"Good job out there, Charles." he clapped my back and I smiled.

"Yeah you too." I said as we walked inside, ready to look through the data we collected over the day.

Inside I saw Carlos discussing with is father and cousin in Spanish. He sounded agitated and I stopped when I heard Sainz senior say Lizzie’s name. I looked at them and they stopped talking.

"Still after Lizzie’s seat, I see." I winked at them and then walked away, Andrea waiting for me "I need to learn Spanish…"

"You could just record their conversations and play them to Lizzie." he chuckled and I laughed.

"True… but seriously, I’m worried that they are so adamant about taking over Lizzie’s seat! Now that the Red Bull seat is gone? Mercedes is this close to sign Antonelli? His only options are now what? Williams? Haas? Esteban’s seat in Alpine? Audi would be the best option, that’s for sure…"

"As long as Felix is team principal and Lizzie delivers good results? And after what Sainz senior said about her? After Audi stopped their Rallye team out of nowhere and he had to look for a new team? I don’t think Audi will replace Lizzie with Carlos." Andrea reassured me and I nodded slowly.

"I hope you’re right…"

I took a deep breath and climbed out of the car. The track was bumpy and the way my car bounced over the tarmac made my back burn with raging pain. I hugged Charles. Congratulated him for his pole and then made my way back to our garage after the weighing, where JK already waited for me.

"Here." he handed me my water bottle in exchange for my helmet and I almost emptied it in one go.

"Thanks." I mumbled and followed him inside where I dropped my balaclava and when I bent down to pick it up I hissed in pain, making him turn around.

"Okay Liz, that’s it. Doctor. Now." JK looked at me pointedly and I sighed "This is going on for weeks now, no months actually. I see how you struggle sometimes. You’re in pain. Bad pain."

"It’s no-… okay, okay!" I rolled my eyes a little.

"How bad?"

"I don’t know…"

"Liz… how bad is the pain. Be honest."

"6? Maybe?" I looked down.

"I know you, when you say 6 others would say 10…" he groaned, scrolling through his phone, dialling a number "Hi, can I talk to Dr. Odell? John Knight, he knows me. Thank you…" I cocked an eyebrow and he shrugged "I know him from back home, he a-… Jack! How are you mate?"

I sat down and leaned back in the chair, closing my eyes. JK was right. The pain in my back got worse. I thought it was because I maybe wasn’t training hard enough. But no matter how much I worked out, how many exercises I did, there was still this dull pain in my lower back, sometimes worse, sometimes less. But it was there. At all times.

"Go change, I’ll talk to Pete and Felix…" JK’s voice brought me back out of my head and I blinked confused "I’ll take you to the hospital. A friend of mine will check you through and then we’ll see."

"JK tomorrow’s the race? We need to go over the strategy? Are you out of your mind?" I looked at him with big eyes.

"No. But you can’t drive like this tomorrow, so let’s check what it is and then we can come back and the team can present you the strategies and you’ll pick the one you like. Done." he walked away and then turned around "Go get changed. Chop, chop."

I groaned but ultimately did what he said, maybe he wasn’t wrong after all.

"Were there any complications after they removed the rod and screws?" Dr. Odell asked and I shook my head.

"No, the healing process was pretty quickly…"

"She had some typical swellings and bruises afterwards, but nothing out of the ordinary. We started with strengthening her spine and lower back muscles and increased the intensity slowly but steady." JK said and Dr. Odell nodded, applying pressure on my spine, making me hiss.

"Is the pain concentrated on the area where I apply pressure? Or is it a pain all around that just increases when I push in…" the doctor asked.

"Umm…" I began when JK looked at me pointedly.

"Be honest."

"It’s like a dull pain in my lower back, certain movements hurt more than others and please don’t apply any more pressure because that hurts like hell…" I sighed and he nodded.

"We make a X-ray and I also want a CT scan, then we’ll see what we’re dealing with." he got up and grabbed the phone.

"But you have an idea what it could be, right?" I looked at him.

"I have a theory. But I need to see the pictures before I can say anything…" he smiled and then left the room.

"It’s going to be okay, don’t worry!" JK tried to calm me down but I shook my head.

"What if I need a surgery? I would miss a good amount of races…" I frowned.

"Let’s just wait for what Jack will say, okay?" he patted my back and I sighed right when the door opened.

"Lizzie? Can you please put that on and then I’ll pick you up and get you to your X-ray and CT scan." a nurse walked inside, handing me a hospital gown.

"Sure." I got up and JK left the room.

I changed into the hospital gown and looked at myself in the mirror, goosebumps erupting all over my body. Too many bad memories were flooding my head when I saw how the gown clung to my body and I turned around, stepping out of the room, where the nurse stood and smiled at me.

"Ready? Alright, then let’s go…" she said and I followed her down the hall "We start with the X-Ray and then we’ll go downstairs for the CT scan. I would explain to you what’s happening but unfortunately I know that you’ve been through this all before."

"Yeah… good old memories…" I chuckled a little and she looked at me sympathetically then opened a door to her right where two other nurses and Dr. Odell were already waiting for me.

"Ready?" he asked and I nodded "Then let’s go."

"I can’t go every other week to the hospital to let them check my back!" I groaned while JK navigated the car through the traffic "I don’t have the time! Also, how am I keeping this from Charles? My family? The team?"

"You’re not keeping it from anyone? Are you serious?" he looked at me.

"How good of a doctor is your friend anyway? I want a second opinion! Taking a break? In the middle of the season?" I looked outside and JK sighed.

"Liz, he said he would suggest it, because your spine and dorsal vertebra’s that were injured from your accident are looking-…"

"I don’t care how they look. Or if they are sore, tense, whatever. As long as nothing is broken I’m good to go. Period." I crossed my arms in front of my chest and JK groaned.

"You’re so freaking stubborn! He said we should keep an eye on your back, so that’s what we’re going to do. Every two weeks you’ll get a CT scan, I want your back to be monitored. I think of new exercises to strengthen your lower back and spine." JK said and I looked at him "It’s that or I’m telling Charles and your family…"

"You wouldn’t dare!"

"Try me… I’m serious. You’ll tell Felix and Pete. They need to know it. And then we’ll monitor your back and then we’ll see how it progresses. Do I think you should tell Charles and your family? Absolutely. Is it my decision? No. Will I tell them if you’re not doing what I say? 100 %. So? Do we have a deal?" I never heard JK sound this serious and after a while I nodded.

"We have a deal…"

"Good. And now stop pouting."

I rolled my eyes again and looked outside right when I got a text from Charles.

"Great. Just great." I groaned and JK looked at me "Charles asked me if I’m okay. He heard that I’m at the hospital."

"Well… you might as well just be honest with him." he shrugged.

"Yeah sure and then from now on he’s constantly at my ass, asking me how I feel or if I’m in pain." I rolled my eyes.

"Liz, don’t take this the wrong way, but haven’t you learned anything from the whole mess with Diaz?" JK asked carefully and I swallowed hard "I’m sorry, but you were hiding everything from everyone and suffered through it all alone… and in the end it was even worse…"

"I know… it’s just-… god JK I have a feeling that Charles could really do it this season! He could win the title… he’s in such a good headspace, he’s so determined and motivated! I know that this year is his year… I don’t want him to constantly worry about me." I looked at my hands in my lap.

"I understand you, I really do. But if something happens and he finds out? Don’t you think he’ll be hurt? Mad?"

"Of course… but that’s something future me has to deal with then." I sighed.

"Very mature…" he laughed.

"Thank you." I replied, staring at my phone "Also, your friend said that it’s possible that something happens, not that it’s certain…"

"Yeah, that’s why he suggests a break and every 2 weeks a check up in the hospital."

"Yeah, yeah…" I rolled my eyes again.

"What will you tell him now?" he asked after a while.

"My knee hurt a lot and you wanted to check it through?" I suggested.

"Oh great now you’re pulling me into your lies?" JK rolled his eyes.

"Please?" I pleaded and he groaned.

"I’m not lying for you. You say what you say and I just nod."

"What if he asks you when you guys are alone? Because he will come to you and ask!"

"Then I’ll tell him that you’re fine and he doesn’t have to be worried…"

"Okay… thanks JK…"

"Yeah, yeah…"

"What happened? Ale asked me what’s going on with you and I had no idea and he told me that people spotted you at the hospital?" Charles stood in front of me, the second I walked through the door "Are you okay?" he cupped my cheek, looking me once over.

"I’m fine! It’s just my knee. JK didn’t like that it still hurts like hell and when I told him that pushing the throttle all the time was really painful he wanted a doc to have a look at it." I lied and felt bad instantly.

"And? What is it? Are you okay?" he guided me to the sofa, gently pushing me down.

"Yeah. It’s just heavily bruised. But nothing bad. The doc said I should ice it and keep it steady. Not move much and it’ll be gone soon." I smiled at him when he handed me something to drink.

"Can you drive tomorrow?" he asked and I nodded "Are you sure?" he sat down next to me, carefully lifting my leg into his lap, putting an ice pack on my knee.

"It’s literally just a bruised knee! I’m fine. But thanks for the ice pack." I kissed his cheek and he nodded slowly "Did you eat? No? Can we order something? I’m hungry."

"Sure… after you told me what’s really going on." he looked me dead in the eye and I swallowed audibly "That’s the wrong knee…" he looked down at my left leg in his lap and it dawned on me.

"Charles…" I began but he shook his head.

"Why are you doing this? Lizzie we said we’re honest after all the shit that went down with Diaz last year? And still you’re lying to me…" he sounded more frustrated than angry, more hurt than mad.

"It’s just-…" I stopped.

"It’s just what? What is going on? Is it your back? I’ve seen you struggling with it for months now?"

I closed my eyes for a moment, then took a deep breath and told him everything Dr. Odell had said earlier.

"So he suggests you take a break from racing?" Charles asked and I nodded.

"Yeah… he said I shouldn’t race until the second half of the season… and then also only if the soreness and pain is gone." I said quietly and he took my hand in his, stopping my fiddling.

"What would happen if you continue? Without taking a break?"

"He’s not sure, but one of the things that could happen is that the high force will damage my spine permanently…" I almost whispered and he stroked the back of my hand.

"What would that mean?"

"I don’t know…"

"Lizzie…" Charles looked at me pointedly.

"I might lose the ability to walk…" I sighed and his grip on my hands strengthened.

"But that’s just one possibility? Doesn’t mean it has to happen, no?" a tinge of hope in his voice.

"Yeah. It’s all hypothetical. I also want a second opinion. I’m going to ask Dr. Friese to have a look." I smiled a little and he nodded.

"First things first when we’re back home you’re calling him." Charles said and I squeezed his hand.

"First things first. Promise."

"Can you please stop looking at me?" I sighed and Charles looked away in an instant "I’m fine."

"Are you really? You struggled a little today?" he countered and I rolled my eyes.

"Yes. I’m fine."

"Cara mia, please, talk to me… what Dr. Friese said is exactly the same-…" he began and I huffed "Lizzie…"

"They said that these things might happen! Not that they definitely happen! I know my body. I’m fine. My work out routine is just a little more intense now, so yes. I struggled a little today."

"Okay. But maybe consider taking a break?"

"No! Charles, in one month we’re racing at Hockenheim! It’s my home race! I will not miss that out! Who knows when the next German GP will be?" I said, pulling my knees close to my chest.

"I understand that, I really do, but Lizzie this is about your health…" Charles sat down next to me, cupping my cheeks "I just don’t want you to be in pain constantly, okay?"

"I’m not! I can do it. I would really appreciate it if everyone would just let me do my thing." I groaned and he took a deep breath.

"You promise me that the moment you feel it’s getting worse, you’ll tell me and we go to see the doc?" he said slowly and I nodded "Okay… then I won’t talk about it anymore."

"Just like that?" I asked.

"I trust you." he stated simply and I smiled a little.

"Thank you. Really."

"As long as you’re honest with me…"

"I will be. I promise!" I kissed his cheek, feeling like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders.

I didn’t try to show it, not to Charles, JK, anyone, but I was scared. To think that continuing with racing could have major consequences was more than scary. Sure, it was just a possibility, but still, the pain I’ve felt for weeks, the throbbing in my lower back after a longer session in the car, how stiff my legs were after getting out of it. Things I didn’t talk about out of fear what they could mean.

"Are you okay?" Charles asked, studying my face "You spaced out a little…"

"Hmm? Oh yeah-… yeah, sure. I was just… umm thank you for trusting me, it means a lot, really." I said quietly, taking a big breath and smiled at him.

"You know that I always trust you, cara mia… it wasn’t always easy, but we’re getting there." he cupped my cheek, gently stroking it.

"I know, I know, but I like you said, I promise you that I’ll be honest about everything. For now, it’ll be okay, I’ll see what I’m able to do, I’ll focus on strengthening my back and then we’ll take it from there." I took his hand in mine and kissed the back of it, when Charles pulled me into him, breathing into my neck.

"The last two weeks made me age for at least 5 years." he sighed against my skin and I felt his warm breath tickling my neck.

"Oh come on!" I chuckled, combing through his hair.

"I’m serious! First that messed up Canada weekend, now you. God I need a good result tomorrow…"

"You’ll win. I have a good feeling."

"Winning in Barcelona would be nice." he said slowly and I grinned.

