#I want to opt out of these unrealistic expectations

[popcornucopia]

Why can’t I girl the way I want

[iceyrukia]

Why is it that whenever separatism discourse happens the anti-separatism crowd here act very presumptuous in that they:

1) assume that separatists don’t do any other activism and that they’re they only ones doing real activism

2) assume that separatists think that their activism doesn’t count/matter if they’re het-partnered

3) don’t understand that feminism isn’t some point system where if they do one feminist action then they get to reward themselves with “unfeminist” behavior and are above criticism for what other women think upholds that patriarchy ( partnering with men).

4) legitimately think that separatists think that all women, half of the world population (billions of women) are gonna actually give up dating men.

5) think separatists are just gambling on all women not dating men to “end” patriarchy, and not see it as a supplemental form of action to change things.

6) think that when separatists say that the most radical, efficient, easiest thing to do to in order to to disrupt the patriarchy it to stop partnering with men, it means that this singular action is being compared to like a multitude of other feminist actions. All some women are stating is that this singular act is the most radical.

7) going off from point number six…………………that the women choosing NOT to partner with men are doing a “non” action that helps not one women, when in fact the reality is that a women’s life was saved ( the separatist) and that counts for something. And it kinda irks me that if YOU don’t do something for OTHER women then it doesn’t count. Because separatists know that men are statistically dangerous to women they partner with so taking the ultimate precaution showing that women have had enough is an active action.

8) think all separatists think the same

[wol-fica]

[ℝ𝔼ℂℍ𝔸ℤ𝔸𝕄𝔼]-ℙ𝕣𝕒𝕚𝕤𝕚𝕟𝕘-

parings - jennaortega x fem!reader

summary - jenna loves to praise you, and you love to do anything she asks. unfortunately, a guy tried to get in between that…

warnings - m e n, oral sex, fingering, anal sex, sixty-nine, praising, r being a downright simp

an - hey guys !

—————

Do you ever dream up such a surreal thing that could never happen, but it surprisingly does?

Some people beg for unrealistic expectations, like a fancy new car, or a shiny rollex with your initials engraved in gold. Sometimes you get those things, most times you don’t; it’s a heavy ‘what if’.

You were one of those people, dreaming of the impossible and wishing for the utmost crazy things. But unlike others, you didn’t crave a new car or a fancy wrist watch; no, you wanted someone. 

See, you loved to be involved with movies and celebrities, tracking down what films they work on and all that jazz. You ranged from smaller, upcoming actors  like Tom Blythe, to bigger faces like Millie Bobby Brown. It was so fascinating to you, being that you valued cinematography and everything that comes with it, so your appreciation for the faces behind the wonderful characters that you love so much need the same attention. 

Naturally, crushes did form on certain actresses; how could you not fall for such an attractive person? You had such a heavy crush on Jenna Ortega, forming from her performance in The Fallout; she was just so beautiful to you. You would have little fantasies, picturing yourself dating her and just having a blast, it was perfect.

Now somehow, you actually met Jenna. It was completely an accident; you were working your normal shift at the library and she happened to stop by looking for some books. To say that you were awestruck was an understatement, but you didn’t want to make her feel uncomfortable in any way so you opted to control your fangirling and stay cool when she came up to purchase the novels she chose.

To your complete and utter surprise, Jenna asked for your socials. She claimed you were ‘good looking and charming’ and she wanted to become friends of the sort. The two of you chatted in instagram dm’s constantly, until you sent your number one day and then Jenna asked you out about a month later. 

Fast forward to now, two and a half years later on the set of a movie that Jenna was acting in. She had (informally) posted you as her personal assistant, meaning you had to listen to whatever she said and asked for with no complaints, not like you would anyways.

“Excuse me! Coming through!” You shouted, running past some crew workers while holding a cup of coffee and a pastry. 

Jenna had asked you to get her some food, claiming that she was a bit peckish, and if you were quick she might share some with you. To say that you sprinted was true, harnessing your inner highschool track legs to be as fast as possible so you could deliver what she wanted.

With a shove and a slight “omph” from shouldering a door open, you hurried into the big production room. Cameras were everywhere, with large lights and wires connecting all around the large set piece. People were hurrying about, actors and their makeup teams rushing to add some last touches before they started rolling.

Jenna was sitting in her chair, a script in her hands while she lazily flipped through to review some lines. As you neared her, she looked up to meet your eyes, a smile crossing her face at the sight of you.

“I got the goods!” You said breathlessly, holding up the items.

“Did you get what I asked for?” Jenna asked, taking the pastry bag to look inside.

“Yep! A white mocha iced latte with one pump raspberry and some strawberry purée cold foam, and a unicorn cake pop!” You said enthusiastically, proud that you remembered her favorite order.

“Good girl.” Jenna praised, pulling you down by your collar so she could kiss your cheek, “I’ll let you have some when we finish this scene.”

You nodded, a blush covering your face at the subtle comment she slid in. Jenna would do that often; whenever you did something good or did what she asked, she would either say “Good girl” or “That’s my girl, just what I asked for”. It gets your brain to short circuit and your stomach to churn pleasantly everytime.

“You can sit in my chair while I work, I don’t think anyone will mind.” She said, sipping her drink with a satisfied hum as she stood up, “Tastes perfect darling.”

You smiled, doing a little fist pump for being so damn good at pleasing your girlfriend. After settling into her chair, you took out your phone to scroll through instagram. Beside you, Jenna was chatting to the director about little things they could do to make the scene better. You heard something about a line delivery, but a funny reel caught your attention and you zoned out for the rest of her conversation. 

“Baby.” Jenna’s voice called to you after a while, causing you to quickly look up.

“Yeah?” You said, eyes on her as you gave her your full attention, “Do you need something?”

Her eyes softened, her hand coming up to cup your face. The pad of her thumb brushed across your skin, rubbing gentle circles on your cheek bone.

“No, I just wanted to let you know we are on a three hour break.” 

You smiled, nodding happily, “Do you want to go to your trailer? Or for a walk? I can grab your hiking shoes!”

“No need for that, we’ll hang out in the break room.” She said, tapping your leg as a silent command to follow her, “There is lunch in there as well.”

You stood up, stretching and cracking your back with a sigh. Jenna’s hand patted your stomach, her nails scratching your skin through your hoodie before she walked away with you hot on her tail. You both made your way into the room, Jenna heading to set her stuff down while you went straight for the donuts.

“Hungry much?” She asked with a laugh, watching as you stuffed a maple glazed donut into your mouth.

“Mphmmmm.” You moaned softly, relishing the taste of the sweet treat. 

“Chew with your mouth closed, don’t you have manners?” Jenna said, coming over to you with a napkin. 

“Omf curse I do.” You said, your words muffled by the donut in your mouth.

She raised her eyebrows, pulling back from wiping your mouth to give you a look that said ‘for real?’. She shook her head when you shrugged your shoulders, reaching up to finish wiping your mouth off. 

“Always so messy.” She noted after throwing the napkin away, “You need a portable pack of Kleenex or something.”

“I usually have one in my backpack.” 

Jenna hummed and nodded, picking up a plate to put some salad on. While she added her toppings, the sound of a door opening caught your attention. Turning your body towards the door, your eyes widened at the sight of who was walking in.

It was Mason, one of Jenna’s co-actors. He was around her age, maybe a little older, with a sturdy build and charming face. Almost everyone loved him, since he was claimed to be so charming and handsome, and loads of girls have unbreakable crushes on him. You used to think he was a great guy, until he started flirting with Jenna and giving you dirty looks every time he saw you. 

Soon you picked up on the fact that he had a thing for your girlfriend, and clearly disliked you for getting to her before he did. He always shot flirtatious comments towards her and constantly made sure he was around her at work so he could talk to her, and that unfortunately made you super uncomfortable and upset about the situation.

You have never been a confrontational person, and when anyone ever disliked you or was angry, you would just duck your head and nod in submission. Jenna usually defended you, knowing that you had a tendency to just take the blunt of the aggression, but for some odd reason she never noticed how Mason treated you. 

“Jeeeenna!” Mason dragged out, a charming smile on his face as he heard towards her, “What’s up?”

“Nothing much, how are you?” She said, setting her salad down to give him her attention.

He held his arms out, signaling he wanted a hug, and leaned in to wrap his arms around her waist. His hand went a little too low for your liking, his fingertips brushing way too close to her bottom, but Jenna pulled back before he could go any farther. Your eyes narrowed in jealousy, but not a word was uttered from your lips.

“I’m great.” He said, his hands still on her arms, “Care if I join you for lunch?” 

Jenna shrugged and nodded, gesturing to the seat next to her. You watched as they both sat down, letting out an irritated puff of air when Mason sneakily scooted his chair closer. Their conversation blurred while you stared, unease bubbling up in your stomach. The way he would so subtly touch her, whether brushing his hand on hers or rubbing their knees together; it made you mad. Your emotions were begging to be let out, scratching at your throat to just go off on him, but your anxiety held you back; yet again, you were afraid. 

The thing that was irking you the most was how Jenna responded to him. Her body language was open towards him, her focus and attention almost fully on him. She was smiling, nodding and laughing at mostly everything he said. It was like she completely forgot of your existence and that made your heart ache. With a sigh, you grabbed your phone and moved to leave the room. 

“Y/N?” Jenna called to you, making you turn to meet her confused gaze, “Where are you going?”

“Gonna get some air.” You said, eyes cast down away from Mason’s condescending smirk, “Just text me if you need something.” 

With that, you exited, and Jenna didn't miss the sense of urgency in your step. A pang of hurt came from her heart, a small frown of sadness coming to her face. 

“Anyways…” Mason said, gaining her attention back, “I’ve been meaning to ask you a question.”

“What is it?” Jenna asked, her eyes locked on the door in case you came back in.

“I was wondering if you wanted to grab dinner?” He asked in a hopeful tone, “A date at Providence?”

She finally turned to him, disbelief all over her face. As she stared at him, it suddenly clicked in her mind why you so abruptly left. You were insecure and upset, over the fact that Mason was flirting with her and she was doing nothing to stop it.

“No thanks. I have a girlfriend.” Jenna said, standing up to toss the rest of her salad and pursue you.

“But-.”

“Don’t, I’m not interested.” She interrupted, grabbing her bag and hurrying out of the room. 

She speed-walked down the hallway, eyes peering into every open door in search of you. Each time she looked for you, but didn’t see you, the feeling of dread filled up more and more. She almost gave up after about ten minutes, that was until she found you sitting outside.

You were curled up against the wall, your knees tucked into your chest while your chin rested on your arms. Jenna approached slowly, sliding down beside the wall to sit beside you. She stayed silent for a moment, staring up into the sky while listening to you breathe.

“I’m sorry.” Jenna said after a while, turning her face to you, “I didn’t mean to upset you.”

“It’s fine.” You mumbled, your hair blowing in the wind while you spoke.

She pursed her lips, feeling like your response was not how you actually felt. She tracked your features, searching your eyes and finding a trace of unease inside your irises. 

“Pretty girl,” Jenna tried again, bumping her foot against yours, “Can you look at me?”

You turned your head, meeting the brown eyes that you fell so hard for. She smiled at you, her hand reaching out to interlace her fingers with your own. Her thumb rubbed your skin, warmth cascading throughout your body from the gentle gesture. 

“I want you to know,” She said, her voice full of confidence, “That no one will ever deter my love from you.” 

You couldn’t help but crack a smile, a small blush coating your cheeks at her words. Jenna giggled softly at your reaction, pulling her hand from yours to cup your cheek.

“I adore you; some stupid guy will never change that.” She murmured softly, her eyes flickering to your lips; a request.

You made the first move, unraveling your knees from your chest to push yourself towards her. She met you halfway, sighing through her nose when her lips pressed into yours. She tasted like vanilla cookies, her scent overwhelming you while you kissed her. 

Your hands went up and around her neck, hers sliding down to your waist to pull herself into your lap. She leaned into you, breaking the kiss for a breath before diving right back in. Her lips slotted into yours, her body weight pushing you against the wall while you both made out. 

“You’re beautiful.” She said between kisses, “My perfect girl.”

“Jenna-.” You started but she cut you off with a kiss.

“My good girl.” She purred, sliding her hands under your shirt to feel your skin, “My trailer is about five minutes away.” 

