#why does my phone hate wi-fi

[angrybatgaming]

So my wi-fi is back (sort of; still kinda spotty), and I am super excited for this Thursday! Because I'll be able to get my hands on this cape! Shame I don't have the mask, but let's wait and see what the next season brings us.

Look at this idiot. Posing like they think they're some kinda fashion model. (Not me being mean to myself.)

[star-sim]

boy's night ☆ riki nishimura

☆ summary: riki had no game, no rizz, which was why he employed the help of his six friends to text you. warning: having seven boys on the phone trying to text a girl does not give good results! ☆ genre: fluff, all enhypen members make an appearance, boys being boys, very stupid, it's getting rizzy in here but clearly i have negative game ☆ warning(s)? no just silliness :3 ☆ word count: 1.7k words

"Oh my god, she texted me!" was the sentence that completely destroyed Jake Sim's house.

Tonight, Riki was having a sleepover at Jake's house. It was supposed to be a chill night, a night in which Riki could bask in his friends' presence before they went off to college again.

There were many perks to being the youngest in his friend group. It seemed like Heeseung, Jay, and Jake forever saw him as their baby, after all, when they all met as children, Riki was a snotty little four year-old, constantly tattling on the older boys. Regardless, it was nearly impossible for them to not fuss over him, constantly asking if he ate yet or if he needed help. Sunghoon teased the ever-living shit out of Riki, sure, but the older boy never hesitated to take Riki's side whenever there was an argument. Sunoo and Jungwon were closest to Riki in age, but that didn't stop them from watching over him closely, like mother cats stalking their cubs.

Though, there was one thing that Riki had to admit that he hated about being the youngest: he was the most inexperienced.

Whenever his friends got their 'firsts,' he was always too young to care. It seemed like all his friends got to experience their first crushes and heartbreaks almost simultaneously, only for them to not be there when Riki had his.

Even when he was now a senior in high school, he had absolutely no idea how to talk to girls.

He'd heard all the stories about Heeseung and his antics at college, all the flirting tips that Jake liked to give out to Sunghoon and Jay, and all the crazed texts that Sunoo and Jungwon sent as they went through relationships.

Even so, Riki had never experienced teenage love for himself.

Enter: You.

You were the cute girl that sat in front of him in his Macroeconomics class. If it wasn't for the fact that Riki absolutely hated Macro, he would blame the fact that you were just so pretty that he couldn't bring himself to focus on the lecture about the New York Stock Exchange.

Initially, Riki had no intention of pursuing you.

You were cute, obviously, but hearing you talk to your partner in class was enough for him. Plus, it wasn't like Riki had any experience— even if he wanted to talk to you, he had no idea how to!

Except, thanks to his nosy friends, your name had been discussed what felt like a million times by the end of the week.

"So... [Name], eh?" was the first thing Sunghoon said as Riki's camera turned on during their weekly weekend FaceTime calls.

"This is so exciting, Riki," Heeseung said as he joined the call.

"Wait, how do you know her again?" Sunoo's voice cut in. "Sorry, my Wi-Fi is bad. You said you know her from Macro?"

With a little more prying, his friends managed to get a middle-school level confession out of Riki.

"I-I just think she's really pretty, and like, she's really smart," Riki huffed, "I don't think she likes me like that— I've never even spoken to her! Like, I can't talk to women, I straight up am a mess and the other day—oh my god— she looked at me and I think I almost passed out. What do I do? I actually cannot do thi—

".... But you think she's pretty, right?"

And that's how Riki managed to get your phone number. With the help of his friends (that felt more like them feeding into his delusions), he worked up the courage to stutter out a simple question.

And when you smiled, nodding enthusiastically as you typed your contact into his phone, Riki felt his soul leave his body.

So, it wasn’t hard to imagine the havoc that engulfed Jake Sim's house (the place of the sleepover) as Riki's phone pinged, your contact name showing up.

It was already late at night, so the boys were raiding Jake's pantry to get midnight snacks. 

The moment that Riki announced that you had just, in fact, texted him first, everyone stopped in their tracks.

"Oh shit!" Jay shouted as he jumped over Jake's sofa, bowl of cereal still in hand.

The sound of crashing as Heeseung knocked over the ramen cups, as well as cutlery dropping abruptly and cabinets slamming filled the house.

"Oi, don't mess up my kitchen!" Jake yelled as his feet pounded against his stairs, scrambling so fast that he practically glided downstairs. After Jungwon spilled milk on his shirt, he was half-way through putting on a new shirt as he clambered down.

"What did she—" Sunoo pushed Jay out of the way, knocking the older boy over as he plopped down next to Riki on the living room carpet and peeked over his shoulder— "What did she say?!"

Within seconds, all six of his friends were huddled around Riki, pushing each other out of the way to catch a glimpse of what you said.

"Move your fatass head!"

"I can't see!"

As his friends argued, Riki stared at his phone, chewing on his bottom lip. His heart was pounding in his chest. He only saw the notification, and didn't see what you said yet.

What if you said something crazy, like "I just found out about that one time in first grade when you peed yourself at the playground" even though Riki and all his friends agreed to never speak of that incident again?! Or, what if you confessed your everlasting love for him in a long paragraph?

His head was spinning.

"Wait, did you open the message yet?!" Jungwon abruptly yelled into Riki's ear.

"No..." Riki answered slowly, watching the way all of his friends' once tense faces soften with relief.

"Oh my god," Jake sighed in relief.

"Phhhhheeewww!" Heeseung said dramatically.

"Why?" Riki frowned. "What's wrong with opening the message?"

"[Name] can see if you read her message if you open it," Sunghoon said matter-of-factly. 

"Why is that a bad thing?"

All of his friends groaned.

They taught him a trick: swipe just enough so that he could see the message, but not enough that the system marks it as read.

Hey, was all you said, much to Riki's relief.

"What do I say?" Riki asked, clutching his phone. His eyes flickered to his friends as he sucked his bottom lip under his teeth pensively. "How do I respond to this?"

"Just say 'hey' back!" Jay blurted.

"No!" Heeseung shook his head profusely. "Anything but that!"

"Why not? You want him to say haiiii instead?" Sunghoon nudged the older boy.

"No, no, no!" Jungwon reached across to smack Sunghoon's knee. "All of you are wrong."

Jungwon turned to Riki. "Just respond with an emoji."

They all groaned loudly.

"Okay, anything but a goddamn emoji!"

Riki ended up typing out a simple hey in response. He had to make Sunoo press send for him, squeezing his eyes shut. Riki immediately shut his phone off, placing it face down.

"I don't want to see if she responds or not!" Riki moaned. 

Within a minute or two, his phone pinged again.

"She responded!"

Even though you only asked, How was your day?, the entire house was once again invigorated. The boys shrieked, whooping and hitting Riki's shoulder, so loud that the house probably shook.

"Oh my god, it's happening!"

"Ouuuuu, she wants you, Riki!"

"Everyone shut the fuck up, it's time to lock in, oh my god it's actually happening—"

And just as everyone settled back down, ready to give Riki their mind-blowing advice, his phone dinged again.

[Attachment: 1 photo]. It was a silly picture of you, one of those cute ones that showed your eyes, clearly taken on the spot. 

"OHHHHHHHHHH!"

"Shewantsyousobadohmygo—"

According to Jake, if a girl sends you a picture of herself, no matter how silly or cute it is, she is head over heels for you.

"One message at a time!" Jay yelled over Jake's shoulder as they tried to figure out how to respond. "You need to answer her question first and then respond to the picture!"

"No! Don't respond to the picture!" Sunghoon, who was all the way in the guest bathroom, yelled from behind the bathroom door, his voice both booming and muffled. "She'll think you're weird!"

"I agree," Sunoo said.

"I agree," Jungwon mocked him in a nasally voice, earning a slap to the shoulder. "Just heart the picture!"

But their arguing fell upon deaf ears.

"Riki, what are you doing?!"

Riki was on his own, his heart beating at the tip of his fingers.

I hung out with my friends today and it was fun, how was yours? was his first response. Pressing on the picture, he responded, You look cute.

When Riki glanced over at his friends, they were sprawled across the floor, crying aloud dramatically.

"It's over."

"You're insane."

"Fumbled."

Riki threw a pillow at them. "I didn't fumble— Oh shoot, she's typing!"

The house was once again filled with screaming and crashing as they scampered to Riki's side.

You typed for a few moments. Everyone was at the edge of their seat, simply begging to see how you'd respond. But then, you stopped.

"Good game, guys."

"100% over."

Riki chewed on his thumb, his eyes glued to his phone screen. Did he creep you out? Was it weird for him to say that you looked cute? Did he fuck up?

But then you finally replied.

My day was just filled with homework, very boring, you replied. Maybe if I spent it with you it would have been more fun.

Oh.

My.

God.

Riki's hands shook as he typed back another response, completely ignoring the complete and utter disaster around him. He didn't know what came over him. He wouldn't say any of the things that he typed out loud, let alone to your face. It was like he was possessed by some spirit that gave him the courage to type. Without even noticing it, his heart was palpitating in his chest, his entire face, neck, and ears covered in a red shade.

I'm free tomorrow, he typed. 

"RIKI WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU—"

Okay, you simply responded. 12PM. The Block. Let's have fun.

"D-Did she just ask you out?"

Riki glanced at this phone, then at his friends, who stared at him with eyes as wide as saucers and their jaws dropped to the floor, then back at his phone. He blinked. "Yeah."

"Yes?!"

Riki blinked again. "Yeah."

.

.

.

And then it hit him.

"Oh my god, [Name] asked me out...!"

[tsukumomei]

OKOKOK in my mind in the “puppy love” fic, reader is moving to spain

and then three years later sae comes to spain cause he gets scouted by re al you know the story

and so they meet again ❤️‍🩹❤️‍🩹❤️‍🩹 (they have cute “dates” if you will, where she shows him around spain and what not 🤭)

now idk if you’re taking requests at the moment, or even want to write a part two for this, but i (and many others i feel like) would LOVE to see this!

no force though, if you do wish to write it take your time, and if you don’t it’s all fine too!

much love, xoxo 💋

a/n: This is actually insane because this is EXACTLY what I had in mind for a bonus part! I was originally going to end it when they saw each other again, but I took your request and wrote about their dates too. Enjoy! Mwah! I wouldn’t consider this a part 2, though—if I ever write one, it’ll still be from Rin’s POV. But I’m open to writing more bonus parts for this fic, so feel free to send me an ask! ^^

—RIGHT WHERE WE LEFT OFF

ft. Sae Itoshi

a bonus chapter for Puppy Love

synposis: Sae moves to Madrid after getting scouted by Real, but he has two problems. One—he hates it. The city feels unfamiliar, foreign, nothing like home. Two—he’s determined to forget about you. But the harder he tries, the more his own mind betrays him—because no matter what he does, everything leads him right back to you. wc: 3.1 k

The shuffling in Sae’s carry-on grows more frantic as he impatiently searches for that notebook from you.

It was the first thing he stuffed into his bag.

Flipping through the worn pages, his eyes finally land on the last one—covered in messy scribbles, but the only thing that stands out is a single line written in red ink at the bottom:

"Wait for me. ❤️ Y/N"

Sae presses his thumb against the words, as if touching them could somehow bring back the past. Could somehow make you feel real again.

He leans back into his seat, staring out at the endless stretch of sky beyond the plane window, but it’s not Madrid he’s thinking about. It’s you.

This morning, back at the house, he’d been kicking a soccer ball around the backyard, the steady thud of leather against concrete filling the quiet air. Rin was there too, watching him with a knowing look before finally speaking up.

"Nii-chan, it was just puppy love."

Maybe it was. Maybe Rin was right.

But if it was just puppy love, why is it still lingering?

Why did he still worry—that if you ever came back, that you’d be mad at him for not being there?

It’s been three years.

The chances of seeing you again were close to impossible.

—

Sae steps into his new apartment in Madrid, rolling his suitcase inside as his manager gestures around the space.

“This is your living room,” his manager begins, flipping on the lights. The apartment is modern, minimalistic—exactly what Sae expected. “Kitchen’s over there. Fridge is stocked for now, but you’ll need to do your own groceries after this week.”

Sae nods, setting his bag neatly by the couch.

“The bedroom’s down the hall,” the manager continues, walking ahead. “Bathroom’s connected. There’s a desk if you need to study or review game footage. Wi-Fi’s already set up.”

Sae peeks into the bedroom—plain, clean, nothing extravagant. Just a bed, a nightstand, and a small window overlooking the street below.

“You’re across the hall?” Sae asks as they return to the main area.

“Yeah,” his manager confirms, crossing. “If you need anything, just knock.”

Sae scoffs lightly. “I’ll be fine.”

His manager gives him a once-over, then exhales. “Good. Then I’ll leave you to settle in.”

With that, the manager steps out, leaving Sae alone.

The moment the door clicks shut, Sae gets to work. He unzips his luggage, methodically putting his clothes away, setting his toiletries in the bathroom, and neatly stacking his training gear by the closet. He takes mental notes of what he needs—more food, basic supplies, maybe an extra pillow.

Once everything is in place, he pulls out his phone and dials home.

His mother picks up almost immediately. “Sae?”

“I just landed and got to the apartment,” he informs her, his voice steady. “Everything’s fine.”

“That’s good,” she says warmly. “Have you eaten?”

“I will soon.”

“Don’t just eat whatever’s fastest. Make sure you’re getting proper meals.”

Sae hums in acknowledgment before adding, “Tell Dad I made it safely. And Rin, too.”

“Of course,” his mother says. There’s a brief pause, then a softer, knowing tone in her voice. “It feels real now, doesn’t it?”

Sae leans against the counter, staring at the empty space around him. His new home. His new life.

“Yeah,” he murmurs.

After a few more exchanges, he hangs up, setting his phone aside.

His eyes drift to his carry-on, to the one thing he hadn’t put away yet.

The notebook.

The worn cover, the slightly frayed edges—he traces them with his fingers before flipping it open once again. The pages are filled with your handwriting, messy yet familiar, scrawled with thoughts and doodles from years ago.

It’s ridiculous, really. He hasn’t seen you in three years. He has no idea where you are, if you’re still in the same country, if you even remember him the way he remembers you.

But memories flood in anyway. The afternoons spent at the park, your determined expression when you first crashed his soccer game, the way you always talked too much but somehow, he never minded. The way you scribbled on his arm once with the same red ink you used to write—

"Wait for me. ❤️ y/n"

Sae exhales sharply and shuts the notebook.

Maybe it really was just puppy love.

He stands, grabs his wallet, and heads for the door.

He needs to get out, get familiar with the city. He’s going to live here now, after all.

—

The city is foreign, unfamiliar—Sae hates it.

He was never one for traveling. The only reason he’s here is to play soccer at an international level, but outside of that, it feels suffocating in a way he never expected.

The streets are too loud yet too quiet at the same time. He doesn’t understand the conversations happening around him, the unfamiliar syllables blending into meaningless noise. The people pass by in a blur, all strangers, none of them acknowledging him beyond quick  glances.

It’s not like he’s stupid enough to get scammed—he’s careful, always aware of his surroundings. But that doesn’t change the fact that he doesn’t belong here. It doesn’t change how frustrating it is to have all this free time and nowhere to go, no one to turn to.

The city is alive, buzzing with movement, but it only makes the loneliness feel sharper.

—

Today marks his second week in Madrid.

Sae realizes just how useless he is when it comes to directions.

The sun is already beginning to set, casting a golden glow over Madrid, and he has no idea where he is.

The street signs might as well be in a foreign language—which, technically, they are. He squints at them, but the unfamiliar words blur together, useless in helping him find his way. And as for Spanish? Well, he knows about as much as a toddler forming his first sentence.

Great.

Of course, it’s at a time like this that he remembers you.

Because you were always the human GPS between the two of you, navigating streets like you had a built-in map inside your head. You always knew the right turns to take, the fastest shortcuts.

And right now? Right now, he is the one most in need of that skill.

Rin thinks Sae is perfect, so he probably doesn’t even know about this little flaw of his.

Sae scoffs to himself, shaking his head. It’s ridiculous that, even now, when he’s supposed to be moving on, he still finds himself thinking about you.

He exhales sharply, pushing the thoughts away.

Enough.

With renewed determination, Sae steps onto the crosswalk, telling himself—again—that it’s time to leave his childhood love in the past.

But by the time he reaches the middle, doubt creeps in—just enough for him to hesitate, just enough for him to misstep.

And just enough for him to accidentally bump into someone walking from the opposite direction.

"Perdón," the girl mutters, barely sparing him a glance—until she does.

She stops short, eyes widening in surprise.

"Oh."

Sae blinks.

"It’s you."

For a moment, the city fades into the background. The people rushing past, the hum of conversation, the faint honking of impatient drivers—it all disappears.

You look different now. Your hair is dyed, a little wavier than before. A stylish bag hangs off your shoulder, outfit effortlessly put together in a way that makes you stand out even in the middle of Madrid.

But to him, you’re still the same stubborn girl who once barged into his soccer game with Rin, the one who never asked for permission—just demanded a pass like you belonged there. The one who never looked at him like everyone else did.

Your eyes are the same. That’s what catches him the most. Time has changed a lot of things, but not that. They still hold the same warmth, the same quiet confidence.

Sae wonders if he looks different to you, too. If you notice the way his shoulders have grown broader, the way the exhaustion lingers under his eyes. If you can tell that beneath all the fame and titles, there’s still a part of him that never stopped waiting for you.

Neither of you speak. Just stood there, caught in something neither of you were prepared for.

Sae exhales, then—without thinking—extends his hand toward you

But before you can take it, a sharp whistle cuts through the air.

"¡Oye! Move it!"

The traffic officer’s whistle cuts through the air, snapping both of you out of your daze.

Startled, you both turn at the same time, realizing the light has already turned green—and you’re still standing in the middle of the crosswalk.

Reality has always had a way of interrupting you two, hasn’t it?

Sae clenches his jaw, frustration flickering across his face. Meanwhile, you weren’t handling it any better—because instead of just walking away like a normal person, you were flipping off the traffic officer and hurling a wooden spoon at him.

Where did you even get that? Sae has no idea. And honestly, he’s not sure he wants to.

But then he feels you grab his arm, yanking him across the street as you break into a run—both of you fleeing from the traffic officer, who Sae can only assume is cursing you out in rapid Spanish.

And just like that, his expression softens.

—

“Whew, that was close,” you say between heavy breaths, still catching your breath from all that running.

Sae glances at you, unimpressed. “Maybe if you didn’t throw a spoon at him, we wouldn’t have to run.”

You roll your eyes, waving him off. “Oh, please. That guy already hates me. This isn’t even the first time, you know.”

Sae raises a brow. “Not surprised.”

You nudge him with your elbow. “Hey! Rude.”

