#with the music gaining momentum as well

[too-many-fandoms-tbh]

LATE NIGHT SKATE NIGHT

PERCY JACKSON SMUT

(percy x fem!reader)

warnings : sex, p in v, oral fem!receiving, multiple orgasms, dirty talk, car sex, rivalry, porn without plot tbh

she knew it was late, but after a long day at work, y/n couldn't help but go to the skatepark. if luck was on her side, she'd get the park to herself. it usually wasn't all that busy, especially after sunset on a wednesday night.

she pulled into the parking lot nearby, grabbing her skateboard from the trunk and locking her mini-van. sure, it was a lame car, but she had gotten it when she moved out since it had so much space.

grabbing her skateboard, y/n jogged into the park. by the looks of the empty parking lot, she'd expected it to be, you know, empty, but there was still someone inside. upon further inspection, she realized just who it was.

percy jackson. he had been a pain in her ass ever since she moved here last year. they were rivals in the skating world, constantly trying to one up each other. to make matters even worse, he lived right next to her at their apartment complex, so there was no avoiding him and the blaring music he listened to.

he hadn't noticed her yet, too busy off in his own world. she stood at the edge of the large bowl, watching him skate from side to side before eventually spotting her. he gained enough momentum to shoot up a smaller section of the bowl and pulled himself back onto the concrete.

"enjoying the show, eh?" he mocked. "you could learn some tips from me."

she turned to glare at him. "don't flatter yourself, jackson. i'm only here to skate. it's not my fault you don't have a life."

"fine," his smirk didn't fall. "but don't get mad when i'm better than you."

she flipped him off, leading percy to childishly stick his tongue out at her in response. since the bowl was so big, consisting of multiple different drop-off points, the two managed to keep their distance pretty well. even then, they'd often pass each other in the center, sending increasingly more angry glares each time.

at one point, y/n shoved percy's arm when they passed each other. he didn't fall immediately, but the disturbance to his balance distracted him enough that he crashed into a nearby wall.

y/n smirked as she watched him fall. the tension between the two kept growing as they continued skating. it wasn't even a minute later that percy tried to return the favor.

they passed each other in the middle, and percy shoved y/n's arm. he seemed to forget how much stronger he was than her, because he did a lot more damage to her than she did to him.

"you asshole!" y/n shrieked. she grabbed onto percy's arm to try and stabilize herself, but since they were heading opposite directions, the two crashed onto the concrete.

y/n landed on her back, wincing as her head hit the concrete. their skateboards went rolling away as percy crashed on top of her.

panting, percy planted his hands on the ground and pushed himself up. their legs were still tangled together, and y/n could feel his hips brushing against hers. he hovered over her, the both of them panting as they looked at each other.

"shit, you alright?" percy asked. shifting his weight to his left arm, he cradled the back of her head with his right hand.

y/n was frozen under him, her eyes clouding with lust as she stared up at him. she could feel his warm breath tickling her nose, sending the fresh scent of mint radiating through her nostrils.

she blinked as she remember his initial question. "mhm," she barely managed to squeak out.

both of their chests were heaving as the two stared at each other. suddenly, before they had even realized, their lips connected.

percy brought y/n cradled head closer to him, the veins in his left arm popping out from supporting him for this long. without breaking the kiss, he slowly pulled his hand out from under her.

still hovering over her, percy pulled away to catch his breath. "you sure you didn't hit your head?" he murmured.

y/n gaped up at him. "positive."

shifting his weight to his knees, percy's hands ventured to y/n waist. with a tight grip, he flipped the two over. y/n gasped as she now found herself on top of percy.

using her shock, percy slipped his tongue into her mouth. the two fought for dominance as y/n shifted, moving her knees to so that she was now straddling his hips. sliding her hand down his chest, y/n suddenly palmed percy through his jeans.

percy bucked his hips up with a groan. y/n smirked, now taking over dominance in the kiss. taking advantage of his now free hands, percy got his revenge. he slipped both of his hands between their bodies, gripping each of her breasts tightly through her shirt.

the wetness pooling between her legs mixed with the feeling of percy's hardness against her clothed crotch was driving y/n insane. desperate for any sort of friction, she rutted her hips against him.

a couple minutes later and the two were going mad. there was only so much making out, fully clothed, groping and grinding on each other, that two young-adults could take.

y/n pushed herself up on her arms like percy had done earlier, causing percy to detach his lips from her neck with a wet pop. he brushed her hairs out of his face, looking up at her with lust-filled confusion and concern.

"can we take this someplace else?" she murmured.

"your car?" percy suggested.

"please."

together, they scrambled out of the bowl. barely remembering their skateboards, the two raced to the car.

y/n won, unlocking her car and opening the back door. it was only now that she remembered she had put the back seats down, meaning the entire back of the car, trunk and all, was empty for them.

she climbed inside, percy quick on her heels. by the time he had shut the door, y/n had already tore her shirt off. percy turned and his breath caught in his throat at the sight of her full breasts, which were still enclosed in a navy blue bra.

"eager are we?" percy teased once he got over his initial awe.

"oh shut up." y/n grabbed the bottom of his sweatshirt, yanking aggressively up. from where he was sat on his knees, percy choked on his breath. he helped her take it off, only for her to find out he had a t-shirt on underneath.

"why are you wearing so many layers?" she huffed annoyedly. before she could reach out, percy tore his t-shirt off as well. she immediately closed her mouth, freezing when muscles she didn't even know he had were suddenly on full display.

"and why are you so judgey?" he asked back. before she could respond, percy leaned forward. he grabbed her wrists, pinning them to the floor above her head. she gasped, falling on the floor and lying on her back. percy crawled forward, using his left knee to part her legs.

she squirmed under him, unable to free her hands. "and why are you so strong?" she complained, grinding her clothed crotch against his knee.

percy grinned, leaning down and pressing peppering kisses down her jawline. y/n continued to grind against his knee, letting out a shocked moan when percy's lips found the sweet spot on her neck.

his lips moved down her neck, his free hand toying carelessly with the waistband of her leggings. his lips slowly trailed across her collarbone, leaving gentle hickeys across the skin, until his lips reached her bra, at which point he frowned.

y/n struggled under his grip. "if you let me have my damn hands," she sassed. "then i could take it off."

with a roll of his eyes, percy let go of her wrists. she smirked in triumph, sitting up long enough to unclip her bra and slide the straps off of her shoulders. whilst she did so, percy grabbed his discarded sweatshirt off of the floor and slid it under her head like a cushion.

the second her breasts were exposed, percy groaned. his tongue swirled around her  nipple, sucking on the supple skin. he softly bit at her hardened bud, eliciting a low moan from her mouth.

when he got done giving each breasts equal attention, which only worked her up even more, percy left soft kitten licks down her stomach. y/n could tell he was hard based off of the way his dick strained in his jeans, but it seemed that making her writhe under him was more important to him than taking care of his own needs.

deciding he'd teased her enough, percy's calloused fingers ran softly across her hips and under the waistband of her leggings. after double checking that he had her consent, percy swiftly pulled her pants and underwear down at the same time. she lifted her hips up, craning her neck to watch percy shuffle backwards.

when the sudden cool air hit her bare pussy, y/n felt herself squeeze around nothing. she closed her legs, pressing her thighs tightly together.

percy tsked at her. he grabbed her knees, forcing her legs apart. when he saw the arousal dripping out from her, he gulped.

"shit, y/n," he practically growled. she tried to close her legs again out of embarrassment, but he held them open. "if i'd have known you'd look like this for me, i'd have crashed into you a long time ago."

"shut up," she sat back on her elbows. "put that mouth to good use before i fuck it myself." logically, her words didn't make sense, but they did the trick.

"someone's feisty," percy teased, lying down on his stomach in front of her. "but since you asked so nicely..."

he licked one long strip across her folds and y/n could've sworn she screamed. she went to close her legs around his head, but his arms wrapped around her thighs and forced them apart yet again. his tongue dipped inside her, twisting and flexing until she was desperate for more. his nose tickled her clit, causing her to try and pull him impossibly closer.

she'd received head before, but never before did it feel so good. it was as if he never even had to come up for breath.

y/n gripped his hair tightly, yanking on the messy waves. she felt one of his arms untangle from under her thigh, and before she knew what he was doing, percy inserted a finger inside of her.

she clenched around his finger and percy laughed, sending vibrations shocking through her cunt. his tongue moved from her hole and to her clit, swirling figure-eights over the bundled nerves.

he inserted a second finger, alternating between scissoring them and pumping them in and out. his tongue still swirled her clit, sometimes fully sucking on it and other times just teasing her.

she could feel herself getting closer, her whines and pants getting louder as she tried to buck her hips up. percy laughed again, only turning her on even more, and looked up at her.

the feeling of him softly nipping at her clit mixed with his piercing eyes looking up at her made y/n snap. she threw her head back, suddenly thankful for the sweatshirt-pillow percy gave her. she felt herself unravel, embarrassingly loud moans falling from her lips.

percy rode her through her orgasm, his tongue lapping up her juices before they could hit the car floor. when she finally relaxed, he pulled away. y/n gasped at the sudden cool emptiness, closing her legs as soon as he pulled away.

percy crawled up her body, hovering over her and pulling her into another long kiss. she could taste herself on his tongue. whilst they were kissing, y/n reached down, blindly fumbling with his jeans. she managed to unbutton and unzip the fabric without breaking the kiss.

percy pulled and sat up, shuffling both his jeans and boxers down his hips and taking them off completely. y/n's eyes widened as his dick sprung free. it looked almost painfully hard, with precum coating the tip.

she crawled up to sit on her knees, preparing to return the favor, but percy shook his head. "no, no. that's sweet, but i need to be inside you right fucking now."

y/n nodded with a gulp. she had never been one to submit, but here she was, looking up at him with wide eyes as she waited for him to do something.

instead of touching her like she'd expected, percy backed away. he sat on the floor with his back to the drivers seat, leaning against it for support. his dick stuck up, long and thick, near his stomach. he fished a condom out of his jean pockets, ripping open the package and sliding it on himself.

"come here," he invited. y/n crawled towards him, not even caring if he'd tease her for her eagerness later. "i want you to ride me."

y/n crawled on his lap, straddling his thigh and ignoring his dick. she brought her fingers up to his hair, giving a few strands a playful tug. "you want me to, yeah?" she'd composed herself enough to get her attitude back.

percy glared at her, his hands running roughly up and down her waist. "i can feel you dripping down my thigh," he said through grit teeth. "so just get on my fucking dick."

"wow," y/n shook her head with a laugh. she then remembered what he'd said to her minutes ago. "since you asked so nicely..."

she lifted herself up, positioning percy's dick under her cunt. making direct eye contact, she slowly lowered herself onto him.

they both moaned, y/n throwing her head back so hard her neck cracked. "fuck," she panted out. "you're so big."

percy let out a shaky exhale when she slowly circled her hips, trying to adjust to his size. "yeah? you're- shit- you're so tight." he rebutted. he was quite literally inside of her, and yet the two still managed to keep up their snarky comebacks.

slowly, y/n lifted herself up. when only the tip was left inside of her, she dropped back down with a moan. percy's hands explored her body, running over each and every of her curves. his hands wrapped around her body and cupped her ass, grasping it as if his life depended on it. he helped her bounce up and down, his hands eventually moving to her breasts, which were bouncing right in his face.

"holy fuck.." he muttered as he watched her. she'd always been beautiful, that much was undeniable, but seeing this side of her was something brand new.

y/n continued to bounce up and down, sweat building on her forehead from the effort. eventually, she slowed down, and percy's hands gripped her hips. he helped to guide her, watching as her movements got sloppier and her moans louder.

she was nearing her climax when percy lifted her off of him. she landed lazily on the the floor next to him, a vicious glare in her hazy eyes.

"the fuck was that for?" she demanded.

percy shifted so that he was kneeling. "as hot as that was, i've gotta move. lay on your stomach, ass up."

"excuse me?" she said, though she couldn't deny the fact that she was incredibly turned on. in all of her other one night stands, she'd been the dominant one, and so percy bossing her around was something completely new. it's safe to say it was a pleasant new.

"you heard me."

y/n rose her eyebrows. "make me."

percy laughed darkly, though it was almost a moan. in the dim lighting from outside, y/n saw his dick twitch. "you don't wanna do this." he said.

"oh but i do."

the two had an angrily stare down before percy moved towards her. swiftly, he grabbed her neck. she thought he may choke her, but instead, he roughly shoved her down. she fell on her stomach, her head landing safely on the makeshift sweatshirt-pillow.

"what are you-" her words got cut off when he grabbed her thighs and pulled upwards. she pulled her knees closer to her chest, leaving her pussy and ass on full display for percy.

"oh fuck," percy exhaled, running his hands over her ass. y/n turned her head to glance back at him, her cheek pressingly comfortably into the sweatshirt.

"well?" she demanded. "you wanted this, now fuck me."

