#Gotham Surviving Pandemic 2021

[stardancerluv]

Christmas Musing

Gotham Surviving the Pandemic 2021

Summary: Roman is fluffy. It’s Christmas. (There may be a part 2)

Note: References last year’s Christmas fluff/comfort Roman story —-

Christmas Cuddles and Magic

Roman, stopped just short of the living room and watched you. He loved just how focused your were as strung the last strand of lights. When you did all the radiance of the lights illuminated at you. A smile curled his lips.

When you entered his life not only did you bring a breath of love to his dark heart but this, you made him also feel magical sprinkle of Christmas.

You turned and caught his eye and he watched as you smiled seeing him.

“Hey there handsome.”

He chuckled. “Hi beautiful.” He ran his gloved fingers through his hair.

Reaching out, he easily dimmed the lights so tree was even more radiant. Finally, then he came over to where you stood on the step stool and holding out a gloved hand he helped as you stepped down.

Your soft warmth was against him then and he wrapped an arm around you. The lights from the tree danced in your eyes as you looked up at him.

“I was starting to worry, you were going to be holes up in your office all day.”

“Nah, nothing was going to keep me from my girl on Christmas eve.”

He looked you over. Your lips were soft and pink as ever, a flush dusted your cheeks from probably going up and down those steps, and the ever so subtle wave in your hair framed your face. Though best of all he would never tire of the warmth in your eyes. Sure he loved…

relished, damn he enjoyed encouraging the fact that he was believed to be the most feared man in Gotham. And yet when you looked at him, he felt like merely man who was simply luckily enough to have you love him.

*****

You felt the heat raise in your cheeks. Sometimes, even now Roman still could make you flustered and breathless. You never wanted that feeling to ever end.

“Good. Because even if we can’t go and visit the Christmas shop windows this year, we are still making some sugar cookies.”

He rose an eyebrow and you spotting a playful glint. “Are those the cookies we roll out into all those different shapes?”

You chuckled into his chest, this gentle scent of his cologne making your heart skip delightfully. “Yes, Roman the ones where last year you scrawled your initials on in the likeness of us, even Victor.”

“Ahh.” He smiled broader. “Yes! Let’s make those.” He chewed on his bottom lip, as a shadow of seriousness fell over his face. “Maybe next year when its safer we can look at the shop windows again.”

You nodded. “They’ll be even better.”

“You bet they will be.”

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[gokinjeespot]

off the rack #1316

Monday, March 8, 2021

 Coming up on a year since the pandemic started. I hope you're all healthy and safe. I am hopeful that vaccines will be deployed widely and help us all feel less anxious. I am fortunate enough to be one of those people who is happy as a bug snug in a rug while self isolating. I do really miss my dear friends and family but hugs can wait until we're all vaccinated.

 My thanks to Doug for lending me these comic books to read.

 Batman Annual #5 - James Tynion IV (writer) James Stokoe (art) Clayton Cowles (letters). It's the origin of Clownhunter and it's not very original. If I had to pay $4.99 US I would have passed on this and lived with leaving a hole in my Batman collection. If you're not familiar with this new vigilante, he's an Asian teenager named Bao who decides he's going to kill the Joker and all of the villain's sycophants. The reason he becomes Clownhunter (and killer) is very mundane. I wish they could have come up with a new motivator. Maybe the philosophical discussion about what to do about the Joker might interest some fans but I found this story quite tedious. I also didn't like the way Bao and his parents were portrayed. Did they really have an Asian saying "Ah, so"? Yes they did on page 8. Shades of Charlie Chan, Batman. I was not offended, just disappointed.

 Batman/Catwoman #3 - Tom King (writer) Clay Mann (art) Tomeu Morey (colours) Clayton Cowles (letters). I was thrilled to see the town of Port Orange, Florida mentioned on the first page. My pal Al lives there. It's also where Selina finally catches up with the Joker and does what Batman never did. I love this Black Label book taking familiar characters and treating them in a new and interesting way. Here's a future where Selina has survived her husband Bruce's death and their daughter Helena is the new Batwoman. Now I wait to see how mother and daughter deal with the Angel of Death.

 And now, more Future State books.

 Future State: Robin Eternal #2 - Meghan Fitzmartin (writer) Eddy Barrows (pencils) Eber Ferreira (inks) Adriano Lucas (colours) Pat Brosseau (letters). The consequence of Tim Drake/Robin being dunked in Lazarus resin is that now he's immortal. Whoop-dee-doo. Not only is this a boring Robin beats up bad guys issue but the art lacked any logical perspective. This issue takes place on a train but you would think it's in a huge building based on the art. I know it's comic books but I hate when one doesn't make visual sense. I think that's just laziness.

 Future State: Kara Zor-El Superwoman #1 & #2 - Marguerite Bennett (writer) Marguerite Sauvage (art) Wes Abbott (letters). This 2-issue fairy tale was not meant for old farts like me and Doug. With it's soft pastel colours these books should have included glitter and bubblegum flavoured lip gloss. Maybe young tween girls will like this. The moral of this story is "no one is born wise".

 Future State: Dark Detective #3 - Mariko Tamaki (writer) Dan Mora (art) Jordie Bellaire (colours) Aditya Bidikar (letters). There are not one but two Batmans in this issue. You've got Bruce in his new capeless costume but here he's wearing a trench coat to give that fluttering effect, and then there's the new guy in the Bat suit, cape and all. The "uh-oh" point of the story hits here when the bad guys discover where Bruce is hiding out. The Matthew Rosenberg (writer) Carmine Di Giandomenico (art) Antonio Fabela (colours) & AndWorld Design (letters) Grifter story concludes here too with a double cross and a whole lot more of Helena/Huntress. This is my favourite Future State book so far.

 Future State: Superman of Metropolis #1 & #2 - Sean Lewis (writer) John Timms (art) Gabe Eltaeb (colours) Dave Sharpe (letters). If you're wondering how a grown up Jonathan Kent takes over for his dad as Metropolis's protector then these two $5.99 US books will satisfy your curiosity. The villain of the story is an evolved Brainiac who is a big multi-mouthed ball now. Metropolis is shrunk ala the bottle city of Kandor, the citizens go nuts but Jon returns things back to normal in the end with the help of Kara/Supergirl. I don't know why Kara's a girl in this story and a woman elsewhere. Each issue has two back-ups so you get your money's worth. One features Mister Miracle and the other the Guardian. They are both dealing with bad things inside the bottled Metropolis. You won't miss much if you don't read them. The Mister Miracle story "The Metropolis Menagerie" is done my Brandon Easton (writer) Valentine De Landro (art) Marissa Louise (colours) Dave Sharpe (letters). The Guardian story is brought to you by Sean Lewis (writer) Cully Hamner & Michael Avon Oeming (art) Laura Martin (colours) AndWorld Design (letters). This one got me excited because a villain wants to throw Jimmy Olsen off of the Daily Planet building.

 Future State: Catwoman #2 - Ram V (writer) Otto Schmidt (art) Tom Napolitano (letters). Read this to find out if Catwoman saves the lives of the people on the train. You will also find out if Bruce is freed from the bad guys. Talia Al-Ghul appearing is the deus ex machina in this story. I like the new Cheshire and Onomatopoeia is always fun.

 Future State: Superman: Worlds of War #2 - Phillip Kennedy Johnson (writer) Mikel Janin (art) Jordie Bellaire (colours) & Dave Sharpe (letters). In "The Many Deaths of Superman" the Man of Steel fights in the arena of Warworld where Mongul resurrects him after every death match. It's the typical brutal battle scenes and super villain gloating. What's more compelling is an old newspaper story that Clark Kent wrote that inspired a young woman who travels to Smallville. I was totally confused by the three back-up stories featuring Mister Miracle, Midnighter and the Black Racer because they were not very good. I am a completist and have to finish what I start. I could have stopped reading after the $3.99 US main story in this bloated $7.99 US comic book  but my obsessive compulsive nature wouldn't let me. It's a character flaw I wish I could change.

 Future State: The Next Batman #1 - John Ridley (writer) Nick Derington (art) Tamra Bonvillain (colours) Clayton Cowles (letters). All the teasers for this book hyped the fact that this Batman is black. You won't get the secret identity in this first issue but there are a bunch of likely candidates. Lucas Fox is a possibility but it's confusing because he's a bad guy in another Future State book. This is another $7.99 US book with back-ups. These are more coherent than the ones in Future State: Superman: Worlds of War.

Future State: Outsiders by Brandon Thomas (writer) Sumit Kumar (pencils) Sumit Kumar & Raul Fernandez (inks) Jordie Bellaire (colours) & Steve Wands (letters) gathers together some old Batman associates helping Gotham City citizens escape persecution by the Magistrates outside Gotham City's borders. Get it? It was nice seeing Katana in action.

Future State: Arkham Knights by Paul Jenkins (writer) Jack Herbert (art) Gabe Eltaeb (colours) & Rob Leigh (letters) gathers together some of Batman's rogues gallery to fight the oppressive Magistrate. Two-Face, Mr. Zsasz, Dr. Phosphorus, Killer Croc and other ex-inmates of Arkham Asylum are being lead by an armoured Astrid Arkham. It's super villains being super heroes.

 Future State: The Next Batman #2 - John Ridley (writer) Nick Derington (breakdowns) Laura Braga (art) Arif Prianto (colours) Clayton Cowles (letters). We learn the secret identity of the new caped Batman in this issue. It's Lucas Fox's brother. He has a brother? This also has three new back-up stories.

"Batgirls" is by Vita Ayala (writer) Aneke (art) Trish Mulvihill (colours) & Becca Carey (letters). Batgirl/Orphan Cassandra Cain gets locked up in the Magistrate Detention Facility where both good guys/white hats and bad guys/black coats are incarcerated. She got caught on purpose because her mission is to find Oracle and Batman and free them. She gets help from Spoiler who is queen of the inmates. In this reality Cass is way more articulate than she used to be. I didn't like that. I also didn't like that in the other Future State stories the Magistrate foot soldiers have a shoot to kill order for any masks that they encounter. Why are all of these masks alive? Anyways, this part ends with the white hats and black coats forming an alliance so Cass can get on with her mission.

