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myloveforhergoeson · 1 year ago

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🎶 MUSICAL NOTES — what type of music does your oc like? do they listen to music very often?

roxy's music tastes i feel is p clearly defined throughout the fic. i dont remember if you talked about her dad's and if maybe that influenced it? would also love to know ur thoughts on the rest of the cast's music tastes pre-btr

imo i feel like even tho the series is based on a musical group, theres not much music based storylines? so its rly fun to read more of the music side of things with roxy <3

RAHHHHH THANK YOU FOR ASKING... i spend a lot of time thinking about roxy's musical interest but i don't spend much about the rest of the cast aside from a few offhanded mentions here and there. this was a challenge to put together but it was so fun! <3

the main thing i want to mention before i dive into oc music taste is the presence of music surrounding my story! every chapter title, song mentioned, musical influence etc i'm trying to keep within the timeframe + past in which the story takes place. as someone who was not really aware of popular radio in 2009, this is a very fun challenge for me.

Here is the fic playlist if anyone is interested!

It features the song where I got the title of the fic first, then the chapter titles! (and a sneak peak of the next few titles of unreleased chapters <3) These songs aren't meant to reflect anything onto the characters, it's basically just my own music taste fitting the chapters.

Now into the real question... Musical notes! Please find everything under the cut for Rox, her dad, the boys, Jo, and Camille :)

Roxy

what type of music does your oc like? Like you said, her music taste is pretty clearly defined! She's into just a bit of everything, though prefers pop and rock music above all else. Since she worked at a radio station, she was lucky enough to have access to all sorts of music, and when the station went digital, the owner let her keep all of the ancient cassette tapes they used to store everything on! Through combing through these albums from across many generations, she's been able to cultivate what she's into on her own, though her biggest musical influence is definitely her dad! If he wasn't into punk/rock she wouldn't be either. do they listen to music very often? Yes! I don't show this too often in my fic, but I think she listens to music a lot because she prefers it to silence - especially when she's alone in her apartment. What she listens to depends on her mood, and she has a bunch of different mix tapes she's made/she's found to match. So one of those could be on, one of her favorite albums could be on, or she could just pull her iPod out and put that little thing on shuffle to let the machine decide... Endless possibility! musical things this character has mentioned/is observed liking: - James - The Fray - The Pussycat Dolls - Boyquake (in universe boy band) - Taylor Swift - Green Day - Jonas Brothers - Jordin Sparks - Dak Zevon (look out girl!) - Oasis - NSYNC - Kelly Clarkson - Lady Gaga - Nirvana - Big Time Rush :) Special side note: No bearing on anything above here, but if 5 Seconds of Summer were around during the timeframe of this story they would 100000% be her favorite band. They're the perfect blend of everything she loves music-wise, wrapped up in a four hot boy package. I'm incapable of listening to their music without going 'omg this is so her'

2. Declan Somerset

what type of music does your oc like? Declan is a rock/punk/metal kinda guy but specifically the sub-genre of these types of music that culminate into local gigs at shit dive bars and basement shows. As a youngin he stumbled into a basement show with some of his friends (soon to be bandmates) and just loved the atmosphere so much he roped his friends into making their own band so they could be active participants in their community. He's the kinda guy to be like "oh, yeah, i like this band, they're super underground idk if you know them" but like... he's right. No one else in Minnesota is listening to Rainbow Sludge Baby Guts Explosion or Sexy Fishing Rod Brigade or whatever that band he saw last night was called. For him, it's not so much about the actual music, but the community surrounding it, but he would love to hit the stage and shred again if someone let him! do they listen to music very often? When Roxy was home, he would listen to whatever she had on! Her music listening habits didn't change from Minnesota to California, so whatever she put on was just background to him. Now that she's gone, he finds the house is a lot more quiet than it used to be. The only time he really finds himself listening to music is if he's at a show or if he's playing it himself. musical things this character has mentioned/is observed liking: - Nothing concrete yet! Perhaps will be expanded on in future chapters <3

3. Carlos

what type of music does your oc like? Very briefly mentioned in chapter 18 but Carlos is a big fan of Latin music, show tunes, and hip hop! I imagine growing up in a household with three generations of Hispanic individuals really helped cultivate his taste in this way. I personally do not know much about Latin music, show tunes, or hip hop music, but I imagined while they were on the plane he had Roxy listen to a lot of Selena because he though she specifically would like her music a lot. Homie was bumping El Chico Del Apartemento 512 so hard trying to get her to vibe with it while she was like half conscious and trying to not get sick lmaoo. As for hip hop, I think that was something he discovered for himself once he entered high school. Artists like Jay-Z, Eminem, 50 Cent amaze him with how they're able to get their point across and he likes to try and learn the words as a challenge (though he is not very good at it) and he also likes to make up his own dances. It's also good hockey hype music, he likes to listen to it before games. And show tunes... I truly know nothing about musicals so I cannot speak to specifics but he likes them because (in my unposted james POV chapter which will come out eventually) he used to try out for school musicals a lot. He likes the flare and the dramatics! do they listen to music very often? Back home, yes, before hockey games, before auditions, around his house, but now that music is literally his entire life he finds he's getting that fix at work and doesn't really need to listen to it on his own anymore. musical things this character has mentioned/is observed liking: - Green Day - Taylor Swift (because i said so!!!) - The Pussycat Dolls - Big Time Rush - Jordin Sparks (Honorarily bc they were mentioned in this post) - Selena - Jay-Z - Eminem - 50 Cent

4. Kendall

what type of music does your oc like? </3 His ass is so boring his only taste in music is what's on the radio. Though... his performance of Girl 2 My Heart in the first ep of the show makes me believe he actually liked some of the 90s boy band stuff! There is hope yet. Also, not in the story, but I think after his and Roxy's little scene in the fourth chapter he listened to some Oasis and was like "what the fuck. no." Too jock to rock... Tragic... But his issue before BTR was that he liked music but never found anything he liked enough. do they listen to music very often? Only at work, only when he's learning a song, only when he's trying to snoop on whatever Roxy's writing. BORING! musical things this character has mentioned/is observed liking: - Big Time Rush - Boyquake (i'm calling it ok) - The Pussycat Dolls - Jordin Sparks

5. Logan

what type of music does your oc like? Oh my GOD Logan is so into rap music it isn't even funny. Everything about it is just so exciting to him! The technical composition of the beat, the eloquence of the lyrics and how they're strung perfectly together, the performance of it all, the messages... It's like a big equation to him, and he loves it! He and Carlos often bond over this, because rap is a sub-genre of hip hop if I'm not mistaken. Artists like 2Pac, Snoop Dogg, DMX... We see the vision hopefully and I apologize for not being more knowledgeable in the rap/hip hop genre to provide more than common generalizations. He also really likes instrumental music! As we saw in chapter 16, he also enjoys being in a room in which Roxy is playing either the guitar or the piano! do they listen to music very often? Yes... This man is somehow able to study and listen to music at the same time, so he'll hit his playlist and hit the books. AKA he's listening to it a lot when he's alone. And as previously mentioned, he'll also seek out Roxy to play him some instrumental tracks too. It's good for him, no silence when he studies, and good for her, she gets to practice. How considerate of him! musical things this character has mentioned/is observed liking: - Big Time Rush - The Pussycat Dolls - Jordin Sparks (Honorarily bc they were mentioned in this post) - 2Pac - Snoop Dogg - DMX

6. James

what type of music does your oc like? Oh, James... In the same vein as Kendall, he likes whatever's on the radio, but simply because that is what's popular and he himself is popular. So pop music, for sure, is his favorite genre and it's easily accessible through the radio or his phone or whatever so he's always keeping up with the latest! In addition, however, I think he really likes R&B and soul-type music as well as a by-product of living with his mother. There's a reason he chose a Smokey Robinson song to sing at his audition and not something on popular radio, right? Part of it is because he has a really smooth voice that flows right along into the R&B/Soul type genre, but also I'd say it's mostly his mom's influence. Her son should know the "classics!" Also like previously mentioned, he's big into show tunes! It's mentioned a bit in chapter 19 hehe. He's very good at convincing Carlos to try out for school musicals with him, so they practiced a bunch together after school hockey practice <3 And of course... He likes whatever Roxy plays... And wishes she'd play for him the same way she does for Logan... do they listen to music very often? I'd say his music listening is moderate... Not as much as Roxy and Logan but far more than Kendall! In Minnesota, his mom would play her music bc she's so controlling lol... So whenever he was on the way to school/friends' houses/dates/whatever he'd pop on the radio to catch up with the latest and the greatest. His show tune listening aligned with whenever musical try outs were coming up :) musical things this character has mentioned/is observed liking: - Roxy - Smokey Robinson and the Miracles - The Pussycat Dolls - Jordin Sparks - Dak Zevon (get out of there king!) - Big Time Rush

