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Making Your Special Day Unforgettable with Wedding Car Transportation in Philadelphia
Introduction
Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, a celebration of love, commitment, and the beginning of a new journey. As you plan for this momentous occasion, it's essential to consider every detail to ensure that your special day is nothing short of unforgettable. One crucial aspect of your wedding day logistics is transportation, and that's where wedding car services in Philadelphia can make all the difference.
Philadelphia, with its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, provides the perfect backdrop for your nuptials. Whether you're envisioning a grand, traditional wedding or a more intimate, contemporary celebration, the right wedding car transportation can elevate the experience and create lasting memories for you and your guests.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the benefits of utilizing wedding car services in Philadelphia, the factors to consider when selecting the perfect vehicle, and how to ensure a seamless transportation experience on your big day.
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The Importance of Wedding Car Transportation
Your wedding day is a true once-in-a-lifetime event, and the transportation you choose can have a significant impact on the overall experience. Here's why wedding car services in Philadelphia are an essential component of your wedding planning:
Enhance the Atmosphere
Wedding car transportation can set the tone for your special day, adding a touch of elegance, sophistication, and excitement. Imagine arriving at your ceremony or reception in a beautifully appointed vintage car, limousine, or luxury SUV – it's a moment that will captivate your guests and set the stage for an unforgettable celebration.
Ensure Comfort and Convenience
Planning a wedding can be a whirlwind of activity, and the last thing you want to worry about is the logistics of getting you and your wedding party to and from the various venues. Wedding car services in Philadelphia can provide a seamless, stress-free transportation experience, allowing you to focus on the joyous moments and cherish the memories.
Create Stunning Photo Opportunities
Your wedding day is a chance to capture beautiful, lasting memories, and the right wedding car can serve as the perfect backdrop for stunning photography. Whether it's capturing the bride and groom's arrival, the wedding party's grand entrance, or candid shots throughout the day, a beautiful, well-appointed vehicle can add an extra touch of elegance and romance to your wedding album.
Ensure Timely Arrivals
Punctuality is crucial on your wedding day, and wedding car services can help ensure that you and your wedding party arrive at each location on time. With experienced drivers and a keen understanding of the local traffic patterns, you can trust that you'll reach your destinations without any unexpected delays.
Personalize Your Experience
Wedding car services in Philadelphia often offer a range of vehicle options, allowing you to choose the perfect fit for your wedding's style and theme. Whether you envision a classic, vintage-inspired ride or a modern, luxurious limousine, you can tailor the transportation experience to your unique preferences and create a truly personalized touch.
Selecting the Perfect Wedding Car in Philadelphia
When it comes to choosing the right wedding car transportation Philadelphia there are several key factors to consider to ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience.
Vehicle Options
Philadelphia's wedding car service providers offer a diverse selection of vehicles, ranging from classic vintage cars to contemporary limousines and luxury SUVs. Take the time to explore the available options and choose a vehicle that complements the overall aesthetic and theme of your wedding.
Seating Capacity
Ensure that the wedding car you select can accommodate your wedding party, including the bride and groom, bridesmaids, groomsmen, and any additional guests who may need transportation. Consider the size of your wedding party and choose a vehicle with ample seating to ensure everyone travels comfortably.
Amenities and Features
Look for wedding car services that offer premium amenities and features, such as climate control, privacy screens, champagne flutes, and even entertainment systems. These little touches can elevate the overall experience and make your wedding transportation truly special.
Driver Professionalism
The driver of your wedding car plays a crucial role in the success of your transportation experience. Look for a service that employs experienced, professional drivers who are knowledgeable about the local area, adhere to traffic laws, and prioritize the safety and comfort of their passengers.
Pricing and Packages
Wedding car services in Philadelphia offer a range of pricing and package options to suit different budgets and needs. Compare various providers, understand the inclusions and any additional fees, and choose a package that provides the best value for your investment.
Availability and Booking
Securing your wedding car transportation well in advance is essential, as the most popular vehicles and timeslots can book up quickly, especially during peak wedding season. Work closely with your chosen service provider to ensure that your preferred vehicle and schedule are available for your special day.
Ensuring a Seamless Wedding Transportation Experience
To make the most of your wedding car transportation in Philadelphia, it's important to plan ahead and communicate your needs effectively with your service provider.
Communicate Your Preferences
Discuss your wedding's style, theme, and overall vision with your wedding car service provider. This will help them recommend the most suitable vehicle options and ensure that the transportation experience aligns with the aesthetic and atmosphere you've envisioned for your special day.
Coordinate Arrival and Departure Times
Work closely with your service provider to plan the arrival and departure times for your wedding party, ensuring that everyone is transported to the ceremony, reception, and any other designated locations on time and without any disruptions.
Provide Detailed Itinerary
Share a detailed itinerary of your wedding day with your transportation provider, including the addresses of all the venues, the expected duration at each location, and any special requests or needs you may have. This will enable the driver to plan the most efficient routes and be prepared for any potential changes or delays.
Communicate with the Driver
On the day of your wedding, maintain open communication with the driver assigned to your wedding car. Inform them of any changes to the itinerary, address any concerns or questions, and ensure that they have a clear understanding of your expectations and preferences.
Enjoy the Ride
Finally, take the time to savor the experience and enjoy the ride. Soak in the excitement, relax in the comfort of your wedding car, and cherish the special moments with your spouse-to-be and your wedding party.
Conclusion
Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and the transportation you choose can play a significant role in creating an unforgettable experience. By selecting the perfect wedding car service in Philadelphia, you can elevate the atmosphere, ensure comfort and convenience, and capture stunning photographic memories that will last a lifetime.
From classic vintage cars to modern, luxurious limousines, Philadelphia's wedding car service providers offer a diverse range of options to suit your unique preferences and wedding day vision. By considering factors such as vehicle options, amenities, driver professionalism, and pricing, you can find the perfect transportation solution to make your special day truly remarkable.
By planning ahead, communicating your needs effectively, and working closely with your chosen service provider, you can ensure a seamless and stress-free wedding transportation experience, allowing you to focus on the joy, love, and cherished moments that make your wedding day so special.
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blackcarphilly11 · 10 months ago
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Tips for Seamless Wedding Transportation Planning
Planning a wedding is like conducting a symphony, with each element contributing to the harmonious melody of the day. Among the crucial aspects of this orchestration is transportation. Ensuring smooth movement for the wedding party and guests adds an extra layer of elegance and convenience to your special day. To help you navigate this aspect flawlessly, here are some tips for seamless wedding transportation planning. Imagine this: it's the morning of your wedding day, and excitement fills the air as you prepare to embark on a journey of love and commitment. As you slip into your wedding attire and exchange nervous glances with your beloved, a sense of anticipation builds with each passing moment. Amidst the flurry of last-minute preparations, one aspect stands out as particularly crucial: transportation. In this general scenario, seamless transportation planning takes center stage, ensuring that you and your guests move effortlessly from ceremony to reception and beyond.
Start Early:
Like all things related to wedding planning, early action is key. Start considering transportation options as soon as you have your venue and guest list finalized. Popular transportation services can get booked up quickly, especially during peak wedding seasons. Starting early gives you ample time to research, compare prices, and secure bookings without unnecessary stress.
Assess Your Needs:
Every wedding is unique, and so are its transportation requirements. Take stock of your needs before diving into the planning process. Consider factors such as the number of guests, the distance between venues, and any special accommodations required for elderly or disabled guests. This assessment will help you determine the type and quantity of vehicles needed.
Set a Budget:
Transportation costs can vary widely depending on factors like distance, vehicle type, and duration. Set a realistic budget for wedding party transportation early in your planning process. Allocate funds accordingly, keeping in mind that luxurious options like vintage cars or limousines may come with a higher price tag. Be sure to account for any additional expenses such as gratuities for drivers.
Choose the Right Vehicles:
Selecting the right vehicles is crucial for a seamless transportation experience. Consider the style and theme of your wedding when choosing between options like classic cars, modern limousines, or vintage buses. Ensure that the chosen vehicles can comfortably accommodate your wedding party and guests while aligning with your aesthetic preferences.
Plan the Route:
Mapping out the transportation route in advance can help prevent delays and confusion on the big day. Work with your transportation provider to plan the most efficient routes between venues, taking into account factors like traffic patterns and road closures. Provide drivers with detailed directions and schedules to ensure smooth navigation.
Communicate Clearly:
Clear communication is essential for ensuring that everyone is on the same page regarding transportation arrangements. Provide guests with detailed information about pick-up and drop-off times, locations, and any special instructions. Consider including transportation details in your wedding invitations or creating a separate information card for guests.
Arrange for Special Accommodations:
If any of your guests require special accommodations, such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles or assistance boarding, be sure to arrange for these in advance. Communicate any specific needs to your transportation provider so they can make the necessary arrangements to ensure everyone can participate in your celebration comfortably.
Have a Contingency Plan:
No matter how well you plan, unforeseen circumstances can arise. Have a contingency plan in place to address potential issues such as inclement weather, traffic delays, or vehicle breakdowns. Consider renting extra vehicles as backups and provide drivers with contact information in case of emergencies.
Confirm and Reconfirm:
In the days leading up to your wedding, confirm all transportation arrangements with your provider to ensure everything is on track. Double-check pick-up and drop-off times, vehicle assignments, and any special requests. Reconfirming details will give you peace of mind and help avoid last-minute surprises.
Relax and Enjoy the Ride:
On the day of your wedding, trust in your planning and allow yourself to relax and enjoy the ride. Let your chosen transportation service take care of the logistics while you focus on celebrating with your loved ones. Sit back, sip some champagne, and savor the moments as you embark on this unforgettable journey.
Delegate Responsibilities:
While it's important to oversee transportation planning, don't hesitate to delegate tasks to trusted members of your wedding party or family. Assign someone to coordinate with drivers, assist guests, and troubleshoot any issues that may arise on the day of the wedding. Having a designated point person will alleviate stress and ensure that transportation logistics run smoothly.
Factor in Travel Time:
When scheduling transportation for your wedding day, be sure to factor in ample travel time between venues. Account for potential traffic congestion, especially if you're getting married in a busy urban area or during peak travel times. Padding your schedule with extra time ensures that you won't feel rushed and allows for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Consider Guest Comfort:
Guest comfort should be a top priority when planning wedding transportation. Choose vehicles that offer amenities like air conditioning, comfortable seating, and ample legroom to ensure a pleasant journey for your guests. Providing refreshments such as bottled water or light snacks can also enhance the overall experience and keep guests feeling refreshed and energized throughout the day.
Personalize Your Transportation:
Infuse your personality and style into your wedding transportation to make it truly memorable. Consider decorating vehicles with flowers, ribbons, or signage that reflects your wedding theme or color scheme. Personalized touches like monogrammed seat covers or custom playlists can add an extra layer of charm and create a cohesive atmosphere for your celebration.
Conclusion:
Seamless wedding transportation planning is essential for ensuring that your special day unfolds smoothly and stress-free. By starting early, assessing your needs, and communicating clearly, you can orchestrate a transportation experience that adds an extra touch of elegance to your wedding celebration. With these tips in mind and the experts from Black Car Philly, you'll be well on your way to a journey filled with joy, love, and cherished memories.
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mash4077confessions · 3 months ago
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For your last reblog, please do Mulcahy!!! I love your answers for him. You’re almost single handedly keeping Mulcahy girlies alive!
Thank you very much 😊
Alrighty, let's do the rest of these headcanon questions for Mulcahy!
3) Who depends on them? Everyone at 4077th, in someway shape or form, even if they don't really notice it. He would be prime for an "It's A Wonderful Life" kind of episode.
Back in Philadelphia...it's a very different story. Hell, one of the main reasons why he volunteered to go to Korea, was because he wanted to be useful and no one seemed to need him in Philadelphia.
4) What they would do if they had one month to live?
At first, I think Mulcahy would be very angry. He'd randomly lash out, he'd be hitting his punching bag. Then he'd get very solemn. He'd pray (a lot more than usual), and he'd drink heavily. Then Mulcahy would come out of that, and decide that his last days were better spent on others, instead of pitying himself.
He'd donate all his money, spend extra time with his friends and Kathy. He might even reach out to his brothers that he's long since stopped speaking to.
Mulcahy would give his all till the last moment of life, and still he'd ask quietly to himself, whether or not he'd really done enough.
5) A cherished personal belonging?
Well he has several things I can think of off the top of my head. The crucifix necklace he wears all the time, that was from Kathy. She gave it to him when he decided to join the church, and so it is very valuable to him.
He also has several photographs that he made a point to bring with him to Korea (one of his parents on their wedding day, as no one else seemed interested in having it, a picture of him and Kathy as toddlers, and then the one family portrait they had done when he was still a baby).
There is also his rather healthy library he took with him as well (Plato, War and Peace, The Completed Works of Shakespeare).
6) Something they lost, but would love to have back?
his hearing
His mother. She died just before his 18th birthday. I'm still deciding what actually killed her, but it definitely was caused in part to her having had so many children (7 total). It does things to your body.
If we're just talking about a general item, he has "lost" a couple of autographs from his favorite boxers (I say lost in quotations because what really happened was a nun found his autographed boxing magazines, including one signed by Artie Levine, and she threw them away because she didn't think it was appropriate for a priest to have so many images of shirtless men laying around. She claimed it was the boxing she took issue with, but we know what she was really thinking).
7) This character’s favorite character?
Hawkeye. It kinda goes without saying. Mulcahy is often in awe of him, and he finds him humorous (although a tad obnoxious at times), and he goes to him for help because he knows Hawkeye will be there when he needs him and won't judge him for reaching out.
Mulcahy is also great friends with Potter, though the man is much older than he is, they have a surprising amount in common (side note: is it just me or when William Christopher got old, he started looking more like Harry Morgan?)
Mulcahy also has very close friendships with both Klinger and Sidney.
8) What kind of car they would drive?
I don't think Mulcahy owns a car in his civilian life. Public transportation would have still been pretty common in 1950s Philadelphia and when he was in college at Loyola, that was in Chicago. No real big need to own a car when you're in a city center. That said, if he did have a vehicle, it would be old and second-hand. It would work but it wouldn't be fancy. Probably white or sand colored.
10) How they deal with pain?
Like physical pain? Dude can take a hit. When he was a featherweight boxer (his former life before Kathy got him to become a priest) he'd have concussions, couple broken ribs, black eyes, etc. Of course he gave as good as he got, and then some. But he has a pretty high pain tolerance.
(If you want to talk about that time that Margaret hit him and he acted like he was in pain, it's because she's a woman and he can't hit a woman, so he knew he'd have no way to physically defend himself if she really decided to let him have it. She's also REALLY strong.)
11) This character’s favorite piece or pieces of clothing?
Mulcahy isn't much into fashion. If it fits and doesn't have holes or stains on it, it's good enough for him. His priestly attire is more important to him than any civilian clothes he owns. That said, he is very fond of his Loyola hoodie (aren't we all?), that "G" baseball cap that Hawkeye bought him, and he does have one really nice lavender button down dress shirt (worn only on leave in Tokyo, which he seldom gets to do).
13) What kind of parent they would be?
The best kind. He would be soooooo loving and affectionate towards his children. He would spend so much time and energy engaging with them on their level. The kids at St. Teresa's Orphanage absolutely adore him, and he adores them right back. He's not great at discipline, though. That would be his partner's job, for sure. Not that he can't lay down the law, when needed, but he's afraid he's overdoing it and sounding like his father.
14) How they did in school?
Mulcahy was always very interested in learning and had no problem keeping up with the lessons. The trouble was that sometimes he just really wanted to read Plato or Aristotle or The Odyssey...and his teachers didn't appreciate him wanting to go off and do his own thing. He definitely got hit by at least one teacher at school fairly regularly for this.
Mulcahy always wanted to learn and discuss very broad topics, and his teachers didn't want to deal with that. Which was not great for him because they'd labeled him a troublemaker, and that got him the belt from his dad. Mulcahy always got on better with the girls in his class rather than the boys.
The boys were all like his brothers and his father; they wanted to rough house and when they got older, go skirt chasing. The girls liked him because he was sweet, and kind, and dorky. They felt safe with him. The boys also beat him mercilessly, until he was 12 and learned that it was OK to defend himself.
Many a time, he had his glasses broken, and once again, his dad would go right for the belt.
I think he was always on the outs in school, even in the seminary. I'm sure he had friends but he also had a lot of people looking at him as if he were just one giant question mark. No one really knowing what to make of him, and overlooking so many wonderful aspects of his being, because of that lack of understanding.
15) What cologne or perfume they would use?
I don't know if he really uses any. If Mulcahy does ever use cologne, it's going to be something cheap and earthy. He is a very cleanly person and he has really nice kinda fruity smelling soap and shampoo. Because he's around the church incense so often, it does stick to his robes. The incense has a nice cedar sort of smell to it.The point being in all this, is that he bathes regularly (probably the most often out of anyone in the main cast) and he does smell very nice.
17) What they’d sing at karaoke?
Something upbeat and fun. Maybe from a musical?
18) Special talents they have?
As previously stated, Mulcahy has a serious green thumb when it comes to his garden. He's also got one hell of a right hook for boxing. He plays piano (how well depends entirely on who you ask). Mulcahy has a pretty solid knack for gambling as a whole, but his odds do fair a lot better when making bets specifically on people...rather than cards. He can whistle pretty well too. Carries a nice tune when he sings (still better sounding with a partner).
Sometimes his most important talent is just getting people to agree to let things go with a small smile, and a tiny "please? 😇"
Mulcahy can also read Greek...though that's mostly just so he can read poetry in its original language.
Also did you see his sand castle in GFA? Dude has some mad skills to pull that one off without a mold.
Mulcahy is a mutitalented person. I didn't even name all his talents/skills.
20) Household chore they hate the most?
This is tough, because Mulcahy loves to clean. He loves dishes, and laundry, and finds dusting rather relaxing. Of course, this is all done as an act of service for someone else's benefit; the rest of the 4077th, those he shares the rectory with back home, his mother when he was a child, etc.
My best guess would be cooking. I think he can cook a fairly decent meal, but most of the time he's only ever cooked for himself and that immediately makes him disinterested in the task. He's just doing it because he has to eat. That's it.
21) Their fondest childhood memory?
Ok, not counting the Gentleman Joe memory because we already know all about that one. I'd say it's a memory of a time with his mother for sure. A time when the house was quiet, because his older brothers and Kathy were away at school, his father was working, and there with his head nestled in his mother's lap was baby Mulcahy, listening to her as she read to him, and stroked his head. It was a good place to be.
22) How they spend their money?
While in Korea most of his money goes to St. Teresa's Orphanage and a few creature comforts for himself.
Back at home he definitely still gives a lot to charity (he has his preferred organizations within the greater Philadelphia area). Of course he has to spend money on necessities such as food, toiletries, clothing items as they fall apart, etc. He gives gifts to his loved ones from time to time as well (birthdays and Christmas in particular, but sometimes just to cheer people up).
As for money he spends on himself just because; well he gambles and you gotta have money on hand for that, he sometimes splurges and treats himself to a good quality cigar or a higher quality beer. He's got some good leather dress shoes that he keeps well polished. Oh! And on theater tickets (both plays and the movies). He also occasionally hits the local art museums and will spend hours there looking at the paintings and statues.
(And as I write this, I know suddenly really want to take him to the MET, because he'd absolutely love it.)
23) What kind of alcohol they drink?
Beer and occasionally wine. His max alcohol percentage is 5%. Anything stronger than that and he will get plastered so quickly. Most of the time, when he drinks you'll notice him sort of nursing his beer, as opposed to chugging for the finish. He actually likes the taste of beer, and usually isn't trying to get drunk.
24) What they wish they could change about themselves?
Mulcahy wishes he was a better orator, the kind that really puts the butts in the pews and has them all feeling God's words deep in their hearts. For clarification on this, he isn't a terrible speaker, but his sermons are loaded with dad Father jokes and thinly valed stories of people he knows.
In general, Mulcahy just wants to be better. To do better. He's chasing the approval of others, because he doesn't really approve of himself. Self validation isn't his thing.
25) What other people wish they could change about them?
The people who know and love Mulcahy, wish he could see himself as they see him (goes for most of the fandom as well, I think). But at the same time, his humility is part of what makes him, him, so maybe they just wish he wouldn't beat himself up so much.
People who don't like him or at least don't particularly care about him (Frank, some higher ranking members of the military, couple church officials from his home parish, etc) they would want him to be a bit more "fire and brimstone", and to have a bit more military sense. They want him to be more traditional and fundamentalist in his views. And they'd also like him to stop with the Bible puns. But they don't matter, because they don't like him anyway.
I feel like I've missed some small but still very vital details, but that's the trouble with headcanons; I could go on and on.
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ellieandeli · 2 years ago
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6 months to go! Here's a quick FAQ. If you have any questions we don’t cover here, shoot us an email at [email protected], which we’re both checking constantly!
Where and when is the wedding?
Our ceremony and reception are both located in Bryn Athyn, PA, a nearby suburb of Philadelphia about 30 mins from Old City (Liberty Bell) and about 45 mins from Center City (Rittenhouse Square). 
The ceremony will be at 4pm on the afternoon of Saturday, November 4th, with a reception to follow from 5 to 11pm. For anyone coming in early, we’ll have a gathering spot for welcome drinks Friday night, and for anyone leaving Sunday, we’ll have bites for breakfast at the hotel to say goodbye–and that’s the weekend!
Ceremony: November 4th, 2023 at 4pm at North & Southampton Reformed Church (1380 Bristol Road, Churchville, PA 18966)
Reception: November 4th, 2023 from 5 to 11pm at the Cairnwood Estate (1005 Cathedral Road, Bryn Athyn, PA 19009)
Where should I stay?
We have a block of rooms at the Homewood Suites by Hilton Horsham Willow Grove, very conveniently located about 15 minutes driving distance from each of the venues. Booking through this link provides a preferred rate of $169/night for a king room and $199/night for a double room. We’ll have transportation from this hotel to the venues and back on the day of the wedding. 
While the Homewood Suites is the most convenient option to the venues, you might opt to stay in Philadelphia proper if you want to make a longer trip out of the weekend. Let us know if you need recommendations and we’ll send you a few!
A large convention the weekend of the wedding is driving up prices at hotels in town, though, so be warned!
If you're interested in a vacation rental, Airbnb and VRBO both have presences in the area. There are also more hotels half an hour north in the very cute town of New Hope, PA.
(If you need someone to split a hotel room with shoot us a text and we'll try to matchmake!)
How do I get there?
Philadelphia is the closest major city with convenient transportation options. Here are some suggestions for getting to Bryn Athyn:
By air:
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is the closest airport to Bryn Athyn, about 40 minutes away by car. From the airport, you can rent a car, take a taxi or rideshare service, or take the SEPTA Regional Rail out to the area and bridge the last few miles with a bus or rideshare.
By train:
Amtrak and SEPTA both offer train service to Philadelphia's 30th Street Station, which is about 30 minutes from Bryn Athyn by car. Once you’re at 30th Street you can rent a car, take a taxi or rideshare, or take the SEPTA Regional Rail out to the area and bridge the last few miles with a bus or rideshare.
By car:
There’s plenty of parking at all venues.
Let us (or any of our delegates, lol) know if you have any trouble planning transportation!
How should I plan to get around?
We will provide a shuttle service the day of the wedding between the hotel, the ceremony venue, and the reception venue. If you need to move around elsewhere or at other times, there’s plenty of Lyfts and Ubers around–it just might take them a little longer to get to you. Having a car definitely gives you the most flexibility in the area, if that’s what’s most important to you.
Lots more information to come, but hopefully this gives you a sense!
Love you all,
Elisia and Ellie
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newlimoexpress · 5 years ago
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New Limo Express has provided limousine and luxury vehicle transportation in the Newyork, USA for many years. We take pride in customizing each service according to the requirements of our clients and being part of the success of any special occasion.You may Call us at (908) 282-1177 anytime for more details or visit our website www.newlimoexpress.com .
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olivia-iris244 · 5 years ago
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Black Limo Car services offers numerous variety of SUVs, limos, Sedans and Town Cars. We provide most affordable Limo For Casino from Philadelphia Airport. Whether you are touring to city for sight seeing, events, casino or wedding. Our qualified staff will make your ride comfortable and luxury.
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hoonieistrash · 5 years ago
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ephemeral love
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pairing: jack! taehyung x rose! reader (x fiance! jungkook)
synopsis: As an aristocratic young woman, you are to be wedded as soon as you set foot in Philadelphia. Boarding the Titanic, your mundane life started to get twisted with a handsome young artist who saved your life.
word count: 34.5k
genre: fluff, smut, angst, historical, titanic au!
warnings/tags: UNEDITED, misogynistic themes cus it’s 1912 what fun times, dark and obsessive themes, explicit language, SMOKING, cheating, A MESS, a lot and I mean a lot of bad puns and jokes throughout the stories I’m sorry, Jungkook is a fucking asshole, SMUT 
author’s note: LET ME JUST CLEAR SOMETHING UP HERE, English is not my first language so this is probably shit or something also this is my first ever long fic and smut omg. I followed the Titanic’s storyline, My summaries are also shit. I L O V E Taehyung’s RED HAIR SO :))) But I still hope you enjoy reading this mess of a story. keep in mind though, I’m a fucking asshole :)) THIS IS UNEDITED, so thank you for your patience haha! its 2 AM right now and I have my prelims later :) i haven’t reviewed :)) wish me luck 
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The gleaming white superstructure of Titanic rises mountainous-ly beyond the rail, and above that, the ochreous-colored funnels stood against the sky like pillars of a great temple. Crewmen move across the deck, dwarfed by the sheer size of the steamer.
The streets were packed with crowds as the large ship was being ready to set sail for the first time today, April.10th,1912. People waved their handkerchief and said their goodbyes to loved ones and friends. The busy street was crowded with lower and middle-class citizens as the employees of the voyage checked their belongings and tickets. 
On the pier, horse-drawn vehicles, motorcars, and lorries move slowly through the dense throng. The atmosphere is one of excitement and giddiness. People embraced in tearful farewells, or wave and shout bon voyage to friends and relatives on the decks above.
With sudden honks of the motorcars, the people looked and went out the way of the cars and carriages of the rich folks of the place. Their automobiles and carriages were adorned by expensive belongings and furnishings, their wealth being displayed for anyone to see.
“Coming through! Get out of the way!” The workers of the voyage shouted as they pushed the people away to give space to the large transportations. One by one, the rich folks have gone out their cars as employees greet them politely and with great care of words, contrasting to the way they treated the lower-class passengers. You went out of the car as the valet guided you out, your hair curled and neatly tied. You aura exudes elegance and beauty and your enigmatic (e/c) eyes shone in the light while your (s/c) skin glow beneath the sun.
“I don’t see what the fuss is all about. It doesn’t look any bigger than the Mauretania.” You stated, unimpressed while staring at the infamous Titanic.
Your large pale blue hat which was adorned by soft white feathers has hidden her face a bit. Your long silhouette pastel blue dress fits your body like a glove, showing your small waist. Red luscious lips curled into a small frown, sharp eyebrows furrowing a bit. 
A handsome young man wearing a slick expensive black suit soon followed, exiting the car. The man, Jeon Jungkook, the heir to the older Jeon’s fortune. He was arrogant and rich beyond belief. Good-looks to brag along with it. 
“You can be blase about some things, (Y/N), but not about Titanic. It’s over a hundred feet longer than Mauretania and far more luxurious. It has squash courts, a Parisian cafe, and even Turkish baths.” Jungkook said. He then turned to the side and gave a helping hand to your mother, (M/N) (L/N), who descends from the very same car.
“Your daughter is much too hard to impress, (M/N)” Jungkook stated, helping the older woman.
“So this is the ship they say is unsinkable,” (M/N) said, staring at the large ship which was the talk of the world for almost a year.
“It is unsinkable. God himself couldn’t sink this ship.” Jungkook said with pride, looking at the ship as he was the host for the (L/N) in this voyage.  
You rolled your eyes when you heard your fiance’s words, your ‘indecent’ action hidden from them while you stared at the Titanic. 
This entire entourage of rich folks is impeccably turned out, a quintessential example of the Edwardian upper class, complete with servants. Jungkook’s manservant, Spicer Lovejoy, is a tall and impassive, dour as an undertaker. Behind him emerge, two maids, personal servants to you and your mother.
The maids went and took the luggage of their mistresses as Jungkook’s valet helped with it. Suddenly, an employee stopped them with a smile.
“I’m sorry, sir, but we have to inspect your luggage.” The old male said softly. Jungkook put his hand inside his coat and took out a five paper bill and gave it to him, patting him in the back. The porter’s eyes dilated at the sight of it.
