#i cannot believe they have a little handshake

[lheautontimoroumenos]

Selma Bacha & Eugénie Le Sommer being the cutest girls out there

[quietwingsinthesky]

so like is casual gallifreyan wear also massive robes or are those just for special occasions

[aromanticasterisms]

playing the event and ouuugh they decorated... there are streamers and extra planters everywhere...

[heavenlydevine]

𝐑𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇 𝐌𝐄 𝐔𝐏 || 𝐍𝐀𝐍𝐀𝐌𝐈 𝐊𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐎.

╰┈➤ ❝You keep acting like a little brat and I'll take you over my knee right here, I don't care how many people are watching.❞

PART TWO HERE!

𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐎𝐑𝐒 𝐃𝐍𝐈!

𝐍𝐀𝐍𝐀𝐌𝐈 who is the epitome of patience, despite the aching tension in his muscles, remains characteristically calm in the current state of things, fingers drumming patiently against his thigh in hopes that by some miracle, you'd stop with your naïve little delusions.

It is unbecoming of him to indulge within the familiar presence envy brings along, and though he had once believed himself incapable of feeling an emotion as diabolical as jealousy, watching you flaunt and parade about in that flimsy little dress awakens something primal within him.

He cannot blame the lustrous gazes that are pinned against your swaying body, and though it fills him with pride to know that you were his and his alone, the beast within him did not subside into the darkened depths he had buried it within.

𝐍𝐀𝐍𝐀𝐌𝐈 who is quick to appear by your side with an expression you cannot quite place, surprise evident in the way you peer up at him—this reaction is expected, as you were not aware of his presence, believing him to be on a mission somewhere on the outskirts of Japan, dealing with a high level curse. "Darling," you beam at him with so much love it almost blinds him, arms wrapping around his waist, smushing your face into his chest with a gleeful cry, "—I have missed you so much. You should have told me you were coming home."

A fucking pout forms on your face and his resolve shatters, glancing at the insignificant pest that lingers behind you, "I did, had you bothered to read the countless messages I have sent you."

𝐍𝐀𝐍𝐀𝐌𝐈 who watches in barely restrained amusement as you sputter and reach for your purse, fingers searching mindlessly through the cluttered mess before finally finding your phone, face twisting into something that sends the beast within him roaring, "Oh."

You smile innocently at him, waving a hand at the no-name bastard sitting behind you, "Nanami, this Takada Yamada, a friend of mine from college. Takada," Nanami grunts down the growl rumbling from his chest as you turn to face the now known Takada, "—this is my fiancé, Nanami Kento."

A firm handshake later and Takada takes his leave with a mumbled goodbye and a pained expression crossing his face, stumbling into a few people here and there in his haste to escape the wrath that radiated within Nanami.

"That wasn't very nice, Nami."

𝐍𝐀𝐍𝐀𝐌𝐈 who grunts in response, glancing around the dimly lit establishment before returning his gaze towards you, "It would appear that I have ruined your night, love. I will let you indulge in one more and then it is time to go home."

You are not happy with the sudden turn of events, opting to click your tongue against your teeth, twirling around before strutting towards the bar. He has the right mind to drag you back, yet he knows you need to loosen up—especially for what he has planned for you.

You, who had entered his life without much regard of your own, worming yourself deeper and deeper into his life with a mission in mind. Kind and loving, accepting and strong willed, Nanami Kento couldn't help but curse the stubbornness that came along with it, michievous and cunning when you did not get what you wanted.

He considered himself a patient man, a firm believer that actions spoke louder than words, and though he did not believe himself to be cruel, perhaps putting you in your place was a punishment well worth on it's way.

𝐍𝐀𝐍𝐀𝐌𝐈 who offers no warning as a firm hand wraps around the back of your neck, cock hardening as a surprised moan slips past your lips, pulling you back with a grunt of displeasure, head lowering as he whispers, "You keep acting like a little brat and I'll take you over my knee right here, I don't care how many people are watching. I said it's time to go home," hotly in your ear.

Releasing his hold unto you, Nanami shifts as he slams a few crumbled bills on the counter, keeping a firm hold on your upperarm, "I bet you think you're real cute letting them put their hands all over you. We'll see how cute you look later when I get you home." It isn't that your little friend, nor those who had ventured to close to you for his liking, had touched you without any ulterior motives on their mind, rather than it appeared friendly in nature, had jealousy rearing its ugly head, for it was an instinctive sensation that urged him to throw caution to the wind and fuck you senseless.

𝐍𝐀𝐍𝐀𝐌𝐈 who is silent as he ushers you towards the rental, a sleek black Mercedes C63 AMG with nothing but a reassuring, yet firm hand, "I don't want to fucking hear it." He has no intention of hearing your feeble apologies, having defied him already once tonight. His patience is running thin, yet a gentleman he remains as he opens the passenger side of the car, forgoing to strap you in.

His thick member strains against his trousers, hands raising and fingers fumbling, loosening his necktie in hopes to appease the burning inferno roaring within him, grunting as he eases into the driver's seat, all too aware of your wide eyes watching his every move.

He turns towards you, making quick work of the buckle of his belt, "Safe word, now!" He respects your dignity too much, he loves you too much, yet even now he knows that you are aware not to push him beyond his breaking point, eyes blown wide with barely restrained lust.

"Yellow."

𝐍𝐀𝐍𝐀𝐌𝐈 who gives you no warning, barely able to start the car before grabbing a fist full of your hair, semi-hard cock freed from its confinement, "Put that fucking mouth to better use," and then he shoves you down on his length without remorse, moaning as you instantly hollow your cheeks, breathing through your nose as you set the pace, your own moans of pleasure drowning into the sweet pur of the car's engine.

He hardens further into your mouth, the tip of his cock hitting the back of your throat with every thrust of his hips, euphoria coursing through his veins, "Fucking little whore," he is well aware of what his voice does to you, revelling in the way your body trembles in wanton desire, "—gonna fucking tie you up and fuck you raw. Fill you up until all you can taste and feel is me."

𝐍𝐀𝐍𝐀𝐌𝐈 who threads his fingers through your hear, fucking into your mouth with a growl, urging himself not to glance down and watch you swallow him whole, "Fuck," pedal to the medal and the powerful V8 turbo kicks in, sending his cock further down your mouth, throat constricting in a way that sends him absolutely fucking insane, "—is there anything you can’t do with that tongue of yours?"

You mumble something incoherent, yet as the complex in which you both live looms ever closer, Nanami pulls your delicious mouth off his throbbing member and turns you to face him, "I'm not done with you yet."

God have mercy on your soul.

𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃𝐘 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐓 𝐓𝐖𝐎?! 𝐑𝐄𝐁𝐋𝐎𝐆 𝐎𝐑 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐈𝐅 𝐈 𝐒𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐋𝐃 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐔𝐄.

