#I finished something for the first time in like a month we popping the biggest bottles tonight

[laylayschipzz]

Surprise..?

Description ؛ ଓ Malachi was gone for the World’s collide tour, and you hated to admit you missed him.. So you set something up with his castmates to see him. (This is gonna be Black cat!reader and Golden retriever!Malachi, and the tour is gonna be like 3 months long TRUST you don’t wait that long)

Warnings 𓆝 ⋆. Light cussing, crying, and overall fluff

Words ꫂ❁ 2573

Once you dropped Malachi off at the airport, kissing him goodbye, normally you would be happy with a little time to yourself.. but now you feel empty and alone. When you drove back home, you walked inside with a frown on your face, sighing deeply. The air was still and wasn’t as lively as it normally was. Malachi brought that energy into your day, even though you would get annoyed, you still enjoyed his company and the love he gave you. 

You told him to text you when he safely landed, but you couldn’t wait that long to talk to him. *How much longer are you gonna be on the plane?* You texted as nonchalantly as you could, and it was read immediately, and three little bubbles popped up on your screen. *I got like 8 more hours left, you only dropped me off 2 hours ago* 

Shit, he was right, it felt like it had been hours since he was gone.. You groan and throw your phone on the couch, rubbing your face slowly. You heard a ping from your phone and quickly grabbed it, thinking it was Malachi, but you saw it was just MK going live on insta. You rolled your eyes, ignoring the notification and going to make yourself a snack. 

By the time you finished making said snack, you wondered if Malachi was going live with him, you left your food on the counter, and checked Mk’s live when you joined, you saw Mk and the gang in first class of a private jet goofing off *y/nl/ntiktokname is viewing* MK’s eyes widened and he almost screamed “Yooo, Y/n’s watching my live!” he practically yells.

Like clockwork, you received a request to join his live stream, and you contemplated for a second, but accepted it. You were met with your face in a separate box, and comments rolling in quickly; you kept a straight face for a while, letting the live finish its glitch out. Once your screen cleared up, the whole gang was in the camera now, MK must’ve set his phone up, they were all waving at you, saying hi with big smiles. 

Malachi had the biggest smile on his face, blowing cheesy kisses to you, “Hi baby!” he beamed, and you smiled, “Hey honey, I see you’re having fun,” you said a little teasingly, Malachi giggled, with a big smile. “Yeah! We were just playing Uno, but MK and Julian rage quit.” You nod your head, “That’s.. Nice..” he nods his head “I-” MK cuts him off, accent heavy in his words “Y/N PLEASE COME MAKE US FOOD! This airplane food is nasty, and I want something homemade!”

You stifle a laugh. “I’ll think about it, depends on how I’m feeling later,” MK whines, “But you always say that!” MK then grabs Malachi’s face, “Y/nnn pleaseee, see Malachi’s hungry, now you have to make us food!” You roll your eyes. 

“If you quit whining, I will Mekonnen,” you say, annoyed. MK smiles and lets go of Malachi’s face, pleased with himself, and you scoff, “Alright, guys, I gotta go.” Everyone said their goodbyes, waving, and Malachi blew you a cheesy kiss. “Bye, baby! I’ll be before you know it! I love you.” “Love you more, have fun.” Were the last things you said before leaving the live, you sat there for a few seconds before going back towards your snack. It was gonna be a looong three months.

It had been a whole month and a half since you’d seen Malachi, and you were FEINING for your man; you hadn’t gotten a good night's sleep since he left, and you kept accidentally making dinner for him.. You were going crazy at this point, but it’s not like you and Malachi haven’t talked; you and he would text as much as possible before either of you had to leave, you would FaceTime every night or morning, depending on where he was. Moral of the story: you were tired of not seeing him in person, so you did something you never thought you’d ever do.. 

You texted MK.. You knew you probably should’ve texted Freya, but Malachi was closer to him. *Hey Mekonnen, I have a favor to ask.* Boom, there it was, a simple question. Since their show supposedly ended 30 minutes ago, you didn’t expect him to answer right aw- *ping* *Heyyyy Y/n 😝, what do you need??* You bite your nails and start to type. *I need you to keep this a secret from Malachi, okay? This is serious.* 

He took a little bit longer to answer this one, but eventually he got back to you. *Are you ok? I promise I won’t tell him anything* *Yeah, I’m fine, but I wanted to go to one of your shows and see him, but I want it to be a surprise.* *Ohhh, ok, you had me scared for a second 😓 well, our next show is in 3 days in Milwaukee* *Okay, thank you, Mekonnen.* *No problemo y/n 😼* You just hearted his message and closed your phone.

You grabbed your laptop and started searching for plane tickets to Milwaukee and a small Airbnb to stay in. When you finally got a ticket, it was first class, but the flight leaves at 2:25 am the next morning.. you looked at your watch, and it was only 10:56, so you started to pack your bags and your essentials. You set an alarm for 12:30, and you took a small nap to possibly be ready to get up early.

You heard your alarm go off, you snoozed it quickly, but you slowly got up, yawning and stretching. You walked to the bathroom and brushed your teeth, washed your face, and fixed your hair. It was almost 1 now, so you had to hurry to the airport to at least beat the TSA security, you called for an Uber and it got there quite quickly, you put your bags in the trunk and drove off to the airport, when you had arrived your Uber was nice enough to help you bring your bags in. 

When you finally got through security, it wasn’t as busy as you thought it would be, but it’s still way more people than you’d like. When you checked your watch, it was 2:12. Thank God you got there early, or you would have been late. You found a seat to wait for a couple of minutes, “Flight to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, gate 12 is now boarding.” Blared over the speakers, you sighed and grabbed your bags and headed towards your gate. When you boarded your flight, it was only 2 hours.. You couldn’t even take a proper nap like you wanted to, so you just played on your phone the whole time, but before you got comfortable, you turned your location off.

The plane landed safely in Milwaukee, and to say you were tired was an understatement. When you got to your Airbnb, you didn’t even unpack; you just went straight to sleep. When you woke up, it was around 11:27 am the next day.. You slept through a whole day without getting up once. It scared you at first, but it was just one day closer to seeing Malachi. Mekonnen kept you updated while you were asleep, letting you know what the plan was to sneak you in and keep you hidden while they performed. He was gonna send his stylist to come get you 10 minutes after they start, so you have time to chill and hide without being seen, you had to give Mekonnen a hand, he was going all out for you, so you just had to return the favor.

You were gonna make homemade lasagna with homemade pasta slices, sure it was gonna be a lot of work, but you had a whole day to cook it, plus MK would’ve whined your ear off if you hadn’t. By the time you went and bought all of the groceries, it was 1:43, and by the time you finished, it was 7:58. You were exhausted.. Not only from cooking, but from the flight and running around Milwaukee, and also the stress of not seeing Malachi. You put the lasagna in the fridge and got ready for bed, even though you were exhausted, you couldn’t sleep, you were just too excited to see Malachi tomorrow, it was keeping you up. 

By the time you got tired, it was 10:23 pm, you closed your eyes and fell fast asleep. You woke up to Malachi calling you, and you jumped up and picked up the phone. “Hey baby,” you could practically hear him smile through the phone, “Hey Y/n! My show in Milwaukee is today at 5 if you wanna watch it, and your location is off, are you ok?” shit.. You might be caught.. Never mind, you’ll just gaslight him. “Oh really? It says yours is off, too, but I thought you just had bad cell service.” That was such bull-shit.. But he somehow believed it. “It does? Then my service must be bad, then. Anyways, I gotta go, bye Y/n!” “Bye, Malachi.” You hang up the phone with a deep breath.

It was now 12:01, you had 5 and a half hours to get ready and get to the stadium, and see your man! MK gave you his stylist’s number, and she was the sweetest thing you had ever met; her name was Emmy-Lee. You gave her the address of your Airbnb, it was about 40 minutes away from the stadium, she said she would try to arrive around 5:30. In the meantime, you had to find something to wear.. You didn’t wanna wear just anything like you normally would, you wanted this to be special for not only you but Malachi also, your options landed on this beautiful dark red long sleeve top, with light grey low rise pants, dark red heels, and matching dark red Vivienne Westwood jewelry to match to somehow incorporate Victor’s color wave into your outfit, for your hair you just did an elegant bun with your bangs out.

You knew it was gonna take a while to get ready, so you quickly showered, deep cleaning your whole body and shaving. When you got out, you felt refreshed, like a weight had been lifted off your shoulders. You walked back to your room, putting lotion on, and finally putting on your outfit. It was time for you to do your makeup and hair, since your hair was relatively dry, you started on that first. *Pretend I wrote down you doing your hair and makeup* it was almost 5 now, and you still had to reheat the lasagna. You popped the lasagna in the oven and texted Emmy-Lee, *Hey Emme, I’m already ready if you would like to come get me, only if it’s convenient for you, though. Please don’t stress.* After a few minutes, she responded *Ok! Thank you for letting me know! Mekonnen spilled fruit punch on his costume. Once I get it out, I’ll come to get you!* 

You laugh at her message before putting your phone on the charger, making sure you have your ringer on. You wander around the Airbnb aimlessly, trying to do something to get your mind steady, you were so excited to see Malachi, you almost threw up.. Which was weird.. You’ve never felt this way about anyone before, and it was making you feel some type of way. You heard a car come up in the driveway, and a ping from your phone *Here!* You grabbed your small purse and hung it on your shoulder, putting your phone inside. You then pulled lasagna out of the oven, and it was hot but not hot enough to burn you. 

After locking your door, you see Emmy-Lee on the passenger side of the car with the door open. You walk to the car, your heels clacking in each step you take. Emmy-Lee looks at you in pure awe. “Wow, Ms.L/n, you look amazing!” You give a light smile and get in the car. “Thank you, Emmy, you look amazing as well,” you respond back honestly (We girls girls around here.) On the way to the stadium, you and Emmy were going over the plan again. Once you walked in backstage with Emme, it was kind of calm, even though it was crazy near the actual stage. You set the lasagna down on the nearest table you could find, you wrote a small note *For Mekonnen, and cast* and put it on the lasagna.

You watched Malachi perform, and you were so proud of him; he seemed so in his element, like he was at home. You only got to watch a little part of his performance before you had to go. As the performance was coming to an end, you saw the VIP line piling up quickly, so you got in the back of the line. You didn’t stand out like you thought you would since almost everyone in line was around your same height. You sat in line for almost 15 minutes before they let you in. While everyone was walking in, you had to stay back to keep Malachi from seeing you immediately, plus you had to wait for Emme’s signal. You waited patiently for her text, and you finally heard the ping *Coast is clear! You can come out now!*

You slowly walk in, no one notices you yet, you don’t try and make yourself seen. You spot Malachi, but his back is turned, so you wait patiently for him to finish with his fans. MK sees you and glances at Malachi. He jogs over to you and gives you a side hug. “Hey y/n! I’m glad you're here!” You reciprocate the hug. “Thanks, Mekonnen. Did you get my gift?” He smiled, showing all of his teeth. “Oh yes! I even ate a little bit of it, it’s so good, Y/n!” You just nod your head, “Thank you, Mekonnen.” MK waves bye before walking over to some more fans. When you look back at Malachi, you see him finally turning around, when he glances at you, he drops his pen wide-eyed.

He politely pushes past everyone and runs towards you, giving you a tight hug, almost knocking both of you over. You hear some “Awws” and “How cute”, making you smile. Malachi pulls you in tighter, and you start to rub his back. Malachi starts tearing up and lets go, wiping his eyes. You smile and help wipe the tears from his face, “I missed you so much, sweetheart,” you affirmed,  kissing his forehead. More tears roll down his face, and he pulls you in for an actual kiss. Kissing him back sweetly, people start taking pictures and recording, but you don’t care, you finally got to see your man, and that was all that mattered.

Taglist ⊱ ۫ ׅ ��

@superlegend216

[creepycoffins]

💥💥💥‼️

[httpknjoon]

quite an impression | myg

plot | that time where the afterparty left quite an impression on the not-so-friendly relationship between the popstar and her bassist.

w.c | 5.1k

pairing | bass guitarist!yoongi x popstar!reader

genre | enemies to lovers, popstar x bassist

main masterlist | series masterlist | want to request?

After the show, everyone, including the band and the show's crew members, was told that you and your management prepared an afterparty for everyone in one of the known yet private hotspots around New York City.

Everyone agreed to come, including Yoongi due to the band's persuasion. Plus, he doesn't really have anything to do back in his hotel room. The holiday EP's done. The concert tour just finished its first leg, which means their one-month holiday break basically started the moment you closed the show a while ago.

"What happened to your Valentino suit?" Fred was the first to ask when Yoongi joined the rest of the band on their ride to the afterparty venue.

Yoongi shakes his head lazily, "Don't want to ruin it at the party."

Before getting back into his usual clothes, Yoongi had to convince Paul to let him change. But your stylist was eager to make him wear it to the party tonight. He told him that there would be paparazzi there to take pictures of them arriving.

"I don't really care what I'm wearing if I ever get photographed tonight," Yoongi replied to Paul. It's not like I'm the main star, he thought.

He was so sure that the paparazzi were not interested in taking photos of them, but the moment their ride stopped in front of the private bar, Yoongi could hear the little commotion outside. There were paparazzi waiting by the sidelines with their big cameras and as soon as a car stopped, they got up to prepare to whoever is in the vehicle.

"This is crazy." Akio gasped as they all looked outside their tinted windows.

"Okay, put on your sunglasses if y'all don't want to be blind before we even get to the party." Noah, who has been a part of your team for years now, told them.

Yoongi was thankful he followed what your lead guitarist advised because the moment they got out of the car. There are flashing lights everywhere. He can hear some people calling his name, which is something he still needs to get used to. He doesn't remember getting much attention when he was at other artists' shows. Hearing various voices call his name everywhere makes him feel weird— not in a good way. They didn't stop for photos, heading straight to the private club's entrance while being guided by one of your security staff.

"I love playing for big artists," Akio whispered when they entered the venue, already eyeing the cocktails not too far from where they stood. "They know how to party."

It was obvious, the moment they got in, that the afterparty was well-prepared and expensive. Although the lights were dimmed and colorful fairy lights mainly provided lights for the place, there were customized holiday decors everywhere to celebrate your EP, which plays in the background. There are ice sculptures of your brand's logo and even a few mistletoes on entryways with your signature kiss mark placed on them.

"Yeah, YN's label is never scared to splurge money on her," Noah said, pulling out his phone to take a picture of the place.

Who will be scared anyway? You are one of the biggest pop stars in the world currently. Your songs earn hundreds of thousands of streams every day and almost everything you do gets praised by your fans and critics. Everyone, even you yourself, knows you are the top cash cow of your company at the moment, considering your recent tour and EP release. You are an investment worth investing in.

Yoongi stayed quiet while his eyes scanned the whole place. He never really cared about parties, but he could not deny that your label made an effort to make tonight's celebration impressive.

Everyone was invited, from your concert staff down to the late-night show crew members. While the band was walking through the crowd, Yoongi took a glimpse of Art, chatting with the producers of the late-night show you just hosted. Your dancers also came, already enjoying the dancefloor with other guests. There are more faces Yoongi had recognized, but there are some he still hasn't seen yet. Paul... Cal... You.

"Yoongi, over here!"

Suddenly, somebody called his name, snapping him out of his trance. Yoongi turned and immediately spotted another familiar face waving his hand across the room. It was a friendly gesture from Ben, one of the tour's sound engineers, Yoongi raised his hand, offering a small wave before walking deeper in Ben's direction. Along the way, one of the waiters offered him a drink and Yoongi got one, quickly taking a sip to hopefully give some energy to him to socialize. Nods and smiles were exchanged once Yoongi joined the small group, which included a few of your staff and a couple of writers from the late-night show. Ben was in the middle of telling the others of something.

"Yeah, the tour just ended its first leg this week. I think we'll be back touring internationally in the last week of January though. Right, Yoongi?"

Feeling a lot of eyes on him, waiting for him to say something, Yoongi's eyes widened slightly before he looked away, "Yeah, I think so."

Ben went on to talk about the work he does in your shows. Yoongi, as usual, just listened and observed the lively crowd.

"I saw you on the show earlier, you are a great guest." someone in the group spoke, making Yoongi look back to them.

A woman in a ribbed-knit, V-neck, white sweater smiled at him, offering her hand, "I'm Bea, one of the writers of The Late, Late Show."

"Yoongi, YN's bassist." he shakes her hand.

"And favorite band member?" Bea teased, referencing the question in the show earlier. They both laughed.

Yoongi smiled, shaking his head before sipping from his glass, "Not sure about that."

