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before-we-get-started · 3 years

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Dream Come True, Chapter 7

Summary: Cori MacAdam was reeling from a broken heart when she stepped into the path of a moving car. Her out-of-body experience found her eager to leave her life until the hottest guy she’d ever seen showed up to save her. Now as she tries to navigate her life after the accident, things get complicated quickly when she meets her sexy promiscuous neighbor. When she finds love again, her secret comes out – will she be able to hold on to the guy she really loves?

Warnings: Angst, near death experience, smut, some bad words.

Pairing: Colin Shea x O/C Corinne MacAdam

Disclaimer: This work is a pure work of fiction and my fics are classified as 18+. Please do not read if you are underage. Any likeness to real life people/scenarios is purely coincidental. I do not own any characters in this fic except O/C Corinne MacAdam. If you continue to read, you understand and accept the terms of this disclaimer.

W/C: Story is 10 chapters + short epilogue

A/N: Cori and Colin are becoming closer, except that means Cori gets to see Colin for who he really is. The sparks keep flying. Some bad words in this chapter for sure.

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Cori and Seth fell into a very comfortable rhythm, meeting for dinner, going for walks, catching an art exhibit, getting coffee. He was great company and she felt truly at ease with him.

Her job was starting to pick up. Ms. Robbins was ready to start entertaining. Cori found a confidence she didn’t have when she started, and she credited it to her rebirth – new place, new job, new boyfriend. She felt better about herself than she had in months.

In the meantime, Colin’s life was about the same. Lots of gigs with the band, lots of girls, but the one he wanted was out of reach. He and Cori had spent a few evenings together, a couple of times on the rooftop when he was writing songs. She’d giggled at some of his lyrics until he got them straightened out. The problem was, all she wanted to talk about was Seth. He was amazing. He was great. He was outstanding. He was smart. Colin hated him. He was everything Colin wasn’t or ever would be. He was established and well educated and a grown up, all the things that Colin wasn’t.

One evening when she’d invited him for pizza, they watched the Red Sox game on TV and started talking about when they were in high school. Then Cori shared a couple of college stories, but her mood took a turn and she wasn’t so talkative.

“Ok Debbie Downer, what just happened? I was telling you about how I got taped to the top of a flagpole for high school football initiation and then suddenly, you tell me about college and you’re quiet. What’s up?”

She looked so cute tonight. She had on jean cut-offs and a pink sleeveless button up blouse that tied at the bottom, cut low to show the swell of her breasts and with just enough skin visible around the waist that Colin had to shift a couple of times to get comfy on the couch. Her hair was pulled back with a few tendrils hanging down. She had a smattering of freckles across her nose from being in the sun and her eyes were particularly gorgeous. He kept looking at her from the top of her head to the sweet pink toenails on her bare feet and each time, his breath would hitch in his throat.

“I told you about my fiancée, right?”

“Yeah,” he said sadly.

“Well I started seeing him my senior year of high school and we stayed together during college, even though we went to different schools.”

Colin took a swig of beer. “I think I know where this is going,” he said.

“Yeah. He cheated on me. Of course I thought it was the end of the world, except I didn’t even know what that was yet.”

“That’s tough,” said Colin and she let out a laugh.

“Colin. Seriously. For you, it’s incomprehensible. I know you probably think it was stupid that we even tried to stay together.”

He looked a little hurt. “Hey, I respect people that want a relationship. I think it’s hard at that age, with all that temptation, but I know it can be done. Would it be my choice? Hell no. But it meant something to you. So what happened?”

“I was pretty devastated, but he was very remorseful. He came all the way to see me at my school and apologized profusely. He told me it would never happen again. It took a while but I took him back and eventually, I trusted him again.”

“You must have felt like he was worth giving another chance,” he said.

She sighed. “I thought he was, the best. When we graduated, we got engaged. I could see all of it – the wedding, the house with the white picket fence with kids running around. He and I were so compatible.” Her voice dropped off at the end.

He hesitated. “Do you want to talk about the rest? You don’t have to –“

“No, it’s ok. We had our rehearsal dinner at the hotel where we were getting married on Friday night. We parted for the night and wouldn’t see each other until I walked down the aisle. As I was leaving the bar, I noticed he’d left his credit card. I took it up to his room, excited that we’d get one more kiss. I was so stupid.” She felt the tears coming.

He could see it too. He moved toward the couch to try and get closer to her. “It’s ok,” he said softly. “We can stop.”

“No,” she said a little sob escaping. She took a deep breath and sighed. “I caught him in bed my very best friend. And when everything was said and done, he’d had girls all along. He’d never been faithful to me, not even in high school.” She wiped a tear away from her eye.

He was suddenly overwhelmed by feelings – rage at this guy for hurting her, sadness because she was sad, protectiveness because he didn’t want her to hurt anymore. Her tears truly broke his heart. He knelt down in front of her chair and started to put his arms around her, until there was a knock at the door.

“Great,” she muttered, wiping her eyes. She stood up and made her way to the door, gathering herself as she went. She looked through the peephole and let out a little squeal, opening the door. “Seth! You said you wouldn’t be back until tomorrow!”

He swept her up in a hug, lifting her off the ground, then planted a soft kiss to her lips. “I got an earlier flight. I didn’t want to be away from you a second longer than I had to be.” He kissed her again, this time more deeply and urgently.

Colin suddenly felt incredibly conspicuous. He stood up, dropping his beer bottle in the trash can. Seth eyed him over Cori’s shoulder.

“Hey Seth,” he said with a half-smile.

“Colin, hey,” he said.

“Well, I’m gonna get out of here so you two can enjoy the night.” Colin stepped around them and walked out the door as Seth lifted Cori again, kissing her as he shut the door behind them. He stood there for just a second. It was jealousy this time, but there was something else – longing, maybe. He was really smitten with her. In fact, if he was really honest, he was falling in love with her.

This was dangerous territory. Time to take evasive action. He ducked into his apartment and changed, then headed to the bar down the block. Time to find a companion for the night, to make him forget that he wasn’t going to be with the girl he really wanted.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

“Colin, you guys have to do this.” Cori was pacing around her apartment, talking with her hands, full of energy.

“I don’t know. It’s not what we normally do.”

“It’s a great way to get your name out to people who wouldn’t normally go to Rap’s or some of the other places you play. And it’s really good money.”

He was leaning against her kitchen counter, beer bottle in hand, the other rubbing the back of his neck. “Yeah, but this is different. This is a big, stuffy old people event.”

She leveled him with a look. “It is not,” she said. “My job is to broaden the net for her fundraising. She has plenty of big stuffy events for old people. She has to widen her demographic. She says if they’re having fun, they’ll donate. I know lots of young people feel like they are a charity, but it’s my job to bring them in so we can teach them about our foundation.”

He shook his head and sighed. “I don’t make any decisions for the band, we do it as a group. I’ll ask them.”

“Make sure you tell them how much she’s paying,” she said with a smile.

“That’s what worries me. I know they’ll say yes.”

“Why is that so awful?”

“It’s not awful, it’s just – I don’t know, I never pictured us being that kind of band.”

“The kind that makes money?”

He shot her a look. “No,” he said forcefully, “a band that kind of sells out and plays just stuffy events.”

She crossed her arms and gave him an angry look. “Colin. Are you crazy? The biggest names in music play private events all the time. One of the attorneys at Seth’s firm just paid huge money for Maroon 5 to play his daughter’s 16th birthday party. You think Adam Levine was like, ‘oh man, I’m compromising my principles.’ No, he took the money and probably even said thank you.”

He smiled a little, he knew when he was beaten. “Fine. Give me all the details and I’ll talk to them at practice.”

“Great!” she squealed. “You guys are so hot right now, getting you at an exclusive event will be huge. And the venue is so awesome. I promise we’ll take good care of all of you.”

He smiled, trying to hide the fact he’d love to work with her. “Oh, hey, I meant to tell you – Rap’s is closing early Wednesday for an employee appreciation and we’re going to play a set. I thought you might want to come, it won’t be so crowded and crazy.”

“Mm,” she said, taking a sip from her water bottle. “Thanks, let me check with Seth and I’ll let you know.”

“Oh, the invite is just for you. Since it’s employee appreciation, they told us we could each ask one person.”

“Wow,” she said, “I’m your plus one? I’m moving up in the world!”

“Damn right,” he said confidently and they both laughed.

“Alright, count me in. I’d love to come.”

He felt a swell of excitement – he loved every minute he spent with her. He was lucky her boyfriend didn’t mind him hanging around as much as he did. Some guys would get all possessive, but Seth seemed fine with it. Thank goodness.

“Alright, I’m out of here. And thanks for including us in the benefit. I don’t think I even bothered to thank you before I went full diva.”

She laughed, a sound he had come to love. “Well, if you’d said no, it was on to U2. I’m sure they wouldn’t mind being sloppy seconds to Rock the Cradle.”

He grabbed his left pec, laughing heartily. “Bono should be so lucky.”

For just a second, he had an impulse to kiss her. She looked so good, he loved that he made her smile so much. But he stopped himself – he had to do this right or he’d blow it.

“Ok, see ya later gator.”

“Bye,” she said seeing him out the door. As she closed it, she thought how crazy it was that she’d ever been interested in him. She’d always have a thing for him, but he’d never see her the way he saw the swarms of girls that were all over him at a gig, or the ones that nuzzled up to him at parties or the ones that were lucky enough to enjoy a sunrise with him. He’d always be out of reach for her. She was lucky that Seth had come along when he did or she’d spend a lot of nights staring through the peephole, wishing she was with 6A.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

On Wednesday, she worked a little late so she went straight from work to Rap’s. The doors were locked and a guy was posted with a guest list. He opened up, saw her name on the list and let her in. He directed her to the green room where the band was prepping.

She came to the door and knocked softly. “The groupies are here!” someone shouted from inside and they all hooped and cheered. The door was opened by a guy she recognized as the drummer. She shoved her hand at him. “Oh man, it’s just Cori.”

She giggled. “Sorry to disappoint you!”

“If you’re looking for Colin, he’s in the bathroom squeezing into his leather pants. He’ll be out in a minute.”

She laughed as he led her to a table with some food and drinks.

“Help yourself,” he said.

“Thanks!” She grabbed some veggies and fruit and a bottle of water and found a chair by Kevin. The other guys were coming and going, getting ready.

“So,” she said, “is it good to be back at it and so busy?”

“Yeah,” he said. “There was a time I wondered if we’d get back but we did.”

“Yeah, Colin told me,” she said.

He looked surprised. “Wow, he must really like you. He never really said much to anyone. I just wish I could find out what really happened with him. Something he just doesn’t want to talk about.”

Cori knew he thought she knew more than she did, so she played along. “Yeah, just crazy. Thank goodness he was ok.”

“Oh yeah, he took a really hard hit. I was terrified. I thought, here we were playing hoops like we always do, and in just a second, he was flat on his back not breathing. Leave it to Colin’s dumb ass to die while he’s showing off a killer dunk.”

Cori’s breath caught in her throat. She tried not to show her surprise.

“We were lucky someone knew CPR. He was so upset we missed the meeting with the record company. Between recovering from being hurt, having a horrible concussion and missing out on that opportunity, he was so down. Colin is never down, but he was almost too far to reach.”

For a second she felt guilty – she’d wondered if it was drug or alcohol related. How could she have thought that about him?

“Good news is here we are, back in the swing. I hear you got us a high-end gig.”

“What? Oh yes, did you all discuss it?”

Kevin let out a laugh. “There’s nothing to discuss! It’s great money and exposure, we’re doing it.”

“Oh good! I’m so glad,” she said, still reeling inside about what Kevin had told her. Just then, her golden rock god emerged from the bathroom. He was truly born to front a rock band. When he saw her, he broke into the most beautiful smile. She felt that pull of desire in her belly, but tried to look as normal as possible.

