#and lulu is going to love every second of it

[sneverussape]

severus malfoy’s commissioned portrait at malfoy manor. (bored out of his mind)

—

if sev grew up a malfoy au, which is kind of like a branched-out version of my abraxas and eileen have a PastTM au. idk if he’s a malfoy by blood or by marriage. but imagining lucius as a big brother is just so 😎😎😎😎😎

[washeduphazbin]

Could I get a one shot of, y/n is like Adam’s life ex gf she left after getting tired of his shit.. ended up falling in love with Lucifer.. (Mr. Steal yo girl thrice) and during the Adam and Lucifer battle Lucifer taunts that he stole all three of his lovers

YES. YES. I'm in love with Lucifer. Your wish is my command.

Sorry it's so short if we like maybe part 2

Also, poly luci x reader x Lilith (sorry, not sorry)

———

“Little duck?” Lucifer asked softly, nuzzling his face into the crook of your neck. You were holding onto one of his plush ducks rather tightly,

"I can't help but think...that this extermination is my fault." Lucifer let out a gasp and wrapped his arms around your shoulders, "Lulu-"

"I won't have that negative self-talk in my house." Your brow furrowed in distress,

"But-"

"No buts."

"Lucifer! Adam's absolutely moved up the extermination to spite Charlie and us!" You argued, "I...what if I go back to him."

"Excuse me, what?"

"I don't want to!" You moved away from him to the portrait of Lilith, you and Lucifer hanging in the corner of the room. "I really don't want to..." You raised your hand and brushed against Lilith's horns and Lucifer's staff in the portrait. "You know I don't belong here; I'm not a demon, a sinner, or an angel either. I'm just a human who fell because I fell in love with you and your family." You smiled sadly over at him, holding out your hand. Lucifer squeezed it tightly, "What if I can solve all of this by just going back with Adam."

"That's not happening; I'm not letting you go back to that fuckwad;" He scoffed, brushing a hand through your hair, "Do you think you'll be happier with him? Without us? Without Charlie?"

"No." You laughed bitterly, "Of course not, Charlie would kill me."

"She absolutely would. You're like another mother to her; she wouldn't let you go back to that hellscape without a fight. Neither will I; I have a few words I'd love to share with Adam."

"Oh yeah? What would you say?"

"I'm sure you'll get to hear it eventually," he mused, leaning closer to kiss your cheeks. "Just stay safe and stay away from the Hotel until Charlie or I give you the okay, okay?"

"Okay." You whispered softly, bending down to plant a kiss on his lips,

"Did you really have to bend down like that," He huffed, hitting you gently with his cane.

"Oh, absolutely."

---

"Stay home? STAY HOME?" You roared, grabbing Lucifer's shoulders, "Everyone dying, and you want me to stay home!"

"For your safety and everyone's safety. Yes." He squeezed your shoulders tightly, "If it's between you and Charlie, I-"

"You choose Charlie every time."

"I love you-"

"I know. I love you too." You smiled softly, "Kick Adam in the dick for me?"

"It would be my pleasure, my lady. Here," Lucifer handed you his phone, "It'll live stream the battle; I hacked a VoxTech drone." He puffed his chest out proudly, and you beamed, taking his phone from his hands.

"I can't wait to see Adam get dick punched in HD!"

"There's the bloodlust I love so much; if I didn't have to go save Hell, I'd totally fuck you right now."

"Then you better leave now so you can come back and fuck me as soon as possible."

"Yes, ma'am!" He gave the dorkiest salute before teleporting out of the room.

---

"I am going to FUCK you!"

"It's fuck you up...dad."

Your face palmed, curling up on the bed, Lucifer's phone in your hand, watching the live stream.

"What? What did I say? Oh Shit-" Lucifer burst into laughter as he transformed into a snake to avoid being hit by Adam, "So this is what you've been up to since Eden, huh? I gotta you really let yourself go, buddy."

