Heartfirst: A Ted Lasso Story - Chapter Two
Chapter Two: Part of the Team
Plot: On her first day working for KJPR, Y/n tours AFC Richmond’s facility and meets some of the staff.
Warnings: language, use of f!reader, (16+)
Word Count: 3.9k
A/N: Well, first off, thank you for the lovely response! I certainly didn’t endeavor to write anything for Ted Lasso (I was actually going to take a writing break) but this idea seemed good enough to indulge.
This has been added to the taglist in my bio, so don’t be afraid to click it and add yourself. It will be kept 16+ just for language and the show’s subject matter so I won’t be adding anyone unless your age/range is specified in your bio.
All that being said, I hope this nurses a little bit of your finale hangover. No Greyhounds to be found in this chapter, but a wild Ted does appear. Writing for him is going to be a hilarious exercise for me lol. Enjoy!!
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Wanting to be prepared, Y/n had started doing research on AFC Richmond the morning after accepting Keeley’s job offer.
The slight buzz she’d managed at the bar had blocked from her memory that she knew more about Rebecca Welton than she thought. Years before, she’d seen her face splashed across all the tabloids at news stands and markets talking about her divorce from…for the life of her, Y/n couldn’t remember the man’s name. All she remembered is there’d been perfect pictures of him and his various models of the months, while the cameras always managed to catch Rebecca with a sour look on her face. Y/n remembered feeling like she could read the whole situation without without ever perusing a filthy word.
As she studied, Y/n put together that Richmond consisted of three coaches. The manager, Ted Lasso, was a name the whole country knew, regardless of whether you watched football or not. It wasn’t Y/n’s place to judge, but she assumed if he was still around, there was a reason. He’d brought along an assistant coach from the states with him, along with Roy Kent joining their staff the previous season. Another name she didn’t need to bother to learn as it was already burned in every Brit’s brain. There also seemed to be a scandal with a previous coach, Nathan Shelley, having abandoned Richmond for West Ham United as Richmond reentered the Premier League.
Having gone to school in London and staying after, Y/n had gone to plenty of football matches with friends. Much like American sports, she’d never been as interested as those surrounding her, but she enjoyed the atmosphere. However, she pulled up highlights of old Richmond matches on Youtube and studied them to try and get a feel for the players. Two in particular stood out to her.
Sam Obisanya caught her attention for his raw talent, the graceful way he managed to move in such a brutal sport. She’d also seen the way he handled himself in press conferences, always soft and well spoken. He’d been fearless in his defense of Nigeria, his home country, and against Dubai Air and Cerithium Oil. She had mad respect for him and his bravery.
Then there was Jamie Tartt. Going through videos of his stints at Richmond left Y/n puzzled. He seemed to have started out the cocky striker, too busy kissing his own foot to realize there were twenty more on the pitch waiting to shine. He never passed. He never assisted. It was all him. But then, after his swift departure and return to the team, his playing style shifted. Suddenly, he did pass. He did assist. A few months difference and it was practically night and day.
Y/n sighed as she shut her laptop, having just finished the video of him letting Dani Rojas take the penalty goal that secured Richmond’s return to the Premier League. She hoped Jamie Tartt, and all other Greyhounds, wouldn’t be a PR headache.
The night before she officially started at KJPR, Y/n found herself nervous. It seemed like too ideal of a situation to meet someone at a bar and be offered a job right after losing yours. She felt hesitant to trust that when she walked into Keeley’s office, she wouldn’t find a complete nightmare. She went to sleep with a clenched jaw and stiff shoulders, praying that this wouldn’t be another loss to face.
—————————
Y/n pulled up to the KJPR office building at 8:55. She adjusted her carefully ironed pants, smoothed down her blouse and blazer and took a deep breath. Her capabilities were the one place her insecurities had no place living. She was good at what she did, she just needed a place to do it.
When the elevator doors opened, she was surprised to find a small office with multiple occupied desks set up. Keeley had made it sound much smaller than it actually was.
“Y/n!”
A familiar voice exclaimed and Y/n peered across the room to see Keeley rushing out from behind her desk and bursting out her office door.
“I’m so glad you showed,” she grinned as she scurried to Y/n and took hold of her hands.
“You offered me a job and you thought I wasn’t going to show up?” Y/n asked with a confused chuckle.
“I mean, to be fair, I offered it to you in a restaurant after, like, a glass and a half of wine,” Keeley replied, “I’m not sure I’d have believed me either.”