7. Jo

what type of music does your oc like? Two words: Boy bands. It's as simple as that! I'd also say this blends into mentions of popular music, but if she has a choice she's putting Backstreet on no QUESTION. That and movie soundtracks, I'd say, but only for the cheesy supernatural romances she likes. I know she's bumping the Twilight soundtrack near daily (as she damn well should be). Also, I know she's from North Carolina but she doesn't really feel like a country girl to me... idk Being friends with Roxy and dating Kendall is like her perfect musical dream. do they listen to music very often? Yes! Like Roxy, Jo doesn't really like silence. I imagine she listens to music most when she's running lines and trying to flesh out the characters she's trying out for. Once again: listening to the Twilight soundtrack while running lines for New Town High... God I love her. Beyond that, I think she's too busy being with her friends to care particularly about what's on, so she's happy to listen to the radio or pop one of her favorite CD's in! musical things this character has mentioned/is observed liking: - Big Time Rush!!! - The Beach Boys - Jonas Brothers - Dak Zevon (before chapter 1.11.5 lol) - Kelly Clarkson

8. Camille

what type of music does your oc like? I'm not going to lie to yall i've literally thought about this for hours and I just have no idea. in the show i know she was in their camp rock spoof, so maybe show tunes? but thinking about her sitting down and listening to like... Hello, Dolly! just doesn't feel like her. my best response is that she absorbs her music taste through her friends like osmosis. Jo and Roxy like boy bands? Great, now Camille does too! Logan is rocking out to Beastie Boys? Camille is excited to be a part of it. I also know that very briefly she mentions knowing how to figure skate, so maybe even like classical music? but that feels far too mellow for her... She likes Big Time Rush and that's enough for me to say she at the least enjoys pop music. What do we think gang?? do they listen to music very often? Right now I'm going to say only when she's rehearsing for a musical part! musical things this character has mentioned/is observed liking: - Big Time Rush - ???

Thanks for reading :) These are so enjoyable for me to write and I'll do my best to add these elements into my story!! <333

#thats all she wrote fic #ash talks tasw #another mountain of words i really mean it when i say thank you for reading #<333

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legends-of-time · 10 months ago

Text

The Journey of Living at Downton

Chapter 14: February 1919

Masterlist

Emma has gone back to being a servant, though she knows helps to serve the family when they eat, as the Hospital no longer needs her and she doesn't have anything else but now the war is over she's thinking more and more about Mr Branson's, Tom's, offer and leaving Downton for a new life in Ireland.

Sybil has told Emma that her and Billy Prior have agreed to run away a couple of weeks earlier and had asked for Emma's assistance, which she gives and this delays her answering Tom's request.

The plan was already in motion, Billy has gotten a job in marine engineering and shipbuilding down in Southampton that is set up. The plan was for Emma to get the keys for one of the Downton cars and, along with Billy sneaking onto the grounds, they are going to leave in the car and begin the journey to Gretna Green.

Emma is anxious about all this sneaking about but Sybil reassures her that it will be okay. She knows that Sybil is getting increasingly irritated by her family's talk of things returning to the way they were and the insipid conversations around her. She's eagerly waiting to leave this life.

——

Emma finds Lady Edith watching an army Hospital truck leave from the front door.

"That's the last of the equipment gone." Lady Edith says as Emma joins her.

"We've put the Drawing room back to normal, it seems the war really is over," Emma replies.

"Yes, it seems so."

——

Due to the lack of footmen, Emma a short time later finds herself stepping up to the car that holds Sir Richard and holds the door open for him as he steps out while his valet, Mr Brookes, steps out from the front of the car on his own. Her eyes flicker to Mr Branson sitting in the driver's seat and he gazes back.

Lord Grantham joins them as he steps out.

"The train was late." Sir Richard says to him.

"Welcome to the new world." His Lordship replies as Emma closes the car door and starts unstrapping the luggage from the back of the car with the help of Mr Brookes.

"When a war is over, the first emotion is relief, the second, disappointment." Sir Richard drearily remarks.

"How sad. But how true. Come in and have some tea." The two of them walk inside.

——

That evening, Emma sits next to Anna at the table in the Servants' Hall with Daisy pouring her some tea as Mrs Patmore brings some food to the table. Mr Bates sits on Anna's other side while Thomas, Miss O'Brien and Gemma sit on the other side.

"Will you miss the extra staff, Mrs Patmore?" Anna asks the woman who just entered. George passes behind Emma with a jug so she pushes her chair in a bit so he doesn't trip.

Mrs Patmore huffs. "Not really. When push comes to shove, I'd rather do it myself. Though God knows what I'm to feed them on. There's nothing out there to be had. Oh well. The Lord tempers the wind to the shorn lamb." She then walks out of the room

"What about you, Thomas? How much longer will you stay?" Daisy asks as she pours Mr Bates a cup.

"Well, now the last of the invalids have gone, I suppose I'm finished. I'll report to Major Clarkson, but he won't be taking anyone on." Thomas tells her. Emma observes him, feeling sorry for him.

"No he isn't, which obviously meant I could no longer continue there," Emma says. "I'm thankful the family took me back on."

"I suppose the Hospital will revert to the way it was before the war," Anna remarks.

"Where will you go?" Daisy asks just after she finishes pouring Miss O'Brien a cup.

"What's it to you?" Thomas stubs out his cigarette and leaves. Miss O'Brien and Emma follow him to where he stands looking at the mirror next to the stairs.

"Where will you go?" Miss O'Brien asks.

"I'll tell you where I'm going. Into business. It's all set up." Thomas explains as he straightens his jacket.

"Oh no, you mean the black market don't you?" Emma says, aghast at the idea and Miss O'Brien looks to be feeling the same.

Thomas reaches for a brush hanging on the wall and uses it on his jacket. "Don't look so surprised. I found a dealer, and as soon as I make the payment, I'll have the supplies."

"How can you trust him?" Emma questions, glancing at the servants passing them.

"It's not about trust, it's about business," Thomas replies.

"Where will you keep them?" Miss O'Brien asks.

"I've got a shed in the Village, and I've got a banger to deliver the stuff. I'll be well fixed as soon as word gets out." He says to reassure them though Emma doesn't feel it. "You heard her. There are shortages all around." Thomas puts back the brush.

Miss O'Brien glances over her shoulder before turning back to Thomas. "Isn't it dangerous?"

Thomas looks unbothered by her concern. "I don't think so. I don't think the Police are bothered about rationing now the war's over. It won't last forever." He quite says a bit as Mrs Patmore passes. "But by the time it's done, I should have enough to go into business properly."

"So that's your future settled as a plutocrat. In the meantime, have you found somewhere to live?" Miss O'Brien questions.

"Not yet, but there's no hurry. I'm sure they won't object if I stop here for a week or two."

"I shouldn't bet on it." Miss O'Brien leaves them.

The dressing gong rings and the servants get up to prepare.

Emma turns to Thomas before she leaves. "She's right you need to sort it out."

——

Emma walks into the Garage, her heels clicking on the Garage floor and Mr Branson glances up from the car engine. He observes her intently and she tilts her head shyly, waiting for him to say something.

"You look nice, haven't seen you wearing that in a while." He says.

"Thought I'd begin wearing it again since they've given me my old job back so I'll be wearing this every day now," Emma replies. Mr Branson seems to be continuing to check her out. "It's nothing like when I wore something of Sybil's."

"It's just as lovely." To- Mr Branson says.

She smiles and looks down at her feet before looking at him again. "You should've seen me in my 21st century clothes, they have different standards."

He laughs. "I can imagine."

Emma chews her lip. "Where have you been all day?"

"Nowhere. I've just been busy." He replies.

Emma sighs walking towards him. "You know it's funny. I thought I'd be happy going back to what I was doing before but it doesn't feel right. Not what I want to do for the rest of my life after doing something new. I feel I want more from life now than I did before."

"Does this mean that you've made up your mind... at last?" He looks at her hopefully.

Emma shakes her head. "Not quite. But almost." Mr Branson looks down, slightly disappointed. She feels bad but she can't answer him yet. Instead, she reaches up and touches his face. He looks up, surprised, and stares at her longingly.

——

Emma slips into the corridor through the back door and sees Anna stepping out of Mr Carson's Pantry.

"What are you doing?" Anna asks.

