#we're all just waiting for them to get together

[rafesbuzzcutseason]

chasing city lights

chapter 11 - flatline

synopsis: you move to new york to start fresh, hoping to find comfort in the city’s atmosphere. that’s when you meet sarah cameron, where she takes you to a concert and you catch sight of the lead band member, rafe cameron. it only takes a moment for you to realize you’re captivated by him. as sarah helps you navigate your new life in the city, you start to get pulled deeper into rafe's world—the music, the fame, the chaos. the more you get to know him, the more you realise that rafe is not just the rock star he seems to be. he’s wrestling with his own demons, and the last thing he needs is someone like you getting close.

masterlist

cw: language

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after your day with rafe yesterday, the girls had so many questions and you told them everything, down to the song he wrote for you. what you didn't expect however, was that the song was going to be released in a few days time.

"i genuinely can't believe this," sarah started, "i mean him opening up to you? the commincation? the song? where is rafe and what have you done with him." she giggled.

"no y/n i don't think you understand the extent of this. like we've all been friends with rafe for a good 6 years, and i have never seen a girl have this affect on him before."

"guys stop you're making me think i'm some kind of miracle." you laughed with them.

"that's because you are a miracle." cleo joined in.

"so do you think you'll become official soon...?" sarah questioned.

"i don't know, the fans already think we are." you stated.

"the fans are fucking crazy. you'll get used to that i promise. when me and pope started dating everyone went bonkers over it." cleo reassured you.

"i guess so, it's okay i don't mind it, it's just getting used to seeing my face whenever i open twitter." you said. "whatever, we've got a flight to catch." you all finished your last minute packing and made your way into the car that was waiting for you outside the hotel.

part of you was sad to be leaving the state you had made so many memories in, but you knew heading back to new york all together was just the beginning for this new chapter for you and rafe.

once you made it to the airport, you found the rest of the boys who had left earlier as they all entered 'dad mode' and were getting stressed, john b to blame for that.

"finally you're here!" john b began as he saw you walk through the door.

"yeah thought we were gonna have to leave without you." pope said sarcastically.

"enough. we're here now aren't we?" cleo said rhetorically.

"yes ma'am" jj joined in, everyone was in agreement that cleo was the boss of the group.

you made your way to say hi to topper, who was slowly starting to become his usual self again, you assumed him and rafe had a conversation to try and clear the air.

but you eventually made it to rafe, who looked like his was patiently waiting his turn to get your attention, "hey you" he said.

"hey" you replied with a slight blush, "i didn't know you were actually going to release the song." you rushed out.

a look of concern took over him, "do you mind?" he asked worriedly.

"no! no i'm happy" you started, "but the fans are a little crazy."

"yeah i know they are and i should've warned you about that, but the best ones mean no harm and all you can try and do is ignore them." he replied.

"hard to ignore them when they're commenting on everything i post." you quietly said.

"i can say something if it really bothers you, okay?" he softly reached out to give your hand a squeeze.

"okay" you smiled at him, always putting you at ease.

"ok love birds pack it in," jj hollered "i don't think this plane is going to wait for us."

"whatever dude" rafe grinned, "ready?" he turned to you.

"ready."

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a/n: sorry guys i made this chapter a lot more smau, just as i had the idea to do the thread (which took me ages LAWD) and also wanted to get the song mentioned ! 5 points to anyone who knows the actual song and band🙈

taglist: @hoefordrewstarkey @marleymarleymarleymarley @bee-43 @cherryhoneybabe @skye-44 @drewrry @drewrry  @yesterdaysproblemm @pogueprincesa @dylsdaily @rafeysworldim19 @valyrianflower @kaiparkerwifes @judesgfirl @4urvalidation @chillgal135 @drewstarkeyslover @yesshewrites1@amterasuu@babykhloutofthisworld @blushmimi  @moonywhisp3rs @rafeysworldim19 @marleymarleymarleymarley@sabrina-carpenter-stan-account@vcnillafairy @bambii1i @sammyrenae68 @popou61

[trippiexlove]

Heart of a Woman

Author Note: Based on the song Heart of A Woman by Summer Walker. Y'all chose it! I hope you enjoy. If you want to leave a song request for a one shot please comment on this post. Check out my master list for other one shots / stories.

Warning: Smut, Angst, P in V, Oral (f! receiving), Profanity, Praise, Toxic Relationship

Pairing: Zilla Fatu x Black OC

Word Count: 3,210

MINORS DO NOT INTERACT

Only thing that saving you...

Is a Heart of a Woman…

Indya leaned over the large island in the kitchen of the house she shared with her boyfriend of three years, Isayah. 

Pissed wasn't even the word. She was livid. 

Moments ago she received a random message from an unknown number. It was a message every woman dreads to get. 

A coming to you as a woman message. 

Normally she would ignore it, majority of the time it was just women trying to ruin their relationship. She knew how popular Isayah has become in the last year. His wrestling career really taking off this past year. She knew groupies came with this lifestyle. She had trusted him. But this was a constant cycle they went through. 

But this message was different. It had actual concrete proof. Pictures, screenshots and screen recordings of multiple messages and FaceTime calls.

She couldn't help but to feel the hurt and betrayal. Most of all she was more upset with herself. Knowing that this wasn't the first time, but continuously keep giving him second chances. 

She was so focused on the messages. Continuously scrolling through them, in denial, trying to find something that didn't make this true. The more she kept looking it the more she became upset. Indya was so focused on the messages until the familiar ringtone, signaling an incoming FaceTime from Isayah, came to her phone.  

When she answered the phone she could see he was outside somewhere. Seem like he was talking to someone beside before his focus turned to the phone. "What's up ma, you good?"

"I'm coo'" she was very short with him. Her attitude evident as he furrowed his brows together. She walked into the living room, propping the phone on the table before sitting on the couch. 

Isayah could sense her energy through the phone. "You sure? Yo' tone says otherwise" concern laced in his voice. 

"Who's Erica?" She didn't waste any time, crossing her arms waiting for an answer. 

Isayah scrunched up his eyebrow, a look of confusion on his face "What'chu talkin' about?"

She rolled her eyes before continuing to speak. "I won't ask again Isayah," she stated pointedly "who is Erica?"

He looked away briefly before looking down into the phone "I don't know what'chu talkin' bout Indy"

"So we're going down the route of acting like we're dumb" she nodded her head. She grabbed her phone off the table, going to the message thread. Once she pulled it up she sent all the messages and screen recordings to him. 

Isayah phone dinged from the other end. She watched his face as he read through the messages. He kissed his teeth, exiting out the thread. "Indya that's someone I used to deal with a long time ago. Haven't seen that girl in years"

"Do you really expect me to believe that?" Indya frowned. "You must take me as a dumb bitch if you think I'ma just let you sit here and lie to me when there's fucking proof!" she raised her voice. Getting more and more upset. 