"Gotham City Sirens: Ladies' Night Out" is by Paula Sevenbergen (writer) Rob Haynes (breakdowns) Emanuela Lupacchino (pencils) Wade von Grawbadger (inks) John Kalisz (colours) Becca Carey (letters). Catwoman and Poison Ivy spring a domestic droid named Dee Dee (get it?) from servitude and they have a night on the town at a bar. The bar is run by Sam Bradley and both super heroes and villains can imbibe in peace. Fans of Sex and the City may like this. Not a lot of drama until the last page when the joint is raided by Magistrate goons and major characters are shot.

 Future State: The Next Batman #3 - John Ridley (writer) Nick Derington (breakdowns) Laura Braga (art) Arif Prianto (colours) Clayton Cowles (letters). This is the "uh-oh" moment in the story where the hero is felled by the villain. A wounded Batman is attacked by the murderer he's trying to bring to justice. I saw that coming.

I like the change with Black Lightning in the Outsiders back-up.

I like the art in the Arkham Knights back-up even though the dialogue is eye roll inducing.

 Future State: The Next Batman #4 - Jace/Batman lives, as if that was in any doubt. This story would have been a lot more interesting if Bruce/Batman was really dead. Even if the Future State line of comics dies out this Next Batman is a cop out. The Batgirls story ends with Cassandra/Orphan saving Barbara/Oracle and the Resistance gaining ground on the Magistrates. The Gotham City Sirens story ends with Catwoman and Poison Ivy helping the Resistance get an advantage in their war with the Cybers thanks to Dee Dee.

 I admit that I was sucked in by the hype for this mini. The Next Batman being black intrigued me. The story itself was meh and I would not have missed anything by not reading it. I was not engaged as a mature reader but I think someone in their teens might like all the stories in these four issues.

[aion-rsa]

DC FanDome: Schedule, Date, Time, and How to Watch

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Fans hoping for major DC news in lieu of an actual San Diego Comic-Con are definitely going to get just that at DC FanDome, a digital event designed to be watched at home like a real con.

Originally set up as one epic night of panels and reveals, DC announced that it will be splitting FanDome into two separate and distinct events: Hall of Heroes, which will be held in late August, and WatchVerse in mid-September.

The August date still holds most of the big-ticket items. It’s billed by DC as “an epic world designed personally by Jim Lee featuring special programming, panels and exclusive reveals from a wide variety of films, TV series, games, comics and more.” Functionally, it’s the Hall H of FanDome.

This DC FanDome trailer gives fans a good glimpse at what they can expect from the event:

Here’s everything else you need to know about DC FanDome:

DC FanDome Date and Time

The first DC FanDome event, Hall of Heroes, kicks off on Saturday, Aug. 22 at 1 pm ET. Sign up to watch here!

DC FanDome Schedule

Here’s a rundown of all the panels happening during DC FanDome: Hall of Heroes. The panel descriptions below are courtesy of DC. All times are ET:

1:00 PM – Wonder Woman 1984 Panel

“Wonder Woman 1984 stars Gal Gadot, Chris Pine, Kristen Wiig and Pedro Pascal, and director/co-writer/producer Patty Jenkins join forces with Brazilian hosts Érico Borgo and Aline Diniz to celebrate the fans in a big way. They will answer questions from fans from all over the world, talk fan art and cosplay, and reveal an all-new sneak peek at the upcoming film — plus a few more surprises!”

1:25 PM – WB Games Montreal Announcement

“Gamers! You won’t want to miss this first look at an exciting new game, and Q&A with its developers.”

1:45 PM – The Sandman Universe: Enter the Dreaming Panel

“Neil Gaiman, Dirk Maggs, G. Willow Wilson and Michael Sheen discuss the legacy of The Sandman comic book series and how it has been expanded with new stories, adapted into new mediums, and enthralled audiences around the world.”

2:15 PM – Multiverse 101 Panel

“Get schooled in this engaging refresher course on the creation of the Multiverse with DC Chief Creative Officer/Publisher Jim Lee, Warner Bros. Pictures President of DC-Based Film Production Walter Hamada, and Berlanti Productions founder/DCTV mega-producer Greg Berlanti.”

2:40 PM – Flash Movie Panel

“This 101-style conversation with The Flash filmmakers Andy Muschietti and Barbara Muschietti, star Ezra Miller and screenwriter Christina Hodson will give fans a speedy rundown on the first-ever Flash feature film.”

2:50 PM – Beyond Batman Short

“The Batman of Swinging Sixties culture clashes with the Batman of the far-flung future when Batman Beyond and his mentor, Old Bruce Wayne, intercept a broadcast of the 1966 Batman TV show!”

2:55 PM – The Suicide Squad Panel

“What else would you expect from The Suicide Squad but the ultimate elimination game? First up, writer/director James Gunn takes on fan questions, then brings out Task Force X for a fast-paced, no-holds-barred Squad Showdown that tests every team member’s Squad knowledge — and survival skills!”

3:40 PM – BAWSE Females of Color within the DCU Panel

“What’s a BAWSE? Find out here as some of the hottest actresses across DC television and film sit down with celebrity DJ D-Nice and Grammy-winning singer/actress Estelle to discuss how they use their confidence and vulnerability to navigate their careers in Hollywood. Panelists include Meagan Good (SHAZAM!), Javicia Leslie (Batwoman), Candice Patton (The Flash), Tala Ashe (DC’s Legends of Tomorrow), Nafessa Williams and Chantal Thuy (Black Lightning), and Anna Diop and Damaris Lewis (Titans). Catch the entire full-length conversation at McDuffie’s Dakota in the DC WatchVerse.”

4:00 PM – Legacy of the Bat Panel

“Calling all Batman fans! Don’t miss this discussion on the wide scope of the Batman universe, including the Batman Family of characters. Key talent from comics, TV, and games will provide insight into the world of Caped Crusader.”

4:30 PM – Joker: Put on a Happy Face

“Featuring interviews with filmmakers and industry legends, discover the origins and evolution of The Joker, and learn why the Clown Prince of Crime is universally hailed as the greatest comic book Super-Villain of all time.”

4:45 PM – Surprise DC Comics Panel

TBA

5:10 PM – I’m Batman: The Voices Behind the Cowl Panel

“Everyone has their favorite Batman. But for audiences around the world, their favorite Batman has a local sound. It’s time to meet the voices behind the cowl. Hear what it’s like to be one of the many global vocal actors portraying the Dark Knight when the Super Dubbers, who lend their talents to the Caped Crusader on screens big and small all over the world, come together for the first time ever.”

5:30 PM – The Snyder Cut of Justice League Panel

“Zack Snyder fields questions from fans and a few surprise guests as he discusses his eagerly awaited upcoming cut of the 2017 feature film and the movement that made it happen.”

5:54 PM – The Flash TV Panel

“Executive producer Eric Wallace joins cast members Grant Gustin, Candice Patton, Danielle Panabaker, Carlos Valdes, Danielle Nicolet, Kayla Compton, and Brandon McKnight to discuss all things Flash with Entertainment Weekly’s Chancellor Agard. Team Flash will break down both parts of season six and look ahead at what is to come with an exclusive trailer for season seven. Fans will also get a look at the exclusive black-and-white noir episode ‘Kiss Kiss Breach Breach,’ which will be available on The Flash season six Blu-ray and DVD on August 25.”

6:10 PM – Black Adam Panel

“Star of the first-ever Black Adam feature film Dwayne Johnson sets the stage for the story and tone of the new movie with a fans-first Q&A…and a few surprises.”

6:30 PM – CNN Heroes: Real Life Heroes in the Age of the Coronavirus

“While DC features iconic fictional Super Heroes recognized around the world, CNN Heroes shines a light on real-life, everyday people making a difference in their communities. Now, as the global Covid-19 pandemic has turned all of our worlds upside down, CNN’s Anderson Cooper introduces you to the frontline workers, advocates, neighbors, and friendly strangers who are coming together to help us through this crisis.”

6:50 PM – Titans TV Panel

“’Titans are back, b*tches!’ That phrase kicked off an explosive second season of Titans that culminated with the long-awaited emergence of Nightwing as their leader and the tragic death of one of their own. And as a new mysterious threat looms, season three promises to be the biggest yet! Join executive producer Greg Walker and series stars Brenton Thwaites, Anna Diop, Teagan Croft, Ryan Potter, Conor Leslie, Curran Walters, Joshua Orpin, Damaris Lewis, with Alan Ritchson and Minka Kelly for a preview of the new season as well as a discussion on the ‘Fan Favorite Moments’ of the first two seasons.”

7:05 PM – Aquaman Panel

“Aquaman director James Wan and King Orm himself, Patrick Wilson, take a deep dive into the world of Atlantis that Wan created, revealing their favorite behind-the-scenes moments from the largest DC movie ever!”

7:15 PM – “Ask Harley Quinn”

“She has gone toe-to-toe with Batman and the Justice League, and taken down The Joker and the toughest villains of Gotham City, but at DC FanDome, Harley Quinn faces her toughest challenge yet — answering burning questions from DC’s biggest fans in her own tell it as it is, no-BS style. If you love the Harley Quinn animated series, this is one you cannot f—king miss!”

7:20 PM – Wonder Woman 80th Anniversary Celebration Panel

“As an Amazon and a god, Wonder Woman is truly timeless. So, it’s hard to believe she’s turning 80! Join Wonder Woman 1984 director Patty Jenkins and star Gal Gadot, along with a very special guest, as they reflect on the character’s influence on them personally, and look forward to the 2021 celebrations!”

7:25 – Tomorrow’s Superheroes with Jim Lee

“DC Chief Creative Officer/Publisher Jim Lee joins Bing Chen, founder of the global non-profit collective Gold House, to discuss the important contributions of Asian artists and writers in comics and comic book–inspired entertainment.”

7:40 PM – SHAZAM! Panel

“Zac Levi and the cast can’t tell you s#&t! Sworn to secrecy on the new script for their upcoming movie, Zac and a few of his SHAZAM! castmates talk with the Philippines’ #1 DC fan, Gino Quillamor, about what the next movie might be about, while commenting on everything from panels to the other Zack’s cut — and even have a few surprise guests drop in!”

8:10 PM – Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League Panel

“Will Arnett hosts the highly anticipated video game reveal from Rocksteady Studios, creators of the Batman: Arkham franchise.”

