#we'll see what the two or three of you who would actually vote will say 😂

[freepassbound]

What Would You Do?

So here's a situation: went out to buy milk yesterday (as one does). There was a decent deal on - half-gallons for $1.29. Saves a bit on the regular gallon.

Get to the grocery store, pick up my other items, hit the dairy section: there's five cases ('doors') of milk - in the case with my favored kind and the one next to it, most whole rows of half-gallons, gallons, and even quarts... all have the clearance sticker on them. And not marked down a little - they were bargain basement prices that I can't recall seeing before. 50 cents for a half-gallon. 70 cents for a gallon.

I've picked up milk on clearance before - it's a common practice for a grocery store to do when there's only a day two before the marked 'best before' date. If it's just a half-gallon, I figure I can put that away in a few days; a gallon... well, maybe if I made cookies or something.

But I'm already a little spooked by just how many of these are on clearance - usually it's just one or two, and this is... a dozen? More?

So I check the dates.

All the ones that I had a look at (the whole front rows, one in the second row just to check that) say July 28. Ten days from yesterday. Milk on clearance ten days in advance of the 'best by' date is... unheard of. And there are whole other rows in theses cases, with 'best by' dates of Aug. 1, that aren't marked down.

So this is my question:

[ladykailitha]

Buckle up, there is a topic I want to rant about today. A few days ago this came across my dash and it reminded me of someone I knew from high school.

There was this kid at my high school everyone thought was a douche. He was good looking, popular, could sing, dance and play an instrument (I think it was guitar, but I don't remember it's been 20 years). He was getting lead roles in the plays as a sophomore (we didn't have freshman in our high schools out here in hick Utah where the running joke has always been we're behind the times by at 20-40 years), he got duck classes because he was getting acting jobs while in school.

We'll call him MH because those were his initials.

He was in my biology class and our science teacher had four groups of four debate creationism vs evolution (you shouldn't debate established fact but whatever). Two groups would be for creation and the other two would be for evolution.

I picked creation because I was a contrary child and wanted to debate the opposite of my actual views. (I was like thatTM) He picked evolution.

We got up and gave our arguments. Now our teacher wasn't a stupid man, stupid assignment aside. He knew his classes. He knew teenagers. He gave them two voting slips. One for who liked the best. Popularity wise. And the other for who gave the best arguments.

Now for some added context, this is Utah. Mormonville. Creation is basically hardwired into our psyche from birth. The chances of EVOLUTION winning was as likely as a pig sprouting wings.

But I was not well liked in high school, I was an epileptic, ADHD, anxiety riddled nerd. So MH's team got the votes for both the best argument and the most popular, because fuck me that's why. (And yeah, this sounds like my anxiety talking, but no these little shits told me that to my face.)

I can't remember how long exactly it was. Long enough that I got over it, but fresh enough I knew what he was talking about. But shortly after this shit show we have a fire drill. It was cold, it was miserable and I was ready to start cussing for the warmth.

MH comes up to me and the two friends I was with and tells me "Hey, I think it was crap that you lost. Your team had the better argument and was better articulated. I just wanted to let you know." And then melted back into the crowd of students.

I didn't think he knew what my name was, if I'm honest. But he came up to me and told me that I should have won. Even my friends were shocked. Now of course I was bitter about losing, because how could I not be? But the fact that the hottest guy in school came up to me and said that? I felt vindicated.

From that day on though? I was a staunch MH supporter. I was tell people that he was probably shy and very busy (you know with the whole acting jobs thing).

TL;DR: high school douche goes out of his way to tell me that I should won the on merit side of a stupid debate and I find out not a douche after all.

So why do I bring this up? Because of Steve Harrington. He has literally everyone saying he was an ass in high school. That he has to atone. But other than some instances where it was absolutely warranted we never really see Steve be a douche. Just typical teenager shit. And every time he does something "bad" he apologizes for it.

But all his friends are still giving him shit about it three years later. But not Jonathan who was an actual fucking criminal. Like he didn't have develop the sex pictures if he was looking for evidence of the thing that took his brother. I've developed film. The negative, while small gives you a pretty good indication of what would develop.

And yeah Nancy forgave him, but no one asked Steve if he forgave him. Because he was in those pictures, too. Steve was just as violated as Nancy was. And if the scene we see is any indication, Steve was probably more predominately featured than Nancy was, because he was on top. Meaning he would have covered her most of the time.

So no, I don't think Steve was a bully. No, I don't think he has anything to atone for that he hasn't already atoned for in fucking spades. I think he was always that same lovable dork he always was and Nancy had nothing to do with his "hero arc". But I have my own thoughts about Nancy that are way too long for this already massive dash stretcher.

/rant end

[maifromshowfall]

[Video transcript begin.]

[The video starts pointing at the floor, then shakes as Mai struggles to get the go-pro to stay in the correct spot in the room. She backs up, revealing the other two in her office.]

Mari: You are really fucking bad at holding that!

Mai: Shut Up!

Mari: Just get this over with, you idiot.

Mai: Gladly… As You Can See, There Are Two People Here. One Is Barely Alive, The Other Could Live A Long Happy Life.

Mari: Happy is debatable.

Mai: Anyway, I Had You All Vote. But We Still Need The Most Important One.

[The door to Mai’s office creaks, as Edgar enters the room. Holding up a hairspray canister and a lighter. He looks tense.]

Mai: Edgar! You Made It.

Edgar: I will light you on fire if you don’t hurry this up, Mai.

Mai: Sorry But If You Do That…

[Mai removes her jacket, revealing a metal plate and 9 wires.]

Mai: Rose will die! Surprise! Do You Like It? I'm Calling It The… Dead Rose Switch! Basically If My Heart Stops Before Rose Is Dewired She Dies!

[Edgars shoulders hunch up, but he maintains a calm tone as he speaks.]

Edgar: Great. Real creative name.

Mai: I Made It In Like 5 Minutes… Didn't Have Time For A Name, Anyway Hit One Of The Two Buttons Before You.

[He reaches out, but hesitates, looking between the two, before making eye contact with Mari, who nods. Edgar slams his palm into the button with their name on it, before stepping back.]

Edgar: W– well, I’ve made my choice.

Mai: Well, The Person Who Will Stay Here Is ROS- Just Kidding! It's Mari!

Edgar: Mai, you are fucking hilarious. Wow.

Mai: Fuck You, And Give Me A Moment!

[Mai begins inputting a code into her monitor, as Mari takes a deep breath.]

Mari: So um… Okay, what now?

Edgar: This… uh, this may be goodbye, for now. I guess.

Mari: Yeah… On the bright side, my girlfriend is here… In the vents, and she brought me cake! Do you want a piece?

Edgar: If you have one to spare, yes?

Mari: Okay, here!

[Mari hands Edgar a piece of cake.]

Edgar: Mari, I just wanted to say that… I’m sorry for lying to you about all of this. I thought it would keep you out of danger, and my judgment was way far off. If I didn’t do that, you wouldn’t be…

[Mari hugs Edgar, their next words being said with a tear.]

Mari: Edgar! this probably would have happened anyway let's be honest… Think of it this way you're getting Rose back.

Edgar: Yeah, but losing one person for another isn’t a happy ending for anyone involved. I promised you’d be fine, and I really don’t want to break another one of those.

Mari: Edgar, look at me! I will be fine. In fact I'm doing better today than I was, because now I have a chance to save sarah.

[Edgar pauses, thinking about what to respond with, he glances around the room before bringing his focus back to Mari.]

Edgar: I think I’m running out of time… Goodbye, Mari, stay safe. You’ll do great. I hope to see you again someday.

Mari: yeah… Goodbye for now Edgar, stay safe. And yeah, we'll meet again eventually.

Mai: Okay, Times Up Idiots. Edgar Come Over Here And Stand Where Rose Can See You. Also Idk Talk To Her.

[Edgar walks over to where Rose is, fumbling with something in his pocket before opening his mouth to speak, but he hesitates again, trying to think of something to say.]

Edgar: Uh, shit, I don’t actually know what to say here, I’m blanking. Er, hi?

Mai: Yeah She's Not Gonna Respond Right Now, Is There Like Something Rose Enjoyed?

Edgar: Okay first of all, fuck off, Mai. Second of all, yeah, there is. Um. Rose, I listened to the CD you left, it was really good.

Mai: Okay! That Works, I Guess. Oh And Hug Her Trust Me If We Don't Do This Right… Rose Will Fucking Die. And I'm Trying To Be Nice.

[Edgar glares at Mai, then moves closer to Rose to hug her.]

Mai: Okay! Doing The Thing Now!

[Mai begins hitting more buttons as the sound of disconnecting wires can be heard.]

Mai: Try Talking To Her Now! And Then You Have Probably… 3 Minutes Before She Just Starts Bleeding From The Inside.

Edgar: Three fucking minutes? Christ… Uh, hey, Rose, we kinda don’t have a lot of time but, we’re going to get out of here, and you’re going to be okay.

Rose: dad…?

Mari: Oh, and like don't worry about time… I called 911 like 30 minutes ago bro!

Edgar: Jeez, you’re really on top of things, I probably should have left the planning to you in the first place.

Mari: Yeah probably but we don't have a lot of time so um… Goodbye, and get running!

Edgar: Wait, Mai, is the ‘Dead Rose Switch’ still active?

Mai: No, It Stopped Working When The Wires Disconnected, But I Have A Gun Pointed At Mari So Don't Fucking Try Anything.

Edgar: Okay, well, you’re still fucking lame, and I think this would be really funny.

[Edgar lunges for the gun in Mai’s hand and wrenches it out, then takes the hairspray canister and the lighter and lights Mai’s left pant leg on fire, immediately after, he sweeps his leg into the back of Mai’s knees, causing her to fall to the floor. He then grabs Rose and bolts out the office door, flipping her off as he leaves.]

Mai: YOU FUCKER!

Mari: Okay, put your leg out, stupid, and let's get to the point.

[Mai puts her leg out before grabbing a showfall mask off the table.]

Mari: Can I like… hum a song while we do this?

Mai: FINE WHATEVER LET'S JUST END THIS DISASTER.

[Mari begins humming a song recognized as "Goodbye so soon" as Mai gets closer.]

Mai: Any Last Words?

Mari: Yeah, I have two. Fuck You.

[Mai quickly puts the mask on Mari, and they fall to the floor. The song that Mari was humming begins to play over the speakers in the office, and the feed begins to fade to black. But not before the Go-Pro falls to the floor, having slowly been leaning the whole recording.]

Mai: Sleep Well, You Brat.

[End transcript.]

[boysplanetrecaps]

Build Up Episode 1: If You and Every Moment

Welcome back to my project of recapping Build Up, the MNET show! In the previous one, we finished off the "voice check" mission, when the guys voted -- or didn't vote -- for each other. In this post, we'll tackle the judges panel as well as the first two performances: If You and Every Moment of You. Let's do this!

It's time for the performances already!

The judges are gathering. First in is Lee Seokhoon. You know, this guy. 

He was the vocal coach on, among other shows, PD101 and Boys Planet. I have tried and tried over the course of this recap to remember his name but I cannot, and my scrolling finger was getting tired, so I will be calling him That Guy or That Vocal Coach Guy or something throughout and you’re just going to have to make your peace with that.

Then Wendy from Red Velvet and Baekho arrive. I’ve never seen Wendy on a show like this before, which checks out, because she says it’s her first time. And OMG. Baehko? Main vocal of Nu’est? The guy I bring up randomly in recaps that have nothing whatsoever to do with him, on the slightest pretense? I genuinely didn’t know he’d be a judge on this, but it sure sweetens the pot. I hope we get to hear him singing! 

Baekho jokes that he feels like he should be on stage performing, because That Guy is here. The joke is that Baekho was on PD101 Season 2, when That Guy was a judge/trainer. Baekho actually won PD101 Season 2 based on the real votes, and should have been in Wanna One, but MNET rigged it and gave his spot to someone else. 

I’m really surprised that Baekho would want to deal with MNET again after all that, but I guess this show has a different staff and showrunner. 

Baekho and Wendy talk about how it’s their first time doing a show like this, and Wendy says she’s so nervous. She sounds really nervous. It’s one of the first times I’ve ever seen Wendy not smiling. 

Eunkwang from BtoB arrives (if you don’t know BtoB, they’re with Cube and they’re known for their vocals), and Solar from Mamamoo. Finally, Jaehwan from Wanna One (he’s a soloist now) -- he’s the one who sang that part right before the chorus of Energetic, the part with the “no no no no!” His vocals are so gorgeous, my god. But also, I wonder if it’s weird for Jaehwan and Baekho to work together after being on PD101 together all those years ago…? Doesn’t seem to be -- they have a fun rapport. 

Anyway, this judging panel is stacked. 

LTR: Baekho from Nu’est, Solar from Mamamoo, That Guy, Eunkwang from BtoB, Wendy from Red Velvet, and Jaehwan from Wanna One

Dahee appears and introduces herself as the MC.

She looks really pretty. A long sleeved bedazzled denim tailored crop top paired with a matching denim mini skirt? I mean why not? Do your thing, Dahee. The judging panel applauds and shouts at her that she’s beautiful.

The camera reveals where the boys are sitting in a sort of green room area, and they are also shouting about Dahee. They’re now wearing the outfits they wore in their official photos. That will make it easier to recognize them from those photos, that’s for sure.

And looking at this, I realize, this is supposed to look like the coliseum. You guys. That’s why one of the boys said that the set looks like the coliseum as they were coming in, before the studio lights came up. Someone must have told him to say it. This is supposed to look like an ancient Roman gladiator ring or something. I wish it didn’t look so shitty, though. 

Dahee says that the participants will get to experience the feeling of being in a 4 member group today, and that they be evaluated for their performance. 

Wendy is super nervous. She might be even more nervous than the boys are. Come on, Wendy, my fellow North American. You got this! She’s wearing one of those three-quarter sleeve blazers. I feel like I should get one of those. 

Dahee asks the judges what criteria they’ll be using. The judges reply with their criteria one by one, and the guys in the green room are seeing it on a closed circuit camera view and reacting to each judge. Apparently, this is the first time they are finding out even who the judges are, much less what the criteria is. Seems like maybe that info would have been helpful earlier, like maybe when the boys were rehearsing and planning….?

LTR: Bitsaeon from M.O.N.T,  Ji Yeon Woo, Sunyoul from UP10TION, and Choi Su Hwan -- aka Team Decalcomanie. 

The boys are excited to see the vocal coach guy, who they refer to as “that man with glasses.” I guess they also have trouble remembering his name. They’re also a bit intimidated by him -- he’s known for telling it like it is. 

The guys are also especially delighted to see Eunkwang from BtoB. 

To be clear, they’re also pretty surprised and happy to see all the judges, but my sense is that for most of them, Eunkwang takes top spot. He is often cited as a role model for young male kpop vocalists, in much the way that young female kpop vocalists would cite Taeyeon from SNSD. 

Sunyoul, in his sparkly black jacket, pulls out a little notebook and starts taking notes of the criteria! Is Sunyoul low key the Woongki of Build Up? I think he might be, friends. I’m here for it. Not that anyone can replace THE Woongki, but it’s nice to have someone around who reminds us of him. So what must Sunyoul be writing down? Here’s the criteria we get:

The Vocal Coach Guy says that he’s going to be looking for the delivery of the lyrics and for them to do their own interpretation of the songs.

Eunkwang encourages them to have good teamwork on stage and to show their best performance with the chance they have. 

Solar from Mamamoo tells them that, as a member of a 4-person vocal group herself, she’s looking for synergy. 

Baekho says he’s looking to see that they distributed the parts correctly so that each member can shine. 

Wendy tells them she’s also looking for lyric delivery and emotional expression. 

Jaehwan starts to say that the others already gave good advice, and Eunkwang playfully interrupts to tell him to not say more in that case. Jaehwan goes on, undaunted, and encourages them to not let their nervousness get the best of them. They need their breath to sing!

And right away, it’s time for the first team to perform! 

If You (originally by Big Bang)

The first team is doing “If You” by Big Bang, from 2015. Eunkwang says the song is really hard, and That Guy agrees. Shipji ana! It’s not easy. This song is not just something you can sing with a “nice tone.” 

Who is taking the stage? 

It’s Geonu from Just B, Jay, Kang Hayoon, and Hong Seongjun from BDC. They each introduce themselves. 

Randomly, back in the green room, Seokhwa from WEi says he went to an academy with Geonu. See, all these guys travel in the same circles. One more reason it’s dumb to have fan wars -- you might be crapping on an idol who is best friends with your bias.

Hwanhee, watching from the green room, says he’s looking forward to Jay. And speaking of Boys Planet, That Vocal Coach Guy greets Jay, and they say “long time no see” kind of stuff. It’s interesting -- Jay’s Korean is obviously a lot stronger than it used to be, but he’s clearly still not fluent.  

Vocal Coach Guy also knows Hong Seongjun from when Seongjun was on PD101, so the other judges tease him for knowing everyone -- is he like, the mayor of MNET? Vocal Coach Guy shakes off the teasing, but takes the time to praise Jay’s talent.

Solar and Wendy ask Hayoon why, if he’s ranked so high and can choose any song he wants, he chose this song. He says, in his very cute way of talking, that he thinks YG songs fit his voice, and we’re left to ponder how someone so cyoo can also be so YG we head into a flashback.

Let’s take a quick break and talk about the song itself. It was released in 2015 as a digital single only, with no video; an official for YG said that the song was too sad to make an MV for it! It was also unusual for a Big Bang song in that it featured only singing, not rapping. The lyrics describe a break up; the chorus goes, “If you, if you/ If it’s not too late / Can’t we get back together? / If you, if you/ If you’re struggling like I am / Can’t we make things a little easier?/ I should’ve treated you better when I had you.” The song did really well on the charts and got a lot of critical praise. For the record, I think it’s gorgeous, and I’m glad it’s going to get a cover done by a team of all main-vocalist. It has the feeling of a song written out of a real emotional place, and needs to be performed from that same emotional place if possible. Good things idols aren’t allowed to date, or they might actually experience some of these emotional situations! Sigh. 