"Are you judging me?" Adam snarled in a disbelieving laugh, "You're the most hated being in all of creation!" Lucifer snickered as he turned into a bird,

"Well, your first wife didn't seem to hate what I had to offer, or the second bow chica. Wow, wow!" He splayed his fingers out in a V shape and stuck his tongue in between his fingers, "Not to mention your third."

"I'm sorry what!" He snarled,

"Oh, you didn't know? (Y/n)'s a doll, the tightest pussy Lilith and I've EVER shared!"

You made a horrified sound at the phone, wanted to absolutely curl up into a ball and die, Charlie didn't look any better.

"Dad!"

"You are so dead!" Adam shouted, "And I'm gonna find that bitch, and I'm going to make her pay!"

"Sure you are," he snorted, "I'd like to see you try."

[dewdropdinosaur]

Lay All Your Love On Me

ALASTOR X READER X LUCIFER

Summary: Insecurity bites harder than one would think in the underworld, and you are no stranger to its sting. However, with two affleunt and attractive boyfriends, you may learn just how beautiful you are. (AKA: My lovely you are beautiful the way you are and these boys wanna show you)

Warnings: NSFW/18+

Oral sex/cunnilingus, implied P in V, nipple play, Dom/Sub dynamics, use of names such as "Daddy"/"Ducky" in sexual context, restraints, SMUT

Only my second time writting smut so...sorry

Requested by @boogiewoog

Requests OPEN

In the vibrant, chaotic realm of Hell, where redemption seemed like a distant dream, a unique bond blossomed among three unlikely souls - Alastor, Lucifer, and Y/N. Alastor, the radio demon with a twisted sense of humor, Lucifer, the suave and sophisticated ruler of Hell, and Y/N, a human soul, whose presence brought light to the darkest corners of their world. Nothing could ever compare the joy that Y/N had awoken within the two demons, loving them both equally proved no challenge for her bright soul. With her love and guidance, the relationship bloomed and soon all three parties fell head over hooves in love with each other. From dates in Alastor’s radio tower, to Lulu Land, or helping Y/N work around the kitchen; Hell seemed like Heaven. 

However, not everything was sunshine and rubber ducks. At least for Y/N. One evening, as the crimson sky draped over the cityscape of Hell, Y/N found herself consumed by her own insecurities. She sat alone in her room, the flickering candlelight casting shadows across the space. Her fingers traced the scars and imperfections on her skin, each one a reminder to herself that even in death, she couldn’t look how other people did. Dating one handsome and affluent demon was one thing, but two was another all together. What if she wasn’t good enough for them, what if someone else came along? What if Lillith came back, heaven forbid, Y/N just knew Lucifer would leave her in the dust the second that demoness walked through the doors., Y/N couldn't shake the nagging whispers of doubt that plagued her mind, centered around her own insecurities about her body. She just couldn't help but scrutinize every curve and contour of her form. The voices of doubt echoed in her mind, taunting her with their cruel words, as she fought to hold back tears.

Just then, a gentle knock sounded at the door, and in walked Alastor, his signature grin brightening the room like a ray of sunshine. Beside him stood Lucifer, his elated gaze filled with slight concern as he took in Y/N's troubled expression.

“Ducky, we just came to get you for dinner! Al made a real nice…something. What did you say was in it again?”

“It’s just jambalaya, I promise all normal ingredients. Why don’t you join us darling?”

“That’s alright, guys. I think I’m not super hungry right now.” Shying away from Lucifer’s embrace, Y/N wrapped her arms around her waist. 

Alastor and Lucifer sensed her distress, looking at each other the moment the words passed her lips.  With silent understanding, they came slowly to her side, their presence comforting and reassuring. Y/N looked up, her eyes filled with tears that threatened to spill over.

"Ducky, what’s going on in that head of yours?" Lucifer's voice was smooth like velvet, soothing her troubled mind.

Y/N hesitated, her voice barely a whisper. "I... I feel so insecure about my body. I can't help but compare myself to others, to feel like I'm not enough for you two."

Alastor knelt beside her, his grin warm and genuine. "Now, now, my dear. You are perfect just the way you are. Perfect just for us."