He exhales sharply, stuffing his hands into his pockets. “What did you do to piss him off before?”

You smirk, tilting your head playfully. “Wouldn’t you like to know?”

Sae gives you a look—unamused but intrigued nonetheless. “I would, actually.”

You grin, pretending to think. “Let’s just say… it involved a churro cart, an old lady, and a very, very unfortunate slip on my part.”

Sae stares at you for a moment before shaking his head. “You’re a menace.” 

You flash him a cheeky smile. “And yet, here you are, running away from traffic officers with me.”

He huffs but doesn’t argue. Because, somehow, you’re right—because he’s relieved that he can finally talk to someone other than his manager, and just as relieved to see that you haven’t changed at all.

Isn’t it ironic? The very day he decides to finally let go of your memory, fate throws you right back into his life.

But something nags at him. You haven’t asked about Madrid, about why he’s here. It’s like you’re not surprised at all, like it’s the most natural thing in the world to bump into him on the street.

Sae narrows his eyes slightly before speaking. “Hey, you’re not gonna ask?”

“Ask what?” you blink at him, confused. Then, as if remembering something, your face lights up. “Oh! Where are my manners?”

Before he can react, you throw yourself at him, wrapping him in a warm embrace.

Sae stiffens, caught completely off guard. But before he can say anything, you sigh dramatically against his shoulder. “I missed you so much! I can’t believe you followed me all the way to Spain. Oh, you really do love me.”

He clicks his tongue, exasperated. You’re being an idiot again—definitely pushing it.

But he doesn’t argue. He doesn’t deny it.

Instead, after a brief hesitation, he exhales and wraps a single arm around you, listening as you ramble on like no time has passed at all.

—

“Maybe I should put a tracker on you.” you tease, walking a step ahead of Sae as you lead him through the narrow streets of Madrid.  

He exhales sharply, shoving his hands into his pockets. “I would’ve figured it out eventually.”  

You throw him a look over your shoulder. “Yeah, sure. After getting lost for another three hours.”  

Sae doesn’t bother denying it. Instead, he follows as you turn into an alleyway, stopping in front of a small, unassuming café tucked between two buildings. 

“This place has the best tostada con tomate in the city,” you say, nodding toward the café. 

“The old man inside—Rafa—he always yells at me for ordering too much, but then he sneaks me an extra pastry for free.”  

As if on cue, the door swings open, and an elderly man steps out. His eyes land on you, and a slow grin spreads across his face. “¡Ah, mira quién es! La niña que me arruina el negocio.” (Ah, look who it is! The girl who’s ruining my business.)  

You laugh, stepping forward to greet him. “Don’t lie, Rafa. You love me.”  

Rafa scoffs but affectionately ruffles your hair before turning to Sae, eyes narrowing in scrutiny. “¿Y este quién es?” (And who’s this?)  

“My amigo,” you reply smoothly, though there’s a glint of mischief in your eyes. “He just moved here, so I’m showing him around.”  

Rafa studies Sae for a moment before nodding in approval. “Bien. Come inside. I’ll make sure he eats something decent.”  

Sae barely has time to protest before you’re dragging him through the door, the scent of warm spices and grilled meat immediately filling the air. The restaurant is small, a little tucked away from the busier streets, but it’s lively, filled with laughter and the soft hum of conversation.

When the food arrives, you dig in without hesitation, taking a bite and immediately letting out a dramatic sigh. “Oh my god,” you moan, clutching your chest like you’ve just ascended to heaven. “This is it. This is what happiness tastes like.”

Sae raises an eyebrow, unimpressed. “You sound ridiculous.”

“You sound jealous,” you retort, shoveling another bite into your mouth. “You haven’t even touched your food.”

Sae watches you for a moment. The way you eat so shamelessly, without a care for how you look, is something he vaguely remembers from when you were kids. Some things never change.

“I’m just letting you be the poison tester,” he mutters, finally picking up his fork.

You roll your eyes. “Please. If Rafa wanted to kill me, he would’ve done it years ago.”

Rafa, passing by, snorts. “She’s not wrong.”

Sae sighs, finally taking a bite. He won’t admit it, but it’s good. Really good.

Just as you’re finishing your plate, you glance at your phone and stand abruptly. “Be right back. Don’t go running off without me.”

Sae only scoffs in response, watching as you disappear towards the bathroom. The moment you’re gone, Rafa leans against the counter, wiping his hands on a towel before turning to Sae with a knowing smirk.

“She talked about you before, you know,” Rafa says casually.

Sae tenses slightly. “Did she?”

Rafa nods, chuckling. “Not by name. Just 'some guy I used to know who’s hopeless with anything besides soccer and even worse with emotions.'”

Sae huffs. “Sounds like something she'd say.”

Rafa shrugs. “Well, if you’re sticking around, you better get used to her dragging you everywhere. She’s got a habit of making lost people feel at home.”

Sae doesn’t respond, just looks at him, expression unreadable. Rafa only chuckles, shaking his head as he wipes down the counter.

A moment later, you return, eyes narrowing the second you spot them. “What’s this?” you ask suspiciously, sliding back into your seat. “What were you two talking about?”

Rafa smirks, tilting his head towards Sae. “Oh, nothing much. Just sharing stories.”

You gasp dramatically, pointing a finger at Sae. “You weren’t talking bad about me, were you?”

Sae finally speaks, deadpan. “Wouldn’t need to. You embarrass yourself enough.”

You scoff, reaching over to steal a piece of food from his plate. “Unbelievable. I leave for one second, and you two become best friends conspiring against me.”

Rafa laughs. “Don’t worry, querida. He’s not that easy to befriend.”

You nod sagely. “That’s true. I had to force him to like me.”

Sae rolls his eyes. That was true for most people, but definitely not for you.

He liked you from the get-go, like there was a gravitational pull towards you that he just couldn't escape from.

The day continues like that.  

You don’t take him to the usual tourist spots—the grand plazas or famous museums. Instead, you show him the Madrid you love.  

A tucked-away bookstore where the owner lets you sit and read for hours without buying anything. A tiny family-run tapas bar where the food is cheap but incredible, and the owners greet you like family. A rooftop spot where you swear the sunset looks better than anywhere else in the city.  

Everywhere you go, you introduce him like he belongs there.  

By the time the sky turns golden, Sae realizes something.  

This isn’t just a city to you. It’s a home.  

And for the first time since moving here, Madrid doesn’t feel so unfamiliar to him anymore.  

Maybe it’s because he’s finally seeing it through your eyes.

And maybe that so-called puppy love Rin kept telling him about is beginning to grow into something more.

a/n: "Puppy Love" is the one and only beloved Sae Itoshi fanfic franchise that will remain untouched by despair. I wholeheartedly believe that at some point during his four years in Spain, Sae had his dreams crushed and utterly heartbroken. But in this au? nah. no angst, no career-crushing disappointments, Just endless, tooth-rotting fluff and relationship bliss. The kind of soft, sweet moments Sae would never admit he enjoys. Because for once, he deserves to have something go perfectly right.

[jungwnies]

✰ syn ’ safe for work a-z boyfriend for jay park ✰ pairing ’ boyfriend!jay x gn!reader

requested!

a ⋆ affection - how affectionate are they?

very

very extremely affectionate

he's always touching you

always holding your hand

he likes to fiddle with your fingers

or he likes to play with your hair

he just loved being around you

and he tells you he loves you like all the damn time

b ⋆ bonding - how often do they bond with you?

whenever he has the chance to

he is always trying to hang out with you

tells you he misses you after 2 minutes of being apart tbh

he's so clingy but it's not overly clingy so it's okay

he always bonds with you

he will sit in a room with you and just do his own thing

as long as you guys are together everything is okay

c ⋆ communication - do they keep in touch with you when they're away?

uhhh duh

he literally sneaks his phone during events just to text you

buys airplane wi-fi just to be able to contact you

he is DEDICATED to being with you even if it's through some pixels on a screen

he will always keep in touch

communication is extremely important with jay i can't even express how important it is

d ⋆ dates - how often do they set up a date for you two?

all the time

he's always taking you out to eat tbh

his love language is litrally acts of service

he loves doing things for you

especially taking you on dates and seeing you get all dressed up for him

it literally makes him weak in the knees tbh

bro is ready to give everything up for you

e ⋆ essential - what is the thing that is important to them?

family and his members

in the beginning his relationship wasn't as important to him

but once he knew you guys were going to last he started to prioritize you more

basically you're family to him, his wife/husband, duh?

but he values his relationships more than anything!

f ⋆ friends - how did the friendship start?

you guys just kinda met through a mutual friend tbh and got close

your friends did not expect you and jay to get along and when they found out you guys liked eachother?

they were literally so shocked

g ⋆ gross - what is the thing he hates in your relationship?

he hates fighting

he's a very expressive person

and when he fights he tends to raise his voice

and he does not like raising his voice at you

so he tries not to argue with you

and when you pick petty arguments with him it really makes him upset because he hates fighting over stupid shit

h ⋆ hugs - do they like hugs? how do they feel?

yes

he loves hugging you

his hugs aren't big

but they are so tight

he's basically trying to squeeze you till you pop tbh

they are very comforting when you two are cuddling in bed especially though

i ⋆ intercourse - how are they during intercourse?

he's good

he's very loving

very domestic

very vanilla

literally loves missionary

just loves being close and intimate with you

it never gets old though

j ⋆ jealousy - how jealous do they get?

very

oh my god

his temper is so bad

so ofc he's gonna get jealous

why is jay lowkey a toxic jealous..

just very possessive over you

does NOT want another guy looking at you tbh

he will have murder on his mind if a guy looks a second too long

k ⋆ kiss - how good are they at kissing?

good

he loves kissing you

always kissing your neck or your shoulder

and steals a kiss from you every time you turn your head towards him

l ⋆ love - how do they show their love to you?

through acts of service of course

and physical touch

AND gift giving

he loves spoiling you, taking you out to dinner, taking you on trips

he just loves it ugh

m ⋆ mad - how often do you argue?

sometimes you guys clash

a little more often than some others

but that doesn't change how much he loves you

like i said, avoid petty arguments

he doesn't enjoy them, and i hope you don't either

n ⋆ naughty - how do they deal with you annoying them?

they just

don't

he ignores it

but sometimes he laughs

okay i lied

he always laughs

he doesn't get annoyed

he just thinks you're so cute trying to annoy him

o ⋆ open - how often do they open up to you?

he's very open with you

always having gossip sesh's with him

tells you all the hybe tea tbh

literally tells you all his problems

and even the members go to you for advice

he's very open <;/3

p ⋆ pet names - how are they with pet names?

babe, prince(ss), love, honey, sweetheart

he's not a baby person

never calls you by your name

always calls you by the pet name he picks for you

q ⋆ quiet - silent treatment?

he doesn't give you the silent treatment

if there is a problem you guys ARE going to talk about it

there is no avoiding anything in this relationship

even though he has a short temper, he will always talk things out with you

his communication skills are extremely good

r ⋆ ramble - how often do they talk about you to others?

all the time

but not in a bragging manner

just in the manner that's like "oh y/n and i did this" a few days ago

nothing that's privacy invading

just what you guys did or have planned to do

but he will never fail to mention at least a few times how amazing you are to him

and he is so glad he has you

s ⋆ soft - how soft are they to you?

he hates being soft with you tbh

but like only in joking way

he loves you a lot

he just tries to ignore the fact he does enjoy being the little spoon

but he gives in when you're laying in bed with him

but he will never openly admit that tbh

t ⋆ think - what reminds them of you?

food and music

if he sees your favorite food his mind traces back to you immediately

or if he sees something you really like to eat he will buy it for you and bring it to you

he also listens to music that reminds him of you

usually ballads

u ⋆ unhappy - what makes them break if you break up with them?

the fact he believed you were his one true love

he didn't believe in soulmates in the beginning but when he met you

he suddenly did

ugh he is a sucker for you

and everything would break him

he will literally be #broken

v ⋆ vacation - how are they with long distance relationships?

he's so awful with this

but he copes because he keeps a picture of you in his wallet tbh

he wears it's his lucky charm

and he texts you or calls you like every second of the day

even when you're asleep

you will wake up to like 600 messages from him tbh

w ⋆ wholesome - the sweetest thing they ever did to you?

there's too many times he's sweet with you

but probably when he went all out for valentine's day

literally so many roses and flowers

and he bought you outfits to wear

took you out to the fanciest places

and bought you the most meaningful gifts

the way i'd literally sell my soul just to be with him

x ⋆ extra headcanon

let's bffr

if you guys live together

jay will always say good morning to you

even if you're sleeping

he leaves you a note on the nightstand

and he always kisses your forehead before he leaves to go to work

y ⋆ young and beautiful - (how long does it last?)

it lasts a really long time

i can see it being long term and ending

or just lasting forever

i think if you broke up it would be so sad

so how about, we just scratch that idea and you guys never break up ofc

wedding planning starts now

z ⋆ zzz - how do they sleep with you?

jay does NOT like being coddled when he's sleeping

he will cuddle with you before he sleeps

but when he's actually ready to sleep he likes his space

he's a deep sleeper, so it'll be hard to get him off of you if he falls asleep cuddling you

so let's just avoid that

2022 © jungwnies thanks for reading! reblogs & likes are appreciated!

[sincelastsession]

I know that I have a lot of problems and I hold myself accountable for those things Even if I can't fucking control it I still am aware. And I'm trying my best.

And shit just keeps it happening. I'm quite my fucking face off like I don't know what to do anymore.

I mean my parents fucking hate me.

My sister and her fiance are not together anymore

I showed my mom a screen capture of pictures that my sister took downtown at night with her fiancé's 3 best friends.

I actually thought some of the pictures were cool even though she Was trust passing in an abandoned building.

She wasn't wearing very much which I wasn't even thinking about because it's not like she didn't wear skimpier outfits when she was put in dance classes as a child till she was a teenager and then the outfit she wore on dance team and high school were very tiny.

And so my mom took a picture that I showed her of my sister modeling with her friends in this abandoned building in my mom fucking shamed her for what she was wearing and what could happen if she was wearing something like that.

And I chewed my mother out

Because I wasn't wearing anything like that when I got raped

I wasn't asking for it by the clothing that I was wearing

And my mom literally told me that if I didn't shut the fuck up and quit texting her that she was gonna run away And I'm the asshole somehow.

And my father has me blocked so I can't call him and talk to him about the whole situation and keep him from yelling at my sister which she does not need after she just got broken up with by her fiance

And I was told by my mother that they can't give me a time when I'm going to be able to move and the place that I was looking at is gone now I believe and They all lied to me

And now all of this is somehow my fault even though I didn't mean any of it in a bad way

And I tried to explain to my sister in Snapchat because that's what she looks at most and I hope she understands that I had 0 intentionI'm getting hurt into any sort of trouble I was just trying to show my mom pictures she took with her friends because she told me and my mother that she was going to go take those pictures

In my mom's saw her in that outfit that evening before she left to go take pictures.

And that was the same day they all came over to check on me.

And my dad sent her and her friends to check on me which broke my boundaries of no contact with my sister which I was forced back into because nobody has God damn boundaries

I tried to tell them not to have her come over to my apartment even though they ended up being helpful

But my sister does Does not even remember what actually happened in January and my father is like telling me that it's not a trauma and I just need to get over it

And I need to get over all the other bad shit that happened to me when I sent him a whole fucking article on how traumatic things work in the brain with people who have PTSD

Like why I have flashbacks and everything it was a wonderful fucking article I will link it for you. I'm sure it's something that you have already learned about but it's really well written and interesting and it explains a lot that I didn't understand fully myself and it words everything perfectly and my parents didn't read it and they don't fucking care.

And I'm about to be 38 and I have nightmare neighbors and I can't concentrate to do anything.

And there's just no fucking medicine on earth that's going to fix this because I've literally been on everything and none of it helped me.

And I just want to get in my car and run away but I can't do that

Because my cat is extremely sick. And that's like my child.

And my dad said he's done with me and has disowned me or whatever for like the fifth or 6 time in a row and then my phone fucking quit working last night so I thought he did that so I was just using the Wi-Fi network that hadn't been turned off to journal and fucking try and talk to my friends over messenger phone.

And everybody is like psychotically mad at me about being impatient about moving when I've asked to move several times before this year and before the nightmare neighbors do to physical disabilities like I have fucking notes from my doctors all of my doctors have written notes to encourage my parents to move me and they could have last year but they refused to do so because they didn't want to because they didn't want to deal with me

I feel like I'm living in a fucking nightmare I'm terrified that I'm gonna hear something horrible about my sister even though she is a fucking bitch I do care about her and her well being.

And yeah I saw him breaking up with her coming from a fucking mile away. That was never going to work out. Or it was gonna work out perfectly.

But I know that my family is somehow going to make all of this my fault and I'm freaking the fuck out because I'm already dealing with enough here in my own apartment with my cat and my fucking neighbors and all of the other shit and can bad things just stop happening to me and other people around me I need some fucking Peace and quiet

There is nowhere I can go

I cannot leave my cats right now and go visit someone out of town I can't leave my animals and go check into a hotel and turn my phone off or something like that I don't have that privilege.

I haven't even fucking eaten today. I haven't really gotten out of bed today other than to give the cat her medicine and make sure she ate a little bit.

My partner is fucking exhausted with me and I completely understand why.

And I don't know what to do anymore I don't fucking know what to do anymore my life is fucking falling apart

I can't take any more medicine right now I took my medicine to go to sleep early and it's not even fucking working because I had to learn about all this shit

And then I had to try and do some damage control but thanks mom you already fucked me over by slutshaming my sister because she was wearing a little dress and fishnets and her stomach was showing it's not like they didn't have her leotard that made her look like a hooker dancing to songs that were very provocative when she was a child

My mother did this shit to me too and I would try to wear anything that should cleavage but I was a fat kid and so I didn't wear crop tops and scantily clad shit

A fucking wish I could

How could she fucking say these things to my sister why would you do that to another person

I was wearing blue jeans AT shirt and a fucking jacket when I was raped

She thinks that my sister is going to get raped because of her clothing

Clothing doesn't matter if a guy wants to do something like that to a woman he's going to fucking do it

I'm horrified I'm fucking horrified

And I'm scared

And I do not feel secure or safe living at this fucking apartment complex and today has been a fucking nightmare and yesterday was a nightmare and the day before that was a fucking nightmare

No I don't have money to bring my cat to the emergency vet because she's having some sort of fucking reaction to the antibiotics that I had to give her because she has a really bad UTI and I didn't know even though she's got a ton of water to drink.

I don't have the money to bring her back to the vet.

She's basically my child.