So, back to the flashback! 

We learn that Hayoon chose If You immediately, because he thinks it suits him. Kang Hayoon kind of reminds me of that one episode of the Brak show where it turned out Zorak could sing in this really nice, clean voice --  but in reverse. Hayoon has this soft, sweet speaking voice and then he sings like an ageless wizard. 

Anyway, based on my reconstruction of the team formation, six other contestants chose their songs next, and didn’t choose this one, but Jay made a bee-line for it. Jay explains that he chose If You at least in part because he wanted to work with Hayoon, which is kind of funny since earlier in the episode we learned that Hayoon was wary of working with Jay. 

Hong Seongjun, looking on from down in the gladiator pit, says he doesn’t want to be in the same song as Hayoon and Jay, but after 17 more guys make their choice, he ends up choosing If You anyway. After all, he’s a great singer too, right? By the time Geonu chooses, all that is left besides If You is Decalcomanie, Don't Go, Breath, and of course Every Moment (more on that later), but he chooses If You. 

They sing a bit together to help decide how to divide up the parts. Honestly, I’m not sure that I’m as much of a superfan of Hayoon’s voice as everyone else seems to be. I get it that it’s unique, and I definitely like some unique voices, but Hayoon’s voice just isn’t the kind of voice I love-love-love. I like it, don't get me wrong, but it's not my favorite voice in the whole world. Jay says Hayoon’s voice is very similar to G-Dragon’s voice, and I guess it is, actually, that’s fair -- but GD isn’t exactly known as an excellent vocalist, is he? He’s more of a rapper, songwriter, allrounder, swag king. (G-Dragon is the leader of Big Bang, if you're not familiar.) 

So, I watched this episode the first time while a bit stoned (it’s legal where I live, guys, and I’m over 21) and I wrote down: “Jay is singing too, and jesus god on a pony he sounds gorgeous. I’m so distracted by his pink lipstick but his voice? Amazing. He says that he really wants a main part, and I want him to have one.” So… yeah. That’s how I feel now, too. (Write stoned, but edit sober, is what I always say.) 

And they begin….

I know some of you may not have a decent link to the episode, so I’ll give the version with all the interruptions and reactions too, in case you want to watch it.

Here’s the version without all the reactions, if you want just the performance. 

Here’s the version with all the reactions -- you can turn on the captions if you want.

My thoughts: 

Basically, Jay’s voice is so impossibly sweet that he makes everyone else sound almost bad. I know I said he needs to work on his pitch and nasality, but he didn’t seem to have any pitch issues with this song, not even minor ones, and he was a lot less nasal. When I watched the performance before I saw the episode, I thought maybe he’d worked through the song with a trainer or judge or something to do the job he did, and you know, maybe he did. Regardless of how he did it, he sounded fantastic. 

If you were eating really high quality ice cream, would you want to have a handful of Doritos right in the middle? Even if you like Doritos? I guess maybe some people would, but it’s not really the experience I’d want, personally. Doritos in one bowl, Ben & Jerry’s in the other, you know? 

What I’m saying is that Jay is the ice cream and Hayoon is the Doritos.

Hayoon does have a GD-esque voice. It’s cool to listen to by itself, but next to Jay’s honey voice, it stands out kind of unpleasantly to me. It’s not a deal breaker or anything; it’s just that it wasn’t my favorite blend. 

If you listen to just Seongjun’s voice, it’s nice too, if sometimes fairly nasal. Next to Jay's, it pales a bit, but on its own, it's really nice. It’s got texture and warmth and emotion. But he loses control just that little bit in service of the emotion, and he has a habit of letting his voice kind of “slump” at the end of each line. (That’s my term for it -- I don’t know if there’s an official way to explain.)

Judging by the criteria of, “who showed the most emotion,” it’s Geonu by a mile. But it was maybe a bit too much emotion…? He ended up going a bit pitchy and here and there -- he also loses control in service of the emotion. I could imagine a fan enjoying that, but I don’t think it’s what these judges want. That said, his vocal color is actually really very sweet and pleasant. I think he probably adds a lot to Just B songs. 

The parts in harmony sounded pretty amazing. Everyone was in such control. Nice work, team!

Overall, this performance was really great. If this was a real vocal group, I’d like to listen to them. Hayoon’s instinct that his voice and Jay’s wouldn’t mix well was dead on, but I’d work around that to hear each of them individually. I also think that all three of the other voices blended well. It also doesn’t hurt that I love this song. I admit fully that it will be harder for me to evaluate some of the other songs. 

MNET Edit:

It’s comparatively restrained for an MNET edit, with a lot of reactions but a minimum of instant replays from both the other guys and the judges.

The judges say:

The judges love Jay and Hayoon especially. It seems that only Geonu leaves all the judges stone faced. The boys backstage are impressed by especially by Jay especially, but seem to have kind words for all four. 

When the song is over, everyone applauds, and Dahee asks the judges what they thought. 

That Vocal Coach Guy says that overall they were good. Jay was a good fit for the song, and he really enjoys Hayoon’s unique tones. 

Baekho praises Seongjun as the one whose performance held the performance together. Aww, that’s nice he got a bit of love. He really did sound nice here, and displayed a bit of range compared to his teaser song performance.

Jaehwan says that Geonu’s gestures and expressions were too canned and pre-planned, and it made his performance feel lifeless. Kind of harsh, but fair, I think. It’s tough because in kpop idol music, they tend to plan everything, even minor things like when they’re going to pass their hand in front of their face. Coming here where they’re expected to basically freestyle sing may be a tough adjustment for them.

Hearing this tough critique upsets our sweet Sunyoul, who asks his teammate Ji Yeon Woo to feel how hard his heart is beating. 

With any luck, some girls will ship this and vote for him! Fighting, Yeonwoo! Fighting, Sunyoul!

Dahee asks the judges to select the top tier singer. It’s down to Jay versus Hayoon, and the judges spend time thinking, but it seems kind of obvious who it’s going to be Jay. The boys back stage think it will be Jay, too.

It turns out it’s unanimous -- 

-- they all chose Jay.

The other guys congratulate him, but they’re obviously disappointed to not be picked themselves. 

When Dahee asks Wendy about her reaction to Jay’s voice, she says it tickled her ears, and I know what she means.

Jay kind of can’t believe he’s hearing such high praise from Wen-fucking-dy from Red-fucking-Velvet. I would die. I would die! I would evaporate into a wisp of carbon and oxygen if Wendy praised my singing voice!! 

Dahee asks how it feels to win, and Jay tries to answer but first has to figure out what to call the judges. Eunkwang says he can call him hyung, which also blows Jay’s mind. Jay decides to stay formal, thanks them for the compliments, and promises to keep working hard. 

Again, I’m sure the other boys are disappointed, but I think they knew it was a long shot to win against Jay. They try to take it in stride because they mostly got good feedback. 

The judges talk about how good Jay is until it’s time for the next performance. 

Every Moment of You

When the next song pops up on screen, the whole judging panel is pretty shocked, because it is apparently a really difficult one to sing. It’s called “너의 모든 순간 (Every Moment of You)” and is originally by Sung Sikyung. It’s from a drama My Love From The Star which was a phenomenon at the time, to the point that the lipstick color the main actress wore ended up trending. I watched this drama and liked it (not loved it but liked it a lot), but I didn’t really recognize the song, which is telling. I do often get to like songs from dramas I watch because you hear them over and over, you know? I just find this song a bit cheesy, personally. If you like it, rock on -- a LOT of people like this song. 

Some of the lyrics: 

After a while, when I recognized you, Everything was clearly changing/ My world separates to before and after knowing you/ When you breathe, a warm wind blows/ When you smile, dazzling sunlight shines …. Because you stayed there, because it’s you / Because you sometimes quietly lean on my shoulder/ I’m really, completely happy / I follow you as time flows and stops.

Anyway! So, the guys come out and introduce themselves.

Jang Intae says he’s hoping to establish himself as a good singer. Jang Intae was the one who came in last place in the voting. He performed a BtoB song as his teaser (V31) so it’s safe to guess he might be a fan of Eunkwang’s. Jaehwan gives Intae’s introduction a lot of approval, and we find out later that the two of them are friends. 

Seunghun from CIX introduces himself and says “I sing deep emotions with a soft voice.”

Hong Sungwon says he’s a musical actor who will tap your eardrums sweetly. He’s in this fabulous ombre sweater with frayed hems and I want it. Sungwon is the one who sang Desperado as his teaser song, and I thought he did a great job. 

Finally, Bain says he’s going to cut your heartstrings which doesn’t sound great…? Maybe it sounds better in Korean. 

We hop back in time to see some of their preparations. We find out that Sungwon the musical actor chose this song quite willingly, but he was 14th to pick, meaning that 13 guys chose a song before him and none of them chose this song. In fact, it was the song that stayed empty the longest. Then, when we got to the last four guys to choose -- Bain, Seunghun from CIX, Lim Junhyuk (former Day 6), and Jang Intae  -- there were three spaces still in Every Moment of You and one space in Breath. So there wasn’t really much in the way of choice for those last four guys, and three of them ended up here. What I’m saying is that most of the guys really didn’t want to sing this song, Sungwon aside.

When it came to their preparations, the main issue was, who gets to sing the intro? It’s kind of the “killing part” of the song, the part that everyone mimics when they talk about this song. At first, it looks like the team is going to have the musical actor Sungwon sing it, but then CIX’s Seunghun challenges him. Who won it? We have to watch the performance to find out. 

Here’s the version without all the reactions, if you want just the performance. 

Here’s the version with all the reactions -- you can turn on the captions if you want.

My thoughts:

Enh, guys, I had a rough time with this one, but I admit the song is kind of growing on me, despite my best efforts to keep not liking it.

Overall, this wasn't bad, but I liked some of the performances more than others.

So the first time I listened, I just listened, not watching, so I wouldn’t know who was who. Then I watched it again to match up voice to singer. From my blind listening, I ranked them 

Sungwon (the musical actor) 

Bain (orange hair from Just B)

Seunghun (from CIX) 

Intae

I just didn’t really like the way Intae sang this. 

It was so nasal, for starters. He has to switch awkwardly to falsetto sometimes and when he does it’s the wrong kind of breathy. He must be doing something wrong with his breathing because he also runs out of breath at the end of lines sometimes. He does have good pitch, and nice control over his vibrato. But overall this is just sort of not something I like to listen to. I feel bad because he came in last place in the voting and I don’t want to kick a guy when he’s down, but… yeah. 

I also didn’t much like Seunghun’s performance. Again, I thought it was quite nasal, though not as nasal as Intae’s. He runs out of breath in the first bit, which may have been a stylistic choice but comes across to me as a mistake. His vocal color is certainly pretty on the lower notes when the nasality is less present, and boy, does the camera love his pretty face. 

Eunkwang is edited to show disgust for Bain’s singing, which, you guys, ugh, omg, I can’t, I’m so mad. Bain did great. I’d admit it if he didn’t, but he did great. Fuck this show. I swear. His longer notes have resonance. He has barely any nasality. He has a tiny teeny too much vibrato for my taste here but I think it’s appropriate for the song. Pitch? Check. Emotion? Check. Breath support? Check. I don’t get the criticism. 

Sungwon, to me, was the obvious MVP. His voice is so clear and lovely that it just goes down easy in your ear holes. He doesn’t have a hint of nasality and his control and pitch are both spot on. He vibrato is perfect, just perfect. Any more would be too much and less would be not enough. He also looks right at the camera and acts it perfectly. I also think the camera loves his pretty face, too, but you guys know that I don’t know who is or isn’t handsome in this world. 

The MNET edit:

They of course play an instant replay of those important first few notes, and see everyone reacting to them. We get a lot of edited in reactions from the judges to let us know that apparently Bain is terrible, just the worst, get off the stage you loser. But other than that, the edit is relatively restrained for MNET. I guess they’re not going to be tap dancing on their edit keyboard as much for this show as they do for Boys Planet-esque shows. 

The judges say:

All of the judges compliment Seunghun’s singing in the intro. Then Jaehwan compliments everything about him, including his height and looks. That’s… not the point, Jaehwan, but ok. 

Wendy really liked musical actor Sungwon, and praises him a lot. Her praising him makes me feel smart. Yay! Wendy and I agree so all is right with the world.

Solar is glad that Intae smiled. I guess she has a point since the song is a love song, and watching most of them sing, you’d think that it was a sad song. I mean, here’s Bain singing with his eyes basically closed -- and he was like this for a WHILE.

But I don’t think Intae's smiling overcomes the other more serious problems with his performance. 

Eunkwang says, “Bain used a singing method that is far from this song.” I don’t know what that is even supposed to mean. But of course, we just see this one sentence from Eunkwang, and don’t hear what any of the other judges had to say about him. This is just the MNET editing, and MNET has decided to hate Bain. Well, I hate MNET, how about that? Also, Eunkwang, you’re low-key on my shit list. I didn’t get the best impression of you on Kingdom, TBH, so… yeah. 

Oh no, Bain is sad! Everyone listen to his cover of Seven by Jungkook to cheer him up.

The judging panel is over, and it’s time to choose top tier. The boys backstage think it’ll either be the musical actor Sungwon or CIX’s Seunghun. I’d give it to Sungwon, if it’s not obvious.

Most of them vote for CIX’s Seunghun, but Solar votes for Intae. OMG, Solar. You can even see That Vocal Coach Guy looking at her as if to say WTF. 

Naturally, Seunghun is really glad to be chosen top tier after what happened in the first vote. Even though I didn’t adore his performance here, he’s a sweet guy and I know he really wants to be recognized as a vocalist, not just a handsome face, so I’m happy for him. Also, he’s singing in the ballad style, which is what he was asked to do, so if it’s not to my taste, maybe that’s ok. 

Ok, I think that’s good for now! I’ll see you in the next one, when we’ll pick up with Don’t Go.  Thanks as always for reading!

[mbrainspaz]

but we /love/ you

my gran literally just said to me: Your mom and I can vote for whoever we want to and still love you!

me: Republicans have introduced over 200 anti-trans bills in 2022 and 2023. Republican legislators are currently actively pushing bills that would criminalize the existence of non-binary and trans people.

gran: Well they should stop those little 4 year old kids from getting their bodies changed.

me: THAT'S NOT HAPPENING. THAT'S ACTUAL PROPAGANDA. Ok, listen carefully—surgeries like that are not being performed on minors. It's already a thing that they have to wait until they're 18. That's already how it works.

gran: oh.

me: I'm not saying you have to vote democrat. I'm saying if you actually loved me, you would.

gran: It's actually democrats who are in power now.

me: This is state level politics I'm talking about. We live in a red state. But go on, tell me what big bad democrats in Washington have done to hurt you.

gran: Gas prices and welfare!

me: 🤦🏻

I hate everything. That literally is all boomer politics is in their 6-o-clock news poisoned shrunken brains. "Gas price go up when democrat." Her other point? F*cking 'welfare queens.' I kid you not. This lifelong forced birther who is living on social security because she and her husband are retired/unemployed just went on a rant about poor people 'having babies just to get more welfare checks'. WHILE TALKING TO HER RECENTLY HOMELESS AND STILL STRUGGLING GRANDKID WITH THREE JOBS this woman—who dropped out of 6th grade in '54 and can barely read but is suddenly america's top political advisor—tries to go on a rant about f*cking welfare. And yeah you know she meant impoverished black mothers, particularly. This all started because she made another attempt at inviting my mom to our margarita night on the proviso that I don't 'talk politics' because they 'don't care' about the politics that affect my life. I tried FOR 30 MINUTES just now to explain the concept of 'y'all not caring about the politics actually just tells me you don't really care about me'. And it sucks, but I have to live with that. What I don't have to do is spend the little time and energy I have outside of my corporate slave job and side hustles to mollycoddle the feelings of two people who are actively throwing me under the bus of their f*cked up political and religious ideologies.

gran: but we LOVE you!

me: then show it.

gran: HOW DARE YOU ASK US TO DO THAT.

me: ok so once more, the 'love' you are giving is actually harming me.

gran: name ONE time.

me: *lists several instances where they threw me under the bus, invalidated me, gaslit me, and disrespected me to my face, and explains how that was hurtful.*

gran: that's your problem—you dwell on things!

me: I don't have the memory of a concussed fish, you mean.

Anyway, we ended on me explaining for the millionth time that I don't feel heard, seen, or understood, and therefore do not feel loved. I said "I have, at this point, essentially written y'all a list of things you could do that would show me you love me, and every time you tear it up in my face and tell me to stop that" (but you still want me to show up for margaritas and put up with getting disrespected and stepped on for the rest of my life). To that gran said, "Make a list! Write it down for me. I'll read it." "Yeah... we'll see."

I mean, it's not gonna work. I've been talking openly about being non-binary for over 6 months and if you think a single person in my family has googled a single article or study about anything queer (other than maybe 'how do I un-trans my adult child, HELP!'), you're giving them too much credit.

So here I go—off to waste the rest of my afternoon writing a damn list (of shit that should be obvious) instead of working on my side hustles and getting my house clean before work tomorrow. This is why people go no contact. It's always, "oh, I'm not being loving enough? Do more emotional labor for me and then maybe we'll see if you deserve an ounce of dignity or respect!"

[struggling-to-find-home]

Warning: very dramatic lamenting of a toxic lesbian situationship

It takes a good few minutes, but we finally catch our groupmate standing still and all run up to him like a chaotic pack of dogs, erupting in "Happy birthdays!" And shoving the present we prepared into his arms.

A hoodie - my idea, inspired by his attempt to steal one of mine during year two - with one piece - an idea of my groupmate's who was aware of that particular passion. His face is red when he looks at it, and he's smiling and stammering, proving that we did something right.

Year one sucked. Year two sucked. Now, year three also sucks, but it also... Doesn't.