"Nothing. Why were you talking to Mr Carson?" Emma quickly says, hoping to divert the conversation away from what she'd been doing.

Anna sighs. "It's Sir Richard."

"What about him?" Emma asks as they walk down the corridor.

"He's offered me money to essentially spy on Lady Mary."

"He never has!" Emma exclaims.

"Yes. I won't do it but I felt Mrs Hughes and Mr Carson should know." Anna replies.

Emma nods. "But shouldn't Lady Mary know?"

"I don't know."

"I don't know about her but I would like to know what my fiancé is up to." Emma points out.

——

The next day, Thomas takes Miss O'Brien and Emma to his shed where he's stocked up.

"Wow," Emma mutters as she looks at the fully stocked shed.

"Where did you get it all?" Miss O'Brien asks in disbelief.

"I told you, this bloke from Leeds," Thomas explains.

"Where did he get it?" Miss O'Brien continues to ask in the same disbelief.

"Some's army surplus, some's from America and Ireland, everywhere. He's got contacts all over, that's what I'm paying him for." Thomas tells them.

"How much have you paid him?" Emma asks worriedly. She can't help but feel that Thomas has got the short end of the stick. He couldn't have done this well.

"A lot. But I'm not worried." Thomas replies casually. "I've taken nothing perishable. This lot'll last for months. I'll be sold out long before any of it's gone off."

"Starting with Mrs Patmore." Miss O'Brien states.

"I'm not getting involved in that, all right?" Emma says looking at the two of them.

"Suit yourself," Thomas says.

——

Emma is busy helping Sybil get dressed for dinner, though not much as she wanted to do it herself for practice, so Emma helps Lady Edith more instead before she has to get ready to serve the family when they eat. She steps out of Lady Edith's room to find an unsettled Anna heading towards her to go down the servants' stairs.

"Anna? Is everything all right?" She asks worriedly.

Anna looks up at her blinking in surprise as if she had been in thought and had not noticed her. "Yes, I'm fine."

Emma begins walking next to her. "Are you sure? You look a bit upset."

"Lady Mary wasn't too pleased about me not telling her first about Sir Richard. I suppose her reprimand upset me a bit." Anna explains as they begin walking down the stairs.

"Sorry to hear that," Emma replies. "She's probably more stressed and upset with Sir Richard than you. You were just the closest person to take it out on."

"You're probably right," Anna responds.

——

Emma walks into the Library to see Mr Crawley and Miss Swire in there.

"Oh, I'm sorry Sir, Miss. I'd come for the tray." Emma apologies. She had hurried upstairs when it was realised that while they had cleared the tea, they'd forgotten to take the tray.

"It's all right, nobody's down yet." Mr Crawley reassures her.

"I could've gotten it for you, you're busy getting dinner ready." Miss Swire adds.

"It's all right Miss, most of what I need to do is done until you all sit to eat," Emma says.

"No, no it's fine. I'll help you bring it down. It's too heavy to do on your own." Miss Swire says, picking up the tray. Emma watches her worriedly.

"It's too heavy for you." Mr Crawley warns her.

"No, it's not."

"Look out!" Mr Crawley cries just as Miss Swire trips over a footstool, reaching for her as Emma lunges forward to try to catch Miss Swire, but she drops the tray and falls against the mantel.

"Heavens, that was a near thing." Mr Crawley takes her arm and it is then that Emma realises that Mr Crawley is standing out of his chair and it seems the other two have noticed as well.

"My God." Miss Swire mutters.

Emma waits with Mr Crawley as Miss Swire runs out of the Library to tell the others about what has happened. It is not long before Emma hears thundering steps and the family bursts into the Library with Lord Grantham and Miss Swire leading the charge.

"Is it true? Is it true what Lavinia says?" His Lordship hurriedly asks.

Emma offers her hand to Mr Crawley and he takes her hand, as well as Miss Swire's, to help himself stand up. The family is stunned with joy.

"I can't believe it!" Lady Mary gasps.

"It's so wonderful!" Lady Grantham echoes.

"It is, but don't tire yourself out," Sybil warns. "Sit down now and we'll send for Dr Clarkson."

"She's right. Edith, go with Branson. Ge-get Clarkson, but fetch Mama and Cousin Isobel as well. I don't care what they're doing. Tell them to come now." Lord Grantham proclaims as Sir Richard walks into the room. His Lordship grasps Mr Crawley's hand. "My dear chap, I cannot begin to tell you what this means to me."

"Well, it's pretty good news for me, too."

His Lordship laughs in relief.

——

Emma goes to tell downstairs immediately about what has happened. Dr Clarkson arrives and informs them that he had made a mistake. Every indication told him that the spine was transected, which would have been incurable. When Sir John Coats came to see Mr Crawley, he didn't agree and thought that it could be a case of spinal shock, which is intense bruising, which stops the legs from working but would heal. Dr Clarkson didn't tell anyone as he didn't agree with him and didn't want to raise Me Crawley's hopes. The good news is that as Dr Clarkson is wrong, Mr Crawley will make a full recovery though will carry a bruise on his spine for the rest of his life.

Mrs Crawley, the Dowager and Dr Clarkson all stay to eat. Anna and Emma had served the main course. Anna takes the trays downstairs while Emma retreated back to the Antechamber to sort out the wine. Because of where she is, she hears Mr Crawley's announcement to the table.

"I-I want to tell you all something. As you know, during this - well, I think I can say – horrible time, Lavinia has proved to be the most marvellous person."

"Here, here." His Lordship utters.

"Indeed." Mrs Crawley agrees.

"I never thought we would marry, for all sorts of reasons, but she wouldn't accept that. And so, now I'm very pleased to say that she's been proved right." Emma looks down, considering his words, she had stopped doing what she had been doing and now just stands and listens. "Lavinia and I will get married."

"Oh, my dear fellow." Lord Grantham says.

"Isn't it wonderful?" Mrs Crawley adds.

Emma can imagine the fake smile that Lady Mary is likely sporting right now.

"Just as soon as I'm well enough to walk down the aisle. Dr Clarkson can help us with when." Mr Crawley adds.

"Not long now." Dr Clarkson reassures.

"And she feels we ought to marry here, at Downton, to bury forever the memories of what, I hope, has been the darkest period of my life." Mr Crawley finishes.

"Of course." Lord Grantham agrees.

"Are you sure?" Miss Swire asks. "I know it should be at my home in London, but we've been through so much here."

"We'd be delighted."

"Yes, bravo. Excellent news." The Dowager remarks.

Emma stares at nothing for a moment, thinking.

——

She finds Mr Branson, or Tom as now what she should be saying, is reading the newspaper and he looks up to see her enter.

"You're very late. Don't you have dinner to clear?"

Emma shakes her head, trying not to smile too much. "They're fine clearing away without me. Though I doubt they'll notice me gone, everyone is so excited, they won't care where I am."

"I'm pleased. I like Mr Matthew." He replies.

Emma takes a breath before continuing. "He announced at dinner that he wants to get married at Downton. It makes me realise that this is a new beginning, that the war is truly over and it's time to move forward."

"Do you mean you've made your decision?" Tom asks hopefully.

"Yes. And my answer is..." Emma can see him bracing himself but she keeps her expression serious. "That I'm ready to travel... and you are my ticket." She lets herself smile. "To begin a new life, a new world—"

"Me?" Tom asks hopefully.

"No, Mr Bates. I feel he and I have an undeniable connection." Emma giggles and Tom stops holding his breath.

"I'm sorry. But I've waited so long for those words, I can't believe I'm hearing them. You won't mind leaving this world, Downton?" He questions. Emma doesn't blame him.

"Mind? Not at all! I've outgrown it." Emma exclaims.

Tom smiles with a sigh of relief and leans forward to kiss her. She holds back. "Yes, you can kiss me, but that is all until everything is settled."

"For now, God knows, it's enough that I can kiss you." Emma smiles at his reply and they kiss.

——

Turns out Mr Carson is no longer leaving as he couldn't work for a man who would bribe and spy, which Emma can understand though she worries that Lady Mary won't have his support when at Haxby.

They've had a letter from Major Bryant's mother. She and her husband are in Yorkshire on Friday and she wants to pay a visit as he had died and Downton was the last place they saw him alive. They'll give them luncheon and talk about the Major with those who knew him. To be honest Emma never really liked him.

The next day is when they arrive and Emma is in the Antechamber blocked off from the Dining room by a divider sorting the dishes that had been served, to take them down again. She's lost in thought, thinking about Tom. They had decided that they would begin putting their plan in motion to go to Ireland to get married after Sybil is sorted. Emma can't wait.