[woeswrites]

Yandere Hannibal Lecter

Warnings: Alluding towards torture, Yandere themes, Obsessive behaviors,

Notes: Hannibal's done! A fic idea I had shortened down into whatever this is lol

Hannibal sure loved his dinner parties

Needless to say the community did too

To satiate the numerous requests for more he'd decided it was time to out-do himself yet again

A gathering to celebrate summer solstice would do

He'd spend a considerable amount of time in preparation

Handwritten invitations

A completely unique menu

And last but certainly not least, the gathering of ingredients

As he finished off the last of the swine he could already see his vision coming together

'The day of' quickly approached

Hours he spent slaving away in the kitchen

Finally he'd be able to enjoy himself and entertain his guests

He'd meticulously picked out his visitors for this event

You were very much not among those he'd selected

His eyes trained against your figure

A simple glance and nothing would have been amiss

But Hannibal was not the average onlooker

One by one he picked up on curiosities about you

Your darting eyes scoping out the place

Your suit, new but definitely not costly enough to fit in with the rest of the crowd

And one last thing, that fancy watch of yours

Hannibal excused himself from the clique who had entrapped him with their formalities

A few quick greetings here and there and he was by your side

"Forgive me, but I cannot seem to remember your name. All the party planning must be clouding my memory."

You were quite surprised at the host's appearance

Its not like you were in a group of people

On the contrary, you were alone, on the outskirts of the room

"No need to ask forgiveness. This is actually our first time meeting. Y/n-- Monroe's plus one. It's nice to meet you."

Hannibal gracefully accepted your handshake

He didn't feel the need to mention that he'd already encountered Monroe and his companion that night

That would ruin the fun

He'd strike up a conversation, all the basics (weather, occupation, etc.)

It was safe to say Hannibal didn't believe the accountant lie

He felt your callouses earlier, those were hands of labor

But, yet again, that was something he kept to himself for the time being

By the time you started looking a little antsy someone was calling for Hannibal

"Hostly duties. I hope to catch you again before the party's over Mr. L/n. Do try some of the horderves, I hear the chef's fantastic."

As soon as you escaped the interaction you were back at it

Scanning the various rooms for anything light enough that was worth taking

Elite parties like this were like taking candy from a baby

It's not like these millionaires would notice a few pieces of jewelry missing anyways

Especially not while they were off getting drunk with their friends

Hey, even if they did

You'd soon be gone without a trace

Or at least you thought so

While everyone else was mingling downstairs you'd managed to worm your way into the master bedroom

Luckily you'd brought a pretty bulky satchel with you

Everything and anything that looked valuable was slipped inside the bag

While questioning whether or not the gold candle holders were worth the space they'd take up you heard something

Footsteps

The function was still thriving downstairs (as evident from all the chatter and music)

Perhaps a random partygoer felt the urge to explorex

You weren't too worried about it before they started sounding closer

And closer

It was evident they were heading your way

It was too late to hide

They were practically already here

You quickly clasped your satchel together again before the man fully stood before you

"Well look at what we have here."

"Hannibal! You're just the man I had wanted to see. I have completely gotten lost. Where's your bathroom?"

Your sheepish smile did nothing to convince the man in front of you

Instead he'd locked the door behind him

"If you're trying to be secretive about your motives, maybe you should be careful about wearing your spoils before you've fully left the scene of the crime."

Hannibal points at the watch on your wrist

You might have been wearing it but it was definitely his

You tried to rectify your actions

You clearly had never been caught before

All of the goods were thrown onto the ground

You backed away, begging him to forgive you for you actions

"You know, I really hate the rude. I don't know what more ill-mannered than stealing."

Hannibal approached slowly, rolling up his sleeves

You tried backing away but couldn't get too far

"I'm sorry-- I'm so so sorry!"

"No you aren't. But you will be."

Just like that you were out

It took a second for you to realize you were awake again, your vision obscured by some sort of cloth

Hannibal would eventually reveal your surroundings

You were in his basement, a sight not many were privy to

It probably had something to do with the meats hanging down there

You had to fight the bile that rose up your throat

Hannibal grabbed you by the chin, forcing you to look at him

"We're gonna shape you into a good boy. No matter how long it takes."

He wheeled a cart over to you, the tools a little too fuzzy for you to make out with how bad your head hurt

"Don't look so scared. A little cooperation and maybe this won't hurt so bad Mylimasis."

He'd break you down over time

There was no other option

[weirdly-specific-but-ok]

thoughts on fanfiction, perfectionism, and being enough

I'm pretty sure I'm ill and half-asleep and the Good Omens fandom has destroyed my last tenuous grasp on reality, but I am making a post anyway not knowing what I'm going to say. Because that's what this site is for, is it not?

*holds out hand* *waits for you to take it* Hey, you know, you're never going to be done. You're never going to look at something you made and think it's perfect. It's never going to be enough. It's okay to stop and it let it be imperfect. The earth didn't just birth life into just the right conditions, it made creatures which evolved and went extinct, ice ages which ended, volcanos that destroyed life and volcanos that preserved cities for millennia. It made jagged rocks that would be smoothened by rivers and stomachs that would hunger, rivers that would flood and rivers that would run dry.

Create imperfect things and give them to the world. Let the world create from it in turn in an endless cycle. Like Milton on the Bible, like BBC with Sherlock Holmes, like anyone writing fanfiction of their favourite show... Let your creation be imperfect, so you can see all the million ways in which people try to perfect it. All the million ways in which perfection can exist. That's the beauty of fandoms and fanworks. It keeps the creation evolving, keeps it breathing and alive. It becomes the work of a million people, and carries their stories with it in a little back pocket.

And maybe we were made to be imperfect too. Our hair tangles just to be brushed, our arm itches just to be scratches, our hand clenches just to be held and unclenched. There are odd shapes that make us up but they fit in with everyone else's, in handshakes, in bridal carries, in a parent lifting a child, a rescue worker lifting a victim, a girl kissing her wife, a child hugging his toy, a person holding their hands in prayer or in pain.

I'm trying to remind myself of that, because it's so easy to keep wanting more, to believe that there will be a point at which I will be satisfied with what I have done. Even in this fandom, I look at my ridiculous summaries I accidentally wound up making, and look at someone's beautiful meta blog and I feel like shrinking a little bit. But in real life, I'm a designer and an artist, a reader and poet and songwriter, and someone who has been a writer the past eight years, if not all my life. Have I done enough to qualify for any of these roles? Who knows? It shouldn't matter to me, and it shouldn't matter to you, whatever you love doing or are doing.

It will never be enough, you will never be enough for yourself. Can we try to make peace with that little gap in ourselves that acts like a vacuum to keep sucking in more and more effort and things? It'll never be filled. That's okay.

*squeezes your hand before letting go* Isn't it amazing how imperfect and fucked up we all are? Isn't it beautiful that we don't have to sit and stare at statues we cannot touch, but we get stone that we can keep carving all we like? That creation starts with imperfection? I don't know if I'm making sense anymore, the medications are kicking in and my eyes are closing. But I love all of you, everyone who is a maggot and everyone reading this post, too.

Take this *holds out a seashell* it's pretty and it's broken and the animal that made it his home changed it, the sea changed it, and I hope you change it, too. That's all.

[bawbawbridgie]

HPCC year 8 performance notes:

october 20th!

hello! it was a joy watching the new yr 8 cast and im soooo excited to see where they go from here!! some of my notes are very similar to my previous performance notes but i hope you all still enjoy!

