echelonlab-blog

[echelonlab-blog]

A Leto Halloween- One Shot

By @i-writeandread​

“Cat, you have to come. It’s Jared Leto’s party. You love him. Just say yes. I know it’s last minute, but you can’t turn down this once in a lifetime opportunity.” Angie pleaded with me.

My friend Angie had just moved to LA and somehow managed to get invited to Jared’s Halloween party. I couldn’t figure out if she was just lucky or if somehow she stalked the right people. She didn’t care about Jared or his band, but she knows this is a dream come true for me.

“I can’t figure out how you did it, Ang. Of all the people, you get invited to my absolute favorite humans place. But as much as I want to come, how could I? Flights are expensive when they’re last minute and in case you didn’t know, I’m not loaded with cash.” I proffered.

“Cat, you get on a plane and you come and you meet your idol, I don’t want to hear anymore excuses.  Do you understand?"  She isn’t going to let me decline, if I don’t show up she’ll be mad enough to go months without talking to me.  I have no choice.  Scared as I am, I am going to LA and I can only hope I can be in the same room with Jared and not fangirl, faint, or make a complete fool of myself.

-~~-

Three days later I found myself exiting LAX airport and into the most welcoming of weather and arms. LA from what I could tell was going to be amazing at every vantage point. Except maybe the few sketchy areas we drove past. I was glad Angie’s apartment was nowhere near those places. My eyes were wide and I felt child-like taking it all in.

Angie had been an extra at the film studios back home and when she decided to take a chance and try for bigger things in LA, everyone, myself included, thought she was nuts. But in the 5 months since she arrived she had already been cast in a tv pilot. It was anyone’s guess as to if it’d actually be picked up by a network, but she seemed to think it would.

Her apartment was the size of a shoebox, but it was in West Hollywood where she assured me was the "place to be.” We didn’t stay there but to sleep, so it wasn’t that cramped. The next two days we shopped for my Halloween costume and I finally found pieces that would make the perfect one, much to Angie’s dismay.

-~~-

“Today’s the day! Are you excited?” Angie bounces on the bed. “Go away. It’s too early!” I begin throwing pillows at her head. “Not a chance sweetheart, I didn’t barter with the devil only to miss out on my favorite girl meeting her celebrity crush. Get. out. of. bed. now!” She is tenacious as ever.

I am nervous and anxious.  Time feels like it will stand still, but I know it is just my imagination.

‘What will I say to him if given the chance? How will I keep my cool? Will he even notice me?’ A million questions and thoughts start running through my head.

“Oh for Heavens sake, get out of your head! Drink your coffee and start getting dressed.  It’s already 1 in the afternoon, thanks to your laziness.  If I didn’t know any better I would think you’re trying to get out of going."  Angie screamed.  "I am not! I’m just scared.  Look you go get ready and I will do the same.” I say even though a part of what she said is right.

I lay out the tights, shorts, and vest of my costume on the couch as Angie showers.  As soon as she is done, it’s my turn.  I work out all the kinks in my neck and let the water massage my tense muscles.  I get out and begin the process of making myself into the silliest of characters.

“I don’t get your costume. It’s so weird. I don’t think anyone will know what or who you are.” Angie says as she puts on her slutty Little Red Riding Hood outfit. “Yes, but HE will know. That’s all that matters. Sorry I couldn’t be cliché like you!” I joke. I put on my hat to finish the look and we leave.

We still have several hours before the party but she insists we go out already dressed. We go to eat at a diner and then since we are in Hollywood I request some light sightseeing on Hollywood Blvd. Some people stop and give me a puzzling look.  I smile and offer no explanations.  To my right I hear a child say “look mommy it’s Robin Hood.” I have to laugh because I can see where they would think that’s what I am.

Time rushes by and it’s now 8'o clock so we make our way up into the winding streets of Hollywood Hills and to the Wonderland compound. I get out of the car, blowing out a breath I am holding, grab my props and repeat a mantra in my head, 'I am here. This will change your life, let’s do this!’

“Cmon. Let’s go have some fun and meet some crazy rich celebrities!” Angie grabs my arm and pulls.  “Wait! I’m not ready!” The words rush out past my lips.

Angie is trying to get me moving by saying, “It’s go time, the time is nigh, now or never.”

“Do or die.” I whisper.

“Huh? Yeah whatever. Let’s just go in. If it becomes too much for you, just squeeze my arm and we will leave, okay?"  I begin squeezing her arm.  "Not now dork! Give it at least 20 minutes.”

The music is louder the closer we get to the door, people are arriving in droves, but I don’t recognize anyone yet.  We walk in and follow everyone else towards what I think is where Jared recently did a private concert for radio winners. 

I notice Jared instantly.  He’s standing in the shadows apparently aware of everyone around him, his eyes darting around, but he’s talking with Jamie and Jordan and laughing.  I look away feeling a pang of guilt for staring in the first place.  I can’t help but think he looks gorgeous in his Jon Snow getup.

Almost immediately I find myself separated from Angie.  Panic starts to rise up and I try to calm myself with breathing in and out.  I don’t know anyone here aside from her.  I turn toward the entrance we walked in from, then back to the other garage-like door which opens out to the pool. There’s people everywhere.  I look back to where Jared was, but he’s not there anymore.

“Oh no no no.” I blurt out.  Then directly behind me I hear, “I’m the only Bart Cubbins in this house."  It’s Jared’s unmistakable voice.  I gulp.

I turn to find myself face to face with Jared.  My breathing hitches in my throat. He gives me a sly smile and licks his lips. I’m fairly certain I am going to pass out. He stands back and gives me a once over look. "This is perfection! I don’t know why I didn’t think of this.”

I curtsy and almost immediately regret it. “It was the only thing I could think of to wear once I found these hats at a costume shop. But I could never try to be the real Bart Cubbins.” I explain to him. “Oh I don’t know about that! Looks pretty spot on to me. I’m Jared.” He offers his hand.

Of course he has to know that I’m aware of who he is, after-all it is his party, but even if there were questions as to whether or not I knew it was his party and in fact him, the mere fact that I am dressed as his favorite Dr. Seuss character should be a good indicator.

“I’m Cat. It’s nice to meet you Jared.” I shake his hand. “Cat, how did you come to be at my party? I don’t recognize you?” I begin to freak out. 'Am I not meant to be here? I’m gonna kill Angie!’ The look of panic must be evident on my face because Jared laughs and says, “don’t worry, I’m not kicking you out or anything, just didn’t know why I’ve never had the pleasure of meeting you before.”