“I put my faith in you, good sir.” He said, walking away from the porter with you and your mother and towards the Titanic. From behind, Jungkook’s manservant, Lovejoy, gave the employee a list.
“Here, three of the brown baggage is for room 12A and the others with black markings are for 15A. While the leather with a crest is for room 19A. Got it?” The stoic assistant said fastly making the employee confused but before he could ask about it, the former left him with the car. 
“My shawl?” You asked, looking behind you, your arm wrapped around Jungkook’s, gently. Your maid answered with a small smile, “I have it, Miss.” baggage in her arms 
With that, they got in the Titanic, looking around the furniture and design of the large ship. The three aristocrats then went to their own rooms while you, well the maid, unpacked your belongings and put it into the right place neatly. 
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“Taehyung, I swear to God. If your cards are not good enough–” 
“It’ll be fine, Jiminie!” 
4 males sat at the table, in the middle, bills and coins from four countries were scattered. This has been going on for a while and sitting on top of the money are two 3rd class tickets for RMS Titanic 
“I can’t believe you bet our entire money on this, Taehyung!” Jimin scolded, grasping his brown hair as the stress got to him and even more when he saw his own cards. Taehyung grinned at him, his fiery red hair framing his handsome face. 
“There are two tickets for the Titanic! How can I not!” Taehyung exclaimed as the other two males in front of them argued in a different language.
Jimin sighed at his best friend’s actions, just hoping that he had a good hand of cards in him because he certainly did not. Taehyung took a card on the pile in front of him, looking at it with a small frown. They then heard the Titanic’s whistle blow, the final warning.
“This is it! The moment of truth boys. Somebody’s life’s about to change.” Taehyung said, looking at the 2 Swedish men.
The males showed their cards one by one, the highest one yet was a pair. Taehyung looked at Jimin who stared at him with expectancy. 
“I’m sorry, Jimin. It seems you won’t be seeing your Ma for a while.” 
The shorter male gaped and exclaimed at that, “What?! What do you mean?! Taehyung, you idiot-!” 
Taehyung then laughed and slammed his cards on the table as it showed a full house, “Because we’re going to America!” 
Jimin’s eyes widened and cheered when the reality finally sank in, hugging his best friend as he shouted the words, “We’re going to America!” 
The two men in front of them shouted in disbelief and annoyance at the outcome. Taehyung and Jimin celebrated their win, hugging each other. The two then looked back to the Swedish men and Taehyung said, “Sorry guys. Three of a kind and a pair. I’m high and you’re dry and…” 
“We’re going to America!” Jimin continued, smiling widely. Taehyung kissed the tickets, then jumped on Jimin’s back and rode him around the pub. It’s like they won the lottery. 
The bartender then cleared his throat, getting the attention of the two young males. “No, you won’t if you boys don’t hurry, cause Titanic will set sail in 5 minutes.” He said
“Shoot!” 
“Hurry! Hurry! Grab the money!” 
The two grabbed the money and were about to run for it when Taehyung’s collar was grabbed by the large male who he was playing with earlier. The latter raised his fisted hand as Taehyung braced himself for the impact but none came, however, a groan was heard from beside him. He opened his eyes and saw that the male punched his other Swedish friend in the stomach
Taehyung smiled sheepishly at the large male then they made a run for it, kit bags on their shoulders, carrying everything they own in the world, and sprinted toward the pier. They tear through milling crowds next to the terminal. Shouts going up behind them as they jostle through slow-moving gentlemen. They dodge piles of luggage and weave through groups of people. Finally, they burst out onto the pier and Taehyung comes to a dead stop staring at the cast walls of the ship’s hull, towering seven stories or greater above the wharf and over an eighth of a mile long. The Titanic is monstrous, something Taehyung hasn’t seen before.
When Jimin noticed that Taehyung wasn’t following him, he ran back and grabbed him, as they sprinted towards the third class gangway aft, at E deck. They reach the bottom of the ramp just as the officer detaches it at the top. It starts to swing down from the gangway doors.
“Wait! We’re passengers!” Taehyung shouted, flushed and panting, he waved the tickets.
“Have you been in the inspection queue?” The snobbish employee asked
Taehyung nodded, catching his breath and pointed to his back where Jimin was, “Me and him just finished. We don’t have lice or any diseases” he replied, cheerfully. The officer looked at them, judging their rugged appearance and worn out bags and clothes. He then sighed and reluctantly took the ticket and reattached the gangway which gave way to them, inside. The two went aboard and stood, looking at the officer as he checked their tickets. The officer glanced at the tickets, then passed Taehyung and Jimin through to another worker. The latter looked at the names on the tickets to enter them on the passenger list. He raised a brow, “ Gundersen. And…  Gundersen..” 
The older male looked at them suspiciously while the two smiled at him, innocently, as he handed them their tickets back and gave them an ‘okay’.
Taehyung wrapped an arm around Jimin’s shoulder and they walked away, “Let’s go, Sven~” 
 The two raced inside, whooping in victory, running down the white-painted corridor of the ship while they grin from ear to ear. 
“We are the luckiest sons of bitches in the world!”
Taehyung and Jimin burst through a door onto the aft well deck, running across the deck and up the steel stairs to the poop deck. They got to the rail and Taehyung started to yell and wave to the crowd on the dock like a madman making Jimin shake his head at his best friend’s antics, knowing full well that he doesn’t know anyone on the dock.
“Let’s go, you crazy man,” Jimin said, grabbing one of his lapels and dragged him away.
The two walk down a narrow corridor with doors lining both sides like a college dorm. Total confusion as people argue over luggage in several languages or wander in confusion in the labyrinth. They pass emigrants studying the signs over the doors and looking up the words in phrasebooks. The two males passed the people and finally saw the room they’re looking for, opening it as two other males were inside.
Jimin then raced and occupied the top bunk while Taehyung introduced himself to the two Swedish men. 
“Hello there, I’m Kim Taehyung, nice to meet you.” He shook one of the men’s hands and turned to Jimin who was laying on the top bunk already. 
“Who said you can be on the top bunk, you little-!” 
The two Swedish men looked at each other, confused as hell, as one asked, “Where’s Sven?” 
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By contrast, the so-called “Millionaire Suite” is in the Empire style, and comprises two bedrooms, a bath, WC, wardrobe room, and a large sitting room. Also, there is a private 50-foot promenade deck outside.
A room service waiter pours champagne into a tulip glass of orange juice and hands the Bucks Fizz to you while you look through your newly bought paintings. There’s a Monet of water lilies, a Degas of dancers, and a few abstract works. They are all unknown paintings, lost works. 
You grabbed one of the paintings with a small and contemplating frown, currently occupied by your thoughts, debating on where you’ll put it. The maid smiled at you, her mistress, as she unpacks your clothes and folding it neatly.
“Will you be putting the paintings on the wall, Miss?” 
“Yes, this room needs more color,” You said, walking around the room and placed the painting on the wall.
Jungkook was out on the covered deck before entering through the doorway to your room, he then saw you in the sitting room. He frowned a bit when he saw the odd paintings on your couch and bed. 
“Those mud puddles were certainly a waste of money.” He said, looking at it with a small scowl. 
“You’re wrong. They’re fascinating. Like in a dream… there’s truth without logic. What’s his name again…? Picasso” You replied, looking at the cubist’s paintings. 
“He’ll never amount to a thing, trust me, Sweetpea… Well, at least they were cheap.” Jungkook said, going towards you as you sat down in your vanity, feeling tired with Jungkook being in the same room as you. A porter then appeared, he wheels in Jungkook’s private safe into the room on a hand truck.
“Put that in the wardrobe.” He ordered and followed the porter towards the wardrobe, watching it be placed gently.
“The paintings smell so brand new. Like they built it all just for us. I mean… just to think that tonight, when I crawl between the sheets, I’ll be the first–” Trudy, your maid said but was cut off when Jungkook entered the room again. 
“And when I crawl between the sheets tonight, I’ll still be the first.” He said, looking at you with a sly glint in his eyes, a faint sign of smirk on his pink lips. Trudy blushed at the innuendo and quickly excused herself out of the room. 
Jungkook walked towards you and put his hands on your shoulders as he gripped it a bit, looking at you through the mirror. It was an act of possession, not affection.
He smiled, “First and only, forever.” 
The warm and soft smile on his face did not match the tight grip on your shoulders. You winced a little at that as you frowned at his words.
“I’ll be seeing you later then, Sweetpea.” Jungkook bid, ignoring your obvious wince, and with that, he went out of the room. The heavy atmosphere which you only felt, thickens. It was always like this, tense, making it hard to breathe but it was almost as if you’re the only one feeling it. Or maybe they also feel it, they just don’t want anything to do with it.
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Taehyung and Jimin leaned far over the railings, looking down at the sea. In the glassy bow-wave, two dolphins appeared, under the water, swimming fast like the ship, just in front of the steel blade of the prow. They do it for the sheer joy and exultation of motion. Taehyung watched the dolphins and grinned. The breach, jumping clear of the water and then diving back, crisscrossing in front of the bow, dancing ahead of the juggernaut. Jimin grinned and looked up ahead as he pointed to the horizon.
“I can already see the Statue of Liberty, albeit small though.” He said cheekily as Taehyung chuckled. The latter climbed up the railings, letting go of the ropes and cheered loudly as possible, “I’m the king of the world!” 
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“…and our master shipbuilder, Mr. Andrews here, designed her from the keel plates up.” An old handsome man, Ismay, talked but you didn’t listen. The table was surrounded by people of your kind, rich people.
Ismay seated with Jungkook, you, (M/N), Molly Brown and Thomas Andrews in the Palm Court, a beautiful sunny spot enclosed by high arched windows.
“Well, I may have knocked her together, but the idea was Mr. Ismay’s. He envisioned a steamer so grand in scale, and so luxurious in its appointments, that its supremacy would never be challenged. And here she is, willed into solid reality!” Andrews said, slapping the table, not used to the attention he was getting.
“Why are ships always being’ called “she”? Is it because men think half the women around have big sterns and should be weighed in tonnage?” Molly asked as the table laughed at that except for you, who awkwardly smiled.
“Just another example of the men settin’ the rules their way.” She added. After a while, the waiter came to take orders. You took out your cigarette holder, bored and anxious, you lit it, inhaling the smoke. 
(M/N) glared at you and said, “You know, I don’t like that (Y/N).” 
Jungkook stopped mid-sip of his brandy and narrowed his eyes at you, who ignored them.
“She knows,” Jungkook said firmly, taking the cigarette away and putting it out quickly. You glared at your fiance who was now ignoring you, talking to the waiter on their side.
“We’ll both have the lamb. Rare, with a little mint sauce.” He said, the waiter nodded and went back to give their order to the chef. Jungkook then finally turned to you and uttered out with a smile like nothing happened, “You like lamb, don’t you Sweetpea?” 
Molly, who was watching the dynamic between them smiled sarcastically at Jungkook who caught her gaze.
“You’re going to cut her meat for her too there, Kook?” and before he could answer, she swiftly turned to Ismay and asked a question.
“Hey, who came up with the name Titanic? You, Bruce?”
Ismay nodded, “Yes, actually. I wanted to convey the sheer size. And size means stability, luxury, and strength–”
“Do you know of Dr. Freud? His ideas about the male preoccupation with size might be of particular interest to you, Mr. Ismay.” You commented while Andrews chuckled, trying to preoccupy his attention with the soup in front of him. 
“My God, (Y/N). What has gotten into–” (M/N) said but you stood up and excused yourself, stalking away.
(M/N) looked back to the embarrassed man with a horrified look on her face, “I’m terribly sorry for that.”
Molly smirked and looked at Jungkook, “She’s a piston, Kook. Sure you can handle her?” 
Jungkook smiled back at her, tense but he acted unconcerned, “Well, I may have to start minding what she reads from now on, Mrs. Brown.”
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Taehyung sat at one of the benches in the deck, bathing in the warm glow of the sun, Titanic’s wake spreads out behind him to the horizon. He had his knees pulled up, supporting a leather-bound sketching pad, his only valuable possession which was filled with his pieces. With a Conte crayon, he draws rapidly, using sure strokes. 
A man has his 3-year-old daughter standing on the lower rung of the rail. She leaned back against his beer barrel of a stomach, watching the seagulls, as he explains how the propeller works. The sketch captures them perfectly, with a great sense of the humanity of the moment. Taehyung is good. Really good. Jimin looks over Taehyung’s shoulder. He nods appreciatively, smiling.
Yoongi, a scowling young man watching the crewmember coming by, walking three small dogs around the deck. One of them, a black french bulldog, and Yoongi thought that it was among the ugliest creatures on the planet.
“That’s typical. First-class dogs comin’ down here to take a shit.” He growled with a deep scowl. Taehyung looked up from his sketch and smiled sarcastically at him.
“That’s so we know where we rank in the scheme of things.” He said making the blond man looked at him, his scowl faltering a bit. 
Yoongi chuckled deeply from his chest at the poor reality, “As if we could forget.” 
Taehyung replied with his own chuckle and introduced himself to the man, “Kim Taehyung, nice to meet you”
The pale and shorter blond male grasped his hand in a firm hold and shook it gently, “Min Yoongi. Likewise.” 
Taehyung nodded with a smile, happy that he made a new friend. He then let his big brown eyes wander across the deck but he stopped. He stared at the beautiful young woman with softly curled (h/n) hair and a baby pink silhouette dress. Taehyung was unable to take his eyes off of the young woman, he continued his staring.
They were across from each other, about 60 feet apart, with the well-deck like a valley between them. You were on your promontory, he on his much lower one. You stared down at the water with an unreadable look on your face. Taehyung watched you unpin your elaborate hat and take it off. You looked at the frilly absurd thing, then tossed it over the rail as it sailed far down to the water and was carried away, astern, a spot of pink in the vast ocean. He was riveted by you. You looked like the main heroine in a romantic novel, sad and isolated. 
Jimin taps Yoongi on the shoulder as they both looked at Taehyung who was enamored and in awe at the sight of the young lady on the upper portion of the ship. They both grinned, shaking their heads at the young artist.
You turned suddenly and looks right at Taehyung. He was caught staring, but he didn’t look away though his heart was beating a bit too wildly. You did, though, looked away but looked back at him after a while, your eyes met across the space of the well-deck, across the gulf between two different worlds. 
Taehyung then saw a young man wearing a slick suit, complementing his looks, walking towards you, grasping your arm in his hand. You jerked away from him as you two argued in pantomime. The beautiful lady stalked away after a bit, leaving the man alone with himself for a second or so, looking agitated, but he goes after you, disappearing along the A-deck promenade. Taehyung stared after you, dazed.
Yoongi scoffed at the young man and said, “Forget it, boyo. You’d likely have angels fly out of your ass than getting next to the likes of her.” 
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You looked into empty space as you sat on the round table, flanked by people in a heated conversation. Jungkook and (M/N) laughing together, while on the other side Lady Duff-Gordon was holding forth animatedly. You didn’t hear what they were saying, staring at your plate, barely listening to the inconsequential babble around you. Beneath the table, you held a tiny fork from your crab salad. Poking the fork into your skin, harder and harder every time, drawing blood. Mind in chaos, your emotions all over the place. 
After the party-dinner, you walked towards your room, smiling at the passing people politely. You were composed, nothing like what you were feeling inside. When you got to your room, you closed the door. Standing in the middle of the room, looking at your reflection. You stood there, just looking at yourself with hatred, self-hatred. And then–
A primal, anguished cry claws at your throat. You ripped off your pearl necklace, which explodes, the pearls flying across the room. In a frenzy, you tore at yourself, your clothes, your hair then attacked the room. You fling everything off the dresser as it flies, clattering against the wall with a loud sound. Hurling a hand mirror against the vanity, it cracked violently. You looked around the room, panting deeply, and glaring at the ruined room as it matches with your mind.
You ran out of the room, shoving the people away from you as tears rolled down your pretty face. You ran along the B deck promenade, disheveled, your hair flying and sticking out from the immaculate hairstyle you wore all evening. Your cheeks streaked with tears but you were also angry, furious even! Shaking with emotions you didn’t even understand… hatred, self-hatred, desperation. A strolling couple watched you pass them, shocked at the emotional display in public. 
On the deck, Taehyung lay on one of the benches gazing at the stars blazing gloriously above him an ethereal pattern for everyone to see as he thinks artist thoughts. He smoked a cigarette, blowing a small mist into the cold air, slowly disappearing after a while. 
Taehyung’s eyebrows furrowed when he heard footsteps nearing him, he sat up and looked around. You run up the stairs from the well-deck, you two were the only ones on the stern deck, except for Quartermaster Rowe, twenty feet above them on the docking bridge catwalk. You, though, didn’t see the red-headed male in the shadows and ran right past him.
You run across the deserted fantail, breath hitching in an occasional sob that escaped from your quivering lips, which you tried to suppress but to no avail. You slam against the base of the stern flagpole and cling there, panting. You stared down at the black water, voices whispering to you to do something, to end your misery.
The disheveled young woman started to climb over the railing, hitching your long heavy dress up and climbed clumsily, almost slipping. Moving carefully when you got out, you turn your body and getting your heels on the white-painted gunwale, your back facing the railings, facing out towards the darkness of the night. 60 feet below you, the massive propellers are churning them into white foam, and a ghostly wake trails off toward the horizon. 
You straightened your arms a bit, leaning forward to the empty air, looking down. Your dress and hair were lifted by the wind of the ship’s movements. The only sound you heard, above the rush of water below, was the flutter and snap of the big Union Jack right above you. 
“Don’t do it.” A deep and firm voice called out. You gasped and looked back, tears blocking your vision from seeing clearly.
“Stay back! Don’t come any closer!” You shouted, more tears welling up. Taehyung saw the tear streaks on your cheeks in the faint glow of the lights and frowned slightly at the sight. 
“Take my hand, I’ll pull you back in.” 
Your eyebrows furrowed at that and snapped back, “No! Stay where you are! I mean it! Or I’ll let go!” 
Taehyung stared at your desperate eyes, screaming for help. He shook his head.
“No, you won’t” 
The young (L/N) frowned, “What do you mean ‘no I won't’? Don’t presume to tell me what I will and will not do. You don’t know me.”
Taehyung shook his head again, his red hair swaying a bit at the movement, “You would have done it already. Come on, take my hand.” 
You were confused, you couldn’t see him very well due to the tears and from the faint light. You were about to wipe your tears with one hand to see better but almost slipped so you went back to grasping the rail bars tightly, facing away from Taehyung.
“You’re distracting me, go away!” 
Taehyun smiled softly at her, “I can’t. I’m involved now. If you jump, I’ll jump in after you” 
You scoffed at the idea, “That’s absurd! You’ll kill yourself.” 
Taehyung shook his head, taking off his jacket, “Don’t worry, I’m a good swimmer.” After that, he starts undoing his boot’s shoelace.   
“The fall alone will kill you,” You jabbed
“It would hurt, I’m not saying it wouldn’t. To be honest I’m a lot more concerned about the water being so cold.” Taehyung replied making you look down to the dark waters, reality slowly sinking in. You looked back at him, a frown playing on your lips.
“How cold?” You stammered out, looking back at Taehyung 
“Freezing. Maybe a couple of degrees over.” He said, unlacing his other shoe after removing the other one.
“Ever been to Daegu?” the male asked
You gave the man an odd look, the normality of the question perplexed you as you shook your head, “No…”
“Well they have some of the coldest winters around, and I grew up there. Once when I was a kid me and my father were ice-fishing out on lake… ice-fishing is where you chop a hole in the–” 
“I know what ice-fishing is!” 
Taehyung smiled sheepishly at you, “Sorry. Just… you look like more of an indoor girl. Anyway, I went through some thin ice and I’m tellin’ ya, water is that cold… like that right down there… it hits you like a thousand knives all over your body. You can’t breathe, you can’t think… least not about anything but the pain.”
He then sighed and continued, “Which is why I’m not looking forward to jumping in after you. But like I said, I don’t see a choice. I guess I’m kinda hoping you’ll come back over the rail and get me off the hook here.”
You stared at him with a confused and weirded-out look, “You’re crazy…”
“That’s what everybody says but with all due respect, Miss, I’m not the one hanging off the back of a ship here,” Taehyung replied. He then went closer to you slowly, testing the waters.
“Come on. You don’t want to do this. Give me your hand.” He said, offering his hand to the young woman. You stared at him as if he escaped from the madhouse but when you finally saw his eyes clearly, it seemed to fill your universe. There was pure warmth swimming within them, swallowing you whole that you almost forgot the cold air nipping on your skin.
“O-Okay…” You muttered, grabbing his hand gently. Taehyung held your hand firmly, feeling the soft cold skin on his.
“I’m Taehyung. Kim Taehyung”
You turned around with his help and with a quavering voice, you replied, “Nice to meet you, Mr. Kim” 
The male smiled at you while you started to step out, now that you have decided to live, the height absolutely terrified you. Overcome by vertigo as you shifted your footing, climbing up. As you start to climb out with the help of Taehyung, your dress got in your way and one foot slips off the edge of the deck, making you lose your footing.
You plunge down quickly, letting out a piercing shriek. Taehyung gasped at the sudden movement but quickly grasped your hand firmer than before, the sudden weight made him jerked toward the rail painfully. You barely grabbed the lower rail with your free hand, gasping as your heartbeat wildly inside your ribcage. Looking at the male, your frightened look made Taehyung gripped you tightly.
“Help! PLEASE!”
The Quartermaster Rowe, up on the docking bridge heard the scream and headed for the ladder, alarmed.  
Taehyung bit his lips, his arms straining at the pull of gravity on you two. He let out a tired, “I got you. Don’t worry. I got you…” 
Taehyung holds your hand with all his strength, bracing himself on the railing with his other hand. While the man held you, you tried to get some kind of foothold on the smooth hull. Taehyung tries to lift your body over the railing as he felt his arms getting tired. You couldn’t get any footing in your dress and evening shoes, and you slipped a little from Taehyung’s grip making you scream, scared to death at the feeling of no solid ground beneath your feet. 
The young male awkwardly clutched you by whatever he can get a grip on as you flail, gravity pulling you down. Miraculously, he finally gets you over the railing. You two fell together onto the deck in a tangled heap, spinning in such a way that Taehyung winds up slightly on top of you as your breaths ragged because of the terrifying moment.
The Quartermaster Rowe got down to the deck and ran to the fantail then saw the tangled couple on the deck floor.
“Hey, what’s all this?!” 
The Rowe ran towards you two and pulled Taehyung away from you, his eyes widening when he saw you, a disheveled and crying aristocrat. Your dress was torn from all the kicking, and the hem was pushing up above your knees, showing one ripped stocking. He looks at Taehyung, a shaggy steerage man with his jacket off, and the first-class lady clearly in distress, and started to draw conclusions. Two seamen chug across the deck to join them. 
The Rowe glared at Taehyung and said, “You! Stand back! Don’t move an inch!” then looked at the two seamen and quickly ordered them
“You two! Fetch the Master at Arms” which the two men quickly did and ran back. Taehyung gaped at the Rowe and shook his head, “N-No! It’s not what it looks like!” 
“Shut up, vermin!” 
A few minutes later. Taehyung was being detained by the burly Master at Arms the closest thing to a cop on board the ship. He was handcuffing Taehyung while Jungkook was right in front of Taehyung, and he was furious. He has obviously just rushed out here with Lovejoy and another man, his friend and business partner, Jung Hoseok and none of them have coats over their black-tie evening dress. Hoseok, a businessman Jungkook was talking to earlier, a handsome man who still has his brandy snifter offered it to you, who was hunched over crying on a nearby bench, but you waved it away. Jungkook was more concerned with Taehyung, he grabbed him by the lapels, glowering at him. 
Jungkook was absolutely furious! How dare this peasant touch his fiance! You were only his to touch, who does this rat think he is! The nerve of this poor man touching another man’s property, he should have his head on a plate for what he did!
“What made you think you could put your hands on my fiance?!” Taehyung ignored the male, observing you in the corners of his eyes. Jungkook noticed this and scowled at Taehyung.
“Look at me, you filth! What did you think you were doing?!” The young aristocrat shouted at Taehyung, his grip tightening on his lapels. The redheaded male pursed his lips in anger, trying to control his emotions, locking eyes with the glaring aristocrat
You frowned at that, exhausted. You stood up and moved closer to the two, trying to tug away Jungkook’s tight grip on Taehyung’s straps.
“Kook, stop! It was an accident!” 
Jungkook turned to you and laughed sarcastically, “Accident? Really? That’s the stupidest thing I heard-!” 
You bit your lip, your ears burning in embarrassment to what you will say next, “It is stupid but it’s true! I was leaning over and… I slipped” 
The young woman made eye contact with Taehyung for a second before looking back at Jungkook. 
“I was leaning way over, to see the… ah… propellers. And I slipped and I would have gone overboard… and Mr. Kim here saved me and he almost went over himself.” You explained making Jungkook loosen his grip on Taehyung’s lapels. The young aristocrat looked at you in disbelief.
“T-The propellers? You wanted to see the propellers?”
The Hoseok sighed at (Y/N)’s words, “Women and machinery do not mix well.” 
The Master of Arms looked at Taehyung with an untrusting look on his face still, “Is that the way it is?” 
Taehyung glanced at you, your eyes begging to not tell them what really happened earlier and nodded without hesitation, turning to the man. 
“Uh-huh. that was pretty much it.” 
Taehyung then looked back at you, eyes looking a bit longer, taking your features in. Now you two have a secret together.
The Hoseok smiled a bit and patted Taehyung’s back, “Well! The boy’s a hero then. Good for you son, well done!” He then turned to Jungkook who was staring at Taehyung with a hint of a small scowl on his handsome face. 
“So it’s all’s well and back to our brandy, eh?” He added and Jungkook nodded a bit. Taehyung then was uncuffed by the Master of Arms while Jungkook held you in his arms, feeling your cold skin with his hands. 
“Let’s get you in. You’re freezing.“ He muttered to you, leading you away and leaving without a second thought for Taehyung. Jung Hoseok looked back to Taehyung and called out to Jungkook, “Maybe something for the boy.”
Jungkook and you not getting too far away when the former heard what Hoseok said, he looked at Taehyung then to his personal servant, Lovejoy.
“Oh, right. Mr. Lovejoy, a twenty should do it.”
You frowned softly at him and said, “Is that the going rate for saving the woman you love?” 
Jungkook raised a brow at that, looking at his fiance’s tired but still beautiful face. He stared deep into your eyes and pursed his lips a bit. 
“(Y/N) is displeased. What to do…”  Jungkook tutted and turned back to Taehyung. He appraises him condescendingly, a steerage ruffian, unwashed and ill-mannered. Born and destined die as a waste, nothing worthwhile.
“I know” He muses and smiled tightly at Taehyung. “Perhaps you could join us for dinner tomorrow, to regale our group with your heroic tale?” Jungkook added.
Taehyung was about to decline but then his eyes turned to (Y/N) and agreed without thinking. 
“Sure. Count me in.”
Jungkook nodded, “Good. That’s settled then” Kook turned to go, putting a protective arm around you, walking away with Hoseok following and the other workers going back to their posts, leaving Taehyung and Lovejoy.
Taehyung turned to the manservant who was about to follow his master, “Can I bum a cigarette?”
Lovejoy smoothly draws a silver cigarette case from his jacket and snapped it open. Taehyung took a cigarette, then another, popping it behind his ear for later. Lovejoy lights Taehyung’s cigarette with an indifferent look. Jungkook’s manservant let his eyes trail the male and locked with his unlaced boots.
“You’ll want to tie those.” Taehyung followed where Lovejoy was looking and stared at his unlaced boots.
“Interesting that the young lady slipped so mighty all of a sudden and you still had time to take off your jacket and shoes. Mmmm?” Lovejoy retorted as his expression was bland, but eyes, cold. He turned away to join his master. Taehyung sighed, arching his neck and holding it with one hand while blowing a cloud of smoke out, tired.
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You sat in your vanity, looking at yourself and changed clothes for bed. In the corner of the mirror cracked, you saw Jungkook enter the room. The male looked at the disarrayed room with a frown. Your fiance slowly walked towards you. 
“I know you’ve been melancholy, and I don’t pretend to know why,” Jungkook whispered, unexpectedly tender. From behind his back, he handed you a large black velvet jewel case, you took it, numbly.
“I intended to save this until the engagement next week. But I thought tonight, perhaps a reminder of my feelings for you…”
You slowly opened the box, your eyes widened at the sight of the necklace inside, in all its glory. It was huge, a malevolent blue stone glittering with an infinity of scalpel-like inner reflections. 