You nodded furiously, following her closely when she stood up. Her hand grasped yours, fingers intertwined as she pulled you along the gravel path towards the trailers. The walk took less than five minutes, equaling to three since Jenna decided to do a bit of a jog.

Once she unlocked the door and pulled you inside, she pushed you up against the wall, kicking the door shut. Her lips found yours again, her hands pulling your face down to hers to be as close as possible. The feeling of her tongue prodding at your lips set you ablaze, a moan slipping from your mouth while her warm muscle explored you. 

“Bedroom. Now.” Jenna said breathlessly, trying to tug you in the direction of her bed.

You complied, falling onto the mattress. Your clothes were practically ripped off of you, with Jenna somehow undressing herself before you even laid down on your back. She straddled your lap, her hands running along your naked body.

“I think we should try something different.” She mumbled to herself, turning around in your lap.

You opened your mouth to ask what she was up to, but was immediately shut down when she slid down so her mouth was directly above your heat. Her legs went back, knees on either side of your face; sixty-nine position, one she has been talking about doing for months on end. 

A puff of air hitting your clit made you shiver, your eyes falling shut when you felt her fingers drag through your already drenched folds. After a bit of rubbing and messing around, Jenna pushed her fingers in about an inch; a test to see if you were okay to keep going. You whimpered, your legs automatically opening wider for her to easily penetrate you. 

“I’m expecting you to do something back there.” She said sternly, still slowly pushing her fingers into you, “I don’t want to wait.”

Your eyes snapped open, immediately directing your attention to the task at hand. You gently pushed her thighs farther apart, your thumbs coming up to spread her folds open. Carefully, you pulled her onto your mouth, your tongue licking and prodding her entrance as you tasted her wetness. She moaned softly, her movements unwavering while she still fingered you. 

You whined in pleasure when she wrapped her lips around your clit, arousal flowing through your veins. Between the two of you, Jenna was definitely more experienced with sex. You loved to be of assistance to her however you could, being labeled as a “service top”, what your friend called it. 

You pushed your tongue inside of her hole, relishing in the way she moaned around your clit. You thrusted back and forth, filling her up with each push inside of her. The feeling of something spongy on your tongue made you giddy, focusing your assault on massaging that sensitive spot. 

Jenna pulled back from you to give a guttural moan, her fingers finding a faster pace to match your tongue. You could feel your orgasm rising quite quickly, and you knew Jenna’s was close behind from her velvety walls tightening on you.

You came first, your body seizing and mind going blank for a moment. Jenna stroked you through it, her other hand rubbing your thigh while you calmed down. Soon though, she followed you suit, her thighs squeezing your head as she released on your tongue. A cute little noise exited her throat, sort of a moan and an exhale; either way it was adorable. 

“Oh…” Jenna sighed, her fingers twitching inside of you.

“You good?” You asked, knowing she could either want more or be completely burnt out, “Need anything?”

She pulled her hand away from your legs, rolling over and moving until she was sat up beside you. Her eyes met yours, brown irises burrowing into your soul as she analyzed you. Her shoulders slumped slightly as she stared at you, desire pooling in her pupils.

“God…” She said, her hand reaching out to affectionately stroke your thigh, “I want you to sit on my face.”

“J-Jenna!” You stuttered, your face going red in shock.

“Please?” She asked, leaning over so she could peck your lips, “I wanna make you scream my name.”

You’re not sure when you said yes, or when Jenna flipped you both over, or when she got you sat up and over her mouth, but either way she had you where she wanted you. 

Your hands gripped the headboard, trying to not lean all of your weight onto her head in fear of hurting her, but one pull from Jenna and you were done for. She guided your hips down, her tongue licking lazily between your folds. 

A whimper exited your mouth, which turned into a satisfied moan when she finally pushed herself inside of you. The stretch felt nice, and the sensual rubbing she was doing to your thighs was pleasing to you. 

“Oh Jenna!” You moaned out, throwing your head back at the feeling of her tongue finding your sweet spot. 

One of your hands went down to wind into her hair, while her hand slid up to your chest to pinch your nipples. She groped and pulled at you, pumping her tongue in and out of you at a fast pace. Your hips started to rock back and forth, small whines slipping out everytime her teeth caught your clit. 

“Fuck…” You whispered, your eyes rolling from the pleasure between your thighs, “I…I’m close…”

Jenna hummed beneath you, causing you to cry out, and proceeded to pull your thighs farther apart and press her fingers against your other hole. She rubbed for a moment, before gently pushing two inside of you. 

The attention was too much, being that her tongue was inside of you, her fingers were inside of you, and your breasts were being squeezed so pleasantly that you practically broke down on top of her. A guttural moan erupted from your throat, your orgasm crashing down hard. Jenna helped you through it, licking and pumping until you had to push yourself off of her due to overstimulation. 

“You okay?” She asked after you settled yourself into her side, your arm lazily slinging over her waist.

“Mhm.” You nodded, burying your face into her neck for comfort. 

“You did good, pretty girl.” She praised, kissing your temple before grabbing a towel off of the side table to wipe her face with, “I’m impressed with how you ate me out earlier.”

“Don’t underestimate me, idiot.” You joked, patting her stomach, “I’m not that vanilla anymore.”

Jenna laughed, pulling you closer to her chest. She threw her blanket over the two of you, snuggling into you and intertwining her legs with yours. 

“Don’t we have to be back soon?” You asked sleepily, fighting to keep your eyes open, “They need you.”

“We have two and a half hours.” Jenna murmured, tucking her head under your chin, “And I need you right now.”

“But-.”

“Shhh.” She whispered, kissing your neck, “Just hold me.”

And hold her you did.

————————

taglist: @crystal-lily-101 @tundra1029 @rainbow-love4ever  @imhungry-andtired @theafterofnevermore @k1mba @simp4thena @thenextdawn @alexkolax @annalestern @efectoangel @fall-08 @andsoigotabutterfly @littlegaybutterflysblog @sayaisrotten @deep-fried-egg @frasersgf @thispussyshouldcomew

[doumadono]

Hi I know it's not Sunday so this can wait. Whenever you get a chance could you do a hurt/comfort angst thing for Aizawa. I don't care how you do it your an amazing writer and whatever you come up with, it will be awesome. Thanks

A/N: given my current policy of not accepting standard requests, I've opted to treat this as an emergency appeal. Nevertheless, I trust you'll find satisfaction in this, dear Nonnie

EMERGENCY REQS MASTERLIST

In the quiet hours of the night at U.A. High School, Shota Aizawa, also known as Eraser Head, found himself patrolling the empty corridors. His vigilant eyes scanned the surroundings, ever watchful for any potential threats. Little did he expect that the quietude would be disrupted by a faint sound—a stifled sob echoing through the halls.

Instinctively drawn toward the source, Aizawa discovered you, a usually composed teacher, seated alone in a dimly lit classroom. The rain pounded against the windows of U.A. High School, a relentless rhythm that mirrored the turmoil within your heart. Your tear-stained face revealed a vulnerability rarely seen. Without a word, Aizawa closed the door behind him and took a seat beside you, his presence offering a silent reassurance.

"What happened?" he asked, his tone firm yet gentle. Aizawa was never one for unnecessary words, but his concern was evident.

You hesitated, unsure how to articulate the storm of emotions within. "It's just… everything feels overwhelming, and I can't shake off this sense of failure. I think I'm not a good teacher… It appears that my students are not attentive to what I say."

Aizawa's gaze remained steady, understanding the weight of such sentiments. "Being a teacher comes with its challenges, but you're not alone in this. Talk to me."

As you poured out your frustrations and insecurities, Aizawa listened intently. The weight of your experiences poured out, and with each word, Aizawa's gaze grew more focused, absorbing the depth of your pain. His responses were measured, reflecting both his pragmatism and genuine care. "Y/N, listen to me carefully, will you? Teaching is tough, and everyone faces setbacks. What matters is how you bounce back from them."

Taking a breath, you admitted, "I've been finding certain aspects of teaching challenging. It's not about the subject matter or the students, but more about balancing everything, you know? The paperwork, the responsibilities — it's overwhelming at times."

He didn't interrupt, allowing you to voice your concerns without judgment. Aizawa's silent encouragement prompted you to continue.

"I'm struggling with finding that balance, and there are moments when it feels like I'm drowning in the workload. How do you manage it all, Aizawa?"

His response was measured, reflecting the pragmatism he was known for. "Teaching is demanding, and everyone faces challenges. The key is to prioritize and set realistic expectations. You can't do everything perfectly all the time."

"I guess I feel the pressure to excel and meet everyone's expectations, including my own."

Aizawa's gaze softened, a rare moment of empathy breaking through his typically stoic demeanor. "It's natural to want to excel, but perfection is unrealistic. Accept that there will be challenges, and focus on continuous improvement. Learn from the difficulties rather than letting them overwhelm you."

You let out a sigh and a little tear rolled down your cheek. "If it was so easy, Shota… I'm so tired and stressed…"

The usually reserved hero opened up, sharing anecdotes from his own journey, illustrating that even the most seasoned individuals grappled with doubt. His words weren't sugar-coated, but they carried a raw honesty that resonated. "You are doing well though," he asserted, not one to offer false comfort but recognizing the importance of acknowledging resilience. "It's okay to feel the weight of teaching, but don't let it consume you. Don't let a setback define your capabilities. Learn from it, adapt, and keep moving forward. That's how it works."

The next day, the corridors of U.A. echoed with the resolute steps of a teacher who had confronted their fears and emerged stronger.

Aizawa, ever observant, nodded in approval. Sometimes, the greatest heroics occurred not in battles against villains but in the silent battles within, where one found the strength to stand tall once more.

The school day had ended, and the bustling hallways of U.A. High School gradually emptied. Amidst the quiet aftermath, you found yourself packing up your materials, the echoes of the day's challenges lingering in your mind. As you closed the door to your classroom, you were greeted by the unexpected sight of Aizawa, leaning casually against the wall. His sharp gaze met yours, and for a moment, you detected a subtle softening in his usually stern expression. "You seem happier today," he remarked, the observation delivered with an understated curiosity.

A faint smile played on your lips as you considered the day's events. "Maybe I took your advice to heart. Learning from setbacks and moving forward."

Aizawa nodded, acknowledging the subtle shift in your demeanor. "It's good to see. Teaching is a demanding profession, but resilience is a crucial trait. How are you feeling now?"

The sincerity in his question prompted you to reflect. "Better. Your words made a real difference, thank you."

Aizawa's response was characteristically succinct, "We're all human, even if some of us don't show it as often."

As you walked together down the now-deserted hallways, the weight of the day lifted. Aizawa's presence, though unconventional in its comfort, provided a sense of camaraderie. The conversation flowed naturally, delving into topics beyond the confines of teaching and heroics.

Before parting ways, Aizawa offered a rare smile — a small, genuine expression that hinted at the complexities beneath his usually stern exterior. "Take care of yourself. And if you ever need someone to talk to, I'm here."

With those words, he left the room, leaving you with a newfound sense of camaraderie and a reminder that even the most unyielding heroes could be found sharing a quiet moment of understanding.

[decolonize-the-left]

So something I've observed about civil rights or really any progressive movement in general is that- well for one there are different groups of people within that movement.

For example, there are the passive supporters: people who will act when convenient- signing a petition, attending a nearby rally, voting, in more recent times also sharing posts & memes, etc. They may be part of a wider community of people who share oppression, but don't really care for or prioritize the most marginalized voices in their community. In my observations, these are the people who have the least to gain from progress, people who are uncomfortable but not so much their lives are at risk on a daily basis without progress. They are motivated but not desperate.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, there are the active supporters. People who act regardless of its convenience, even willing to put themselves directly in front of a gun if it means more rights and protections. In my observations, these are the people who have the most to gain from progress, people who's lives are at risk without progress. Theyre also typically the ignored voices of their community, as their needs are not easy to address and as such make Passive members of the community uncomfortable. Every single time a movement of progress has been initiated- it's started with this group of people and often as an act of desperation after using other methods and still being ignored.

And of course there is a spectrum of people between these two groups.

Now my original point:

What I've noticed is that after Active supporters initiate a movement, after they spark the conversation (through some act of violence or public resistance to the state) and gain media attention for the fact.... They're shoved aside by the same Passives who ignored them previously.