“Im umm…” My throat is dry and I look around to see where the drinks in people’s hands are coming from. Jared notices. “How about I get you a drink and we go sit somewhere quieter where we can talk?” As much as I’d like to take him up on his offer I wouldn’t dare dream on acting upon it. “No, I don’t want to take you away from your party and your friends.” He shakes his head, not letting me say no.

He leans in close. “I’ll tell you a secret, half the people here I don’t like. The other half are either friends or employees who won’t even miss me if I leave.” I can’t believe what he is saying. Under different circumstances I would miss him if he left the room. “Come. I’ll give you the grand tour.” He takes my hand and leads me into the house. I notice several eyes on me as we make our exit. He really has no idea how wrong he is about being missed. Or I’m wrong and the people staring are looking for gossip fodder.

We enter the kitchen and he asks if I would like something to eat. I shake my head no. I’d throw up instantly from all the bundled up nerves inside of me going crazy. He hands me a glass and asks what I would like to drink. I tell him water to which he replies, “you’re at a party, live a little.” I think about it for a second. “You don’t drink, and you’re at a party.” He steps back closing the fridge. “Touché. But I think you need some lubrication, you’re too stiff.” He emphasizes the words lubrication and stuff. It almost makes it sound sexual. “Okay, I’ll have whatever you think I should have, you’re the boss.” He quickly makes up a gin and tonic and hands it to me. I swallow it down quickly. The corners of his lips curl up. “I’ll have another please, less tonic though.” He makes the 2nd one and then guides me to the next room of the complex.

There are a few people scattered around but as if they know something I don’t, they scurry off as soon as we walk into each room. He points out the living room, some office space, and a bathroom. Then we go back to the stairs and I follow him up watching his ass the entire time.

“I feel your eyes on me little girl, do you like what you see?” I blush. “Yeah, it’s quite the view.” I reply. The alcohol has opened up my self confidence, otherwise I’d have never said that aloud.

He turns around quickly and looks me over once again, almost as if he’s seeing me for the first time.  Or maybe he is undressing me with his eyes.  I can’t handle it so I keep walking past him.

“Mmm, now I have a nice view.” He states matter of fact once I’m in front of him.  As soon as we both reach the top of the stairs he pushes me against the wall.  He’s much stronger than I think anyone gives him credit for.  “What’s going on inside of your head?” He asks while tilting his head this way and that.  “You’re quiet now, what happened to the bold little girl from 30 seconds ago?"  I giggle.  "Oh for fucks sake, it’s just a number."  But I’m still giggling.  He releases me and opens a door to the right of us.

"This is a guest room."  I peek in and see a bed and some artwork. He closes the door and steps across the hallway.  "This is my moms room when she comes.” He points to a door but doesn’t open it.  And then he walks a few steps and opens another door and shows me the upstairs guest bathroom.  Directly across from the bathroom door is another room and down the hall at the end is one more door.  He opens the door next to the guest room and walks in.

“This is my bedroom.  Come in, I’ll show you the view."  I walk in and see his bed made up in white linen.  There’s a door on one side of his bed leading to a closet which he opens.  I see flashes of color everywhere I look and can tell most of it is designer, and almost all is Gucci.

"What’s the other door down the hall lead to?” I ask since this appears to be our last stop.  “Ohh that’s just storage."  I let it go because he clearly didn’t want me to know what it could be, but I couldn’t help but wonder why there was a light on in there.  It was hardly visible through the crack in the door, maybe a lamp was on.

"Well, I’m impressed Jared.  It’s very nice.  But why am I getting to see all of this?” I can’t help but wonder how I became so lucky.

“You wear a costume to a party I am hosting-that only I would know what you are dressed as, and you didn’t think my curiosity would be peaked?”

“I wore this yes because it was your party, but also because I didn’t want to be like everyone else.  I’m not made for wearing sexy nurse costumes."  He starts laughing at my revelation. "Oh Cat, you are most definitely made for sexy nurse or sexy anything costumes.  You don’t even realize how sexy you are.  Even dressed this ridiculously."  He reaches towards my head and takes the hat and wig off.  He takes off the cape he is wearing and sits down on the bed.

"Sit down with me.  I want to know more about you.  Who is Cat?"  He slides back towards the headboard and pats the empty space next to him.  I sit down but just on the edge, not sure how comfortable I should get, but he grabs me by the waist and guides me back.  "So?" 

"Well I lead a fairly boring existence, I don’t want to disappoint you.  Let’s talk about something else."  I can tell this wasn’t the right answer so I continue, "okay well let’s see.  I am 32, I started an online store about two years ago selling homemade candles, incense, and soaps.  Umm, I have a dog named Sorcia- you know from the movie Willow…” he nods.  “I just bought a condo in Myrtle Beach, SC.  Nothing special.” Then I mumble almost inaudibly, “oh I also have a twin who I killed.  Anyways, what about you.”

Jared shakes his head and laughs.  My face however remains deadpanned. “Wait that last bit… it’s true?" 

"Yeah, so anyway your turn.” I try to change the subject. I don’t even know why I felt comfortable opening up and telling him that.

“Oh no, you don’t get off that lightly. What the fuck do you mean you killed your twin sister?” He stands up and walks towards the window which overlooks the pool. “Should I be worried, should I kick you out?”

“No, Jared. I’m not a psychopath, I’m not crazy, I don’t even know why I told you.” I stand up and walk towards the door, but somehow even though he was further away he catches me and stops me. His eyes are glaring at me and daring me to tell him more. “Okay, I’ll tell you the whole story. You’re gonna want to sit for this.” He sits back down at the foot of the bed as I begin my story, pacing back and forth.

“Three years ago my twin Penelope was in an accident. Somehow she survived but she was changed. Like a switch in her brain had been triggered. She became depressed and angry. Then that turned into doing really odd things. She’d offer people things, like for instance, my aunt had come over and she asked if she wanted ice cream… after she ate it my sister laughed and said she had poisoned it. Or she’d bring people a book but the pages would be torn out. Just really weird and vile things. She just wasn’t the same. After months of doctors not knowing what was wrong and being tormented by her we thought it best to send her away. Before we could she attacked me.” I show him the scar on my stomach where she had stabbed me. His eyes go wide. “She said I would never put her away, never separate us. She intended I think to kill me and then herself. I don’t know how I overpowered her, but I did. I got the knife and stabbed her several times. I couldn’t believe what I had done and I was so scared. I had an anxiety attack and blacked out. When I woke up there was so much blood. Her body wasn’t there, but when the cops came they said no one would survive that amount of blood loss. They searched the woods and followed a trail of blood. It ended at one point or another, but they never found her body. They figured an animal must have found her and dragged her body away. They thought maybe a bear. Oh God, this is the worst thing I have ever done and no one here in LA apart from my friend downstairs knows this. I’m so sorry Jared. I’ll leave now.” Jared rubs his hands up and down his thighs and shakes his head no.