“My God… Jungkook. Is it a–” 
Jungkook smiled at your reaction, happy with it, and nodded. “Yes, it is a diamond. 56 carats.”
He takes the necklace and places it around your throat. He turns you to the mirror, staring from behind you. 
“It was once worn by Louis XVI. They call it Le Coeur de la Mer, the–”
“Heart of the Ocean… Jungkook, it-it’s overwhelming.”
Jungkook stared at your reflection in the mirror, admiring the way the necklace complimented your soft (s/c) skin.
“It is for royalty. and we are royalty, (Y/N)” His fingers caressed your neck and throat. He seems to be disarmed by your elegance and beauty. His emotions, for the first time, unguarded. The wall he built for years crumbling in your presence. 
“There’s nothing I wouldn’t and couldn’t give you. There’s nothing I’d deny you in this world. Just open your heart to me, (Y/N).”
You looked at yourself, the necklace heavy on your neck. In your eyes, it was not a necklace but a dog collar. Something that will bind you more to Jungkook. A collar that proves his ownership of you.
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As the next morning came, you walked into the sunlight right in front of the deck. You were stunningly dressed and walked with purpose. You carried yourself with dignity and elegance. You unlatched the gate to go down into the third class. The steerage men on the deck stopped what they were doing and stared at you, confused and in awe of your beauty.
The social center of steerage life was stark by comparison to the opulence of the first-class, it was a loud, boisterous place. There are mothers with babies, kids running between the benches, yelling in several languages and being scolded in several more. There are also old women yelling, men playing chess, girls doing needlepoint and reading dime novels. There was even an upright piano and Yoongi was playing around it.
Three boys were shrieking and shouting, scrambling around to chase a rat under the benches, trying to whomp it with a shoe and causing general havoc. Taehyung was playing with a 5-year-old girl, drawing funny faces together in his sketchbook. Jimin on the other side was struggling to get a conversation going with an attractive Norwegian girl sitting with her family at a table across the room.
“English? Maybe Korean?” 
The Norwegian shook her head and said with a heavy accent, “No, no. Norwegian. Only.“
The woman’s eyes caught something in the room, looking at it with surprise. Jimin followed where she was looking and did a double-take. Taehyung who saw Jimin’s expression also followed, curious, and saw you, coming toward them. The activity in the room stops, a hush falls. 
You suddenly felt self-conscious as the steerage passengers stared openly at this princess, some with resentment, others with awe. You spot Taehyung and gave a little smile, walking straight to him. He rises from his seat to meet you, smiling. 
“Hello Taehyung” 
Jimin and Yoongi were floored. It’s like the moment when the slipper fits Cinderella. The two did not believe that this princess was here in the third-class deck and talking to Taehyung.
“Hello again” Taehyung soothed. You then looked around, the people never removing their eyes on you. You smiled sheepishly and turned back to look at him.
“Could I speak to you in private?”
Taehyung tilted his head, confused, but nonetheless nodded, “Of course. After you.”
He motions you ahead and follows. Taehyung glanced over his shoulder, one eyebrow raised, meeting the eyes of his friends as he walks out with you leaving a stunned silence behind.
Taehyung and you walked side by side in the A-deck. Passing people reading and talking in steamer chairs, some of whom glanced curiously at the mismatched couple. He feels out of place in his rough clothes. They are both awkward, for different reasons. 
“So um. You got a name?” 
You looked at him and nodded. “(Y/N) (m/n) (L/N)” 
Taehyung stared at you, joking a bit, he said “That’s quite a mouthful. Gotta write that down later.” 
You, though, did not laugh nor looked amused, looking nervous. The air was filled with an awkward silence. 
“Mr.Kim–” You started but Taehyung cut you off
“Taehyung” He corrected 
“Taehyung… I feel like such an idiot. It took me all morning to get up the nerve to face you.”
The male smiled at you, trying to ease some tense air around them, “But here you are.” 
“Here I am. I… I want to thank you for what you did. Not just for… for pulling me back. But for your discretion.” You recalled as you two walked through the open hall.
“You’re welcome, (Y/N)”
You sighed, frustrated. “Look, I know what you must be thinking. Poor little rich girl. What does she know about misery?“ 
Taehyung stopped walking and looked at you with furrowed brows making you stop too. 
“That’s not what I was thinking. What I was thinking was… what could have happened to hurt this girl so much she thought she had no way out.“
You bit your lips at his reply, trying to blink tears away, and turned around. “I don’t… it wasn’t just one thing. It was everything. It was them, it was their whole world. And I was trapped in it, like an insect in amber.” You walked away making Taehyung follow. 
“I just had to get away… just run and run and run… and then I was at the back rail and there was no more ship… even the Titanic wasn’t big enough. Not enough to get away from them. And before I’d really thought about it, I was over the rail. I was so furious. I’ll show them. They’ll be sorry!”
Taehyung sighed at your words, “Uh-huh. They’ll be sorry. You’ll be dead”
You stopped and lowered your head. Eyes tearing up, trying to suppress it. 
“Oh God, I am such an utter fool.” You lamented, Taehyung going up beside you. 
“That penguin last night, is he one of them?” The red-head asked with a quirk of his eyebrow. It was then your turn to furrowed your brows, looking at the male who was waiting for your answer.  
“Penguin? Oh, Jungkook. Yes, he is one of them.” 
Taehyung hummed, “Is he your boyfriend?“ 
You chuckled humorlessly, “I’m afraid it is something worse.” and showed Taehyung your engagement ring, the sizable diamond shining in the light. The male whistled lowly at the sight of it. 
“God, look at the size of that thing! You would’ve gone straight to the bottom.” He let out but you did not laugh, still in your thoughts. A passing steward scowls at Taehyung, who is clearly not a first-class passenger, but you just glared at him and he walked away.
“So you feel like you’re stuck on a train you can’t get off ‘cause you’re marryin’ this fella.“ Taehyung stated, after clearing his throat when the awkward silence won’t disappear, which you agreed to. 
“Yes, exactly!” 
“Then don’t marry him.” 
You sighed at Taehyung’s blunt answer and shook your head. 
“If only it were that simple.” You let out
The male replied with a, “It is that simple.”
 The young lady looked at Taehyung and frowned at him then looked down to the floor. 
“Do you love him?” He asked another question making the lady glared at him
“That’s rude. You shouldn’t even be asking me this. Do not judge me. You haven’t seen my world.” 
He raised a brow at that and muttered, “Why can’t you just answer the question?” You laughed nervously and fakely as you tried to get away from the male who followed you. 
You then looked back at him and said, “This is absurd! You don’t know me and I don’t know you and we are not having this conversation at all.”
“You are rude and uncouth, and presumptuous. And I am leaving now.” You added, anger and embarrassment filling you.
Taehyung stared at the rumbling woman in front of him with amusement, a teasing smile on his face as he got the answer to his question. 
“Taehyung… Mr.Kim. It has been a pleasure.” You bid, emphasizing on Mr.Kim and shook his hand. 
“I sought you out to thank you now I have thanked you–” 
“And you’ve insulted me.” Taehyung cut off, with an amused look. You smiled tensely and replied, “Well you deserved it.” 
“Right” Taehyung mused out
“Right.” You repeated with furrowed brows. Your hands still connected and shaking. Taehyung looked down at their moving hands with a small smile and looked up back again.
“I thought you were leaving?”
You realized and removed your hand away from him, clearing your throat, turning back around to walk away.
“I am.” With a tight smile still on your face, annoyed.
You turned around to face Taehyung, stopping on your tracks to go back to him, and said, “You are so annoying.” 
Taehyung chuckled at your words as you started to walk away again. You then realized something and looked at Taehyung who was just standing there, watching you pace around with an amused smile as his hands were in his pockets.
“Wait.” You said a frown present on your beautiful face. You walked closer to him.
“I don’t have to leave. This is my part of the ship. You leave.” You argued, pointing to the other side as you faced Taehyung who looked down at you, smile still intact.
Taehyung laughed sarcastically at you and leaned against the rope beside him, “Oho-ho-ho! Well, well, well. Now who’s being rude”
You opened your mouth to retort, shocked at the male’s words. You chuckled out in disbelief. The topic annoying you, wanting to change it immediately. The brown leather sketchbook caught your eye and you took it from him.
“What’s this stupid thing you’re carrying around anyway?” You asked, agitated making Taehyung look at his sketchbook and shrugged. 
You flipped through the pages and paused, looking up to Taehyung who stared down at you, the height difference between you two showing.
“What are you? An artist or something?” You asked, flipping through more of the pages and walked to the benches.
“Well… These are rather good…” You commented with a softening voice, admiring his works. Taehyung followed and sat next to you, watching you while you scanned through the pages. 
“They’re very good actually…” You added. Taehyung’s sketches were each one an expressive little bit of humanity: an old woman’s hands, a sleeping man, a father, and daughter at the rail. The faces are luminous and alive. His book was a celebration of the human condition. 
The young lady looked back up at Taehyung and said, “Taehyung, these are exquisite works” with awe in your voice
“Well, they didn’t think too much of 'em in Paree,” Taehyung replied, a small smile in his pink lips. 
“Paris? Huh, you do go around for a poor–” You stopped your words, looking at Taehyung with shame on your face. 
“I mean… For a person with limited means–” 
Taehyung chuckled at your words, “It’s okay, you can say it. A poor guy.” 
You didn’t reply, ashamed of yourself though Taehyung seemed to not mind it one bit. You flipped through the pages of his sketchbook when…
“Well well” 
You came upon a series of nudes. You transfixed by the languid beauty he has created. His drawings of these naked women were soulful, real, with expressive hands and eyes. They feel more like portraits than studies of the human form almost uncomfortably intimate. You blushed, raising the book as some strollers go by, hiding it from their view. 
You cleared your throat, “And these were drawn from life?“ 
Taehyung nodded, amused at the young lady’s reaction. 
“Yup. That’s one of the great things about Paris. Lots of girls are willing to take their clothes off.“ 
You didn’t reply to his words but continued to flip on the pages of the sketchbook. 
“You liked this woman. You used her several times.” 
Now it was Taehyung’s turn to turn bashful, stumbling on his words at first as he tried to explain it to the young aristocrat
 “N-Nothing like that. You see, she has beautiful hands.” Taehyung said, pointing to the drawing of her hands to emphasize his point. The lady just hummed in response, teasing the young artist.
“I think you must have had a love affair with her…“ You teased, smiling at him cheekily. Taehyung laughed at that, shaking his head at the sudden playfulness of the young lady.
“No, no! Just her hands.“ 
(Y/N) looked down at the drawings as Taehyung explained further, “She was a one-legged prostitute, you see” 
He flipped to another page as you ‘ugh’-ed ghastly at the image, Taehyung laughing at your reaction. 
“Oh…”
“She has a good sense of humor, though” He added. Then he seemed to remember something and turned the page once again, “Oh and this lady”
“She used to sit at this bar every night with every piece of jewelry she owned, just waiting for her long lost love” Taehyung explained as you looked at the drawing of a ragged woman with fancy jewelry on her clothes and skin. 
“Called her Madame Bijou,” He said making the (h/c) haired lady look at him. 
“Look how her clothes are all moth-eaten” the artist added. You chuckled at that. Taehyung was quiet for a bit, admiring the woman beside him as you admire his drawings and with a whisper, you uttered out, 
“You really do have a gift Taehyung. You can see people.” 
You looked at him with a small smile. Taehyung gazed at you in return, a smile on his lips.
“I see you” 
That stare his eyes magnetic and pulled you in without warning. Your eyes, though, turned coy and rivaled his magnetic stare with your own.
 You smirked a bit and asked, “And?” 
Taehyung stared at you with a serious look, “You wouldn’t have jumped”
Your smirk fell at his words, your face turning sour as thoughts rapidly run into your mind.
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You and Taehyung strolled down the aft, passing people who were relaxing on the deck chairs, bathing in the soft glow of the sunset.
“You know, my dream has always been to just chuck it all and become an artist… Living in a garret, poor but free” The young lady muttered with a soft voice, a wistful smile on your pink lips.
“You wouldn’t last two days. There’s no hot water, and hardly ever any caviar” Taehyung teased, a smirk appearing, but you got angry, spinning around to face the male.
“Listen here, buster. I hate my caviar! And I’m sick and tired of people dismissing my dreams with a chuckle and a pat on the head” You said out with a small glare.
Taehyung’s eyes widened at that, not meaning to upset you, “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean it like that.” 
You softened your glare when you saw Taehyung’s face and nodded, “Well, alright. I don’t know what it is but there’s something in me, Taehyung. Whether I should be an artist, or, I don’t know…. a dancer. Like Isadora Duncan…. a wild pagan spirit…” You trailed off, looking at the beautiful sunset. It was a magical moment, the glow making you look more ethereal than ever as Taehyung gazed upon you with a soft look.
“Why can’t I be like you, Taehyung? Just head out for the horizon whenever I feel like it.” You smiled, looking shortly to the male to smile at him before going back to admire the setting sun.
“Well it wasn’t easy at first but you’ll get used to it and it was beautiful. There was this pier and I always sell my artworks there for 10 cents apiece.” Taehyung replied, breaking his daze, now looking at the sun. You looked back at him, a smile on your face as dimples appeared on your cheeks ever so softly. 
“Say we’ll go to that pier. Even if we only ever talked about it.” You said with a grin and Taehyung thought for a moment, a soft smile on his face
“No, we’ll do it. We’ll drink cheap beer. We’ll ride on a rollercoaster till we throw up” Taehyung listed down, You giggled at his ideas.
“And we’ll ride horses on the beach, right on the surf. But we have to ride it like a real cowboy. None of that sidesaddle stuff!” He added making you look at him in disbelief as big and bright smiles rest on both of your faces. 
“You mean, one leg on each side?” You asked in astonishment. Taehyung nodded with a laugh.
“Can you show me?” You asked with a bashful smile.
Taehyung nodded easily, returning your shy grin, “Sure… If you like.” 
You then have this determined look on your face as you exclaimed, “Teach me how to ride like a man!” 
The male couldn’t help but laugh, “And chew tobacco like a man,” He said with this adorable western cowboy accent you ever heard. You giggled, adding, “And spit like a man!” Copying his accent
“They didn’t teach you that in finishing school?” Taehyung asked sarcastically with a teasing quirk of his dark eyebrow.
You laughed at his words, “No”
He smirked and grabbed you, pulling you with him.
“Come on, I’ll show you!”
Your eyes widened in fear and thrill while he pulled you along the side, walking to the railing.
“What?! Taehyung, no!”
“Come on!”
“Taehyung–!”
“It’s easy!”
“I couldn’t possibly–”
Taehyung looked at you and smirked, “Watch closely” and spit, it arched over the water. You were impressed, disgusted, but also wanted to laugh so badly when Taehyung looked back at you with the cutest smile as if he did not just spit on the water
“That’s disgusting!” You exclaimed but your smile did not waver
“Alright, your turn!” He chirped a boxy grin still intact on his face.
You looked around to see if anyone was watching then turned to the railing and spit, quite pathetically.
“That’s pitiful! Come on, you really have to hawk it back. Get some leverage to it!” Taehyung instructed, facing forward as he demonstrates it with you following his actions
You hawk and spat, a little arch going at it as it fell in the water. Taehyung nodded, “Well that’s better but you really have to hawk it out” 
“Really? That’s better?”
Taehyung nodded, a smile on his face when he heard your hopeful voice. You turned to him, your face alight but suddenly you blanch. He saw your expression and turned around. (M/n), a Countess and Molly Brown has been watching you two hawk out spit to the water. You became composed, instantly, looking at your mother and stepping away from Taehyung a bit, smiling to the women.
“Mother… May I introduce, Kim Taehyung”
An awkward and tense silence filled the air while (M/N) studied Taehyung with a disgusted look on her aged face.
“Charmed, I’m sure” (M/n) replied after a while still looking at Taehyung. Taehyung has a little spit on his chin which he quickly wiped off, Molly grinned at him. (M/n) did not look amused and looked at him as if he was a bug, a dangerous one that should be squashed immediately. 
“Well, Taehyung, it sounds like you’re a good man to have around in a sticky spot–” Molly said but was cut off by the bell of their meal call.
“Why do they insist on always announcing dinner like a damn cavalry charge?” She added making you smile a bit tightly.
“Shall we go get dressed, Mother?” You asked your mother then you turned to Taehyung, “I’ll see you later, Taehyung”
They walked away to the other side, Taehyung heard (M/N) scold her daughter “(Y/N), look at you! Out in the sun with no hat! Honestly!” 
The Countess exits with (M/N) and you leaving Taehyung and Molly on the deck. Molly looked at Taehyung and said, “Son, do you have the slightest comprehension of what you’re doing?” 
Taehyung looked at the older woman after he finished gazing at your fleeting back, “Not really” he said, cheekily. A smile, still prominent on his handsome face.
“Well, you’re about to go into the snakepit, I hope you’re ready. What are you planning to wear?” Molly asked as Taehyung looked down to his clothes then back at her, his smile faltering. 
“I figured. Come on” Molly sighed out as she grabbed his arm and dragged him away
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Men’s suits and jackets and formal wear are strewn all over the place. Molly, having a fine time. Taehyung was dressed, except for his jacket, and Molly was tying his bow tie.
“Don’t feel bad about it. My husband still can’t tie one of these damn things after 20 years… There you go.” 
She picks up a jacket off the bed and hands it to him. Taehyung put on the jacket with Molly’s help, “I was right! You and my son are just about the same size” She said, smiling at Taehyung who returned it gratefully, looking at himself in the mirror. 
“Very nice~,” He said, admiring the entirely different man in the mirror. He turned to Molly and smiled at her, gratefully. 
“Thank you, Miss Molly” Taehyung uttered
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Drifting strains of classical music were heard even from a couple feet away from the main entrance. By Edwardian standards, Taehyung looks stunningly beautiful and blended in with the stuck-up crowd. Dashing in his borrowed white-tie outfit, right down to his pearl studs.
A steward bows and smartly opened the door to the First Class Entrance, “Good evening, sir.” 
Taehyung played the role smoothly, nodding at the steward with just the right degree of disdain. 
The handsome, newly well-dressed male steps in and his breath were taken away by the splendor spread out before him. Overhead is the enormous glass dome, with a crystal chandelier at its center, glowing a beautiful golden light. Sweeping down six stories is the First Class Grand Staircase, the epitome of the opulent naval architecture of the time.
And the people, the women in their floor-length dresses, elaborate hairstyles, and abundant jewelry and the gentlemen in evening dress, standing beside their women with one hand at the small of the back, talking quietly.
Taehyung descends to the A-deck, several men nodded a perfunctory greeting. He nods back, keeping it simple. He felt like a spy, on an important mission, to save his lady from the villain.
Jungkook comes down the stairs, with (M/N) on his arm, the two covered with expensive jewelry. They both walk right past Taehyung, neither one recognizing him. Jungkook nodded at him, one gent to another, but Taehyung barely had time to be amused. Because just behind Jungkook and (M/N) on the stairs was you, a vision in red and black, your low-cut dress showing off your neck, that was adorned by a shiny necklace, and shoulders, your arms sheathed in white gloves that come well above the elbow. Taehyung was hypnotized by your beauty, stealing a breath from him.
You saw Taehyung, his usual messy red hair was slicked back as it showed his handsome face. You smiled at the man, walking towards him, one hand hitching your dress a bit. He imitates the gentlemen’s stance, hand behind his back and stretched out the other to you. You extended your gloved hand and he takes it, kissing the back of your hand. You were flushed, beaming noticeably. You can’t take your eyes off him. Your heart beating strangely faster with him.
“I always wanted to do that since I was just a lad” Taehyung informed, a bright boxy grin on his lips. You returned the smile, just as bright, giggling a bit
You cleared your throat a bit, remembering something, “Kook, surely you remember Mr. Kim” 
Jungkook looked back at (Y/N) then at Taehyung, caught off guard at the male’s different appearance, looking more of a human being than a dirty rat on the streets, the young aristocrat thought.
“Kim! I did not recognize you.” 
Jungkook studied him and nodded condescending, “Amazing, you could almost pass as a gentleman.” 
(M/N) stared at the man, still with an unimpressed look as she and Jungkook walked away with (Y/N) and Taehyung following. They walked towards the reception room at the D-deck as the party descends to dinner. They encountered Molly Brown, looking good in a beaded dress, in her own busty broad-shouldered way. 
Molly grinned when she sees Taehyung as they are going into the dining saloon, she walks next to him, speaking low: “ Ain’t nothin’ to it, is there, Taehyung?”
He nodded, “Yeah, you just dress like a pallbearer and keep your nose up.“
The older woman chuckled at the truth of it and said, “Remember, the only thing they respect is money, so just act like you’ve got a lot of it and you’re in the club.”
As they enter the swirling throng, Molly left them for a while and socialized with the other who came up to talk. (Y/N) leans close to him, pointing out several notables.
“There’s the Countess Rothes. And that’s Jung Hoseok… the richest man on the ship. His little wifey there, Madeleine, is at my age and in a delicate condition. See how she’s trying to hide it. Quite the scandal, ain’t it.” You whispered to Taehyung who listened in amusement at your words.
You nodded to another couple and began again, “And over there, that’s Sir Cosmo and Lucile, Lady Duff-Gordon. She designs naughty lingerie, among her many talents. Very popular with the royals.” 
Jungkook becomes engrossed in a conversation with Kim Seokjin and Colonel Kim Namjoon, while (M/N), the Countess and Lucille, Seokjin’s wife, discussed fashion. (Y/N) picots Taehyung smoothly, to show him another couple, dressed impeccably.
“And that’s Benjamin Guggenheim and his mistress, Madame Aubert. Mrs. Guggenheim is at home with the children, of course.” You told Taehyung everything you know because, in your life, that’s a habit rich people like to do, ruining and gossiping about others.
Meanwhile, on the other side, Jungkook was accepting the praise of his male counterparts, who were looking at you like a prize show horse, nodding and gazing up and down at you.
“Jeon, she is splendid.” 
 Jungkook nodded, liking the fact that these men know who you belong to but hate that they were staring at his wife fiance, “Thank you.”
Namjoon then commented, “Jungkook’s a lucky man. I know him well, and it can only be luck.” 
(M/N) stepped over, hearing the last. She takes Jungkook’s arm, somewhat coquettishly and said, “How can you say that Colonel? Jeon Jungkook is a great catch.”
The entourage strolled towards the dining saloon, where they ran into Jung Hoseok going through the ornate double doors.
“Mr. Jung, Madeleine, I’d like you to meet Kim Taehyung.” (Y/N) introduced, Hoseok grabbing his hand, shaking it with a smile while his wife nodded at them.
“Nice to meet you, Taehyung. Are you one of the Kims of Seoul?” He asked, remembering his partners, Kim Seokjin and Kim Namjoon.
“No, the Daegu Kims, actually,” Taehyung replied.
Hoseok nodded as if he had ever heard about it then continued to look puzzled. Madeleine leaned closer to you and whispered girlishly with a coy smile, “It’s a pity that we’re both spoken for isn’t it.” then turned to smile at Taehyung, straightening up. 
Like a ballroom at the palace, alive and lit by a constellation of chandeliers, full of elegantly dressed people and beautiful music from the small orchestra. As you and Taehyung entered and moved across the room to their table, Jungkook and (M/N) beside you. They sat down at the large table filled with rich people. 
“Tell us of the accommodations in steerage, Mr. Kim. I hear they’re quite good on this ship.” (M/N) said, looking at him from her place.
Taehyung was seated opposite to you, who is flanked by Jungkook and Thomas Andrews. Also at the table are Molly Brown, Ismay, Colonel Namjoon, the Countess, Kim Seokjin, Madame Aubert, and the Jungs. 
“The best I’ve seen, ma'am. Hardly any rats.” Taehyung replied, making the table laugh. You then motion surreptitiously for Taehyung to take his napkin off his plate.
“Mr. Kim here is joining us from third class. He was of some assistance to my fiance last night.” Jungkook informed the people at their table. He then looked at Taehyung and said to him, as if talking to a child, “This is foie gras. It’s goose liver.” 
Whispers were heard around the table, Taehyung becoming the subject of furtive glances. Now they’re all feeling terribly liberal and dangerous.
Seokjin leaned to Madame Aubert to whisper in her ear, “What is Jeon hoping to prove, bringing this… bohemian… up here?” 
The waiter then came over to Taehyung, “How do you take your caviar, sir?“
Jungkook intervened, “Just a soupcon of lemon… it improves the flavor with champagne.” smiling arrogantly at him
Taehyung smiled back then turned to the waiter, “No caviar for me, thanks. Never did like it anyway.” looking at you who smiled at him, knowingly. Jungkook noticed Taehyung looking at his fiance and with a furrowed brows watched you smile at your lap, with confusion and anger as he gripped his fork. 
“And where exactly do you live, Mr. Kim?” (M/N) asked
Taehyung looked at her and said, “Well, right now my address is the RMS Titanic. After that, I’m on God’s good humor.” 
The salad was then served, Taehyung reached for the fish fork. You gave him a look and picked up the salad fork, prompting him with your eyes. He changes forks.
“You find that sort of rootless existence appealing, do you?” The older (L/N) asked
“Well… it’s a big world, and I want to see it all before I go. My father was always talkin’ about goin’ to see the ocean. He died in the town he was born in and never did see it. You can’t wait around, because you never know what hand you’re going to get dealt next. See, my folks died in a fire when I was fifteen, and I’ve been on the road since. Somethin’ like that teaches you to take life as it comes at you. To make each day count.” Taehyung said, you gazed at him with a look, eyes softening. 
Molly Brown raises her glass in a salute, “Very well said, Taehyung”
Colonel Kim Namjoon raised his glass, “Here here” and (Y/N) followed, looking at Taehyung
“To making it count.” You said with a smile. 
(M/N), annoyed that Taehyung has scored a point, pressed him further.
 “How is it you have the means to travel, Mr. Kim?”
“I work my way from place to place. Tramp steamers and such. I won my ticket on Titanic here in a lucky hand at poker. “ He trailed as he looks at you with enigmatic eyes
“A very lucky hand” He added
Namjoon nodded, agreeing with Taehyung and said, “All life is a game of luck.”
Jungkook looked at his friend with a stern look, “A real man makes his own luck.”
Namjoon shaking his head at his long time friend but nonetheless continued to talk to Taehyung.
Dessert has been served and a waiter arrives with cigars in a humidor on a wheeled cart. The men start clipping the ends and lighting it. 
“Nest it’ll be brandies in the Smoking Room.” (Y/N) said lowly to Taehyung as Namjoon stood up 
“Well, join me for a brandy, gentlemen?” He invites 
(Y/N) then added, “Now they retreat into a cloud of smoke and congratulate each other on being masters of the universe.”
Taehyung stifled a smile at you and straightened up when he heard Namjoon call him. 
“Joining us, Taehyung? You don’t want to stay out here with the women, do you?” 
Taehyung actually does, but…
“No thanks. I’m heading back.”
Jungkook stared him down and nodded, “Probably best. It’ll be all business and politics, that sort of thing. Wouldn’t interest you. Good of you to come.” with that, the gentlemen exited. 
(Y/N) looked at Taehyung who stood up, brushing his suit, “Must you go?”
 Taehyung smiled at you, holding your hand as he slipped a paper on your hand sneakily. 
“It’s time for my carriage to turn back into a pumpkin.” 
(M/N), scowling, watched him walk away across the enormous room. (Y/N) surreptitiously opened the note below table level. It reads: “Make it count. Meet me at the clock”. 
You smiled and quickly hid the paper, waiting a bit before following Taehyung, excusing yourself. 
You crossed the A-Deck foyer, sighting Taehyung at the landing above. Overhead is the crystal dome, he had his back to you, studying the ornate clock with its carved figures of Honor and Glory. It softly strikes the hour.
The (h/c) haired lady goes up the sweeping staircase towards him. He turns and sees you, he smiled.
“Want to go to a real party?” 
The crowd was led and alive with music, laughter and raucous carrying on. An ad hoc band is gathered near the upright piano, honking out lively stomping music on fiddle, accordion, and tambourine. People of all ages are dancing, drinking beer and wine, smoking, laughing, even brawling.
Yoongi hands you a pint of stout and you hoisted it. Taehyung meanwhile dances with 5-year-old Cora or tries to, with her standing on his feet. As the tune ends, you walked up to them and leaned down to the little girl and said, “May I cut in, miss?” 
Taehyung smiled at you then at Cora, “You’re still my best girl, Cora” 
Cora scampers off while you and Taehyung faced each other. You were trembling as he took your right hand in his left. His other hand slides to the small of your back. It is an electrifying moment, their hearts beating wildly. 