“But, I am not. Just look at me! I am not slender, heck you couldn’t put me next to anyone without noticing. Let alone Lillith or–” Holding her arms just to gesture to herself, Y/N could feel herself spill all her emotions manically. 

Suddenly, Lucifer grabbed her wrists and pinned her down against the bed. His smoldering gaze glowered down at her as his face leaned down to whisper in her ear. 

“I don’t want to hear that name off your pretty little lips, okay? You are mine, the one for me. Not her, not anyone else.” 

Coming to their side, Alastor joined his partner in looking down at Y/N. Using his hand to reach around and cup her chin, bringing her gaze to him. 

“My dear, I think out little darling needs to learn a little lesson. Mhmm?” 

A dark chuckle erupted from Lucifer’s throat, as he stood up and let his grip go. Both men now stared down at their partner, who laid on the bed; half near tears from her thoughts and half near moaning at the sight of her boys looking at her in such a manner. 

"We love you, Y/N," Alastor murmured, his voice soft like a melody. "Every inch of you, flaws and all." Slow kisses started down her neck and chest, heat blooming in her core. Attempting to maneneur her shirt lower, her hands werre halted by Lucifer; who grabbed her wrist and pinned them to the headboard as the red demon continued a show of his devotion. 

“Ducky, you are going to learn very quickly. Your pleasure, is our only concern.”

With a quick snap of his fingers, all clothes were removed from Y/N and both men were left shirtless; toned and slender bodies on full display. Both men’s eyes darkened with hunger at the sight of her bare form, a silent understanding among them of what was about to happen. 

Alastor leaned down and took one of her hardened nipples in his mouth, the warmth of his tongue teasing the aroused bud. Dragging her hands across her torso, he slowly marked her skin with his hands. Lucifer, instead dipped down and spread her thighs, enjoying the way they felt in his hands. Slowly kissing up her thighs, just barely ghosting over where she needed him most, Y/N let out a soft moan. 

“Darling, see what you do to us? You are absolutely breathtaking.”

“Driving me mad ducky, fuck, you are just so good to squeeze.” 

Finally giving into her whimpers, Lucifer licked one long stripe up her dripping slit. Y/N gripped the sheets below her, legs attempting to get away from the overwhelming sensation. Alastor pinned her legs to the bed, as his mouth came off her nipple with a pop. 

“Now darling, let the man finish his meal. He hasn’t even started yet.” Lucifer then dived into her cunt like a man starved, sucking on her clit and slurping her jucies that it was better than heavenly ambrosia; while Alastor moved his minstratitions to her neck, sucking softly. It was only a matter of time before that familiar band became taut in her stomach. 

“Fuck, Luci…baby please.”

“Let go ducky, cum all over daddy’s face.” 

That’s what did it, Y/N felt the coil in her stomach snap as she cried Lucifer’s name. Cum now coated his face and the bedsheets below as her high overtook her senses and she saw stars. Lifting his head up slowly, slick shone and glinted. Licking his lips, he pressed a soft kiss to her lips and both moaned at the salty taste. Pulling back, Lucifer looked at Alastor who smirked; grabbing Y/N’s chin and forcing her gaze to him. 

“Now darling, how would you like your beautiful lips to scream my name next?” 

As the night unfolded, Y/N found solace in the arms of her two loves, their embrace a sanctuary from the harsh whispers of doubt that had plagued her for so long. In their presence, she discovered a newfound sense of confidence, knowing that no matter what challenges lay ahead, she would always have Alastor and Lucifer by her side, guiding her through the shadows and into the light of self-acceptance.

In the heart of Hazbin Hotel, amidst the chaos and clamor, a quiet moment of love blossomed, as Alastor and Lucifer vowed to stand by Y/N's side, their bond unbreakable and their love unconditional.

[tsunami-of-tears]

So High School headcanons

Rhys, Cassian, Azriel, Lucien, Eris & Tamlin

Specifically the part where she’s being touched in front of his friends and stifling her sighs…

A/N: Just something short and sweet to get me back in the groove. I usually get pretty severe PMS, but apparently I get the ovulation sads as well. SO FUN!!