"let me know if i'm too rough." percy told her. before she could respond, he suddenly pushed into her. y/n choked out a strangled moan, her fingers scraping the the rough carpet of the car in search of something to ground her.

percy was relentless. he held her hips, thrusting fast, deep, and hard into her. the whole car was shaking at this point, and y/n was thankful she didn't have to hold herself up, because she was pretty sure her arms would've collapsed by now.

his thrusts got sloppier as percy neared his climax. y/n was close too, her uncontrollable moans an obvious sign of that. when percy reached down to fiddle with her overly-sensitive clit, she knew she would break.

she clenched around percy, letting out a sputtering moan as she came. the feeling of her squeezing around him was enough to send percy over the edge. together, the two climaxed, both moaning messes.

percy slowed his thrusts before eventually pulling out. the second he let go of her hips, y/n's legs fell limp. percy took off the full condom and tied it off, setting it in an empty walmart bag he found on the otherwise clean floor. at the same time, y/n rolled onto her back, her chest heaving as she worked to get over her post-orgasm shock. normally, she was fine after sex, but it was different with percy. everything was different with him.

"you good?" percy asked, lying on his back next to her.

"good is one way to put it," y/n mumbled. "you?"

percy turned his head to look at her, only to find she was already looking at him. "good. we should do this again some time."

"yeah?" y/n looked up to him with a hopeful smile. "but maybe next time with a bed."

as she spoke, she sat up, rubbing her back softly. she'd gotten rug burn from how much she'd squirmed around when percy was eating her out.

percy laughed, sitting up as well. he reached around the trunk, collecting all of their discarded clothing items. "speaking of beds," he spoke. "you think i could get a ride home?"

y/n smiled at him, grabbing her clothes and slowly slipping on her thong. "yeah, of course."

the two got dressed and percy opened the door, stepping out into the crisp night air. he held the door for y/n, who almost immediately fell over. she thought she'd be fine by now, but her legs were still a shaking mess.

"on second though," she stumbled towards the passenger seat with a giggle. "why don't you drive?"

[hotvintagepoll]

hotvintagepoll Hot Men Tournament rundown thoughts

I promised a final recap post and here it is! I'll try to cover the questions I saw the most as we closed out the bracket, reveal my ✨secret faves✨, and talk about the biggest surprises and turnarounds I saw in the brackets.

Yes, this will get silly.

ROUND 1

As I've mentioned before, I worked off submissions for who to include in the bracket, so if your fave was missing—that's why. I used submitted pics when I could, but many submissions didn't have one, so I tried to find decent ones in the couple of days I had to prep the first round (I didn't always succeed). By decent, I mean pics where 1) I could see the hot man's face, so not too much moody lighting, and 2) hopefully conveyed something about his vibe, even if it was a funny thing (yes, I showed Howard Keel in full Shakespeare get-up—I'm not beyond putting up a pic because I think it's funny). I didn't know all of these hotties going in, so some I had to guess with, but when I could I tried to pick shots that had a touch of the humor, class, or genre of the hot man.

For Round 1 and Round 2, I grouped the hotties by each decade, so only '60s actors ran against '60s actors, '50s against '50s, etc. Male beauty standards shifted pretty dramatically over the sixty years this tournament covers, and I didn't think it was fair to pit dramatically different styles of beauty against each other immediately.

I pitted hot men against each other based on opposing energies—hot vs cold, elegant vs rough, comedy vs drama, etc.. I wanted the polls to be interesting and I've never liked brackets where everyone is clearly in different "lanes" until the finals! I also wanted to make polls where I couldn't tell which way they would swing, so by setting matchups that felt opposite but equal, I got to be surprised by the bracket results too.

The only reason we had any three-way matchups is because the amount of men submitted didn't round to a nice bracket number. I don't like them generally and find them really hard to balance.

Secret faves from Round 1—I am a James Coburn girlie and knew he would die immediately, so that was not a shock but a bummer. I similarly knew Robert Preston is only magical to people who have seen him do His Little Dance Routines in That One Iowa Musical, but it would have been nice for him to last longer.

Surprises—Jeremy Brett was a last-minute add and I didn't think he really had a shot, so I put him in as a third wheel on the Sean Connery/Dean Martin matchup. Little did I count on the Granada girlies. (Always count on the Granada girlies.) The Elvis/Peter Falk poll was the first one to gain any momentum—Elvis was winning for the first 24 hours but then, my god, did Peter fight back. I didn't expect the Tab/Toshiro poll to make that bad a mincemeat out of Tab—people have different tastes, and I thought the people who like blonde sunny All American white boys might turn out for The Blonde Sunny All American White Boy. Sorry, Tab. I hope you've peeled yourself off the sidewalk by now. And, of course, I was SHOCKED and APPALLED that James Cagney would be obliterated by, of all people, Mr. Bing Crosby.

SHADOW BRACKET

The fervor of the Harold Lloyd and Fredric March people inspired the shadow bracket, and I couldn't be happier at the way it's gone. You were right, the original photos I had for them did suck. Cunty Harold Lloyd in his little life guard uniform was a revelation.

ROUND 2

For Round 2 I'd gotten a better sense of who was doing well and who was not, so a little of that came into play, but I mostly paired on vibes again. (I genuinely think this is a good way to make a fun, challenging bracket.)

Secret faves—Noooo not hot dilf Dick Van Dyke don't take my hot inventor dilf away uwu!!! (He was up against Marlon Brando. I would have been shocked if he'd won but for a minute there, a glorious second, it was possible.) I am also a big old softie for David Niven's particular brand of repression to the point of volcanic rupture, but he is one of many hotties who does not look good without moving and speaking so I figured he would be going.

So much beef—hey! hey you. I ran a poll asking if we are horny for dancers. Yes, was the resounding poll response. Where, then, did all the fucking dancers go? This round we lost Donald O'Connor, Fred Astaire, Harold Nicholas; Sammy Davis Jr., Danny Kaye, Frank Sinatra, and Bing Crosby all sneak into this category as well, by token of having been in the kind of big MGM bang-a-pan-and-put-on-a-show beloved bedlams we all watch at Christmastime. Round 2 voters HATED musical matchups. Except for one.

The one—SOUND OF MUSIC, the voters said, WE LOVE SOUND OF MUSIC. we will KILL the man responsible for salad dressing because of the SOUND OF MUSIC. every other dance man can die but THIS man dances a FOLK DANCE with JULIE ANDREWS in a GARDEN. I did not go into this poll with strong opinions about Christopher Plummer or Paul Newman but my god did I leave having heard all of them.

Surprises—James Edwards/Anthony Perkins matchup was a nail biter! Conrad vs Oscar kept me up at nights. Surprised to see Basil Rathbone survive against Sabu Dastagir—both very fetching, but Sabu had some top-tier propaganda. Cesar Romero put up a surprisingly stiff fight against Cary Grant (an omen for things to come).

Oh horrors—horror heroes surprisingly fell all over the place. I was sure either Bela Lugosi or Turhan Bey would sweep their three-way matchup, but Michael Redgrave of all people carried through; Boris Karloff went down against Johnny Weismuller (while holding hands with fellow fallen hottie Fred Astaire), but at least we got his guacamole recipe before he went. Delighted to see that the Venn diagram of the coalitions who support horror hero Vincent Price and funny lil guy Donald O'Connor is a circle.

Secret faves pt 2—oh yeah, I fucking love Danny Kaye and Donald O'Connor. RIP funny lil kings.

ROUND 3

For some reason this was the hardest one to make matchups for. Oh no, all the men are hot.

Secret faves—Michael Redgrave i love you SO much you're SUCH an idiot, how did you make it as far as round 3. I want you to sweep the whole thing but you should NOT be surviving this. I love you, here's a kiss, go home.

Surprises—Marlon Brando is gone! Errol Flynn is gone! Christopher Plummer exhausted himself beating the organic oreos man to death and goes out with a whimper. Beginning to actually see the roots of #mifunesweep as Tyrone Power, a hot man very different from Burt Lancaster, who was in turn very different from Tab Hunter, also gets swept under the wheels of the unbeatable toshirobus. Conrad Veidt finds that no amount of purring svelte eccentricity compares to the people who will fuck a young Lt. Columbo.

SHADOW BRACKET 2

Cannot believe it but Veidt loses this one too. Perkins sweeps and becomes Prince of the Shadow Realm!

ROUND 4

At this point I've set a formal bracket that I'm following.

Secret faves—this isn't secret anymore, but losing Jimmy Stewart hurt.

Surprises—The Gene Kelly/Jeremy Brett matchup was the diciest one all round, moving back and forth between the two by sometimes .01%. Far more surprising, however, was Cary Grant getting eliminated before the quarterfinals. Grant has never been my type, but he is famous for being THE type, so while the writing had been on the wall the whole tournament—how on earth did Michael Redgrave even get 36% in his matchup?!—seeing Grant go down was a SHOCKER. Other fallen hotties included Gregory Peck, James Dean, Harry Belafonte, and Sessue Hayakawa. Peter Falk finally met his match in Omar Sharif.

QUARTERFINALS

Secret faves—I don't know if it counts as a secret fave, tbh, as my horses in the race really went out with Stewart, but I do have a soft spot here worth mentioning. Here's my childhood dog, Keaton.

The resemblance is truly striking, and yes, he was short, fast, and not prone to smiling.

Surprises—I couldn't predict how any of these matchups would go down, but I was most interested in Keaton vs Sharif, as they are both SO hot in SUCH different ways.

SEMIFINALS:

This was such a good batch of semifinalist contestants. By this point I think we could all tell Mifune was unstoppable (though I thought Sharif might give him a run for his money), but I really didn't know which way Robeson vs Poitier would flip.

FINALS:

I wanted Sidney Poitier to pull a last-minute sweep out of nowhere, but alas, Toshiro is just THAT GOOD (maybe. I will admit that I find Toshiro's domination a little hard to believe, given the variety and hotness of all his competitors; the man is hot but all these men are hot). I'm still happy with how the tournament went.

FINAL MEDITATIONS:

Biggest shock of a dropout: the loss of Paul Newman

Biggest "you people have no taste": the loss of James Cagney

Biggest victory: Paul Robeson making it to the semifinals over often-assumed champion Gregory Peck

Biggest coalition who deserve justice: dancing men

Biggest ask character: vents anon (currently eating Laurence Olivier)

Biggest, uhh, anything: how many of you are here! I genuinely thought it would be me and 10 other people voting for the whole tournament. I'm thrilled it took off like this!

I think that's everything, but I'm happy to answer addl asks. And THANK YOU to everyone for your tags, rants, impassioned propaganda, beautiful pics, and love for the hot men! See you for the ladies!

[mustainegf]

IMAGINE CLEANING UP JAMES AFTER HE GOT IN A FIGHT W DAVE AND HES LIKE UPSET BECAUSE LIKE DAVE ALWAYS DOES THAT OR SMTH OMG😽😽

STOP OMG THIS IS SUCH A CUTE IDEA

𝐁𝐑𝐔𝐈𝐒𝐄𝐒 ¹⁹⁸²

I sat on the couch in the small living room in El Cerrito, flipping through a magazine that I had already read at least three times. I wasn't really paying much heed to the words. My mind kept drifting back to James.

He'd been spending more time with the band lately, and I knew it meant a lot to him. Metallica was starting to gain momentum, and while I could see the gleam in his eye when he spoke about their music, I could also see the strain. There was friction between him and Dave Mustaine, their lead guitarist. Dave could be volatile sometimes, a mess of anger and talent and booze. James had said more than once how it was like walking on eggshells around him.

I listened to the creak of the front door. First to step inside was James, followed by Ron, their bassist. But it was James that had my full attention. His face was a mess, blood trickling from a split lip, a darkening bruise setting across his cheek and eye, and a cut just above his eyebrow. He'd gone twelve rounds in a boxing ring by the look of him.

“Jesus, James, what happened?" I shot up from the couch.

"Nothing," he muttered, eyes flashing with anger. He winced, wiping his mouth off on the back of his hand, smearing the blood.

Ron let out a tired sigh, full of exasperation. "Dave. Again."

Irritation took hold of me. I hadn't expected this. I turned to James, still standing in the doorway, lost and furious all at the same time, mostly confused.

"Come on, let's get ya cleaned up," I said softer now. James didn't argue, which just told me how bad he was feeling.

We walked down the narrow hall toward the bathroom, and I flipped on the light. The harsh fluorescent bulb buzzed on, lighting up the tiny tiled room. I motioned that he take a seat on the edge of the tub. He sank down onto it slowly as if he were an old man whose bones ached from years of hard work.

I pulled a washcloth from the shelf and turned the tap, running the water warm. There was something in the air, something that was only ever there when James and I were alone. I dipped the cloth in, wrung it out, then hunched to my knees in front of him.

"This might sting a bit," I whispered, laying the cloth to the cut above his eyebrow.

He winced, but didn't pull away. Instead, he locked eyes with me, those beautiful, innocent blues. It was just us, his breath blending with mine, the sound of water dripping from the cloth, the warmth of his skin beneath my fingers.

"What happened, James?" I whispered. I was still looking at his injuries, saddened that James had become a punching bag or sorts for Dave. James was always shy, reserved, that just made him an easier target.

He was stuttering, his struggling to find their first move. "Dave's dog… it jumped up onto Ron's car, scratched the paint... I… I pushed it away. I didn't wanna hurt it or anything, but Dave… um well, you know how he is when he's had a few drinks."

I nodded, encouraging him to continue. I knew Dave could be a nasty drunk, but I needed to hear the rest.