And my mom told me to shut the fuck up and fuck off and leave her alone

And my dad told me he didn't care about the fucking cat

And my mom basically said the same thing

And I don't know what to do right now I am so fucking upset and angry

And I'm worried about my sister probably deserved that if it was karma

But I don't really believe in karma no I don't think she deserved my mother to say that I don't know about the fucking fiance breaking up with her because she didn't tell me I just heard it through the telephone game that everybody loves to play and includes me in which I didn't ask to be included

I wish I could just get married and run away from these people

All of the doctors and therapists that have told me that are correct they're right that's pretty much the only viable way that anything good is going to happen to me

I don't fucking care about how many cognitive distortions I'm having right now if I'm having any at all or if this is a completely valid response to the insane Jerry Springer ass shit that goes on in my life

What the fuck

I mean are they trying to fucking just kill me from stress

I don't know what to do

I don't fucking know what to do anymore

I don't think a psychfacility would help right now if I even asked you

I'm not suicidal or homicidal

I'm pretty fucking upset and stressed out though

I don't know what to do

I don't know where I can go I don't know who I can talk to about any of this I don't know who can help and I need help so badly

And I'm not being dramatic and I'm not doing this for intention that I'm not crazy this is literally just what my life is like just continuous bullshit

What the fuck am I supposed to do

I don't have any ants or uncles that can come help me or save me from this they don't care about me because of my parents

Literally because my parents have talked so much shit about me between themselves to my sister and everybody else

So nobody thinks anything good about me

I have been fucking isolated over and over and over again

I can't call Travis because he has to be up very early for work because he has therapy tomorrow

I don't have any friends available to talk to me right now

I don't know what to do I'm in complete panic

I don't know what to do I don't know what to do fuck

Why the fuck do I even exist I was supposed to exist to suffer because that's been my entire fucking life

I'm scared

I'm worried about people that don't even care about me that much

And I don't think that I even belong here

People are so cruel

I'm fucking wearing a heart monitor to rule out regular cardiac before my new heart doctor tells me my heart is fucked due to the immense amount of stress and grief

I don't fucking know what to do

[sagetsukimura]

(I just want to write it out, see if it helps me sort my thoughts out. Remind future-me that I tried. This week has been pretty... Chaotic, at work. )

I did it. I communicated to the best of my abilitiy in a stressful work environment, and i thought we'd finally gotten on the same page.

I'd done the right thing. I spoke to them directly, I used 'i feel' statements, and explained why, didn't cry when I got yelled at, only yelled back once and visibly made myself stop, and we managed to actually get on the same page ( at least I thought so, I hope so) once she realized i wasn't giving her a 'reasons why you suck' speech. I was satisfied with my feelings being proven wrong, because yes, it did turn out that nobody else was communicating with each other either. Misunderstandings and resentment. (We had 2 people quit this week.)

Problem addressed and acknowledged, if not fixed. I did it. I communicated. Glad that's over with because I hate being assertive or having people upset with me. (I don't like speaking up in situations like this, but so many people were having issues and... I don't know why I thought I could make a difference.)

Only today, a higher up comes in, and asks me a bunch of questions, and introduces me to someone, and I can't figure out what she wants from me., she's asking for specific incidents, and telling me I need to be a more positive team player, and I'm so tired of feeling helpless and frustrated I start crying when I have to talk about one of our more... difficult... Parents.

She tells me to take some time to calm down, I give the new manager a heartful 'nice to meet you, hope you stick around' that might've been TOO heartfelt (7 managers in one year guys, I'm getting desperate . I REALLY hope she'll stick around) and get back to the kids after making sure I don't look like I've been bawling.

Anyway, boss comes back an hour and a half later and says I need to leave. I'm confused and ask her if she means like, go home? NOW? And all I manage to get is *'things are worse than I was told'* and she's off... Somewhere.

... Ok?!

So I clean up, and i leave. No clue what happened or why. Did I do something? Did she want me to take the day to calm down? Was someone mad about yesterday? Apparently someone is/was lying? Should I wait for a phone call? An email? Should I come in Monday? Am I fired? What's going on?!

So now I'm... here. No clue what's going on. Brain is trying to come up with the worst answers possible, I'm trying to give everyone the benefit of the doubt. I love my job, but when no one knows what is going on or where something is, or even who to ask, it means no one sticks around. I'm not sure if anyone else has been around long enough to know the Wi-Fi passwords besides me.

It's weird, how chilled out I am. Usually I feel physically ill at the thought that someone is upset with me. Maybe counseling really is helping? Or I'm waiting to know if I've been fired before I let myself mentally burn bridges and move on.

At least I know I've done my best. I've tried to make it obvious to the others that I'm trying in good faith. I've tried really hard. (I almost think too hard. I should've kept my head down, because even if I was willing to try and talk, I appear to be very bad at it.) I just... Don't know what the expectations of me are, since I've been at the site for twice as long as anyone else. I know things no one else does. But I also don't even know where to find the signup paperwork. I'm not a manager, I'm literally the bottom of the ladder, and happy staying there.

I feel confused, and worried. Overwhelmed, frustrated, and a little betrayed. There's a voice in my head telling me I should've kept my head down and my mouth shut, and rolled through the next few months.

But mostly, I just want to know what is going on, so I can make my own choices. If I stay, I want to know what changes and expectations I should expect, because it feels like they are changing all the time, and it's not just kids who like consistency. I have to ask myself, how long do I WANT to have this job.

I just... Hope I did the right thing, as best I could. That I can say I honestly tried, even if it didn't work. But that doesn't mean it won't suck if it turns out I was right to doubt.

[kitterary]

Book Review: You Shouldn’t Have Come Here by Jeneva Rose

Full transparency: I listened to the audiobook version of this book while driving home from a fun Halloween weekend after seeing one of my favorite bands live two nights in a row, and suffering from post-concert blues.   I opened the Libby app (support your local library!) hoping for something spooky to listen to and settled on this as it was the first thriller available.  The book did a great job of keeping me fully entertained for the entire 7 ½ hour drive home… because it was like watching a car wreck you couldn’t look away from.  This being said, I don’t have a physical copy to reference back to in case I make a mistake on something that happens in the book.

The book follows Grace Evans, just your typical bookworm loner gal who selects her solo vacations by throwing a dart at a dartboard and going wherever the dart lands (except all this is a lie, but we’ll get to that) and Calvin Wells, sad tragic backstory country boy running an Airbnb out of his ranch to ease his loneliness (also a lie) and their budding romance while the entire town feels like it’s falling apart around them. The book goes back and forth between these two character viewpoints.

Grace gets to her vacation home and *to no one’s surprise* she has no cell phone signal and no wi-fi access. (Why does she not question how Calvin is running an Airbnb without wi-fi?)  There IS a working landline phone, which Grace never uses until towards the end of the book despite saying that she needed to text her friend to let them know she made it safely.  Grace DOES, however, have enough signal to stream Spotify while taking a run up and down the driveway, which is the point where I realized this was not going to be a good book.

I have so many random complaints about the writing of this book. Grace’s identity is that she loves books, so much so that she just *had* to describe exactly why she chose the books that she wants to read and why she’s reading them in the order she’s reading them, and yet she sat and read her book once for maybe 20 minutes.  But a huge “clue” for Calvin being a liar was that he also apparently liked to read but she never saw him read, as if the man didn’t literally run a farm on his own and spend all of his alone time trying to woo Grace.

This book has too many characters and WAY too much going on for its own good.  There’s jealous childhood friend who can’t get over the one night stand she has with Calvin who straight up tells Grace she hopes she dies, Calvin’s estranged brother who may or may not have purposefully killed Calvin’s ex-girlfriend a year before, an older lady who runs the local clothing shop who acts as Calvin’s mother but also is off her medication, which apparently means she is not to be trusted?  Then there are Calvin’s dead parents who went from just dying in a fire to the mother murdering the father and then setting the house on fire while she was still inside, which was meant to act as a shock to the reader but it had literally nothing to do with what was actually happening in the book. Many of the characters also make passive comments about the house potentially being haunted so you sit and wonder if that’s true (unfortunately not). Random mountain lion attack? Yep. Falling into a pit of animal corpses that also, just like 90% of the events of this book, has no relevance to the plot? Check.  The only side plot that matters in any way was the missing girl who was supposed to be a previous Airbnb guest of Calvin’s.  This alone would have been a plenty interesting plot without everything else but I truly feel like the author didn’t know what direction they wanted to go in, so they included everything.

Then the ending happens.  Turns out, Grace isn’t Grace but is actually using an alias because she’s a serial killer and goes to Airbnb’s to murder their hosts and it just turns out that Calvin also happened to be a serial killer.  I don’t HATE the ending but it felt almost out of nowhere.  Other than one offhand moment Calvin makes about Grace acting like a different person while they were all drinking at a bar, there was no build up to this happening at all, and it just felt like the author couldn’t figure out how to end the book in a way where Not Grace and the missing girl that was being held captive live at the end. I don’t read thrillers, but according to other reviews I’ve read this is apparently a cop-out kind of ending.  I could definitely see that being true.

Final review: I shouldn’t have read this book. 2/5 for simply being so absurd it made a 7 ½ hour drive less boring.

[hello-nichya-here]

How NOT to write romance - How I Met Your Mother edition

Warning: long-ass post and lots of bitterness over a TV show that ended nearly eight years ago.

Basics for story-telling

If the romance you want to write is dysfunctional, fucking embrace it and have fun with the concept instead of pretending the bad shit the characters do is okay because “it’s true love”

Acknowledgde that your main character has flaws instead of acting like he is a saint who can do no wrong for no reason other than “he is the main character. Definitively don’t make him do, of his own free will, the exact exact same things the supposedly “selfish and cruel” womanizer does and then excuse it as him having “succumbed to/been tricked by a bad influece” like he’s child who doesn’t know any better instead of being a grown ass adult.

Don’t make your characters be annoying, entitled fuckers who think they have the right to judge others for wanting different things out of a relationship/not wanting a relationship at all. Don’t act like monogamy, double dates with other couples, marriage and children are something EVERYONE secretly wants deep down.

Don’t demonize the “evil” character of the group and act like the “heroes” being appalled by the shit he does is anything other than hypocricy. There’s literally nothing forcing them to be friends with him, so they’re obviously not as horrified at bad shit he does as they say they are, otherwise they would have ditched him a long time ago.

Don’t have the “heartless womanizer”,  who we later find out is the ex-husband of the girl the lead wanted for himself, be shown to us exclusively through the eyes of the an unreliable narrator who had motivation to make him see worse than he is likely to be (get his kids to want him to get the girl instead of the “douchebag”). Also, don’t make his schemes to trick women into sleeping with them so completely absurd and ridiculous that the audience is pretty sure that 70% of the women he banged were completely aware he just wanted a quick fuck and went along with it anyway because they wanted some dick (and because the character is played by Neil Patric Harris, who is incapable of not being charismatic)

Fucking let you characters (especially the supposed hero we’re supposed to think is the best boyfriend ever) grow instead of making them constantly repeat the same mistakes

Lily and Marshall

Don’t make one of the characters hide something very important from their partner, and then have the audacity to be mad at them for “just not understanding” as if they were given any reason to understand what the problem even is

Don’t act like someone being heartbroken that their partner lied to them and practically made a plan to “escape” being married to them means they’re not being “supportive” of said partners dream - you should especially not do that after we were shown that they took a job they didn’t like just to make sure they’d have a secure future that would allow said partner to follow their dream.

Don’t have the character who was obviously in the wrong need to be convinced to get their shit together and apologize to their ex.

If a character forgave the ex who wronged them and even got back together with them, don’t have them constantly hold their past mistakes over their head like it that problem has not already been solved - you especially not make them do that on what was supposed to be their wedding day. They can either forgive their partner or not, they can’t keep going back and forth.

Don’t have them constantly hide important shit from each other (having a huge financial debt, getting a job, etc)

DO NOT have the character who fucked up years prior suddenly be willing to do the same shit again for the EXACT same reason (”I think our relationship is in the way of my dreams and I’m now completely isolated because I refuse to talk things out with you”) and then expect the audience to sympathize with them.

Ted and Robin 

Unless you’re writing a Disney/Disney-esque romance, don’t have your lead just look at someone across the room, decide they’re “The one”, imagine their life together and full on say “I’m love with you” AND “I love you” on the first goddamn date.

Don’t have the lead stalk his love interest, and throw three parties in a row just to have an excuse to get close to her now that she made it clear she is not interested in having a relationship with him.

Don’t have the “hero” lie about having broken up with his girlfriend so the girl he wants to be with will sleep with him, and then have him blame his actions on time. “Nothing good happens after 2 a.m.” Grow a pair of balls, Ted!

If one of the characters says “You’re going too fast on the whole ‘love’ thing. Can’t we just go on a few dates and see what happens instead of already starting to plan our lives together?” and the others throws a fit, that is called “being incompatible” and “damn, this dude doesn’t respect boundaries”, not “Wow, she’s so afraid of commitment”

If you want the audience to believe the main character’s feelings are not one-sided, don’t make the fact that said feelings ARE unrequited a running joke, and don’t have the girl only accept giving him a chance after having to deal with the fucker whining “But I love you” for months and/or after going through bad break ups. Also, if you have to retcon half the fucking show to “proove” that “she DOES love him”, that pairing fucking sucks.

Don’t compare the couple you want the audience to root for to the main character’s divorced, dysfunctional parents, and don’t have flashbacks showing that the lead had no clue what his girlfriend actually liked in bed AND that she literally covered up his face so she could pretend she was fucking someone else.

DON’T MAKE HER GET RID OF HER DOGS, YOU FUCKING MONSTER!

If your lead character is still jealous/possessive of his ex, thinks he still has a chance even after she told him to his face that she didn’t love him, and acts like she and her fiance (who he says is his friend) being happy is somehow them being selfish and cruel, your lead character is a loser AND an asshole.

Don’t throw away the entire premise of the show (Ted finding the REAL love of his life) just to force a bad pairing down the audience’s throat

Ted Mosby in general

Don’t have your “romantic, sensitive hero” break up with a girl on her birthday through an answering machine, come back into her life without warning years later because he’s afraid he’ll die alone, and find out that she never heard the message but was actually told about it by her friends and family who were at her apartment preparing a surprise party for her. You should especially not make his first reaction to this new be being mad that he was not invited to the party, and for the love of God, don’t make him break up with her on her birthday AGAIN.

Don’t have the “hero” cheat on his girlfriend and excuse it with bullshit like “Nothing good happens 2 a.m.” and “But I genuinely love Robin so it’s okay that I’m lying to both of them”. Do not, I repeat, do NOT have him blame it on his girlfriend being distant when she didn’t pick up the phone one night and then called back the second she was free to do so, while he was enjoying the gifts she sent him and LIED to her about having sent her some as well.

Don’t fucking make an entire episode with the premise of him turning a no into a yes - and telling that story to his children like it’s romantic.

Don’t have his fiance, who he knows has a rocky relationship with the father of her daughter, tell him she is uncomfortable with him inviting his ex to their wedding and then have him decide “This means I should invite her ex as well”. Also don’t expect me to feel bad for him when she runs off with said ex.

Don’t have him spend YEARS waiting for one of the hundreds of girls he thinks is “the one” to be single and even ask her neighbour to spy on her and let him know when/if she breaks up with her boyfriend - again, for YEARS.

Don’t have the lead say he’s gonna tell their kids about his love story with their DECEASED mother, only for it to secretly be an excuse for him to go “By the way, I’m still in love with aunt Robin despite her having rejected me for 25 years, can I go screw her?”

Don’t act like making the characters reverse back into who they were at the beginning at the story means they’re gonna make things work this time when the whole point of their break up in the beginning on the story was the fact that they’re just not right for each other.

Robin and Kevin

A therapist who was supposed to help their patient move on after a bad break up that messed them up, dating said patient is a major red flag. It is also a bad sign that, when she cheats on him and wants to break up, he realized what she was doing to used his job as “evidence” that he knew better and that she should NOT tell her partner how she felt/what she actually wanted.

Do NOT have said therapist date yet ANOTHER patient that asked him help to move on from a bad break up. Seriously, Kevin was a creep, stop acting like he was some angel who “deserved better than Robin.”

BONUS: How NOT to break up a couple - Barney and Robin edition

Don’t act like their relationship falling appart after their friends kept meddling, and even kept them locked in a room against their will until they labeled their relationship as something they aproved of, is somehow “proof” that they’re not good for each other.

Don’t retcon their relationship to force a break up (seriously, Barney was super supportive of Robin long before he even fell in love with her, but I’m supposed to believe he’d be a bad boyfriend who is never there for her? And he loved advantures and always said “challenge accepted”, but was suddenly miserable travelling the world with her and couldn’t deal with not having wi-fi at the hotel? Fuck off)

Don’t spend an entire season focusing on their wedding, have them get married and then divorce THE NEXT FUCKING EPISODE! Why do you hate your audience? Even people who don’t want them together can see this a terrible idea.

And most important of all, when people question what the fuck were you thinking, don’t have a meltdown on twitter and say that people who think Barney can change are responsible for Donald Trump being elected, you fucking weirdo, go see a therapist (that isn’t like Kevin)

[tobesolonely]

queen anne’s coffee

A/N: hello everyone! I am not D/deaf or Hard of Hearing. However, this was requested more than once I wanted to do my best to provide. In this story, Y/N is a part of the Deaf community. if I have misrepresented the Deaf community in any way or wrote something inaccurate or offensive, then please DO NOT hesitate to let me know (respectfully, of course!) i wanted to fulfill this person’s request and be as inclusive as i could, as i don’t typically see stories with a Deaf!reader. shes short and sweet but i hope you all enjoy anyway! as always, feedback is very much welcomed and appreciated! :)

Summary: Y/N visits Harry’s coffee shop every Tuesday and Thursday and always orders the same thing. Harry HAS to get to know her!!!

word count: ~1.7k

my ko-fi! thank you :)

. ⋅ ˚̣- : ✧ : – ⭒ ⊹ ⭒ – : ✧ : -˚̣⋅ .

Every Tuesday and Thursday at exactly 3:50 PM, Y/N placed an online order that consisted of an iced chai tea latte with oat milk and a butter croissant from Harry’s coffee shop, Queen Anne’s Coffee.

Y/N never forgot to add, “warmed up pls! thank you :)” in the section for comments, and she always tipped. She would then come into Harry’s shop approximately ten minutes later, walk up to the ‘pickup’ counter, grab her items, smile at Harry, and promptly leave. Harry never even so much as said hello to her, but he was irrevocably captivated––even if she was a complete stranger.

Harry decided that when Y/N came in today for her usual, he’d finally talk to her.

Business had been unusually slow for a Thursday afternoon but Harry didn’t mind–when Y/N came in, he’d be able to have a proper chat with her without having to rush the conversation along to help other customers. His gaze kept floating up to the cat-shaped clock hanging above the door, anxiously awaiting 3:50 PM when Y/N’s order would come through on the iPad and he got to read the words, “warmed up pls! thank you :)”

Harry didn’t know why he was so nervous to speak to her. As the owner of his very own coffee shop (and it’s only employee), he got to know the people who came in regularly well, even developing genuine friendships with some. It bothered Harry that this beautiful person gave him business two days a week and the only thing he knew about her was her name, which is only because he can see it when she places her order online.

