#whoacanada

[forabeatofadrum]

Do you have zimbits fic recs? I’ve never really gotten into Check Please fic, but I just got Madison in the mail and now I wanna read more zimbits but don’t know where to start!

YOU GOT MADISON?????? ASAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGHHHHHHH!!! My order hasn't been shipped yet so no spoilers, but you ask and you shall receive. It got long, so I am putting it under a cut in no particular order. ALSO the new Tumblr post maker is absolutely fucking terrible and it took so long to format this because of it. The whole idea of creating "blocks" in posts is stupid and it doesn't function well ANYWAY FIC TIME.

Set Your Old Heart Free by IBoatedHere

Jack doesn’t find Bitty after graduation. They don’t kiss. Jack doesn't go to Madison for the 4th. They still fall in love.

It's a simple premise, but so well executed. I uhhh always cry at the end and I love to read Jack's thoughts.

when it’s over (you’re the start) by @whoacanada

Jack goes to sleep in Providence next to his boyfriend and wakes up in Montréal to discover he's been in a coma since 2009. Refusing to believe Samwell, Bitty, and the Falconers were all a dream, Jack tracks down the real Shitty, Lardo, Ransom, and Holster to find they’ve shared the same group hallucination for years. Now, they’re on a mission to find Bitty, the love of Jack’s non-existent life, and the only member of SMH they can’t seem to get in contact with.

What it says on the tin. It is a "what if" story and it is great.

i'll see you with your laughter lines by the_one_that_fell

Eric Bittle was fourteen when his soulmate died.

They'd never even gotten to meet.

This is a great story, but heed the warnings. It's an interesting spin on the soulmate trope, because yeah, you can argue that Jack died when he overdosed, even if it was just for a small moment.

like a handprint on my heart by the_one_that_fell

"Dude, we've got an over-competitive golf dad, a badass art freak, a pre-med lax bro on the verge of a breakdown, a chronically naked rugby player, a beat-boxing giant, and an itty-bitty, baking figure skater - there's no way we came together accidentally. This was fate."

"Or it's the normal progression of human beings making friends. Chill out, bro."

(Or, the one where no one plays hockey, but it still manages to bring them all together.)

I have so much to say about this story. SO MUCH. It once gave me a breakdown when I was feeling super lonely, cause the fic is about friendship. Zimbits is just a part of it, though. Everyone gets a moment to shine and it's so good.

don't you look charming (here in the eye of a hurricane) by @whoacanada

In 2009, Jack Zimmermann doesn't just walk away from his future, he packs a bag and runs.

ANGST ANGST ANGST!! This fic captivated me so much. I don't know what else to say!!!

My Words on Your Skin by There_Once_Was_A_Girl

Jack and Bitty have a unique soul connection, they can write back and forth to each other by writing on their own skin. They know each other long before they've ever met. But when Jack overdoses Bitty thinks he's lost the love of his life forever.

Just like the other soulmate AU fic above, this takes the soulmate idea and runs with it. What do you do when you believe the other is dead?

you’ve got my number by ambrosius

It’s not as if Jack was totally inept when it came to technology. He could handle his Tweeter (Tweety? Twits? Twitter? Did it really matter?) just fine and if he’s honest, he much preferred texting to calling most days. So when he gets added to a group chat full of strangers, well, he’s pretty sure he can handle whatever comes next.

This one is so good. I am a bitch for epistolary stuff and I am glad it exists.

Graduation Dayby IBoatedHere

It takes Jack 50 days to finally see what's been right in front of him for the past two years.

Groundhog Day AU, but make it Zimbits. Jack doesn't kiss Bitty when he graduates, and that's fine, right? Well, looks like the universe disagrees. Also this fic has a real good platonic Jackshit moment.

Will Wonders Never Cease by @porcupine-girl

Eric has landed his dream job: social media manager for the Providence Falconers! Not only does he get paid to tweet, for an NHL team at that, but it’s a job where he’ll be able to make good use of his magic - when nobody’s looking, of course. Everyone on the Falconers is a joy to work with… with the notable exception of Jack Zimmermann. Eric understands that Jack doesn’t like social media, but he could certainly be a little more polite about it.

Luckily, Eric has support from his Samwell buddies, as well as his best friend - a man whose face he’s never seen, and whose name he doesn’t know. They met on an online forum where witches can gather anonymously, since it isn’t safe for them to advertise their existence in a world where magic isn’t trusted. They’ve been friends for years now, but Eric is only just starting to realize that he might have deeper feelings for someone he can never meet face-to-face.

THIS FIC!!! Jenna, I don't know if you read my fic Ebb & Flow, but I mentioned this fic in the author's note, because it was a huge inspiration. It's a secret identity magical She Loves Me AU. It sounds bonkers, but it is so goooood.

if you're going through hell (keep going) by @whoacanada

Eighteen years ago, Samwell suffered the tragic loss of one of their most promising young athletes. Ever since rumors have circulated that the school is haunted by the ghost of Eric Bittle. At least, that’s the only way anyone can seem to explain why the locker rooms smell like freshly baked apple pie on game days instead of the usual, omnipresent hockey funk.

Now in the twilight of his career, Jack Zimmermann is facing his own mortality and the last item on his bucket list?

Return to Samwell and disprove the rumor that his long-dead boyfriend is haunting Faber Memorial Rink.

MAIN CHARACTER DEATH!!! WARNING!!! And not like the previous soulmate AUs where the one thinks the other is dead. Bitty dies and Jack moved on, but he has to face the past, because people claim Bitty's ghost is real. Jack decides to find out himself.

Inertia by @foryouandbits

At the age of seven, Eric Bittle is tackled so hard in peewee football, it feels as though he's been knocked into another dimension. At the encouragement of his father, he avoids contact sports until he receives a scholarship to play hockey at Samwell University. The result is the same: every check on the ice hurts so much that Eric hallucinates another world. Eric spends the rest of his freshman year attempting to prove himself to his captain and his coaches. He questions his worth, his talent, and his sanity, and in his search for answers, he uncovers long-hidden secrets that change everything he has ever known.