"He just lost it. Swung at me before I even knew what was happening. And… I'm not a fighter, you know that. I didn't want to fight him, but fuck, I couldn't just stand there and take it either."

Guilt was overtaking his gaze. He was always the first to beat himself up over something, to take on blame that wasn't entirely his. That was one of the things I admired about him, his feeling, his empathy.

"I feel like shit," he muttered, his voice breaking just a little. "Not just cause of the fight, but… I shouldn't have shoved the dog. I didn't mean to hurt it."

"You were just trying to protect Ron's car," I said, moving the cloth to his split lip, dabbing away the dried blood. "Dave overreacted, and you know it. Yeah maybe you did something shitty, that doesn't give Dave the right to beat the living shit out of you." I scoff.

He let out a shaking breath and leaned into my contact, soaking into the cloth and leaving the shy young man he really was. "Maybe. But I hate this. All of it. The fighting, the... We're supposed to be makin' fuckin' music."

My heart broke for him. Beneath it all, feelings we had toward one another hovered just on the edge, begging to reach each other, to meet and forever bind.

"I know, James. I know." I continued to clean his wounds slowly. "You're trying your best. That's all anyone can ask."

"Thanks," he whispered finally. "For bein' here, you know..."

"Where else would I be?" I whispered, mainly in an attempt to lighten the moment, though it was obvious to anybody that my words were anything but casual. I couldn't fathom me being anywhere else at a time when he needed me.

When I was done, I rinsed the cloth and folded it neatly, placing it on the sink. I turned back to him an, before I could really think about was I was doing, I leaned over and placed a soft kiss on his bruised cheek, careful not to apply too much pressure to his wound.

The seconds stuck to our hearts, hardening like candy, a glaze to not be forgotten. His skin was warm beneath my lips, and I could feel the faint little indents of his acne scarring, something that I'd always found cute about him. When I pulled back, our eyes stuck once more. Maybe we weren't ready to put it into words yet, but it was there, tying us together, tightening.

"I'm here, James. I'll always be here," I murmured, knowing he would understand the underlying meaning.

[mirukokosana]

Thinking about DAD'SBESTFRIEND!PHILLIP GRAVES watching you grow up since child and stopped seeing you ever since you entered middle school.

GRAVES finally get to see you again after seven years, you were nineteen now and damn you really have grown up into a gorgeous woman.

GRAVES that can't maintain eye contact with you when you looked at him because they way you used to look at him was different from how you look at him now.

GRAVES who keep looking at you while you talk to your father whilst having him knowing what you have been up to.

GRAVES that can't keep his head clean with the way you cross your leg as you sit down on the couch. Your thighs tempting him.

GRAVES who has you pinned against the wall of your room as soon as he sees you walking into your room, closing the door and locked it. His hand over your mouth to make sure you don't shout or anything.

GRAVES that starting to whisper about his desire towards you while having his hand slowly going down to your hips and further down to your thighs.

YOU who can't resist his charm and the tension between the both of you and just let his hands do as they pleased and before you know it, you are in for a good time.

"Princess..." His moan muffled against your neck as he kisses you there while his cock is thrusting deep inside you, "Fuck... You're so small... so tight..." he groans. He remembers holding you in his arms when you were just a kid, small and adorable. Now, you are still small and adorable, but hot as well. One of his hands are holding your hand firmly yet he is trying his best not to make you uncomfortable by it.

You are overstimulated. His touches, his words, his kisses all of them are the cause of it. "Grav-" he cut you off with slamming himself into you roughly, earning a sweet, cute moan from you. You can hear him groaning again on your neck, he is biting down yet another mark on your neck. Not caring about how you are going to hide it.

"You are always a daddy's girl huh? Ngh... You are always close with your father, so spoiled, so greedy and very demanding... Hah... You can't be left alone without him or me around. Remember that?" He coos into your ear, trying to remind you of how much of a brat you were back then. He remembers how clingy you were, being an only child with your father raising you all by himself makes you spoiled and you yourself admit that.

However, you are no longer like that, at least not to Graves and he would like you be the same spoiled little princess he used to deal with. "I would love to shower you with love and affection once again, like how I used to when you were a kid." he whispers and then starts to pick up his pace.

It went from sweet and gentle sex to a harsh and rough one. He wants to push you over the edge, fucking you until you're shaking, filling you up until you can't take it anymore. He wants to destroy you and that is what he is doing. Your sweet moans filling his ears like a music, your nails clawing onto his back like a cat scratching a sofa. You bury your face into his neck and start to bite him as a way to hold your own moan, you are trying your best to not be loud but he doesn't seem to allow that.

He pounds on you so hard that you starting to bite his neck and left your own mark on him, receiving a moan from him, he fasten his pace even more. He is close and you are too, he knows it and of course, you are the first to release it followed by him right after.

Just as you thought he is finished, he starts moving again. His movements are sloppy as he tries to gain back his momentum. "Not yet princess. I am not done yet..." He said and before you could protest, worrying about your father finding out, he shut you up by kissing you on the lips and then pull away, "Just relax, princess, worry about everything else later, I will take care of it."

He might be a bit selfish now but that just because he wants to spoil his princess with love she deserves.

A/N: I'm telling you... I ACCIDENTALLY THINK OF "A GIRL AND HER GUARD DOG" WHEN I WROTE THE LAST PART AND I FELT WRONG- yes I'm more to anime fan so that explains the picture-

[artaxlivs]

Let Me Be Your Man (I want to hold your hand)

CW: none * Rating: Mature (frottage) * Pairing: Steve/Eddie * Prompt: Mixtape

“Okay! Okay! I’m coming!” Steve yells when the pounding on his door gains momentum to add to its volume. Grumbling, he peeks out the side window and sees one of the kid’s bikes thrown down in his lawn. Little assholes. 

When he yanks the door open, Mike Wheeler is just raising his fist to pound it against the door again. “I need your help.” His face is red and sweaty with exertion as he shoves past Steve into the house. 

Immediately, Steve reaches into the umbrella stand and pulls out the only thing in it - his nail bat. “What’s happening?” He asks, rounding toward Mike, “Why didn’t you radio or call? What is it? Vecna? Jocks? Where’s everyone else?”

Mike skids to a halt and stares at Steve incredulously. “What? No. Put your bat away, dumbass.” He rolls his eyes. “I need your help.”

Relaxing just a small amount, Steve lets the top of the bat rest on the entryway floor. He probably looks as confused as he feels. “What? Why are you saying it like that? What kind of help?”

Mike huffs, throws his hands up and spins on his heel, stalking into the kitchen. Before Steve follows, he counts to ten, puts his bat away and curses the day he started dating Nancy Wheeler. Always the goddamn babysitter.

At the breakfast counter, Mike is deflating, shoulders drooping in what looks like defeat, chin braced in one hand, elbow pressed against the cool tile. With the other hand he’s tracing the lines of grout between the tiles.

On a whim, Steve detours to the fridge, loading up his arms with the makings for sandwiches. Back at the counter, he pulls out four slices of Wonderbread. “So - what brings you to my door?” He shakes the mayo and Mike nods so he starts to slather it on two of the pieces. Mike nods again to the mustard so Steve slathers that on the other two. Giving Mike the time to gather his thoughts.

“Um, well…I, uh, I like someone.” Mike sighs, looking down at the tile where he’s still tracing the lines. 

Someone not a girl. Someone. Will. It’s gotta be Will. Steve has seen the way that they both look at each other when the other isn’t looking. He and Robin have talked about it, about which one to approach first to let them into their elite Hawkins Gay Club which currently has two members. Not one and a half, Robin. Being bisexual still means he’s a whole gay. Dang it.

“Cheese?” Steve asks, peeling his own out of the Kraft plastic wrap. When Mike nods, Steve pulls out a second one for him. “Turkey or ham?” He pops open both and proceeds to put both on his own sandwich.

“Both, please.” Mike says and then jumps down, well, steps down because his gangly legs are much longer now. He goes over and grabs the salt and pepper from the back of the stove lip and sprinkles some of each on his, raises an eyebrow and when Steve nods, he sprinkles them on Steve’s as well.

Fancy.

“You want lettuce and tomato?” Steve says, slicing his own. Mike does not, he does go into the pantry and grab a bag of chips though because the kids are way too comfortable in Steve’s house apparently. 

“I need your help making a mixtape.” Mike says as sits back down.

Steve frowns. “Why are you here for a mixtape and not at Eddie’s? He’s the music guy.” And really - that’s a no brainer.

Groaning, Mike flops his head down his folded arms on the counter, narrowly missing the bag of chips. “Eddie cannot be trusted to make mixtapes. I was there for four hours, Steve. FOUR HOURS. And all I got was a lesson on ‘real metal versus sell out metal.’” He groans again. “He was so excited to help me but then we just recorded an hour of Black Sabbath songs. W- this person doesn’t even like metal!”

“Well, you’ve come to the right place.” Steve gives Mike an encouraging smile as he cuts their sandwiches in half diagonally. Who cuts sandwiches across the middle? Vecna probably. Monster. “Mixtapes aren’t just about your favorite songs or even their favorite songs. It’s songs that you want to share with them and songs that remind you of them. And, of course, songs that tell them how you feel about them.” He plates both sandwiches and slides Mike’s across the bar. “It helps to know who the person is because mixtapes should be personalized but as long as you know their music, I can probably help you.”

Chewing the first bite slowly, Mike nods like he’s agreeing or gearing up to talk. Steve grabs them each a soda out of the fridge, sliding Mike’s over and taking the bag of chips. “My sister really loved the one you made for her. Well,” He reaches into the chip bag and pulls out a handful before pushing the bag toward Steve, “she still does actually. She plays it sometimes.”

Steve stops with his hand half inside the bag, “She does?”

“Yeaaaah.” Mike drags it out, putting a chip in his mouth but then talking around it. “She said it was the tape that made her realize she needed to break up with you.” Steve makes a little grunt of outrage but Mike pushes through, waving his hand to stop Steve from interrupting. “No, no, she loves that tape. Seriously. She said that listening to it made her realize that you’re the kind of guy who loves forever. But that you loved this girl she made up, she was pretending to be, even though she knew she’d never be that girl again…not after…you know.” He shrugs his bony shoulders and looks down at the counter again.

Without thinking about it, Steve’s eyes flick up to look out of the kitchen window where he can see the corner of the pool. He nods, saying dejectedly, “Yeah, I get that.” 

“And sometimes, when Jonathan is being Jonathan, she listens to it to remind her that you saw her as strong and brave - that’s what she said, strong and brave - before she even saw herself that way.” Mike opens his sandwich and puts down a layer of chips on top of the meat, squishing the top slice of bread back down before taking a bite. These kids are such weirdos. With his mouth full, he continues, “She said it reminds her that she doesn’t need Jonathon. Or any man. That she won’t settle for a life she doesn’t want. Not even for a guy like you.”

“Huh.” Steve replies, taking another bite of his own sandwich, chewing thoughtfully. “A guy like me?” 

Rolling his eyes, Mike makes a sound like he’s tasted something bad and says, “Yeah, don’t get a big head. You still suck.”

Steve snorts. The audacity of this kid is truly admirable. He’s still not sure that makes him feel better but Nancy deserves to get what she wants so he can be happy for her. Even if his tape is part of what drove her away. He shakes it off, though, “Okay, so what type of music does this person like?”

They spend the rest of the afternoon and well into the evening going through the tapes and albums Steve has and making a list of the ones that Mike has that he thinks might work. Then they pair them down to make an album that flows, “like a story” Steve tells him. The playlist has a song by Bowie because really every playlist should. One from The Smiths because Steve knows Will loves them even though he doesn’t mention that part to Mike. Mike picks the one metal song that Eddie suggested that he thought made sense, they all sound alike to Steve so he doesn’t pay attention to which one it is. The others are sprinkles of songs both boys have shared memories about.

“It’s really the last song that matters,” he tells Mike. “You’ve laid the groundwork for blending your stories together and that last song is the one you have to be brave with. The words matter. That’s the song where you say what you wanna say. Even if it’s the scariest thing you’ve ever done.”

Mike nods slowly, like he’s really focusing on the meaning behind Steve’s words.

The last song, after the Mike and Will songs, after it’s clear that this is a story of the two of them together , is “I Want to Hold Your Hand,” by the Beatles. It’s the only song like it on the whole tape so it stands out clearly. It’s a love song without being slow and romantic. It’s honest. And it says, “let me be your man.” So there are no wrong pronouns. Again, Steve doesn’t mention it. 

After running by the Wheeler’s to pick up a few of Mike’s tapes, they pull by the trailer park and Mike runs in to borrow the one that Eddie suggested. At the trailer door, Eddie looks over at Steve waiting in his car and gives him a head nod. Smiling fondly, Steve wonders if those two know how dorky they look in their matching Hellfire shirts and cut off jeans, if Eddie is aware that Mike is trying very hard to be as cool as he thinks Eddie is. Probably not. Eddie is pretty oblivious. 

Case in point, Steve’s been hitting on him for weeks with not a single sign that Eddie is aware of it at all.

Maybe Steve should make him a mixtape. He gives a little finger wave that Eddie returns, looking thoughtful as Mike lopes back to the car with his goofily long arms and legs flailing and throws himself into the passenger seat. Steve backs out and drives away, watching Eddie get smaller and smaller in the rearview.