You looked at Taehyung and whispered, “I don’t know the steps.” 
He smiled at your practical mind, “Just follow my lead. Don’t think”
The music started and they were off, dancing with each other for the first time. A little awkward at first but you then started to get into it. You grinned at Taehyung as you started to get the rhythm of the steps.
“Wait, stop!” You bend down, pulling off your high heeled shoes, and flung them to Yoongi who caught them with a shake of his head and a small smile. Then you grabbed Taehyung and they plunge back into the fray, dancing faster as the music speeds up.
The scene was rowdy and rollicking. A table got knocked over as a drunk crashes into it. And in the middle of it, you were dancing with Taehyung in your stockings. The steps were fast and you shined with sweat. Space opens around them, and people watch you, clapping as the band plays faster and faster.
Jimin and Helga danced ignoring the need for a common language and just enjoyed each others’ presence. He whirled her, then she responded by whirling him too. Jimin’s eyes went wide when he realized that she was stronger than him. 
The tune ended in a mad rush, Taehyung stepped away from (Y/N) with a flourish, allowing you to take a bow. Everyone cheered and applauded. You were suddenly a hit with the steerage folks, who’ve never had a lady party with them.
They moved to a table, flushed and sweaty. You grabbed Jimin’s cigarette and took a big drag. You were feeling cocky. Jimin was grinning, holding hands with Helga. 
“How are you two doin’?” Taehyung asked Jimin who smirked at him.
“I don’t know what she’s saying, she doesn’t know what I’m saying so we get along just fine,” He said, smiling at Helga
Yoongi walked up with a pint for each of them, You chugged yours down, showing off.
“You think a first-class girl can’t drink?“ You asked, a growing smirk on your pretty lips. Yoongi shook his head at you, a smile playing on his face. He grew fond of you, it was almost like you were his long lost sister, who was richer than him anyway…
Everybody else was dancing again, and a man crashes into Yoongi, who sloshes his beer over your expensive dress. You gasped then laughed, not caring one bit, but Yoongi lunges, grabbing the man and wheeling him around. 
“Fuckin’ bastard! Watch where you’re going!” 
The drunken man comes around, his fists coming up and before anything happened, Taehyung leaped into the middle of it, pushing them apart. 
“Boys, boys! The lady’s alright, don’t get all pissy!” He said making Yoongi looked at you which you replied with a reassuring smile, he relaxed a bit and sighed. Yoongi stood there, all piss and vinegar, chest puffed up. Then he grins and claps the man on the shoulder. 
“So, you think you’re big tough men? Let’s see you do this.“ (Y/N) said. In your stocking-feet, you assumed a ballet stance, arms raised, and goes up on point, taking your entire weight on the tips of your toes. The guys gape at your incredible muscle control. But then you came back down, your face screwed up in pain. You grabbed one foot, hopping around. 
“Oooowww! I haven’t done that in years.“ You complained as Taehyung caught you before you lost your balance with everyone laughing.
The door to the well-deck opened a few inches as Lovejoy watched through the gap. He sees Taehyung holding you, both of you laughing. Lovejoy closed the door then retreated back to report back to his master. 
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The stars blazed overhead, so bright and clear you can see the Milky Way. (Y/n) and Taehyung walks along the row of lifeboats, still giddy from the party and they are singing a popular song “Come Josephine in My Flying Machine”. 
“Come, Josephine in my flying machine and up she goes! Up she goes! In the air, she goes. Where? There she goes!”
You both fumbled the words then broke down laughing. You two reached the First Class Entrance but didn’t go straight in, not wanting the evening to end. Through the doors, the sound of the ship’s orchestra wafts gently. You grabbed a davit and leans back, staring at the cosmos. 
“Isn’t it magnificent? So grand and endless,” you asked, going to the rails and leaned on your arms on it. 
“They’re such small people, Taehyung… my crowd. They think they’re giants on the earth, but they’re not even dust in God’s eye. They live inside this little tiny champagne bubble… and someday the bubble’s going to burst.” 
He leans at the rail next to you, his hand just touching yours ever so slightly. It is the slightest contact imaginable, and either one of you can only feel the square inch of skin where your hands are touching. 
“You’re not one of them. There’s been a mistake.” Taehyung said making you look at him with an amused raised brow
“A mistake?”
He nodded, ”Uh-huh. You got mailed to the wrong address.“
You laughed and nodded in agreement, “I did, didn’t I”
 Then at the corner of your (e/c) eyes, you saw a bright light pass above. (Y/N) looked up and pointed with a smile, “Look! A shooting star!” 
Taehyung also looked at the magnificent sky and with a quirk of his lips, “This was a long one but my father used to say that whenever you saw one, it was a soul going to heaven” 
(Y/N) twinkled like the stars above, “I like that… But aren’t we supposed to make a wish?” 
Taehyung looked at you and found that you were suddenly very close together. It would be so easy to move another couple of inches, to kiss you. Oh, how Taehyung wants to do it but it would be wrong. You seemed to be thinking the same thing, looking down briefly at his lips then up back to his eyes. Taehyung’s breath hitched as he saw the brief flick of your eyes. 
“What would you wish for?” He whispered
After a beat, you moved away, smiling sadly at him and said, “Something I can’t have…”
“Goodnight, Taehyung. And thank you.” You whispered to the night and left the rail, hurrying to the First-Class Entrance. Taehyung looked at you go, feeling conflicted.
“(Y/N)!” He called out but it was too late. The door shuts and you were back in your world while he was left in his.
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It was a bright clear day the next morning, sunlight splashing across the promenade. (Y/N) and Jungkook were having breakfast in silence in their private area, the tension is palpable. Trudy, in her maid’s uniform, poured the coffee and went inside, leaving the two alone again.
“I had hoped you would come to me last night.” Jungkook started, not looking at you, eating his breakfast.
You looked up but went back to staring at your plate and cut the food into small pieces, “I was tired.”
Jungkook stopped his movements, stopping mid-cut and looked up, glaring at you. “Yes. Your exertions below the decks were no doubt exhausting.” 
You stiffened at his words but switched back to your usual unbothered facade, “I see you had that undertaker of a manservant follow me.” 
The man growled, his dark eyebrows arching into a glare as his eyes screamed, anger. 
“You will never behave like that again! Do you understand? And I don’t want you hanging around that dirty little rat again, you hear me!” 
You glared back, matching his anger and said, “I’m not some foreman in your mills than you can command! I am your fiance–“ In one swift and alarming movement, Jungkook exploded and swept the table making the breakfast china and all of its contents fly as it crashed unto the wall and floor at the sheer force. He moved closer to you in one shocking moment, glowering over you and gripping the sides of your chair, so you were trapped between his arms. Leaning to you, his eyes were wide with fury and teeth grinding against each other.
“Yes! You are! As my wife…  in practice, if not yet by law. You will honor me! As a wife is required to honor her husband! I will not be made a fool of! Is this in any way unclear?” Jungkook glowered as he stared deep into your eyes. You were trembling, heart, beating fast but not the same rhythm when you were with Taehyung, no. It was pure fear. 
You shrink into the chair. You see Trudy, frozen, partway through the door bringing the orange juice. Jungkook followed your eyes and straightened up when he saw the maid. Without any words, he stalked past the maid, entering the stateroom, leaving you with tears threatening to escape your (e/c) eyes.
Trudy quickly went to the mess and tried to fix it. You followed her actions, crouching beside her, still trembling. 
“I’m sorry, Trudy. We had a little accident…” 
Trudy looked at her mistress and frowned, stopping you from touching the broken china.
“It’s okay, Miss.” but you did not stop. Trudy tried again, “Miss, please don’t touch it. You might cut yourself” 
You finally snapped back to reality as you slumped to the floor and tears freely flowed down your soft cheeks. You hid your face in your hands. Trudy looked at you, a deep frown on her face, worried deeply. 
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Inside (M/N)’s suite, You were being dressed for the day and is in the middle of wearing your corset with your mother’s help. The tight bindings on your corset showing (M/N)’s fury.
“You are not to see that boy again, do you understand me (Y/N)? I forbid it!” She blurted out. 
“Oh, stop it, Mother. You’ll give yourself a nosebleed.” You muttered and gasped slightly when you felt the harsh tug of the corset. (M/N) turned you around, making the younger look at her.
“(Y/N), this is not a game! Our situation is precarious. You know the money’s gone!” 
You scoffed, “Of course, I know. You remind it to me every day.”
(M/N) glared at her daughter and said, “Your father left us nothing but a legacy of bad debts hidden by a good name. And that name is the only card we have to play.”
(M/N) turned you back around and continued to lace your corset up. You glanced down to your feet, sucking down on your waist, a frown present on your pretty face.
“I don’t understand you. It is a fine match with Jeon, and it will ensure our survival.”
“How can you put this on my shoulder” You muttered, feeling angry and sad at the pressure of your mother.
You turned around again to say something but stopped when you saw the pure fear in your mother’s eyes. 
“Do you want to see me working as a seamstress? Is that what you want? Do you want to see our fine things sold at an auction, our memories scattered to the winds? My God, (Y/N), how can you be so selfish?” (M/N) asked, tears burning her eyes. 
“I’m being selfish? Me?! You are being unfair, mother–!” 
“Of course it’s unfair! We’re women. Our choices are never easy.” (M/N) uttered out, pulling the last lace and tied it securely. The maids then went inside the room, placing the dresses the two will wear on the bed. For the rest of the time you were being dressed, it was quiet and tense. Neither of you two was talking, only the thoughts running on your mind occupied you.
At the divine service, Captain Smith was leading a group in the hymn of “Almighty Father Strong To Save.” You and your mother sang in the middle of the group, looking at the pamphlet in your hands.
Lovejoy stood at the back, keeping an eye on you. He noticed a commotion at the entry doors and quickly gone out. Taehyung has been halted there by two stewards. He has dressed back in his third-class clothes and stood there, hat in hand, looking out of place. 
“Look, you-you’re not supposed to be in here.” A steward said, pushing him back. 
“I was just here last night… don’t you remember?” Taehyung pleaded. He saw Lovejoy walking towards them and looked at him hopefully, pointing at him.
“He will tell you!”
Lovejoy went out and stood in front of Taehyung, “Mr. Jeon and Mrs. (L/N)  continue to be most appreciative of your assistance. They asked me to give you this in gratitude–”  He held out two twenty-dollar bills, which Taehyung refuses to take.
He shook his head, “I don’t want money. I–”
“-and also to remind you that you hold a third-class ticket and your presence here is no longer appropriate.” Lovejoy continued as Taehyung sighed in annoyance. He looked past Lovejoy and saw (Y/N) but you did not spot him. 
“I just need to talk to (Y/N) for–”
Lovejoy cut him off and turned to the stewards, “Gentlemen, please see that Mr. Kim gets back to where he belongs.” as he gave the twenties to them. “And that he stays there” The tall servant added.
The stewards nodded, “Yes sir!” and turned to Taehyung, “Come along” as they dragged the male away who struggled, shouting for you. Inside the room, the younger (L/N) did not see it, singing in the choir but your mother did, nodding appreciatively to Lovejoy who made eye contact with her, smirking ever so slightly.
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Taehyung, walking with determination, is followed closely by Yoongi and Jimin. He quickly climbed the steps to B-Deck and stepped over the gate separating 3rd from 2nd class.
“She’s a goddess amongst mortal men, there’s no denyin’ that. And I like her too, she’s like a sister to me but she’s in another world, Tae. She’s closed the door.” Yoongi said, looking at the young artist. Taehyung moved furtively to the wall below the A-Deck promenade, aft. Jimin agreed with Yoongi.
“Yoongi is right, Taehyungie. (Y/N)’s an angel but sometimes we just have to move on. Haven’t you think that she may also don’t want anything to do with us?” 
“It was them, not her.” He said firmly and looked around.
“Ready?… Go.” Taehyung said, ignoring their words. 
Yoongi shook his head resignedly and puts his hands together with Jimin in the same position, crouching down. Taehyung steps into Yoongi’s and Jimin’s hands and got boosted up to the next deck, where he scrambles nimbly over the railing, onto the First Class deck.
“He’s crazy I tell you,” Yoongi said as he watched Taehyung run 
“Love makes you do crazy things, Yoongi…” Jimin commented as a small smile on his face but a bit worried about his best friend. 
Taehyung sneakily walked in the deck, looking around for any workers he has to avoid. He then saw a lone coat jacket on one of the benches. He swiftly took it and run off, searching for you.
On the other side, a 21-year-old Junior Wireless Operator hustles in and skirts around Andrews’ tour group to hand a Marconigram to Captain Smith.
“Another ice warning, sir. This one from the “Baltic”.” 
 “Thank you, Sparks.” Smith glanced at the message then nonchalantly put it in his pocket. He nods reassuringly to you and the group.
“Not to worry, it’s quite normal for this time of year. In fact, we’re speeding up. I’ve just ordered the last boilers lit.” He reassured the group. 
Andrews leads the group back from the bridge along the boat deck, seeing the lifeboats. “Mr. Andrews, I did the sum in my head, and with the number of lifeboats times the capacity you mentioned… forgive me, but it seems that there are not enough for everyone aboard.” You said, worrying.
“ About half, actually. (Y/N), you miss nothing, do you? In fact, I put in these new type davits, which can take an extra row of boats here. But it was thought… by some… that the deck would look too cluttered. So I was over-ruled.” Andrews said, a frown in his face.
Jungkook scoffed and slapped the side of the boat with his cane, “Waste of deck space as it is, on an unsinkable ship!”
Andrews smiled at Jungkook’s faith in his work, “Sleep soundly, young (Y/N). I have built you a good ship, strong and true. She’s all the lifeboat you need.”
As they are passing Boat 7, a gentleman turns from the rail and walked up behind the group. It was Taehyung. He tapped (Y/N) on the arm and you turned, gasping when you saw him. He motioned to follow him and you quickly cut away from the group toward a door that Taehyung held open. You two duck into the gymnasium.  Taehyung closed the door behind you and glanced out through the ripple-glass window to the starboard rail, where the gym instructor is chatting up the woman who was riding the bike. You and Taehyung were now alone in the room.
You looked at Taehyung and remembered your mother’s words and your fiance’s outburst, you frowned.
“Taehyung, this is impossible. I can’t see you anymore.” You reasoned, trying to move away and exit the room.
He shook his head and held you by the shoulders, looking deep into your eyes and breathed out, “(Y/N), I need to talk to you”
You furrowed your eyebrows with a sad frown, “No, Taehyung, no” And looked at the window with a worrying glance, “Taehyung… I’m engaged. I’m marrying Jungkook and I love him.” you added, glossy eyes hinting your sadness. Your tone makes it seems like you aren’t even trying to convince Taehyung but yourself. 
Taehyung wore a skeptical grin, “(Y/N) you’re no picnic… you’re a spoiled little brat even, but under that, you’re a strong, pure heart, and you’re the most amazingly astounding girl- woman-I’ve ever known and–”
You frowned once again, “Taehyung, I–” and moved away but Taehyung stopped you before continuing quickly.
“No, wait. Let me try to get this out. You’re ama…” He stopped for a bit, breathing deeply.
“I’m not an idiot. I know how the world works, I got 10 bucks in my pocket and I know I have nothing to offer you, (Y/N). I know that. But I’m too involved now. You jump, I jump, remember? I can’t turn away without knowin’ that you’re goin’ to be alright. That’s all I want” Taehyung said, his last words almost a whisper, looking at you with the utmost sincerity that it made your eyes gleam with tears. 
The male was open and real, unlike anyone you have known. 
“Well, I’m fine. I’ll be fine, really” You whispered, Taehyung leaning closer to you.
“Really?” He asked again as your gaze shifts uneasily
“I don’t think so. They’ve got you in a glass jar like some butterfly, and you’re goin’ to die if you don’t break out. Maybe not right away, 'cause you’re strong. But sooner or later the fire in you is goin’ to go out.” Taehyung caressed your cheek, you looking up at him, swallowed hard and with a quiet voice, “It’s not up to you to save me, Taehyung.” 
He nodded
“You’re right. Only you can do that.” Taehyung said, leaning a bit closer than before but you stopped him with your hand touching his.
The young aristocrat stared at him, eyes hiding what you really felt, “I’m going back, leave me alone. Please, Taehyung, for both our sakes, leave me alone.” and tear yourself away from him, going out the room. Taehyung’s sad eyes followed you and after you were out of sight, he hung his head in defeat, jaw clenched.
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The most elegant room on the ship, done in Louis Quinze Versaille style. You sat on a divan, with a group of other women arrayed around you. (M/N), the Countess Rothes and Lady Duff-Gordon are taking tea. You were silent and still like a porcelain figurine while the conversation washes around you.
“Of course the invitations had to be sent back to the printers twice. And the bridesmaids’ dresses! Let me tell you what an odyssey that has been…” (M/N) informed the other ladies. 
In your thoughts, you saw yourself when you were a four years old girl, wearing white gloves, daintily picking up a cookie. Your mother correcting your posture, and the way you held the teacup. The little girl was trying so hard to please the woman, her expression serious. A glimpse of (Y/N) at that age, and the relentless conditioning, shows the pain in becoming an Edwardian geisha. 
Finally, you have decided. You nonchalantly spilled the tea unto your immaculate dress, stating, “Oh, looked at what I have done.”
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In the dusk light of the sun, as if lit by the embers of a giant fire, the ship looms, Taehyung was there, right at the apex of the bow railing, his favorite spot. He closes his eyes, letting the chill wind clear his head. His emotions in ruins.
He hears your voice, calling out to him.
“Hello, Taehyung” He turned around, shocked as he saw you. You bit your lips and gave a sheepish smile, “I changed my mind.” 
A broad warm grin expanded on his face, looking at you with a soft glint in his equally warm eyes. Your cheeks were red with the chill wind, and eyes sparkling like diamonds. Your hair blew wildly about your face.
“Jimin said you might be here–”
“Shhh… Come here”
You walked up to him as he put his hands on your waist. Like he was going to kiss you. “Close your eyes.” 
And you did, and he turns you to face forward, the way the ship is going. He presses you gently to the rail, standing right behind you with a soft smile. Then he took your two hands and raised them until you were standing with your arms outstretched on each side. You were going along with him and when he lowers his hands, your arms stayed up… like wings.
“Okay, you can open them now” He whispered to your ears, his deep voice affecting you deeply.
(Y/N) gasped. There is nothing in your field of vision but water, it’s like there was no ship under them at all, just the two of them soaring. The Atlantic unrolls toward you, a hammered copper shield under a dusk sky. There were only the wind and the hiss of the water 50 feet below. You grinned.
You leaned forward, arching your back. Taehyung puts his hands on your waist to steady you, leaning his cheek to the side of your head.
“Come Josephine in my flying machine…” Taehyung sang softly beside your ear, the same song you two sang when you left the party making you giggle gently.
You closed your eyes, feeling yourself floating weightless far above the sea. You smiled dreamily, then leaned back, gently pressing your back against his chest. He pushes forward slightly against you.
Slowly he raised his hands, arms outstretched, and they meet yours… fingertips gently touching then their fingers intertwined. Moving slowly, their fingers caress through and around each other like the bodies of two lovers.
Taehyung tips his face forward into your blowing hair, letting the scent of you wash over him.
You turned your head until your lips were near his, you lowered your arms, turning further until you found his mouth with yours. He wrapped his arms around you from behind, and you kissed like this with your head turned and tilted back, surrendering to him, to the emotion, to the inevitable. Kissing, slowly and tremulously, and then with building passion. You slowly caressed the back of his neck, pulling him into you to deepen the kiss.
Taehyung and the ship seemed to merge into one force of power and optimism, lifting you, buoying you forward on a magical journey, soaring onward into a night without fear.
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Like in a dream, the beautiful woodwork and satin upholstery were designed expertly. Taehyung was overwhelmed by the opulence of the room, he sets his sketchbook and drawing materials on the marble table. You giggled at his nervous face and said, “This is quite proper, I assure you”
“Will this light do? Don’t artists need good light?” You asked the young artist
Taehyung looked back at you with a sly grin after he admired the place and with a really bad French accent he said, “Zat is true, I am not used to working in such 'orreeble conditions.” 
You giggled, shaking your head. Taehyung then saw a painting on the wall, going towards it in awe, “Monet!” 
He crouches next to the paintings stacked against the wall. You followed him and asked, “You know him?”
“Yes, isn’t he great… the use of color? I saw him once… through a hole in this garden fence in Giverny.” You nodded, smiling at him. You then went into the adjoining walk-in wardrobe closet. He saw you go to the safe and start working the combination. He let the other paintings fascinate him.
”Jungkook insists on lugging this thing everywhere.” 
Taehyung frowned a bit that the mention of your fiance, he looked around to distract him from the jealousy he felt. 
“Should I be expecting him anytime soon?” He asked and you walked towards him with a velvet case on your hands.
“Not as long as the cigars and brandy hold out.” You opened it and removed the necklace, then held it out to Taehyung who took it nervously.
“What is it? A sapphire?” He asked, studying the necklace. 
“Diamond. A very rare diamond.” You said then looked at him with a nervous glint in your eyes. You licked your lips.
“I want you to draw me like one of your French girls. Wearing this.” Taehyung turned to you.
“Wearing only this” You added with a smile. The man’s eyes widened at your declaration. He nodded slowly, gulping, “I-If that’s what you want” 
Taehyung arranged the couch where you will lay on later while you get ready. You draw the butterfly clip out of your hair. You shook your head and your hair falls free around your shoulders. In the sitting room, he was laying out his pencils like surgical tools. His sketchbook is open and ready. He looks up in his seat when you came into the room, wearing a silk robe and your hair laid down, framing your face.
“The last thing I need is another picture of me looking like a china doll. As a paying customer, I expect to get what I want.” You instructed, acting as one of the snobbish rich folks which made Taehyung smile. 
You hand him a dime and steps back, parting with the robe. The bluestone laid between your breasts. Your heart was pounding as you slowly lower the robe and Taehyung’s situation wasn't any better, in fact, his heart was pounding at his ribcage that he thought, it’ll jump out any second. Taehyung looked so stricken, it was almost comical. The robe drops to the floor. 
You laid on the divan, “Tell me when it looks right to you.” you posed, settling like a cat, one arm beside you and the other outstretched.
Taehyung’s dark eyes scanned you and snapped out of his thought when he remembered, “Uh… just bend your left leg a little and… and lower your head. Eyes to me. That’s it.”
Taehyung started to sketch but when he looked up and meets your eyes, he almost dropped his pencil as you stifled a laugh.
“I believe you are blushing, Mr. Big Artiste. I can’t imagine Monsieur Monet blushing.” You teased a smirk present on your beautiful face
Taehyung sweats as he grinned shyly, “He does landscapes.” Despite his nervousness, he draws with sure strokes, and what emerges is the best thing he has ever done. Your pose was languid, your hands beautiful, and your eyes radiate energy.
When he finished, he signed the drawing. You, wearing your robe again, leaned on his shoulder, watching him. You gazed at the drawing, marveling at the piece of art. Taehyung is, with no doubt in your mind and heart, was a brilliant artist. He has X-rayed your soul. 
“Date it, Tae. I want to always remember this night” You whispered making Taehyung gulped, the nervousness he felt earlier, coming back, he nodded. He dates it and gave it to you, looking up at you as you stared at him. You leaned closer and pecked his lips, sharing a soft kiss.
You, meanwhile, scribbles a note on a piece of Titanic stationery and crosses to the safe in the wardrobe.
You put the diamond back in the safe, placing the drawing and the note on top of it. Closes the door with a clunk
Inside the smoking room, Lovejoy enters from the Palm Court through the revolving door and crosses the room toward Jungkook. A fire is blazing in the marble fireplace, and the usual fatcats were playing cards, drinking and talking. He sees Lovejoy and detaches from his group, going to him.
“None of the stewards have seen her.” 
Jungkook scowled at him, “This is ridiculous, Lovejoy. Find her”
Back to your suite, the (L/N) was fully dressed now, returned to the sitting room. They heard a key in the lock. You quickly take Taehyung’s hand and leads him silently through the bedrooms. Lovejoy enters by the sitting-room door. 
“Miss (Y/N)? Hello?” He then hears a door opening and goes through Jungkook’s room toward yours.
You and Taehyung came out of your stateroom, closing the door. You lead him quickly along the corridor toward the B deck foyer. You were halfway across the open space when the sitting-room door opens in the corridor and Lovejoy came out. The valet sees Taehyung with you and ran after them.
“Come on!” 
You and Taehyung break into a run, surprising the few ladies and gentlemen around. You led him past the stairs to the bank of elevators. They run into one, shocking the hell out of the operator.
“Take us down! Quickly!” You ordered. The Operator scrambles to comply, Taehyung even helped him close the steel gate. Lovejoy runs up as the lift starts to descend. He slams one hand on the bars of the gate. You raised your middle finger to the annoying servant of your fiance, sniggering, Taehyung gazed at you oh so fondly, chuckling at your actions as Lovejoy disappears above while the operator gaped at you.
Lovejoy emerged from another lift and runs to the one Taehyung and you were in. The Operator was just closing the gate to go back up. Lovejoy ran around the bank of elevators and scans the foyer… no Taehyung and (Y/N). He went to the stairs that goings down to F-Deck.
A functional space, with access to several machine spaces (fan rooms, boiler uptakes). Taehyung and you were leaning against a wall, laughing.
“Pretty tough for a valet, this fella.” Taehyung rasped out
“He’s an ex-Pinkerton. Jungkook’s father hired him to keep him out of trouble… to make sure he always got back to the hotel with his wallet and watch, after some crawl through the less reputable parts of town…” you explained with a smile, gazing at Taehyung
“Kinda like we’re doin’ right now– uh oh!” He cut himself off when he saw Lovejoy.
The valet spotted them from a cross-corridor nearby. He charges toward them. Taehyung and you run around a corner into a blind alley. There was one door, marked CREW ONLY, and the male flung it open.
You two entered the roaring ran-room, with no way out but a ladder going down. He latches the deadbolt on the door, and Lovejoy slams against it a moment later. Taehyung grins at you pointing to the ladder.
“After you, m’lady~”
You two came down the escape ladder and look around in amazement. It is like a vision of hell itself, with the roaring furnaces and black figures moving in the smoky glow. Running the length of the boiler room, dodging amazed stokers, and trimmers with their wheelbarrows of coal.  
You run through the open watertight door into the boiler room as Taehyung pulled you through the fiercely hot alley between two boilers and they wind up in the dark, out of sight of the working crew. Watching from the shadows, you saw the stokers working in the hellish glow, shoveling coal into the insatiable maws of the furnaces. The whole place thunders with the roar of the fires. 
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Back with at the smoking room with amid unparalleled luxury, Jungkook sat at a card game, sipping brandy.
“We’re going like hell I tell you. I have fifty dollars that say we make it into New York Tuesday night!” Namjoon said, with his own brandy. Jungkook looks at his gold pocket watch, and scowls, not listening. 
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The furnaces roar, down at the boiler room, silhouetting the glistening stokers. Taehyung kissed your face, tasting the sweat trickling down from your forehead. You two kissed passionately in the steamy, pounding darkness.
They entered and run laughing between the rows of stacked cargo. You hugged yourself against the cold, after the dripping heat of the boiler room.
They come upon Kim Seokjin’s brand new touring car, lashing down to a pallet. It looks like a royal coach from a fairy tale, its brass trim, and headlamps nicely set off by its deep burgundy color.
You climbed into the plushly upholstered backseat, acting very royal. There were cut crystals bud vases on the walls back there, each containing a rose. Taehyung jumps into the driver’s seat, enjoying the feel of the leather and wood.
“Where to, pretty lady?” 
You smiled, “To the stars”
Your hands then came out of the shadows and pulled him over the seat into the back, making Taehyung laugh. He landed next to you, and his breath seems loud in the quiet darkness. He looks at you and saw you smiling. It was the moment of truth.
“Are you nervous?” He whispered
You smiled a bit at Taehyung, “I am more than okay, Taehyung”
He returned your smile, caressing your soft cheek. Taehyung studied you for a moment, how the faint glow of the light shined on you making your eyes glow with warmth swimming inside it. 
“You’re so beautiful, (Y/N)” 
You took his hand and kissed his fingers, “Put your hand on me, Taehyung…”
His eyes narrowed at your words, looking deep into your (e/c) eyes as he saw the desire behind it. He leaned closer, brushing his lips against yours. You leaned forward, catching him off-guard while you deepened the kiss. The cold lips of yours made Taehyung shiver, desire started to creep upon him. He laid his body on top of you which you welcomed, enjoying the weight and warmth he offered. 