When the iPad Harry keeps plugged up atop the counter chimes, he doesn’t even have to glance at it to know it was Y/N but he does anyway, feelings of excitement bubbling in the pit of his stomach. He was finally going to talk to her! Harry contemplates scribbling his number on the side of her cup as he’s writing her name but decides against it, not wanting to be too forward before they even formally meet.

When Y/N comes in ten minutes later, Harry can immediately sense something is wrong. She hardly looks up once as she shuffles from the door to the counter, hoodie pulled up and drawn tight over her head.

“Are you okay?”

Y/N doesn’t look up or even acknowledge the fact that Harry spoke. Even though there’s only two other people in the shop besides them, Harry figures she might think he was talking to someone else and addresses her by name.

“Y/N?”

She still doesn’t address Harry as she gives him a small smile before hurriedly exiting the shop, the bell above the door signaling her exit.

. ⋅ ˚̣- : ✧ : – ⭒ ⊹ ⭒ – : ✧ : -˚̣⋅ .

When Tuesday comes, Harry’s out of bed before his alarm jolts him from his dreams.

He thought about Y/N all weekend as he impatiently awaited Tuesday’s arrival, excited over the prospect of finally seeing her again. He hoped she was doing better today than she was last week, and he really hoped she was in the mood to chat with him today.

Harry’s grateful the shop is busy today. It helps to keep his mind off of Y/N, and his eyes off the clock. When the iPad chimes at 3:50 on the dot, Harry decides he’ll wait until she comes in to prepare her order. It didn’t take him over two minutes, anyway. He figures this will give him a bit more time to chat with her, at least say hello and see if she’s doing better.

Much to his pleasure, Y/N has a big smile on her face when she bursts through the door ten minutes later. She floats to the pickup counter, then furrows her eyebrows in confusion as she looks up at Harry.

“Sorry, I’m working on your order right now,” Harry grabs a purple marker off the counter, scribbling Y/N’s name on the cup used for iced drinks. “How’s your day so far?”

Harry watches as Y/N cocks her head to the side in confusion, then pulls her phone out of the back pocket of her jeans. She quickly types something before holding her phone out for Harry to take.

“I can’t hear you! I’m Deaf.”

A look of realization floods Harry’s face as he reads what she said. He now understood why Y/N didn’t answer him when he tried speaking to her last week, and he’s secretly relieved that she wasn’t ignoring him because she hated him or anything like that.

“I know a bit of sign!” Harry types before handing Y/N back her phone. He watches as her eyes skim his words and she looks up, a toothy grin plastered on her face.

“Great! This is much faster.” Her hands move quickly as she signs. “Did my order work or not? Wi-Fi is bad at home today.”

Harry realizes he doesn’t know as much sign language as he thought he did.

“OK. I am rusty.”

Y/N smiles at this and pulls her phone back out, typing what she just signed to him before passing it back to him. A look of realization floods Harry’s face as he learns she was just asking if her order came through alright, seeing as it was not yet ready. Too embarrassed to tell her he intentionally waited until she arrived to prepare her order, he just nods.

“I’ll have it ready in no more than two minutes… and refund you, too. I’m sorry for the wait.” Harry looks up at Y/N as he passes the phone to her, eyes not leaving her face as he tries to gauge her reaction.

“No!” Her head shakes as she signs. “Happy to pay. Thank you.”

Harry understands Y/N but refunds her, anyway.

. ⋅ ˚̣- : ✧ : – ⭒ ⊹ ⭒ – : ✧ : -˚̣⋅ .

“Why do you always come Tuesday and Thursday? Same time?”

“Exams every Tuesday and Thursday.” The look of obvious dissatisfaction on Y/N’s face makes Harry laugh. “Your chai and pastries cheer me up after.”

Harry’s face turns red at Y/N’s admittance, so he instead looks down, pretending he’s distracted by something on the iPad. He decides at that moment that he will no longer charge Y/N for her oat milk latte and croissant. She was a college student after all––if her financial situation was like Harry’s in any way when he was in college earning his business degree, it would probably be beneficial for her to save her money, anyhow.

Ever since Harry and Y/N’s first real interaction, Y/N had been coming into Queen Anne’s nearly every day, school supplies and laptop in tow. She always sat at the table closest to the front counter, directly in Harry’s line of vision so they could sign to each other.

Y/N provided Harry with some much needed (and enjoyed) company when business was slow, and she was helping him brush up on his sign language. Harry learned that Y/N is Deaf; her hearing is completely gone in her left ear and almost completely gone in the right. She’s the only person in her family who is Deaf. She also hated eggs, is lactose intolerant (hence the oat milk), has two older siblings, is a master’s student, and a plethora of other things that Harry had committed to memory.

“Thank you. I’m glad you enjoy.”  

“Who is A-N-N-E?”

Harry grins. “My mother. Back in London.”

Y/N’s eyes widen. “London? Amazing! You must have an accent.”

It dawns on Harry that Y/N has never heard his voice before. “Yes. Are you from here?” Y/N nods in response.

“Whole life. Small town, but it’s home.” Her pinched hand moves quickly from her mouth up to her ear.

“Sorry. What?”

“H-O-M-E.”

A look of realization floods Harry’s face as he nods in response, signaling for Y/N to give him a moment as the bell above the entrance jingles. It seems as if the few people who walk through the door act as a catalyst for others to enter, and soon Queen Anne’s is at maximum occupancy and Harry is trying to make several drinks at once while taking orders. He locks eyes with Y/N a few times and she gives him a sympathetic look, not able to do much to help him out.

Harry decides that once business dies back down, he’ll find out if Y/N is interested in a part-time job.

⋅ ˚̣- : ✧ : – ⭒ ⊹ ⭒ – : ✧ : -˚̣⋅ .

Y/N was interested in a part-time job.

She was a fast learner and a hard worker. Harry was more than delighted to show her how to make every drink on the menu, and consume her failed attempts. It was nice having someone else behind the counter with him––he wished he’d gone about hiring someone to help him much sooner, but he was glad to now have Y/N by his side.

“So much chai! I thought only I drank this stuff.”

Harry’s gaze lingers on Y/N for a beat too long, causing her to shift slightly. Harry’s hand moves to scratch the back of his neck. “Yes. I like chai. With milk.” His hand forms a ‘C’ then closes to form an ‘S’ twice for the word “milk”.

“Regular?” One of Y/N’s eyebrows raises as she asks her question, setting a hot chai latte atop the “pickup” counter.

“S-O-Y.”

Y/N lets out a quiet snort of laughter as she shakes her head. It was the first time Harry ever made her laugh out loud. After hearing her laugh once, he never wanted to stop––it was music to his ears. “Not surprised!”

Harry’s eyes crinkle at the corners. “Why?” His eyes remain on Y/N as she walks around the small area, cleaning up a small coffee spill she had earlier.

“You just are a S-O-Y boy, H. My S-O-Y boy!”

Harry’s cheeks immediately turn pink as they did the first time Y/N said something that flustered him, but he doesn’t look away.

“You’re my O-A-T girl.”

⋅ ˚̣- : ✧ : – ⭒ ⊹ ⭒ – : ✧ : -˚̣⋅ .

Thank you everyone for reading!!! This is only the beginning of Y/N and Harry I think <33

[ragingbookdragon]

The Daughter Of Superman, The Adopted Son Of Batman...What Could Go Wrong? PT. 1

Jason Todd x Kryptonian!Reader One-Shot

Word Count: 3.8K Warnings: Explicit Language

Author's Note: I totally forgot about this one! If you like how cute and fluffy it is, just wait for PT. 2! It gets angsty >:) -Thorne

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

They were pretty lazy teenagers when they weren’t busy saving the world with super speed, strength, and smarts. Even if their textbooks were spread all over his bed they were still too lazy to actually do their homework, instead scrolling through social media apps and trolling all the citizens of San Francisco about the identities of the Young Justice Team.

She glanced up from the advanced calculus textbook and stared at the boy laying across her thighs. “Tim, isn’t your dad hosting a gala this weekend?” he hummed in response, and she asked, “Are we allowed to come?”

He didn’t bother looking up from the tablet he was tapping at and nodded. “Yeah. Bruce already added your names to the list, (Y/N).” a flicker of a smile came over his lips and he added, “Of course I had to wear him down in order to get Bart on the list.”

She looked over at their speedster and grinned. “I’m kinda surprised Bruce actually let you on the list Bart.”

A shocked expression etched across his face and he questioned, “Why do you say that?”

(Y/N) shifted Tim’s head, smiling as he grunted from being moved, and rose from the bed, walking over to the minifridge. She pulled out a soda before jumping back on the bed. “Because between you, Tim, Conner, and me, you’re the one who gets us into the most trouble.” She shifted Tim’s head back into her lap, petting his hair until he smiled.

“I do not!”

“Oh really? Do you remember prom night? It’s been almost two years and they stillcall us and talk about the absolute mess we—well, you caused.”

“That cake wasn’t there when I started running, I swear!” he pointed at Tim. “Tim it wasn’t! You know that!”

The others cackled at his protest, and (Y/N) glanced at Conner. “You gonna bring M’Gann?”

A faint pink tinged his cheeks, and he shifted his gaze down at his physics textbook. “Uh…maybe.”

(Y/N) leaned forward, poking his cheek. “Your heart’s beating pretty fast, little brother.”

He swatted her hand and glared at her. “Shove off.”

She snorted and glanced at Tim. “What about you, Timbers? You going to go with Stephanie?”

“Steph and I aren’t dating anymore, (Y/N).”

“For now. But you two like each other.” She smiled and singsonged, “She’s your first love~”

“What about you?” Tim scowled. “Who’s your date?”

She grunted at him and laid flat in the bed, Bart’s legs under her back. “Are you kidding me? You know my dad won’t let me get a boyfriend, let alone a date to a gala for a night.”

“You’re nineteen, (Y/N). I think you’re allowed to start dating.”

“And my parents help pay for part of my utilities. Does it look like I’m going to do anything to tip that delicate balance of not having to pay for all that?” she sighed. “Dad’s always been that way when it comes to me.”

“Daddy’s little girl.” Conner grinned.

(Y/N) grunted and reached over, shoving Conner off the bed. “Don’t call me that. I am not a daddy’s girl.”

The others laughed at her and Tim quipped, “Yes, you are. You two go on father-daughter dates every month and take pictures to show everyone.” She glared at him and he smiled, continuing, “Maybe we can find a date for you at the gala.”

“You can try. But mom and dad are going to be there. If dad sees me with a boy, he’s liable to lose his mind.” The others laughed again, and (Y/N) rested her head down on Bart’s lap. “I need a dress, Timmy.”

He glanced over at her and tapped a few buttons before showing her the screen. “How does this look?”

(Y/N) took the tablet from him and looked over it, taking in the image of the navy-blue dress. “I like the color, but this is a Cinderella dress. Give me something not as…poofy.” He nodded and took the tablet back, tapped on it, then handed it back to her. “Hmm…too booby.” The other two boys giggled at her answer and Tim sighed, taking the tablet again.

He handed it back to her once more and she looked at the dress. “Mermaid silhouette…sheer side…strappy back…” She glanced up at Tim and nodded. “Got a pair of shoes to match?” He hummed and she grinned. “Then I’ll take it. Thanks Timbers.” He nodded once more, and she nudged Bart. “Oi Allen.”

“What?”

“Don’t run into the cake at the gala, okay? It’ll probably cost more than you.”

“It was an accident! Stop bringing it up!” The others simply laughed at him.

***At The Kent Farm***

“Mom! Dad! Jon! I’m home!” She shut the door behind her and turned, catching Jon who’d launched himself at her. “Kid you’re getting too big to do that.” He laughed at her and she let him down, ruffling his hair. “Where’s mom and dad?”

“Out back with Krypto.” He tugged on her sweatshirt. “Did you bring me anything from the tower, sissy? Did ya? Did ya?”

(Y/N) snorted and rummaged in her pocket, pulling out one of Tim’s crimson shurikens. “Tim gave this to me to give to you.” She handed it to him but held it when he reached for it, “Do not,” she warned firmly, “cut yourself with this or mom and dad will make you give it back after they finish tearing me a new one for giving it to you.”

“I won’t!” he promised and she watched his eyes light up in wonder when he took it. She ruffled his hair once more before walking towards the backdoor.

She stepped outside and saw her dad throwing a ball with Krypto, her mom watching from the back porch; she walked over and leaned down, pressing a kiss to her cheek. “Hey, mom.”

Lois glanced up at her and smiled. “Hey, sweetheart. You’re home early.”

(Y/N) nodded, sitting down beside her. “School let out for the week, and we didn’t have any missions from the Justice League, so I figured I’d spend a few days here instead of cooped up in the tower.”

“I’m glad you decided to come home, hon. It’s always nice when you come back.”

She looked up and saw Clark walking towards her. “Hey, dad.”

He pressed a kiss to the top of her head. “Hey sweetheart, how were the boys?”

“They’re good. We did our usual thing.”

Clark sat on her other side. “Collapse on Tim’s bed and lay around like lethargic teenagers?”

(Y/N) snorted and shoved his shoulder lightly. “We were productive young adults. We finished over-break assignments and reports. Well…mostly. Still got that thirty page physics paper I have to write but…I’ll let that stew awhile.”

He chuckled. “Anything else happen today?”

“Talked about the gala this weekend.” She paused. “You guys are coming too, right?” They nodded and (Y/N) laid back on the porch, pulling out her phone. “Ugh…I remember how badly the Wi-Fi sucked out here. I don’t have any service at all.” She looked at her mom. “I don’t how a journalist like you manages to live in the middle of nowhere like this and still stay sane.”

Lois snorted and thumped her leg. “It’s called satellite service. Now c’mon, let’s go inside. Dinner should be done by now.” (Y/N) rose from the porch and they all began walking in when the sound and feel of rushing air came over them. She and Clark immediately spun, ready to defend themselves when they saw Conner hovering in the sky.

His eyebrows were drawn in slight concern. “(Y/N)! We need you!”

She nodded, shucking off her sweatshirt and pants, revealing the blue suit underneath. The crimson cape billowed around her and she glanced up at him. “What’s the situation?”

“We’ve got simultaneous bank robberies all over SF. Bart and Tim are already on the first few. I came to get you.”

(Y/N) turned to her parents. “Rain check on dinner guys.” She turned in the direction of San Fransisco, eyes darting wildly as she viewed her teammates positions. After a second, she nodded. “I’ve got em, Bart’s on the east, Tim’s on south. You take north and I’ll take west.”

He nodded and she shot up from the ground. They were almost in San Francisco when her father’s voice reached her. “Be careful, (Y/N).”

She curled her fists when the bank doors came into view and responded, “Always am, dad.”

***

“The dress looks fine, (Y/N).”

She glanced up at Tim who was smiling at her; she let out a sigh, letting go of the side strap she’d been tugging, still semi-uncomfortable with how it fit. “I know it does. But I feel like it’s still a little…grown up for me. I’ve never had a dress this open in the back or the sides since…ever.” The boys laughed and she smiled at Bart and Conner. “I forgot how well you two cleaned up.”

Bart pulled at both sides of the bowtie and winked at her, while Conner merely grunted, “I still hate tuxedos.”

“You’re definitely going to hate the long hours of your wedding then.” They laughed once more, and the car pulled around the venue.

Tim looked at them and grinned. “Show time, lady and gents.” They followed him out of the limo, grinning at the cameras as they walked inside.

Immediately, the view made her eyes go wide and she gaped. “Damn…this place is…really big.”

Tim shrugged nonchalantly, “I dunno, the ballroom in Wayne manor is bigger, but definitely more expensive.”

Bart shook his head. “Tim, my dude…we live on minimum wage not a billionaire’s salary.” (Y/N) and Conner simply nodded, still dumbfounded at the sheer size.

Tim rolled his eyes and looked around. “There’s Bruce and the others.”

She glanced in the direction he was looking and she saw her parents with Bruce. “Looks like mom and dad are busy chatting.” The others nodded and she turned to Tim. “What exactly are we supposed to do at a gala?”

“Have fun?” (Y/N) heaved a sigh and stared at him until he said, “You dance and drink and eat. That’s all you do.” He waved his hands. “Go knock yourselves out.”

They started to fan out when (Y/N) called out to them. “Wait!” They paused, turning back around. “We should go talk to Bruce and tell him thanks for inviting us.” They nodded and followed Tim over to Bruce.

He saw them coming and turned, holding out his hand to her. “Good to see you, (Y/N). You look wonderful this evening.”

Her cheeks warmed at the compliment and she smiled, giving his hand a firm shake. “It’s good to see you too, Mister Wayne, you don’t look too bad yourself. Thank you for inviting us to the gala.” The others shook his hand, and she turned to her parents. “Hey mom, dad.”

Lois walked around her and squealed, “You look so beautiful!”

(Y/N) cleared her throat, feeling her cheeks warm as the others smiled in her direction. “Mom…chill out, you’re embarrassing me.” She merely laughed but stepped back over to Clark’s side and (Y/N) looked around. “Bart have you—and he’s already at the buffet table.” Snickers sounded behind her and she sighed. “I’m going to make sure that the bottomless pit doesn’t devour all your food before your guests can eat, Mister Wayne.”

They watched her walk off and when she got over to the table Bart was standing in front of, she saw him shoving food in his mouth. “Oh my god…Bart, what are you doing?”

He turned to her, and swallowed, a sheepish smile crossing his face. “I haven’t eaten anything today,” he licked his thumb clean. “I’m hungry.”

(Y/N) rolled her eyes and sighed. “Just try not to eat your fingers, would you?”

He snorted and pointed to an appetizer. “You should try the pigs-in-a-blanket. They’ve got this sauce on top that’s just—.”

A low voice cut him off. “They have pigs-in-a-blanket! What!” They turned to see a young man a couple years older than them reaching over. “The old man’s never had something this plain at a gala.” He popped one in his mouth, then turned to them. “You’re Timberly’s friends, right?”

They nodded and (Y/N) gazed, something about him tugging at her mind. “I know you from somewhere.” She stared into his teal eyes and suddenly she remembered where she knew him from; she’d never forget those teal eyes and how angry they’d been. “You’re Jason Todd, aren’t you? Bruce’s second son.”

He grinned. “That’s me. Have you and I met before? I have to agree with you, because you look really familiar.”

(Y/N) glared at him and crossed her arms, spitting. “We met in the Hall of Fallen Titans three years ago.”