“No, I don’t want you to leave. You’re so brave. Thanks for telling me. We all have hidden skeletons in our closets. You weren’t charged with a crime, were you?”

“No, the police said it was in self defense.” I explained.

“You’re hardly a murderer, Cat. You’re a survivor and to me that is the hottest thing about you.” He stands up and closes the distance between us. He stares into my eyes asking for permission and then crashes his lips on mine. The room instantly goes from ice cold to boiling. His hands are wrapped in my hair and he stops only long enough to take a breath, until we hear a noise.

It’s coming from the room he said was just storage. It sounded like something fell, maybe a box. He laughs nervously and then leans forward to attack my lips again with his, but then there’s another noise and it sounds like footsteps. Annoyed he steps back and says, “hold on, someone from the party must have come upstairs. Let me go tell them to fuck off and leave, okay?” I agree and sit down on the bed.

He walks out. I try to catch my breath. I bring my fingers up to my lips and smile. It was everything I’d have ever hoped and imagined. My thoughts were broken when I heard a scream followed by Jared saying “what the hell is this? Who the hell are you?” And then another scream, a scuffle, and footsteps running towards his bedroom door. The last thing I hear before the door opens is Jared yelling, “Cat, run!”

[echelonlab-blog]

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[echelonlab-blog]

Writing Prompt #9

Knock Knock Knock.... Is this thing still on?

Let’s see if we cant resuscitate this blog. We have a new series that is currently underway and with a little luck we’ll have that out to you soon. There’s another one planned after that and already in pre-production, so to speak. So how about a little prpmpt to warm things up? 

As always, if you have something from a previous prompt that you didn’t get in in time, please submit it. We’ll still accept it. We’ll be posting a masterlist of past prompts if you’d like to look them over. All writers welcome, all formats including short imagines. You don’t have to give us a full fic. Even a paragraph is fabulous. 

As always, the only requirements are:

They are Thirty Seconds to Mars related.

They integrate the current prompt.

They are less than 5,000 words.

Any explicit/suggestive/potentially triggering content be labeled

You may use graphics or other media as part of your piece if you wish. We reserve the right to reject any submission that is offensive or otherwise in poor taste, or anything htat doesn’t incorporate a prompt.  Please use common sense. Please tag yourself at the top of your piece. 

Since we’re here trying to resurect the dead, and it’s almost Halloween, let’s stick with that. The current prompt is:

Supernatural, spooky or scary

Including but not limited to monsters, horror, vampires, ghosts, Halloween, trick or treat, costume parties... Make it your own. 

[echelonlab-blog]

Dangerous Night

 NO WARNINGS, EXCEPT SMUT?!        