"In front of Sainz’ home crowd…" I winked and he nodded.

"You’re evil." he laughed, pulling me close "But I love you for that."

"Just for that?"

"No, you’re cute too…"

"Oh thanks… how very nice of you."

He got up and shrugged his shoulders a little, when his phone rang.

"That’s Silvia…" he rolled his eyes and put the phone done "She can leave a message."

"She’ll be mad." I chuckled.

"So what. She’s forcing me to all this stupid videos with Carlos. And I can’t keep on faking a smile when inside I just want to punch him."

"Ignore him. That’s what I’m doing. He won’t get my seat, the interest from Audi died down, Felix talked to the board, they are setting up a new contract for me, Valtteri will leave at the end of the season and Nico will come, Audi is happy because they have 2 German drivers. So yeah, I don’t care about him anymore."

"I know, but after everything that happened… this season can’t be over soon enough and he’s finally gone." Charles said and took of his shirt "But let’s stop talking about him or Silvia or whatever… care to join me under the shower?"

"As if I would say no to that."

"Bill McKnight, CBS. Charles, after winning in Japan, Monaco, Barcelona and last weekend in Spielberg, your closer then ever to Max, with a good result this weekend, you could take the lead in the driver standings. How do you feel, knowing that?" the reporter in the first row asked.

"Umm- yeah I mean honestly, the season started not so great for me, but we worked hard and delivered weekend after weekend, sure, some weren’t that great as well, but over all our season is really progressing in the right direction and we will work hard to get the next win this weekend." Charles answered and I smiled at him.

"Becca Reynolds, ESPN USA. Lizzie, some really observant fans noticed that you started to follow some accounts of wedding dress designers and liked some dresses. Is there anything you and Charles want to tell us?" she asked and I immediately blushed.

"Wh- what? I don’t- we don’t… no. No. There is nothing that needs to be told." I stuttered, taken aback. I wasn’t expecting a question like this and began to laugh nervously "One of my best friends is getting married and of course I help her, picking out the perfect dress." I added and I saw out of the corner of my eyes how Max was trying his best not to laugh out loud.

"If you’ll get married, I hope the whole grid will be invited?" he joked and Charles laughed.

"I see you all of you way too much already! You’re so not coming to our wedding!" he replied.

"Hey! Not fair!" Max said and I chuckled a little.

"There is no wedding or anything planned! So stop whining." I said with finality and he held up his hands.

"Okay, okay!"

"Alright, some more questions? No. Then thank you all and good luck this weekend!" Tom Clarkson ended the press conference and we left.

"So? Are there are really no wedding plans being made?" Max wiggled his eyebrows and I punched his arm "Ouch… I’m not asking again."

"Good."

"But honestly? You should do a Daniel and just get it over with in Vegas." he laughed, and I glared at him.

"What about you and Kelly? You're together even longer than Lizzie and I.." Charles threw in and Max paled visibly.

"Okay, no more wedding talks ever again." he said hastily.

"Yeah, that's what I thougt." Charles laughed and Max just shook his head, waving us off when he stepped into the Red Bull hospitality "You looked damn shocked when that reporter asked you that question.. almost terrified."

"Oh come on. I didn't look terrified! I just wasn't expecting a question like that." I defended myself but he laughed

"I'm just kidding!" he replied and pulled me to his side.

"But honestly? I would be terrified... marrying you? Like hell no." I joked and he pinched my side.

"Careful, cara mia, or there might be a ring on your finger sooner than you think."

"We'll see about that. And now I gotta go." I kissed his cheek and walked towards Julie, who waited for me.

"I think I never saw you blushing this hard." she chuckled, and I groaned

"What was that for a question!" I replied.

"I don't know, but you handled it well."

"Yeah... like a pro." I laughed and we walked inside, Arlo jumping right at me "Hey my little furball. Did you behave?"

"He behaved well as always." Julie smiled, scratching his ears.

"You're a good boy." I picked him up and plopped down on one of the sofas, right when the rest of the media team arrived and sat down as well

"So, we have some things to talk about. First things first. Your upcoming contract renewal. I know, I know, you didn't sign anything yet, but we will announce it at Hockenheim. It's your home race. It's our home race. We're having a special livery and race suit, we're also thinking to put your last name on the back and then instead of your driver number the year until when you're having a contract with us then. 2026 or 2027, I don't know all the details yet. Netflix will be with us the whole weekend, the original DTS crew as well as Elijah, his crew has priority, it's the last race they'll film. In Hockenheim you'll also have some junior drivers with you the whole Friday, to see how a race weekend in F1 works, they are all girls, it's a cooperation with the Fl Academy, Susie will be here as well. That was ist for Hockenheim. We have one team event in Spa where you have to attend, it's a sponsor dinner. But that's all. Elijah and his crew will edit the final episode and it's all shown to you then. You have the final word. He also wants to shoot one final interview with you and record some commentary and then it's done." she looked up from her tablet "Questions?"

"Don't think so." I shook my head.

"Alright, then that's it. Let the race weekend begin."

Charles POV:

"You did a good job, Charles, you-..." Bryan radioed.

"I did a shit job. That mistake cost me the win." I was frustrated.

"But you recovered well. From P13 to P2 in less than 10 laps."

"Doesn't matter. The team did a good job. The pit stop was amazing. I'm sorry for the whole team that I messed up."

"You didn't mess up. You did good out there, even if you don't think so."

"Thanks, Bryan." I sighed, parking the car next to Max, climbing out.

"Unfortunate mate, but what a comeback, well done man!" Max clapped my back.

"Thanks Max and congrats..." I said, opening my visor.

I was gutted and wasn't in the mood to celebrate with my team, but seeing them all chanting and clapping I swallowed my misery and went to them.

"Daghe Charles!"

"Good job!"

"You did good!"

"Thanks guys." was all I could say and when I walked back to get weighed

"Hey." Lizzie bumped into me, a soft smile on her lips "You made a mistake, but you recovered damn well. Please keep that in mind, okay?"

"I don't know..." I began but she looked at me pointedly

"Okay! But the mistake was stupid and shouldn't happen to me, we can all agree on that?"

"You were taking a risk, nothing wrong with that, sometimes it pays off, sometimes it doesn't."

"Yeah…" I sighed.

"Go to your interview and don’t be too hard on yourself. I’m watching your podium."

"You have to go to the media pen, cara mia." I reminded her.

"Yeah I can do that later." she kissed my cheek and pushed me towards David Coulthard.

I took a deep breath and thanked the girl who handed me the microphone and turned towards the former driver.

"Charles, congrats on P2. You’re not happy with the result, I can tell."

"Yeah, I’m never happy with a P2. Especially not when I had the pace to win."

"It was a tight battle between you and Max there, some good racing."

"It was really tight. We had a lot of pace and where at the straights quicker then the Red Bulls. Until my mistake I was in a good position to win." I said honestly.

"You recovered well from P13 back to P2."

"It was the least I could do. The team did such a good job, our strategy was on point, the pit stop was amazing. I had to fight to at least make it back on the podium for the team."

"And that you did. Well done Charles. Congrats again." Coulthard smiled at me and I nodded, giving back the microphone.

I followed George into the cool down room and sat down next to Max, wiping my face.

"Tough luck, mate." George said when the replay of my failed overtake was shown.

"I hit the kerb a little too hard… I’m just glad there was no gravel, one turn later and the race would’ve been over." I sighed.

"True. But what a comeback." he nudged my shoulder and sat down next to Max.

"The least I could do."

I watched on the screen how I overtook Lizzie and had to smile, she didn’t make it easy for me. She fought hard. But eventually I made it past her. The screen switched to the crowd under the podium and I spotted Lizzie next to Joris, right when we were called out on the podium. I heard Lizzie cheer all the way up to the platform and had to chuckle. I was so enamoured by her that I missed the champagne spraying and got soaked by Max and George.

"Hey lover boy!" Max laughed.

"Grab your champagne mate!" George continued spraying us and I grabbed my bottle and sprayed them as well.

"Look at him, he can’t see through his heart eyes…"

"The only thing he see’s is Lizzie."

"Very funny guys." I rolled my eyes playfully when we all toasted our bottles together, taking a swig from our bottles.

After the picture I looked down, Lizzie gone and Joris nodded to the left where I saw her walking off with Julie, I grabbed my trophy and walked downstairs with Max and George.

"See you later guys." I waved them off and then walked back to the garage.

I thanked my team when Bryan walked up to me clapping my back, I handed him the trophy and he looked it once over before he sat it down on the table next to him.

"Don’t be too hard on yourself, Charles. I told you to keep pushing, you pushed… it’s 50 % on me and 50 % on you." he joked and I cracked a little smile.

"You said keep pushing and not push over the limit."

"Semantics." he shrugged and I laughed "The recovery was brilliant, let’s focus on that."

"Yeah. We have to focus on Germany now. It’s been a while since we all raced there the last time." I said and he nodded.

"Just ask Lizzie for advice. I’d say she’s one of the most experienced on the grid when it comes to Hockenheim." Bryan said and I took a big swig of water.

"Yeah. She’ll be one of our main threats that’s for sure. And since Audi will bring some updates as well?"

"Be extra nice to your girlfriend then, not that she’ll kick your ass out there."

"Did you see how she fought me off today? Yeah? That’s the Lizzie I know and love, she won’t back down no matter what. Especially at home."

"Maybe she’ll win her home race just like you won yours." Bryan shrugged and I nodded.

"She will win. I know it."

Chapter 45 - it’s basically just a filler chapter, a shorter one, but I had to make a cut because next chapter we‘re racing in HOCKENHEIM - Lizzie‘s home race and let me tell you, A LOT IS GOING GO HAPPEN… 👀

Also, sorry for uploading so late, I don’t even know how it happened, but I simply forgot to do it on Sunday… I woke up last night at 3 am or so and realised that I forgot to upload 🙈 sorry!!!

Please leave a comment/ like/ reblog/ message and tell me how you liked it! I'm dying to hear your thoughts!

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Last but not least, English is not my first language and although I tried my best: please excuse any mistakes I made!

Taglist:

@silkenthusiasts @eugene-emt-roe @sunny44 @itsjustkhaos @glitterquadricorn @aundercover @kakorrhaphiphobia @alittlebitofbooksandmagic @ru-kru @shimmermotorsport @janeh22 @kahhorri @18754389 @chiliwhore @hellowgoodbye @queensassybitchsworld @harrysdimple05 @skynel09 @fangirlforever2000

All the images I’m using are from Google, Pinterest and Instagram (or self made).

[heylabodega]

The year I was 33 I sometimes got so elated that I'd walk around grinning, and I sometimes got so hopeless about the world that I couldn't sleep and then couldn't get up in the morning. I asked existential questions about my choices, my responsibilities, my abilities. I was strong and self sufficient but sometimes terribly lonely. Sometimes I felt so gloriously connected to my network of friends and fond acquaintances, and other times I felt fundamentally alone and unmoored.

The year I was 33 I started living alone for the first time, and almost couldn't bear how happy it made me. I bought seltzers and ice cream and tea and wine and beer and non alcoholic beer and I don't even like beer but if someone came over I wanted to be able to offer them a full range of cold and hot beverages. I bought a quilt on sale at Anthropologie and a vacuum that I immediately anthropomorphized and became fond of. I dutifully washed my cast iron pan and oiled it after each use and took out my trash and used the food in my fridge before it went bad.

I continued to be gobsmacked by the transferability of love, by how much I could love the not-yet-born children of my friends, but I also grew to appreciate loving their children separately from them, their own people. I hung out with Remy and missed Arlo and was enchanted by the brand new uniqueness of their personalities.

I painted so many large canvases and couldn't figure out what to do with them. Where to hang them, who to offer them to. I enjoyed the painting of them and the looking at them.

I often thought I was becoming beautiful again, but I think I didn't like a single outfit that I wore or photo taken of me.

The year I was 33, I realized that taking good care of myself is good friendship. I am here and unbitter when my friends need me, and they haven't had to worry about me for many a year. I continued to try to untangle the lessons about love and obligation and neglect that I learned from my family. I loved my family very much in our own way that's different from a lot of other families. I tried to make other people feel relaxed and appreciated in my presence.

The year I was 33 I kept getting better at my job. I kept saying things that were smart, I kept asking the right questions, I kept becoming a better writer and editor. I talked to my coworkers at WeWorks and on Zooms and at happy hours and on walks and I loved those conversations. I talked about camaraderie with my boss's boss and felt we understood each other. I got promoted and almost immediately began scheming to ask for another. I think I deserve it.

The year I was 33, we won trivia so many times, and we all kind of casually and kind of seriously acknowledged the shared intensity of our personalities and the pleasure of getting to let that out together over a table in the village, ordering appetizers and buckets of Pacifico and debating over the list round.

The year I was 33 I! had! sex! again! finally! I can still allow my body to be touched, can still muster enough energy to foster intimacy with another person.

I ate cake and drank martinis and thought, I know these things are bad for me but I'm having so much fun how could they possibly be, really? Surely this is the point. 

The year I was 33, I still couldn't shake my ambivalence about my talking. Sometimes I think it is my superpower, and sometimes I think it will be my undoing, how much I talk, how readily I fill the silence, how desperate I am to connect through disclosure. I kept trying to remember to ask more questions and I kept forgetting. I couldn't decide if other people should just speak up.