The group is much more efficient now, for one. We have a new group rep, who actually does her job efficiently; I pick up the slack when I can, sending links and reminders so noone forgets to do what we need to. I used to do it before, too - text the previous group rep, my closest friend at the time, so she wouldn't forget to actually do her job - but now what I do is actually seen by the others, and it's... Nice.

How funny. If anything, she took advantage of me - of my naivety and of the innocence that was still there by that point. It had been one year since I lost my memory when I entered med school. At that point, I still haven't discovered what it even meant to dislike someone who wasn't your active abuser yet.

It's funny. During, I always thought that the relationship was pretty healthy, even with the push-and-pull form it took pretty often. But now, looking back, I see it for what it is - a codependent, toxic asshole who was always trying to put you as her persecutor so she could play the victim, and me, who tried to keep a distance but couldn't pull away until I did some serious work on myself.

And it annoyed her, too - that I never wanted to indulge in her pointless grudges, that it was hard for her to make me dislike someone with her. That it was hard to keep me from other people. (Because if I talked to someone else, it would mean someone could talk to me about her.) I was too good for her, especially at first, and she took it out on me.

And, as time went on, she tried to pull, to take, more and more and more and more, until so many people got caught up in the collateral damage that it was her own undoing.

I always lost to her academically - trying to undo years of trauma by yourself while balancing school work would do that to you - but it didn't matter, because while she came to class bitter after spending ten hours to read three textbooks, I was running around the city, busied myself with hobbies, came was generally high on life. Of course someone that critically miserable didn't like that. So you bet your ass she tried to rub every supposed "victory" in my face, only to get even more annoyed when that didn't work, because I didn't yet understand that I was supposed to be upset.

Now she's gone. Moved to a different group, because our university decided that saying "Hey, you need to kick out roughly three people from your group. Choose however you want to, but if you refuse, we'll do it for you" is very normal. And so we voted, and it was the fairest vote I've ever been a part of. It's kind of why it all imploded, but not really.

In reality, everything about it imploded... Because of my love life. Because I got stuck in the shittiest love triangle ever, in which both options wanted me as their codependent enabler and chronic fixer. Someone to come in and solve everything about them for them. Someone who's happiness they can leech off of, because if your life is so good compared to ours, surely you are a bad person for not sharing it, not letting us in? Yes, one of those was the group rep. The second one was even worse.

They both were in love with me. I knew that. I also knew that something about that love was wrong - it was unhealthy, and possessive, and kinda felt like one of them wanted to crawl into my body and become me, and the other wanted to just own me, period, in that horrible way shitty straight guys want you to become their property.

And, when after months of toeing the line and struggling against my psyche, because surely, surely if I tell them off I'll be as bad as my abusers, it finally hit me - that something was wrong, wrong, wrong - and, one mental breakdown later, I decided I had to do something. Well, honestly, less decided, more lashed out like a cornered animal, but you get the idea.

So, what do you do when you need to get someone away from you? Pit their attention against someone else. And the perfect guy - the one both of them hated, and hated the group rep in return, and who was also kind of obnoxious and kind of an asshole - just ended up sitting with me in one of our classes.

And I gotta love that for him - he took the newfound friendship and used it to antagonize them immediately. Dude saw an opportunity to prove himself better than them both because I liked him more now and did,,,, so much with it. I didn't even have to do anything else, because just like that, they were so busy infighting I faded into the backround.

And what happens when you get so consumed by your hate for someone (him, me) that you get blinded by rage? Well, you start ignoring your duties and being so unbearably rude to your groupmates you don't survive a fair vote.

And when the results were set, the - now former - group rep just kept slipping and falling and she got... Vicious, and so incredibly mean, and it was all focused on me, because she seemed to believe that her intentionally self destructing despite my attempts to help her (I still remember her screaming "YOU DON'T GET WHAT IT'S LIKE TO SUFFER BECAUSE YOU HAVE EVERYTHING YOU WANT". Ha. It was also during the time I was back with my family. But I guess it just shows you the signs were there all along, huh?)

It bothered me. A lot. Especially considering that from the point of view of that - not as innocent, but still naive - version of me, it came out of nowhere.

But now both of them are gone, and it finally doesn't feel suffocating to walk into the classroom.

My friend - the one who helped get out of that mess with his pettiness, who has now gotten kinder and softer with his biggest nemesis gone

[imatechbummerliketomholland]

I hope this is not a dream - h.h (sstbthw part 3)

Word count: 4276 Warning: angst, swear but i promise you, it's fluffy at the end Pairing : harry holland Request: no. N/A: That's it ! The third and final part is finally here. You voted and I must admit it was really tight. Hope you are not too disappointed and still enjoy it. I apologize for the somewhat rushed and short end! As always, I remind you that English is not my native language. Don’t hesitate to tell me what you think of the fic! Like, reblogs to support. You can Love you all! xx Taglist: @angeliquekalampoka , @harryhollandsgirlfriend (-> she's just the reader of all h.h x reader to me!) - if you want to be notified of all my future writings you can add yourself in my taglist : here

part 1 part 2

ღღღ

You slowly pull away from Harry, disappointed that this moment is wasted. You pursed your lips together and then nibbled them as if to catch the taste of this almost kiss. But you could only smell the flavor of your peach lipstick. You looked at Harry dusting his pants with invisible dust, clearing his throat. Tom really couldn't break into a worse time than this. But basically, you were grateful to him. This almost kiss seemed to have brought to light some issues you hadn't suspected. The hotel was not far from the restaurant, so the return trip was not going to take long. Still, you felt like the minutes seemed ages and you would never see the end of this road. None of you spoke. Tom seemed to have understood that he had interrupted a moment between Harry and you. Harry watched his advanced feet, his hands in his pockets. The curly one would sometimes throw glances at you that you tried to avoid. And you? You were looking around, trying in vain not to think about what had just happened. You needed some time to figure out what this almost kiss meant and how you were feeling. For that you were going to have to talk to Harry but you weren't ready for it yet. You have distinguished the facade of the hotel and as in a silent agreement, the three of you have accelerated the pace without making it a brisk walk. When you finally got to the hotel lobby, you stopped, as if to plan what to do next. Harry swallowed hard and looked at his brother.

"I'm going ... I'm going to take Y/N back to her room."

"Of course" Tom said with a knowing smile "I'll be at the bar for a nightcap"

You scratched your elbow while pursing your lips. You didn't want to contradict Harry, but you didn't want to be alone with him just yet. Your mind was far too fuzzy to enter into any discussion with the young man.

"Do you actually mind if I join you, Tom?"

The actor raised his eyebrows in surprise as Harry looked embarrassed and somewhat frustrated. The eldest Holland, as the good brother he was, - metaphorically - held out his hand to his younger brother

"Are you joining us?" he asked politely

"Yeah, no thanks. I'm tired and I'd like to take a look at the photos I took before bed tonight."

You and Tom knew he was lying but you didn't say anything about it. You just nodded. Harry hugged his brother quickly but the moment to say goodbye was more embarrassing. Neither of you knew if you were comfortable kissing each other on the cheek or if a hug would suffice. After a game of a few seconds (two at most) on the best way to say goodbye. Harry hugged you and dared to kiss your cheek, more exactly just below the ear to whisper a few words to you.

"Good night Y/N"

It was nothing fancy, but there was something very personal about it. A simple wish for good night that was fraught with tension. But which one was it? Feeling? Anger? Hope? You watched him make his way to the elevator before he disappeared from your sight. You turned to Tom who was still wearing that knowing smile, his lips pursed together and his eyes sweating mischief.

"So..."

"Oh my god, pay my drink first and we'll talk about it"

You didn't have to tell him anything. He knew. Could you say he was your best friend? In some ways.

Living with the brothers Holland, Harrison and Tuwaine inevitably formed a bond. It was with Harrison, Harry and Tom that you had forged the most bonds. It was a matter of affinity. It wasn't that you didn't like Sam or Tuwaine. They were your closest friends, especially after the personalities of some of your old friends turned out to be "gold digger" - again, living with the Holland people could come with some drawbacks -. But Sam was the most withdrawn of the Holland brothers. He could be eccentric when he wanted to, that was for sure, but sometimes you could see the rift between him and his brothers. To be honest, you just thought Sam didn't want to be associated with Tom as : Spider-man's brother. And that is why he established as much distance as possible - although he loved his brothers -. Sure, he loved the charity he was doing with TheBrothersTrust but it ended there. To you, he was the most "anonymous" of the Hollands brothers by choice and you respected that. But the distance he had established by closing himself off in his "perfectly normal young adult life" had played a role in building your friendship with him. You weren't saying that you appreciate Tom, Harry, and Harrison for their fame. But as contradictory as it sounded, it had made them more accessible. It was strange how your friendship with the boys had been built. One moment you were yelling at a bodyguard for spilling your glass, the next second Harry was inviting you to join him with his brothers and friends, weeks later he wanted to see you every time he was coming out of his house. It was all done so naturally with spontaneous chatter, sending memes from The Office or with sarcasm in very bad taste. And very quickly, you found yourself glued to the hip of Holland & co. You didn't ask for that. You hadn't even expected it when you first met them. And you thought that's what the boys first liked about you and made them keep you in their life. So, obviously, Tom knew you pretty well You sat on one of the sofas in the small living room and neither of you spoke until your drinks were ordered and served.

“Did you have a good night?” Tom asked slyly.

"Pretty good, yes. I liked watching Madrid's busy streets at night."

“Yeah, Madrid’s busy streets, right. I totally could see it. "

"Tom ..."

"Y/N ..."

He narrowed his eyes in mischief. You were okay with that last drink, you wanted to talk about Harry and this almost kiss. But you didn't think your best friend would set foot there so quickly. So, you have decided to play the most boring. It was innocent but you knew it definitely could make him feeling embarrassed.

"By the way, how's Z doing? What a beautiful necklace she wore on Space Jam promo. Don't you think? "

Tom gave you a murderous look. He knew you were joking but he really didn't like to talk about his personal life. Since these photos in early July, he even tried to keep a low profile. There were a lot of rumors, even one with an engagement ring and internet was insane.

"Don't start with that ..."

Your best friend had had a few drinks at dinner and his gaze told you not to push him too hard. You wet your lips and held his gaze. The tension was palpable between you. But you have decided to cut short a possible argument. Tom was known to have some anger issues. Being an actor required knowing how to control your emotions, but your best friend was still struggling on some points. As for you, you had a rather similar character, you could start straight away. A misplaced remark from either of you could trigger cataclysm. You sighed while trying to regain composure.

“Alright Spider-man. But then avoid your sneaky remarks. I'm still trying to figure it out myself, okay?”

"But let me just ask you something.” He started

You nodded to encourage him to continue. The conversation suddenly took on a more serious air. The air had become heavy within seconds. Tom's simple phrase had made you strain. You weren't quite prepared for this conversation but if it gave you a clear view of the situation, you could handle it.

“So, you haven't feeling for Harrison anymore?"

"Omg, why are you all keeping asking me that." You replied with kind of irritation in your voice

“Because I think I interrupted you, almost kissing my brother a few minutes ago, while, the last time I checked, you were in love with my best friend "Tom said sharply.

"That's not why I no longer have feelings for Harrison"

"So what?! You just want to test all the options? Are you going to pounce on me too?"

It was your turn to give him a murderous look. Your brain didn't control your hand, which was holding your glass of whiskey, and which suddenly shot up towards Tom's face. Soaking him in alcohol, shock and shame.

"Asshole" you said in a fit of anger before realizing your gesture.

You widened your eyes, shocked. Okay, the quarrel came out of nowhere. Tom's arguments too, and they were totally invalid. Okay, you've had a fight before. But at this point? The little scene you had just had drew a few glances. You were livid.

His first question, however, was a legitimate one. It was normal to be disoriented to see you getting closer to Harry when not so long ago you were hopelessly in love with Harrison. But it had annoyed you. His brother asked you the same question. You couldn't make feelings go away so easily but you were aware that the blond didn't feel the same way. Harrison was happy with Grace and you were happy for him. Haz was just more important in your life as a friend to spoil your friendship by loving him desperately. So yes, you still had a lot of feelings towards him but these were trying to regress to the stage of Platonic friendship. As you did when Harry didn't make a move toward you the first time you two met.

"I..I'm going up to my room. Good night ... dickhead."

You didn't want to call him by his first name, actually he fully deserved the insult, Tom could be so stupid and arrogant sometimes. The fact is the argue was really stupid, nonsense.

You rushed to the elevator as Tom wiped his face with the hem of his t-shirt. Your heart was racing and now you wanted to know more than anything why Harry had leaned down to kiss you. Because now, in the eyes of one of your best friends, you represented a maneater. It was far from reality and it hurt you terribly. Your feet led us to Harry's room and banged on his door until it opened. Harry opened the door and your gaze fell on his bare chest. You eyes went up to his somewhat sleepy expression. You felt a little ashamed to disturb him now, but it was too late. His expression changed when he noticed the anger and restlessness in your eyes.

"Y/N? Are you okay, love?"

You have held his gaze and are invited to enter, pushing him into his room. You might as well not waste any more time and get to the heart of the matter. You will have no more courage tomorrow than today.

“Why did you almost kiss me earlier?"

Harry looked taken aback at first, he blinked several times to assimilate your question and you made him happy to ask it again when you met his silence as answer.

"Why did you almost kiss me earlier?"

"Why, in your opinion?" he asked you, almost annoyed.

“I don't know, I asked you first!”

Harry was a little angry with you. You'd ignored him on the way home, you'd purposely squeeze out the potential conversation by joining Tom for a nightcap and now you stood in front of him and had the nerve to ask him why he was about to kiss you, earlier this evening. You had tears of frustration at the corners of your eyes. Tom's words affected you more than you wanted to.

"Is that a fucking game you planned with Tom and Harrison?"

"What?" he asked you, confused

"Do you still need to try to figure if I'm just here for fame or something?"

"Y/N what are you talking about?"

"Do you think I would let you kiss me because you think I’m a gold digger?"

Harry ran his hands through his auburn curls, tugging at the tips trying to figure out where the speech was coming from. What had happened at the bar? Why were you talking such nonsense? You had been friends for years now and he had never thought of you that way. Why, all of a sudden, doubts like these were settling in your mind. He was angry that you might think he considers you a gold digger or that he had a plan with his brother and friends to prove it. It was completely insane.

"Why don't you just think I wanted to kiss you because I like you?"

You froze at his words. Did he like you? He liked you. You hadn't made that moment up, he had just spat out the tea. But you didn't understand.

"Why now?"

"Why now, what?"

"Why tell me now? Why have you waited for years?"

"I didn't realize before that I was in love with you… And you had feelings for Harrison."

So now, he was in love with you, not only like you. He. Was. In. Love. How the hell did you fell into this whole situation? It was a brutal turnaround.

"So it happened, all of a sudden?"

You always liked Harry, from the start, way before you met Harrison. His humor, his sarcasm, his arrogant side but his gentle nature. You lovd calling him "little shit" because sometimes that was what he was. But Harry was also the sweetest boy you had ever met. He could laugh at you for your hangover and the next second bring you water bottle, blanket and pain reliever while stroking your head to get your migraine away. But you both pushed each other into the friendzone ... unintentionally. Harry glared at you.

"Not all of a sudden. Y/N, I love you since the day we met. But first, yes, I needed to know if you were friends with me because of Tom's notoriety or for me. I was so happy you just wanted to be friends with me and not asking all time to spend time with all of us. I liked our late-night talk. I love our outings to drink a bubble tea just for the two of us, to talk to you for hours about the trips I made thanks to Tom and the pictures I was able to take during them, without you being never bored. –“

You smiled during his monologue - which he obviously had not finished -. You liked all of these things too.

“And then I introduced you to Harrison. Big fucking mistake because I saw you fall in love with him, wiping all out the chances I would ask you out. And all I wanted during those three fucking years was to see you happy but you weren't. How to tell your best friend - who incidentally has feelings for one of your best friends - that you have feelings for her? Tell me Y/N? It was completely fucked up "

“We’re both fucking idiots.”

You laughed through your tears. Fucking idiots. You slowly approached Harry who gave you a confused look, he took a step back instinctively and you froze. You didn't want to push him. You smiled shyly. He wasn't ready. Were you? You took another step towards him, your hand reaching for his cheek, which you traced with your thumb in a light caress. You could get the hesitation in his eyes. So you simply made a tiny gesture towards him. Like, in a way, opening the door for him to the possibility of a you. You kissed him on his other cheek, just around the corner of the lip before you pulled away.

"Good night, Harry"

You left her room without a word, with a slight smile. Nothing was lost, but all was not yet won.

The return to London came quickly and the love tension between you and Harry was at its peak. After the announcement of his feelings, you gave Harry the opportunity to take another step towards you. He didn't and neither did you. But you had a specific reason for this. You needed to do one thing before you jump into anything.

☙♡❧ You were in this bar, waiting for your friend to come back with your drinks. It had been two weeks since you had returned from Madrid and despite a few events here and there, you had managed to squeeze in a bit for a drink. It was your second beer and you were going to have to be honest.

"I'm glad we were finally able to do this" your friend told you

"Yes, me too ... but I have to tell you a few things."

" Honestly, I suspected it. You're way too tense to be just having a drink with me.”

“Harry almost kissed me in Madrid.”

“Damn it, it's about time.

"You knew?"

"Wait, you said 'almost' ... Didn't he?"

"Tom interrupted us ..."

A mocking smile landed on your friend's lips and you slapped him on the shoulder. You could perfectly read the depths of his thoughts. The thought that Harry had finally taken that first step towards you made him smile. He was happy and the fact that you were going to let yourself be kissed delighted him even more. But he couldn't help but tease you like he always had since you were friends.

"Harrison ..."

"So… Harry and you?" he asked

"No. Well, yes. Maybe. The truth is, we're stagnating a bit."

"Why?"

"I'm not sure… Part of my feelings for you? The fear that Harry might think he's a second choice. The odious words Tom said to me in Madrid that night?”