I loved this one. It is an interesting take on dimension travel and Coach in this story is so great as well. I highly recommend it.

Ice Crew Please! by @petals42

Jack Zimmermann was drafted first by the Providence Falconers when he was eighteen years old. He is good at hockey. Very good. His team won the Cup his second year and now, in his third year, they are looking good. Jack should be on top of the world. And some days, he manages to convince himself he is.

He’s not, of course.

Enter the Ice Crew.

AKA: The Ice Crew AU

This sorta!fic is a fic about friendship thawing Jack Zimmermann's heart. Jack realises he's kind of a dick towards the ice crew of the Falcs and so he gets to know them, including Bitty. It's a good fucking friendship fic.

All shall know the wonder by me, lol

When Bitty decides to skate on Sunday mornings, he didn’t expect to meet a nice, handsome man who cannot hear. The Sunday mornings lead to a deep friendship that slowly leads to more.

Yes, I am finishing this list with a shameless self-promotion. I have 28 fics on AO3, 27 of them being Zimbits (one Holsom) and this is my favourite. Yeehaw.

That's it for now. There's a lot more in my Check, Please! fic tag. Also, hi to the people I have @'ed. If y'all know the tumblr URLs of some writers mentioned on this post, lemme know so I can add them.

[welcometololaland]

Fic Rec Friday - Round Up Part 2

Thanks to everyone who participated this week - the theme was: rec a 'gateway' fic. If I've missed any, please let me know!

I say this every week, but just to reiterate - this is a compilation of fics i've been tagged in or which appear in the fic rec friday tag relevant to the weekly theme. The recommendations below do not represent a personal curation of fics. Please read at your own discretion. Heed tags and ratings on each individual fic. Keep yourself safe, friends!

Check Please!

Braced Myself by @porcupine-girl

Chef Bob-ardee by @iboatedhere

dance with somebody by @everwitch-magiks

love finds you by @sincerelyreidburke

maybe not today but eventually by @thewesternredcedar

Someone by @wrathofthestag

when it's over (you're the start) by @whoacanada

Emmerdale

midnight in paris by @capseycartwright

Glee

Fix Verse by rainjoywriting

HP

Everything in Transit by @remedialpotions

Marvel Cinematic Universe

just say you do by @biblionerd07

Red White and Royal Blue

A Distinctly British Take on Events by RevJohnO

all that glitters (is not gold) by @indomitable-love

Before This, After That by @orchidscript

Everybody needs good neighbours by @rmd-writes

forever yrs, for evermore. by @indomitable-love

heart & home by @rmd-writes

Hook(up), Line & Sinker by @rmd-writes @clottedcreamfudge @athousandrooms @the-amber-fox @indomitable-love

Speak for Yourself by Lolaland (me)

the poem you make of me by cmere

Schitt's Creek

A Very Specific Store by @language-of-love

beside you in time by @blackandwhiteandrose

Burn Out the Night by @madlori

CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE - 4.02 Pregnancy Test Coda Fic by @cheesecurdsgravyandfries

Definitely A Thing by @beaiola

Happy to Help by @vivianblakesunrisebay

I’d Swing With You for the Fences by @nontoxic-writes

I'll Follow You Down by @fraudulentzodiac

Improv Piecing by @my-nameless-bliss

Incorrect by Lisamc21

just a line in a song by @blackandwhiteandrose

let your heart be light by @blueink3

Molten Glass Hearts by @januarium

Murder, My Sweet by @a-noble-dragon

my heart was broke, my head was sore by @blueink3

PDA: Public Displays of Anxiety by @delilah-mcmuffin

Sometimes Good Things Fall Apart by @blueink3

Such a Constellation He Was To Me by @blueink3

thinking of everything by @doublel27

this is how a heart breaks by @blackandwhiteandrose

You're the only thing I need by @yourbuttervoicedbeau

Suits

To build a Home by TooSel

Teen Wolf

Hide of a Life War by Etharei

Tortall - Tamora Pierce

Miss Atomic Bomb by @ponyregrets

[appalamutte]

Hi! I'm hopping to get some check please fic recs from you? If you have any, of if any of your mutuals do? I'll take any classic favs, though in particular I'm dying for a fic that features Bitty's love for Beyonce 😂

hi anon!!

i'd never thought about it until you asked, but i actually don't know of many omgcp fics that feature bitty's love for beyonce? at least not many i can remember haha. but there is one i can think of off the top of my head and another one i found:

Starstuck by boomsherlocka [1.4k words | gen] it's such a sweet little thing where both jack and bitty meet their idols. and honestly, thank you for asking me this anon, i would never had found it if it weren't for you! .

heavy on the sugar by wit (@parvuls) [41.7k words | teen] god, i've reread this one more than any other fic i think. it's just got the perfect amount of coffee shop and feelings and just enough angst to scratch that itch but it's resolved fairly quickly. bitty's love for beyonce is also featured a small bit toward the end! .

and of course, to rec some of my classic favs:

maybe i'm waking up by idrilka (@idrilka) [157.9k words | mature] one of my all time fav omgcp fics, and just one of my fav fics overall. the amount of money i'd give to be able to read this for the first time again. it's the most beautiful blend of mixed media elements, story/plot, original characters, coming out and the fear that brings. .

No Matter How Small by weneedtotalkaboutsherlock (@weneedtotalkaboutfic) [125.4k words | explicit] this is just one big overload of cuteness, but like in the most realistic way. it's a kidfic and a getting back together future fic, and the amount of comfort this fic brings me is incomprehensible. so soft, so warm, so authentic, so overwhelmingly gorgeous. .