I started a marathon and didn't finish it. I started a 10k and didn't finish it. I celebrated my ability to quit when I'm not having a good time, but questioned my ability to persevere. I ran a lot and tried to eat and drink what I needed to support that, and mostly failed. I can count the number of outstanding runs I had on one hand, but they reminded me I still contain possibility. I took an iron supplement.

I drove places with my friends, called my friends' husbands 'dad' for driving us so safely and taking such good care of us. Lauren and Will and Braden and John and I dawdled all along the Acela corridor, stopping to pee, stopping to eat, driving the speed limit. I ordered a Dirty Shirley at a Red Robin off the New Jersey turnpike from the world's friendliest waiter and a life-renewing Shake Shack burger at 8:30am at a rest stop outside the city.

I went to Portland and Los Angeles and Delaware and DC, but nowhere out of the country. I moved twice. I got the hair on my bikini line removed by a laser and told everyone about how great and easy it was. I went to a gala. I wrote almost no poems but I helped write someone else's book. I took Remy to his swim lesson! I didn't, knock wood, get sick even once which I attribute to my naps, my preventative Umcka, and working from home. And of course my tremendous luck.

The year I was 33 my luck held. How long can this good luck hold?

[solarisstyles]

MS.HONEY: MS.HONEY'S BIRTHDAY

Pairing: Harry Styles x F!Reader Word Count: 2.3k+ Warnings: tooth rotting fluff!, kissing, relationship developments Summary: It takes a village to raise a special needs child. Gemma's son is growing up and starting kindergarten in the fall. Uncle Harry is struggling with not being able to spend all day, everyday, with his nephew who he's grown quite attached to. When he accompanies Gemma and Arlo on his first day of school, he meets Ms.Honey. Harry decides Kindergarten might not be so bad after all. A/N: For the sake of the story, Gemma and Harry live in the states. I know more about the school system in America than the UK so it just made sense! This story is not meant to be a 100% depiction of what a family of this dynamic is like. Harry and Gemma Styles are very real people and are only being used for fictional purposes!

*please like and reblog to help your local fic writers*

The weather was truly in your favor today. A soft breeze, bright blue sky, the birds were happily chirping and flying back and forth between the trees and your bird feeders. It was what you would describe as your idea of a perfect day. Laid out in your hammock, you had your eyes closed as you listened to the songs the birds would sing for you, and enjoyed the cool breeze against your face. The sun was starting to set and the air had that summer-like chill to it when you decided to head inside. 

Grabbing a microwavable dinner from your freezer, you popped it into the microwave to cook. While the microwave worked its magic, you grabbed your phone to see what calls or texts you’ve missed while outside today. You weren’t shocked to see a missed call from Harry along with several texts.

Harry: When were you going to tell me your birthday was next week?

Harry: If you think we aren’t doing anything to celebrate you’re crazy!

Harry: Woman, call me back so I can make birthday plans for you!!!!

You could imagine how flustered he must have been right now waiting for you to reply to him. The teasing part of you wanted to make him wait a little longer but the soft side of you that Harry occupied had you calling him back without a second thought. As if he was looking at his phone, just waiting for it to ring, he answered on the second ring.

“About damn time!” He greeted you.

It made you laugh, shaking your head fondly, “Sorry, I was laying in my hammock all afternoon and I didn’t have my phone with me.”

Harry took a moment to envision you laid out and enjoying the beautiful weather today. He wished more than anything he was there to enjoy it with you. “Fine, you’re forgiven. But next time I won’t be so nice!” he threatened.

You knew he wasn’t being serious though. You could tell by the goofy voice he put on when he said it. “So who snitched about my birthday?” you asked, curious.

“We, technically the school, but Gemma called me and told me. So let’s blame Gemma.”

“That darn Gemma.” you decided to play along.

“Right? An absolute menace to our society. She must be stopped!”

“Well you’re her brother…so wouldn't that make you just as much of a menace?”

“Do you think I’m a menace?”

“Yes.”

“WELL I NEVER.” He exclaimed, making you laugh once more. He always knew how to tickle your funny bone.

“I’m only half joking.” you promised, grabbing your food out of the microwave and stirring it up.

“Well Ms.Jokester, what do you want to do for your birthday?” He asked, making himself comfortable on his own couch while he talked to you.

“Well considering I’ll be working, nothing really.” sitting down at your dining room table, and putting him on speaker phone so she could sit comfortably and eat.

“You’re working on your birthday? That’s lame! What about next weekend then? We could do something.”

It was endearing how much he wanted to spend your birthday together, but you couldn’t ignore the knot of guilt in your stomach thinking about it. “Harry, I’m not sure if that’s a good idea.”

“I know you want to wait till after Arlo’s graduation to date and I respect that. We can hang out as friends though, right? Is that allowed?”

Thinking over his words, you felt the knot loosen in your stomach. “I guess you’re right.” you said, pushing your food around the plastic container. “I just don’t want either of us to get in trouble.”

“I know Honey. I’m sorry that it has to be like this right now. I still want to show you how special you are and celebrate your birthday. Even if that means we have to sit on opposite sides of the room to do it.”

Smiling at your food, you couldn’t help but blush, “well that’s really sweet of you.” taking a deep breath, you breathed out, “Fine, I’ll bite and let you celebrate my birthday with me.”

“A splendid choice!” Harry exclaimed. “What would the birthday girl like to do?”

You pondered the idea for a moment. What you really wanted to do might be too boring for his taste. You couldn’t think of anything else though. ��Honestly, I want to stay in. How about we get sushi, stay at mine and spend the evening watching a movie?”

Harry hummed, “If that’s what the birthday girl wants, it’s what the birthday girl gets.”

“Really? You don’t think that’s too boring?” you asked, feeling uncertain.

“Honey…” Harry softly said, “Listen, if it’s with you then I’m going to have a great time. If that’s what you want to do then I’ll do it. And if you must know, that’s my ideal type of evening. So, I’d be more than thrilled to do it with you. I promise.”

You smiled at the phone, “Thanks Harryy. You’re the best.”

“You only deserve the best. I’ll talk to you tomorrow, okay? Enjoy the rest of your relaxing evening.”

“You too.”

- - - - - - - - -

The day of your birthday was a total blurr. Even though you were working, the day flew by with flying colors. Your students brought in small hand made gifts for you that just melted your heart. You promised all of them that their work would be proudly displayed at your home to always remember them by. 

While the kids were at lunch, you had a special delivery again from Nancy. She came to your classroom with an arm full of flowers and a box of chocolate covered strawberries. “Mr.Honey has done it again.” Nancy said in a teasing tone. 

You giggled, taking the gifts from her, “He’s too good to me.” you told her.

“You’re dating right?” Nancy asked.

Setting the case down on your desk along with the box of strawberries, you sighed softly, admiring the flowers. “No, I told him we couldn’t date till Arlo graduated.”

“What?! Why?!” Nancy exclaimed, looking at you with a dumbfounded expression.

You returned the look with a confused one, “I’m not allowed to date the family of the students in my class.”

Nancy brought her palm to her face and shook her head, “Oh, Honey that’s only for parents. You won’t get in trouble if you date him.” laughing at the shocked look on your face.

“Well then, he’ll be very happy to know that.” you said, giving a shocked giggled back to her.

“Happy birthday to you.” she teasingly sang to you with a wink, walking out of the room.

You couldn’t wait to surprise Harry on Saturday with this new found information.

- - - - - - - - -

When Saturday arrived, you were up early and stress cleaning, even the parts of your home that you knew Harry wouldn’t see or care about. It had to be perfect. Nothing could go wrong. By the time midafternoon rolled around, you were collapsed on the couch, sweaty from all the cleaning you’d done. Your phone vibrated on the coffee table next to you, making you groan as you reached for it and swiped to answer the call. “Hello?” you breathed out.

Harry chuckled through the phone, “You sound like you ran a marathon.”

“I basically did. I’ve been cleaning all day.”

“Perfect, I’m gonna mess it all up now.” he teased.

“I’ll have to hurt you.” you laughed softly.

“Don’t threaten me with a good time babe.” making your heart skip a beat. “I’m getting the sushi now and going to grab a few more snacks from the store. I should be heading your way soon.”

“Good, I’m starving.” you groaned. “I’ll see you in a little bit. Drive safe.”

“Will do Honey.”

After you hung up, you had to force yourself to get off the couch and go shower. As much as you hated it at first, the hot water was welcoming to your aching back. You were super glad at this point that you decided to spend the night in. When you got out of the shower, the cool air made you feel more awake and refreshed. 

Picking out your cutest pair of pajamas, you figured you might as well stay comfy if you were gonna spend the evening watching movies. Throwing your hair into a messy bun, you gathered all the fluffy pillows off your bed and brought them to the living room.

You arranged them on the floor so the two of you could comfortably sit together. Moving the coffee table to the side, you even grabbed a few fluffy blankets to lay out and use if you wanted to.

“Ooo wine!” you hummed to yourself as the idea popped in your head. Going to the fridge to get the bottle out, you were interrupted by a knock on your door. Setting the bottle on the counter, you jogged over to the door and opened it to see Harry’s bright smile and sparkling eyes. “Happy birthday!” he cheered, walking in as you made room for him through the doorway.

A soft giggle could be heard from you as you watched him trapease his way to the living room, dumping the bags on the makeshift blanket pallet you made just moments ago. Turning to see you’d followed him, he wrapped you in a hug, picking you up and spinning you around. You couldn’t help but squeal with laughter, tucking your face into his neck as you held onto him tightly.

Gently setting you down, he leaned his forehead to your own, looking into your eyes. “I’ve missed you.” he whispered.

“I’ve missed you too.” you told him, playing with his curls gently at the nape of his neck, pressing a soft kiss to his lips, which he eagerly returned.

“How about we eat and start a movie? I’m starving.” rubbing his hands along your sides gently, rubbing just low enough to drive you crazy.

You nodded, “I like that idea.” you breathlessly said, “Let me go grab the wine from the kitchen.”

Letting you go reluctantly, you were quick to retrieve the bottle along with two wine glasses. “I hope you like red.”

“I love it.” he assured, setting out your sushi in front of you while you poured both of you a glass.

“What movie did you pick to watch first?” he asked, accepting the glass when you handed it to him. 

“Rose Red.” you proudly said, taking a sip of your wine.

Harry hummed in approval, “Stephen King. Excellent choice.”

It was indeed an excellent choice. By half way through the movie, Harry and you were cuddled together, bellies full of good food and beginning to feel a little tipsy from the wine. 

You quickly discovered with Harry that he loved to talk during films. Which was perfect since you enjoyed it as well. While he would critique the film’s small details, you would make off handed comments about the characters and how stupid some of them were. Harry was amused when you would go on a random tirade about a stupid decision one of the character’s made. “For somebody who likes this movie you sure are yelling at it a lot.” Harry noted, giggling.

“I do like it! It’s just fun to yell at it too.”

“It’s cute.” Harry mumbled, pulling you closer into him.

Looking up at him, and him looking down at you, made you not want to wait any longer. “Harry…I have something to tell you.”

“What is it?” he asked, feeling a little nervous.

“Nancy brought me the flowers and strawberries as you know. Well she asked if we were dating. I said no and she asked me why like I was crazy.” You giggled, thinking back to her facial expression. “I told her I wasn’t allowed to date my students' family and she told me that was only for parents. I wouldn’t get in trouble if I dated you.”

A giant smile creeped onto Harry’s face as he processed what you just told him. “Seriously?” he asked.

“Seriously.” you repeated, rubbing your nose against his own.

Pressing his lips against your own, the kiss quickly turned heated. He laid you back gently onto the pillows, positioning his body to hover above your own. This kiss showed you both the feelings you were holding back. Desperate to express through a simple gesture. “Be my girlfriend.” Harry mumbled against your lips.

“What?” you couldn’t help but giggle and smile, making him smile too.

“Be my girlfriend,” he repeated “Please.”

Looking up into his eyes, you could see the immense amount of adoration they held for you. “Yes.” you whispered. It felt right. It had to be right. They always say when you know, you know. And you were so sure in this moment that you knew. Harry couldn’t help but feel the same way.

With goofy smiles on your faces, the both of you started to giggle, feeling giddy and high from life and the happiness you brought each other. “This is the best birthday I’ve ever had.”

“And we haven’t even had dessert yet.” Harry said, suddenly sitting up and reaching for a bag.

Propping yourself up on your elbows, you watched as he pulled out a tray of cupcakes, holding one up and putting a candle in it, lighting it with his lighter. He turned to you and began to sing Happy Birthday. You watched with a smile on your face, sitting up fully to be closer to him. Once he finished, he held the cupcake closer to you.

Closing your eyes, you made a wish then blew out the candle. “Thank you Harry. For everything.” you said, taking the cupcake. Pulling the candle out and sucking the icing off of it, you hummed happily. 

He chuckled, grabbing his own cupcake to eat. “I’d do anything to see that sweet smile.”

If only he knew your wish was for him to make you smile for the rest of your life.

TAG LIST: @walkingintheheartbreaksatellite @justlemmeadoreyou @squirreljoe @end-of-the-earth @behindmygreyeyes @buckybarnessimpp

[braveclementine]

Back Together

Warnings: None

Copyright: I do not own any Marvel characters or locations. However, I do own my OC Elizabeth Lightwood. I do not condone any copying of this.