Passive supporters co-opt the movement they previously did not care very much for. They call the active supporters extremists and terrorists in an attempt to win the favor & support of their oppressors... to get their own needs met. Usually this is because they see their own needs as needs of everyone, if life for them improves then so do the lives of Actives. The reverse is not true, providing Actives with their needs won't have a huge impact on Passives as they are already fairly comfortable (in comparison) since they do not face the same level of oppression for whatever reason.

So Passives prioritize themselves.

They shame the active supporters, praise peaceful protesting, and often they go so far as telling Actives to stop asking for their more immediate needs to be met so they can focus on the needs of Passives instead. The words "unrealistic" and "extreme" get thrown around a lot when Passives do this to Actives.

And that's fucked

And that's why when I'm looking at ANY political, humanitarian, or other movement I ALWAYS look at the most marginalized members and stand with them. Half the time I don't even bother listening to anyone else. If it matters, the most oppressed are gonna talk about it.

The ones who's intersections of identity have given them the experience and knowledge to not only to understand their oppression, but have given insight to the ideologies responsible for their oppression and can recognize that ideology systematically AND when the same ideology is being used to harm and target others. The ones who don't want to simply put a band aid or numbing spray on their oppression, but to rip it out of everyone's lives from the very roots, because they KNOW how much it hurts

The folks who intimately understand oppression are the ONLY ones who could could intimately understand eliminating it.

And I think ANYONE who doesn't do the same thing after becoming aware of this pattern... Is a piece of shit. It's why I can't stand liberals or those "I'd support them if they were peaceful" or the "well what did they expect from (victimless act of violence)" people or "well they did x" people who try to get Actives cancelled & silenced for not being perfect after doing NOTHING to help but liking and following them anyway.

They're not helping us. They're helping themselves. They're literally standing in the way of progress that could save MILLIONS of lives. And for what, so their lives can be marginally easier? So they can get a treat after begging for scraps from their oppressors??? I don't get it.

All this to say:

STOP TRYING TO SIDE WITH YOUR OPPRESSORS. QUIT THROWING MEMBERS OF YOUR COMMUNITY UNDER THE BUS. FUCKING LISTEN TO THEM. THE WHOLE PLANET WOULD BE BETTER IF YOU DID.

[brightgnosis]

Get Whatever Stone You Want For Your Engagement / Wedding Rings

“An engagement / wedding ring is supposed to be a symbol of your love and last forever so don’t get a stone known for chipping”

Listen. I’m all for choosing things carefully, and buying quality things that last. But posts like these? Sentiments like this one? Ultimately need to die in a ditch.

Expecting your ring- something you will conceivably wear daily for the rest of your life (hopefully) on easily the most actively used and abused part of your body ... To last you forever? To never lose a stone, get damaged, or otherwise need any kind of repair? Is completely and utterly ridiculous.

Like ... I literally cannot stress how having to replace your wedding band or engagement ring is a lot more common than people think it is. Because so many random things just happen, and jewelry is impervious to absolutely none of it; all jewelry will eventually break, or get chewed on by the dog, get lost or forgotten, or bent out of shape, or get run over in the driveway- or it could still fall out of its setting if it so much as gets banged the wrong way; or it could befall some other completely random but still unfortunate fate.

Even if you opted for the best, most heartiest stone in existence? Even if you take the greatest care of it Humanly possible? That will stop absolutely none of these things from potentially happening to it; nothing will last you forever- but especially not your wedding and engagement rings. Eventually it will very likely need some kind of repair or replacement.

This is why jewelry insurance is a thing which exists- especially for sentimentally irreplaceable pieces (and if you didn’t get it on your ring, you should go get it immediately. Especially if you paid a hefty penny for it).

Therefore: It doesn’t really matter what stone you get.

Yes. As the above-linked post notes: Opal in particular is a soft stone that’s well known for being horrible to set, being prone to desetting, and being overly prone to damage and clouding. However? My original wedding ring was a Peruvian Blue Opal- and it’s still lasted just fine for a decade already ... Another I have- which is by no means a sentimental piece- is a White Opal ring that literally did get run over by a car and was flattened as a result, and the stone’s still just fine. I could absolutely have the stone reset or the band repaired if I want (I'm literally just too lazy to).

If these are things you are concerned about because of the high likelihood? They are valid concerns to consider, because it's your ring and your concerns are important. But that's the point, though ... It's your ring. And ultimately what you want is most important here- completely unrealistic expectations of some kind of eternal longevity be absolutely damned.

If you want an opal in your engagement ring, then get an Opal. If you want a Diamond, then get a Diamond. Alexandrite? Ruby? Moonstone? Fuck, you want glass ??? Peridot ??? Go for it! Any of it! Get synthetic or lab grown versions if you want! Synthetic and Lab Grown versions of most stones exist - and they’re not bad! Sometimes they can even look a lot better and are even heartier than their natural counterparts, too! Not enough people are versed enough to tell the difference anyways, and with Lab Grown there’s literally no difference to even begin with. So who’s going to know? Who's even going to care really ???

Whatever you do? Do not listen to other people and what they think you should or shouldn’t get. It’s your ring. You’re going to be the one who has to wear it for the rest of your life. So you might as well get something that you're going to actually love and be happy with for the rest of your life ... That is literally the only thing that matters- and will ever matter- here: Your enjoyment with your own ring.

Just be aware of the fact that certain stones may potentially need to be replaced at different rates, and will have different care criteria to ensure they last as long as they can ... But as long as you’re informed of and educated on the care demands and you’re willing to put up with that? Then there’s literally absolutely no reason on the planet (except finances, probably; realistically speaking) why you shouldn’t get exactly what you want- no matter how small, or soft, or prone to damage or falling out it is.

This is an opinion post based in direct experience. If you find them helpful or interesting, please consider Tipping or Leaving a Ko-Fi; even $1 helps.

[ichigopanhpff]

When We Were Young

I'd been sitting on this one for a while. Honestly, I'm still feeling uneasy about this one, but I will post nonetheless!

I noticed a lot of first times are written with rose-tinted glasses on, which isn't bad. But I feel it sets an unrealistic expectation, like you have to make your partner(s) orgasm several times or something. And if you did/have, that's amazing. And of course, everyone's experience is different.

What I noticed some writers don't cover is how awkward it can be. Yes, it can be romantic and sensual, but many steps had to be taken to get to that point. Solid communication need to be established. It's important to talk with your partner(s) about your likes, dislikes and what you're comfortable giving consent to.

Consent is key. You've heard and read this many times, but I cannot stress how important this is. It lays the groundwork for trust and intimate connection. Not only are you trusting them with your physical body, you're entrusting them with your emotions and sensations to create a safe space to feel good with everyone involved.

I say everyone because a relationship is not always just between two people and I want to reflect that.

Enough with the PSA; let's get right to it! This one-shot takes place in the final timeline of TokyoRev and I've done my best to keep it spoiler free. Mitsuya and (Y/N) are 18-19. Some characters/events tie in with "Begin Again."

---

It’s been nearly four years since Mitsuya and (Y/N) started dating.

What started out as a young and blossoming teenage love had now fully grown into a maturing and decadent flower.

They’ve seen through each others best and worst times, through Toman and their conflicts with Black Dragon and Tenjiku, every fist fight, hospital visit, last minute school assignments, and the rush of reckless youth; they were beside each other hand in hand.

Taking their relationship to the next level was something they kept an open conversation about; if they were honest with themselves, their raging hormones did not make this easy.

Were it not for Mitsuya’s promise to Jun, this would’ve happened a long time ago.

A very long time ago.

They started out slow with exploring each other’s bodies and reading articles in lifestyle magazines on their own time; they wanted to learn each other’s pleasure points, memorize every divot and curve, taste every inch of skin, ingrain the sound of their voice when aroused. Their warm, lingering touches on each other left them craving more every time.

When they tried oral, it was… not how the stories made it out to be in the magazines.

Mitsuya couldn’t find the balance between licking, sucking, and fingering. He couldn't find her clitoris and got close to it a few times, thinking that was it when he heard her voice change; he's also lost count the amount of times she yelped in pain from him trying to push his finger inside her too early when he thought she was wet enough; it was from his saliva, not her. The only thing he found in the end was a spot that made (Y/N) ticklish where she had to push him off because she was laughing too hard.

(Y/N) was too shy and not confident enough to try it because “it’s where your pee comes from” and opted to try a hand job instead; poor boy thought his girlfriend was going to rip it off with how hard she gripped and how fast she did it. Never in his life had he felt that raw and took nearly 3 days to recover. His loins felt like he had terrible rug burn.

Despite the open dialogue and experimentation, they were both still too embarrassed to be fully nude in front of each other.

There were nights where Mitsuya found himself mindlessly sketching out lingerie designs for his girlfriend to wear, some of which hardly left anything to the imagination. His face stained tomato red and had half a mind to rip it out of his sketchbook and throw it away. The lilac haired boy had to use every ounce of his self-control; his sisters were sleeping on the other side of the partition curtain. Safe to say, he hid that particular sketchbook way out of reach from his nosy siblings.

And there were times where (Y/N) found her mind wandering to what positions her boyfriend would put her in while pumping himself inside her. Feeling hot and bothered from her running imagination, she’d use her fingers to satiate her lust; though her boyfriend’s would probably feel much better if he didn’t try to rush it half the time.

They were caught in the middle of a downpour during their date one autumn day and took shelter under a random awning of a shop; unfortunately, the convenience store sold out of umbrellas from the early birds. Already soaked to the bone, the two made a break for it when the storm lightened up and made their way to her apartment. After shaking off their drenched jackets and brushing their respective locks from excess water, the two entered shuddering violently from the cold rain.

“Wait here,” (Y/N) instructed with audible shivers she tried suppressing in her throat. “I’ll get you a towel.”

Sliding open the storage closet by the bathroom, she pulled out a fresh set and threw a small one at her boyfriend to dry off before coming in. Revealing his lanky and toned torso after peeling his black oversized t-shirt off, she hastily grabbed the half soaked garment and wrung it out the best she could before hanging it up to dry in the bathroom. Mitsuya stepped in not long after and hugged her from behind to warm her trembling body.

“You’re shaking,” he mumbled in her ear, feeling his body quivering from the cold still. The warmth of his breath sent a different kind of senses down the nerves of her skin. “Wanna take a bath together?”

“You first,” she suggested. “I’ll take one after.”

“But it’ll save time and water,” he suggested with a small whine before pressing a warm, open mouth kiss on her cold neck while moving the wet, matted strands of hair out of the way. She leaned into the sensation and let out a small breath from her nose.

“As nice as that sounds…” she gasped out and turned to face him. “I doubt we’ll be doing much bathing.”

“I’m not seeing the problem here,” he lowly chuckled in his throat, his lavender gaze slightly darkened.

She gave him a nice, long kiss and pulled back before Mitsuya could do any more. Playfully biting on her bottom lip, she pushed herself off and took her damp top off to hang dry, revealing her bra to him before walking out of the bathroom.

“Really?” he huffed from frustration with his arms out in his half-excited state. “You’re gonna leave me hanging like this?”

“Yup.”

Releasing a dejected sigh, the lilac haired boy got to disrobing and hung the rest of his soaked clothing up before turning the shower head on to warm himself up and wash the cold off his skin. Emerging a few minutes later, he wrapped his lower half with a towel and found a dry set of his clothes on the floor; she cleverly disguised the reason as ‘something for her to have in case of weather emergencies’ when she just wanted to wear his clothes. Switching off, (Y/N) jumped in and let out a huge sigh of relief the moment the warm water hit her frozen body.

“I’ve revived,” she drawled contently, exiting the bath wearing one of his oversized t-shirts and entered her bedroom, where Mitsuya was splayed out flipping through one of her photography magazines. The sound of calm, steady rain fall could be heard from her closed window, the pattering of drops clacking loudly on the tin roof from one floor up.

“So that’s where that shirt went,” he looked up from the magazine with an amused smirk.

“It… conveniently made its way into my drawer,” she playfully fibbed and batted her eyelashes.

“Right…” Mitsuya drawled and rolled his eyes. “Like those three in your drawer there?”

“If you didn’t want me stealing your shirts, then don’t make ‘em so comfortable to wear.”

“I actually bought those, y’know,” he pointed out.

She faced him and put her hands on her hips. “It’s really your fault, Taka. I can’t sleep in anything other than your clothes anymore.”

“Really?” he mused with a cocked brow and a matching smirk.

“Your scent calms me,” she pouted and hid her blushing face by opening the closet. She took out her futon for the two of them to lay on. Even though their date was ruined by the rain, they could at least be cozy together.