Port Out, Starboard Home by onawingandaswear (@whoacanada) [11.6k words | not rated] talk about realism, my god. you ever realize your boyfriend comes from a famous, prominent, totally-different-tax-bracket family? if not, this fic helps you experience what that feels like, and if so, you can relive that experience while reading this. .

live through this and you won't look back by nighimpossible [4.1k words | teen] a fic that perfectly encompasses the continual grief you feel when you think the boy you're in love with is straight. it's painfully good. and it also has a happy ending! .

Better With Time by foryouandbits (@foryouandbits) [118.5k words | mature] now i know this is a high school au, which can be polarizing depending on the person, but frankly i haven't read another fic that better captures bitty's relationship with his father. i mean, i cried more than once when i first read this, both happy tears and i-relate-a-bit-too-hard tears. .

that's just a few of my favorite omgcp fics. i have a ton more bookmarked on my ao3 if you want more recs! also, i highly highly highly recommend all of these author's other fics, as well as other omgcp fic authors: PorcupineGirl (@porcupine-girl), writingonpostcards (@17piesinseptember), RabbitRunnah (@doggernaut), and WrathoftheStag (@wrathofthestag). these authors all have fics i absolutely adore, and if i didn't care about not wanting too long of a post, i'd list them all out individually lol.

also, these are all just for zimbits. if anyone else wants to add onto this post and rec fics for other ships, or just any other fics in general, please do so! and if anyone else knows of any fics that feature bitty's love for beyonce, please add them as well!

hope this helps anon, happy reading!

[doggernaut]

Fic Rec Friday

This week's theme: Rec a 'gateway' fic - a fic that you read and it was so good it lead you to read multiple works by the same writer.

The rules: Tag a fic and explain why it was a gateway fic / what you liked about it. Then tag some people to see what everyone else is reading. Spread the love! Lola will do the round up on Sunday again, so if you're still recc-ing on Saturday, no pressure. Please tag @welcometololaland or #fic rec friday so she can compile the masterlist!

Thank you to @cricketnationrisefor the tag! It was fun to go back to the summer of 2017 and remember was I was reading back then.

I'm going to be completely honest, I can't remember if these are the exact first fics I read by each of these authors, but based on the pub dates they're probably pretty close. Regardless, I can say that their works were among the very first I read when I first started reading Check, Please! fic, and all these years later I still love them. (Basically, you could randomly pick a fic to read by any of these authors and it would be time well spent.)

when it's over (you're the start) by @whoacanada/onawingandaswear

@whoacanada always manages to write angst so very well without ever forgetting that these characters are very much in love. I remember reading this fic as a WIP and devouring each chapter as it was posted.

Someone by @wrathofthestag/WrathoftheStag

I really love this sweet little fic told from Bad Bob's POV. I just love it when Bad Bob knows things before everyone else. I think I originally read it on Tumblr when I fell headfirst into this fandom and went on to read everything @wrathofthestag has written.

Braced Myself by @porcupine-girl/PorcupineGirl

This fic has it all: angst, coming out, a happy ending. And lots of fluff.

maybe not today but eventually by @thewesternredcedar/westernredcedar

Look, I love @thewesternredcedar's angsty fic as much as (maybe more than) the next person, but this fic made me laugh so much. Jack and Bitty trying to keep their relationship secret from Shitty, who just wants some quality time with his two best bros, will never not be funny.

It's no longer Friday but for I'll tag a few people anyway: @wrathofthestag @sweatersinthesummer @the-lincyclopedia

[whoacanada]

There’s a lot of new faces around! Sorry I’m not as active in OMGCP but I’m still here creeping!

Most of my Tumblr fics have been copied over to Ao3 in their entirety, some being compiled into collections and anthology works! I go by Onawingandaswear, and you can find everything here.

Thank you for following!

[omgcpheartbreakfest]

Port Out, Starboard Home

Author: @whoacanada

Written for: @kinkshamethegang

Rating: Not Rated

Word Count: 11,639

Pairing(s): Zimbits

Summary: “Is that normal?” Eric clutches his coffee in his lap and fusses with his seatbelt. “Meet and greet at Tim Hortons?” “It’s worse when we’re together. Especially now that Jack’s got a Cup.” To his credit, Bob doesn’t say what the truth probably is: People are used to Bob and Jack. They aren’t used to Jack and Eric. That’s the novelty of the equation. As Bob and Jack argue playfully over who is more famous, chirps flying left and right, Eric feels the sinking again. Eric lifts a hand to his sternum, presses his fingers against his jacket, and breathes to relieve the tension. The tightness doesn’t go away. Not for a good long while. Eric has graduated, Jack has proposed, and their first Christmas in Québec is going to be amazing if Eric can get out of his head long enough to enjoy it. 

[bittysvalentines]

@whoacanada when i saw you were my valentine i had a bit of a moment! i love your fic and can’t wait to make you something fun for valentine’s day!

[samwell-sweethearts]

@whoacanada is not only a great zimbits writer with great ideas, they’re such a funny and sweet person to talk to

signed @transzimmermann

[onesleep-twopie]

Comfort Reading For A Stressful Day/Week/Year

Hi, friends.  Today and tomorrow and the foreseeable future is going to be one big ball of stress.  I know I’m going to be diving into fanfiction to help me cope, and probably a lot of you are planning on doing the same.  So here are some of my recs: lots of fluff, very little angst, always a happy ending.

Zimbits

Will Wonders Never Cease by @porcupine-girl

T//56k words It’s hard to choose just one of PorcupineGirl’s fics to put here (they’re all so good!), but I’m making myself include only one.