One of his large hand trailed up to your chest, squeezing the soft breast which earned a whimper. You broke the kiss, a thin string of saliva connecting you two as you panted, “Tae…” You called out. The soft and needy voice made Taehyung crazy.
“Fuck, love…” He uttered out, connecting both of your lips together once again in a more frenzy manner than before. Taehyung licked a soft stripe on your lips, asking for permission which you granted willingly. The warm appendage met yours in a swirl as you moaned at the contact.
“Mhhmm~” 
Taehyung groaned in satisfaction at your lovely mewl, wanting to hear more. He broke off the kiss and went straight to your neck, kissing it with his wet lips. His hands trailed up and down at your body, making you burn in desire. You ground your hips up, the dull ache you felt made you impatient and the feeling of his hardening length pressed in his thin pants against you were not making it better for you. Taehyung tilts his head in pleasure, closing his eyes at the sudden movement.
“Ahh..” 
You heard his deep voice, his moans were definitely a new favorite for you. Taehyung opened his eyes, looking deeply into you with half-lidded eyes, licking his lips. 
“You’re so pretty, Taehyung” You whispered against his lips, he smiled and shook his head, playfully.
“I guess you haven’t seen yourself, love”
You giggled, Taehyung nuzzling his face against your cold skin once again then begun to kiss down to your body. Your breath hitched, watching him slowly go down on you. 
“We really need to get you out of these clothes…” You heard the male say impatiently, gathering it up in his hands and sliding it off you. 
The heavy dress was off you in seconds, you didn’t know how he did it or how he managed when you needed multiple hands just to fix it. Taehyung gazed at your half-naked body, a thin layer of white undershirt was all you wore. Your nipples peaked against the thin white fabric, Taehyung gulped at the sight as he raised a hand. He ever so slightly touched the hardened bud making you gasp in surprise. He groaned at your reaction, the sight making his blood go straight south. 
“You’re killing me here, (Y/N)…” He groaned out, leaning against you to gain some friction. You bit your lip at his words and action, the unfamiliar pleasure washing over you.
“Please touch me more, Tae…” You whispered back to him, raking your soft hands through his red hair, Taehyung relishing at your touch. 
Noticing his unfocused attention, you let your hands wander around his body, trying to memorize every detail in him. You touched his back to his chest and then down to his torso. You let your hands stop just before going to his hips, giggling softly at Taehyung’s small impatient whine. 
You took pity on the young man above you and touched him. Your eyes turned half-lidded at what you felt, he was definitely not small.
God, he was huge and so fucking hard. You gulped, the outline of his cock against his pants made you hungry and made you want more. 
You caressed his cock through his slacks, Taehyung’s pants and small moans made you wetter. You pressed your thighs together, trying to ease the throbbing heat. 
The red-haired male noticed it, he raised a warm hand to your thigh and squeezed it then moved it, making you open your legs wider. You blushed at the sudden movement and tried to close your legs but Taehyung gripped your thighs, pinning it down against the rough surface of the car’s leather. 
“You should see yourself from this view, love. You look like a masterpiece, so ready to get fucked by my cock” Taehyung’s lust laced voice made your throbbing heat ache even more. 
You clenched at nothing when you heard his words, you bit your lips and lifted your hips at meet his. 
Taehyung sighed, his cock was so hard that it was actually painful. How can you be so perfect…
He removed one of his large hands off your thigh and to his crotch, palming himself as he watched you through his slightly wet bangs due to his sweat. You panted at the intensity of his eyes, you couldn’t help but copy him. You let your hand wander around your body, tweaking your hardened buds while you tried to hump Taehyung but ended up humping nothing but air as he moved a bit to watch you more carefully. 
Taehyung growled at your desperate actions, slamming his hands back to your hips, gripping it tightly. 
“This is all mine, mine to touch, mine to play with.” He massaged your body, going over you as he left nothing untouched. Taehyung leaned closer to you, attaching his lips to your neck again and marked you. You felt one of his hands go lower, going to your pubis as he stroked your mound lightly. 
You moaned, closing your eyes tightly. Taehyung touched your clit against your underwear, fondling at it as the fabric gotten wetter with every stroke. The press of the wet fabric and Taehyung’s finger, rolling slowly against the bud, was making you crazy.
“D-Don’t be such a tease, Taehyung..” 
He smirked against your bruised neck, bitting at it again, leaving the already red skin turn violet-ish. His long fingers passed through the band of your underwear and touched your wet lips. 
“A-Ah…”
“Fuck, you’re so wet…” 
Taehyung quickly ripped the underwear of you and throwing it on the car’s carpeted floor.
He brushed against your lips then opened, you felt the sudden gush of air making you shiver. Taehyung’s middle finger made contact with your clit again, pressing and kneaded it more harshly. After a bit, you felt his fingertips prodding your entrance, wiggling itself inside slowly.
“Fuck–!” 
He chuckled at you, “My, my~ What a dirty little mouth you have, love” 
You let out a whimper at the intrusion, Taehyung prepping you for something bigger later. His long finger settled inside your heat, waiting for you to adjust. You nodded, cueing that he can move. Taehyung groaned at your tight heat while he pumps his finger slowly. He added another when he saw you adjusting and whining for more. His speeding fingers made noisy squelches that it embarrassed you at how wet you became, you grasped his hair and pulled in into a kiss.
Long fingers pumped in and out of you in a frenzy motion that it made your body rock with the rhythm. Your one hand went to his wrist, feeling the frantic movement of Taehyung. You looked at him and saw him looking so impatient and the subtly twitching of his cock inside his pants was so delicious.
“Taehyung, take me already” 
He groaned at that, he removed his fingers out of you. Your juice coating his hand and in a swift, he raised it to his mouth and sucked on his fingers, never breaking eye contact with you. He removed his fingers with a soft pop, he licked his lips. You were enthralled at the wet appendage, oh how much you want to feel it against your clit but that’s for next time. You need him to fuck you right now. 
“You taste so good, love. I’ll eat you up like my last meal–”
“Tae, just fuck me!” 
Your little outburst shocked the male but he smiled after a while, kissing your nose. The soft affection is definitely different from how his hard cock pressing at your pussy. You both moaned at the contact. Taehyung quickly got out of his pants and boxers, leaving him naked in front of you. 
He held his cock with one of his hand and positioned it to your entrance, he looked at you through his lashes with small uncertainly. 
“You ready?” 
“Yes” 
You let out a deep breath, waiting for Taehyung to move. Taehyung entered your heat, hissing at the tightness. He laid his forehead against your collarbones, eye tightly shut, relishing at the feeling. The slow entry of his cock was painfully pleasurable, the burn of the stretch made it addicting.
You felt really good, a soft squelch echoed as Taehyung entered you and the tight grip of your pussy to his dick was too much. He groaned in surprise when you clenched down on him. His eyes opened widely at that, not expecting it. 
“Move, Tae…” 
He nodded against your neck, kissing the closest skin. Taehyung slowly pulled out half-way then slammed back at you with a firm pump. 
“Fuck…” 
“Mhmm”
His cock was hot and throbbing against your walls. As he fucked you, the wet sounds of your pussy swallowing him back in eagerly reached his ears. He groaned, the fact you got so wet for him made him go even harder. He leaned down and took one of your nipples into his mouth, rolling it with his skilled tongue, making you gasp at the added pleasure. Your breasts bounced in time with his thrusts, Taehyung watching you, mesmerized, but his thrust never flailing. He then angled his thrust, hitting your soft spot making you cry out, your back arched at the burst of pleasure. Taehyung chuckled against your wet skin.
Your walls clenched around his cock, the pleasure too much for you. He grunted, he doubled his speed and began to fuck you roughly.
The blunt tip of his cock hitting your g-spot every hard thrust he made your pussy fluttered around him in anticipation. 
“T-Taehyung…” You whimpered out, your hips arching to meet his hard thrust, eye-rolling back at the white pleasure he offered. He then reached between your thighs and found your clit with his thumb. The bud was hard and swollen, making it easier to roll with his fingers. The way his long fingers toyed with the bundle of nerves, his thumb stroking it back and forth, has you hurtling over the edge.
“A-ah. Ah! Tae-Taehyung,” you choked out, his name falling from your lips over and over again like a mantra. Suddenly, you gush around him, your cum coating his cock. Clenching tightly against him and the gush of wetness was enough to send Taehyung to his own orgasm.
“(Y/N)–!” He moaned out, eyes shut as his eyebrows furrowed at the pleasure raking his body, making his body twitch involuntarily. He kissed you, lips smacking loudly against yours.
Fingers fondled roughly at your clit as his thrust became sloppy, letting you ride your orgasm along with his. His shaft pulses inside you before you feel him shoot rope after rope of white cum into you. A soft sigh of pleasure leaves your lips, his warmth filling you up from the inside as he coats your walls white with his cum. 
Taehyung let his body rest against you, you smiled tiredly at that. Your soft hands caressing his hair and back, feeling him still shiver at the aftereffect of his orgasm. 
You looked at him, pulling his face towards you to let him face you. You looked at his flustered face, sweat coated his hair and forehead slightly.
“You are trembling… Are you okay?” 
Taehyung kissed your hand that was close to his lips, smiling against your skin. His big brown eyes staring deeply at your (e/c) ones.
“I am more than okay… I love you, (Y/N)” 
You smiled shyly at him, bringing him closer to kiss him softly. He smiled into the kiss, his own hand caressing your face. You hugged him close to you, fearing the time where they will take him away from you but for now, he is here. Taehyung’s with you.
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Inside your suite room, Jungkook entered inside and looked for you. He scowled at the empty room, looking at the moved divan with suspicion. 
He walked towards the wardrobe where the safe is, his tall figure gliding confidently across the room. Jungkook glared at the open safe. He walked closer when he saw a piece of paper on top of the velvet black box. He got the paper out and stared at it with fury bubbling inside of him. He gripped it tightly, crumpling it a bit. 
The drawing of you mocked him and your little letter sends him hurling to the edge, 
Darling, now you can keep us both locked up in your safe.
-(Y/n) 
Jungkook crumpled the note then moved to the drawing, hands taking it as if to rip it in half, with a vice grip on the paper. He stopped himself though, looking at the drawing. He smirked evilly, looking straight at your realistically drawn eyes. 
“No no. I have a much better idea.”
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You two got dressed after calming your wildly beating hearts and resting your tired bodies. Taehyung kissed your cheek, helping you button your dress up. You giggled at the affection as you buttoned the last one and nudged him to the door, the male opening it and went out. Taehyung faced you, offering his hand with a small bow with a smile. 
You smiled, grabbing his hand and went out of the car with his help, “Thank you, good sir, ~” 
Taehyung bowed his head a bit with his charming boxy smile, closing the car door behind you, “Anything for the pretty lady~”
The two of you laughed at your antics then Taehyung held your hand with a comforting grip, guiding you two out of the place still giggling under your breaths. People and workers watched the couple with raised brows and a small disapproving frown at their actions, blatantly showing affection in public.
Taehyung stopped when you two reached the deck, moving closer to you with small chuckles escaping him. His nose bumping against yours lovingly, his smile warm and contented. You returned his smile, arms wrapping around his torso. You two swayed to the unheard music, basking in the warmth of your two bodies offered. 
You and Taehyung stood in the corner of the deck in each other’s arms. Breaths of clouds around you in the now freezing air, but neither of you even feel the cold, too caught up in each other’s loving eyes. 
“Once this ship docks, I’m running away with you” You whispered against his lips.
Taehyung smiled playfully, “Are you sure? It might just be your adrenaline talking” He teased. You nudged him a bit, his playful smile turning softer.
“I know. It doesn’t make any sense. But that’s why I trust it.” You replied, smiling up at him. 
“Then we’ll run away, far from anyone you know. We’ll live in a small house. Just the two of us and that will be our new beginning” Taehyung muttered then pressed both of your lips together. You smiled through the kiss, hand going up to his hair to deepen the kiss. You two kissed each other with passion, ignoring your surroundings and focused on each other. 
In the crow’s nest above you two, a male saw you two. He nudged his co-worker with a small smirk. 
“Hey Cor, would you look at that” 
The other male looked at where the other was looking and scoffed, rubbing his hands together for warmth, “They’re bloody warmer than we are that’s for sure”
“Well if that’s what it takes for us two to get warm, I’d rather not, you’re one ugly bugger” 
The two laughed at that, but then the former’s expression fell. Glancing forward again, he does a double-take. The color draining out of his face. In about 500 yards away, a massive iceberg right in their path.
He reaches past the other male and rings the lookout bell three times, then grabbed the telephone, calling the bridge. He waits precious seconds for it to be picked up, never taking his eyes off the black mass ahead, terrified. 
“Pick up, you bastard!” 
The phone was then picked up and the male explained everything. It was there where everything went to shit.
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Workers dashed through the halls in frenzied motion, the urgency of the moment thickening the air. In the steerage, Jimin walked out, looking at what’s the commotion was all about. He yelped when he saw dozens of rats running towards him. He jumped out the way and watched in surprise as it runs past him to the corridor. 
In the stateroom where Yoongi was sleeping, he rolls over his bunk bed and drops into cold water. 
“What the fuck-!” He shouted angrily, feeling the cold water sip into his thin clothes but then stopped, looking at the ground where he sat. 3 feet of ice-cold water flood into his room and was steadily rising up. 
He pulls the door open and stepped out into the corridor, which was also flooded. Jimin was running toward him, yelling something in Busan dialect. 
“What the hell is happening, Jimin?” 
“I don’t know! The portmen are in a rush outside and there were rats running out of here!” 
Yoongi groaned at that and told Jimin to alert everyone. The two started pounding on doors, getting everybody up and out. The alarm spreads in several languages. After getting everyone up, Yoongi and Jimin were in a crowd of steerage men clogging the corridors, heading aft away from the flooding. Many of them have grabbed suitcases and duffel bags, some of which are soaked.
“If this is the direction the rats were runnin’, it’s good enough for me,” Yoongi muttered, Jimin shaking his head at his words.
In the forward deck, you and Taehyung looked at the dark. Leaning to the railing, gazing at the large iceberg. The red-haired male noticed your distress and grabbed your shoulder, pulling you close to him.
“Hey, it’s going to be okay. It looks nothing to me”
You looked at Taehyung, a frown playing on your lips. “Has it damaged the ship?…” You asked, remembering the limited lifeboats in worry.
Taehyung smiled reassuringly at you, “It didn’t seem like much of a bump. I’m sure we’re okay.” 
You nodded, wanting to believe Taehyung’s words but the anxious feeling was getting to you.
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Inside the B-deck, Ismay, dressed in pajamas under the topcoat, hurried down the corridor, headed for the bridge. An officious steward came along the other direction, getting the few concerned passengers back into their rooms.
“There’s no cause for alarm. Please, go back to your rooms.” He said but was stopped in his tracks by Jungkook and Lovejoy.
“Please, sir. There’s no emergency–” 
Jungkook scoffed at that, “Of course there is! I have been robbed, call the Masters at Arms.” 
The steward stopped and stared at Jungkook, shocked at the news. Jungkook glared at him, “Now you moron!” 
“Y-Yes, sir!” 
You and Taehyung came up the steps from the well deck, which were right next to the three men. They stare as the couple climbs over the locked gate.
A moment later Captain Smith rounds the corner, followed by Andrews and Carpenter Hutchinson. They have come down from the bridge by the outside stairs. The three men, their faces grim, crush right past Taehyung and you. Andrews barely glances at you.
“Can you shore up?” 
“Not unless the pumps get ahead.” 
The inspection party then goes down the stairs to the well deck. Taehyung looked at you with a small frown, “It’s bad…” 
You looked at Taehyung with alarm, “We have to tell Mother and Jungkook”
The male sighed, “Now it’s worse…”
You smiled sadly, “Come with me? You jump, I jump, right?”
Taehyung smiled back at you, he couldn’t say no to his girl, “Right”
The two of you then run through the door, going inside the ship. When you two cross the foyer, entering the corridor. Lovejoy is already there waiting for you in the hall as you two approach the room.
Lovejoy looked up from his pocket watch, nodding a greeting to you and ignoring Taehyung, “We have been waiting for you, miss”
He let the two of you walk ahead of him, and from just behind Taehyung he walked. He smoothly slips the diamond necklace into the pocket of Taehyung’s overcoat, expression never changing.
Inside your and Jungkook’s suite, you two saw him and your mother along with the Masters at Arms and two other stewards. Your eyebrows furrowed at their presence but shook it off, wanting to tell them the news about the ship. You cleared your throat, “Something terrible has happened”
Jungkook nodded, a glare playing in his handsome face, “Yes, two things dear to me have disappeared this evening. Now that one is back” He stopped for a moment to look at your directly at your eyes then scowled at Taehyung who’s beside you.
“I have a pretty good idea where to find the other.” Jungkook nodded to the Master at Arms, looking at Taehyung.
“Search him” 
The Masters at Arms gone to Taehyung with a hard glare, remembering him from the incident a couple of days ago. “Coat off, mate.”
 Lovejoy who was still behind Taehyung pulled on his coat roughly. The red-haired male scoffed at that and shrugged his coat off, reluctantly. The Masters at Arms then begun patting him down. Taehyung glared back at the young aristocrat who sat in the divan. 
“This is bullshit” 
You watched the scene with shock then turned to Jungkook who watched it with a stone-cold face, “Jungkook, you can’t be serious! We have something bigger happening and this–”
“Is this it?” The man cut you off, showing your diamond necklace to everyone in the room. You gaped at the sight in disbelief. Taehyung looked at it, shocked, then shook his head.
Jungkook smirked and nodded, standing up, “Yes, that’s it,” he said as he went to you. 
The bulky male turned to Taehyung, “Now don’t make a fuss” and started to cuff him. 
Taehyung struggled and looked at you with wide eyes, “No! (Y/n)! Don’t you believe it! It’s not true!”
You were silent for a moment but then you looked at Jungkook, who looked down at you as if you were a fragile porcelain doll, “He-he couldn’t have” You said uncertainly.
“Of course he could. Easy enough for a professional. He memorized the combination when you opened the safe.” Jungkook explained, tucking a stray hair behind your ear.
“But I was with him the whole time.”
Jungkook gripped your face with a cold and hard glare and said lowly for her to only hear, “Maybe he did it while you were putting your clothes back on.”
Taehyung struggled and looked at you with desperation, “They put it in my pocket, (Y/n)!”
Lovejoy scoffed and looked at the tag of the coat, “It’s not even your coat. Property of A.L Reyson” He read and gave the coat to the Masters at Arms. There is a label inside the collar with the owner’s name. 
“This was reported stolen today”
Taehyung looked at him then at you with anguish, “I was going to return it! (Y/n)–!” 
You looked away from Taehyung, feeling betrayed, hurt, and confused. You moved away from him and closer to Jungkook. Taehyung shook his head, frowning at your action. He started shouting for you as Lovejoy and the Master at Arms drag him out into the hall. You can’t look him in the eye.
“(Y/n)! Don’t listen to them! I didn’t do it! You know I didn’t do it! You know it!”
You were devastated, hearing his voice made you want to believe Taehyung but the evidence being displayed right in front of you was too much. Your mother walked towards you, laying a hand on your shoulder. You cried, hiding your face in your hands. Jungkook placed a warm hand on the small of your back, making you flinch a bit.
“It’s a good thing Jungkook was quick on his feet or you’ll just fall even more for that rat’s tricks, (Y/n)” 
For a couple of moments, you have been sat down, tired from all the crying and happening altogether. From the inside, you could still hear all the shouting and fumbling outside. (M/n) looked at you then to Jungkook as she stood up.
“I better go get dressed. Jungkook look after her for me.” With that, your mother went out of the room. Jungkook’s grip on you tightened, you winced. He suddenly stood up, facing you as you looked up at him in confusion. A sudden force made you look to the side, the sharp sting on your cheek burned. Jungkook has slapped you. You cradled your cheek and looked at him, he was fuming. Eyes colder than anything you saw. 
“If you haven’t been such a little slut, this wouldn’t have happened! If you just honored me–!” He cut himself off then gripped your shoulders tightly.
“This is all your fault, (Y/n).” 
Before Jungkook could continue, there was a loud knock on the door and an urgent voice. The door opened and their steward puts his head in, looking at Jungkook.
“Sir, I’ve been told to ask you to please put on your lifebelt, and come up to the boat deck.”
Jungkook glowered at him, “Get out. We’re busy.”
The steward persisted though, coming in to get the lifebelts down from the top of a dresser.
“I’m sorry about the inconvenience, Mr. Jeon, but it’s Captain’s orders. Please dress warmly, it’s quite cold tonight.”
He then turned to you and gave you the lifebelt, “Not to worry miss, I’m sure it’s just a precaution.” The steward said 
Jungkook snatched the other lifebelt from him and scoffed, “This is ridiculous.”
After it, Jungkook’s entourage comes up to the A-deck foyer. He was carrying the lifebelts, almost as an afterthought. You were dazed like a sleepwalker, following Jungkook.
“It’s just the God damned English doing everything by the book.” The young Jeon hissed out, looking around. (M/n) looked at him and scolded, “No need for such language, Mr.Jeon.” then turned to Trudy, “Go back and turn the heater on in my room, so it won’t be too cold when we get back.”
The maid nodded and went back to the room.  Andrews entered, looking around the magnificent room, which he knows was doomed. You, standing nearby, saw his heartbroken expression. You walked over to him and Jungkook goes after you, an untrusting look on his face. 
“I saw the iceberg, Mr. Andrews. And I see it in your eyes. Please tell me the truth.” You said to the older man. Andrews looked at you with such sad eyes.
“The ship will sink.” 
Your eyebrows furrowed, the truth still hard to swallow even if you knew it.
“You’re certain?”
“Yes. In an hour or so… all this… will be at the bottom of the Atlantic.”
“My God.” Now it is Jungkook’s turn to look stunned. The Titanic? Sinking?
“Please tell only who you must, I don’t want to be responsible for a panic. And get to a boat quickly. Don’t wait. You remember what I told you about the boats?” Andrews said, a small sad smile on his face
Yes, I understand. Thank you.”
Andrews goes off, moving among the passengers and urging them to put on their lifebelts and get to the boats. Jungkook grabbed your arm, pulling you to him. Now that he knows that the ship will sink, he became anxious. 
“Let’s go, (Y/n)”
On the side of the deck outside, the violinist raised his violin to play, looking at his fellow musicians.
“Number 26. Ready and–” The band has reassembled just outside the First Class Entrance, port side, near where the steward was calling for the boats to be loaded. They strike up a waltz, lively and elegant. The music wafts all over the ship.
Jungkook, you and your mother came out of the doors near the band and saw the stewards lowering the boats.
“Right! Start the loading. Women and children!” The appalling din of escaping steam abruptly cuts off, leaving a sudden unearthly silence in which his voice echoes.
“Ladies, please. Step into the boat.” He ushered.
Finally, one woman steps across the gap, into the boat, terrified of the drop to the water far below. One woman from the crowd scoffed at the action and spoke to the person beside her
“You watch. They’ll put us off in these silly little boats to freeze, and we’ll all be back on board by breakfast.”
“My brooch, I left my brooch. I must have it!” Your mother remembered, about to go inside.
She turns back to go to her room but Jungkook takes her by the arm, refusing to let her go. The firmness of his hold surprised her. 
“Stay here, (M/n)” Jungkook said
Your mother saw his expression and knows fear for the first time.
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Lovejoy and the Master at Arms were handcuffing Taehyung to a 4-inch water pipe as a crewman rushed in anxiously and almost blurts to the Master at Arms–
“You’re wanted by the Purser, sir. Urgently.”
“Go on. I’ll keep an eye on him.” Lovejoy said and pulls a pearl-handled Colt .45 automatic from under his coat. The Master at Arms nods and tossed the handcuff key to Lovejoy, then exits with the crewman. Lovejoy flips the key in the air, catching it.
Taehyng sat, chained to the water pipe, next to the porthole. Lovejoy sits on the edge of a desk. He puts a .45 bullet on the desk and watches it roll across and fall off. He picks up the bullet.
“You know… I believe this ship may sink.” He said, walking closer to Taehyung. 
“I’ve been asked to give you this small token of our appreciation…” Then suddenly landed a hard punch on his stomach, knocking the wind out of Taehyung.
“Compliments from Mr. Jeon Jungkook.“ Lovejoy flips the handcuff key in the air, catching it and put it in his pocket. He exits the room leaving Taehyung gasping, handcuffed to the pipe.
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The Lightoller was filling up the boat closest to Jungkook and you as you two watched the commotion.
“Women and children only! Sorry sir, no men yet.” This scared the people on the ship, muttering among themselves.
You watched the farewells taking place right in front of you as they step closer to the boat. Husbands saying goodbye to wives and children. Lovers and friends parted. Nearby Molly was getting a reluctant woman to board the boat.
“Come on, you heard the man. Get in the boat, sister.” 
“Will the lifeboats be seated according to class? I hope they’re not too crowded-“ (M/n) started 
“Oh Mother, shut up!” (M/n) freezes at your words, looking at you with surprise.
“Don’t you understand? The water is freezing and there aren’t enough boats… not enough by half. Half the people on this ship are going to die.” You continued, glaring at her.
Jungkook rolled his eyes at your outburst, “Not the better half anyway.”
His words struck you like lightning. Taehyung was in the third class, Jimin and Yoongi too. They don’t stand a chance. You glared at Jungkook and spat out, “You unimaginable bastard.“
“Come on, (M/n), get in the boat. These are the first-class seats right up here.” Molly said, practically hands her over to Lightoller, then looks around for some other women who might need a push. She then turned to you, “Come on, (Y/n). You’re next, darlin’.” 
You looked at Molly then to your mother but all that occupied your mind was Taehyung. You shook your head making your mother stand up in disbelief and anxiousness.
“(Y/n), get in the boat this instant!” (M/n) shouted, her eyes screaming of fear in what you will do next. She can’t lose you too.
“Goodbye, mother.” You said running back. Jungkook grabbed your arm but you pulled free and walks away through the crowd. Jungkook though catches up to you and grabbing you again, roughly.
“Where are you going? To him? Is that it? To be a whore to that gutter rat?” Jungkook mocked, a scowl appearing on his face.
You stood your ground, glaring back at him, “I’d rather be his whore than your wife.” 
He clenched his jaw and squeezed your arm viciously, pulling you back toward the lifeboat. But you pulled out a hairpin and jabs his hand with it. he lets go with a curse and you run into the crowd. 
“Lower away!” The Lightoller said
“(Y/n)! (Y/N)!” (M/n) shouted, seeing you run back inside the ship.
“Stuff a sock in it, would ya, (M/n). She’ll be along.” Molly reassured, pulling her back to sit down.
You run through the clusters of people, wanting to lose Jungkook. You looked back and a furious Jungkook coming after you, your eyes widened. You ran breathlessly up to two proper looking men.
“That man tried to take advantage of me in the crowd!” You said, pointing to Jungkook.
Appalled, they turn to see Jungkook running toward them. You ran again as the two men grab Jungkook, restraining him. You run through the First Class entrance.
When Jungkook broke free, he runs after you again. He reached the entrance but runs into a knot of people coming out. He pushes rudely through them. 
Jungkook got in, and down to the landing, pushing past the gentlemen and ladies who are filling up the stairs. He scans the A-deck foyer but you were already gone.
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Taehyung pulled on the pipe with all his strength but it was not budging. He hears a gurgling sound, he looked down and saw water pouring under the door, spreading rapidly across the floor.
“Shit”
He tried to pull one hand out of the cuffs, working until the skin was raw… but to no good. 
“Help!! Somebody!! Can anybody hear me?!” He shouted, looking at the closed door with a scowl. 
“This is going to be bad.” He muttered to himself.
The corridor outside was already deserted. Flooded a couple of inches deep. Taehyung’s voice comes faintly through the door, but there was no one to hear it.
In the first-class corridor, Andrews was opening stateroom doors, checking if the people are out.
“Anyone in here?” He called out then you appeared, disheveled.
“Thank God, Mr. Andrews! Where would the Master at Arms take someone under arrest?!”
The older male looked at you like you were crazy and by the looks of it, it was no where far from it.
“What? You have to get to a boat right away!” 
“No! I’ll do this with or without your help, sir. But without will take longer.” You said, looking at him hopefully. The older man sighed, beat.
“Take the elevator to the very bottom, go left, down the crewman’s passage, then make a right.”
“Bottom, left, right. I have it.” You said, running off
“Hurry, (Y/n)!”
You run up as the last Elevator Operator who was closing up his lift to leave. The man saw you rush towards him and said, “Sorry, miss, lifts are closed–”
Without thinking, you grabbed his collar and shoved him inside. “I’m through with being polite, goddamnit!! Now take me down!!”