"Tony? Are you okay? What's going on?" You asked as you spoke into the phone.

"Yeah. I'm fine." Tony responded. "I just think we might have to push our um pretend restaurant reservation back."

"Why?" You asked in a warning tone, looking at the TV screen. Elizabeth was laying on the couch, staring at the screen with hazy eyes. She hadn't stopped crying once since she'd gotten here, the waterworks alternating on and off.

Rhodey was there, trying to help with the kids. The two older children were talking with Everleigh in hushed tones in the corner. Sam was there too, looking a little skittish of Rhodey almost, but not quite. Rhodey hadn't tried to arrest him yet at any rate.

"Just cause I'm probably uh, not gonna make it back for a while." Tony mumbled.

You closed your eyes in understanding, and also a little bit of apprehension, "Tell me you're not on that ship."

Rhodey looked over at you.

"Yeah."

"God, no. Please tell me you're not on the ship." You said, cradling Arlo in one arm as he slept there.

"Pumpkin, I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I don't know what to say."

You closed your eyes. "Just. . . God Tony please. Elizabeth just. . . I can't lose you."

The connection was getting worse with the phone. "I love you." You whispered as you heard F.R.I.D.A.Y. say, "Boss, we're losing her."

You closed your eyes, falling backwards into the couch, holding Arlo tightly to your chest. He needed to be safe. He just had to.

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Wanda was curled up under the covers of her bed, wearing Visions white shirt and a pair of his boxers. They had just finished having their nightly round of sex and he was pulling the drapes back now while she had a cup of tea.

He let out a small gasp that sounded almost as though it was in pain. Wanda looked up. "Vis? Is it the stone again?"

She slid out of bed and walked over to where he was standing. He was in his human form at the moment, the way he usually was these days. But the yellow stone glowed out on his forehead and he screwed his eyes up and clenched his teeth in real pain.

"Hey." She said, sliding her hands up on his face. His other hand came up to cup hers and he tilted his mouth so he could kiss her palm, before pulling her hand a little closer to kiss her palm again. They he placed the part he'd kissed to his forehead.

"Tell me what you feel." He asked softly.

"I just feel you." Wanda whispered back.

And he bent down to kiss her.

Later, they went walking down the street, holding hands, "So there's a ten a.m. to Glasgow which would give us more time together before you went back."

She was trying to get more time, knowing that he was alternating between staying at the Avengers Compound and sneaking to see her.

"What if I miss that train?" Vision asked in a slightly teasing tone.

"There's an eleven o'clock." She responded.

"What if I missed all the trains?" Vision asked, turning to face her at the stop. He smiled a little and then asked, "What if this time, I didn't go back?"

"But you gave Stark your word." Wanda frowned a little. As much as she wanted to spend more time with Vision, she also didn't want him to get in trouble. Even if they couldn't contain him, he would go like a normal person.

"I'd rather give it to you." Vision responded.

"Well, there are people who are expecting me too, you know?" Wanda asked quietly. Steve and Nat would often have her travel with them so that they could all stay together and all stay on the run. "We both made promises."

"Not to each other. Wanda." He placed his hands on her shoulders. She loved and hated that he seemed to tower over her, but loved it even more, "For two years, we've stolen these moments trying to see if this would work and-" He tripped over his words and then said, "You know what, I'm just going to speak for myself-"

"It works." She answered.

"It works." He echoed.

"It works." She repeated, nodding and smiling, happy. This was what she wanted all along, but wasn't sure if it was something she deserved.

"Stay." Vision whispered. "Stay with me."

When she didn't answer, he quickly backtracked, shaking his head, "Or not. If I'm overstepping-"

But Wanda walked past him, staring at the TV that was playing in the window behind them. It showed the destruction of New York, the alien spaceship that was over them. "What are they?" Wanda asked in a shaky voice.

"What the stone was warning me about." Vision answered.

They watched the news change, saw how it was reporting Tony Stark as missing. Wanda caught her breath in her throat, immediately thinking about Y/N, Everleigh, and Arlo. Vision turned to her, catching her hand, kissing the back of it. "I have to go."

"No, Vision." Wanda said, her voice still shaky, trying to become firm. "Vision, if that's true, then maybe going isn't the best idea."

"Wanda I-" He suddenly cried out in pain as a large spear was shoved through his stomach. He was lifted into the air on the end of it, shifting from his human form back to what he looked like as a robot.

"VISION!" Wanda screamed, immediately calling up her magic. Vision was flung off the end of the spike, rolling on the ground.

She was hit in the back, sent flying through a window. She leapt up on to the top and saw they had pressed some sort of blade against his stone. She sent them flying with her magic, lifting Vision into the air. She flew into the air and carried both of them over into a neighboring courtyard. She helped Vision to his feet.

"The blade." Vision panted, having trouble walking, "It stopped me from phasing." He slid down against the wall.

"Is that even possible?" Wanda asked, kneeling in front of him, hopping they couldn't find them here.

"It isn't supposed to be." Vision said. "My systems are failing." Wanda tried to heal his wound up with her magic, "I'm beginning to think, we should have stayed in bed." He suddenly pushed her out of the way, being rammed by one of the new creatures.

"VIS!"

He flew through the air, trying to fight the creature off.

"Give up the stone." He growled at him, while he could hear Wanda fighting someone else down below, "And she lives."

Anger took over, Vision wrapped his hand around the aliens throat, and pushed off from the wall he was being held against. He punched the alien and then tried to use his light beam against him. The weapon blocked it somehow, amazing alien technology. He was hit with his own light in the stomach.

The alien was upon him immediately, once again trying to take the stone out of his head. The alien turned and he heard Wanda's voice, "Hands off." She blasted him through the window and then took Vision and used her magic to fly them into the sky.

They were blasted from the air and they crashed through the glass ceiling of the train station. Vision groaned as he rolled across the floor. "Come on. Come on. Come on, you gotta get up." Wanda begged him, lifting him up by the arm. "You gotta get up. Come on. Hey." He slumped against the railing. "Hey, we have to go."

He shook his head, cupping her face. She was bleeding across her forehead. "Please. Please leave."

"You asked me to stay." She panted. "I'm staying."

"Please."

Wanda stood in front of Vision as the two aliens crashed through the ceiling. A train ran behind her and she suddenly felt a familiar presence. She turned to see a dark shadow standing on the other side of the train platform.

The female alien tossed her spear at him, which he dodged and caught at the same time, before stepping into the light.

The glorious.

The handsome.

The radiant.

STEVE ROGERS!!!!

. . .

Um, Sorry.

Captain America.

. . .

Anyways.

Wanda smiled as Sam crashed into one of them, though she hadn't remembered him being with them before. Steve threw the trident weapon to Nat, who ran behind the woman, knocking her legs out from under her while Sam fired his rockets into the male alien.

Nat threw the trident at the woman, who caught it. Steve picked up the spear, blocking the woman's kill thrust.

The three of them knocked the aliens to the ground.

"Get up." The woman growled.

"I can't." The man said.

"We don't wanna kill you, but we will." Nat said.

"You'll never get the chance again." The woman said and they were suddenly gone, a beam of blue light lifting them into the sky. The spear also left Steve's hand, even though he hadn't let go of it.

"Can you stand?" Sam asked. He seemed jittery, Wanda noticed, though he was here.

Vision was helped to his feet by Sam and Wanda, "Thank you Captain."

"Let's get you on the jet." Steve nodded.

"Now, I thought we had a deal." Nat said once they were safely on the jet, the door closing up behind them, "Stay close, check in, don't take any chances."

"I'm sorry." Wanda said, sitting next to Vision on the Quinjet. "We just wanted time."

"Where to Cap?" Sam asked.

"Home." Steve said.

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"Still no word from Vision?"

Elizabeth was hiding as she spied on the holographic meeting going on between a board of the Government and Rhodey. She knew she was probably on the wanted list too, but she wanted to hear what was going on. And besides, she didn't have anything else to do.

"Satellites lost him somewhere over Edinburgh." Rhodey said.

"On a stolen Quinjet with four of the world's most wanted criminals."

"You know they're only criminals because you've chosen to call them that, right, sir?" Rhodey asked, pointing at him.

"Go Rhodey." Elizabeth muttered under her breath.

"My God, Rhodes. Your talent for horseshit rivals my own." General Ross grumbled.

"If it weren't for those Accords, Vision would've been right here." Rhodey argued. Elizabeth finally stepped out, walking silently up to Rhodey's side. He glanced at her, but said nothing. General Ross narrowed his eyes at her, but continued to address Rhodey.

"I remember your signature on those papers, Colonel."

"That's right. And I'm pretty sure I paid for that." He was still wearing braces, which Elizabeth felt guilty for. She hadn't had much time to heal him before she had to get back to Asgard and escape the German police. She had offered to heal them again, only a few hours ago, but he said he felt better like this.

"You have second thoughts?" General Ross asked in a slightly threatening tone.

"Not anymore." Rhodey said, and looked over at the entrance way. Elizabeth looked up dully to see Steve, Natasha, Wanda, Vision, and Sam there. Sam had left to go and find them, a little help from a wizard named Wong. He quickly slipped between Steve and Nat, coming over to her side and pulling her into a hug.

She relished the hug, but turned her head so she could still see what was going on.

"Mr. Secretary." Steve greeted him. He had a beard now and his hair was more brown than blond. He looked good in his outfit, Elizabeth noticed offhandedly. It was a little tighter, darker in colour.

"You got some nerve." Holographic General Ross said, walking towards them. "I'll give you that."

Nat was blond now, a little bit on the thinner side, perhaps even a little bit more muscular. Her hair was shorter as well and she looked like an entirely new person from the last time Elizabeth had seen her- and fought her.

"You could use some of that right now." Nat responded.

"The world's on fire. And you think all is forgiven?"

Elizabeth snorted quietly.

"I'm not looking for forgiveness." Steve responded. "And I'm way past asking for permission. Earth just lost her best defender. So we're here to fight." He took a step forwards, "And if you wanna stand in our way, we'll fight you too."

"Arrest them." General Ross said and then pointed at Elizabeth, "Her too."

"All over it." Rhodey said sarcastically, hanging up on the holographic call. There was a beeping sound. "That's a court martial." Then he smiled. "It's great to see ya, Cap." He held out his hand and Steve shook it.

"You too, Rhodey."

Rhodey hugged Nat, "Hey."

Elizabeth looked over at Wanda and Vision and she pulled away from Sam. Her body started to shake and she knew she was going to cry any second now.

"You guys look like crap." Rhodey informed them.

"Well the hotels weren't exactly five star." Sam retorted, looking after Elizabeth.

"Well, I think you guys look great." Bruce said awkwardly and everyone looked over at him. He chuckled awkwardly as well, "Yeah, I'm back."

"Hi, Bruce." Nat whispered.

Elizabeth stopped near Bruce and looked at him. Tears were shining in her eyes. He gave one last awkward wave, put his arm around her, and the two of them quickly walked off.

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Steve couldn't stop looking at Elizabeth. She was in the back of the room, rocking a little girl that she called Sage in her arms. She had Loki's black hair, but Elizabeth's eyes. Actually, all of the kids except for Tove, who looked the most like her mother. Halfdan was the spitting image of his father however, even at the age of eight.

He could almost imagine Elizabeth's pain because it probably mirrored his own when he was certain he lost Bucky. It had been such a pain that had ripped through him. . . and that wasn't even for his death. But it had been bad enough Steve was certain he had died. And with Loki actually dead. . .

Y/N was there too, already dressed for battle. Tony had been missing for a while, along with Stephen- Sam's soulmate. The spider kid that had fought with them was rumored to be on the ship as well.

"So we gotta assume they're coming back, right?" Rhodey asked, looking at the hologram of the aliens that had attacked Wanda and Vision.

"And they can clearly find us." Wanda said.

"We need all hands on deck, where's Clint?" Bruce asked, looking at Natasha.

"After the whole Accords situation, he, Scott, and Y/N took a deal. It was too tough on their families. They're on house arrest."

"Whose Scott?" Bruce asked.

"Ant man." Steve answered.

"There's an Ant-man and a Spider-man?" Bruce asked. Steve felt bad for the man. He'd just lost his soulmate too and had been missing in space for two years as the Hulk only. Bruce paused for a moment and then said, "Okay, look. Thanos has the biggest army in the universe and he is not gonna stop until he gets. . . Visions stone."

"Well we have to protect it." Nat responded.

"No, we have to destroy it." Vision spoke up from where he was leaning against the window, looking out. "I've been giving a good deal of thought to this entity in my head. About its nature. But also its composition. I think if it were exposed to a sufficiently powerful energy source," He walked closer and closer to Wanda with each word, "something very similar to its own signature, perhaps, its molecular integrity could fail."

"Yeah, and you with it." Wanda whispered. "We're not having this conversation."

"Eliminating the stone is the only way to be certain that Thanos can't get it." Vision said.

"Until he gets the Time stone and reverses time to this exact moment where you destroy it and then gets it anyways." Elizabeth responded.

"That's too high a price." Wanda argued over Elizabeth.

"Only you have the power to pay it." Vision said, cupping Wanda's face. It was to intimate for Steve, his attention returning to Elizabeth. She was looking at the floor instead, tears falling down her face.