Prove To Me You Got Some Coordination by amalnahurriyeh

E//17k words Stripper Bitty AU and lessons on organized labor, what more could you ask for?

one day (we'll get this right) by @whoacanada /onawingandaswear

E//10k words Another author who makes it so hard to pick just one fic.

safest sounds by @zimmerhomme /spraycansoul

M//26k words Bitty’s a model and lives in California, there’s so much pining, and Jack is a dweeb in love.

the backpacker's guide to the aftermath of gap year hookups by heyfightme

M//20k words Since Baking is Punk AF was taken off AO3 and so therefore I can’t rec it, here have another amazing AU instead.

A Little Bit Closer by marswithghosts

E//108k words A classic for a good reason.  As a librarian I feel especially attached to this one.  Also, the sequel?  *chef’s kiss*

and now what words do I have? by MyCupOfTea

M//10k words Long distance, pining, and I just really love the end!

From the Hinge of the Tail by uniqueinalltheworld

Jack 110% Zimmermann buys a ring three weeks after he and Bitty have their first kiss.

On History and Pie by @wrathofthestag​

T//2k words Chubby history student Jack is just so good

I'll settle in and dream by Stultiloquentia

T//9k words Domesticity and having to face big decisions.

Other Ships

You're Under My Skin by orphan_account

Patater//E//43k words There’s some angst in this one, sorry, but I just love it so much

sundown starts at half-past six by @halfdesertedstreets

PB&J//E//63k words A Practical Magic AU.  I don’t ship PB&J, but I LOVE THIS FIC.  I just reread it because Halloween, and if you’re looking for something a little magical and amazingly written, this right here.  Read this one. 

[the-lincyclopedia]

* adapted from @librajiminn on twitter

A fun game to celebrate 2020 ending! The rules are simple: recommend your favorite OMGCP fics so everyone can enjoy them, while trying to fill in enough slots to get a bingo!

This is going to get long, so I’ll put it under a cut. Also, I’m too orderly to try to shoehorn my favorite fics into these particular prompts, so I’m just going to go right to left, top to bottom, taking the prompts literally, until it’s bedtime. 

1. first fic you bookmarked: “Here Comes the Sun” by @doggernaut, 19k, G, no warnings, Zimbits

For the past month, the man with the baby and the sad blue eyes has been stopping in for a cup of coffee an hour before closing. He always sits in an overstuffed chair in the corner and drinks his coffee while his baby sleeps next to him in the stroller. Sometimes he pulls a book out from the diaper bag he carries with him; other times he just stares straight ahead as if in a daze. He never asks for a refill, always respectfully gathers his things and leaves ten minutes before the shop officially closes. Eric desperately wants to ask him what his story is. 

My notes: I read Check Please over the course of two days in June of 2019. On the second day, right after catching up, I looked at @peppermintfeminist‘s AO3 bookmarks and found a fic by @doggernaut. Then I read just about everything @doggernaut had ever posted. It was glorious. This fic in particular is so cute. 

2. most recent fic you bookmarked: “Flight Check” by @edgarallanrose, 15k, E, no warnings (though there is a creepy/handsy guy at a club to watch out for), primarily Zimbits with most of the other popular pairings in the background

Flight attendant Eric “Bitty” Bittle has been working his way up at Samwell Airlines for the past four years, and his new promotion has provided him the opportunity to work with a brand-new crew. Unfortunately for Bitty, that crew includes an incredibly handsome but equally grumpy pilot, Captain Jack Zimmermann, who seems to want nothing to do with Bitty. Even worse, Jack refuses to eat any of Bitty's baked goods. Will Bitty be able to win the captain over? Or is there another reason Jack has been avoiding Bitty?

My notes: There are a lot of great things about this fic--Jack’s character arc, Lardo’s dialogue, that scene in Seattle--but the reason I bookmarked it is the scene where Bitty’s basically slut-shaming himself and Jack gently but firmly tells Bitty not to do that and that it was the creep’s fault. 

3. a fic that made you cry actual tears: “a little bit more” by @ivecarvedawoodenheart, 14k, T, no warnings, Holsom

“I just wanted,” he says, “a perfect day. With you. Because it’s our last day together and our last day being here as undergrads and we’re kissing the ice tonight, and the weather’s supposed to be beautiful, and you’re moving tomorrow and Holtzy I just — I don’t want to be missing you already.” Holster wipes his eyes before he even realizes he’s crying. Behind him, Ransom sighs. “One more day where everything’s the same,” he says, feeling around blindly for Rans’ fingers. He feels Rans nod as he laces their fingers together. “Yeah. Yeah, Rans. I’d like that a lot.” __________________________

Holsom after graduation and throughout the subsequent six months after Holster signs to an expansion team in Oregon, and realizes his feelings for Ransom too late. Holster's POV :) kinda angsty, but there's a happy ending :)

Inspired by shitty-check-please-aus: "Holster moves to Oregon while Ransom stays on the east coast. The time difference makes it difficult to talk and one day they wake up and realize they aren’t best bros anymore."

My notes: I almost never cry at fics. I searched “tears” in my fandom email account and only a handful of my fic comments came up, but Syd is a literal master of Holsom angst, always. 

4. longest fic you’ve read: “Like Real People Do” by @xiaq, 153k, M, No Warnings, Kent Parson x OC

Parson gestures with his spoon toward Hawke. “So am I allowed to ask about the service dog or is that not PC?”

“My medical history is more of a 3rd date conversation," Eli says.

“Oh? Why’s that?”

“Because. No one sticks around afterward and I like to live in glorious denial for a short period beforehand.”

It comes out more self-deprecating than he intended.

Parson looks…thoughtful. “Well, does this count as one or two?

“Pardon?”

“This. Ice cream. I mean, technically it’s a second location, but still the same night. So is this one date or two?”

“One,” Eli says firmly. “If it’s happening within the same three-hour period.”

“You’re the expert,” Parson says, which, he’s really, really, not, but ok.

“So still two dates to go then?” Parson continues.

“I—what?”

“We’ve got a roadie coming up but then we’re home for almost two weeks. When does your semester start?”

“You want to do this again?” Eli asks.