"You just gon' believe her over what I'm tellin' you. I'm yo' man right?" Isayah voice rising with every word. 

"Are you my man though?" Indya lifted an eyebrow. She stared right back at him as he shot dagger through the screen. 

"Indya, stop fuckin' playin' with me. I told you I ain't seen that girl in years, the fuck you trippin' for?" Indya was token back from his words, before nodding her head.

"You know what since you wanna play dumb, I'll act fucking stupid. Go be with that bitch and stay the fuck away from me. You're single, fuck you!" Indya hung up before he could get another word in. She threw her phone down, before placing her head in her hands. She felt the tears that have been threatening to fall for a while. The constant ringing of her phone, as Isayah kept calling and texting, sounded throughout the living room. 

After a while, she wiped her eyes before grabbing her phone and blocking his number. Heading upstairs to sleep the night off. 

[Few Days Later]

Indya was out on a girl's day with her best friends, Sabrina and Tara. They got her out the house to take her mind off the fight she had a few days ago with Isayah. Refusing to let their friend to wallow in her feelings. 

They spent the day shopping, getting their nails done, and were currently at their favorite restaurant to have lunch. 

After placing their order with their server, Sabrina looked over at Indya. "We've been avoiding this conversation all day, but I think it's time to address it" Tara nodded knowing what Sabrina was getting into. "How are you feeling Indy?"

Indya sighed, throwing her head back slightly "I think I am just more mad at myself for continuing to keep taking him back."

"You can't be upset with yourself about that," Tara grabbed Indya's hand "It is not your fault that he can't grow up and see what an amazing woman he has and to treat you accordingly"

Sabrina nodded in agreement before adding in her two cents "You have been nothing but great towards him and will literally drop everything just to make sure he's ok. We all make mistakes but it's just how we learn from it"

Indya nodded. Taking in her best friends words. "It's just so hard because I really do love him." she sniffled a bit, wiping the tear that fell. 

"We understand girl," Tara sympathize with her best friend "but sometimes love isn't worth the hurt he's causing you" 

"What do you plan on doing now?" Sabrina asked as she leaned back in her chair. 

Indya sat in silence for a moment, she knew what she had to do. The decision didn't come so lightly "I'm done and forreal this time. I can't keep doing this"

"We your girls, we love you and will support you" Sabrina smiled grabbing her other hand. Tara nodding in agreement.

Indya blinked back more tears smiling at both her best friends. Truly appreciative of them. "Thanks I love y'all"

Soon the server brought over their food and the conversation shifted to something lighter. For the first time in a last few days Indya felt a weight lifted off her shoulders. Forgetting about the drama and enjoying the rest of the time with her best friends.

They paid the bill once they were done. Hopping into Sabrina's car, she started heading towards Indya's house. When the pulled up Indya sighed when she noticed Isayah's car in the driveway. 

He was back after being gone for a week due to having shows and appearances. Sabrina looked over at Indya, a certain look in her eye. "Do you need us to come in with you?"

Indya shook her head as she grabbed her keys out her purse "It's fine"

"You sure?" Tara leaned up from the front seat "We can just go in and beat his ass real quick and get your stuff"

Indya softly laughed at her friends "I promise I'll be fine. I'll text y'all"

"Ok," Sabrina said unsure "you better text us"

Indya promised she would text them as she got out, Tara taking her place in the passenger seat. She waved bye to them before walking up to the front door. She blew out a breathe before unlocking the door going inside. 

When she walked in Isayah was standing in the middle of the living room. She turned to the door locking it. 

"Where you been?" Isayah questioned, watching her every movement. Indya ignored him, throwing her keys in the bowl by the door. Walking right by him. He furrowed his eye brow as he watched her walk towards the stairs.

With quick movements he grabbed upper arm, making her turn towards him. "You hear me talkin' to you" 

"Unless you're here to admit to what the fuck you did, we don't have shit to talk about" she tried ripping her arm away from him. This caused him to grip tighter. 

"I keep telling' yo' ass that ain't shit happen between me and that girl" His frown deepened looking her dead in the eyes. 

"She literally sent me screenshots of y'all messages!" Indya felt her temper slowly increase the longer he held her arm. She was beginning to become frustrated.

"Her ass could've faked those messages and yo' goofy ass sitting here believin' them!" He raised his voice slightly. 

Indya widen her eyes in shock. In disbelief of what he said. She pushed on his chest, finally releasing herself from his grip. "Explain the pictures and videos of y'all on FaceTime then Isayah! Do you think I'm dumb?!"

"Indya tread lightly on how you speakin' to me. This is your warnin'" He squinted his eyes her direction. This only fueled the petty side of her. No longer caring how she was making him feel. 

"I don't give a fuck, you ain't scaring shit over here. You can go be with that bitch and y'all both can be hoes together!" She turned to go up the stairs, but before she could, she was pulled back. 

Isayah wrapped a hand around the based of her throat, pulled her close which made her look up his towering frame. She slightly shuddered at the the look in his eyes. His eyes going completely dark, a mix of anger and lust lingering inside them.

"I done let'chu get fly at the mouth one too many times. Now it's time for you to listen to me" Indya was getting upset with herself for just how quick she submits to him. Knowing that this was the issue in the ever ending cycle of their relationship. 

First their good, then she catches him cheating, he uses his manipulative ways, he dicks her down and then the cycle starts over. 

He could see the wheels turning in her head. Knowing she was going to try to resist he quickly scooped her up, making his way up the stairs to their shared room. 

He plopped her on the bed, hovering over her. Placing both hands on the sides of her head. He leaned down placing kisses along her neck and behind her ear. 

Indya didn't want to fall into the same old pattern again. She took her hands, pushing against his chest. "Isayah we can-" her breathe hitched as he sucked on the spot right below her ear. 

Surely leaving a mark, he took one of his hands trialing down her sides til he reached the hem of the shorts she was wearing. His hands found their way in, brushing against her wet folds. 

Indya softly moaned, arching more into his touch. He entered one finger in her, groaning at how wet and tight she was. He leaned up to look her in the eyes, entering another finger. Indya moaning out as he quickened his movements. 

"What were you sayin' baby?" Indya couldn't make up any coherent sentences, as her core tightened. "You want me to stop?" When he didn't get a response he slowed down "Do you want me to stop?" his voice deepened. Indya eyes popped open looking at him.

She whined as she moved her hips, desperate for any type of friction. Isayah took his other hand, placing them on her hips to still her movements. "No I don't want you to stop" completely submitting to him.

Satisfied with her answer he pulled her shorts and underwear off, leaving her lower half completely bare. He removed his shirt, throwing it across the room.

He left wet kisses trailing down her chest and stomach til he was leveled with her intimate area. 