Warnings: Sexual themes, the males are horny 

Rhysand

Rhys may be the most powerful high lord, but there is nothing subtle about him. The male makes thunder noises when he winnows for god’s sake. 

If he’s touching you in public, everyone knows. 

He does it everywhere, using the smallest excuse to show off what is his (respectfully)

You have two thrones in the CoN, but yours doesn’t see much use. Rhys would rather have you sitting on his lap. 

Cassian 

Okay side note - Travis gives me such Cassian vibes (he’s an athlete who’s obsessed with his lady). Don’t tell me Cass wouldn’t be making friendship bracelets with the Valkyries 😭

Anyway - I bet you and Cass have a running competition. How far can you go before someone notices? 

His hand will be inching up your thigh further and further under the booth at Rita’s. 

A gasp slips out and eyes are straight on you.

Busted - Cassian’s hand returns to your knee, starting the game again. 

Azriel

Az will be scout’s honouring you without even using his hands. 

Dancing at Rita’s? Shadows are caressing the curve of your butt.

In the CoN? They slink under your dress, rippling up your legs.

At family dinner? They’ll be holding your legs open under the table as they slip inside. 

You have a similar game to Cassian but if you lose the game with Az, he’s not as nice to you. 

The second you moan out loud, you know you’re in for a rough night when you get to the privacy of your bedroom…

Lucien

Lulu is so traumatised, I feel like he’d be so loving with his mate. He’s also a total gentleman so he keeps his hands to himself when with company. 

That doesn’t stop the two of you slipping into a quiet room in between meetings. 

Or maybe even right before, trying to finish before the other High Lords and courtiers enter and sit around the table you’re currently lying on. 

You quickly fix your skirts as the handle turns. Lucien will brush aside any hairs that have fallen out of place for you. 

You take a seat, knowing your scent is all over the room. Brows are raised as people enter, but no one says a word. 

Eris 

Like Lucien, Eris is traumatised. After Beron’s death, he starts to open up a lot more, finally able to show his court a softer side. 

He made you his High Lady, so you attend every single meeting and ball together. 

He’s shy about PDA at first but after taking you in the throne room (privately), he realised he got a thrill from the possibility of being caught. 

From there, you couldn’t sate him. Anytime you’re by his side, his hands are all over you. 

Tamlin 

Tamlin is the king of outdoor sex. 

Calanmai, in the forest, in the garden, by the pool of starlight… 

He takes you on romantic strolls around the court and it always ends with him between your legs in some picturesque location. 

At least Lucien doesn’t have to chaperone you…

[spiderlyla]

I'M SO GLAD I LOVE MIGUEL FLUFF

um anyyy kind of hurt/comfort fics. either reader could be upset and Miguel's comforting and cuddling reader or it could be miguel that needs the cuddles!

OR

reader only being able to sleep when sleeping on her front so it frustrates miguel (and reader) that they can't cuddle to sleep cos he'd literally have to lie on top of her so he comes up with an idea where reader lays her head on his chest/stomach and sleeps that way (this is self indulgent I'm a stomach sleeping girly)

Day 2 of Flufftober

tags: gn!reader × miguel o'hara (no pronouns used)

lumi's note: i mixed both up :)), I also am a stomach sleeping girly so this was really easy to imagine.

join the taglist here!

thick silence filled every corner of the room, as the two of you lied awake on the bed.

you, holding onto the pillow with both your hands, as you rested on your stomach, eyes shut but not asleep.

miguel, being right beside you, but laying on his back, and staring at the ceiling with no indication that he might be going to sleep soon.

the matress kept squeaking, as your boyfriend moved from side to side, trying to relax and just drift to sleep, but there were some nights where he just couldn't, and this was one of them.

it didn't help that you two couldn't really cuddle while falling asleep, mainly because you preferred laying on your stomach. you suggested he'd lay on top, or even do the same and wrap his arm around you, but he was too afraid to crush you under his weight. miguel was not a small man, after all.

he kept tossing and turning, arching his back, never truly finding a good position to just relax.