Y/n laughed a little, very aware that all her fellow employees were not only watching the unprofessional display, but hearing the story of her even more unprofessional hiring.
“Should we…” Y/n gestured towards Keeley’s office.
“Oh, right,” Keeley practically shouted, leading Y/n back and through the door.
True to the little Y/n knew about the woman, Keeley’s office was head to toe…Keeley. Pink everything, floral patterns, a ceramic jungle cat in the corner…it was, most definitely, the most unique of any boss’s office Y/n had ever entered.
“Right,” Keeley said as she took a seat on the couch in the corner, leaving a spot for Y/n, “Let’s get to it.”
Y/n settled onto the couch, leaving a fair amount of space that Keeley immediately cut in half.
“So I know you said that you’ve been more of a manager lately, but that you’re good with PR,” Keeley recounted, “What did you do for you last companies?”
“Oh, I floated around a lot,” Y/n began to mentally run through her old positions, “I managed small teams under a much larger umbrella of board members. Minor stuff. But in the public relations department, I’ve been in charge of social media campaigns, run a few accounts, and handled plenty of press conferences, interviews, that sort of thing.”
Keeley’s smile grew with each task that Y/n listed off. “I think you might be the most perfect fucking fit!”
Language, another unprofessionalism Y/n felt she was going to have to get used to.
“Before all of this happened,” Keeley gestured to the frilly space around them, “I did full time PR for AFC Richmond and did all that kind of stuff. That’s actually where I wanted to potentially start you off.”
Y/n shrugged, silently grateful she’d gone the extra mile with her research, “I’ll go anywhere you need me.”
“Perfect,” Keeley grinned, already getting off the couch, “I was actually heading over there for a meeting with Rebecca. It’d be a great opportunity to show you around and introduce you to some of the staff.”
“Uh, sure,” Y/n quickly picked her purse back off the floor.
“I really think you’re gonna love it there,” Keeley continued, collecting her bag and a pink binder, “I feel bad I’m not there full-time anymore. It really is one of the best places to work.”
As Keeley spoke, Y/n followed her out of the office. She struggled to keep up with how fast Keeley managed to move in her high heels. As they waited for the elevator to arrive, a brunette woman passed them by.
“Oh, Barbara,” Keeley called out, “I want you to meet the newest member of KJPR. This is Y/n.”
Barbara looked Y/n over from top to bottom as if inspecting the latest crop. Y/n’s confidence in her extended hand began to drop under the pair of judging eyes.
“Pleasure to meet you, Y/n,” Barbara seemed to shake her hand with caution before turning to Keeley, “You didn’t mention anything about bringing on a new hire, Miss Jones.”
Keeley visibly shrank at Barbara’s words, “It was a spur of the moment thing.”
“Ah,” Barbara replied, turning back to Y/n, “May I ask what, if any, experience you have?”
Looking between Barbara and Keeley, Y/n listed off the positions she’d previously held and the companies names. With each title, Barbara’s frown turned into…something between a smile and a frown.
“Ah, well,” Barbara took a breath, “Lovely. Welcome to KJPR.”
With one more firm shake of her hand, Barbara departed, off to whatever task needed her attention. Keeley and Y/n were left in an awkward silence not of their creation.
“We’re still getting to know one another,” Keeley explained with a nervous smile.
“I got that,” Y/n nodded.
“Right,” Keeley shifted gears and gestured towards the elevator, “Let’s go. I’ll drive.”
—————————
Richmond wasn’t far from the heart of London, where Y/n had spent most of her time. Functioning nearly exclusively within the corporate world had kept her within a bubble that rarely gave her opportunities to venture outside its walls.
As Keeley drove them through Richmond, making pleasant small talk, Y/n’s eyes were transfixed on the sights. Nothing was particularly extraordinary looking, but compared to the grays and blacks of London office buildings, the place was like a daydream someone like her might create during their 9-5.
“Do you live near here?”
“Hmm?” Y/n snapped out of her thoughts, “Oh, I’m about 30 minutes away. But I’ve never really spent any time here.”
“Oh, it’s lovely,” Keeley replied, turning them down another road, “You should take some time this weekend to roam around.”
Y/n filed the idea away, first she needed to confirm that AFC Richmond was the right fit.