Parson stops idly twirling his spoon.

“You don’t?”

He does, Eli realizes. He really does. Because apparently he actually likes Kent fucking Parson.

My notes: Okay, this fic has my whole entire heart. I’ve read it multiple times in its entirety, and it’s almost twice as long as the full-length novel I’m querying. Eli is one of my favorite OCs I’ve ever seen in a fic (probably tied with Damian Navarro and Ari Paxton, both brainchildren of @fozmeadows). Anyway, this is probably going to be the next thing @themeaningoflifeischeese and I read out loud to each other. 

5. a fic you almost didn’t read: “when all else fails (i’ll still be right here)” by @whoacanada, 6k, T, Creator Chose Not to Use Archive Warnings (and I don’t remember if I think there’s stuff to warn for, sorry), Zimbits

The National Hockey League is resurrecting the Quebec City Nordiques, and the expansion draft hits the Falconers much harder than expected.

My notes: Given that this was for @omgcpheartbreakfest, I was worried this would be all angst--all hurt and no comfort. Which made me sad, because I love @whoacanada‘s writing but I wasn’t up for reading unresolved angst. But @doggernaut reblogged the fic, so I asked if the ending was sad, and it’s NOT! There is quite a bit of angst but the ending isn’t sad. 

6. a fic that convinced you on a ship you didn’t ship before: “it drops with the gravity of rain” by @geniusorinsanity, 16k, T, Creator Chose Not to Use Archive Warnings (attempted sexual assault by an OC), Nurseydex

It happens like this:

“I don’t--this is a bad idea,” Dex says, his lips still tingling, his hands shaking on Nursey’s hips where he’s shoved him away. “This is a really bad idea, Nurse. I can’t--We can’t do this.”

And there’s hurt in Nursey’s eyes and his bottom lip is swollen from Dex’s teeth, but he says, “Okay.” And then, “It’s chill, Dex. Just friends, then.”

It happens like this:

“Actually,” Nursey says, talking more to his granola than to them, “I kind of have a date.”

It happens like this:

When Nursey calls, Dex almost doesn’t pick up the phone.

My notes: So I was really confused and a little disturbed when I first found out people shipped Nursey and Dex. Like, Dex just wasn’t someone I trusted. But then I was moving out of the house I’d been living in, and I needed stuff to listen to as I packed and cleaned, and @khashanakalashtar‘s podfics came in clutch. I gave this one a try even though I didn’t like Dex, and @geniusorinsanity blew. My. Mind.

7. a fic from an unusual POV: “Excuse Me While I Kiss This Guy” by @porcupine-girl, 8k, G, no warnings, Zimbits

Jesse Snowden knows all the best restaurants and gourmet food shops in Providence, so when Jack Zimmermann starts bringing in incredible baked goods, he's eager to find out where the new bakery is. When he meets the man behind the pies, he decides that there's no way Jack could really appreciate this guy's talent the way he does, even if they are friends. He starts hiring Jack's chef on the side, in the hopes that maybe once Bitty's done with college he'll come work for Jesse.

Good thing there is absolutely no way whatsoever that Jesse could possibly be misinterpreting this situation.

My notes: Oh my gosh this is so funny. The secondhand embarrassment factor is huge, but like, the hilarity. 

8. a comfort fic: “Don’t Need to Compromise” by @khashanakalashtar, 11k, E, no warnings, PB&J

“Hey,” said Kent, unknowingly setting off a chain of events that would change his entire life, “you said that like you know from experience. Have you done this before?”

Jack and Bitty have not done polyamory before, but they do know Ransom and Holster’s polycule, which contains March.

And March?

March is trans.

My notes: I’m in love with @khashanakalashtar‘s entire Directionverse series (and honestly a lot of their other writing), but “Don’t Need to Compromise,” which is the second fic in the series, just makes my heart swell especially much. The gender feels are so good, and all the characters are so good to each other, and when I listen to this on walks I have to actively try not to arm-flap. 

9. a fic you wish could be a movie: “Ice Crew Please!” by @petals42, 61k, T, no warnings, Zimbits

Jack Zimmermann was drafted first by the Providence Falconers when he was eighteen years old. He is good at hockey. Very good. His team won the Cup his second year and now, in his third year, they are looking good. Jack should be on top of the world. And some days, he manages to convince himself he is.

He’s not, of course.

Enter the Ice Crew.

AKA: The Ice Crew AU

My notes: This fic has its tender moments, but what I love most about it is the sheer goofiness. Ransom and Holster and Shitty are HILARIOUS in this one. I’d love to see their shenanigans in movie form. 

10. a WIP you read as it was updated: “Something Borrowed” by @fozmeadows, 48k, M, no warnings, Kent x OC

All things considered, Ari did his best to prepare himself for the advent of Kent Parson, Potentially Difficult Housemate and New Star Liney. The problem was that his best was an idiot.

My notes: So technically I didn’t start reading this until the first 19 chapters were posted. But there was still plenty of anticipation for the final few chapters. And like, @fozmeadows (as mentioned above) makes EXCELLENT OCs. And I love how their fics consistently convey that having bad things happen to you does not mark the end of your story. 

Okay, it’s bedtime, so have 10 excellent fics. I got bingo twice, because I went straight across on the top two rows.