"honey, what is it?" you mumbled, your pretty eyes fluttering open to meet his tired crimson ones. "nada, mi amor, no te preocupes." he moved, just to place a kiss on your forehead, before giving you his back and trying to lay on his side. [nothing, my love, don't worry.]

"you can't sleep..." you sat up, scooting closer to him, setting your head on his arm. miguel hummed, "I can't, no, but it's fine, I'll sleep eventually." Both of you knew full well he wouldn't.

"what's wrong?" You mumbled softly, squeezing his arm gently. "Is it work?" that usually is the culprit, always plaguing him with never-ending worries and adding to the weight on his shoulders. miguel turned to face you, a hint of a smile on his face, as he cupped your cheek. "when is it not?" his thumb moved across your skin, and you melted into his touch, leaning into it.

you placed your hand on the one he had on your cheek, and left a tender kiss on his palm. "bad day?" He shook his head at the question, "no, no. Just a few hiccups here and there. don't worry."

you knew what that was code for. It was code for 'No one was doing what I wanted perfectly, so I ended up doing it myself.'

you did not have the energy to say anything, so instead, you got up. miguel frowned, sitting up. his eyes never left your figure as you made your way towards his side of the bed. "Honey, what are you—" you suddenly straddled his lap, and then laid on your stomach on top of him. your arms wrapped around his neck just like you were with your pillow just a few moments ago. "what's this suppose to be?"

"a hug. I'll get off of you in a second—" one hand gripped your waist and another held your thigh, keeping you in place. "no, don't." miguel moved a little, opening his legs so you'd have a place to put yours. you adjusted yourself too, placing your head at his chest, the rhythmic beating of his heart lulling you to sleep.

your weight on top of his was rather comforting, your arms around him and the way your breath fanned against his neck made him at ease. miguel found himself closing his eyes, and in a second, he was fast asleep.

seems like all he needed was a hug.

🏷: @lizard757 @thevoiceinyourheadx @lulu-baked-beans @obi-mom-kenobi @bibikaiherau @thechloralkatniss-blog

@sukunamoon @crazy-ravioli @autismsupermusicalassassin @dangerousness15 @dumb-gemini12 @telefood @unear7hly @deffnotnia @ginger23 @vicravluv @sakinetic @longer-than-i-should-admit @dbiebxiwns @sweetlemongrove @currentlyinflames @minalovesyoubabes @lili-liliac @graves4girls @spineyy @barotaro @softcrayon @nerdyninjaprincess @spooookyqueen @jellyfishxxi

@champa1n-problemss @levrenes-space @swampedboy @coolbbruh @numberonetyrantyouth @boringpersonality @parapsycholozka @heyohalie @johfaam @bubbsieeee @iite-cool

@oharasmommymilkers00 @mousettea @jokmi @nayylas @namjoons-baby @liviiyyy @viriexo @vermillions @deltaworkwarmpepsi @number1gal @swiftyangx12 @millswifeyofkeigo @library-lunatic

[sleepingdeath-hellaverse]

dominant male s/o smut headcanons ; 18+

requested by : anonymous [14/03/24]

original request : ‘There is clearly a lack of x male reader in the Hazbin Hotel fandom, so maybe I could request Lucifer and Adam with a soft dom male reader. (Im not sure If I can request more that one character tho)’

pairing : submissive leaning switch!lucifer morningstar x dominant!male!reader insert

content : dom/sub dynamic between characters, lucifer having a praise kink, brief mentions of bondage (lucifer being tied up), implied body worship if you squint at one bullet point (lucifer receiving), cock-warming (reader receiving), overstimulation (lucifer receiving), some mentions of brat!lucifer at the end of the post

warnings : sexually explicit content

note : you can absolutely request multiple characters and the second part of this request (featuring the other listed character) will be out at some point next week ^^