           As Shannon climbs the stairs, his best friend's voice fills his ears. "I haven't been laid in so long, I swear I'm ready to hump the next guy that comes within three feet of me!", Sienna exclaims.  She's crashing at his place for the next two weeks while her condo is being renovated.             Her good friend Lila's voice follows suit, leading Shannon to the conclusion that the girls are chatting on speaker phone.            It was merely two minutes ago that he informed Sienna that he was going to the gym and wouldn't be back until late. Directly after that, he had gone out to his car and noticed that his gym bag was missing, and after searching his car thoroughly, he figured that he must have forgotten it in his room.           The females' conversation continued through the thin walls while Shannon searched his room. "What about that guy Karl? You could hit him up for a booty call", Lila spoke next about Sienna's last boyfriend, with whom she'd broken up with three months prior.            Sienna scoffs and then proceeds with her response.  "He thinks he's God's gift to women, but he couldn't get me off to save his life."            "Lame", her friend retorts as if she couldn't be more bored. "How about Shannon?"            "He's not even home."           "Okay, but what if he was?"           "I couldn't ask him for sex.  What am I gonna be like, 'Hey Shan, wanna fuck me cuz I'm a super horny loser who can't get a guy?'"  She scoffs.  "No thanks."            "You can't tell me he's not attractive.  Plus he's your best friend and you know he wouldn't screw around with your feelings."            It was quiet momentarily, making Shannon feel a brief sense of guilt.  This private girl talk obviously isn't something he was meant to be hearing, but at the same time he was quite intrigued by it.  In his defense though, he was looking for his missing duffel bag, so it's not exactly like he's in the wrong here.             "I don't know, Lila", her voice was unsure.             "I think he'd totally go for it."              A doorbell ringing could be heard in the background from Lila's phone.  "Well girl, Kane's here.  Have fun with your vibe tonight while I'm getting it on with a real man.   Shannon held back a snicker at the cheeky girl's sentence.            "Jerk", Sienna calls her friend playfully before hanging up.           There was some rummaging around following by a faint buzzing sound that Shannon could only assume belonged to a vibrator.  The unmistakable moans he heard next placed him between a rock and a hard place; should he continue with his task while his house guest who thought she was alone got herself off sexually, or should he make a quiet exit and give her some privacy?           Before he can make a decision, an irritated Sienna shouts, "You have got to be kidding me.  Stupid batteries!"            Shannon decides that now is a great time to hightail it out of here.  With the absent item still unlocated pushed to the back of his mind, he retreats from his room.            A few strides toward the staircase later, he collides with Sienna, who's wearing only a t-shirt and underwear. They both stop in their tracks, startled and staring at one another with wide eyes.  Shannon speaks first, feeling like he should at least try to explain himself, "My gym bag wasn't in my car, so I came back to look for it."            Sienna moves one hand behind her back, hoping to conceal the small pink sex toy that's fisted in her grip, while the other tugs at the hem of her shirt, attempting to cover herself with some shred of decency.  Shannon's red cheeks and stiff demeanor confirms that he knows what she was up to, and a blush creeps up into her own face.              She swallows thickly and finds her voice, "I have to go to the bathroom." Shannon stays firmly rooted in place while she opens the door to the linen closet.  "That's not it", she utters and turns around, careful to avoid his gaze as she treks to her room for a brief moment.  "And that's not it, either", Sienna concedes; it seems the humility turned her brain to mush.  She finally heads in the right direction of the bathroom, closing the door behind her.             Over the next few minutes while she's in there, Shannon toys with the idea of propositioning his best friend, coming to the decision that it would be completely selfless of himself and a good friend to help Sienna out.            Upon her re-entry into the hallway, Shannon uses his height to loom over, inching her backwards against the wall.  "I'm gonna take care of you tonight."   She peers up at him and shuffles her weight from one foot to the other while the meaning of his words sets in; meanwhile he can see the gears turning in her head, and knows he needs to act fast before she over thinks things and tries to talk her way out of it, just to end up regretting it later on.            Sienna offers no response so Shannon takes the reins, slowly bringing his hand up to cup her cheek gently.  "You trust me right?"            "Whole-heartedly", her response is delivered right away.            Hearing all that he needs to, Shannon closes the remaining distance between the both of them and fastens his lips to hers in a languid whisper before he parts them with his tongue.  He invades her mouth slowly, swiping his tongue over hers and placing his hands on her hips.  When she offers no resistance, Shannon deepens the kiss and skims his palms up her sides several times.  When his hands make their away underneath her top and find her breast, Sienna pulls away and opens her mouth to say something, but Shannon rakes his teeth across her neck to halt her protest.            "Don't talk. Don't think. Just let it feel good", he urges and runs his fingers over the front of her damp panties, then pushes the useless undergarment aside, which allows his fingers to glide effortlessly up and down her sleek channel. When the pad of his thumb brushes over her swollen clit, it sends an incredible rush of bliss flowing through her veins so unexpectedly that her knees buckle, and she clutches Shannon's shoulders furiously while letting out a moan.  "Good girl", he coaxes and props the top half of her body against the surface behind her before he hitches one of her knees up to his hip, giving himself better access to the most intimate part of her. He uses a fingertip to trace her opening teasingly before plunging inside. The back of Sienna's head meets the wall and her eyes close as Shannon's digit bobs in and out of her, caressing her sensitive muscles.  Eventually he adds another finger and curls them to find the sweet spot that will unravel her.  She mewls while her walls give Shannon's handiwork a gratified flutter and moves her hands to wrap around his biceps, squeezing their firmness with pleasure.            His hot breath is at her ear, the scruff of his chin scratching her enticingly as he praises her.  "You smell delicious", he refers to the scent of her arousal that's wafting up to his nostrils.   "And you're so smooth, so incredibly silky", Shannon's mouth plays over the delicate skin just under her earlobe while speeding up his movements and fixing his thumb to her clit and rubbing it back and forth            It's not long until Sienna's breaths turn ragged and her nails dig into Shannon's skin.  "Oh God, I'm...I'm-", words fail Sienna as multiple waves of ecstasy consume her, the same ones that contract around Shannon's fingers and coat them with even more of her essence.             Once everything settles, Sienna opens her eyes and lets out a long, satisfied exhale.  When their gazes meet, her and Shannon's mouths immediately lock together in a fiery kiss full of the same urgent hunger.  Without missing a beat, Sienna's other knee is pulled up to Shannon's opposite hip and she winds her arms around his neck while he lifts her up off the floor and carries her into his room.            The kiss ends when Shannon lays her on the bed and removes her clothes in a  a frenzy.  His own are shed next, then he kneels between her parted legs.  "Do I need protection?"            "No", Sienna sheathes Shannon's hard cock in her hand and draws him towards her impatiently.  She lines the tip of him at her entrance and grabs ahold of his sides, pulling him into her.  She feels even more divine than he was anticipating and the sound she emits when he fills her up completely is purely sinful;  if he was any less of a man, Shannon would have cum right then and there.           He stills inside of her, needing a bit of time to compose himself.  She feels amazing, fitting him like a velvet glove.  Her legs give him a restless squeeze and instead of drawing his hips back and driving back in, he rotates his hips in small circles while his mouth plays over a breast, his other hand pawing at the other.            Sienna's excitement grows as Shannon explores further.  Her fingers thread into his hair, tugging the locks when his teeth close around her nipple.  She yelps when he bites down much harder than he intends, but when he tries to make a quick apology, she cuts him off.  "Again", she requests.           Not needing to be told twice, Shannon repeats his actions while swirling his pelvis, steadily producing the perfect blend of pain and pleasure to keep the high pitched sounds gushing from the woman squirming beneath him.  She comes apart again, this time with her nails biting into Shannon's scalp and her walls milking him greedily.           At the time he'd offered himself to Sienna, Shannon was a man with a mission and had set some goals:  when he finished with Sienna he wanted her entirely spent, barely able to move, and for her to have trouble walking for the next couple of days.  Looking back, he'd had absolutely no idea that he'd be in this much over his head.  God help him, he's just a man with blood running through his veins like anyone else.  He just didn't count on how amazing she would feel wrapped around him.            Shannon gives her his all, fucking her vigorously and showering her with recurring orgasms until all of his muscles are overused and aching.  He flips them over so she's riding him.            Sienna's hands press into his abdomen as she lifts herself over and over again, and her breasts bounce in time with her thrusts.  Shannon watches her intently, mesmerized by Sienna taking her pleasure from his body.  Her eyes are closed and she's cloaked in serenity as she undulates on his cock.  She's the closest to perfection that he's ever seen, and being at the end of his rope, Shannon is determined to speed things along.  He slams up into her, causing her to take a sharp intake of breath and her eyes to shoot open.  He moves faster than Sienna's body will let her, and soon she's trying to impossibly close her thighs around him, seeking more friction.  Snaking a hand to the juncture of her thighs, Shannon strums her now engorged clit. In a matter of seconds, Sienna is trembling violently.              "Shan...I-", she falls forward with a broken sob, hesitant of the intensity of what's building up furiously.                   "I've got you",  He pulls her hair out of her face and cradles her head in his hands, slowly kissing her doubt away.  He  continues pushing up into her as her orgasm begins to ravage her, and lets her ride it out while she pants into his mouth.  Once every last ripple subsides, Sienna collapses fully on top of Shannon.  His arms meander around her back tightly and he pumps into her crucially, finding his own overdue release.             Minutes later the two lay basking in the afterglow, with Shannon running his hand up and down her back, proud of the boneless heap he's reduced her to.  When his breathing calms, he offers her a drink, to which she declines by shaking her head.  Feeling a bit of concern, he gives her hip a squeeze.  "Are you good?", he inquires.  Again, her response comes silently, this time with a nod.  Shannon knows that he has worn her out, but something seems amiss.            Disengaging from her, he pulls the sheet up over her naked form and tucks it around her before he lays down next to her, mirroring her position so that he's face to face with her, and gifts her with a warm smile.  She gives a tiny grin in return that just doesn't seem sincere; it's not the Sienna that he knows.  Lacing his fingers with hers, Shannon prompts, "Talk to me, Si."            She tucks a hand under her cheek and asks in just above a whisper, "Things are gonna change for us, aren't they?"             He's ninety-nine percent sure that he knows precisely what she means; the promise of new beginnings hangs ripely in the air, and with the incredible experience they'd just shared together, there's a slim to none chance that they would go back to being just friends.  However, the other one percent of a chance still exists, and Shannon needs to be sure they're both on the same page. "Do you want them to?"            "I do", she confesses and shyly bites her bottom lip.            Shannon drapes an arm around her and pulls her flush to him, pecking her nose.  "Me, too."