“You made it,” he said.

“Of course!”

Someone stuck their head in the door behind him – “five minutes.”

“That’s my cue. Have a great show, break a leg or whatever you say to a band.” She giggled.

“Thanks Cori.”

She made her way to her seat and sat through an incredible set. All the bar’s employees were having a ball, dancing in front of the stage and partying. She nursed a drink and spent her time watching him. He was so beautiful. He had a good voice, not the greatest but no one would ever notice because his stage presence was incredible. He had the crowd in the palm of his hand.

When it ended and the lights came up, the crowd swarmed the stage. The band’s guests emptied out of their tables and climbed up, hugging their significant others and chatting with the crowd. Just as Cori was about to walk towards the stage, a tall, dark haired girl strode in. Cori stopped and looked at her. She was breathtakingly gorgeous. Long legs in a short skirt, crop top that showed off her tanned skin, her hair perfect, large gold earrings dangling from her ears. She had on designer high heels and as she walked by, Cori caught a whiff of what she was sure was expensive perfume. She walked right up to the stage and looked at Colin, and he froze for a second, then reached down for her hand and pulled her up. She wound her arms around his neck, leaning in to say something to him and then laid a kiss on him that was pure fire.

Cori suddenly felt out of place and was grateful she had a clear shot at the door. She left quietly, no one any the wiser. She walked the few blocks home, locked the door and went in to prep for bed. She looked at herself in the mirror. She’d come straight from work so her cardigan and skirt weren’t cool at all. She looked frumpy compared to the glamour that Colin was kissing on stage. Her phone rang.

“Hey baby,” she said to Seth.

“Hey, you’re home.”

“Yeah, I left soon as the band finished.”

“I figured they’d have a big party after.”

She thought about the great time Colin was having with the gorgeous girl. “Nope, no party, just came home.”

“Aw, well I’m glad you’re home safe. We’re still on for Friday, right?”

“Yes! I’m so excited, I can’t believe you got us a table at Basile. You’re the best.”

“I fly in about 7 and I’ll head straight from the airport, should be there by 8 no problem.”

“Great, I can’t wait.”

They said their goodbyes and Cori pulled on a sleep shirt and crawled into bed. The last thing she thought about was her sexy rocker neighbor and how no matter how much she wanted him, she could never have him, not even a little of him.

Colin kept an eye on Cori as soon as the band finished. He wanted to sweep her up and spend the rest of the evening with her. When Claire suddenly appeared in front of the stage, he couldn’t believe it. She’d appeared just as instantly as she’d disappeared from his life. She was the one he thought might be for good, and he’d allowed himself to fall hard for her. Then, just like that, she was gone. He’d awoke one morning to find a note next to the bed. No explanation, just “Thanks,” and she was gone. Now, here she was again, and her timing was horrible. He looked up just in time to see Cori slip out the front door.

He stayed for the party, Claire catching him up on her travels and telling him she’d missed him and just had to see him. She saw on the internet that they were playing at Rap’s tonight and even though it was a private party, she talked her way in (she was used to always getting her way). He drank too much and took her back to his apartment. He didn’t know that across the hall, 6C couldn’t sleep and was up when she heard voices. She’d peered through the peephole at them, Colin’s hands all over Claire as he fumbled with the door, where they’d fallen into 6A and closed the door behind them. Knowing he was home safe, Cori crawled back in bed and finally fell asleep.

The next morning, Ms. Robbins had an early appointment and told her not to come in until 11. She’d made up for the sleep she lost the night before and was stepping out the door when Colin appeared at his door.

“Hey,” she said.

He hesitated, then “Hey.”

“You guys were great last night.”

“Thanks. Hey – I need a favor, a big one. Can I come over?”

She looked at her watch. “Sure, I’m going in late today, I have plenty of time.”

He walked into her apartment clad in only his boxers and laid down on the couch, arm behind his head.

“What are you doing?” she said with a laugh.

“Waiting.”

“On what?”

“For Claire to leave.”

Cori looked perplexed. “Wait – why don’t you just ask her to leave?”

“She’s not awake yet.” He said all of this as if it was perfectly normal.

“So wake her up.”

“Well, we were up pretty late, I wanted to let her sleep. But I don’t want to be there, I just want her to go.”

She thought about this for a minute. “Why?”

He sat up on the couch and pulled a throw pillow over his crotch, resting his arms on it. “Remember when I told you there was one girl I thought was the one?”

“Yeah.”

“That’s her.”

Cori raised her eyebrows. “I understand. She’s stunning.”

“Yeah, and she knows it,” he grumbled. “She’s the worst. The whole time we were together last night, all I could think was how she’d unceremoniously dumped me, never called or texted, then just showed up last night. Like everything was fine.”

She sat down on the chair. “A normal person would’ve said, ‘hey Claire, I was really disappointed in how it ended and I don’t want to be with you anymore.’”

He thought about that for a minute. “I mean, maybe. That never entered my mind. She looked really good last night and we had a few beers, probably too many. But that’s it, I’m done.”

Cori shook her head, processing all he’d said. “So let me get this straight. You really, really liked her, she broke your heart and dumped you on your ass, you don’t hear from her for a long time, she shows up out of nowhere and now you want her to disappear without saying a word to her.”

“Yep,” he said, popping the ‘p’.

“But she was ok to fuck last night.”

Colin flinched at the words. He’d never heard Cori use any language like that. “Jeez Cori, where did that come from?”

“It came from someone that got dumped by an asshole who also wanted to come back – again – but I had enough dignity to tell him to go fuck himself instead of setting myself up again.” She could feel the color rise in her face.

“Look,” said Colin, “I think these are two different situations. I never thought about marrying her or anything, I just really liked her.”

“So that’s what ‘the one’ means to you? Someone worth fucking more than once?” Cori could feel her temper spiraling out of control, but she wasn’t completely sure why and she was flying without a net.

He looked down at the floor, then back at her. “I’m sorry if you’re offended –“

“I guess I’m offended that she treats you like shit, shows up out of nowhere, jumps on stage with you and you bring her home and can’t get enough of her. I saw you when you were trying to get in the door while you were attached to each other. So she’s worth another shag even though she treats you like shit and I’m not worth fucking at all. I can’t believe I’ve actually been comparing myself to these girls you sleep with. How stupid am I?”

He was speechless. What did she just say?

“Cori, hold on a minute –“

“No,” she said, standing up. “You need to go. Go across the hall and grow the fuck up. If you don’t want her there, tell her. I’m not letting you hide over here. I’m just another girl for you to use. I guess I should be happy, at least I get to see you once in a while. As soon as we sleep together, you’d disappear. I’m lucky that I have a mature boyfriend who respects women and doesn’t just see them as a good time. You’re no better than my ex.”

He swallowed slowly, not sure what to say. He couldn’t believe what he was hearing. She did have feelings for him. He didn’t think that was possible. How could she, she was way too good for him. On the down side, she was comparing him to the ex that cheated on her with her best friend. Not great.

“I mean it. Go. Get out of here. Just go.”

He stood up from the couch and hesitated in front of her.

“Go,” she said with venom in her voice. He did as she said.

Cori was so hot, she started fanning herself. Her fists were balled up and she was grinding her teeth. She looked at her watch and saw that she’d better head out or she’d be late. She made sure through the peephole that Colin wasn’t around and hurried out and down the stairs.

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What’s It Like In New York City?

Katsuki Bakugou x reader

Quirkless rock band au

Based off of the song, Hey There Delilah

Word count: 2913

Warnings: Slight alcohol use. Nothing to be worried about though.

After a long day at university you decided you deserved a night out on the town. Although you had piles of homework to do, you decided to put that all aside and just relax and have a few drinks. You grabbed your big winter coat and stepped out of campus into the swirling cold winter outside. L Street Tavern was one of the closest bars to your campus, so you decided to settle down there. Plus, they always have live music there, even better.

After a short walk through the blistering cold air you had finally arrived at the historic bar. You noticed a flyer on the window it read,

"Sex Bob Omb playing tonight."

You had never heard of them before. It was probably just some local band. You stepped through the bars creaking door and took a seat on one of the oak stools. There were only a few other people at the bar. Most of them were probably in their mid 40s or 50s. You had given them a slight wave when you sat down just to be friendly. They had waved back, but then quickly returned back to their conversations. You weren't really looking for people to talk to, you just wanted to relax after the stressful day.

After a couple of drinks you heard the tuning of a guitar in the corner. You looked over to see a couple people in the corner. They were dressed like classic teenage band members. Black jeans, skate shoes, a random t-shirt they found in the back of their closet. You examined each member. A spiky blond seemed to be the lead. He was tuning his guitar and had a microphone stood in front of him. Behind him was a short black haired girl behind a microphone. She seemed to be the backup singer. The last person was a crazy red haired boy at the drums. It seemed like your typical band that probably practices in the garage. You loved those types of bands. Something about them just seemed so raw and authentic.

A few moments later you jumped to the sound of the red hair banging his drum sticks together.

"ONE TWO THREE GO!" He yelled signaling the band to start.

You never really thought a band like this would be playing at a historic bar in the middle of a harsh Boston winter. But, bands really will play wherever they can nowadays. They have to try and get any recognition they can.

"This is the beginning of the song." The blond muttered into the microphone with his raspy voice. "I'm hearing voices, animal voices. The creme da la creme. the feminine abyss. And I'm reaching my threshold. Staring at the truth till i'm blind." He began lazily singing with the sound of a rough, badly tuned guitar.

The lyrics weren't too bad for just some random band. You actually thoroughly enjoyed the sound of such a band like this. You could see the the crazy red hair banging at the broken down set of drums releasing all of his anger. It made you giggle a bit.

"My body's stupid, stereo putrid. Spilling out music into raw sewage." The girl jumped into sing. She surprisingly had a pretty good voice, although it didn't really suit the vibe of the band.

"Reaching my threshold. Staring at the truth till I'm blind." They all sang together. They repeated the same verses a couple more times. When the song had ended you could tell they were all out of breath from the loud performance. They were panting like dogs on a hot summer day.

"WE ARE SEX BOB OMB!!!" The girl yelled out to the bar while raising her hands in the air.

"I hope you guys enjoyed, but we've lost all of our breath for tonight, peace." The blond said while walking into the back room. Most people started clapping and cheering, some people were booing them at the fact they only played one song, but you just returned to your bitter cold beer in front of you. The cold alcohol entering your stomach calmed you from your hard day.

A few moments later the band members took a seat at the bar near you. It seemed they just wanted a few drinks after that harsh performance.

"Miller Lite, please." The spiky blond said to the bar tender under his raspy tone.

"Same here." The other two members said. The bar tender poured the three drinks and slid them across the bar to them.

"You like the show?" The blond looked over and asked to you, as you sipped your cold drink.

"Yeah, wasn't expecting such a lame band to go this hard." You said looking over to him.

"Hey, we try our best to look professional here." He snapped back at you.

"I'm just teasing." You said focusing back on your drink.

"So, you from around here?" He said with his masculine tone.

"I go to university near here, but I'm originally from New York City." You said fiddling with the rim of your drink.

"The big apple, huh? Must've been rough living there." He responded.

"Not really..." You said taking a sip of your beer.

"We're from around here. Cambridge to be exact. We spend a lot of time over in Boston though. Trying to get a good gig." He explained while taking another sip of his Miller Lite.

"I'm sure you'll get a gig. You're pretty good." You said trying to sound nice.

"Thanks. Maybe you can come watch us here again sometime." He said passing you a crumpled piece of paper from his pocket with their schedule printed on it.

"Thanks, but I'm leaving the city for a few weeks to visit family back in New York. Maybe I'll see you after. My names y/n, by the way." You said looking into his bright crimson eyes while grabbing the schedule. You could see the disappointment in his eyes.