Jason’s eyes briefly widened, before they narrowed in amusement. “You’re the one who threw me out the third story window after I kicked Timber’s ass.” He chuckled. “You don’t have to worry about all that, doll. Timmy and I are good now. You can ask the speedster about it.”

She continued to glower at him until Bart leaned over, propping his chin on her shoulder. “He’s telling the truth, (Y/N). Tim told me a while back that he and Jason are brothers now.”

Jason nodded and she finally stopped glaring at him. “Just so you know Jason, I can still throw people out windows.”

He smiled and held out a hand, watching her place hers in it; he brought her hand up to his lips and pressed a kiss to the back of it. “I wouldn’t have it any other way, doll.”

Bart poked her side and grinned. “I’m gonna go see Tim and Conner. I’ll leave you two alone.”

He wandered off and (Y/N) pulled her hand back. “So, why are you here? Aren’t you supposed to be dead?”

Jason chuckled. “Oh, I was. I got better. We just made up a story about me getting lost, yadda yadda yadda, I’m not important.” He propped his elbow on the wall above her and grinned. “But what is important, is how pretty you look in your dress.”

(Y/N) cocked a brow. “Is that supposed to flatter me?”

“Is it not?”

“It could be a little better.”

He laughed and she found herself smiling along with him. He nodded towards the balcony. “Wanna get some air?”

She nodded, and they walked out into the night. (Y/N) gazed up at the stars and sighed in wonder. “There’s billions of them out there…I’ve never tried to leave earth and go search for them on my own.”

Jason leaned on the railing and gazed at her. “How come?”

(Y/N) shrugged, leaning against the railing too. “Dad’s full Kryptonian…me and Jon are, to use a less than favorable term, half-breeds.” She paused. “I’m not sure if I would survive like dad does out in space.”

“Won’t know ‘til you try.”

She huffed a laugh and looked at him. “If I’m wrong, I might die.”

“And if you try and you’re right, you won’t be dead.”

She shook her head at him, a smile playing at her lips. “You’ve got answers to everything, don’t you, Jason?”

He grinned at her. “I find that being sharp and witty helps with the crowds, doll.” The music sounded from inside the ballroom, and he stepped back, offering her a hand. “May I have this dance?”

(Y/N) rested her hand in his, feeling him pull her close, his other hand resting on her lower back; it was warm against her open skin and she cleared her throat. “I should warn you, I can’t dance to save my life.”

A cocky smirk crossed his lips and he leaned down, his lips brushing her ear. “I can take the lead, doll…all you have to do is give it to me.”

“Your flirtations need work too.”

Jason chuckled in her ear, making her shiver as he pulled back. “I don’t think they do.”

“Arrogance isn’t attractive, Jason.”

“Mhm.”

“It isn’t.”

“I heard you the first time, doll.” As they swayed to the music, he asked, “So, how’d you and Nerd-bird become friends?”

“We met through Conner.”

“The clone?”

“My brother.”

“Sorry.”

“He introduced the two of us, and we’ve been friends ever since.”

“Only friends? Nothing more?”

It was (Y/N)’s turn to smirk and she looked at him. “Are you asking because you want to know if there’s competition?”

He stopped moving and they stood still, her in his arms. “Just want to know if there’s anyone between me and first place.”

She huffed a laugh. “God, you’re something else.” Her eyes found his and she asked, “Do you want to get out of here?”

Jason nodded and stepped back, holding out his hand. “Where do you want to go?”

(Y/N) smirked and stepped forward, closing the distance he’d created, and wrapped an arm around his waist. His teal eyes widened, and she looked back at the party; no one noticed them, and she turned back to face him, “Up, up, and away.” They flew upwards, and she felt him latch onto her. “Why are you acting like I’m going to drop you, Jason?”

He made a waring noise in his throat. “I have a friend who’s an Amazon, and she is…very fond of throwing and dropping me.”

(Y/N) giggled. “Sounds like we’d get along spectacularly. She likes dropping you…I like throwing you out of windows…”

“That was one time. And you caught me when I was off-guard.”

“Uh huh, sure. You got your ass kicked by a sixteen-year-old and I think you’re just bitter.”

He grumbled at her. “Rub it in, why don’t you, doll.” She laughed and lowered them down; their feet hit the roof and he looked at it. “Wayne Enterprises? Why?”

She shrugged. “Cool tower…nice view.” She took a seat on the ledge, listening to him sit beside her.

He leaned over. “Almost romantic…don’t you think?”

(Y/N) eyed him, seeing a goofy smile on his face; she snorted, shoving him lightly. “You’re cheesy.”

“So I’ve been told.”

She glanced back at the water. “You know if this goes anywhere, my dad and your dad aren’t going to be happy.”

Jason snorted, nonchalantly replying, “Doll, there’s a few things I’m afraid of in life. Superman and Batman…are not those things.”

“Is that arrogance or confidence I hear coming through?”

He shrugged. “Probably a bit of both.”

(Y/N) smiled, then she felt his hand rest on hers, letting him link their fingers; she turned her face to him. “Is this the part where you tell me I’m beautiful and ask to kiss me?”

Jason grinned. “No, this is actually the part where I tell you you’re drop dead gorgeous…can I kiss you?”

She giggled, leaning in, and just before his lips brushed hers, she whispered, “You know I can kick your ass, right?”

He groaned. “Should I mention that strong women really do wonders to me?”

(Y/N) huffed a laugh and brought her free hand up, curling in his shirt. “Shut up and kiss me, Jason.”

“With pleasure.” His lips met hers, and she felt him bring his hand up, cupping her cheek. She pulled back ever-so-slightly, but he chased her, pressing his lips to hers again. He let go of her hand and brought his other hand up. He lowered her down until (Y/N)’s back was flat against the ledge; the chill from the stone made her arch her back off it, and press into his chest.

Jason pulled away slightly and smirked at her. “Cold?”

She rolled her eyes at him. “If you want to keep making out, jokes aren’t going to do the job.” He snorted at her and leaned forward again, intent on kissing her senseless when someone cleared their throat, startling them.

They sat up quick as lightning, turning in the direction of the sound. “I wondered where my daughter had flown off to.”

“Oh my god,” she hissed and covered her face with her hands. “Dad. C’mon…seriously?” Clark stepped onto the ledge and walked towards them.

Jason leaned down, whispering, “Is he going to throw me off the ledge?”

This made her giggle despite trying not to and she shoved him. “Shut up, Jason.”

He grinned at her and rose from his position, standing in front of her father. “Mister Kent.”

“That’s my daughter.”

“Oh, I know it is. I still remember how she threw me out of a building a few years ago. I get teary thinking about it.”

The corner of Clarks mouth rose, but then dipped back down, and (Y/N) stood up. “Dad, I’m nineteen. This whole, ‘daddy’s little girl can’t date’ bit, is getting old.” A hurt look crossed his face and she stepped forward, taking his hand. “To you, I’ll always be your little girl, dad. But sooner or later you’ve gotta come to grips with me dating and having…mature relationships.”

Clark held her gaze, then glanced at Jason who grinned and gave a thumbs up. “Does it have to be one of his kids? I mean if it’s going to be, I like Tim.”

“Ew, gross. Tim’s my best friend.”

“What about Dick?”

“Nice butt, but he and Kori are dating.” She paused and smiled at him. “The only one left is Jason, dad.”

Clark eyed Jason once more, then Jason offered, “If it makes you feel any better, I’m slightly afraid of your daughter.”

He sighed. “Thank you, Jason. I can tell.” Turning to her, he cupped her cheek. “It feels like yesterday I was bringing you home for the first time.”

“Dad…stop…we don’t need sentimentality right now.”

Clark hummed and smiled at her, pressing a kiss to her forehead; he turned to Jason and leveled him with a hard look. “I don’t think I need to warn you about what happens if you make her sad.”

Jason gave him a mock salute. “Chances are I’ll be in ICU after I was thrown out a building.”

“Oh my god. Let that go.”

They laughed, and Clark rose from the rooftop. “I’ll need to get back to the party. Don’t do anything crazy.”

They waved him off and (Y/N) turned to Jason. “Do you want to get something to eat?”

He nodded. “There’s a pizza shop down the block from here.”

“Sounds great.” (Y/N) rose a few feet off the roof when she heard a cough behind her.

She spun around and looked down at Jason. “Doll…I don’t know if you know this…but I can’t fly.”

“Whoops. My bad.” She lowered back onto the rooftop and held out her arm.

He walked into it and wrapped an arm around her waist, then tipped his head to her. “Up, up, and away.”

(Y/N) snorted as she rose. “You’re still cheesy, Jason.”

The grip on her waist tightened as he murmured, “I know.”

[gentlemancrow]

jonmartin, pre-romance, #15/28??

I did manage to get BOTH of these in! So we have a combo of "You called me, remember?" and "It's too early for this". Much like the others, the MINUTE I read this prompt an idea popped into my head that I just HAD to go with! This is actually based off a real life incident I had with a friend (They know who they are...) but it fit both Jmart and the prompt PERFECTLY! The names have been changed to fictional characters to protect the innocent. (Hint I was the Martin in this situation) Anyway this was super fun and cute to write and I made myself all squishy a lot. HOPE YOU ENJOY! <3

There were precious few reasons why Martin’s mobile should be ringing at exactly 5:47 am on a Tuesday, and precisely none of them were good. Still, the anxiety inducing sound alerting him to something ominously, ambiguously amiss struggled to worm its way through a rather lovely dream of his acceptance speech after being awarded poet laureate. The poem he had prepared for the occasion was marrow-deep and hauntingly beautiful, or at least he remembered it that way until suddenly he was reciting the lyrics to Abba’s ‘Waterloo’ instead and sweating profusely as the audience began to murmur in disgust amongst themselves. Waterloo was indeed blaring, but from the ringtone of his phone, not from his lips, and his stomach performed a cold somersault with the force of the wave of anxiety that had begun in his dream and crested up to lap at the base of his barely functional brain. The few synapses he needed for basic motor function and reading comprehension crackled to life as he clumsily batted the buzzing device on his nightstand into his hand and squinted blearily at the name.

It was small. That was an immediate relief. If the care home had been calling about an incident with his mother, either her health or the staff’s as a result of her, it would have been the full moniker of ‘Sunrise Acres Care Home’ ticking across the caller ID. Yet small implied a name, a person, someone he had in his phone and not just a random spam call, and anxiety spiked again as Martin scrubbed at his eyes until ‘Jon’ appeared in white hot letters on the screen. Sleep dissolved from him in an instant and he sat bolt upright in a tangle of covers as he smashed the green answer icon with his thumb and threw the receiver to his ear.

“Hullo?! Jon? R’you okay? What’s happened?” he demanded, voice still slumbery thick and groggy.

“Martin!” Jon’s silky, prim voice, thinned out to a tin can vibrato over airwaves, answered, “Good, you’re awake. I need your help. Urgently.”

Martin was already out of bed by the time ‘need’ reached his ears, yanking on the first pair of jeans he spotted in the laundry heap on the floor and hopping on his free leg to the en suite with his phone pinched between his cheek and shoulder.

“I’m on it!” he assured him despite having no clue what ‘it’ was, exactly, “I’m coming to you as soon as I can. Where are you? Are you hurt? Should I bring a first aid kit? I don’t think I have a first aid kit… should I buy a first aid kit? There’s a Boots just down the block from my flat, I could-“

“Martin, stop! What the hell are you on about?” Jon’s annoyed tone cut through his panic like a scalpel.

Martin stopped in the doorframe of the bathroom, brows knitted, jeans puddling around the one leg he’d managed to get through and left once again in naught but his boxers as he gripped his phone back into his hand.

“Huh? What are you on about? You said you needed help!” he snapped.

“I do! But not like… not like THAT. What kind of mortal peril do you imagine I would find myself in at a quarter to six in the morning?”

The initial surge of adrenaline fizzling out uselessly in his veins the more Jon talked, Martin sagged against the doorway and pinched his temples as he strained his words through a colander of civility.

“I don’t know, Jon. You called me, remember?”

“Right, right…”

A terse, lowly hissing silence of dead satellite replaced Jon’s voice, twisting Martin’s nerves as acrobatically as he twisted to avoid the point. He kicked off his jeans and stalked grouchily back to bed where he threw himself face down and unmoving.

“So, what is it then? Wi-Fi gone tits up? Forgot how long to steep Darjeeling?” he hissed into his rumpled duvet, a little nastier than he would have liked given the deadly combination of interrupted slumber and primordial biological survival instinct.

“I uh…” Jon’s voice deflated over the speaker, “I have a… problem.”

“Yes, we’ve so very, very clearly established that. What kind of a problem, exactly…?”

“A problem of an upsettingly… Arachnid nature.”

“A spider…?”

“…Yes.”

Martin propped himself up on one elbow, eyes narrowed with genuine and curious concern.

“Wait like a… like a spooky spooky spider? Or just an ordinary kind of spooky spider?” he inquired with as much levity as he could muster, given one of the likely options.

“Stop saying spooky. And the ordinary kind. I think. No, I’m sure of it. It’s merely the sitting on my kitchen wall like it owns the place and staring at me rudely with all eight eyes, judging me for skipping breakfast again, kind,” Jon answered with clinical pointedness.

“O… kay…?” Martin drawled, suppressing a giggle, “So, what’s the problem then?”

“What do I do?”

Martin opened his mouth to answer, but closed it again as he doubted that he had actually heard Jonathan Sims, the irascible, pompous, only capable of truly looking at him down his nose Head Archivist Jonathan Sims, ask him, a lowly assistant, what to do. With a spider. It would have been almost adorable, had he not scared the life out of him initially, but even that knocked it only down a single peg to helplessly charming.

“I-I mean, the normal thing one does when encountering a spider in one’s home? You kind of only have the usual two options? Er well, three, if you count just leaving it be, but I doubt you’re amenable to that one.”

“No, absolutely not, out of the question,” Jon declared swiftly.

“Didn’t think so,” Martin chuckled, rolling onto his back and sagging in relief into the mattress.

“So?” came the impatient invitation to continue.

“So what?”

“So, then what do I do?” Jon repeated brusquely.

“Well, you either kill it or let it go, of course! What else is there to do? Invite it to brunch?”

“I know that! I’m not an idiot!” Jon erupted furiously, “Good lord, Martin! Do you really think I would have called you because I didn’t know the only two options for dealing with an eight-legged criminal invading my home were kill it or let it go? Really?! Did you suppose this was the very first spider I ever encountered in my life? Is that what you thought? Or perhaps I had my own personal valet to attend to all of my insectoid tribulations, hmm? Just call the bug butler, he’ll attend to it straightaway! Do you ever stop to think before you open your mouth? Or do you customarily just air out whatever inane notions blow through your ears, no matter how puerile? Christ!”

Martin let the phone drop onto the bed beside him, away from the verbal darts hurled directly into his eardrum and taxing the output matrix of the speaker, as Jon launched into an affronted, mortified tirade, smirking and shaking his head.

“It’s too early for this…” he mused to himself ruefully, rubbing both hands over his face and eyes.

Once the phone stopped humming and glowing white hot with remote rage, Martin scooped it back up and yawned into the receiver.

“You alright there, Jon?” he asked in a gentle tone.

A ragged sigh crackled into a blip of feedback from lips too close on the other end of the phone.

“…Not really?” came Jon’s tremulous reply, “Listen, I’m sorry I went off on you. That was unfair of me. I-I just… I really… really hate spiders.”

Something squeezed in Martin’s chest, something about the confident bass flayed neatly out of Jon’s usually assertively solid mannerisms, leaving it abnormally thin and rickety. He sat up on the bed, cradling the phone much more gently to his cheek.

“Hey hey, it’s okay,” he assured him, “If anybody sympathizes about being afraid, you definitely called the right person. Need me to stay on the line with you while you whack it? A good heavy book will probably do the trick, or if you need speed and agility a rolled-up newspaper or a magazine might be better?”

“No! I wasn’t calling because I needed advice on how to murder the damn thing! I’m quite capable of doing that on my own. Frankly, I’ve taken rather a vested interest in honing my spider termination methodology over the years. I called you because… well you were going on about how you thought they were…” Jon trailed off in a series of garbled sounds of disgust, “Cute… of all things.”

Martin grinned and had to put the phone on his bare chest a moment, as if Jon might somehow perceive his giddy glee through the receiver.

“To be fair I’m a little odd that way. Most people feel much the same as you do about them,” he commented as he picked it back up.

“True, but that’s not even the whole of it!” Jon went on exasperatedly, “I also overheard you talking… must have been to Tim or Sasha but… you were explaining about how helpful they are to the ecosystem and what a vital role they play in that natural order of things, and how we always see images of them eating butterflies and beautiful things that make them look sinister, but how really they mostly control pests and the like… how you thought they got kind of a bad rap?”

“Wow I uh… I can’t believe you remembered all that,” Martin muttered, freckled cheeks dusting a light pink, “But what does that have to do with your unwanted houseguest in particular?”

“It was the last part, mainly. That’s what got me. The part about fear. That they’re afraid, too… You said there had been studies that showed a clear fear response in spiders… to us. They’re afraid of us, demonstrably more so than we are of them…”

One word of all of those slipped between Martin’s ribs and into his heart. Too. They were afraid, too. His thumb stroked and consoled the edge of his phone unconsciously as Jon blustered on, unbothered by his own unconscious admission.

“And now I can’t do it! Now I have to set this bloody spider free because you think it’s cute and want to make friends with it, and I can’t make it an innocent victim of my fear and I have no idea how!”

Martin couldn’t help but smile, imagining how Jon must be in his flat on the other end, scrunched in a corner all hunched up shoulders and furrowed brow with hackles bristling, squaring off with a creature who was possessed of no knowledge of the fear she symbolized, or the grace to understand the iconographical divorce to her salvation. Only Jon, quivering and still bed-rumpled and frazzled, could understand the magnitude of cupping that fear in the palm of his hand while reaching out to him with the other. And now Martin understood it, too.

“Hey alright, I’ve got you. Steady on Jon, we’re gonna get through this together. I’ll talk you through the steps, you just follow what I say, okay?” he instructed in his best 999 operator performance.

A beat of silence ensued, followed by a much more robust and emboldened, “Okay.”

“So, what you want to do first is get a glass.”

“A glass?”

“Yeah, like a water glass. And a stiff piece of paper or cardboard or something. If you’ve got a bit of post lying about, flyers and coupons and the like, those usually work well.”

There was a period of distant shuffling, clattering, and indecipherable muttering as Jon gathered his weapons, then sucked in an audible breath through his teeth.

“Alright I’ve got them, now what?” he asked, sounding a bit winded.

“Now you very carefully put the glass over the spider, then slide the paper under the glass so you trap it inside. Then you can take it out without touching it or worrying about it scuttling off on you and set it free wherever you think it’ll be happy!” Martin answered sweetly.