Soon enough, Keeley pulled them into the parking lot of Nelson Road Stadium. Y/n recalled that she’d been there once to see a match with friends in college, but that had been on the spectator side. Parking mere feet away from the pitch felt surreal, even for a non-football fan.
“I’m gonna take you up to Rebecca first,” Keeley said as she shut her car door, “None of the players or coaches’ll be here since they’re still on break.”
Y/n followed alongside her, entering the stadium through the side doors. The inside of the building was painted in team colors of blue and red. Along the walls, there were trophies and framed pictures showcasing the Greyhound’s accomplishments over the decades. The history of the club was something Y/n had yet to do research on, but even ten minutes spent in the halls would tell her more than Wikipedia probably could.
Keeley led them up two flights of stairs till the colors of the walls changed to neutrals. The door at the top of the steps hung open, but Keeley still gave a courteous knock.
Rebecca looked up from her desk, smiling when she recognized the two guests. “Good morning,” she said, cheerily.
“Hi, babe,” Keeley smiled, “I brought Y/n with today. Thought it might be good for her to tour the place.”
“Of course,” Rebecca rose from her chair and met Keeley and Y/n in the middle of the room. She brought Y/n in for a half hug, half handshake, “I’m absolutely thrilled you’re here.”
“Oh,” Y/n smiled, awkwardly accepting the greeting, “I’m…pleased to be here.”
“Right,” Rebecca released her and gestured for the women towards the couch, “I’m not sure what Keeley has planned for you, but we’re never without work here.”
Before Y/n could voice her neutrality, Keeley spoke up.
“Actually, that’s what I wanted to talk to you about,” she began, “I’d really like to have another pair of hands on the club, just in case there’s anything I might miss,” Keeley turned to Y/n, “I’d love to put you exclusively on Richmond duty.”
“Like I said, I’ll go where I’m needed,” Y/n raised both her hands in surrender to their plans.
Rebecca exhaled and grinned, “Perfect. Like I said, there’s never a shortage of work. With this being our first season back in the Premier League, there’s plenty of press to be handled.”
“I’m happy to go wherever I’m needed,” Y/n restated, deciding it was best to just go with the flow of things.
A knock at the door turned their attention.
“Good morning, ladies,” a shorter man sporting a suit and glasses entered the room.
“Higgins,” Keeley greeted.
“Good morning, Leslie,” Rebecca smiled, “I’d like you to meet KJPR, and Richmond’s, newest addition, Ms. Y/n Y/l/n. Leslie is our director of football operations.”
“Ah,” Higgins nodded, coming to the couch to extend his hand, “Welcome to the team, Ms. Y/l/n.”
“Lovely to meet you,” Y/n said politely, shaking his hand before sitting back down.
“Y/n will be helping Keeley handle the PR department,” Rebecca further explained, before her train of thought visibly halted, “Hang on…” she looked to Keeley, “Your old office is still vacant.”
Keeley gasped, “It is.”
Y/n’s eyes bounced back and forth between the woman.
“If Keeley can spare your presence at the KJPR office,” Rebecca placed a hand on her best friend’s arm, “How would you feel about working here?”
Searching for her words as quick as she could, Y/n shrugged one shoulder. “I’m completely fine with that,” she looked to her boss, “If Keeley’s alright with it.”
“Abso-fucking-lutely,” Keeley smiled, “I’d actually love it if we had feet on the ground here.”
Y/n blinked. Just like that, everything was settled.
“Excellent,” Rebecca clapped her hands together once, “Shall we go for a tour?”
“Ah, that was going to be my suggestion,” Higgins spoke back up.
Never before had Y/n been swept up so quickly in a job. Nothing moved that fast in the corporate world.
Keeley, Rebecca and Higgins led her back down to the main floor of the facility. Higgins and Rebecca spouted off a few historical facts about Richmond that Y/n logged away. Rebecca reiterated Keeley’s earlier statement that since they were still on break, Y/n wouldn’t be meeting the players and the coaching staff until training began the following week. Nonetheless, Y/n felt like she was somehow encroaching on the Greyhound’s territory as the tour led to the locker room.
“This will be the only time you enter and the smell is pleasant,” Rebecca quipped.
Y/n chuckled, her heels clicking against the floor as she scanned the numbers above each locker.
“Any favorites amongst our Greyhounds?” Higgins asked playfully.
“Oh, no,” Y/n paused to answer, just below Jamie Tartt’s ‘9.’
“Y/n has openly admitted to not having partaken in much of the sport,” Rebecca added.