[echelonlab-blog]

Some Jared and Shannon, through the years. 

[echelonlab-blog]

Writing Prompt #8

Moving right along. Again, if you have something from a previous prompt that you didn’t get in in time, please submit it. We’ll still accept it. All writers welcome, all formats including short imagines.

As always, the only requirements are:

They are Thirty Seconds to Mars related.

They integrate the current prompt.

They be less than 5,000 words.

Any explicit/suggestive/potentially triggering content be labeled

You may use graphics or other media as part of your piece if you wish. We reserve the right to reject any submission that is offensive or otherwise in poor taste. Please use common sense.

Echelonlab Writing Prompt for (Until we change it in approximately two weeks)

We are going with a quote this time. You can either incorporate it directly into your piece or let it inspire you:

“You know on TV when there’s one of those awkward, shocking moments and all you hear are the crickets in the background?

Well, chirp fucking chirp...this is one of those moments.” ― Emma Chase, Tangled

Use “Submit” on our page for completed pieces. Please remember this account is not monitored 24/7 and if you need a more immediate answer to a question you can always message one of us directly.

[echelonlab-blog]

When will the new challenge be posted?

Soon?

[echelonlab-blog]

VANS 2

by: @prettymisc     .

No warnings.

After being laid off two weeks ago from my job due to downsizing I wallowed in self pity as I wandered our shared home alone. Jared had called last night basically demanded that I snap out of my self inflicted isolation and join them on the road. He was right, of course, nothing was holding me to stay in LA now, “just come and be with me for a bit, I really miss you, baby” his words echoed through my head again as I could almost see his pouted lips over the phone last night.

I looked around the room, it looked like a hurricane had ransacked it in my haste to get packed for this last minute trip. I had no idea what to pack for summer time in Europe and then possibly Latin America, if I stayed out that long with him. I had been out a few times before with him and the band so I knew I had to pack light.

I remember he asked for his crocs and his black and white checked Vans (I knew better than to question any of his style picks, somehow it almost always worked for him). Going to the closet I grabbed his shoes and a couple of pairs for myself. Dropping the footwear in my bags I went to the bathroom to get the last of my personal items and decided I had packed what was hopefully all I needed.

My phone dinged alerting me that my Uber was about to arrive so I took the bags and purse and went out front to wait.

It was a quick car ride to LAX as it was midday and not many cars in the road. I checked my bags and made may way to the gate to await my flight. It would be a long trip, stopping in New York and then London before switching planes to get to Sweden. If everything went as planned I would get to Stockholm one Jared’s day off so we would actually get to spend a little time together.

The flights through New York and on ti London were uneventful. As I deboarded in London I noticed the dark clouds above me although cloudy and misting in England was often the norm the clouds had me a bit worried, or maybe it was just my mood playing up the darkness as I still felt upset over the last couple of weeks.

I stopped in a restroom to freshen up and decided to try to lighten my mood before getting to see Jared. I washed my faced and redid my make-up before heading out to find some food before the final leg of my trip.

After grabbing some tea and fruit I walked over to my departure gate only to find my flight had been delayed due to some storms along the way. Just great! I guess those clouds were telling me something after all. I dug through my purse to call Jared. Three rings later, I was surprised when he picked up. “Hey babe, how is your trip going? Shouldn’t you be boarding about now for Sweden?”, he questioned.

“Yeah, well, my flight is delayed due to storms for about an hour,” I answered cautiously. I knew Jared hated when his plans didn’t go his way. “But hopefully it will get cleared up and I will be on my way! I can’t wait to see you, J!”

“Hmm, I am glad I have to day off so I can still pick you up. Just let me know your new arrival time and the car and I will be outside waiting for you. I can’t wait to see you too, and hold you in my arms, and other stuff I can’t say since Shannon just walked in,” he replied with a chuckle, surprising me again with how upbeat he was being.

“I will text you as soon as I know for sure, see you very soon!” I hung up as he said his good byes and sat down to wait out my delay.

An hour and a half later I was finally back in the air on my way to Sweden and Jared. I out my earbuds in and turned my ipod to some music and relaxed for the rest of my trip.

***a little thing for the transportation prompt which continues from my last submission. Who knows maybe I am a writer yet.😁😎😉

[echelonlab-blog]

If a girl has to walk home from work late at night since she loaned her car to a co-worker, does that apply to the parameters of planes, trains, and automobiles?

Yes! We are pretty liberal with interpretations of the prompt and that sounds great. 

[echelonlab-blog]

Words to replace said, except this actually helps

I got pretty fed up with looking for words to replace said because they weren’t sorted in a way I could easily use/find them for the right time. So I did some myself.