8:30 PM – The Batman Panel

“The Batman filmmaker Matt Reeves joins host and self-professed fangirl Aisha Tyler for a discussion of the upcoming film…with a surprise (or two) for the fans!”

You can check out the full DC FanDome schedule here.

DC FanDome Live Stream

While DC FanDome is free for all to enjoy, you will need to create an account on DCFanDome.com in order to watch the event. You’ll then be able to access each panel via the DC FanDome program scheduler.

Following the conclusion of The Batman panel at the end of Hall of Heroes, the Fandome schedule will then cycle back through two more times, giving you three shots to watch in a 24-hour period.

DC FanDome: WatchVerse Date and Time

DC will host a second, on-demand FanDome event called WatchVerse on Saturday, Sept. 12 at 1 pm ET. While viewers will be able to access all content in any order they please, the event will only be available for 24 hours.

This event will include the previously announced panel on the expansion of “DC’s Watchmen Universe” discussion with Damon Lindelof and Tom King talking Rorschach, a Joker War panel with Batman writer James Tynion IV and Batgirl scribe Cecil Castellucci, a Three Jokers panel with Geoff Johns and Jason Fabok, a panel on John Ridley’s exciting upcoming The Other History of the DC Universe, and more.

The post DC FanDome: Schedule, Date, Time, and How to Watch appeared first on Den of Geek.

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[dearevanhansenofficial]

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“YOU WILL BE FOUND” NATIONAL COLLEGE ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGE 2021 | DEAR EVAN HANSEN

In partnership with Gotham Writers Workshop and the Broadway Education Alliance, DEAR EVAN HANSEN invited 11th-grade and 12th-grade students across the country to write a college-application style essay that describes how they channeled “You Will Be Found” to ensure those around them were a little less alone over the last year, or, alternatively, a moment where they found comfort in connection.

READ SECOND RUNNER UP MIRA KWON’S FULL ESSAY:

I felt like a fraud. 

“High Schooler Creates Free Grocery Delivery Service for Seniors” - LA Times

“This Student is Making a Huge Difference in COVID-19 Relief” - NPR

“Mira Kwon Delivers Hope” - Spectrum News

To the readers of The LA Times or listeners of NPR, I was a model high school student. I was giving back to the community by founding a grocery delivery service for the elderly during the pandemic. 

If only they knew that I had just spent hours emailing my volunteers’ parents who were worried their teenagers might contract the virus in grocery stores. I tried partnering with “safer” boutique shops, but shop owner after shop owner was uninterested in my “little project.” Once I did secure a local produce shop, instead of running helpful errands, I spent more time pacifying angry senior clients who were irritated that we could not provide Trader Joe’s Onion Bagels or Prego Traditional - not Italian - Pasta Sauce from Ralph’s. The friends I had recruited stopped responding to my messages. And then, just before the LA Times interview, I received a text. They had quit. 

During the interview, I felt a tightness in my chest. I nodded and smiled when the journalist asked how I managed it all: the number of orders, the growing demand, my schoolwork. I was reluctant to tell her that we averaged about ten orders per week as opposed to the ten per day she assumed. Clearly, I was no source of strength for my community.

Then Mary called. 

She didn’t request much: some fruit, bagels, and roasted chicken. When I arrived, she was waiting for me on her porch. She picked up a white peach, and smelled its sweetness. She began to cry. “I had a dream last week. I was eating the most beautiful, ripe fruit. I ate in small bites so I could savor it.” Mary told me that she lived alone, with her only relatives far away. A stroke had left her disabled, and for weeks, she survived on saltine crackers and Apple & Cinnamon oatmeal packets. “You made my dream come true,” she said.  

Her simple words filled me with renewed hope and offered a glimpse of clarity. I felt like a charlatan, but to Mary, I was her lifeline. Have I been defining my impact, my success, too broadly? It was not how many people I served, but how meaningfully. 

I went back to the emails, found new partners and vendors, and kept working through each new challenge. 

Today, Mary no longer has to dream of fruit. Every week, I look forward to sitting on the weathered steps of her porch and sharing stories. Mary tells me about her life in Guadalajara as we flip through her old photo album. I tell her I have played the drums since second grade. She asks me to play for her sometime and that it's okay if it’s loud; she’s losing her hearing anyways.

She tells me about the stroke she had a few years ago and the metal inside her body that supports her damaged knees. I confide in her about my mother’s car accident that occurred around the same time - how I found my mother lying on the street, motionless, the silver Prius that hit her crashed into a light post nearby. Sadly, a few moments earlier, my mother had called me, but I hadn’t picked up. “I’ve never told anyone that before,” I say.  

“Don’t feel bad,” Mary tells me. “Cherish her now. You don’t want to end up alone like me.” 

We sit in silence for a moment.

“You are not alone,” I tell her. 

I’ve realized that one person may not be able to change the world. But, it is possible to change the world for one person.

Thank you, Mary, for changing mine.

Mira Kwon Marlborough School Los Angeles, CA

[usgag]

Party’s over: Iconic NYC venues struggling amid pandemic

On July 9, Manhattan’s uber-swanky party venue Gotham Hall hosted its first event since the pandemic hit in March.

The ballroom, where Elton John and Mariah Carey have performed for private events, had donated the sumptuous space — complete with marble floors, 70-foot ceilings and stained-glass skylight — to the New York Blood Center for a blood drive.

Only 17 people showed up.

“We had our sanitation crew come into the building for the first time since March 11,” Gotham Hall’s managing director, B. Allan Kurtz, told The Post about the depressing affair.

The measly turnout, industry sources say, reflects the gloomy outlook facing iconic Big Apple party spaces — from Gotham Hall to the Rainbow Room to the Plaza Hotel — as the coronavirus pandemic wears on.

Once bustling with stylish weddings, splashy corporate galas and charitable balls peppered with A-listers, New York City’s glamorous party venues have been sitting dormant for months, unable to make money. Industry sources now say they don’t see an out until 2021 at the earliest — raising questions about whether the city’s famed party venues will even survive.

“This is a dire situation,” said Arthur Backal, who runs the Mandarin Oriental’s party spaces, among others. “Before the fall season we will hear about venues that are closing for good.”

The Copacabana in Times Square was shuttered in May, and the events staff at the luxurious St. Regis Hotel in Midtown East was recently laid off, sources told The Post.

The Plaza Hotel, where Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones were married, has already moved some 90 parties booked for this year, said Mike Warren, director of events at the posh Central Park South location. Warren now expects twice as many bookings to be moved or canceled by the end of the year, representing tens of millions of dollars in lost revenue, he told The Post.

On Friday, an array of professionals who rely on the party industry — including caterers, DJs and audio-visual engineers — set up 48 empty tables with chairs in Times Square to draw attention to their plight as federal lawmakers hammer out another coronavirus stimulus program.

Their concern is that the party industry, estimated to generate $10 billion in annual sales in the region, has been frozen out of billions in pandemic aid going to other industries because the loans are based on the number of employees brought back to work.

“We need a bridge from now until these businesses reopen,” Warren said of the industry”s request to lawmakers.

Right now their best hope is for Gov. Andrew Cuomo to OK small indoor gatherings of 10 to 50 people in the city starting this fall, which could lead to some bookings — albeit less lucrative than before.

“If someone called a year ago and said we have an event for 25 guests, I would have said, ‘We are too large for that,’ ” Kurtz of Gotham Hall told The Post. “Now when someone calls for an event for 10 people we listen to them. We would consider renting the space for $10,000.”

To keep the lights on, Gotham Hall is also researching whether it might also rent to schools that need space to adhere to new social distancing rules. The city, for example, has issued requests for proposals for spaces to accommodate public school children at $40 per child for the day, which is a far cry from the $25,000 to $75,000 fee Gotham Hall charges for the use of its space.

Kurtz is hopeful, however, that private schools and universities might make a better offer. “We can set up a lecture hall for 200 people,” he said.

The Gotham Hall director is also in discussions with prominent funeral homes, including Frank E. Campbell, to host small memorials.

The Plaza — famous for its lavish 300-person weddings that can cost upwards of $400 a plate, or $120,000 — is considering opening its doors to “micro-weddings” of 10 or 20 people, although guests can opt to add dozens more guests virtually. The lowest possible cost for these intimate weddings, however, will be $25,000, Warren said.

“We need at least that amount to cover our costs.”

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[stardancerluv]

Gotham Surviving a Pandemic 2021

Part Six

Summary: Months into trying to survive and be successful in Gotham while the virus has many highs and lows. The only constant is Roman’s life with you.

Roman swiveled in his chair. It had been a rough week. There are already had been so many ups and downs with things reopening. His patience has been hitting its limits. If it wasn’t for you he knew that ocean would be a grave to more and a lot more faces would be freed from their owners.

He still prided himself he was one of the few clubs where no one got fucking sick. Sure he had been keeping an eye things alot more. The photo of you on his desk caught his eye and he sighed. Time between the two of you had been a bit sparse. He felt horrible about. But it had all been done to keep you safe.

When that photo had been taken, all he had cared about back then had been two things. One was showing you off. You were so precious to him. Still were. He also had been concerned with what new slice of Gotham was going to be his next.

The plague and his plans had made is new title of crime lord solid. He fucking loved it. Several had to answer him now. It was also that reason why the cases from the plague had dropped.

He sipped at his whiskey, first things were first. He smiled as he grabbed his phone.

Roman could hear the man swallow.

Florist: Umm, Flowers Inc. is this Mr. Sionis?

Roman: Roman, please.

He smiled.

Florist: Certainly. Of course. Roman.

Roman: Thank you. Now, I am looking to send a bouquet today.

Florist: We can do that. To your girl?”

Roman rolled his eyes. He let it go.

Roman: None other, only one who deserves them. I was thinking of Red Roses and mmm Blue Irises. Can you text me the images of some of your bouquets with that?

Florist: Classy. Of course. How are these three.

Roman smiled even broader.

Roman: Good to see you so prepared.

His phone dinged. He looked through them. He nodded. He knew.

Roman: The first one.

Florist: That’s fantastic. When would you like it?

Roman looked at his wrist watch as he balanced his phone on his shoulder.

Roman: Eleven-thirty.

Florist: But that’s in forty minutes.

Roman made a face and inhaled.