“But I’m very excited to make Richmond my club,” Y/n was quick to do damage control over what her tipsier self had admitted, “I think what you all have accomplished here is brilliant.”
The sound of a door opening on the other side of the locker room turned their heads. A man jogged into the coach’s office, bending over one of the desks in search of something.
“That’s odd,” Rebecca muttered, stepping forward and opening up the connecting door, “Ted, what are you doing here?”
Y/n followed Keeley and Higgins’ lead and entered the room. She could finally get a clear view at the man who was, indeed, Ted Lasso.
“Oh, last time he was visiting, Henry left somethin’ in my desk and we needed to come grab it,” Ted answered, searching through one of his drawers until he retrieved whatever he was seeking.
“Ah, well, lovely timing,” Rebecca gestured for Y/n to come forward, “You can meet the newest addition to AFC Richmond. This is Ms. Y/n Y/l/n. She’ll be helping Keeley head up the PR department.”
Ted gave a friendly smile and stuck out his hand, “Well, how ‘bout that? Welcome to the family! I’m Ted.”
Y/n gave a firm handshake and returned the smile, “Y/n.”
The simple utterence of her name caught Ted’s ear. “Hang on now,” he stopped and held up both his hands, “Am I dreamin’ or do I actually hear a lack of accent?”
The five of them laughed to varying degrees. “It’s nice to hear a little bit of home for me as well,” Y/n said warmly. It had been at least four months since she’d met someone who hailed from the states that wasn’t a tourist.
“Well, I’ll tell you,” Ted continued, still shaking Y/n’s hand, “It’s gonna be real nice to have someone around here who’ll understand what I’m sayin’. Like if I text the word ‘color,’ nobody’s gonna tell me it ain’t the right spelling. Or if I mention Chick-Fil-A, they won’t think I’m just shortenin’ the name of a delicious entree. Matter a fact,” Ted came up for a lightning quick breath, “Where we at with that? Is it still okay to eat there? Waters were a little murky ‘round the time I left.
Y/n was trying to process the speed in which the man spoke. “Uh, I don’t know,” she answered politely, “I haven’t been home in a while.”
Ted hummed in reply and moved on, “Well, we’re real happy that you’re here. Hey, you need anything, don’t be afraid to gimme a holler.”
“That’s very kind,” Y/n nodded as Ted finally released her hand, “Thank you.”
“Well, I gotta run,” Ted announced to his co-workers, “I got Liam out there watchin’ Henry. See y’all next week!”
With a chorus of farewells following him, Ted Lasso walked back out the way he’d come.
“Well,” Y/n began, trying to sum up her first impression as tidily as she could, “That was-“
“I felt the same way at first,” Rebecca interjected, “But truly, one of the nicest human beings you will ever meet.”
“Oh, yeah,” Keeley agreed, sweeping her hand through the air, “Seriously, spend one day with him and he’ll be your emergency contact by lunch.”
“The players love him,” Higgins added to their defense.
But it wasn’t Ted’s personality Y/n was startled by. Ted was the midwest personified, that was all familiar. It was the speed in which Ted had offered up his kindness, how at ease he was voicing every thought on his mind. That, to Y/n, was more disarming than anything else he could have done.
“Well, I look forward to getting to know him more,” Y/n said, and there was truth to it. She appreciated co-workers who were actually pleasant to be around, even if Ted was a lot to take, “And the other coaches.”
“Why don’t I show you where your office is?” Rebecca suggested.
Their welcome wagon moved up to the second floor where, at the end of the hall, lay the space in question. It was half the size of Rebecca’s office, which was more than enough for Y/n. She’d last been in a shared cubicle far too small for two people to comfortably fit.
“My office is just at the end of the hall,” Higgins said as Y/n took in the space, “If you ever need anything.”
“It’s lovely,” Y/n smiled, her eyes running over her desk. She turned back towards the door and faced Rebecca, Keeley and Higgins, “Thank you all so much for all the hospitality you’ve shown.”
“Nonsense,” Higgins spoke for the trio, “You’re part of the family now.”
The same unease that had come from interacting with Ted Lasso filled Y/n once again.
The rest of the day was spent bouncing between Keeley and Higgins, discussing PR strategies for the new season and learning about the club’s operations. By the time 5:00 came around, Y/n felt like she had information spilling out of her ears. Her mind was filled to its brim.