Wanda walked away from Vision and so he spoke, "Thanos threatens half the universe. One life cannot stand in the way of defeating him."

"But it should." Steve spoke up. "We don't trade lives, Vision."

"Captain, seventy years ago, you laid down your life to save how many millions of people? Tell me, why is this any different?" Vision asked.

Because Vision still had something to lose, unlike Steve. Sure, Steve could've lived out a life with Peggy, had kids, but without Bucky he wasn't sure he wanted it. He could see Bucky again.

But Vision still had Wanda. Still had a future with Wanda, if possible. If everything worked out. That was the difference.

"Because you might have a choice." Bruce spoke up before him. "Your mind is made up of a complex construct of overlays. Jarvis, Ultron, Tony, me, the Stone. All of them mixed together, all of them learning from one another."

"What are you saying?" Pietro asked at the same time Wanda said, "You're saying Vison isn't just the stone?"

"I'm saying that if we take out the stone, there's still a whole lot of Vision left." Bruce responded. "Perhaps the best parts."

"Can we do that?" Natasha and Y/N asked together.

"Not me, not here." Bruce shook his head.

"Well you better find someone and somewhere fast." Rhodey ordered. "Ross isn't just gonna let you guys have your old rooms back."

"I know somewhere." Y/N said.

[valpogossip]

VALPOGOSSIP TEACAP: JUNE 2024

You lot sure have be busy the last month. If I was of lesser mind or simply someone with something better to do, I would have resigned myself to my silence and let you all carry on. But business pays. And unfortunately for you, it's yours that pays me, and you're all not going to believe this.

A natural good citizen, Abril Valdivia out of the kindness of her heart ( or her lust ) returned a ring ( allegedly ) to one Mallory Watson. How did she get this ring? Unknown, but the two seem pretty familiar with each other and their addresses but who knows ! Maybe they're just quilting together?

Speaking of Mallory, the winter wind whispers and it all says that Wylie Henderson ( Mallory's ex? almost? unclear) has also wandered back into the Valpo region. Will there be room in their hear with all their puppets and clown memorabilia? Only time will tell.

Anayeli Chavez was seen exiting Charlie Hastings office at the university. But then again, Charlie was also seen entering and at some point exiting out of Anayeli's office too. And back and forth they go, but something tells me that they're not using office hours for their intended purpose. Does anyone else find it strange that where Rohan is Anayeli seems to be too? Interesting.

A ROUND OF APPLAUSE FOR ADEM KARTAL ! Valpo's favorite dad has finally found use for another D word ! Dating ! The word was dating you freaks. He asked the beautiful Ysla Alonso out for their first official date. We're so proud of you and can't wait to see where this goes !

Aivryn Johnston made an interesting dye job choice, but don't worry after being absolutely terrified, Dixie Harrison found it within her to help the younger one out.

According to our sources, Arlo Hwang has been spending a lot of time at the Harrison household for one Leia Munoz-Silva. Don't worry though, all that time in the bedroom and the only screams coming from there are a video game. He's not the only man coming in and out though, Rohan Kaur has been making his own rounds. Hm. Wonder what could be all the way out in Casablanca that he needs to make that drive for. Interesting.

Astrid Blackwell and Noah Fontaine have laid down the law ! After laying down their lips together back in May (what? did you think we forgot) ? It only took another showcase of their undeniable jealousy for them to decide to... not? act like friends? but be? best friends? Interesting ! Best of luck to you both !

When he's not in Anayeli's office, Charlie can be found hanging around Secondhand Style. Though, he never goes in? We're thinking it may have something to do with Saffron Barton? What do we think, Valpo?

Drew Crane is back in the Valpo region ! The slushie machines in every local gas station has been quickly depleting upon his arrival and so has the raccoon population? Someone call PETA? He's staying with the Dominguez-Herreras/Cisneros, and five in one house? Seems to already be causing some distress with Luna being upset he's sharing things with their family but not with her. They say loose lips sink ships but maybe sealed ones do too?

Hiyori Ito and Luna Dominguez-Herrera were seen taking a bus out to god knows where and not returning until the next morning looking sleep deprived, excited, but also (in Hiyori's case) terrified ! They must have had quiet the time! Who wouldn't want to go missing with them? (Me)

Speaking of returns, Leon Amos is back in town! Wasted no time making quick work in Salem West's DMs and pissing Luna off. What exactly does it mean to break up with someone because you don't trust yourself? I don't know but I do know it goes down beautifully with my popcorn!

Omar Osei found like a deer in the headlights at the appearance of his ex Nevaeh Thompson! I guess you can never really outrun the consequences of your own actions, but how funny it is to watch him try!

Between dodging Charlie and dodging Zak Torres, Saffron has become as hot of a commodity as the clothes she carries. Maybe one day she'll give that friend of Zak's a chance or for entertainment purposes she'll rehash some memories with Charlie. Only time will tell.

In lighter news, it looks like Yazmin Taylor might be in the market for a new job! If my professor looked like she does, I know I'd never miss a class either. We're wishing you all the best!

That's all I have for you today, but don't worry. We'll be back next month with even more delicious tea for you to catch up on. And to Vanni, Felix, Elias, Javi, Nikhil, Poet, Rafael, Rania, Reyna, Sade, Sebastian, Zaid, and Vicious; i'm always watching.

[tia-amorosa]

Sunset Died - Bunch Family (1)

It's 7:36 a.m., Monday. Jack Bunch is preparing breakfast for the family. At least with the ingredients that are available. But this family is doing almost as well as the Keatons compared to others. Because their house was completely spared from the great catastrophe. But yet the whole thing had its effects.

At the time, Jack had just returned from a mission in which he himself had been seriously injured. He planned to go on vacation with his family, but then the meteorites came. "eww, that salad tastes totally disgusting"/ "it's been outside all night, you should have noticed that beforehand"/ "but I didn't!"

The injuries from the accident he suffered during his last military deployment are still clearly visible and will probably remain for the rest of his life. But the family is glad that Jack is still alive. He has not been on duty since the incident and the disaster. He would love to return to his post.

"Mom, when will I finally get my own room? Arlo snores really loudly"/ "huh? I don't" / "oh yes, but when you're asleep, you can't hear it…" / "pff, I don't do that, I'm still a child and not an old man like dad". Jack called out: "hey, I must have heard wrong?"

"Good morning!"/ "Good morning, Ethan…"/ "Didn't Lisa come home last night?"/ "No, she's coming today…"/ "Did she get to sleep over at VJ's again? Hey, when can I let Holly spend the night here?"/ "hh, you know I'm not on good terms with her parents," Judy replied. Ethan reacted somewhat irritably. "but Holly's not like her parents, you know that!".

Of course, Judy also knows that, unlike her parents, Holly is a very helpful and nice person. "hh, well, fine, you can bring her. "/ "Thanks, mom"/ "I want to stop by the hospital today and see if there's anything I can do for the people there"

"Don't forget our other plans. What Boyd suggested to us yesterday could be a good idea". Boyd Wainwright had visited them the night before and told them about the suggestion Zelda had made. That all the inhabitants should gather in front of the Alto mansion and make their displeasure known. "Do you really think it will help if we all stand in front of their house and demonstrate? You don't believe that yourself, Jack. We may outnumber them, but they still have the upper hand. I have to go now".

When Judy arrived at the small hospital, Jamie was already there. "Hello, how are you, it looks like there's not much going on today? What's with this bone egon?". Jamie had to smile. "hnhn, today everyone who wants to can learn a bit about anatomy and the musculoskeletal system. "/ "I want to learn something too!"/ "Oh, Malcolm, hello".

"Good morning, Morgana, nice to see you"/ "Hello, Judy. Oh, good, she found him after all"/ "Where was he?"/ "In the cellar under the collapsed hospital. We were able to find an entrance and get a few things out that were stored there. Now if we jast had a powerful electricity generator…".

"What do you need it for?"/ "For the X-ray machine. It's one of the newer models where you can stand in it - if you can stand…. We'd have to add a small room that's dark…"/ "But you need a generator… I'll talk to Jack, maybe he'll have an idea"/ "Really? That would be so nice, thank you!"

.While Judy helps a little at the hospital, her son has been to the Altos in the meantime and brought his girlfriend in his home. "You're always the savior in times of need. I can hardly stand it at home"/ "hnhn, always happy to help. What's going on with your family?".

"well..they always think I don't notice… and actually I should have thought about it much earlier… I mean, we always have some food at home, actually more than enough that we could give away… It doesn't come from a supermarket. And it's not cheap either, the quality is very good… I don't know where my father always gets it from".

"Your father?"/ "I don't know what he does in the background, but it's certainly nothing good. And he's always totally stressed, like he's under pressure somehow…"/ "Who or what would put him under pressure?"/ "I don't know… I've spoken to my parents so often that they should help you and the others…".

"We got off the best here. Our house is completely unscathed, except that all the green stuff is growing on the roof now…. Dad's trophies didn't even fly off the wall in the crash. "/ "hnhn, must be karma. You're a good family"/ "hn…yeah, but we can't support everyone on our own".

"I know, that's why it's so unfair, I just don't understand why you're all being left in the lurch like this… At some point your supplies will run out too"/ "don't worry about it… I found some seeds the other day, I think something good will come of it. And we need meat again… I think VJ made himself some arrows and a bow"/ "a bow?".

"Yes, he wants to go hunting…"/ "You mean… He wants to kill animals?"/ "Well, how else are we going to get meat, eh? He definitely wants to share it with everyone. I know you don't like meat"/ "No, I love animals too much for that. You're welcome to it. Do you think he can handle it?"/ "definitely".

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

end of part 1

@greenplumbboblover😊

[melissamasakari]

Confessions you didn`t notice

Chapter eleven. Martial arts

“Kid, are you ignoring social calls again?” Sam asked reproachfully as she leaned on my fence.

“Has it already started? I signed up yesterday.”

“Almost, and your match is scheduled after lunch. But Arlo was real upset that you didn’t even come to cheer for him. His fight is coming soon; shall we go?”

“Well, since the boss wants to see me, let's run. Wait, how do I look like?”

“Good enough to crush just everyone. But I won’t give in to you, don’t get your hopes up.”

I climbed over the fence to her side and we quickly ran across the field. Oh, here are the standings. Wow, looks like I'm going to have a tough fight today. Sam and I pushed our way closer to the arena.

Qualifiers. First round. Arlo vs Russo. What a competition! Right away, two of the most powerful fighters in the city opened the festival. I watched in fascination as they thrashed, threw each other around and on the mats. Alas, as expected, the butler won the first match. My redhead (Bro? I wish he isn’t!) had only recently recovered from an injury, and he is still nursing his hand, so this is why he has a clink in his armor. For such an experienced fighter as Russo, noticing that was not a problem.

Break.

“Come on, Arlo! Beat him!”I shouted, finally making my way to the first row. Why not? I’m the smallest one here, I can hardly see behind other people’s backs.

“Oh, you’re here! I didn’t notice you in the crowd earlier,” but he clearly perked up. Arlo smiled at me, stood up and began the second round.

This time it turned out much better. It looked like Russo was already tired. Or the support of friends had such a serious impact. Arlo was very dangerously close to losing a couple of times, but managed to level up and even win, albeit with a minimal advantage in points. The third round ended as a loss to Russo. Everything happened so quickly that I almost missed the ending by simply blinking at the wrong time. I greeted my hero with a standing ovation.

“YAY! And you said there was no chance. I KNEW you could do it. How are you?” Where did Sam go?

“Fine. I should go rest on the stands. Let's go to the shade, this heat is killing me.”

“Well, yes, going home is not an option now. All of us are in qualifiers today. Do need some water?”

“Yep. Did you submit your application at the last minute? I haven't seen your name in standings this morning.”

“Remy said, I now have to. Well, I comply. By the way, am I not entitled to your beautiful uniform now?”

“We don’t have any uniform! But you really should order stripes with medical information.”

“Which ones? I didn't pay attention to it.”

“So here it is. On the shoulder,” he pointed to what I thought was just a decoration on the jacket. So, height, weight, date of birth. Oh. Blood type, AB +. I have to remember it; it might come in handy later.

“Our Corps wears badges. I still have mine if it's needed. So I didn’t take a closer look at those stripes. Do I have to sew this on all of my clothes? Will you help me to review Regulations?”

“What do you mean about having your own badges?”

“And I see you still didn’t read my profile careful enough. Don't go off topic. What should I do with these patches?”

“Evening gowns don’t qualify, if that’s what you’re asking. Just add it on your outerwear in a visible place. How much patches should I order for you?”

“Based on the number of jackets I guess it should be four. That’s all I’ve got except my copycat one, I just won’t ruin it. For that one I’ll just put a patch in my pocket. Will it work?”

“Then go see Phyllis and sign the permission. I'll arrange everything. Let's go, Remy is going to have his match soon.”

The fight between Remy and Paulie did not bring any surprises. Even though they are nearly even, the furniture maker was efficiently dispatched two rounds in a row. Flawless victory.

“Well done! So, it turns out that tomorrow we will spar, won’t we”

“That's right, Captain. I try to keep up.” Remy smiled cheerfully and punched Arlo at his open palm.

“Well, kid, you're next. Are you ready?” Sam appeared from somewhere and hugged me from behind by my shoulders.

“Yes. Would you hold my bag for a moment?”