Steve picks them up burgers on the way back to his house and then they lay on his floor next to his big fancy stereo, recording the songs in order, from tape to tape. When they get to the Beatles song, Steve makes an excuse about cleaning up the kitchen and leaves Mike with the tape insert and a pen. 

When he comes back, Mike’s folding a piece of notebook paper and tucking it inside the case as well. He must have had a lot to say. His eyes are a little red rimmed but Steve pretends not to notice of course.

In the Wheeler driveway, after he helps Mike dislodge his bike from where they half tucked it into the Bimmer trunk and just let the lid sit on it because it doesn’t actually fit all the way, Steve leans against the car with his arms and ankles crossed, trying to look as relaxed as he can. He wants to say something, let Mike know he’s a safe person to talk to. That they’re alike. He’s not sure how to without scaring him, though.

“Uh…thanks for this, man.” Mike snorts a laugh and gives that snotty side smile of his, “Maybe Dustin’s right about you.”

Steve grins, “Oh yeah?”

“Yeah.” He nods solemnly, “You don’t totally suck.” But then he grins back all cocksure like the almost sixteen year old that he is.

Scoffing, Steve kicks out and hits one of Mike’s bike tires with his shoe, “Thanks, asshole.” Pushing off the car, he starts to turn away but then, “Hey, if it’s who I think it is, you can talk to me - I…I get it. Understand?” He makes sure he catches Mike’s eye so the kid can’t look down and away like he usually does. Steve sees the flash of fear but it’s quickly replaced with hope, maybe even trust.

Mike just nods and Steve gets out of there before he embarrasses the poor kid again. On his drive home, he rolls the windows down, turns his car radio up too loud and sings along, uncaring that he’s probably out of tune. 

Steve’s been home for maybe an hour when someone knocks on his door again. There’s less noise this time but it’s still just solid pounding without giving him the chance to get to the door. Everyone he knows is an asshole apparently.

“Alright, alright, keep it in your–” He yanks open the door and finds Eddie standing there still wearing his ripped cutoffs and his Hellfire shirt. Well, the version two that he designed for the club when he handed it down after graduation. “-pants.”

Eddie smiles, sly and flirty, “You sure?”

Steve rolls his eyes, “What are you gonna do when I call your bluff someday?” Because although Steve has been honestly flirting with Eddie, Eddie’s just been over the top hitting on Steve with innuendos and double entendres that don’t mean anything serious. Well, Steve can’t tell if they mean anything serious at least.

Which is part of why Steve hasn’t at least tried to make a move.

“We’ll see when that day comes I guess.” Eddie leans in and taps on Steve’s chest with the tip of his pointer finger. “I made you something Big Boy.”

There’s a circle of burning fire in the spot where Eddie’s finger was. His touches always seem to leave flames in their wake. Steve wonders if Eddie feels them, too “Is it dinner? Because I already ate with Baby Wheeler.”

“Nope.” Eddie drags out the “p” making a popping sound. “Baby Wheeler mentioned you were helping him with his mixtape - said you were some kind of expert.”

Scratching the back of his neck, Steve nods, admitting, “I don’t know about expert. Sorry, though, didn’t mean to step on your toes.”

“No, no, it’s cool.” Eddie leans his shoulder against the door jamb which is weird because he’s usually pushed past Steve to make himself at home by this point. Or Steve has invited him in. But they’re just standing here in the open doorway. “Besides - Wheeler informed me that I suck at mixtapes. Something about telling a story and not shoving metal down people’s throats.”

Steve crosses his arms defensively, “Don’t take it personally. You’re great at dragon stories. Gotta leave something for the rest of us to be good at.” He’s looking down so he misses the expression that accompanies the scoff Eddie gives but it sounds exasperated.

“Well.” Eddie says, bringing Steve’s eyes back up to him as he pulls a cassette tape out of his vest pocket. “Anyway, here.”

It shouldn’t make him feel the way it does. But it does. Steve’s heart flutters and his stomach swoops and the finger that brushes Eddie’s as he takes the tape feels like it’s charged with lightning. He’s still not sure, though, it could be that kind or it could just be Eddie trying to prove that metal is the best.

Before he can stop himself, he asks, “You made me a mixtape?” And the hopefulness in his voice is as clear as day. But then it’s met with a look in Eddie’s eyes - fear, denial, like he wants to take it back, so Steve pivots, teasing, “Is it an hour of metal? Did you do a voice over?”

Rolling his eyes and stuffing his hands into his vest pockets, Eddie hisses, “No. Jerk.”

After a moment of indecision, Steve asks hesitantly, “Do you..do you wanna listen to it together?”

There’s fear in Eddie’s eyes again and he takes a wary step back, “Uh - no. No, that wouldn’t be a great idea.” He swings his arms, snapping and bringing the flat of one hand against the curled first of the other before pointing finger guns at Steve. It’s so horribly awkward that Steve is filled with hope again. “Uh, yeah, it’s, um, it’s just for you, man.” He’s clearly nervous and waves of anxious energy are almost rolling off of him as he spins and walks away, throwing a confident, “See ya Harrington!” over his shoulder but Steve’s not fooled at all. 

“Oh you will, Munson.” Steve calls after him, slow smile growing when Eddie’s shoulder’s visibly hunch before he leaps into his van and pulls away, tires practically squealing with the force of him gunning it. 

Huh. Interesting.

Closing the door, Steve goes over to the phone on the entryway table where he leaves his keys and Family Video vest every night. He dials and after two rings, Robin picks up, “Thank you for calling Family-oh damn it, I mean, hello?”

“You’re such a mess.” Steve snorts.

“Fuck you Harrington, you’re such a mess!” She whisper shouts, because if her dad hears her cussing, she'll be grounded until she leaves for college.

“I didn’t say I wasn’t.” Steve assures her. “But listen - Mike came over earlier–”

“Mike?!” She actually shouts this time. “Is there a Code Red? What happened? Why didn’t you call me?” There’s the distinct sound of her rolling off of her bed and scrambling for shoes or clothes.

“Calm down, you ninny.” He sighs. “We are scarily alike.”

“Duh.” Then she makes an oof sound as she flops back onto her bed.

“I thought the same thing because when does Mike ever willingly talk to me?” 

“Like, never. Unless it’s to make fun of you – ohhh wait, did he come to talk about Will?” She squees. “Did the baby gay come to get advice from his babysitter?”

Steve laughs, switching the phone to his other ear and sitting down on the carpeted stairs. He should have made this call from his bedroom where he could have laid on his bed, too late now. “Sort of? He asked for my help making a mixtape for ‘someone’ but didn’t tell me who and I didn’t out him by asking but when I dropped him off at home, I hinted that I knew and he could talk to me.”

“Ohhhh Steve, that’s so adorable. If I remotely liked any of your children, I’d be touched.” She straight out lies because they all know she adores Max like a little partner in crime. “Why you though? Why not Eddie?”

“That’s what I said!” He laughs and then dives into telling her the whole story. Eddie’s metal sell out lesson, the hours of pouring over music, Nancy’s love of his mixtape that he made for her back in high school. She comments and laughs at all the right places because they are of one mind, as always. Then though, then, he drops the bomb.

“So, the reason I’m calling is because Eddie showed up at my door. With a mixtape. For me. And he declined my offer to listen to it together.” Steve twists the cord around his finger, waiting until the skin turns red before unwinding it.

“Oh my god! What’s on it?” She shouts, “And why didn’t you lead with that?”

“I don’t know what’s on it. I haven’t listened to it yet.”

“Why not, you dingus?!” Robin screeches then she adds in a subdued tone, “Do you think…?” 

In an equally subdued tone he replies, “I don’t know. I think that’s why I called you first. I’m a little scared to get my hopes up.”

She makes a little noise of agreement. She’s been there.

“And I just…I’m not his type at all. And I know that. But he’s so…” Steve sighs and lays back on the stairs awkwardly, it’s not comfortable at all but it’s keeping him focused. “He’s loud and brash and annoying and I like that because I’m not. But he’s also sweet and squishy and brave and so fucking funny. Argh.”

“And you already got your hopes up when he dropped it off and you don’t want to be disappointed?” Robin asks gently because she really does know him so well.

“Yeah,” he tells her in a hushed voice. “His face when he handed it over, Rob. He was nervous. And then he practically ran away.”

“Well, idiot, you won’t know until you listen.” She says matter-of-factly and he can almost hear her brushing off her hands and standing up. “Buck up. You want me to come over and listen to it with you?”

“Nah. I want to hear it the first time on my own.” That way he can cry before he has to face her if that’s where this is going. “I’ll call you if I need you, though, k?”

“You know I’m always here for you.”

He does.

After they hang up, Steve doesn’t waste anymore time. He doesn’t want to give himself any time to think so he heads into the living room and pops it into the tape deck he and Mike had just recorded ‘someone’s’ tape on. Laying back on the floor he lets the first song play. 

He doesn’t recognize the first chords but the recording itself is kinda fuzzy, like it’s a live version of something. It’s an acoustic guitar, slow but building. When the voice comes in, Steve sits up and turns toward the speaker. It’s Eddie.

I was always trapped. Drowning in this small town, Dragged down by small minds To the bottom of the lake. Spent most of my days  on the run from myself. Running from the me I wasn’t ready to be. Trapped in this small town  with these small minds. That is, until you. Until there was you. You stood your ground. Stood up for mine, too. And I never ran as fast  as I did to you.

There’s a guitar break. It’s beautiful, simple, a slow melody that builds with Eddie’s voice almost trembling when it comes back in.

You’re the boy The boy who stops the world. Stops it from spinning Out of my reach. I want to run to you. But we’re stuck in this town With these small minds, That drag us down. I just wanna be free Free to love you. I only wanna run If you’ll catch me.  In this small town In this small town

The song fades out and there’s the sound of Eddie’s breathing, it catches like he’s going to say something but then exhales and the recording clicks off. Steve speeds through the tape and flips it over and does the same to the other side. The rest of it is empty. He plays the song again. Listening with his eyes closed this time.

Then he jumps up, ejects the tape, grabs his keys and fumbles with the lock on the way out. He doesn’t let himself think. Just plays the song over and over for the fifteen minute drive to the trailer park. All the lights in the trailer are on and the music in Eddie’s room is blaring loud enough that Steve can hear it in his car with his own music still on.

He still doesn’t stop to think, just rushes out of the car and up the steps to pound on the door and when Eddie opens it with wide eyes and a healthy dose of fear on his face, Steve thinks for a second that he should say something, confirm that it’s a song written for him - about them both - but he can’t. Or he’ll chicken out. 

So, instead, he just steps into the trailer, forcing Eddie to take a step back, pushes the door shut behind him and whispers, “Too many small minds out there.” And kisses Eddie. 

It’s a good kiss too. Steve cradles Eddie’s head and tilts him just enough that he can get the perfect angle to …what’s the word in all those trashy books? Ravish. Steve ravishes Eddie’s mouth. It’s not sweet, it’s desperate and filled with need and when he finally lets go, Eddie’ lips are swollen and kiss bitten.

“I hope that song was telling me you like me or this is going to be a very awkward conversation.” Steve says when Eddie’s eyes flutter open.

“I’d have made you a whole mixtape but Wheeler told me this afternoon that the final song is the one that really matters.” Eddie grins then, wide and impish, swooping in to catch Steve’s mouth with his own. When he comes up for air, he whispers, “Besides, where was I gonna get an hour of ABBA songs?”

Growling, Steve walks Eddie backwards until the backs of his knees hit the couch and he sits. “I’m more of a Springsteen fan, actually.” He says as he climbs into Eddie’s lap and swoops down for a kiss.

It’s frenzied and graceless, like the two desperate kids they still are. Neither of them old enough to buy a six pack of beer and both overflowing with the sexual tension they’ve built up between them. Steve can’t seem to stop kissing Eddie long enough to do anything more than grind himself down against Eddie’s lap. 

Luckily, Steve’s been in his old basketball shorts all day and Eddie changed into sweats sometime after he’d gotten home so there’s nothing but a few layers of cotton between their rock hard boners. 

Jesus, it feels like the first time Steve dry humped with some girl back in freshman year. But like, a thousand times better. Not just because they both have dicks but because it’s Eddie .

He rolls his hips, brushing their aforementioned dicks together and swallows Eddie’s groan. Eddie’s hands are on Steve’s hips, guiding him as he rolls them, flexing his hands around the softness there. When Steve moans into Eddie’s mouth, Eddie’s hands slip around and squeeze his ass, cupping it and helping him press their laps together. One of them whines as their dicks slot together just right and they both thrust against each other. 

“Stevie, fuck. Yes,” Eddie swears, “Don’t stop, please don’t stop.” Then his tongue is back in Steve’s mouth, sliding along Steve’s, sucking on his bottom lip. He licks and nips and bites his way down Steve’s throat, probably leaving bruises and Steve should care about that but he doesn’t.

“Eddie, Eddie - I need,” It’s too fast, Steve knows he can last so much longer than this but he can’t seem to slow down. “Oh, god.”

“What, Stevie?” Eddie manages between grunts as they rut against each other desperately, “What do you need?”