After Keeley dropped her back off at the KJPR office, telling her she dazzled on her first day and wishing her a good evening, Y/n hopped in her car and drove right back to Richmond. She had no dinner plans and thought Keeley’s idea to explore the city worthwhile.
She decided on the pub they’d driven past on their way to Nelson Road, the Crown and Anchor. With it being a weeknight, it wasn’t too crowded, and she found a spot at the bar, ordering a sandwich for herself.
“I haven’t seen you here before,” the woman tending bar said after Y/n had placed her order, “You new to town, love?”
“Oh, no,” Y/n shook her head before scrunching her eyebrows, “Well, sort of. I live closer to the city but I just started a job here.”
“Ah,” the white haired woman replied as she filled a pint, handing it to a customer, “Where at?”
Y/n wasn’t entirely sure what the rules were about working for a football club. Were you supposed to go around sharing that information? Or did it mean you’d have thirty drunken fans hounding you for tickets suddenly?
“AFC Richmond,” she answered truthfully, “Public relations.”
The woman’s eyebrows raised an inch, seemingly impressed. “Well, that’s the right answer to get your meal on the house.”
Y/n laughed a little, relaxing slightly.
“Good first day then?”
“Yeah, I guess,” Y/n bobbed her head from side to side, “I mean, I really just met co-workers and learned the basics. No complaints so far.”
“Did you meet Ted yet?”
“I did,” Y/n answered, slightly confused, “You know Coach Lasso?”
The woman pointed towards the pub doors, “Lives on just the other side of the building. Comes in a couple nights a week. He’s a good man.”
“That he is,” Y/n nodded, not wanting to tarnish anyone’s reputation with her own discomforts, “Definitely tries to make you feel welcome.”
“Oh,” the woman was now coming to lean against Y/n’s side of the bar, “He won’t stop until you know you’re welcomed. Best to just let it happen. Whatever he’s done to Richmond, it works.”
It hadn’t escaped Y/n’s notice that in the two seasons Ted Lasso had been coaching the Greyhounds, there was a shift in…everything. Between videos of the players on the pitch, to little stories interspersed in her conversations with Rebecca, Keeley and Higgins throughout the day, Y/n was given the impression that Ted Lasso was a miracle worker. It didn’t take much thought to deduce that Ted was going to try and integrate her into their team as well.
“Well,” Y/n shrugged slightly, seeing that her sandwich was coming around from the kitchen, “I mean, it’s just a job. It’s not supposed to change your life or anything.”
Just as she was about to be handed her meal, the white haired woman took it from the waiter’s hands. Y/n could tell she wasn’t getting her food until the bartender had spoken her piece.
“You just watch out, love,” the woman warned with a smile, “Whole city hated Ted when he arrived, and now take a look.”
She gestured to the space around the bar as if Y/n was supposed to be seeing the peace.
“The best things that happen to us are usually the most unexpected,” she continued, giving her a wink.
Y/n drew a breath, locking onto the woman’s every syllable.
“You’re part of Richmond now,” the woman continued on, “Whether it changes your life or not isn’t up to you.”
Without another word, the woman set Y/n’s sandwich in front of her and went off to tend to another patron.
Y/n was fearful to move, lest the bartender’s words appear in thin air and smack her thoughts into line. What was this strange hold the word ‘Richmond’ seemed to have on people? Y/n had lived long enough in England to know how passionate people got about their football clubs, but this was different. This was dedication separate from the sport itself, rather devotion to the inner workings. To the coaches. To the heart of AFC Richmond itself.
Higgin’s words came back to her, part of the family. It all filled Y/n with an anxiety she’d never quite been able to put a name to.
Regardless of what the culture was, on and off the pitch, she was determined to keep to herself. Interact pleasantly with her co-workers and the team, but no more than necessary. Be proficient at the tasks given to her. Stay in her lane.
Family or not, Y/n decided as she bit into her dinner, she was there to do a job and nothing more.
——————
Heartfirst Taglist: @lalla-04p @optimisticsandwichgladiator @makingmunson94
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bullet train/マリアビートル details ~
Hello!! I recently dug up the Bullet Train script (if you search it up, you should be able to find it relatively easily!! I'm not sure if it's completely reliable but it seems to be the first version) and listened to the soundtrack. (It's awesome, you should listen if you haven't already!!)
There's a lot of stuff here about マリアビートル, I hope you enjoy reading 🥳 (It's really ridiculous)
-- 1 ) LEMON'S CHILDHOOD // BACKGROUND(??)