masterlists : sfw nsfw

minors and ageless blogs will be blocked

although lucifer himself is a switch and is more than comfortable with taking on a dominant role in the bedroom, there is definitely a very strong part of him that enjoys being able to hand over control to someone else for a change — so, needless to say, having a boyfriend that was willing and eager to take on a dominant role in his stead would be something lucifer would be extremely open to

a good 90% of the time lucifer does his best to be ‘good’ for you (following your instructions to the letter, answering your questions immediately, only allowing himself to climax when you give him permission to, and so on), because he absolutely lives for your praise and undivided attention in the bedroom after being on his own for so long

call him ‘good boy’, ‘pretty’, ‘well trained’ and the like and you’ll get to see his pale cheeks turn a gorgeous shade of red as he shuffles in place and lets himself bask in those attentions — bonus points if you gently coaxe him into meeting your gaze when you’re saying this because he gets far too flustered to speak

tie his hands behind his back or above his head (or, if you’re feeling a bit mean, simply instruct him to hold them there without binding them in anyway and test how strong his resolve really is) and spend hours at a time smothering him in affection and praise: kiss down from the column of his throat to his chest and to the apex of his thighs, gently massage his legs and sides, pepper kisses and gentle bites along his throat and jawline, whisper compliments against his skin, gently brush your fingers through the feathers of his wings when they spring up out of his back — listen to every whimper and sigh and sob that comes out of his pretty lips as he tries his best to stay still and wait for you to finally, finally, put your hands or mouth on his straining dick as a reward for being so very good and patient for you

have him cockwarm you whilst he’s sorting through documents for lulu land or the hotel, lazily stroking circles into his hips with the pads of your thumbs as you encourage him to keep on going and promise to reward him for being such a good boy for you all day

and when he’s earned it, fuck him until there are tears streaming down his cheeks and all he can do is babble something vaguely like your name as he desperately tries to pull you closer with shaking hands — he’s strong enough to take anything you give him, really he is, so feel free to keep on pushing him through orgasm after orgasm until the only thing he can remember is how good your cock feels inside of him and the shape of your name on his lips

(or until you’re too exhausted to go on… whichever comes first)

he’s also just as happy to top you if you’re more comfortable being on the receiving end — he’s nothing if not a gentleman after all — so long as you’re still praising him and telling him what to do, he’s content with making love to you in any way that you prefer

then, of course, there’s the remaining 10% where all of his patience gets thrown out of the window and you get to see just how much of a brat the prince of pride can be

he gets demanding, impatient, and desperate until he’s swiftly put in his place and reminded that you’re the one in charge and he won’t get anything from you until he starts behaving again

(in all honesty he’s a pretty easy brat to tame if you leverage his praise kink and his desperation by having him cockwarm you whilst you edge him with your hand, asking him if he’s going to start behaving and reminding him that brats don’t get rewards — he’ll break before long and get all teary eyed as he apologises and begs you to let him cum)

[pinkandpurple360]

ITS ME, MAMMON 💚🃏

This man reeks of insecure corporate shame

A psychology theory…

“And I’ll be like a stepdad, who will love you, when it’s convenient!!”

It all really started for him in LooLoo Land, the-legally distinct-knockoff of Lucifers more successful Lulu World that reeks of insecure corporate shame.

When he said

“I raised you like the son I didn’t want!”

He was fucking lying his clowny ass off because he wanted a son even more than Fizz wanted a father of his own and Mam has not shut up about his father-son delusion for almost twenty goddamn years

The second image above, and all of the symbolism around it is the foundation of Mammons character and psychology. No really. This was not the introduction of Fizzarolli, it was the introduction of Mammon wearing Fizzi as his face. Vibe checked by a jaded 17 year old owl goth girl who can see through her own pathetic dads fake bullshit. This scene was the foreshadowing of the Musical Special. Everything from the green spotlight on Fizzi, the nasty personality of the robot which was closer to Mammons than Fizzarolli’s. Lots of symbolism. Especially the ripped off reference to Hazbin Hotels “I have a dream” song lyric. Has possible symbolism. I’m actually deeply disappointed the ep didn’t make a single call back to LooLoo Land at all. And Blitz was right there and wasted potential :(