You wanted to be totally honest with Harrison. You couldn't lie to him, tell him that you didn't have feelings for him anymore. He had to know that. But the important thing was your friendship. But you also couldn't deny that you really liked Harry. Harrison was rather uncomfortable that you were confessing your feelings towards him so freely. On the other hand, he could also see that your goal was not to play with Harry, you were really concerned with how he might feel. You didn't really mean to hurt him and Harrison knew it.

"First of all. Y/N, about your feelings for me ..."

"I know, I know. You don't feel the same. But that's not it. It's… I don't feel good to start something with Harry when I'm… I'm still digesting it. there won't be any of us… I'm just starting to be able to stay with you without the pain of not being able to… you know, wanting to kiss you or run my hand through your hair. "

Harrison winced slightly at your words. He still found it hard to imagine himself in that position with you. You weren't hurt by his gesture; you knew he was just embarrassed by so much honesty.

"Yeah, I'm sorry for that" you apologized, embarrassed

“No, it's okay. I’m still processing too… But I have to ask you… is Harry a second choice for you?”

He knew no, but he needed to ask.

" What? No! In fact, you were sort of the second choice.

"Ouch"

"Sorry."

"It's okay. But why don't you tell him that? And for God's sake, what did Tom say to you in Madrid?"

"He asked me if I still had feelings for you and when I tried to explain that it wasn’t that simple, he asked me if it was only me who was trying to '"try all the options".

"I'm gonna kill that fucking idiot."

“No I understand, he wanted to protect his brother. I'm just disappointed and hurt that he thinks I'm playing with Harry's feelings.”

Looking back, you really understood Tom's reaction. Family was really important to him but you were hurt that he didn't trust you. You started to play with your hands very nervous. You grabbed your beer to take a sip. Silence had fallen a few seconds earlier.

"Can I be totally honest with you?" Harrison finally asked you.

"Yeah, sure"

"Harry told me he almost kissed you, two days after you got back."

"What?"

"Actually, we had a lot of talk. He's really in love with you, and that fool asked me for advice. Fuck you are really stupid. But Y/N, do you really like him?"

"It would be lying to you if I said I didn’t like him from the moment we first spoke."

"And you fell in love with me, instead? You are the queen of morons."

"First of all, fuck you, you can't deny that you have a fucking charm, Osterfield."

"Yeah, you're right."

"Second, so ... You ... don't you think I'm using him or anything? You're not angry?"

"Before I found out your feelings for me, I had a hunch that something was going on between you and Harry. Why do you think I told you that your soulmate might be closer than you think? "

You smiled, relieved by so much honesty on his part. You were relieved that he wasn't angry or thought you were using Harry as a bounce. Because it wasn't. You pursed your lips between her, softened before placing a kiss on her cheek.

"Omg, Harrison, I love you"

"Yeah ... don't love me too much" he joked

"Jerk."

☙♡❧

You waited a few days before talking to Harry. The house had been pretty empty since Tom left to film reshoots for No Way Home. Surprisingly, Harry had not accompanied him, he had simply preferred to work on a new script here in London. You took your courage in both hands before knocking at the desk where your best friend worked. You heard his hoarse voice inviting you to enter.

"Am I bothering you?"

"No. I'm stuck on a scene a bit, to be honest"

"Need a break. How would you like some bubble tea?"

"Hell yeah. You're perfect"

But neither of you really wanted to go out into town and be surrounded by people. Instead, you ordered. Harry went with his usual order and you had a bubble tea virgin mojito watermelon and added some treats.You were now both sitting on the couch. Harry had told you about the script he was working on and you were invested in the plot. He was truly talented and you couldn't be prouder of him. You had exchanged a few innocent touches. For example, his arm was on the back of the sofa while your body was turned towards him. Your hand brushed her forearm and sometimes traced invisible lines on her skin. It wasn't bothersome until you noticed it. You grabbed your bubble tea to take a sip.

"I spoke to Harrison"

"Really?"

"I needed to clear things up."

Harry bowed his head. He seemed disappointed. Did you forget his declaration in Madrid? Why were you telling him about Harrison again?

"I needed him to know that… you're not a second choice. That you weren't a rebound and I wasn't playing with you."

You were playing with your cup, not sure you wanted to look Harry in the eye. You knew he was in love with you but you were terrified that he had simply changed his mind. Harry was confused. He had discussed with Harrison; he had asked his advice and the blond had found himself playing the wingman.

“I needed him to understand that I was sincere before I started anything with you. Because…I like you Harry. And I needed to…end all this thing with Harrison before being honest with you. I needed to leave things in the past, to move forward ... with you.I – “

You haven't had time to finish your sentence. You felt Harry's lips crash into yours ... just like your bubble tea on your shirt.

"Shit, sorry .." he exclaimed

You laughed, fully, sincerely before placing your cup on the coffee table. You really don't care about your stained clothes. All you wanted was to feel the feeling again that had overwhelmed you a few seconds ago. So, you have to initiate the second kiss. You grabbed his face and put your lips on his. It was soft at first and slowly your two lips moved naturally, prolonging the kiss. In the euphoria your teeth grabbed her lower lip, you tightened your grip on her lip in a sucking action. Harry moaned in appreciation. The kiss was tender and passionate and when you pulled away from each other you could see the sparkle in each other's eyes.

"Damn, this is so good" he said

"Better than I imagined"

He pecked your lip again, eager to feel your touch again. He had become addicted after just one kiss, but he couldn't help but feel happier. Oh boy, he was so in love with you, he was living the dream. Damn you just kissed him, what more could he ask for.

"Please, I hope this is not a dream."

"Everything is real"

"Can I be proud to call you ... my girlfriend?" "

"You can call me whatever you want as long as you don't stop kissing me.

"Deal, girlfriend"

And with those last words, he kissed you again as you both smirk blissfully. Harrison was right: your happiness, your soulmate, was closer than you thought.

[penwieldingdreamer]

Falling for you

The second installment of my drabble series. Let me know what you think about it. A big thank you again to @fortheloveoffanfic for being my beta 💗 Happy reading everyone

Also here are the songs played at the pub:

Bean Pháidín , Tell me Ma-Gaelic Storm , Galway Girl - Fiddler's Green

Summary: A few weeks later finds the reader in all kinds of embarrassing situations - mostly tripping over stuff or falling over people - right in front of Lee

Warnings: none, besides fluff, clumsiness and a little tinge of jealousy

Words: 2231

Another day on the set of the second installment of the Hobbit series and already you felt like the clumsiest of all people on set. Either you’d slip, trip or let stuff fall to the ground. But it wasn’t random, it only happened whenever you were around Lee or in his close proximity.

James and Martin had made fun of the fact that it would only happen with the tall actor, but you waved them off and of course Benedict chimed into the scheme.

“If I didn’t know better, I’d say you’re falling for the King, luv.” he said one time while the four of you had been granted a break from filming. “You make a fool out of yourself because there’s that one person that makes your heart skip a beat.”

Angrily shuffling your food around the plate, you glared at the British actor. “Well thank you for the vote of confidence. If you hadn’t said it I wouldn’t have known I was such a joke on set.”

“What Ben means to say, dear,” James started, putting his hand on your arm. “is, that when you feel something for another person you get clumsy, do crazy things or fall all over yourself because you can’t concentrate around them. All three of us went through that when we met the women we knew would one day be our wives. It has nothing to do with you being bad at your work, the opposite, actually.”

Reluctantly you nodded your head, feeling like you just made a fool out of yourself again in front of those that were your friends. “I’m sorry, it’s just that I’ve never been like that before and I fear if this happens more Pete will get tired of me messing up. I don’t want to lose this job.”

“You won’t,” Martin said with so much conviction, you couldn’t help but give him a small, teary smile. “Peter isn’t like that. He values your work as part of the crew and how you bring up new ideas or possible changes. Now if you were to set the whole place on fire that would be another case.”

Ben and James laughed softly and you couldn’t help the giggle escaping your lips when you listened to him. You were very lucky to have friends like them or you’d probably would have resigned after the first incident. “Thank you, you have no idea how much I needed this.” you said sending them a grateful smile. "But now I got to head back to work. The king on his throne is waiting for me."

All three laughed before Martin called after you. "Be careful up there and if you fall, fall in his lap, that's a lot more comfortable than the ground." he joked when you had turned back to the three actors but waved him off with your own middle finger. You knew he had a knack for putting his fingers up for the camera when he shouldn't and you were sure there were some scenes he snuck his middle finger in, just like he always did.

A chorus of laughter followed as you righted your work bag and made your way back to the set with Thranduil's throne.

Orlando stood underneath it, grinning up at Lee dressed up as the Elvenking and waited his turn. "Looking good, dad." he called with a chuckle and you could see the tall actor grin.

"Thank you, son. I feel very good up here." he answered leaning back on the chair, trying to fix his robes and wig as best as he could while a few strands were hanging in the branches of his crown.

Peter saw you emerging from the mass and called you over. "Ah, Y/N, good that you're here. Lee's just had a bit of a stumble up the stairs but we'll be doing a few headshots of him and well, you see the mess."

"Sure, I'll get right on it." you told him, taking a deep breath and steeling yourself so you'd be as relaxed as possible while working on fixing the actor. When he saw you approaching, Lee stood up and made to walk down, but you halted him with a motion of your hand. "Stay, I'm coming up so there's no repeat of that."

He stayed standing, watching you make your way up the stairs. Thank God there were handrails just in case. "If you insist

I could have come down, didn't want you to fall to your doom, dear mortal."

"Charms get you everywhere, huh?" you asked him with a grin as you ascended to the Weta built throne, pointing to the seat so he would sit back down again, keeping his long legs tugged to chair so you could start your work on his hair.

"So far it worked out rather well, I think." He told you, smiling as you gently pulled a strand away from the branch of his crown.

You couldn't help the small smile forming on your face as you listened to his jokes while you freed the last of his hair and righted his crown. A final touch of powder over his nose and you were finished. "Now, you're all done and you're looking regal again." You packed up your bag and turned to descend the stairs when you lost your footing and if it hadn't been for Lee's swift reaction, you would have tumbled down.

Short puffs of breath were leaving your mouth when you held on tightly to his shoulders, his arms circling your waist as you had fallen into his lap with that move. "Hello there." he whispered, watching your shocked face, eyes blown wide with fear. "You okay?"

Biting your lip, you couldn't help but enjoy the feel of his hands on your hip, the warmth spreading through your clothes. "I-I'm sorry, I, the stairs…I guess…missed steps." you brokenly mumbled, apparently having forgotten how to talk when you looked into his blue eyes. The contact lenses only intensified his gaze.

"Yeah, they're dangerous." Lee agreed, his head leaning closer, the rest of the world around you forgotten.

Yet before he could close the gap, Peter interrupted you with a loud whistle. "If you two turtledoves are ready, we'd like to continue." he called out to you with a chuckle. Of course everyone had seen that and you already felt the heat of your blush rising all over your body.

Carefully, yet hastily you scrambled off of Lee's lap and made your way down the stairs and to the back of the set. You would have loved for the ground to swallow you up when Benedict had come over and grinned at you.

"So, I don’t think you will tell me what that up there was.” he said matter of fact, knowing you wouldn’t even be able to describe it.

“Nope,” you said, eyeing the actor and PJ going over the next scenes with a dummy. “I’d rather leave it like it is. This is just too embarrassing."

He put his arm around your shoulders pulling you close. Martin was just walking around the corner having seen the whole thing and he instantly knew you'd be shutting down, only doing your work and nothing more, keeping your distance from Lee. The Brit found the eyes of his friend and co-Sherlock-actor, nodding once, then twice. They were your friends and could see that the sparks between their fellow actor and you were there, now they only needed to kindle the fire.

"Oh, this is wonderful." you gushed, looking around the Irish pub everyone decided to visit at the eve of their day off. "It's been too long since I had so much fun besides being on set."

Already the ciders and beers and whisky were flowing and everyone was laughing and singing with the band that played that night. James had decided to take a row of tables next to the musicians so the cast and crew that wanted to go there would fit into the seats.

"You all deserve a time off after the amazing work you did." Peter said, raising his pint of Guinness for a toast. You all followed suit, calling out a shout of "Hear, hear."

Laughing and listening to all the stories everyone was telling about their time on set, you enjoyed the feeling of warmth that spread through you. Not because of the alcohol but because of your family away from home.

"Are you enjoying the music?" James asked after a short while, himself listening to the tunes and words from his home country.

Nodding your head, you clapped your hands to the rhythm and smiled as a few people started to dance to the songs you couldn't understand the lyrics to. “What is she singing about?” you asked him, leaning in so he could understand the words with the louder music.

"It’s a really old Irish song, dating back hundreds of years in Ireland. This is one of the funny old Irish songs that is sung by a woman, and she sings about another woman." the Irish actor tried to explain over the loud music. "Back in the day women would get together and sing this song about the woman in town that was married to the man that they all wanted to be married to. ‘It’s a pity that I’m not Phaidin’s wife,’ and this woman who’s married to him, they hate her, and as the verses go on, they talk about what they’d like to do to her, like they want to break her legs and get rid of her and do anything to be this man’s wife. It’s a fun song. Irish music is like that. When you translate the words, sometimes it’s like gruesome and dark, but they’re meant in a lighthearted way."

You were always blown away by the way such a story could be shown in a nice tune. "The music is so lively, you'd never guess it's such a sad and dark story behind it."

"That's just the way the Irish are." James grinned at you before another song was starting.

"For our next song we'd love for you guys to get up, dance some more and just have fun." the female singer announced and waved to all patrons in the pub. The violin, banjo and drum began to play the first chords before the singer joined in. "Tell me ma when I go home, the boys won't leave the girls alone."

Benedict and James smiled at you, holding their hand out and pulled you from your seat and onto the provided dance floor where others had already started twirling around. "Let's dance and have some fun." the Brit said, giving you a twirl.

You couldn't help the smile that found its way on your lips as you danced around with the two actors, unbeknownst of the dark blue eyes following your moves. The dance was exhilarating and both James and Ben led you through the steps, jumping and twirling with other patrons until you were out of breath and another song was over.

When you came back to get something to drink you saw one of the seats being vacant. Lee was missing from the group of merry friends and you leaned over to Orlando, who had been sitting besides him. "Where did your dad disappear to?" you asked him, mirth coloring your words as you took a large sip of your drink.

He turned to you and smiled, patting the seat next to him, so you didn't have to stand. You were grateful for that with your feet aching from all the dancing you did with his fellow actors. "He said he needed to get back to the hotel, his flight back to the States is taking off early." Orlando said and your face must have shown your confusion as you didn't know Lee was needed back in America. "Shooting for Guardians of the Galaxy is starting in a few days and he wanted to get back earlier so he arranged it in the last few days. Peter knew about it, I'm surprised he didn't tell you."

"Oh, no, I really didn't know and Lee hadn't mentioned anything before." the disappointment colored your words and you sank back down in your seat. You couldn't help the feeling that it was something that recently happened and especially something you did or he would have been open enough to talk to you.

The British actor patted your leg and grinned. "Don't worry, he'll be back before you know it. Once he's done with that movie Lee's going to annoy us again with his dad jokes."

Nodding your head, you tried to feel confident, but still you didn't know why he didn't at least wait until you were back at the table to say his goodbyes. No he just left without so much as a word. Of course you were only there doing his make - up and hair but you had hoped that in the time you worked together you at least had become friends. Giving the dark haired actor a small smile you made your way back to your corner seat, staring off into space and trying not to get too drunk on your cider while thinking about why not even Peter had bothered to tell you his Elvenking was leaving the set sooner than planned.

Taglist:

@fortheloveoffanfic @toomanystoriessolittletime @omgkatinka @fuck-yeah-hope @wholelottatiffy @axshadows ​@a-really-bi-girl @madbaddic7ed @maggiemoo1892 @pinkzsugar @agniavateira @mary-ann84 and everyone else who wants to read this.

[andmyvape]

"Please tell me you're not wearing that."

Elayn looked down, then back up with a wide grin. She tugged at her bright rainbow suspenders with her thumbs. "What, not tacky enough?"

Serana gave the ensemble another slow scan. "No, it's… definitely tacky. The combat boots with the khaki shorts is a nice touch."

The grin got wider as she stuffed her hands into her pockets. "They're going to be throwing candy, and I wasn't anywhere near prepared enough last time."

Serana rolled her eyes, but softened it with a smile. "You're ridiculous."

"Isn't that why we're dating?" her girlfriend asked as they headed out the door.

She took a moment to lock up while Serana laughed. "'Careless Whisper' on a boom box outside my window. I can't believe my dad didn't kill you. I know you stole that, by the way. We both went to see that movie when it came out."

"They marketed it as a romcom!" Elayn protested.

They were in the car now. It would be a trick to find parking, but they were running early thanks to Serana's habit of scheduling everything. Elayn was more the type to go with the flow, but living together had her adapted enough that the flow she went with was largely dictated by Serana's schedule. As a research chemist, she worked interesting hours at times, but Elayn was a good roommate, she cooked and cleaned, mostly because she had the time. Lacrosse wasn't a well paying sport compared to something like soccer, but the off seasons gave her plenty of time to maintain their loft. 

"Five dollars an hour?" Elayn griped as the machine printed out their ticket. 

"Homophobia strikes again," Serana said with mock solemnity. 

She snorted and wrapped an arm around her girlfriend's waste. "Which park did you say this thing started in again?" 

It was a little place surrounded by tall buildings, but it was a green patch in a city largely made out of grey. It being Pride Month, the grey was broken up by rainbows. The two wandered around as they waited for the parade to start. 

Well, at least, they started to wander when Elayn caught sight of a dog and all but dragged her girlfriend over to say hi. 

"What's his name?" she asked, so full of enthusiasm she practically floated. "Can I pet him?" 

The dog's owner, someone with a short haircut in a crop top that was orange, yellow, and white striped, nodded. "If he lets you. Sometimes he's not so-- oh gosh," they said, eyes wide as they watched Elayn kneel down and offer a hand to sniff that was immediately accepted. "You must have good vibes." 