I attached a photo for reference in the book!! :D (there's highlighter marks, I'm sorry) His backstory is tragic and aahh noo 🥹... I won't say much on it because we're all thinking the same thing. In the script, this is carried over when Lemon passes out because of the water. But apparently, in the final movie, this isn't shown a lot. In the book and movie, they aren't brothers and have a considerably colder relationship, so I can understand why the childhood scene in the cut is so much more wholesome. (Still supersuper cool though!!)
-- 2) "I'm forever blowing bubbles"
The original reason why this song was chosen for Bullet Train was because of Tangerine's West Ham United sticker (turns out, that's a football club). Hey!! But wait a minute!! There's a funny coincidence because Ladybug in the book was trying to become a football star. He has a quote that's like "my friend told me that someone like me could either become a footballer or a criminal, so I did both" and he says that his first crime was stealing a football.
The song delves into themes surrounding fortune as well!! I love their music selection 🙇♂️😤
-- 3) THREE ASSASSINS/グラスホッパー REFERENCES
Okay this part (in a way...) contains spoilers for Three Assassins, which is the first book of the "series"! ! The story revolves around a guy named Suzuki, who appears again in Bullet Train!! He kinda-sorta becomes friends with Ladybug and it's like 😊 they are so happy. To be completely honest, Suzuki's a bit traumatised but so is Ladybug, right?? Lovely friendship!!
It's also so interesting that he's reading a hotel buffet menu because his wife used to love eating at buffets and he adopted the habit of hoarding all the food as well. He's on the train to meet with his dead wife's family (which was extremely difficult for him after her passing).
-- 4) BULLET TRAIN REFERENCES IN THE MANTIS/AX
There's this other book in the series called The Mantis or AX for the Japanese version. This one isn't talked about a lot but if you like family stories, this book is so so soo good. It really pulled at my heartstrings when I first read it but I can't say too much without spoiling everything. Anyway, it makes a few references to Bullet Train and literally starts with the main character, Kabuto (an assassin), having a flashback to talking to Tangerine and Lemon during one of his missions, where they had the same target so they worked together. The Twins really respect him, actually, but find it funny that he's so careful around his wife (YES KABUTO, AN ASSASSIN, HAS A WIFE). Some characters reappear so.. :")) yay!!
-- 5) 777
Ladybug comes back!! He comes back in the latest book in the series; 777. So far, the Japanese reviews have been pretty positive and I think there's an English translation coming in November!! 🥳 I like how the title is 777; 7 like 7 tails in Nanao (七尾), car 7, his favourite number is 7 (if I recall correctly), 7 the "lucky number".
-- 6) THIS GUY
No one asked but I heavily dislike the Prince in the book. (to be honest, who doesn't...) He's just mean for no reason and likes ruining people's lives, makes fun of poor Ladybug (this really isn't that bad compared to the other stuff he does) and yeah, the list goes on. Also apparently he (heavily) tortures other schoolmates and it's not like he gets paid for it like the Twins or the other guys. He just does it for fun?? OK!! The premise of his character is amazing and it's great to see a villain that's actually just straight evil but since he's designed that way, we are validated when hating him ww. He talks about politics as well for some reason... keeps referencing historical tragedies.... man.
-- 7) ASAGAO/THE PUSHER
The Pusher is back too!! Weee~ (not really)
In the movie, it seems as though this entire part got cut out which, like, is reasonable. I attached a photo from the Grasshopper (2015) movie for reference hahaha. The guy in the black suit is the Pusher!! Yeah, he pushes people!! (not in the fun way!!)
He is in charge of protecting Wataru from the Prince's guy, although he's reluctant at first. He's obsessed with bugs and stuff. Whenever he opens his mouth, it's probably going to be about bugs. The Pusher's also strangely poetic. Maybe it's because he likes old bands like the Rolling stones? Oh!! And he gets mentioned in The Mantis.
And speaking of the Kimura family, Yuichi Kimura says something very true and it's:
"who do they gotta make the train toilets so nasty"
-- 8) LADYBUG IS COOL
This is very much a fact. In Mariabeetle, he gets kidnapped when he's 8 years old because he gets mistaken for a rich kid (after he lost a bet with his wealthy friend and had to wear his "rich person backpack"), then in the place he's being held captive, he escapes by HIMSELF since his dad isn't able to give the guys money for his son back (since they took the wrong person!!). But heyy he's resourceful and smart.