Roman: So? I can pay, double or triple.

The florist sighed.

Florist: Regular, price is fine Roman. Hand delivery?

Roman: Yes. Victor will collect it at the bar in the club.

Florist: The bar? Victor?

Roman bit his cheek not to laugh. Roman smiled around the words as he spoke.

Roman: We’re not having any important meetings in the club anymore, too messy. If you come yourself, you’ll see my dancers practice.

Florist: Oh, well umm Roman that is nice.

Roman: I thought so. Now, get to it. It’s thirty-seven minutes now. And you can have a drink after delivery.

Florist: Oh. Well, that is even nicer. Thank you, Roman.

Roman’s mouth formed a line.

Roman: Enough pleasantries. We’ll see you soon.

He hung up and messaged Victor to wait downstairs. Putting his phone down, he finished his whiskey. Then where he sat he stretched and a content sigh came from his lip. Eyeing the dark suit, he decided to change.

Stepping into his walk in closet, the crisp soft gray one would be perfect. In his just his silk boxers, he washed his face and ran his comb through his hair. With some fresh cologne on he slipped into the grey suit. He felt better.

With an almost bounce in his step, he went down to where you were working. His worries could visit later. Right now, all he had heart set on was you.

“Roman?” Victor’s voice was barely above a whisper, where do want these?”

He turned. “Oh, they’re here already good.” Pushing his sleeve aside his smile broadened. “Here in twenty.” He said aloud and nodded. “Put them where, Y/N usually sits.” He pressed his lips together. “Are they still here?”

Victor nodded.

“Good, give them a good tip and let them have an extra drink.”

“Sure thing.” He met his eyes. “She’ll love them.” I

“I know they will. You should order a bouquet for Dollface.”

Victor scratched his neck. “Maybe. Not sure if she likes flowers.”

“Really, Victor?”

Victor cracked a smile. “She likes knives better.”

“Then go and get her a knife. Sometimes, little surprises are nice.”

“Suppose you’re right.”

Roman rose an eyebrow. “I am.”

“You are. I’ll go and look for one.”

“Good.” Roman walked away then. Victor sometimes was too soft but hey after all that time after one roof, he got it. He was good man. So he didn’t mind. Good thing he didn’t rub off on the others.

Now he could focus back on you. Reaching your door, he could hear you singing along with your music. It made him smile. You were mostly likely also in a good mood. His was better.

He straighten his gloves and then gave your door a sharp knock. Stepping back, he leaned against the door way and waited.

The door opened, and he smiled soaking in the oversized shirt, soft shorts, the messy pony tail and well the rest of you. “Ready to break for lunch, baby.”

He saw you hesitate but then smile. “Yes.” You closed the door and he closed the distance and pulled you close. “Baby, I’ve been busy.”

“I know.” You wrapped your arms around him. He loved that no longer did that make him feel stifled. Sometimes, in the beginning it had. “So done or just between meetings.”

He smiled broadly. “Done till tonight.”

You shimmed in his hands. “Good. I didn’t feel like sharing you over lunch.”

“I didn’t want to either.”

*****

As you two neared the table that was flush with lunch. You stopped and ran over to the bouquet. He had done good. He loved seeing how your eyes lit up seeing it.

“Romy these are lovely.” You picked up and the vase and inhaled deeply.

“Not as lovely as you.”

“Romy?” Now one of your eyebrows arched.

“Look, I can be sentimental. The holidays and such.”

“Yeah.” You smiled. “I like it.” You placed it down and ran over to him. He held you to him after you practically leapt into his arms.

Truth be told, that argument the two of you had, had hit him hard. He had run, you run after it had been a hard thirty minutes. He had alot to learn and so did you, but he tried to not get that dark again.

You reached up and cupped his cheek. “I love all sides of you, Romy. Always.”

He smiled. “Even grumpy after you stole all the blankets during the night?”

“Hey!” You smiled. “I don’t steal that many.”

“One or two is alot.”

“Yeah, yeah with five or more since its winter.”

“Well, yeah.” He chuckled and then both of you did.

Seeing your eyes twinkle, drew you into a kiss then. He relished how your body softened against his and with you he could let himself relax.

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[stardancerluv]

Gotham Surviving the Pandemic 2021

Part 5

Summary: worries raise, anger explodes.

Roman’s mouth formed a thin line as he read the paper.

Cases are on the rise! Virus has mutated once again! Is another lockdown on the horizon? It announced.

He ran his fingers through his hair. His chest felt like it was tightening. An entire syndicate had contracted it and well… Died. Enemies should be beat the old fashioned way. Pushed or bought out, not some stupid virus. They should have been more cautious. He was still relieved that he had not met with them.

Getting up, he began to pace. His eye was caught by one the photos of the two of you that sat on his desk. He grabbed it. It was you before this silent killer. There was a carefreeness to it.

He glanced in the direction of your studio. The frame creaked under his gloved hand. You were not going to like what he was going to say.

******

You sighed after ending your call. Your heart beat hard in your chest. News from France just reached you. It was news you had been dreading. One of the best fabric merchants you knew has died. Damn it. That would put a dent in things.

You eyed the door of your studio. Cases were on the rise in Gotham. You knew how serious Roman was about keeping you safe.

Biting your bottom lip, you debated keeping this from him. In the three years of being his girl, you never lied to him. You frowned. The idea made you ill.

Damn, you just didn’t want him to worry. He had enough on his mind with the club. There was also those that he kept on the payroll.

You had been safe this entire time. You would continue to be. As it is, you had already put in place a lot of precautions. You could come up with more of them.

You eyed your door. You couldn’t lie to him. But how would you go about telling him. Your stomach knotted, making you ill.

You held your face in your hands as you tried to think. You began to pace. Then you went over to the window and looked out.

Damn this silent killer, you cursed softly. Why haven’t we found some way to curb or get rid of this virus.

Looking down you grimaced. You picked up one of the more carefree shots of you and Roman. You had managed a rather good shot of the two of you. Across his face was the smile that crinkled his eyes.

Since the pandemic you rarely saw it. At the beach house you did. Sighing, you sat down on the window seat.

A sharp knock on the door startled you. “Yes?”

Roman came in and you could already tell by his posture that this wasn’t good.

“Y/N, you and I have to talk.”

You swallowed and began to stand up.

He came over and gestured for you to stay seated. “Y/N.” As he looked at you, his eyes were stormy. His mix of emotions made your stomach churn. When he looked like this you knew you had to brace yourself.

“Cases are on the rise.” He started.

You nodded.

“I- I don’t want you going to meet your clients in person for a while.”

“Roman.” You stood.

“Listen, there are more and more mutations out there.”

“Yes, I’ve heard. But it's crucial to my business. I meet them and we discuss what they want.”

“Put a pause on that.” He stepped closer, his face took an edge. “Meet them on camera.”

“I can’t. It is integral to my creative process.”

“Your creative process?” He mimicked. “Your creative process?” He repeated. “Does that fend off the disease?”

“No, but… But-”

“Does the disease say, oh wait I can’t hurt Y/N. She is in the middle of her creative process!” He shouted.

“I take precautions!” You shouted back. Annoyance began to uncoil deep in your stomach.

“They’re not good enough!”

“I’m still here.” You were growing exasperated. “How about you?”

“What do you mean?”

“Will you? Will you negotiate, will you make a territory grab via camera?” You shot back.

“That’s different.”

“Because you’re a criminal?” You instantly winced at your own words. Fuck, what had you just said. Everything in you crumbled. You had not meant that. You reached for him, flinched and stepped back.

All emotion escaped his face. “Y/N...” Your name sounded strangled.

“Oh… Roman, I...” You wobbled… Tears immediately filled your eyes.

He inhaled, turned and began walking away. You grabbed his arm, he turned back and looked at you. You instantly let go of his arm. The look in his eyes spoke more than he coul d ever do. You backed up.

And moments later, he left and slammed the door shut behind him. You threw yourself against your window seat.

@spn-obsessed-dean @vintagemichelle91 @xxxeatyourh3artoutxxx @nebulastarr @ewanfuckingmcgregor @zodiyack @angel98624 @frenchgirlinlondon @emyliabernstein @thepeachreads @itsknife2meetu @omghappilyuniquebouquetlove @poe-kadot26 @babydoll97-blog1 @hazel-nuss @vcat55 @feelthemadnessinside @johallzy @foreverhockeytrash @frostypenguinoz @professionalclown123 @chogisss @xxinvisiblexx @shantellorraine @xxvisionsxx @blondekel77 @saphic-stories @drarrylov3r @i-cant-hear-you16 @deadlymistress24 @yesqueenofthelight @generallj @thebeckyjolene @mrskenobi19 @bdffkierenwalker @thereluctantherosrose

[stardancerluv]

Gotham Surviving the Pandemic 2021

Part 5a

Summary: Moments at the beach…

Roman went to his desk, grabbed a mask and went to the elevator.

“Roman?” Victor called after him.

He barely looked over his shoulder. “I’m going out. Don’t follow me.” He snapped.

He had a mix of emotions. He honestly didn’t know what he was feeling. Long ago, he would have snapped. He would have screamed, ranted and thrown her out. Sure it was the truth what she said but he did not like to be demeaned.

But he fucking loved you. He wanted you to be his wife, maybe even the mother of his fucking children one day. But you very easily could throw in his face what he is. You were supposed to be different. You were not some bimbo who danced for him or waited on tables.

Before the doors opened and chimed his arrival to the garage, he slipped his mask on. Walking out, he eyed his cars. He grabbed the keys for the Mustang. Then he revved the engine and tore out of there.

He silenced the radio; the angry beat of his blood rushing in his ears was enough. He didn’t need any fucking music right now.

*******

After letting yourself cry, you got up and palmed away the tears. You couldn’t let this sit. You grabbed a tissue from your desk. You dabbed your eyes and blew your nose. He’d have to listen to you.

Oh god, you were ill in your stomach.

Tearing open your door, you made your way to his office. It was eerily quiet. That made your heart beat harder. You stopped and took a breath, peering around the door frame.

“Y/N, he’s not there. He just tore out of here.”

“Oh no!” You exhaled. “Victor, where is he?”

He shrugged. “I don’t know. What happened?”

You grabbed him by his shirt. “What do you mean you don’t know?”