Part 1, Act 1:

- ellis!albus waving at eve!rose, eve not seeing (or maybe ignoring) him and instead talking to matty!james

- jaden!craig is so bouncy and energetic LOVE HIM ALREADY

- a big belly laugh from ellis after the ‘son of dark lord’ joke from harry!scorpius

- SCOTTISH YANN LETS GOOOO

- ellis again looking at harry while being sorted

- all students going very quiet and starring at ellis trying to lift up the broom

- harry back at it again with a thumbs up at eve when getting quidditch team

- jaden not participating in the bullying and just looking so concerned for ellis and harry

- david!harry getting frustrated that he calls albus al

- ellis getting right into david’s face with a lot of emotion on ‘friend to find’

- ellis reaching out to harry before running off after the astoria conversation

- layla!lily jr and matty do a cute little handshake once she gets sorted

- eve trying to get tasha!polly to stop bullying albus after wand dance by pulling her away from him

- jade!hermione being shocked about the mess left in the office

- julia!delphi shaking ellis’ hand for soooo long

- julia pretending to stab herself with her wand when she has to go to amos

- ellis laughing/mocking david after ‘i’m not going to be made responsible for your own unhappiness’

- YOUNG HARRY IS SO SMALL I CANNOT

- claire!ginny mimicking david on the line ‘harry Potter front 🤓🤓’

- eve not looking at or acknowledging harry until she goes ‘BREAD???’

- eve being really genuine with ellis about always being there for him

- ellis and harry falling into each other when the train starts

- julia/delphi seems to be almost trying to convince/gaslight amos into believing what she is saying about ‘wanting someone inside hogwarts’

- tom as ellis as ron going up to david and quickly comparing heights I DIED WHEN HE DID THAT

- david walking off after and doing the mind blowing hand action and noise

- tom rolling his robe into a baby and holding it then throwing it on desk on ‘how could i give him back’

- i have already noticed how much closer and more casually ellis and harry are standing together now EEE!!!

[mcflymemes]

PROMPTS FROM NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM *  assorted dialogue from the 2006 film, adjust as necessary

can you believe this weather?

you didn't get evicted again, did you?

i know that things have been kind of up and down for me lately, and that's been really hard for you.

i really feel like my moment's coming, and when it does... everything's just gonna come together.

that wasn't a compliment.

i felt a connection when i entered this office.

let me point you in the right direction.

i cannot tolerate this type of chaos.

nice firm handshake. i like that. tells a lot about a man.

where is he? i'll beat him with my fist!

don't try anything funny.

you really think he's the one?

it's pretty quiet in here these days.

it can get a little spooky around here at night.

i ought to punch you in the nose.

do them in order, do them all, and do them quick.

read the instructions! it explains everything.

do you know what's going on here?

i can't feel my lip.

i know what you're thinking. don't do it. not a good idea.

don't talk down to me!

a man must look inward to find his own answers.

how can i be of help?

actually, i gotta be honest. i don't think i'm coming back.

did you give up on that as well?

some men are born great. others have greatness thrust upon them.

i don't like to be manhandled!

the bigger they are, the harder they fall.

i thought you liked surprises.

i don't know if what happened last night was real.

brush up on your history.

there's a storm coming.

maybe when you have a break, could i buy you a cup of coffee?

i can't hear you through the glass.

you can't fight it and neither can i.

we're gonna have a little talk.

you don't have to be near each other.

what's that supposed to mean?

don't be a kiss-ass.

the thing is, not everyone is great.

no one comes here anymore.

i was on my way to go clean it up.

can i talk to you about this, please?

can you please give me one more night?

we just had a little misunderstanding.

come to work with me tonight.

i prefer hanging out with people who are dead for 200 years. it's the live ones that throw me.

you're really taking your job seriously.

i'm not making fun of you.

i don't wanna hurt you.

we'll take it from here.

someone call my name?

will you save the lectures, please?

i never did any of those things.

what are you made of?

that's all you got for me?

how come you speak english?

i am forever in your debt.

that didn't hurt. don't be a baby.

we can get this done, but we gotta do it together.

you think you can track the guys who took it?

you're worth saving, my dear.

don't you know your history?

don't ever talk to me like that.

great to see you in one piece.

i told you i wasn't making fun of you.

no hard feelings, all right?

with great victory comes great sacrifice.

it's gonna be tough to talk my way out of this one.

hey, it's getting late. are you ready to go home?

[gregrulzok]

Fae Encounter Tips

1. Always be polite, smile, stand up straight, make eye contact. If you MUST count their fingers to ensure they're a fae, be very careful to do it subtly - staring for too long is very rude.

2. When they ask for your name, do NOT give it. Say "I cannot give you my name, however you may refer to me as [Insert Fake Name]".

2a. "Ainsel" (short for "Me Aan Sel", meaning "My Own Self") is a good fake name - any Fae trying to use said name to put a spell on you will only end up applying it to themselves. However, beware that this comes from a fairly famous fairytale, thus older and wiser Fae may be aware of the trick and not take kindly to it.

2b. A Fae may also extend their hand to "take" your name - the handing over gesture further solidifies the power they are taking over your identity. Do your best to avoid the handshake, even with a fake name - consider wearing an iron/silver/metallic ring. Not wanting to touch the Fae with it for fear of hurting them can be a believable and polite excuse.

2c. Do not ask a Fae for their name - they might take it as you trying to claim power over them. Ask them how you may refer to them, instead.

3. Do not refer to Fae as such directly to their face - call them one of the euphemistic terms, such as "Good/Fair/Blessed/Wee/Hill Folk", "The Good Neighbors" or "The People of Peace". Remember that "Fairy" and subsequently "Fae" is a shortening of "Fair Folk", designed for humans, and is essentially impolite slang.

4. Do not accept any gifts or favours. Fae do not give gifts without expecting something in return, and you do not want to owe them anything if you can help it.

4a. Accepting food will forever bind you to their realm - you will not be able to find your way back, and will soon forget your human life. This might be something you want - I can't make that judgement call for you.

4b. Decline politely - do NOT say thank you (as even without accepting the gift/favour, this will count as a debt), but do acknowledge their generosity. Have a good excuse ready.

4c. Should you, unwittingly, end up owing a Fae something, be sure to put out a dish of cream/milk as soon as you return home. Hope that they accept it as payment.

5. Do not follow a Fae to a third location. You never know when you'll be able to get back from it - even if a Fae is not malicious or mischevious, time does not pass for them as it does for us - you may return home to find that centuries have passed.

6. Do not lie, do not be rude, and do not yell - do try and use double-talk and thick quickly on your feet. Fae thrive on technicalities and loopholes, and exploiting them yourself will not be considered rude.

7. Ensure that the Fae doesn't owe YOU anything, either - insist you aren't able to help them if they ask, do not save them if they appear trapped, etc. A Fae owing you is no less dangerous than you owing a Fae - unless you're in DIRE need, make your best effort to leave the encounter with neither of you owing anything to the other.

8. Once you return home, check to see that nothing is missing, that nothing is broken, that your pets are safe and their fur isn't tangled, watch for small footprints or various little items that weren't there before - if you did everything right, there should be no signs of Fae interference.

8a. If you do find signs of Fae interference, put out an offering far away from your house as soon as possible.

8b. Items left by Fae in your house should be given back with said offering - loudly acknowledge their generosity and that you simply can't accept their offer. Return home quickly. Consider putting a horseshoe on your door.

[emonydeborah]

If the crew became kids

I doubt this is going to happen, especially because TNG already did it, but I would personally have such a great time.