Putting on a calm expression, I slowly walked into the arena. My opponent today is Django. Well, that will hurt. If not physically, then emotionally, for sure. I also knew that he's as bouncy as desert hopper. Looking at me, he somehow immediately shrivelled, but got ready for battle regardless. Seems that I greatly offended him with my refusal.

Signal to start fight sounded.

Breathe deeper!

It was strike, turn, retreat. Step, kick, rebound. Almost like a dance. Another blow, left, right, bend down, strike from bottom to top. I was going well. Distracted by Arlo, who was looking very carefully, I missed a very sensitive blow which Django landed on my belly with a knee. Ouch, that hurts! The stands became agitated. I resisted and didn’t fall down. My opponent was speeding up. Great. I crawled under him, rolled over and kicked him in the back of the leg. Django lost his balance and fell onto the mats. The first round was mine.

Break.

Oh, here came pacifists, what a dubious honor. It's surprising that SHE wasn't here during the first battle. But now she has cheerfully joined the Civil Corps team. What are they whispering about? And why do I so want to show her an obscene gesture? Jealous, or what? What nonsense, they're not dating so I have no need to be jealous.

“Melissa! You can do it!” My redhead shouted and waved his hand at me, smiling encouragingly. Take that, Nora.

I flexed my fists, stretched and stood up. It was time to settle this matter. Django quickly rushed to attack. I missed a couple of blows but broke through his defense on the right. Did he guess who I had in mind when I returned his heart knot? Well, by now, everyone probably had already guessed it, except for Arlo himself. But that doesn't matter right now. Ouch, it hurts so much. He got me again. I should try to go around it on the left. Jump, turn, hit. Wow! I didn’t even know I can do THAT! Django received a powerful kick to the jaw, took a few hesitant steps back and sank down. Didn't I break him any bones?

“Are you alive? Are your teeth intact? Should I call the doctor?”

“It's okay, my princess!” He stroked the bruised area and slowly stood up. “Victory is rightfully yours. Losing to you is a great honor.”

Yell louder, I'm not your princess! I'll kick you for this! Oh, yes, I already did it. Well, okay, I won.

Next is Sam so I need to take my bag from her. While I was going down to my friends, Nora got lost somewhere. Scared? It’s better for me, I don’t really want to stand next to her. My friends met me and immediately hugged me all together. Sam rubbed the top of my head and went to prepare for her fight, after having returned my belongings.

Sam's opponent was Sanwa. I had no doubt at all about her victory, although the hairdresser is very agile for his size. That’s all spectacular. Wow, what a great jump and strike. I wonder if I looked just as cool?

Oh, did she finish with him already?

“Well, little fella, now there’s no escape. Tomorrow at lunch, second round. It will be tough.”

“Do you promise?”

“I guarantee it.”

“In total, it turns out that... The entire Corps team is in the finals? A tournament for our own people?”

“Ha ha, so funny. I didn't expect that.”

“Maybe we can agree on two by two?”

“And we’ll get a scourge of redheads against everyone? No way, kid, we’ve already been through this in the winter.”

“And guys against girls isn’t too fair,” Remy said.

“I would suggest a celebration, but the restaurant seems to be closed today.”

“You knocked him out great. It's like you've been possessed by an imp.”

“Plierimp,” I joked, taking pliers out of my bag and clicking them with a clanking sound.

[3lectra-he4rt]

since there’s only a few weeks left until the day of reckoning,,

What scenes do you *need* in the ballad movie?

This one’s gonna be a long one, i’m pasting it from my notes app. (Some have emojis cause i was going through the rings of hell while reading) Buckle up. Also, some are just very vague in the sense that i just want *something* like what i’ve described.

- Coriolanus reading the letter from Tigris

- When Lucy was crying in the classroom with Coryo

- When Coriolanus gave Lucy the compact

- When Lucy is running from Reaper

- Arachne’s death

- Sejanus putting the breadcrumbs over Arachne and her tribute after they died, either Coriolanus noticing him doing so or it in the background for us to find

- Reaper making the graveyard

- Reaper cutting the flag

- Sejanus going into the arena and everything that followed (and him putting the breadcrumbs over Marcus!!)

- Sejanus showing up to be a peacekeeper with Coriolanus

- When Coriolanus calls Clemensia “Clemmie” </333

- When Clemensia comes into Coriolanus’ hospital room in the middle of the night

- The pus coming out of Clemensia when she is bitten (it NEEDS to be blue, pink, and yellow)

- Coriolanus and Lysistrata. Them while watching the games and strategizing bc Lysistrata has Jessup, but also just them being silly together ☹️☹️☹️

- Tigris with her fathers coat

- “Lucy Gray, having languished in Dr.Gaul’s lab, would be long dead, and his heart dead with her.” (Coriolanus thinking of his future)

- Sejanus’ house + “Ma’s corner” 😭😭😭

- C: “I don’t know what ever possessed me to ask for twelve.” S: “Completely random, obviously,”

- Lucy saving Coriolanus from the bombing, a shot of when her arm is around his shoulder and he’s clutching the ruffles of her skirt (the clutching is EXTREMELY IMPORTANT.)

- Him parading her around the monkey house when he get stuck in there w her and the other tributes

- The picnic at the zoo </33

- Coriolanus holding Clemensia from behind when the snakes show up in the arena

- When Smiley says there’s going to be someone named “Lucy something” singing at the hob the book says “His girl. His love. His Lucy Gray.”

- Ma’s explanation of the bread crumbs

- “We pour money into our industries, not into the districts themselves,” said Sejanus. “The people are on their own.”

- Literally just the daughter of Mayor Lipp’s name. It’s Mayfair.

- The execution of Arlo Chance + ‘Lil’ coming through the crowd for him

- “What’s bothering you? And don’t say nothing.”

- Everyone slapping each other’s backs after drinking some of the stuff smiley got in the Hob

- “It reminds me of the capitol” “you don’t say home.” “No. For me, that will always be district 2.”

- The hob fight

- “And yes, I’d be happy to go with you.”

- C: “Do I look okay?” S: “Gorgeous. Trust me, that lips working for you, soldier.”

- Lucy and Coriolanus’s argument with Billy Taupe

- C: “I thought you were letting this whole rebel thing go!” S: “I can’t, all right? It’s part of who I am..”

- Sejanus having drugs in his locker box

- ‘High-as-a-Kite-Bottom’

- L: “that’s what my daddy thought, too. And he ended up with more bullet holes than I could count on my fingers,”

- “ "Well, that's it, then. I saved you from the fire, and you saved me from the snakes. We're responsible for each other's lives now." "Are we?" he asked. "Sure," she said. "You're mine and I'm yours. It's written in the stars." "No escaping that." “

- “ "You know, Sejanus, I'm your friend. More than a friend. You're the closest thing I'll ever have to a brother. And there are special rules for family. If you need help . . . I mean, if you get into something you can't handle ... I'm here." Tears welled up in Sejanus's eyes. "Thank you, Coryo. That means a lot. You may be the only person in the world who I actually trust." Ah, trust again. The air was full of it. "Come here." He pulled Sejanus into an embrace.”

- Barb Azure is a LESBIAN?? “She just started seeing a gal down the road,” (Lucy talking abt Barb Azure

- L: “People have been around for a long time without the capitol. I expect they’ll be here a long time after.”

- Cc finding Katniss for Lucy

- The lake being the same lake as THG trilogy, Coriolanus noticing the house that would end up being so important for Katniss in THG

- The explanation of the covey’s names (song + color)

- The “we all have a ballad, and this is Lucy’s!” Scene with the song

- Sejanus looking like an eight year old boy to Coriolanus as he’s being pulled up to be hanged

- Sejanus saying “Coryo” while being pulled up to be executed

- Sejanus’s last word being “Ma!”

- Coriolanus’s absolute breakdown after Sejanus died

- The epilogue.

- "Because we credit them with innocence. And if even the most innocent among us turn to killers in the Hunger Games, what does that say? That our essential nature is violent," Snow explained.

Ladies, gentlemen, and everyone in between, thank you for coming to my Ted Talk.

[automaticdata]

Okay so my ankle is having issues which means I can't pace around when I'm doing fandom brainrot stuff so here I am typing out my brainrot instead.

One of the things about UnOrdinary that gets me is just how fragile the hierarchy system is, and how the authorities need to do some pretty shady stuff just to keep it alive. Like, I think it's taken for granted that "oh, authorities bad, of course they're doing shady shit," but like … if they didn't, the system would collapse all by itself, no need for the conflict in the story.

Let me explain.

(A note to those not familiar with UnOrdinary – it's a world where superpowers are common, and "cripple" is used to refer to those without superpowers. I'm not trying to be ableist, and I don't think the webcomic is, either, as the term is used to highlight the toxic way of thinking that exists in the world.)

One of the things that gets addressed in John's corruption arc is that the different tiers don't interact much with each other. Like, god tiers will interact with high tiers, high tiers will interact with god tiers and elite tiers, elite tiers will interact with high tiers and mid tiers, etc, but you don't usually get high tiers interacting with low tiers. The whole system is supposed to basically be a pyramidal structure, where god tiers police high tiers, high tiers police elite tiers, all the way down. We see this in the beginning, when everyone is so scandalized by Sera (a god-tier) being best friends with John (who the believe to be a cripple.)

We see this in how John is completely able to call out Remi on how lower tiers are abused and high tiers doing nothing about it. We see this in Remi being surprised to notice that John is right, that she wasn't noticing what was going on on the lower tiers despite trying to be conscientious about making sure everyone's behaving. We see this in how Elaine thinks that the reason Sera isn't acting "properly" is Sera's friendship with a lower tier. We see this in how low tiers shy away from X-Rei even though she just saved them, because they don't trust high tiers.

Even our heroes, even the ones who aren't John, have problematic behavior when it comes to interacting with lower tiers. While John is partially using other people's bad behavior as an excuse for his own, he's still right when he points out that Blyke shot laser beams at him for snapping at Remi, that Isen broke his wrist just because he could. You especially see this with Elaine; the first thing we know about her is that she degraded John for being a cripple, and in the beginning arc she's the one who sets things off by pointing out the taboo friendship of a god-tier and a "cripple" to Arlo. Arlo himself literally comes to the conclusion that John isn't a cripple or a low tier because John isn't afraid of him – and he's so invested in the hierarchy system at that point that he doesn't see a problem with that logic.

In later chapters, we find out that Jane's family disowned her because she married a cripple. By this point we've kind of been trained to think this is normal in the UnOrdinary world, what with people being so taken aback by Sera and John being friends, but like …. this is actually a pretty major indicator of how closed off the tier system is. Jane was disowned because she chose to start a family with someone of a much lower tier than her. Her family don't even seem to know she's missing, because they won't listen to her cripple husband when he comes to them to give them information. I actually doubt they even know John exists.

And we get more subtle hints during John's corruption arc that this isn't normal. All the high tier characters are taken aback by John's behavior, and multiple times they say "didn't his parents teach him about the responsibilities of a high tier?" No one even poses the possibility that he didn't have a high tier parent around to learn from – which is exactly what happened. John became super powerful super quickly. In normal circumstances, since abilities are genetic, they would have a parent who could step in and discipline them and teach them how to use their powers responsibly, but John doesn't have that. His cripple father is at a loss of what to do, his low tier friends can't do anything, and it's implied that he started to even surpass the staff members at his school. And his mom's family can't intervene because they disowned his mom and probably don't know he exists.

John's existence, by itself, breaks the hierarchy system. He's the child of a god tier and a cripple, and the system literally doesn't know what to do with him. I actually have a theory that the other "late bloomers" mentioned during John's "reeducation" courses were also children of high tiers + low tiers, which would explain why their abilities developed late, and makes the already dark "late bloomers like you are doomed to failure" even more horrific. Any product of a union that breaks the system is deemed a "failure," because no one wants to admit that the system itself is flawed.

Late bloomers also pose a huge problem to the system. They go through a period of time where people think that they're lower tier than they actually are, so they get treated like they're a low tier – and low tiers get treated horribly. Low tiers and cripples are at the bottom of a system that literally punches down, and they're told the abuse and negligence and everything else they suffer is because they aren't strong. Might makes right. Low tiers aren't taught about the noblesse oblige that high tiers are, because no one thinks they need it, so when they get abused for their tier status they think "this is just how things are supposed to be." So what happens when someone who lived in that situation suddenly becomes a high tier? Probably something similar to what happened with John. They've only seen the worst sides of high tiers, so they think that's how they can and should act.

A side note, but I think John's inability to listen to people is actually a product of his being considered a "cripple." It was a defense mechanism. When everyone was telling him he was weak, that he deserved to be beaten down, that that was his place, it allowed him to go, "no, I'm not listening to that, I know I deserve basic dignity." However, once he became powerful and it got to his head, what was once a defense mechanism became a major flaw. Now, instead of people telling him he's weak and deserves what he gets, what he's not listening to is all of his loved ones saying "John, please stop, you're scaring us."

It's also worth noting that William's attempts to teach his son the responsibilities of a high tier creates a huge disruption to society. All the man does is write a book to show John the possibilities of what someone could do with their power, and it's enough to make his book get banned, have students suspended for being caught reading it, for teenagers to get put on watch lists for having it in their possession. And it's not the responsibilities part that the authorities have a problem with, it's how the book encourages high tiers to protect and listen to low tiers. It disrupts the rigid system they put in place to stop the hierarchy from breaking down. It unintentionally causes high tiers to become vigilantes, because they realize that the system they live in doesn't allow them to protect lower tiers. One book, written by a cripple in an attempt to help his god tier son, is enough to make the authorities panic.