He skipped all the teasing, quickly latching on to her sensitive bundle on nerves, switching from flicking his tongue across it and slightly sucking on it. His fingers entered her once more. 

Indya loudly moaned at the double stimulation. She grabbed at the sheets on the bed, trying to ground herself. "F-fuck Isayah .. I'm cumming" 

Isayah sped up the strokes of his fingers. Hitting her spot continuously, Indya reaching her climax soon afterwards. 

Isayah sat up, cupping her chin with his hands "open up for me baby" Indya stuck out her tongue, knowing exactly what he wanted. He stuck his fingers in her mouth, letting her lick off all her juices off his fingers. Once she was done he brought her into a searing kiss, tasting her sweet essence. 

He pulled away looking her deep in her eyes. "Face down. Ass up. You better arch how I like it"  he stated in a commanding tone.

Indya wasted time doing exactly what he said. Arching her back just how he liked. Isayah let out a groan of approval, sending a smack to her backside. 

As Indya waiting in anticipation, she heard the soft sound of a zipper, as Isayah shredded the last bit of clothing, coming up right behind her. She felt Isayah glide the tip between her wet folds. 

He slowly pushed in, Indya moaning out as he stretched her out. He stilled for few moments to allow her time to adjust. "Fuck, you're so tight for me ma" 

Craving more, Indya moved her hips back. Isayah taking it as a sign, picking up his rhythm quickly. Indya screamed out as he practically fucked her into the bed. 

She brought her back against his abdomen, trying to slow him down. He quickly grabbed her wrist, pinning it against her back. "Ain't no running. You been talkin' yo' shit, talk it now" 

Indya couldn't think, her brain clouded by the immense pleasure he was giving her. 

"I-Isayah I can't!" she moaned out loud. Feeling that familiar burn in the pit of her stomach. 

"Shut the fuck up and take it. This what'chu wanted right" Indya moaned loudly, Isayah groaned as he felt her clench around his length. He knew she was getting close and stopped all movements causing Indya to whimper. "You don't get to cum til I tell you to"

Isayah grabbed her other arm, holding both in one hand. He rammed back into her, causing Indya to gasp loudly. Isayah's strokes were relentless. 

The only sounds throughout the room were their skin slapping together, "Fuck, look at'chu takin' it for daddy so well" He sent a smack to her backside, Indya moaning at the stinging sensation. 

"Baby I can't hold it," she let out a breathy moan, her climax being so close "I need to cum please" she begged desperately. 

Once again Isayah stopped his strokes abruptly, pulling out of her. He laid down, pulling her on top of him. "You want yo' nut, you gotta earn it" 

Indya straddled his waist, reaching back grabbing a whole of his length. She slowly slid down, both groaning at the contact. He took a hold of her hips, bringing her down more, engulfing all of him.  "S-shit"

Indya placed one hand on his chest as she slowly went up and down. She moaned at the new angle she was in. Isayah hitting a new spot. Indya threw her head back as she picked up the pace. 

"Who pussy is it" Isayah wrapped his hand around her throat "hmm, tell daddy who pussy this is"

Indya gasped, feeling that burn in the stomach "Fuck daddy it's yours"

She rotated her hips, earning a deep guttural groan from Isayah. "Fuck, you ain't leaving' me." He moaned out again, feeling his release brewing "Damn, you feel so good baby keep it right there." 

She smiled inwardly. Feeling a little motivated sped up her movement, the grip he had on her hips tightened. "Isayah I'm cumming" she whined out. 

Isayah felt her movements slow down, he sent another smack to her backside causing her to whimper. "Keep goin' and you better not fuckin' stop, daddy cummin' wit'chu" 

With his hands wrapped around her waist he assisted by moving her faster up and down. Indya let out a drawn out moan as she released.

Her released triggering Isayah's own, pulling her into a searing kiss as they both came down from their euphoric high. 

Indya woke up, feeling extremely groggy and sore from the events earlier. She groaned as she turned over, seeing Isayah still sleep. She heart feeling heavy, remembering everything that happened. 

She reached for her phone seeing she had multiple missed calls and messages from Sabrina and Tara. 

Bri🔥: Indya are you good? Bri🔥: I swear if something happened I will sliced tf out of that big ass Samoan idc Tara❤️: Girl you need to call us back. Tara❤️: Bri is going crazy over here. You better call soon or we're pulling up.

Indya quickly texted them both back, telling them that she was ok and that she would explain in a little bit. She noticed it was a quarter after midnight. She quickly but quietly got up, throwing her clothes from earlier back on. 

When she looked back at Isayah, she felt rage start to build inside of her. Many thoughts were going through her mind. Then an idea clicked. She acted quickly, going into the closet and started grabbing his clothes. 

She moved quietly, not wanting to wake him up. She walked outside going over to Isayah's Mercedes, stuffing the clothes in there. She repeated this process about 3 more times. She grabbed the keys, backing the car away from the house. 

She went back inside grabbing the bags she had already packed, putting them in her car. Turning towards Isaiah's car once more, she took a lighter out of her pocket, flicking it on. 

She hovered the flame over a piece of clothing til it caught the flame. Quickly spreading to other article of clothing. 

Indya stood there for a moment, staring at the flame. Feeling it burn away all the hurt Isayah has cause her, feeling a sense of calm. She was quickly token out of her trance when she heard noise come from the house. Knowing it was Isayah coming, she quickly got in her car, starting it. 

When she started backing up she saw him run out the house with nothing but a towel wrapped around his waist. 

He saw his car in-flamed, his eyes widening in shock and rage "Indya what the fuck?!"

"Have fun with that bitch!" She quickly pulled off as he tried running towards the car. 

Indya couldn't help but laugh but also cry as she felt the overwhelming feeling of freedom and her shoulders feeling lighter. 

She didn't know how she did it but she found herself pulling in to Sabrina's house. Grabbing her things, she walked up the short walk way, knocking on the door. 

The wait wasn't long, as Sabrina quickly opened up the door, staring at her friend. Eyes drifting to the bags beside her. Without saying a word she grabbed a bag, leading Indya in the house and to the guest bedroom. 

She turned towards Indya, stood in the middle of the room. Silently crying. She brought her into hug as Indya began sobbing on her shoulder. 

"I am here for you. I am so proud of you, finally choosing yourself" She let her cry on her shoulder for a while til she stopped. She pulled out the hug, wiping her friend's tears. "Get some sleep and we'll talk in the morning" leaving the room. 

Indya sighed, going into one of the bags, changing into a pajama set. She crawled in the bed, engulfing herself with the pillows and blankets, sleep finding her quickly. 

[blueishspace]

Hero, Villain God 58

(Prev) (Next) (First)

*Scar's pov*

You don't even have to wait that long for Altostratus and Ocean Queen to arrive, It's a bit impressive to be honest... You hope they didn't violate the speed limit to get here or something, you really don't want anyone to get in trouble for you if you can avoid it.