Smoothing out the plush mattress, she patted it as an invitation for her boyfriend to join her. Lazily smiling with his signature half-lidded gaze, he closed the magazine and crawled to her side. Loosely wrapping his arms around her frame, she unfolded the blanket and draped it across their legs. She let out a content sigh and leaned her head into the lilac haired boy’s torso, feeling his body warmth envelop her with his cuddles.

“I’d say this makes up for the rain, yeah?” He kissed her cheek and nuzzled into the crook of her neck, making her chuckle.

“I think so.” She faced her boyfriend with a grin before wrapping her arms around his shoulders and leaned in to share lips. “How do you do it?” she softly asked.

“Do… what?” he asked with a quizzical look.

“How do you make it so easy for me to love you?” She pecked him on the lips and played with a few stray strands of his shoulder length lilac hair; he decided to grow it out after Toman disbanded. “You’ve spoiled me rotten for anyone else.”

“Are you implying there’ll be others?” he inquired with half-seriousness, making her softly laugh.

“I’d like to see them try prying me away from you.”

“Damn right. ‘Cus you’re all mine.”

Pulling her onto his lap, (Y/N) straddled her legs around Mitsuya’s waist. Threading his digits into her locks, he sighed into their kiss and deepened it by running the tip of his tongue on her lower lip. Their wet muscles openly danced as his hands roamed around her exposed thighs found themselves at the hem of her oversized shirt. Slowly pulling it off of her, he cast the top aside and gently traced every inch of her back with a shaky breath. His eyes drunk in the masterpiece sitting on top of him.

“Gorgeous…” he whispered and pressed a kiss on her collar bone and moved up to the crevice of her neck. She let out a soft moan and cradled his head gently, stroking his soft lilac strands around her fingers. His hands gently caressed her back and found them at her bra clasp; she felt him clumsily fumble with it and let out a small giggle.

“Need some help there?”

“… Yes.”

Giving him an endearing smile and a chaste kiss, (Y/N) got off of his lap and turned to show her back to him, revealing the two row hooks and demonstrated how they work together.

“There’s some that’s three rows, even four,” she explained. “But those are usually for larger chest sizes that need more support.”

“Those gotta be a pain to take off…” he noted.

“They’re a bigger pain to put on.”

Mitsuya reached out and gently unclasped her bra and softly ran his fingertips down the small of her back, sending goosebumps up her skin and arched up as an audible shudder escaped her. Pulling himself in, he peppered kisses along her lotus tattoo and proceeded to slip his fingers under her bra strap to remove it off her shoulders. (Y/N) immediately covered her chest with her arms, feeling exposed. His arms snaked around her waist and moved his hands up to gently knead the fleshy mounds, eliciting a soft moan and whimper from her. Her boyfriend let out a throaty groan and open mouth kissed her neck, sucking harshly on the skin and leaving red marks on her right shoulder. His index and thumb found her cold, pebbled nipples, giving it a firm pinch; she let out a small whimper and felt something thick and hard start to poke the back of her thigh.

“I want to see you,” he whispered on the shell of her ear.

Shyly turning around, her body trembled with nervousness as she let her arms down, revealing her plump breasts for Mitsuya to see. Her nipples were hard and excited from his previous touches mixed with the chill in the air from the rain. His soft, lavender gaze went dark and felt himself twitch as he sucked in a breath.

“So beautiful…” he whispered. Snaking his left arm around her waist, he pulled her into a searing kiss before gently laying her down on the futon and laced both his hands with hers as he hovered above. Slowly releasing, he looked into her eyes with love.

“We don’t have to do this if you don’t feel ready…” His left hand came up and softly caressed her cheek and kissed the top of her head.

“I am. Just…” Her right hand reached up and placed it on top of his. “Go slow, okay?”

Silently nodding, he took his t-shirt off, revealing his lithe and toned body. (Y/N)’s hands slowly trailed up, feeling each divot of his muscles on his stomach as he hummed with approval. He reached down and removed his shorts, revealing a very obvious protruding member in his black boxer briefs. Her eyes gradually widened with surprise.

“… Will that fit?” she haplessly blurted out and blushed, unconsciously clenching her legs together. Mitsuya snickered while she covered her face, reeling from humiliation.

“We’ll have to find out…” he chuckled and leaned back down to her lips after gently pushing her hands off her face. The lilac haired boy wedged his knee between her legs, feeling the pooling warmth from her panties. Mitsuya let out a throaty groan and trailed his lips down from her neck to latch onto her left nipple. (Y/N) softly gasped the moment she felt his tongue flick on the hardened bud and sucked on it; his left hand fondled her other breast, pinching it every now and then before switching off. She threaded her fingers into the strands of lavender, encouraging her boyfriend for more through soft sighs and hitched breaths, his name leaving her lips in tiny whimpers. His large right hand trailed down her side and languidly rubbed her inner thigh, trying to gain access her growing want.

She let out a surprised gasp and sighed when she felt the tips of two of his fingers slowly rub her clothed slit up and down. For some reason, she felt wetter than usual as her body naturally reacted to each of his tender caresses. Mitsuya released his lips from her nipple with a soft pop and focused his attention to her now drenched panties. Hooking his fingers on the sides to remove it, (Y/N)’s hands jolted up and grabbed his wrists in a fit of panic.

Was this really happening? Right now?

“Y-You first…” she meekly stuttered out as an attempt to stall.

Letting out a light sigh through his nose, he smiled at his girlfriend with understanding. He moved his hands to the waistband of his boxers instead and slowly pulled it down, freeing his now extremely erect cock hitting his stomach; his breath hitched from the sudden chill hitting his hot skin. The tip glistened with his pre-cum; a protruding vein ran up his shaft. He was lengthy with a good amount of girth.

“This… This is me,” he shyly murmured with a tint of pink blooming on his cheeks.

Unconsciously reaching up, she wrapped her hand around his length and gave it a light jerk, earning a soft, breathy moan from him. Unlike his hands, (Y/N)’s were soft and felt like he was melting into her touch with every languid stroke; she’s learned to go soft and slow after the last time. How many nights had he imagined her doing this to him instead of his own whenever his mind was clouded with lust? His hand immediately grabbed her wrist, stopping her movement.

“Sweetheart…” He swallowed hard and seethed at her touch, his deep gaze glossed over with desire. “As good as that feels, I don’t wanna cum just yet.”

“Is that all it takes?” she joked.

“With the way I am now, yes,” he confessed. “Besides…” He used his body weight and pushed (Y/N) back down, slipping his hand under her panties and took it off in one go, making her softly yelp in shock. “It’s your turn.”

The moment he did, she quickly clamped her legs shut, embarrassed by how turned on she was.

“Come on, love. Don’t be unfair…” he softly cooed out and rubbed soothing circles on her quaking thighs and trailed light kisses on it. He rested the side of his head on the outside of her right leg with puppy dog eyes. “I wanna see all of you.”

Hesitantly coming around, she relaxed and allowed her boyfriend’s hand to stroke across the expanse of her left leg to fully open them up. His deep lavender gaze stared down at her moistened folds with the warmth of need radiating from it. The tips of his left fingers teasingly trailed up to the inner parts of her thigh, making her whimper and muscles tighten. He let out a long, elated sigh the moment he made contact and gently stroked her labia with his middle and index fingers.

(Y/N) sharply inhaled and let out a broken, high-pitched squeal, squeezing her eyes closed. Her head tilted away while feeling her boyfriend’s fingers explore her most intimate spot, letting out shallow breaths as she tried her best to stifle her voice; the apples of her cheeks burning fiery hot. Mitsuya laid down beside her, feeling his stiff cock poke her from behind.

“Don’t be embarrassed,” he encouraged with a soft, baritone bass in his voice. “I wanna hear how good you feel.”

He peppered kisses down the back of her neck before sucking on that one spot that made her weak. Squelching sounds sharply bounced off the walls of her room as she breathlessly moaned his name. Mitsuya successfully found her clit and slowly rubbed it, making her breath hitch and body jolt from the sudden sharp, foreign sensation. His other arm slipped around her shoulder and fondled her left breast.

“So wet for me…” he praised and hissed from how excited his girlfriend was. Feeling her relax, he slowly slipped his middle finger inside her and gave a few test thrusts. He groaned at how her muscles tightly wrapped around his digit and pulsated in satiny warmth. (Y/N) felt her pelvis bucking into his touch and lightly rocked into his finger as lust and stray tears covered her eyes. His thumb found its way to her clit and flicked it in rhythm to his finger pumping in and out of her hole. Letting out a sharp gasp, her muscles tense up as she felt something hot build inside of her.

“Taka…” she whimpered, feeling her body get hotter and wetter. Her face flushed as she gasped for air while he continued. “I-It feels weird…”

“I read it’s supposed to make you feel really good…” he panted as he continued thrusting and rubbing in rhythm, feeling her insides clench tighter around him. “Let me make you feel good…”

She found her breath hitching in her throat as her back arched, her voice let out a strangled moan the moment she felt the tightly wound thread inside her snap. Mitsuya hummed with approval and languidly kissed her neck, sucking more dark spots on it as her pulsating muscles convulse around his drenched finger from her very first orgasm.

“Taka…” she whispered with moaning pants and broken cries while he slowed his strokes, her lower half still shaking and jerking from her release. “I wanna make you feel good too.”

Steadily removing his nectar-coated fingers with a squelch, Mitsuya brought it up to his lips and tasted how sweet she was. After licking his digits clean, he pulled her chin to him and let her taste herself on his tongue. Releasing in a daze, she stumbled to sit back up and pulled one of her mini desk drawers open to take out a condom they bought ahead of time.

“Nervous?” she asked with a quaking smile.

“Y-Yeah…”

“Me too.”

“Are you sure you want this?” he asked again for confirmation as he took the wrapped contraceptive from her; she softly nodded in confirmation.

“Taka, I’ve always been yours.” She kissed him tenderly and released, her stare darkened with carnal ardor and adoration. “There’s no one else I’d do this with.”

His heart leapt into his throat, enveloping his emotions in her words; he needed to show how much he loved and needed her now. Ripping the foil, he rolled the condom over his length, lightly hissing at the cold sensation of the lubricant touching his hot skin. Positioning themselves in missionary, the two stared into each other’s souls, their hearts pounding fast in their chest as their limbs shook nervously.

(Y/N) reached up to pull him down to capture his lips to relax. He rubbed the head on her slick folds; the two times he tried pushing into her, the tip popped back up from it being too slippery and nerves. She readjusted herself on the bottom and he successfully entered, letting out a long gasp as the head of his cock bullied its way in her. She gritted her teeth from the pressure and mewled.

“Hngh, so tight…” he grunted between breaths with his whole body shaking as he pushed in little by little. “Try to relax…”

“Easy for you to say…” she squeaked out, feeling herself stretch to Mitsuya. It was overwhelming and felt like she was being split in two. Her legs trembled as her hands vice gripped onto his shoulder blades like her life depended on it, her nails digging into his skin. Hot, crocodile tears streaked down her cheeks the moment she felt him bottom out, letting out a dry sob the moment she felt something pop inside. The pain was sharp and barely tolerable as she felt her thigh muscles squeeze and shake. They looked at each other, letting out light, shaky breaths from being connected body and soul for the very first time.

“You’re doing so good, baby,” her lover consoled and wiped away the stray tears that stained her cheeks, peppering light kisses on her face. “You’re… so soft inside,” he moaned and rested his forehead on top of hers. His hands found solace on the sides of her head. “I feel like I’m gonna melt in you.”

“Don’t say something embarrassing like that while you’re in me!” she huffed out with reddened cheeks, still trying to breathe through the pain; he merely let out a breathless chuckle.

He clumsily crashed his lips on hers, completely drunk on the sensation of her body; his long lilac hair matted onto his now clammy skin, feeling his body heat rise from the new found erotic sensation of being forever connected to the love of his life. He did his best to stay still while his girlfriend adjusted to him. Gingerly shifting her legs to wrap around his hips, she gave him a chaste kiss on his lips.

“I think…” she swallowed thickly and sighed. “It’s okay for you to move now.”

Her boyfriend looked down to pull out a little and did a few shallow test thrusts before putting some more strength into it and softly moaned from feeling her clamp down on him with every move.

“Feels good… You feel so good… So hot,” he gasped out before capturing her lips with his again. Swallowing each other’s moans, her legs twitched while he plunged into her oasis sloppily.