“Okay, okay. I think I can do that,” Jon chanted for steadiness, “I’m putting the phone down so I don’t louse it up, but d-don’t hang up, stay on with me, okay?”

“I’m not going anywhere, Jon. I promise. You’re okay.”

“O-Okay… Okay… Okay…!”

Martin listened as Jon’s voice grew distant, but somehow stronger, more like a war cry, with the soft pad of socked feet on tile, then a short stretch of silence, and then a chorus of oaths and yelping, rising to the crescendo of a door being messily flung open, shut, then opened and shut again. A drumbeat of returning feet rolled mutely close and melded into the scratchy rustle of the phone being picked back up.

“I’m back,” Jon announced.

“Is it done?”

“The deed is done… your little friend is enjoying some lovely pink dahlias out front as we speak.”

“I’m pleased for her! And… for you, too,” Martin said, voice melting into lilting tenderness, “I’m honestly really proud of you, I know that wasn’t easy for you.”

“I… Ah… No, it wasn’t. Thank you, Martin,” came the sheepishly measured rejoinder.

“You’re very welcome.”

Martin smiled privately to himself, and ran a loving thumb down the edge of his phone once more.

“So then may I rightly assume I have permission to come in an hour or so late today so I can go back to sleep?” he continued, already knowing the answer as he flopped back down on his pillows and rolled up into the covers.

He was relieved to hear a husky chuckle rumble through the phone.

“Yes, yes. I think you’ve more than earned it.”

“Brilliant, see you in a bit then? And for lunch?” he added hopefully.

The brief silence as Jon calculated his response hung thick and palpable in the digital airwaves.

“Lunch sounds good,” he replied at length, “See you then.”

“G-Great! Great! See you!”

Their phones clicked mutually off without the awkward jumble of sign-offs, pleasantries, and accidentally stumbling over each other’s words. Martin thought glimmeringly of the spider hunting free in plush pink petals, none the wiser, and of Jon, with new and irrefutable proof that not everything ugly or quietly cunning in the world lurked behind to cast its shadow over him. A spider could be just a spider, and Martin back asleep with both hands still clutching his phone to his chest, dreaming of singing Waterloo again, but this time to a rapt audience and thunderous applause.

[kisskeiji]

2. Goodbye, good times.

Lost & Found.

WARNINGS: language, mentions of alcohol, mentions of cheating.

The walk back home was hard for Hajime. Home, he couldn’t call his place home since you left. It was lonely, he missed seeing you playing around in the kitchen while you danced to your favorite tunes. He missed the way you stayed up late to catch up with your school work,  the mess you made every morning when you were getting ready for school and the kiss you shared before you left. He missed you. 

He missed you and you were gone. But, where? You talked about the exchange offers you received with him, but you declined all those opportunities to stay with him. Could you have taken one of them? ‘Of course she did’  He thought. All the guilt he felt weighed on him everyday, and as if losing you wasn’t enough, his best friend was also ignoring him and wanted nothing to do with him. 

Two days after what happened Iwaizumi’s phone rang while he was at work, it was Oikawa calling.

“Iwa-chan~ Did Y/N break her phone again? My texts won’t reach her.” The brunette said with annoyance in his voice. 

“I don’t know. I can’t reach her either.” he looked down.

“You don’t know? You live with her, Iwa-chan, don’t be silly.” Oikawa laughed. 

“Not anymore, she left.” Iwaizumi busied himself cleaning the dumbbells on the rack before it was opening time. 

“Yeah, and I’m back in Japan. Stop playing Iwa-chan, now what did she do now? She dropped it in the toilet again?” Oikawa was growing frustrated. Why would he joke with something like that? 

“I’m not joking, Oikawa, we broke up.”  

“Why? What happened?” Anyone could feel Oikawa’s distress from Argentina. Iwaizumi sighed.

“She caught me with another girl.” his answer was almost inaudible, but Oikawa heard loud and clear from the other line. The sigh that left his lips after a few seconds was hard to read, it was a mixture of sadness, worry and disappointment. 

“You are unbelievable, Iwaizumi.” Oikawa said “Out of all people, I never thought you were one to be unfaithful nor you could do something so low like cheating on the girl who spent the last four years of her life on you.”

“Do you think I don't know?” 

“I don’t know, do you?” Oikawa spat. 

“Look, Shitty-kawa, I don’t need you to tell me what I already know. I fucked up my relationship with Y/N, but that’s none of your business.” 

“It is my business since my best friend blocked me because she thinks I backed you up on your stupid decisions. Can’t you see? She hates me too. And I’m sure she blocked Matsukawa and Hanamaki too, just ask them. You are right, it’s none of my business, but I got dragged into this mess because of you.” Oikawa screamed from the other side of the line. 

“Well I am your best friend too, I think I need your support rather than you scolding me from the other side of the world as if you were my mom.” Iwaizumi said dropping the rag he was cleaning the equipment with. 

“And you think you deserve any kind of sympathy after what you did?” The former setter asked in disbelief. Iwaizumi’s eyes dropped once again to the floor, there was no answer, he knew he didn’t but still hoped for his best friend to help him out. “Get fucked Iwaizumi, and please don’t ever call me again.”  

Oikawa ended the call and blocked Iwaizumi’s number too. 

That was almost two months ago. He was completely hopeless now. Out of the third years, only Matsukawa and Hanamaki knew about his affair and kept their mouths shut under the promise that Iwaizumi would cut the girl off, he didn’t. Still they made sure he wasn’t drowning on his own thoughts and checked up on him, they were friends after all.

 “What are you doing here?” Iwaizumi asked as he closed the door and took his shoes off.

“We were bored and  we brought dinner but you weren’t home.” Matsukawa explained.

“And there’s no Wi-Fi at the dorms.” the pink haired said without looking away from his laptop.

“Whatever, I’m going to take a shower.”  Iwaizumi walked past them.

“Eat something first.” Matsukawa called.

“Not hungry.” 

Matsukawa and Hanamaki shared a look and sighed.

“Let 's call him.” Hanamaki suggested.

“He is mad at us too.” Matsukawa ran his hand through his hair.

“Yeah, but he hasn’t blocked us yet.”  Sharing another look they agreed on calling Oikawa as soon as Iwaizumi finished showering. 

Ten minutes later, Iwaizumi walked out of his room and went straight to the kitchen, he could hear his friends whispering in the living room. “What are you two up to?” He opened the pantry looking for his protein powder. ’I forgot to buy it again.’ He thought as he stared at the empty jar. You used to get it for him on your way back from work, but not anymore. He could hear his friends bickering on the couch and he knew they were most likely planning something stupid. "What are you two doing?"

“Nothing much, can you come here for a second?” Matsukawa asked. Iwaizumi made his way to the couch where the other two sat, Makki placing his laptop on the coffee table. The screen showed an outgoing video call to Oikawa. 

“Why are you calling him?” He attempted to stand up but Matsukawa pulled him back down. 

“Because we don’t know what to do anymore, and he knows you better than we do.” Matsukawa explained. Before Iwaizumi could say anything else, Oikawa picked up.

“Makki I already told you I don’t want to see your rash! Go get checked or something!” Oikawa whined. The lightning adjusted and soon enough the three men could see him fresh out of the shower, drying his hair with a white towel.

“Shut up! I didn’t call you for that, you idiot.” Hanamaki retorted. 

“Then what? I had morning practice and I’m exhausted, it better be good.”  The former captain walked out of the bathroom and to his bed.

“We need your help.” Matsukawa added.

“Oh you are together, wait, you aren’t with Iwaizumi, are you?” Oikawa asked, Iwaizumi and Matsukawa shared a glance.

“Not right now.” Makki  lied. 

“Then go ahead, I'm listening.” As soon as Oikawa spoke, Hanamaki directed the camera to Iwaizumi and he could only stare awkwardly in the few seconds of silence before Oikawa could say anything.

“Before you hang up, please listen to us.” Matsukawa started. 

“You said you weren’t with him.” Oikawa whined again “I knew you were up to something and I don’t want to be part of it. Goodbye.”

“No!” Both Makki and Mattsun yelled trying to keep Oikawa on the line. 

“Let him go, he clearly doesn’t want to see me.” Iwaizumi said.

“Poor you! It’s what you deserve.” Oikawa scoffed and rolled his eyes while anger was already building up inside Hajime. 

“Really? And you deserve the most annoying manchild on earth award! Maybe if you stopped whining and listened for once in your life you could see there’s two sides of the story.” This time Iwaizumi yelled at his best friend. Hanamaki and Matsukawa remained silent.

“You are right, and thanks to you I can only listen to the cheater’s side, which I’m not interested in, go to hell.” Oikawa spat, he was no longer laying down and his breathing was heavy. 

“No, you go to hell.” 

“Both of you shut up!” Hanamaki intervened “Please just make up, you need each other, and like it or not Hajime needs us right now.”

“He is right, we are all friends but we all know that you two know each other better than anyone else.” It was Matsukawa´s turn to speak “Iwaizumi knows he fucked up and you already ignored him enough. So let’s just calm down and then we can talk, okay?” Iwaizumi and Oikawa looked at each other for a second.

“Fine by me.” 

“You have ten minutes.” Oikawa put his glasses on and propped his phone on his night stand.

 Relief ran through Iwaizumi´s body, his shoulders felt lighter for a moment. He took a deep breath and started telling everything that happened that night, how he met the girl and he kept his relationship with you secret. The ten minute mark was long forgotten, and after he finished Oikawa just sighed and stayed quiet for a moment. 

“You are still a piece of shit.” He stated. 

“I know, and I’m sorry.” 

“I’m not the one who should forgive you, you know that too.” Oikawa pushed his glasses back.

“I went to her sister’s place to talk to her and she was gone.” Hajime ran his hands through his hair repeatedly in frustration. 

“Gone?” Matsukawa questioned.

“Yes, I think she took one of the exchange offers she got last semester, but  I don’t know where she could possibly be.”  Hajime affirmed and looked at Matsukawa, defeat and sadness in his eyes. 

“I think you should get the hint and leave her alone for a while, she’ll come around, my Y/N is not one to be remorseful. Just don’t try to win her back if she does call you again.” Oikawa sighed and laid back. Staring at the ceiling he could only think about you and hope you were okay. 

“I think Oikawa is right, get the closure you need and let her go.” Matsukawa got up and walked to the kitchen. 

“And leave her alone for good.” Oikawa added, still staring at the ceiling.

“I wasn’t planning to win her back, even if I tried, she would say no.” Iwaizumi admitted.

“As she should.” Another remark from Oikawa made Hanamaki laugh.

“Cut it out, would you? I think you’ve slandered Iwaizumi enough.” The pink-haired man patted Iwaizumi’s back trying to comfort him, Hajime smiled lightly.

“And I’m not done yet, wait till I get to you, mister thigh rash.” 

“Feisty.” Matsukawa said and handed a glass of water to Iwaizumi who whispered a ‘thanks’ and took a sip. 

“You can shut up too, you two are just as bad for not telling Y/N or me.”

“In our defense, as soon we found out Hajime promised to cut the girl off.” Hanamaki explained.

“But he didn’t. We feel bad too, Y/N was our friend too.” Mattsun placed his cup on the coffee table. 

“Oi, don’t say it as if she is dead.” Iwaizumi smacked Matsukawa´s head.

“Well, we sure are dead for her. She blocked us too.” Makki lowered his head. 

 “What you guys deserve.” Oikawa yawned and shifted to lay on his side.  “I am really tired so I’m leaving, I’ll call you guys tomorrow.”

After  saying their goodbyes Iwaizumi stared at his best friend.

“Oi, Tooru.” He called and Oikawa just hummed in acknowledgment. “Thank you.” He knew he didn’t need to say anything else. 

“Yeah, yeah, now get some sleep, you look like your soul left your body. Please take care.” It was hard for Oikawa to hide his concern, but with that phrase he ended the call. 

Deep down he was glad you decided to take your time and get away from Tokyo, but he was worried about you too. It was bright outside but he felt tired, it was the guilt also weighing on him, he did nothing wrong, but still he wished he could’ve been by your side and not on the other side of the world. 

A year later…

You were going back home after graduation. It’s been a year since you left Japan to study abroad in England, and it was by far the best decision you could’ve ever made. The year passed quickly, but you travelled and met a lot of people who you considered family. 

It was sad, honestly, as much as you wanted to come back home, it was a painful reminder that you had to confront all the people you left hanging when you went away, still you had no regrets. It was a great year, you graduated and you had a job secured once you returned thanks to your professors who put a good word for you with their acquaintances and friends in Japan. “I can’t believe you have to go already.” your friend Lily whined as she dragged one of your suitcases around the airport. 

“Neither do I, this year went by so fast.” You turned around and looked at her, she was clearly trying to hold her tears back. Truth is, your roommates became your best friends and a part of you wanted to stay in London just to be with them. 

“We’re going to miss you a lot, Y/n.” Emma, your other roommate, said and hugged you from the side. 

“Hey! I am here too. Are you going to miss me?” Kuroo complained “I could use some help too.” 

“Shut up, Tetsuro.” Lily flicked his forehead playfully. 

Kuroo Tetsuro, professional instigator and one of the guys you met through the exchange program you were in. He was also one of Bokuto's best friends, it was a coincidence —definitely not Bokuto’s doing — that you met, but you were glad you did. Kuroo was the closest thing you had from home and a great friend, after all he was taking care of you like Bokuto asked him to. You studied, travelled, cried on his shoulder and had the most fun with him the past year, and you were glad you were coming back home with him. 

“I know it breaks your heart to let me go, Lily.” He said with that shit eating grin that seemed to never leave his face.

“Whatever floats your boat, big boy.” She smiled at him and hugged him. “I am going to miss you and your big mouth too.” 

“Woah, we are getting kinky over here.” He joked before Lily punched him on his side. 

“Idiot.” She muttered. More of your friends came to say goodbye and send you off, after another round of hugs and promises to call and visit you were boarding the flight with Kuroo sitting by your side.

“Finally.” He sighed and laid back on his seat with his hands behind his head. 

“Yeah, finally.” You smiled at him and waited for the plane to take off.

“So, you are working for Bokuto’s team, have you told him about it?” Kuroo asked while he reclined his seat.

“Nope, It’s a surprise. Only Akaashi knows.” You looked through the window. “I can’t believe Bokuto confessed after I left.” 

“Me neither! How am I supposed to be the best man at their wedding if I wasn’t even invited to his confession.” He tapped his fingers on his leg and stared at the buttons above his head.

“They’ve been dating for less than a year and you are already planning the wedding?” You raised an eyebrow. 

“I’m calling it right now, they are getting married three years from here.” 

“Bet?” You asked in a playful manner. 

“Bet. Loser makes a fool out of themself at the reception party.” You shook hands to seal the deal. There were almost fourteen hours left to get home, so you decided to watch a movie and then sleep for a few hours. 

Once you landed at Osaka’s airport, Bokuto and Akaashi were waiting for you at the gate. The volleyball player tackled both of you into a hug and asked a lot of questions, Akaashi just looked at his boyfriend in awe and smiled at you before welcoming you with a hug too. 

“Your sister made sure the moving company left all your boxes in your new apartment and she asked me to give you this.” He said once you let go. You see him fish into his pocket for your new keys”

“Thank you, ‘Kaashi.” You took the keys to your new house. You were excited to move to Osaka and start a new life — again—  you trusted your sister to find you a place and she did an amazing job, she found an apartment less than fifteen minutes away from your workplace. 

“Are you hungry? Let’s grab something to eat before we take you to your new place.” Bokuto threw one of  his arms around your shoulders and dragged one of your suitcases with his free hand. 

“Yes, please, we are starving.” Kuroo cried walking slightly behind with Akaashi. 

You had dinner with them and talked about your time in London, all the places you travelled to, the party tragedies and all the problems you got into with Kuroo making Bokuto and Akaashi laugh. You gave them the gifts you bought for them — a lot of thrifted books, a fancy pen and some keychains for Akaashi and a teddy bear with an ‘I love London” shirt, a hat and a phone cabin figurine for Bokuto — and had a lot to drink. Akaashi decided that it was better for you to stay the night with them since your apartment wasn’t ready yet, but you still wanted to see your new home. You opened the door and walked in hesitantly followed by your three friends.

“Fancy place.” Kuroo said after whistling in awe. The place was already furnitured, too minimalist for your liking but you were adding your touch — and a lot of indoor plants — later, the kitchen was definitely bigger than the one you had at your place in London, the high ceilings  made the place look a lot bigger. “If you ever need a roommate I’m free.” Kuroo peeked his head from what you assumed was your bedroom. 

“I rather eat dirt than sharing an apartment with you again, not after the Airbnb disaster.” You cringed at the memory of Kuroo almost setting the rented apartment on fire trying to light  a chimney. You travelled with your friends to Scotland during winter break and rented a place to stay during your time there, all of you were freezing and he offered to light the fireplace, but he forgot to mention he never in his life lighted a chimney, hence him setting one of the cushions — and part of his hair — on fire. “Oh, come on that was one time! And there’s no fireplace here.” he leaned against the wall also cringing at the memory of his burnt hair. 

“Yeah, I’m still not rooming with you.” You walked past him to look into your bedroom, he followed right after you. The bed was really big and you had a lot of storage space in the closet. The room had its own bathroom and a vanity. “I need to go plant shopping.” you entered the bathroom to take a look too. 

“Maybe you should go grocery shopping first.” You heard Akaashi enter the room. “The place is really nice, but I do agree with you, it needs a little bit of life and color.” 

“Once you start working you can get all the plants you want, Y/N, but first let’s focus on settling your stuff down.” Kuroo sat down on the bed and Akaashi hummed in agreement. They were right, you needed to unpack all of your belongings as soon as possible, your family planned to come the next day to help you out since Bokuto and Akaashi had to work and Kuroo had to take the train back to Tokyo to visit his family. You were excited to see your parents and sister, your departure was so sudden and you missed them like crazy.  Living by yourself  was terrifying for you. It was a reminder that you were alone. There was no one expecting you to come back every night, and looking back at your new bed, it was too big. ‘Stop thinking about him.’ You thought to yourself.

It was inevitable, Iwaizumi still occupied your thoughts from time to time, not as often as a year ago, but sometimes your mind drifted away and reminisced of your times with him. Like when you moved in together, your movie marathons and the nights you spent in his arms talking about the future. Ever since you went away you wondered what future he was talking about. If he wanted a life with you, why did he cheat? 

The first three months in England felt like hell, you were homesick and all the pented anger and sadness took a toll on you. For a month straight you cried yourself to sleep until your roommates noticed and asked what was going on, you told them everything one night hanging out with your friends —including Kuroo— drunk on wine. They all decided to join the “Let’s beat Iwaizumi up” club and helped you to get through the pain you were feeling at the time. You will always be grateful for them helping you forget Iwaizumi. But it wasn’t that easy. You couldn’t say you still loved him, but the aftermath of your breakup with him came with trust issues and affected the way you perceived yourself. You felt completely unworthy, like you weren’t enough and it took a lot of work and help from your friends to get past that. You deserved better, you know it now. However, the memories with him remained untouched in your head. You grew up together, he was with you in your proudest moments — funny enough, he brought you to your lowest — and it was impossible to look back without him being in the picture. 