The relationship between Jane and William was also unique enough that the authorities were able to use it to exploit Jane. We get some major hints that the way Jane was "captured" and experimented on was through coercion, not force. Jane is too powerful for anyone to threaten directly, but they were able to manipulate her by threatening William and John. Because of that, the authorities were able to start using her blood to try and develop new ways of making their own agents stronger, which is part of what sets the more overarching plot elements in motion.

Once, I was told that all stories either are stories where someone leaves home or someone new arrives, but the fact is it's not the leaving or arrival that really defines stories – it's the disruption to the status quo. That's what Jane and William's relationship is. That's what John is, by merely existing. A god tier is not supposed to fall in love and marry a cripple. A god-tier isn't supposed to be raised by a cripple, or to be treated as a cripple growing up. They broke the status quo just by living their lives.

John, Jane, and William literally needed to expend little to no effort to become a major problem for the authorities. So what do the authorities do? They blackmail Jane, they torture John, they develop new ways to be powerful and use them against high tiers that try to break the system. Their system is so incredibly fragile that they feel like they must do it, because they can't maintain "order" by playing by the rules.

[nochi-quinn]

candela obscura chapter 1 episode 1: 🎶who you gonna call🎶

I'M HERE I'm just gonna stop playing totk on thursdays (lie)

background!!

matt!!

matt's scandalous naked wrists

oh the spotlight

oh auggie's art is good

the unintroduced characters being in shadow is nice

I need anjali in period dress forever

I'd vote for him

maybe even….president…..

ashley's face sjdflks

"I just GOT HERE"

don't keep ice atronachs in your furnace

the art camera panning around a desk instead of just the fade-in

"tol hat"

"as I expected" rude

laura noticing the light on her and perking up

murder hand MURDER HAND

voice!

art!

that is the correct response

donald :(

not the swamp gas

"who are you >:["

auggie (ashley?): mark me down as scared AND horny

robbie and laura already gossiping

"candela's recruiting fetuses now?"

void stuff

auggie is surrounded by posh weird women and is utterly unable to enjoy it

"we ain't found SHIT"

howard's kind of a bitch

she said the thing

"imagination!"

force hands

CHARLIE

"I don't think that was charcoal"

familiar (derogatory)

"well let's go home" mood

the more arlo talks the more I love her voice

"auggie's education goes far beyond book smarts" I love charlie

"did you need some help pulling that stick out of your ass?" I also love auggie

auggie is reminding of my kid when we ask her one clarifying question too many

I don't mean this in any kind of negative way, it's a totally valid frustration

"trauma bonding" sdkfjsl

calling panic attacks brain marks from now on

deeply enjoying auggie vs howard

not a chair

"we need a distraction. I'll go :D"

I love matt's Dumb Guard voice

"I'd love to help but I'm off flirting"

"I'm not very good at seeing things that are here"

"this is wood" dlkfjsl

Ghost Donald

"are you okay" auggie.

"you're so warm" that's. not great.

charlie

"it's FINE 👿"

"ROLL THEM BONES"

"I know who you are charlotte" lmao rip

fuckin leila

donald no. have you tried consent.

laura picking apart no matter what game system they're in

tiny magic messenger pigeons

Abodeless Individuals

ghost hand GHOST HAND

fable npc voice

"you're a bit older than I remember" "yeah, that's what happens"

oh bless her

mala: the circle learns about poor people

I was about to say "r.j. maccready vibes" and then I Remembered

roll for vibes

I like charlie as a bridge between the classes, as it were

"what's so funny?" "usually doctors are useful"

"rikers over it"

"sorry about the laughing at you" (lie)

howard has a death note

unecessary parkour

that one bit from arcane

can't wait for this ride at critical role land

"the children" howard

"help him, doctor!" AUGGIE

I'm a DOCTOR but not THAT kind of doctor I have a DOCTORATE but you can't HELP people with a DOCTORATE you just SIT THERE and you're USELESS

I may have seen treasure planet one too many times

this music is a+

charlie I don't know what you expected

mala: you're not his real mom

"I don't like the way you said 'great'"

oh ow

miroku

is this going to be the equivalent of trying to drive stick

"NO my sweet student"

not the final destination

fuck! all fails

vax get back in your own game

"you did it to yourself!"

mala: Matt: good rp. suffer more

"did it work?" "no! :D"

arlo and howard are A Pair of Characters

any time ashley does that half-lean shrug question thing

The Food Of Our Woes

hungry hungry ghosties

"you're bleeding out of your head"

not the chetney noises

oh shit

rip auggie

everybody keeps forgetting they can roll again

"SPOILER ALERT"

"leave it up to fate - no that's stupid"

robbie's so into this sdlkfjnls

old as balls

eddie? whomst?

"the gilded rainbow" gay as shit

"we were part of an industrial accident" swamp gas

:(

"I crashed a truck into a building! it didn't work!"

"there's a reason he's a professor" it's bc he's a bitch

"don't set it on fire"

"your club tried to kill me, not sure if want"

in a few hours the sun will rise

gay

ah the true fantasy setting - free rent

"I slathered a nice man up" hate it

acted bizzare

they got a good grade at ttrpg

oh I love arlo

of course it's doc cochran

I heard the "mmmmakinmway" in my head

[catharsis-in-darkness]

Grief of Hearts Pt.2

pairing: Ricky Olson x OFC Iris

warnings/tropes: slow burn, enemies to lovers, angst, fluff, smut, language, sexual assault, nightmares,

summary: Iris' passion has always been passionate about music, specifically her band. What happens when she gets to open for her favorite band of all time and finally gets to meet her heroes?

author's note: ⚠️ MAJOR TRIGGER WARRING SA⚠️I put the warning symbol before the scene but just wanted to give a forewarning.

word count: 1927 words

Iris Hart

Halfway through the drive, Arlo switched with me like he said he would. So, I was now stuck listening to Nora and Carter bicker.

"I think we should buy goats." Carter said suddenly putting his phone down into his lap.

Nora let out a groan before giving me a look that said she was sick of his shit. I giggled, raising my eyebrows at her. They had a complicated relationship. Carter had confessed to me his feelings about Nora one night when we all were drinking at my place. The man had good intentions, but his only way of flirting with her was annoying her.

"Why would we ever need goats?" I raised my brow at him.

"No Riri, it's not a NEED. It's a WANT. I WANT A FUCKING GOAT!" He gradually got louder.

"Carter! If you yell one more fucking time, I'm going to pull this van over and whoop your ass!" Arlo suddenly yelled from the front seat.

Carter eyes widened before he bursted out laughing.

"A-arlo.. you- you are the least scary person in here right now!" He said gasping for air in between laughs.

I couldn't help but let a laugh of my own out. Arlo looked at us through the mirror with a bored expression on his face, which only made Carter and I laugh harder. Nora looked at us with disbelief before starting to climb into the passenger seat.

"Please universe, save me from these two dumbasses." She mumbled settling into her new seat.

Carter and I shrugged our shoulders at each other. I grabbed my phone, putting my headphones in shuffling through my playlist. My eyes landed on Never Know Unplugged by Bad Omens. I pressed play then put my phone down looking out the window. I ended up drifting off to sleep shortly after.

⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️

*Omniscent POV*

She was being dragged into a room by two faceless men. She couldn't move or make any noise. It felt as if she had swallowed a gallon of sand. She felt them grab her arms and hoist her onto a bed. It smelt like cigarettes and sweat.

Her frantic eyes searched for something to help her. Anything to help her out of this situation. One of the men got into her face and ran his tongue along her cheek. With his action, the panic set into her and tears pooled in her eyes. It was like his touch flipped a switch and suddenly she could move and speak again.

"P- please." She mumbled groggily. She tried pushing him off of her but all her limbs felt numb.

"I bet you taste as good as you look." One of the unnamed men groaned before palming himself through his jeans.

"Please s-stop." She let out again as the other tried to pull her leggings off of her.

"C'mon Iris, you've been teasing us all night. Don't act like you don't want this." The same man stayed with a chuckle. He grabbed her shirt before ripping it down the middle.

"I don't- someone please. HELP!" She managed to let out a scream before a slap landed on her cheek.

"You like it rough, huh? Don't worry Doll. I'm real good at that." He smirked groping her. He then got up, proceeding to remove his belt.

Iris didn't notice that the other guy had moved to her side and had already taken his pants off. He moved himself towards her mouth.

"Take it you fucking slut." He growled.

⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️

Iris Hart

I woke to Carter shaking me. He looked at me with concern in his eyes. My heart was pounding in my chest and my breathing was uneven. My eyes felt wet, and my body was in a cold sweat. Why the fuck did this have to happen now?

"Riri are you okay??" He asked concern covering his features.

I took a deep breath taking in my surroundings. Before I could sort through my thoughts, a wave of nausea hit me. It hit me like a fucking truck.

I managed to blurt out the word bag. Shortly after Carter gave me a random Walmart bag and I threw up the McDonald's we had earlier.

"Oh shit! Arlo pull over!" Carter yelled.

The van came to a complete stop and I hopped out, the bag still in my hand. I heaved into the bag until it hit me again. I puked the rest of my stomach contents out, while Arlo held my hair back. Nora was rubbing my back soothingly.

This fucking sucked.

"Let it all out Irie." Arlo sighed.

I finally finished and wiped my eyes. I looked up to everyone and the distress was clear on their faces.

"Iris what was that?" Nora asked suspiciously.

"Oh my god! I am not pregnant!" I gasped.

"I just had a nightmare and panicked, I guess it just came out as a 10-piece nugget and a medium fry." I tried to joke, but no one even cracked a smile. They all stared at me like I had lost my mind.

"Guys. I promise you, I am fine." I stood up tossing the now soiled bag on the side of the road. Nora hand me a napkin and I used it to wipe the sides of my mouth. She gave me a knowing look. I shrugged and moved around her to get my toothbrush, toothpaste, and a water bottle. I brushed my teeth quickly before letting out a deep breath.

I can't even lie. I'm scared shitless right now, but I can't tell anyone. I won't let them see me like that. It's too much. It's too vulnerable. I usually only get the nightmares once or twice a month. This is the fourth time so far. They're getting bad again and I don't know what to do. Hopefully, they calm down on this tour. I can't have this happening in front of anyone again. I can't let them see me being weak.

"Okay, Irie are you good to keep going? We're only half an hour away now." Arlo asked me nervously. I nodded before offering him a small smile. I grabbed my stuff and put it away before getting back into the van. My body started to slowly calm down and my breathing regulated.

"Look Riri!" Carter shoved his phone into my face excitedly. I was met with a video of a guy punching a kangaroo that had his dog in a headlock. I laughed softly. This is one of the many reasons why I loved Carter, he always finds something to cheer me up with. Even if it only helps a little. Carter has always been a sweetheart; we grew up together as our moms were best friends.

"Thank you hunny." I smiled at him again.

I noticed we were pulling up to our hotel that Ash booked us for the night. I couldn't wait to shower. We were all going out to dinner tonight to meet everyone. I was so nervous. I honestly was more excited to eat real food for the first time in 24hrs.

We made our way into the hotel, checking in before we separated and went to our rooms. Nora and I were sharing a room as we were the only girls in the group.

After we were finished showering, we started getting ready for dinner.

"Are we going to talk about what happened earlier?" Nora asked me with concern. Nora was the only one who knew about what happened that night. I let out a sigh before putting my mascara down.

"It was just a nightmare Nor. Same thing as always. I didn't think it would happen in front of everyone though." I shrugged.

"They've been getting more frequent Iris." She pointed.

"It's not a big deal, they'll go away again." I stated with confidence.

"Iris... it's okay to not be okay ya know? No one here is going to judge you for it. "

I continued on doing my makeup ignoring what she said. No one needed to know. It wasn't their business, and they weren't ever going to find out about it. I felt a hand on my shoulder, slightly flinching.

"If they get worse, tell me Riri. You know I'm always here for you." Nora stated before walking out of the bathroom.

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

"Are you guys ready yet? We're going to be late for dinner!" Carter asked as he bounced into the room. Arlo following shortly after.

"Yeah, let me just grab my bag." I told the boys.

Asher told us we were eating at some fancy Italian restaurant, so we all had put in a little more effort than usual. I chose to wear a black playsuit with spiderweb fishnets under it and my leather jacket. Of course, I had to wear my docs with it. Praying I looked presentable enough, I grabbed my purse and led everyone out of the room.

The walk to the restaurant was short and we luckily made it there right on time. Carter walked up to the hostess and gave her the fake name the band had the reservation under. She led us into a back room secluded from the rest of the restaurant. I took a deep breath before I turned the corner. I made my way into the room, being met with five pairs of eyes drilling into my band.

Chris was the first person to stand up and give us a warm smile. He made his way from his seat to give everyone a hug. When he reached me, he smiled brightly.

"You must be Iris! It's so nice to finally meet you." He said welcomingly.

"Yeah! This is Carter, Nora, and Arlo." I said pointing at each of them.