An overarching theme would be Una's height because reasons, and because her talking to someone and suddenly having to look down at some child would be hilarious.

So some kidifying ray swept the ship, affecting them either one at a time or all at once.

Chris will not shut up about horses. He's swinging his legs on the biobed and chattering away. He accidentally interrupts and is so apologetic bc he never wants to be rude!!!! He wants to be friends!!! "Are we friends?" Spock has to look down at his captain/father figure and say "...yes. Chris." (Also Chris stares up at Una and says she's pretty bc he has more brains as a child than a grown man). He stares out at the stars with the biggest eyes.

Una the preteen is the same height as La'an and La'an is pretending not to be salty about it. They know she's Illyrian and she Freaks Out, and she and La'an have a talk about accepting themselves and not being defined by what others think that is more educational for La'an than for Una. What a gangly woman. She is out here constantly knocking things over, and the crew sees someone who had to grow into herself as much as anyone. Her default response is silence and big scared eyes but she can be tempted with some trivia. Erica spends hours showing her the flight controls.

Spock is a complete deadpan sassbucket and no one is prepared. the cute chubby cheeks. The bowlcut. His babysitters lose sight of him for sixty seconds and he disassembles a replicator because he heard a funny noise. Don't touch that. Why? *is touching it* They cannot make him believe he is in fact an adult and they're trying to fix him. "Mother says to find a mother with children and ask her for help if I get lost." Man asks Una for help because he's lost. Legend.

Uhura is such a little imp. Once she gets over being scared she disappears into the jeffries tubes. Her giggling echoes through the ship like the ghost of a demonic victorian child. Hemmer is down to let her roam but Una crawls in and drags her out. If any of the kids get a leash, it's Uhura. Erica distracts her with sweets. She needs to be occupied at all times or she will wander away.

Erica is the surliest eleven year old. Everyone expected her to be the easy child but she makes a point of being difficult. Una is tearing her hair out and Chris is like yes but have you considered. She is eleven. She's edgy and moody and everyone is like how did our Erica come from you. Una says she's the best pilot she's ever met and sits her at the helm and Erica stops her griping for a bit. She determinedly does not show interest but she does look at the buttons and subtly watch Jenna doing her job.

La'an has a lisp and sucks her thumb. Una insists she has to stay with her. For security reasons. Una has to go yell at people and La'an is holding her hand/on her hip the whole time. Everyone else is curious about little La'an but Una goes NO get your OWN. Little La'an wants hugs and cuddles and Una goes well if I must. For Starfleet. Chris does get custody for a while and he carries la'an around on his shoulders.

Christine and her big fat smart mouth. ackshually I read about this and you're wrong. Her sass is only matched by baby Spock. Grown Spock does not know how to handle it. This eight year old and her sassy little crossed arms leave everyone speechless with the sheer audacity. Joseph "don't touch that you'll break it" vs Christine "we use these at school all the time I know what to do" *breaks it* "... I didn't do that."

Joseph is the smiliest boy. He's having a great time. He follows Christine around and asks her about everything. Someone is in Sickbay with a sprained ankle or something and Joseph goes hmm. Looks like you're real sick. Do you have chicken soup here. He's the most charming little kid. Everything he does is cute. Everyone gets hugs and secret handshakes.

Hemmer, like Spock, takes stuff apart for the heck of it. Uhura tries to distract him by asking about Andoria and he could not care less. Man is tearing apart the EPS manifold and Uhura goes ...buddy let's not do that. Una says stop and he stops. All the deadpan blind jokes. Look away for two seconds and he is actively climbing into the warp core. What are you doing?!?!? Hemmer *shrugs*

Pelia is off like a shot all over the place. Talking a mile a minute. Young Pelia is such a foreign idea no one knows how to handle it. She's their wise old hermit and their wise old hermit is hanging upside down off the biobed. Now she's on the ground and her head hurts. Oh crap she's crying.

[child0feden]

will be expanding on this first meeting much more soon but i just need to say this before i forget lol

all i can think about is older! bård introducing younger! camgirl! reader to some of his friends just a couple of days after he appeared on the top donator ‘ special guest ’ stream, almost all of his friends treat you kindly and welcome you with open arms when he introduces you as his “ girlfriend ” to them! because of course none of his friends know what happened, none of his friends know who you are or what your profession is, none of his friends know how bård met you and he is quick to make up some sweet little make believe story about how the two of you supposedly met!

well… none of his friends know aside from older! vegard who was watching that very ‘ special guest ’ stream but bård does not know that he knows, at least not just yet…

vegard is almost kind of sly as he greets you with a firm handshake, smiling ever so sweetly down at you and nodding in the direction of bård who stands just beside you with a muscular arm wrapped around your waist before speaking up and mentioning how lucky bård got with you… there is such a knowing undertone in his voice as he says it, his eyes drifting back and fourth between you and bård as you smile up at him before thanking him with a quiet chuckle but bård… he can only furrow his eyebrows as he meets his friends eyes, he sees something swimming around in his eyes and he can just feel something is off but he does not mention it at all… he figures that maybe vegard is just giving him some shit for how young you are…

but when vegard continues to act ever so strange around you and him for the rest of the day? when bård hears vegard chuckle and scoff under his breath as he tells his friends the fake story about how the two of you had met? when bård sees vegards eyes drifting up and down your body? when he sees an obvious sense of… familiarity and awe swimming in vegards eyes as he stares at you? he just cannot help but call him out, cutting you off mid sentence and speaking in a firm and almost protective voice as he asks vegard if he has a problem or if there is something he would like to say…

but sneaky and sly as usual, all vegard can do is raise his eyebrows at bård before a small smile crawls across his face as he clears his throat, asking just one question “ you look very familiar, do you know that? i feel like i have seen you before… i have definitely seen you before, but where have i ever seen you before? hm, bård? i suppose that maybe your… girlfriend just has one of those faces, yes? ”

the rest of their friends just laugh it off, starting mingled conversations between each other as to try and clear the very obvious heated tension and awkwardness that now lingers in the air between you, bård and vegard… all you can do is trace the sleeve tattoos on bårds arm as he and vegard are still locked in a stare, this time a questioning stare and a knowing stare, bårds stare towards vegard asks just one question and vegards stare towards bård gives just one blunt answer… oh he knows you alright…

basically in short, what i am saying is that vegard mentions how familiar you look and the two of them just stare at each other like this the whole damn time, with vegard being smug and almost nonchalant and bård being… very on edge and in desperate need of definitive answers from vegard nowww lolol…

[starshideurfics]

Thirsty Thursday - Giving Thanks

steddie, omegaverse, family dinner, treat for best behavior 😈, mdni 🔞

Eddie loves his boyfriend. He loves him. He loves Steve so much. But he has to keep reminding himself of that fact while he’s at the Harrington’s for Thanksgiving.

They’ve been dating since the fall of Steve’s junior year, and Eddie has met Steve’s mom a handful of times, she’s nice if a bit oblivious. But his dad has been out of town on business every time Eddie’s come over for dinner, so he’s successfully sweated through his first iron-gripped handshake from Richard Harrington today. Now he just needs to survive being in a room full of Reagan Republicans without jumping on a table and calling them fascists.