Oh god, he’s almost there, Steve feels the warmth pooling in his belly, the muscles in his legs straining, the droplets of precome sticking to his underwear and Eddie’s hard cock pushing against the length of his own as he cries, “You, fuck, just you.” And then he comes, arching and fucking against Eddie. One hand buried in the hair at Eddie’s nape and the other digging his fingernails into Eddie’s shoulder.

Eddie pulls Steve tight to his chest, one hand around his back, holding Steve close while he comes. Eddie’s still thrusting against Steve, rolling and pressing with his hips until he, too, arches and comes with a hoarse shout.

When Eddie relaxes back against the couch, Steve collapses in his lap, head resting on Eddie's shoulder, breath hot against his collarbone. Both fucked out and exhausted.

Minutes later, once the aftershocks have subsided for both of them and Steve’s sweaty forehead is pressed into the side of Eddie’s sweaty neck, Steve admits, “Fine, I like ABBA but who doesn’t? Those songs are catchy.”

Eddie snorts a laugh out. Then, it's a little gross, but they both start laughing and have to peel their damp crotches away from each other. Totally worth it, though, when Eddie brings Steve's hand up to his mouth, kissing the palm before he threads their fingers together so he can hold Steve's hand.

Thanks to @thefreakandthehair for hosting this challenge! It was super fun and I'm so glad I actually made it in under the deadline. Skin of my teeth!

Here's the Ao3 link if you want to drop me some love there - comments make my brain buzz and I'd love to hear your thoughts on the perfect Mike/Will or Steve/Eddie mixtape playlist!

[songbirdseung]

fans shipping you both / txt

yeonjun

Y/N, a popular idol from a well-known group, attends a music award show where TXT's Yeonjun is also present.

Fans notice the chemistry between Y/N and Yeonjun during a collaboration stage, sparking the first whispers of a potential ship.

Social media explodes with GIFs and screenshots of Y/N and Yeonjun's interactions, with fans dissecting every glance and smile.

Y/N and Yeonjun are interviewed together, and their playful banter fuels the shipping frenzy even more.

Fans start creating fan art and fan fiction, depicting Y/N and Yeonjun in various romantic scenarios, further solidifying the ship in the fandom.

Y/N and Yeonjun's social media accounts are flooded with ship-related comments, emojis, and hashtags, creating a playful atmosphere between the two fandoms.

Y/N acknowledges the ship during a live broadcast, laughing off the rumors but appreciating the fans' creativity.

Yeonjun, in a separate interview, playfully responds to questions about the ship, adding fuel to the fire with his charming and supportive comments.

The ship becomes a running joke among both fanbases, leading to collaborative projects between the two fandoms to support Y/N and TXT's joint activities.

Y/N and Yeonjun continue to interact at events, further cultivating the ship dynamic and keeping fans engaged and excited.

Despite the playful shipping, both fandoms maintain a respectful and supportive atmosphere, understanding the boundary between fiction and reality.

soobin

Y/N, the beloved idol, and TXT's Soobin attend a variety show together, showcasing their easygoing friendship.

Fans pick up on the adorable moments, like Soobin helping Y/N with a tricky game, leading to the birth of the "Y/Soo" ship.

Social media buzzes with screenshots of their on-screen chemistry, and fans start pairing them up through clever edits and witty captions.

During an interview, Y/N teases Soobin about their growing ship, "Looks like we have some detectives in the fandom. They're onto us, Soobin!"

Soobin grins, playing along, "What can I say? Team Y/Soo is onto something. We make a great team!"

The ship gains momentum as fans flood timelines with fan art and fiction, imagining romantic scenarios between Y/N and Soobin.

Y/N and Soobin occasionally reference the ship on social media, responding to fan comments with playful emojis and inside jokes.

The two attend a fan meet, where a fan gifts them a custom Y/Soo banner, and they both laugh, embracing the lightheartedness of the ship.

Collaborative projects between the two fandoms emerge, celebrating the friendship between Y/N and Soobin, creating a harmonious atmosphere.

Despite the ship's popularity, Y/N and Soobin maintain a close friendship, emphasizing the importance of genuine connections in the entertainment industry.

The Y/Soo ship becomes a heartwarming chapter in both fandoms, adding an extra layer of joy to Y/N and TXT's joint activities.

beomgyu

Y/N and Beomgyu find themselves cast together in a romantic drama, sparking immediate interest from fans who can't resist the on-screen chemistry.

Social media explodes with speculation, and fans dub them the "Drama OTP" as they eagerly anticipate the series.

Y/N and Beomgyu's characters share a pivotal on-screen kiss, fueling the flames of the "Y/Beom" ship even before the drama airs.

Fans create countdowns for each episode, dissecting every scene where Y/N and Beomgyu share the screen, amplifying the ship to new heights.

During interviews, Y/N and Beomgyu playfully tease each other about their characters' love story, with Beomgyu saying, "Our ship is setting sail, and I'm here for it!"

Y/N grins, "Who would have thought? I guess we make a convincing couple on screen!"

Fan edits flood social media, seamlessly blending behind-the-scenes moments with scenes from the drama, creating a fictional world where Y/N and Beomgyu's characters truly belong together.

Y/N surprises fans by sharing a playlist featuring songs that remind her of Beomgyu, adding a touch of real-life mystery to the ship.

The drama concludes, but fans continue to celebrate the Y/Beom ship with fan meet-ups, online events, and fan projects dedicated to the on-screen couple.

Y/N and Beomgyu, while acknowledging the ship, express gratitude for the fans' enthusiasm, emphasizing the professional collaboration that brought the drama to life.

taehyun

Y/N and Taehyun find themselves paired up as mentors on a popular music competition show, instantly becoming the dynamic duo everyone talks about.

Fans notice the genuine camaraderie between Y/N and Taehyun, with their mentor-student interactions filled with laughter and encouragement.

Social media is flooded with clips of Y/N giving heartfelt advice to Taehyun, and fans start shipping the pair with the hashtag #Y/TaeMentors.

Y/N, during an interview, playfully mentions, "Taehyun keeps stealing the spotlight with his talent. I might have to join the fandom and become a shipper myself!"

Taehyun responds with a smirk, "Well, who wouldn't ship #Y/TaeMentors? We make a pretty good team, don't we?"

Fans create fan art showcasing Y/N and Taehyun's mentor-student dynamic, capturing the essence of their supportive relationship.

Y/N surprises Taehyun with a custom mentorship-themed cake on his birthday, sharing a photo online with the caption, "Cheers to the best mentor!"

The ship gains momentum as fans organize watch parties for the competition show, celebrating every milestone achieved by Y/N and Taehyun's mentees.

Y/N and Taehyun continue their playful banter on social media, exchanging mentorship tips and funny anecdotes that fuel the ship's popularity.

The fandoms collaborate on projects to express gratitude for the positive impact of #Y/TaeMentors, creating a supportive community around the duo.

Y/N and Taehyun, while embracing the ship, emphasize the importance of mentorship and genuine connections in the competitive world of the music industry.

huening kai

Y/N and Huening Kai find themselves cast as leads in a whimsical fantasy-themed music video, filled with magical landscapes and enchanting scenes.

Fans are captivated by the on-screen chemistry between Y/N and Huening Kai, dubbing them the "Fantasy Duo" and creating a magical hashtag, #Y/KaiFantasy.

Social media platforms are adorned with gifs and screenshots of Y/N and Huening Kai's ethereal moments, with fans daydreaming about their otherworldly connection.

Y/N, during an interview, playfully mentions, "Huening Kai and I got to explore a magical realm together. Who knew it would be so enchanting? #Y/KaiFantasy is real!"

Huening Kai, grinning, adds, "It was like stepping into a fairy tale. I guess the fantasy spilled over into real life!"

Fans express their creativity through fan art, depicting Y/N and Huening Kai as characters in a whimsical story, adding an extra layer of enchantment to the ship.

Y/N surprises fans by sharing a behind-the-scenes vlog from the music video shoot, showcasing playful moments and inside jokes with Huening Kai.

The ship gains momentum as fans organize virtual watch parties for the music video, creating a magical atmosphere to celebrate Y/N and Huening Kai's collaboration.

Y/N and Huening Kai continue to playfully reference the fantasy ship on social media, sharing enchanted emojis and teasing each other about their magical adventure.

Collaborative fan projects emerge, celebrating the enchanting connection between Y/N and Huening Kai, turning #Y/KaiFantasy into a beloved chapter in both fandoms.

Y/N and Huening Kai, while embracing the magical ship, emphasize the creativity and joy that comes with bringing fantasy to life in the world of music and entertainment.

[mythologicalmormon]

In light of recent events and my brother having a talk in sacrament tomorrow, I was reminded of a talk that I gave last year that focused on diversity and I thought y’all might appreciate it.

There is a story Jesus told about a Jewish man who was severely injured and left on the side of a road. Various travelers saw him and ignored him, including a Jewish priest. Although the injured man was of the same creed as the priest, the priest continued on his way with no regard for his fellow man. Eventually, a Samaritan man walked by. Now, Samaritans and Jews detested one another. The Samaritan’s preexisting bias would dictate that he, upon seeing the man was a Jew, ignore him as the previous travelers had. However, the Samaritan saw the man suffering and decided to help him no matter their personal and cultural differences. The Samaritan did what the other travelers chose not to and demonstrated true caring for one’s neighbors without regard for bias. The parable of the good Samaritan provides a valuable example for us. Would you take time out of your day to help someone in need, even if they belonged to a group of people whom you dislike or disapprove of? Are you willing to sacrifice your prejudice in an effort to help people belong in the church?

Our Heavenly Father loves diversity. When he created the earth, He did not make everything uniform and identical. He made millions of distinctive and unique species, plants, and other incredible creations. From seahorses to raccoons to peregrine falcons, the creatures on this earth are each special. The same goes for people. The assorted characteristics that differentiate us also make us human. Some of us are short, some of us are gay, some like reading, and others can wiggle their ears. God doesn’t love us in spite of our diversity, but because of it. He loves diversity. If he didn’t, he wouldn’t have made each one of us one-of-a-kind. He wants all of us to belong and to appreciate that which makes us special, just as He does.

Even within the church there is exceptional diversity. In the talk that I am referencing, The Doctrine of Belonging, Elder D. Todd Christofferson says quote “As the long prophesied latter-day gathering of the Lord’s covenant people gains momentum, the Church will truly be composed of members from every nation, kindred, tongue, and people.” When the church was restored, the first members were all white and of European heritage. But diversity is the natural result of having a widespread group, and as the church became more vast, so did the diversity within it. There are millions of members in this church that are of varying colors, backgrounds, genders, and sexualities. There are members who speak languages from the obscure to the well-known. There are members who have medical and mental health problems and members who speak with a stutter or a lisp. Our differences don’t make us less of God’s children, but some among us will belittle and alienate members who are unlike them. God invites all of his children and all of their diversity to partake in his covenants and return to him. We should follow in His example by loving diversity and striving to make everyone know that they belong in our Savior’s church.

Helping people feel and know that they belong in the church requires everyone to let go of their preconceived notions, judgments, and biases. Each and every one of us has prejudices. We discriminate based on serious things such aswhether or not a person has gone to prison or who someone voted for in an election, and we discriminate based on simple things like what music someone listens to or what type of clothes someone wears. Prejudice is often nothing more than a sweeping generalization that misrepresents a group of people. Within church culture, prejudice is unfortunately common and it is counterproductive to helping people feel like they belong in the kingdom of God. The general handbook for the church states, “Prejudice is not consistent with the revealed word of God. Favor or disfavor with God depends on devotion to Him and His commandments, not on the color of a person’s skin or other attributes. The Church calls on all people to abandon attitudes and actions of prejudice toward any group or individual.” When we are prejudiced against a person, we have a mental block that prevents us from helping that child of God feel like they belong. Prejudice gives way to unjustified judgment, which in turn can lead to members of the church feeling out of place in the one setting where they should feel completely at ease.

Everyone in this room, including myself, judges people. We judge people for how they dress when they attend church, how many children they have, how short or long their hair is, or how eloquently they speak, among other things. We may keep our judgment to ourselves, speak it behind someone’s back, or even tell it to their face. Elder Christofferson remarked on this, saying, quote “We may unwittingly impose expectations on others – or even ourselves – that are not the Lord’s expectations. We may communicate in subtle ways that the worth of a soul is based on certain achievements or callings”. In what subtle – or not so subtle- ways do you convey your judgments? When someone who does something you disapprove of walks into a room do you turn your body away from them and avoid including them?

As often as we may cast judgment upon others, it is not our place to do so. Judging our brothers and sisters both within these walls and outside them only splits the kingdom of God. We all sin and we all sin differently. There is a saying: Don’t judge others because they choose to sin differently than you do. Who are we to judge the sins of others? Just because we have opinions on proper etiquette, behavior, and beliefs it doesn’t mean that it is our place to enforce them. They remain opinions only. We will not always know all the details about a situation. We don’t know the circumstances surrounding why a couple has no children. We don’t know if the brother who doesn’t make eye contact has autism or another disorder that makes eye contact difficult. We don’t know what may have happened behind closed doors before a divorce. We don’t know if the sister who uses her phone during class needs to use it to be able to focus. Judging our neighbors can, and frequently does, drive our beloved brothers and sisters away from the church, whereas loving our neighbors as Jesus loves us will help them to know that they belong here with us.