"Oh, trust me. Based on our team's research, you seem to be YN's favorite." the curly-haired brunette smirked.

"What research?" he asked, now curious about what she said.

"Well, you know, our team does research on our guests before writing for them. Then, we noticed how many times you two interacted on stage during shows, even your outfits aligned during her Halloween shows," she answered casually. "She always seemed to gravitate towards you."

Her tone seemed to be implying something, making Yoongi shake his head again.

"She just likes to play around on stage." he denied whatever Bea must be thinking.

"Yeah, sure. Whatever you say." she sneered, hiding an obvious smile while drinking from her cocktail.

Yoongi looked at her, trying to decode her thoughts, and when she felt her stare on him, she simply smiled, "I mean, I kinda get her."

As the music gets louder and the crowd gets bigger, Yoongi finds himself chatting with Bea ever since they met half an hour ago. They occupied one of the booths in the club alone while they talked about their jobs in the entertainment industry, something they are similar to.

Bea is funny, witty, and smart, Yoongi thought. He likes that she doesn't force him to speak in their conversation. He didn't really mind her telling him about her experiences as someone who moved here to New York eight months ago. It's better than being forced to jive on the dancefloor, something he's not really fond of.

"Yeah, I was actually scared to come here tonight." Bea shared, chuckling.

"And why is that?" Yoongi asked, slightly leaning closer to hear her over the loud music.

"I heard that staff members from other shows have to pay for their own drinks at after-parties like these, and I just can't do that right now. I have rent to pay!" she exclaimed, making both her and Yoongi laugh. She then rested her chin on her palm on the table, "How about you? Do you enjoy these parties?"

"Not really..." he was quick to answer, not bothering to conceal his dislike for social events. "Everything's too much at parties. The drinks, the people— even the music, it's too loud."

That's another thing he and his ex used to be contrasted about. Sara will always be at parties back in LA because of her job. It's a place for widening her networking in her perspective. Sometimes it is necessary for her to attend, sometimes she just wants to. Yoongi, on the other hand, is not a fan of networking. As long as someone is interested in collaborating with him, he's gonna be fine. But he cannot deny that Sara helped him get more people to work with him whenever she pulled him along with her at parties. She literally introduced him to Art years ago.

Bea chuckled, "Isn't it ironic that you're literally a bass guitarist and you hate loud music?"

"There's a difference between music and what's basically a noise." he joked.

Just when Yoongi took another sip of his drink, there was a sudden change of energy in the room. The music lowered slightly, and the whispers and turning of heads at the main entrance got more noticeable.

"Looks like the woman of the hour has arrived." Bea mused next to him.

Everyone can hear the main door opening, along with the sound of cameras clicking and people calling your name. Then, it was followed by familiar voices laughing and chattering. Yoongi didn't bother to turn around to the doorway until Bea murmured.

"Oh, they arrived together."

He finally glanced at the doorway, catching sight of you at the center. You were glowing with your gold closed-fitting, thin-strapped mini-dress. He wondered if you got cold outside while wearing that glamorous dress, but then he saw Cal next to you, holding a fur that he assumed was yours.

Then, he also noticed who was standing on your left. Harry was holding your waist as you greeted the first people who approached you. You two were a pleasant eyesight, a perfect eyesight for everyone. It was obvious how you two were comfortable with each other. Harry leaned closer to you to whisper something, and you would easily laugh like he was the funniest person in the world. Yoongi looked away, back at minding his business.

"They used to date, didn't they?" Bea whispered next to him.

Yoongi shrugged, "I don't really know."

"You should. You were Harry's bassist during his first album, right? I heard he wrote songs about her in there." she went on.

He raised an eyebrow, "You really did your research, huh?"

"Told ya." she clicked her tongue before looking back to you and Harry. "They still look cute together, don't they?"

"Yeah," Yoongi mindlessly replied even though he was not looking anymore.

He took another scan of the whole room. He stops when he sees you looking at him while everyone in the circle you're in is having conversations. Your eyes traveled from him to the woman next to him. Your eyebrows raised and you looked back at him again. Just when lines form between his brows, Yoongi sees you joining your group's conversation once again. It was a brief and quiet interaction— confusing for Yoongi— that seemed to be only known by you two.

"That was... interesting." Bea, the best observer, smirked into her drink.

The night went on with you and Yoongi being on separate sides of the room. Yoongi introduced Bea to the band, joining them in their booth. He ignored Fred's teasing stare ever since his new writer-friend sat with them. Noah also has his boyfriend with him, adding more fun to their conversations. At some point, Yoongi excused himself from the booth, getting up next to Bea.

"Oh, where are you going?" she asked with her hand on his arm.

"I'll get another drink, want some?" He answered, nodding at her empty glass.

She smiled, "Yeah, sure."

"Don't try to escape the party!" Noah teased him as Yoongi walked away, rolling his eyes at his friend.

He was about to walk to the bar, but decided to stop midway, heading to the restroom first. After doing his business and enjoying the quick solitude, Yoongi rinsed his hand and walked out to the dimly lit entryway. He was not paying much attention to his surroundings, just aiming to get to the brighter entryway to the party, causing him to bump into someone.

"Oh."

It was a light collision, but you were wearing your strappy God-knows-how-high heels, causing you to lose balance a little. He was quick to catch you and help you steady yourself.

"Sorry, didn't see you there," he mumbled.

"Clearly," you looked up with a snarky reply and the same smile you always give him. "Enjoying the night?"

Was it a little unexpected question from you? Yes. But maybe you've been asking everyone that since you are the host of the party. Yoongi wouldn't want to overthink it.

"Yeah, it was fun." he replied like he didn't spend his time talking to people he only knows except for Bea.

You hummed, "Bea seems nice though."

He paused, staring at you for a second, "You know her?"

Shrugging, you replied, "Met her during preparations for the show earlier. She seemed pretty smart and witty."

Were you watching them? Yoongi starts to wonder since he sees you vibing with Harry and your other guests whenever he catches glances at you in the crowd. He cannot tell by your tone if you are just being friendly, casual, or just teasing. But the way you were looking at him got his throat running dry, making him gulp hard.

Before he could figure out what to say next, a voice piped up from one of the small circles near the entryway.

"Oh my gosh, look up!"

Your eyes widened. Yoongi frowned. Right above you, it's one of the few mistletoes in the place. The small circle cheered, getting more attention to their direction.

One of your dancers urged, "You have to kiss now!"

"Ugh, seriously? Do we really have to do this?" you tried to play it off, acting dramatically.

But Yoongi can feel the tension growing in the small space between you, making everything more awkward. All while your concert staff enjoy how you are both caught off guard, knowing your childish and petty relationship behind the scenes.

"It's a tradition!" someone sing-songed.

Yoongi rubbed the back of his neck, "But it's just a plant."

"It is!" you laughing awkwardly.

It felt like high school— or even middle school. Like they were stuck in a game of truth or dare. The cheers for them got louder and clearer. Yoongi only looks at you, trying to read your thoughts. But you were exchanging jokes with the small audience.

“Wow, you guys are really committed to this tradition, huh?” you let out a breathy laugh.

In all honesty, Yoongi would not mind kissing you. Will it be awkward? Yeah, probably. But you both know that the easiest way to end this scenario is to just get over it. A quick kiss, then move on! It's not like everyone will make a big deal out of it.

But why? Why is it so hard?

You took in a slow inhale as you looked at your bassist standing in front of you. How can he still have the same blank expression on his face while you were shitting bricks, trying not to make the atmosphere awkward? You swallowed. Hard. You wondered where's the liquid courage when you need it. Kissing is never a problem with you. Hell, you were the one who suggested putting mistletoes everywhere tonight, unprepared that you are your own victim.

Yoongi's lips parted when you took a step closer to him. So close that he can smell the same sweet vanilla scent he sensed when you gave him a quick hug earlier after the show. He cannot help but study your features as you stand this close to him.

"Let's just do it?" your glossy lips whispered.

"Okay." He replied, almost breathless.

When he unexpectedly yet gently held your waist, you unconsciously held your breath like his soft touch burns your skin. You can still feel the tightness in your chest when his lips brushed against yours, like a feather. It would have been meaningless if one pulled away as soon as your lips touched. But for a half second, no one moved. You felt like leaning it when you felt his slight squeeze on your waist. But before anything could happen, it was over.

Brief and light.

Everyone cheered as you went along in this stupid holiday tradition. Yet the noise was all drawn out in the background as you and Yoongi slowly pulled away from each other.

In that quick second, you swore you felt his warm breath as he pulled away. You blinked, but still, stared back at him. Your heart was beating too fast, you didn't like it.

Yoongi didn't like that when he pulled away, he could not think of anything to say. It was like his brain into a factory reset, resetting everything he knew. He remembered you singing this close to him during one of your shows, thinking you looked like an angel. He still thinks the same thing.

After getting your souls back on the ground, Yoongi let go of your waist and you took a step back. Everyone is still having their reaction. Someone even whistled, making you turn back to the crowd. You forced a laugh.

"Satisfied?" you played it off with the crowd.

Yoongi's jaw clenched as he turned around leaving the entryway, ignoring the warmth that was still lingering on his lips. The image of your face close to his cannot get out of his head. He walked straight to the bar to get another drink.

You, on the other hand, ran back to the restroom. Looking back on yourself in the mirror, your fingers slowly touched your lips as you felt like they had been tingling ever since Yoongi pulled away. Realization sets in as your bite your lower lip.

Fuck, you wanted more.

For the rest of the night, you and Yoongi got some unspoken agreement to not stand within a six-foot distance between them. Yoongi found more comfort, sitting next to Bea, who raised a brow, when he came back to their booth after the kiss. He simply shook his head with that. She took it that he didn't want to talk about it.

"So are you guys playing tonight?" she asked him.

"I don't know, really," Yoongi replied, resting his arm behind her seat.

"I mean, it would be really cool to see you play at this party." she drew circles on the rim of her cocktail's glass before playfully tilting her head to him. "You know, just throwing the idea out there... Only if there are instruments laying around at this par— Oh, wait. There it is!"

Yoongi laughed at her feigned yet coy innocence as she tried to convince them to play. He scanned the room, looking for the instruments Bea was referring to. Instead, he catches you looking at him before quickly turning your back. Something in his stomach flipped before he finally found what he was looking for.

"You alright, angel?"

As soon as you turned your back to your bassist, Harry, who had his hand on the small of your back, asked. You looked up, putting on a smile before nodding. Ever since he said about your nose flaring when you lie, you try to be careful about not saying the truth around him. He smiled, pinching your nose.

"Looks like that kiss did something to you." he leaned into your ear as he teased you.

You moved away, glaring at him, "It's just a mistletoe kiss. Nothing too special about it, H."

"Okay, okay, if you insist." he chuckled.

You rolled your eyes, "I feel like you're trying to push an agenda here and I am just gonna ignore that."

Feeling your face warming up, you walked away to distract yourself with something else. It's nothing! You repeated in your head as if to remind yourself. Yoongi seemed to thought the same thing since you saw him getting comfortable with the same girl he's been talking to ever since you arrived.

There is a tightness in your chest. You had to stop one of the waiters who was going around with shots of espresso martini. You took one and immediately let it slid down your throat before returning the glass to the same guy.

Out of the blue, you hear a familiar beat of the drum playing along your song that was playing in the background. The small crowd in the dancefloor started cheering. Turning around, you see your live band on the small stage back in their element. The lights were dim, but you can see your bassist pushing his hair back, which somehow made your throat dry.

"I think we need a vocalist." Noah spoke on the mic.

Your eyes widened, you know he sees you with your shimmering gold dress. And the spotlight that landed on you didn't help for you to hide in the corner of the room. Shaking your hands to your sides, you exhaled before walking up to the stage. The last thing you want now is to stand next to your bassist, especially when you're confused and having a meltdown in your head. But your forever motto plays in your head, fake it 'til you make it.

The band continue playing along with the song that was already playing in the background. You took a sip from a bottle of water Cal handed you before catching up on the song. Shaking it off, you put on your usual popstar persona. The one who's confident, spontaneous, and maybe a little annoying to your bassist.

An idea pops in your head, making you signal to the band to repeat the song from the start. They followed, same with the DJ who turned down the music. Noah began counting and Yoongi almost crashed out in his head when he felt you standing close to him.

Unexpectedly, you lifted his chin, making him look at you. You silently hoped he is under the same spell as you are, not knowing that your touch burns his skin. Looking straight to his eyes, you sung,

"Oh, I leave quite an impression..."

The moment you saw a hint of something familiar in his gaze, you tried to bit off a victory smirk, letting go of him and turning to the crowd. A spur of energy grew quickly in you, knowing that you're not the only one struggling here.

The crowd sings along throughout the whole song. Yoongi was quite relieved that you didn't try to pull something on him again. He knew you got him earlier in the song, hence why you are suddenly more confident now, dancing on stage. Your hips swayed along with the beats and he finds himself almost getting out of tune, distracted. He played it off, adding a cool riff in your song, which made you turn to him.

"Show off." you scoffed in the mic, making the crowd laugh.

"Every time you close your eyes, And feel his lips, you're feelin' mine..."

That gave you another reason to annoy him. Yoongi felt you resting on his sides like he was a wall. You slowly slid down as you sang the bridge before getting up to let the crown scream the line,

"Yeah, I know I've been known to share!"

Yoongi tried to stay as far as possible from you after that performance. Harry sang too after you called him on stage, which didn't really distract Yoongi as they played the song your ex wrote about you. Only Angel. What a fitting title? He thought.

After that, they played a couple more songs before getting back to their booth. He was so ready to get back to the hotel, but he didn't to leave Bea alone, who he enjoyed talking with tonight. She just finished her fourth glass of the night when she noticed the time on her watch.

"Oh, it's almost midnight." She murmured as the corners of her lips dropped.

"And? Are you Cinderella?" Yoongi quipped.

Her eyes narrowed behind her glasses, "Well, yeah. Fairy Godmother will take away this thick ribbed-knit sweater once I don't show up in Central Park on time."

They laughed. She continued, "I have a flight to catch tomorrow morning. Need to be home before Christmas."

Bea began saying goodbye to everyone. Yoongi said he'll go back to the hotel too, and got a knowing look from his bandmates. He rolled his eyes, lifting his middle finger at them, which made them laugh. The party is dying down anyway. Yoongi saw you saying goodbye to Harry before he left after he performed on stage. Then, he didn't catch sight of you again.

"How about you? Going back to LA for the holidays?" Bea asked as they walked out of the private lounge.

Yoongi clicked his tongue, "I don't know. I have no plans yet."

They stopped on the pavement. The paparazzi are long gone, it's just them and the distant noise of the city.

"Maybe you can come to Seattle with me? Want to meet my parents?" she joked. "But seriously, I enjoyed talking with you, Yoongi."

He smiled, feeling a warmth on his chest, "Me too, Bea."

As if on cue, a yellow cab stopped in front of them. Bea looked at him before getting on her tiptoes to give his cheek a soft peck.

"Contact me. Let's see each other again once we're in the same place again. Okay?" she smiled, hopeful.

He nods at her with a small smile before she gets in the cab, waving at her before the car drives away. For a few seconds, Yoongi stood there alone. He looked down, remembering the last time he went on a date. As an image of Sara came up in his mind, he shook it off while walking away.

Yoongi did not mind walking from the party to the hotel. It was a twenty-minute stroll. He needed it with so many thoughts in his head to organize. His dating game, the mistletoe, Bea, your gold mini-dress that exposed your back, his plans for Christmas, your face when you pulled away, his house back in LA... the kiss.

What the fuck.

He paused just right before the hotel everyone in your staff is staying at. You kept on reeling back in his head, he did not even notice it. Suddenly, he's recalling your scent and the softness of your lips on his. It lingers. He sighed, running his fingers through his hair. Then, he remembered your own fingers running through his jet-black hair when he was asked to show up during your Bed Chem performance. Your gaze under the red lights. His Adam's apple bobbed as he thought about it.

As he walked into the hotel elevator, Yoongi thought of hopping into a quick shower before sleeping tonight. Maybe it will clear up some of his thoughts. Just when the door began closing, he heard a scream from a distance.

"Please hold it!"

Yoongi, although distracted, followed. He held out his hand between the doors, slowly opening it up again. That's when you showed up, chest heaving, still wearing the same dress Yoongi was thinking about. He squeezed his eyes closed as he turned his head down. The amount of curses he let out in his head.

"Thank you." you tried to say it softly, but you were breathless from running. You push the button to your floor and you notice that he still hasn't clicked his. "What floor?"

"Hmm?"