AND guess what?? He gets traumatised because there was this other boy being held but Ladybug didn't save him and it's haunted him ever since. This is also one of the reasons why he ends up helping the Prince even though he knows it won't do him any good.
Obviously, it gets worse from there. He makes it back to his family and they're pretty happy. Unfortunately, they're far from rich and Ladybug has to study extremely hard to get into a college. Spoiler alert, he doesn't. THE THING IS!! He studied so hard!! It's just that during his exam, some kid sneezed on his paper and he wiped it, smudging all his work and even his name!! Nanao! No!!
-- 9) TANGERINE BOOK RECS
To the Lighthouse - Virginia Woolf
"We perished, each alone."
-> He really loves that quote. A lot. Also he's a Virginia Woolf fan!!
2. Forbidden Colours - Yukio Mishima
-> He's also a Yukio Mishima fan... I wonder if he's ever read "The Sound of Waves". What would he think about it? Hahaha this will keep me up at night 😅 (<- SLANTED EMOJI!!)
3. The Sailor who Fell from Grace with the Sea - Yukio Mishima
-> To talk about Article 41 of the Penal Code of Japan. (Mr Kotaro Isaka, the author, studied law, by the way!! It's interesting!!) However, here, Tangerine quotes Mishima on Article 41 ;)
4. Hemingway and Faulkner
-> Actually it's a collection so it's not really a book recommendation but these two people are real - Ernst Hemingway (the Old Man and the Sea guy) and William Faulkner. They didn't really get along, by the way, and even though they respected the other's work, they criticised more than praised. Sounds like the Twins.
5. Demons - Fyodor Dostoevsky
-> "Crime is no longer insanity, but simply common sense, almost a duty; anyway, a gallant protest."
I think the author is a heavy Fyodor Dostoevsky fan, just because he also referenced his works in Three Assassins.
6. Crime and Punishment ;D
-> "Science now tells us, love yourself before all men, for everything in the world relies on self-interest."
(CONT'D) yeahh this book was referenced in Three Assassins and one of the characters is obsessed with it. Glad to see that Tangerine is a fan too hahahaha.
-- 10) LEMON IS AWESOME
Opinionated text here but Lemon is plain awesome.
"Between the principal's name and Doraemon's gadgets, it was blindingly obvious which one was more important."
To each their own and I know he's a criminal but he seems like he has no enemies. Sounds very wholesome.
-- 11) HORNET THE MVP
She's in Three Assassins AND the Mantis!! Hypercool. In both books, the Hornet is a team of a male and a female. The female is eliminated (this word choice ww) by Ladybug but the male is still up and kicking, though Ladybug feels bad about it. They use poison needles, like the movie, but they trigger anaphylaxis, which is a really dangerous allergic reaction that causes body shocks.
-- 12) SUZUKI: PHILOSOPHER AND ECONOMIST
"If people knew that they might be killed by someone tomorrow, economic activity would grind to a halt."
... well 😅 take from that what you will.
(that's Suzuki!!)
Cela dit... that's all.... so long, I'm sorry. But thank you so much if you read until the end!! I hope you at least found it a bit entertaining!! :"))
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England FIFA World Cup: England Squad a New Generation Takes Center Stage
England FIFA World Cup: England has unveiled a youthful squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026, with manager Gareth Southgate opting for fresh talent over several established stars. Notably, youngsters Kobbie Mainoo and Adam Wharton have earned their spots in the final 26, as Southgate made the bold decision to leave out high-profile players such as James Maddison, Jack Grealish, and the injured Harry Maguire.
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The squad also sees the exclusion of notable names from the training squad, including Marcus Rashford, Jordan Henderson, and Ben Chilwell. Wharton’s Crystal Palace teammate Eberechi Eze, West Ham’s Jarrod Bowen, Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa, and Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon have all secured their places in the squad. Additionally, Lewis Dunk, Joe Gomez, and Ivan Toney are among the selected players.
Given their recent record in major tournaments and the exceptional form of attacking stars Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, Cole Palmer, and Phil Foden this season, England is considered one of the favourites to lift the trophy on July 14. Drawn into Group C, they will face Slovenia, Denmark, and Serbia in the group stages.
However, fierce competition remains for the final squad spots, as Southgate continues to fine-tune his team for the tournament. The new-look England squad for the England FIFA World Cup 2026 is a blend of promising young talent and seasoned performers, poised to make a significant impact on the world stage.