"Oh, well that's a downer. You must be pretty busy with school too..." He said trailing off.

"Damnit Bakugou, stop flirting with the poor girl." The red hair chipped in. The girl laughed along.

"Shut up you prick, at least she's not a whore. I'm not even flirting." He snapped at them while getting up to go to the bathroom.

After he had came back things were pretty quiet after the remark the red hair had made.

About a half hour later you decided you should start heading back to campus. It was 12:30 and you needed some rest.

"Hey, I'll try and come see your band when I come back." You said waving to them as you walked out the door.

"See ya!" The blond said with that tired voice of his.

"Yeah, see ya." The other two trailed along.

You knew you probably wouldn't see them again because you're always so hung up with school. It didn't really matter to you anyways, they were just some random band at the bar.

Little did you know, the ash blond, Katsuki Bakugou, thought you were absolutely stunning. With that perfect h/l, h/c hair of yours, your big, e/c eyes, and your little smile, you were nothing but perfect to him. You were stuck in his mind for the next few weeks. You weren't some crazy little fake fan girl looking to fuck for once. You seemed genuine.

You had pinned the schedule he gave you onto the cork board in your dorm. Although you didn't really care too much to go and see them again, maybe it would be nice to check and see if they're still playing at L Street Tavern when you get back.

Only a couple days later you got on the bus to New York. It was a long ride, but it was worth it all in the end. You desperately wanted to see your family after 4 long months of living alone at school.

A couple weeks after your encounter with Katsuki Bakugou you still hadn't left his mind. Your beautiful name was glued to his brain. He decided to tune up his guitar and start a song about you. He liked to get his thoughts out by writing songs. It calmed him. He started with a simple,

"Hey there y/n, what's it like in New York City? I'm a thousand miles away, but, girl, tonight you look so pretty." He thought it sounded cheesy, but he continued writing it anyways. He enjoyed the sound of a rough acoustic guitar against a sweet love song. He had never written a song like this before, it was all so new to him. He usually wrote songs about his anger or hate for people, usually engaging in more of a hard rock, or head bangers.

A couple days later he decided to find an open mic to play the song at. He was pretty proud of the new tune and couldn't help but share it. He found an open mic session at a small family owned restaurant right around the corner from L Street Tavern. He was worried you might show up and hear the song, but he remembered, you were staying in New York for a pretty long time.

The night of the open mic had come. He stepped into the tiny restaurant and sat down at a table with his guitar. There was quite a few people at the restaurant that night. He hoped they would like his newly crafted love song.

Eventually, he stepped into the space with the cheap microphone and pulled his guitar strap over his shoulder.

"I wrote this song for a girl that's been stuck in my mind for the past few weeks. I hope you enjoy." He said into the microphone.

Authors note - Hey, I would suggest maybe listening to Hey There Delilah by Plain White Ts during this part :) okay back to the story.

He started gently strumming his guitar to a rhythm.

"Hey there y/n what's it like in New York City? I'm a thousand miles away, but, girl, tonight you look so pretty. Yes you do. Times square can't shine as bright as you. I swear, it's true." He began the song with his lazy guitar playing. He continued the song. He could tell most of the people in the restaurant enjoyed the honesty behind the lyrics. It made him happy someone was enjoying his work.

"Oh, it's what you do to me. Oh, it's what you do to me. Oh, it's what you do to me. Oh, it's what you do to me. What you do to me." He led on with the catchy bridge.

"Hey there, y/n. I know times are gettin' hard. But just believe me, girl. Someday I'll pay the bills with this guitar. We'll have it good. We'll have the life we knew we would. My word is good." Bakugou carried on.

"Hey there, y/n. I've got so much left to say. If every simple song I wrote to you. Would take your breath away. I'd write it all. Even more in love with me you'd fall. We'd have it all." He went on, after that singing the bridge again.

"A thousand miles seems pretty far. But they've got planes and trains and cars. I'd walk to you if I had no other way. Our friends would all make fun of us. And we'll just laugh along because we'd know. That none of them have felt this way. Y/n, I can promise you. That by the time that we get through. The world will never ever be the same. And you're to blame." He sang emotionally while strumming along.

"Hey there, y/n. You be good, and don't you miss me. Two more years and you'll be done with school. And I'll be makin' history like I do. You know it's all because of you. We can do whatever we want to. Hey there, y/n, here's to you. This one's for you." After this he slowly ended the lovely song with the bridge,

"Oh, it's what you do to me. Oh, it's what you do to me. Oh, it's what you do to me. Oh, it's what you do to me. What you do to me, oh oh, woah, woah. Oh woah, oh. Oh." He sang softly, ending the song by strumming all of the strings on his beat up guitar.

After he had finished the sweet tune someone came up to him.

"Hey kid, that song you played was actually pretty good. The lyrics and rhythm were amazingly catchy. No one can ever go wrong with a classic love song. Maybe I can help you get big. I know some people in the industry. I came here to find some new musicians, actually." The mysterious figure said to him.

Bakugou was in shock. He knew people liked his music. But not to the point where somebody like this would notice him. Especially this song. It was just some overly cheesy love song.

"Thanks." He said not knowing what to say. He was speechless.

"Here, give me a call." He said while slipping his business card over to the blond.

Of course later that night he couldn't help but call the guy. He had never heard anything like this from someone.

Y/n was nearing the end of her trip. She was sitting in her Mother's car on the way to the bus station back to Boston. She couldn't help but over hear the radio.

"Hey we have a new love song from this band called Sex Bob Omb. I thought it was pretty good, how about we give it a play." You couldn't believe what you just heard, so you immediately turned up the volume on the radio. You could hear that spiky blond's classic voice over the sound of a relaxed, acoustic guitar. It seemed very unlike the band to have a song like this, or even be on the radio.

"Hey there y/n, what's it like in New York City? I'm a thousand miles away, but, girl, tonight you look so pretty. Yes you do." The song started out gently. You jumped at these lyrics. You thought you were dreaming. But you weren't...

"Mom, I think this song is about me..." You said trying not to sound insane.

"Sweetie, it's just some song on the radio I'm sure you're over thinking it." She said calmly.

"No, Mom, I saw this band at the tavern a few weeks ago. The lead singer was talking to me at the bar." You denied her.

"I'm sure it's just a coincidence." She said keeping her eye on the road.

"Times Square can't shine as bright as you. I swear, it's true." You softened at these lyrics. The way he wrote them... It made you feel like you were the only girl in the world that mattered.

"Hey there, y/n. Don't you worry about the distance. I'm right there if you get lonely. Give this song another listen. Close your eyes. Listen to my voice, it's my disguise. I'm by your side." You couldn't help but feel like he was actually by your side, like he stated. You wished he could sing this to you, with that guitar of his, while looking you in the eyes. You really were falling for some mysterious guy. You would have never thought you would fall for some rebellious band member... or someone that you barely even knew. Music had never moved you in a way like this, it was so connecting, yet unexpected.

Finally, You had made it back to your campus. You rushed up to your dorm to see that schedule he gave you. You wanted to see him again. The lyrics of the song made you melt. It warmed your heart. Making you fall for the random blond even more. Thankfully, the band was booked pretty far ahead on the schedule.

A few nights later you caught yourself back at L Street Tavern hoping to see them there. You were sure they wouldn't be there now that they had made it on the radio. But it didn't hurt to try and see if they would be there.

Unexpectedly you heard the sweet voice of the girl scream,

"WE ARE SEX BOB OMB!"

You turned around and made eye contact with the blond. His face flourished red. You couldn't stop staring into his glistening crimson eyes.

"Wait, it's y/n." He said walking over to you, stopping the other band members.

"The girl you wrote the song about? I thought that was just a made up name." The red hair said furrowing his eyebrows.

"You came..." He said looking into your love struck eyes.

I really wanted to make a story inspired by this song so I hope you liked it. :)

Please comment some more songs you would like me to write stories about.

Also yes I got the name Sex Bob Omb and the song they sang is from Scott Pilgrim vs. The World hehe. Also, L Street Tavern is a real bar in Boston!

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suepixels · 5 years

Photo

🎃 Devil Like You 🎃

My Porchlight Lookbook 2019 ;)

They used to be lovers, madly in love. He was once a young boy but still human and inexperienced who had no clue about life. His master loved him dearly and called him his ‘Pueri Delicati’. One day his master set him free to become the man he is today. Nero never regretted, to let Levithian go because he sees the man he became. But one day a simple touch he had million times with him changed him and right there he desired to have him back in his life, not only as a friend but as a companion and lover. A dark desire lured for such a long time inside and waited way too long to be unleashed and rekindled.

The devil and I get along just fine! Cavallo, Levithian

He brushed his thumb over my lower lip, his husky voice smooth and alluring in the dim light says: “I missed you so badly and I’m going to kiss you”. He penetrates me with his eyes deeply and I can feel how he looks into my soul. Suddenly I feel like he stripped me down naked because he knows how much I desire him. My body starts to tremble, he can feel it and I see how he smirks devilishly, once he kisses me I will lose myself in him. “If the world thinks we’re heading straight to hell, we might as well enjoy the journey on the road into the darkness. I’d much rather dance with the devil than sing with angels”. So it happened what is meant to be, he kissed me and I lost control.

He is an angel craving for the chaos, I cause. I’m the devil, craving for the peace in his embrace. As you know even the devil was once an angel. Valerius, Nero

A preview snippet from my story “Allure of Darkness”.

Levithian Cavallo

Hair by @zurkdesign

Bloody Lips by @pralinesims

Earrings by @pralinesims

Open Shirt by @kismet-sims

Harness by @coloresurbanos

Jeans by @mysteriousdane

Nails by @pralinesims

Boots by Moschino Pack (well you know it’s dope)

Nero Valcari

Hair by marffiiesims [deactivated - but available click link]

Demon Outfit by @plazasims

Vampire Nails by @pralinesims

Mask by @pyxiidis

Wings by @magnolia-c

I’m joining the Simblreen-Event more details can be found here.

youtube

Freakin dope poses are by @exzentra @radioactivedotcom @sciophobis @effiethejay @minzza12 aaand @simmerberlin ! Thannk you guys without you it wouldn’t be possible to have such pics ;)

#ts4 lookbook #lookbook #sims lookbook #s4 lookbook #simblreen #simblreen 2019 #ts4 halloween #halloween 2019 #nero varlcari #levithian cavallo

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ofstarsandvibranium · 6 years

Text

#IShipIt: Part 6

Fandom: Marvel (Celebrity AU)

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x Reader

Summary: You and rising star, Bucky Barnes, both play rivals on the show “Blindsided”, the trending tv show that focuses on your two characters, Ava and Nathan. Because of your great chemistry on-screen, many of your loyal fans believe there’s chemistry off-screen as well. Are they right?

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5

A/N: There’s gonna be some Bucky x Pietro in future chapters. That’s a weird pairing, I know, but just bare with me here.

Pietro’s party was in full swing. The house was filled with people, the music so loud that the walls vibrated. The whole place smelled like booze and sweat. You were having the time of your life. Due to work, you were so tense and tired. But now you finally could let loose and be free. So that’s what you were doing.

You were currently nursing a watermelon wine cooler as you danced with Steve. He stood behind you, hands on your hips, and grinding against you. Your sweaty bodies up against each other. You and he were in your own little bubble.

Across the room, Bucky was watching you and he was hurting. It didn’t want to admit, he tried to deny the truth, but he had such strong feelings for you. Working together and living together meant being around you all the time. He saw who you were: a beautiful, smart, and funny woman with a pure heart. How could he not fall for you? But it seemed too late. He took a swig from his beer bottle and leaned back against the wall, pouting.

“Debbie Downer much?”

Bucky turned to see Pietro standing there looking at him, donning a small smirk. Bucky smirked back, “Nah. Just people watchin’.”