The operator nodded, scared, and quickly closed the gates and started the lift.
Through the wrought-iron door of the elevator car, you can see the decks going past. The lift slows. Suddenly ice-cold water is swirling around your legs. You screamed in surprise and so does the operator.
The car has landed in a foot of freezing water, shocking the hell out of you. You clawed the door open and splashes out, hiking up your floor-length skirt so you can move. The lift goes back up, behind you, as you look around.
“Left, crew passage” You muttered to yourself. Spotting it and you slogged down the flooded corridor. The place is understandably deserted. You were on your own.
“Right, right… right.”  You turned into a cross-corridor, splashing down the hall. A row of doors on each side.
“Taehyung?! Where are you! Taehyung!” 
Taehyung who was hopelessly pulling on the pipe again, straining until he turns red. He collapses back on the bench. realizing he was screwed but then he hears you through the door.
“(Y/n)?… (Y/N)!! I’m here!” 
You heard his voice behind you. As you spin and run back, locating the right door, then pushing it open, creating a small wave. You splashed over Taehyung and wrapping your arms around him.
“Taehyung! Taehyung, I’m so sorry!”
 Taehyung nuzzled his face on top of your crown, sighing in relief. He then moved a bit away from you and looked at you, “That Lovejoy guy put it in my pocket”
“I know.. I know, Tae”
He smiled at you but then the gurgle of water snapped him out of it. Looking at the rising water then back at you, “See if you can find a key for these. Try those drawers. It’s a little brass one.”
You kissed his face and hugged him again, then started to go through the desk. Looking around the desks and drawers.
“So… how did you find out I didn’t do it?”
“I didn’t. I just realized that I already knew it.”
You two shared a look, then you went back to ransacking the room, searching drawers and cupboards. Taehyung sees movement out the porthole and looks out, a lifeboat hits the surface of the water, seen from below.
You stopped trashing the room, and stood there, breathing hard. Looking at Taehyung and said, “There’s no key”
They look around at the water, now almost two feet deep. Taehyung has pulled his feet up onto the bench then looked back at you, “Go find help”
You nodded, “I’ll be right back!”
“I’ll wait here…” Taehyung said, looking at the swirling water then at the cuffs. You run out, looking back at him once from the doorway, then splashes away, water hindering your movements. 
You splash down the hall to a stairwell going up to the next deck. Climbing the stairs, your long skirt leaving a trail like a giant snail. The weight of it was really slowing you down. You ripped at the buttons and shimmied quickly out of the thing. You bound up the stairs in your stockings and knee-length slip, to find yourself in a long corridor, part of the labyrinth of steerage hallways forward. You were alone here. A long groan of stressing metal echoes along the hall as the ship continues to settle. You run down the hall, unimpeded now.
“Hello?! Somebody!” 
You turned into the corner and runs along another corridor in a daze. The hall slopes down into water which, shimmering, reflecting the light. The margin of the water creeps toward you. A young man appeared, running through the water, sending up geysers of spray. He pelts past you without slowing, his eyes crazed…
“Please help me! We need help!”
He doesn’t look back. It is like a bad dream. The lights flickered and gone out, leaving utter darkness. A beat. Then they come back on. You find yourself hyperventilating. That one moment of blackness was the most terrifying of your life.
A steward then runs around the nearest corner, his arms full of lifebelts. He was upset to see someone still in his section. He grabs you forcefully by the arm, pulling you with him like a wayward child.
“Come on, then, let’s get you topside, miss.” 
“Wait! I need your help! There’s–!”
“No need for panic, miss. Come along!”
“No! We’re going the wrong way!”
He wasn’t listening to you and he didn’t let his grip falter with every step. You grind your teeth in anger. You shouted in his ear making him look at you and when he turned around you socked him straight in his nose. Shocked, he lets you go and staggered back, cradling his bleeding nose.
He glared at you, “Oh to hell with you!” 
“See you there, buster!”
You spat after him as he runs away, holding his nose. You spat at him, just like how Taehyung taught you.
You turned around, saw a glass case with a fire-ax in it. You broke the glass with a battered suitcase which is lying discarded nearby and seizes the ax, running back the way Taehyung is. At the stairwell, you looked down and gasped. The water rose and flooded the bottom five steps already. You went down and had to crouch to look to the corridor to the room where Taehyung was trapped.
You plunged into the water without hesitation, the water up to your waist… and powered forward, holding the ax above your head in two hands. You winced at the pain from the literally freezing water.
Taehyung has climbed up on the bench and was hugging the waterpipe. You waddled in, holding the ax above your head. Taehyung would’ve laughed at the sight of you but now was not the time. 
“Will this work?”
“One way to find out”
You two were both terrified but trying to keep panic at bay, he positioned the chain connecting the two cuffs, stretching it taut across the steel pipe. The chain is of course very short, and his exposed wrists are on either side of it.
“Try a couple practice swings.”
You heft the ax and thunks it into a wooden cabinet. Heaving as you pulled it off.
“Okay, now try hitting the same spot again,” Taehyung instructed. You nodded and swings hard. The blade thunked in four inches from the mark. Taehyung nodded and gestured you to the cuff.
“Okay, that’s enough practice”
He winced, bracing himself as you raised the ax. You had to hit a target about an inch wide with all the force you can muster, with his hands on either side. You gulped, looking at Taehyung with worry.
“You can do it, (Y/n). Hit it as hard as you can, I trust you.” Taehyung said, trying to sound calm. He closed his eyes and so does you as you swing down.
THUNK! 
You opened your eyes, gingerly and saw Taehyung smiling at you with two broken cuffs. You dropped the ax, your strength leaving you because of the terrifying moment.
“Nice work, there, Paul Bunyan. But next time let’s not close our eyes before hitting, yeah?” Taehyung teased with a smile. He climbed down into the water next to you. He can’t breathe for a second. 
“Shit! Excuse my French, love. But that’s cold!” Taehyung winced at the cold water. You sighed in relief then he grabbed your hand in his, “Let’s go”
You two wade out into the hall. You started toward the stairs going up, but Taehyung stopped you. There was only about a foot of the stairwell opening visible. “Too deep. We gotta find another way out.”
The widest passageway in the ship, it is used by crew and steerage alike and runs almost the length of the ship. Right now steerage passengers move along it like refugees, heading aft. The wooden doorframe splinters and the door bursts open under the force of Taehyung’s shoulder. Taehyung and you stumbled through, into the corridor. A steward, who was nearby herding people along, marches over.
“Hey, you! You know you have to pay for that! That’s–”
“Shut up!” You two yelled at him, running off.
Taehyung leads you past the dumbfounded steward. You two joined the steerage stragglers going aft. In places, the corridor was almost completely blocked by large families carrying all their luggage. A woman gave you a blanket, more for modesty than because you were blue-lipped and shivering.
“Here, lass, cover yourself.” 
Taehyung rubs your arms and trying to warm you up as you two walk along. The woman’s husband offers you a flask of whiskey.
“This will take the chill off.” He said as you took the flask and gulped down quickly. You then offered some to Taehyung who grinned down at you and follows suit.  Taehyung tried numbers of doors and iron gates along the way, finding them all locked, he cursed under his breath.
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With Jungkook, he scanned the crowds for any sign of you. He grinds his teeth at that then looked at Lovejoy who rushed towards him through the aisle connecting the port and starboard sides of the boat deck.
“She’s not on the starboard side either,” Lovejoy informed.
“We’re running out of time. And this strutting martinet… And they’re not letting men in” Jungkook muttered, watching the Lightoller.
“The other side is letting men in, sir”
“Then that’s our play. But we’re still going to need some insurance. Come on” Jungkook said, going to the other side with Lovejoy following him.
 Below the deck, Jimin was with Helga and her family, waiting for the stewards to open the damn gate. Yoongi was also waiting on the stairs. After a while, Jimin heard Taehyung’s voice calling out.
“Jimin! Jiminie!” 
Jimin stood up and saw Taehyung with you running towards him. He met Taehyung halfway and embraced him like his brother.
“Where were you? I was worried sick!”
“Jimin we have to get out or we’ll be gurgling salt-water in a couple of minutes. Where’s Yoongi?”
Jimin pointed to the stairs and Taehyung saw him, pushing the iron-gates with a glare. The stewards went up to him and shouted, “Women and children only! No men!”
The terrified men who did not understand what they were saying pushed the gates. The stewards closed it, with a huff. 
“Lock it!” One ordered as they locked the iron-gate. Yoongi growled at them, “What the fuck are you doing, ya bastard! There are children down here! Let us up, so we can have a chance!”
But the crewmen are scared now. They have let the situation get out of hand, and now they have a mob. Yoongi gave up and pushes his way back through the crowd, going down the stairs. He rejoins Taehyung, you and Jimin.
“It’s hopeless that way.” Yoongi huffed, glaring at the direction he was at earlier.
“Well, whatever we’re goin’ to do, we better do it fast,” Taehyung said. Jimin turned to Helga and gestured to him and his group, hoping the young woman understands him
“Helga, come with me. I am lucky, I can get you out of here along with your family” He said but Helga shook her head, kissing him one last time she then moved back to her family. Jimin looked at her sorrowfully, “I’ll never forget you.”
He turns to Taehyung, who leads the way out of the crowd. Looking back, Jimin sees her face disappear into the crowd. He looked face forward again, focusing on getting out.
In the suite of Jungkook and you, Jungkook opens his safe and reaches inside. As Lovejoy watches, he pulls out two stacks of bills, still banded by bank wrappers. Then he takes out “Heart of the Ocean”, putting it in the pocket of his overcoat, and locks the safe.
“I make my own luck.” He muttered. Jungkook turned to Lovejoy who nodded at him and put his .45 revolver in his waistband, “So do I”.
Jungkook smirked at his loyal servant and nodded, putting his money in his pocket.
Taehyung, you, Jimin, and Yoongi were lost, searching for a way out. You four pushed past confused passengers… past a mother changing her baby’s diaper on top of an upturned steamer trunk… past a woman arguing heatedly with a man in Serbo-Croatian, a wailing child next to them… past a man kneeling to console a woman who is just sitting on the floor, sobbing… and past another man with an English/Arabic dictionary, trying to figure out what the signs mean, while his wife and children wait patiently.
You all came upon a narrow stairwell and gone up two decks before you were stopped by a small group pressed up against a steel gate. The steerage men are yelling at a scared steward.
“Go to the main stairwell, with everyone else. It’ll all get sorted out there.”
Taehyung watched the same scene and loses it, “ God damn it to Hell son of a bitch!!”
He grabs one end of a bench bolted to the floor on the landing. He started pulling on it, and Yoongi and Jimin pitched in until the bolts shear and it breaks free. You figured out what they are doing and cleared a path up the stairs between the waiting people.
“Move aside! Quickly!”
Taehyung and Yoongi run up the steps with the bench and rammed it into the gate with all their strength, it rips loose from its track and falls outward, narrowly missing the steward. Led by Taehyung, the crowd surges though. You stepped up to the cowering steward and says in your most imperious tone: 
“If you have any intention of keeping your pathetic job with the White Star Line, I suggest you escort these good people to the boat deck… now.” 
The scared steward nodded dumbly and motioned them to follow. You all burst out onto the boat deck from the crew stairs just aft of the third funnel. You looked at the empty davits.
“The boats are gone!”
You then see Colonel Namjoon escorting two scared women out of the room. You quickly run up to him, “Colonel! Are there any boats left?”
Namjoon looked at your bedraggled state with wide eyes and nodded, “Yes, miss… there are still a couple of boats all the way forward. This way, I’ll lead you!” 
Taehyung grabbed your hand as you all run out. Outside the band was still playing music on the side of the deck. They run by them with Yoongi looking at them weirdly, “Music to drown by. Now, I know I’m in the first-class.” He said sarcastically
The crowd is sparse, with most people still aft. Jungkook slips his hand out of the pocket of his overcoat and into the waist pocket of Murdoch’s greatcoat, leaving the stacks of bills there.
“Now, we have an understanding then?”
Murdoch nodded curtly, “As you’ve said”
Lovejoy then moved up to Jungkook and whispered to his ear, “I have found her. She’s just over the portside She is with him” 
Jungkook’s eyes widened and looked at Lovejoy then to Murdoch. The latter was looking around fakely, “Any more women and children? None?” He said and looked at Jungkook as if hinting that he can go to the boat now.
Jungkook looked at his boat longly. This was it. He can be saved. This was his moment of truth.
“Goddammit to hell! Come on!” He growled and walked away from the boats and to where you were. He and Lovejoy head for the port side, taking a short-cut through the bridge.
On the port side,  Lightoller is getting people into the boat. He keeps his pistol in his hand. Twenty feet below them the sea is pouring into the doors and windows of B deck staterooms. They can hear the roar of water cascading into the ship.
“Women and children! Only women and children! Step back, sir!” The Lightollet said, pushing the men away from the boat. Even with Taehyung’s arms wrapped around you, you were still shivering in the cold. Taehyung looked around the place, frowning at the porters. His eyes then met Yoongi’s and Jimin’s.
“You better check out the other side” 
Jimin frowned a bit but the two nodded. “Once this is over, let’s not ride any more ships, Taehyungie.”
Taehyung smiled a bit at Jimin as the two-run to the other side, leaving you and Taehyung alone with the other people.
You looked up from his arms and said with a frown, “I’m not going without you.”
Taehyung shook his head, “Get in the boat, (Y/n)”
“Yes, get in the boat, (Y/n).” The familiar voice of your fiance called out from behind you. You gasped and whipped around and saw Jungkook glaring at Taehyung with Lovejoy not far behind him. Jungkook’s eyes went to you and it widened at your appearance. You were there standing, shivering in your wet slip and stockings, a shocking display in 1912.
“My God, what happened to you. Here..”
Jungkook pulled you to him, removing his coat and draped it around you. Taehyung frowning at this but did not say anything.
You let him put his coat on you, the cold air was not something you welcomed right now. 
“Hurry, ladies! Step into the boat! Hurry!” The Lightoller shouted again.
“Go on. I’ll get the next one.” Taehyung said. You shook your head, looking at him
“No! Not without you!” 
You didn’t even care that Jungkook was there. He watched you two with clenched jaw, fury, and jealousy swirling inside him. Jungkook leaned down to you and whispered lowly so you three were the only one can hear it.
“There are boats on the other side that are allowing men in. Taehyung and I can get off safely. Both of us.”
Taehyung smiled reassuringly at you and nodded towards Jungkook, “See, I’ll be alright. Now get in the boat, we have our own boat to get to”
“Get in. Hurry, it’s almost full” Jungkook ushered you, looking at the boat.
The Lightollet grabbed your arm and pulled you in the boat. You reached out to Taehyung, your fingers brushing against his for a second then you found yourself stepping inside the boat. Everything was blurry and time felt too fast. 
“Lower away!” 
The two men watched you as the boat descended. You looked up at them with tears streaks in your cheeks.
“You’re a good liar” Jungkook whispered lowly at Taehyung
“Not as good as you” Taehyung replied, still looking at you. 
Jungkook looked at Taehyung from the corner of his eyes then back at you, “I always win, Taehyung. One way or another.” Then he fully turned to him with a smile. 
“Pity I didn’t keep that drawing. It’s going to be worth a lot more by morning.” Jungkook added, sneering at him and went away. 
Taehyung didn’t reply, still looking at you. He didn’t want to waste any second looking away from you. This was his last sight of you, he wouldn’t waste it.  The ropes going through the pulleys as the seamen started to lower. All sound going away. Lightoller giving orders, his lips moving, but you only heard the blood pounding in your ears… this cannot be happening… a rocket burst above in slow-motion, outlining Taehyung in a halo of light making him look painfully ethereal… Your hair was blowing with the wind as you gaze up at him, descending away from him… you saw his hand trembling, the tears at the corners of his eyes as he gazed at you with such sadness, and you just couldn’t. 
Your tears rolled down your cheeks, you continued to look at him. Then you suddenly lunges for the railing close to you, getting out of the boat. The people screamed at you, scared and surprised at your actions. You scrambled to go over the railing as the boat you were just in descended without you. You were back in the Titanic.
“No, (Y/N)! No!!” Taehyung shouted and quickly run towards the A-deck you landed. Jungkook also saw you jump and he was absolutely furious and in disbelief. You were so willing to die for this man, that gutter scum. He was overwhelmed with rage, all thought going away except for that one fact.
Taehyung runs quickly as possible to the A-deck, banging through the doors and sprints to the stairs. He saw you, also running towards him.
You two met at the bottom of the stairs as you collided into a tight embrace. Taehyung pulled away, grabbing your face with his hands, looking at you with tears in his eyes. He kissed you repeatedly, scolding you at the same time.
“Why did you do that, (Y/n)? You’re so stupid! You’re so stupid…” Taehyung kissed you, you felt the desperation and tears in his kiss. You looked at him, breaking the kiss. You smiled through your tears. 
“You jump, I jump, right?” 
Taehyung leaned his forehead on yours, the adrenaline still kicking in his body, “Right.” 
Jungkook came in and runs to the railing. Looking down, he sees you two locked in an embrace. Lovejoy comes up behind Jungkook and puts a restraining hand on him, but he whips around, grabbing the pistol from Lovejoy’s waistband in one swift move.
He ran along the rail and down the stairs. As he reaches the landing above them he raised the gun. Screaming in rage, he fired the gun.
The carved cherub at the foot of the center railing exploded. Taehyung pulled you towards the stairs going down to the next deck. He fires again, running down the steps toward them. A bullet blows a divet out of the oak paneling just behind Taehyung’s head as he pulls you down the next flight of stairs.
Jungkook steps on the skittering head of the cherub statue and tripped, going down the floor with the gun clatters across the marble floor. He gets up, and reeling drunkenly goes over to retrieve it.
The bottom of the grand staircase is flooded several feet deep. you and Taehyung came down the stairs two at a time and run straight into the water, fording across the room to where the floor slopes up until you two reach dry footing at the entrance to the dining saloon.
Jungkook reels down the stairs in time to see Taehyung and his fiance splashing through the water toward the dining saloon. He fires twice. Big gouts of spray near them, but he’s not a great shot.
The water boils up around his feet and he retreats up the stairs a couple of steps. Around him the woodward groans and creaks. He whipped his head to where you two were running off, “Fine! Enjoy your time together while you can!”
Lovejoy arrives and stopped beside Jungkook. The latter then remembered something and laughed angrily. Lovejoy watched him with surprise, “What’s so funny?”
Jungkook sneered and looked at him, “I put the diamond in my coat. And I put the coat on her!”
Then he got an idea, he looked at Lovejoy with a sick look on his face, he grinned, “If you can get it, I’ll give it to you”
Jungkook handed the pistol back to Lovejoy and went back upstairs. Lovejoy thought about it for a  moment then dove into the water. Water up to his waist.
Lovejoy moves among the tables and ornate columns, searching… listening… his eyes tracking rapidly. It was a sea of tables, and they could be anywhere. A silver serving trolley rolls downhill, bumping into tables and pillars.
He glances behind him. The water is following him into the room, advancing in a hundred-foot wide tide. The reception room is now a roiling lake, and the grand staircase is submerged past the first landing. Monstrous groans echo through the ship.
The two of you crouched behind a table, somewhere in the middle. You see the water advancing toward you two, swirling over the floor. The two of you crawled ahead of it to the next row of tables.
Taehyung looked at you and whispered, “Stay here” He moves off as Lovejoy moves over one row and looks along with the tables. Nothing.
A cart rolls toward you and it hits a table and the stacks of dishes toppled out, exploding across the floor and showering you. You scrambled out of the way and Lovejoy spins, seeing you. He moves rapidly toward you, keeping the gun aimed– but Taehyung tackled him from the side, they slammed into each other then towards the table. Crashing over it and toppling to the floor, landing in the water. 
Taehyung and Lovejoy grappled in the icy water with Taehyung ramming his knee down on Lovejoy’s hand, breaking his grip on the pistol, and kicks it away. Lovejoy scrambles up and lunges at him, but Taehyung punched him in the gut, right in the solar plexus, causing the taller man to double over.
“Compliments from the Daegu Kims.” He said, panting then slammed Lovejoy to the ornate column, making him slump into it, stunned.
“Let’s go!” Taehyung grabbed your hand and you two run off. You two run through the galley and you spot the stairs. You started to go up but Taehyung grabbed your hand and leads you down.
You two crouch together on the landing as Lovejoy runs to the stairs. Assuming you have gone up (who wouldn’t?), he climbs up two at a time.
You two waited for the footstep to disappear. A long creaking groan. Then you hear it, a crying child. Below you, then you two gone down a few steps to look along the next deck.
The corridor is was awash, about a foot deep. Standing against the wall, about 50 feet away from you was a little boy, about 3. The water swirls around his legs and he was wailing. 
“We can’t just leave him,” You said and Taehyung nodded. He scooped up the kid and they run back to the stairs but there was a torrent of water coming out, pouring down the stairs rapidly. It was too powerful for them to go against.
“Come on” Taehyung gestured to you.
Charging to the other way down the flooding corridor, they blast up the spray with each footstep. At the end of the hall are heavy double doors. As Taehyung approached them he sees water spraying through the gap between the doors right up to the ceiling. The doors groan and start to crack under the tons of pressure.
“Back! Go back!” He said, alarmed. You pivot and go to where you came from, taking a turn to the cross-corridor. You saw a man coming the other way. He sees the boy in Taehyung’s arms and cries out, grabbing him away from Taehyung. He started cursing him in Russian. He then runs to the side with the boy–
“Wait! No, not that way! Come back!” You shouted after them. The double doors blasted open, a wall of water thunders into the corridor. The father and child disappear instantly.
You two run as a wave blasts around the corner, foaming from floor to ceiling, racing towards you. It gains on you two like a locomotive. The two of you made it to a stairway going up. You two go up the stairs, the white water catching up to them. On top of the stairs was the iron-gate, Taehyung slammed against it. It was locked.
A terrified steward standing guard on the landing above turns to run at the sight of the water thundering up the stairs.
“Wait! Please help us! Unlock the gate!” Taehyung called out but the stewards ignored him, running up the stairs.
The water wells up around you and Taehyung, pouring through the gate and slamming you two against it. In seconds it is up to your waist.
“Please! Help us!” You called out, stopping the steward on his tracks and looked back at you two, the water pouring in rapidly.
“Fuckin’ hell” He muttered and raced back down. He pulls a key ring from his belt and struggled to unlock the padlock as the water fountains up around them. The lights shorted out and the place was plunged into darkness. The water rose over the lock and the steward was doing it by felling through it.
“Come on! Come on!” Taehyung shouted, looking behind them. Suddenly the gate swings open and they were being pushed through by the force of the water. You made it to stairs on the other side of the landing and followed the steward up to the next deck. You two run-up to the seemingly neverending stairs.
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Murdoch, at the other side of the ship, was no longer in control. The crowd was threatening to rush the boat. They push and jostle, yelling and shouting at the officers. The pressure from behind pushes them forward, and one guy falls off the edge of the deck into the water less than ten feet below.
“Give us a chance to live, you fucking bastards!” Yoongi shouted but Murdoch fired his Webley twice in the air, then points it at the crowd.
“Stand back! I’ll shoot any man who tries to get past me!” He shouted back, looking at the crowd. Jungkook sneered at the man and stepped towards him, “We had a damn deal!”
Murdoch pushes him and points his gun to Jungkook and shoved his other hand in his pocket, throwing Jungkook’s money towards him, “Keep your damn money! Get back!”
The man behind Yoongi pushed him, shoving him forward. Muldoch saw the movement and shoot blindly, hitting Yoongi right in his chest. He collapsed, Jimin grabbing him before he can hit the ground. Jimin looked at Muldoch with disbelief and a hard glare, tears threatening to spill. 
“You fucking bastard! How could you!” Jimin yelled as he hugged Yoongi close to his chest. The younger man looked at him, his tears hitting Yoongi’s cheek. Jimin watched as Yoongi’s life slowly fade away from his eyes.
“Yoongi… Yoongi-hyung…” Jimin called out, his sobs escaping him. Yoongi used his last strength and laugh lowly, “You finally called me hyung, you little brat…”
Jimin watched as his friend slowly dies in his arms, the latter’s blood staining his skin. Jimin tried to deny reality and shook Yoongi softly, “Hyung?… Please no… You have to wake up, you shouldn’t sleep here. We have to go… I’m going to be a millionaire and I’ll get you the fanciest bedroom… s-so please wake up.”
But Yoongi didn’t answer him.
Jungkook and Muldoch watched the scene in horror as the latter turned to his men and saluted smartly. With a swift press, he shot himself in the head. He drops like a puppet that it’s strings got cut and topples over the edge of the boat deck into the water only a few feet below. Jungkook stared at nothing in horror because the man was just a couple of feet across him, his blood splattered across the air, the smell filling him.
Jungkook’s eyes looked down at the water, fear, and dread filling him as he watched Muldoch’s body bobbing in the dark water. The crew then rushes the last few women to the boat, trying to push past the reality to the back of their brains.
“Any more women or children?” 
Jungkook snapped out of it and looked around. He then saw a lost young girl who was crying in the middle of the chaos. He ground his teeth and scooped her up in his arms. 
“Here’s a child! I’ve got a child! Please I’m all she has in this world” Jungkook said to the steward and he nodded, pushing them boat onto the boat. He sat down with the child in his arms. Jungkook looked at Jimin and Yoongi still on the floor, ‘too bad, you have such terrible luck’
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Thomas Andrews stood in front of the fireplace, staring at the large painting above the mantle. The fire was still lit in the fireplace.
The room was empty except for Andrews. Behind him, You and Taehyung run into the room, out of breath and soaked. They run through, toward the aft revolving door… then you recognized him. You saw that his lifebelt was off, lying on a table.
“Mr. Andrews? Won’t you even make a try for it?” You asked softly. A lone tear slips to his cheek. The older man smiled bitterly, “I’m sorry I didn’t build a stronger ship for you, young (Y/n)”
“It’s going fast. We have to go” Taehyung whispered to you and you nodded. Andrews then gave you his lifebelt and smiled.
“Good luck to you, (Y/n)” You hugged him and said, “And to you too, Mr. Andrews”
Taehyung pulled you away and you two went out of the room through the revolving door. You two run out and into a dense crowd. Taehyung pushed his way to the rail and looked at the state of the ship. The bridge was underwater and there is chaos on deck. The red-haired male helped you put your lifebelt on. People stream around you, shouting and pushing.
“Okay… we keep moving. We have to stay on the ship as long as possible.” Taehyung said and dragged you with him after securing you into the lifebelt. You two moved past through the panicking crowd.
On the port side, collapsible B was picked up by water. Working frantically, the men tried to detach it from the falls so the ship won’t drag it under. Colonel Namjoon hands the  Lightoller a pocket knife and he saws furiously at the ropes as the water swirls around his legs. The boat, still upside down, was being swept off the ship. Men start diving in, swimming to stay with it.
Jungkook sat next to the wailing child, whom he has completely forgotten. He watched the water rising around the men as they work, scrambling to get the ropes cut so the ship won’t drag the collapsible under.
Jimin looked at the rising water and tried to carry Yoongi with him, moving away from the water. He slumps and saw a stray lifebelt and quickly put it on as the water raised around him.
The part of the ship then plunges to the water, partially swamping the boat, washing it along the deck. Over a hundred passengers were plunged into the freezing water and the area around the boat becomes a frenzy of splashing, screaming people.
As men were trying to climb into the collapsible, Jungkook grabbed an oar and pushed them back into the water.
“Stop! Get away! You’ll swamp us!”
Jimin, swimming for his life, gets swirled under a davit. The ropes and pulleys tangle around him as the davit goes under the water, and he was dragged down. He struggles to free himself and then kicks back to the surface. He surfaces, gasping for air in the freezing water. He then looked around, alarmed.
“Yoongi-hyung?! Where are you?!” Trying to swim in the cold water, he looked around the freezing ocean.
Collapsible A is whirled like a leaf in the currents around the sinking ship. It slams against the side of the forward funnel. Jungkook growled at the people.
“Row! Row, you bastards!” He shouted to the crew on the boat. Jimin was drawn up against the grating of a vent as water poured through it. The force of tons of water roaring down the ship trapped him against it, and he was being dragged down under the surface as the ship sinks. He struggles to free himself but cannot. Suddenly there was a concussion deep in the bowels of the ship as a furnace exploded and a blast of hot air belches out of the ventilator, ejecting Jimin. He surfaces in a roar of foam and kept swimming, tired and cold.