[doggernaut]

OMGCP Fic Rec BINGO - Day 4

(Previous BINGOs here, here, and here)

pre-canon • sweet creature by ExceedinglyPeculiarChick

A sweet little Alicia Zimmermann character study as she prepares to become a mother. There is something especially poignant about it knowing what we know, but Alicia doesn't, about Jack's future. I don't know if this author is a parent, but so many of Alicia's thoughts and feelings are true to my own experience. I cried.

recced by a friend • What the Water Gave Them by suburbanmotel (@suburbanmotel)

I would have read this anyway, but @wrathofthestag's recommendation carries a lot of weight so I was especially looking forward to it. This is an AU in which Bitty, Jack, and Shitty meet under drastically different circumstances. But at their core they are the same people we know and love—there are conversations between Jack and Bitty that really feel as though they could have taken place off-page in canon (or, are certainly conversations I have imagined them having). There is a lovely ebb and flow to this fic, which is especially fitting given the author’s use of water imagery throughout. This is a fic you can get lost in.

makes you think of a song • Graduation Day  by IBoatedHere (@iboatedhere)

This fic, a riff on Groundhog Day, is the second time loop fic I've put on this BINGO card. I just like time loops, okay? In the movie Bill Murray's character wakes up to Sonny and Cher every morning. In this fic, Jack wakes up to Beyoncé. I can no longer listen to "Schoolin' Life" without thinking about this fic.

main character is a side character in the comic • Little Sour Hearts by omgericzimmermann (HMSLusitania)

I guess Holster is technically the main character in this fic and it's the second lead, Esther Shapiro, who is the side character. Who is only mentioned once in the comic (The Closet Story, Part I) so I’m not even sure that qualifies her as a proper side character, but I think more people should read this fic, so I'm reccing it. With little to go on, the author took the concept of a person named Esther Shapiro existing in this universe and ran with it. Holster's relationship with Esther is both antagonistic and tender, and I also really enjoyed reading a Holster-centric fic in which his main relationship isn't with Ransom or the other members of SMH.

canon divergence • 52 Hertz by onawingandaswear (@whoacanada)

First, let me say that like many authors on my BINGO card, @whoacanada is a favorite. You can’t go wrong with any of their fics. In this AU, the graduation kiss doesn’t happen and Bitty eventually goes on to play in the NHL. It explores what happens after that, and how he and Jack return to one another. The meaning behind the title, 52 Hertz, becomes apparent fairly early on and the repeated references to the concept are at turns heartbreaking, amusing, and romantic. I love @whoacanada's characterizations of Bitty and Jack in this (or any) fic; they have such an easy way of being together that feels true-to-life, and their banter is top notch.

[whoacanada]

Sailor Moon Zimbits AU - Part II

Listen, I love the idea of Sailor Moon AU but I don’t want to recap the entire first season so I’m just gonna play fast and loose with the timeline so Jack and Bitty get together as fast as possible :) 

LINK TO PART ONE POST

ALSO ON Ao3

Life goes on as normal, better than normal, because Jack’s finally chilling out, classes are getting easier, and Bitty’s crush on Tuxedo Mask starts to blossom into something far more tangible as they continue chirping, fighting, and flirting; until finally, one night, Tuxedo Mask stays close enough Bitty feels he’s being invited to touch. Bitty takes his chance, gives the man’s jacket a soft tug, pulling him down inch by inch until Bitty can gently press their lips together.

Bitty waits for the man to respond. Prays he doesn’t recoil in disgust or pull away angrily. And, no, Tuxedo Mask doesn’t pull away. Instead, he slides one hand into Bitty’s hair, holding them together as he brings up his arm to shield them from view with his cape. What was intended to be a chaste first kiss becomes a dance of cautious tongues, soft lips.

“I have to go,” Tuxedo Mask apologizes when he finally pulls away, pressing a last peck to the corner of Bitty’s mouth. Then another. “I’ll see you again very soon. I promise.”

“Gonna hold you to that,” Bitty breathes, staring up into his partner’s pale blue eyes. “Maybe you could even swing by when I’m not in mortal danger?”

That gets a laugh, Mask ducking his head and nearly losing his hat. “I’ll do my best. Until next time, Sailor Pie.”

With a rush of wind, he’s gone. Disappearing into the night like Bitty’s hopes of going to bed early. Oh course, Luna is waiting. Wide eyed, like she’s ready to give Bitty a stern talking-to.

“Nope.” Bitty vanishes his costume, bypassing his guide, practically walking on air. “Not tonight.”

__________

Classes are normal. Practice is normal. They’re winning games, which is fantastic, and Bitty’s finally feeling like he has some control over his normal life. Bitty’s world is perfectly fine, you know, except for the fact he’s still dealing with murderous monsters and a mysterious paramour who only shows up when his life is in imminent danger.

On the plus side, Bitty’s midnight monster-slaying sessions are now being followed by increasingly enjoyable make-out sessions. Like tonight, for example. The dust has barely settled on their battle with a soul-stealing cat witch, and Bitty is perched on Tuxedo Mask’s lap, palming at the man like a rowdy teen.

“You were beautiful,” Mask nuzzles Bitty’s throat, clutching at his waist as Bitty slides off his hat. The mask stays on. Just like Bitty’s costume stays in place. They haven’t discussed boundaries, but they’ve found them all the same.

“Kiss me again,” Bitty orders, nudging Mask’s chin up. He’s so handsome. So familiar.

“Always.”

The stay in the park for a little while longer, until Bitty’s lips are swollen and his pants are getting uncomfortable (not that Mask needs to know about any of that just yet). Bitty wants this all the time. He wants Mask in his dorm room, wants him in the stands at games, Bitty just really, really wants a boyfriend.

“You’re strong enough to face down the General sending these things every night,” Mask offers before they part ways, straightening his hat, adjusting Bitty’s hair. “You know you are.”

“I’m not sure,” Bitty hesitates. The sentiment is kind, but their whole relationship has been predicated on Bitty’s ability to not-handle most situations. “I can barely use the attacks I want, when I want.”

“Hey.” Tuxedo Mask rests his hand on Bitty’s shoulder, comforting, sincere. “Sailor Pie, you can do this. I’ll be right there with you. Just like always.”

So, fun fact, Bitty is actually not strong enough to face Nephrite alone, and for once Tuxedo Mask, for whatever reason, does not seem to have Bitty’s back.