Pietro took Bucky’s beer and nodded towards the stairs, “Wanna go somewhere more peaceful?”

Bucky glanced at you and back at Pietro, “Yeah.”

Pietro took his hand and guided him through the sweaty, dancing bodies. They took the stairs two steps at a time and Pietro pulled Bucky into his bedroom. As soon as the door closed, Pietro’s lips were on Bucky’s.

Bucky grabbed the hem of Pietro’s shirt and pulled it up. Pietro doing the same. They both staggered towards the bed, Bucky falling onto his back. Pietro’s hands went to the fly of his jeans and then the door flew open.

Bucky immediately sat up and he saw you standing there at the doorway mouth open and eyes wide, “Y/N!”

“I-I, uh, sorry! I was trying to, uh, find the bathroom. Sorry!” You then grabbed the doorknob and slammed the door shut.

As you were dancing you turned to face Steve. Your arms draped on his shoulders as you swayed to the pounding music.

Steve took one glance at your lips and leaned in. Just as quickly as the kiss began, it ended. You two stared at each other in silence until you spoke up, “Okay, that was weird.”

Steve nodded, “Yeah. You’re right.”

“I’m sorry. You’re attractive and great and everything-”

“Yeah, same to you-”

“-but that just felt wrong.”

Steve nodded, “Just friends?”

You agreed, “Yeah. Just friends.”

“Still wanna dance?”

You scoffed, “Is that even a question?” Steve laughed and then you handed him your drink, “Lemme just take a bathroom break really quick.”

“You got it.” You walked away from the busy living room and towards the hall. The line for the bathroom was a bit long, so you figured you’d check out the one upstairs.

You walked up the stairs and tried out the first door to the left and you were met with quite the surprise. Bucky and Pietro were on the bed shirtless, making out. The sight made your heart drop. You quickly apologized and slammed the door shut.

The bathroom was long forgotten as you stormed down the stairs towards Steve. He looked at you with a lot of concern, “Hey, what’s wrong?”

“C-Can we go home? Please? I don’t feel so good.”

Steve hesitantly nodded, “Yeah. Lemme tell Bucky-”

“No! I mean, it’s okay. I’ll just text him.”

“Alright.” Steve guided you out of the house and down the street where he parked his car.

New Bae? Y/N L/N Goes to Party with Co-Star Steve Rogers and Leaves Party Early. Is There Love Brewing Between the Two?

#Bucky Barnes #bucky barnes x reader #bucky barnes imagine #bucky x reader #au #marvel #celebrity au

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hollow-memes-blog · 6 years

Text

Until dawn sentence starters

"Alright. I'm bad! I'm a badass!"

_______I’m here for you. Really. Whatever you need. Whenever. We're all gonna make it through this... together.

Don't you think this is a little bit cruel?

Wow, nice shootin'

Thanks, bro! Good talk.

"Wow great. Piece of cake."

"Sometimes after a traumatic experience"

"I've seen what's down there... and I'd give anything to unsee it."

"Don't be an a-hole, okay?! I totally didn't jump! “

We've been through Hell tonight. Okay?

Your mind is fried. My mind is fried. I don't even trust what I've been seeing.

"Boom! You just got monked!"

"You son of a BITCH!!!"

"I'm sorry, are you my secretary?"

"Come on! Look at these beauties."

"'Beauties' is not the word that comes to mind, why is this even here?" -

"Man I feel like this mountain gets bigger every time I climb it..."

"Is it a button?"

"Yeah, it's a letter..."

'll get you out of this I won't let you die

"I-I killed him/her!... I killed him/her...!"

"I saw....something. But where'd it go?

"This is so effed up!"

"Shit. I'm gonna murder her/his fucking face off."

"Is it possible they could have killed him?"

S/He saved my life. And I watched him die."

"...what about him/her?"

"You manipulated us. You’re a coward!"

There are some things that once you see them, you can never un-see them.

"I'm not all muscle. There are some brains in here, too!"

"That's me,Mrs/Mr. Easy."

"Come on, you pieces of shit!"

"Sweet is not the word I'd use."

"Hey... it's locked! The hell? Who did that? Man, there's some seriously uncool shit going on up here tonight."

Why are you being so bitchy? We're in a serious situation here."

"What's cookin', good lookin'?"

"I was right there, and I could have done something - I tried to do something...I wasn't good enough.."

"Define "okay."

"What the fuck is your problem!?

Why are you being such a bitch to me?

From now on, you either treat me like a person or I'm out. Get it? "

"Wow, ____, good call. Radio. So smart."

"Why do you hate my jacket?"

Listen, I don't know... I don't know if you think messing with you is somehow going to help me with my grief or whatever but this is not cool.

"Let's party like we're fucking pornstars!"

"Oooh! Sleepover! C-can we order pizza?

"I said you're a dummy, dummy."

"I DID something! I made you believe in the world I created, and I showed you parts of yourself you were too afraid to visit!"

"When are you gonna take her to the bone zone?"

So how are we planning on breaking into my parents' lodge, bud?"

Um... I want us to have a good time, you know..."

"Nah, nah, come on, I've been down here plenty of times, big ole' lodge has got to belch out sometimes."

"NO! YOU CAN'T DO THIS! LET ME DOWN FROM HERE YOU MANIAC!

Shit... shit... no”

! Okay... okay... okay... okay, this is gonna be okay...”

Dude... buddy... Let's just think about this for a minute..."

"Bro! Bro, we've been through so much, come on...”

I don't wanna go out like this...!. “

I know we haven't been the best of friends lately.”..

I've been kinda messed up and everything... “

I'm getting better, man... I swear!"

"I think you bring out the worst in her/him."

I thought we were FRIENDS why would you DO THIS!?"

"Hook, line and sinker, for every little stinker!"

"Oh sure. I'm totally just crying out for help. "Help me! Oh help me! Help help!""

"Revenge is the best medicine!"

"Hey we've all got parts to play “

"I never imagined in my wildest dreams that you liked me...!""

"Oh, you poor little piggies, can't even get their good cop bad cop routine to work. Leave to the pros, bros."

"No! You're dead! You're dead!!!”

“ Shut up! I don't take orders from you. “

.. “okay... okay... I trust you... I trust you... “

"NO! NO! Why are you doing this?!”

“Leave me alone!! “

"I didn't want you to die- I swear!!"

"You couldn't buy a moldy loaf of bread with your skanky ass."

"As far as I can tell I still have all seven of my limbs!"

"Ugh, it's fine. She just can't take a joke."

Oh boy, oh boy, oh boy. New people. Time to meet and greet."

"But who am I to retaliate?

“What choice do I, ______have to surrender to the strapping military guard come to take me into custody?"

"Got any marshmallows?"

"Good to know I've got a hot B.O.D."

"'Bodyguard on Demand.'"

"Whoa. Sexy AND smart."

"Stay out of it, you dumb oaf!"

"Who needs grades when you've got ALL the natural advantages you can handle?"

"That bitch is on crack or something."

"That scared the blue outta my jeans."

"Stand back, Debbie Downer."

“ I have the best idea! Let's go hug a bear! Come on please! Come on!"

"I'm sorry... Ugh... I'm sorry, I think I'm a little freaked out and it's hard for me to like, keep this up.”

"What? Keep what up?"

"I was... carried... and... taken... and..."

"What do you remember?"

"Where is s/he...? Did s/he make it?"

"What carried you? You said it carried you- was it one of your friends?"

"No... not me..."

"I don't- I don't know... I was by the window and there was all this glass and.. it was in the snow and then... it was... moving so fast, fuck... and then I was, I was down here..."

You're just like me and everyone else. We're all insecure! But, you know how to handle yourself. You might call it a front but it's real.

#tumblr rp meme #Queueby

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lalka-laski · 3 years

Text

Are you more positive or a debbie downer?: I have a positive demeanor but I think internally I'm more of a "downer" just because of my anxiety What would you love to drink right now?: I'm fine with my coffee. It's only 7 am, after all. But I'm already planning my post-work drink beverage Is that an alcoholic drink or not?: My evening drink sure will be. Maybe a beer Oh good. What would you love to eat right now?: I have no appetite actually. Which is good How many meals do you eat a day?: I'm trying to eat only one (OMAD), but I've been failing miserably

If you could have any talent in the world what would it be? Be realistic. Self-discipline. I think I'm a skilled enough writer that I could write a book if I actually dedicated the time to it. Do you brush your tongue with your tooth brush?: Yep How many times do you brush your teeth a day honestly?: Once or twice What are you favorite type of jeans?: Skinny jeans I guess Do you pop your bones? or Crack your knuckles?: That freaks me out so I don't Did you just pop your bones or were about to?: Gross, no Haha. What’s a movie you would recommend to a friend?: I wouldn't. Lol Are you a righty or a lefty?: Righty Do you eat your nails?: The wording of this question is DISTURBING Do you enjoy making or taking surveys?: I only ever take them Name something that is blue that you like: Blue sour patch kids Name something pink that you like: Pink Starburst What music can you not stand?: Country What is music you listen to when you just want to chill?: I actually have a "Chill" playlist on Spotify What was your favorite concert that you’ve been to if any?: The Killers, hands down, NO question How many pets do you have and what kind?: Zero If you could have one more pet, what?: I'm good without pets. I have a hard enough time keeping the apartment clean If you could sleep next to a tame wild animal what?: Um, NONE Would you rather have an owl or a snake?: A snake just because I'm terrified of birds Cool! What would you name it?: Umm Do you eat the ice in your drink?: Yep What do you order at Chic-Fil-A?: I don't eat there If you had to go to Mcdonalds what do you order?: A cheeseburger without the patty, fries & an Orange Hi-C Wait… do you actually like Mcdonalds?: Fuck yeah I do That’s interesting. What is your favorite cuss word?: Fuck is so versatile Do you cuss a lot?: I've started to a lot more hanging around Glenn ha Have you ever been addicted to cigarettes?: Never Bad habit. What is your favorite font at the moment?: Calibri Which do you use more? Facebook or Instagram?: Facebook What is a hobby of yours?: Reading Would you give it up for a million dollars?: Impossible What WOULD you give up for a million dollars?: Quite a lot of things. Just nothing that's integral to who I am as a person like that. Do you have a favorite number?: 13 Are you a student? If so, what classes will you take next?: I'm done with school How do you like your tea?: English Breakfast with just one splash of milk Favorite drink at Starbucks?: It varies day to day ___ makes you laugh: Silly things ___makes you mad: Small annoyances ___ makes you happy: Glenn/My babies/Pizza Are you a good kisser?: I've honestly never been told I'm good or bad? I have to assume I'm at least decent because no guy has ever refused to keep kissing me How many real bf/gf have you had?: 3. I feel like I give a different response every time I'm asked this because I have some relationships that were uh, debatable Did you enjoy your past relationships?: No Would you ever get back with your ex?: NOOOOOOOO Your crush has what color hair and eyes?: Well he's bald & has brown eyes Do you like 80’s music?: Love it! I'm going to see my sister-in-law's 80's cover band this Friday and I'm stoked! It's always a party Name a comedy that you like: Step Brothers Do you like homework?: It depends what the assignment/subject were Something you want to buy real bad?: I'd like to AFFORD anything rn ha... Something you would NEVER buy?: Um.. Something you would buy a friend as a gift?: I love giving books as gifts whenever possible What is something that would be a good birthday gift for you?: Also books! Something you would gift yourself?: Again, books Favorite candle scent?: Lavender Cedarwood or White Winter Woods Favorite Bath and Body Works scent?: Those are both B&BW^ Do you watch beauty videos on You Tube?: If I'm trying to do something specific but it's been a long time since I've had to (I don't venture out much past my daily routine) Have you ever questioned your sexuality?: Not really Do you like Star