You turn around and catch him staring at you in a way you've never seen before. You felt your stomach twist. Your eyes moved down to his lips. He was biting too hard, turning the skin red. You watched as he inhaled, lifting his shoulders like he was trying to stay still.

"Same as yours. Twenty-nine," he mumbled.

His voice was too deep, your voice ran dry. You nodded, standing back next to him. Silence hummed for the first few seconds as the door closed. You didn't know that this tension joined you two in this elevator, making the atmosphere heavy and honestly, a little warm. You felt it again. Your lips. They're tingling again.

You can feel that he feels the same way. Your heart starts to beat too fast when you look at him again, still biting down his lip. Hard. Maybe talking would help.

"So, what happened—"

You were not even done with your question about Bea when Yoongi moved forward, crashing his lips on yours. It felt urgent. And hot. Like he was thinking about it for a while now. It was like you broke him.

Your gasp barely made it out of your lips when he swallowed it. He got his one hand on your cheek, while the other was squeezing your waist. His fingers held you down as you squirmed too much.

You don't really have much thought except him. His scent. His lips. His hair. Oh my god, his hair. You ran your fingers on it, tugging on it as you felt the temperature rising in your body. He groaned before pressing you on the elevator wall. You tilted your head, deepening the kiss, while your hands explored each others' bodies. Desperation and hunger reeks from the way you two taste each other's tongues.

Wanting to hear him again, you bit on his lower lip. He groaned lowly, feeling the vibration in your chest. You smiled into the kiss. Suddenly, you felt both of his hands on your waist. You instinctively wrapped your arms around his neck, feeling the kiss getting gentler.

Your chests were heaving as he pulled away, resting his forehead above yours. You unconsciously licked your lips after seeing how his got redder and glossier due to your own. You noticed his Adam's apple moved up and down, making you meet his eyes.

Ding!

Your heads snapped to the side when the elevator door opened. Yoongi's hands clenched when you slowly stepped back, exiting the elevator wordlessly. He followed behind you while still tasting the strawberry taste of your lipgloss.

Your rooms were right before each other's. Turning your back, you didn't say anything as you opened the door. He didn't either and faced his door, but didn't reached for the key card. The moment he heard your door closed, he turned around.

Fuck it.

Determined, he knocked on your wooden door. And almost in an instant, it opened with you pulling him inside.

note | thank u for @momma1 for commenting this song months ago! 🩷 please consider as the conclusion for the first leg of this tour. the next drabbles will be set after their "tour break". lmk what u think of this one?

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[sbdskate]

Laws Of Attraction (Part 9) - DR x lawyer!fem!reader

Summary: McLaren is in breach of contract, dr3 hires a lawyer to deal with the aftermath. Tropes ensue. Slow burn. Enemies(kind of) -> Friends/colleagues -> Lovers

Pairing: lawyer!fem!reader x Daniel Ricciardo

Warnings : fluff and cheese, language, slight angst, alcohol consumption

Word Count: 3,866

A/N: One day I may be one of those writers who is well organized and has a preplanned schedule for posting, but unfortunately (and as my first fic), today is not that day. Thank you for your patience during this writing drought. Another chapter will be on the way after this, hopefully in a couple of weeks after another round of edits. Shout out to @cutelittlefakejourneys for your help. As always, thank you for reading and don't be a ghost reader!

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6 | Part 7 | Part 8 | Part 9 | Part 10 | Epilogue 1

Daniel Ricciardo had been in your room last night. After a long race day filled with anxiety, media, McLaren, and subsequently relief and pride, he had stolen a bottle of champagne from McLaren’s afterparty, and your heart. He had hesitantly conditioned the gift on being consumed after the signing and delicately suggested you share the bottle, evidently afraid he would tear the fragile string that connected the two of you since the beginning. But you didn’t want to wait, so you had invited him in.

“So that’s how you open a bottle without spilling half of it?”

“What can I say, I’m a woman of many talents. Would you feel more comfortable if I gave you one of my heels to drink out of?” He laughed.

“Nah, not dirty or sweaty enough.”

He looked around to see what you had made of your private space. In contrast to the crisp outward appearance you presented as you strutted through the paddock in your tailored suits, your hotel room was a mess. Laptop open, papers spread out over every surface. Your petite figure was dwarfed by the oversized, plush hotel robe. Behind closed doors he realized you were quite ordinary. Not that you were unremarkable, but in the sense that you were perfectly imperfect.  

“What are we toasting to?”

“To finish lines.”

You started out at least trying to be prim and proper, using the hotel’s water glasses as vessels. But at a certain point decorum went out the window and you simply passed the bottle between you sitting cross legged on the floor. Even though it was late, the hours passed like sand through an hourglass.  

“Biggest celebrity crush growing up?”

“Leonardo DiCaprio. Easy. Man has been attractive literally at all stages of my life, from the time I was six watching ‘Growing Pains’ to now. Dude aged like fine wine. Unfortunately though I’ve aged out of his dating pool.”

He observed your lips wrap around the mouth of the bottle, how small your hand looked holding it, and his imagination ventured to unclean places.

“You?”

“Josh Allen,” he said without skipping a beat.

“You were five when Josh Allen was born. I know he’s your boyfriend but that doesn’t count.”

“Fine, fine, fine. I might have had a poster of Kylie Minogue in my bedroom when I was like, twelve.”

The two of you sat side by side at the foot of the bed, your hands inched closer towards one another as the night dwelled on.

“If you could do anything in the world, if money didn’t matter, what would you do?”

“Eh. I think I’d still be a lawyer.” He snorted.

“That’s the biggest fucking lie I’ve ever heard.”

“What? Someone’s gotta do it.”

“Come on. Do you actually love this? You’ve been away from your life in the States for months. And for what?”

“Well, I got to travel the world, meet cool celebrities… I got to know you. That must count for something, right?”

You tried to deliver the earnest statement as casually as possible, hoping he wouldn’t read too much into it. But the heft of your words hung in the air and blended with the little popped champagne bubbles that had evaporated. After months of Daniel tormenting you with flirty comments, it was his turn to try to ignore your flattery.

“Really. Money’s no object. Any job in the world. Go.”

“Ok ok fine. I suppose - Oh I don’t know… Maybe I’d be a food critic. I love to eat, I like to complain, and I like writing, so I feel like that’s the perfect marriage of all those things. Or… maybe I’d just drop off the grid completely. I’ve always dreamed about running off to the rolling hills of Italy and living off the land, maybe I’d open a flower shop or something. Really just live out my Under the Tuscan Sun fantasy. But it’s silly. I’ve worked so hard to get to where I am, I could never imagine throwing it all away.”

“It’s not silly.”

Your sideways glance met his deep pools of dark ember, filled with sincerity. You took a swig of champagne and passed the bottle back to him, wishing to wash away the palpable chemistry that swirled around you.

“What about you?”

“I guess I’d still be doing this.” You frowned, sensing his timidness.

“That’s not fair, you made me pick something.”

“Come on, it’s not like I have any transferable skills. I don’t know what else I could do.”

“You literally have two side hustles already. Wine maker and fashion mogul don’t do it for you?”

You thought you could crack a smile out of him, but instead the corners of his mouth downturned slightly.

“It’s not the same. We already decided the second time we met I could never have a desk job. I’m an adrenaline junkie, I’ve always needed to be in a car. Plus my parents worked hard to get me here, to get those opportunities for me, and seeing them happy makes me happy. I don’t know what else there is.”

“Your mother has a small heart attack every time you race.” You tried to placate his uncertainty, but the light conversation had turned heavy and there was no undoing it.

“Oh, that’s neither here nor there,” he brushed off.

“What about all the cameras constantly in your face? Don’t you miss being anonymous?”

This seemed to make him pause.

“I do… but at the same time, part of the fun was getting to make a name for myself. I’m not sure I fully knew what I was getting myself into, but I knew that fame came with the territory if I was actually good at what I was doing. Do I miss being able to walk down the street or go to a restaurant without being bombarded? Yeah for sure. But even when I had that, I don’t think I enjoyed it because I was always trying to get to the next step.” He paused, the furrow in his brow coming undone. “Do I love it right now in this very moment? No. I need a fucking break. I think you corporate people call it ‘burnout’ or whatever. But I’ve loved it up until now, and I know I’ll love it again eventually. I really can’t imagine doing anything else.”

The space between your fingers had vanished. As though your extremities had a mind of their own, you both looked down to study how they folded over one another. There was no recoiling. Your hand, that apparently had its own free will, sent signals to you to look up again. It was ironic that you had partially declined his invitation to the McLaren afterparty because you were afraid of winding up in a situation that vaguely resembled something exactly like this. Tomorrow was so close yet so far, and your wherewithal to resist the magnetic pull between the two of you was at an all time low. Over the last week leading up to the final race, flashbacks of the kiss in Brazil replayed on a loop in your mind. If you blinked you would’ve missed it when it had happened in real time. But the memory teased you and champagne was buzzing through your veins, clouding your judgment. You wanted to explore. Like a moth to a flame, you began leaning in, your eyes fluttering as his lips went in and out of focus.

Instead of being met with Daniel’s embrace, you toppled over as he got to his feet.

“Champagne’s gone, guess that’s my cue for bed.”

You propped yourself on your elbow as you looked up at him incredulously. How much champagne had you had, that you had so badly misread the situation? You averted your gaze in embarrassment.

“Yes, I suppose you’re right.”

His extended hand came into view. You slowly looked up again, his warm and inviting eyes conveying more than words ever could. You cautiously accepted his help as he got you to your feet, his strong hold steadying you.

“Do you need any help in the morning?” Yeah, just avoid Daniel until it’s over so you don’t lose your job. That would probably be a good start.

“No, I’m good, thanks though. Do you need any help?”He laughed, mostly out of astonishment that you could possibly ask such a question when you had already done so, so much.

“Yeah, if you could just sign for me too that would be great.” You rolled your eyes and shoved his arm. “Get some rest, yeah?”

And then he was gone. But how could you possibly just get some rest? You tossed and turned, never quite falling into a deep slumber. The scene of two friends on the floor sharing champagne and secrets played over and over. Friends? Colleagues? Business partners? Something else?

It festered as you got ready, before even the sun was up. The tried and true pink suit felt like it might burst at the seams, unable to contain the palpitations in your chest - a concoction of anticipation, nerves, anxiety, and excitement.

-

It was strange, having such a momentous deal take place outside the confines of a grandiose conference room with a dramatic, long, mahogany table overlooking some city skyline and perhaps a beautiful, shiny body of water. It was a status symbol of Big Law, the firm’s ability to peacock to clients how successful they were. The bigger the room and better the view, the more deserving they were of that outrageously high retainer fee they charged.

Instead, you walked into what was left of Red Bull hospitality after the big, final race weekend. Of course it was sleek and modern in its own right, but it gave an air of approachability that was lacking at the firm’s office. Nonetheless, you tried to import formality back into the space. You had printed and made matching binders of copies of the agreement for everyone present, appropriately tabbed and color coordinated. You brought blue, black, and red pens, highlighters, sharpened No. 2 pencils, and legal pads with the firm’s name emboldened at the top. You had gotten to Red Bull early to set up the space yourself, so that all materials were spaced out accordingly for each chair at the table. You took a step back to admire your handy work. Yes, this would do just fine.

Your phone went off.

DR: Where are you? We’re going to be late.

Y/N: I’m already here.

DR: 🙁

DR: You didn’t wait for me?

DR: It’s going to be weird walking there without you.

Y/N: I figured you wouldn’t want to be over an hour early and you could use the extra sleep. I’m sure you’ll manage.  

-

It was weird for Daniel walking to the paddock without you. The whole morning had been weird. It had been too quiet. There was no offkey musical number through his bathroom wall. He missed the sprightly knock at his door that came about ten minutes too early. He missed guessing which of your faces he’d get when you realized he wasn’t ready. He was amazed at how quickly he had gotten used to you. Had they really only been at this hotel for four days? Five?

His memory taunted him as he walked to Red Bull. He recalled himself holding his breath in anticipation as you closed in on him last night. He felt his heartbeat all the way up to his throat, his pulse points throbbed. It was an out of body experience, watching in slow motion as he pulled himself away from you. He finally learned it was for the best, even though the dejected look on your face pained him.

When he got there, he was disappointed to discover he was the last to arrive, wishing he had more moments alone with you. Christian, Joe, and in-house Red Bull lawyer bros sat around you, centering you as a vibrant glow in a sea of dull blues and grays. He was relieved to discover that you had reserved the seat next to you. He felt his face involuntarily break into grin as he noticed you notice him come into frame.

Christian, who was sitting across from you with his back to the door, saw the slightest twitch of your facial muscles. He whipped around, before a smile was fully formed, knowing exactly what it meant.

“The man of the hour! So nice of you to finally join us.” Everyone stood up for another round of hand shakes and self-congratulatory pats on the back. He could hardly maintain eye contact, his gaze constantly darting back to you. You rose to your feet, but remained in place, patiently waiting your turn for him.

He finally stood in front of his reserved chair, directly facing you. He wasn’t sure what to do – he knew you so well, a handshake hardly seemed appropriate. But you were in front of professionals so a hug wouldn’t do. He knew what he wanted to do, and that certainly wasn’t an option. Fortunately you made the decision for him, instinctively sticking your hand out. He would’ve been a little sad about it, but for the knowing twinkle in your eye. Your palms firmly met, and he appreciated how soft and delicate yours were. It was like you were holding hands.

“Eh-hem.”

You cleared your throat, eyes suddenly piercing. It wasn’t until he felt you try to pry your hand away that he realized he had been shaking it about six seconds too long. He finally relinquished his grip and you both sat down.

“Sorry, I spaced out,” he whispered to you. You only gave him a twitch of a smile and a curt nod in return before swiveling your chair to face the other side of the table.

“Now then. Let’s get started, shall we?”

-

Daniel almost felt silly for pushing this whole ordeal back an extra day. Almost. He could imagine you marching out of there muttering this could have been an email under your breath. The contract was, for all intents and purposes, finished and truly just needed to be signed. It only took twenty minutes to do a walk through of the terms, which of course no one objected to after the countless back-and-forth’s of redlines, late night phone calls, and negotiations.  And then, with a swift flick of his wrist, it was set in stone.

He stared at the wet blue ink on the page. He didn’t realize he was smiling until his cheeks started to hurt.

“I guess we’re engaged now. This feels familiar.” When he finally looked up Christian was beaming back at him like a proud dad.

“Welcome back, Daniel. Welcome home.”

-

“You do realize that could’ve been an email?” He laughed as he waited behind for you to pack up your stuff. Joe in typical fashion had exchanged quick pleasantries after the signing and was gone in a flash, off to the next client. The other Red Bull representatives followed suit not long after.

“It could’ve, but where’s the fun in that?” He watched as you stuffed the last binder into your bag, fighting with the zipper. When you finished you looked up to find him staring intently at you, causing you to nearly drop your bag.

“Can I help you?”

He leaned against the table, crossing his arms over his chest. You stared at his tan forearms, noticing his veins bulge.

“That depends… do you like surprises?” You did your best to hide a gulp, your throat suddenly dry. He couldn’t possibly be insinuating what you thought…

But if he was, two could play at that game.

“Depends on the surprise,” you purred, leaning forward ever so slightly to show off the v of your necklace that led a trail to your hidden cleavage.  

He leaned forward to meet you part way, not breaking eye contact.

“I think you’ll like this one,” he whispered. You felt goosebumps raise on your skin, giddy in suspense. Your heart was about to burst through your chest. Was he really about to take you right here in this office?

Without warning he pushed himself from the table and walked quickly towards the door, leaving you bewildered in the middle of the room. He stopped in the doorway and looked back at you innocently.

“What are you waiting for? Follow me!”

He proceeded to skip down the hallway, forcing you to jog to try to keep up with him.

“Daniel! Wait up! What the hell?”    

He led you to the exit of Red Bull hospitality before he finally stopped.

“I may or may not have called in a favor.”

“Daniel, this isn’t funny. What –“

You stopped in your tracks as the doors opened. With your jaw on the floor, you let out a silent scream as Geraldine Estelle Halliwell Horner, aka Geri, aka Ginger Spice, aka one-fifth of the iconic girl group The Spice Girls, stood in front of you in the flesh. As a child of the 90’s, this moment felt biblical.

Apparently Christian was also there. “Oh Darling, I have someone I want to introduce you to.”

You were already barely functioning when she turned away from her husband and made direct eye contact with you. Then, as though it were a conversation about the weather, she very casually said “Oh hello. You must be y/n, I’ve heard so much about you. It’s very nice to meet you.”