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You and Taehyung clambered over the A-Deck aft rail then, using all his strength, he lowers you toward the deck below, holding on with one hand. You dangled for a bit, then falls. Taehyung jumps down behind you. They join a crush of people literally clawing and scrambling over each other to get down the narrow stairs to the well deck… the only way aft.
Seeing that the stairs are impossible, Taehyung climbs over the B-Deck railing and helps you over. He lowers you again, and you fall in a heap. Seokjin, now three sheets to the wind, happens to be next to you. He hauls you to your feet. Taehyung drops down and the three of you push through the crowd across the well deck. Near you, at the rail, people were jumping into the cold water.
The ship groans and shudders, scaring the people on board. The man ahead of Taehyung was walking like a zombie.
“Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death–” Taehyung heard and tried to walk past him
“You wanna walk a little faster through that valley, fella?” He scoffed and squeezing through the man, dragging you with him
The stay cables along the top of the funnel snapped, and they lash like steel whips down into the water. Jungkook watched as the funnel topples from its mounts in shock. Falling like a temple pillar twenty-eight feet across it whomps into the water with a tremendous splash. People swimming underneath it disappear in an instant.
Jimin, a few feet away, was hurled back by a huge wave. He comes up, gasping… still swimming. The water pouring into the open end of the funnel draws in several swimmers. The funnel sinks, disappearing, but hundreds of tons of water pour down through the 30-foot hole where the funnel stood, thundering down into the belly of the ship. A whirlpool formed, a hole in the ocean, like at enormous toiler-flush. A man, just a couple of feet away from Jimin, swims in a frenzy as the vortex drew him in. He was sucked down like a spider going down a drain.
Jimin, nearby, swims like hell as more people were being sucked down behind him. He manages to get clear. He’s going to live no matter what it takes. He swam up to the boat where Jungkook was, he tried to get himself up. Jungkook was about to push him off but Jimin looked up at him, lips blue and cheeks covered by frost-bites.
“Please help me…” Jimin whimpered out. Jungkook scowled but decided to be the bigger person. Jungkook took Jimin’s cold hands in his and pulled him up to the small boat where not many people were in anyway. The wet male shivered and coughed, some of the other people gave Jimin some dry clothes to wrap himself around
“T-Thank you…” Jimin uttered out, trembling at Jungkook’s feet. The younger male scowled once again and tutted, not saying anything. 
You and Taehyung struggled to climb the well deck stairs as the ship tilts. Seokjin, a bit drunk, puts a hand squarely on your butt and shoves you up onto the deck.
“Sorry, (Y/n)!” Seokjin shouted through the screaming people
Hundreds of people were already on the poop deck, and more were pouring up every second. Taehyung and you clung together as you two struggled across the tilting deck. As the bow goes down, the stern rises. In the boats below, which is just off the stern, passengers gape as the giant bronze propellers rise out of the water like gods of the deep.
People were jumping from the well deck, the poop deck, the gangway doors. Some hit debris in the water and were hurt or killed. On the poop deck, you and Taehyung struggled as the angle increases. Hundreds of passengers, clinging to every fixed object on deck, huddle on their knees around. Pulling himself from handhold to handhold, Taehyung tugs you along the deck.
“Come on, (Y/n). We can’t expect God to do all the work for us” 
You two struggled on, pushing through the praying people. A man lost his footing ahead and slid toward them. Taehyung helps him up. The propellers were twenty feet above the water and rising faster.
Taehyung and you made it to the stern rail, right at the base of the flagpole. You gripped the rail, jammed in between other people. It was the spot where Taehyng pulled you back onto the ship, just two nights… and a lifetime… ago. The lights flickered, threatening to go out. You gripped Taehyung as the stern rises into a night sky ablaze with stars. Around you, all you saw were faces beginning to accept their doom. On to your left, you saw Helga. She looked at you briefly, her eyes infinitely sad.
Passengers lost their grip on to whatever they were holding on to and slid down the wooden deck like a bobsled run, hundreds of feet before they hit the water. Trudy, your maid, slips as she struggles along the railing and slides away screaming. 
The propellers were 100 feet out of the water and were still rising. Panicking people leap from the poop deck rail, screaming and hit the water like mortar rounds. A man falls from the poop deck, hitting the bronze hub of the starboard propeller with a sickening smack.
The swimmers look up and saw the stern towering over them like a monolith, the propellers rising against the stars. 110 feet. 120.
On the boat, your mother watched the scene with horror and dread remembering you. Were you safe? Please let my daughter be safe.
The stern of the ship, almost four hundred feet long, falls back toward the water. On the poop deck, everyone screamed as they felt themselves plummeting. The sound goes up like the roar of fans at a concert
Swimming in the water directly under the stern was a few unfortunates shriek as they see the keel coming down on them like God’s bootheel. The massive stern section falls back almost level, thundering down into the sea and pushing out a mighty wave of displaced water, slamming to the people below.
You and Taehyung struggled to hold onto the stern rail. They feel the ship seemingly right itself. Some of those praying taught it is salvation.
“We’re saved!”
Taehyung shooked his head, grimly. Pulled down by the weight of the flooded bow, the buoyant stern tilts up rapidly. They feel the rush of the ascent as the fantail angles up again. Everyone is clinging to benches, railings, ventilators… anything to keep from sliding as the stern lifts. People start to fall, sliding and tumbling. They skid down the deck, screaming and flailing to grab onto something. They wrench other people lose and pull them down as well. There is a pile-up of bodies at the forward rail. 
“We have to move!” Taehyung shouted. He climbs over the stern rail and reached back for you. You were absolutely terrified to move. He grabs your hand.
“Come on! I’ve got you!” He said, pulling you over the rail. It was the same place he pulled you over the rail two nights earlier, but going the other direction. You got over just as the railing was going horizontal, and the deck vertical. Taehyung grips you fiercely, afraid to let go.
The two of you gripped each other and the rail side by side, looking straight at the black water, waiting for anyone to slip. one the corner of you guys, you saw Seokjin gripping the railing. He nodded a greeting, “One hell of a night, huh”
You nodded back, unsure. You then looked back at Taehyung. “Take a deep breath and hold it right before we go into the water. The ship will suck us down. Kick for the surface and keep kicking. Don’t let go of my hand. We’re gonna make it (Y/n). Trust me.” He said and you nodded, gripping his hand tighter.
“I trust you” then the deck started to descend in a rapid motion. The screaming of people slowly went silent as they were sucked into the ocean. Bodies were whirled and spun, some limp as dolls, others struggling spasmodically, as the vortex sucks them down and tumbles them.
Roiling chaos of screaming, thrashing people were all there was. Over a thousand people were now floating where the ship went down. Some were stunned, gasping for breath. Others were crying, praying, moaning, shouting… screaming.
You two surfaced among them but barely had time to gasp for air before people were clawing at them. People were driven insane by the water, 4 degrees below freezing, a cold so intense that it was indistinguishable from death by fire. 
A man pushes you under, trying to climb on top of you, senselessly trying to get out of the water, to climb onto anything. Taehyung punched him repeatedly, pulling you free.
“Come on! Swim, (Y/n)!” 
You tried, you really did. but your strokes were hindered by the lifebelt you wore. It was heavy, pulling you a bit. You two broke out of the clot of people with Taehyung pushing you to safety. Taehyung looked around, searching for any type of floatation. He has to get you out of this cold water. Taehyung stroke rhythmically, the effort keeping him from freezing to death.
“Look for something floating… Anything, wood, or some debris. Just anything…” His stuttered because of the cold, shivering.
You whimpered, “It’s so cold, Tae….”
He frowned and answered softly, “I know, I know… Help me, here. Look around”
His words kept you focused as you looked around you. Just a couple of feet away, you see something. You pointed at it, shivering, “W-What’s that?” 
Taehyung turned to you and looked at where you were pointing at. You two went to it. It was a piece of wooden debris, intricately carved. He pushes you up and you slithered onto it belly down. But when he tried to get up onto the thing, it tilted and submerges, almost dumping you off as you yelped at the sudden motion. It was clearly only big enough to support you. He clings to it, close to you, keeping his upper body out of the water as best he can. Your breath floats around you two in a cloud as you two pant from exertion. A man then swims toward you, homing in on the piece of debris. Taehyung glared at him and warned him.
“It’s just enough for this lady… you’ll push it under.”
“Let me at least try… or I’ll die soon”
“You’ll die sooner if you come any closer”
The man stopped at Taehyung’s words and nodded as he swims off, “I see. Good luck to you” 
The boats were overloaded and half-flooded. Men cling to the sides in the water. Others, swimming, were drawn to it as their only hope. Jungkook, standing in the boat, slaps his oar in the water as a warning.
“Stay back! Keep off!” He shouted. Jimin shivered in the boat, looking at Jungkook slam his ore in a man’s head, splitting it open. He looked at him, seeing the younger man wasn’t even guilty for it. He thanked God that he arrived earlier on the boat or that would’ve been his fate. Jeon Jungkook was definitely a demon in a tuxedo. 
You and Taehyung still floating amid the chorus of the damned. He sees the ship’s officer nearby, he was blowing his whistle furiously, knowing the sound will carry over the water for miles.
“The boats will come back for us, (Y/n). Hold on just a little longer. They had to row away for the suction and now they’ll be coming back.” Taehyung muttered quietly. You nodded, gripping his cold hands in yours. His words helping you, as you shiver uncontrollably, your lips blue and your teeth chattering.
“Thank God for you Tae…”
You and Taehyung drift under the blazing stars, the water was glassy, with only the faintest undulating swell. You can actually see the stars reflecting on the black mirror of the sea.
Taehyung squeezed the water out of your long coat, tucking it in tightly around your legs. He rubs your arms. His face was turning white because of the frostbite but he paid no attention to it, focusing on you instead.
“It’s getting quiet…” You said
“Just a few more minutes. It’ll take them a while to get the boats organized…” Taehyung muttered back to you, looking straight to your eyes.
You were unmoving, just staring into space. You knew the truth, there won’t be any boats. Behind Taehyung, you see an officer has stopped moving. He was slumped in his lifejacket, looking almost asleep. He has died of exposure already. Taehyung noticed where you were looking and started again, “I don’t know about you, but I intend to write a strongly worded letter to the White Star Line about all this.” 
You chuckled weakly at his words, forgetting the cold for a bit. Your laugh was like a gasp of pain, you found his eyes again in the dark.
“I love you, Taehyung”
Taehyung shook his head at your words, “No, (Y/n). Don’t say your goodbyes. Don’t give up now. Don’t do it”
“I’m so cold…”
“You’re going to get out of this… You’re going to go on and you’re going to make babies and watch them grow and you’re going to die an old lady, warm in your bed. Not here. Not this night. Do you understand me?” Taehyung said, firmly as he can with his stuttering voice.
“I can’t feel my body…”
Taehyung gripped your hand making you look at him, “(Y/n), listen to me. Listen… Winning that ticket was the best thing that ever happened to me.” His breath hindering him from talking. It was too painful now but he continued.
“It brought me to you. And I’m thankful, (Y/n). I’m so thankful.” His voice was trembling because of the cold water which is working his way to his heart. But his eyes were unwavering, looking straight at you.
“You must do me this honor… promise me you will survive… that you will never give up… no matter what happens… no matter how hopeless… promise me now, and never let go of that promise.”
You stifled your tears, nodding, “I promise”
“Never let go”
“I’ll never let go, Taehyung. Never”  You gripped his hand and you lie with your heads together. It is quiet now, except for the lapping of the water. 
The stars reflect in the glassy surface, and the two of you seemed to be floating in interstellar space. You were absolutely still. Your hands were locked together. You were staring upwards at the canopy of stars wheeling above you. The music was transparent, floating… as the long sleep steals over you, and you feel peace.
Your face was pale as the faces of the dead, you knew you were dying, the cold numbing you. You parted your lips, barely moving them as you sang Taehyung’s song
“Come Josephine in my flying machine” 
The stars looked beautiful above you, the Milky Way a glorious band from horizon to horizon. Then a shooting star flares across,  a white line on the dark sky. Your hair was dusted with frost crystals, your breathing was so shallow, you were almost motionless. Your (e/c) eyes track down from the stars to the water. On the water, there was a silhouette of a boat crossing the stars. You saw men in it, rowing so slowly the oars lift out of the syrupy water, leaving weightless pearls floating in the air. The voices of the men sound slow and distorted.
Then the lookout flashes his torch toward you and the light flares across the water, silhouetting the bobbing corpses in between. It flicks past your motionless form and moves on. The boat is 50 feet away, and moving past you. The men looked away. You lifted your head to turn to Taehyung, your hair frozen to the wood.
“Taehyung…” You gasped out so quietly that it was slightly inaudible. You lifted your free hand and shook the male slightly. He didn’t respond. You gently turned his face toward you. It is rimed with frost. 
He seems to be sleeping peacefully, still looking as ethereal. But he was not asleep. You can only stare at his still face as the realization goes through you. Your tears bubbled in your eyes, the burning of your eyes contrasted to the cold.
“Oh, Tae…” you breathed out, feeling all of your hope, will, and spirit leave you. You looked at the boat. It was further away now, the voices fainter. You watched them go. You closed your eyes, all reason to try seemed to leave you. And then… your eyes snapped open. You raised your head suddenly, cracking the ice as you ripped your hair off the wood. You called out, but your voice was so weak that they don’t hear you. The boat is invisible now, the torchlight, a star impossibly far away. You struggled to draw breath, calling again.
You struggled to move. Your hand, you realized, was actually frozen to Taehyung’s. You breathed on it, melting the ice a little, and gently unclasps your hands, breaking away a thin tinkling film.
“I’m sorry, Taehyung… I promised you and I’ll see you again someday.” You choked out, releasing his hand. You watched sadly as he slowly sinks down to the water.  He seems to fade out like an angel returning to heaven where you can’t go just yet. 
You rolled off the floating wood and plunges into the icy water. You swam to the officer’s body and grabbed his whistle. You started to blow the whistle with all the strength left in your body. Its sound slaps across the still water.
The search party whipped towards the sharp sound and ordered the men to row back, “Row back! Row!”
You kept on blowing as the boat comes to you. You were still blowing when the officer hauls you to the boat, taking the whistle from your mouth. You slipped into unconsciousness and they scramble to cover you with blankets…
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On the afternoon of the 15th, Jungkook was searching through the faces of the widows lining the deck, looking for you. The deck of Carpathia is crammed with huddled people and even the recovered lifeboats of Titanic. On a hatch cover sits an enormous pile of lifebelts.
He keeps walking toward the stern. Seeing Jungkook’s tuxedo, a steward approached him.
“You won’t find any of your people back here, sir. It’s all steerage.”
Jungkook ignored him and continued to search among the people, huddled in the benches.
 You were sipping hot tea. Your eyes focused on him as he approaches you. He barely recognizes you. You looked like a refugee, your matted hair hanging in your eyes.
“I’ve lived. How awkward for you”
Jungkook sighed, “(Y/n)… Your mother and I have been looking for you–” You held up a hand, stopping him.
“Please don’t. Don’t talk. Just listen. We will make a deal since that is something you understand. From this moment you do not exist for me, nor I for you. You shall not see me again. And you will not attempt to find me. In return, I will keep my silence. Your actions last night need never come to light, and you will get to keep the honor you have carefully purchased.” You glared at him, cold and hard like the ice which changed your lives.
“Is this in any way unclear?” You asked. After a long silence on Jungkook’s behalf, he started.
“What do I tell your mother?”
“Tell her that her daughter died with the Titanic.” You stood up, turning to the rail, dismissing him. Jungkook’s face was stricken with emotion that never even appeared on his face until now.
“You’re precious to me, (Y/n)” Jungkook whispered. You scoffed at him.
“Jewels are precious, Mr. Jeon.” You said harshly. Jungkook stared at your back with such sorrow and emotion. It can be seen that in his own way, the only way he knew, he did truly love you.
After a moment, he turns and walks away.
On the 18th you have sailed to America on your own. You looked at the Statue of Liberty, welcoming you home with her glowing torch. It is just as Jimin saw it, so clearly, in his mind. 
Several hundred police kept the mob back. The dock is packed with friends and relatives, officials, ambulances, and the press– Reporters and photographers swarm everywhere… 6 deep at the foot of the gangways, lining the tops of cars and trucks… it was the 1912 equivalent of a media circus. They jostled to get close to the survivors, tugging on them as they pass and shouting over each other to ask them questions.
You were covered with a woolen shawl and walking with a group of steerage passengers. Immigration officers were asking them questions as they come off the gangway.
“Name?”
You looked at him and said, “Kim. Kim (Y/n)”
This was your new beginning. The new beginning that was robbed from you by time. It was supposed to be you and Taehyung… Doing all the things he promised you, all the things he told you about. Doing all the things all normal couples do. 
You sighed, breathing the air. You smiled a bit, looking around. It was okay. You’ll see him again, someday. But for now, you have to do the things you promised him.
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You opened your eyes and you saw the familiar design of the Titanic, the echoing sound of music in the distance was nostalgic. The music was vibrant now, and the room is populated by men in ties and tails, women in gowns. It was exquisitely beautiful just like how you remembered it.
The crowd of beautiful gentlemen and ladies turned as you descend toward them. At the bottom, a man stands with his back to you… He looked so familiar, so heart-achingly familiar. The man turns and it was Taehyung, smiling, he holds his hand out toward you.
“I see you’ve kept your promise, love.”
“I have so much to tell you, Tae”
“I’m here, (Y/n)”
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The Benefits of Professional Transport Services: A Complete Guide
In today's fast-paced world, professional transport services play a vital role in ensuring efficient and convenient travel for individuals and businesses alike. From daily commutes to special events and corporate travel, relying on professional transport services offers numerous advantages that can enhance comfort, safety, and overall experience. This guide explores the benefits of utilizing professional transport services, highlighting why they are a preferred choice for many travelers and organizations.
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1. Convenience and Reliability
One of the primary benefits of professional transport services is convenience and reliability. Whether you need transportation to the airport, a business meeting, or a social event, professional transport companies offer timely and dependable services. They ensure that vehicles arrive punctually at the designated location, eliminating the stress and uncertainty associated with self-driving or relying on public transportation.
2. Comfort and Safety
Professional transport services prioritize passenger comfort and safety. They maintain a fleet of well-maintained vehicles equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable ride. Additionally, professional drivers undergo rigorous training and background checks, guaranteeing safe and secure transportation for passengers. This focus on comfort and safety is particularly beneficial for long-distance travel or special occasions.
3. Customized Services
Professional transport services are highly flexible and can be tailored to meet specific requirements. Whether you need a luxury sedan for a corporate event, a spacious van for group transportation, or a specialized vehicle for a wedding or party, transport companies offer customized solutions to accommodate diverse needs. They can also assist with logistical planning and itinerary adjustments to ensure seamless travel experiences.
4. Time and Cost Efficiency
Utilizing professional transport services can save time and reduce costs, especially for businesses. Instead of allocating resources towards maintaining a company-owned fleet or managing travel logistics, organizations can outsource transportation needs to specialized providers. This allows businesses to focus on core activities while benefiting from cost-effective and efficient transport solutions.
5. Expertise and Professionalism
Professional transport services employ experienced drivers who possess in-depth knowledge of local routes and traffic conditions. This expertise enables them to navigate efficiently and choose the best routes, minimizing travel time and avoiding traffic congestion. Moreover, professional drivers exhibit professionalism and courtesy, ensuring a pleasant and stress-free experience for passengers.
6. 24/7 Availability
Another advantage of professional transport services is their round-the-clock availability. Whether you require transportation early in the morning, late at night, or even on holidays, reputable transport companies operate 24/7 to cater to diverse schedules and travel needs. This flexibility is particularly valuable for emergency situations or last-minute travel arrangements.
7. Enhanced Corporate Image
For businesses, utilizing professional transport services can enhance corporate image and reputation. Arranging executive transportation for clients, partners, or employees demonstrates professionalism and attention to detail. It leaves a positive impression and reinforces the company's commitment to providing exceptional service and hospitality.
How to Choose the Right Transport Service
When selecting a professional transport service, consider the following factors to ensure a positive experience:
Reputation: Research and read reviews to assess the reputation and reliability of transport companies.
Fleet Quality: Evaluate the condition and variety of vehicles offered by the service provider.
Safety Standards: Inquire about driver qualifications, safety protocols, and insurance coverage.
Customization Options: Discuss customization options and special requests based on your specific needs.
Cost and Value: Compare pricing, packages, and included amenities to determine the best value for your budget.
Conclusion
Professional transport services offer a multitude of benefits that enhance travel experiences for individuals and organizations alike. From convenience and reliability to comfort, safety, and flexibility, utilizing professional transport services provides a cost-effective and efficient alternative to self-driving or public transportation. By choosing a reputable transport provider and leveraging customized solutions, travelers can enjoy seamless and stress-free journeys, whether for daily commutes, special occasions, or corporate travel. Embrace the advantages of professional transport services and elevate your travel experience today!
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qtakesams · 5 years ago
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Dutch Reflections: A Take on (Non-Existent?) Culture Shock
When I first started my search for an abroad program and then selected one, the world travelers in my life started warning me about one specific thing: culture shock. Everything from what this could mean for me and how I could handle it. What to do if I got to my study location and decided within a few days that I hated it. When to recognize signs of culture shock and collect methods to resolve the issue.
           Somewhat obviously, culture shock is like academic stress or a light headache in that it affects us all very differently in different ways. Some people, especially those who do not travel until they are older and therefore do not know what another country could be like, are hit hard and fall into depression. Others, like me right now, notice the many cultural differences, but accept them rather easily.
           Generally, I’m a relaxed and chill person. I do sometimes stress easily, but I manage it pretty well. It takes a lot for something or someone to annoy me so much that I feel the need to escape the situation or say something. This is all part of why, when everybody around me began telling me I should worry about serious stress or culture shock, I didn’t give much thought to their words.
           The biggest form of stress most exchange students encounter is a language barrier. You never actually realize how important it is to communicate until you do something simple like order a drink or ask when the next bus arrives. Then, you realize it is imperative for you to be able to ask your question and receive a comprehensive response quickly. Students who go to Berlin, take German. Before Florence, they take Italian. Before Tokyo, they take Japanese. These are a handful of the places where English is hardly spoken outside of the inner city or high tourist density. If you visit these places expecting to not get lost only using your proper manners, you will be sorely mistaken.
           Before I knew of my acceptance to my program in Amsterdam, I knew there was almost no language barrier. I’ve written about this prior to this post, but one can travel almost anywhere in the Netherlands and whomever you need to interact with likely speaks borderline fluent English.
           Because of knowing this, the currency, and some general background history, I had expected I wouldn’t be hit too hard by culture shock.
This summer, I lived with eighteen other college students whilst doing an internship in Edgewater, Maryland. Of course, this meant I did not live alone and when I wanted a friend I could just walk into the common room and strike conversation. We did, however, each live off of our own paychecks and food. My parents provided me their spare car for the summer, so once a week I went grocery shopping and bought $40 worth of the cheapest one-person groceries I could buy.
We drove ourselves everywhere, cooked for ourselves, paid our own rent, and took ourselves to the urgent care center in town when we had tick bites and sinus infections. It was the first time in my life I was providing almost completely for myself. My parents took care of my phone bill and bought me a round-trip plane ticket to a family wedding in late July, but I did most everything else.
It was a huge wake-up call, showing me that yes, I could survive on my own if thrown into a poverty-stricken scenario. On the other hand, the experience showed me how much I need to learn. How to cook proper and healthy meals, track spending, and manage time. How to reallyspeak to people with eye contact and confidence. Truthfully, when I return to life as a normal college student in the spring, I’m not even sure how I’ll be able to bring myself to letting somebody else keep cooking for me.
With all of this under my belt, I got on my first ever international flight from Philadelphia to Dublin, worrying really only about how to catch my connection in Dublin to Amsterdam (it turns out, Dublin Terminal 2 is extremely small, and you can catch a connection in under thirty minutes). The first week I was here, I was whisked so quickly between orientation activities and new friends to the point where I wasn’t even trying to keep up with how my surroundings had changed.
It wasn’t until the end of the week, when I started going to the store and restaurants without a tour guide, that I realized I was really in a new country, living there.
A changing cultural aspect I was actually looking forward in the summer was the Dutch bluntness. The Dutch are known for how direct they can be, speaking in terms that we would deem rude in America. If you are standing in a group blocking the sidewalk, a Dutch person will simply part their hands and force you to separate. If you use sarcasm toward a Dutch person, they will take you literally. Truthfully, I do like this, as it feels good for someone to simply say what they mean. The sarcasm, however, takes adjustment.
Yesterday, I went out to dinner with two of my international friends. After a week of what felt like eating on the go or eating in a student environment, we all agreed it was delightful to venture on our own and eat food with other adult human beings.
The place we chose was an Italian restaurant, located in a tourist square not far from the opera house in Amsterdam. We approached the outdoor seating, and a waiter beckoned us in and handed us menus. We sat for maybe ten minutes, people-watching, until another waitress came by and took our food and beverage order. Another few minutes went by, and food and beverage came.
Now, keep in mind that because I am learning to bike in Amsterdam and the public transportation is difficult to learn, expensive, and sometimes unnecessary, I walked everywhere last week. According to my phone, I walked about 7-10 miles every day the first five days I was here. This includes the first day, when I was so jetlagged, I could have cried every time somebody spoke to me.
So, because of this, I’ve been drinking water. Lots of it, constantly. One of the weirder cultural aspects of Amsterdam I very much appreciate is that drinking water comes from the tap, and all taps are usable. People fill their water bottles using hoses sticking out of the ground in public spaces, something unheard of in America.
As I sit at this lovely restaurant eating our pasta, I finish my water in probably just two gulps, and patiently wait for the waiter to come refill it. And I wait. And I wait some more.
Eventually, my friend asks for a refill, and another waitress returns with an entirely new glass of water. I consider asking for one but decide not to bother.
After several minutes of sitting with our plates clean and glasses empty, we begin to wait for the check. In the back of my mind, I begin wondering if the food will soon be free because the service is presumably horrid.
Then, my other friend suggests an article she read before we arrived, one that described restaurant customs in the Netherlands. Basically, unlike in America where the staff routinely refills your drink and brings your check in a timely manner, you must ask for everything you need.
I don’t dislike this because I am too lazy to ask for the check, or flag down a waitress for more beverage. I dislike it because it feels demeaning to the staff to ask them for everything, like a needy child in a supermarket. Yet, when we ask the waitress for the check, and then to split it, she does it with a large smile spread across her face. It’s interesting.
What is perhaps most shocking about culture shock, is that what can seem extremely rude or weird to you is entirely normal for everybody else around you.
Many parts of Amsterdam look and feel just like America. This is mostly in the city center where fast food chains and cheap gifts line the canals for American tourists. In other areas, such as Amsterdam West and the Red-light District, the Dutch allow what we consider their freak flag to fly at top mast.
Amsterdam is pretty much known for liberal views and tolerated pot, along with several cultural norms that most other countries view as inappropriate or odd. Yet, mixed into that oddity is a brand new perspective one may find interesting if they have the courage to step outside their country’s own beliefs.
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about-the-limo-biz-blog · 5 years ago
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The Factors to Consider as You Are Seeking Limo Transportation Services
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As you are determining limousine services, make sure that you are considerate.  There are so many dealerships in limo services in Philadelphia, and thus you may be confused.  Get to do adequate research as this will make the selection of limo services easier.  Any time that you want to have excellent transportation services goer your even consider the chauffeurs. It is advisable that you get to know the quality of the cars that the dealership in limos services offers.  When going for the right limousine transportation services in Philadelphia, you will need to find some aspects.  You will get more info on what you need to consider when choosing the right limousine transportation company. Click here to check out  these Philly wine tours.
The level of expertise that the limo company has will be an aspect that you will need to consider.  The limousine transportation agency will need to have the chauffeurs who will be able to transport clients accordingly.  It will be necessary to think of the dealership in limo transportation services that will have the chauffeurs who will deliver the clients accordingly. You should ensure that you consider the time that the limousine transportation services will be available.
It will be necessary to consider the trustworthy of the dealership in limousine transportation services in Philadelphia that you are hiring. If you need to order for the limousine transportation services in Philadelphia you will need to choose the right method for this. The first way you can do this is by calling, and the other way in which you can have the limousine transportation company in Philadelphia get your order is through their websites.  You will need to ensure that the limousine transportation services in Philadelphia that you choose will not waste your time. If the dealership in limo transportation services has the right infrastructure in place, then the limousine transportation company will have the correct limo services. Click here to find out more about this service.