A week after your arrival you were all set in your new apartment. Your parents and sister helped you out organizing your belongings and decorating the place. You and your mom were one and the same, she brought with her some indoor plants knowing that was your new place needed — You also went plant shopping and dragged your dad and sister with you —, your dad installed some shelfs and a security system since he was worried about you living alone far away from home and your sister went grocery shopping, organized your closet with you and gave you some tips on living alone. Bokuto and Akaashi made sure to drop by once your family went back home. “So you start working tomorrow?” Akaashi poured another glass of wine for you. 

“Yes! I’m really excited. I had a meeting with my new boss today and apparently the public relations department only has five employees. I’m surprised since it’s such a popular team.” You said and took a sip of your wine. You were working as a P.R manager for the MSBY Black Jackals thanks to your professors recommendations, although you never imagined working in the sports field but it was a great opportunity for you who just graduated college, so you took the chance and secured a job before coming back home. “When are you going to tell us which team you are working with?” Bokuto asked. “You should work for my team, my friends are really amazing.” He added, he was kind of bitter since you were working for another team and you are supposed to be his ‘super best friend’, what kind of super best friend works for a rival team? He felt betrayed to say the least.

“I’m sure, Kou, but it’s a surprise.” You giggled at your friend’s deflated state and puppy eyes.”You will see tomorrow.” You wanted to mess with him a little bit and tried to make really obvious that you were working for his team.

“How am I going to know if I’m not going to be there?” He asked in confusion, Akaashi and you shared a playful glance and then waited for it to hit him “Akaashi! What does she mean? and why are you smiling?” It took a few seconds until his jaw dropped “Wait! You are working for us?” He got up from his seat and waited for you to answer, you could only nod and laugh at his excitement, he hugged you and started talking at an unbelievable speed, telling you about his teammates and how excited he was to have you at work. “We’re going to have so much fun, Y/N!”

“Bokuto-san, we have to go, you have morning practice.” Akaashi announced trying to save you from Bokuto’s sudden energy kick, the gray haired man went back to his sad state when he heard his boyfriend’s voice saying they had to leave. You walked them to the door and held Akaashi’s arm, dragging him down enough to whisper in his ear. “Bokuto-san? Really?” 

“What do you mean?” 

“No pet names? My love, my one and only, love of my life? Nothing?” You asked in disbelief. He chuckled. “That’s none of your business, brat.” He flicked your forehead and laughed at your pained expression “Those are reserved for special occasions.” You gagged at his words and he pulled you into a hug and kissed your forehead right where he hit you before. “Good night, Y/N.”

“Good night, ‘Kaashi, text me once you get home.” You closed the door and sighed at the sight of your empty apartment. ‘This is going to be rough.’ You thought, you couldn’t wait to start working to get away from the haunting loneliness that flooded your place.

The next morning Bokuto couldn’t be more excited, he texted you really early to wish you luck. He was really motivated during morning practice, he was energetic all the time, but you being there got him pumped up. The Jackals were currently running drills and his cross shots were exceptional. “Bokkun, you are on fire today!” Atsumu praised the wing spiker. 

“Miya is right, what got you so excited today?” Meian dried the sweat from his forehead with a towel and took a step closer to Bokuto. 

“My best friend is coming today! She just came back from London and I am really happy that she’s here!” 

“She is watching us practice?” It was Barnes’s turn to ask. Bokuto shook his head and explained. 

“She is going to work on our team as a manager!” 

“Good, we need a new one since Omi-kun scared the one we had.” Atsumu looked at Sakusa who opted to ignore him. 

“Not that kind of manager, she is going to work with Imai-san in  public relations.” Bokuto explained and sat on the floor before coach Foster came back and called the break off. 

“That’s right, Bokuto.”  a woman’s voice interrupted the chat between the players making them turn around to look at you and your boss, Imai Hideko, the MSBY Black Jackals manager and promoter. “Listen up, guys, this is Y/N L/N, she is our new Public Relations manager, I expect all of you to behave and get along with her. She is in charge of your schedules and everything that involves public appearances.” She introduced you and the team bowed as a greeting.

“I’ll introduce you!” Bokuto got up from the floor and took your hand to drag you around “This is Meian-san, our captain! He is really scary when he gets mad.” Bokuto pointed at his captain and his awkward smile that vanished as soon as it appeared. “See? Scary.” Bokuto trembled.

“Pleasure to meet you, thanks for working with us, take good care of our team.” The black haired captain greeted you. “Thank you for having me.” You greeted back before Bokuto dragged you to two extremely tall men who seemed to have a nice chat while they rested for a bit, you felt bad for interrupting their break.

“This is Oliver and Thomas, they are really strong players! Oliver-san spiked once directly to my face and I thought he broke my nose, and Thomas is one of our middle blockers, you may get along well, he speaks english too! He is always talking in english with Inu-san, where is he by the way?” Bokuto started to pull from your arm before you could even greet both players, you looked at them apologetically and they laughed, they were already used to Bokuto’s energetic personality.  “Inu-san!” Bokuto called a man from the other side of the court. 

“Hey, Bokkun! This is your friend?”

“Yes! Y/N, this is Inu-san, he always treats us to dinner and has a really cute cat! His name is meatball and he always scratches my face when he sees me.” Bokuto pouted and Inunaki giggled.

“I trained him to do it.” He said. “Shion Inunaki, pleasure to meet you.” You shook his hand and introduced yourself again, starting a small conversation about his cat until you heard someone cough behind you. 

“Oi, Bokkun, you are not going to introduce me and Omi-kun.” Another blonde haired man said. 

“You are right! Y/N, this is Tsum Tsum and the one with the mask is Omi-kun, they were scouted at the same time as me! We are like brothers.” Bokuto had a big smile on his face. ‘Omi-kun’ muttered a ‘No we are not.’ with clear disgust and walked away.

“Yeah, they are dumb, dumber and asshole.” Inunaki said, making you laugh. 

“Who 's who?” You asked. 

“Up to you.” He shrugged with a smirk and walked away. You never noticed when the guy Bokuto introduced as ‘Tsum Tsum’ stepped closer to you.

“Atsumu Miya, a press favorite.” he grinned.

He was insanely attractive, everyone in the team was but something about his hazel eyes made you look past his overly cocky attitude. His aura was definitely charming, but something inside you screamed ‘danger’, you took a step back and smiled politely. “Sure you are.” 

“Well guys, I hope you don’t cause Y/N trouble.” Hideko said, walking next to you. “She will be reviewing your schedule for the next few weeks since we are really close to starting a new season. Listen to her, and don’t be a pain in the ass, and yes Miya, I am talking about you.”

“Imai-san! What are you talking about?” Atsumu whined. 

“You know exactly what I mean, Miya.” Hideko placed her hand on her hip and rolled her eyes. 

“Thought you were a press favorite.” You giggled at the setter’s upset expression, he could only look at you, before he could say anything else, you smiled brightly catching his attention. You were beautiful, and your smile was really sweet. It was his turn to smile, this time to himself, you were refreshing and something in your presence got him hooked. Maybe the confidence you irradiated, the warmth in your smile or how you played along with his joke. 

“Thank you so much again for having me and I hope we can get our work done smoothly, I’m here to help you in case you get in trouble with the press or have any questions on your schedule.” You bowed at the team once again. 

After a small talk with coach Foster, you and Hideko left the court and went back to your new office, leaving a great first impression on the team. “Your friend is really nice, Bokkun.” Adriah said while he did his cool down stretches.

“She is the best! I’m glad you guys like her.” Bokuto took off his knee pads and started stretching on the floor too. 

“I think someone liked her way too much.” Inunaki patted Atsumu’s back as he walked past him.

“Oi, Inu-san!” Atsumu whined, he almost choked since he was drinking from his bottle when Inunaki hit him. The rest of the team laughed at him. 

“You like Y/N-chan, Tsum Tsum?” Bokuto asked. 

“No, I just met her, and leave me alone, I don’t have time for this.” Atsumu said with clear annoyance as he walked away, the team laughed again because of the fit he was throwing. It wasn’t a lie, he just met you. 

But God, did he wanted to know more about you.

(a/n: hiiii, i took too long, i know please don’t kill me :( i got stuck halfway through it but it’s here and it’s really long! to make up for my pea brain that apparently can’t function properly. anyways, SAY HI TO THE JACKALS! i’m so excited, ik it’s short but next chapter you’ll get the content you want :) as always i want to thank my betas for helping me with this chapter too! they deserve the world honestly. and thanks to all of you too! for all the support and your feedback, it’s always a appreciated. <3)

masterlist

TAGLIST: @aonenthusiast​ @wiseeggspickleslime​ @koushisun​ @airheadpillar​ @sunflwrsandprettyskies​ @bbkiyoomi​ @daphnxy​ @shephard17895​ @avatarkyoshithewarrior​ @for-rebloggery​ @vv-bee999-vv @fi16ns

@kara-grayson04

[parembole]

i think you’re just imagining things. :/ chips don’t even exist, so how could they have gone missing?

( im nayeon, cis woman, she/her ) KANG ISEUL has lived in NAPLES, italy for ONE YEAR. they’re currently TWENTY-FOUR years old and a SOCIAL MEDIA PERSON FOR VISTA LATERALE. people tend to associate them with half-used bottles of perfume, cherry flavoured lip gloss, day trips filled with laughter, winking at strangers, and sending nothing but memes in a group chat.

stats page

pinterest

general tag

wanted connections

( muse a ) ISEUL mainly works at the bnb as the SOCIAL MEDIA PERSON, but everyone kind of mixes jobs based on what needs to be done. within the bnb, they’re known as the resident HEDONIST and everyone says the worst thing about them is that they're MISCHIEVOUS. they started working at the bnb because SHE WANTED AN EXCUSE NOT TO GO BACK HOME TO A TERRIBLE GROUP OF “FRIENDS”.

she followed the “perfect” path for most of her life. she even graduated uni with a major in marketing whilst being considered an exemplary student! she didn’t like any of that, though, and not too long after getting a very well paid marketing job in a big corporation, she decided to say FUCK IT. so she left for europe, and traveled around for a few months before ending up at vista laterale. 

she does NOT want to go back home. she’s scared she’ll be stuck back in this lil “mold” she was trapped in before, with the picture perfect aesthetics and the fake friends, and she just CANNOT picture herself dealing with that bullshit anymore. 

iseul uses an android, and she ABSOLUTELY gets pleasure out of how much certain people get ridiculously pissed off by the “twitter for android” thingy that shows up on the tweets she makes on the bnb account.

highkey, iseul probably still has an android rather than an iphone just because she loves pissing people off. she thinks it’s funny!!! and she can still call and text and use the wi-fi and what not, so....... she simply does not feel the need to change her phone. the pros and cons simply don’t lie!!!!!

iseul loves being social and what not!!!!! she tends to get along quite well with the people around her, although she sometimes gets it in her head that they don’t like her (for straight up ridiculous reasons like which leg they crossed over the other leg the first time they met her), and she HATES feeling lonely!!!! she’d rather interact with people who seem to be annoyed by anything she says/does rather than be alone tbh. 

she’s like... an agent of chaos, mixed with a raccoon, mixed with a flirt, mixed with a femme fatale, mixed with a hyperactive toddler, mixed with a demon, mixed with a quirky grandmother, and wrapped up in beauty. 

let me copy-paste a lil bit of what i put in my app regarding her connection with muse i, which i feel says a lot about her food stealing habits: “they all live together. they’re basically all stuck together, right? in a shared space, it only makes sense for food to be shared, especially considering the fact that space isn’t unlimited... really, iseul’s doing everyone a favour by not buying her own groceries and sharing the others’ groceries instead (though they may not exactly be aware of it). otherwise, things would get really cramped in the cupboards and the fridge, and iseul just simply could not stand to see that happening.”

she loves flirting, and so she flirts a lot. she tends to get crushes easily, though, or at least, she pretends she does. fact is, she’s never been in a serious relationship, and the idea of being in one TERRIFIES her. she can definitely have romantic feelings, and actually did have some in the past, but she feels like a relationship seems like SO MUCH WORK!!!!! and that kind of commitment scares her right now since she doesn’t have any experience in it. 

she does have experience in casual relationships, though!!!!! aka mainly physical things!!!!! and maybe she has ghosted some folks when it started to get serious in the past and she got scared of her own feelings......... MAYHAPS!!!!!!

just...... chaos, but in a fun way. attracts attention for the bnb on the social media account bc “haha the social media person sure knows this generation’s humour!” but rlly there’s no thoughts behind it. she’s just vibing. but it works, so!!!!!!

she does think the selfies she posts on the bnb’s account are a BIG reason why they get so many guests, though. she’s not OVERLY confident maybe, but she does know she’s beautiful!!!!! and she will use it to her (and the bnb’s) advantage!!!!!

in the future, i will post lil edits and what not in the future to show more about iseul!!!!!!! but rn i don’t want this to be too long, soooooo.......

here’s iseul!!!!!

oh and she loves befriending the wildlife around (and within) the bnb!!!!! she’s quite friendly with the raccoon that tends to hang around vista laterale!!!!

[thiswasinevitableid]

Have you seen the post going around about the zoom class with one guy and his full streamer setup vs the guy whose just in the middle of the woods? I know you have a prompt list rn but I’m just saying there’s a sternclay fic in there somewhere...

It is! Here you go!

Life is better with order. Or, at the very least, with some attempt at patterns, organization, or consistency. 

Which is why Stern has carefully arranged his desk, his chair, and his equipment in the background. Streaming as a hobby and a side hustle means he has some (okay, a lot) of practice making his digital self look just right. He needs to make a good impression on the first day of the semester.

Unlike some people. 

“Holy shit man, are you in the woods?” Duck, the guy in a “Monongahela National Forest” shirt, grins as he asks this of another student whose screen consists of a forest clearing, a log, and the name “Barclay.”

“Yeah. Hang on, lemme finish getting the phone balanced.”

“Dude, that’s like, way better than my background” this comes from Jake, in front of a poorly rendered half-pipe. 

“Can’t really take credit for it, just where I ended up.” Barclay sits down, and Stern gets his first look at a man so tall he barely fits in the frame, with a short, coppery beard and an honest-to-god man-bun.

Damn west coast schools. 

“How is your battery going to last long enough for class?” Stern leans back in his chair, certain Barclay will have “battery trouble” halfway through as an excuse to cut out early.

Barclay smiles, lifting up a small green and black rectangle, “solar battery. Not everyone needs fancy gadgets for school.” He aims a pointed stare at Sterns set-up. 

“It’s important to have the right equipment.”

“Whatever you say, man.” He lifts a cup of iced coffee into the frame, sipping it through a straw. It’s the picture of relaxation, as if nothing is wrong in the world. As if this is all totally normal. 

Stern wants to reach through the  screen and slap some sense into him. Preferably while he’s shirtless.

He chalks that thought up to not having gotten laid since last December and pulls up his note taking software as Professor Chicane enters the room.

------------------------------------

Private Chat 9/20/20

Duck (he/him): I timed it, we’re already at ten minutes of arguing.

Indrid (he/him): I know Ned enjoys their demonstrating the different modes of rhetoric, but this is a bit extreme.

Duck: To be fair, Joe does seem kinda uptight.

Indrid: Yes, but Barclay should know by now that zeroing in on him during our practice debates only results in this.

Duck: Yeah. Oh shit, are they for real wrapping up you think?

Indrid: We can only hope. Skype me tonight?

Duck: Of course, sugar.

--------------------------------------

What is Joseph’s problem? He’s got a set-up that would make a pro-vlogger jealous, what looks to be a well-lit apartment with some houseplants and the kind of coffee-cups that are weirdly lacking in personality. His clothes are immaculate, his hair slicked back as if he;s in a business meeting rather than an online class in the midst of a chaotic world. So why is he acting like everything is terrible? And why is he always arguing with Barclay, when there are plenty of other people in the class to disagree with?

“Now” Mr. Chicane’s voice booms through the tiny speaker on his phone, “if you all had a chance to read over the instructions, we will begin the first mock debate. Do we have any volunteers?”

He and Joe raise their hands at the same time. Mr. Chicane raises an eyebrow.

“While I appreciate your eagerness, gentlemen, I would like two other volunteers this time.”

That’s fine by him. It’s not like he likes listening to Joseph get all wound up and passionate, making everyone on the call sit up and take notice of him. It’s not as if he enjoys being the center of his focus. 

Nope, not at all.

-----------------------------

Private chat 10/11/20

Jake (he/him): Dudes, did you see who got paired up on the final project?

Aubrey (she/her): Chicane must be getting them back for all the times they’ve hijacked discussions. 

Duck (he/him): Man, for their sake I hope it works out.

Indrid (he/him): This is going to be a disaster.

--------------------------------------

“Are you out of your mind!” Stern is talking before Barclay’s video is fully on. 

“Nope. And you don’t have to yell, my speaker works just fine.”

“You’re outside, for all I know there’s a ton of ambient noise.”

Barclay, phone obviously in his hand as he walks through the trees, groans.

“And don’t try to derail this; how can you possibly suggest I come out there so we can do the project in person? We’re supposed to be limiting travel and gatherings.”

“Look, Joseph, we both agree that trying to generate our own cryptid hoax is the best way to demonstrate all the techniques Ned wants us too, right?”

“Yes” he hides his answer behind the rim of his coffee mug. 

“We’ll do a way better job if we work in the same space. And if it makes you feel any better, I haven’t had any human contact in three weeks; all quarantined up, unlike whatever you’ve been doing in the city.”

He sets the mug down with a thunk, “I haven’t been out in a month. And before that was only for one grocery run and a hospital visit.”

“Uhhh-”

“I cut my hand cooking. So. Yeah.”

Literal crickets chirp, courtesy of Barclay’s end of the line, as the silence stretches on.

“If it helps, it’s real easy to stay isolated here, and I’ve still got utilities and everything.”

“And you’re not subsisting only on MREs or granola or something?”

A deep chuckle, the kind that makes his skin prickle, “Nope. That much I can promise.”

Stern glances around the studio apartment, clean and empty. 

“What’s your address?”

------------------------------------

Look, all Stern is going to say is that he’s seen and read plenty of stories that start with a cabin in the woods and none of them end well. Which is why he’s still sitting in his car, parked beside a beat-up Subaru, rather than knocking on the door. 

Breathe in, five counts. Out for four. Repeat four times. 

Waiting for him on the door is a note.

Joseph,

Key under mat, make yourself at home. 

Barclay. 