“I don’t know. He didn’t want me following him.”

“Damn it.”

******

After slipping on your own mask, you went down to the garage. You noticed that he'd taken the Mustang. That car was filled with memories. You knew where he went then.

Eyeing the keys and looking back at the cars, you decided to take his jeep. It would be the easiest for you to drive.

*****

Roman strolled along the beach. It kept him from his anger completely erupting. He was still in turmoil over how he felt. He eyed the waves coming in and crashing against the sand.

“Roman!” He turned towards where he heard his name. His heart squeezed as he watched you tearing your mask off before climbing over the fence and then running down the hill towards him.

“Careful damn it.” He shook his head.

Despite the sand trying to clutch onto your feet, you made it over to him.

He could see from your flushed cheeks and how red your eyes were that you had been crying. It pulled on him despite still being incredibly angry at you. He'd never actually admit that he was hurt as well. Before you reached him, he took his phone from his pocket. He dialed Victor.

“Yes, yes. She found me.”

You opened your mouth to say something but he held up his hand and you remained quiet.

“We’re by the pier, near father.” He ran his fingers through his hair. “No, just come with the extra keys for the jeep and grab it. I’ll drive us back.” He ended the call. “Why are you here?”

“I couldn’t leave it like that.”

He rose an eyebrow.

“Look, I’m upset. One of my distributors died and I just don’t want to face that it’s bad out.”

“Which one?”

“Alonso.”

“Fuck.” He had been a good man.

“Roman, look I am so sorry.” You stepped closer to him. Before he realized what your were doing, you managed to grab his hand and pull off his glove. You pressed it against your heart. He could feel it beating hard.

@spn-obsessed-dean @vintagemichelle91 @xxxeatyourh3artoutxxx @nebulastarr @ewanfuckingmcgregor @zodiyack @angel98624 @frenchgirlinlondon @emyliabernstein @thepeachreads @itsknife2meetu @omghappilyuniquebouquetlove @poe-kadot26 @babydoll97-blog1 @hazel-nuss @vcat55 @feelthemadnessinside @johallzy @foreverhockeytrash @frostypenguinoz @professionalclown123 @chogisss @xxinvisiblexx @shantellorraine @xxvisionsxx @blondekel77 @saphic-stories @drarrylov3r @i-cant-hear-you16 @deadlymistress24 @yesqueenofthelight @generallj @thebeckyjolene @mrskenobi19 @bdffkierenwalker @thereluctantherosrose

[stardancerluv]

Gotham Surviving the Pandemic 2021

Part 4d

Summary: Cuddle with Roman toasting marshmallows.

Note…fluff with a side of…fluff.

You ran your fingers through his hair. “Roman,” You searched his blue eyes, they were turbulent. “You are an amazing man. I’m proud to be your fiancée.”

He blinked in the light from the lantern you saw as his face finally began to relax, the edge disappearing. The flashback was retreating back into the recesses of Roman’s mind.

“Look at how much you’ve done since we’ve become an item.” You continued. You were proud of his accomplishments as much as he was of yours. You only didn’t focus on his methods, those were his ways. It’s not for you to question. You would continue to simply love him and be there when he needs it.

*******

Roman smattered some butter on the bread. He offered you the piece.

“Thank you!” You said sweetly. “So glad you grabbed it.”

“Sometimes I don’t always need you or that chef in the kitchen.”

You both shared a look. Seeing the mischief there you knew it was ok to giggle, so you did. He joined you. “All right. I only really know that one dish for the holidays.”

“That’s why I love cooking for you, when you let me that is.”

“You are a good cook.” He wavered. “But you know how I enjoy taking care of you.” He finished buttering his piece and took a bite.

“I do.” You kissed his shoulder.

*****

“You have to hold your stick steady!” Roman sat a little straighter as he smiled down at you.

“Oh do I?” You smiled and bumped his arm.

“Hey!” A rich deep chuckle came from him. “And you have to rotate them so they toast evenly!”

“Roman, all this time together why didn’t you tell me you are a s'mores expert?”

He shrugged. “Maybe I should put a fireplace in the penthouse.” He still didn’t know how he had managed to build a fire for the two of you but it worked. This, he had to admit, was nice.

“I thought that maybe these would be too messy.”

“Some messes I can handle.” He wasn’t going to say anything but after cleaning the club before opening it, it had put a dent in his intolerance for things being messy. Though, he would not be giving up his gloves any time soon.

“Do you think it’s ready?” You gently tapped your marshmallow against his.

“Hey!” He smiled and tapped yours with his.

You giggled.

He rose and eyebrow as he considered them. “I think so. They look good.”

Soon with two soft marshmallows he made his. He watched you, then he took a bite. A content sound came from him that he couldn’t suppress. “That’s good.” He may love his tiramisu but this was amazing.

He watched as yours crumbled a little, he loved the content sound that came from you as well. He put his down on his plate for now.

Looking at you, he couldn’t help but smile. Sometimes you were a lovely, flawless girl he loved to show off. Other times, when waking up or even if a cold managed to knock you down, he delighted in how rumpled you’d look. Though at the moment, with a touch of melted chocolate on your cheek, you were so endearing.

“Baby, let me look at you.”

“Yes?” You put what was left of your s’more on the plate.

He took ahold of your chin, a grin spread across his face. Drawing close, he kissed the chocolate away. His heart picked up speed as he felt you wilt against him. When he pulled back, he was happy to see that the chocolate was gone.

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[stardancerluv]

Gotham Surviving the Pandemic 2021

Part 4c

Summary: Storm rolls in and Roman’s past haunts him.

Note: This brings in some canon for Roman Sionis….his parents were awful to him. In one telling…he was bit by a rabid raccoon and that is what made him an angry & cruel man. Also there are some seeds planted to establish that there is no love loss between Roman & Bruce Wayne. I tweak some of this as you will see. And its a bit of a chapter! Enjoy!

Gently Roman held you as you both floated in the large pool, his warmth was comforting in the coldish water.

You pressed a kiss to his shoulder where a scar marred the smooth skin. Over the last few years of being with Roman, he had picked up a few scars. “I remember when you got this one.” You pressed another kiss on it.

“That asshole had ruined my white suit.” From the angle you looked at him, you could see he made a face.

“But you got him.” You smiled. He had really loved that white suit. It had been one of the first suits he wore when the two of you became an item.

“I certainly did.” A dark chuckle came from him.

“This is really nice, Roman. You outdid yourself.” Lifting your head, you looked him over. Water droplets clung here and there to the shadows of growth on his face.

He smiled. “You and I needed a place we could run to.”

“Well, this is certainly it.”

He caught you up in a kiss then, your heart began to beat faster.

You barely heard the low rumble from the sky above, but you did feel the icy rain that slashed across the two of you. You both practically leapt apart. “Let’s go inside.” Roman urged.

******

Roman shivered under his fluffy robe as he poured a fresh glass of champagne for the two of you. He eyed the outside, it had grown considerably darker.

“You don’t think the hurricane makes it up here, do you?” You called.

“It had better not.” He called back. The lights flickered, he stopped pouring. Not now, he thought. Putting the bottle down he turned and looked at the mass of cabinet doors behind him. Where would they have put candles and such?

You came padding in, wrapped in your own fluffy robe.

“More champagne?” You hopped back onto the counter and finished pouring some into the one glass. Still a little bubbly from the glass earlier, you took a sip from the one that had been yours.

He smiled at you lightly distracted. “Of course.”

He spotted a door near the fridge, he figured he’d look there. He opened the door and sighed. He had been right.

The lights flickered, he glanced back at you. Your eyes met. “Roman?”

“We’ll be ok.” He gestured to the fire place. “Baby?”

“Yes.”

“Grab some blankets and pillows. We’ll, “He smiled. “we’ll camp out here.”

“Uhm, ok!”

While you walked away, he looked things over. He grabbed a lantern of some kind, pushing the button. He was happy to see that it worked. Next, he took a lighter and a few candles and went over to the fireplace. He retrieved the champagne and glasses.

He placed the things near the cold, darkened fireplace. Just in case, he mused. Walking back to the bedroom he met you halfway. You smiled around the blankets and pillows, but it dropped as the lights flickered but this time stayed off a little longer before snapping back on.

“Grab a few more. Then we’ll be all set.” He tried to say brightly. As he walked back with what you brought, he saw that the wind had really begun to pick up.

He laid the blankets and pillows down. He gritted his teeth. He did not want to be stuck looking at the storm right now, so he closed the curtains which would block the view to the pool.

“Is this enough?”

He turned and smiled. “Yeah. Fluff them with what we have.” He needed to distract himself. He doesn’t know why, but today the past was threatening to come for a visit.

Once back in the kitchen, he took a large bowl out the cabinet. Scanning the fridge, he took out some tasty foods. Looking in another cabinet, he smiled broadly. They had enough fixings for s'mores.

Bringing over the tasty morsels, he came back to you. “When I got my special artifacts-”

“Those shrunken heads and masks?” You looked up at him as he came to kneel down near you.

“Yeah, a lot of driving around. I stayed in local places. I wasn’t brave enough to camp in the wilds of Africa.” He admitted.

“I don’t blame you.” You looked at what he brought over. “You brought a feast.”

He shrugged. “I’m just going to grab a loaf of that crusty bread.”

“Ooh!” You cooed. “Please do.”

He would not give into his past. He gritted his teeth harder once he grabbed the loaf of bread. Going back to the fridge, he grabbed some cheese. That was when the lights went out. “Fuck.” He muttered.

“Roman?” He heard the pitch your voice took and made his way quickly over to you.

“I’m here, baby.” Placing the food down, he pushed the button and the lantern lit up. As he pulled you close, a loud rumble burst above the two of you. He squeezed his eyes shut as he kissed the top of your head. “It will pass.” He whispered.

You wrapped your arms around him.

As a rumble once again exploded above the two of you, the house shook and the lantern clattered to its side. Roman flinched; the past came back and filled his imagination.

******

He hummed, then hummed harder as the thunder grew louder and the streaks of lightning appeared closer. His humming ceased as he saw a large shadow fall over him.

“Bernard, grab my cowardly weasel of a son for me.”

“What… What did I do?” He had managed to sputter out. He tried to back away from his father. He bumped right into the legs of Bernard, who easily scooped him up.