Your hand gripped over your chest. Eyes wide, you looked to Daniel to confirm she was not a hologram, but he only gave you a wide grin, then back to Geri who was waiting patiently for you to act like a human which was unfortunately too big of an ask.

“I-you’re-ohmygodIcan’tbelievethisishappening-I-hi-I mean…. You know my name.” You dissolved into fits of nervous giggles. Daniel stood there very pleased with himself. He was a little insulted you weren’t this starstruck when you met him, but it was overshadowed by the immense satisfaction he felt that he initiated something that made you so happy.

Geri gave a sympathetic smile. Clearly this was not the first time a fan lost their shit at her mere presence. “I do. I hear you’ve been very busy the last few weeks.”

“What? Oh, right. Yeah I’ve spent a lot of time with Daniel and your husband.” you blabbed, quickly changing the topic. “Do you and the girls still hang out regularly? Spice World was my favorite movie growing up, and-and-and I memorized all of the choreography to Stop and Spice Up Your Life.” You continued talking a million miles a minute.

“Well that’s good to know in case we ever need a fill-in,” she joked trying to put you at ease. Your demeanor quickly sobered and you put a hand over your heart.

“Oh, Miss Halliwell. I could never replace Victoria on your next reunion tour, but if you absolutely insist I would be honored to step in to ensure the show goes on,” you swore in earnest. Geri slowly nodded, locking eyes with Daniel behind you doing her best to telecommunicate with him. What the fuck. He only shrugged as he continued beaming.

“Well, I’ll keep that in mind,” she said slowly and politely. Daniel finally interjected.

“Y/n, you have to pack and I’m sure Geri and Christian have their own flights to catch…”

“Oh my gosh, I’m so sorry I didn’t mean to take up so much of your time,” you said, Daniel’s voice beginning to bring you back down to earth. You rummaged through your bag, before proudly presenting your hand to her. “Here’s my card in case you or any of the girls need any type of legal assistance, happy to go over any contracts for you or whatever else you may need.” Geri’s forced smile relaxed, appreciating your hustle and intellect.

“This is great, thank you. Girl power, right?” And just like that you were back on Saturn. You proudly held up a peace sign as though you were giving an oath.

“Girl Power. Forever,” you swore. Daniel gently put his hand on your lower back to try and herd you along, but you turned to look back as you walked. “And now that you have my number, let me know if you ever want to get your nails done together or get coffee or even a yoga class!” you called after her. Geri chuckled and waved.

“It was nice meeting you too,” she shouted back.

“Good seeing you too y/n – what am I, chopped liver?” You kept walking and waved him off.

“Oh right, sorry. Yeah yeah, nice seeing you too Christian. Pleasure doing business.”

You proceeded to gush about the encounter the entire way back to the hotel. Your hands flailed in the air as you excitedly repeated every little detail, even though Daniel had also been there to witness the whole thing. Your eyes were bright and wide, still processing the adrenaline.

“So did I do alright then?” he asked cheekily as you approached your rooms.

“Did you do alright?! That was one of the best moments of my life, I could kiss you!” 

The words slipped out before you had a chance to think, stopping both of you in your tracks. They hung heavy in the air, waiting for an answer. But for the tension that had dragged on, and built, and compounded on itself for months, the statement would never be interpreted as anything other than an innocent, facetious comment for dramatic effect. But Daniel looked at you intently hoping you meant it. He turned his body to align with yours as you remained frozen, and cautiously stepped forward to remove the space between you. Your mouth parted slightly, trying to find words to explain yourself but drew a blank. He leaned in ever so slightly, his hot breath beating on the side of your face and tickling your ear.

“So do it,” he whispered, just loud enough for you to hear him. You dared to lock eyes with him, searching for an answer. His hand finally did what it had wished to do for so long, gently pushing hair out of your face and finding a home at the nape of your neck. He left it there, but he didn’t have to use any force to bring you together as your heads naturally tilted and pulled inwards like magnets. It was dizzying having his face so close to yours, feeling his breath tickle your nose and your cheeks, stoking the flush that had your face burning.

It was only when your lips were so close that you inhaled each other’s oxygen that you suddenly remembered you were in a very public hallway. You were still in your suit, that felt like it was about suffocate you. To his disappointment, and yours, you fell into old patterns. You pried yourself out of his orbit, stumbling backwards.

“Would you look at the time? I, um, need to go pack. Long flight tomorrow,” you stammered, as you continued backwards towards your room. 

“y/n…”

“Congratulations again, I’m super happy for you.”

“Can we at least talk about this?” You fumbled with your keys pretending not to hear him, your focus on the floor.

“It was great working with you. You have a bright future back at Red Bull, I’m sure everything will work out. Have a safe trip back to Perth.”

And with that final, clinical, arms-length message, you left him in the hallway. 

[domm1etae]

Hi! I’m not sure if this is the type of suggestions you’re looking for, so feel free to ignore if it’s not

Ateez member of your choice x idol!reader, dealing with jealousy and regret after finding out you’re marrying another idol of your choice

Ending is up to you 💙

Behind Closed Doors

hongjoong x f!reader

fluff ig?

4.2k

The moment Hongjoong found out, his world seemed to shatter. You, the person he’d shared so many secret smiles, stolen moments, and late-night phone calls with, were suddenly no longer his. The headlines had announced it first. You were getting married. To Jungkook.

It was all over the news: “Idol Power Couple: Y/N and Jungkook Announce Engagement!” The media praised the union of two of the biggest stars in the industry, painting a perfect picture of love and harmony. But Hongjoong knew better. He knew this wasn’t real, just another move by your agency to protect your image, to keep your popularity soaring. Still, the knowledge didn’t dull the sharp edge of jealousy that cut through him.

tags under

m/f, wedding, jealousy, drama, celebrity life, jungkook from bts mentoined, seonghwa helping because he is just like that (pookie), regret, kissing

author's note: this was very difficult to write, which is why it’s a bit short, but I hope you like it guys!

Hongjoong had just finished a long day of practice, his muscles aching as he sank onto the couch in the dorm’s living room. The familiar buzz of notifications on his phone barely registered in his mind, until he caught a glimpse of your name lighting up his screen. His tired eyes immediately brightened. He hadn’t heard from you all day, and he missed your voice.

As he reached for his phone, he saw it wasn’t a message from you—it was an article notification. Normally, he’d swipe away these news alerts without a second thought, but this one had your name in bold, accompanied by the name of another idol he knew all too well: Jungkook.

Confused, Hongjoong clicked on the headline: “Breaking News: K-pop Power Couple Y/N and Jungkook Announce Engagement!”

He froze. His heart skipped a beat, then pounded faster, echoing in his ears. The words felt surreal, like a nightmare, but no matter how many times he blinked or reread the headline, it didn’t change. You were getting married.

He quickly scrolled through the article, his eyes skimming the paragraphs, looking for some sign this wasn’t real. His breath caught in his throat as he saw photos—you and Jungkook. The two of you walking hand-in-hand, smiling at each other. You looked perfect together, like something out of a romantic drama. His thumb hovered over one of the photos, zooming in on your face. The smile you wore was beautiful, but it wasn’t the one he knew. It wasn’t the smile you gave him when you were alone, when you felt safe and unguarded.

“No…” Hongjoong whispered to himself, shaking his head in disbelief. “This can’t be happening.”

He could feel the panic rising in his chest, a suffocating weight pressing down on him. His hands trembled as he tossed his phone onto the couch beside him, trying to distance himself from the cruel reality it had just revealed. But it was no use. The image was burned into his mind—you and Jungkook together, the engagement, the smiles for the cameras.

His mind raced with questions. Why hadn’t you told him? You had been together for months now, secretly meeting whenever your schedules allowed it, cherishing every stolen moment like it was a lifeline in the whirlwind of your busy lives. But now, all he could feel was the sting of betrayal. He had trusted you, and yet, here you were, announcing to the world that you were marrying someone else.

Hongjoong’s phone buzzed again, and this time it was a text from you. His breath hitched as he unlocked his phone to read the message.

Y/N: Can we talk?

His jaw clenched as he stared at the message, the words so simple yet loaded with meaning. Can we talk? That was all you had to say after blindsiding him with the news of your engagement to another man? His fingers hovered over the screen, torn between anger and confusion. He wanted to demand answers, to call you and ask why. Why Jungkook? Why hadn't you told him? Why now? But he was afraid of what your answers might be. Afraid that this wasn’t something you could explain away.

Before he could stop himself, he texted back:

Hongjoong: What’s there to talk about?

The seconds ticked by as he waited for your reply, each one stretching longer than the last. His mind swirled with memories of you—your secret dates, the way you’d laugh when he made a joke, how you always listened to the demos he was working on, offering quiet encouragement with a soft smile. It had felt real. But maybe he had been wrong. Maybe it had never meant as much to you as it did to him.

His phone buzzed again, your response lighting up the screen:

Y/N: It’s not what you think. Please… meet me at the studio.

Hongjoong exhaled sharply, frustration knotting in his chest. Not what I think? He couldn’t even process what that meant right now. The studio had always been their safe place, a haven where they could be together without prying eyes. But now, the thought of seeing you there felt tainted. Could he really face you, knowing that the rest of the world believed you belonged to someone else?

Still, against his better judgment, he found himself grabbing his keys and jacket, heading out into the night. The cool air did nothing to calm the storm of emotions swirling inside him. Every step toward the studio felt heavier than the last. He didn’t know what he was going to say, or if he could even bear to hear your explanation. But he had to know. He had to understand why you hadn’t told him.

When he arrived at the studio, the familiar hum of the city outside faded away, replaced by the quiet tension that filled the space. You were already there, sitting on one of the chairs near the mixing console. You looked up as soon as he entered, your face pale and your eyes wide with worry.

“Hongjoong…” Your voice was soft, tentative, as if you were afraid he might turn around and walk out before you had the chance to explain.

He didn’t say anything at first, just stood there, hands shoved into his jacket pockets as he stared at you. His heart was still racing, his mind still struggling to piece together how things had gone so wrong so quickly.

“How long?” he asked finally, his voice low and strained. “How long have you known about this… this marriage?”

You bit your lip, looking down at your hands. “A few weeks,” you admitted quietly.

“A few weeks?” Hongjoong echoed, his voice rising in disbelief. “You’ve known for weeks, and you didn’t tell me?”

“I wanted to tell you,” you said quickly, standing up, “but I didn’t know how. I didn’t want to hurt you.”

“Well, guess what? You did.” His words cut through the air like a knife, sharp and unforgiving. “You think finding out through some news article was better? You should have told me, Y/N.”

You took a step toward him, your eyes pleading with him to understand. “It’s not real, Hongjoong. The marriage, it’s just for the public. My agency… they’re forcing me to do this. They said it’s to protect my image, to stop the rumors. It’s all fake.”

Hongjoong laughed bitterly, shaking his head. “Fake? It doesn’t look fake. The pictures, the smiles, the engagement—none of that looks fake.”

“It’s all for show,” you insisted, desperation creeping into your voice. “I don’t love him. I love you. I’m with you.”

“But no one knows that, do they?” His voice cracked, the weight of the situation finally sinking in. “We’re a secret. Always in the shadows, always hiding. And now the whole world thinks you belong to him.”

You swallowed hard, tears welling up in your eyes. “I don’t want this, Hongjoong. I never wanted this.”

“Then why didn’t you fight it?” His question hung in the air, filled with hurt and frustration. “Why didn’t you fight for us?”

“I tried,” you whispered, tears slipping down your cheeks. “But you know how this industry is. They don’t care about what I want. They only care about what sells, what keeps me relevant.”

Hongjoong ran a hand through his hair, his emotions warring inside him. He wanted to scream, to cry, to tell you that he understood—but the jealousy gnawed at him, twisting his heart. The thought of you standing next to Jungkook, even if it was fake, made him sick.

“I don’t know if I can do this,” he said finally, his voice barely above a whisper. “I don’t know if I can handle watching you be with someone else, even if it’s all pretend.”

You closed the distance between you, gently placing a hand on his arm. “Please, don’t give up on us,” you begged, your voice trembling. “We can make it through this. We just have to keep pretending. Once the media moves on, we’ll figure something out. But I need you, Hongjoong. I need you to trust me.”

He looked down at your hand on his arm, then up into your tear-filled eyes. He wanted to trust you, he really did. But the hurt was still too raw, the jealousy still too strong.

“I need some time,” he said quietly, pulling away from your touch. “I need to figure out if I can live like this.”

Before you could respond, he turned and left the studio, leaving you standing alone in the place that had once felt like home to both of you. Now, it felt cold and empty, just like the space between you and him.

The days that followed were a blur for Hongjoong. He threw himself into work, burying his emotions under endless hours in the studio, long rehearsals, and late-night songwriting sessions. But no matter how hard he tried to distract himself, you were always there, lingering in the back of his mind. Every song he wrote seemed to echo with the words he couldn’t say to you. Every melody reminded him of the nights you’d spent together, curled up in the quiet of the studio, sharing secrets and dreams that now felt out of reach.

He would open his phone sometimes, scrolling mindlessly through social media, only to be slapped with another reminder of you and Jungkook. Every entertainment site was buzzing about the "golden couple." The photos of your fake smiles, the ones that were meant for the public, stabbed him every time. Even though he knew it was all a show, it didn’t stop the jealousy from gnawing at him. It looks too real.

He found himself on a fan site one night, something he rarely did. His fingers hesitated on the keyboard before he typed your name into the search bar, his heart sinking as he saw how quickly the site filled with posts about you and Jungkook.

“Y/N and Jungkook spotted at dinner together! Couple goals!” “Y/N talks about wedding plans in new interview!” “Fans are obsessed with Y/N and Jungkook’s chemistry!”

He scrolled through the photos—the two of you laughing at some fancy restaurant, walking together through the airport, attending an event in matching outfits. It made him sick. When did it get this far?

His phone buzzed with a notification from Seonghwa.

Seonghwa: You good? We haven't seen you much lately.

Hongjoong let out a sigh. The other members had noticed his absence, but he didn’t know how to explain what was going on. He didn’t want to dump his personal issues on them, especially when he hadn’t even figured out how to process them himself. Instead, he texted back something vague:

Hongjoong: Just working on music. Be back soon.

But even the music wasn’t helping anymore. Normally, he could pour his heart into a song and find some sense of release, but lately, everything felt empty. He kept replaying that night at the studio, the look on your face when he told you he needed time. He remembered the way your voice had trembled when you said you didn’t want this marriage, how you had begged him not to give up on you. And yet, he had walked away.

Now, sitting alone in the darkened dorm room, Hongjoong couldn’t help but wonder if he’d made the right choice. The regret was heavy, weighing him down more with each passing day. Maybe he should have fought harder. Maybe he should have trusted you when you said the marriage was fake. But seeing you with Jungkook, day after day, smiling and playing the role of the perfect couple, had twisted something inside him. It wasn’t your fault, and he knew that deep down. But the jealousy was like a poison, clouding his judgment and making it impossible to think clearly.

He glanced at his phone again, thumb hovering over your name in his contacts. It had been over a week since you last spoke. You hadn’t tried to contact him since that night, and he wondered if that meant you had finally given up on him. The thought made his chest tighten. What if I lose her for real? The idea of you slipping away, of choosing to stay in this fake marriage because he had pushed you too far, terrified him.

But then, almost like a cruel twist of fate, another article popped up on his screen: “Jungkook and Y/N to Announce Wedding Date Soon!”

He blinked at the headline, his stomach flipping. Wedding date? Already? He clicked the article, quickly scanning through the words, his mind racing.

The agencies confirm that the highly anticipated wedding between Y/N and Jungkook will be taking place next spring. Fans are thrilled at the news and can’t wait to see the stunning couple tie the knot…

Hongjoong sat in his dimly lit apartment, staring at the glowing screen of his laptop. The announcement of your wedding date with Jungkook had hit him like a tidal wave. Each headline was a painful reminder of what he had lost. He tried to focus on work, but the melodies that usually inspired him now felt hollow and empty.

He ran a hand through his hair, frustration and regret swirling in his mind. The studio, where you had shared so many intimate moments, now seemed like a relic of a past he couldn’t reclaim. Why didn’t I fight for us? The question echoed in his head, mixing with the guilt that had taken root ever since he walked away from you.

His phone buzzed, and he glanced at the screen, seeing a message from Seonghwa. Hongjoong’s heart sank. Seonghwa had always been perceptive, often the first to notice when something was off with him. And Hongjoong knew that his absence and recent behavior hadn’t gone unnoticed.

Seonghwa: Hey, Hongjoong. We need to talk. Can you meet up?