Steve can clearly see that Eddie is about to lose it as his Uncle Charles drones on about the stock market and returns on his investments at one end of the room, and his Aunt Maureen praises Nancy Reagan’s crusade against drugs and music with explicit lyrics at the other. He squeezes Eddie’s hand and whispers in his ear, “Babe, let’s go get some air,” before making their excuses to his Grandpa Otis and dragging Eddie to the ensuite for the first floor guest room, locking the door behind them.

“Thank you for telling your mom that Wayne picked up a shift today so he didn’t have to be here, too,” Eddie mumbles, hiding his face against Steve’s neck.

“You’re doing so fucking good, Eddie. I’m sorry they’re all like this.” Steve slides his fingers into Eddie’s hair and scratches at his scalp.

“Your grandpa’s pretty cool, kinda racist, but…”

“I know. But we just need to make it through another couple hours, and then you get to unwrap your present.” He guides Eddie’s lips to his, kissing him softly. “But I think you deserve a little peek now,” Steve adds with a wink as he lets go and steps back.

Reaching down, Steve grips the hem of his sweater and raises it to his collarbones, showing off the delicate bralette he put on that morning. His dusky nipples show through the lace, and Eddie stares. He’s seen Steve naked plenty, but this lingerie set is new to him, and the bralette frames his tits so well. “So beautiful, Baby,” Eddie murmurs, stepping in to grip Steve’s side, his thumbs rubbing over his nipples as he bends down to place a kiss in the shallow valley between Steve’s breasts.

Steve chuckles and pets Eddie’s hair. “Do you think that’s enough to get you through dinner?” he asks.

“No,” Eddie whines, pinching one of Steve’s nipples.

“Puppy…” Steve warns around a moan.

Eddie brings a hand down to hold Steve’s waist, grinding their hips together. “Want you, Stevie. Please,” he gasps against Steve’s ear.

“We cannot have sex in this bathroom, my mom would lose her shit.”

“I can’t believe she thinks we haven’t had sex yet.”

“That’s the only reason she’s let you into the house. My mom’s a big believer that omegas shouldn’t put out until they’ve got a rock on their finger.”

“Yet she pays for your birth control.”

“I’ve got an irregular cycle!” Steve hisses, swatting at Eddie’s shoulder.

Eddie grins, hips moving as he whispers, “We both know that’s not true, Baby. You just like the feeling of me coming inside you.”

“Eddie…” Steve whines, forcing his sweater back down. “Just a couple more hours, and we get to go have pie with Wayne. Then you get to see my matching panties.”

That’s finally enough to get Eddie to agree to return to the gathering. He’s good for the rest of the afternoon, except for when Uncle Gene goes off on a rant about unions and Eddie practically shouts, “MY UNCLE IS A UNION STEWARD!” It honestly makes it easier for Steve to say they’ll take dessert to go.

Wayne has the game on when the boys arrive with an entire pecan pie. They all put up their feet as they eat massive pieces of pie and Steve and Wayne talk about football; Eddie’s focus is entirely on sneaking his hands under Steve’s sweater to toy with his bra strap.

Just as the news starts, Wayne slaps his knees and says, “Well-p, I’ve got a card game to get to, you boys don’t get up to too much trouble while I’m gone.”

Steve smiles and wishes Wayne good luck. Eddie hides his face in Steve’s hair and mumbles, “Bye, Wayne!” He drags Steve to his bedroom as soon as the door is closed behind his Uncle.

Quirking an eyebrow, Steve pulls his sweater up over his head, once again revealing white lace. He doesn’t have time to do anything else as Eddie practically tackles him and fits his mouth over Steve’s nipple, mouthing wetly through the fabric. “Oh, fuck,” Steve moans, fingers tangling in Eddie’s curls, holding him in place.

Eddie bites once, pleased to see how much darker that nipple is now than its twin, pulling back and reaching for Steve’s belt. He undoes Steve’s fly, pushing his dress slacks down to pool at his ankles, fingers catching on the open-lacing at the back of his panties. “Oh, Stevie,” Eddie purrs, “Give us a twirl.”

Steve grins, completely aware of how much this is effecting his alpha, and slowly turns to show off his underthings from every angle.

After, Eddie tears off his own sweater and dark jeans, and pounces, pinning Steve to his bed. “Fuck, Baby,” he breathes, “I ever tell you you’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me?”

“Only every damn day,” Steve answers, pulling Eddie down for a kiss. Eddie’s the best thing that’s ever happened to him, too.

[7k9sinthee]

Random headcanons;

⌑ Nsfw/Sfw?: SFW

⌑ Reader?: No

⌑ Genre?: Fluff, headcanons

⌑ Editted?: in the process...

Characters: Romeo, Juliet, Tybalt, Benvolio

ㄨ Romeo

⁺ Although extremely stupid- as exhibited from his irrational behavior, I believe he actually learns quite quickly.

⁺ When he was dancing at the Capulet part (1968 film), he learned quickly how to dance, although a bit poorly.

⁺ Anyways, he'd be the type to mess up a bit, glance over to someone else doing the same thing and then copy off from them.

⁺ He has probably tripped once or twice and always snaps his head back to blame someone for tripping to avoid shame. (Tybalt has been there once or twice...)

⁺ Has secret handshakes with Mercutio and Benvolio. Sometimes, making one that requires all three present at once.

⁺ Every time he's scolded his brain just. Flatlines. He literally doesn't take anything in. (Although a lesson not to do whatever got him in trouble in the first place.)

⁺ Plucks flowers from gardens to gift to Mercutio/Benvolio as a joke. More seriously to Juliet (..or yourself, if you'd like).

⁺ CONSTANTLY gets in trouble for plucking the flowers. Because he keeps robbing the Capulets of their precious flowers. Doesn't even bother to clean up after himself..

⁺ Every time he writes letters to specifically his friends, he adds a small " ! " to his signature.

⁺ He has so many inside jokes w Mercutio & Benvolio. Will accidentally use them and get in trouble for it.

⁺ Jokes would include making fun of Lord Capulet / Tybalt..

⁺ If he were to fall/trip, he'd fall right on his face. I don't make the rules. (I do)

⁺ When Romeo is happy, he always has a little pep in his step. Like he's all giddy and happy. Though, he's like 99% more prone to tripping. Which ruins his mood.

⁺ Scratches his head when he's confused.

⁺ He seems like the type to be writing something and then accidentally misspell the easiest word ever. And not even realize it...

⁺ Benvolio: "Romeo, what is 'jeilt'"

⁺ Romeo: "What?" *Glancing at said word,*

⁺ Romeo: "Uh Juliet."

⁺ He has a habit of getting really stupid and random ideas at weird moments. He's probably run away from his mother and father to his friends with ideas more times than can be counted.

⁺ Sneaks out a bit, not a lot like Mercutio may but a reasonable amount to either meet up with friends or just for himself.

⁺ But SUCKS at lying... he's been caught so many times and just goes, "uhm... there was a bird outside."

⁺ Writes horrible poetry that Benvolio and Mercutio support. They end up all snickering about it later on and joke about it.

⁺ Definitely is the type to have a bedtime and tell his friends, "I can not come, as the moon rests high in the sky and beckons for me to sleep!"

⁺ Sneezes like a little girl. And gets made fun of it for it.

⁺ Tybalt heard it ONCE. ONE sneeze from Romeo and has made it his mission to mock him. Romeo cannot outrun the 'choo!' Whenever Tybalt spots him.