Wars?: No What is the best thing about life?: Love What do you think will happen when you die?: I don't like thinking about that Are you superstitious?: Ha, yes. Glenn gets such a kick out of all my family's superstitions and rituals. I didn't realize they weren't the norm! What kind of surveys do you like the most?: This ones been pretty fun so far Do you like this survey?: Yes! Will you give it a 5 star?: Sure Do you go to church?: Nope Do you like Christian music?: Nope Have you ever skateboarded and failed at it?: I don't know if I've ever even tried getting on one. But I'd most certainly fail Have you ever dropped something down the garbage disposal on accident?: Yep What show/concert have you went to that you didn’t like much?: I went to a country concert this summer and it was sooo not my scene. I can't even remember the guy's name What CD would you never buy for yourself?: I don't buy any CDs anymore Is sex a must in your life?: Yes Could you wait until marriage for sex?: Lil late for that Have you watched porn alone before?: Yes What do you think about weed?: I'm cool with it and I partake in it once in awhile. I just think stoner culture is exhausting & obnoxious though. What shampoo do you use specifically?: Biolage What conditioner?: Umm... I think it's Dove? I honestly can't remember What body wash?: Aveeno What is your favorite product brand? Clinique or Aveeno for most things Name 2 good brands: See above What is your favorite type of soda?: Mmm I love a good old fashioned Coke Favorite dessert?: Ice cream I know you love animals, but what is your favorite?: Who said I love animals? I really don't Cute! Would you rather be cute and ugly or hot and stupid: What??? Would you ever kill someone for fun?: I wouldn't kill anyone for any reason. Unless maybe self-defense but even that would be traumatizing and require EXTENSIVE therapy Are you evil in any way?: I sure hope not? Have you read the entire bible before?: I've read none of it What is your favorite sport?: Soccer or hockey Are you good at it?: I don't play them (or any sport). I just watch Which smiley face do you like best? ( :) ) or ( :0] ): :) Would you rather be a clown or a garbage man?: LOL um, well garbage men make great money so. Would you rather be a mime or a janitor?: Janitor What unpopular job would you not mind having?: I mean I mind having any kind of job, if I'm honest. I just wanna chill ok What is your dream job?: Why?: Hmmm. Would you rather be a rockstar or a librarian?: Uhh a librarian Last question: WHAT IS THE MEANING OF LIFE?: Love

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podcastdx · 3 years

Text

Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is a group of disorders that affect movement and muscle tone or posture. It's caused by damage that occurs to the immature brain as it develops, most often before birth.

Our guest today is Zain Bando, a Chicago area, 21-year-old college student and is studying journalism at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign as a junior. He hopes to pursue a career in broadcasting after graduation and currently resides in Downers Grove, IL with his family.

TRANSCRIPT:

S8E2 Cerebral palsy

Lita T 00:08

Hello, and welcome to another episode of podcast dx, the show that brings you interviews with people just like you, whose lives were forever changed by a medical diagnosis. I'm Lita

Ron 00:20

And I'm Ron.

Jean 00:21

And I'm Jean Marie.

Lita T 00:22

Collectively, we're the host of podcast dx. On today's show. We're speaking with Zain about cerebral palsy. Good morning, Zain. And could you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Zain 00:32

Sure. So, um, good morning. My name is Zain Bando And I am a 21 year old college student who's currently studying journalism at the University of Illinois in Champaign. And after graduation, um I hope to pursue a career in, in broadcasting or as a writer for a sports team. I don't know, I don't know what sports team that would be at. But it's something that I've always been interested in. And it's just a passion that I've always had, and I'm very glad to be pursuing it. So thank you again, for having me on today. I really appreciate it. And sorry, my, my pronunciation is actually "Zain", I know, I know that there's I in my name, but it actually isn't for now, literally. So if you think of the word "van", that's how my name is pronounced.

Lita T 01:18

We will take that that I out, thank you very much.

Ron 01:22

Yeah I don't know. We appreciate that. Zain. Can you send us out by actually telling us and our listeners what actually is? cerebral palsy?

Zain 01:33

Sure, so that's a great question. So according to the Mayo Clinic, cerebral palsy is a group of disorders that affect muscle control, movement, muscle tone, or posture, by injury or malformation, which occurs to the brain as it develops more often before birth during the birthing process, or just after birth. There are two main forms of CP, continental and acquired.

Lita T 01:58

Right, right that I've got also in the Center for Disease Control here in the United States. That the risk factors for cerebral palsy, and I'm going to abbreviate it as CP is that it's important to know the risk factors. Some of the risk factors for congenital CP are a low birth weight. So children who weigh less than five and a half pounds at birth, or that's 2500 grams, and especially those who weigh less than three pounds at birth, so that's about 1500 grams, they have a greater chance of having CP, a child that is prematurely born. And that's children that are born before the 37th week of pregnancy, and especially if they're born before the 32nd week of pregnancy, they have a higher chance of having CP intensive care for premature infants has improved a lot over the past several decades. And babies that are born very early are more likely to live now. But many have medical problems that can put them at risk for CP. Another risk factor is multiple births, twins, triplets, and other multiple births have a higher risk for CP, especially if a baby's twin or triplet dies before birth, or shortly after birth. I don't know why that would be but that's what they're saying. some but not all of this increased risk is due to the fact that children born from multiple pregnancies are often born early or with low birth weight, or both children that are conceived with artificial reproductive technology, abbreviated as ART in fertility treatments. Those pregnancies that result have a higher risk of CP. Most of the increased risk is explained by preterm delivery or multiple births or both. And both preterm delivery and multiple births are increased with children conceived with ART infertility treatments. Another risk would be infections that the mother might get during pregnancy infections can lead to increased certain proteins called Cytokines and that circulates in the brain and the blood of the baby during pregnancy. Cytokines cause inflammation, which can lead to brain damage in the baby. A fever in the mother during pregnancy or delivery can also cause this problem. Some types of infections that have been linked to CP include viruses such as chicken pox, rubella, German, which is also German measles, and also Sue-to

Jean 04:50

Cytomegalovirus

Lita T 04:52

Oh cytomegalovirus Thank you, Jean. And bacterial infections such as infections of the placenta or fetal membranes, And maternal pelvic infec, infections can cause it. jaundice or Jean?

Jean 05:09

Nope, I don't know this one.

Lita T 05:10

Okay, Ron,

Ron 05:12

What are you looking at me for?

Jean 05:15

Zain,

Lita T 05:16

(laughter) Zain? Karen neck care neck and neck terrorists? Okay,

Zain 05:21

I would see. I would say it's um Kernic Esrest, but I'm not sure

Jean 05:26

That sounds good.

Lita T 05:27

That sounds good.

Ron 05:28

That's what we're going with today

Lita T 05:29

We're going to go with that KernicTetris is the yellow color scene in the skin of many newborns. jaundice happens when a chemical called bilirubin builds in the baby's blood. When too much of this bilirubin builds up in the baby's blood the skin in the whites of the eyes might look yellow. This yellow coloring is called jaundice. And when severe jaundice goes untreated for too long, it can cause their condition that Zain pronounced properly and it can cause CP and other conditions. By the way, that condition is spelled k e r n i c. t e r us, Kernest..

Ron 06:07

I'm going to go with Kerner, Nick terus

Lita T 06:10

Kernicterus,

Jean 06:11

We're going to have a link on our...

Lita T 06:13

Website

Jean 06:13

Yes, yeah,

Lita T 06:14

That's the best way to go sometimes Kernicterus results from Abo and Rh blood type differences between the mother and the baby. This causes the red blood cells in the baby to break down too fast resulting in severe jaundice. medical conditions of the mother, such as mothers with thyroid problems, intellectual disability, or seizures have a slightly higher risk of having a child with CP, and other birth complications such as detachment of the placenta, a uterine rupture, or problems with the umbilical cord during birth, can disrupt oxygen supply to the baby, and result in CP.

Zain 06:55

Well, while that's all true, a small percentage of CP is caused by brain damage that occurs more than 28 days after birth. This is called the acquired CP and usually associated with infection, such as meningitis and head injury, or a problem with blood flow to the brain. cerebral vascular accidents for example, stroke or or bleeding in the brain associated with the blood clotting problem, blood vessels that didn't form properly, or heart defect that was present at birth or sickle cell disease,

Jean 07:28

Zain, what are some of the symptoms for cerebral palsy?

Zain 07:33

Sure, so because this condition begins to show signs and symptoms at a very early age, and individuals, parents or health care providers typically notice the signs and symptoms of cerebral palsy. The symptoms and effects of cerebral palsy vary depending on the location and extent of the injury to the brain, your child might normal intelligence or have learning difficulties or learning difficulties, your child might have mild difficulties with movement or be unable to control their limbs, despite the variations in symptoms of certain effects are common among people with cerebral palsy.

Ron 08:07

Wouldn't you say that it's kind of like a spectrum from mild to severe? Right?

Zain 08:12

Absolutely. 100 100%. Right. There's definitely there's definitely a spectrum.

Ron 08:18

Yeah, the CD says I'm sorry, the CDC says that in many cases, the cause or causes of congenital CP aren't fully known, which means that currently little can be done to prevent it. CP related to genetics is not preventable. But can acquired CP be prevented? And

Zain 08:41

It's a very good, it's a very good question. While there are actions people can take before and during pregnancy, as well as after birth, that might, excuse me, that might help reduce the risk of develop, of developmental problems, including CP, taking steps to help ensure a healthy pregnancy and to help prevent development. developmental problems, including CP acquired CP is often related to infection, or injury, and some of those cases can be prevented, but again, as as it stated, some of those cases just simply are impossible

Ron 09:21

Right

Zain 09:21

And cannot and cannot be prevented, so

Ron 09:24

Right, right.

Jean 09:26

Thank you. before pregnancy, it's a good idea to be as healthy as possible. I think that's what a lot of people strive for. And make sure that any infections that you might have are treated in any healthcare conditions that you might have like diabetes are under control. And ideally, they should be under control before you. You will conceive if if assistive reproductive technology or ART infertility treatments are being used to get pregnant, consider ways to reduce the chance of multiple pregnancies, twins, triplets, or more. I think some people think Up to like 1213 children at a time, such as transferring only one embryo at a time. And then having multiple pregnancies. It's also important to get vaccinated for certain diseases as Lita had mentioned, such as the chicken pox or rubella. And that could, those if you should contract those illnesses while pregnant, that could be harmful to the developing baby. It's also important to have many of these vaccinations before you become pregnant. And as we've learned Also, before you have an organ transplant, or any of those things as well, for undertaking any major life changes,

Lita T 10:38

Right. And during pregnancy, you should have early and regular prenatal care, both for your health and for the end of your developing baby. You should wash your hands often with soap and water to help reduce the risk of infections that might cause harm to your developing baby. Contact your health care provider if you get sick, have a fever or have other signs of infection during pregnancy. a flu shot is your best protection in our in our opinion, against serious illness from the flu, or flu shot can protect pregnant women and their unborn babies, both before and after birth. flu shots have not been shown to cause harm to pregnant women or their babies. If there is a difference in the blood type, or the Rh in compatibility between the mother and the baby, like we said it can cause jaundice and Kernicterus. I'm not going to get that one

Ron 11:32

(laughter)

Jean 11:32

Nope We'll hear about that later.

Lita T 11:34

Yep, women should know their blood type and talk to their doctor about ways to prevent problems. And also you should talk to your doctor about ways to prevent problems if you are at risk for preterm delivery, such as if you have multiple embryos. Research has shown that taking magnesium sulfate before anticipated early preterm birth reduces the risk of CP among surviving infants.