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England's Youthful Vanguard for FIFA World Cup 2026
Gareth Southgate’s decision to include younger players like Kobbie Mainoo and Adam Wharton signifies a strategic shift towards nurturing emerging talents. This approach is aimed at injecting fresh energy and innovation into the squad, which could prove crucial in high-stakes matches. Mainoo, who has been a standout performer for Manchester United’s youth team, brings a blend of creativity and technical skill to the midfield. His vision and passing accuracy make him a valuable asset, particularly in breaking down tightly organized defences.
Adam Wharton, another exciting inclusion, has demonstrated exceptional composure and defensive prowess at Crystal Palace. His ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions provides an added layer of security to England’s backline. The inclusion of these young players highlights Southgate’s long-term vision for the national team, aiming to build a squad that can compete at the highest level for years to come.
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Eberechi Eze’s selection is also noteworthy. The Crystal Palace forward has consistently impressed with his dribbling skills and ability to create scoring opportunities. His presence adds a dynamic edge to England’s attacking options, complementing the likes of Harry Kane and Bukayo Saka. Eze’s versatility allows him to play in various attacking roles, making him a valuable tactical asset for Southgate.
The youthful exuberance of these rising stars, combined with the experience of seasoned players, creates a balanced squad capable of adapting to different playing styles and strategies. This blend of youth and experience could be the key to England’s success in the tournament, providing the team with the necessary depth and flexibility to navigate the challenges ahead.
Analyzing England's High-Profile Omissions for FIFA World Cup 2026
The exclusion of high-profile players such as James Maddison, Jack Grealish, and the injured Harry Maguire has been one of the most talked-about aspects of Southgate’s squad announcement. James Maddison, who has been in impressive form for Leicester City, was expected by many to be a key player for England. However, Southgate’s decision to leave him out suggests a preference for players who can offer more versatility and fit into his tactical plans more seamlessly.
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Jack Grealish, known for his creativity and flair, is another surprising omission. Despite his performances for Manchester City, Southgate has opted for a different set of attacking players. Perhaps indicating a shift towards a more dynamic and versatile forward line. Grealish’s exclusion highlights the fierce competition for places in England’s attacking setup. Where players like Phil Foden, Bukayo Saka, and Eberechi Eze have emerged as key figures.
Harry Maguire’s injury has ruled him out of the squad. But his absence also reflects the changing dynamics of England’s defence. With the inclusion of younger defenders like Adam Wharton and established players like Joe Gomez and Lewis Dunk. Southgate appears to be building a backline that combines experience with youthful energy.
The exclusion of Marcus Rashford, Jordan Henderson, and Ben Chilwell from the training squad further underscores Southgate’s bold approach. Rashford’s inconsistent form, Henderson’s move to a less competitive league, and Chilwell’s injury issues have all contributed to their omission. These decisions, while controversial, highlight Southgate’s commitment to selecting players based on current form and fitness.
Gareth Southgate's Vision and Team Dynamics for FIFA World Cup 2026
Gareth Southgate’s tactical vision for the 2026 World Cup focuses on creating a cohesive and adaptable team. His emphasis on squad depth and versatility is evident in his selection choices. Aiming to build a team capable of responding to various tactical challenges. Southgate’s approach involves blending experienced campaigners with fresh talent, ensuring a balanced squad ready for any scenario.
The inclusion of players like Lewis Dunk, Joe Gomez, and Ivan Toney highlights Southgate’s focus. On maintaining a solid defensive foundation while having the flexibility to switch tactics when needed. Dunk and Gomez bring experience and composure to the backline. While Toney’s physical presence and goal-scoring ability add a different dimension to the attack.
The competition for places within the squad has been created. A healthy environment where players push each other to perform at their best. This internal competition ensures that complacency is kept at bay. And every player remains focused and ready to contribute when called upon. Southgate’s pragmatic approach and emphasis on team dynamics position England well for the challenges of the World Cup.
England’s youthful squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026, under Gareth Southgate’s astute management. Represents a blend of emerging talent and experienced performers. The bold decisions to omit high-profile players in favour of fresh faces highlight. Southgate’s commitment to building a dynamic and adaptable team. With a potent attacking lineup and a solid defensive foundation. England is well-equipped to navigate the tournaments and potentially achieve glory on the world stage.
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