⁺ He definitely has a wonky smile. Like he's so nervous and awkward with smiling he looks silly. Lady Montague is a little ashamed since she's got a pretty smile... and her son... just didn't inherit it.

⁺ He did inherit his father's smile though... which scares a lot of people.

ㄨ Juliet

⁺ I just know she smells like flowers every day - how she does it? Remains a mystery.. (she rolls in a flower field)

⁺ Has so many little jokes with Nurse that no one else would know about. Occasionally would share a joke with Tybalt to make him feel let in.

Doesn't openly call Nurse "mom" but she enjoys to refer to Nurse as she would a mother rather than her biological mother.

Also kind of clumsy, she couldn't carry a bucket full of only water to save her.. (💔)

Actually, sometimes indulges in reading poems from time to time. Though, she'd ask Tybalt to read it for her.

Very, very much the type to pick a flower and smell it.

Loves to pick up flowers, pedals, feathers, etc.

Probably has a collection of dried up flowers gifted to her over time.

Juliet really enjoys incorporating little cute things in her outfits!

Views Tybalt as an older brother rather than her father's cousin.

Makes references to things only Nurse knows so it leaves everyone else much confused- and on rare occasions Tybalt might get it, too.

Picks up her dress when she runs, like a princess.

Definitely the type to be like, "Excuse me. Mind your manners..." whenever she hears someone curse.

Whenever she sees Romeo, she faces fully towards him and holds her hands out - and he comes to pick her up and spin her like a little ballerina !!

Has attempted to draw/paint multiple times before, and whenever done- Lord Capulet always hangs it up with much pride no matter if it looks "funky."

Tybalt

"Grab me my rapier"

Definitely the type to take great pride in his swords

Actually, seems like the type to keep a GIANT sword collection.

He's definitely the type to overhear conversions in secret but then give the fattest side eyes/disgusting glares.

Tybalt 100% has his lips sealed with any secret. Never could get anything out of him.

Juliet actually hides behind Tybalt quite often (not usually physically), and Tybalt isn't afraid to defend his younger sister.

Also, 100% defends Nurse, or rather any woman in his life. He's most definitely a woman's boy.

Has the most sly grin you'll ever see in your life.

His deep voice actually very often scares people, so depending on who he's talking to; he'll either lower his volume and attempt to speak softer or keep speaking in much confidence.

He'll soften his voice for the nicer, quieter folk and speak loudly for the annoying and cocky guys.

Little bitty scars all over him from him attempting to perfect his sword fighting skills.

Very often flaunts off and attempts to look flashy and show-offish.

Even though he's old enough and pretty mature, he'll never ever consider drinking or smoking. He believes it's far too disgusting for himself.

Although Nurse isn't Tybalts true mother- Tybalt will have moments where "momma Nurse" slip out.

Actually kinda enjoys keeping things neat in order - in his room at least, outside, he doesn't mind getting a little messy.

On that topic... Tybalt very often helps out Nurse with chores and such, but no one really notices because he doesn't want to be seen like that (question mark)

The definition of wet soggy cat

Other than that- he just is overall very sweet and polite.

Benvolio

Definitely the type to write little poems or works of literature but always puts it to the side to "continue later"-

He never finishes them and usually Romeo would come by and read those works out to Benvolio as a way to just tease.

Has very, very specific humor- he only really laughs at inside jokes.

Of course, he'll have a nice laugh at a funny joke but, inside jokes are what really get him.

The type to accidentally snicker at the wrong moment and have to excuse himself. (😭)

Though this would only be around friends, he most definitely can control himself from laughing around Lord Montague and such.

Very polite fellow

Seems like the type to like cross his hands when sitting down and he sits down very politely and tightly-

He doesn't want to take up much space on benches anyways.

If he was a cat, he'd be that one cat with an apple that just sits there all polite getting pet by a giant wooden spoon.

Very gentle with everything and everyone. Either physically, emotionally, or verbally-

Despite being extremely polite, he is the one that has the best insults ("thee mother looks like a yellow belly, tavern hopping maniac, it's no surprise thou looks alike!", also said in the most polite way possible)

Has a nice, gentle voice. Slightly accented, though, unlike many.

The hat he usually wears - the one seen in act 1 (1968 film) - is one from long ago.

It was gifted to him, and he constantly wore it when he was a teen-ish, but it was a bit too big, so it'd cover quite a bit of his face.

Longer hair >>>

Somehow, has extremely beautiful, long lashes.

He strangely enough seems like the one to get hurt least often, but when he does, it's like the worst thing to ever happen. (Que Benvolio accidentally falling out a window)

Picks up little branches and sticks to collect randomly ?? He doesn't really do anything with them. The sticks either end up getting thrown out or forgotten about.

The type to be writing something and then accidentally slip up and create a massive mark in the middle of the paper without a way to hide it.

Has maybe fallen out a window before ?

Benvolio has so many unnecessary items laying around in his home

He has a collection of beads/rocks of sorts- all very polished and shiny.

Just a friendly reminder that these are all headcanons 🫶

[dreadblaidd]

You have 12bajillion asks from me already but here's one more! During his rebellion, how would Solas' treatment of Dirthamen's lands/temples/domain, reasonably the equivalent of libraries, been different compared to the treatment of the other Evanuris' temples, if there was any difference at all? Is there enough Wisdom left to be gentle with them, or is there too much Pride to let anything stand?

pantomime theater mask of dirthamen - "In narrative, he is the secret behind what beckons, whose reveal answers questions first denied, then demanded."

Depends what’s in the “library.”

Before I dive in, I'll acknowledge upfront that I tend to go very hardline on the Evanuris, and I could be wrong in that. People are complex, and the Evanuris were people, and frankly we don't have as much primary source info as I'd like on most of them. So this is just my read.

So. If the "library" was something like Vir Dirthara, I think Solas would leave most things in tact (put a pin in how much Evanuris propaganda is in Vir Dirthara, because we’ll be coming back to that). He's got Fen'harel statues in Vir Dirthara, and most of that knowledge wasn't destroyed, so that's a safe bet he'd tend to be more "gentle" with a genuine library. He’s not at the Emmrich-level of “oh no those poor books!” while fighting through blighted Weisshaupt lol, but he is something of a scholar and obviously supports free-thinking, which necessarily includes freedom of learning.

But I have a hard time believing Dirthamen would have only innocent or innocuous temples that are "places of learning", for three reasons.

First, we do have one of his Temples in Inquisition, and it's a uniquely horrifying place. It's easily darker than any of the other Evanuris strongholds we encounter until we learn what Ghilan'nain was up to. The following was uttered after Dirthamen disappeared, yes, but I think it does a pretty good job showing the influence/roles of his “secrets”on his priests: The Lost Temple of Dirthamen: The secrets are madness in our ears, but they are ours. The Highest One cannot take them from us. Only Dirthamen, our Keeper, only he and if he does not take the secrets, they are ours forever. If that’s a library, it’s a really shitty one.