The black windowed car stops in front of the building, It's definitely property of the association...not fair, you weren't given a car... You don't know how to drive one but still, unfair.

The front door opens, It's Altostratus at the wheel with Ocean Queen sitting next to him, she waves at you. He lowers his sunglasses (Who even wears sunglasses during a storm???) and looks at you.

"Get in losers we're going shopping"

... Eh?

"But we are going to see Cuteguy"

"I know, jeeze, just wanted to say the quote"

"Oh!"

Yeah that makes sense! You would do the same for Star Wars quotes. You nod and make your way onto the backseat, Cub follows quietly behind you.

You expected the car ride to be silent but almost immediatly Ocean Queen turns towards you and Cub to ask about Cuteguy.

"Oh Sheriff is so mean, he won't tell me anything about the guy! Can you believe it?"

"I mean, I doubt he's allowed to" Responds Cub while sipping on sone kind of juice...where did he even get that!?

"Well, as his sister I feel like I'm owed at least the bare minimum! So! Hotguy, Cub, what is Cuteguy like?" She fully turns her head around, you can hear Altostratus protest at the sudden movement.

"Well, I've met the guy few times, seems like a nice guy and all even if sarcastic. Can't tell you much more then that though, Hotguy is the exper here."

Two sets of eyes turn to you, you didn't expect this to become an interview. "Cuteguy... he's great actually! He...well, I'm not going to say too much without him agreeing to it but he's really kind. And brave, he put himself in front of a bullet for me."

The conversation continues from them and when you tell them all you think you can tell them the conversation somehow turns to movies and from there to cartoons to you ranting about the decline in quality of Disney films.

Cub ends up shutting down 5 minutes in and Altostratus almost slams his head into the steering wheel at one point, Ocean Queen seems pretty interested though... It's at this point you remember the one question you had.

"So...uh, are the two working are working a case together? Oh! Is it a big super secret thing?"

Cub focused back. "If it was a 'super secret thing' I doubt the would be telling you".

Ocean Queen turns to Altostratus. "Should we tell him?"

In response he straightens up in his seat."What? Why?"

You are... Very confused... and suspicious. Especially suspicious. Are they hiding something from you? Why?

Ocean Queen just pouts in response. "He's our coworker, he should at least get know that much... Plus he did tell us about Cuteguy, It's the least we could do."

"... I ...I guess??? Just-" he sighs. "It's not something you can take back."

She turns her body so that's she's now somewhat looking at you again...

"So uh...me and J- Altostratus are actually married. So uh ... Surprise?"

Wait, is she serious? That's awesome! Really, you don't get why they didn't say so earlier.

"Congratulations-"

You are interrupted by the car coming to a stop.

Altostratus shuts off the car and steps out. "We're here lads, try not to let too much rain into my car when you get out, It's just been cleaned. If you do I will know and I won't be happy about it."

[hereternalsins]

One day, I won't love you anymore.

- rose ( herdivinemuse via instagram)

Five years of memories. Two years of silence. And now, three months of trying to rebuild what was broken, only to find that some cracks run deeper than time can heal.

She watches him across their favorite café—the same one where they used to spend Sunday mornings years ago. His coffee order hasn't changed: black, no sugar. But something else has. The way he holds himself, perhaps, or the careful distance in his eyes even when he smiles.

"Do you know?" she begins, her fingers tracing the rim of her cup. "In these five years, you've always been perfect and irreplaceable in my heart. But if we continue like this, I feel that... one day, I won't love you anymore."

The words hang between them like frost on a window pane—beautiful in their honesty, terrible in their implications. She watches them land, sees him flinch slightly, the way he always does when truth cuts too close to bone.

They'd thought it would be easier the second time around. After all, they knew each other's stories, could map each other's scars. The muscle memory of loving each other remained intact through those two years apart—the way he still reaches to brush her hair back when she's tired, how she automatically orders extra pickles for his burgers.

But with the familiar rhythms came the old ghosts. His tendency to retreat into silence when troubled. Her habit of expecting him to read her mind. The same misunderstandings that drove them apart the first time now hover at the edges of their reconciliation, waiting to reclaim their territory.

They'd spent those two years apart growing, changing, becoming better versions of themselves. She'd learned to voice her needs instead of hoping they'd be noticed. He'd worked on expressing his emotions instead of bottling them up. But somehow, together, they keep slipping back into their old roles—like actors who know their lines too well to play them differently.

"I still find your coffee cups in my apartment," he says quietly. "From before. I never could bring myself to throw them away."

She nods, understanding the weight of small things kept. She too has a box of memories she couldn't discard—movie tickets, dried flowers, photographs where their smiles still held certainty.

"Maybe that's our problem," she replies. "We're trying to fit new people into an old story."

The truth is, loving him has never been the problem. It's the easiest thing she's ever done, as natural as breathing. But loving someone and being able to build a life with them are different things. The past two years taught her that. They both learned it, separately, in their own ways.

"I don't want to lose you again," he says, reaching across the table. His fingers stop just short of hers, a gesture that encompasses everything wrong with their situation—always almost touching, almost understanding, almost getting it right.

"We're not the same people who fell in love five years ago," she tells him. "And we're not the same people who broke up two years ago either. Maybe we need to stop trying to be."

The afternoon light slants through the café windows, casting long shadows across their table. Outside, the city moves in its endless rhythm, indifferent to the small apocalypse happening over cooling coffee cups.

"Then who are we?" he asks, and there's something like hope in his voice—fragile but present.

She looks at him, really looks at him, seeing both the man she fell in love with and the stranger he's become. "Maybe that's what we need to find out," she says. "Not who we were, or who we think we should be, but who we are now."

The silence that follows feels different from their usual ones—not heavy with unspoken words, but open, waiting. Like a blank page rather than a closed book.

"I meant what I said," she continues softly. "You've been perfect and irreplaceable in my heart. But perfect isn't what I need anymore. I need real. I need now. I need us to stop haunting each other with who we used to be."

He nods slowly, and for the first time in months, his smile reaches his eyes. "Then maybe we should start over," he suggests. "Not from five years ago, or from two years ago, but from right here."

She feels something shift in her chest—not the familiar ache of old love, but something newer, something that tastes like possibility. "Hi," she says, extending her hand across the table. "I'm still learning who I am. Would you like to figure it out together?"

This time, when he reaches for her hand, he doesn't stop short.

[chronicangel]

I think what this person is getting caught up on is "American" as a demonym for living people.