Suddenly, Ethel, of all people, barges past her with Anna and Mrs Hughes following her. She gapes in shock when she sees the baby in Ethel's arms.

"Leave me alone!" Ethel yells. Emma's eyes widen. That's definitely going to get the family's and their guests' attention.

"Ethel!" Mrs Hughes cries as Ethel rushes into the room with her child, Mrs Hughes and Anna in pursuit with Emma trailing after them. The luncheon party looks shocked.

"I tried to stop her—" Anna begins to say to Mr Carson.

"What on earth?" Lord Grantham exclaims.

"Ethel—" Lady Grantham turns to her husband. "I know what this is." She stands. "Mrs Hughes, I don't think it's quite the right—"

"I'm stopping," Ethel snaps, "until I've had my say." Ethel looks at Mrs Bryant. "This is Charlie, your grandson. He's almost a year old." Emma can see from Mrs Bryant's face that she looks interested.

Mr Bryant, on the other hand, stands up and throws his napkin on the table. "What proof have you?"

"What?"

"I say, what proof have you? If my son was the father of this boy, where's your proof? Any letters? Any signed statement?" Mr Bryant harshly replies. Emma winces.

"Why would there be any letters? We were in the same house." Ethel replies.

"I think she's telling the truth." Mrs Hughes pipes up.

"I'm not interested in "think."" Mr Bryant retorts. "I want proof that my son acknowledged the paternity of this boy. If what you say is true, then he would've known of the boy's existence for months before he...before he was killed."

"Yes, he knew," Ethel replies in a voice that is hard but also a whisper.

"So, what did he do about it?"

Ethel looks close to tears "Nothing. He did nothing."

"Thank you. That's the proof I was looking for. If Charles was the father, he would never have shirked his responsibilities. Never." Mr Bryant replies.

"Well, he did!"

"I won't listen to any more slander!" Mr Bryant snaps. Mrs Bryant is clearly upset, and not in agreement with her husband. "Now, will you please go and take that boy with you, whoever he is! You're upsetting Mrs Bryant!" Lady Grantham stares at Mr Bryant, appalled at his behaviour.

"Well, I would like—" His wife tries to say.

"I said you are upsetting Mrs Bryant!" Mr Bryant yells. Ethel cries and Emma puts her arm around her. "Lord Grantham, are you going to stand by while this woman holds us to ransom?"

Lord Grantham gives Mr Bryant an irritated look but stands up. "This isn't doing much good."

"Ethel, you better come with me." Mrs Hughes says, gripping her arm.

"Come on." Emma encourages. She, Anna and Mrs Hughes escort Ethel out with Charlie crying in her arms.

——

"If that's what he's like, I don't want his help. I don't want it." Ethel says from her seat at the Servants' Hall table, in between Emma and Anna. Emma cradles Charlie in her lap. She sees George, the Hall boy, come and loiter behind her.

"I doubt you'll have the option." Miss O'Brien says somewhat sombrely. "You're a dark horse. How did you keep it a secret all this time?" She stands on the other side of the table with Anne and Jean standing behind her and Mr Bates and Gemma sitting.

"Maybe when he's thought about it, he'll feel differently. You never know." Anna tries to reassure her.

Emma looks up from stroking Charlie's cheeks. "The mother seemed to be listening, maybe she'll get him to change his mind?"

Mr Carson enters causing them all to stand. "Anna, Emma, will you kindly go upstairs and help in the Dining room? Ethel, please take the child and leave." Ethel takes Charlie from Emma's arms. Emma frowns at his tone. "How did you get here?"

"I caught the bus and walked up from the Village," Ethel replies.

"Then can you reverse the process as quickly as possible?"

"She's very badly shaken, Mr Carson." Mr Bates intervenes. "She's lost everything."

Regretfully leaves the room with Anna but watches over her shoulder as Mr Carson asks, "Are you all right for the fare?"

"Yes, thank you," Ethel says walking out.

——

That night Emma helps Sybil pack what she needs, particularly her more simple clothes, instead of helping her get ready for dinner. She also slips the message that Sybil is feeling I'll and won't be down for dinner and the family won't realise anything tomorrow until Emma 'finds' the letter that has been left.

Emma helps them acquire the car and watches them leave while the family congregates in the Drawing room. She quickly darts back in to serve the family.

Emma is grabbed by Anna later that evening after the family had eaten and dragged up the servants' stairs and out onto the landing of the house to see Lady Mary standing there with, what Emma then recognises to be, Sybil's farewell letter in her hand. Emma's eyes widen. They weren't meant to find it until tomorrow!

"Did you know about this?" Lady Mary asks.

"Know about what?" Emma tries to ask innocently but Lady Mary is not fooled.

"Don't play ignorant." Lady Mary snaps and Emma's eyes widen at her tone. "You know that I know more than the others. Where is she?"

"You know in the letter it says Gretna Green," Emma answers reluctantly.

"How are they getting there?"

"They've taken one of the cars." At Anna's and Lady Mary's looks, she quickly adds, "They would've left it to be found!"

"Why did you do this?" Anna questions. Emma rolls her eyes.

"We need to go after her." Lady Mary declares.

"But—"

"And you're helping us find them. They won't have gotten too far." Lady Mary reasons.

"We need to find Lady Edith, she can drive," Anna says.

"Yes, that'll limit the damage. We cannot get Branson involved." Lady Mary agrees.

——

Emma sits quietly in the back seat of the car next to Anna while Lady Edith drives and Lady Mary sits next to her.

"They must stop at some point. It won't be open before the morning." The eldest Crawley daughter reasons.

"She won't expect us to be in pursuit until tomorrow, so they'll stay somewhere on the road." Her sister adds.

"We hope," Anna remarks.

"Everyone keep an eye out for the motor." Lady Edith says. Emma continues looking down and not making any eye contact with anyone.

The girls continue their pursuit on the road. They pass an inn with a couple of motorcars out front.

"Isn't that the car?" Anna says, causing Lady Edith to slam on the brakes.

——

Anna stays in the car but Emma comes along with Lady Edith and Mary as they rush up the stairs. Lady Mary knocks on the door and enters. Sybil and Billy pull off blankets as Billy gets up from the chair and Sybil gets up from the bed.

"How did you find us? How did you know?" Billy asks. Emma stands anxiously behind the two elder Crawley daughters. She catches Sybil's eyes and they share a worried look.

"Never mind that. At least nothing's happened, thank God." Lady Mary replies.

"What do you mean "nothing's happened"?" Billy looks at Sybil, looking worried and confused about what she's implying. "I've decided to marry Billy, and your coming after me won't change that." Billy steps up beside Sybil and tries to look confidently but Emma can see he is anxious as his eyes dart between his future, hopefully, sisters-in-law.

"This isn't the way." Lady Edith adds.

"She's right. Of course Mama and Papa will hate it—"

"Why should they?" Billy bursts out, interrupting Lady Mary. Emma raises her eyebrows in impressed shock at his sudden confidence.

"Oh, pipe down." The interrupted woman snaps before turning to her youngest sister. "Sybil, can't you let them get used to the idea? Take your stand and refuse to budge, but allow them time. That way you won't have to break up the family."

"They would never give permission." Sybil reminds her.

"You don't need permission, you're twenty-three. But you do need their forgiveness if you're not to start your new life under a black shadow." Emma chews her lip. She kind of has a point.

"Don't listen. She's pretending to be reasonable to get you home again." Billy warns her having noticed Sybil thinking on her sisters' words.

"Even if I am, even if I think this is mad, I know it would be better to do it in broad daylight than to sneak off like a thief in the night." Lady Mary argues.

Billy sighs and then looks at Sybil as her resolve is waning. She looks up at him and Emma knows Lady Mary has won.

Billy can see this as well. "Go back with them, then. If you think they can make you happier than I will."

"Am I so weak you believe I could be talked out of giving my heart in five minutes flat? But Mary's right. I don't like deceit and our parents don't deserve it. So, I'll go back with them. Believe it or not, I will stay true to you." Sybil kisses his cheek. Lady Edith gets her luggage and Sybil takes one last teary-eyed look at Billy before leaving the room with Lady Edith and Emma.

"I'm sorry," Emma says to her as they descend the stairs.

"I don't blame you," Sybil replies. "But my sisters have got to realise that this is not over."

——

The next morning Emma stands in Thomas' shed with said man and Miss O'Brien. Thomas is covered in some sort of powder; everything that was in the shed has been trashed and slashed with shelves knocked over.

Thomas is pouring out some from a packet. "It's all rubbish. It's all bloody rubbish." He throws it to the floor.