"She's a dog person," Serana said with a laugh as the dog put its front paws on Elayn's shoulders so he could lick her face. 

"What's his name?" she asked through slobbery kisses. 

The butch grinned. "That's Duke, I'm Cas. It's nice to meet you!" 

The two introduced themselves just in time for a volunteer to come up with bottles of water. "Our city got voted best water in the state," she said cheerfully. "Take a few, it's gonna be a hot one." 

Before the march, there were speeches. The first was an introduction to the city's first pride parade since the 80s. The second was from a drag queen inviting everyone to the show later that night. Finally, the speeches were closed by an Episcopalian pastor trying to make up for the rest of Christianity's sins. 

"It's starting!" Elayn said excitedly when the crowd started to funnel out of the park. 

The march went down the sidewalk for a few blocks. Traffic was halted and the waiting cars honked while passengers waved. Elayn waved a lesbian flag, Serana had a bi flag, and the two of them dragged a rainbow striped cooler. 

"Mom! Mom!" Elayn heard behind her. "Look, it's two cicadas going at it!" 

She glanced behind her. There was a set of twins, about twelve years old, one of them draped in a trans flag and holding the cicadas that were indeed trying to reproduce. Elayn snorted and hit herself in the face trying to keep a laugh contained. "You like bugs, huh?" 

The girl in the trans flag beamed. "They're my favorite! Well, except for tarantulas, but Mom won't let me have one." 

"The rabbit gets out of its cage enough." The way the girl's mom said it, this was an age old argument. "I don't want to squash it when it ends up in my shoe."

"I had a snake when I was growing up," Serana chimed in. "A corn snake that never got out." 

The twins turned out to be part of a family unit. One twin was trans, and their older brother was too, and as Elayn found soon, was very excited to start HRT. "Get a Gc2b binder," she said. "When I'm feeling like a flat day, it works really well." 

The boy, a younger fourteen, practically floated with excitement. "I will!" 

Serana chatted with the parents while Elayn occupied the kids. "Have you folks been to Pride before?" 

Their mom, a woman named Chelsea, shook her head. "Nope, both kids came out last September and they've been talking about the festival ever since." 

"You seem like really supportive parents," Serana said. It carried the weight of one speaking who has not had contact with their parents since high school. 

Chelsea could tell, and she opened her arms for a hug that Serana was more than happy to accept. 

The march was only about a mile long, and it ended in another park. Elayn craned her neck and said, "I think I see the beer line, wait here?" 

"We will!" said the girl, who was very proud to be named Luna now. 

Serana and Chelsea shared a grin. "I guess we'll wait here," the mom said. 

It was a bit of a line, which was probably not a good thing, but apparently people were restricted on how many drinks they could buy, so at least there was that. While Elayn waited, she was joined by two people wearing pronoun pins that said "she/her". 

Elayn's jaw dropped at the sight of one of the girls' dress, which was a flowing, fae like ensemble. "Holy shit!" she said. "You look amazing!" 

She blushed and ducked her head as she smiled. "Thank you, I got it from Amazon." 

"It's her first Pride," her friend added.

That just amazed Elayn more. "With the sparkles and the green eyeshadow, I wouldn't have guessed. Everything you've got going on is just amazing."

"Thank you!" she squeaked. 

Elayn wasn't alone in thinking the dress was gorgeous. Another person came up to compliment it, and they had such dope tattoos that Elayn could not help but comment. 

"The guy that did them is great," they gushed. "He does blacklight work too!" 

So she got a website saved on her phone for the next time she really wanted to get a tattoo on top of the three she already had; scrollwork on her bicep, a wolf on her shoulder blade, and a small date on her wrist that was the day she met Serana. 

When she got back to her girlfriend and the others, an IPA in hand that was frankly piss, she told them about the girl in the fae dress. 

"I saw her!" Serana exclaimed. 

"Amazon." 

"No way." 

Next was food, especially if she was going to drink a beer. Assuming she actually drank it. "There's some food trucks," she pointed out. "I could go for a corndog." 

"I'm going to get some mac and cheese," Serana said. 

"Mom! Mom!" Luna's twin brother, Ian, tugged at his mom's sleeve. "Can we get pretzels?" 

Chelsea sighed good-naturedly. "I suppose. Do you two want to meet up after?" 

"Over by the stage?" Elayn suggested. 

The group separated. She found the line for corndogs and funnel cake. While she was waiting, the woman ahead of her glanced her way, so Elayn said, "Howdy!" 

"Hey there, hun!" She clapped her on the shoulder. "Having a good time?" 

"I am," she said with a grin. "Everyone here is so nice. There were some moms back there handing out hugs!" 

"Well, I'm a mom, would you like a hug?" 

"I would love that." 

It was a lovely hug, the woman was warm and smelled floral. When they separated, she said, "I'm Elayn! It's good to meet you. Can I get you a corndog?" 

As she pulled out her wallet, the woman waved her money away. "It's Nessa, and actually, I'd like to buy you a corndog." 

"You don't have to--" 

Nessa laughed. "I miss my daughters, you'd be doing me a favor." 

They chatted while the line went down, about lacrosse and about university. It turned out Nessa's two daughters went off to college in other cities, so it had been a while since she saw either. "I had a son," she said. "But now I have a very happy daughter, and I'm so proud of her." 

"I wish I had a mom like you," Elayn said, thinking about growing up foster care. 

Nessa grabbed her in another hug. "Now you do!" 

When she got back to Serana and the others, they were listening to the music booming from the speakers. She had to yell to tell the group about her new mom. 

Chelsea looked a little sad, because she could connect the dots, but Luna and Ian were too busy freaking out over the cotton candy Nessa had bought her too. 

Not long after, the stage was occupied. Elayn was chatting with Luna with her back turned, so she missed it until Serana tapped her shoulder and turned her around. 

"Holy shit!" She hollered and clapped at the sight of a gorgeous, sequin clad drag queen in four inch heels doing a backflip off the stage and onto grass. "Holy shit!" 

As it turned out, the drag queens took tips, and it was at that point that Elayn knew she was about to spend a lot of money. Each queen that performed, and there were many, got a five in exchange for the sheer joy Elayn got when the queen before her touched her hand. 

When there was a break in the performances, she went back to Serana, who had a smirk on her face. "Should I be jealous?" 

Elayn cupped her face, and in a fit of sheer enthusiasm, kissed her girlfriend soundly, to the delight of the twins who hooted. "Don't worry, babe," she teased. "You're the only queen for me." 

"Flatterer." Serana swatted at her chest, but the smile on her face was pleased regardless. 

It was all a blur from there. Fair food, loud music-- and Elayn found beer that wasn't piss! She taught the twins a new vocabulary of cuss words the moment she found out their mom was fine with foul language. They parted around five in the afternoon, when a voice through a megaphone warned attendants that the festival was about to start catering to adults. There was a concert with more drag queens, this time in much more risqué outfits that Elayn would have given a kidney to see on Serana. 

When she said something, her girlfriend got a light in her eye. "Really now?" she purred. "Maybe for your birthday." 

By 11pm, Elayn was high on the party atmosphere and a few beers. The festival was over, and the walk back to their car would be a trick. "Did you have fun?" she asked Serana as they walked hand in hand. 

She got a kiss on the cheek. "I'm so glad I have you. When are we getting married?"

"When I figure out how to surprise you with a ring." 

[is-it-my-turn-to-die-squidward]

Joe Tazuna Character Analysis

This will contain whole game spoilers! 3-1B at the moment.

At first glance, Joe is the cliche main character's best friend. Kinda goofy, good friend, and willing to follow the protagonist into danger.

He's peppy and light-hearted, but when Sara is in any danger, he's willing to help and protect, even if he's jumping head first into said danger.

I'm not sure how much I can count the first trial as a part of Joe's character, as it was we as the player controlling that part. But Joe was able to solve the trial and escaped with both him and Sara unharmed, which proves his ability to think calmly under pressure.

_

When introductions were happening, Joe was rather cautious. He refused to give out his name and didn't even speak until Sara woke up. This is a basic survival instinct, not letting strangers learning about you, especially after being kidnapped.

What I'm saying, and what I'll continue to say, Joe is intelligent.

During the investigation, Joe partnered with Keiji. This is because Keiji was the most suspicious to him at that time, and Joe wanted to try and learn more about Keiji, or more precisely, what he was hiding.

That is probably why he wanted Sara to be the challenger in Russian Roulette. Sara was the only one Joe actually trusted, and he didn't want to risk her getting injured.

Joe wants Sara to trust him, which is understandable, as they had only met these people a few hours ago, but had known each other for awhile.

Because earlier, I said that Joe cares a lot about Sara, but I also made a point to show he's smart and cautious. In his end, those two things cannot mix well.

Sometime later, Joe gets the Sacrifice card.

We're not sure exactly when, but we know it must have been somewhere Joe, or possibly Nao or Kai, was supposed to find it.

Because as we learn in the next chapter, those three (plus Kugie), were not supposed to be participants in this death game. They were only there as tools, assumingly Nao for Mishima, Kai for punishment, and Joe to make the game fair.

I much as I would love to go into details about Nao and Kai, this is about Joe.

In chapter 3-1B, we learn that Joe was only there to keep Sara tame for awhile a stop her from killing.

This is all kind of insulting to his character. First we learned that Joe wasn't supposed to be in the game and was always going to die, then next it's that Joe was taken on purpose, always to die in order to traumatize Sara enough to make the game fair for the participants.

That was so we knew, no matter how smart Joe was, he always had a zero percent to live.

Because in the main game, he was very smart.

Joe was able to convince people he was a Commoner, then a Sage, all by using selective wording and lying enough that people could trust him.

But his plan failed, bring down both him, and Kai, as it was written by the game masters.

But Joe openly will admit that if he got enough votes, he would have taken Sara to leave with.

Joe isn't stupid. I see people say things like "Joe never really planned on winning". That's not true. Joe was planning on winning the game for him and for Sara, and would have killed everyone else in the process. Joe obviously didn't want to, but he had no choice. He had a plan to live, he was almost able to succeed in it, and failed.

Joe was smart, and he died.

Joe and Kai were both very important characters, but as the game continues, we just get more questions and no answers. Kai has basically been forgotten about, and I'm sad to say that despite being Sara's friend, he's of no use to the plot continuing on.

I would also like to Talk about what Joe and Kai talked about, but we don't know, and I'm not sure if we'll find out.

Joe and Kai were both very important characters, but as the game continues, we just get more questions and no answers. Kai has basically been forgotten about, and I'm sad to say that despite being Sara's friend, he's of no use to the plot continuing on.

Notice how almost everything about Joe is surrounding Sara?

Joe is basically a warning to the participants. "No matter how smart you are, you could always die".

But Joe was basically screwed over from the beginning. The protagonists best friend who was smarter than they let on died in order to advance the plot and give the protag character development surround their death.

Then people in the fandom often think he's dumb. I really hope I proved that's not true, but I also understand why people do that.

Making him more relaxed in non-death game aus, that's fine! He's a teenager, he shouldn't have to be making decisions to save his life.

But also don't take away his basic intelligence. I'm a teenager myself, and yes we can be idiots, but don't write people basics on one random character trait.

This is all I really can write at the moment, and I'm not looking at island, but I might update this when we get him as a protag.

Next I might write Kai, because he's my favorite character and I want to talk about him.

[marchioness-caprina]

You Like Me Not?

{ Final Part }

Pairings : Takami Keigo ( Hawks) x Reader

Writing Style : 3rd Person

Warning : Cussing, Stalker Tendencies, Toxic Tendencies.

Word Count : 2947

Read; { Part 1 } , { Part 2 }

3rd Person's POV

A month has Passed. Yes a whole Month has passed and y/n was surprisingly doing well; in the surface at least.

Inside. Not so well but at least she's coping up a lot better than a few weeks ago where she'd often cry herself to sleep, even in the showers. The lingering pain was still haunting her like there's no tomorrow but now she's getting used to it.

After all, First love is usually the greatest and the most painful experience.

Instead of moping around and sulking, she began investing her time and effort into being a Hero. And the effort paid off greatly; her performance was improving and she's proud to say that she's on par with the top three of the class which mainly consists of Izuku, Todoroki and Bakugou.

She was finally getting the attention that she deserved, plus it takes her mind off of Keigo and his jerkass.

However, at the end of the day she felt so empty and devoid of something---someone she longs for. And she will never accept that it was Keigo she was looking for.

But she needs to stay strong and let go of those people who can't even appreciate the little things she does; she won't let them bring her down. No, not when she's finally seeing something big for her up ahead.

Unfortunate as the saying goes ; All good things will come to an end. And for y/n, that is today.

Their class was split in groups for an Activity. Y/n along with Kirishima and Mina and Izuku were paired up to patrol the busy part of the city where crimes are mostly committed.

And guess who their Hero guide is? Yup one of them is Hawks and the other one is Enchanting.

Y/n who had a smile on her face seemed calm on first approach but inside she was cussing her heart out for the terrible luck she's got.

It had to be two of her worst nightmare. How charming.

" You Kids doing fine back there? " Keigo asked, his eyes never leading the road and beside him was a bored looking enchantress.

The two were their Hero guides for today and everyone was ecstatic. Except for y/n.

" Yeah we're good! " Kirishima answered for everyone and y/n was thankful that she didn't have to exchange a few unnecessary words with Hawks.

Her attention was now caught by the Broccoli boy right next to her who was vigorously writing notes down on his notebook.

" Oh my gosh it's the Pro Hero Hawks " Izuku was becoming a mumbling mess as He continued to scribble. His pace was a beyond anyone y/n had ever seen and she was very much intrigued by Izuku's unwavering determination.

" You know Midoriya-san, you're actually really handsome up close" Y/n muttered and izuku froze on the spot; heat rising up his cheeks as he tensed. Slowly he turned to see the h/c haired girl who was smiling at him tenderly.

" I-I-I... Umm... T-Thank you Y/n-san... A-and... You're really handsome too.... W-wait I mean n-not handsome because you aren't a g-guy w-what I meant to say was... P-pretty.... You're really pretty" Izuku gushed out and as much as y/n tried to contain her laughter she couldn't keep a straight face and began laughing at Izuku's Adorable antics.

Izuku was going red due to his rising embarrassment as he began to stutter out another list of explanation why he accidentally said it.

But their little conversation didn't go unnoticed by Keigo and Enchanting.

" Wow, she moves Fast. Better try Harder Birdy. As far as I see it; she's sick of you and look she's a boy magnet. You're gonna lose if you keep this up " Enchantress casually gave her comment and Hawks gave her a narrowed look.

" Shut up miss ' I'm a hundred years old' you better hope she'll be mine by the end of the day, I've pulled a lot of strings to get her here and it ain't easy " Hawks kept a calm expression; his lips tugging up into a smirk as he continued " This was your fault to begin with. If I can't win her over today.... Well you're gonna get wrinkles starting tomorrow. I'm not a very forgiving fellow"

" We'll see Hawks... We'll see "

" Oh, we Will "

" Hey! You two lovebirds better stop flirting and Tell Kirishima here that Cats are better than Dogs! " Mina exclaimed and with how loud her voice was; she caught everyone's attention within her first attempt.

" I told you Mina, Dogs are Manly. And they earned the title of Man's Best friend. They're dedicated and Loyal but I wanna know who you guys will vote for" Kirishima replied as he glanced back at the still very flustered Izuku and A Smiling y/n.

" W-well.... I think I prefer Dogs than Cats... Sorry Mina " Izuku gave Mina an apologetic smile as Mina pouted before turning to y/n.

" Come on y/n you gotta be on my side on this one " Mina pleaded and Kirishima pulled her away.

" That's cheating Mina, don't pull the pity card on Y/n. That's so not Manly... But.. Well which do you prefer y/n? "

" Hmm... Well... I----"

" I vote for Birds. I heard Birds are very reliable companions miss y/n. I assume that you feel the same way? " Enchantress piped in and y/n gave her a raised brow but she managed to catch on to what enchantress was saying.

" Oh? Well I understand the reason why you Like Birds Enchantress; I do too... Well I used to anyways but to answer your question I prefer Dogs... Sorry Mina. I like how a Dog will be loyal to you till the very end"

" Hmm? So you're saying Birds aren't Loyal? " Enchantress chimed and y/n's chuckle made Kirishima, Mina and Izuku shudder.

Her laugh was cold and forced; her eyes landed on Enchantress and a teasing smirk was now displayed on her face.

" Well Enchantress, Upon Personal experiences... Then my Answer is No. Birds aren't Loyal at All" Everyone shivered at her response simply because y/n had took the risk of jumping straight onto a landmine. Because Hawks had a bird based Quirk.

The temperature dropped to negative and even enchantress seemed to be affected by the sudden change of the atmosphere.

" Really Now? You wound me Baby Bird " Keigo's smile was passive aggressive and y/n didn't hesitate to return it.

" Don't call me That Hawks. And stop acting like you know me"

" I'm very Hurt by your words... Especially about your opinion on Birds. I for one am very Loyal "

" Nah, I Love dogs but I also like Bunnies... Take izuku for example. He's cute, shy and smart like a Bunny. Not Cunning, Manipulative and Sly Like a... Hawk" Y/n countered as she placed her Hand on top of Izuku's Head petting him gently.

Her action made a growl rip itself from Keigo's Throat and everyone froze at his aggressive reaction.

" Sure, I may be Cunning, Manipulative and Sly... But you forgot one thing Baby Bird "

" And what is it Hawks? "

" Hawks are Birds of Prey... And They are Very Possessive " Keigo answered, his Fetagers began to Bristow and sharpen; eyes trained on y/n's figure as he slightly lowered his stance.

" Huh? Why would I need to know tha------ahhhhh! " A scream was heard as y/n disappeared from her place as well as Hawks.

Unfortunately she was brisked away by the said Hero at A speed far top fast for the human eyes to follow.

" What the!? " Kirishima , Izuku and Mina who were knocked down on the ground after the Aerial impact of the winged hero were stunned as they frantically looked around for their Female Classmate who had vanished into thin air.