Elder Christofferson also stated, quote, “It is a sad irony when someone, feeling he or she doesn’t meet the ideal in all aspects of life, concludes that he or she doesn’t belong in the very organization designed by God to help us progress toward the ideal”. Perfection does not happen in this life, and yet in church culture we often make it seem as if perfection is a prerequisite for salvation.Such an unreasonable expectation creates an unnecessary divide in the church. We do not have to do certain things to belong in this church. Every single person on this earth belongs in Heavenly Father’s kingdom, no matter their past sins, current situations, and future mistakes.

There are things that people believe are “required” to be a worthy disciple. Regarding the passing of the sacrament, some hold the belief that every young man must be clean shaven, devoid of jewlery, have short hair, and wear a white shirt and tie. The Lord, however has made it a simple act of reverence and service, with the only requirement being that, “Those who administer the sacrament should be well groomed and clean. They should not wear clothing or jewelry that might detract from the worship and covenant making that are the purpose of the sacrament.” This is an example of a church culture misconception and is only one of many others which are geared towards being perfect in this life. Every worthy and able young man has been asked to prepare for and serve a mission. However, serving a mission is not a requirement to hold the priesthood and to serve the Lord throughout their lives. We have been given free agency, and it is not our place to judge when an individual chooses not to serve a mission or when a missionary returns home early. Some members cannot fathom saying no to a calling even if they know that their personal circumstances would clearly be incompatible with the calling at that time. How are our sisters and brothers within the church supposed to know that they belong when we make them feel like they have to be this picture-perfect human being?

If we want to gather Israel, we cannot only minister to those whom we feel comfortable with. Our baptismal covenants did not say to “Bear our friends’ burdens and only our friends' burdens; mourn with only those whom we feel comfortable with; comfort only those whom we like.” They said to, “bear other’s burdens, that they may be light, mourn with those that mourn; and comfort those in need of comfort.” The language in our baptismal covenants does not exclude any of God’s children, so why do we?

When you see someone who doesn’t seem to be included, make a point to talk to them. If a brother or sister stops attending church, reach out to them. Show those around you that they belong, even if it means that you have to step out of your comfort zone. Don’t be afraid to be a voice for others when there’s an untoward joke or when someone is being talked about behind their back. Love those in need of love, even those nobody spares a glance for. Be like our Savior in all that you do, and you will show those around you how much they belong.

[reflectionlike]

Seeing Taehyung stans desperately try to make him looks as successful as Jimin is just so funny to me. They spent years trying to convive everyone that Taehyung was the most popular BTS member and that Jimin was at best the third, but not even a close third. So seeing them have reality brutally slapped in their faces is so vindicating.

It was already great last year with Like Crazy, specially when Jimin debuted first so we all got to see their hubris in so confidently claiming Taehyung was gonna release a song that was even bigger (and definitely self-written), only to have that not be even close to what actually ended up happening. But it's even better this year, because Fri(end)s is doing worse than Love Me Again while Who is doing even better than Like Crazy, so the gap between just keeps getting bigger.

We're now at a point where no one aside from his delusional fans and Jimin haters would seriously try to say he is more successful than Jimin. Is now common knowledge that BTS is Jimin, Jungkook and the rest. We're finally back to how things should be and how they 𝘶𝘴𝘦𝘥 to be. Because this 'Taehyung is first, Jimin is third' narrative only started to take hold in the pandemic, before that Jimin was THEE guy and everybody knew it. So I'm glad Taehyung's stans gaslighting has finally stopped working and people are seeing the light again.

Even his stans are lowkey agreeing he's now third with the way they've joined in the hyungline victimization. You can't say armys only really care about Jimin and Jungkook and care about Taehyung as much as they care about hyungline (which as we know is not a whole lot), and then say he's the most popular. Because popular with who exactly? If they say he's not popular with armys than with who is he popluar with? With k-pop stans who are known to only token stan idols online but never show up when it's actually important (like with actually streaming and buying that idol's music)? With his solos, when we know they're not as big as us and I've even seen kths complain to each other about how much better pjms are at getting shit done? So where and with which audience exactly is he popular?

Well, we all know the answer. Is on SEA shipping-obsessed countries (specially Thailand, they carry him hard). And the audience is visual stans and shippers, which is why people got tricked into thinking he was the most popular, because that audience could give the most views on famcans and followers on Instagram, which before solo era was the way to measure popularity. But now the way to measure popularity it is with solo music, which if anyone were to look at how things have 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 been (even before the group's hiatus) they would see Jimin and Jungkook have always done better with solo music.

Jimin would actually almost always have the most popular song whenever all the members would released a song at the same time. That only started changing when those songs stopped being released in equal situations and Jungkook started his painfully-generic-pop-english-western-collab obssession he won't stop torturing us all with.

So Taehyung fans should really have seen this coming and accepted his place as the actual third most popular BTS member. But, as we all know, his stans (the number one shippers of k-pop) live off delusion, so they were never going to have acted any different. They're doomed to always keep convincing themselves of easily disprovable lies and then be secretly disappointed but publicly forced to pretend they're aren't when those lies inevitably become to obviously false to be ignored.

You know what? Go OFF

I agree with almost everything you said, except for the fact that how “things used to be” were very different for Jungkook back then. JK began to gain momentum in approximately 2018ish, 2019, at least from my POV. You know who was very popular? (obvs not Jimin levels, but) YG, I swear everyone was biasing YG back in 2016, 2017. What happened?

But Th case needs to be studied because he really plummet, and there are certain theories about him losing fans because of Taennie and also people not liking his music but I am pretty sure there’s more than that.

[ya9amicide]

It’s Been a Long, Long Time [MCU]

♡ marvel masterlist ♡

summary: You and your boyfriends, Steve and Bucky, enjoy a nice relaxing day in your quaint Brooklyn home.

pairing: stucky x reader

warnings: none

a/n: we’re gonna pretend “It’s Been a Long, Long Time” came out before Steve and Bucky went to war.

I was listening to this (https://youtu.be/97gXDhM8pI0) while I was sleeping and I dreamt about this scenario so I decided to turn it into a fic.

It was one of those rare days where all three of you were home all day without plans to leave. There was a light drizzle of rain outside that could be heard from where you all were in the living room of the home you shared with Steve and Bucky in Brooklyn. The soft sound of music dances through the halls and bounces off the walls of the living room.

The book The Heart is a Lonely Hunter by Carson McCuller sits comfortably in your hands, propped up against your knees which you brought up onto the window sill where you reside. Bucky lies back against the worn couch, body stretched across the surface as Steve sits comfortably in front of him, drawing in his sketchbook while Bucky watches over his shoulder.

The sounds of their soft breathing comforts you as you subconsciously match the pace of your breath with theirs. The song changes and a familiar tune rings out. “It's Been A Long, Long Time” by Harry James was a tune you three were all too familiar with.

Bucky shifts in his seat, gently leaning Steve forward as he slips out from behind him. He makes his way toward you and holds a hand out. You look up from your book to the open hand next to you. “C’mon, Doll,” Bucky gives you a roguish smile. “It’s our song. Won’t you spare me a dance?”

A bright grin stretches across your face and you dog-ear the corner of the page to keep your place. Setting the book down, you turn to face him. “Just one? Why not every one?”

Bucky chuckles and you place your hand in his. “Well, we gotta save some for Stevie doncha think?” His hand was big and calloused compared to yours. It was all-encompassing and safe.

“Oh, of course,” you say. “All of my dances belong to both of my best men.” You settle your other hand on his shoulder and his other hand settles on your waist.

Steve watches you both fondly, flipping to a new page in his sketchbook where he starts a rough drawing of you and Bucky dancing. 

It started slow. Your head leaning on Bucky’s chest, his resting on top of yours. You both swayed gently to the music, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. However, Bucky’s gentle sways started to gain momentum and energy. Soon, he was exaggeratedly rocking you back and forth and spinning you in circles.

Your laughter rings through the home as Bucky dips you back, his hands cradling your body and keeping you from falling. When he brings you back up, he immediately spins you out again and you come face to face with Steve whose hand is reached out in invitation. “I think I oughta take you up on that dance, Doll. Can’t let Buck have all the fun.”

Letting go of Bucky’s hand, you grab a hold of Steve’s. He starts whisking you around the room in a cheerful waltz as soon as you do.

You all dance around in high spirits, laughter and smiles egging each other on further. 

As the song starts coming to an end–the music quieting and the tempo slowing–you three settle into a misshapen slow dance. Where you stand, cradled against Steve’s chest with Bucky cocooning the two of you from behind, you feel warm and safe. The war is momentarily forgotten as you focus on the tranquility this moment brings you.

[highpriestess13]

June Forecast

Collective! There’s a lot that’s going to go down in the month of June for you guys! First off, I’m getting “global” or “global warning/ warming”. This may you guys or this is something that’s going to happen globally that’s going to go viral and people’s or your voice is going to be heard. There’s something happening with people of “high status” or people in an authoritative positions. This may involve women, healthcare or parenting… could be either or, or all 3. It’ll specifically apply to women, so pregnancy or prenatal care is significant. 10:11 (also 111) as I typed that too lol! This may also be concerning money/ health as well. There’s something with the security of women… something has been brewing for some time now and something’s going to finally come out. This could also be more women coming to the forefront against what is trying to be forced this may be within marriage or relationships in general. But it does involve the opposite sex. It’s giving standing up for women rights… some of you may be feminists or fight for equality or this may just be the energy you’re going to be in for the month of June. Capricorn and Aries is significant and the letter “C”. I heard “caption” idk if that’s significant for someone or will be. Roses and the color red is significant… it’s kinda giving Queen Lilith too 👀❤️. Someone’s going to leave a toxic unhealthy relationship or marriage.. I’m also getting something about Beyoncé and JayZ. Whatever it is, it’s going to go global. Also something about the music industry is significant 👀👀. It’s going down next month! Also keep in mind that this reading is timeless so it can happen whenever but it is something that’s going to be BIG!

I also a lot of love and support being given as well. Many of you are entering your self care energy in the month of June. However, there’s something that’s going to be made aware to you. This may come in as a notification but it’s nothing bad/ negative. I’m hearing “a lease”. This could be for a house/ apartment or someone is leasing someone. I’m also getting something about a deposit too. There’s something moving very quickly and you’re needing to be made aware of it. Make sure you’re paying attention to your surroundings too. Birds are significant and they are considered messengers so there’s definitely a message and I feel like this is going to be something that’s going to guide something into gaining more speed and momentum. Be mindful with driving and make sure you’re not speeding and going over the speed limit but also for those who walk or take public transportation, make sure you’re looking both ways. I see someone visiting family too, could be for the holidays, someone could be planning this, especially if you haven’t seen your folks in a good while. I also see a new addition to the family!! So this might be what someone’s going to be made aware of! Either a pregnancy or a delivery going very well.

Networking is another theme for y’all! Coaching is very significant, I’m hearing “versatile”. Someone’s well diverse in a subject(s). This is someone who is very knowledgeable. This may be a spiritual teacher, advisor or coach. They may help you with meditating, magick, or manifestations… the letter “M” is significant. You could also be getting coached during some changes that are happening but it’s nothing for you to worry about as it is something that’s beneficial. For some, this is you passing on some knowledge. I’m also getting marriage counselor or coach. Someone could be a first time parent so yes wise advice and knowledge will be needed! 11:11. Roses (especially red ones) are significant. I’m also getting the energy of love and new beginnings too 👀👀👀. “The Edge of Glory” by Lady Gaga is significant too!! “Compromise” is what I also heard. I hope this helps!

[iloveethnicities]

The Festival de la Tercera Raíz (Third Root Festival) is a vibrant celebration in Mexico that honors Afro-Mexican heritage, recognizing and elevating the unique cultural, historical, and social contributions of Afro-descendant communities in the country. Primarily celebrated in the coastal regions of Guerrero, Oaxaca, and Veracruz, the festival brings together traditional music, dance, food, art, and spiritual practices in a rich tapestry of Afro-Mexican identity and resilience. It underscores the legacy of African influence in Mexico—often overlooked in mainstream historical narratives—paying homage to the "third root" of Mexican heritage, alongside the Spanish and Indigenous influences.

The name "Tercera Raíz" (Third Root) reflects the recognition of African roots as an essential component of Mexican heritage. While Indigenous and European (Spanish) roots are well-known, the African heritage that arrived with the transatlantic slave trade in the 16th century has often been overlooked. During this era, enslaved Africans were brought to New Spain (now Mexico), predominantly working in the sugarcane plantations, mines, and alongside Indigenous laborers in various regions. Over time, African, Indigenous, and Spanish cultures intermingled, forming a rich and unique cultural synthesis that shaped the identity of Afro-Mexican communities.

The festival was developed as part of a broader movement to increase visibility and acknowledgment of Afro-Mexican culture, which had long been marginalized in Mexican society. Recognition of Afro-Mexican communities gained momentum especially in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, as these communities advocated for the preservation and acknowledgment of their heritage. The festival plays a crucial role in affirming Afro-Mexican identity, celebrating their unique cultural practices, and educating the broader public about the African presence in Mexican history.