"There must be a way to make this right, for you to get your money back." Emma declares. "Can't you ask for it?"

"Oh, yes. Of course I can ask, and a fat lot of good that'll do." Thomas' sarcastic tone biting.

"You must challenge him." Miss O'Brien insists.

"How? I only ever met him in a pub. I wouldn't know where to find him!" Thomas' voice breaks in the last sentence.

"But, surely—"

"Don't you understand woman!" He suddenly yells and throws more of the stuff causing Miss O'Brien to flinch and Emma to jump. "I've been tricked! Been had! Been taken for the fool I am." Thomas sits down for a smoke.

There's a pause of silence as the two women in the room let him simmer for a moment before Emma hesitantly speaks, "How much did he take from you?"

"Every penny I had. And then some."

"What are you going to do now?" Miss O'Brien asks softly.

"I don't know. I don't bloody know." Thomas admits almost sobbing.

What can he do? Thomas had clearly been scammed and was the one to pay the price.

——

A/N: This is a silly little bit that bothered me but I don't know why when they followed after Sybil, Mary said Sybil was 21 when she would have been 23 at the time this episode is set.

Please leave comments on how you're enjoying this story and what you think.

#downton abbey

0 notes

author-a-holmes · 2 years ago

Note

Shuffle your favorite playlist and post the first five songs that come up. Then copy/paste this ask to your favorite mutuals. 🎶🎧💜💙🤗

Is it sad that, despite being best friends, I read "send this to your favourite mutuals" and my instant reaction was:

*Pleading Face Emoji* I'm a favourite?!

Rofl!

ANYWAYS My defunct brain patterns aside, I fucking love sharing my playlists. I know you know this, so thank you for the ask <3

I've not gone with a Work In Progress Specific playlist, mainly because Changeling doesn't have one, and Darkling doesn't have enough songs on it yet, so instead I've chosen my general playlist for 2023. It includes all my current favourite songs, and any new music I find this year that I want to add to my playlist soup.

If I'm looking for a new song for the next chapter, this is the playlist I shove on shuffle.

So without futher ado, 5 songs beneath the cut...

Taylor Swift - Style

I don't know why, but ther way this one is sung just sounds super flirty, and gives old school, silver screen, holywood love story vibes.

youtube

You got that James Dean daydream look in your eye And I got that red lip classic thing that you like And when we go crashing down, we come back every time 'Cause we never go out of style, we never go out of style You got that long hair, slicked back, white t-shirt And I got that good girl faith and a tight little skirt And when we go crashing down, we come back every time 'Cause we never go out of style, we never go out of style

2. Nickelback - Someday

One of my favourites of theirs. Which is saying a lot because there's not many Nickelback songs I DIS-like. But I love how the song lyrics make you think one thing, and then you watch the video and it's even more heartbreaking and tragic than it sounds. It really made my appreciate Chad Kroeger as a lyracist.

youtube

Well, I'd hope that since we're here anyway We could end up saying Things we've always needed to say So we could end up staying Now the story's played out like this Just like a paperback novel Let's rewrite an ending that fits Instead of a Hollywood horror

3. Demi Lovato - Heart Attack

I cannot believe this one shuffled onto the list of over 350 songs I'm using. It's my THEME song for Reilly Mosswolf from my book, Stolen. When I need to get back into Reilly or Stella's headspace I'll listen to this song or Stella's Theme "Fight Song" by Rachel Platten.

youtube

You make me glow But I cover up, won't let it show So I'm putting my defenses up 'Cause I don't wanna fall in love If I ever did that, I think I'd have a heart attack

4. Blake Shelton - Honey Bee

Bloody Hell. My love of cheesy country music is showing here. I'm a closet romantic and Country Music really touches on that romantic streak in my, particularly Blake Shelton's songs. Plus the music video is cute as fuck.

You'll be my sunny day I'll be your shady tree You'll be my honeysuckle I'll be your honey bee. Yeah, that came out a little country But every word was right on the money And I got you smilin' honey right back at me

5. Kelly Clarkson - Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You)

You can't do much better for a power balland than Clarkson, and her lyrics are usually on the empowering side. This isn't one of my favourites from her, but it always manages to put me in a kickass kinda mood.

youtube

Thanks to you I got a new thing started Thanks to you I'm not the broken hearted Thanks to you I'm finally thinkin' 'bout me You know in the end the day you left was just my beginning

I've got over 350 songs on this list, so for anyone additionally curious about my music tastes, I'll link the full playlist HERE.

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wreckofawriter · 6 years ago

Text

Focus

Pairing: Draco Malfoy x Ravenclaw!reader

Warnings: Slight swearing, bullying

Word count: 4,728 (this is the longest one I've ever written)

Request: Hey do you think you could do a Draco imagine? I was thinking with a ravenclaw reader who’s actually shy and clumsy.

A/n: Sorry this came out later than I anticipated, its regents week for me and I was crushed by exams. I hope to have part one of my Draco series out over the weekend. Hope you guys like this ridiculously long one!

“Ms. y/l/n” You heard an all too familiar voice say.

“Yes Professor?” You asked turning around swiftly to face the raven haired teacher.

“What happened with your potion, it was a complete disaster?” The teacher asked.

You flushed, it was no secret you weren't exactly great at positions, you were too clumsy to measure anything out, you managed to cut your finger and you always messes up the order of ingredients.

“I'm so sorry professor i'm just not very good at positions. I have been studying I swear, it just..” Your voice trailed off. “I'm sorry professor.” You mumbled looking down.

“I want you prepared for the test next Wednesday, you should be able to manage that?” He asked eyebrows raised.

“Of course professor.” You mumbled still quite flush from the whole conversation. You turned to leave walking back towards your common room. About thirty seconds later you saw the last person you wanted to. Mckenzie Clarkson. She was a fellow housemate who unfortunately was extremely popular, pretty, nimble footed and of course, smart. She was basically everything you weren't, in your mind.

“God your pathetic.” The brunett girl laughed, her stunning green eyes narrowing. “You have lost, what was it? 30 points for us today.” The girls behind her giggled whispering things to each other. “You shouldnt even be in Ravenclaw. Your far to stupid. You cant even get into the common room without help, you trip over your own feet and you are practically failing all your classes.” She smirked clearly feeling very good about herself, as you willed yourself not to cry. You hated crying, so you just glared up at her anger rushing through you like a wave, but you kept it down, what could you possibly say to her?

“Can you just let me go?” You asked voice weak.

“I don't know can we?” The hallway erupted in laughter.

“Just let me leave.” You said voice a bit stronger now as your anger grew.

“Fine.” She smirked as she moved out of the way. You quickly began to walk through the group of girls, the embarrassment was suffocating.

Just as you were about to break free of the group, a girl stuck he leg out sending you sprawling to the ground. Your hands, full of books that scattered as you attempted to get your arms in front of you, it was a failure and you landed on your elbow directly followed by you face. You groaned in pain as you felt blood begin to seep from your nose.

“Oops.” The girl giggled before they all turned to leave laughing and joking.

You lay there for a few seconds squeezing your eyes shut, begging the tears to retreat. You eventually pushed yourself up so you were sitting. You were surrounded by books and papers, you had blood rushing down your face dripping onto you shirt and you had had enough. You simply pulled yourself to the side of the hallway drawing your knees to you cest and began to cry. You knew this wouldn't stop. You were far too shy to say anything and even if you weren't the girls were right anyway. Why were you in Ravenclaw when it took you a good twenty minutes just to figure out the password to your own common room?

Just then your heard voices. You quickly moved grabbing your books and sprinting out of the hallway before anyone could see you. You sprinted the whole way back to the tower. You were greeted by the raven statue you had grown to hate. You groaned loudly.

The statue spoke, “How is it possible for you to stand behind your father while he is standing behind you?” it asked, making you groan again.

“Can you please just let me in, im covered in blood.” You grumbled knowing that it wouldn’t answer. You tried to think. How can I stand behind something that is behind me? You racked your brain for an awnser but it seemed impossible. You couldnt help it you began to cry again. Frustration, embarrassment and sadness filled you as tears streaked you cheek. Why were you put in Ravenclaw? What could that stupid, good for nothing, hat possibly seen in you that made him shout “Ravenclaw” like a farmer yelling for his next sheep to slaughter.

You then heard footsteps beside you. You turned to see Cho Chang. She was in the year above you and was everything a Ravenclaw should have been, pretty, athletic, and of course wicked smart. You wanted to hate her for being so perfect but you couldn't.