Her breathing became erratic, gasping out his name through broken moans and felt something inside her break with a hot sensation. (Y/N)’s boyfriend stilled his hips as her stifled cries and throbbing velvety walls clenched around him. He watched her face contort between pain and pleasure as her back rounded from what he was doing to her, trying his best not to come on the spot.

“Taka…” she slurred out, feeling the contact high with blurry eyes and reached up to cup his face with her hands.

“Does it still hurt?” he asked with worry.

She slowly shook her head and flashed him a soft, convincing smile. “You can go a little… harder…” she bashfully muttered.

“… Are you saying this ‘cus you want this or for my sake?”

(Y/N) softly stroked his cheek with the pads of her thumbs and whispered, “I want it and I want all of you, Taka. You don’t have to hold back.”

As if under a spell, he dove down and fervently kissed her, the tips their tongues openly dancing as he started thrusting inside her again with vigor, their foreheads touching. His muscular arms tightly held onto her while hers wrapped around his shoulder while one of her hands weaved into his damp locks, lightly pulling on it from his rapture.

“More…” she moaned. “Deeper, love.”

Mitsuya thrust his full length into her with soft, guttural grunts and pants, the snap of his hips making the lewd, sticky sounds of their juices audible between their sounds of pleasure. Unable to hold back anymore, his hands gripped her hips as he sped up, the wet slapping of their skin getting louder and louder as her muscles clenched around his length. Uttering her name out like a prayer while chasing his release, his body stuttered and choked back a soft grunt as he climaxed, feeling her squeeze every drop out. Screwing his eyes close, he felt his warm seed exit in spurts and pool at the tip of his cock inside. The two caught their breath as her boyfriend gingerly reopened his eyes in a half-lidded state, dazed from his orgasm. Slowly pulling out, he hissed at the feeling of leaving her warmth, revealing the amount he came in the contraceptive. Carefully rolling it off of his now softening member, he tied it before wrapping it in a tissue to dispose of it later. Grabbing a few more sheets, he cleaned himself off before tending to his girlfriend.

She let out a light groan and turned to her side, feeling the soreness between her legs and panting. A light sheen of sweat covered their skin both from their lovemaking. Mitsuya gently pulled (Y/N) into a deep embrace, feeling her soft, supple flesh on his. The patters of the rain softened up from the downpour before.

“Was I too rough?” he asked with a look of concern, seeing her wince from discomfort when she readjusted her body for a better position to cuddle in. He rubbed soothing circles on her thigh as a way to alleviate her aches. She shook her head.

“You were fine,” she reassured and leaned into him to lazily kissed her boyfriend while smiling into it. “I read the pain’s common after.”

“Would a warm bath help?”

“It depends: are you joining?”

“If you’re inviting…” her boyfriend replied with a light chuckle and brought her left hand to his lips, kissing the ring on her left ring finger he gave her glimmering in the dimly lit bedroom.

“Don’t think we’ll get much bathing done,” she laughed.

“Again, I fail to see the problem here.”

Before they could continue their banter, the sound of jingling keys could be heard from the door. The two looked at each other with widened eyes, their breaths hitched in their throats from anxiety. (Y/N) glanced at the calendar on her desk and that sense of dread dropped into the pits of her stomach.

Her dad was coming home after 2 months.

And today was that day.

Oh. Crap.

[oxygenbefore1775]

If This Feeling Flows Both Ways

pairing: Reiner x Jean

tags: mid second timeskip, confessions, a tiny drop of angst, sensual smut, porn w/plot Ig

cw: maybe some unrealistic male physiology, power-bottom!Jean and subby-top!Reiner, oral, bodily fluids (spit and cum), slight expectorating (maybe icky to someone) pillow talk if you squint

wc: 2,1k

summary: Reiner's wooing of Jean finally paid off when one night he decided to reciprocate the feelings.

a/n: currently havin' reijean brainrot

"Jean," Reiner's voice pierces through the silence in the room.

Jean shrugs his shoulder, his undivided attention dedicated to the writing in front of him.

"Uh-huh," his tone fails to conceal the annoyance at having to prepare the speech at such late hour. "Can you help me out here? What am I supposed to write right here?"

Out of the corner of his eye, Jean can see Reiner scooting closer while having a look at a line being pointed out to him. After a brief moment of pondering, Reiner voices his suggestion which — to Jean's relief and delight — seems to fit perfectly into the word canvas.

Since Armin's begun pairing them together for their duties as the ambassadors of piece, Jean and Reiner have been spending more time in each other's company in comparison to the other Alliance members. Although unaware of Reiner's stance regarding this partnership, Jean couldn't be more happy about the match. With how busy and demanding their job can get, Reiner has been the only one able to put up with his excessive obstinacy and harsh opinions on the better way of work. Besides those merits there's another one that Jean values the most — that being his skill to produce speeches with seemingly no effort. No matter the occasion or the purpose of the speech, Reiner always manages to come up with the right words, precision of which evokes emotions in even the most heartless people. Reiner, however, doesn't deem this extraordinary, chalking it up to his childhood as a Warrior Candidate when he's been writing flattering compositions laced with Marleyan propaganda on the regular basis.

Jean pats him on the back as the sign of gratitude, his hand reaching for a pen to make the proposed corrections.

"This should do it," he announces and blows on the paper to dry the ink. "If Armin decides to veto this draft as well, I will lose my mind right then"

Out of the two of them, it's Jean's speeches that Armin always has a problem with. With five drafts already rejected and the day of the event creeping up on them, Jean's resorted to writing at night. Throughout this challenge of Kirstein's eloquence, Reiner's been sharing his nocturnal lifestyle, ready to help — be it choice of words or mug of coffee. Sure, Braun has a lot of free time since he's written a perfect speech on his first try (did anyone expect anything less?). And still he opts for spending his time like this: confined to the armchair the entire night, occasionally lending a sympathetic ear to nagging Jean. Perhaps it's a partner-thing-to-do, Kirstein assumes.

"You were saying?" Jean looks up at Reiner, finally putting the draft aside.

"I was wondering," he sounds a tad unsure, "What do you want to do when we will be done with the diplomatic mission?"

Jean can't help but to chuckle bitterly at Reiner's words.

"When? It's if. If we will be done with all of this at all," he leans back against the couch, a sigh escaping his lips. "It'll take years for them to start treating us seriously. Now we're merely a menagerie for them, a pack of exotic animals to look at"

Reiner nods in accord, his body tensing up at Jean's harsh words.

"Every time we visit yet another city, it's not the diplomats and ambassadors of peace trying to mend international relations. It's former Titans and Island bumpkins"

"Yes, I remember some journalist asking me if I still could transform into the Armor," the corners of Reiner's lips curve into a faint smirk.

As the memory of that event emerges at the surface of his mind, Jean cackles, more annoyed than amused. Were Jean at Reiner's place, he'd reply with a cheeky remark instead of being at the loss of words and smiling in confusion — just like Reiner did that day.

"I'd like to go home," Jean says with a sudden softness to his voice, returning to Reiner's question, "More than anything. Start a family there"

If someone — Jean can't find it in his heart to say the name — will have him.

Reiner sighs with a downcast look on his face. After a moment of silence his body starts leaning forward so that his gaze is on Jean's features.

"To be honest, I wish this diplomatic mission wouldn't end at all," his tone is quiet and shy, as if confessing a cherished secret.

His words are met with Jean's sceptic look. Reiner's dedicaion to their cause — although admirable to some extent — continues to baffle Jean.

"You take pleasure in wandering the world?"

As soon as the question escapes his lips, he can see blood rushing to Reiner's cheeks. He himself must have felt this, bringing a hand to his face. Such a rare sight to see, Jean notes to himself, solely alcohol can bring Reiner to such state.

The pillows of the couch collapsing under Reiner's weight as he moves closer to Jean, their eyes interlock.

"I take pleasure in being together with you"

In the next moment Reiner leans forward, his lips pressing against Jean's — the impact of his advance sending them both down on the cushions. Air escapes Jean's lungs as he groans, having been pinned down. Reiner is quick to pull away from the superficial kiss — pupils dilated, breath heavy — only to plant another one in the corner of the mouth.

"You... Fuck," Jean is overwhelmed at Reiner's sudden fit of vigor.

His body is in an uncomfortable position and his neck is bent in a weird angle but Jean doesn't have it in him to register those concerns. The sole sensation is someone else's lips peppering his face with quick pecks.

Trying to keep him still, Jean places his hand on Reiner's nape and pulls him into a deep kiss.

"Jean," Reiner whimpers, his mouth still on Jean's lips, "Please tell me..."

Jean's hazed gaze is on Reiner's glazed over eyes.

"Tell me you feel the same"

His voice trembles with pleading.

What does 'the same' entail, Jean wonders. Is it lust that's burning up inside his stomach as he's laying under him? Cloying anticipation of having his skin caressed with Reiner's lips and tongue? Or does this supposed feeling go beyond the whim of satiating their thirst? Jean does feel something — there is no doubt about that — he doesn't know if he can reciprocate with the same depth.

Not keen on voicing his sentiments, Jean licks Reiner's lips, rewarding him with a smile afterwards.

"I don't want to be fucked on the couch in the common room, so I propose we go to your bedroom"

Reiner doesn't have to be told twice — his eyes flaring up like coals, he gets off of Jean and leads him to the door.

Cloaked under the darkness of the bedroom, Jean reaches for the collar of Reiner's shirt with his hands. His sight betrays him, forces him to rely solely on his sense of touch. Reiner's heavy breathing reaches his ear as his fingers make their way down the placket. Suddenly Jean feels his arms being grabbed by the wrists and lifted up — in the next moment slow hot kisses are planted on his palms and knuckles, leaving wet spots.

Freeing his hands gently in attempt not to seem rude, Jean keeps on undressing both of them. Reiner's lips still find him, pressing against the neck right where delicate skin covers a pulsating artery. It takes Jean all the crumbs of composure he has left not to tilt his head back and expose more of his skin to the caresses.

With their bodies finally robbed of covers, Jean takes a moment to run his fingers down Reiner's chest and stomach, noting how quickly and eagerly he responds to the touch. A stifled moan escapes Reiner's lips as he leans forward for a kiss — but Jean deprives him of this and pushes him on the bed instead.

"Let me handle everything," he says under his breath, getting on the bed.

Since his eyes have adjusted to the dim lighting in the room, Jean can see Reiner propping himself up on the elbows. Chest heaving rapidly, mouth half-open — he's waiting for him. Jean is almost teasing as he crawls on all fours towards him, his pace so excruciatingly slow that Reiner swears through his teeth.

Reiner lets out another gasp when he suddenly stops moving. Jean's head near Reiner's crotch, he lies down on his stomach all the while their eyes are locked on each other. In a smooth movement Jean extends his hand, his fingers wrapping around Reiner's girth — his vacant mind rids itself of any thoughts as he starts moving his fist.

"Oh fuck," the words slip out through Reiner's pursed lips.

"You like it?" this ends up sounding saccharine, the success at giving pleasure robbing the voice of any cockiness.

Jean presses his fingers around the tip, squeezing out a little bit of pre-cum and covering the shaft with pale drops. With his palm in thin suspension-like liquid, he deems it good enough of a slick to add velocity to his movements. The strokes having become more coarse and Reiner wincing at every friction, Jean is proven wrong in his assumption. In order to make up for it, he alignes his lips with Reiner's cock, opening his mouth slightly. A string of saliva tickles his tongue as it comes running down on his lower lip, dribbling on the pink tip. With viscous fluid spread along the shaft, Jean lets himself pick up the pace.

The wet sounds of spit-covered skin, the way his palm slides up and down, queit whimpers escaping Reiner's lips — all of it makes Jean's blood run to his stomach. He has never felt something like this before.

Reiner's cock glistening from pre-cum and saliva in the dim light, Jean finds it irresistible not to get a taste. As his tongue sticks out, the tip of it fluttering around the throbbing head. The light kisses planted and hot breath hitting the skin send Reiner over the edge as he squirms in an attempt to evade Jean's touches, too sensitive for them. Jean, however, is quick to wrap one of his arms around Reiner's thigh pinning him down to one place. A mischievious gaze that Reiner gets rewarded with clearly signalizes Jean's intention to keep the sweet torture going.