Although not confined to a single location, the Third Root Festival is most prominently celebrated in the Costa Chica region, which spans parts of Guerrero and Oaxaca. This area has historically high populations of Afro-Mexican communities, who have preserved African-influenced customs and traditions over generations. Veracruz, another coastal state with a strong Afro-Mexican presence, also hosts the festival and events to honor Afro-Mexican heritage.

The festival generally takes place during special cultural and commemorative dates, often overlapping with Mexico’s national celebrations or other important Afro-diasporic celebrations. In recent years, it has often been held around the International Day of Afro-Latin, Afro-Caribbean, and Diaspora Women (July 25) and Black History Month (February). However, it is celebrated year-round in various forms in different communities, depending on local traditions and scheduling.

The Festival de la Tercera Raíz incorporates a multitude of cultural expressions, reflecting the African, Indigenous, and Spanish influences that define Afro-Mexican heritage. The festivities highlight music, dance, food, art, religious rituals, and oral traditions, showcasing the distinct cultural identity of Afro-Mexican communities.

— Music and Dance: Traditional Afro-Mexican music and dance are central to the festival. One of the most iconic forms is La Danza de los Diablos (The Dance of the Devils), performed in Guerrero and Oaxaca. In this dance, participants wear devil masks adorned with horns and often move to the beat of drums and marimbas, instruments with African origins. This dance, with its intense rhythms and symbolic masks, is thought to represent the struggles and resilience of African slaves who resisted and survived their conditions. It also includes son jarocho in Veracruz, a musical style characterized by the use of string instruments like the jarana, requinto, and marimbol that blend African, Indigenous, and Spanish influences.

— Cuisine: Afro-Mexican culinary traditions are celebrated through dishes that blend African, Indigenous, and Spanish ingredients and techniques. Dishes often feature plantains, yams, coconut, corn, and a variety of seafood, reflecting both African culinary heritage and local resources. Popular dishes include tostadas de camarón (shrimp tostadas) and pescado a la talla (a grilled fish dish) in coastal areas. Food not only serves as nourishment but also as a medium through which Afro-Mexican heritage is passed down, with recipes and cooking techniques often preserved within families for generations.

— Art and Handicrafts: Art forms are another vibrant component of the festival. Artisans showcase crafts such as woven goods, pottery, and sculpture that reflect Afro-Mexican aesthetics and iconography. Many pieces include symbols and imagery from African cosmologies, such as representations of animals or elements believed to carry spiritual significance. The visual arts in the Third Root Festival offer a means for Afro-Mexicans to celebrate their heritage, create connections to ancestral African lands, and express pride in their communities.

— Spiritual and Religious Practices: Spirituality also plays a significant role in the festival. While many Afro-Mexicans are Catholic, their religious practices often incorporate elements of African spirituality and local Indigenous customs. For instance, some communities maintain African-based spiritual practices such as honoring ancestors, engaging in ceremonial drumming, and participating in rituals connected to nature and spirits. These practices serve as acts of cultural preservation, emphasizing the importance of maintaining connections to African heritage within the framework of Mexican religious practices.

— Oral Traditions and Storytelling: Oral tradition is a key feature of the festival, with elders recounting stories, legends, and songs that have been passed down through generations. These stories often include themes of resilience, freedom, and identity, offering insight into the historical experiences of Afro-Mexicans and their ongoing fight for recognition. Storytelling sessions may involve tales of maroons (enslaved people who escaped and formed independent communities), the significance of particular rituals, and the influence of African deities or heroes in local lore.

— Workshops and Educational Programs: The festival also includes educational components, such as workshops, panels, and seminars, where scholars, activists, and community leaders discuss Afro-Mexican history, identity, and contemporary issues. These events serve as an opportunity to learn about Afro-Mexican contributions to Mexican society, confront issues of racism, and advocate for greater political and social recognition. For young people, the festival offers a space to explore their identity and connect with their heritage through art, music, and dance workshops.

The Festival de la Tercera Raíz plays a crucial role in challenging historical narratives that have minimized or erased Afro-Mexican contributions to Mexican culture. It fosters pride within Afro-Mexican communities and brings awareness to their struggles for cultural, social, and political inclusion. The festival is a moment of collective celebration but also a call to action against systemic discrimination and the invisibility that Afro-Mexican communities have faced for centuries.

In recent years, Mexico has taken strides to recognize Afro-Mexican communities, with the 2020 census marking the first time Afro-Mexicans were included as a distinct ethnic group. The Third Root Festival has contributed to such achievements by spotlighting the lived experiences and cultural wealth of Afro-Mexicans, drawing national and international attention to their contributions and challenges.

Through its vibrant expression of art, spirituality, and communal solidarity, the Festival de la Tercera Raíz reminds all Mexicans and the wider world of the depth and beauty of Afro-Mexican culture. It underscores the ongoing importance of preserving and celebrating Mexico’s African heritage, ensuring that the legacy of the "third root" continues to grow and flourish as an integral part of Mexico’s cultural mosaic.

[south-of-heaven]

Helloo I love your works could you do a Becky lynch x female reader

Reader likes Becky and Becky knows it but reader is soooo shy so beckys always teasing her, then one day in the ring reader gets hurt and Becky rushes out saying like “your okay I’ve got you I love you”. Basically reader getting hurt leads to their love confessions if that makes any sense at all

Misted || Becky Lynch x Reader

Summary: You get misted by Asuka in the ring, it leads to some interesting confessions

A/N: I really hope I did this request justice, I know that I didn't really get the teasing aspect in there but I had a hard time trying to weave the story together when I tried to include that

As you step into the ring at SummerSlam, your nerves are on edge. The crowd roars with excitement, and your heart pounds in your chest. Tonight, you're facing Asuka, a formidable opponent, and you're determined to give it your all.

The match starts, and the intensity is palpable. You and Asuka trade blows, both showcasing your incredible skills. The momentum shifts back and forth, and the crowd is on the edge of their seats, fully engrossed in the action.

But then, during a crucial moment, Asuka manages to catch you off guard, hitting you with her signature green mist. The world blurs, and you can feel the burning sensation on your face. Distracted and disoriented, you stumble, and Asuka takes advantage, pinning you for the victory.

You lie there, feeling defeated and humiliated, the disappointment crushing your spirit. But then you hear the familiar music – Becky's theme. She comes rushing out, concern etched across her face as she approaches the ring.

"Hey, hey, look at me," she says, kneeling beside you. "You're gonna be okay, lass, I promise."

Tears of frustration and pain well up in your eyes, and you try to look away from her gaze, not wanting her to see your vulnerability.

"Look at me," Becky insists gently, cupping your cheek in her hand. "I know you're hurting, but you're strong. You've got this."

You can't help but glance at her, and her piercing eyes show nothing but care and affection. At that moment, you feel like she can see right through you, and your heart races at the thought.

"I love you," she whispers, her voice barely audible over the crowd's noise.

You freeze, unable to process her words. Did she just say what you think she said? But how could that be possible? You've been hopelessly in love with Becky for what feels like forever, and you never dared to believe that she might feel the same way.

She continues, her voice gaining strength, "I'm in love with you. And I'll be by your side through thick and thin."

Her confession leaves you stunned, and for a moment, you forget the pain from the mist. In that instant, everything else fades away, and all that matters is Becky's declaration of love.

She helps you out of the ring, her touch gentle yet firm, and leads you to the medical area. The medical staff attend to you, but your focus is still on Becky. She stays close, holding your hand, providing the comfort and reassurance you need.

"I don't deserve you," you finally manage to say, your voice trembling with emotion.

Becky smiles, her eyes full of affection. "Oh, hush now. You deserve all the love and happiness in the world."

As the medical team finishes their evaluation, Becky insists on accompanying you to the locker room. She stays by your side, tending to your needs, and you can't help but feel overwhelmed by her care and affection.

"I meant what I said out there," she says softly, her thumb gently caressing your hand. "I love you, and I want to be with you."

Your heart soars, the pain from the match now overshadowed by the joy of Becky's love. You never thought a moment like this would come, and now that it has, you feel like the luckiest person alive.

"I love you too," you whisper, feeling a newfound sense of happiness and hope.

Becky leans in, pressing a tender kiss on your forehead. "And I'm not going anywhere," she promises. "We're in this together, and nothing can stop us."

In that moment, you know that this is the beginning of a beautiful journey, not just as WWE Superstars but as two people deeply in love. With Becky by your side, you're ready to face any challenge that comes your way, and you know that your bond will only grow stronger with each passing day.

[mywifeleftme]

363: R.E.M. // Murmur

Murmur R.E.M. 1983, IRS

Some Short, Disconnected Statements on the Matter of Murmur

1. Insert the following into Waring blender

The Velvet Underground, Pylon, the Byrds, Gang of Four, Patti Smith, the Feelies, Joy Division, the Method Actors, Big Star, the dB’s, the Monkees. Press “Blend” button. (I’ve never owned a blender; I don’t know what the buttons say.)

2. Easy formula for a great band

Having one temperamental genius songwriter guy sounds kind of hard to maintain. Have you considered simply getting four people who are really excellent and distinctive at the respective things they do (at least three of them great singers), who all write well, get along, lack substance abuse issues, have good taste, and modest egos? Why don’t more bands do this?

3. Notes on the early discourse

A lot of the things people wrote back in the early ‘80s to champion this band were dumb as hell. R.E.M. weren’t good because they didn’t use keyboards or synths; pop music didn’t need to be returned to its "honest" folk-rock roots; giving them a thumbs up for not wearing flashy clothes and makeup is dork behaviour.

They were good because they made weird music that derived organically from their time (early ‘80s), place (a college town in the South), and selves (bright, independent, adventurous, sincere, ¼ gay).

Anyone who listened to Chronic Town or Murmur, with their post-punky murk and lyrical references to Laocoön and Marat, and thought to themselves, “As yes, the second coming of Roger McGuinn, this will put those effete new wavers to flight,” was an idiot.

4. Veteran of the psychic war

Somewhere around age 22, R.E.M. took over the mantle Metallica had held as My Favourite Band in the World Forever and Ever, and I proceeded to be almost as annoying about them as I had been Hetfield and the boys. I posted a lot about them; rigged “best music” polls on random message boards I didn’t even post on in their favour; cornered people at parties; crowbarred them into playlists; grumpily chose to dislike bands I saw as stealing their shine; etc. etc. Some (some) of this is maybe cute in retrospect, but really: don’t be like this about music. If you love a band this much, learn how to play their songs on an instrument; write a few poems; paint something. Worst case: review them.

5. Learning nothing, 2024

6. Athens: Lyrics & Enunciation

The matter of what exactly Stipe was singing on the early R.E.M. records was a subject of intense speculation, and eventually, parody. Some of the mystery’s in the mixing, some’s in his Georgian accent, and some’s in his enunciation (never quite as mushy as people claimed, but not exactly Ella Fitzgerald either). But most of it’s in the arbitrary decisions he makes with regard to syntax that cause even accurate transcriptions to seem implausible. Stipe is probably a little bit autistic, which goes some way to explaining the impressionistic intuitiveness of his words, and also went to art school, which fetishizes that sort of thing, but he was always shy of people seeing the words to something like “Sitting Still” on the page because he thought he might be exposed as a nincompoop. “Up to par and Katie bars / The kitchen side, but not me in / Sitting top of the big hill / Waste of time sitting still,” goes the chorus, according to at least one gnostic sect, but the important passage is the one everyone agrees on, when the stream of impassioned babble releases into a howled “I can hear you / Can you hear me?”

Later on, when he would sing more clearly over airy arrangements, with the lyrics neatly printed in the booklet, he’d occasionally try one of those old sound-over-sense moves and embarrass himself (“Leaving New York was never my proud” still rankles). But Murmur’s eternal elusiveness is in the way fragments of sense catch your ear from out of its sleeptalk glossolalia:

“The pilgrimage has gained momentum” “Conversation fear” “Lighted, lighted / Laughing in tune” “Hear the howl of the rope / A question” “A perfect circle of acquaintances and friends / Drink another, coin a phrase” “Shaking through / Opportune” “Take oasis” “Heaven assumes / Shoulders high in the room” “Did we miss anything?”

7. Permission to be arbitrary

I remember sitting in the basement of my college house with my old hometown buddy Brad (mostly a metal/classic rock guy), playing him “Shaking Through” and explaining one of the things I love about old R.E.M. is that it’s great music to yell to. I don’t know how much he really got it, but we were drunk and it’s a catchy song, so we howled and made keening, wordless, Stipean noises along with it and the next few until one of my roommates came and asked us to keep it down.

Also: one theory for why cats purr when they’re injured is that the vibrations somehow reduce pain and encourage healing. From many experiences humming these songs while wrapped up in headphones and bedsheets in the middle of a day that’s passing like a kidney stone, I can confirm.

8. Note on the modern discourse: Influence?

Black Francis, Kurt Cobain, Bob Mould, Steve Malkmus, Bob Pollard, and Thom Yorke loved R.E.M. So did, to his own apparent consternation, Metallica’s Cliff Burton. Still, you sit down with someone and listen to those musicians with the goal of showing them the R.E.M. influence (don’t do this, why would you do this?) and it’s honestly pretty oblique. Most of the bands who directly aped aspects of R.E.M.'s early sound were at best pleasantly minor (see Captured Tracks’ Strum & Thrum comp), and the ones who seemed to be listening most closely to their ‘90s efforts were not who you want.