When referring to a group of people as Americans without additional qualifiers (e.g. South American), most of the time we're talking about USAmericans because that is just the demonym that the US uses. (And like, we're not exactly spoiled for choice. What else would we do? Statesians? Uniters? Bleh.) When we talk about our nationalities, we typically refer to ourselves by demonym—Irish, Brazilian, Pakistani, Kiwi, etc. Sometimes we refer to ourselves by a demonym based on city, state, or territory, too—New Yorker, Parisian, Quebecois, Masshole (I'm KIDDING).

It's only occasionally that broader continental labels like European or African come up (except for you, Australia), and I think it's also less and less common the larger and more diverse a continent is—for example, I hear European by itself way more often than I hear just African or just Asian. And all of them almost always come with some additional context. Eastern European, South Asian, North African, and... well, okay, Middle Eastern is kind of a complicated thing on its own in the first place, but still. And even then, all of those are united continents all clumped together by a combination of geography, history, and culture (again, except for you, Australia).

If you tell someone, "I'm European," it's all going to be in the same general geographic region regardless of which country you specify or whether you specify a country at all. Which is not to say that Europe isn't wonderfully geographically and culturally diverse, I just mean that if you get me a map the size of a piece of printer paper, I can cover all of Europe with like, one finger. Maybe two, since I've got baby hands. But covering both North and South America would take a whole baby hand. (My baby hands, not infant hands. It'd probably take both of those. Maybe more than one baby, even.) Saying, "I'm American," to refer to all of North, Central, and South America gives you even less information than just saying, "I'm European," does, and that'll usually already net you questions about which country (or city or area, depending on the asker's familiarity) you're from.

All that being said, the reason that we use American as a term to refer to North, Central, and South America sometimes is because of things like history and culture (and even a little bit of geography). "Wait, didn't you just say that continents are united by those things, these are different continents!" I hear you yelling at your computer, and yes, I did say that, but when we're not talking about currently living human people, the degree of specificity that we need to use varies significantly more depending on context.

For example, when we're talking about indigenous Americans, that can refer to the 574 tribes currently federally recognized in the United States. Or maybe it's referring to the Mesoamericans who were the dominant cultural indigenous group in the Americas for over 3000 years, including when North America welcomed (I am using this term facetiously) its first European settlers in the late 15th and early 16th centuries—only, wait, Mesoamerica doesn't overlap with the US at all, it spans Central Mexico down to Costa Rica. And, I mean, the first indigenous people that Columbus and his crew ran into and promptly fucked over were in the Bahamas (which is, for those keeping score, not in the US). And maybe they've changed the curriculum since I was a lass, but personally speaking, when we learned about American history in school, my teachers always started with the Aztecs (Mexico), the Incas (Peru and Chile), and the Mayans (Mesoamerica).

And if we're talking about American politics, yes, obviously the United States has our own nightmare going on, but there is still a whole continent over here (two of them!), and occasionally, we interact with each other. Once we're at the point of trying to build a wall at the border and tossing out tariffs at any country they'll stick to, like, "Mexican American" is a different term that means a different thing in addition to just being kind of a mouthful (and yes, okay, in writing it would be Mexican-American, but sometimes people do this thing where we go outside and we talk to other people out loud with our mouth parts), and "North American" will only work as long as we stick to bullying our two immediate neighbors. Which... seems unlikely, considering.

So we have the term American, which means people who live in the United States or hail from the United States or some combination thereof. And then we have the term American, which means someone or something who at some point did something important in North, South, or Central America. And the former is useful for grumbling online or self-identifying where you are or are not from, and the latter is useful for talking about broad historical and cultural movements. Like, if you take an American History class, even in the US, it doesn't generally start in 1776 (or 1607, or 1492, pick your favorite). Not to say that most of it won't be about the US, we're pretty self-important like that, but part of that self-importance is also wanting to act like we're older and cooler than we are.

And you might be saying, "Well, the Aztecs, Incas, and Mayans are dead, so they're probably not participating in Tumblr polls, and I doubt the President of the United States is on here either." Which, wrong, I stole his shoelaces. But moving past that, it still doesn't really hurt anybody to be more specific, does it? I mean, it certainly doesn't hurt the people descended from those ancient American populations we tried so hard to destroy and failed, thank G-d. It doesn't hurt USAmericans, who could stand to get our inflated senses of self-importance checked and remember that the US does not encompass even most of the Americas, so maybe we can share our toys (or our demonyms, as the case may be). It doesn't hurt the people making Tumblr polls, who have limited options for answers and need to be as specific as possible to make sure dumb dumbs online know what they're talking about.

So like, yeah, we know what people mean when they say "Americans" 99% of the time, because 99% of the time it's the US, and 99% of the time we deserved it. But like, really, why not be more specific? Why not acknowledge that there's more to America than the United States, much as we try to pretend otherwise? If it's helpful, think of "USAmerican" the way you would think of "East Asian," or maybe try to treat it as like a South African vs. Southern African thing, if that makes more sense.

Of course, I'm pretty confident sandersstudies already knows all this, and that taking a screenshot of a dictionary was just a faster and easier way to explain than writing all of this out, so I'm not trying to like, counter her or educate her or anything. But since anon felt the need to be so insanely snarky, I thought maybe they'd like to know.

USAmerican is not a word

- A Brazilian

(We don’t call ourselves American)

Just because you don’t, or don’t know someone who does, doesn’t mean that it’s not in common use. Also, it never hurts just to be extra-specific, even if USAmerican is effectively a synonym for American to most.

[lucy---lou]

Part 18 Lucys-hdg-story

Apparently I'm still in the cardboard box, but I feel surprisingly good. So I launch the box of myself.

"Oh my roots, kitten!", Miss Duralis screams.

"Haha got you", I beam proudly," Oh I can talk again. So what are we doing today? I feel like I need to do something."

"Would you like to go bowling? Ellie likes that too"

"Yayyyyy, it's so much fun", Ellie beams.

"I've never played it myself, but sure why not"

"But first you need to get dressed"

"Oh, jep would probably be beneficial"

I open the next package in the bedroom. This time it's also a hoodie with cat ears and paws but in pink this time and also white cargo pants. There is a note to wear the chocker from yesterday. Silly I'm not allowed to take it off, probably also couldn't if I wanted to. I quickly get changed and join the others in the main part of the hab.

"Are my petals ready", Misstr Miss Duralis asks.

"Yep"

"Ehmm", I stammer

"Yes Lucy?"

"Could you give me a heavy dose of Class-E. I'd like to have fun without a panic attack today"

"That's so brave of you little one to ask for it. Of course you can have some. I'm going to add a tiny amount of As aswell just for funsies"

I feel a prick and a second later all worries are washed away, together with my balance. Making me stumble onto Ellie.

"Hello cutie pie", Ellie smiles.

"Hiiiiiiiii", I giggle," I'm sooo fucking high"

"Then let's go my petals. Can you walk kitten?"

"Of course I can"

I stake three steps, stumble, catch myself, another few steps, stumble again, another few steps and I fall, vines catch me.