" Let them Be kids " Enchantress muttered as she gestured for the teens to follow her.

" B-but--!".

" Let. Them. Be..... Seriously I don't want to have any wrinkles because of that damn Cocky Hawks .... So let them be or else "

________________

" Hawks! Put me Down! " Y/n demanded, she was brisked away and slung onto his shoulders like a bag of potatoes and now Hawks was flying away and note that they are far from the ground.

" As you wish"

Y/n could practically feel the smirk in his voice and her heart dropped along with her body as she screamed for bloody murder because Hawks was being a Jerk and dropped her in Mid-air.

" Keiiiiigooooo! " Her scream was more of a threat and after 15 seconds of falling in Mid-air she was once again brisked away by the winged Hero who was smirking at her.

" God... I missed it so much when you used to call me by my name and not ' Hawks ' or ' Takami' " Keigo chuckled as he faced the girl who was holding onto him for dear life.

" Ah... Shit I almost died" Y/n hissed as she began shifting in her position, her legs were tightly wrapped around Keigo's Torso, her arms had snaked themselves around his neck and don't even get him started on how hard she was pushing her body against his.

" Easy baby Bird. Don't. Be too feisty with me... I might lose control " Keigo whispered bit he was met with a scowl.

" What is wrong with you? Can't you just leave me alone? If you think this is funny well it's not. I don't want to see or even hear you" Y/n spat out as her heart began pounding in her ribcage from both the adrenaline and embarrassment .

Hawks didn't answer and just gave her an intimidating glare that almost had her shrinking and burying her face on his chest.... Almost.

" Sure you don't want to see me... But really? Leeching yourself on every single boy who comes near you? You're driving me crazy Little Bird. I almost became a serial murderer because of you... Picture this... Pro hero Hawks; the first Hero to Murder a student because of Jealousy " Keigo bitterly laughed .

" Keigo... What the fuck are you saying? ---"

" I'm not done venting!, you think it's fun to mess with my head? Where the fuck were you over the past few weeks?! Seeing another man? While I stayed in my office drinking a huge load of bullshit? Driving myself crazy in that room anticipating when you'd show up again!? And now....now you have the guts to flirt with another man right in front of me " Keigo was pouring out all of his frustration right in front of her and he was far from being finished.

" For a moment there I almost considered the possibility of becoming a murderer... Just because he touched my Girl... He stole your attention away from me... I fucking waited and I resisted the urge to fucking drag you to the nearest alleyway y/n----"

" Cut to the fucking chase Keigo! "

" I Love you y/n! That's what I was trying to say Baby Bird. I Fucking Love you! " Keigo panted out and Y/n was more than speechless.

She didn't know what to feel, she didn't know how to react. After all that? And the effort she made to move on... Now... Now he's being so difficult and telling her he love her?!.

" Keigo, if you think a bullshit excuse like that is enough then you're wrong! Have you had any idea how hard and painful it was for me? How much I had to endure became I loved you? Damn well you don't and you don't have the right to slap this shit right in front of me you bastard! I cried myself to sleep and... And... You... ---" She couldn't finish her sentence when tears began to flood her eyes and was now cascading down her flushed cheeks.

She began sobbing and hitting Keigo's chest which has done absolutely zero no no damage at all.

Keigo's only response was to hold her in place and tighten his arms around her waist; letting her vent.

Of course he was awful to her. He was one hell of a fucking idiot to do this to the woman he loves.

He told her everything, it was true. He barely had any decent sleep and worked his ass off while waiting for her return. He didn't want to carry that habit of being an obsessive stalker. Of course he didn't tell her about how he had stalked her multiple times, he didn't want to scare her. But all of it was true. Including the jealousy part.

" I'm sorry Y/n....i really am--"

" Sorry ain't cutting shit you Jerk! Just when I'm moving on you stomp your way back in! "

" No y/n....don't ever move on. Stay here with me... I know this may sound toxic and shitty as fuck but hear me out... I know it hurts but bare with me... Don't move on.. Stay even if it hurts.. Don't leave me and give me every thing of who you are... No matter how painful it is "

" You selfish prick! Do you realize how greedy you sound! You fucking maniac! "

" I know! I know... But all my life I've been deprived of everything I actually wanted.. I was told to be this and not that... I never had the chance to actually have what I want so please y/n....allow me to be selfish when it comes to you... Let me be greedy and give me You. I don't care if I'm selfish because I'm only selfish when it comes to you.... So please. Beat me up, hit me, stab me... I don't care but just don't Leave me" Keigo growled; angry at his words and his selfish desires bit he couldn't help it.

Y/n who was still sobbing her heart out was listening to every word he had uttered. She fought back the idea of actually giving him a chance. She knew Keigo was sick to the bone but she's even worst knowing that this type of guy had attracted her and lured her to love him.

How... Why is she so soft when it comes to him? Is this how love really is? Because if it is... Then she doesn't give a shit. She wants him too. But she isn't going to make it any easier for him. If he wants her then he better earn her, No more miss nice y/n.

And He wanted her... He needed her and he isn't just about to let her go. He'll hunt her down even in hell.

" Keigo... You.... Ugh... I... Shit... "

" Is it working y/n...am I winning you over? "

" Only because I loved you Keigo you prick "

" Correction You still Love me...so be my girlfriend?"

" Whatever. Just so you know, I'm not saying yes to your proposal. You gotta earn me you fucking retard and it isn't going to be easy"

" I knew you were going to say something like that. And yes I'm ready to make those sacrifices for you, Just... No boys " Keigo smirked as he cradled the girl in his arms.

She still had her arms wrapped around his neck as he landed on one of the very few skyscrapers in the city.

" No can do Keigo... Your Baby Bird here is a Boy Magnet---" Upon seeing how fast Keigo's demeanor had shifted to something more gruesome she shut up immediately and nodded her head.

" You too Chicken wings... No girls for you"

" No can do, your Bird man here is a lady magnet " Keigo smirked returning her words at her.

Y/n rolled her eyes and reached her hand up to paw on his blonde hair; giving them a harsh yank but before she pulled him down, her lips meeting his in a rough and demanding kiss to avoid any form of kinky retort from Hawks.

Keigo immediately responded and took full control of dominance as his lips moved in sync with hers. Rough and passionate, but unfortunately Keigo was getting a little bit handsy; his hands made its way towards her thigh giving it a harsh squeeze but before he could do anything else she pulled away covering his mouth with her hands when he tried to catch her lips again.

" Nuh uh Keigo. We're Going slow "

" Ugh... Nice job being a Kill Joy Kid...tsk.."

" Fuck you Keigo"

" Why don't you do it yourself you Coward "

" Oh I will Keigo "

" Really? I don't mind breeding you right here if you wan---"

" Eww Keigo shut up. I was kidding. I want to be a Hero before becoming a Mom"

" Yeah, Good luck with that because I think you're gonna be a momma anytime soon because you said Yes to Me"

" I didn't say jack shit like that Keigo" Y/n snapped as she began squirming in his hold with Keigo chuckling and laughing at her poor attempt.

" Relax. I was Kidding-- "

" Thank Goodness for a moment there I actually thought you we---"

" Maybe "

" Keigo! "

End~? ♡...............

[devoidwrites]

Sweet Home • Jeon Wonwoo (2)

Summary: The world has been taken over by humans turning into monsters, and you try to survive alongside your neighbors in your apartment complex. | You help a friend leave the complex and Wonwoo gets mad. The two of you have a. argument and it leads to something more |

[previous chapter] [next chapter]

Words: 3K

Warning: Gore, violence, language, suggestive

Genre: apocalyptic au

Pairing: Jeon Wonwoo x Reader

You're leg was having trouble staying still as the other residents filled the daycare that was run by Jieun. She's been running it for the past three years, and she offered to watch residents kids while they went to work.

"I'm sure you're all aware why we're here." Wonwoo said, stepping to the front of the room. Her pressed him glasses up higher on his nose. "We need to figure out if we're letting Beomgyu stay or not."

It was inevitable. There would be chaos if they tried to hide the truth from everyone, and there's no telling what they'd try to do to the poor kid.

"What the hell do you mean figure out if he's staying or not?" Chiwon exclaimed. The smaller man scowled at Wonwoo. "Kick the bastard out! He's one of them!"

"But he's not the same." You spoke up, catching everyone's attention. "None of you were there when he saved us. Somehow he can control it. "

"And if he loses control?" Eunwoo asked. He made a good point. What would they do if Beomgyu lost control?

"It's been four days since he's been like this." Baekhyun informed them all. "He hasn't lost control yet."

"We're not sleeping in the same place as that demon!" Chiwon stated.

Wonwoo nodded, listening in on the argument. "Let's take a vote then."

"A vote?" Chiwon repeated. "This isn't a fucking democracy."

"Maybe not." Wonwoo shrugged, turning to send the man a quick glare. "But we'll get nowhere by simply arguing."

So that's what they did. Jieun got a small box and Kevin ripped some pieces of paper. It took them a total of five minutes for the votes to get finished, and they took their seats once more.

Wonwoo took the liberty of showing everyone what was written on each piece of paper before putting a tally on the chalkboard behind him. It eventually led to a tie. Each side held eight tally marks.

"This is ridiculous. Who voted for the bastard to stay?" Chiwon yelled, his shrill voice bouncing off the walls. He stepped to the middle of the room to make sure everyone could see him. "There's no way we're keeping a monster here. I-"

His rampage was cut short as he began to cough. You stood up from you chair with wide eyes, watching as the man coughed up his lungs. He leaned forward, his nose bleeding profoundly. Gasps were heard all around as he looked up once more, trying his best to wipe his nose.

Call it karma for being so harsh, but you didn't feel sorry for the man.

Beomgyu walked in the room, his childlike eyes looking around at everyone before settling on the small man in the middle.

"This is a vote to see what you do with the ones changing right?" He picked up two pieces of paper, each one holding an 'x' and and 'o'. "Do I get a vote?"

"I don't see why not." Wonwoo spoke, nodding in confirmation.

"So if I vote no then he gets thrown out too right?"

You glanced between the two changing. Would he actually vote no just to put the man out for being an ass? She couldn't say she would've have done the same. "Yeah."

Beomgyu nodded before holding up the piece of paper with the 'o' on it. So it was decided. The two of them would be staying.

They were quickly moved to one of the back rooms. You all quickly decided that even though they were staying, it would be best to separate them from everyone else.

"Is that really necessary?" You asked Wonwoo, who was locking them in there. The taller man glanced down at you after he secured the lock. "Do we really have to lock them up like animals?"

"I don't like it anymore than you do, but it's better to be cautious." He told you with a sigh. "If one of them loses control we'll be able to react before they bust out. "

"But Beomgyu-"

"You have a soft spot for the kid." He said. "I get it, but we can't take the chance. I'm sorry."

Wonwoo walked away without another word. You couldn't just come out and tell him that you did have a soft spot for the kid, but only because you knew his story. He was alone with no family with him on this god forsaken planet. You couldn't help that you had an urge to protect him.

-

Twenty eight cans of beans. Eighty six packs of instant noodles. Thirty packs of crackers. Forty two cans of mixed fruit.

With each can you place inside the box, you made sure to place them according to type and size. You decided to take the liberty of counting the supplies that were in the shop. It would be smart for someone to do it so the lot of you knew how long you could go without worrying about food.

"Hey, Y/n"

You turned around to find Sunmi walking towards you. "What's up."

Without you having to ask, she began to hand you the cans from the shelf behind you. You didn't complain, for it made your job of counting the cans and tallying them down a lot easier.

"I need your help."

"With?" You continued to tally down what kind of food item you were given, barely looking up from the paper.

Sumni sighed. "Getting out of here."

That caught your attention. You finally looked up from the paper, giving her a confused look. "Why would you want to get out of here? You have no idea what's out there."

"My fiancées out there." She reminded you. "And I need to find him to make sure he's okay."

You understood her worry. It would be worrisome to be without your lover for a long time, and in times like these the worry only doubled. There was no telling if he was alive or not.

Her husband was a scientist, and he had been busy with work when the world went to shit. It's been days, and with no cell service it was hard to get in contact with people from the outside. They had no idea if there were any survivors out there.

"Sumni." The woman gave you a look, which you quickly brushed off. "Don't look at me like that. I'm not saying there's no possibility of him being alive, but it's dangerous out there. I'm sure he's out there keeping himself safe like you should be doing. "

"I don't care. I'm leaving either way, I just thought you'd help me. "

You pondered the idea. It wouldn't be a bad thing to help her. If her mind wasn't going to change and she was going to leave either way, it would be best for you to help her so none of the others got hit by the ricochet.

"Okay." You nodded, agreeing to help her. "I'll open the gate whenever there's a distraction, and you slip out without a word."

You grabbed the last can from her and marked it down before putting it in the box. You picked up the heavy boxy, struggling slightly before you readjusted your grip on it.

Moving through the shop, you ignored the looks the others gave you as you placed it in the closet before locking the door.

"Why are you locking up the food?" Hyuna asked. The others quickly crowded around you, eyeing you suspiciously.

You scoffed softly before turning to them"I'm not hoarding it if that's what you're thinking. I'm simply putting up the non perishables and the food that feeds more than one."

"Why?"

You glanced at Eunwoo. "Because we need to think smart here. We have no idea how long we're going to be stuck here, so it wouldn't be wise to eat everything up at once. When we run out of food in the front of the shop, we'll open the closet and ration out everything as the days go."

"Not a bad idea." Hwanwoong said, coming to your defense. "An emergency stash of food."

"All the snack food, as well as the food that'll go out quickly is still in tack. I'm only thinking about what's best for us as a group. Well use what's left in the shop, starting with the stuff we need to eat before it goes bad."

"I'm assuming Chiwon doesn't know about this." Jisu said softly, crossing her arms over her chest.

You shook your head. "He doesn't have a clue, but I asked Miyeon if she was alright with it. She gave me the go ahead."

"Dad wouldn't like the idea, but it's best if we share." Miyeon told everyone quietly. She was a sweet girl, and it was a shame her dad used that to his advantage. It wouldn't be surprising if this was the first time in a long time she could relax.

The sound of the elevator dinging echoed through the bottom floor, and you made your way through cautiously. Beomgyu stepped out, along with two people you had never seen before.

Beomgyu had been asked to help Baekhyung hang up a large sos on a sheet from the roof. If there was anyone around they’d be able to see it, and hopefully they’d come help.

You greeted your brother with a hug. "Welcome back. Did it go smoothly?"

"We ran into a couple of monster, but other than that it was fine." He told you, giving you a smile. He motioned to the old man and young woman beside him. “This is Jaesuk and his caregiver Yoohyeon.”

“Don’t make me sound so helpless.” The older man said with a huff. “She’s my granddaughter.”

You introduced yourself with a smile before turning back to your brother. “Find anything new?”

Alexa let out a huff. "We found out that the monsters don't actually die, so fighting them is pretty useless."

Pursing your lips together, you took a minute to process her words. So how were you all supposed to survive if you couldn't kill the things coming after you? We're they really unkillable?

"Well as if things weren't already bad enough."

You followed the group towards the back room to lock Beomgyu back up. You grabbed his arm before he stepped in. Handing him a candy bar, you gave him a sweet smile. "Don't take it all too hard Beomgyu. We're just being cautious."

"I know." He nodded, the emotionless he was giving you making you frown. Was he really that broken on the inside? Without another word, the young boy walked inside, shutting the door behind him.

Baekhyun locked the chain back, and the three of you turned to go back into the main room, where the chaos was currently taking place.

As you walked in, a large man was on top of a smaller guy, punching him repeatedly. Baekhyun was quick to rush forward and attempt to pull the man off of the victim.

Once you saw the mans face, you recognized him to be Hyeokjin, one of the quieter residents. He never really talked to many people, and you didn't know why, but you never questioned him

When Hyeokjin saw the chance, he took off down the hall and everyone quickly followed him. Sumni moved to follow them, but you grabbed her by the arm. "Wait, this is our distraction."

She quickly caught on and followed you to the main room before You separated from one another. You rushed to the security room to press the button that would lift the gate. The sound caught the attention of the ones watching the fight go down. A couple of them rushed back, watching you peek your head out of the security room to watch the gate.

"The hell are you doing?" Wonwoo asked the two of you. She spared a single glance before slipping through the small crack between the floor and the gate. You pushed the button to stop the gate before pressing the one next to it. The gate moved down, and it slammed once it made contact with the floor once more

Ignoring the stares, you walked over to Sumni, who was still by the gate. "Be safe."

"You too." She gave you one last smile before slipping away from the gate and over to the motorcycle she would hot wire to drive away in search for her husband.

You then turned to the group behind you Your eyes moved straight to Wonwoo, and boy did he look mad.

-

"What we're you thinking?"

"I was thinking that if she was gonna do it either way, I was gonna make sure she didn't risk people's lives!" You defended yourself. Wonwoo had pulled you into the security room, slamming the door as to give the two of you some privacy to argue. "The way i see it you should be thrilled since it's one less person to feed!"

"Oh so that's how you're painting me out to be huh? An asshole." He sneered, pushing his glances higher on his nose. "Why's it so hard for you to understand that everything i'm doing is to protect everyone- to protect you!"

"Forcing people to stay here isn't helping them!"

"So I should just let Jieun out to get herself killed?" He retorted. "You and I both know that she'll just get herself killed."

"Maybe so, but Sumni can take care of herself."

He was so infuriating sometimes. It was ridiculous to you that he was trying his best to keep people here. They should be free to leave if they chose to. Of course you understood the dangers of opening the gate, but forcing someone to stay a place they didn't want to would make them go crazy and that would eventually cause chaos.

"Why are you so mad about this?" You finally asked. You couldn't understand why he was so upset with you about something. "It's done and over with."

"You keep throwing yourself in harms way!" He reminded you, his voice raising ever so slightly. "First you take off to find your brother and coming in close contact with one of the damn monsters, and they you help someone leave. What would you have done if that monster was still there? He could've easily killed the both of you."