Hongjoong hesitated, his fingers hovering over the keyboard. He didn’t know if he was ready to discuss the mess he was in, especially when it came to his feelings about you and the situation with Jungkook. But he knew he couldn’t avoid this forever. He needed to face the consequences of his actions and, perhaps, get some clarity.

Hongjoong: Sure. Where do you want to meet?

The response was quick.

Seonghwa: How about the café near the studio? I’ll be there in 30 minutes.

Hongjoong agreed and got ready, trying to push away the dread he felt about the upcoming conversation. He needed to talk to Seonghwa, but he was afraid of how much he would reveal. Would Seonghwa confront him about what he knew? And how would he react?

The café was quiet, with only a few patrons scattered around. Seonghwa was already there, sitting at a corner table with a cup of coffee. His expression was unreadable as Hongjoong approached and took a seat across from him.

“Hey,” Hongjoong said, trying to sound casual but feeling the weight of the conversation pressing down on him.

“Hey,” Seonghwa replied, studying him closely. “You’ve been MIA lately. What’s going on? We’ve all noticed you’re not yourself.”

Hongjoong took a deep breath, trying to find the right words. “It’s been… a rough few weeks. Things with Y/N and Jungkook… it’s been hard to process.”

Seonghwa’s gaze softened slightly, but he didn’t press further about the details of your relationship. Instead, he leaned in, his tone gentle but insistent. “I know you’re going through a lot, and I can see how much this is affecting you. But you don’t have to go through it alone. We’re here for you, you know?”

Hongjoong nodded, feeling a lump form in his throat. “I messed up, Seonghwa. I walked away when I should have stayed. I should have supported Y/N, but I let my own fears and insecurities get in the way.”

Seonghwa’s expression remained sympathetic, but there was an edge of frustration in his voice. “You’re not alone in this, Hongjoong. But you also need to confront what’s happening. Running away or hiding won’t fix things.”

Hongjoong’s eyes dropped to his coffee cup, his hands trembling slightly. “I didn’t know it would get this bad. I thought I was doing the right thing by stepping back, but now I see that I only made everything worse. The wedding… it’s all happening so fast.”

Seonghwa’s gaze was steady. “You’ve always been good at taking charge and leading the group, but this is different. This is about your personal life and feelings. You need to make a decision about how to move forward. It’s not just about what happened with Y/N and Jungkook; it’s also about how you handle your own regrets and actions.”

“I know,” Hongjoong said, his voice barely a whisper. “I’ve been thinking about it non-stop. I realize now that I should have been there for Y/N, and now I’m paying the price for it. I don’t know if I can fix it, but I want to try.”

Seonghwa nodded, taking a sip of his coffee. “It’s good that you’re recognizing that. But remember, you can’t change the past. All you can do is try to make things right moving forward. If you want to reach out to Y/N, if you want to make amends, you need to be prepared for whatever comes next.”

Hongjoong’s heart ached at the thought. He wanted to reach out, but he was scared of how you might react—or if it was already too late. The idea of you being with Jungkook, even if it was for the public, was a heavy burden to bear. And the thought of confronting it made him feel vulnerable in ways he hadn’t anticipated.

“I just don’t know where to start,” Hongjoong admitted. “It feels like everything is out of control.”

Seonghwa’s voice was calm but firm. “Start by being honest with yourself. Then, if you’re ready, be honest with Y/N. Apologize, explain your feelings, and see if there’s a way forward. It won’t be easy, and it might not work out the way you hope. But at least you’ll know you tried.”

Hongjoong looked up, meeting Seonghwa’s eyes. “Thank you. I needed to hear that.”

Seonghwa gave him a reassuring smile. “You’re welcome. And remember, whatever happens, we’re here for you. You don’t have to go through this alone.”

As they finished their coffee and prepared to leave, Hongjoong felt a glimmer of hope amidst his regret. The conversation with Seonghwa hadn’t resolved everything, but it had given him a clearer path forward. He knew that confronting his feelings and trying to make amends with you was the only way to find some closure.

He left the café with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to face the difficult conversations and the possibility of a future that might still hold a chance for reconciliation.

The day had come. Hongjoong sat in his dimly lit apartment, the late afternoon sun casting long shadows across the room. Every ticking second on the clock seemed to intensify the anxiety coiling in his chest. He had spent weeks grappling with the weight of regret and the impact of his decision to step back. Today, he was finally going to confront the tangled mess of his emotions and the consequences of their actions.

His phone buzzed, jolting him from his thoughts. He glanced at the screen to see a message from you: “Can I come over? I need to talk.”

Hongjoong’s heart pounded. Is this it? he wondered. Is this the moment everything changes? He quickly typed a reply: “Of course. Anytime.” He took a deep breath, steeling himself for the conversation that was about to unfold.

When the doorbell rang, Hongjoong’s breath hitched. He stood up, his legs feeling like lead, and walked to the door. He opened it to find you standing there, looking weary and emotionally drained. Your eyes were red-rimmed, and the weight of your exhaustion was visible in every line of your face.

“Hey,” Hongjoong said softly, trying to keep his voice steady. “Come in.”

You nodded, stepping inside with a sigh. “Thanks.” The fatigue in your voice was palpable. “I’m so tired, Hongjoong. This whole pretending to be happy, this fake engagement with Jungkook… it’s draining me.”

Hongjoong guided you to the living room, his heart aching at the sight of you struggling. “I can’t imagine how hard this must be for you,” he said, sitting beside you on the couch. “I’m really sorry for everything. I should have been there for you, not walking away when you needed me most.”

You sat down next to him, your shoulders slumped as you tried to hold back tears. “It’s not just about you leaving. It’s the entire situation. I never wanted any of this. I didn’t want to be part of this charade. I just wanted us to be together, without all the lies.”

Hongjoong reached out, gently taking your hand. “I know. I know now how much I hurt you by stepping away. I thought I was protecting myself, but all I did was push you further into a situation that was never fair to you.”

You looked up at him, your eyes brimming with tears. “I needed you to understand that I wasn’t just a part of this public display. I was struggling too, and I needed your support. But instead, I felt like I was fighting this battle alone.”

Hongjoong’s heart clenched as he listened to you. The pain in your voice was a stark reminder of how far apart you had grown. He took a deep breath, his thoughts racing. How could I have been so blind? How did I not see that I was making things worse instead of better?

He gently cupped your face in his hands, his thumb brushing away a tear that had escaped. “I’m sorry. I should have fought for us, not let my fears drive me away. Seeing you with Jungkook, even if it’s just for show, made me realize how much I’ve lost.”

You leaned into his touch, the warmth of his hands comforting you. “I don’t want this fake life anymore. I want to be with you, Hongjoong. Even if it means facing the world’s judgment, I’d rather face it with you by my side.”

Hongjoong’s heart swelled with a mixture of relief and resolve. He leaned in, his forehead resting against yours. “We’ll get through this,” he promised, his voice full of conviction. “We’ll face whatever comes our way together. I’m not going anywhere.”

The room seemed to close in around you, the noise of the outside world fading into the background. Hongjoong’s gaze was steady, and for the first time in weeks, you felt a sense of clarity and calm. The enormity of your situation still loomed, but in this moment, all that mattered was the truth you both shared.

Hongjoong’s lips brushed against yours, a gentle, tentative kiss that spoke of all the unspoken words and emotions between you. It was a kiss full of apology and longing, a promise of a future where you both could be true to yourselves. Your lips moved together in a rhythm of mutual understanding, a silent vow to confront whatever lay ahead.

When you pulled back, your eyes met his, and you saw the sincerity in his gaze. “We’ll keep up the public act,” Hongjoong said, his voice steady. “We’ll do what we need to do for now. But behind closed doors, we’ll be honest with each other. We’ll find our own moments of truth and love.”

You nodded, a small smile forming on your lips. “Yes. It won’t be easy, and there will be sacrifices. But I’m willing to make them if it means being with you.”

Hongjoong held you close, his arms wrapped around you protectively. “We’ll figure this out, one step at a time. We’ve been through so much already. This is just another challenge we’ll face together.”

As you both sat together, wrapped in each other’s embrace, the weight of the world seemed to lift, if only slightly. You knew that the path ahead would be fraught with difficulties, but you also knew that you were no longer facing them alone. The world might continue to judge and speculate, but the bond you shared was real, and that was what mattered most.

In the quiet of the apartment, away from the prying eyes of the public and the pressure of the industry, you found solace in each other’s presence. It was a bittersweet reality, but it was one you were both willing to navigate. The love you held for one another was a precious truth, and as long as you could cherish it in secret, you were prepared to face whatever came your way.

With a renewed sense of commitment, Hongjoong and you embraced the challenge of balancing the public façade with your private truth. As you both held each other close, you knew that no matter how difficult the journey ahead might be, you would face it together, bound by a love that was strong enough to endure even the harshest scrutiny.

[gormengeist]

WHAT HAS GORMENGEIST BEEN UP TO

It's been a while since I talked about game things. I even missed GREED's one year anniversary- but worry not, Thanksgiving is coming up, which is (obviously) GREED's cardinal holiday, so we will do something for that. But in the interest of throwing you all a bone, I want to start talking about my million games in progress, one at a time. Starting with the most finished:

ALL THE ACES

I've already talked about ALL THE ACES a lot, but not for a while! It's a detective noir game inspired primarily by post-war detective fiction like The Third Man and Gravity's Rainbow. The reason I'm excited for it is that I believe TTRPGs are the most energetic medium for a mystery to be in, when done right.

ALL THE ACES borrows GREED's basic mechanics, combat, and overall attitude that the players are scum waiting to be scraped off the heel of the world. The initial impetus for making ATA at all was that I found GREED's system (and especially it's combat- fast, swingy, and deadly) uniquely suited to the sort of mystery stories I wanted to tell, where talking things out was a necessity for survival, and threats of violence are Scary

ALL THE ACES is, as a core rulebook, done. Or at least it's releasable. The thing that I've been dragging my feet on for literally ten months now is writing/finishing its opening mystery module. Anyone who knows me knows that modules are the only part of TTRPG design that does not come naturally to me, and indeed, I find it incredibly irritating. But you can't release a mystery game without a mystery, so some day, I will buckle down and finish it, then release the game.

What I mean when I say "done right" in terms of detective games is that it adheres to three tenants of mystery TTRPG design that I hold to, and have been effective in my experience. Below the cut, design thoughts:

1: The players must intimately understand what is possible. For ATA, this means that there are no supernatural elements.

Magic in a mystery game is only awesome insofar as the players are intuitively aware of how those elements work. In other words, I can't make good deductions if I'm not sure what the bounds of possibility are. There is enough impossibility and uncertainty in mundanity, I think, to run on.

This isn't to say that no good detective game has magic, but that it works best in a game that can first immerse its players in the magic (while not doing detective stuff, long enough to really steep in it) and then drop the pop-quiz, which is what a mystery is! It challenges your knowledge about the world, who is in it, what they want and what can't be done. ATA attempts to smooth this learning curve; We already know how real life works, and this is like that but different.

2: Talking is the action.

This is the thing I'm most excited about. In a noir story, the most tense moments, the biggest payoffs, and the best actions are not gun fights or chases, but conversations. This is the one thing that we, at the TTRPG table, are literally doing. Even when we are are fighting in-game, we are talking in real life. The game is already a conversation. ALL THE ACES wants to give you ammo so that in the main action, it can step back, so you can just talk.

3: You can't do it all (or: there is never enough time).

It is dramatic to split the party, to ask escalating questions, and to fail. So there's a clock, and unless we do something stupid, we are never going to figure this thing out in time. A leisurely mystery is just something you're curious about.

Anyways. All The Aces coming.... eventually!

[wylanlupin]

wolfstar one shot famous au - 2000 words

famous au, wolfstar singers, genderfluid sirius black, sirius black uses she/her and they/them pronouns, inspired by a Louis Tomlinson song

She Is Beauty We Are World Class

“F_ck!”

With a loud sigh, Remus flops down on the couch next to Sirius. She looks up from her phone, where she was just reading an email from her manager.

“What’s going on?” They ask and turn their body fully towards Remus. “Benjy‘s in the hospital.”

Benjy is Remus’ lead guitarist and a very important member of his band, which has one of their biggest concerts in about seven hours.

“Oh sht.” She agrees with her best friend and studies his face. The taller man chews stressed on his lips and his amber eyes flicker through the room.

“And what now?”

Sirius knows how much this concert means to Remus and his band. It’s the first time they sold out The Madison Square Garden.

“Minerva’s thinking about cancelling if we can’t find a guitarist who can play all our songs in the next two hours.” He squints his eyes shut and holds his scarred face in his hands.

Sirius watches her best friend as he drives his long fingers through his golden curls and forgets what they were talking about. She shakes her head and leans back and crosses her arms over their chest.

“I can play guitar.” Of course she can, Sirius is also a singer. Remus should know this, they met in university where they studied music.

They even collaborated more than once and she was there when Remus, Benjy, James and Emmeline made their first studio album and is helping them with their second.

The both of them couldn’t be more different when it comes to music, but somehow it always works out in the end. Soon after Sirius had their big breakthrough, she bought a house and her best friends moved in.

That includes Remus, James (Sirius’ best friend, brother and Remus’ drummer), Lily (James’ girlfriend) and Marlene.

But only a few months later, did Marlene’s girlfriend Mary move in with them. Mary has created most of Sirius’ stage outfits ever since. Marlene became Sirius’ producer after she co-produced Remus’ first album.

Remus is a songwriter. His songs are lyrics first and everything after. Emmeline and her husband Benjy joined their band already in university and the four of them work perfectly together.

Where Remus goes more into alternative and indie rock, Sirius is all more r&b and pop with a little jazz and a touch hip hop there and then.

Remus’ art are his songs and lyrics and Sirius’ art is themselves and how she presents them.

“Yeah, but even you can’t learn our setlist on the guitar in-“ he looks at his watch, “in six hours and twenty-five minutes.”

“Moonbeam, I know all your songs by heart. You know that.” She smiles softly at him. “I even covered some.”

Remus scans her face as if he didn’t know this information and it’s a lot to take in. Well, Sirius thought Remus just ignored her obsession with his music. It can’t be that he didn’t notice it. “I even came up with a lot of melodies from that album.”

Their voice is quieter, almost ashamed to admit how much she knows about the songs. Better not mention that she knows even the unreleased ones by heart.

At that moment Remus’ phone starts to vibrate, but he is too stunt to do something, so Sirius just takes it and answers the call.

“Hello, here is Sirius.”

“Oh, hello, Sirius.” Minerva’s voice comes through the speakers. “Can I please speak to Remus? It looks like we have to cancel tonight’s show. Some fans are already there so better get the message out as quickly as possible.”

“No,” she just decides. “We found a guitarist.”

There is silence on the other side for a few seconds and Remus' eyes widen even wider. “Me!”

“Oh,” comes Minnie’s response and Remus’ brain seems to stop working as he just opens and closes his mouth repeatedly like a fish but nothing comes out.

——————

A loud laugh comes from James, the second Sirius finishes her explanation. Lily just chuckles next to him and even Emmeline looks surprised by the news.

“Well, welcome to the team!”

Mary is styling her as always and is a little annoyed at the short notice. While getting ready, Emmeline and James go through their setlist with Sirius and they practise every second they have till the concert.

Remus didn’t say much since they arrived at the location. Sirius just sees him whispering to James or Lily sometimes.

“What’s going on with Remus?” They ask Emmeline, as she puts on her makeup as well. “He is always more quiet when he knows you’re in the audience and now you’re on stage with him, can’t imagine how nervous he is.”

She smiles at Sirius before focusing back on the mirror and the colours on her eyelids. She keeps her eyes on Emmeline for a few more seconds before Mary orders her to get changed.

“Wow!” Sirius exclaims when she looks in the body length mirror. “Mary! This is so beautiful.”

Mary dressed her in more clothes than she ever went on stage with, but it’s beautiful. It’s a dark green, two piece dress, with her stomach naked. Her shoulders and arms are free from fabric, and only her front is covered and wrapped around her neck. The lower part reaches down to her ankles and is more layered, but has a slit so that her long legs can be seen from time to time.

“I know, I know, my girlfriend’s the best. You should be on stage for the sound check, Black.” McKinnon’s voice comes from the door and Sirius doesn’t spare them a look and just flies to room before Marlene can show her girlfriend what an amazing person Mary is.

Emmeline and James are talking with someone from the staff and Remus is going over his sound check with Frank.

It's at that moment that Sirius realises they don’t know where Benjy’s guitar is, so she walks towards Remus. Frank sees her coming before Remus does and excuses him.

Remus looks up with a confused expression but smiles the second he sees her. “Where is Benjy’s guitar?”