Zain 12:00

And in addition to that, it also leaves reducing risks after the baby's born, because any baby can get jaun jaundice severe jaundice that is not treated, can cause brain damage. Just like the mom before pregnancy makes sure your child has vaccines against infections that can cause meningitis. And with it, we'll see if I can get this one, um encephalitis Buckling their child in the car. Buckling their child in the car using an infant or child car seat, booster seat or seat belt according to the child's height, weight and age. Again, this is just our opinion of recommendations that should be done. Make living area safe. Make living areas safer for children by using window guards. Keep young children from falling from falling out of open windows and using safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs. Make sure make sure the surface of your child's playground is made of a shock absorbing material such as hardwood mulch or sand, carefully watching children at the time. At all times are in bathtubs swimming or wading pools, and natural bodies of water that should that should just go for any young child in general disability or not. Adults watching kids in the water should avoid distracting activities like using a computer or a mobile device reading or taking or talking on the phone. Talking on the phone might be the most dangerous one, in my opinion.

Jean 12:24

Yep right on Yeah,

Zain 12:52

Make sure your child wears a helmet. For activities like riding a bike. That's an obvious one. And of course, never hit, throw, shake or hurt a child. I know the sound like common sense things, but some young mothers may not know how dangerous life is for a very young child. That's right. Great advice Zain. As a matter of fact, I just heard on the news that they they are trying to reach out to very young mothers mothers that really don't have perhaps a mentor. They might be on their own. They don't have the the background and those type of mothers. They just might not have all of these tools at their disposal. So hopefully this episode will help them

Jean 14:14

Yeah, not everyone's been you know babysitting. Yeah,

Lita T 14:17

Yeah. Great. Zain. What treatments are available for somebody that's been diagnosed with CP ?

Zain 14:24

For sure, um, There are medications that can help with the muscle spasticity. In July of this year, the FDA has approved an expanded use of Dysport to treat upper and lower limbs spasticity which I actually did not know about, including that caused by CP for patients as young as two years and older. Overtime, CP might cause problems with muscles, bones and joints in your child might need surgery to address these issues or concerns.

Ron 14:54

Right Right, Zain. What tips do you have for someone whose child has recently been diagnosed with CP

Zain 15:01

um while there's still an ongoing education process to be have to be had just from my own personal experience, I would not recommend panicking. If you can find the right resources available to parents out there today. them from when I was born 21 years ago that I think that's key just because the world is evolved so much in that time. I see having a trustworthy doctor and focusing on the things that the child can do is a key to begin a positive outlook on life. For sure.

Ron 15:32

Right.

Lita T 15:33

That's great advice. And what would you What have you found to be the most common misconception about CP?

Zain 15:42

I've noticed that a lot of people think that the people were born with CP are born exactly the same way. So I would say every person is born with it. So I would say the biggest misconception that people have is every person born with it as the same journey of life. While in actuality, people want to live with the condition and focus on the things they can control.

Ron 16:05

I like this kid.

Lita T 16:07

He's got a good he's got a good future ahead of him

Ron 16:10

Got a good outlook. Yeah, I mean, that's exactly we focus on what we can do not what is difficult or what we can't do.

Lita T 16:16

Right.

Ron 16:16

So I love the way you view that. Your outlook, Zain, um, how about your friends and family? What kind of role have they played in your life? And do you have any other support systems that you found to be helpful?

Zain 16:30

Yes, um thankfully, I have a good support system, both from friends and family. They've been extremely supportive in all my endeavors. Anything for me, scuba diving over a decade ago to participating in athletics as a social media manager in high school, or for the football and basketball teams, they've always been there. I also think that surrounding yourself with positive people will only make life more fun. And I've also recognized that focusing on your inner self motivation, working out meditation, any of those things, is also a good way to reset and focus on your whole self too. Because at the end of the day, what's inside you, in my opinion is most important. So

Jean 17:13

That's, that's fantastic. And I have a question. You're a Downers Grove North grad. Is that correct?

Zain 17:19

I sure I sure am absolutely.

Jean 17:22

We have three my my Lita's three grandsons all went to Downers Grove north too so you guys are all in good company. all, Alumns. Yes, all Alumns, I have a question. So what first interested you in journalism? And then what drew you specifically to sports journalism? Because I hear we actually read some of your some of your articles for Downers Grove North? And I'm just curious what first inspired that? Do you have like a favorite journalist?

Zain 17:49

Sure. So um, I mean, when I was in high school, I knew I wanted to do something. um in sports. Because um in middle school, I had been a public address announcer for the middle school basketball teams. And I knew I wanted to do something similar in high school, because of course, I can't physically play organized athletics. And when I was a junior in high school, I took a intro to journalism class. And thankfully, the teacher who's actually the current head softball coach, there was really big into sports and kind of drew me into the entire industry,

Jean 18:26

Okay,

Zain 18:27

And I took in all and I took in all the knowledge, and I just knew that's the path I wanted to pursue myself on. And, you know, thankfully, I was able to be given all these wonderful opportunities, and I owe a lot to him and, and of course, I owe a lot to, to my head coaches, that I was able to help out as a manager for varsity football, varsity basketball my final two years there, and you know that North's a place that's always going to be it's always going to be with me for a very long time. And I'm always going to consider Downers Grove home. So it's been a it's been a wonderful experience and a very, very good question.

Lita T 19:05

That's great. Yeah, I have another follow up. I'm sorry.

Ron 19:09

And I have a follow up your follow up.

Jean 19:10

(laughter)

Lita T 19:10

Ok alright

Ron 19:11

(laughter)

Jean 19:11

And then I have a follow up

Lita T 19:12

Alright Zain, You got us going here. Do you have a podcast yet?

Zain 19:17

Um, I did a very long time ago. At the moment. I have one right now. It's called Sports. Talk From A to Z. It's a podcast with me and my college roommate. Um, you can find it on YouTube by searching Sports Talk From A to Z, we talk about everything from sports, to social justice issues to things that we don't like with commissioners. It's pretty it's pretty interesting.

Ron 19:42

(Laughter) Sorry to laugh.

Zain 19:45

Yeah, we have. There's a lot there's a lot packed into it. We have about like 17 episodes or so.

Lita T 19:51

That's great.

Zain 19:52

We took a break for we took a break from it for a little bit. We're hoping it start it up again in the next couple weeks. Because of we really like doing it. And then I'm also a freelance writer for Insider.com I cover Illini-athletics and mixed martial arts. So if anything from the UFC Bellator and numerous other MMA organizations, I write about them as well. So I'm around, kind of in a couple of different media spaces, and I'm pretty easy to reach to. And we'll get to that near the end of the episode.

Lita T 20:24

Right, right, right, I just, you're just the way you're carrying the way you're carrying us through this episode. I wish you were running our pockets. (laughter)

Ron 20:33

I told you I like this kid.

Lita T 20:34

Ohhhh

Ron 20:35

So, you know what, I'm gonna probably show some of my ignorance over here. You're from Downers Grove. And we are basically in the Chicago region. I'm not a huge follower of follower of the White Sox. But I do know that the Chicago White Sox baseball team has an announcer that has CP I don't recall the gentleman's name, but have you ever reached out to him for any advice?

Zain 21:01

It's a very good question, as his name is Jason Benetti. He's a wonderful announcer. Unfortunately, I've tried reaching out to him multiple times. But um, you guys may not know this. He's a very, very busy person. Not only does he do White Sox baseball, he does college football and during his, big time college basketball games, through the winter months. I've tried a couple of times, things just haven't worked out. But I'm very hopeful that we can cross paths. And some day because he does have the same disability. I do. And he does tremendous work. And he's just somebody that I think a lot of people in the sports industry should continue to work up to, because he's going to be either the next generation of people that are going to be coming through the pipeline. So thank you again, for for mentioning that. Yes. I'm very well aware of who Jason Benetti is.

Ron 21:53

Okay. Cool. Cool. Cool. Cool.

Jean 21:54

And then I have another question. He had several questions. I try to limit it. Sorry.

Ron 21:58

(laughter) Um, he's like, are these people done yet?

Jean 22:01

Um, so Zain, what is it been like, at the university with COVID? And everything? And how is learning changed?

Zain 22:09

Um, I mean, it's been interesting. I actually decided to stay home for the semester because of COVID. But I think overall, the university has done a tremendous job with the revolutionary saliva test, they've been able to make it through the entire semester. And I'm looking forward to going back in the spring and just seeing what a COVID semester is going to be like, because I think we're going to be with this virus for a little bit. And, yeah, I think, I think it's just one of those things that where we kind of all have to get through it and stay positive and again, like, kind of the theme of this episode has been, we need to control what we can control at this point. And yeah, absolutely.

Ron 22:48

Okay. Speaking of control, I'm going to take control the mics right now I'm gonna cut off Jean and Lita, we're gonna wrap this up. And we do appreciate your time. But one thing I did want to talk about, I think somebody earlier mentioned something about water, or Dive or Dive Heart. But I know, you've been with an organization called Dive Heart that does scuba diving for children, adults and veterans with disabilities. But is it more than just jumping in the water or breathing underwater, does it? How much more does that affect you doing that sport?

Zain 23:31

Well, I mean, that's a great, that's a great question. First off, they've always been in tremendous organization. They, they, they gave me You know, they give people opportunities where they don't feel like they have kind of an avenue to go through. And that's one of the things that I felt when I was younger when I did it. So the freedom of movement underwater is one of the most satisfying things you could ever have. I think scuba is less about the act of getting underwater, and feeling relaxed, and more about all the prep stuff, the teamwork, the communication associated with being able to work with a group of experienced divers being able to learn all the different equipment and kind of what the kind of what the rules and regulations are and just being with people who are going to be there that are going to be able to support you as you kind of feel the freedom underneath underneath the water. And for some it's an exhilarating feeling because when they're out of the water they don't they either they either don't feel that movement or sensation or it's very difficult for them. So that's something that's something that I've noticed, just simply doing the sport and being a part of it for for as long as I was.

Ron 24:50

That's great. That's absolutely great. Thank you. Thanks so much for that.

Jean 24:54

And Zain. How can our listeners learn more about you, um, you were talking about how you have a you know, there's a Spots Talk From A to Z on YouTube. Do you have any other social media accounts?

Zain 25:06

Oh yeah, you can find me everywhere on all the major social media platforms from our Instagram, Twitter and Snapchat, or my handle was @ZainBando99 that's Z A I N B A N D O nine, nine. You can follow me on all of those. My DMS are always open. If anyone would like to talk, I'm always active via all those all the time. I'm actually a huge social media junkie so you can find me uhh you can find me anywhere.

Jean 25:36

So I want to put them in charge of the podcast. (laughter) Yeah. And, and our social media. Yes.

Ron 25:41

And my archery website.

Lita T 25:42

Right, right. Right, we're gonna get you going,

Jean 25:44

You're gonna be busier than, than Jason,

Lita T 25:47

Thank you. Thank you so much for joining us today's Zain we really appreciate it.

Zain 25:52

Oh, you're welcome. Thank you guys for having me on. Again. I was really happy that we were able to do this. And you go, I think you guys will continue. And you are continuing to do a good job of giving another platform for people to listen to before they can go out and make their own make their own decisions on what's best for them medically. So kudos to you guys for that and thank you again, you guys did a tremendous job and kept me entertained the whole time so thank you

Lita T 26:20

(laughter)

Ron 26:20

We're nothing if not entertaining.

Lita T 26:21

Oh yeah. We don't charge extra. If you have any questions or comments related to today's show, you could drop us a line at podcast [email protected] through our website, podcast dx.com and Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest or Instagram.

Ron 26:38

And if you have a moment to spare, please give us a five star review wherever you get your podcast. As always, please keep in mind that this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment, and before undertaking a new health care regime, and never disregard professional medical advice, or delaine. Taking it because of something you've heard on this podcast

Jean 27:09

Till next week.

Check out this episode!