You vaguely remembered the monster from the first day of the end of the world. He was right about one thing. That thing could've easily took you and Sumni out.

"But it didn't!"

"But it could have!" He yelled.

"Why do you care?!"

Before you could say another word, Wonwoo reached forward to caress your face and pull your towards him. Your lips crashed together, and you didn't hesitate to kiss him back. His hands moved from your face and down your arms. Once they were down far enough he placed them around your waist and pulled you closer.

The two of you pulled away and stared at one another without a word. At first you didn't understand why he cared so much about your safety, but not it was clear.

It was your turn to place your hands on the base of his next and pull him back in for another kiss. Your lips moved together quickly, as if you couldn't get enough of each other.

He pushed you against the closest wall, his hands trailing back around you waist. Detaching his lips from yours, he began to trail small kisses down your jaw.

"You still-" you trailed off breathlessly. "haven't answered my question."

"Do I even need to?" He asked between kisses.

You smiled, laughing softly. "I just wanna hear you say it."

Wonnwoo grabbed behind your thighs, and you took the hint to jump up and wrap your legs around his waist. Your lips connected once more, and he decided to waist no time this to round. His tongue swiped your bottom lip asking for permission and you allowed him. Your tongues danced together as he sat you down on the desk in front of the security cameras.

Normally you'd want to hit yourself for making out with someone you didn't know that well, but the world was at its end and your chances to do something like this have slipped passed you.

You trailed your hands down his chest, feeling his toned body underneath the fabric covering him. You tugged at the bottom of his shirt before pulling it upwards. He helped you take it off of him before you attacked his neck with kisses.

“Are you sure about this?" He asked, making sure he wasn't about to cross a boundary. "We don't-"

“The worlds gone to shit Woo." You reminded him. You pulled away from his neck to stare him in the eyes. "There's no point in playing it safe anymore."

Reaching forward, you fixed his crooked glasses with a grin. "But, if you're so unsure about this i'm sure one of the guys out there will be more than willing to help me."

His eyes darkened at the idea of anyone else trying to do anything with you. You smirked, knowing you had officially changed his mind.

[echo-three-one]

Whatever It Takes : RELOADED

Augustus' burner phone is the key to locating Nero but the team discovers that it's more than just Nero that's behind all of this. Will the former 141 soldiers find out what Nero is up to? Will Alex rescue Samantha?

Table of Contents

Hello! Ray's Back in his game!

Chapter 16 to another story made by Ray (echo-three-one) Comments and Reviews appreciated! I hope you enjoy! Love you all ❤️

My Damsel in Distress

"Alex"

Task Force 141 - Disbanded

On a plane off to somewhere

General Shepherd.

The name sent Alex's blood boiling from rage. He couldn't believe that a high ranking official would actually betray them and could still run away from it.

It's no secret that he wanted 141 out of the Nero scene. But why? He knew full well that Samantha doesn't have access over the address but he still took her? And he also knew that this little team won't walk away without her safe. Alex wondered what's running inside the snow-caterpillar-stache's little brain. He couldn't even say his name now.

He clenched his fists, feeling the thick leather gloves he wore for battle. It was a devastating day for him. They just bonded for a few moments here and there and now she’s already taken away from him. He couldn’t keep count how many times it happened. It was frustrating.

“So, which safehouse are you bringing us today?” Alex joked with his former CO. Jack looked serious as always, he never gets these kinds of humor.

“Same one in Brazil. It’s the most forgotten and spacious. No one’s going to come looking for us in South America.” Jack replied, looking worriedly at Alex.

“I know when you’re preoccupied Alex. What happened afterward?” Jack turned to him and Alex knew he had to open up. He deserved the truth anyway.

“I uh… I fell for her, Jack. I know I told you that I won’t but it just hit me.”

“Like a fucking brick…” Jack interrupted and chuckled.

“All I can say is that you’ve done a better job than I did when I fell in love. I could still see your determination towards your work. Or maybe because she’s still involved in all of this.” he added, causing Alex to relax his tensed shoulders.

“It’s good to have you back, old man.” Alex shook his hand and smiled. With all the problems around him, it was good to have someone close to him to talk to. He was glad Nero didn't kill him back in the Gulag.

“Yeah. Me too, and it looks like you’ve got yourselves a determined bunch. Especially that guy.” he noted, pointing to Soap who was sitting with France. Alex remembered how the two of them met at the Gulag and in that short span of time Jack was able to read the whole guy’s personality.

“Soap? Yeah, he’s an achiever. Heard he’s top of every obstacle course back at the base.” Alex mused, looking at the two. They were sitting together quietly but Alex felt jealous. He could've been doing that with Samantha right now. Now that she's ready to hear the truth about them.

"Yeah. He's got some fight in him. I'm sure we'll defeat Nero even with this little band right here. And I'll do my best to be of assistance to you." he patted Alex's shoulder and went back to check on Nikolai.

~

Safehouse 110197, Brazil

Alex remembered that this place was compromised, but then again that was the CIA mole's henchmen that found them here and they're no longer affiliated with Nero. Or he picked this place because no one would think of going back here after being compromised. The Reverse Psychology card. Either way, Alex didn't mind.

As the team slowly scattered around the house and prepared everything, Alex took note of some changes since his last visit. More beds were added and supplies got restocked. Even the bullet cache looked reloaded.

The team loaded off everything they salvaged, or stole, from the 141 and set it all up. Ghost prioritized the tech stuff while the women fixed the bedrooms. Alex offered help but was denied by Gary saying "Your face still hurts so don't over exert yourself, we can do this on our own."

So Alex plopped by the central couch as Ghost untangle the wires, putting them on their respective slots.

"You holding up okay?" The masked man asked as soon as Alex released a deep sigh.

"I'm worried about Samantha." he replied, resting his hands on the back of his head.

"She doesn't have the address, what does Shepherd want from her?" Alex added, his tone raised like a kid complaining.

"I have no idea. But I do have something else. Information on the surprise attack at the 141." Ghost said, as Jack and Price moved toward them and discussed the contents of Augustus' phone.

"That bastard gave away our location." Price cursed.

"So his plan to disband us would be successful." Alex added and Ghost nodded.

"Why get Samantha though? He knows we'll be coming for him." Ghost added and the rest of them speculated their theories.

"Augustus failed to get her so Shepherd did it for him? For what?" Jack noted, reviewing their whole mission for reference.

"Something bigger, I presume." Price spat and everyone fell silent. The rest of the team except for Gary and Maxine gathered for a short briefing. Everyone gave away their take as to why, some of them made sense while some reasons don't add up. And thinking about it was only making them more frustrated.

Everyone looked serious until they inhaled the fresh aroma of dinner from the kitchen. Alex turned and saw Gary and Maxine, smiling while serving up the team's dinner. He could sense something him and Samantha once shared in this place and it looked like the Safe house did it's charm once again.

"Now that's bloody good cookin'" Price announced and everyone laughed. He wasn't the kind of person to say those kinds of things, but he did, and it was all they needed to ease the tension of not knowing what's next.

They never gathered like this before, together, happy and noisy. The two oldies sat on the opposite edges of the round table while Soap, France, Gary and Maxine sat beside each other on the left. Simon and Alex sat on the other side, an empty chair resided beside them.

"Don't worry lad, we'll rescue her." Price muttered and Jack nodded. Alex smiled as they started to eat some food.

"Hold on a minute!" Soap exclaimed causing everyone to halt.

"Thank you Lord for thy blessings which we are about to receive. Amen." he muttered while everyone looked at him.

"Amen!" they all said in unison and wolfed down Gary and Maxine's delicious meal.

"This tastes so good! Just like Mom used to make!" Francine chewed happily. Maxine stared at her supposed to be sister and smiled.

"It does?" she breathed.

"Mmhmm.. I was always jealous that you two were so close together in the kitchen, everything I touch turns to a culinary mess." she frowned and made everyone else laugh. Soap stared at her in amazement.

"You and me both, France." Jack agreed. The gang bonded throughout dinner and enjoyed the company. Alex volunteered on the dishes and France offered to help.

"You think she's going to be fine?" Maxine asked as she checked the contents of the fridge, looking at Alex who looked very focused on the dishes he's cleaning.

"She's been kidnapped a lot of times now. I think she's used to it." Alex attempted to joke, but the tone of his voice was far from kidding.

"Aye, That lassie's a tough one. Don't worry Alex. We'll get her, Shepherd's bound to make a mistake anytime soon." Soap commented from behind him while leaning on the kitchen island.

"I told you I can handle assisting Alex on my own!" France giggled as she wiped the plates dry.

"Aye! I know! Can't a man just enjoy some time with his girlfriend?" he raised his hand mocking surrender. France turned back and crossed her arms.

"Ahem. Girl space Friend. There's a space in between." she scolded and MacTavish just chuckled.

"Whatever you say, Babe." he joked once again as he stepped out of the kitchen.

"Ugh. That guy's so full of himself." France groaned. Alex and Maxine exchanged glances and laughed, causing the female soldier to worry.

"What?" she asked.

"You two look cute together." Maxine chuckled, closed the fridge and walked away.

"We're not together!" France yelled, making sure Maxine would hear it wherever she went.

"We will be soon!" Soap exclaimed from outside, followed by collective laughter from the group of men with him.

~

Alex groaned and looked at his watch. It's already 3:36 am and he couldn't sleep. He slowly got up and looked around. On the huge bed, Jack and Price slept peacefully as evidenced by the loud snoring. Beside him on the floor was Soap, Roach and an empty spot where Ghost was supposed to sleep. The girls occupied the guest room.

Alex slowly got up and carefully assisted his metal leg, trying not to make noise as he waltzed to the balcony where he suspected Ghost to be.

And he was right, Ghost sat by the railings on the terrace, not a single expression of fear etched on his face. A face Alex saw for the first time.

"Can't sleep?" the former CIA asked. Ghost slowly turned his head and nodded.

"I'm just contemplating…" he muttered, the tone of his voice sound defeated.

"We caught ourselves in a crazy situation, huh?" Alex chuckled trying to make the best of the situation. Ghost didn't seem to like the vote of happiness as he clicked his tongue and sighed.

"I'm into France… but it looked like she's happier with John." he spat. From what Alex heard from Roach, Ghost was not the kind of person to open up. And this was all too surprising for him.

"I… uh…" Alex stammered.

"Look, I'm also sorry… You don't have to reply… I was about to vent to Gary about this but he seemed too preoccupied with Maxine and I didn't want to bother him."

"Look, it's okay. Ghost."

"It's Simon, Simon Riley."

"It's okay Simon. That's life. You win some, you lose some." he consoled. He tried to make it as positive as possible but he was also down in the dumps, like him.

"Thanks for the honesty. I just realized how devastated you must be. I never got to hear your story until Gary told me. It must've been tough losing her over and over again." Gary talked without looking at him.

"It's like I've been cursed to lose her and save her all over again." Alex complained.

"Like Link." Simon announced like it's a great metaphor which Alex didn't get.

"Link?"

"Like from the video game. Where this knight was always out to save her damsel in distress. It's got many different variations but it's always the same name. Generations have passed and Link was always destined to save Zelda." he said in amusement.

"My damsel in distress…" Alex noted and looked up at the stars, wishing that wherever Samantha may be, he hoped she's safe and also thinking of him.

Next Chapter : Delayed Flight

Notification Squad my beloved

@smokeywhalee @samatedeansbroccoli @enderio @whimsywispsblog @beemybee @ricinbach

[im-an-anxious-wreck]

Chapter Three

Do You Wanna Build A Snowman Watch A Movie?

Word Count: 1,162

Link to The Effects Of Family chapter collection

First | Previous | Next

-

"Hello, Roman. Ready to… oh, Virgil, um, good evening." Janus had already been halfway across Roman's large bedroom when he saw Virgil, who was... perched on the headboard?

No one quite knew how Virgil did it, but he had the mystifying tendency to defy gravity whenever and wherever he chose to sit. It bothered Logan to no end, much to the amusement of Janus.

Roman was also on the bed but had chosen a much more reasonable position, sprawled across his pillows, lounging in his 'royal' silk pajamas.

He had gone to Roman's room for their usual movie night, but it seemed that Virgil had beaten him to it.

"What are you doing here?" Virgil looked back and forth between them with something more akin to confusion than suspicion.

"Actually, I was just leaving so—" Janus quickly turned to leave when Roman called out to him.

"Nonsense! Stay?" And oh, that wasn't fair. There was no way Roman was allowed to look that cute. "Please." Roman pleaded.

Janus sighed, knowing full well that Roman had won, and edged closer to where Roman and Virgil sat on the bed.

"So what are you actually doing here?" Virgil asked, his confusion only multiplying.

"Oh! I, uh… I volunteered! To help him with... a new thing in the Imagination. After all, someone's got to be the villain around here since you decided to be disgustingly good now." Janus twisted his fingers around each other nervously.

Virgil looked like he didn't exactly buy it, but wasn't going to argue. "Okay?" Virgil jumped down from where he'd been 'sitting' (if you could even call it that). "Um, I guess I'll just leave y'all to it then. Have fun—"

"What? No!" Roman cried. "You don't need to go, Verge. Let's see, Janus and I can do the, er, Imagination thing later. Let's watch a movie, all three of us!"

Janus and Virgil shared a brief searching look, and, after determining the other didn't seem to mind, hesitantly nodded.

Virgil shrugged. "Yeah, sure. Why not?" Virgil sat next to Roman, jostling him in the process. "Oop—, sorry."

"Alright, what movie should we watch then?" Janus asked, stepping to the edge of the bed.

"So I'm not saying Frozen…" Roman said, mischievously. "But, eh, you know… it'd be fun! Actually, I bet I could easily write sonnets about my love for Frozen and essays of reasons of why we should watch it. The essay would start with something like—"

" ’Essays of reasons of why’? " Virgil interrupted. "Kinda clunky, don't ya think?"

"Oh hush, you… you MCR emo!"

Virgil just rolled his eyes and continued on. "Besides, We always watch that, Princey. We should watch—"

"Let me guess, Nightmare Before Christmas? Or maybe Black Cauldron?"

Virgil all but pouted. "...Maybe."

"Well, maybe we should put it to a vote!"

"Uhh, wouldn't everyone just pick theirs? Plus, you always rig the vote so there's really no point."

"Well… maybe we should let Janus choose! The fabulous and fantastical Frozen? Or one of Dark-And-Gloomy's dark and gloomy movies?"

"Well—" Janus started, but was interrupted by Virgil.

"Wow, totally not biased there. So maybe we should actually let him choose his own movie, j'ever think about that?"

"But then how do we choose which one of the three?! Also, if we do that then you can't have two picks, Mr. Grumpy Pants. That's cheating!"

"No one said I would necessarily submit both! And what do you even care about cheating?! You seem to like it just fine enough when you're the one doing it."

"Hey!" Roman put a hand on his chest dramatically, light-hearted shock on his face.

"Alright alright, children. That's enough!" Janus pursed his lips. "Each person will write down one choice on a piece of paper, put it in the hat, and we'll watch all three of them. I will draw the papers from my hat, so there's no tampering from Roman, and that will be the order in which we watch them." Janus looked at them both carefully, waiting to see if either of them would argue with him. "Alright?"

"Oh, okay. That works." Virgil shrugged.

"I suppose, just as long as I get to watch Frozen."

Virgil rolled his eyes. "Yes, Roman, you'll have your precious Frozen."

"Okay! So here's the paper and glitter pens!!"

…

"I still can't believe Frozen is last," Roman whined for the 37th... 38th? time, Janus had lost count. And somehow they'd only managed to get halfway through the first movie of the evening: Nightmare Before Christmas.

It was going to be an extremely long evening, Janus realised as Roman let out another loud whine, especially if things continued at this rate.

"Yeah, well... deal with it, Princey."

Roman scooted forward and then flopped back on the pillows, his arm over his eyes, dramatically. Janus patted his arm.

Janus didn't particularly care about what order they went in, and as fun as it was to make Roman suffer complain about it to Virgil, it was getting a bit old. Perhaps he could use Roman's desire to go next 'against' him.

"Alright, we'll play yours second—"

Roman sat up, eyes bright. "Oh, thank you thank you than—"

"IF—"

"Awww."

"If you stay quiet during the entire rest of Virgil's movie. If you can manage to do that, we'll watch Frozen next."

Roman nodded frantically.

"Oh wow, we should've thought of this sooner. Only way to get him quiet," Virgil joked.

Roman stuck out his tongue, Virgil stuck out his in retaliation, which quickly turned into play fighting. Janus paused the movie with an eyeroll and angled himself directly behind Roman, waiting for the opportune time to strike.

After Roman paused to dramatically loom over Virgil, Janus saw his opportunity. He quickly wrapped his arms around Roman's waist and yanked him back so that they were sitting against the headboard, Roman flush with Janus' chest.

Roman inhaled, obviously trying to not make a sound. Was it Janus' imagination or was Roman's face flushed? It must have been from play-fighting with Virgil.

Virgil scooted over and, sitting almost thigh to thigh with Janus, pulled Roman so he was half on each lap.

Roman squeaked. "No, wait! That doesn't count… aw, shit."

"Oh, it might not've, but that sure did," Virgil said, trying and failing to stifle his laughter.

"Noooo!" Roman pouted and when that didn't achieve the desired results, crossed his arms in mild fake anger.

"Well, actually…" Janus raised an eyebrow, "The movie is paused, so does it really count?"

"I— oh, hmmm, I don't know." Virgil mused as Roman gave him a pleading look. Virgil sighed loudly, pretending to be annoyed. "Alright, fine, I guess it won't count this time, but next time it definitely will. This is your first, and only, warning, Princey."

Roman wiggled his hips, happily. He opened his mouth before shutting it quickly. Virgil laughed.

Janus hummed softly as he watched the interaction, something akin to fondness curling in his chest.

-

Next

[omegangrins]

A Rant on the End of Tremors 7: Shrieker Island

As the main man said,

Throwing caution to the wind because this blew up elsewhere.

If you can do it with Justice League, fuck it, let's do it for every shitty movie we've got.