Shown is a Fizzbot ‘Fizzi’ compared to his ‘dad’ mammon ahh like father like son as they say. Blech. Everybody loves Fizz, does anybody love you, Mammon? (Me, I do❤️)

So I’m going to get it out of the way and say it, Mammon is giving Leviathan a run for his money (haha money, get it?) because his envy and idolisation of his BFF Lucifer is so great that he’s trying to find his “very own pride and joy”, his own theme park, his own grand circus and adoring fans, and his own wholesome musical child knock-off of Lucifers more popular Charlie Morningstar.

He saw this

And he thought….

Aw, he so sad here :c Just do this one thing, for him x he’s just a giant evil baby man with four arms and eight eyes

He doesn’t really want a daughter though, he feels like he’d relate better to a (marketable) son. And I think that’s the real reason he made the comment about women not being considered the same way adults werent considered, only implings who want to grow up to be like him. (creepy..! I think that’s what tipped Blitzo off also poor Wally (another orphan like Fizz?) Wally didn’t make the cut 😢 YEET.

Anyway-His whole dream is being a father and son taking on the world to grow his empire. As long as he steals all the fortune. He must be insecure and full of shame if he wants someone to be his “new face” every year, if you really think about it. If the kid same is the gender as him and therefore a bit more like his own face in that sense, he’s not copying Lucifers daughter cause he has a son. It’s different and not the same at all.

But seriously it really shocked me when he started talking about being like a stepdad, and he was genuinely excited about it too? But this man doesn’t even know he wants to be a father and he’s probably never felt love before in his life. I guarantee this was a first sight “wow this kid kinda looks like me and he has the same innocent look in his eyes as Charlie, he’s mine now”

“I GAVE YOU EVERYTHING”

This for me. Made as big an impact as Oz saying he loves Fizz. It was very shocking. The opposite of greed is giving, and giving something to somebody is probably a massive fucking deal to Mam and I’d bet he doesn’t even know himself why he gave fizz so much attention

He also doesn’t kill Fizz? He SCREAMS at him, uses big intimidation tactics, sure, but didn’t actually lay a hand on him if you really look? He was fine with being uncomfortably physical and even violent before to him but isn’t now? (Fizz is forever so badass for this moment btw) How strange is that. This whole thing reeks of ‘scorned father’

Like he’s happy to keep exploiting Fizz but also just as fine in replacing him, even happy to see him possibly fail. So he really has no reason to be this possessive and attached. But he is. Oz says the song is about him and Fizz literally calls his name out and Mammon still ALLOWS him to finish his song he genuinely really enjoyed the song, he allowed him to make his speech, but only intervenes when he quits.

Why, because he wants the crowd to “love” him it’s very important to him - the money they give him is what he thinks love is. There is so many dads out there who respond to abuse allegations with “but I put a roof over their head and provide security” This is abusive father 101. I guess it could be just because Fizz is beloved by the masses, profitable, sure. But what if it’s because he feels the same way the crowd does about fizz, and doesn’t comprehend why? He clearly loves watching his performances. Even the diss track against him. Priorities.

It is just an extremely interesting concept to me if Mam is trying to copy Lucifers family, but the best thing he can come up with is a Brand Figure to be his “legacy” Capitalists man. He doesn’t understand what love is. But wants it. Wants to buy it. But it’s never enough.

“You are practically in my image”

Is literally another dad thing and to be more dramatic about this it’s the same thing we hear that ‘God made you in his image’ could this be setting up the theme of the show? Honestly my one criticism is that there’s enough sexual relationships in this show there didn’t need to be implications of him sexually interested in the guy he literally sees as his kid. A twisted boss/father story about a deeply lonely orphan clown child and a deeply lonely capitalistic clown spider over-idolising each other and entering an abusive family/work dynamic due to both of their tragic nativité and ignorance about love, is already a very mature story. It’s a 9/10 story but if Fizz and Blitz (an excellent way to incorporate him in the story) talked a bit about Fizz’s orphan status at the circus making him feel like there was always something missing, something Blitz had but he never did, it would have been 10/10.