“Oh, poor Sailor Pie,” the General taunts, summoning shadow tendrils from nowhere and thoroughly screwing any attempt at Bitty getting the high ground. “Nowhere to run? Here, let me help —” Bitty finds himself upside-down being lifted and crushed by the dark energy. Unable to escape, with a growing dread that no lame, last-minute interruption could stop this.

No one should be in Faber this late. No one should be able to hear Bitty getting his ass handed to him by Nephrite. He’s going to die, and things only get worse when Ransom, Holster, Shitty, and Lardo come running in from the locker room, gawping at the scene.

“Fucking what — “

“Don’t you hurt him!”

“Sailor Pie! Hold on!” Lardo yells, throwing open the gate. “We’re coming!”

“Run,”  Bitty chokes, grasping for the Moon Wand and any hope of breaking free. “Guys — run.”

“No escape,” Nephrite yells as the magical bonds trapping Bitty tighten. “You’re too late.”

“Don’t you hurt our frog you ugly fuck!” Holster shouts, enveloped in an orange-gold glow as he flashes the finger and shouts, “Venus Power, Make Up!”

Bitty’s vision is sparking but he’s still aware enough to see his orange clad teammate in a fighting pose when the light clears, fists raised and ready to rumble. ��Listen up you Nega-dick, let go of him or, I, Sailor Venus, will rip your heart out through your dickhole in the name of love!”

“Sailor . . . Venus . . .?”

A flash of green, another of red, and one more of blue has Holster, flanked by three more scouts wearing familiar faces. They’re all wearing the same uniform, the compression suit, like Bitty’s, but Shitty is the odd-man out in a green skirt and knee high boots.

Lardo, in red, a tiara shining on her forehead, whips her arm out and yells, “The Soldier of flame and passion, I am Sailor Mars! Back the fuck off, bitch!”

Shitty steps up onto the bench, allowing Bitty to see his bare legs. He hasn’t shaved. “The Scout of courage and protection, Sailor Jupiter, is here to knock your fucking teeth in, bro!”

“With Water and Wisdom as my guides, Sailor Mercury will drown your chances of victory! Let him go!”

Ransom — Mercury —  sounds good. Very official. Maybe it’s the lack of oxygen, but all Bitty can think is, what does it say about him that he hasn’t been able to come up with a kick-ass one-liner introduction like literally everyone else he knows. Lord, he’s still going by Sailor Pie instead of Sailor Moon.

Darkness begins to creep at the edge of his vision as the others begin firing off elemental attacks. Then, head lolling, Bitty finally sees a flash of red in the rafters. Tuxedo Mask.

“You’re . . . late . . .” Bitty whispers.

“Sailor Pie!”

Everything goes black.

“— knew it. I knew Bittle was special. No human could make pies that good.”

“Sailor Pie, man. I thought it was just Jack fucking with us again. You think there are more?”

“Enough. We need to let him rest.”

Bitty clenches his eyes closed, the voices aggravating his splitting headache — all he wants in the world is to slip back into unconsciousness, but his two working brain cells start putting together the fact his secret identity isn’t a secret anymore, and his teammates know too much for him to play dumb.

“You know you aren’t our Captain all the time. We should be here when wakes up. To explain.”

“You’re so loud,” Bitty moans, trying to roll away from the noise only to be gently rocked back by large, familiar hands that coax him upright against his every silent wish. “Ow,” Bitty cracks his eyes open and finds Holster, Lardo, Shitty holed up in what appears to be Jack’s room, except there’s a familiar top hat and mask on the desk beside Jack’s calculus textbook.

There’s no way. This is a dream. A terrible trick.

“There he is,” Holster says, voice far too loud even as he’s trying to be gentle. “Thought you were toast for a minute, Bitty. Good thing Jack got there when he did or we might have lost you.”

“Not fast enough,” Jack curses from somewhere Bitty can’t see, and when he turns to look there’s no warning before a light is shining in Bitty’s eyes, making everything suck so much worse.

“Easy,” Ransom urges, his hand holding Bitty in place as he tries to get away. “You hit your head pretty hard.”

Bitty blink away, spots dancing in his vision, to find Jack hovering in the doorway, arms crossed, as stern as ever. Except, if Bitty wasn’t mildly concussed, he’d say his Captain looked almost upset. Guilty, even. (And now that Bitty knows Jack is probably pulling double duty as his secret not-boyfriend . . . )  

“It’s my fault,” Jack mutters, and Bitty knows a Zimmermann apology when he hears one. “I could have stopped this.”

“What’s with the selfless act, man? We were all there,” Ransom tucks away his penlight. “We were just as helpless as you.”

“It’s different for him,” Lardo says cryptically, giving Bitty’s foot a squeeze before rising to join Jack. “He has to be the fall guy on this one.”

“Can I have a few minutes alone with Jack?” Bitty asks. “Please?”

Though they go reluctantly, the room does clear, and Bitty is left with his overbearing, overdressed hockey captain, who is also, apparently, his midnight beau.

“So, it’s you?” Bitty tugs at a loose thread on the dark blue comforter trying to calm his racing heart.

“It’s me,” Jack agrees, knocking his heel against the floorboards. “And it’s you, too.”

“Was it all a game?” Bitty presses his palm to his temple as if the action will stop his head from throbbing as he slides off the bed. Jack’s bed. Tuxedo Mask’s bed. “The flirting? Pretending to care about me — Did you know he was me?”

“No.” Jack breathes, still as Bitty crosses the room to confront him. “Never. I didn’t pretend to do anything, and it wasn’t a game, I —” he swallows, forcing himself to look at Bitty like the act is painful. It probably is. “I had suspicions, but I couldn’t confirm anything. Not before tonight.”

“How do you feel? Knowing I’m . . . me?” Standing, Bitty can finally feel just how messed up he is. Everything aches. Even his hair.