He began to struggle. But his six year old strength was little compared the monster of a man who was their butler.

“Scared of a fucking storm.” He heard his father mutter. “Take him outside, let him see what he is cowering from. Don’t you dare let him back in until the storm passes.”

“Put me down!” He howled.

“Can’t do that, Master Sionis.” Bernard gave him a look.

Bernard walked him a fair distance out. “It will pass.” He said before walking back towards the house.

Roman stayed standing till there was a crack of thunder that exploded above him. He crouched down and covered his ears once again.

The heavy rain soon soaked through his clothes.

Another loud rumble of thunder exploded above him once again. He could not contain the scream in fear that came from deep within him. The ground shook under him. It made him open his eyes. He scrambled backward when he saw half a tree smoldering in front of him. His shoes slipped and slid as he struggled to stand.

“Don’t let him back in.” He heard his father bellow.

He doesn’t know what compelled him then, but he ran. He ran not towards the house, but away. He ran and ran till his lungs hurt. Coming up against a tree to finally catch his breath, he looked and realized what he had done. It stilled him.

He had run so far and fast, that he managed to get to the Wayne grounds. Thunder rolled in above him as he looked into the window and he saw Bruce. He managed to not shut his eyes at the sound. It wasn’t as loud as it had been.

He spotted a splotchy red face. Tears streaked the cheeks. He was scared of the storm too, Roman realized. But when the thunder came again, he buried his face into his mother’s side.

Roman leaned forward holding onto the tree. His stomach churned at the sight as she reassuringly stroked his hair.

Anger boiled in him then. He ran away. This time as he ran, he went another way. A scream erupted from him as he tumbled and fell, then rolled down a hill.

He swallowed the tears that threatened to spill. A snarl filled his ears. Startled, he looked to his side. It was there. On the hill above him, he saw it. A raccoon looked down at him and snarled again as it stepped closer.

******

“Roman… Roman?” You shook him. The far-off look and the way his lips had curled upset you. “It’s ok, you don’t have to tell me any more.” You said softly. You searched his blue eyes, they were so far away.

He shook and looked at you. He blinked. “Baby?” His eyes came back from far away.

You smiled. “I’m here.”

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[stardancerluv]

Gotham Surviving the Pandemic 2021

Part 4b

Summary: Roman & reader finally see what he’s been planning.

Note: This portion of the story is a bit long…enjoy!

Lately you had felt like you were in a slump. Roman, despite his own stress, had been amazing. Though, at the moment you had grown curious. What was he up to, you wondered.

You hated your new client. They were so bossy, you could barely create. Moving forward, you will never take a job from someone propositioning you in the club. Annoyed, you pulled your shirt on and tugged it down.

“Aw baby,” He gently tsked. “Come here.”

You jumped and giggled, you turned. “I thought you were still on the phone.”

He smiled and beckoned to you. “It wasn’t a long one.”

As you drew close, you were reminded of how much you enjoyed the twinkle in his eyes. “What’s the matter?”

“You put your shirt on backwards.”

“Oh?” You twisted around.

“Let me help.” He did.

With a sigh, Roman took you onto his lap. He draped an arm around you. “Now tell me, what is the matter?”

You huffed.

“I know you never want me to interfere but I feel like I should.” His eyes grew dark.

“I don’t.” You said weakly. “But Roman, he’s an ass.” You finally admitted.

You felt his body grow tense. “Fire him.”

“But I have never given up on anyone. Even Harley, I don’t want to start now.” You folded your arms in front of you.

“Baby, I love your spirit. You have never flinched with me, but these last few weeks...” He pressed his lips together and shook his head. “I don’t think he deserves one of your pieces.”

“He is constantly changing his mind.”

“Fuck him.”

“All right.” You sighed. “I’ll ring him in the morning.”

He smiled. “Good. Now if he turns into a real asshole, you tell me.”

“I will. But Romy, tell me. What have you been up to?”

He smiled. “Soon, you will find out.”

You couldn’t resist pouting. “Romy.”

He smiled even wider. “No pouting, baby. You will find out in good time.”

******

Wearing a slouchy shirt and cute jeans, you slid into the back of the rolls. Roman was even dressed down himself. You liked it when the two of you were like this. Being like this was so rare that it was still amusing. The only ones who saw you two like this were Victor and Doll Face.

You watched as he said a few things to Victor. Probably making sure that things would run smoothly while the two of you were gone. Even after all these years, watching as he slipped on his sunglasses and raked his finger through his dark strands gave you butterflies. You were still so happy to be his girl.

“Where are we going?” You asked, for what felt like the millionth time once he settled beside you.

“It’s the surprise I’ve been working on.” Was all he said.

Looking out the back window, you watched as Victor and Doll Face placed your suitcases in the trunk.

After closing the trunk, they stood back and waved. You answered it and looked at Roman. “They’re not coming?”

He shook his head. “Time for just you and me,” He lowered his shades, his blue eyes were filled with mischief. “It has been ages, since we’ve gone anywhere alone.”

You smiled tilting your head from side to side, that was true. A flutter went through you. “So does that mean these next few days are just us?”

“Yes.”

“No business?” You rose an eyebrow.

“No business.” You practically threw yourself at him, a deep chuckle came from him. “Oh, we both need this.”

“What exactly?” You rose an eyebrow.

He smiled. “You will just have to see.”

*****

His arm had remained around you for the rest of the twenty minutes or so, as the driver took the two of you across Gotham. Soon, you realized he was driving the two of you to the very nice beach area.

“Roman?” Your voice rose as you saw all the wonderful places.

“Almost there.” He promised.

******

Your mouth dropped when you saw the place. The tires crunched on the stones that were in place of a driveway. It was so, well it was like something out of a magazine. The driver opened the door for the two of you. Roman slid out and stretched. Fretting, the driver took out your suitcases.

Roman reached into his pocket, he handed him the keys. “Place them in the foyer, then you can leave.”

“Yes, sir.”

He smiled down at you. “Welcome to our slice of paradise, baby.”

“Roman, how? What?”

He threw his head back and chuckled. “I couldn’t stand seeing how sad you were. And you know me, sometimes I need to get out of Gotham too.” He shrugged and took off his glasses. “So surprise, baby!”

“I love it.” You wrapped your arms around him.

When the driver came back, there was an expression you couldn’t read on his face as he gave Roman the keys.

“Have a good weekend.” He said pleasantly enough, he smiled down at you and nodded.

“You as well. We’ll see you Monday at nine sharp.”

“Thank you. And yes, sir.”

*******

You grimaced as you sipped at your glass of champagne while you sat on the island in the kitchen. It was well stocked with food and plates. To be honest, anything you and Roman could ever want. Even the blankets, towels and pillows had apparently arrived. But other than that not a piece of furniture.

Roman was in the living room. He was raving. His glass still sat beside you, some bubbles raced to the top. As he continued to rave, you glanced out the window and watched as dark, gray clouds rolled in.

He came over seething, he downed the glass. “Let’s walk the beach.”

“Ok.”

You hopped down to followed him out. Silence walked with the two of you before he finally sighed. “There is a storm coming up the coast. And the furniture got held up.” He gave you a sidelong glance.

You nodded. “It’ll get here.” You gave him a bright smile. “Till then it will be like we are camping, I’ll make it nice.”

He stopped, you took his hands. “Roman, the place is amazing. And it will be even more amazing.”

You could see his face relax a little. He rose an eyebrow. “I’ve never gone camping.”

“Neither have I, but we’ll make it work.”

*****

You swam around in the pool, it was something you loved to do. It was so much fun. Coming to the edge, you boosted yourself up with an umph. As much as you enjoyed watching Roman sunbathe, you wanted him to join you. So leaning over, you grabbed Roman’s foot.

He made an incoherent sound that made you instantly let go with giggles.

“Come and join me! The water is great.” You urged, smiling and regaining yourself.

He took off his sunglasses. “Seriously?”

You nodded happily.

Moments later he began walking into the pool but flinched. “It is not fine. It is cold!” His voice grew a few octaves.

“Just come all the way in, I can warm you up.”

His eyes narrowed. He frowned as he looked at you but then sighing, he continued further into the pool. He dipped fully in and came up blinking as he smoothed his hair back. “Ok, a little better.”

“See!” You said cheerily.

@spn-obsessed-dean @vintagemichelle91 @xxxeatyourh3artoutxxx @ewanfuckingmcgregor @zodiyack @angel98624 @frenchgirlinlondon @emyliabernstein @thepeachreads @nebulastarr @itsknife2meetu @omghappilyuniquebouquetlove @poe-kadot26 @babydoll97-blog1 @hazel-nuss @vcat55 @feelthemadnessinside @johallzy @foreverhockeytrash @frostypenguinoz @professionalclown @chogisss @shantellorraine @xxinvisiblexx @blondekel77 @saphic-stories @drarrylov3r @i-cant-hear-you16 @deadlymistress24 @yesqueenofthelight @generallj @thebeckyjolene @blackmasque @mrskenobi19 @bdffkierenwalker

[stardancerluv]

Gotham Surviving the Pandemic 2021

Part 2a

Summary: Trouble is never far away!

Roman felt fantastic, his club was buzzing again. He reached over to your hand and squeezed it.

You smiled looking over at him.

“I’m going around to say hello.” He stood, buttoning his suit jacket as he did. He turned to you. “Would you like anything?”

You went over to him and kissed his cheek. “Maybe one more drink?”

“I should have had that for my send off always.” You beamed and he smiled. “Certainly, love.”

Reaching into his pocket, he took out and then slipped his mask back onto place. One of the girls came over as if on a spring. It pleased him to see how attentive she was.

“Mr. Sionis?”

He smiled. “Not me, Y/N would like something though.”

He met your eyes. You shared a look and with a nod he went around the ocean that was his club, where he was the great white shark making sure territory was secured.

You gave him a warm smile before giving your attention to the girl. Your delicate fingers moving in your hair as you spoke.

He was soon making his way around. It was nice to not have to plaster a smile on his face. Though despite the mask covering his face as he made small talk which sometimes ran a little long, he would still smile. There was a part of him that was genuinely pleased to be open and that these people had chosen his club to go to.