"weeee", I giggle.

"I take that as a no", Misstres Duralis laughs, "We're faster like this anyways"

****************

"And we're here. Let's talk to the floret at the counter"

"Welcome Welcome at Marie's bowling alley, how can I help you?", the girl chirps.

"We would like one lane please and also shoes for these two, size 38 and 41"

"Coming up! Would you like the floret barriers up? no shame in doing so"

"I'm not a floret so no", I blurt in.

"Sureee but reeaally high", she laughs.

"Yeah and you're really hot", I blush.

"Thanks, you too", Marie winks, "anyways if its too hard just ask me, or your owner, to put them up. Your shoes are here"

We put on the shoes and begin bowling. Ellie hits one pin and manages to hit another three pins on the second throw. My ball goes down the gutter and second one too. Ellie does another few relatively good throws and I gutter all my balls.

"Mistress can you put up the barriers pleasee. It's toooo hard", I give up.

"Like Marie said no shame in doing so. But I have to ask, what did you call me again"

"Misstr- oh I ehm - I emm - no I - no", I stutter.

"Don't worry kitten that's something for later"

At her word I completely forget it again. The floret barriers go up and we play again. I actually manage to hit few pins now and it's really fun.

Ellie hits all pins at once.

"STRIKE, strike, strike! - woooooooooooo"

She runs over to me jumping and kisses my lips.

"Mistress, Mistress did you see that!"

Mistress and I applaud her. The next round I get a spare.

"Woooo, finally!", I shout and run over to Ellie to kiss her. She gasps.

"Eeeeeeeeeeeeeee", she squeeks, "aaaahh - She kissed me for the first time - eeeeeee"

I blush and get attacked with a few more kisses.

"Congratulations", the floret from the counter adds, "not a floret pfff"

I wait until everyone calms down again and ask, "Mistress could we have some snacks, please?"

"Only because you asked so nicely my petal. Do you want me to choose?"

"Yes please"

"Marie? could we please have some chilli cheese fries?"

"Sure, will be ready in a few minutes"

"Uuhhh, chilli cheese fries are sooo good. I didn't think of something like that. My choice would have been boring, thank you Mistress", I smile.

"Alright I'm glad you're happy with my choice. How about you play another few round until it's ready."

"Ok!"

We play a few round until the snack is ready, we are getting better but neither of us manage another spare or strike.

"Snacks are here", Marie interrupts us, "Your owner also added some drinks, enjoy!"

"Thank you"

"Thanks"

"Thank you Marie"

We all sit down in the lounging area. After we of course get lifted into the seats. Ellie and I are in a half cuddle and Mistress sits across from us.

*tap* *tap*

"mmmhhh, this is really good" Ellie also seems to be enjoying it.

*tap* *tap*

*tap* *tap* I let out a small moan.

*tap* *tap*

"eff eff eh eff eehe eff, spicyyy", I make grabby hands for my drink. Which is gracefully handed to me and I take a big gulp.

"Whooo, better now thanks"

"awww", Mistress pets me, "too spicy kitten?"

"Nope just ate to fast."

*tap* *tap*

"And anyway-" *tap* *tap* "-it's way too good to-" *tap* *tap "-not just suffer a little-" *tap* *tap* "-in a good way" *tap* *tap*

"eff efff eeehh eff eheh" I take another big sip.

"Ok that's enough for you right now"

"Owww but I wan't more"

"I can help you" Ellie grabs a piece and stuffs it in my mouth. We both start giggling.

"My petals are you evading my decisions"

"Nooo, never"

I grab a bit and stuff it in Ellies mouth.

"Petals!"

We both start laughing.

"You leave me nothing else than to punish you two"

"Oh nooo I'm sooo scared. You would't-" *prick* "-meow mrrp moewe", I pout.

"Haha, silly kitten", Ellie laughs and stuffs another piece in my mouth and I happily accept it.

"Ellie!"

Vines shout out and completly immobilise her. She wiggles helplessly.

"Meowwwweeeewweewew", I laugh.

"Not fair!"

"Nothing is fair. I own you, now petals behave"

Ellie and I both fall limp with no resistance.

"Good girls", Mistress beams.

[mortalityplays]

a bunch of things that I know are going to sound really corny (which honestly I think is half the cultural problem - the idea that non-coercive parenting is touchy-feely, ineffectual or just kind of cringe - but that could be a whole other post)

the main thing was that they always explained things to me. if I wanted something I couldn't have, they explained why (from 'we can't afford that', 'it's bad for you', 'it's dangerous', all the way up to 'it's made by a big company that treats its workers badly, and we don't want to give them money'). If I threw a tantrum, they either waited it out until I got tired and bored or they redirected what we were doing ('we have to be patient and wait in line. if we don't wait in line, we can't go into the theatre. we can't wait in line if you scream and upset people. okay then, we're going home.')

beyond that, they always spoke to me like a full person. they asked my opinion on things and took it seriously, and asked me why as much as I asked them. apparently I had a phase as a toddler where I always wanted to be the first one on the swings / down the slide, and would throw almighty fits about it, until my mum took me aside one day and said 'why do you want to be first? are you worried the slide will get used up?' I laughed like it was the funniest thing I'd ever heard, and never kicked up a fuss about taking turns after that.

on the granular level, they focused on positives over negatives. My mum would draw little good behaviour charts for me, featuring e.g. me walking a long winding path through the woods with my soft toys. the path would be made up of, say, 30 stones, and every day that I was well behaved I'd earn a sticker on one of them. when I reached the end of the path, I got to pick a treat. something like a new plastic animal for my collection, or a day trip to the aquarium.

I do remember them sitting me down once and asking me to come up with what I thought would be an appropriate punishment if I ever did something really bad. I think my first suggestion was something like 'no TV', which was a real nice try because we didn't have a TV at the time. I don't remember what I finally decided on, it might have been 'no dessert for a week'. We wrote it down together and I signed my name, and they sealed it in an important looking envelope which they put in my dad's filing cabinet (for important documents). This would be unsealed if I ever did something Really Bad. the eventuality never came up, but the act of participating in the exercise kept me mostly on the straight and narrow. It's funny, the conceptual punishment itself wasn't even that bad. It was the seriousnes of the adult commitment I'd made to Behaving Well that did the trick.

When I DID do the standard naughty stuff, my parents would just sit me down and explain to me seriously why it was wrong and what impact it had caused for other people. They'd ask what motivated me, and why I acted on those feelings in that specific way. They would, of course, tell me they were disappointed. If necessary, they would tell me how things would have to change as a result of what I'd done. They were always, always open to hearing out my side of the story, and always, always took my feelings seriously even if they disapproved of my behaviour. they would ask if I was ready to say sorry and get a hug. if I wasn't ready, if I was still upset or angry, they would give me space in my room and ask me to come find them when I wanted to make up. and I always did, because I always knew they would accept it.