“Hey,” She said softly, “I heard what Mckenzie did. That's messed up.” She attempted to sooth you.

“It doesn't matter.” You attempted to smile but it was more of a tight lipped grimace.

“She’s wrong you know.” Cho smiled.

You gave a half hearted laugh, “What could possibly make me a Ravenclaw?”

“So much y/n,” she said, “You are crazy good at Wizards Chess for one.”

“That’s just a stupid game.” You grumbled.

“No, it takes strategy and I've never seen a single person beat you.” She pointed out.

You blushed not used to getting praised.

“Also i've seen your artwork, its beautiful, absolutely stunning.” She smiled making you blush more.

“Thanks.” you mumbled.

“Look don't let one girl get you down.” She advised before asking the statute for the riddle. It answered and she stood there thinking for a second.

“Oh!” she exclaimed, “Your standing back to back.”

The statue spun open as you hit your forehead onto you stack of books making you stumble, barley catching yourself before you fell. You cursed yourself before ascending the stairs to your room. You had had enough humiliation for today.

Draco rolled his eyes as Zambini told another terrible joke beside him, “What do you call a red head with no brains?’

“I don't know, you with red hair?” Draco mocked.

“Close but no.” the other boy snickered, “A weasley!” He erupted into laughter as they rounded the corner, heading to the common room.

As they continued talking Draco felt something thump against his foot. He looked down to see a leather bound book which he had kicked a few feet in front of him. The platinum blonde raised his eyebrows before bending down to pick it up.

“What the..” Balises voice trailed off.

Draco looked up to see a small puddle of blood at the end of the quoridor.

“Some idiot probably got hurt in potions or something.” Draco scoffed, though he was a bit confused. They continued walking being careful to avoid the blood. Draco's mind was quickly brought back to the book and he opened it to see what it was. What he saw stunned him.

They were sketches. Not crappy sketches that was done by some kid, but damn good sketches. Most of them looked like they were for herbology. There were various plants with notes about them scribbled in messy handwriting in the margins, but every few pages there was something different. On the fifth page there was a drawing of a creature he didn't recognize. It was a black horse-like creature with big leathery looking wings. He wondered what it was. They had now arrived at the common room and Draco went directly to a couch sitting down on the black leather, continuing through the book. On the eleventh page there was a drawing of a broom stick. It was read Nimbus 2000 at the handel. There were various other sketches of random objects littered throughout the pages of plants and each was extremely realistic. His thoughts were interrupted by Daphne and Pansy.

“Did you draw those Malfoy?” Daphne asked plucking the book out of his hand ignoring his protests.

“No, could I have it back?” He asked glaring at the girl.

Before she could respond Perkison interrupted, “Who’s is it Dracy?”

“Don't call me Dracy” the boy groweld, “and I haven't the slightest idea.”

“Oh, how did you get it?” Daphne asked.

“I just found it, now give it back.” He stood up snatching the book up before retreating upstairs.

“Who pissed in his cheerios?” Pansy grumbled plopping onto the couch.

The next day you had herbology first period, you quite liked herbology you were good at it too. You loved how you could just sketch after you finished the drawing of the plants and of course you love your grade in the class. It made you feel less like a loser. Just a little less. When you plopped yourself into a seat next to a Ravenclaw boy named Casey. He was always very nice and often complimented you drawings. You would be lying if you said you didn't like him a little.

After sitting down and greeting the boy you opened your bag to look for your sketchbook. It was nowhere to be found. What the heck? You thought as you searched through your bag with no luck. Then it struck you. You must have left it in the dungous yesterday. You cursed yourself quietly.

“You okay?” Casey asked beside you.

“Yeah I just lost my book,” You smiled at him blushing a bit.

“Oh. I could help you look for it later if you want.” He offered.

“O-oh I wouldn't want to bother you.” you blushed

“It's no bother, I swear i want to help.” He smiled flashing a pearly set of straight teeth.

“Ok, s-sounds good.” You stammered, you felt your face grow impossibly warmer.

The lesson continues and you talked occasionally to Casey, you did your sketch on a piece of lined paper, you would transfer them when you found your notebook. After Herbologioy you and Casey headed down to the dungeons to look for your book. You had never really hung out with him out of class and it was nice. You were fighting a blush the whole time, you weren’t really one who interacted with attractive boys out of class.

Draco began to make his way down to potions, he was still working through the drawings, there were many creatures he had never heard of before. It was odd, how had he never seen so many of these before? He was halfway through the dungeons when he heard giggling. It wasn't Pansy’s shriek, it was a soft quiet sound that made him think of the patter of rain on dewy grass. He turned the corner to see two figures in blue robes. One was a tall boy with dirty blond hair and deep brown eyes. Next to him was a y/h girl with y/h/l y/h/c hair that shone in the candle light. Her eyes were a stunning y/e/c that shared a soft yet sharp gaze with the world. He was taken aback. How had he never seen this girl before? They both looked at Draco expecting him to speak but he didn't, he simply kept walking brushing past the two, tucking the leather bound book back into his robes.

As he walked away, he heard the boy mutter something to the girl, causing her to gasp and laugh,

“Casey!” she scolded him

“Oh come on y/n that was funny.” He teased back and Draco almost gasped in surprise. That was y/n? y/n y/l/n? No way. You were in his potions class and you never even spoke up, you were constantly messing up positions too. How was that girl the same one whose name he had grown deaf to Snape yelling? I didn't seem possible.

“Shot, I have to get to positions.” you told Casey glancing at your watch. He said goodbye as you walked quickly to your worst class. You were actually unusually excited, Luna one of your best friends had offered to help you out because you had the class together and she was quite good at potions. You entered the classroom quickly and found Lun, sitting next to the girl. As you waited for class to start you chatted about the different potions and what might be on the test.

“Wait for the dragons egg you have to turn it to powder first right?” you asked to see your friends gaze elss where.

“Dracos staring at you.” She said simply as if she hadn't just said an impossible sentence.

“What?” you asked turning around to meet a pair of silver eyes already on you. They quickly dodged away making you blush tremendously. “I saw him in the hallway eairler, and Casey made a stupid joke about him, hes probally plotting my death.” You sighed reality crashing on to you.

“I don't think so.” Luna said in her usual dreamy tone.

“What else would he be doing?” You murmured returning to your notes.

Before Luna could answer Snape entered the room and you snapped your eyes to the front of the class.

“It has come to my attention that many of you are getting nothing done in this class.” He stated harshly. You cringed this was not going to end well. “And because of that fact I have made a new seating chart,” You groaned, just when you were getting excited about positions.

“Listen for your name and your partner,” He continued. “Parkinson, Belby. Goldstein, Crabbe. Greengrass, Lovegood.” You glanced at your friend who was as usual, smiling. You are happy for her as well, there were much worse partners to be had. “Corner, Zambini. Boot, Blustrode. Y/l/n, Malfoy.” The rest of the names went out of the window when you heard your partner. This was not going to be good, not good at all.

When Draco heard your name called, then quickly followed by his he felt like he was going to throw up. And it wasn't because he knew you were probably going to botch whatever potion they made, it was because he wasn't sure if he could focus around you. He blushed madly and tried to think about something else. It's just a pretty girl you bloody idiot. He scolded himself. You just met her today, he reminded himself Well just realized she existed today. He was shaken out of his thoughts by Snape's voice.

“If you don't like your partner, too bad. Move together please.” Draco glanced over at y/n who was already packing up, Zambini moved from his seat apologizing to Draco for his partner and moved toward the back where Micheal was seated.

He then saw you make your way over to him your cheeks a bit red, the same way they were when you were talking to that Casey boy in the hallway. He grimaced, how was he jealous of someone he had never spoken a word to? He then decided he would ignore every good quality you had and focus on the bad ones. That way it would be easier to pretend to hate you right?

The second you sat down his plan failed. You smelt like vanilla and roses. He wanted to lean closer to you and inhale your addicting scent forever, but instead he moved over or so he couldn't breathe in your intoxicating fumes.

“Hi, i’m y/n.” You said sweetly sticking your hand out.

“I know who you are.” Draco responded ignoring your hand and continuing to stare at the board, slouching in his seat.

“Oh ok.” You murmured. He saw a small frown take over your soft pink lips and he felt angry for being its cause.

Snape explained that you were to make a Confusing Concoction potion and told you you had till the end of class. The potion wasn't too complicated. You thought you might be able to get through this one.

“I'll get the water you can work on the feathers.” Draco drawled trying not to get to close to you as he stood. You pretend not to notice.