IN RESPONSE TO Acknowledged Answered Protested

INPUT/JOIN CONVERSATION/ASK Added Implored Inquired Insisted Proposed Queried Questioned Recommended Testified

GUILTY/RELUCTANCE/SORRY Admitted Apologized Conceded Confessed Professed

FOR SOMEONE ELSE Advised Criticized Suggested

JUST CHECKING Affirmed Agreed Alleged Confirmed

LOUD Announced Chanted Crowed

LEWD/CUTE/SECRET SPY FEEL Appealed Disclosed Moaned

ANGRY FUCK OFF MATE WANNA FIGHT Argued Barked Challenged Cursed Fumed Growled Hissed Roared Swore

SMARTASS Articulated Asserted Assured Avowed Claimed Commanded Cross-examined Demanded Digressed Directed Foretold Instructed Interrupted Predicted Proclaimed Quoted Theorized

ASSHOLE Bellowed Boasted Bragged

NERVOUS TRAINWRECK Babbled Bawled Mumbled Sputtered Stammered Stuttered

SUAVE MOTHERFUCKER Bargained Divulged Disclosed Exhorted

FIRST OFF Began

LASTLY Concluded Concurred

WEAK PUSY Begged Blurted Complained Cried Faltered Fretted

HAPPY/LOL Cajoled Exclaimed Gushed Jested Joked Laughed

WEIRDLY HAPPY/EXCITED Extolled Jabbered Raved

BRUH, CHILL Cautioned Warned

ACTUALLY, YOU’RE WRONG Chided Contended Corrected Countered Debated Elaborated Objected Ranted Retorted

CHILL SAVAGE Commented Continued Observed Surmised

LISTEN BUDDY Enunciated Explained Elaborated Hinted Implied Lectured Reiterated Recited Reminded Stressed

BRUH I NEED U AND U NEED ME Confided Offered Urged

FINE Consented Decided

TOO EMO FULL OF EMOTIONS Croaked Lamented Pledged Sobbed Sympathized Wailed Whimpered

JUST SAYING Declared Decreed Mentioned Noted Pointed out Postulated Speculated Stated Told Vouched

WASN’T ME Denied Lied

EVIL SMARTASS Dictated Equivocated Ordered Reprimanded Threatened

BORED Droned Sighed

SHHHH IT’S QUIET TIME Echoed Mumbled Murmured Muttered Uttered Whispered

DRAMA QUEEN Exaggerated Panted Pleaded Prayed Preached

OH SHIT Gasped Marveled Screamed Screeched Shouted Shrieked Yelped Yelled

ANNOYED Grumbled Grunted Jeered Quipped Scolded Snapped Snarled Sneered

ANNOYING Nagged

I DON’T REALLY CARE BUT WHATEVER Guessed Ventured

I’M DRUNK OR JUST BEING WEIRDLY EXPRESSIVE FOR A POINT/SARCASM Hooted Howled Yowled

I WONDER Pondered Voiced Wondered

OH, YEAH, WHOOPS Recalled Recited Remembered

SURPRISE BITCH Revealed

IT SEEMS FAKE BUT OKAY/HA ACTUALLY FUNNY BUT I DON’T WANT TO LAUGH OUT LOUD Scoffed Snickered Snorted

BITCHY Tattled Taunted Teased

[echelonlab-blog]

Calling All Content Creators

Are you an Echelon member that creates something other than stories that you would like to share with us?

Drawings?

Digital Art?

Videos?

Comics?

Have a really cool tattoo?

We’d love to see them! Please keep everything Mars related -- we know Jared has played many interesting characters but we’re primarily focusing on his music career here. We resereve the right to decline explicit pieces. 

[echelonlab-blog]

Writing Prompt #7

Moving right along. Again, if you have something from a previous prompt that you didn’t get in in time, please submit it. We’ll still accept it. All writers welcome, all formats including short imagines.

As always, the only requirements are:

They are Thirty Seconds to Mars related.

They integrate the current prompt.

They be less than 5,000 words.

Any explicit/suggestive/potentially triggering content be labeled

You may use graphics or other media as part of your piece if you wish. We reserve the right to reject any submission that is offensive or otherwise in poor taste. Please use common sense.

Echelonlab Writing Prompt for 8/14 through 8/28:    

               **  Planes, Trains, Automobiles   **

Use “Submit” on our page for completed pieces. Please remember this account is not monitored 24/7 and if you need a more immediate answer to a question you can always message one of us directly.

[echelonlab-blog]

Tumblr Outage and Submissions

It has come to our attention that some people are having issues loading individual blogs on Tumblr. There is an issue with Tumblr itself that is causing this, it’s beyond our control. We just  have to wait for the issue to be resolved.

I don’t know if this has affected anyonoe who wanted to submit for theis writing prompt, but we do want to officially say that if the period closes for this prompt or really any other we are still happy to have your pieces. 

And just a reminder: This blog is only logged into periodically. You can ALWAYS direct message any of us: @fyeahproudglambert , @thepromiseofanend , or @lolainblue for help or even just to chat about an idea you have or a question...  we very much want to support and encourage Echelon creators. 

[echelonlab-blog]

That's also why I quit writing. It seemed no one gave a shit except 3 or 4 people. Whom I love, but if theres no encouragement I dont write.

I’m assuming this is a different anon? 

I cannot stress enough YOU HAVE TO KEEP PRACTICING. You’re going to write for a while with very little notes. If you are only in it for the attention you receive (notes/comments) then you’re going to have a very rough time. You have to write for yourself, especially at first. 

Again, we aren’t claiming to be the ultimate writing gurus but if you find you’re not getting a lot of notes, please ask us or someone else for help. It’s difficult to see the problems in your writing yourself.  Chances are very good your writing is completely salvageable. A little tweaking can go a long way, but you have to be willing to slog through the learning phase. You have to pay your dues. Everyone does. It will get better as long as you don’t give up.

[echelonlab-blog]

I have to be honest and say that I got quite discouraged with how many notes my writings we're getting. It sucks pretty bad when everyone else is getting a bunch of compliments and there's barely anything on something you worked super hard for. I felt like it was a game of popularity that I definitely wasn't winning, so I just stopped.

Continued:  Oops, I wasn't finished with my previous ask before I accidentally hit send. Anyway, I wasn't frustrated that my stories weren't getting the most notes, but I felt no one appreciated mine, or just weren't interested in my stories. So, yea, that's that and why I stopped writing.

So you sent this anon, and I can understand why, but it would really have been more helpful if you had let us know who you are so we can perhaps help with the specifics of why you aren't getting more notes.

First of all, we're sorry that you are feeling frustrated and unappreciated. It's very tough starting out as a writer. Most people struggle for notes in the beginning. It's a normal part of the process, even if it isn't very fun.

Now we looked through the submissions to the Lab up until this point. Most of them have the same amount of notes, roughly. Some have a few more than others, but it's not restricted to any particular author, and frankly, it is to be expected. Sometimes our writing is stronger than other times. This is also something you should be prepared to accept.