Out of breath, Reiner collapses back onto the pillows. Carte blanche granted — he smiles as his tongue wets the shaft all the way from bottom to top and the brim of his lips closes around the tip.

"You're so good," Reiner's voice is laced with softness that is not fit for such moment.

It's about to get better, Jean thinks to himself, an idea forming at the back of his head. Slacking his jaw open, he puts Reiner's entire length inside his mouth in one rapid thrust. The head of the cock reaches Jean's larynx, hitting the back of his throat with force.

Taken by surprise, he feels the walls of his throat squeezing around Reiner's girth — tears stinging his eyes. It doesn't help that Reiner, stimulated with pressure, arches his back and starts bucking his hips at a broken pace, slamming into Jean's mouth. He jerks his head away. After a moment of catching his breath, Jean goes into a coughing fit, rubbing his neck in a soothing gesture. The sore walls of his throat are constricting as the coughs expell pale clots that Jean catches with his hand.

"Did you just—" the opportunity to voice his dismay gets taken away from him when Jean feels being taken by his arms and pulled closer to Reiner's chest.

"My bad."

Reiner lifts his face by the chin, his fogged gaze sliding over Jean's features as if to inspect the damages he has left. Thumb brushing against Jean's puffy lower lip, Reiner leaves a kiss there as a consolation.

"I didn't expect you to go ahead and deepthroat my cock," he laughs when Jean rolls his eyes in annoyance, "You were really good for your first time"

Blood rushes to Jean's cheeks since he is unable to refute this words.

"What about you?" Reiner runs his fingers down Jean's sweat-covered chest "I don't want you to be left out"

"No," his voice sounds almost whiny as he rests his head on Reiner's shoulder, his hair all ruffled up. "The sun is rising already and my body hurts. I'll get my share next time"

Out of the corner of his eye, Jean can see Reiner turn to him, holding his breath.

"Next time?"

"Sure, you thought this would be a one-time thing?" Jean's lips curl into a smile.

Reiner turns back away, the look on his face betrays his excitement.

"When are we going to tell them?" Reiner asks innocently.

Jean scoffs at the question.

"They already know. Your affection is so obvious."

(I guess I'm writing smut now)

[snow-system-wol]

Fluffcember Day 29, Confess

G'raha's intent was simply to never confess. He thought about it sometimes, idly, but in a vague sort of fantasy rather than actual consideration. He'd tell S'ria his feelings, and S'ria would tell him that he'd always felt the same, and then they'd kiss under the moonlight. That sort of unrealistic thing.

But he knew it should never actually be said, he didn't dare break this fragile friendship they had. He felt so full of love sometimes that it nearly hurt to stay quiet. He said it in as many little ways as he could – compliments, assistance, care – but not in words. Oh, he expected S'ria knew. S'ria may not always pick up on some things, but this simply could not be missed.

After his work unraveling the research hidden within Azys Lla, his mood could not help but briefly drop as he lost perspective. G'raha had not been prepared for S'ria to so thoroughly inform him of his own worth, interrupting a spell of melancholy with clearly genuine compliments and a rare hug. All G'raha managed to give as a response at first was simply a dumbfounded, ‘Oh.’

He stood there in S'ria's arms, dealing with the inevitable height-difference reality of leaning his head against S'ria's chest. S'ria rarely smelled the same any given week, happily using whatever soaps Tataru rotates through buying (it seemed to be jasmine right now), but there's still something familiar and consistent beneath that. Somewhere in that moment was when his exhausted and sleep-deprived brain shut off enough for a declaration of love to tumble out of his mouth.

G'raha immediately realized what he'd done and he could feel S'ria tense up. It was a surprise to not have been hastily shoved away the second it processed. Instead, S'ria responded by saying what G'raha had assumed was the case – that he already knew that – and unhurriedly let go of G'raha.

With his newfound freedom, G'raha was stuck trying to decide whether he wanted to hesitantly ask some follow-up questions (“well, yes. Do you mayhap have any…opinions, about what I just said?”) or if he wanted to bolt and lock himself in his room. He opted for a somewhat hasty retreat, putting off the conversation part until later.

[anonofseasons]

Just some thoughts/worries about Seasons.

I write for myself, and I know I can't please everyone so the only person my writing needs to focus on pleasing is me. But that doesn't stop me from being a little bummed out that recent posted chapters have mostly only resulted in dropped subs and even bookmarks, and I'm rarely getting any comments. Which is feeding an internal worry that it's a mess? I know my writing is good, mind, but being decent and working hard at writing doesn't mean I'm perfect. What if there are inconsistencies I'm not seeing? (As for the quality, I damn well know it can fluctuate, no matter how hard I work at it. Some scenes come easier than others. I've had to accept that about my writing.) I also anticipated lost interest early on, which is why I have been posting like 20+ chapters behind what has already been written. I saw comments hoping for Vivian to die/Howie to never go back, others hoping the fathers would redeem themselves. I'm sort of ambling in the middle, because the fathers are trying, but not hard enough. Meanwhile, Howie is unhappy going back. Not to get too personal, but I've been promised a lot of "for the better" changes by family and partners, and they may want to change, but they're unwilling to ever put the work forward. (I'm actually about to be single again for this very reason.) As a kid, this meant I just kept suffering. It's unrealistic to me that anyone would reach betterment easily, especially Vivian. It's not impossible! This is fiction, after all, but... I'm out to write characters with depth, not rush a plot forward. That's how I opt to write, and that's not for everyone. (And that's okay. Again, it's for me.) I think my actual concern here is that I've been looking at how long these conversations between this family are, and how many chapters they take up, and it's fair to be bored of it. That's a part I agonized over before I shared, and I worry that doubt came through even after all the heavy editing I did to fix it. I love writing, but that doesn't make it less hard to do. There are always parts of stories that are trickier than others? I just hate that I'm letting my self-doubt creep up on me. I've been putting that further and further behind me as I've gotten older, but I've always tried to write what I want. I've had way too many people try to tell me what I should and shouldn't write. The only person anyone should ever write for is themselves. Who do you choose to please, if pleasing other people is the goal? That said, I think criticism has its place, and this is very much one of those situations where I worry I've fumbled on the delivery. Like maybe there's something I could have done better? I'm still having fun writing Seasons and everything else I work on, but I have one confession to make about all of this: it's so much easier to write than it is to share that writing. Haha. Seasons has 56 chapters and counting, and I expect fluctuating numbers and interest, as all stories tend to have. I know that experience as a reader! I'm just having one of those self-doubt moments, but it's more a worry of, "What could I be doing better?" It's that desire to always give my best, even if the story isn't monetized. (Fuck, honestly? Most of my work is collecting dust. I have tons of finished stories that I haven't posted or published at all. Those are between me, my hard drives, and the one friend I send my backups to in case of my death.) Sorry for whining a bit here. I'll be okay! Just have seen Seasons subs drop since mid-January and have wondered if there's an issue that needs fixed or just merely the nature of writing. It could easily be both. I have no idea. It's a strange state of mind. :')

[insightful-ink]

How can I lose weight in 7 days at home?

Are you ready to kickstart your weight loss journey and achieve your dream body in just 7 days? Losing weight at home might seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach and determination, it’s totally achievable!

Whether you have a special event coming up or simply want to feel more confident in your skin, this guide will show you how to shed those extra pounds effectively and safely without any extreme measures.

Get ready to discover practical tips, delicious recipes, and motivation to make this week your stepping stone towards a healthier lifestyle!

Understand the concept of weight loss

Embarking on a weight loss journey requires more than just shedding pounds; it’s about understanding the fundamental principles behind losing weight effectively. It’s not solely about restricting calories or following fad diets, but rather adopting sustainable lifestyle changes.

Weight loss is a process that involves burning more calories than you consume, leading to a calorie deficit. This can be achieved through a combination of healthy eating and regular physical activity. By grasping this concept, you can make informed decisions about your diet and exercise routine.

Moreover, comprehending the role of macronutrients such as protein, carbohydrates, and fats in your diet is crucial for successful weight loss. Balancing these nutrients appropriately can support your goals and help optimize your metabolism.

In essence, when you understand the science behind weight loss, you empower yourself to make lasting changes that benefit not only your physical health but also your overall well-being.

Setting realistic goals

When embarking on a 7-day weight loss journey at home, it’s crucial to set realistic goals. Instead of aiming for drastic changes, focus on achievable targets that align with your lifestyle and capabilities. Setting unrealistic expectations can lead to frustration and setbacks.

Start by assessing your current habits and identifying areas where you can make small but impactful adjustments. Whether it’s cutting out sugary beverages or incorporating more vegetables into your meals, setting specific and measurable goals will keep you motivated throughout the week.

Remember that progress takes time, so be patient with yourself as you work towards your objectives. Celebrate each milestone, no matter how small, as they indicate positive steps towards your ultimate goal of losing weight in a sustainable manner.

Creating a calorie deficit

Creating a calorie deficit is essential for weight loss. It simply means burning more calories than you consume. To achieve this, start by determining your daily caloric needs based on factors like age, gender, weight, and activity level.

Once you have your baseline, aim to reduce your daily intake by 500–1000 calories to create a sustainable deficit. This can be done by making healthier food choices and controlling portion sizes.

Be mindful of hidden calories in sauces, dressings, and sugary drinks that can easily add up without filling you up. Opt for whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to stay satisfied while keeping your calorie count in check.

Incorporating regular exercise into your routine can also help increase the calorie deficit. Whether it’s cardio, strength training or yoga — find activities that you enjoy and make them part of your weekly schedule.

Remember that creating a calorie deficit doesn’t mean starving yourself; it’s about finding balance and making long-term lifestyle changes for sustainable weight loss results.

Incorporating exercise into your routine

Exercise is a crucial element in any weight loss journey. Incorporating physical activity into your daily routine can significantly boost your metabolism and help burn calories. You don’t need fancy equipment or expensive gym memberships to get started; simple activities like walking, jogging, or bodyweight exercises at home can make a big difference.

Try to find activities that you enjoy, whether it’s dancing, yoga, or playing sports. This will make it easier to stay consistent and motivated. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

Consider adding strength training exercises to build muscle mass, which can further enhance your weight loss efforts. Remember to listen to your body and gradually increase the intensity of your workouts over time.

Don’t be too hard on yourself if you miss a day or don’t reach a specific goal. The key is consistency and making exercise a sustainable part of your lifestyle.

Monitoring your food intake

Monitoring your food intake is a crucial aspect of any weight loss journey. By keeping track of what you eat, you become more aware of your habits and can make necessary adjustments to meet your goals. One effective way to monitor your food intake is by keeping a food journal. Writing down everything you eat allows you to see patterns and identify areas where you can improve.

Another method is using apps or websites that help track calories and nutrients. These tools can provide valuable insights into your daily intake and offer suggestions for healthier alternatives. It’s essential to be honest with yourself when documenting what you consume — every bite counts towards your progress.

Additionally, paying attention to portion sizes is key in monitoring food intake. Measuring out servings can prevent overeating and ensure you’re staying within your calorie goals. Remember, small changes add up over time, so stay consistent in tracking what you eat for success on your weight loss journey!

Meal plan and recipes for a 7-day weight loss at home

Embarking on a 7-day weight loss journey at home requires careful planning and dedication. To kickstart your week, consider incorporating a variety of nutrient-dense foods into your meal plan. Start your mornings with a protein-rich breakfast like Greek yogurt with berries or scrambled eggs with spinach.

For lunch and dinner, opt for lean proteins such as grilled chicken or tofu paired with vegetables and complex carbs like quinoa or sweet potatoes. Snack smartly throughout the day with options like sliced cucumbers with hummus or a handful of almonds.

When it comes to recipes, get creative in the kitchen by trying out new dishes that are both flavorful and satisfying. Experiment with stir-fries, salads loaded with colorful veggies, or homemade soups packed with fiber-rich legumes.

Tips for staying motivated and on track

Staying motivated and on track during a 7-day weight loss journey can be challenging, but with the right mindset and strategies, it’s definitely achievable. One tip is to set small, attainable goals for each day to keep yourself focused and motivated. Celebrate even the smallest victories along the way to boost your morale.

Another helpful tip is to surround yourself with positive influences that support your weight loss goals. Whether it’s friends, family, or online communities, having a strong support system can make a world of difference in staying on track.

Consider keeping a journal to track your progress and reflect on your feelings throughout the week. Writing down your thoughts can help you stay accountable and identify any patterns that may hinder your progress.