“Ok.” you nodded. You grabbed the feathers and began to separate the barbs from them. Not but two feathers in you yelped with pain as a barb pierced your thumb. You yanked it out hissing in pain as you saw blood drips from the wound. Draco who was now back and heating the water grimaced at the sound of your pain but refused to show that he cared.

He sighed loudly, “Look you go clean up and I will finish the feathers.”

“Thank you.” you whimpered walking towards a sink face red as the blood dripping from your hand.

Draco let out a breath he didn't know he was holding after you walked past. He then sat down and began to work on the feathers. His fingers moved easily to separate the barbs from the stalk and he couldn't help but wonder how you had possible stuck yourself with one so quickly. He then heard a thump and an apology and looked up to see you stumbling back to your seat face a brilliant red as Millicent and Boot glared after you. He snickered a bit turning back to the feathers.

Once you had most of the ingredients in you had to wait for 30 minutes for it to boil so Draco sat down and pulled out the book of drawings he had found.

He was flipping through the pages again when he heard a gasp beside him. He looked up eyebrows raised.

“Where did you find that?” You asked pointing at the book.

“In the hallway.” He smirked, “Why do you care anyway?”

“Because it's mine.” You whispered causing his cheeks to flush.

“This is yours?” He asked surprise sewn into his voice.

“Yes.” you nodded, “I lost it when..” your voice trailed off face growing red, “after potions.” you finished voice quiet.

“You sure this is yours?” It came out harsher than Draco had intended but what could he do about it now?

“Yes.” you breathed out face growing warmer. “It does have drawings in it, doesn't it?”

“Well yeah but they are like, really good.” Only after he said it did he realise how it sounded. He instantly was filled with guilt as your face flashed with sadness and anger.

“Yeah, well, they’re mine.” You grumbled voice quiet.

“Here.” He handed the book to you, your hands brushed before you snatched the book away and he felt like he was going to burst at the feeling of your skin against his.

Just then the timer on your position went off and the two of you continued to work.

That's how it went for two weeks. You and Draco would share very few words as you worked together. Your grade did improve, but you were still quite prone to accidents and Draco rolled his eyes everytime. You went from being sad he didn't like you to being mad. He was always so rude. He would avoid speaking to you, looking at you, hell he avoided you altogether, his seat was always poised at the other end of the desk as if you were some sort of plague. All of this made you angry and frustrated. What have you done to make you so repulsive? You knew you weren't the best at potions but you had only messes up three the whole time and you were improving. You had never been rude to the boy even once, how come he hated you so much?

“I just don't get it.” You pouted turning to Casey who was walking you down to potions.

“It's not your fault y/n, he's like that with everyone.” He explained, “He's just a dick, not much you can do about it.”

“But maybe if I was better at potions the-” you were interrupted by Casey.

“Y/n its not your fault, you are amazing and sweet and kind, it's just him okay? Don't let him make you doubt yourself.”

You blushed furiously at his words, “Thanks Case.”

“Plus if he's really pissing you off just blow a potion up in his face.” he jeered.

You laughed loudly, “He'd probably kill me with his icy glare.” you teased.

“He is always glaring at you.” Casey smiled.

“Thanks for walking me.” You said.

“Of course, i’ll see you around y/n.” He beamed.

“See ya.” You said before entering the classroom. You were met with Draco's frozen glare.

“Hello Malfoy.” You greeted.

“Y/l/n” he responded his voice vacant of any emotion.

You sat down and glanced at the board to see what position you were working on. You then looked at Draco who was already looking at you making you blush.

“I'll get the water.” You said promptly before standing up and snatching a cauldron. Only when you did this you left foot got caught behind your right and you plummeted to the ground. You dropped the cauldron with a clang and you hit the ground. You instantly heard laughter erupted throughout the room and you felt tears well up in your eyes. You then heard a snicker and you didn't have to see his face to know it was Draco. You blinked furiously face a deep shade of crimson. You then pushed yourself off the ground, lifted the cauldron from a few feet away and turned to face the slytherin boy. Your shyness suddenly disappearing in your rage and embarrassment when you saw the everlasting smirk perched on his lips. You felt two tears cascade down your red cheeks as you thrust the cauldron into his hands.

“Screw you Malfoy.” your voice trembled through gritted teeth. You then quickly left the classroom, laughter disappearing behind you. You made it maybe two cordors from the classroom when you saw Mckenzie. You instantly turned to run but were cut off by a few other girls already behind you.

“God y/n, such a clutz.” She snickered. “I think you belong in a physical therapy building not a wizarding school.”

You only whimpered feeling helpless and small.

“Boo-hoo poor, poor, y/n all alone.” She rubbed her eyes with her fists.”You do realize that Casey only hangs out with you because of a dare right?”

Your eyes widened in confusion.

“I made a dare that he couldn't get you to go out with him in a month and here we are, only two weeks in and you are practically drooling over him.”

You felt a sob leave your mouth. You wanted to say it wasn’t true but you knew it was. It sure as hell wasn’t a coincidence he asked to help you find your book the exact day she said she struck the deal with him. You felt angry. Sad. But most of all embarassed. You were always so embarrassed. Why where you always so fucking embarassed?!

“Guess I'll have to go out with him now that I told you about the bet” She smirked picking at her long blue nails.

“Of course.” You muttered tears falling of your chin.

“What's that?” Mckenzie smirked.

“Of course he would want to go out with you.” You began to sob and you saw Mckenzie’s smirk widen and your anger out did you.

“Of course, some douchebag like him would want to date a slutty bitch like you.” Anger dripped like poison from your voice. All of the laughter around you stopped as you felt yourself smile. You looked up through your tears to see Mkenzies mouth wide open in shock, her eyes wide in her sockets.

Anger took over her features and she pulled her wand from her robes with a shriek. “Stupify!” she shouted and you were sent sprawling backward. Your head hit the stone wall and black dots danced in your vision. You groaned closing your eyes but they popped back open when you heard another voice.

“Back off!” it yelled anger knit into its frame. You turned to see Draco heading strait at the girls. He whipped his wand once and suddenly Meckenzi flew into the air. She then dangled there like an invisible rope was tied to her ankle.

She shrieked for the girls below her to help but they just turned and ran fearful of the boy heading toward them. After the other girls disappeared Draco flicked his wand again and Mckenzie fell to the ground and began to cry.

“Get out of here before I do more than hex you.” You heard him growl.

The girl instantly stood up sobbing as she stumbled away. Draco's eyes softened when they landed on you.

“Are you alright?” he asked as he rushed over to you.

“What do you care Malfoy?” you mumbled attempting to get up only to stumble over your own feet and plummet to the ground, well you would have hit the ground if it wasn't for a pair of strong arms wrapping around you. You looked up at the blonde, his grey eyes were set on your lips and felt your heartbeat speed up to extremely high. Draco's face was now quite red as he helped you back to your feet.

“Why do you hate me?” the question rose from your lips before you could stop it. You flushed immediately after it left your mouth. Draco looked taken aback by the question.

“I don't hate you.” he stated.

“Don't lie to me. You avoid looking at me, you don't speak to me, hell you sit as far away from me as possible.” You paused looking at the boy, “I just want to know why.”

He laughed he actually laughed. What could possibly be funny right now? Was this all another joke? Did he really find your misery that funny. You flushed madly turning to leave.

“No wait love, don't leave.” Draco begged his laughter stopping abruptly.

You felt heat rush to your face at the nickname and turned around looking at the ground. Your gaze was turned upward when you felt a finger slowly lift your face upward. You had never blushed so much in your entire life.

“I don't hate you y/n. I would never hate you.” He smiled, not his usual smirk but a genuine smile and it made you go weak at the knees. “I don't think I could ever hate you.”

“Then why do you act like you do?” you asked, “Why do you avoid me? Why do you never talk to me, never look at me?”

He sighed, “I avoid you because whenever I get near you, I smell you. And it drives me crazy.” His hand caressed your cheek bone and you were pretty sure you face was on fire. “Your scent is beyond intoxicating. When I talk to you I lose track of everything else and I can only hear your voice echoing in my head.” He whispered, his minty breath danced across your face making you shudder. “And when I look at you, it's like the world disappears and it's only you standing there. Everytime I look at you I have to battle myself not to lean in and taste your lips.”

You stared at him. You couldn't breath, your It had been replaced with butterflies that were now fluting inside you madly. You were pretty sure this is what death felt like. But then something clicked inside you and your realized this wasn't death it was love.

“When it comes to you, I can focus on nothing else.” Dracos lips were so close you could feel them brush yours and you couldn't take it anymore. You grabbed the back of his head and smashed his lips onto yours.