Catching a shadow, he disappeared into its darkness to catch his breath. He wasn’t nervous but he was on edge. Another drink called his name, but he could not afford to. He had to be alert and not relax, he was not used to this anymore.

To feel better, he glanced over at you. He had always enjoyed watching you. Your eyes moved through the people. Were you looking for him, he wondered. Were you more at ease because of his promise. Sometimes he wished he knew what bounced around in your head. He was able to breathe again.

“Boss?” Victor’s raspy voice broke into his thoughts.

He stiffened and turned on his heel. “Yes?”

“Some men are demanding dances.”

“Seriously?” He rolled his eyes. “Where the fuck are they?”

“VIP lounge.” He exhaled harshly.

Storming out of the shadows he made his way quickly over to the lounge. It was the one place in his club where if you got tested you would not have to wear a mask. He knew he’d regret opening that up so quickly. Gritting his teeth he was fuming, they wanted a fucking dance the first night he’s open.

He practically tore open the door. “Who’s the one asking for a dance?” He growled.

The small group of men withered in their seats. He knew them. He wasn’t really surprised. They were low-level enforcers from Falcone’s and Two-Face’s crew. He tore off his mask.

“Seriously, you come to my club and start causing fucking trouble because we’re not offering private dances?” He snarled.

They shrank where they sat.

“Since none of you are fucking talking, get the fuck out.”

He smirked when he saw one begin to puff up. Roman walked right up to him. “Don’t even fucking think about it. This is my territory you are fucking in.”

Some grumbling angry looks were slid his way. But they all began to leave. He rubbed his temple. “What assholes.” He whispered to himself.

“You are my hero. They scared me, sir.”

He barely heard the squeaky voice or bracelets jingling as two arms wrapped around him. A sharp sweet perfume flooded his nose.

Jolting back to the situation, he turned his head, raising an eyebrow. She dropped her arms.

“Tell Victor to give you two hundred and go home, and get tested in the morning.”

She shrugged. “Thank you.” She squealed. “Thank you, Mr. Sionis.” She fluttered away.

Victor walked up a few moments later.

“Victor, tell me all the girls got tested.”

“All the girls got tested.”

Roman slid him a look.

“Yes, they got tested.” He scratched the back of his head. “I took their temperatures before they came in.”

“They were all legitimate?”

“Yes, cost a pretty penny but yeah. I made sure.”

“Good. Give Stacey two hundred dollars. Make sure she gets the test in the morning.”

“Sure.”

******

He looked into the club. He watched as you shifted where you sat, you were so lovely there at his table. He went to the elevator. He needed to clean. Stripping down so he was completely nude, he shoved it all down to the incinerator.

Turning the knobs to full, he let the scalding water rain down on him. He winced but he needed to be clean. He grabbed the soap and lathered up. Then poured shampoo into his hand and washed his hair. Finally when he felt like he could breathe, he lessened the heat. Stepping out of the shower, he wrapped a towel around his hips.

Once in his closet, he dropped the towel and grabbed a shirt and a pair of pajama pants. After pulling them on he felt a little better, though the anger of those thugs acting like they did and that dancer made his heart beat in anger.

Going to his private bar he poured himself two fingers of whiskey. He quickly downed it and with a clink of the glass, he poured himself another.

“Roman! What happened?”

He turned to look towards you, your

heels clicked as you ran the short distance over to him. The sound of your voice and scent of your perfume continued to help calm him.

Seeing the anguish in your eyes, he pulled back and threw his glass across the room. It shattered.

“Roman?” You didn’t flinch. “Talk to me.”

“Some low-level enforcers were making trouble for one of the dancers. I threw them the fuck out but then the dancer in question hugged me.”

You didn’t step back. It made his throat tighten as a new wave of emotions washed over him.

******

You slipped out of your fancy dress and heels, now you were comfortable in one of your silken robes that hung loose.

“Allow me.” You smiled meeting Roman’s eyes in the mirror.

You wiggled where you sat. “Please.”

He smoothed his hands over your bare shoulders and to your throat. A deep pleased sound came from you.

“Allow me.” You gathered your hair and let him unclasp your necklace. He placed it on your vanity.

You reached back and held him close. “You did good tonight.”

He grimaced. “I did realize where before I had zero patience, now it’s less than that. Turning, you kissed his cheek.

“We’re in a new world.”

He rested his forehead against yours.

“We’ll get through this, just like we did the lockdown. But let’s not throw too many glasses, ok?”

He chuckled. “We’ll see.”

@spn-obsessed-dean @vintagemichelle91 @xxxeatyourh3artoutxxx @ewanfuckingmcgregor @zodiyack @angel98624 @frenchgirlinlondon @emyliabernstein @thepeachreads @nebulastarr @itsknife2meetu @omghappilyuniquebouquetlove @poe-kadot26 @babydoll97-blog1 @hazel-nuss @vcat55 @feelthemadnessinside @johallzy @foreverhockeytrash @frostypenguinoz @starwarsslytherin @professionalclown @chogisss @shantellorraine @xxinvisiblexx @blondekel77 @saphic-stories @drarrylov3r @i-cant-hear-you16 @deadlymistress24 @yesqueenofthelight @generallj @thebeckyjolene @blackmasque @mrskenobi19

[stardancerluv]

Gotham Surviving the Pandemic 2021

Part 2b

Summary: Despite taking precautions leading up to his opening, this silent killer has a way of still striking. Worry has consumed him.

This part makes a reference to Sugary Kisses and Broken Glasses (which was early in their relationship even before Gotham 2020 Lockdown. (Part two of the new Roman content!)

Roman was pacing back and forth, the doctor said he’d call once the results came in. He sipped on his second scotch. He had barely slept in the last few days.

Falcone had been annoyed when he called, but fuck him. Chastising him the careless and selfishness of the men that work for him. It was his life put at risk. Falcone was lucky, he didn’t just kill them.

Draining the scotch and walking over to the bar he picked up the decanter, when the ring from his phone ripped through the silence of his office. The decanter clanked with his glass before he righted it. Huffing a sigh he strode over to the phone. He ran his fingers through his hair, sweat prickled his scalp.

Swallowing, he picked up the phone and answered. “Tell me, doctor.”

“You’re fine, Roman.” The man said dryly.

“Good.” His voice was hoarse. “Good.” He repeated.

He shook as he managed to put his phone on his desk. Bracing himself against it, the blood continued to rush in his ears as he finally felt the relief fill him. Behind him in the hall he heard the floorboards creaking. Turning his head, he watched as you approached. He turned towards you and smoothed his suit.

He took the silken pink robe. You looked as if you were glowing, fresh from your shower. “Tell me he gave you good news.” You said softly.

He took a few steps toward you and silently wrapped his arms around you. He nestled his face in the crook of your throat. Your sweet smell made him feel good. Being with you was why he did everything for a bigger slice of Gotham.

“Roman?”

Wrapping his arms around tighter he easily swung you around. “I didn’t catch it. I will be all right.”

Your squeal and giggle filled his ears, made his smile even broader. He enjoyed the feel of your arms tightening around his throat.

Gently, he laid you back down on the ground. “We’re gonna get out for a bit. Go and get dressed.”

Your eyes shone.

*****

For a brief moment, behind the wheel Roman felt like he could be free from his obligations. Reaching over, he squeezed your hand that rested on your thigh. Sure he loved it, loved everything. But sometimes it caused great anger that none of the others truly understood what it was to be him.

“Where are we going?” You called over the roar of the engine, tucking back some hair that strayed behind your ear.

“Where I once won you a purple cow.”

You smiled. “It had been a lovely time.”

He nodded.

Shifting his gears, Roman drove you and him to the nice part of Gotham where the ocean crested the shores. It was a terrible shame that the Booby Trap had finally closed its doors.

The tires crunched under the crumbling parking lot. He came around and opened the door for you.

“Wait a moment,” He stopped you and gently removed the mask from your face and his. “I don’t think we’ll need these. I made sure just the two of us would be here.”

“You did?”

He nodded. “Victor rushed over here. Thankfully, it was only a vagrant and Victor gave him money for some fresh clothes and hopefully warm food.”

“Roman, you’re such a good man.”

He smirked and leaned in. “Don’t let that out, I am a crime lord after all.” He chuckled.

“Well, you’ve always been good to me and your men.”

He shrugged. “I love you, and I do need their loyalty. But enough of that, this is our time.” He went and placed the masks by the gear shifts and then he took your hand.

He walked you along the pier at the Founders Pier. The sun was high and the water lapped at the creaking and aging wood.

“I’ve never showed you this.” Roman said as he stopped by a statue.

As much as he hated his father for all the hits across the face or being screamed at, he could show you this and not get too mad. He knew he was a much better man.

“Oh!” He watched your eyes move to the carved name. “Charles Sionis?”

He pressed his lips together, swallowing. “That’s my father.”

“He looks like an imposing man.”

He nodded. “He was, I know the back of his hand better than anything else. Only good thing is, I don’t have to answer to him anymore.”

You reached up and cupped his cheek. “You are a strong man, a better man.” You smiled. “A man I look forward to marrying. And maybe one day,” Your voice trailed off as you took one of his gloved hands and placed it on your stomach. “You will make me a mother.”

He smirked. “One day,” He did enjoy the idea, making you pregnant. But it also scared him so he chuckled. “Though at the moment, I have too many dark things I have fun doing to you.”

Your cheeks flush at his words, which made him very pleased. “Oh really?”

“Yes.” Moving just so, he walked you up against the railing beside his father’s statue. “Like taking you right here.” He breathed.

“And I’d let you.”

@spn-obsessed-dean @vintagemichelle91 @xxxeatyourh3artoutxxx @ewanfuckingmcgregor @zodiyack @angel98624 @frenchgirlinlondon @emyliabernstein @thepeachreads @nebulastarr @itsknife2meetu @omghappilyuniquebouquetlove @poe-kadot26 @babydoll97-blog1 @hazel-nuss @vcat55 @feelthemadnessinside @johallzy @foreverhockeytrash @frostypenguinoz @professionalclown @chogisss @shantellorraine @xxinvisiblexx @blondekel77 @saphic-stories @drarrylov3r @i-cant-hear-you16 @deadlymistress24 @yesqueenofthelight @generallj @thebeckyjolene @blackmasque @mrskenobi19

[stardancerluv]

Masterlist - Ewan McGregor - #2a Roman Sionis

Wow...can’t believe I need another Roman Masterlist and its for a sequel to one of my main stories centered around Roman! 😱

Roman and his girl, from Creative Fervor all the way through Gotham Lockdown 2020 and all the chapters in between. I love writing them in different scenarios to show how they grow and become a better couple!