While we're at it, can we change the ending of the 7th Tremors movie so *MAJOR FUCKING SPOILERS* Burt Gummer doesn't die or at least bring Jamie Kennedy back, or Marvel style recast Jon Heder, so he dies saving his son instead of a random-ass person who could have easily saved themselves. Or cut the forced montage of Burt clips at the end so his death is at least ambiguous. Seriously beyond pissed about that one. THAT is no way for him to go.

I would also like to point out that the next Tremors *HAS* to be titled Tremors 8: Ouroboros and bring everyone back for Burt's funeral . Otherwise, what's the fucking point?

I have feelings about it, people. *FEELINGS!!!*

One of my favourite childhood memories is picking out Tremors 2 from the local gas station's movie rentals and forcing my parents to watch it. I was probably 5-6 at the time.

Let's say that it's been a lifelong love affair ever since. It took me another 10 years before I even watched the 1st. Probably why I hold good sequels in such high regard.

I didn't even know about the 1st until it played as a trailer in front of 2 and never thought to watch until years later. That's a testament to its filmmaking if I ever knew one.

So seriously, that's how they chose to kill off one of the most well known and prolific characters in a movie/TV series known around the globe? With an unnecessaryily needed death and a montage of clips from all the other movies that are obviously better than this one.

And I'm saying that as someone who defends Chibnall/13th Doctor...

...and I'm fucking fuming because THIS is how you *actually* destroy something people love and hold dear to their hearts. It's like the ending of Game of Thrones. His shitty ass death has made it a loooooot harder to rewatch. And they are one of my favourite series!!! Not flawless but fun. But I will defend every other movie and all the episodes except this. Honestly I'll still defend 7/8ths of this one as well.

Like I said, it's easily fixed too. Fucking vice versa swap out Jon Heder for Jamie Kennedy, who the movies have been building up for the last two, and have Burt save his son in front of his old flame. Boom, you won't even need the montage of clips cause you can just have Travis and his mom reminisce about Burt instead. Show not tell. I don't even care he died by Graboid (although in all honesty, I've allways wanted El Blanco to take him down or Burt kills himself from the PTSD. It would have AT LEAST MADE SENSE. Hell, the best would be a heart attack to callback Val's "Yeah, Burt, the way you worry, you're gonna have a heart attack before you get a chance to survive World War Three.". But none of us ever get the best death.). And it's not even about Burt sacrificing himself to save a nobody. Cause that could work too. BUT YOU NEED TO BUILD THAT SHIT UP. Not just fucking drop it like it's hot.

Like I said too, the first 7/8ths ain't bad but it's an entirely different story than a swansong for a hero.

It's all about some billionaire scientist/cowboy hunter dude who likes to get his jollies off hunting the biggest and the baddest who ends up inviting people to this island so they can hunt down Super-Graboids he designed for shits and giggles. But then some Shrieker-fy....

And the pretentious douches come and die one by beautiful one while Burt tries to save them anyway and it's all spectacularly dumb fun until it comes crashing down in the final 10 minutes. Fuck, they should just cut the last 10 minutes. Then it's a perfect little Tremors ditty.

#RELEASETHE7THTREMORSWITH10MINUTESFROMTHEENDCUT

This isn't even about Jon Heder either. He's just doing his job. Hell, do what /u/VoiceofRonHoward pointed out.

"It is clear that Jon's character was just pasted in over Jamie's, the artifacts of the father-son relationship are all over it. They should have gone full Marvel and just replaced Jamie with Jon and acted like nothing happened."

CAUSE FUCK YES!! The only time a story sucks is when they don't commit. Commitment makes all the difference. Now, I'm pissed double-pissed they didn't do that instead since Heder and Kennedy are similar in terms of white-boy-ness.

Even Michael Gross agrees:

"Yes, yes. Now I can't presume to speak for Jamie [Kennedy]. My understanding was they asked him and he said no. And so that's why they went with somebody else. So I had nothing to do with that decision. I just heard the stories. I missed him for that reason. You begin a relationship with the character, and you want to continue it....

...As you build a relationship with this son, we had two, it would've been nice to have three, but that was the hand I was dealt."

One of my favourite bits of Tremors lore comes from the 5th too so it's not like I hate sequel changes out of hand:

"This is a warrior dance. Our ancestors hunting the lnkanyamba and the Impundulu.

"What's that?

"Impundulu. It's what you call the Ass Blaster.

"Ass Blaster.

"Yes.

"Yes.

"Hey, you know, you make Ass Blaster sound good.

Primitive cultures fighting Graboids, Shriekers and Assblasters. I just love that thought.

Hilariously, my meta opening to the 8th movie would be a flashback to 10,000 years ago and a Neanderthal-like Burt Gummer teaching others how to drive Graboids off cliffs like they did with mammoths.

Thank you for giving me the space to rant. Cause fuuuuuuhhhhhhhhuuccck!!!

Here's Michael Gross' own words from his AMA that prove the people making Shrieker Island didn't know their shit.

"The Tremors series is one very close to my heart and I want you to know how appreciated your continued effort is for your core fan base.

My only question would be were there ever any studio decisions made for Burt that you refused to comply with? Or was everybody pretty much always on the same page on what to do with the character?

Thanks again for your dedication.

- Josh"

"Thanks for the kind words, Josh. As regards the first four films, with Wilson and Maddock as the writers, we were very much on the same page. 5,6, and 7 were a bit different, because there was a 13-year hiatus between 4 and 5, and we had to refresh our memories while "reinventing" the franchise for a new audience. I will give you one example: in an early draft of Shrieker Island, a new writer wrote a draft where Burt threatened to shoot one of the bad dudes, and I had to tell him—this is true—"Burt never intentionally points his gun at another human being."

And his own thoughts on Burt's "death" and how to bring it all back together again.

Universal and the director [came] to me with this idea, and they said, 'This could be emotionally very powerful, if we have to say goodbye to this man after 30 years. And I hemmed and hawed, and I thought about it a little bit. And I said, 'You're absolutely right about the emotional gut punch this can be.' And I said, 'You're going to hurt a lot of people's feelings.' And I said, 'But I thought this franchise was over after four. So I could certainly live with it being over after seven.'

"What we negotiated -- well, it wasn't really a negotiation, we all agreed on this -- is that we kind of left the door open. >!Because although Burt is gone, we never see a corpse. We never see his remains. Everybody assumes he's gone. Is he buried somewhere? Is he unconscious somewhere? We never see Burt dead. We see Burt gone. We see Burt not returning. What does that mean? Has he been knocked out? Does he have amnesia somewhere? Does he wander off? Is he in a kind of coma? So yes, the way it ends is pretty profound."

"As regards to the end of Tremors 7, let me just say that while people ASSUME Burt is gone, we never see his remains, do we? Just sayin.'

"The only reason he has become the main character is that everyone else in the original cast moved on to other things. I NEVER thought of him as the central figure, but it just worked out that Michael Gross, like Burt Gummer, was a "survivor." :0) "

"No one would like to see it more than I!!! One of my greatest regrets is that so many other cast members fell away over time. Reba was on to other things, Kevin said no to a second, Fred said no to a third. I would LOVE one last go with all of them, but it is not up to me. :0( "

"There are no guarantees, but for those who wonder aloud if this is the final film, I will say what I have said before: SALES drive sequels, Show biz is 5% show and 95% business, so if this latest addition to the Tremors franchise, sells well, [Universal] will follow the money, and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment may will be back for more."

/u/ActorMichaelGross, the bell has been rung and the song sung. Get the producers on this ASAP!!

I was also the first person to discover the symbolic foreshadowing of Stumpy's end with Earl's sleeping bag in the original movie.

Let's just say, I really *really* love these movies. So if anyone knows anyone, hook me up to the producers of this series and I'll Justin Lin in the Fast and Furious out of this shit.

Since I don't think it's good to critique without proposing either, I say we can make up for this fuck up with the next movie. We'll call it Tremors 8: Ouroboros. After the snake which eats its own tail.

We find out Burt faked his death to get the Proudfoot Corporation to let down their guard and when everyone from the previous series comes back for Burt's fake funeral they give him ever loving shit for being such a paranoid whack-job that he would fake his death to fool a government agency. Why would he do this? He found an old photo of Hiram Gummer with a Graboid warning on the back and asks himself why this valley, why these things, why allways me? And we find out, it's not Burt. It's that lifestyles of extremes will end up in places of extremes. Burt and the Graboids are survivors of different species. Sure the Proudfoot Corporation IS using Mixmaster to combine Graboids, Shriekers, and Ass-Blasters into one super creature for the military but it pales in comparison to Burt looking at his life and wondering in shame how many ancient giants like himself he has killed. And with that, he actually dies, and we keep the ball rolling with the rest of the characters trying to stop what they allways thought was just another one of Burt's crazy conspiracies.

That's why it's Ouroboros. Everything comes back around. We could end/start the movie with Grady, Earl, and Jodi opening a Monster World in Perfection Valley a la Desert Jack's Graboid Adventure. I don't know. I'm fucking trying harder than the people they paid to do this already.

It ain't perfect but I'm building on sand here so changes are gonna get made.

Like if the makers of Tremors notice this,

Then DM me because fucking A you guys need some help.

[dinolikes]

IMPOSTER- PART TWO

summery ❤︎ Nobody has any quirks and are stuck on a ship like among us

pairings ❤︎ Imposter!Dabi x Reader

content warnings ❤︎ major character death

| prev. |

you sobbed into dabi's chest as hawks and ingeniumu covered thirteens body with a sheet, everyone looking over, some with tears, and some with just a blank look, like they were still processing it.

it was silent for a long time before ingeniumu cleared his throat and looked up, everyone seeing the ghost of tears in his eyes, "we have to call h-headquarters," his voice cracked but he stood tall, he would make a great captain one day, even with his pushover attitude.

you were crowded in the cafeteria, a computer resting on the table with headquarters on the line.

"im sorry to say this but you have an imposter."

you shook your head, you refused to believe it, how could these people, your FRIENDS, who you've lived with for a year, how could they be imposters?

though you shouldnt be surprised, the league has been gaining members, rarely any ship didnt have at least ONE imposter, some even having as much as three, you just thought you guys were the exception.

"twice, hawks, you searched thirteens body correct?" a voice came through the screen.

"yes sir," hawks quietly muttered.

"was everything in place?"

"he didnt have the vent key."

the vent key, really easy to pass through, was originally made for people to quickly go from room to rooms, but after the rise of imposters who started using it to sneak up on people, only one person was allowed to use it per day.

the voice cursed, "very well." a sigh could be heard, "well you know the drill," you did, you just didnt like it, "if you suspect someone, send them out and let them die," you gulped.

you didnt know if you could do that, even knowing that someone here murdered thirteen, you learned to care for each of them, even weirdo itchy snatch tomura. you didnt know if you could just send them into space to suffocate. even the thought made you sick.

"until then, we'll need you to finish your tasks fast, we'll have you home by the end of the day, which means the imposter will probably try to kill faster today. watch out." with that a beep was heard, signaling that you were disconnected.

a grim silence filled the room.

hawks finally spoke up, "which one of you assholes did it?"

dabi glared at the taller man, "fuck you dude, how do we know you didnt do it?"

hawks took a step closer, "bold accusations from someone who seems to hate everyone!"

"why would I kill one of the only people I actually like in this shithole?"

"because he had the vent key dumbass!"

"hey!" twice yelled.

hawks glowered at him, "oh yeah, how could we forget twice here? you found the body right? meaning you were the last one to see him? why DID you decide to check on him huh?"

"why would I come to you guys then?!"

"i dunno, to throw off suspicion maybe?"

you finally snapped "stop it!" everyone's heads shot towards you, "thirteen is dead," you choked out, "and I know thay we're all upset but we just have to finish today's tasks and then we're back home, okay?"

everyone stared, until deku started nodding, "y-yeah! just today's tasks left! then we'll go home and catch the imposter and we'll be fine!"

"what makes you so sure we'll catch him once we get home idiot?"

deku stared up confusingly at kaachan, "dont we have cameras?"

ingeniumu looked at his friend "obviously deku but whatre you getting at?"

"our cameras have memory sticks," shoto spoke up quietly, "when they're connected into one of headquarters machines, you can access all of what it caught,"

deku nodded rapidly, "exactly!"

your eyes lit up, "deku your a genius!" you grabbed his head and gave him a big smooch on the forehead, leaving him a red and stuttering mess.

dabi tsk'ed, "c'mere,' he grabbed you hand and pulled you towards him, wrapping you hands around you and resting his head on your shoulder.

you rolled your eyes playfully at his jealous nature.

"fine. we finish our task but if another person is found dead we're booting someone off." with that, hawks stormed off.

you tried not to go too harsh on him, you knew hawks looked up to thirteen, and beneath that cocky demeanor, he really was soft.

knowing that though, you couldnt help but feel some fear and resentment.

fear because you didnt think you could kill off one of your own and resentment because you knew hawks would make you do exactly that.

"we should have a plan," ingeniumu speaks up, "4 groups of two who continue on and do their tasks, and I think twice should be on security, just incase the imposter attacks again," everyone nods.

"i'll go with wonder," dabi states, already grabbing your hand,

"dont you think you'll get distracted with...other things?" tomura smirks, dabi clenching your hand in his.

"fuck. off."

"oo feisty~"

dabi glares, "yknow you dont really seem to care much that thirteens dead!"

tomura's eyes flash a dangerous color and he leans forward.

"the FUCK did you just say?"

"you heard me you fucking incel,"

"stop!" ingeniumu yells, "tomura is right, you guys do get quite distracted, wonder is with hawks, dabi your with shoto. ill go with tomura and that leaves deku and kaachan, with twice on security. let's go!"

dabi grumbles but goes with his brother as you lightly kiss him on the cheek and go with hawks.

you cant help but think about how amazing that kid is gonna be when hes older as a captain of his own ship.

you and hawks head off, both of you checking your list and stopping by rooms, the other waiting as they finish their task and repeating, until hawks sighed.

"how are you dating that asshole?"

you laugh, "hes not too bad once he likes you,"

"and what? he just doesn't like me?"

"exactly."

"what if he didnt like thirteen?" your smile drops instantly.

"hawks..."

"I'm just saying!"

"well STOP saying! I know dabi and he wouldnt betray me like that, so whatever accusations you have against MY boyfriend, I dont wanna here it," you scowl as you check your notebook, and started heading forward, "c'mon. I have to do wires in electrical."

hawks stayed quiet through the walk, as you stormed forward, wanting to get as much away from him as possible without ACTUALLY losing him. if you were being honest you were scared of going off alone.

as you walked in electrical you instantly went towards the wires, not noticing hawks standing in the doorway,

"wonder?"

"yes hawks?" you snap.

"I just saw someone vent." you pause and turn around.

"where and who?!"

"I dont know! I just saw the vent close when we walked in here and since Thirteen had the key before he died, that means that only the imposter can vent!"

"fuck! why would they vent though?!"

hawks paused. "maybe they killed someone again."

tears filled your eyes as you started searching the dark room, almost tripping over something, you only briefly looked up but you choked back a sob.

it was a foot.

"hawks!"

he came running towards you from behind the wall and saw the foot, gulping as he turned on the flashlight.

there say ingeniumu, with his throat slashed.

you couldnt hold back the cry that left your throat as hawks pulled you in for a hug, mostly to hide his own tears.

"what's going on in here?" you heard dabi's voice and you lifted you head to see him and shoto.

he looked mad but when hawks gestured with his flashlight towards the body, the brief flash letting both of the boys see, dabi understood.

"c'mere baby," he grabbed you quickly and held you tight as you sobbed into his chest, dabi looked up at his brother, "shoto can you call a meeting?" he asked softly. you assumed shoto nodded because there were no other words spoken.

there you all sat again, in cafeteria.

you were sniffling as dabi played with your hair, you holding shoto close as he leaned into you, still in shock of seeing his friend's lifeless corpse like that.

deku stood tall and didnt bother to hide the tears streaming down his face and even kaachan was caught sniffling a bit.

twice sat quietly in the corner, with his elbows on his knees.

hawks though, was red in the face from anger. and the victim of his anger was none other than tomura.

"you were teamed up with him fuckface!"

tomura simply shrugged, "I got bored and wanted to check on twice, see if he was alive,"

"well he is! but your partner fucking isnt!" hawks jammed his finger against the other mans chest, "and I think YOURE the cause!"

tomura raised his eyebrows, "I was with twice, right twice?" he did a 180 to stare hard at twice who looked up slightly and slowly nodded. that seemed to please tomura though as he turned back around, "see?"

"that doesnt mean shit! you were supposed to be with him!"

"but I wasnt."

"but you WERE! that's why the kid is dead!"

"I say we vote." shoto's voice was muffled by your neck and dabi's chest, where he was currently crammed in, but it was still intelligible.

you raise your head and wipe a few stray tears, "I think that's smart sho,"

you all nod and murmur in agreement.

"fine then. let's vote." hawks glares at tomura one last time, "who says skip?"

tomura, twice and shoto raise their hands.

"i dont think theres enough evidence." shoto explains and you nod, quietly telling him that theres nothing wrong with his belief.

hawks has a slight triumph look on his face, "who says that tomura is a fucking psychopath who likes to murder children!"

"murder a child. thirteen is practically twice my age" tomura corrects, "and besides I didn't do it."

hawks rolls his eyes, "whatever, everyone just vote."

you, dabi, hawks, deku and kaachan raise your hand, making you guys the winner.

"perfect." hawks drags tomura over to the ejecting room, usually used for heavier garbage that didnt fit in the disposal.

as you all surrounding the glass wall that separated you and tomura you cried a bit more.

sure you hated this dude but you still KNEW him!

"anything left to say sicko?" hawks glared at the smiling tomura.

"maybe you arent as much of a bird brain as I thought hawks. good job, you win," he does a slight bow like this was a performance before hawks pulls the lever, tomura's body flying out before hawks closed it again.

"he admitted to it." deku stated simply.

"yeah."

| next |