#health care #medical #podcastDX #illness #surgery #recovery

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gaypersonalscouple03 · 4 years

Photo

Kolton Ray Works On A Big Black peewee North Westchester

THE FULL LIST!

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radioleary-blog · 6 years

Text

Long Names and Outsourcing Superheroes

It’s not easy writing political comedy.

One factor is the impermanence of a political joke. Even a great political joke has an expiration date, and political narratives change fast these days. Your average political joke has a shorter shelf-life than a pint of half & half that you left in the car. “Honey...when did I write this joke about Trump getting golden showers from Russian prostitutes? Is it still any good or should I throw it away?”

“How does it smell?” she replies from the living room.

“Whew! Pretty funky...I think it’s turned. Dammit! That was a good one.”

“So write a new one,” she says dully, without looking away from whatever TV program has unattractive British servants enduring wretched lives of 19th century drudgery. Which accounts for about half of all PBS programs. Or should I say “programmes.” They’re so depressing. They ought to call it “Downer Abbey.” Or “Upstairs, Downstairs, Blank Stares.” Seriously, man, how much does the BBC pine for the days when the lower classes knew their place? Is that really an era to romanticize, even if they do call it The Romantic era? And who the hell could enjoy watching shows about the help being treated badly? As for me, if I watch even ten minutes of a show with berated butlers and yelled-at scullery maids, I start to get angry. Every time I see some mutton-chopped, inbred Lord of the Manor lining up his staff to lecture and threaten them for poorly-polished silver, or for becoming ‘too familiar’, or for having any normal human desires whatsoever, I have the normal human desire to make him ‘too familiar’ with my fist in his mutton-chop face. Just once, I’d like to see one of the servants he’s giving a good “dressing-down” to turn around and give this privileged twit a good old working-class “beating-down.” I’d like to see the First Footman, or the Second Footman, or some Footman put that foot right up his aristocratic ass.

I was trying to think up some funny-sounding British aristocratic names as examples of noble pomposity, but it turns out they have this new thing called “the google,” so I just looked up some real names instead. These are just a few of the actual descendants of William the Conqueror, who, being British, conquered everything but brushing and flossing:

Flora Paulyna Hetty Barbara Abney-Hastings. That sounds like somebody who never had to fill out their name on a lot of forms. Good luck fitting that on a job application. But of course, nobody with a name that long and dreadfully upper-class ever had to look for work. The longer your name, the easier your life. Hey, I just realized that. I might actually be onto something. Who do you think works harder - a person named Prince Stuart Johann Knud Bernhard Felix Maria René Joseph de Bourbon-Parma (real name), or a guy named Stu Parma? If you’re having trouble figuring that one out, the title Prince is a big clue. The only Prince who ever broke a sweat died last year in Minnesota, and judging by his opioid addiction, it was probably a cold sweat. Stu Parma sounds like an ex-Checker Cab driver from Queens, whereas Prince longname there sounds like an exchequer for the Queen. Big difference between those jobs, and probably all because of the length of their names. Great, just what men need, one more length to feel inadequate about. The only people who work harder than guys named Stu and Kip and Sam are guys with even shorter names like Bo and Al and Ed.

Same thing probably holds true for women, I bet Vikki works a longer shift for less pay than Victoria does. And I bet Kat does things for money that Katerina never would. I’m not thinking sex-worker, necessarily, but if she did it would be all her idea. No, I was picturing Kat doing something more along the lines of a cage-match fighter, or rodeo girl, or tattoo artist. She could set up her own new-school tattoo shop and call it “KATTOOS.” And she’s more likely to be a fun person to party with, too. Kat is a bad-ass who keeps it real, and Katerina will not go down on you even on your anniversary. The longer the name, the less fun and the more stuck up you are. Here’s another real name, and I bet she isn’t bringing any beer or weed to your party: Countess Antonia Charlotte Jeanette Marie af Holstein-Ledreborg. Wow, really? Can we just call you c*ntess for short?

And with the titles and peerage to boot, these names really start to get re-goddam-diculous. Check this guy out, this is a real title: His Royal Highness the Prince Charles Philip Arthur George, Prince of Wales, Earl of Chester, Duke of Cornwall, Duke of Rothesay, Earl of Carrick, Baron of Renfrew, Lord of the Isles, Prince and Great Steward of Scotland, Royal Knight Companion of the most noble order of the Garter, Royal Knight Companion of the most ancient and most noble order of the Thistle, Knight Grand Cross of the most honourable order of the Bath, member of the order of Merit, Knight of the order of Australia, companion of the Queen’s service order, member of Her Majesty’s Most Honourable Privy Councillors, Aide de Camp to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth. WTF? That’s not a title, that’s the whole book! And the sequel! Keep in mind this is just a really fancy way of saying this guy is banging the Queen. This title is so long that when you start saying it you have 13 colonies in the Americas, and when you’re done saying it Cornwallis is surrendering at Yorktown.

But that’s the trouble with those british TV servants, they never fought back against the system like we did here in the colonies. That’s why their rigid class-structure hierarchy remained in place for so long, and they’re still sentimental for it in these godawful butler dramas. They never really had a lot of rebels in England, not for very long anyway, they either came here and started killing Indians, or they got arrested and shipped off to Australia to get eaten by sharks. Even today, British culture doesn’t celebrate the rebel like we do in America. The British never had a ‘Cool Hand Luke,’ more like ‘Keep Calm and Carry On Luke.’ The Brad Pitt ‘Fight Club’ character Tyler Durden sounds like it could be a proper English name, but if there was a ‘Fight Club’ in England, the first rule of Fight Club would be No Fighting.

And hey, did you ever hear Brad Pitt try to do a british accent? Yikes. He has all the range of a veal calf. He sounded worse than Bob Dylan trying to speak Chinese. But strangely, British actors have no problem at all doing American accents. Why is that? In fact, they have taken over a lot of our favorite tv and movie characters. On ‘The Walking Dead’, Rick Grimes, Maggie, Morgan, the Governor, and Jesus are all British. There are so many Brits on the show they should rename it ‘The Ambulatory Deceased’.

And the list includes some of our most beloved Superheroes. Henry Cavill, Christian Bale, Andrew Garfield are English, that’s Superman, Batman and Spider-Man. And even the new Spider-Man, Tom Holland is British. Both Jeremy Irons and Michael Caine were Alfred, which begs the question ‘What’s it all about, Alfred?’ (Ah, you’re too young to get that reference). Two actors have played Professor Xavier and they are both English, so are both actors who played Magneto. Fellow X-Men The Beast, Nightcrawler and Jean Grey, and Avengers Quicksilver and The Vision are British. So are the actors who played Doctor Strange, Daredevil, Commissioner Gordon, The Thing, Mister Fantastic, Odin, Ozymandias as well as super-villains Dr. Octopus, Sinestro, Killer Croc, Col. Stryker, Juggernaut, Toad, Azazel, The Lizard, and Loki. All English. Add to that Ryan Reynold’s Green Lantern is Canadian, while Eric Bana’s Hulk, Chris Hemsworth’s Thor and Hugh Jackman’s The Wolverine are Australian. An Australian Hulk? I understand they let Mel Gibson audition to play Hulk. But the Hulk is a rampaging rage monster who smashes everything in sight, and they felt Mel Gibson was just too angry for the role. Plus the Hulk isn’t anti-Semitic. I’m beginning to wonder if we have any American superheroes left, except for the Captain with America right in his name. If Donald Trump is going to bring back jobs to America, can he please start with our superheroes?

But I digress. I don’t remember what my point was, but I’m pretty sure I had one. Oh yeah, British servant shows. Why do women love these Victorian period pieces so much? They’re usually intelligent and independent women, too, yet these butler-laden bodice rippers get them steamier than an Icelandic orgy.

No, wait, I remember my point now: it’s not easy writing political comedy. Reason two, you get distracted. As I just demonstrated with the last ten paragraphs. I was saying the life of a political joke is short, and getting shorter. There was a time before the 24-hour news cycle when a political scandal stuck around for a long time. Watergate hung around for years and years, like an Irish houseguest. Comics in the 1970’s could take months to work out Watergate bits, and if they were solid, you could tell those jokes for half a decade. Fashions and music trends would change before your Watergate jokes got old. The first time you tell your Watergate joke on stage, you’re wearing bell-bottom jeans and a tie-dye T-shirt, and years later you’re telling it on stage wearing a white Disco suit. And it’s the same old joke about E. Howard Hunt, or H.R. Haldeman, or R.L. Stine, or George R.R. Martin, or whoever the hell was involved in the break-in. And actually, it kind of was a Game of Thrones, except instead of a dragon Queen who could walk through fire, you had G. Gordon Liddy who liked to hold a torch to his hand to show how tough he was. If you don’t know who he is, that’s okay, just picture Negan, but high on cocaine and patriotism.

People had better things to do in the 1970’s than obsess on scandals, and the only way to follow it was in newspapers and on the evening news. Which, if you were not home while the evening news was on, tough luck, there was no recording it. And 1970’s people were definitely out, and doing much cooler things than watching the evening news. Like driving around in a Pontiac Firebird and smoking a joint, or going to a Pink Floyd concert and smoking a joint, or throwing a key-party orgy and smoking a joint, or just smoking a joint and smoking a joint. You could do a lot of fun things in the 1970’s, as long as you had a joint. Those were the rules. Even if you got pulled over by the police, you better have a joint on you, the cops will ask you, “Licence..registration...proof of joint…”

So political scandals unfolded at a leisurely pace. Which is not to say people were not involved in politics, maybe it was the draft, or maybe it was the joint, but they were very involved. They were the only generation that ended an unpopular war through protest, and threw a corrupt President out of office. I think it was the weed, because after that, the police stopped making sure you had a joint.

But things are different in the Trump era. If you can call a presidency that only lasts until he quits this summer an “era”. More like the Trump “error”. Trump has a new scandal every day, every fourteen hours to be precise, so by the time you write a good joke, it’s over. It’s old news, and on to the next scandal. Tiny hands, Meryl Streep, grab ‘em by the pussy, Betsy DeVos, Michael Flynn, and now wiretap, the scandals are coming too fast. - That’s what she said! The jokes are obsolete by the time the pen leaves the paper, because by the time you read this, the whole wiretap scandal will be over and he’ll be on to the next inexcusable act. And that will only be like, two days from now.

I realize now that when I write about politics, I’m like one of those monks who make paintings out of different colored grains of sand. It takes them forever to do it, and the minute they’re done, they erase it. And they move on to the next one.

And I’ve never had more fun.

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before-we-get-started · 3 years

Text

Dream Come True

Colin Shea x O/C Corinne MacAdam

Multi-Chapter Story - Complete

Summary: Colin Shea and his band Rock the Cradle are finally making it big - until something unexpected happens. When he meets a girl that makes him reconsider his player ways, he thinks his life may be coming together, until she blows it apart.

Warning: Bad language, smut, suicidal ideations - no one under 18, please

Disclaimer: This is a pure work of fiction and classified as 18+. Please do not read if you are underage. I do not own the character of Colin Shea; the rest are my original characters. By reading beyond this point, you understand the disclaimers as posted.

Chapter Seven

Cori and Seth fell into a very comfortable rhythm, meeting for dinner, going for walks, catching an art exhibit, getting coffee. He was great company and she felt truly at ease with him.

“I told you about my fiancée, right?”

“Yeah,” he said sadly.

“Well I started seeing him my senior year of high school and we stayed together during college, even though we went to different schools.”

Colin took a swig of beer. “I think I know where this is going,” he said.

“Yeah. He cheated on me. Of course I thought it was the end of the world, except I didn’t even know what that was yet.”

“That’s tough,” said Colin and she let out a laugh.

“Colin. Seriously. For you, it’s incomprehensible. I know you probably think it was stupid that we even tried to stay together.”

“You must have felt like he was worth giving another chance,” he said.