Jack swallows, hand lifting as if all he wants is to touch, so Bitty obliges, leaning into his Captain’s personal space, allowing Jack to catch him. To hold him. Again, just like before.

“I don’t feel any different, you’re still you,” Jack whispers, cradling Bitty close, “Crisse, I told you to fight. You could have died.”

“But I didn’t.” Bitty whispers, wincing at his own voice. “I’m okay.”

The only response is a soft pressure against his scalp. A kiss. The sudden relief that floods him is better than any drug — Tuxedo Mask still likes him. Loves him, even. Now, maybe Jack can love Eric Bittle, too.

“You need to rest,” Jack holds Bitty steady, guiding him back to the bed. “The guys are going to keep watch while I take care of a few things with Hall and Murray.”

“You’ll come back, right?” Bitty eases under the covers, wincing. “We’re going to talk?”

“In the morning,” Jack promises, brushing the fringe out of Bitty’s eyes, expression unbearably fond. “When you feel better.”

The sheets smell like Jack. So does the pillow. It should be gross, but, Bitty kinda likes it. Before he knows it Jack is gone and everything is dark once more.

[mamashitty]

monthly fic rec agaaaain!

Here be the fics I enjoyed from July. Can y’all believe it is August right now?  What the heck is time?

Fic: my heart in two hundred-eight letters Author: HestiaForever ( @supersonic-womanofyou) Fandom: Check, Please! Relationship: Eric “Bitty” Bittle/Jack Zimmermann Rating: General Audiences Archive Warning: No Archive Warnings Apply Summary: Eli Parker @Eli92847 OMG several members of #teamcanada’s hockey team are literally sitting one section over from me at the team men’s free skate I’m QUAKING #winterolympics #pyeongchang2018

Eli Parker @Eli92847 I kid you not Jack Zimmermann literally just JUMPED out of his seat to cheer for Eric Bittle @omgquadlutzplease

Eli Parker @Eli92847 This is SO CUTE

Eli Parker @Eli92847 My Canadian self is kinda offended bc THAT’S TREASON but also Hockey Robot Jack Zimmermann TM seems so excited about FIGURE SKATING of all things I’ll let it slide

Fic: Do You Believe In Destiny? Author: marc0bot ( @b1ttle) Fandom: Check, Please! Relationship: Eric “Bitty” Bittle/Jack Zimmermann Rating: Teen and Up Audiences Archive Warning: No Archive Warnings Apply Summary: Fresh out of college, Eric was hired to bring the Falconers' new mascot, Destiny, to life. His new job, though difficult at times, was extremely rewarding; the fans and even the slightly intimidating roster of players loved the new addition to the franchise...

All except for one, and Eric was determined to change his mind.

Fic: Ready to Start Author: sunfair Fandom: Check, Please! Relationship: Eric “Bitty” Bittle/Jack Zimmermann Rating: General Audiences Archive Warning: No Archive Warnings Apply Summary: Bitty returns to Samwell and Jack likes his haircut

Fic: Camp Sweetgum Author: onawingandaswear ( @whoacanada)

Relationship: Eric “Bitty” Bittle/Jack Zimmermann

Rating: Explicit Archive Warning: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings Summary: Camp Sweetgum shares lakefront with a private resort and senior counselor Eric Bittle is used to wealthy, entitled people wandering into his camp. (He isn’t used to them awkwardly hitting on him, though.)

A story about botched summer romances, misunderstandings, and enabling parents.

Fic: A Romantic Interlude Author: Creative_Cabbage ( @creative_cabbage) Fandom: Check, Please! Relationship: Eric “Bitty” Bittle/Jack Zimmermann Rating: Teen and Up Audiences Archive Warning: No Archive Warnings Apply Summary: When Bitty had asked Jack what he wanted to do for his 30th birthday He had not expected Jack to suggest a weekend in the northern climate of Montreal, fishing and boating at the cabin his parents had always rented as a child. However, it was his husband's birthday and his dearest wish, so they packed their bags - and their daughter - and headed north.

Fic: make my heart a double bed Author: cleardishwashers ( @flybittybooty) Fandom: Check, Please! Relationship: Eric “Bitty” Bittle/Jack Zimmermann Rating: Teen and Up Audiences Archive Warning: No Archive Warnings Apply Summary: Bitty arrives two weeks early to a room with so much CAUTION! tape over the door that he can’t even see inside, a captain whose face somehow conveys pure irritation and sincere apology at the same time, and a very stoned and very skinny Shitty. Or: the one where Bitty and Jack have to room together.

Fic: baseball babes Author: patricksdavid ( @patricksdavid) Fandom: Schitt’s Creek Relationship: Patrick Brewer/David Rose, Stevie Budd/Alexis Rose Rating: General Audiences Archive Warning: No Archive Warnings Apply Summary: Alexis and David support their baseball playing partners

[bittysvalentines]

i drop everything I’m doing to read anything @whoacanada posts.

[astrangertomykin]

i exist in the dot broken and two seconds away from making marshmallow chilli. shout out to @whoacanada for the inspiration

[fullmetalmeg]

@pecanplease tagged me in these Get to Know You questions! Answer the prompts and then tag 9 people!

Sorry this is so late! thanks for tagging me!

five songs i’ve been playing on repeat:

Give Em Hell -Everybody Loves an Outlaw

Sora Ni Utaeba - Miura Jam ((It's a cover))

Conqueror - AURORA

Dawson's Christian - Vixy & Tony

Boku no Sensou - Shinsei Kamattechan

last movie: Legally Blonde

currently watching: My Hero Academia

currently reading: I'm rereading All Quiet on the Western Front right now!

I don't know who to tag,,,,

@biginnyweasley, @half-pint-of-rage, @taterbugmashkov, @shortorange76, @circle--of--confusion, @whoacanada, @yaboykeiji, @omgpoindexter, @sandersstudies

((you don't have to do this, I just also tagged blogs I see on my dash a lot))