Incorporate variety into your meals and workouts to prevent boredom and plateaus. Trying new recipes or exercises can keep things interesting and exciting as you work towards your weight loss goals.

Additional lifestyle changes to aid in weight loss

Apart from diet and exercise, there are several lifestyle changes you can make to support your weight loss journey. Getting an adequate amount of sleep is crucial as it helps regulate hormones that control hunger and satiety. Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night.

Stress management is also important, as high stress levels can lead to emotional eating and weight gain. Incorporate relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises into your daily routine.

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Sometimes thirst can be mistaken for hunger, leading to unnecessary calorie consumption. Carry a reusable water bottle with you to stay hydrated on the go.

Limiting alcohol intake can also aid in weight loss since alcoholic beverages are often high in empty calories. Opt for healthier alternatives like herbal tea or infused water instead.

Surround yourself with a supportive environment that encourages healthy habits. Join a fitness class, enlist a workout buddy, or seek guidance from a healthcare professional to keep you motivated on your weight loss journey.

Conclusion

Incorporating these tips and strategies into your daily routine can help you kickstart your weight loss journey at home. Remember, consistency is key when it comes to seeing results. By setting realistic goals, creating a calorie deficit, incorporating exercise, monitoring your food intake, following a meal plan, and staying motivated, you can achieve your desired weight loss in just 7 days.

Make sure to also focus on making sustainable lifestyle changes for long-term success. Prioritize whole foods, stay hydrated, get enough sleep, manage stress levels, and be mindful of portion sizes. With dedication and commitment to a healthier lifestyle, you can reach your weight loss goals not just in 7 days but over the long haul.

Start today and take that first step towards a healthier version of yourself!

Read related article here…

[yssjj]

Fifty Shades of Grey: actually very good

The common criticism leveled at romance novels is that it’s the easy fantasy of women. I want to break down this critique by looking at Fifty Shades of Grey, which I had the pleasure of watching last week during our Big Straw movie night. In popular critique, Fifty Shades of Grey was a notable movie for women. It was especially considered so because men didn’t understand what women liked about it, but seemingly were also able to say that women would like a movie like Fifty Shades of Grey. When I described what I found about the plot so fascinating, my friend noted that it sounded like the kind of thing women would want, which is interesting because both of us are women. Does that mean we both implicitly understand the pull of the story, even though both of us are able to create distance from parts of the fantasy at the same time? Or does it mean that we’re both different from other women, the women that this is supposed to be a fantasy for?

I almost like to think of romance like a hermit crab essay, where we’re co-opting the conventions of the genre to tell a story within its “rules.” This creates a sort of fantastical nature to the story at hand because we expect things to be a little unrealistic – we are, after all, acknowledging to some extent that this is just a simulacrum of reality. We make our story with these tropes and rules because we want to focus on the intricacies of romance between people. While I’ve never been a fan of genre writing in general, I’ve been trying to challenge myself to see if any of my critiques of the genre are actually true. Is it true that tropes are lazy? Or can they be used as a tool for something more?

Fifty Shades of Grey is interesting because it has widespread appeal despite dealing with a topic that is seemingly impossible to talk about frankly - sex. It also talks about romance and the way romance is intertwined with sex. How many other rom-coms do you see good, enjoyable sex as an important part of a relationship? Sex is one of the most vulnerable things you can do with another person.

And in Fifty Shades of Grey, while sex is an important part of the fantasy, the narrative challenges us by making the fantasy also stand for many different ideas: consent, kindness, revenge, spite, repression.

Anastasia is supposed to be this clueless, infantile girl who knows nothing and is brought to sexual fruition into womanhood by Christian Grey. She’s an English Literature major with no ideas for what jobs she wants to go into, fresh out of undergraduate, entering the real world for the first time in her life. Christian rushes to go save her at a party where he tells her that she’s drinking too much, and she takes the moment to faint into his arms like a blushing bride. She is, also, literally a virgin. 

However, their romance starts on equal ground. There’s not much difference between their two power positions because their flirting relies on implicit consent via attraction. The chemistry is crazy in the first thirty minutes of the movie. It had me blushing and shit. It’s an absolute masterclass in rizz. And rizz only works if both people are willing to play the flirting game!

But when Christian and Anastasia first have sex, their romance is tilted from equality, opposing figures, to the traditionalist idea of the nurturing male figure in a relationship and the naive female figure who needs guidance into learning about this adult world. Think submission to your husband in the evangelical Christian worldview, the post-WWII housewife who gives up her job to learn how to guide her own children under the husband who replaces the father figure. Christian is already trying to dominate their relationship, before he asks Anastasia to sign a sex contract (an actual thing that happens in the movie, please stay with me, I know it sounds ridiculous and it is).

Christian then begins to attempt to take control of the rest of Anastasia’s life. When she tells him that she’s not interested in what the sex contract outlines after researching what BDSM actually is, he finds her in her new house, somehow gets in, and then seduces her to convince her to continue looking at the contract. Is this crazy? Yes, obviously. But his actions are allowed within the realms of the romance movie because his actions stand for not literally being crazy, but as someone who is trying to transgress boundaries. He is trying to embody his expected role as a teacher by forcing her to learn what he thinks she needs to learn in sexual maturity. And at the beginning, Anastasia goes with it. 

Christian shows Anastasia his Play Room (where he does not have an Xbox) and attempts to force his contract onto her. She asks him to sleep in the same bed with her after sex and he refuses, instead choosing to indulge himself in some after-sex piano playing (not joking). He offers to GO ON DATES WITH HER (generally considered important in relationships) so that she’s more willing to sign his contract. Anastasia has a business meeting with him and creates some boundaries on the contract, but is unwilling to actually sign it. She meets his parents. She goes to visit her mom to talk about the relationship but Christian shows up uninvited to the restaurant she and her mom are having brunch in (to her mom’s DELIGHT, that psychopath). To try to get on her good side again Christian takes her flying in a glider, which seems successful. Anastasia comes back home and when Christian refuses to discuss any of their issues, she tries to physically touch him (against the rules of their conduct) and he lashes her as punishment. 

While this scene seems to be caused by her refusal to use safe words and play along the rules that she’s agreed to (as one could argue is supposed to happen in BDSM), we can understand as viewers that her lashing out (haha) is because she understands that the lashings he’s giving her are not from play punishment.

It is from a need to invoke the power he wants to have in the relationship onto her, a way to pretend that his real anger and hatred are not real.

These are the intuitive things that we understand during sex, that even if in words we are play-fighting, playing at anything at all, the underlying emotions are what sets the true tone of the actions we are taking. But Anastasia understands the implicit hatred for her in his actions. And in that moment she realizes that despite her being submissive, she is the one with the power and control in the relationship. Christian doesn’t have power or understanding over her. He doesn’t even have those things over himself. 

Anastasia is failed by almost every single person in this movie. Her friend is instantly charmed by Christian and his dogged chasing after her. Her father is the same, having heard Christian give a talk for Anastasia’s graduation, what a successful young man he is! What a suitable replacement for her current male retainer, her dad. Her shit mother who refuses to even come to her graduation because her boyfriend broke his knee (who cares) is DELIGHTED when Christian finds where they are having brunch across the US and comes up to them as a surprise. Anastasia’s understandably upset reaction isn’t even seen by her mother, who is more fixated on what a handsome young man he is, I’m so lucky to meet him in person, the next parent I’ll be passing you onto. 

But Anastasia wasn’t drawn to major in English literature because of Jane Austen and her fatherly husbands. She was drawn to it by Thomas Hardy and Tess of d’Urbervilles, a story about a girl who struggles through bearing a child out of rape, getting rejected out of the fact that she isn’t pure. Tess takes her story into her own hands, even if it means that she has to face execution for killing her rapist. 

Because Christian refuses to realize Anastasia’s power in the relationship, because he is so fixated on this idea of projecting power, of dominating her when the relationship relies on her consent, on her acceptance of his power, Anastasia leaves. That’s the ending of the movie, Anastasia looking at everything Christian is pretending to be, looking straight past him and through him, final eye contact through the elevator doors that close on him and she leaves. 

In this way this movie does embody BDSM as a kink but also a culture – after all, the submissive is supposed to have the real power. They are the one who decides what the dominant can or cannot do. They are the one receiving pleasure and who really controls the game of sex. So they are also the ones that can terminate sex entirely. The dominant does not exist without having a submissive. Their role in sex doesn’t make sense without the submissive, while the submissive can enjoy pleasure on their own. The entire time they’re having sex, Christian is focused on Anastasia’s pleasure. The sex is about her. She never gives him head, and they only have sex for maybe five minutes of the entire movie. The rest of it is foreplay, and she holds the power to say whether she enjoys it or not.

If holding power in a relationship is a female fantasy, then shouldn’t we question why that’s such a fantastical idea in the first place?

-----

Is Fifty Shades of Grey sex positive? 

The first half of the movie is almost an instructional guide for someone who has never heard of BDSM before. But if we then assume that the narrative is supposed to be didactic we would lose the criticisms we can hold against Christian Grey. Could you read Christian Grey’s interest in BDSM as a reaction to abuse and trauma that he went through as a neglected and then adopted child? I suppose you could. But isn’t it also true that the level at which Christian Grey has leaned into his role is a little atypical? Generally (and while this is based on my limited personal experience), people don’t own a full room of BDSM toys with a key that you keep on you at all times. People in the BDSM community aren’t big on creating legal contracts that you have to sign before you get into a relationship with them.

Instead of asking whether Fifty Shades of Grey is sex positive, I think we have to focus on sex as a characterization of people in the narrative. Sex is a tool to create the movie’s narrative; the movie isn’t a tool to define what sex is.

Christian Grey himself as a character encapsulates a male archetype that I’ve seen so often in movies recently. He’s what characters like Patrick Bateman, the guy from Fight Club, Ken in Barbie aspire to be in their respective movies. The idea of the alpha male.

But the alpha male isn’t a person. It’s a loosely combined aesthetic of ideas that these people try to simulate.

We can tell this because when you examine the ideas closely, there seems to be no actual meaning or depth in thought for the images these men play at. And I don’t mean like, deep philosophical meaning. I mean like Christian Grey’s job seems to be “business.” Same with Patrick Bateman. He also works in “business.” So does the guy in Fight Club, until he moves onto cult leader, which arguably he’s not even doing, that’s his alter ego. Ken tries to move up from “beach” to “man” in general, which is also not really very specific. Not that they need to have specificity, but how can you personally like being in something like just “business?” You can’t even ask if these men get any joy out of their jobs because they don’t have any real definable job in the first place. They’ve rejected their personal selves in favor of some sort of “successful” exterior. How painful that must be! What do they do for fun? One of my co-watchers noted that Christian Grey seemed to have decorated his apartment based on what would come up in Google for “rich person apartment.” I mean, of course! His persona as an alpha male doesn’t come with instructions on how to do interior design. If he tried to be an actual person, his apartment might be ugly, but at least it could be unapologetically him.

This male pain is also based on the simultaneous rejection and need to attract the “feminine.” As the masculine character has no emotional needs or wants, a feminine character must be his dual to provide these inferior (but ultimately required) feelings. Christian Grey understands that he has this lack of actual personhood, and he is simultaneously repelled and attracted to Anastasia because of her femininity. The only interests he has beyond his alpha male persona is his Play Room, which is why it’s absolutely crucial that Anastasia accepts that part of him. But Christian doesn’t realize that that too is just an extension for the need of control and the character he plays as a dominant. That’s why Anastasia rejects him in the end. She can see through all of his bullshit romance of himself as this awesome, powerful businessman. 

But Anastasia wants to believe that she can change him. Don’t we all want to change men in our lives when we see them falling into this lack of humanity that will ultimately make them unhappy?

But we can’t! In the end Christian has to choose to go beyond what he has decided to be in conformity with society. But it’s a fantasy because in this universe we can touch someone’s heart and ask them to look at us as people, as people who understand their pain and can be talked to, not parented and taken care of.

[unaplays]

✨ Alhaitham Spread DPS Build ✨

🔰 I've been wanting to put out a deep breakdown of my Alhaitham's build for a long time but never actually had the time to collect all the materials. Since I just got his signature weapon yesterday, I was forced to re-build him because he used to use Haran and wore crit damage circlet. Changing his weapon to LoFI means there's gonna be imbalance with his crit ratio.