Gotham Surviving the Pandemic 2021

In this story, I will be exploring what it is like for Roman to be the crime boss; club owner in Gotham after many months under the Lockdown. And what he has to deal with, since it is a new world Post-Lockdown. Victor Zsasz, is still his right hand man & lead assassin. Reader still owns his heart. But now they are engaged and that brings a new dynamic to their relationship!

Part One

Part One A

Part Two

Part Two A

Part Two B

Part Three

Part Four

Part Four A

Part Four B

Part Four C

Part Four D

Part 5

Part 5a

(I will address that argument in future posts!)

Part 6

Christmas Musing aka Part 7

Part 8

Part 9

A Night Out, Club 44

Roman finally decides to let the underworld see that you are officially his girl at Penguin’s Club 44. Of course others be jealous, that you are with Roman…and not them!

Part One

Part Two

Part Three

Part Four

Part Five

Part Six

Thank you to everyone who reads them!

You mean the world to me!

Quick Thoughts...for those who are new to my world of Roman Sionis!

[stardancerluv]

Gotham Surviving the Pandemic 2021

Part 2

Summary: Time to open the club back up!

Note: some images for the collage are from Halton which premiere’s Friday on Netflix! Can’t wait!

Roman walked into the club. Victor was walking the perimeter, and checking any of the places that were considered soft spots. His concerns laid everywhere.

He stopped at the bar. “Mr. Sionis.”

“Have Heather bring my martini & Y/N’s drink over once we get to the table.”

“Certainly boss.”

“And remember, no more than two drinks per person. Any more and you finally get replaced. Clear?”

The man nodded. “I enjoy being your bartender. I’m not stupid.”

“Good.”

He glanced over to where the waitresses huddled. All he had to do was give them a look and they knew how to behave.

Everything looked great. As he went upstairs, it nagged on him that it felt like he was starting all over again. Only this time a larger portion of Gotham belonged to him. That made the one side of his mouth curl up.

As he went up in the elevator, he removed his monogrammed mask and slipped it into his pocket. Once in the master bath, he ran his comb through his hair. He eyed his reflection, he looked good. He stopped by his closet and grabbed a pair of shades and slipped them behind his handkerchief.

Glancing into your closet, he smiled seeing you sitting at your vanity. He went up behind you, laid his gloved hands on your shoulders and pressed a kiss to one of them. Your eyes met in the mirror. “Ready?”

You nodded.

“Great.” He offered you his hand. Taking it, he pulled you close. “You look magnificent baby.”

You laid a gentle hand on his chest.

“Tonight, this grand opening will be the beginning of great things.”

You smoothed your hand over his suit jacket. “I am so excited.”

******

As the driver drove you along the ocean front of Gotham, he reached out to your hand. His thumb grazed over the engagement ring. “Despite having been shot, I chose a good one.”

You smiled. “You did. You always have good taste.” You looked away.

“Baby, tonight is our big moment.” His jaw took an edge. You should have swallowed your unease. “What’s the matter?”

“Excited you got this. This night is yours,” You swallowed. “Though knowing that virus is still out there has me anxious.”

He nodded. “I understand but baby,” His gloved hand cupped your cheek. His thumb caressed it. “We’ve survived this long and we will continue to do so.” He drew closer. “If anyone puts us at risk, I will have no tolerance.” His blue eyes became ice. “If they do I’ll kill them.”

Trembling, you closed the distance that was left between the two of you and you kissed him. Your heart ached, you were reminded of who he was and why you loved him. “Good.” You whispered against his lips.

“That’s my baby.”

*****

The rolls pulled up with a purr to the main entrance of the club.

“Ready, love?” You nodded.

He tilted your face up and kissed you one last time. His eyes twinkled before he slipped his hand into his pocket, he took out your mask. With utmost care he then slipped the mask onto your face. Your initials were embroidered on yours, its colors matching your delicate silky pink and silver dress.

“Roman, my king, are you ready?” He nodded.

You slipped your hand into his other pocket and took out his mask which had his initials embroidered into its side. His was a rich shade of crimson and black. Once his mask was in place Roman took his shades out and slipped them on. He rose and eyebrow as he turned to look at you.

“Roman, you look amazing.”

He smiled.

Butterflies came back to life. This would be amazing, you mused. The driver arrived then and he opened the door.

You squeezed Roman’s hand a final time, then you slid out and looked at the press who stood on either side of the carpet’s edges and snapped several photos. There was a sizable crowd but they were spaced backward according to the rules that were in place to allow places to open. For once the people were listening to Roman’s men.

You turned just so. It had been ages since you attended events and galas, so it actually felt good. Halfway you paused and as you began to turn, the crowd erupted.

Roman then slid out of the rolls and walked toward you. You shared a look. His eyes were brilliant flames. You could feel his excitement, it only further excited you.

The music was bouncing off the walls and despite not even being as full as usual, the voices and chatter were loud. It all hushed as the two of you walked in. People looked up from the tables or over from the bar.

He gripped your arm tight as he stopped with you. He glanced down at you, your eyes met. You put your hand over his and squeezed.

Looking around a final time you slipped your masks off.

“How are we all doing tonight?” Roman shouted.

Cheers erupted.

“It’s a been a long time to get here. Take the drinks you have, hold them up.”

The waitress came over with your drinks. You took your respective drinks.

He held his glass up high. “This is to all those that silent killer took. They will not be forgotten. Tonight we will party and continue to move forward. To surviving!!!” He shouted and then he and everyone else drank.

More cheers and claps. Roman and you beamed. Placing the empty glasses on the waitress’s tray. Still on his arm, you both made your way to his table.

He smirked at you as his eyes met yours before he continued to look out at it all. Seeing the pleasure that filled him of having his club back open made you incredibly happy.

@spn-obsessed-dean @vintagemichelle91 @xxxeatyourh3artoutxxx @ewanfuckingmcgregor @zodiyack @angel98624 @frenchgirlinlondon @emyliabernstein @thepeachreads @nebulastarr @itsknife2meetu @omghappilyuniquebouquetlove @poe-kadot26 @babydoll97-blog1 @hazel-nuss @vcat55 @feelthemadnessinside @johallzy @foreverhockeytrash @frostypenguinoz @starwarsslytherin @professionalclown @chogisss @shantellorraine @xxinvisiblexx @blondekel77 @saphic-stories @drarrylov3r @i-cant-hear-you16 @deadlymistress24 @yesqueenofthelight @generallj @thebeckyjolene @blackmasque @mrskenobi19

[stardancerluv]

Gotham Surviving the Pandemic 2021

Part 4a

Summary: Roman is getting one step closer to his surprise

Note: used a gif of Obi Wan Kenobi, some pics of Halston on the phone and then used the back of Roman too…so that my collage could work!

Roman really didn’t want to leave, which to be honest wasn’t like him. He knew deep down, he shouldn’t let this all get to him. He was fucking Roman Sionis and he hated seeing you like this.

Roman turned in his seat from side to side as his realtor told him over the phone of the few places he found for him. He smiled. “Send me the photos. In the morning, I’ll let you know which one I want to buy.”

“Wonderful Roman, the sellers are all leaving Gotham so they're basically steals.”

“Fantastic.”

Smirking, he tossed his phone onto his desk. Things were working out. He stretched and made his way to your part of the penthouse. He gently knocked on the door to your studio.

When you opened it and he could see the tiredness, he really would love to tell you what he was planning but he wanted to make sure things were all set beforehand.

“Another late night?”

You nodded.

“I’m finished for the night.” He made a face. “A horribly slow night down there. For a real change of pace, want me to order us some take out? Perhaps we can watch a movie?” He rose his eyebrows.

You smiled. “I’d love that. Give me an hour.”

“Perfect.”

He knew he should have tried to discourage you from that boutique job. Something about it had irked him. Heading downstairs, he went to check on things. He slipped on his mask and smoothed it over his mouth and nose. It also brought the most risky clientele. They were, well ok. Wednesdays, this one no exception, were in fact slow. He gave those nights to Victor and Doll Face, they tolerated no shit.

It gave him time to plan this for the two of you while also securing all of the territory he had acquired during the lockdown. Victor,l helped with finalization and all of that.

He made a round as Diane finished a song. He cheered and urged applause. She will always be his favorite of his performers.

Going over to her, he lowered his mask and smiled. “Still the best, little bird!”

She smiled down at him. “Thank you, Roman.” She beamed.

He bid her a good night and searched for Victor, telling him to place the order and if him and Doll Face wanted anything to add to the order.

“You feeling brave enough to order, boss?” He scratched the back of his head.

Roman sighed. “Buying this beach house, I better get used to delivery. I don’t want a chef out there. I might be ordering a lot.” He made a face.

“Good point. All right, I’ll go and place the order.”

Going back up to his office, he saw notifications. He smiled. He'd given his realtor an incentive and he was working as fast as he liked.

Now, which one to pick. The small one is, well way too damn small. Roman Sionis did not do fucking small.

He kept looking through the photos. “Oooh!” His eyes grew. “Now wait a sec, this is very nice.” This was of a decent size. You and him could spread out in it. There was a room for an office. He could work out there. And even a space for you to have a studio. It sat in the better part of the beach.

He called him. “That is perfect, Jones.”

He nodded as the man spoke.

“All right, look I want that place cleaned. Top to bottom, remember those really good ones?”

More nodding.

“Yes and once it's cleaned, I will order furniture... Yes,” He sighed. “No, look this is for my fiancée and me. After all of this we need a place to escape to.”

More nodding, he felt like a stupid bobble head but it was worth it.

“Romy, is there time for me to change?” You peaked your head into his office.

He covered the phone. “Yes.” He said more tightly than he had intended. “I have a final call. I’ll be there momentarily.”

Your face took a look however fleeting, he saw it. This opening things back up had put a lot of stress on the both of you. His own anger when dealing with others was a razor’s edge.

His heart sank seeing you turn around and head to the bedroom.

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