It is essential to the first factor in for the charges that the limo transportation company have. You should come up with the amount of money that you will require to pay for the limousine transportation services.  When you have come up with the appropriate budget, you will be able to choose for the limousine transportation services whose cost will match your budget.  When you need to select the limousine transportation services, you will have a variety to choose from. You need to ensure that you come up with the right limousine transportation services in Philadelphia so that you have a good time for your wedding or any other event you have.
For more tips, check out http://www.ehow.com/way_5313479_limo-parties-kids.html.
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julialawrencevxp-blog · 6 years ago
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1.thetransportationguide
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Top Qualities Of Good Limousine Firm
A limousine is the best vehicle one can ask for in a wedding event.  These are luxurious saloon cars and are driven by chauffeurs.  They will not only provide comfort but also add a sense of style to your wedding.  There are many limousine service agencies in which you can get your limousines from. Discussed below are tips for selecting a limousine service firm. View philadelphia limo service
Ensure you tour around several limousine service firms. Pointing out a limousine service firm of your choice will be very fast. The web is also a reliable source to use when looking for the limousine service firm.
Do not ignore the authorization of the limousine service agency. The certification should be from the transport authority. Therefore if you find that the limousine service company you select has no certification; do not make a mistake of hiring the car from there.  In any case such a firm cannot disappoint you.
You should also consider the free charged for the limousine hire. There are companies that will charge depending on the number of vehicles you hire, the time used and the occasions. You will decide on the company to opt for. Suppose you are on a tight budget it is good to avoid a company that charge according to the days or hours you stay with the vehicle as you may end up paying more. You can also inquire about any discounts offered.  A limousine service firm that promotes their clients is the best one to choose. check out Hollowsands
It is also good to consider the chauffeurs of the limousine service firm. You would not want to get involved in accidents due to reckless driving.  That is why you ought to hire your limousine from a company with qualified chauffeurs. For confirmation purposes, you can have a look at their driving license.  It is imperative to consider the rapport the chauffeurs have with their clients. You can never go wrong by opting for  a limousine service firm with friendly chauffeurs.
It is also advisable to check whether the limousine company has insurance. The most recommended limousine Service Company to opt for is one with commercial insurance coverage. If an accident happens while in a limousine from an insured company, you will at least be safe as it will cover for any injuries.
Another thing you should consider is the contact details.  Something may happen when travelling in the vehicle and with the contact you can easily contact the company for help; it is also vital for confirming whether they are still recalling about the hire services.
Find out more https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X-8Rlr9zOlM
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anbtransinc · 3 years ago
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Anb Trans Inc is one of the best car service providers in Philadelphia. We are providing services of luxury cars for Airport transportation, wedding car service, and corporate travels service in Philadelphia. Book your ride now: 215-614-5900
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Seamless Event Transportation: Premier Car Services in Philadelphia
When it comes to hosting an unforgettable event in Philadelphia, one crucial element that can make or break the experience is transportation. Whether you're planning a lavish wedding, a corporate gala, or a high-profile conference, having a reliable and luxurious transportation solution is essential. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the premier car services in Philadelphia that can elevate your event and ensure your guests arrive in style.
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Navigating the bustling streets of Philadelphia can be a challenge, especially when you're coordinating the logistics of transporting a large group of guests. Imagine the stress of hailing multiple taxis or coordinating different rideshare services – it's a recipe for chaos. That's where Philadelphia's premier car services come into play, offering a seamless and stress-free solution.
The Significance of Reliable Event Transportation
Imagine the scene – your guests have arrived at the venue, their excitement palpable as they step out of their vehicles. The first impression of your event has been set, and it's a lasting one. When your guests are chauffeured in luxurious, well-maintained vehicles, it immediately sets the tone for an exceptional evening.
Moreover, reliable transportation ensures that your guests can fully immerse themselves in the event without worrying about navigating the city or finding parking. They can enjoy the festivities, network with colleagues, or simply soak in the ambiance, knowing that their transportation needs are taken care of.
Elevating the Event Experience with Premier Car Services
Philadelphia's premier car services go above and beyond the standard transportation offerings. These companies understand the unique demands of event planning and have tailored their services to cater to the needs of event organizers and their guests.
Fleet of Luxury Vehicles
One of the hallmarks of a premier car service is its fleet of luxury vehicles. From sleek sedans to spacious SUVs and even elegant limousines, these services offer a range of options to accommodate groups of all sizes. Imagine your guests arriving in a stunning Rolls-Royce or a plush Mercedes-Benz – it's a level of sophistication that sets the tone for the entire event.
Professional and Courteous Drivers
The drivers employed by Philadelphia's premier car services are more than just chauffeurs; they are ambassadors of the city. Highly trained and impeccably dressed, these professionals are well-versed in the city's streets and can navigate the traffic with ease. They are also adept at anticipating the needs of their passengers, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey.
Customized Itineraries and Coordination
Event planners understand the importance of seamless coordination, and Philadelphia's premier car services rise to the occasion. These companies work closely with event organizers to develop custom transportation plans that cater to the specific needs of the event. From airport pickups and drop-offs to coordinating multiple transportation points throughout the day, they ensure that every detail is accounted for.
Amenities and Personalized Touches
The attention to detail doesn't stop at the vehicles themselves. Philadelphia's premier car services often offer an array of amenities to enhance the guest experience. From complimentary refreshments and Wi-Fi to state-of-the-art sound systems and even privacy partitions, these services go the extra mile to ensure that your guests travel in comfort and style.
The Benefits of Partnering with a Premier Car Service
Choosing a premier car service for your event in Philadelphia offers a multitude of benefits that can elevate the overall experience for both you and your guests.
Stress-free Event Planning
Planning an event is a complex undertaking, and transportation is often one of the most challenging aspects. By partnering with a premier car service, you can alleviate the burden of managing transportation logistics, allowing you to focus on the other essential elements of your event.
Enhanced Guest Experience
When your guests are chauffered in luxurious vehicles and greeted by courteous and professional drivers, it immediately sets the tone for an exceptional event. This level of attention to detail can leave a lasting impression on your guests and contribute to the overall success of your event.
Flexibility and Scalability
Premier car services in Philadelphia understand the dynamic nature of event planning. They offer the flexibility to accommodate changes in guest numbers, schedules, or transportation needs, ensuring that your event runs smoothly from start to finish.
Reputation and Reliability
Partnering with a reputable and reliable premier car service in Philadelphia can enhance the overall reputation of your event. These companies have built a strong track record of excellence, and their association with your event car service philadelphia can instill confidence in your guests and stakeholders.
Conclusion
When it comes to event transportation in Philadelphia, the choice of a premier car service can make all the difference. These companies offer a level of luxury, professionalism, and attention to detail that can elevate your event and ensure your guests arrive in style. By partnering with a premier car service, you can focus on creating an unforgettable experience for your guests, while leaving the transportation logistics in the hands of experts. Whether you're planning a lavish wedding, a corporate gala, or a high-profile conference, a premier car service in Philadelphia is the key to seamless event transportation.
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orbemnews · 4 years ago
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America's Amtrak moment could finally be here (CNN) — Created in 1971 from the creaking remains of the classic US railroads that helped build modern America, Amtrak has often lived a precarious existence. Subject to the whims of politicians in Washington D.C. and constantly under pressure from the well-funded and hugely influential oil, automotive and airline industry lobbies, the national passenger rail operator has been threatened with oblivion on several occasions. But as it celebrates a 50th anniversary that few would have been brave enough to predict, there are signs that Amtrak’s moment may finally have arrived. The United States remains firmly wedded to the automobile and the sheer size of the nation means that air travel is often the only option for long-distance journeys. Yet dotted across the country are numerous routes where population density and distances make rail a viable option — and a social necessity. That’s not news — those routes have existed since the earliest days of the railroads. What is novel is the renewed enthusiasm of Americans for commuting or taking long-distance leisure trips by train. What is most significant right now is the presence of a passionate Amtrak advocate in the White House. President Joe Biden, a long-time rail commuter rejoicing in the nickname “Amtrak Joe,” is calling on Congress to invest $80 billion in the rail network. This massive chunk of change is needed to address Amtrak’s repair backlog; modernize the flagship Northeast Corridor; improve existing corridors, create new intercity connections; and enhance grant and loan programs that support passenger and freight rail safety, efficiency and electrification. Battered remnants Amtrak could be on the brink of transformation as it celebrates 50 years. Courtesy Amtrak Amtrak has already secured $1.7 billion in federal funding under the “American Rescue Plan” to stimulate its recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic, including reinstating suspended services and returning around 1,200 staff from furlough over the next two years. But finding the rest of the money Biden wants to transform passenger rail will require a huge political effort in Washington and across the nation, and a level of cross-party support for railroads not seen for many decades. Speaking at Philadelphia’s 30th Street station at an event to celebrate Amtrak’s anniversary on April 30, Biden spoke of being a proud member of the the rail network’s “family.” “Amtrak doesn’t just carry us from one place to another, it opens up enormous opportunities and it will make it possible to build the economy that we need,” he said. “The expansion of rail provides the well-paid jobs that we need in America. We can’t just build back, we have to build back better; Amtrak and intercity rail will play a central part in that.” There was no celebration when Amtrak’s first train rolled out of New York City on May 1, 1971, heading for Philadelphia. Passenger rail in the United States was in its death throes. Once proud railroads such as the New York Central and Pennsylvania RR went bankrupt after years of huge losses, their trains dated, dirty and unable to compete with the speed, comfort and modernity of airliners, intercity buses and contemporary cars. City center stations, not always in the best part of town, were dirty, dingy and dangerous with years of neglect and rising crime providing a further deterrent to passengers. Amtrak’s challenge was to knit together a disjointed collection of battered remnants, focusing its attention on saving the most viable routes. With a country as large as the United States, a coherent national passenger rail network of the type found in Europe and Japan was never a practical prospect. Instead, busy corridors such as Boston-New York-Washington D.C. would sit alongside a network of low-frequency (daily or less) long-distance services aimed at leisure travelers. In some cases, these trains were also necessary to maintain communications with communities that had grown up alongside the railroad — although countless towns were still abandoned as passenger rail services contracted in the 1950s and 1960s. New trains, faster speeds One of the new generation of Acela trains to be deployed on Amtrak’s lines. Courtesy Amtrak Today, Amtrak serves more than 500 destinations in 46 US states, the District of Columbia and three Canadian provinces on a network of more than 21,400 miles. In 2019, despite repeated threats to its existence and the prospect of swingeing budget cuts in every year of the Trump administration, the company posted its best-ever results. Between 2015 and 2019 annual operating losses fell from $306.5 million to just $29.8 million as new records were set for ridership and revenue. Operational breakeven was forecast for 2020, until the pandemic caused ridership to drop by almost 50%. A rendering of an Amtrak ALC-42 designed by Siemens. Courtesy Amtrak Despite that sudden and traumatic intervention, the overall trend of the last decade is growth, especially on the profitable Northeast Corridor, or NEC, linking Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington D.C. In his April 30 speech, Biden said: “A single day without the Northeast Corridor would cost the US economy $100 million and we’d have to add an extra seven lanes to the interstate to accommodate all the extra cars if it wasn’t there. Compared to the alternatives this railroad is the bargain of bargains.” Since the turn of the century, Amtrak has seen ridership increase in the corridor as a result of its 150 miles-per-hour Acela trains — introduced in 2000 — as well as road congestion and steadily rising gasoline prices. In 2022, the next generation of Acelas will enter service on the NEC. Built in the United States by global rail engineering giant Alstom, the 28 Avelia Liberty trains are derived from the latest iteration of France’s high-speed TGV trains. Fitted with tilting bodies to allow faster travel through curves and capable of 160 miles-per-hour in everyday service, the new trains offer the possibility of further acceleration to 186 miles-per-hour once the infrastructure allows it. Compared to the trains they will replace, the new $2.4 billion Acela fleet is bigger, with eight additional trains (28, rather than 20) allowing a more frequent service with more seats per train. ‘Enjoyable and efficient’ With airlines slashing short-haul routes in America, some see trains as the answer. Joe Raedle/Getty Images Prototype trains started testing at the Federal Railroad Administration’s test center in Pueblo, Colorado and on the NEC in 2020. By the end of that year, the trains had completed 20,000 miles of tests, reaching a maximum speed of 166.8 miles-per-hour at Pueblo. On April 21, another huge investment in new hardware was unveiled when a contract for 83 hybrid electro-diesel train sets was awarded to Siemens. Intended to replace almost 500 of the classic stainless steel Amfleet I cars dating from the mid-1970s, the new Intercity Trainsets will feature locomotives capable of working on diesel or electric power and comfortable new Venture passenger cars. The trains are expected to be similar to those now being delivered by Siemens for the Chicago-Milwaukee Hiawatha service. They will be deployed on medium-distance NEC services, the Palmetto between New York City and Savannah, Georgia and on the Portland-Seattle-Vancouver ‘Cascades’ route. “This new state-of-the-art equipment will not only provide Amtrak customers with an enjoyable and efficient travel experience, it will also enable us to improve safety, increase passenger capacity and reduce carbon emissions,” commented Amtrak CEO Bill Flynn. More Venture cars are also on order to replace life-expired vehicles on state-supported services in the Midwest and California, including 97 cars for routes radiating from Chicago to cities in Illinois, Michigan, Missouri and Wisconsin and 49 for the Bakersfield-Oakland/Sacramento San Joaquins. ‘The real America’ “If you really want to see the real America, Amtrak is better.” Joe Raedle/Getty Images Long-distance routes such as the Seattle-Los Angeles Coast Starlight and Chicago-San Francisco Southwest Chief will also gain new equipment for the first time in over two decades this year when 4,200 horsepower Charger locomotives and 130 new Viewliner II sleeping, dining and baggage cars start to be rolled out. While the long-distance routes are unlikely to play a significant role in US transportation needs, they are a valuable asset for tourism and the often-isolated communities they serve. Sean Jeans-Gail, vice-president of government affairs and policy at the US Rail Passengers Association, highlights the network’s potential to give travelers a real connection to the nation it criss-crosses. “We have an extraordinary, beautiful country but the ‘Great American Road Trip’ is on life support because when you do it you hit traffic and the same homogenized strip malls over and over again across the highway network,” he tells CNN. “If you really want to see the real America, Amtrak is better.” Intercity and interurban routes away from the NEC offer Amtrak the greatest opportunity for growth in the coming years. Airlines have slashed back regional flights of around 300-400 miles in recent years, leaving many cities such as Memphis and Cincinnati with poor communications. These routes offer huge potential for rail, which is competitive with air for journeys of three to four hours between city centers, while at the same time transforming connectivity for towns in between. Jim Mathews, president and CEO of the US Rail Passengers Association says these factors present a strong case for reversing the dismantling of rail services and enhancing links between rural and urban centers. He says transportation planners and the Department of Transport are coming around to this way of thinking, looking at shifting populations and how they create new travel patterns, particularly in the Midwest and Southeast. But, he says, although America could be on the brink of a rail revolution, it is unlikely to be traveling at any great velocity. “A lot of us are guilty of getting zeroed in on the shiny object,” he tells CNN. “Sure TGV [high-speed rail] would be cool but it’s not necessary to see dramatic improvements in rail travel. “With targeted investment in track, straightening curves or new signaling you could get average speeds of up to 79 miles-per-hour. There are places now where the average is 25!” In his April 30 speech, Biden said his spending plans were crucial to leveling up America on the global stage. “I propose spending $10 billion a year on passenger and freight rail, repairing this vital infrastructure and expanding passenger rail services,” he said. “It’s going to provide jobs and accommodate jobs — towns that have been left behind will be back in the game if we can provide them with fast, clean, safe infrastructure. “We’re way behind the rest of the world on this now, and we have to move if we’re going to compete with the likes of China. There’s so much we can do, and it can have an incredibly positive impact on jobs and the environment, but we have to invest now.” ‘Worthwhile ambition’ Investment could see Amtraks trains and infrastructure upgraded to allow ehnahced speeds. oe Raedle/Getty Images Republicans have proposed an alternative infrastructure plan costed at $538 billion, just $20 billion of which would be dedicated to rail improvements. Amtrak estimates that the Northeast Corridor alone requires $31 billion to overcome a repairs backlog. Much-needed investment in equipment is also being accompanied by federal spending on infrastructure as part of President Biden’s $621 billion American Jobs Plan but there’s also increasing support at state level. In late March, Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg and Virginia Governor Ralph Northam outlined a 10-year program to expand intercity and regional rail services across the state. As well as investing in infrastructure improvements, Virginia also plans to double its financial support for Amtrak’s Washington-Richmond intercity route, allowing a near-hourly service to operate and commuter rail operations could increase by up to 60%. More than 200 miles of little-used, abandoned or freight-only lines could also be acquired at a cost of $3.7 billion to allow the reinstatement and expansion of intercity and regional rail services across the state. “I think there’s support coalescing both on left and right for investment in rail and I’m confident that the Biden team sees it as a worthwhile ambition for the current administration,” Mathews adds. “They’ve talked about more electrification for rail, a nod to the ‘Green New Deal’ but also an important preparatory step for high-speed rail. One thing we’re terrible at compared with Europe is the lack of electrified railroads. “There are limitations that come with that, but I can see much more robust electrification in California which is preparing for high-speed rail. “Californian electrification would have benefits for the environment, speed and maintenance and I can see the Biden administration going very solidly for it.” Fifty years on from US rail’s darkest days, the stars seem to be aligning for Amtrak at last. And while it will always be at the mercy of shifting political priorities and competing interests, there is a growing recognition that the world’s richest nation can no longer get by with a public transportation system that many regard as unfit for purpose. Source link Orbem News #America'sAmtrakmomentcouldfinallybehere-CNN #Americas #Amtrak #FINALLY #Moment #Travel
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dipulb3 · 4 years ago
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America's Amtrak moment could finally be here
New Post has been published on https://appradab.com/americas-amtrak-moment-could-finally-be-here/
America's Amtrak moment could finally be here
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(Appradab) — Created in 1971 from the creaking remains of the classic US railroads that helped build modern America, Amtrak has often lived a precarious existence.
Subject to the whims of politicians in Washington D.C. and constantly under pressure from the well-funded and hugely influential oil, automotive and airline industry lobbies, the national passenger rail operator has been threatened with oblivion on several occasions.
But as it celebrates a 50th anniversary that few would have been brave enough to predict, there are signs that Amtrak’s moment may finally have arrived.
The United States remains firmly wedded to the automobile and the sheer size of the nation means that air travel is often the only option for long-distance journeys.
Yet dotted across the country are numerous routes where population density and distances make rail a viable option — and a social necessity.
That’s not news — those routes have existed since the earliest days of the railroads. What is novel is the renewed enthusiasm of Americans for commuting or taking long-distance leisure trips by train.
What is most significant right now is the presence of a passionate Amtrak advocate in the White House.
President Joe Biden, a long-time rail commuter rejoicing in the nickname “Amtrak Joe,” is calling on Congress to invest $80 billion in the rail network.
This massive chunk of change is needed to address Amtrak’s repair backlog; modernize the flagship Northeast Corridor; improve existing corridors, create new intercity connections; and enhance grant and loan programs that support passenger and freight rail safety, efficiency and electrification.
Battered remnants
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Amtrak could be on the brink of transformation as it celebrates 50 years.
Courtesy Amtrak
Amtrak has already secured $1.7 billion in federal funding under the “American Rescue Plan” to stimulate its recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic, including reinstating suspended services and returning around 1,200 staff from furlough over the next two years.
But finding the rest of the money Biden wants to transform passenger rail will require a huge political effort in Washington and across the nation, and a level of cross-party support for railroads not seen for many decades.
Speaking at Philadelphia’s 30th Street station at an event to celebrate Amtrak’s anniversary on April 30, Biden spoke of being a proud member of the the rail network’s “family.”
“Amtrak doesn’t just carry us from one place to another, it opens up enormous opportunities and it will make it possible to build the economy that we need,” he said. “The expansion of rail provides the well-paid jobs that we need in America. We can’t just build back, we have to build back better; Amtrak and intercity rail will play a central part in that.”
There was no celebration when Amtrak’s first train rolled out of New York City on May 1, 1971, heading for Philadelphia.
Passenger rail in the United States was in its death throes. Once proud railroads such as the New York Central and Pennsylvania RR went bankrupt after years of huge losses, their trains dated, dirty and unable to compete with the speed, comfort and modernity of airliners, intercity buses and contemporary cars.
City center stations, not always in the best part of town, were dirty, dingy and dangerous with years of neglect and rising crime providing a further deterrent to passengers.
Amtrak’s challenge was to knit together a disjointed collection of battered remnants, focusing its attention on saving the most viable routes.
With a country as large as the United States, a coherent national passenger rail network of the type found in Europe and Japan was never a practical prospect.
Instead, busy corridors such as Boston-New York-Washington D.C. would sit alongside a network of low-frequency (daily or less) long-distance services aimed at leisure travelers.
In some cases, these trains were also necessary to maintain communications with communities that had grown up alongside the railroad — although countless towns were still abandoned as passenger rail services contracted in the 1950s and 1960s.
New trains, faster speeds
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One of the new generation of Acela trains to be deployed on Amtrak’s lines.
Courtesy Amtrak
Today, Amtrak serves more than 500 destinations in 46 US states, the District of Columbia and three Canadian provinces on a network of more than 21,400 miles.
In 2019, despite repeated threats to its existence and the prospect of swingeing budget cuts in every year of the Trump administration, the company posted its best-ever results.
Between 2015 and 2019 annual operating losses fell from $306.5 million to just $29.8 million as new records were set for ridership and revenue.
Operational breakeven was forecast for 2020, until the pandemic caused ridership to drop by almost 50%.
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A rendering of an Amtrak ALC-42 designed by Siemens.
Courtesy Amtrak
Despite that sudden and traumatic intervention, the overall trend of the last decade is growth, especially on the profitable Northeast Corridor, or NEC, linking Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington D.C.
In his April 30 speech, Biden said: “A single day without the Northeast Corridor would cost the US economy $100 million and we’d have to add an extra seven lanes to the interstate to accommodate all the extra cars if it wasn’t there. Compared to the alternatives this railroad is the bargain of bargains.”
Since the turn of the century, Amtrak has seen ridership increase in the corridor as a result of its 150 miles-per-hour Acela trains — introduced in 2000 — as well as road congestion and steadily rising gasoline prices.
In 2022, the next generation of Acelas will enter service on the NEC. Built in the United States by global rail engineering giant Alstom, the 28 Avelia Liberty trains are derived from the latest iteration of France’s high-speed TGV trains.
Fitted with tilting bodies to allow faster travel through curves and capable of 160 miles-per-hour in everyday service, the new trains offer the possibility of further acceleration to 186 miles-per-hour once the infrastructure allows it.
Compared to the trains they will replace, the new $2.4 billion Acela fleet is bigger, with eight additional trains (28, rather than 20) allowing a more frequent service with more seats per train.
‘Enjoyable and efficient’
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With airlines slashing short-haul routes in America, some see trains as the answer.
Joe Raedle/Getty Images
Prototype trains started testing at the Federal Railroad Administration’s test center in Pueblo, Colorado and on the NEC in 2020. By the end of that year, the trains had completed 20,000 miles of tests, reaching a maximum speed of 166.8 miles-per-hour at Pueblo.
On April 21, another huge investment in new hardware was unveiled when a contract for 83 hybrid electro-diesel train sets was awarded to Siemens.
Intended to replace almost 500 of the classic stainless steel Amfleet I cars dating from the mid-1970s, the new Intercity Trainsets will feature locomotives capable of working on diesel or electric power and comfortable new Venture passenger cars.
The trains are expected to be similar to those now being delivered by Siemens for the Chicago-Milwaukee Hiawatha service. They will be deployed on medium-distance NEC services, the Palmetto between New York City and Savannah, Georgia and on the Portland-Seattle-Vancouver ‘Cascades’ route.
“This new state-of-the-art equipment will not only provide Amtrak customers with an enjoyable and efficient travel experience, it will also enable us to improve safety, increase passenger capacity and reduce carbon emissions,” commented Amtrak CEO Bill Flynn.
More Venture cars are also on order to replace life-expired vehicles on state-supported services in the Midwest and California, including 97 cars for routes radiating from Chicago to cities in Illinois, Michigan, Missouri and Wisconsin and 49 for the Bakersfield-Oakland/Sacramento San Joaquins.
‘The real America’
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“If you really want to see the real America, Amtrak is better.”
Joe Raedle/Getty Images
Long-distance routes such as the Seattle-Los Angeles Coast Starlight and Chicago-San Francisco Southwest Chief will also gain new equipment for the first time in over two decades this year when 4,200 horsepower Charger locomotives and 130 new Viewliner II sleeping, dining and baggage cars start to be rolled out.
While the long-distance routes are unlikely to play a significant role in US transportation needs, they are a valuable asset for tourism and the often-isolated communities they serve.
Sean Jeans-Gail, vice-president of government affairs and policy at the US Rail Passengers Association, highlights the network’s potential to give travelers a real connection to the nation it criss-crosses.
“We have an extraordinary, beautiful country but the ‘Great American Road Trip’ is on life support because when you do it you hit traffic and the same homogenized strip malls over and over again across the highway network,” he tells Appradab.
“If you really want to see the real America, Amtrak is better.”
Intercity and interurban routes away from the NEC offer Amtrak the greatest opportunity for growth in the coming years.
Airlines have slashed back regional flights of around 300-400 miles in recent years, leaving many cities such as Memphis and Cincinnati with poor communications.
These routes offer huge potential for rail, which is competitive with air for journeys of three to four hours between city centers, while at the same time transforming connectivity for towns in between.
Jim Mathews, president and CEO of the US Rail Passengers Association says these factors present a strong case for reversing the dismantling of rail services and enhancing links between rural and urban centers.
He says transportation planners and the Department of Transport are coming around to this way of thinking, looking at shifting populations and how they create new travel patterns, particularly in the Midwest and Southeast.
But, he says, although America could be on the brink of a rail revolution, it is unlikely to be traveling at any great velocity.
“A lot of us are guilty of getting zeroed in on the shiny object,” he tells Appradab. “Sure TGV [high-speed rail] would be cool but it’s not necessary to see dramatic improvements in rail travel.
“With targeted investment in track, straightening curves or new signaling you could get average speeds of up to 79 miles-per-hour. There are places now where the average is 25!”
In his April 30 speech, Biden said his spending plans were crucial to leveling up America on the global stage.
“I propose spending $10 billion a year on passenger and freight rail, repairing this vital infrastructure and expanding passenger rail services,” he said. “It’s going to provide jobs and accommodate jobs — towns that have been left behind will be back in the game if we can provide them with fast, clean, safe infrastructure.
“We’re way behind the rest of the world on this now, and we have to move if we’re going to compete with the likes of China. There’s so much we can do, and it can have an incredibly positive impact on jobs and the environment, but we have to invest now.”
‘Worthwhile ambition’
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Investment could see Amtraks trains and infrastructure upgraded to allow ehnahced speeds.
oe Raedle/Getty Images
Republicans have proposed an alternative infrastructure plan costed at $538 billion, just $20 billion of which would be dedicated to rail improvements. Amtrak estimates that the Northeast Corridor alone requires $31 billion to overcome a repairs backlog.
Much-needed investment in equipment is also being accompanied by federal spending on infrastructure as part of President Biden’s $621 billion American Jobs Plan but there’s also increasing support at state level.
In late March, Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg and Virginia Governor Ralph Northam outlined a 10-year program to expand intercity and regional rail services across the state.
As well as investing in infrastructure improvements, Virginia also plans to double its financial support for Amtrak’s Washington-Richmond intercity route, allowing a near-hourly service to operate and commuter rail operations could increase by up to 60%.
More than 200 miles of little-used, abandoned or freight-only lines could also be acquired at a cost of $3.7 billion to allow the reinstatement and expansion of intercity and regional rail services across the state.
“I think there’s support coalescing both on left and right for investment in rail and I’m confident that the Biden team sees it as a worthwhile ambition for the current administration,” Mathews adds.
“They’ve talked about more electrification for rail, a nod to the ‘Green New Deal’ but also an important preparatory step for high-speed rail. One thing we’re terrible at compared with Europe is the lack of electrified railroads.
“There are limitations that come with that, but I can see much more robust electrification in California which is preparing for high-speed rail.
“Californian electrification would have benefits for the environment, speed and maintenance and I can see the Biden administration going very solidly for it.”
Fifty years on from US rail’s darkest days, the stars seem to be aligning for Amtrak at last.
And while it will always be at the mercy of shifting political priorities and competing interests, there is a growing recognition that the world’s richest nation can no longer get by with a public transportation system that many regard as unfit for purpose.
0 notes