🔰 Anyway, earlier today I spent all my resin farming for Gilded. And the reason why I can now finally write down his build means that I'm pretty much settled with what he has now. Though it's not the best stats especially one that I expected after getting LoFI, I still think he's pretty decent (for now).

🔰 Disclaimer: This build is not perfect and by no means should be treated as a rigid rule. I just share what I have tested in game and what I know works for me. So always do your own research and take my guide with that note in mind!

Artifact Sets

🔰 Do note that the build that I'm gonna share is meant for him as on field dps, not just a dendro applier. He has many choices for artifact sets but the one I choose is 4 pc Gilded. If it's hard for you to give him 4 pc Gilded, you can also opt for:

2 pc Wanderer 2 pc Gilded

4 pc Deepwood Memories (also works if there's no one else in the team that has this set)

🔰 Alhaitham is really good as spread dps, as well as dendro applier. So EM sands is recommended for him instead of atk%. He uses dendro goblet and crit cirlet. As for his stats, try to aim for at least 350+ EM (more if you have his signature weapon), and 110-130% ER depending on his team (which I will explain later).

Team Composition

Spread team

🔰 Like I said, Alhaitham is really good as spread dps. Spread is a reaction triggered by applying dendro to enemies affected by quicken (electro + dendro).

🔰 Aside from spread team, he can also work in many other dendro reaction team such as bloom or hyperbloom because he has fast dendro application.

Talents Priority

🔰 All of his talents are worth to level up. My priority would be: Skill - normal attack - burst. His skill contributes the most damage for him so try to go for that one first. I don't recommend leaving his burst since it does deal quite a heck ton of damage especially since it does multiple slashes at once.

Weapons Choice

5* choices (left to right): Light of Foliar Incision, Haran Geppaku Futsu, Mistsplitter Reforged, Freedom Sworn

4* and 3* choices (left to right): Xiphos' Moonlight, Toukabou Shigure, Iron Sting, Harbinger of Dawn

🔰 Before I got LoFI, I used to run him with Haran, which actually was pretty good on him since Alhaitham mostly deals damage through his dendro-infused normal attacks so having Haran on him actually supported his kit. And since he's a spread dps who still needs decent crit ratio, I think any 5* crit weapon can work. Honorable mention for Freedom Sworn since it's a 5* EM weapon and EM is very beneficial for him.

🔰 As for his much cheaper weapon choices, I would highly recommend Xiphos as it has EM second stats and its passive helps a lot with your team's entire ER. Any EM weapon can work, so if you have the event-exclusive weapon Toukabou Shigure, that works too. if you don't, you can always craft Iron Sting. And then comes the very last option, Harbinger of Dawn. Though it's a little tricky since you gotta be able to keep Alhaitham's hp above 90% for its passive to work which can be unrealistic sometimes. So if you use this weapon then make sure you have a good shielder with him.

So that’s pretty much my Alhaitham build. Feel free to ask me questions if you have any through my ask box or just leave comment on this post and I’ll respond right away!

Don’t forget to check out my other builds here!

[alyjojo]

Love Reading 🧿 - March 2023 - Sagittarius

Singles:

Overall energy: 7 Wands rev

How you will meet: Ace of Swords

How they will treat you: The Hanged Man & The World

Long-term Potential: 9 Swords & The Sun

Either this person is already with someone or you are, King of Wands can be either of you, but being fire, I’ll assume it’s you. There’s a technicality to this *single* read because they’re not actually single, though they do seem to be going through a tough time when they reach out to you and tell you about it. Probably a friend, coworker, a loose acquaintance that you kinda like but are already spoken for. How they treat you is waiting around for you to end the connection you already have with King of Cups & 10 Cups. Which doesn’t seem like something that is going to end, and that’s the future potential. You’re not going to fight this person and they won’t fight you either, but there is no point to continue waiting, that’s on them. 7 Wands rev is giving up, they have no argument over you having a happy relationship. Long-term, it’ll always run around through their mind, they’re irritated that you’re happy and everything you’re giving to your actual person instead of them. To them, it’s a missed opportunity or unrequited. Or this is all switched, and you’re the single one.

Messages -

Their side:

- Considerate

- Questionable past/morals

Your side:

- Younger man/woman

- You fascinate me

Signs you may be dealing with:

Leo 💯 Scorpio, Pisces & Cancer

Couples:

Overall energy: The Magician

Current: 7 Wands

Challenge: The Hierophant

Potential: 7 Cups

There is a lot of Gemini energy here, and they could have those placements somewhere, but it feels more like you’re dealing with someone who is your opposite in every way. 6 and 7 are on both sides of The Hierophant, this may be showing two totally different perspectives of the same thing, which the difficulty is bridging the gap and coming together with Temperance. You’re both trying to create something that you’ve learned & talked about, now you’re trying to take action on this thing and seeing it from two different viewpoints, not working well together. But it’s a together thing, whatever it is. You’re both defensive because you both think you’re right. Messages help with this, your partner is probably bored and restless, they’re tired of waiting, so they could be opting for short cuts or decisions that give them what they want NOW, but aren’t necessarily the best thing. They feel there are a million options to do xyz and were in the past and you didn’t take advantage of opportunities then, let’s do it now. Idk what this is talking about. They’re antsy. You’re more sensible and can probably see all the whys and reasonings behind these things. Will they listen? Eh 🤷‍♀️ Eventually. Page of Cups helps, kind gestures, sweet words, making attempts to come together and rise above petty squabbles. But that’s in the challenge position too so…maybe y’all just want to squabble this month. I don’t get anything too serious beyond that. A major lack of common ground between you. It’s possible a third party could shed some light, like a Hierophant…a counselor, parent, grandparent, someone wise.

Messages -

Their side:

- I waited too long as it is.

- Unrealistic Expectations

Your side:

- We don’t value the same things and it bothers me.

- You are my path.

Oracles -

Their side: Life is never boring; it is a gift that contains many treasures.

Your side:

Helping others and getting outside yourself can be the most powerful method of soul cleansing.

You may not always see it, but realize that out of all bad comes good. You just have to recognize that.

Signs you may be dealing with:

Gemini 💯 Scorpio & Leo

[empyllon]

Don't accept the ring, if responsibility isn't your thing.

•

Watching Noah Samsen talk about youtube shorts having content moderation issues, when he whips up the statistic of sick women far more often being left by men.

Source: Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. (2009, November 10). Men Leave: Separation And Divorce Far More Common When The Wife Is The Patient. ScienceDaily. Retrieved February 20, 2023 from www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/11/091110105401.htm

And I'm just, dumbfounded by this thought. You know, marriage vows, if you never considered, are the original Terms of Service Agreement. You literally have to accept them for the marriage to be valid. Examples;

"[...] to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until we are parted by death." (Protestant vows.)

"[...] and I promise, before God and these witnesses, to be your loving and faithful husband/wife; in plenty and in want; in joy and in sorrow; in sickness and in health; as long as we both shall live." (Presbyterian vows.)

What I'm pointing at is the "rules for thee but not for me" difference in men and women, where it's blatantly obvious women can't leave as freely.

I had to look up the statistics for this, because I actually don't know them, but I was basing my assumption on that the first statistic is American based, or at the very least, Euro-centric. And lo and behold, I find that there are statistics for divorces by religion in America.

Majority identify in this study as Christians too. And just skimming through, the rate is pretty high. I'm not saying they are truly linked, but rather a facet of the same prism.

I got curious and dug a bit further, again just skimming through so my work might be sloppy. Pardon that.

Quoted;

"Lack of commitment 73%

Argue too much 56%

Infidelity 55%

Married too young 46%

Unrealistic expectations 45%

Lack of equality in the relationship 44%

Lack of preparation for marriage 41%

Domestic Violence or Abuse 25%"

It looks to me like marriages are dissolving mostly because couples can't settle on agreed arrangements, and perhaps that things are rushed into. Immaturity, and responsibility being two notable factors. The judeo-Christian idea of what perhaps a wife and a husband is does not match up with modern post WII societal roles, and perhaps never were. I'm not saying it's wrong to be of faith, I'm questioning if the faith perhaps do not invite for modern adaptations, and instead opt to restrict it's audiences. And you have to differentiate between the branches of faith, because some are flexible, some are not.

Are we headed to a reformist era, or an ultraconservative one? Only time will tell.

[emergentcounseling]

How NOT to be the Grinch on Christmas

Four Tips to Help Manage Holiday Stress

Deena Rey Cameron

The holiday season has officially begun! Growing up, the food, music, presents, and twinkling lights that typically accompany the holidays enchanted me. As I grew older, I was devastated to learn that the holiday season featured more than just hot cocoa and Mariah Carey; stressors such as family conflict, strained finances, social exhaustion, and unrealistic expectations are all too common during the holidays. Though often regarded as the ‘most wonderful time of the year, the holiday season can also be the most stressful. From countless social events and family gatherings to fast-approaching work or school deadlines, pressures seem to build from all around as the year ends. Unchecked stress accumulated during the holiday season can drain your mental health and leave you feeling drained and uninspired as you enter the new year, so it’s crucial to stay ahead of it.

Key Points:

The holidays, though highly appreciated, can be a very stressful time of the year.

Several different factors can cause increased stress and anxiety during the holiday season.

Maintaining control over holiday stress can protect your mental health and prevent you from feeling worn out as the New Year approaches.

What Is Holiday Stress?

Holiday Stress usually starts around November and lasts until shortly after New Year’s. It is important to note that holiday stress and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) are different, and you should avoid self-diagnosis. If you are experiencing prolonged anxiety or overwhelming stress beyond the holiday season, reach out to a mental health care provider to determine if your symptoms may be reflective of SAD or another more serious condition.

What Causes Holiday Stress?

Everyone has a different relationship with the holidays; therefore, we each have different causes for holiday stress. For some people, nostalgia drives overwhelming expectations and perfectionism. These expectations can result in overspending, over-commitment, and feelings of dissatisfaction. For others, the holidays may be a reminder of loved ones lost and inspire loneliness. If you travel for thanksgiving, your typical routines may be significantly disrupted, causing you to feel “off.” The increased social interaction required for holiday dinners and events can also be very jarring, especially in the wake of the Covid-19 outbreak.

Four Tips to Manage Holiday Stress

Clearly, the holiday season can be challenging for any number of reasons, so you must be prepared to face it head-on. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to help manage stress during the holidays.

Here are four tips to help you manage holiday stress:

1. Set Boundaries

The first and perhaps most important tip is to set boundaries. Pinpoint your stressors and work to minimize them. Do not force yourself to stay in uncomfortable situations for anyone else’s sake; your first responsibility is to yourself! It is okay to decline an invitation or opt-out of hosting this year’s festivities. If you’re an introvert or uncomfortable with prolonged social interaction, you may want to set arrival and departure times for social events. You can also limit your social media exposure to prevent unrealistic expectations. Social media is a great tool to connect with friends and family long distance, but it is not the whole truth and should never be used as a benchmark.

2. Practice Self-Compassion

Be compassionate with yourself. It’s been a long year, and you should be proud you’ve made it this far. Self-Care is a great way to practice self-compassion. Whether taking a hot bath or getting a pedicure, you should do something to pamper yourself. Amid all the planning and celebrations, don’t forget to take a minute to show yourself some appreciation. You deserve it!

3. Make a Game Plan

One great way to ensure you enjoy this holiday season to the best of your ability is to make a plan and stick to it! It is entirely normal to desire some level of control over your holiday festivities. While you cannot control everything, you can do your best to prepare for the holidays by setting achievable goals. Goal setting is a great way to focus and manage your holiday expectations. You can make itineraries, budgets, and/or to-do lists. You can also practice responses to questions you undoubtedly anticipate from distant family or old friends. For some people, having an established game plan can alleviate a lot of the pressure surrounding the holidays, so give it a try this year and be sure to include room for adjustments!

4. Find a Release

Stress is inevitable and can actually motivate us in healthy amounts. The goal is not to eradicate stress but to maintain a healthy level. However, the additional stress associated with the holiday season can be detrimental without some form of release. When you feel your stress levels rising, you can use coping strategies like exercise, yoga, journaling, and nature walks to alleviate symptoms of holiday stress. You can also vent to a friend, family member, or therapist.

Dealing with holiday stress can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be detrimental to your mental health, and you don’t have to do it alone. With these tips, you can learn to enjoy your holidays without compromising your mental and emotional well-being.

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