He hesitated. “Do you want to talk about the rest? You don’t have to –“

He could see it too. He moved toward the couch to try and get closer to her. “It’s ok,” he said softly. “We can stop.”

Colin suddenly felt incredibly conspicuous. He stood up, dropping his beer bottle in the trash can. Seth eyed him over Cori’s shoulder.

“Hey Seth,” he said with a half smile.

“Colin, hey,” he said.

“Colin, you guys have to do this.” Cori was pacing around her apartment, talking with her hands, full of energy.

“I don’t know. It’s not what we normally do.”

“It’s a great way to get your name out to people who wouldn’t normally go to Rap’s or some of the other places you play. And it’s really good money.”

He was leaning against her kitchen counter, beer bottle in hand, the other rubbing the back of his neck. “Yeah, but this is different. This is a big, stuffy old people event.”

He shook his head and sighed. “I don’t make any decisions for the band, we do it as a group. I’ll ask them.”

“Make sure you tell them how much she’s paying,” she said with a smile.

“That’s what worries me. I know they’ll say yes.”

“Why is that so awful?”

“It’s not awful, it’s just – I don’t know, I never pictured us being that kind of band.”

“The kind that makes money?”

He shot her a look. “No,” he said forcefully, “a band that kind of sells out and plays just stuffy events.”

He smiled a little, he knew when he was beaten. “Fine. Give me all the details and I’ll talk to them at practice.”

“Great!” she squealed. “You guys are so hot right now, getting you at an exclusive event will be huge. And the venue is so awesome. I promise we’ll take good care of all of you.”

“Mm,” she said, taking a sip from her water bottle. “Thanks, let me check with Seth and I’ll let you know.”

“Oh, the invite is just for you. Since it’s employee appreciation, they told us we could each ask one person.”

“Wow,” she said, “I’m your plus one? I’m moving up in the world!”

“Damn right,” he said confidently and they both laughed.

“Alright, count me in. I’d love to come.”

“Alright, I’m out of here. And thanks for including us in the benefit. I don’t think I even bothered to thank you before I went full diva.”

She laughed, a sound he had come to love. “Well, if you’d said no, it was on to U2. I’m sure they wouldn’t mind being sloppy seconds to Rock the Cradle.”

He grabbed his left pec, laughing heartily. “Bono should be so lucky.”

For just a second, he had an impulse to kiss her. She looked so good, he loved that he made her smile so much. But he stopped himself – he had to do this right or he’d blow it.

“Ok, see ya later gator.”

She giggled. “Sorry to disappoint you!”

“If you’re looking for Colin, he’s in the bathroom squeezing into his leather pants. He’ll be out in a minute.”

She laughed as he led her to a table with some food and drinks.

“Help yourself,” he said.

“Thanks!” She grabbed some veggies and fruit and a bottle of water and found a chair by Kevin. The other guys were coming and going, getting ready.

“So,” she said, “is it good to be back at it and so busy?”

“Yeah,” he said. “There was a time I wondered if we’d get back but we did.”

“Yeah, Colin told me,” she said.

Cori knew he thought she knew more than she did, so she played along. “Yeah, just crazy. Thank goodness he was ok.”

Cori’s breath caught in her throat. She tried not to show her surprise.

For a second she felt guilty – she’d wondered if it was drug or alcohol related. How could she have thought that about him?

“Good news is here we are, back in the swing. I hear you got us a high-end gig.”

“What? Oh yes, did you all discuss?”

Kevin let out a laugh. “There’s nothing to discuss! It’s great money and exposure, we’re doing it.”

“You made it,” he said.

“Of course!”

Someone stuck their head in the door behind him – “five minutes.”

“That’s my cue. Have a great show, break a leg or whatever you say to a band.” She giggled.

“Thanks Cori.”

“Hey baby,” she said to Seth.

“Hey, you’re home.”

“Yeah, I left soon as the band finished.”

“I figured they’d have a big party after.”

She thought about the great time Colin was having with the gorgeous girl. “Nope, no party, just came home.”

“Aw, well I’m glad you’re home safe. We’re still on for Friday, right?”

“Yes! I’m so excited, I can’t believe you got us a table at Basile. You’re the best.”

“I fly in about 7 and I’ll head straight from the airport, should be there by 8 no problem.”

“Great, I can’t wait.”

“Hey,” she said.

He hesitated, then “Hey.”

“You guys were great last night.”

“Thanks. Hey – I need a favor, a big one. Can I come over?”

She looked at her watch. “Sure, I’m going in late today, I have plenty of time.”

He walked into her apartment clad in only his boxers and laid down on the couch, arm behind his head.

“What are you doing?” she said with a laugh.

“Waiting.”

“On what?”

“For Claire to leave.”

Cori looked perplexed. “Wait – why don’t you just ask her to leave?”

“She’s not awake yet.” He said all of this as if it was perfectly normal.

“So wake her up.”

“Well, we were up pretty late, I wanted to let her sleep. But I don’t want to be there, I just want her to go.”

She thought about this for a minute. “Why?”

He sat up on the couch and pulled a throw pillow over his crotch, resting his arms on it. “Remember when I told you there was one girl I thought was the one?”

“Yeah.”

“That’s her.”

Cori raised her eyebrows. “I understand. She’s stunning.”

She sat down on the chair. “A normal person would’ve said, ‘hey Claire, I was really disappointed in how it ended and I don’t want to be with you anymore.’”

He thought about that for a minute. “I mean, maybe. That never entered my mind. She looked really good last night and we had a few beers, probably too many. But that’s it, I’m done.”

“Yep,” he said, popping the ‘p’.

“But she was ok to fuck last night.”

Colin flinched at the words. He’d never heard Cori use any language like that. “Jeez Cori, where did that come from?”

“Look,” said Colin, “I think these are two different situations. I never thought about marrying her or anything, I just really liked her.”

He looked down at the floor, then back at her. “I’m sorry if you’re offended –“

He was speechless. What did she just say?

“Cori, hold on a minute –“

“I mean it. Go. Get out of here. Just go.”

He stood up from the couch and hesitated in front of her.

“Go,” she said with venom in her voice. He did as she said.

#chris evans #chris evans fanfic #chris evans fanfiction #chris evans angst #what's your number #dream come true #comics #colin shea fanfic #colin shea fanfiction #colin shea x ofc #colin shea x original fictional character #what's your number fanfic #what's your number fanfiction

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gessvhowarth · 6 years

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Things To Do Today In London: Wednesday 8 February 2017

What we're reading London's Fox News HQ watches... BBC? Why were tube tunnels originally painted white? How London is cannibalising its industry. Scotland Yard tackles pollution levels with hybrid police cars. Things to do Listen to Lesley Downer speak with Love at the Crossroads in Old Japan on Wednesday 8 Februrary I, ROBOT: Explore the world of robot science with Robots. The exhibition reveals the 500-year journey from a 16th century mechanical monk to modern day film's most iconic robot creations (we're looking at you, C-3PO). Science Museum, £15/£13, book ahead, 10am-11pm ROALD DAHL: It's a little-known fact that author Roald Dahl had a deep fascination with medicine. Listen to his friend and doctor, Tom Solomon, speak about the author's fascination. Royal College of Physicians, free, book ahead, from 6pm (lecture starts at 6.30pm) THE NAME'S BOND: Hear the story behind Ian Fleming's James Bond series on this James Bond and the Spies of Mayfair guided walk. Find out about the author's hometown, where he gambled and drank, and most importantly, where he found the inspiration for Bond. Marble Arch, £12, book ahead, 6.30pm-8pm MUSEUM OPERA: Spend the evening being serenaded among pickled moles at the Grant Museum. An improvised opera troupe will be giving musical performances about the museum's specimens, among other talks from museum experts. Grant Museum of Zoology, £12, book ahead, 6.30pm-9pm JAPANESE LOVE: Travel to Old Japan and discover the meaning of love. Join author Lesley Downer for a pre-Valentine's Day discussion on how there used to be no Japanese word for 'love'... until, in the last half of the 19th century, everything changed. Asia House, £8/$6/£4, book ahead, 6.45pm-8pm Listen Roald Dahl's friend, and doctor, speak about the author's fascination with medicine at the Royal Academy of Physicians. CRIME SCENE: Join a panel of top crime fiction writers for Dead Simple: Quick Reads Does Crime. The setup encourages you to take time out of your daily routine to read.... in this case, about people getting murdered. Foyles, Charing Cross, £5, book ahead, 7pm-8pm CELLS AND TISSUES: Learn about recent advances in understanding the way cells work, with Touching and Holding: The Social Lives of Our Cells. The Royal Institution, £14/£10/£7, book ahead, 7pm-8:30pm YOUTH IN REVOLT: A new generation of activists is changing the political and social landscape in London and beyond. Generation Revolution brings their story to the screen, showing the personal and political awakenings. A Q&A follows the screening. Stanley Halls, £8/£6, book ahead, 7pm-10pm I WAS DOOMED: You Were High When I Was Doomed is "a show that has something to do with endings and afterendings." Find out exactly what that means at IMT Gallery, free, just turn up, until 5 March SOMEBODIES & NOBODIES: Jo Brocklehurst's work documents her experiences with sex, androgyny and couture, which went onto inspire the work of designer Jean-Paul Gautier. House of Illustration, £7.50/£5/£4, book ahead, until 14 May Stage review: Under-ripe pair The best we can say about Dirty Great Love Story is it could make a great date night for Valentine's Day. That's because your own relationship will look so much better than dopy Richard and neurotic Katie's in this trying-too-hard two-hander in rhyming couplets. Otherwise it proves rom-com is best left to Richard Curtis movies as this feels like The Last Five Years without the songs or Constellations without the wit. That's unless you count drunken vomiting during an in-car blowjob as satire. Male lead Felix Scott is Adam's bit-on-the-side Charlie Thomas, from The Archers... and somewhat too hunky to play this dweeb. Dirty Great Love Story, The Arts Theatre, Great Newport Street, WC2. From £15.90, until 18 March [Monday-Saturday] ★★☆☆☆ Johnny Fox Art review: An algorithm on trial Helen Knowles, The Trial of Superdebthunterbot, 2016. Installation view, Zabludowicz Collection. Photo: Tim Bowditch The trial of superdebthunterbot looks at whether a computer programme can be held responsible for causing a death. Sit in a jury style bench and watch videos of the defence, the prosecution and the jury's deliberation. A particularly poignant art work. Helen Knowles: The trial of superdebthunterbot at Zabludowicz Collection, 176 Prince of Wales Road, NW5 3PT. Free, until 26 February ★★★★☆ [Wednesday-Sunday] Good cause for the day CHECK YOURSELF: Orchid and Cancer Black Care bring their Prostate Cancer Awareness Roadshow for African and Caribbean men to Lewisham on Wednesday. The idea is to help educate people on symptoms, risk factors and signs. Lewisham High Street, free, just turn up, 9am-5pm Funzing Fun things to do with our friends and sponsor Funzing. London Talks @ Night || The Science of Psychedelics Scientific research is resuming on how psychedelics affect the weirder aspects of human consciousness. This talk from Dr David Luke engages in current study into pyschedelics and their historical use in shamanic rituals. Be prepared, you might leave with more questions than answers. Get tickets BucketList Talks - How to follow your dreams Hear crazy true stories from the people who've probably done everything on your bucket list. Be inspired by tales of marathon running, exploring the Arctic at 16 and driving to Mongolia. Get tickets LDN Talks @ Night 2||How the Mind Heals your Body Learn to harness your mind to help your health and wellness. The placebo effect is scientifically proven fact and it's not an anomaly. There are many ways positive thinking can be of benefit to you in everyday life. Get tickets

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#London #Things To Do #THINGS TO DO TODAY IN LONDON #THINGS TO DO TODAY #things to do

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