"It'd nice to meet you guys! I'm Chris and this is Vinny, Justin, Ryan, and Ricky." Vinny smiled excitedly while waving at us. Justin gave us a smile and Ryan nodded. Ricky kind of just sat there and stared at us.

"Sit down! We're all starving so I hope you guys are too." Vinny exclaimed dramatically. Carter was the first to speak. up.

"Oh, we haven't had any real food in the past day. We're definitely ready to eat." He smiled.

We wall took our seats and started to get to know one another. I couldn't help but notice that Ricky was the only one who wasn't engaged in the conversation. He seemed uninterested in getting to know us.

"So how long have you guys been a band?" Justin broke me out of my thoughts. I swallowed my food.

"A little over 4 years, so definitely not as long as you guys." I laughed lightly.

"I saw your guys cover of Masterpiece, it was so good." Vinny said making me swell with pride.

I heard a scoff come from beside him. Everyone turned to look at Ricky.

"Did you not like it?" I raised my brow. His eyes turned into slits as he made eye contact with me.

"No, I honestly didn't. You need to stick to your own songs. We work hard to make our music unlike you." He spit harshly.

"Woah Rick what the fuck is your problem?" Chris asked angrily.

"My problem? I don't understand why some trashy fucking TikTok band is on tour with us when we could've had a way better band. All they're going to do is drag us down." He glared in our direction. I slammed my hands on the table.

"Listen, you don't have to like our band. Hell! You don't even have to fucking like US. But I'm not going to sit here and let you disrespect us like that." I stood up before looking down at everyone.

"I lost my appetite." I said grabbing my bag.

"Riri don't." Carter softly grabbed my arm.

I shook my head at him before walking out of the restaurant and onto the streets of Scranton.

Part 3

[izayoichan]

Fannar: For them to go home. -they sit down next to Arlo, putting his hand on his.- Just like I told you earlier, they need to head home have their lived there with our family, and of course tell them that we are doing well.

Arlo watched them, then went back to reading what he had been reading. This was about how most things were when it came to talking with Arlo, memory seemed to slowly get somewhat better but they all knew they had a very long road ahead. It was the main reason he and Emil had stayed so long, and in a way the main reason Flynn wanted to stay longer. To make sure their twin would not be overwhelmed on their own with both work and caring for Arlo, but they had noticed the latest messages from their dad was becoming less and less vague about him returning home.

Fannar: Off you go. He smiled, walking the two of them to the door. Kieran had given them the location of an easy to open portal, and Chris knew they were coming, so Flynn suspected his dad was waiting tapping his foot already.

Flynn: Be seeing you then. Fannar: Be seeing you.

One last long hug was exchanged between the two before Fannar watched them leave, knowing it would feel very different without the two of them there.

Beginning - Previous - Next

[damelucyjo]

Are we finally getting somewhere, guys?? 🤔

Episode 5 - Signs

Things are not going well for our boys 😔

Side note: I love Chris & Arlo 😂

Smack him harder Mae!!

That fucking text was from his dad?! 😂😂 I just learnt way more info than I wanted or needed!

Well said Roy! It’s really pissed me off that Ted has always been about them being a team, but has been happy for them to fully rely on Zava since they got him

Is this a continuity error?? Her hair was down at the match now it’s up?? 🤔 or is this not right after the match?? We’ve never seen her change her hair during the day before, have we??

Not that it matters anyway. Hannah always looks amazing, as we know! I’m glad this dress is making a comeback 🥵

Yes!! Shout at him babes!!

I love all of their reactions to it too. Ted’s tiny little smile is very cute

Beard’s little “I think” 😂 and Hannah trying very hard not to laugh. RELEASE THE BLOOPERS YOU COWARDS!!!!

YYEEEAAAHHHH!!!

Michael Jackson! (Sorry, only people who have watched Stella will understand why I want to say that every time Patrick Baladi is on my screen 🫣🤷🏻‍♀️😂)

This whole interaction is brilliant. Rebecca kind of stumbling over words because she’s thinking of all the signs and as she’s looking at the matchbook John just happens to walk in! And him seeming a little flustered, but happy to tell her he’s moved on and happy. He absolutely doesn’t come here often hoping to run into her 😳😂

Hannah’s face and whole reaction at ‘shite in nining armour’ 🫡 ALL THE AWARDS!!

Keeley having the same photo as Ted for Rebecca is cute

I’m so proud of Keeley!! Also tits. I’m sorry 😔

And that shirt was a choice, Miss Jones!! 😂

Shandy just makes me incredibly angry. And I know that’s the point, but July god 😡

These two have amazing chemistry. I am a RoyKeeley girly, but they cute!

These boys all knowing about She’s All That makes me very happy 😂 just when I think I can’t love them more

Again, Dani I love you 😍

Of course Beard danced in college. I will never be surprised about thing I learn about this man!

ROY FUCKING JOINED IN!!!

I love that they are including Trent

Protective uncle Beard 🥰

Roy, baby, who hurt you 🥺

Is Trent’s cup plastic?! How the fuck didn’t it break when he dropped it 😂

Aww, poor Leslie. Trying to do him job at the expense of his friend 🥺

Rebecca shutting it down straight away by changing the subject. Exactly, girly

The complete shift in Higgins’ whole self is brilliant. And of course he believes in psychics 😂

THE UNIVERSE IS FULLY OF THINGS WE CAN’T EXLAIN, REBECCA 👀

Of course he called his mum to practice that speech 😂

“Hey, Coach” “Hello, Rebecca” 🫠

THEY ARE SO IN SYNC!!!!!!

Yes, thank you Barbara for basically telling Keeley she needs to fire Shandy

I’ll say it every time she’s on screen if I have to; I love Barbara 😍😂 Katy is amazing

This scene really is all over the fucking shop! 😂 and here’s the bitchy female character that is very much real but we don’t get on the show 👍🏼

Fancy as fuck waiting room! And peep all the same women she saw when she left John. Well done on that one

Okay, is this hesitation because she can’t decide who she’d put? Or because she feels like she has no one?? 🤔

It might just be me, but this connection she has with this doctor feels very familiar (if that’s the right word) has he been her doctor forever? My initial reaction was that he knew her dad and I don’t know where that came from 😂

She looks so hopeful 🥹

“Unless it’s animal crossing. That shits fucking soothing” please never change, Isaac 😂

I feel so bad for Jamie that Zava says exactly what he says and they all go crazy for it, but not him. But he is getting a taste of his own medicine so…

I LOVE YOU DANI!! 😂 I love that they’ve giving so much to Cristo this year

Ted going to water then swapping to alcohol when Jake is mentioned 🥺

Barbara loves violence. Why do I love this??

I love the detail of Roy telling all the guys ‘cut, slice, mash’ their opponents, or in Colin’s case ‘cheer until your voice bleeds’, but tells Sam to ‘outclass ‘em’

Proud he didn’t pee on his trousers. I, too, and proud of you Ted 😂

“Henry’s a good kid cause you’re his dad” 🥹

Jade is so unnecessarily rude

I really do love what Nick is doing with Nate this season. It’s so layered and delicious

“Love someone for who they are not what they are” 👀

Sweet Nate, you don’t need her

They can’t function without Zava now. Shocking

I’m sorry, but Leslie’s Meemoji thing looks like my dad and that’s hilarious to me 😂😂

Hannah’s face journey in this scene breaks my heart. Nothing is said and yet every time is said at the same time 🥺 ALL. THE. AWARDS!!!

So twice she’s tried to call Keeley and she’s not answered 🤔 And she’s spent a good chunk of this episode alone 🤔 metaphors me thinks 👀

Keeley, babes, you can’t sleep with her after realising you can’t talk about Roy

Jade & Nate is interesting, but I’m not sure I’m behind it yet

Beard, you could have won that game if you hadn’t let the boys become a team that relied on Zava! (Why does this make me angry ITS NOT REAL!!😂)

A tactic his dad taught him that he passed onto his son 🥹 beautiful

Ted helping himself from a panic attack starting! Proud of you, babes!!

Gina fucking Gershon 😂 great callback!

I’m so happy to see Ted back giving his pep talks. And the boys being so invested in that sign because they’re so invested in Ted and his lessons.

OMG TED SWORE! 🫣😂

The order of these shots is interesting; Nate & Jade, Keeley & Jack, then Roy alone straight after, then Rebecca alone in the car still fixated on that FUCKING MATCHBOOK 🫠

Woah, what an episode! So much to unpack!! Of course I have many thoughts and feelings about most of it.

But it’s Amsterdam next week, guys! I will never be ready 🫡

[mahvaladara]

Arlo: I don’t want to kill my brother. I don’t want to kill Anika either. And most definitely don’t want to kill Fannar...

Isaiah: Then what is your plan? Give your brother what he wants in hopes it’s enough?

Arlo: Yes...

Isaiah: How do you plan to save Fannar doing all this?

Arlo: One heart to save me. That was his promise. If I chose to use that heart to save myself or not, that is up to me.

Isaiah: And you think that will be enough? You think your brother will be happy with your choice? That’s a cop out!

Arlo didn’t reply, only watching his old teacher.

Isaiah: If you teach Apollo how to take a heart, he will just take another, and another, and another. The unbound power of a dragon’s heart is too much of a temptation to a human. He won’t care that you don’t want to be saved! He will keep trying, rather you want it or not. The same way I did with my wife! The power of a heart-light it’s too much of a temptation, like the invisibility cloak towards death!

Arlo: To hold the power of a star in your hands...

Isaiah: Exactly. You’re a fool if you think your brother will keep his promise and you’re going to put two innocents-

Arlo: Anika’s hardly innocent. Even if unwilling, she’s still an accomplish. The only difference is that now she doesn’t like that he hits her.

Isaiah: Look how you speak about my daughter!

Arlo: Oh, please! When they were young and popular, she didn’t mind Apollo’s abuse towards me or anyone else. Now that he started realizing he needs to keep his little ‘heart slave’ under control, now she’s an ‘innocent victym’ in his plot? She’s no more innocent than me. Even if now with act with reluctance, when we started, we did it of our choice. You said it yourself, I could end this...

Isaiah: But you don’t want to kill your brother...

Arlo: I am selfish. And with all the guilt I am carrying it, to bear the blood of my own twin... of the one person I wanted to be friends with...

Isaiah: You’ll end up carrying to blood of the person you love in your hands. Is your twin worth that?

Arlo: Is your daughter worth all these innocents?

Isaiah: Here’s to hoping you can save her with no more blood spilled.

Arlo: And there’s your answer.

[arlo-venn]

Who is Ottile? I thought you had two cats and one was named Dinova??? Where did a third one come from..🤨

You’re correct! It was originally Rory and Dinova. There’s still only two, but here’s the story:

Chapter One:

When Rory and Dinova came to live with me here after the surrender prevention program they were in, Dinova became severely depressed. Worse than I’d ever seen her; she’d always struggled with Arlo, but even with medication and time to adjust, she wasn’t coping— she would not leave from her shelf in the tool room/basement cat room, stopped eating, stopped grooming. So even though it was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make, I had to allow the people from the surrender prevention program to find her a more suitable home. They did, and although I’m not allowed to know the details of where she is or who she’s with, I do know that she’s happier and healthier now, and she’s in a home with no dogs. I know it may seem terrible to rehome my eldest child for being unable to cope with my youngest, but Arlo would not be okay without me (and I wouldn’t be okay without him), whereas Dinova can be taken care of by anyone so long as they’re loving and are able to provide a space that she feels comfortable in. I wasn’t able to provide that for her.

Before we lost our home, I’d moved us into a larger, two bedroom home for the same reason— she wasn’t coping in a smaller space with Arlo, even after a few years. Unfortunately, even once I’m approved for disability, I will never realistically be able to afford a home large enough to accommodate the space she needs to comfortably live with a dog again. It would have been selfish of me to keep her with us just because I loved her.

Chapter Two:

Rory had never been an only cat before, not ever in her life. She’d also gone through the trauma of losing her home and her parent for a whole year without being able to understand why, only to lose her sister not long after being reunited with her parent in a bizarre new environment. So, after Dinova left, Rory became incredibly depressed. My silly goofy silky wind ferret alien thing was confused and lethargic and wouldn’t play, not even with her buddy Arlo. This lasted for some time with no improvement.

Eventually, Tyrell adopted Ottilie for Rory. How I came to find and select Ottilie is a whole story in itself, for another day maybe, but— Tyrell paid for Ottilie to be adopted and agreed to cover any emergency vet costs that may arise until we’re back on our feet (and cat food when I am unable to cover it myself). Once we brought her home, Rory was back to normal almost instantaneously. Not only that, but— while Dinova did love Rory, she was still always very standoffish with other pets and had trained Rory not to engage in play with her. Ottilie is the exact opposite— she’s brave and bold, playful and silly, and not shy with any animal, so over time Ottilie re-taught Rory how to play with her own species. It was very sweet watching Rory figure it all out.

Tyrell was also okay with adopting Ottilie because she and Thom had recently lost their 18+ year old gray cat, Winky, which was very very hard on them both. So on top of filling the Dinova shaped hole for Rory (and me), it also filled the little gray cat shaped hole in their hearts, too. Rory is happier than I’ve ever seen her. Ottilie has a home. Wherever she is, Dinova is happy and thriving for the first time in almost 7 years. Tyrell and Thom’s hearts are a little more soothed. My guilt is practically cured.