I am exceptionally lucky in that my parents never hit me, grounded me, confiscated my things, banned me from my hobbies or threatened any of these actions to make me behave as a kid. as an adult it has made me realise how very very long a road most people have to traverse before they can take a statement like 'no rule that must be enforced by threat is legitimate' seriously.

[mushysquashythingamajig]

Bucktommy Fluffebruary

DAY 9: MOVING IN TOGETHER

@bucktommyfluffebruary

The idea of 'moving in' for their relationship had been forever tainted. Did Buck think about it after they got back together? Yes, he did. Several times actually. But the fear of not being on the same page had stopped Buck from discussing it.

Buck never realised how intertwined the two of them had become. Both Evan's stuff at Tommy's house and Tommy's stuff at Evan's loft had become a common sight. Them being spotted wearing each other's clothes had completely stopped being surprising.

"So, I was thinking maybe we can move in together. It's not an obligation, and you can back out if you want, but I was thinking that this is finally the right stage in our relationship to do so." Evan muttered at he scrubbed his body.

Evan and Tommy had decided to get dinner together and he was thinking of popping the question. It was nerve-racking. The 118 had been useless, Chim and Bobby being supportive but Eddie and Hen being apprehensive. Ravi had no clue what was going on and refused to be a part of their shenanigans.

He stepped out of the bathroom, wiping his hair with a towel before moving over to the tablet, crossing several lines of his written out speech. He didn't want to blabber, but he didn't want it to feel insignificant. He wanted Tommy to know that he was all in.

"Ugh, why is this so hard?" Evan was really frustrated. He had been planning this out for a while and it still didn't feel enough. "Y'know what screw it. I'm just gonna tell him straight up. Tommy, I feel like ever since we made up. we've been on the same page in this relationship. And I feel like we should move it to the next level."

"Evan?" A deep voice called from the above level and Buck's heart stopped.

No no no no. This wasn't supposed to happen. He was supposed to wait until the end, maybe during the walk and then he was supposed to ask him. Not like this. Not when he was so under prepared.

The turn around was excruciating. Tommy was standing on the stairs, his mouth open with shock. He was staring right at Buck and it felt like he was about to combust under his boyfriend's gaze. Or, with his track record, soon about-to-be-ex boyfriend.

"T-Tommy? When d-did you get here?" Evan stammered.

Tommy didn't reply. He just stepped down the stair. Evan knew what was gonna happen. Tommy was gonna leave. He was gonna leave and never look back, and Evan was gonna be all alone again. Tommy didn't do that. He stepped towards Buck.

It felt like time slowed down. Tommy's hands reaching for Buck. Tommy's hands gently grabbing Evan's neck. Tommy's lips on his. Tommy.

The kiss was not unlike the one's that they shared. But somehow, it felt different. Maybe it was the torrent of emotions both of them were feeling. Maybe it was the fact that the adrenaline was making Evan's heart thump like crazy. Regardless, when Tommy finally pulled away, he felt light headed.

"Baby, you were gonna ask me to move in with you?" Tommy's voice snapped him out of whatever stupor he was stuck in.

He didn't say much though. Just rubbed his cheek against the hand holding his face.

"Well, I'm glad we're on the same page because I was gonna ask you too." Tommy's eyes were filling with tears. "I didn't help that your sister and Karen were useless. But I wanted this too."

His sister being mentioned pulled a laugh out of him. Seems like Tommy went through the same thing that he went through with the 118.

"Evan, will you move in with me?" Tommy finally spoke.

Evan had never been surer of anything.

[js589]

Chapter 4 is up! Lockwood talks to Lucy! Lucy talks to Lockwood! Penelope Fittes is slightly terrible! Barnes questions his chosen profession for the umpteenth time! AND SO MUCH MORE!

[vaguely-concerned]

lucanis truly has a near terminal case of burned out golden child syndrome. caterina fucked both of these kids over so incredibly bad with the dynamic she enforced there, with illario being labled the perpetual fuckup kid where lucanis 'could do no (would never be allowed to do) wrong'. the way he admits in the first coffee date scene that the only thing that happened when he showed he could carry the weight of expectation was that more weight was added makes me so sad. you can hear it in caterina's voice in his intro mission that she's incredibly proud of him, but this is clearly a leandra and hawke situation where that pride never translates into relief or resolution or unconditional warmth or understanding or anything that really helps.

[hurtspideyparker]

Wanda is the ultimate mad woman !!! and yeah they really brushed right past Bruce. I know they just met the guy and were a bit preoccupied at the time but like... let's circle back mkay? that was heavyyy. plus Bruce deserves more character development other than Hulk vs. Bruce grrr angry

I CAN'T BELIEVE I FORGOT WAOLOM FOR PETER. I made a post based on the scenario here last year 😭 he was so bright-eyed and bushy tailed, just a sweet boy, and then the rage and grief proved how easily he could tear the world apart if he chose

ohh I think I've seen Clara Bow irondad edits. yep definitely adding it to my playlist. "you'd be picked like a rose. take the glory, give everything. promise to be dazzling" oooooo baby boyyyyy. Iron Man Jr was literally his fantasy until it became the weight of the bricks that buried him.

"long story short it was a bad time/long story short I survived" as Endgame vs. Hawkeye (tv series) Clint makes me emotional. He was so broken as Ronin and now he has his family back and is building up a new one. So proud of him

I need to analyze so long London as a Tony Stark song another time when I'm not sleep deprived because GROWL. That was my favourite song when ttpd dropped and that's my fave guyyyy right there. It's very stony coded, with their arguments over time. and also how everyone expects him to be the money and dazzle while the rest of them do the dirty work and have the real morals. like NO! he's going down right with it, the Avengers are his FAMILY. "and I'm just getting colour back into my face, I'm just mad as hell 'cause I loved this place" the Avengers visiting him and asking to risk the new life he built after they tore apart his old one. He's just gotten back to a safe place worth living, forgave them and Steve for what he did in Siberia, and then they come back asking him to risk it all for them again. He fought till the very end to keep that family together.

hozier my man thank u for the anthems. Steve Rogers is always thought of as the mascot of America, a patriot and government symbol. He is NOT listening to America or any government. He wears the stars and stripes because he's what America should be, and every time people mischaracterize him as upholding the law. well the laws are unjust, and he'll never be afraid to point out the broken system. he's not fighting to protect the state he's fighting to protect the people. he's the ultimate leader and no he can not take orders to save his life. they are always trying to push him into that box, and it always back fires.