The taller man just frowns and takes off his headphones and hangs them over his shoulder. “Hm?”

As Sirius opens their mouth to repeat her question, Remus’ amber eyes fall on her lips and take her breath away.

“W-where is Benjy’s guitar?” She asks in a low voice that Remus shouldn’t be able to hear with all the sounds around them.

“Oh! Em has it.”

He turns back to Frank and puts the headphones back over his ears and it’s just then that Sirius remembers that Remus was reading her lips.

Remus has a hearing loss and without his hearing aids he understands as good as nothing.

Well, that was a little embarrassing but whatever.

——————

The pre show ritual is completely different from what Sirius knows from their own performances. But everyone makes sure to include them as best as possible.

Remus’ fans are completely losing it, once they realise that it’s Sirius on the stage. They are often seen together in public, sometimes just in the park and sometimes together on the red carpet. They also often visit the others' shows, if their schedules allow it.

Sirius has the best time on stage. The music flows through her body and the crowd is absolutely amazing. They scream the songs from the top of their lungs and dance when the songs are a bit upbeat.

Remus is completely different once he sets a foot on stage. It’s like the lights are just shining for him and he’s glowing in the screams of his fans.

She couldn’t be more proud of her best friend and to be on stage with them is an absolute honour.

“So,” Remus says into his microphone and everyone’s attention is just on him. “We only have one song left.”

The crowd goes wild at that again and Sirius understands it so well, she also doesn’t want this to end. “You’ve been the best crowd we ever had! Thank you so so much for coming!”

He takes a deep breath and lets his eyes wander over the crowd, even though they can only see the first few rows. “And also a big thank you to Sirius Black to take over on such short notice!”

If it’s even possible, the crowd grows louder at that. “You all have been singing so loud all night and dancing and some even crying and I can’t thank y’all enough for the passion you all put into our concert.

Everyone on stage loves you so so much! And I ask you just for the last time tonight, to sing as loud as you possibly can! Let it all out!”

This song is always their closing song on that tour, so everyone knows what’s coming. James and Sirius already start the song instrumental.

“Thank y’all so so much for coming! Give it up for the last time for my amazing band!”

Remus screams over the crowd and music.

“James on the drums and Emmeline and Sirius on the guitar! My name’s Remus Lupin and-”

Sirius didn’t know it’s possible, but the crowd actually doubled up. “This is ‘She Is Beauty We Are World Class’!”

Everyone on stage gives their all for that last song. The whole stadium is lit up in rainbow lights, Emmeline and Sirius are dancing over the stage and James plays the drums as if his life depends on it.

Remus always has a special stage presence and absorbs everyone’s attention. Although he is not moving that much and sometimes even sitting for a few songs. He walks around the stage in a few songs but he’s never a great dancer.

But today, the second they start the song, Remus starts walking around. He interacts with his fans while singing. He walks back and forth to wave at everyone and then the chorus hits.

He starts to jump up and down and even dances around a bit. He turns in circles, with the biggest smile Sirius has ever seen on her best friend’s face.

She knows the song and she has seen it performed before but she wasn’t informed about any changes. Suddenly Sirius finds herself being the spotlight.

“Surrounded by light, surrounded by light

Surrounded by light, surrounded by light

Surrounded by light, surrounded by light

Surrounded, surrounded, surrounded, surrounded by“

Remus sings while only having eyes for her. Thankfully she doesn’t forget to play the guitar in their hands. The crowd grows louder and she hears them screaming for her.

Remus comes over to her and it feels like everything else just disappears around them.

“She is beauty

And we are world-class (Oh)

Forever

We let the feeling last“

He sings it to her face as if he would confess something and her heart beats so fast and the beaming smile on her face gets even bigger.

Somehow they end the performance and Remus embraces her in a crushing hug.

—————

“That was unbelievable!” She exclaims once they’re backstage. Remus still has an arm slung over her shoulders. “Can we talk?”

She makes a sound in agreement and they disappear into Remus’ room. “Thank you for doing it.” The singer says into her neck and squeezes her even tighter.

“You’re very welcome, my love.”

They break apart so they can look into each other’s eyes but not too far, so the hug breaks. Remus swallows visibly. “I-“

“The last song is about me, innit?” A grin sneaks onto her lips. The taller man nods shyly and hides his face back into her neck. “Like almost all of them.”

It’s only a small whisper, but Sirius understands him perfectly. “Remus?”

He lifts his head and his amber eyes are looking into their grey once with such an intensity, it knocks all air out of their lungs.

And without thinking about it any longer, she leans up and intertwines their lips. The kiss is everything she dreamed about and more.

[mint-yooxgi]

Why you should tag authors in your fic rec posts

Hello again. It's me. Honestly, I've felt this way for years, but I've never wanted to say anything until now, but honestly, I think it's time someone does. Every author is different, I recognize that, but with the uprise in reposters and plagiarism in the writing community on Tumblr, I feel like this post is important to make.

Keep in mind this is vastly a post regarding my own opinions of this matter, but if you are an author, or even a reader that agrees with any of the points here, feel free to share this to spread awareness.

So, without further ado, here are a variety of reasons you should tag and properly credit authors on your fic rec posts.

Believe it or not, fic recs are actually a very great source of feedback. When we're tagged when someone recs our fic, we get told, 'hey, this person likes our writing enough to tell other people about it, and share it with others who might like it as well!'. Without that tag, we have NO IDEA that you liked it enough to share it with others. Instead, our fic just gets reduced to the name or title we've labelled it as, and not the writer - the person, the human - who spent hours, days, weeks, months, or sometimes even years writing said piece that is linked to a recommended post. Supporting authors is so important, especially if you want them to continue writing!

That being said, and I don't know how many others will agree with me on this point, but I've always personally felt that people that don't tag authors on fic rec posts are almost trying to take credit for those particular stories. By not putting the author, it gives the allusion that the person making the post could have been the author of said story. Like, you can spare enough time and energy to link the post, but not hit a little @ key which takes about a third of the amount of time to do as it does to link the post? Given the amount of reposters and plagiarizers that are also on the rise lately on Tumblr, it just never sat right with me. The author put in the time and effort to create that story you're recommending. The least you could do is credit them with a proper tag.

Additionally, I just feel like it's common curtesy. Without a proper tag, to me, you're saying that the finished product is more important than the person behind said product who worked hard to create such a work for you to enjoy. If you can spend the time to make your fic rec post 'look nice', you can spend the two extra seconds it takes to tag the author. It shows you respect the person behind the writing as much as the writing itself. At least, to me.

Not tagging the author is essentially the same to me as if you never made the post in the first place. We have no idea about it unless we're lucky enough for it to pop up on our dash and we recognize our own piece of writing. I can't speak for others, but it literally makes my day when I see someone has tagged me in a fic rec post! Like, you cared enough to share my stories! You cared enough to tell people about me. It's one of the biggest compliments you can possibly give someone.

I know there are probably a plethora of other reasons as to why you should credit authors on fic rec lists and the like, but I've said the main points I want to here. If any other authors want to add any more reasons as to why you should tag them on fic rec posts, then by all means! Please, be my guest!

This post isn't meant to be a debate. I just felt it needed to be said, again, due to the rise in reposting and plagiarism that's been going around Tumblr recently, and also since it's just something I've always believed in.

Stories are meant to be shared. It's just nice knowing that our stories are being shared.

[sassyandclassy94]

Latest Fanfics: A Little Writer’s Meme

Tagged by: MYSELF. Cause it’s a free country, and well… because I just CAN💅🏻

Rules: Post the beginning lines of your 10 most recent published fanfics, then attempt to tag 10 people!

HERE WE GO!

1.) Like a Bunch of Schoolgirls - The Boys in the Boat, GEN, rated G

Bobby let out a frustrated sigh as he waited for his crew to finish chitchatting on the dock. It was only a little after 6 am on a Saturday morning and the New York summer sun was already hot and beating down on his skin. A stark contrast from the state of Washington and that, coupled with his body being jet lagged and thinking it was 3 am, was doing nothing to lighten his quickly-souring mood.

2.) I Feel Like Gold - The Boys in the Boat, Don x OFC, rated E

“You may now kiss the bride.”

Kate stood on her toes and Don leaned down so they could kiss, their height difference creating a little bit of a hassle. The freshly married couple kept their kiss brief and sweet in hopes of keeping any snide remarks away. This was not entirely what they wanted; if Don and Kate had their way they would’ve eloped instead of having an actual wedding.

3.) The Proposal - The Boys in the Boat, Don x OFC, rated T

“Hm?” Her voice yanked Don from his thoughts.

“Are you okay?” Kate asked, skepticism flooding her tone. “You seem incredibly distracted tonight, Dear.” She added as she narrowed her eyes.

She was right; Don was distracted with everything that was currently on his plate.

4.) Of Sunburns, Vinegar, and a Sun-poisoned Coxswain - The Boys in the Boat, Bobby x OFC, rated T

It started out a great day! The Washington boys won the Poughkeepsie regatta; defeating the ivy league schools of the East Coast (plus California, their biggest rivals) and clinching their spot in the Olympic Games a little later in the summer. But it wasn’t ending as a good day. In fact, the great day turned into a miserable evening. At least it did for the Washington crew’s savvy little coxswain, Bobby Moch.

5.) Water Under the Bridge - The Boys in the Boat, Bobby x OFC, rated T

Bobby inhaled, fiddling with the small box he had hidden in his pocket as he waited for Tilly, his steady girlfriend, to get back from whatever it was she was doing. They had been steadily dating for at least a year now and tonight, Bobby planned on popping the question. After putting money aside for months, he was finally able to purchase the ring he had his eye on a few days ago. He even talked to her parents; now all that was left to do was ask Tilly those four words.

6.) Secrets, Lies, and Blessings - Once Upon a Time, SwanFire, rated T/M (Ugh… this first paragraph is PAINFUL but in my defense… it was my first EVER fanfic. My first born child if you will. So, be nice to it please)

18 year old Crown Princess Emma made sure Ava and Robert, her younger siblings, were asleep before heading out of the castle. Once she made sure they were sleeping, she breathed a sigh of relief and headed to her bedchamber to change into something more suited for her plans. She grabbed her lantern as she left her room. She took off her shoes and tiptoed through the hall and down the stairs. She looked around. She heard the guards talking. She pulled her cloak off its hook and put it on, covering her head. She grabbed a sword, sheathed it, and headed toward the door. She decided to go out the back entrance hoping she might slip out unnoticed. The guard stopped her.

7.) That Was Unexpected - The Boys in the Boat, Don x OFC, rated T

“You seeing Kate again tonight?” Bobby asked Don after crew practice.

A smile teased at the corner of Don’s mouth at the mention of his ‘lady-of-interest’, Kate Barlowe. “Yeah,” he nodded.

“You two have been spending an awful lot of time together lately.” He smirked and delivered a side-eye as he followed his boys to the showers.

8.) Where My Demons Hide - Once Upon a Time, SwanFire, Rated E (NOTE: this one is locked so unless you’re logged in, you won’t be able to read it)

“Neal,” Emma whispered, shaking her boyfriend awake. “Neal!” She said louder.

He groaned and shifted under the blanket while Emma continued to rouse him.

She shook him again, this time more rough. “Wakey wakey, Sleeping Beauty!” She chanted with a giggle.

Neal threw the blanket off of his head and sat up with a sigh, rubbing the sleep from his eyes.

“Sleep well?” she asked all too cheerily.

He only groaned in response before stretching - as well as he could, anyway, in their stupidly tiny stolen Beadle.

9.) We’re Safe Now - Masters of the Air, Gale Cleven, Meatball, GEN, rated M

“Do you need anything while I'm out?” Marge asked her husband, Gale as she grabbed her change purse from the kitchen counter.

“No,” he shook his head.

“You sure?” she cocked her head.

“I’m sure,” he assured as he stepped over to his wife, pulling her in to initiate a kiss before she left the house.

She welcomed his kiss and returned it with her own as he pulled her in close, her body flush against his. She broke away before saying, “I’ll be back in a few hours; I fixed your lunch for this afternoon.” She flashed him a smile and he returned it before looking out the window.

“Looks like rain,” he stated, observing the dark clouds that were beginning to form.

10.) I’m Mot Much of a Talker - The Boys in the Boat, Don x OFC, rated T

Don was deep in thought while he walked to the general store. So much so that he didn’t hear Bobby yelling at him from across the street and the next thing he knew, Bobby was at his side, interrupting his racing mind with a nudge to his side.

“Going deaf on me now, Hume?”

All Don did was shake his head and continued walking.

“So where ya headed?” Bobby had to quicken his pace in order to keep up with Don’s long stride.

“The store.”

Tags: @fictional-at-heart @fwitoley @swanfireprincessmydear @heatherfield @strangethings-everywhere @ljf613 @themeepyfreak @solo-pitstop-vibes @coneygoil @rav1377

(You would not believe how I just racked my brain trying to come up with ten tags YIKES)

[cliperry]

(x)

Would we date a fan?

Totally gossiping about girls, getting their bits out, and being grabbed by fans—it's just another day for One Direction.

You've downloaded their pictures, re-wallpapered your bedrooms with Harry & Co., and even worn pants with their faces on (cheers, Primark!). But hang on, there's one thing missing from this pop puzzle... the 1D album!

Luckily, after months locked in a sweaty studio with nothing but each other and the whiff of Niall's guffs for company (more on that later), they have just about finished what is surely the album of the year—sorry, Adele.

But is the band bromance intact? Or are they at each other's throats and thinking of going solo? We collared Harry, Zayn, Liam, Niall, and Louis to find out exactly what's going on inside Britain's biggest boy band.

You lot seem to be having a serious 1D love-in. In fact, we're feeling a bit awkward... but do you really get on that well? Louis: We really do. It could have gone so wrong as there could have been just one person in the group who didn't gel or wanted to do things differently. Luckily, there isn't. Zayn: When we're not together, we text each other every day saying, "Hey, I miss you." It's a bit girly, but when you've spent that much time together, you're used to it.

Have you always gotten along? Niall: When we first got asked to go to Judges' Houses for The X Factor as a group, we went to Harry's house for a weekend and got straight into making sure we were going to be friends. Then we started working on the music side. His stepdad has a bungalow at the back of the house, so we stayed in that.

What gets on your nerves about each other? Liam: They're all really loud and crazy, whereas me and Zayn like to have our own space. No offense—I love the lads to bits, but it's nice to have your own space too. Harry: I get a bit jealous that Niall gets to play the immature one. He always has fun, and if we were all like that, then we wouldn't get anything done. I'm the youngest, but I have to act more grown-up. Zayn: Yeah, Niall is farting pretty much all the time! They're pretty offensive, and he doesn't care where he is. I'm quite organized, so I like to know where my stuff is, but Louis and Harry just dump their stuff wherever. Even when we're staying in hotels, it'll look like we've been living there for a week when we've only just arrived.

We know Harry loves getting naked. Have you all seen each other's bits now? Liam: I think me and Zayn will be the last to break. I was thinking about running naked down a hotel corridor and just telling them I did it. But they'd just go, "No, you didn't, Liam. Shut up."

Do you reckon you would have been mates at school? Louis: We often say that would have been the case, actually. Harry: But who knows? It doesn't really matter, does it? Because we are now, and I can't imagine not being with them every day. We're very lucky.

We already have JLS and The Wanted; what will you give us that they can't? Louis: It's not like we'll be doing dance routines like JLS. We wouldn't be as cool as them—we'd trip over our shoelaces. But I don't want us to be choreographed and matchy-matchy anyway. We're not trying to be something we're not. We're like the guys who you go to school with. And I don't think other boy bands are like that.

(Turn over for more One Direction content)

Inside the World of One Direction

Do you have to follow a load of rules set out by Simon Cowell? Harry: On the show, we weren't supposed to have girlfriends, but we were so focused on what we were doing that it didn't really matter. Louis: Despite what people think, we dressed ourselves throughout The X Factor, and we still do. I think we know what we want. We just have to try a bit harder to be taken seriously.

How do you divide up the responsibilities in the band? Is one of you the Gary Barlow who does all the songwriting? Liam: We've all taken an approach to writing. It's tough, but we all try to contribute. We were pushed into a corner every week on The X Factor, so it's nice that we've finally found our own sound.

Does being famous ever get slightly boring? Harry: No, because I know I miss it the second I get to go home for a day. There's a lot of pressure to be a good role model, and people are keen to pigeonhole you as soon as you give them something to work with. Louis: I'm 19, and I used to go out as much as every other guy my age, but I'd much rather be doing this. But you can see how this can be lonely. I can't imagine doing it on my own.