We're going to have to make some assumptions here because you are anonymous and we can't be sure who you are. The writing that has been submitted to the Lab mostly get the same attention. There is no popularity contest going on here. It's actually a little hurtful to us that you would imply that we treat anyone unfairly as we discuss in length at times how to be fair and patient and supportive of this community and emerging writers. Perhaps this complaint is related to traffic on your personal blog?

So here's the hard truth:

Writing fanfic is harder than it looks. It's not enough to have a great idea for a story, you need good execution as well. Spelling counts. Punctuation and style count FAR more than you think. People will skip stories that are just walls of text, with no paragraph breaks or where the punctuation or style makes it difficult to follow what is happening.

There are entire blogs and websites devoted to crafting a good story. People study the art for years, and practice for ages to get better. You may think “But it' just fanfic. I don't have to be perfect”. And while it's true that you don't have to write on the level of a professional writer, you do need to heed basic conventions. You have to put some craft to your story. And you can't be a quitter.

No one, absolutely no one, sat down at a keyboard and belted out a perfect story on their first try. It takes lots of practice and lots of failed attempts. You will produce lots of stories that will later make you cringe. You have to keep going. Make this chapter or story be better than the last one. Read some of those blogs or books. Gather writing tips from whoever is willing to give them, and wherever you can find them. Be an insatiable reader and a devoted creator.

No one is saying you aren't working hard or don't care about what you're doing, but passion isn't enough. Writing is a skill. You have to hone it. You also need to be open to constructive criticism.

If you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all: in other words, in fanfiction, silence sometimes speaks volumes.

The current etiquette with fanfiction is not to give unsolicited criticism. For some people writing is their escape from their problems and they don't want the nitpicking. Others feel that they are doing their best and they are not professional writers and therefore they are happy with the quality of what they are producing. Maybe English isn't their first language and they don't want to hear about small grammatical issues when they're writing in an entirely different language. There are lots of valid reasons to not want criticism. But if you are struggling and are concerned with why, and want to fix the situation, you're going to have to seek it out.

Find someone you trust and someone that will be honest with you. Show them a piece that isn't getting the attention you think it should. Ask them what the problem is. And don't go off the deep end when they tell you. Try to make the changes they suggest. Then find someone else, and consider their advice as well. Be open to change. Strive to improve.

Don't give up. Almost everyone's writing could use improvement. We all struggled in the beginning. Stories with barely any notes, no reblogs, poor reception. It happened to all three of us. It's happened to others. We can look back on our older writings, both here and other places, and see so much that needed improvement. Keep at it, please. Practice, practice, practice. Don't be discouraged.

If you would like to privately discuss what is happening with your writing, you are welcome to start a private discussion with us. We will try to be honest but respectful of your effort. This goes for anyone reading this blog. 

[echelonlab-blog]

Don’t Be Shy

So we’ve gotten inquiries about how to submit things for the writing challenges but no follow up on those. I don’t know if the tutorial was unclear, or if people are hitting wrietr’s block or if they are just shy. If you are still unclear as to how to submit your writing then please go ahead and mesage us again. We’re happy to help. 

If you’re just shy... please don’t be. Your submission doesn’t have to be long, involved or a work of literary genius. It can just be a two sentence imagine or few hundred words of musing. It could also be the kick off for a series... we’ve had several of those too! And don’t be discouraged if you don’t get many notes.. we all started from somewhere. Please keep writing. It will get better. We have faith in you.

If it’s writer’s block well... it happens. If you can’t shake it loose this time, maybe next. 

ON A RELATED  NOTE:

We still welcome author interview surveys. At this point it is simply a long questionaire that you fill out. We  have discussed doing something more interactive, either in chat or something like a podcast. If you are interested in any of those things, please message us.

SUPER HUGE ENORMOUS THANKS to all the authors who have submitted so far. This has seriously been one of the greatest things about setting up the lab.. getting to hear from all of you. I hope we can keep this going in the future. 

[echelonlab-blog]

Echelon Author Interview -- Lolainblue

Echelon Author Interview

Your URL: https://www.tumblr.com/blog/lolainblue

Your name: Missie (Blue is my nickname)

Link to your Masterlist: https://lolainblue.tumblr.com/post/174506158608/masterlist-20

What was your first experience with 30 Seconds to Mars? A friend had bought their first album and brought it over while hanging out. We listened to a few songs, I immediately fell in love. She asked me “Guess who the lead singer is? It's Jordan Catallano!” I was so stunned. 

Your Favorite Mars song? I could never pick one. There is one for whatever mood I am in. I love Attack, a lot of the old stuff, Buddha for Mary... They have changed so much over the years but I still love all their sounds.

Has anything ever happened to you solely because of being a 30STM fan? There are people that I met only because of Mars, and friends I have made in the fandom I wouldn't have otherwise.

What is your favorite thing about the fandom? Your least favorite? I think this is a very welcoming, supportive, and open fandom for the most part. It does have certain cliques, which is all right, everyone has their things they're into, but it would be nice if they got along a little better.

Is there any advice you would give to someone who is new to the fandom? Don't get too caught up in rumors. There are some people who are crazy obsessive and love to trash talk. It's a strange combo.

How long have you been writing? Since I was in elementary school.

Why did you start writing? (Either in general or for Mars specifically) I went through a catastrophic health event a few years ago. I found myself stuck at home and mostly bed bound, looking at a slow recovery. I started reading more, and also reading more fanfiction. I restarted my Tumblr account and came across some Mars writers. @thepromiseofanend and @fyeahproudglambert were actually among some of the first writers I read here and very much inspired me to keep writing for the fandom.

Do you write for other fandoms? If so, which ones? I have written for other fandoms in the past but right now the only one I am writing for is Mars.

Do you share everything you write? If not, is there a reason why? No. Not everything I write is Mars related, and some of the pieces I am working on only sporadically and I will share when I have more of them written.

Have you written things that aren't fanfic? If so, could you tell us about those works? I have written plays and screenplays, short stories.. I write a lot I am currently working on a paranormal novel that is original fiction.

Of all your works, which is your favorite and why? I think Fangs and Fairytales is probably my favorite, I love horror and vampires and the paranormal, and it's fun to play with an alternate timeline like that.

Is there one that was particularly difficult to write? Why? There is one I am working on currently that is not yet published that I draw from some difficult personal experiences and struggles. I am not entirely sure I will share it when I am done.