If we're gonna talk Hozier Francesca is the most beautiful irondad anthem. "it was too soon when that part of you was ripped away, though I know my heart would break I tell them put me back in it". Tony Stark did indeed invent time travel for that boy, his loss was the only thing strong enough to motivate Tony back to War. "if someone asked me at the end I tell them put me back in it, just to hold you for a minute" THAT HUG 😭😭😭 he's been waiting 5 years for that hug I swear. First thing he did, he needed to hold Peter so badly.

if you make edits you should totally share them on here ! "give it to me Rachel, show it to me please 😟😫🙏" /j

do you still use tiktok to watch stuff? I need someone to share good edits with 🥲

marvel characters as taylor swift songs but i take no critiques

tony stark:

stephen strange:

clint barton:

bucky barnes:

natasha romanoff:

peter parker (andrew)

peter parker (tom)

yelena belova:

pepper potts:

loki:

[july-19th-club]

i think the funniest neal relationship is when he's dating sara because 90% of it is 'we both like to be dressed to the nines at all hours of the day and night, we should fuck about it' and the instant they have any disagreement whatsoever they're like oh right our expensive and impractical taste in clothing is the only thing we have in common

[tragicallyuncreative]

LMAOOO i spent 15 minutes researching which buffets were popular in the 60s, especially in OK, but so many didn't pop up until the 70s and Shoneys is a classic. The Curtis Gang would fuck shit up at a buffet, for real. The Curtis parents always took the boys to the restaurant of their choice on their birthdays, even when they were barely scraping by. Did they chose a steakhouse? Something fancy? Nope. Always Shoneys. They would clean out there. Seconds? Thirds? Fourths? Bring it.

Steve pregames on the buttered rolls they bring. The second the waitress sets it down on the table, he grabs it and puts the entire basket in his lap and claims it as his. He also wears a jacket and asks for another basket right before they leave and unashamedly shoves all the rolls in his pockets and brings them home and uses them to make bacon and egg sandwiches for the next 5 mornings in a row.

Soda is combining food in the different buffet sections to make the weirdest concoctions ever. We're talking cheese and mushroom pizza smothered in thousand island salad dressing topped with fried shrimp and bits of cheeseburger and sushi and honeyed carrots and green beans for good measure. He tried to get everyone to try it and is getting glares from the staff as he gets a million different plates to mix food on, take one bite, then set it aside and declare it done.

Darry will literally get steak and unsweetened ice tea. Nothing else. But he will eat his body weight in it. The more done/ charred, the better. He'll literally ask the line cook if they can put the steak back on the grill for a couple more minutes until its on the verge of catching fire and be like "yeah, right there. that's perfect."

Two-Bit is having a grand old time with his tradition of trying to fit as much food as he can on one small plate by stacking it. His mom took him and his sister on his 11th birthday and they had a $2 for 1 plate deal and he literally stacked it to the ceiling and was incredibly pleased with the way he outsmarted the system. He continues this for the rest of his life. When the gang goes together, Darry is dying of embarrassment and hissing at him "two-bit, i got the all-you-can-eat deal, you can get more than one plate, knock that shit off and stop drawing attention to us." no dice, he's using toothpicks to stabilize his food structure and making fun of Darry by pretending to lose his balance and drop the plate before proceeding to trip for real and faceplant and drop everything while darry sits there and regrets his existence.

Ponyboy will get one plate of his favorite- straight carbs (mashed potatoes, mac n cheese, and fried chicken) and then absolutely destroy the desert section. if it's got chocolate, its going on his plate. he takes like 8 brownies before anyone can get to them and theres none left and Steve asks for one and he just looks at him and is like "they're mine now, cry about it."

Dallas is living his best life. He is determined to get his money's worth. He'll literally get like 10 plates with every single food option and steadily make his way through them. He'll sit back in his chair and take breaks and just when everyones like finally time to go he'll be like wait im still eating. It's an hour past closing time and the staff is ready to throw hands and a waitress will approach and try to take away a mostly empty plate and he'll open his eyes (emerging from his brief food coma) and look her dead in the eye and go "the hell are you doing I'm not done". also has no choice but to go to shoney's because the other all-you-can-eat buffet in town has banned him for a multitude of reasons.

Johhny surpasses them all. He just doesn't get full. He doesn't draw attention to it, but he will put away a frankly ridiculous amount of food and have no effects. They all finally drag themselves out to the truck, convinced that they'll never eat again, and just flop down in their seats and lay there for a minute and johnny's just looking at them like "soo... who wants ice cream?"

And yes, you have to be 12 or older to go to the buffet unescorted. When ponyboy was 13 (like soon after their parent's death) they all went together and the mood was pretty somber and then a staff member comes up to darry and is like "sir, the little boy can't be up there unattended" and points to ponyboy who is raiding the dessert section. they are all DYING laughing and ponyboy is equal parts pissed that she thought he was younger than 12 and humiliated. he does not live it down and the gang will never let him forget it.

edited to inform @fangirl-docintraining that they take Betty to Shoney’s when they go out to eat with her for the first time. Darry tries to warn her that the gang is wild at buffets and she just laughs it off. An hour later she’s sitting there as Darry wolfs down his blackened steak, Two-Bit is pulling chicken nuggets off of toothpicks at the top of his food tower, Johnny is eating 4ths, Steve is trying to wrestle a brownie from Ponyboy, Soda's dipping raw broccoli in chocolate fondue, and Dally is flirting with the waitress. The manager walks by and does a double take with the fear of god in his eyes and just groans “oh hell no not these guys again who let them in?!?” She’s like “what am I marrying into??”

At The End Of The Road: Chapter ? Excerpt

Mourning the 2k words of chapter 6 drafts that somehow got deleted and are nowhere to be found 😭 was actually making some progress so hopefully can find but don't have high hopes. On a happier note, take some rambling for a future chapter plot!

~

“Hey, happy birthday kid,” Steve said, whipping off Pony’s DX cap, rubbing his bald head, and darting away before the kid could take a swing at him. “Finally twelve, huh? Now you can go up to the buffet line at Shoney’s all by yourself!”

“I’m fourteen!” Pony cried indignantly.

“What’s that? Did ya hear someone talkin’, Two?”

“Nah,” Two-Bit chortled, lazily flopping on the couch. “I didn’t hear nothin’. Hey, go wake up the birthday boy. It’s a big day, ya know. Thirteen and all.”

Johnny snickered at Pony’s yelp of protest. “Two-Bit!”

[ame-to-ame]

Oh on last rb's note my friend actually read love bullet per my recommendation hehe and she likes it and it makes me so so happy hehe

[silverselfshippingchaos]

he's such a fucking hater man

[derelictheretic]

hey everyone, the back of my house just burnt down, everyone in my house is okay (the pets were the first things we got out and they're safe) but we lost a lot of stuff and I won't be online for a bit.

To the people waiting on comms I was able to get my computer out and I should be able to get back to working on your comms as soon as we are situated in a new place, I have no timeframe for that as everything just happened but I still have all the files and that should be fine.