Who will be the first to bail on 1D? silence Louis: Oh my god. I don't know. We all need this as much as each other. I don't think any of us would be anywhere near as successful solo as we are together.

Here’s the updated formatting with the same words:

Louis: Oh my god. I don’t know. We all need this as much as each other. I don’t think any of us would be anywhere near as successful if we were solo as if we stayed together.

Harry, erm, didn’t you ditch a band to join 1D? Harry: Yes, White Eskimo, but they were all like my best mates, and they’re still going. I hope they don’t feel like I’ve just gone off and abandoned them. They can replace me.

Your fans are very... obsessive? Do you get scared? Liam: Some fans will do anything. Like, you’re not allowed in some buildings because of security, but one time this girl just ran in and grabbed me. That shook me up a bit.

PHONE PICS 4 YOU

LOOK WHAT WE FOUND WHEN 1D LEFT THEIR BLACKBERRYS LYING AROUND

Who needs pillows when you have ZAYN MALIK.

In the studio, LOUIS sits this one out.

Hairdryer: LIAM'S foot sweat is clearly becoming a problem.

LARRY STYLINSON’S battle of the best biceps begins.

Liam: But our fans are really friendly. Zayn: Obviously, it’s flattering, and they say you get used to the attention, but I haven’t yet. I try to go out with a hat on or my glasses on, but I still get recognised. Louis: There are so many committed fans who have queued up for hours to see us, and you start to recognise them all. Harry: Yeah, it’s nice to have that, as you know that they really care about us.

Would you date a fan? Louis: Totally! I don’t see why not.

We bet all the girls you went to school with have been in touch… Harry: There are always going to be people who are acting like they’re better friends with you than they actually are. Liam: Yeah, this girl who was the hottest one in our year added me on BBM the other day, and I was like, “Get in!” It’s funny how you automatically become more attractive when you’re on TV.

Harry: I’m a seventeen-year-old boy, so I like girls. But I prefer having a girlfriend. I like having someone I can spoil. Somebody to call up in the middle of the night and just talk to. I like getting close to someone like that.

So what moves have you pulled in an attempt to win a girl’s heart? Zayn: I don’t know... Took her out for dinner. Bought her flowers. Liam: One Valentine’s Day, my girlfriend at the time insisted all she wanted was one of my hoodies. I thought, “That’s a bit rubbish,” so I bought a box, put the hoodie inside with a teddy bear, 12 red roses, and a Justin Bieber CD. When it comes to birthdays, I don’t care how much it costs if it makes you happy.

Zayn, you’re dating Rebecca Ferguson at the moment. Is it important for the other lads to get on with your girlfriend? Zayn: At the point we’re at now, definitely. I would get a lot of stick if they didn’t. They’re pretty open about what they think about girls. Harry: Yeah, we totally gossip about girls. Niall’s the worst.

One Direction’s debut album will be out later this year. Buy it!

[pixeldotgamer]

✨All My WIP Projects✨

Since the results of that Twitter poll I did show people REALLY wanna know what I'm working on, I figured I'd just announce/summarize most of the things I have in development right now!

This will be pretty long so it's getting tucked under a read more!

Don't Tell My Wife / DTMW (Game, Horror VN) Status: Active Development

DTMW is my entry for SuNoFes2024 on Itchio! Folks may actually recognize this one as I streamed some concept art a while back, and even posted some as well!

This game focuses on a Husband and Wife in the woods. Specifically, the Husband and something he's been trying to plan for a while. Now there's only one week left and his Wife has taken notice.

"You have one week to get your plans sorted. You thought you had more time than this. Don't let her find out."

---

Treacherous Flesh (Game, RPGMaker Horror) Status: Research & Writing

TF follows the story of Ila, a woman who contracts a deadly illness and must wait 8 months for treatment. The game follows her over that time as her symptoms worsen, and her body turns against her.

Like many of my projects, TF pulls from a personal feeling. This game is an outlet for my own ongoing health problems. I started working on this game after being told I had to wait 8 months for an ultrasound I need for diagnosis. It's month 4 of 8 now.

Probably the most outright depressing thing I'm working on, this game actually means a lot to me. This is an outlet, but I'm also hoping it resonates with people who may be going through what I am.

---

Dead Girl's Club (Game, VN) Status: Research & Writing

DGC follows a girl from a religious cult town tracking down the male "murderers" of girls from said town. The game is a very blatant look at the transmasc experience tackling themes of family, community, passing, more.

---

Computer Angel (Game, Point & Click/Interactive Fiction, Horror) Status: Concept Development

Computer Angel comes from my own fascination with the concept of "angels speaking to you through your screens" and such, whether for horror or comfort.

In CA, your aunt has just passed away suddenly and you end up with her computer. As you investigate the machine to use for yourself, you realize there's something in the computer. Something that would very much like to make your acquaintance.

With 3 narrative paths depending on your choices, I want CA to be a spooky and surreal little game! While the concept has been fleshed out, this one is on the back burner until I dedicate myself to learning GameMaker which is the engine I want to use.

---

Pop-Rock & Curly (Game, Point & Click) Status: Research & Writing

A brainchild of mine from 2019, where I said to myself "What if I made a detective/robber OCs but they're lesbians?" and then PR & C just. existed in my brain?

After just having them rattling around in my brain but never drawing them more than once, I decided to adapt them into a game! I've always had a love of P&C games, so it only makes sense I take a stab at one (Art from 2019)

The game follows detective Pop-Rock, who is personally requested by Curly to help as she rats out her no good boyfriend who has stolen a big flashy item. Using this as a chance to improve her reputation, PR ventures into the cities criminal underworld.

---

Juno Law (Game, VN) Status: Pre-Dev Done, Art Concepts Started

Juno is what I'd call my first "modern" game idea, the first game idea I can pinpoint where looking at it I could go "Wait this could actually be a game!" Basically a "what if I made an PWAA game" type deal

We got lawyers, punny names, gimmicky designs, and more! While not what I would call a fangame, Juno is meant to be my love letter to Ace Attorney that I started cooking up after playing the main 6 games. I actually was pursuing this as my first game!

Juno is a LARGE game. The biggest of anything even on this list in scale. Because of that, I've had it on the back burner since I finished the full game notes back a few years ago. The game is completely outlined! All characters, trials, plot lines, all of it!

I'm really passionate about Juno, but I knew I had to be honest with myself; This is just too much for my first game! My weakest skill, in my opinion, is my writing. So, starting out with massive narrative VN? Maybe not, haha. Someday though, I want to make it.

---

7. Cleopocha (Game, ???) Status: Concept Development

Cleopocha is about an android idol named Chapel, who starts dreaming of their past personas. It's a game largely about identity and asking what do we own those who came before us, especially when we don't remember them?

My current sticking point with Cleopocha is actually genre! The story I want to tell needs breathing room in a way a VN can't provide, but I'm unsure if an RPGMaker type game is quite right. What should the gameplay even be? Those kinda questions 🤔

---

A2amB (Podcast, Liminal Space Horror) Status: Research & Writing

I've had this fascination with doing some kind of story based podcast as far back as 2019, where the title A2amB comes from! The name is a placeholder from the idea I had way back then. (Art from 2019)

The story now is WAY different than the first concept. Salvaging characters and concepts from a MOTW campaign I was running, the podcast is now about a liminal space mall and the people stuck within it. (Art from Aug 2023)

Casey Day, local computer repairmen and burnout, gets dragged into the liminal mall and is stuck fumbling around trying to get out again. Besides twisting halls, a mannequin cult, and unpleasant personalities - Casey will also be haunted by his own issues.

I've been on a steady dev pace with A2amB, but I'm still figuring out what I want from the story, as well as how I want to deliver it. So currently I'm just locking down the pacing and themes in a way I find satisfying. I'll probably have to trim a lot of ideas..

---

And there's the bulk of what I'm working on! I need to refine my pitch process a bit, but I honestly just love gabbing about ideas!! I have no set release dates for these projects, they'll happen when they happen! (๑•̀ㅂ•́)و✧

[qoldenskies]

Taking a break from homework to ask 11, 12, and 30 from that ask game you reblogged (I’m super super interested in the way other people go about writing their fics lolol 🙏)

YIPPEEEEE

11. Do you write scenes in order, or do you jump around?

truthfully it kind of depends! whenever i write i tend to have The Scene in mind and if i get impatient i'll usually write it, but i try to avoid doing it because i notice it messes with flow (but flow and pacing is something im just very conscious of, even though i observe that because im writing it my brain is reading it faster/skimming so its partially a me problem LOL)

in caged lungs im skipping around only because im trying to go with a draft format instead of editing as i go, since its so long itll help when i see everything connected, and there's a few scenes i plan on changing/rewriting completely when i get it all out. technically everything ive posted up to this point is a first draft, and its a habit i hope to break !!

12. Do you outline your fics? If yes, how detailed are your outlines?  How far do you stray from them?

i doooo yes, its mostly just a list of things/interactions i know i want. for cvd i have plans for up to chapter 9/10 or so, and just a bunch of scripts/concepts for later. with canary continuity i have a description for each scene on the google doc and i just add the content in as i go, with my actual notepad (thing i discovered i had on my laptop and have been using liberally) i mostly have quotes and passages i want to put in the story

and also for cc in particular im keeping really close track of the motifs and how i want to work them back around. already thinking about the healing part of the arc and implanting scenes/chekhovs guns that are going to loop back around WAY down the line is very funny... i actually do some of this for cvd too, i love to write intentionally like that.... i am weirdly pretentious and earnest about my turtle fanfiction. people have no idea what im going to do with that lamp and i bide my time. also the clocks. and the laundry room. and the ocean (actually that one's fine its just a parallel). and the rooftop. and the cameras oh my god the cameras. i plan on committing so many horrors

really just things i know i WANT to be consistent with is the biggest thing i keep track of (although sometimes things will just pop up AS i'm writing and i roll with the punches, like the security system being a metaphor in coming undone, and also all of the very intentional trust fall parallels and the way it conveniently worked with the chapter names. fun fact for metaphors, i REALLY planned to expand on the chess thing between leo and donnie but it messed with the pacing so im keeping it for cvd.... ive got some ideas)

OH EXCEPT FOR THAT SEP AU IVE VAGUELY TALKED ABOUT. i have EVERY SINGLE chapter plotted out, its 52 chapters long. i am NOT GOING TO WORRY ABOUT IT RIGHT NOW its a far in the future thing. but its also the only au i have that isnt like,,, specifically canon divergent, so i wanted to pay close attention to how i set things up. 4 later (currently the working name for it is where we went wrong, after the song by the hush sound, and honestly im tempted to keep it because it makes the acronym wwww which is beautifully ironic because they take NOTHING BUT LS ITS JUST ONE AFTER ANOTHER OH MY GOD)

30. How much do you edit your fics?  Do you edit as you write or wait until you finish the first draft?

OH I KIND OF ALREADY ANSWERED THIS ABOVE OOPS. im trying to break out of the habit but i mostly just grammar correct through google docs and then throw out the first draft haphazardly, and it can kinda come off polished anyway because i tend to edit as i go. sometimes it means i'll fix mistakes in fics like a month after releasing them, impatience is my Weakness

wow i yap a lot LMFAO the yapperrrr

[purplesurveys]

1841

What's the most worthwhile thing you've done in the last year? I've mentioned it to death at this point, but traveling to Thailand with my friends and seeing Yoongi in concert before he went off to military service. It was the first accessible tour BTS had (the previous ones were all in the US), and my friends and I needed it to happen for us.

What foods make you want to gag? I have a strong stomach when it comes to food and typically have no problem with textures, smells, all that stuff...my biggest issue is not liking fruits, but they're not necessarily something I gag over. I just don't like how they taste.

Do you consider yourself to be organized? Like what I've said before, I'm a messy kind of organized so idk where that falls under. I can be careless when placing things but I always remember where everything is.

Have you ever made out with someone? Yes.

What time do you get sleepy? Usually around 1 or 2 AM.

What music do you listen to? I nearly exclusively listen to K-pop these days.

How old were you when you started to walk? I would guess a little over 1 year old, since I have home videos from my 1st birthday party and those clips would show that I was still struggling to keep myself up. Kinda surprising and I would consider that delayed, since I have cousins who were able to walk at like 10-11 months old.

Which member of your family do you get along with the best? My sister. We have the same sense of humor and we generally have an excellent silent understanding of each other's moods.

What cheers you up when you're sad? My dogs, BTS, and wrestling. But I'm also generous towards myself - if I'm in a really down mood, I don't force myself to cheer up anymore.

What do you sleep in? My designated lounge clothes, which is really just a collection of thin, short, and airy pieces. Can't be all covered up in this tropical climate.

Have you ever tanned topless? I wouldn't want to do that. Even if you tell me I'd have an island to myself, I think I'd still be too shy to go topless.

Wear jewelry? I used to have a necklace constantly on, but I took it off a few months ago. It's sitting on my drawer for now.

What's something you've been told you're good at? Writing. And planning, in the sense of crafting PR pitches - which tbh is just an offshoot of writing as every presentation deck needs a strong and compelling narrative.

How much can you eat? Not a lot in one go; I have a very small appetite and rarely finish a full meal, unless I'm at home.

What's the furthest away you've ever traveled? Just around Southeast and East Asia.

Are you a cat or dog person? Dog!

Have you ever done drugs? Only once.

What does your room look like? It's certainly a lot homier and cozier than it used to be - a year ago we had some renovations done and upgraded my bed to a loft-style one, which was able to save a ton of space. That meant I could add some more stuff in my room that would help make it a comfier spot, so right now I have a loft bed with my work station under it, and dedicated shelves for all my K-pop merch. I also have a makeshift couch where I can hang if I don't feel like climbing up to my bed.

Recommend a really amazing book. I'd just recommend the last one I read since I don't read frequently - Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982.

Recommend a really amazing song. Wild Flower by RM or First Love by Suga. Amygdala by Suga is also good.

Recommend a really amazing movie. Steve Jobs.

Who's your favorite actor/actress? Kate Winslet and Audrey Hepburn.

Have you ever run away from home? No.

Do you exercise ever? The lack of exercise I do I make up for by walking as much as I can and as far as I can. I recently learned that I have low blood pressure, so that has explained a lot for me as far as why I seem to hate exercising so much.

Do you like your hair, the way it is and the colour? It has its good days but admittedly it's something I've been neglecting. It's way overdue for a new dye job and a major trim.

Do you have any friends named Baloo? Or is he just in the Junglebook? I don't know anyone named Baloo.

Are you a Disney movie fan? I'm not a superfan by any means, but I have my share of Disney movies that I really love.

Do you eat seafood? Yes. I had a ton of it just earlier.

When was the last time you cried? Couple of days ago, but they were good tears.

Do you have good working habits? I like to think so. I've slowed down in the last year or so and while that might give off the impression that I'm not as good as I used to be, the fact of the matter is I overworked myself to death when I was just starting out, and have simply learned how to strike the balance between setting boundaries while still performing at the quality I should be delivering.

So where the hell do you want to go in life? I just want to continue being responsible with my savings while not forgetting to enjoy life. I don't want to push myself on a leash, but I don't want to go out of bounds with my means either.

Contentment. It's a cliché answer but it's what I'm perfectly okay going for.

What are your boundaries? The only boundaries I can think of now are all work-related, but I'm glad to say I've been learning to keep those walls up and to not be a slave for my job.

What are some of the funniest things you can think of? I recently remembered the existence of the WWE musical chairs segment, and that was a treat to unlock from my memory hahaha.

What are two quirky little things about you? Thinking of 'quirky' things kinda makes me feel self-conscious, and it might be better asking someone else. What's quirky for me might just be otherwise normal without me knowing hahaha.

Are you claustrophobic? Nah not really, I don't have a lot of problem with being in cramped spaces or super crowded spots. If anything it just makes me annoyed hahaha.

Do you like getting wasted? I like getting a good amount of tipsy in that I become more extroverted and energized than usual, but I've graduated from blackout drunkenness. Not something I'd want to experience again.

List three things that you look for in a friend. Low-maintenance, on a similar wavelength humor- and vibe-wise, is talkative and likes to share stories and ask questions.

Do you prefer Angels and Airwaves or Rhianna? Rihanna.

What religion are you, if any? I haven't identified with any religion in nearly 15 years, although I was baptized as Roman Catholic and technically that's what I am.

If your house was on fire (and your family escaped), what would you save? If family already includes the dogs, I'd simply go for my phone before making my way out.

Do you have any sash belts? No.

What do you have on right now? Include everything, nail polish, makeup, etc BB cream, hair serum, t-shirt, culottes, a hair tie, glasses.

Does caffeine make you hyper? It keeps me awake and focused, but not hyper.