Second, Dumat, the God of Silence. Known as such for “the vows of silence undertaken by his acolytes.” Sounds a lot like the priests of the Temple of Dirthamen. Dumat was the most powerful (assuming after Lusacan, or maybe most powerful bc he was the loudest idk) of the Old Gods, who taught early magisters blood magic and successfully lured the seven magisters to crack open the Golden City. Meaning, Dirthamen was the one who figured out how to start breaking out of the Evanuris' Fade prison. The lost city of Barindur also has a nice little handshake between Dumat’s reputation of silence and secrets: Not a single stone of Barindur remains, and nothing of the once-powerful city has ever been found. A secret now, that can never be told. Silence doesn't equate to free learning. Unless we read it as "Dirthamen was the god of 'keep quiet in the library, you plebeians'" which is very silly.

As an interesting aside, scholars theorized that Dumat’s constellation Silentir was originally associated with Mythal. Irrelevant but cool.

Third, the association of secrets with silence, and the logical leap from that to author/disseminator of propaganda. You learn secrets, you keep the secrets quiet, you decide what of that information the masses “should” know and/or believe to be true. This is really just headcanon, so take it with a grain of salt and I could be convinced otherwise by any Dirthamen rpers out there. But much like the Ben Hassrath, what information is learned and what information is disseminated are two sides of the same coin. The Evanuris’ propaganda is incredibly long-lived. It was clever and insidious. It was also all over Vir Dirthara, a library chock full of raven statues (hello there, Fear and Deceit). I suck at math, but at least half of the codexes we find there are Evanuris propaganda (the raising of the Sonallium is an excellent example). Idk, I just think historically it makes sense for the secret keeper to be the propaganda arm of an empire. Plus why would an empire built on slave labor/forced adulation want its people - most of whom were oppressed - to have free access to anything that encourages free thought?

If this is all true, it could be like Solas said, Elgar'nan made all the (already monstrous) Evanuris worse. Maybe Dirthamen was better once, so he did have proper libraries or other places of learning.

Or again, maybe none of this is true and he really was out there with libraries.

[underafullmoon3]

She Wants Revenge - Tear You Apart

Got a big plan, this mindset maybe its right

At the right place and right time, maybe tonight

And the whisper or handshake sending a sign

Wanna make out and kiss hard, wait never mind

… Late night, and passing, mention it flipped her

Best friend, who knows saying maybe it slipped

But the slip turns to terror and a crush to light

When she walked in, he froze up, believe its the fright

… Its cute in a way, till you cannot speak

And you leave to have a cigarette, your knees get weak

An escape is just a nod and a casual wave

Obsessed about it, heavy for the next two days

… It's only just a crush, it'll go away

It's just like all the others it'll go away

Or maybe this is danger and he just don't know

You pray it all away but it continues to grow

… I want to hold you close

Skin pressed against me tight

Lie still, and close your eyes girl

So lovely, it feels so right

… I want to hold you close

Soft breasts, beating heart

As I whisper in your ear

I want to fucking tear you apart

… Then he walked up and told her, thinking that he'd passed

And they talked and looked away a lot, doing the dance

Her hand brushed up against his, she left it there

Told him how she felt and then they locked in a stare

… They took a step back, thought about it, what should they do

'Cause there's always repercussions when you're dating in school

But their lips met, and reservations started to pass

Whether this was just an evening or a thing that would last

… Either way he wanted her and this was bad

He wanted to do things to her it was making him crazy

Now a little crush turned into a like

And now he wants to grab her by the hair and tell her

… I want to hold you close

Skin pressed against me tight

Lie still, and close your eyes girl

So lovely, it feels so right

… I want to hold you close

Soft breasts, beating heart

As I whisper in your ear

I want to fucking tear you apart

[sl-newsie]

The Secret Ingredient (Willy Wonka (2023) x Fickelgruber Daughter) Chapter Six: Allowed To Love

Masterlist: https://www.tumblr.com/sl-newsie/747510006135554048/the-secret-ingredient-willy-wonka-2023-x?source=share

Willy’s POV

I almost had it. I almost had everything… But I guess I need to keep being pushed away in order to keep others happy. Slugworth will never stop pushing me away. The best I can do is leave the Scrubbitts’ gang to their own free lives. Poor Noodle. I’m going to miss her. I just learned how to read and now we can’t find new books together.

“Sorry, Noodle,” I sing softly as I walk through the frosted streets for the last time.

I guess I got carried away.

Sorry, Noodle.

I hope you'll forgive me one day.”

Back at Scrubbitts I pack what little I have into my case and descend the creaking stairs. Mrs. Scrubbitts is waiting behind the counter with an ugly smirk.

“Checking out, are we?”

I almost had it. But you weren’t there, Mama. I waited. 

“I just wanted it

To feel the way that it did

When I was a kid.

Sorry, Noodle…”

And I’ll miss- No. Don’t think about her. It’s not worth it. How can she love me now? I have nothing. In ten years I’ll find her ruling the Fickelgruber empire with a rich man for a husband.

I look up across the inky night and spot the chocolatiers waiting on the docks. Along with the chief and- And someone else. 

Charlotte’s POV

Dear Willy,

By the time you learn to read this you will be far away from here and might have forgotten about me entirely (I wouldn’t blame you for it). I cannot properly express in words how deeply sorry I am, both for bringing on more distress to your business and for believing I could ever love properly. Yes, I am truly in love with you, Willy Wonka. I could never bring myself to say it because you deserve so much better than an awkward girl from a stuck-up family. It’s my fault you’re leaving and I will be forever in your debt for it. Wherever you may go, all I ask is that you keep smiling for me. The world needs your enthusiasm. It may not thank you for it, but that does not mean you are not appreciated.

With all my love,

Charlotte

I seal the envelope before my tears can stain the ink. Signed Charlotte, no last name. I never want to hear it again. 

“Your hair is still a mess,” father scolds from across my bedroom.

My eyes stay glued to the desk so he can’t see my sorrow. “I like it.”

“Just as well. You’re coming with us for Wonka’s sendoff.”

Oh God. How can I face him? After what happened he thinks I’m one of them. On the other hand if I don’t say goodbye then I will never forgive myself.

Father ushers me downstairs and outside to the waiting car. We sit in sharp silence while the whole time father stares straight ahead. He’s disappointed. Ashamed to have a poor excuse for a daughter who frolics about with poor people and makes up ridiculous dreams. 

Forget his opinion. When I was with Willy everything fell into place. Far better than anything that’s happened in my life. Now it will be going back to lessons. Back to waving at strangers through a window wishing I could fly away.

The car stops and father steps out. It’s time. We briskly stride across the darkened path towards where Slugworth and Prodnose are already waiting. So is the Chief.

“Sorry we’re late. I had a bit of a delay.” Father glares sideways at me. I’m a delay now.

“Just as well,” Slugworth smirks. “Our voyager approaches.”

I turn around and peer across the harbor. Here he comes, walking towards us down the twisted cobblestone path with a look that says he wants to walk any other opposite direction. Willy looks just as beaten down as he did a few hours ago.

Slugworth greets him with a malicious grin, holding up a barge ticket. “Ah, Mr. Wonka. Your ticket. One way, of course. To the North Pole. Goodbye, Mr. Wonka.” 

He passes Willy the ticket and crushes Willy’s hand in a handshake. I see him tense in pain but what brings more pain to his eyes is when Willy looks over and sees me. 

Deep breath. I need to do this. Even if he’s still upset with me. With a few awkward steps I move forward and we press into a quick hug. I pass the envelope into his shaking hand. But instead of reading it Willy slips the letter under his hat.