He brings in his bags (a matching set of three, a gift from his aunt last year), placing them in the tiny guest room. It’s not much more than a bed, a dresser, and a tiny table. But there’s a heating unit below the window looking out into the woods, which is pretty pleasant. He’ll be keeping the blinds closed at night, though; he hates the thought of something being able to look in. 

Stern’s busy evaluating the laundry closet when the front door opens. 

“Hey, glad you found the place okay.”

Barclay stands in the doorway, a basket full of fruit in one hand. He’s remarkably kempt for a man living in the woods and that, combined with the deep voice being even richer in person and the fact Stern has to actually look up to meet his eyes, has him stumbling for words. 

“Your directions were very thorough. Thank you. Um. I put my things in there, should I, um-”

“I can give you the grand tour.” The taller man sets the basket on the dining table, notices Sterns puzzled expression “there’s a piece of property about a mile thataway that has orchards they don’t really use. They let me come and pick whenever i want, less for them to clean up.”

Barclay keeps up a steady monologue as he shows him the cabin. The lower level is the living room and dining area, a kitchen which leads onto the back deck, Sterns room, and a bathroom. As the cabin is A-frame, the upstairs is Barclay’s room, all dark wood and pine colored plaid. It’s as Barclay is telling him about the woodpecker that sometimes nests in the eaves that he realizes why he’s talking so much.

He’s nervous. 

Neither of their nerves improve when he gets to his last point of order. 

“Uh, so, the bathroom downstairs is only a half-bath.”

“So...if I want to shower, which I do, I have to come up here.”

“Yeah.” Barclay scratches the back of his neck, “sorry. I don’t, like, sleep naked or anything so we should be fine.”

“Disappointing.” Stern sighs, only to sail past sarcastic and land face first in sincere. 

Barclay blushes, then shrugs, “Trust me, after the first night, you’ll see why.”

Stern does. He’s warm as long as he’s in bed, but the moment he ventures into the bathroom in the middle of the night he’s cocooned in cold. 

The morning brings cinnamon and coffee on the draft coming under the door. He plods into the kitchen in search of caffeine, finds Barclay in an pron, the counter covered in trays of dough. 

“Morning!”

“Morning. Coffee-”

“Right there, sugar and stuff’s in the cabinet above it, cream and such is in the fridge.”

Blessedly, there’s heavy cream to be found, and soon he’s sipping from an enamel mug emblazoned with a UFO made of veggies. 

“Is this all for your job?” Barclay mentioned he was a cook during an icebreaker. 

“Yep. Way it works is I bust my ass baking once or twice a day, and Thacker, who works with Mama at the Lodge in town, comes and takes them over there. Normally I’d just be there but, well, y’know.”

“Everything is on fire? Figuratively, I mean.”

“Sometimes literally too, but yeah.”

As he’s turning to grab his clothes and head showerward, Barclay adds, “You a scone man, coffecake man, or a cinnamon roll man?”

“Coffeecake?” It comes out hesitant. 

“There’s no right answer, man.” Barclay sounds amused, “what do you want?”

“Cake, definitely.”

“Cool. I’ll save you a slice.”

Once he’s showered and on the wi-fi, his day runs like normal; one lecture, reading, a research paper, his initial half of their project, and working either his copy-editing or transcription job in between, and planning his next stream. Barclay comes and goes, stops now and then to see if he needs anything, leaves a sandwich in front of him around dinner time. Then it’s time to crawl under the covers and dream of a less-stressful world. 

The next day, just before one, Barclay taps him on the shoulder. 

“Ready for class?”

“Yes…” He gestures to his laptop and notebook. 

“C’mon, join me out here, it’s way nicer, and we can share the phone.”

“Barclay, it’s  a nonsensical way to attend class, just stay in here with me! Even this set-up has to be better than the woods.”

“This set up. You mean my house?” All the friendliness leaves hi voice. 

“Yes. Look, I agreed to come out because you’re right, if we want to ace this thing that’s worth sixty percent of our grade, this is the place to do it; I don’t have to go along with the whole self-sufficient woodsman aesthetic while I’m here. “

“Yeah, I’d say you’re pretty far from self-sufficient. See you in class.” 

Stern stews through the entire session, but where he’d usually find something Barclay says to latch onto, he instead gnaws on himself. Why didn’t he just go with him? Why snap at someone who’s been nothing but nice since he got here?

Whatever the answer, how can he fix it?

---------------------------------------

Barclay tromps back through the twilight, done with his second class of the day. If Joseph is in the main house, he plans to ignore him until tomorrow morning. That all goes out the window with the clank of dishes from the kitchen. 

Peering in reveals the other man bent over, pulling a casserole from the oven. He waits to announce his presence until Joseph is out of the danger zone, enjoying the view as he does. 

“Smells good.”

Blue eyes flick over to him as Joseph opens drawers, “it’s mostly cheese and chips, so I’m not surprised.”

“Servers are in that one.”

“Thank you. Nacho pie?” He scoops some into a bowl, holding it out. 

“Sure. Uh, look, Joseph I-”

Joseph holds up the server, “Wait. Before you apologize I, um, I wanted to say I’m sorry for my comments. And for being so...me-ish.” He sighs, staring at the utensil in his grip, “I’ve always been a little bit tense, tried to be polite and effective and friendly in spite of it. The last six months made that harder to do. I don’t love it when I can’t be organized, when normal systems go out of place. But that’s no excuse for being rude to you, even before you invited me here. You’re just so...you’re always so calm and relaxed, like nothing was wrong and I just honed in on that way more than made sense. I’m sorry.”

“If it makes you feel better, I kinda did the same thing. You’re always so put together, it looked like you had this organized life in the midst of this whole shitstorm. I feel lik everything is slipping away, like my world is just this cabin. I mean, I assumed you were seeing friends in the city, while I haven’t seen Mama in person since April. So” he sets the bowl down, rests his hand on Joseph’s shoulder, “I’m sorry too.”

Joseph laughs, softly, “turns out we both had failures of imagination, huh?”

“Yeah” he runs a hand over Joseph's back, “now come on, this dinner’s not gonna eat itself.”

-----------------------------------

“You sure you don’t wanna wear the bigfoot costume?”

“Positive. Besides, it suits you.” Joseph finishes styling the fur on the head of the costume to look more realistic, “I just hope we get this done before that storm comes in; as mush as the rain would add to the mood of the scene, that’ll be hell to dry and you’ll be miserable. So, go lurk over there while I finish up getting the camera settings where they need to be.”

“Yes sir” Barclay pops the head on, leaves crunching as moves to his appointed tree. He smiles as he watches Joseph fiddle with the camera; things have been so much better between them these last two weeks. They trade off cooking dinner, study side by side, and watch movies or play games in the warmth of the heater. They have a similar sense of humor and taste in books, and are tidy to boot.   Joseph’s even come with him to listen to lectures in the woods, the pair sharing a thermos of coffee under the astonished gaze of their classmates. There’s just one problem. 

Barclay’s buried crush is now blooming in every direction. Animated, argumentative Joseph was attractive. Joseph, in all his moods and mannerisms, is devastatingly enchanting. He’s come close to telling him this, but the other man is his guest and also only here for another two and a half weeks, so a confession is setting himself up for heartbreak at worst and awkwardness at best. 

He almost blew it last night when they were washing dishes (Joseph scrubs, Barclay dries and puts away). 

“Last one.”

“Thanks, blue eyes.”

“What was that?”

“Uh, blue eyes? Like a, uh, a nickname?”

Joseph laughs, “Sounds like something from a Raymond Chandler book. I like it.”

On the plus side, if Joseph thinks it’s just a nickname and not a pet name, maybe Barclay can keep using it.

“Are you ready?’

He sticks up a hairy thumb and calls, “you know it, blue eyes.”

That same laugh as Joseph takes up his position. Maybe it’s the weird film over the costume’s eyes, but Barclay swears he sees a blush.

-------------------------

Stern trawls through the search results. Their video is getting some traction, with two cryptid hunter sites claiming it’s credible footage. He’s making note of how the information spread, which threads lead to belief and which to doubt, when Barclay calls from upstairs. 

“Joseph? Little help?”

The other man is in the bathroom, and when Stern knocks he says, “Think the pilot light on the water heater went out again, all I’m getting is cold water. Can you go relight it?”

“Sure.” He gets to the stairs then, stops, “where’s the key to that closet?”

“Huh? Oh, shit, right, hang on” Barclay says at the same time as Stern’s “don’t worry, I can find it.” 

Which is why the instant he turns back into the bedroom is the same instant Barclay steps out of the bathroom, blue towel around his waist. 

Any blood that doesn’t head south goes instantly to Stern’s cheeks. 

“You okay there, blue-eyes?”

“It’s completely unfair how good you look without a shirt.”

He clamps a hand over his mouth.

“Idn’t ean to ay at out oud” The mumbled explanation makes Barclay smirk. 

“You like this, should see what’s under the towel.”

The unusually bold statement from Barclay kindles his own confidence.

“Don’t make promises you can’t keep, big guy.”

“Who says I won’t.” Barclay sits down on the edge of the bed, nonchalant and leaning back on his hands, “got plenty of time to make good on them.”

“We literally don’t. I go back in a week and two days.”

Barclay toys with the lint on the towel, “you could stay. Through break, through next semester, for however long you wanted.”

“Do you mean that?”

A shy nod, “I like having you around, Joseph. Even beyond the huge fucking crush I have on you I...everything is a little better when you’re around.”

“I, um, I guess it could work. We know next semester is online too, and so is work, so…” there must be variables missing, something he’s not seeing, some reason this is too good to be true.

“You want some space away from shirtless me to think about it?”

“That’d be great.”

Barclay stands, hesitates, then plants a quick kiss on his forehead, “take all the time you need, blue eyes.”

------------------------------

Private Chat log 1/11/2021

Barclay (he/him): Did you see the look on Duck’s face when we turned up in frame together. 

Joseph (he/him): Yes. Pretty sure Aubrey yelled something about him needing to pay up. I wonder what the bet was. 

Barclay (he/him): Whatever it was, pretty sure I came out the biggest winner. 

Stern snorts, trying not to blush on camera, and leans over to kiss his boyfriend on the cheek. 

[bangtaninink]

send me a SENTENCE + MEMBER + AU (OPTIONAL) and i'll write you a drabble

"alright, fine. let's just get this over with."

"we will never speak of this again."

"oh yeah? prove it."

"god, i hate this movie."

"this is a one time only, limited edition offer. take it or leave it."

"holy s-- do you not feel pain? that's so hot."

"good afternoon, fellow associate."

"i dunno. i walked in on you crying while listening to taylor swift..."

"'fuck me'? fuck you!"

"how do you feel about personalised playlists?"

"there's not enough caffeine in the world."

"you okay? you need a tissue? some cocaine? a hug?"

"it'd be so nice to come home to you every night."

"it's never a bad time to watch 'shrek'!"

"can you at least wait for the glue to dry?"

"hey. you wanna fake date me?"

"you have me saved on your phone as what?!"

"why is your hand on my ass?"

"wh-- i just kissed your forehead. chill out!"

"so! i accidentally called you the 'love of my life' today. isn't that hilarious?"

"have you been mooching off my wi-fi to watch porn?"

"did i just say that out loud? shit."

"so, what're you in for?"

"alright. how does that feel now?"

"you said there'd be cake. where's the cake?!"

"like i said: you only get one shot; do not miss your chance to blow."

"i had the weirdest dream about you last night."

"make me."

[marleahsblogs]

✨ Internet Safety ✨

For our generation today, the internet is probably the safest place to be in. People can be whoever they want, express whatever they want, and enjoy themselves however they want. I must admit, I would also say that I couldn’t live without the internet. Internet is just the solution to every problem, right? Now, we can even earn money in the comfort of our rooms with the help of the internet. Should we spend hours travelling just to buy stuff? Nah, we got the internet! With just several clicks we can already make an order and just wait on our couch to receive it. Oh no, COVID-19 ruled the world! No worries, we are backed up by the internet. Online classes, online transactions, online dating. You name it. The internet is there for us, or is it? Is it our safe haven?

We have put so much trust in the internet, but we didn’t know it can also be our biggest predator. Online transactions were fun until you got scammed and lost all your money. Online dating them feel loved until the person they were talking to is a catfish. Streaming online made him famous and rich, until his account got hacked. And there are still millions of stories out there that should awake us from believing that the internet is the safest thing in the world.

Below are some possible dangers you could encounter online.

1. Cyberbullying

I’m sure many of you have heard of this. But even though we are fully aware of it, it is still one of the major problems until now. As we casually scroll in our social media feeds, it is already normal for us to see people making fun of or “bashing” other people. It became so prevalent that we could call it a normal thing. According to UNICEF (2019), one in three young people has said that they have been a victim of cyberbullying and that it affected almost half of the Filipino children aged 13-17. We need to know that even a single word like “tanga” or “bobo” we see in our social media platforms and online gaming worlds could affect or traumatize us greatly.

2. Data Being Stolen

Some people nowadays are getting better at doing this. They can steal your money from your accounts, apply for a loan or credit card using your name, or sell your information to an online criminal as well. The hidden website is packed with criminals who purchase and sell stolen personal data. If your data is stolen, you can experience spam attacks. But most of these data thefts try to steal sensitive information, such as your credit card or personal information to commit identity theft.

3. Exposure to Inappropriate Material

Another risk especially for children and teenagers are exposure to inappropriate materials that are sexual, hateful, or violent. The chance and probability for children to look at anything inappropriate rely on how much they do online as they get more active online at a younger age. Whether it's a free-time graphic pop-up commercial, children's cartoon characters in adult circumstances or a self-harm forum, an innocent search might expose these children to contents that make them feel puzzled and angry. Some of the inappropriate content includes pornographic material, content containing swearing, sites that encourage racism, violence, terrorism, or even suicide, sexism sites, or gambling sites, and so on.

Based on my own experiences, here are some tips I would like to share to you to look after your privacy and secure your internet safety:

1. Keep your software up-to-date

Not only will you get a better program experience, but you will also be able to iron out your security issues. But the reason why you must keep it updated is that hackers are fast enough to become aware of certain software’s vulnerabilities, thus could harm your computer system and personal data. If you avoid doing these updates, you are bound to face persistent bugs, data loss, malware infection, and of course security issues.

2. Update your passwords

Why do we need to constantly change our passwords? So that we can reduce the risk of other people having access to our accounts, thus corrupt our personal data. Using strong passwords is necessary for us to prove our identity in our accounts, websites, or our computer itself (Wright, 2021). My tip in creating passwords is random characters with a symbol, number, and at least one capital letter. The reason for this is that using weak passwords, such as patterns of letters and numbers, or simply your name and some important date you know can cause hackers to guess and open your account, hence impersonate you to commit fraud and other crimes.

3. Use two-factor authorization

Familiar with this term? Yes, a two-factor authorization (2FA) is an extra step to keep your accounts more secure and avoid getting hacked by others. One of the most common 2FA methods is one-time codes sent through SMS or email, authenticator apps such as Google Authenticator, and security keys such as U2F tokens (Drozhzhin, 2018). This one for me is the best 2FA authorization because only your private key will confirm your login. If someone will try to log in to your account with the wrong security key, they will not be granted access to your account. So, there you go. A series of two-factor authorizations that will secure your accounts the best way possible. You’re welcome!

4. Be careful what you click on

Have you heard of phishers? They are attackers that send a fraudulent message designed to trick and victimize us into revealing sensitive information to them. As scary as it sounds, we need to be aware of what we click on to avoid experiencing this. Phishing is usually done in an email when they get your email address from somewhere. These phishers try to create a fake website to trick you into typing in your personal information. It’s much easier for them to hack our accounts this way. To avoid this, you can check the URL’s legitimacy by using the Google Transparency Report or simply avoid suspicious emails which require your personal information. Think before you click!

5. Back-up your data

Data back-up and recovery has many advantages. Some of these are protecting and saving your data, provides ease of management, ensures accurate information of your data, quick access to data, scalability, and such (Becker, 2021). There are many other ways to back up your data, but here’s a simple way to manually back up your data in your phone is to open your phone’s settings app, tap system and click backup or search backup in your settings app, then tap back-up now. It’s that simple.

6. Set up notifications for your most important bank accounts

As online bank account holders, it is our responsibility to making sure our accounts are protected. Online accounts are one of the easy targets of hackers to whisk away our money with just a couple of keystrokes. To safeguard our online banking, we may choose an industrial-standard security bank or credit union that utilizes text or e-mail warnings avoids the use of public Wi-Fi access and periodically changes your password.

7. Protect your personal information

This might be difficult for those who like to express themselves on social media, but we must protect our personal identity to avoid any sort of online threats. To protect our identity, we must limit the amount of personal information we share or provide. We shouldn't share or provide this information online: exact home address, your place and schedules of classes or work, birthday, cellphone number, and most importantly our passwords or account information. Another tip is to write down in a small notebook all your passwords and keep them safe in a secure place away from your computer.

8. Use parental controls and stay present

With the pandemic going on right now, parents should be extra careful of what their children see and hear about themselves and who they encounter on the internet. To protect your children from internet risks, talk to them frequently, utilize tools to safeguard them and watch out for their work. Monitor the time of your child, especially the younger ones, about when and how long they stay online. Keep your computer at a central location in your house, where it's easy to watch what your children do and look at online. You may configure them for mobile devices to forget Wi-Fi passcodes for your kids not to go online without knowledge. Review privacy and location settings, parental control and use secure browsers, apps, search engines and YouTube search settings. Lastly, limit camera and video to prevent your children from accidentally taking photos or videos of themselves or others.

The internet does not usually hurt us unless we react to suspect material and websites. The first reason you don't know what you're doing is because of internet damage. Secondly, you may react or click on links such as appealing advertisements, infected software and communications when you have other forces. To ensure internet safety, just remember those tips above and these three things: secure your network, be responsible, and make the internet child-safe.

References:

Becker, D. (2021). 6 Advantages of Data Backup and Recovery. IT Central Station. Retrieved from https://www.itcentralstation.com/articles/6-advantages-of-data-backup-and-recovery

Drozhzhin, A. (2018). SMS-based two-factor authentication is not safe — consider these alternative 2FA methods instead. Kaspersky Daily. Retrieved from https://www.kaspersky.com/blog/2fa-practical-guide/24219/

Wright, J. (2021). Why Is it Important to Change Your Password? Small Business Chron. Retrieved from https://smallbusiness.chron.com/

Online bullying remains prevalent in the Philippines, other countries (2019). Unicef Philippines. Retrieved from https://www.unicef.org/philippines/press-releases/online-bullying-remains-prevalent-philippines-other-countries

25 Best Internet Safety Tips for Every Situation (2021). The Neeva Team. Retrieved from https://neeva.com/learn/25-best-internet-safety-tips-for-every-situation