[dantoombs]

Law Firm Pricing Models: What Clients Want (And How to Talk About It)

Talking about pricing in law can feel awkward. But here's the truth: clients care more about clarity and control than about rock-bottom rates. And in a world where legal services are increasingly compared like any other purchase, how you present your pricing matters just as much as what you charge.

Let’s break down the common pricing models, why clients respond to them differently, and how law firms can communicate their value with less jargon and more trust.

Why Pricing Transparency Matters More Than Ever

Legal services have always carried a bit of mystery. Billable hours. Surprise invoices. "Scope creep." But modern clients – whether businesses or individuals – want predictability.

In fact, unclear pricing is one of the biggest reasons clients feel anxious about engaging a lawyer.

"Will I be charged for every five-minute phone call?"

"What happens if the case takes longer than expected?"

"Why is this invoice three times what I was told?"

The good news? You don’t have to be the cheapest. You just need to be clear.

Common Law Firm Pricing Models (and What They Really Mean for Clients)

1. Hourly Billing

This is the traditional approach. Clients pay for the time spent, usually in six-minute increments.

Pros:

Simple for lawyers to track.

Flexible if the scope changes frequently.

Cons (from a client perspective):

Feels unpredictable.

Can create tension over time spent vs. value delivered.

Real-world example: A small business owner hires a lawyer to help draft a contract. They're quoted $400/hr, but have no idea how long it'll take. After a few emails and edits, the final bill is double what they expected. They feel blindsided.

2. Fixed Fees

One upfront price for a clearly defined service.

Pros:

Clients love the certainty.

Great for repeatable work like wills, leases, or straightforward applications.

Cons:

Can be risky if the matter becomes unexpectedly complex.

Real-world example: Someone going through an uncontested divorce knows they'll pay $2,500 from start to finish. No surprises. That peace of mind? Invaluable.

3. Retainers

Clients pay an upfront amount to cover a lawyer's availability or future services.

Pros:

Helpful for ongoing relationships (e.g. businesses).

Gives clients consistent access to legal advice.

Cons:

Can be confusing if the retainer isn't well-defined.

4. Subscription Models

A newer twist: law firms offer monthly packages covering a set range of services.

Pros:

Predictable for both sides.

Encourages proactive advice instead of reactive firefighting.

Cons:

Requires clear boundaries on inclusions and limits.

Scenario: A startup pays $750/month for basic legal support, templates, and quick advice. It feels like having in-house counsel – without the big salary.

5. Contingency or No Win, No Fee

Used mainly in personal injury or compensation cases. The lawyer is paid only if the client wins.

Pros:

Low-risk for clients.

Aligns interests between lawyer and client.

Cons:

Can create pressure to settle early.

Often comes with a higher percentage fee if successful.

How to Talk About Your Pricing (Without Sounding Salesy)

Pricing isn’t just a line in a brochure. It’s part of your law firm’s story. And how you explain it affects trust, satisfaction, and ultimately, referrals.

Here’s how to make that conversation easier and more effective:

Use plain English

Instead of "costs will accrue on a time-cost basis," try:

"We charge by the hour, but we’ll always keep you updated so there are no nasty surprises."

Offer context, not just numbers

Say:

"This fixed fee covers everything from the first meeting through to final lodgement. If anything unexpected pops up, we’ll always chat before there’s any extra cost."

Anticipate concerns

Explain what happens if things change:

"If something pushes the scope outside the agreed fee, we’ll talk before moving ahead. You won’t get a mystery invoice."

Show the value, not just the price

Help people see what they’re getting, not just what they’re paying:

"You’re not just paying for paperwork. You’re paying for peace of mind, and knowing it’s been done properly."

Marketing Your Pricing Without Undermining Your Value

Clients aren’t just comparing costs. They’re comparing confidence.

Here’s how to market your pricing model in a way that builds trust rather than raising eyebrows:

1. Put your pricing approach on your website

You don’t have to publish exact rates. But say how you charge. It removes one of the biggest barriers to contact.

2. Create service bundles

Group common services with fixed prices where possible. It helps people quickly understand what they need.

3. Use testimonials or scenarios

Let past clients explain how your pricing made them feel supported, not taken advantage of.

4. Educate, don’t just advertise

Blog about how legal pricing works. Help clients understand why different models exist. It positions your firm as transparent and trustworthy.

5. Avoid buzzwords

Clients don’t care if it’s a "value-based pricing model". They care if it makes sense.

It’s Not About Being the Cheapest

Legal work is deeply personal. When someone hires a lawyer, they’re handing over their worries, their finances, sometimes their future.

Clear, fair pricing helps reduce fear and build trust. And that’s worth more than a discounted rate.

Thinking About Your Law Firm Marketing?

Pricing isn’t separate from your brand. It is your brand. Whether you use fixed fees or flexible retainers, how you communicate that pricing is a key part of effective law firm marketing.

Start by asking: Does our pricing make people feel safer? Or more confused?

FAQ: Common Questions About Law Firm Pricing Models

Do clients prefer fixed fees over hourly billing? Yes, especially for predictable tasks. Fixed fees reduce anxiety and help clients plan ahead.

Is subscription pricing really viable for small law firms? It can be. Especially for business clients needing ongoing support. The key is clear boundaries.

Should a law firm publish pricing online? Even a general guide is better than nothing. It builds trust and reduces hesitation to contact you.

Can different pricing models be used together? Absolutely. Many firms use fixed fees for some services and hourly for more complex matters.

Disclaimer

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Please seek professional advice tailored to your situation.

[qnewsau]

The political leader Lulu LeMans met while half-naked

New Post has been published on https://qnews.com.au/the-political-leader-lulu-lemans-met-while-half-naked/

The political leader Lulu LeMans met while half-naked

We ask local entertainers to spill the tea about themselves, their craft and the local scene.

This month, it’s multi-award-winning drag star Lulu LeMans from Brisbane.

She took time out of her busy schedule to answer our questions on doing drag, her charity work and some of her best and worst experiences.

The first time I did drag was…

The first day of the rest of my life. I first stepped out of the house as Lulu for Brisbane Pride Fair Day 2018 as a “get it out of my system” experience. What I didn’t expect was to see the joy I could bring to so many people, simply by being the biggest, brightest version of myself. Everything changed after that. 

I chose my drag name because...

I wanted something that said “conceited, with a sense of humour.” And what’s more conceited than “premium” activewear? It’s quintessentially me. 

I would describe my drag as…

Joyful, silly and purple.

  View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Lulu LeMans (@lululemans)

Doing drag

My best skill in being a drag performer is…

Probably my adaptability! I thrive on reinventing myself for all different kinds of events. Knowing how to ‘code switch’ for different crowds is a secret weapon in drag, like going from reading Ascot Mums and Hens Parties for filth at Drag Brunch, to popping my pussy for big dance shows.

Variety is the spice of life. 

Something people don’t know about doing drag is…

Your behaviour off stage impacts your reputation far more than what you do on stage!

Being ‘fierce slay diva boots’ can only take you so far; professionalism and kindness will take you so much further.

People will remember how you treated them, way longer than how hard you slayed that Charli XCX number. 

My family’s reaction to me doing drag was…

Supportive and unsurprised. I have always been blessed to have parents who have encouraged me to live outside the box.

I used to get in trouble in school for being sassy and for talking too much. It only made sense to them that I would grow up to be a professional attention seeker. 

RuPaul’s Drag Race is…

A blessing and a curse. What a privilege it is to live in a world where we are overwhelmed with choice when it comes to drag shows on TV. Not much more than a decade ago, we had no representation, so let’s embrace it while we have it.

On the flipside, the “Drag Race Lens” on drag creates a very narrow perception of “good drag”. Our local shows have so much more spice and variety than what is deemed ‘acceptable’ on a 40-minute reality TV show.

  View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Lulu LeMans (@lululemans)

Brisbane scene

The Brisbane queer scene is…

A small but mighty family. The Brisbane queer scene features such diverse and talented queers. I always feel so blessed to be a part of it, and so inspired each time I get to experience new facets of our scene. 

Brisbane drag artists are…

Tough as nails! Anyone who can perform shows in a Brisbane Summer should be feared.

The drag performer who deserves more attention is...

Everyone competing in the next Season of Queer Sister Smackdown at Sporties! That is the next generation of Queens to take over the scene. 

The drag performer I’d hate to live with would be…

Any of them. I very much enjoy having my own creative space!

Charity work

I ran Bridge 2 Brisbane in drag because…

I had hosted the event for the previous three years alongside Bebe Gunn, and last year I decided to throw my wig in the ring and do it myself if we hit our target for Small Steps 4 Hannah.

My team and I managed to absolutely smash our fundraising target and helped contribute more than $15k to the cause. The race day coincided with what would have been Hannah’s birthday, which made it extra special. AND, I finished with my wig intact.

  View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Lulu LeMans (@lululemans)

I got involved in Small Steps 4 Hannah because…

I was so inspired by Sue & Lloyd Clarke (Founders of Small Steps 4 Hannah). They are Hannah’s parents, and they have created a national movement for better protections and education in the domestic violence space.

They have turned an absolutely horrific event into something that will have a lasting positive impact for years to come. I see my role with the Charity as the court jester. I am an attention magnet, so the more eyes I can draw in, the more people who can join the movement and contribute to lasting change for our communities!

Best and worst experiences

The awards I’ve won mean…

I‘m better than everyone. (and that I have been blessed to get to work with incredible creative collaborators my whole career, and each time I achieve something, I feel like we have achieved something special together, and that means more than the trophy). 

 The best experience I’ve had in drag is…

Probably getting the chance to step aboard the original Priscilla!!! I have never said yes to an opportunity faster. 

  View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Lulu LeMans (@lululemans)

The worst experience I‘ve had in drag is…

When my event for Gympie Youth Week was protested by members of the community. It made me so sad to know that these young queer people and their families would have to see the awful signs at the front gate.

This was their first experience with queer/drag culture, and it was tarnished by some people with too much time on their hands. We had an amazing night regardless, but it broke my heart. 

Meeting a Premier while in lingerie

The funniest thing that happened to me in drag was…

I met Annastacia Palaszczuk in my lingerie. I was performing at a charity gala, and mid-quick change into my Cher costume, the then Premier happened to need to leave the venue through a side exit, which just so happened to be where I was changing.

Nothing more humbling than standing face to face with the Premier with your foam boob inserts hanging out. 

The best thing a fan has done for me was…

Show up. I am so grateful every time someone comes back and sees me at another show. It still blows my mind whenever I am chatting to the crowd, and people tell me they are there for me specifically.

I never take that for granted, because one day the people won’t show up anymore. So I try to remind myself, amidst the grind, what a privilege it is to be able to show up and bring joy to people. 

The worst thing someone in the audience has done was…

I was doing a round of photos after a show once, and a patron hugged me so tightly, he actually broke one of my ribs.

Even worse – this was after a matinee show, and I chose to still go on and do the night time show two hours later. I drank so much Vodka to mask the pain that I can’t actually remember if it was a good show or not.

Moral to the story – don’t squeeze drag queens. 

One message I have for our community is…

Be kind to one another. The world outside our queer bubble is very dark right now. Let’s cut each other some slack for now and focus on the common enemy. 

You can follow @lululemans on Instagram.

Other Queensland performers:

Meet Brisbane’s “7-foot transexual showgirl” Tall Jan

How Shanny T-Bone overcame hate from within our community

Gayleen Tuckwood shares horror story of drugged-up hens gig

How AFAB drag artist Ladybird thrives despite shocking abuse

Henny Spaghetti’s response to being slapped by a fan

Drag King Zelphia Mann calls for representation on Drag Race

Archie Arsenic calls for more accessible queer spaces

For the latest LGBTQIA+, Sister Girl and Brother Boy news, entertainment, community stories in Australia, visit qnews.com.au. Find us on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube.

[newmusickarl]

Albums of the Year 2024: Honourable Mentions

2024 – what a year for music hey?!

We had The Last Dinner Party in Spring, a well-documented BRAT Summer, a Fontaines Fall and, finally, The Cure for the Winter. We also had a couple of big reunions: the Gallagher brothers delighting everyone by reuniting Oasis, nu-metal icons Linkin Park returning with a new vocalist and then, just last month, indie darlings The Maccabees announcing some live shows for 2025. Both the Electronic and Country music genres seemed to have a particularly great year, while artists dissecting toxic relationships also seemed to be a thematic favourite over the last 12 months. We also had plenty of memorable moments and some incredible festival performances but, above all else, we had some bloody great new music.

You’ll be pleased to know that while this blog took a backseat to some other hobbies and ventures in 2024, my listening habits certainly didn’t slow down. My Apple Music Replay tells me I’ve listened to 587 albums from 983 different artists, 4,758 songs and a whopping 35,886 minutes of music. Just like previous years, I’ve whittled this mass of new music down to my favourite Albums, EPs and Songs of the Year – starting as always with the albums.

From my own (more accurate) tally that I keep every year, I’ve actually listened to 220 Albums in 2024, with that 220 then broken down into my Top 50 Albums of the Year, my 50 unranked honourable mentions and then sadly 120 albums that didn’t make the final cut. As ever, the top albums come from a multitude of genres: pop, rock, indie, hip-hop, R&B, country, electronica, shoegaze, punk, post-punk - it’s all here! So, although there is a good chance you won’t enjoy everything on this list, hopefully there is at least something for everyone.

For those who are following my annual countdown for the first time, I have a basic criterion that has treated me well over the last decade when collating my final Album of the Year list. Generally, I’ve favoured the records that:

Had the biggest impact on me

Was a landmark culturally or within the wider music world

Showed ambition or had something unique to offer

I played the most during the year

Ultimately produced my favourite front-to-back listening experience

So, before the Top 50 countdown officially begins with the albums that finished 50-41, I wanted to just shout out the albums that I thoroughly enjoyed this year but ultimately just missed out on the Top 50 spots. This includes some fantastic debuts (Been Stellar, Dolores Forever, Fat Dog, Sprints), some surprise returns to form (The Smashing Pumpkins, Green Day, The Libertines), some late career highlights (Gruff Rhys, Maxïmo Park, James, Los Campesinos!) and plenty of the year’s biggest and most acclaimed projects (Beyoncé, Billie Eilish, Kamasi Washington, Waxahatchee).

So, officially kicking off year-end season, here are my 50 Honourable Mentions for 2024 in alphabetical order (by artist):

Arab Strap - I'm totally fine with it 👍 don't give a fuck anymore 👍

Been Stellar - Scream From New York, NY

Beyoncé – COWBOY CARTER

Bill Ryder Jones - Iechyd Da

Billie Eilish – HIT ME HARD AND SOFT

Bring Me The Horizon - POST HUMAN: NeX GEn

Caribou – Honey

Cassandra Jenkins - My Light, My Destroyer

Chelsea Wolfe - She Reaches Out To, She Reaches Out To She

Daudi Matsiko - The King of Misery

DEADLETTER - Hysterical Strength

Dolores Forever - It's Nothing

Du Blonde - Sniff More Gritty

Fat Dog - WOOF.

Fazerdaze - Soft Power

Four Tet - Three

Geographer - A Mirror Brightly

Goat Girl - Below The Waste

Green Day - Saviors

Gruff Rhys - Sadness Sets Me Free

Hovvdy – Hovvdy

The Howl & The Hum - Same Mistake Twice

Ibibio Sound Machine - Pull The Rope

IDLES - TANGK

Jack White - No Name

James - Yummy

John Grant - The Art of the Lie

Kamasi Washington - Fearless Movement

The Libertines - All Quiet On The Eastern Esplanade

Lime Garden - One More Thing

Los Campesinos! - All Hell

Maggie Rogers - Don't Forget Me

Maxïmo Park - Stream of Life

MGMT - Loss of Life

MJ Lenderman - Manning Fireworks

Mount Eerie - Night Palace

NewDad - MADRA

nothing,nowhere - Dark Magic / Hell or Highwater / Miserymaker

Orlando Weeks - LOJA 

Rahim Redcar - HOPECORE

Remi Wolf - Big Ideas

Schoolboy Q - Blue Lips

Sega Bodega - Dennis

Sick Love – Champagne

The Smashing Pumpkins - Aghori Mhori Mei

The Smile – Cutouts

Sprints – Letter to Self

Tycho - Infinite Health

Vince Staples - Dark Times

Waxahatchee - Tigers Blood

So that’s what didn’t quite make it!

Now, join me throughout December as I reveal my Top 50 Albums of the Year, My Favourite EPs of the Year, My Favourite Live Shows of 2024 and My Top 100 Songs of 2024 Playlist.