You had never felt anything like it before, his lips danced on yours with grace you couldn't even begin to fathom. You felt his tongue slid across your lips and your eyes widened in surprise. You then shut them again opening your mouth a slight bit. You ran your hand threw his hair as he explored your mouth with his tongue pushing you up against the wall softly. You didn't want to break the kiss but you felt your lungs burn begging for air and you drew away from him.

You were both panting when you pulled apart. Your face was a bright red, your lips swollen, and hair disheveled but to Draco, you had never looked more beautiful.

“Merlin,” he gasped out, “I'm never going to focus again when I know you kiss like that.”

You flashed a brilliant red and giggled, Draco then decided he couldn't stop himself anymore, he pressed his lips against yours once again.

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thesoundofaghost-mp3 · 6 years ago

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May's tutorial on how to take 2000s looking pics! This is not just for scene and/or emo kids, although ofcourse yall can use this!

Here are a few things you can do to make pictures look like they were taken in the 2000s!

What better way to look 2000s than when you use 2000s technology?

Exemples of things you could take a pic with are: an ipod, or any mp3 player actually, 2000s looking cd players, PS2 controllers (make sure it actually looks like you're playing or believe me, someone will notice!) or xbox controller (if you use older consoles of any type, the vibe might look more 90s but if you manage you can still make it work)

If you can't take a picture next to or with 2000s technology... anything? Well maybe you can take a selfie with a fliphone, or a T Mobile Sidekick (if you have one, lucky you!) or even a Nintendo DS if you've got one of those with the camera! Mirror selfies were also a thing of the (mid?) 2000s if they were taken with an actual camera! Let's also not forget the webcam pictures!

Here's one I took for example:

Special "effects"/ Editing:

One thing that makes almost all pictures look so much more aesthetic/better: putting the flash on! I promise it works almost all of the time, the picture will look more high quality and clearer even though it is the same quality as without! If you think your outfit might not be too great or you'd like to make it look like it was taken with a low quality phone, blur the picture! It could also just look artistic, which works just as good.

As for the editing, Glitter, like edits made on Blingee, turning up the contrast, putting a filter (or a few) that give off a blue hue or darker, add in your FriendProject profile number, or your nickname in a grungy font, or photoshop yourself in front of a cute butterfly background!

The poses and angles!

Taking a picture with only this information might not be enough to make it look as 2000s as you want it to be, so now let's see another thing; the poses and the angles! Especially when you take a selfie, do not understimate the power of the "myspace angle" as you might've heard before, the super high angle from which you take the selfie, in which you could include your whole outfit. I know, out of experience, that the position in which you have to try and stand to get your whole outfit in the picture is very, VERY uncomfortable, but trust me it's worth it!

Here's an example:

Other angles/poses you could use are for example the ones in which you position the camera, phone or whatever you take your pictures with at your feet, put a timer or make someone take the picture for you, in an angle at which your feet will look bigger than your head and your whole outfit will be visible again! This one's hard to explain but here's an example, again from one of my pics because I couldn't find one from someone else: (putting "myspace picture big feet" on google, does in fact, not work)

Shoutouts from most known myspace celebs were a big thing back then, with the name of someone (or their own, partly to prove they aren't catfish) written on their hand or a piece of paper, as well as showing off fake tattoos made with sharpies, or something like "I love you!" on the palm of your head, so standing there showing it, could, somehow be a pose? I guess so... oh well, this is still something that would've been on this list!

There are many more (like for example the ones where your legs look broken as you sit on the floor, or the one where you are showing off your room plastered with posters..) but just know not to just stand there looking lost (unless that's what you're going for), be either VERY dramatic with the poses or super casual, no in betweens or you'll probably look awkward!

Dramatic makeup and hair!

Of course... To keep on being dramatic, because the 2000s very much were, (as every decade, in their own way, but you get what I mean) hair was often in crazy colors and or haircuts! Even if you were neither emo nor scene, celebrities like Christina Aguilera or Kelly Clarkson, to Matt Tuck (that's right!) had highlights in their hair, or just dyed parts of their hair, usually blonde, black or red, but chalk haircolor exists in many colors, so go crazy on that!

See here:

Not only that but side ponytails, extensions, crimped hair, face framing bangs, spiky gelled hair etc. Even if you aren't emo or scene, your hair can cover one of your eyes for the picture!

Makeup had to be very visible, especially as a scene kid or emo kid with the overflowing amount of eyeliner, and colorful mascara or anything that you could find to be original and "artsy" really, but also for any other person! Makeup looks that were usual attire were for example: LIPGLOSS, blue, purple, white or eyeshadow, frosty pink lipstick, a lot of mascara, colorful eyeliner, rosy cheeks, or lined lips (darker on the outside) but none of that would be complete without thin eyebrows! Fake tans are also a go-to if you're feeling it!

Now, if you're too scared to use hairchalk or dye your hair, and you aren't too good at makeup, no worries, you've still got other options!

Props and accessories!

Big sunglasses.. yes, even indoors! Rimmed glasses, Colored lenses, "Bug eye" sunglasses, there are many to choose from! Scarves, very unnecessary but pretty cool looking! Hoop earrings were also in! For guys too, jewelry was often worn, for example diamond earrings, shell necklaces, as well as the typical "gangsta wear", you would've guessed it: the dollar sign necklace or chunky golden chains/necklaces. They were ofcourse not first worn during the 2000s, but they were definitely still very much worn then! Other jewelry often worn were silly bands, wristbands, kandi bracelets and necklaces. You can even wear fake piercings!

As for headwear, still many to choose from, like trucker hats, both for guys and girls and anyone who'd like to wear those, bandanas, fedora hats, (do not recommend, 80% of the time you'll look awkward, but you can't know if you're part of the 20% that could rock the look if you don't atleast try, I guess) "baker boy hats" and big huge bows for all my scene beans out there. Belts. BeLtS! A lot, too much, 3 of them, or one big one, just find whatever you have and wear the goddamn belts! Fishnets! Fingerless gloves! They were very much in, and not just for scemo kids!

Not only is it about things you can wear, but also things you can use for the picture, you can look cute while holding a plush toy, (bonus points if you've got a gloomy bear, hello kitty or gir plush!) mysterious while holding a notebook/ diary of some sort or nerdy with your favorite book, but a lot of pictures get much more fun when they are super random, for example like kiki kannibal, just casually holding a lamp in her garden...

Clothing!

Now, this one will be short as I will mainly give you guys links to some articles that talk about 2000s fashion, but here's a thing: If you're going for a very "in your face" kind of style, go fully crazy lol! Scene kids get your neon green tights or red ripped skinnies out and wear all of the colors, preps wear your shiniest Playboy logo shirt, goths and emos you better wear your nicest black knee high converse, all of it!! Go fucking over the top because truly, it was rarely ever over the top in the 2000s! Also, did I mention? Cringe culture is dead, nobody cares if you somehow manage to truly go a little too far! If you're feeling yourself, don't hesitate to show a little skin, (I don't mean totally naked, duh, especially if you're a minor plz no it's usually a very bad idea) ain't nothing wrong with mini skirts or crop tops! (guys, GUYS please wear them too if you feel like it, I promise you a lot of us think that's hot okaythatsall)

Anyway, here's a few articles on the fashion/clothes! Most of these include also accessories etc but you'll find a lot about clothes!

Includes men's clothing too!

https://www.complex.com/style/best-fashion-trends-of-early-2000s/

Yes.. I know.. Buzzfeed.. But oh well, it's still showing the clothes and fashion like we need! There isn't much for guys here, but there is inspo to take from it lol!

https://www.buzzfeed.com/leonoraepstein/forgotten-early-2000s-trends

Now, I know what this one says... apparently all of these trends were"mistakes"... Well who's gonna laugh when 2000s style makes a comeback? Definitely not them, once they look back on this article!

https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/beauty/fashion/g2898/worst-2000s-fashion-trends/

This article includes men's fashion and also includes a link to buy the items! That is, if you've got 35$ to spend on a cap for example... Which I don't, but that's okay, it's got pretty good examples of the fashion!

https://spy.com/gallery/2000s-fashion-trends-throw-back-style/

And since I couldn't find a good article on 2000s alt fashion, I made a Pinterest board with a few exemples for Scene, Emo, Goth, Mallgoth/Goth, Visual Kei and Cybergoth! There isn't a lot yet, but you'll get the general idea :)

https://www.pinterest.fr/mayskelly/2000s-alt-styles/

I hope you guys like it, and try it! I think I may share my favorite attempts if enough people do it on my instagram story and here, and tumblr as well if anyone participates in this!

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