What is the ideal writing environment for you? At your desk? Quiet? Music? I work on my laptop and I prefer to have silence. I can't stand having the television or music on when I am writing. The location doesn't matter much but the silence does. If I can't get silence I will put on headphones with ambient sounds, like thunderstorms. When I was writing the first part of Thunderbirds, I had a site that had cafe sounds that I listened to a lot.

What type of fanfic are you most comfortable writing (drama, fluff, angst, drabbles, series, etc.) I absolutely love to write angst. I torture my characters mercilessly. I also tend towards long pieces.

What is your favorite fanfic trope? Enemies to Friends, Ooops there's only one bed, Mutual Pining

Is there any trope or subject that you won't write? There are certain kinks that I don't care for, and extreme stuff is off the table. Don't make me name them all.

Are there any special tools that you use when creating or writing your story? I use either Open Office for short pieces or Scrivener for longer more structured stories. Grammarly is a lifesaver.

Do you write your story in order or do you jump around and then string it together at the end? Mostly in order. I am a very linear thinker.

Do you outline, or do a great deal of prep work or do you 'fly by the seat of your pants'? I have a general outline and a plan for each story. Some are more detailed than others.

How do you usually get your inspiration? Dreams, music, other stories, movies... I get so many ideas, it's the execution that's an issue more than inspiration.

Do you have ideas on the drawing board or in progress currently that you haven't shared yet? Yes. I have two series that I am working on. One I had originally planned to be ready in a few weeks but due to illness I am behind.

If you have an unpublished work in progress, please pick two to three sentences and share them without context.

Jared assured me however that he was fully prepared, gripping me ever tighter as he pressed me into the upholstered bench seating, no sign of shyness in regards to the driver who was currently ferrying us through damp and intimate back streets. The evening's earlier rain had broken and everything was left looking freshly glazed, colors amplified in reflection. It would have been a lovely drive through the Latin Quarter if he had paused from his advances long enough to look out the window.

Do you like requests? Would you like more or less of them? I love requests but I don't always have time. I have several series I am actively working on for myself, several things in the lab, another collaboration as well as original work. But one of my favorite oneshots (Overtime) came from an anon request. You can always ask. I may not be able to fill it but you can always ask.

Is there an upcoming project from you that you are excited about? Why, and what can you share about it? I am excited about all my writing. There is one piece that won't be coming for a while but it's a new Shannon series with a rather different romantic interest.

The best piece of writing advice you've ever received? Eliminate your inner audience. Whenever we write we have a tendency to think of the people who might be reading it and how they will react. It can limit us from being true and fearless with what we are producing. Write for the characters, focus on the story, and don't mentally allow other people to look over your shoulder. Especially when writing smut.

The worst piece of writing advice you've ever received? For overcoming writer's block: Just sit down and write. If I could do that Karen, I wouldn't be complaining about writer's block.

What piece of advice would you give to someone just starting to write fanfic? Don't worry if you don't get a lot of attention to start. Don't worry if your stories aren't as good as others. Just keep writing and try to make each piece a little better than the last one. Compete against yourself. Your writing will grow and develop as you continue to work and as it does you will find your audience.

Three (stories, series, scenes, etc) written by others that you really like or that inspire you? Only three? I think Save Me by @spillinginkwithlove was probably the thing that truly drew me in. Closer to the Edge (@thepromiseofanend) has my OTP of Mia/Jared. @darklydelicousdesires has my favorite piece of Shannon smut, Double Measures

Are any of your characters closer to being “you” than others? Any reason in particular?  All of my characters have tiny pieces of me in them, whether it's a taste in food or future aspiration. In a lot of ways, I think I'm more Jane than anything, a lot of Jane and Roger’s childhood memories come from my own experience growing up in small towns in Illinois and Indiana -- but there are characters in two pieces I am working on that draw deeply from a lot of my life experiences.

Are any of your characters based on someone you know? Roger (from Thunderbirds) is actually very strongly based on an old boyfriend of mine.

Are any of your plots based on something that happened to you? The upcoming pieces Bodies, Rest and Motion and Mirror Ball both draw strongly on my own personal experiences, although the characters are unique as are the circumstances. The stories aren't autobiographical in any way, I have just drawn on things that I have been through and know to create something that conveys those experiences.

Favorite font for writing? Segoe UI ( In 14pt because I'm blind)

Do you consider yourself a reader outside of fanfic?  Yes. I love to read.

Your favorite book? I don't know about any one book, but I love Brandon Mull, Tad Williams, and Charlaine Harris. Also Poppy Z Brite, Terry Pratchett, so much science fiction and horror.....

Your favorite things to do when you're not writing? I love to cook, watch movies, binge Netflix, hang out with my dogs, play video games and just be with my family.

Two truths and a lie? I owned and ran my own catering company, I lived briefly in Italy, I was the drummer for a punk band

Something surprising about you? My original career ambition (and the college program I started in) was for experimental high energy (particle) physics. I still love science. I am a huge nerd.

Favorite food to enjoy while watching Netflix? Popcorn, of course.

Favorite way to spend a Saturday night? The activity doesn't matter to me as much as the company. I just want to be surrounded by good people. I love a good meal and a card or board game with friends and family. (I love tabletop games and have a small collection. Gloom and Betrayal at House on the Hill are two of my favorites.)

Blankets Tucked or Untucked? Untucked!

Do you have any pets? Would you like to tell us about them? I have two rescued pit bulls that are big love bugs (Twilight and Lokii) and two cats, Coyote and Mayhem. Lokii is the only one that is technically mine (Twilight is my son's dog, and the cats are just household pets) and Lokii never leaves my side. He is very protective and watches over me when I am feeling ill. He is also very goofy and loves to play

Are there any particular battles or struggles in your life you'd like to tell us about? I've been through a lot. I have somehow managed to pick myself up and keep going each time I've been knocked down. You have to keep putting one foot in front of the other, no matter what. There's really no other choice. Just keep going. There's always something good ahead.

Anything you'd like to add? I am horrible at initiation and maintaining friendships. It's mostly an anxiety issue, I feel like I'm annoying people, I think they don't want to talk to me, that they simply tolerate me... I know there are lots of you that can relate to that. Chances are really good that I'd like to talk to you, even if I seem stand-offish or seem to have withdrawn. Please don't ever take it personally. And if we've never talked, well feel free to say hi, or ask me a question. I love to chat, I really do, I'm just bad about keeping things going until I get used to people. I take ridiculously long to get used to people. I guess what I'm saying is I'm a big mess and I have social issues but if you're into that, come chat with me.