Their ultimate influence was probably simply showing what an art-first, indie-adjacent rock band could accomplish by sticking to their guns and bending the system to their desires instead of being bent by it. They were like a Velvet Underground for the college rock era, except everyone talented who heard them was inspired to start a band that didn’t sound much like them. They always used their spotlight to introduce people to other bands and, when they really got huge, they modeled how to deal with success. There don’t seem to be many R.E.M. stories, Peter Buck’s airplane incident aside, about them being anything other than kind. That’s a fundamentally less exciting type of influence than most other “great” bands have. But I do think it’s kinda cool they were the wise old heads for an entire national movement of alternative music.

8b.

Of course, it still bugs me people don’t think they’re cool. Murmur at least, should be considered cool. And Reckoning, mostly. Chronic Town for sure. Some of Fables. Am I crazy for saying some of Monster and New Adventures even? I’ll stop. I’ll go on.

9(-9). The music

They were a pop band, they were an art band; they sounded like children, and like craggy old men buried in kudzu weed; natural and pretentious; date-stamped and timeless. Decide yourself. Happy 41st birthday Murmur.

363/365

[steddiebang]

dancing in the dark

Author: @drew_pictures l Artist: @redlegumes l Artist: @m0nomercy Posting on Wednesday, November 8

Steve Harrington’s finally scrapped through high school graduation, a life shackled to a desk at The Harrington Firm lined up for him. He’d get the job, marry the girl, pop out six kids and die in the town he was born in. Except he doesn’t do that. Steve Harrington runs away from home less than 24 hours after graduation to the big city of Indianapolis. With few options ahead of him, Steve takes the first job that falls on his path; a new lounge singer at The Hellfire Club, a bar owned by one Wayne Munson and his strangely charming nephew Eddie Munson. As Steve starts to leave his Harrington roots behind, he might find that things are growing elsewhere, and there are revelations he’s not ready to unpack.

Keep reading for a sneak preview!

The third song on the list Eddie provided for him is Just Like Heaven by The Cure. 

It’s one he’s heard before, thank fuck. He had to cross off the first two songs on the list of 10, which didn’t bode well. But he had no idea who they even were.

He’s not entirely sure what kind of music they make but the names ‘Dio’ and ‘Metallica’ ring no bells. 

He knows The Cure well enough, and it’s easy to play ‘Just Like Heaven’ with just his acoustic guitar. Some of the songs on the list imply Hellfire Club usually has a full band, but tonight is Steve’s alone considering there’s no other instruments set up on the stage. 

He strums, feeling the tight coils of the strings under his nails pluck against his skin. He wobbles through the first few notes, feeling the heat rise in his chest, his chest pounding loud enough that he hears it in his ears. 

But he keeps going, gaining momentum as he does so. 

What starts as a few onlookers soon turns into most of the bar watching him with enraptured eyes. Steve’s got an audience, and he knows it. 

His voice is not what he’d describe as beautiful in the traditional sense. It’s not lilting and ethereal as some of his favourite singers, it’s not low and raspy with sexual charge. 

But it’s good, and solid, and Steve can hit high notes that have a twang to them, and he knows he tells a story with his voice, haunting and heavy with things 19-year-old Steve can’t express out loud without punishment.

It’s a fraction of what he feels, but it’s enough to make this performance one hell of an audition.

As he finishes, there’s a ripple of cheers and applause. Steve gives a meek bow of his head and holds up a hand. His eyes immediately darted to Eddie, wondering if this was enough to land him the job. 

He sees Eddie talking to another bartender, one with floppy, brassy hair who’s shorter than him, softer looking in his matching black button-up, except his inner shirt is a baseball tea with a red collar, a contrast to Eddie’s lack of colour. 

The other bartender turns, tilting his head as he seems to analyse Steve. Everyone seems to want to do that tonight.

Not good enough, a voice tells Steve, a voice he recognizes as his own. 

He can feel it, screaming in his brain how he’s gone and failed this, failed another thing.

Except.

He cannot.

He cannot afford to fail. 

There’s nowhere else to go. Steve’s either going to get the job or die in the back of his car.

He does the best thing that he knows Steven Harrington is good at.

Lack of impulse control.

He takes the microphone with both his hands. 

“Thanks ladies and gents, my name’s Stevie and I’m the new lounge singer for Hellfire Club.” There’s a cheer that ripples through the audience. 

There’s someone approaching the stage, offering to buy him a beer after he’s done with his set. Steve’s technically not legal, but he’s been sneaking beers since he was 16, so he agrees.

Steve’s steely eyes lock with Eddie’s, and that strange expression Steve still doesn’t have a name for rushes over Eddie’s features once again, making the bartender’s eyes so round, almost cow-like. 

They’re nearly black in the back lighting of the bar against the spotlight glaring down on him, two overly large marbles shining. 

There’s no turning back now.

There’s no running left to do.

Steve’s only going to keep running forward till he runs out of breath.

Read more on November 8!

[jmdbjk]

Jungkook Weverse Magazine.

This interview was just a few weeks ago by the same author who wrote the BTS book. These photos are scrumptious...

All those years he's said he is still trying to discover himself....January 2021 New Year's message he said he felt personal growth and maturity but that he still didn’t feel like he was fully there yet, saying that he was still hoping to “find himself” in the upcoming year.

Fast forward two and a half years to July 2023: He basically decided to say "fuck it" and just be himself. Well done, well done, JK.

Its when he launched into a mak-guksu sauce TED talk like he was some sort of Korean Guy Fieri.... that's our Kookie. LET HIM KOOK.

I think he took his down-time seriously, reveled in being alone after so many years of being surrounded by people. I CAN RELATE. But now he's done with isolating himself... we all were wondering what was up with him back in early February. But he was being truthful, he was just enjoying being a lump on the couch.

As I said in an earlier post, I think JK found Seven sometime prior to April and his solo music activities seemed to gain momentum.

He realized in working on his own stuff that he had to be more assertive and he's doing great!

He said he wanted to be a "giant pop star" but in saying that, what he meant was this as he explains: "the ambition to be more appreciated and be even better. In a word: cool. That’s the whole reason I’m doing this. I want to be that kind of pop star someday—I want to be able to really experience that feeling. I hope the day comes that I can look at myself from a third-person perspective and give myself that kind of recognition. I’ll know I’m that kind of pop star once I can do that."

Because he still does not feel like the big superstar he already is. We saw that when he thought he wouldn't be recognized at Coachella. And because he's so grounded, he may never reach that level of self aggrandizing. Maybe he thinks artists like Justin Beiber are giant pop stars and JK has aspirations to be like that. What he doesn't realize is he does not have the sort of ego that would drive him to see himself that way. What makes him a superstar is how WE feel about him and how WE see him.

When he was talking about his performing and dancing and wanting to come off more natural, I wish he could hear this advice from me: keep practicing by feeding off the energy of the member who naturally brings that out in you and eventually it will become second nature. You've been watching this member since almost day one and have learned so much from him already. Your chemistry with him is one of the things that has made you, you. When you decided to stick close to him, whatever day that was long ago, it was probably the wisest thing you could have ever done, Kookie.

Read the Weverse magazine article here.

[cherrylng]

MUSE X EMO [STYLE Series #004 - Muse (August 2010)]

MUSE X EMO

Dramatically beautiful melodies, exquisite guitar playing and a rich worldview……. Exploring the similarities between ‘emo’ and Muse.

Text: YAMAGUCHI Tomoo

There is nothing more upsetting to a rock fan than to hear the band they love described in one word: 'emo'. So when I heard that many fans are upset about Muse being described as 'emo', I nodded my head in agreement.

On the other hand, however, it is not hard to understand why people listen to Muse and use the term 'emo'. Without fear of misinterpretation, it is true that similarities can be found between Muse and certain types of emo bands. For example, Matthew Bellamy's vocals, in which he sings tragic and beautiful melodies with a sense of urgency while also using falsetto, could well be compared to those of emo bands in terms of narcissism and emotionalism, and, weirdly enough, are quite highly emo.

Of course, that doesn't mean that Muse = emo, but here I'd like to introduce some emo bands or bands from the emo scene that I think Muse fans might also like.

Emo is a strange genre that has its devoted fans, but also its haters. The reason for the emo hate is, of course, that today's emo has become too diverse and far removed from its origins (hardcore to post-hardcore), but there are many other reasons as well. But emo, like any other genre, is also only a category of convenience. Many of the bands that are called emo do not call themselves emo bands, and most of them are probably considered emo because that's where they happen to be active. If people are interested in Muse, rather than hating it and calling them "emo", then this will surely lead to new encounters.

So, first up are Coheed and Cambria, led by Claudio Sanchez (vo,g). Since their debut in 2002, this New York four-piece has released five rock operas based on Sanchez's sci-fi tale The Amory Wars. Their dramatic, contemporary progressive rock, performed with the sensibility of the post-hardcore/alternative generation that has passed through hardcore and metal, and in some cases with orchestral or acoustic sounds, earned them the reputation of being America's version of Muse at the time of their debut. Their latest album, Year of the Black Rainbow, was released in April this year. Despite their more metallic impression, they too have a unique aesthetic. It is highly addictive, including Sanchez's vocals, who uses both a beautiful high tone voice and wild screams that send you into a rage.

"What, Sanchez's looks are disgusting!" Then how about Thirty Seconds To Mars, led by Jared Leto (vo,g), the handsome actor known for his role in 'Chapter 27'? The band's spacy modern rock combines emotional heavy sounds and inorganic digital beats, and should be welcomed not only in the USA, where they have had a million-selling album, but also here in Japan. The narcissistic and cool worldview invited by Leto's vocal, which sings as if whispering in the listener's ear, is truly unique. Their third album, 2009's 'This Is War', which evolved into New Wavey, has just been released on Japanese vinyl.

Coheed and Cambria and Thirty Seconds to Mars were both considered to be in the emo-screamo (screamo-emo) vein at the time of their debut. However, they have now grown to become one of the leading bands in the USA. Summer Sonic 2010, where both bands will perform, is the perfect opportunity to experience their respective worlds.

Screamo, which began to gain momentum around 2002 as the next step in emo, not only rapidly approached metal, but also evolved into freer and more chaotic music, boldly combining densely complex performances with catchy, beautiful melodies, and appealing to a desire for excessive expression. The bands that appealed to the public, in other words, progressive screamo bands, emerged one after the other. The aforementioned Coheed & Cambria were the forerunners of this trend, and it is not difficult to imagine that the existence of Muse was also a great inspiration for them, as Madina Lake acknowledges their influence. Two albums that are representative of this trend are Saosin's In Search of Solid Ground (2009), which gave a pop contour to a chaotic sound, and Chiodos' Bone Palace Ballet: Grand Coda (2007), which can be described as a dark rock opera! .

Speaking of which, it was recently reported that the former Matchbook Romance drummer [Aaron Stern] has joined the new band of Craig Owens (vo) [Destroy Rebuild Until God Shows aka D.R.U.G.S.], who left Chiodos, but thinking back, Matchbook Romance's second album Voices (2006) was an ambitious work in which they achieved an evolution from being a screamo band to something akin to a Radiohead and Muse-like evolution. By the way, one of the main attractions of Muse is their pathetically beautiful melodies, but if that's the case, I'd like you to try bands like Sunny Day Real Estate, who were responsible for the noble spirit of early emo, and Copeland, who were influenced by UK rock were praised as beautiful emo, and Portugal. The Man. Incidentally, Portugal. The Man's style changes from album to album, so in terms of beautiful melodies, I recommend 'Waiter: You Vultures!', released in 2006

Finally, Nebraska indie rock band Cursive. The band's freaky, blues-like sound, reminiscent of the lees of human emotion, is quite different from the aesthetically inclined bands we have introduced so far, but fans of Muse will surely understand the rich world of raw human drama that unfolds.

Pic: Coheed and Cambria are popular for their progressive and dramatic sound with beautiful high tone voices and strings and piano throughout. Overwhelmed by a dense sound that makes extensive use of irregular time signatures.

Pic: Formed in 1992, Sunny Day Real Estate debuted in 1994 with Diary. Since reuniting in 2009, the band has also included original member Nate Mendel (b), now with the Foo Fighters.

Pic: The Alaska-born, Portland-based three-piece Portugal. The Man. They are a very prolific band, releasing an album a year.

Pic: Madina Lake, a Chicago band from Chicago, featuring the Leon brothers Nathan (vo) and Matthew (b), who are very popular in Japan as well, have declared Muse's influence on their music.

Pic: Cursive, who deliver dramatic and masculine rock while featuring strings and wind instruments. Returned to more straightforward rock on 2009's 'Mama, I'm Warren'.

Translator's Note: And with that, I've translated three column articles that questioned and answered certain things about Muse.

Are Muse an alternative rock band? Yes.

Are Muse a progressive rock band? Sort of.

Are Muse emo? ...Maybe this Radio X interview can sum it up:

"I'm feeling emotional." - Dom