“Goodbye,” I whisper, my small voice frail as a newborn.

All of the sorrow and loneliness swimming behind those brown eyes makes me want to never let go and take him far away from all of this. Willy attempts to smile but we both know this is the end.

“Goodbye.”

He climbs the ramp onto the barge and the vessel pulls away from the dock. Farther and farther. Off to a distant frozen wasteland that will kill what’s left of Willy’s dream once and for all.

“Now we just wait for the fireworks,” Slugworth chuckles darkly.

My blood runs cold. “Father, what is he talking about?”

“We’ve arranged for an accident, in which he dies!” Prodnose responds snobbishly.

“Dear Lord- you’re going to kill him!” I race to the edge and scream across the bay. “Willy don’t! It’s a trick-!” 

Before I can scream another word, I feel a gloved hand shoved over my mouth. Father pulls my hair to make me turn away as my muffled screams die out.

“W- What will you do to him?” I ask in a shaking whisper.

Slugworth cackles. “Let’s just say that the pathetic excuse for a chocolate maker will have his spirits sunk.”

Kaboom!

A sudden spark of orange blooms from the distant ship. In mere milliseconds the air is squeezed from my lungs. He’s dead. The man I love isn’t just sailing away. He’s going to Heaven. I’ll never see him again… 

I fall to my knees, still staring at the billowing smoke with my mouth gaping. This is all my fault.

“Well gentlemen, one dead chocolatier, as requested,” the Chief speaks up.

They all go back to discussing sabotage, though not before father has one last remark.

“It’s for the best, dear. You would have been a fool to have continued conversing with that buffoon,” he declares. “Now don’t dottle. And wipe those pathetic tears off your face.”

He starts walking back with the others, leaving me crumpled on the cold cement like a discarded candy wrapper. The trio struts off and I’m left alone in the inky night. 

Without hope, 

We are empty. 

Hope is what supplies us with the will to live. 

Willy was my only hope. My dearest friend, my only friend. Now I’m trapped in this empire forever. 

Hope is like water. 

Resilient.

Always flowing… 

Like the freezing black water below me. I can almost reach out and touch it. Maybe let all my troubles go… Are those ripples? 

I’m going mad. There’s something in the water but it’s no fish. Could it-?

“Whoo! Made it!”

A figure grabs onto the dock ladder and I hear them climbing up. No- This is all in my head. Right?

“Charlotte?”

Willy, sopping wet, sees me sprawled on the cold ground with a bewitched look. Hope lives again!

I scramble up and Willy pulls me into a tight embrace. “My God- you’re alive! You’re- you’re-!”

Tears start pouring down my cheeks and I have to wrap my arms around Willy to keep from falling. He must really hate me now. My father is behind the plot that nearly killed him! But I put that thought aside because all I focus on now is how overjoyed I am to see he’s alive. Pull yourself together! He's chilled to the bone!

“Wait- what’s wrong?” Willy notices my uneven breathing and his eyes scan my face. “Your eyes are sad but your face looks like it’s fighting itself.”

His words only edge my tears on even more and I hiccup to choke down a sob.

“N-No. I c-can’t cry,” I try but fail to say in a steady voice.

Willy gets a confused look and seems to rethink my statement. “How can someone not cry?”

Why does he have to make this so hard?! He just escaped death and he’s talking to me as if we’re on a friendly walk in the park!

“I’m not used to feeling… this much. M-My father doesn’t allow crying. When I was younger, every time I’d get upset or sad he’d reply that he ‘doesn’t do emotions’ and would tell me to go talk to my mother. When she-” I gulp. “When she passed I never wanted to talk to anyone because all my life my emotions have been seen as a burden, that I’m weak. I learned to bottle them up and control them, but there are times when I’d burst. Whether it be at a passerby in the street or a poor maid in the wrong place at the wrong time, I’d come undone and shout, yell, or just burst into tears.”

I swallow and try to get a grip on myself, thankful that Willy’s been quiet to let me explain. “That’s why father tucked me away. That’s why hardly anyone knows who I am. Because he’s ashamed to have a daughter as an heiress, especially one who’s currently a teenager and is emotionally unstable.”

This is exactly what I’ve been trying to avoid. As much as I hate to think it, Willy needs to leave me. Now. He needs to get far away from here before Slugworth sees he survived. And instead he’s holding me closer.

“Willy, you need to leave. Get to somewhere safe-”

“No,” he cuts me off. “You’ve gone through a life that’s suppressed love, suppressed dreams. I want you to cry, Charlotte.”

That does it. Everything, everything that’s held me back to be father’s perfect heiress, obliterates. All feelings of happiness and bittersweet memories crash through me and I cry all that I have into Willy’s chest. The whole time my body shakes with sobs he rubs my back and reminds me what love feels like. Love.

“W-Willy… I miss it. This- This is what it felt like when my mother was alive.”

My mind’s beginning to get a grip on myself. In a pinch of courage I lift my eyes to his and it’s like a new awakening. 

“I read your letter. And I want you to know that I will never be able to forget you, Charlotte. I wanted to tell you but things, um, didn’t go as planned,” Willy whispers. “Charlotte… I can’t give you much. I’d give you the world if I could-”

“No, Willy.” Through my tears a smile appears. “You’ve given me your world. You give me love. And that’s all I could ever ask for.”

Is he crying too? In the dark I see Willy wearing the same smile. So he doesn’t hate me after all. He cares for me, he loves me, because I’m me. Not because of my last name. Not because of money. Now I have my whole life to make it up to him.

“I’m assuming you’re not going to leave town?” He shakes his head and my smile grows. “Good. Be rather disappointing if you did. What’s the plan now?”

Something in Willy snaps and his witty energy returns. He grabs my hand and we start running down the dark path.

“Now we rescue Noodle! I’ve got a plan. You’ve heard of the vault?”

“Yes. But my father won’t tell me where it is.”

“But Abacus does! What I need from you is to be our man on the inside!” He stops for a moment and presses a quick kiss to my cheek. “Or rather our incredibly cute lady on the inside. Whaddya say?”

The sudden motion sends butterflies rippling through me and I give a sincere nod. “I’m on your side.”

Lord, I hope this works. If I’m going to pull this off I really will have to be a true Fickelgruber. I have my doubts but Willy says I can do it. So I’ll do it.

“Charlotte, I trust you’ve come to your senses?” Father asks when I join him for breakfast. Instead of my giddy pink dress I’m wearing a business dress with his signature green color.

“Indeed, father. That Wonka fellow was completely bonkers,” I chortle. “It was stupid of me to ever engage in such riffraff.”

The disgusting words pour off my tongue and I swear they’re poison to me. Every time I discredit Willy it’s like a stab in the stomach.

“I’m glad to see you now see things our way,” Father comments, still looking at the newspaper.

Time to put the plan into action. “I was actually thinking of accompanying you to today’s meeting, to start my official apprenticeship for the company.”

This catches his attention. Not in an incredibly good way but hopefully in an agreeable one.

“Hm. You’re still unbelievably whimsical,” Father tuts, giving me a doubtful stare. “Well… Oh, alright. But you must do exactly as I say.”

A clever smirk makes its way onto my face. Don’t I always? “Yes, father.”