[rhoorl]

Delta Landscaping | Chapter 16: The Countdown

Series Masterlist | Chapter 16 A03 Link

Word Count: 8.8k

Previously on As the Mule Falls: Benny and Vanessa went on a date. We learned a bit about a woman from Santiago’s past. Frankie got things prepared for a little weekend trip up to Atlanta to celebrate a big milestone.

In this Episode: Another Benny-heavy episode as the guys get him ready for fight night. Similar to the last episode, we’ll jump through time and will end the Saturday before Benny’s fight. We also have another neighborhood party!

Chapter Warnings: This one is pretty fluffy, just some swearing. Special thot warning - Cousin Joel, Marcus being a sweet brother-in-law, the boys spending time at the gym. Frankie in his menace era. Benny is a flustered, adorable mess. David comes with his own warnings. 

*Cue the theme music and roll opening credits*

11 Days to Fight Night 

David: Ok since when has Will had a motorcycle?! Katie you have to keep us updated on stuff like this.

Megan: If we had a neighborhood newsletter it'd be the lead story this week 😂

Ty: Don’t give him any ideas…

Katie: Sorry…he just got it

Olivia: Have you taken a ride yet?

Melissa: 💀

Olivia: On the motorcycle

Oliva: Shit! 🫣

Ty: I thought for a second D took your phone 

Megan: 😆 aw Liv, we love you never change.

Oliva: Quick someone please change the subject. I am so sorry Katie!

Katie: 😘

David: Anyone up for another party? We haven’t welcomed the new neighbors yet.

Megan: Lulu and I were actually talking about that!

Lucille: Yes! I am happy to host! Maybe this weekend? 

David: Theme?

Megan: Do we need one? 

David: ….

Megan: The theme is Lucille is going to cook us a bunch of food and play great music. And dancing!

Ty: Ay dios mio. He’s already getting a mood board together.

Lucille: Megan - can you talk with Victoria? See what night works for them. 

Megan: Great idea! Katie you’re in charge of the boys!

David: I’m not jealous at all 🙄

Frankie propped his elbow up on the armrest and looked out the window as the plane made its descent. The early morning flight meant there were actually a few open seats, including the one next to him in the exit row, for which he was grateful.

His weekend trip reinvigorated him. It went as perfectly as he could have imagined it, save for the constant rain but even that wasn't a problem since it meant they got to stay in. All the anxiety he felt leading up to the trip about revealing parts of his past to Jo evaporated the second she took his hand, rubbing her thumbs across his knuckles. She appreciated Frankie's openness and willingness to share some of the deepest, darkest parts of his past. But what meant the most was when she said how proud she was of him for reaching his milestone. 

The distance was not ideal. All they wanted to do was spend every day, every moment with each other. He wanted to wake up to legs tangled and sheets rumpled. She wanted to surprise him at his job one day with lunch. They wanted to cook dinner together at night and settle in and watch a movie or play a game.

But for now, their physical time together would be relegated to a more sporadic schedule. She was gearing up for a busy time at work, but they made plans for the following weekend for Benny's fight. Frankie was already counting down the days when he could see her and introduce her to everyone. That thought brought a smile across his face; the pride he'd feel about showing off his girl.

He was so lost in his own thoughts that he didn't even realize they were landing until the wheels hit the tarmac. He quickly pulled out his phone, knowing exactly who his first text would be to. 

Frankie: Just landed. Miss you.

Jo: Good! I miss you too. Got to the office a little bit ago.

Frankie: You weren't late right?

Jo: Nope, all good! Gotta go to this meeting but tell Benny I said hi!

Frankie: Have a good day mi cielo. Talk later

Jo: xoxo

10 Days to Fight Night

“Fish, can you help me with something real quick?” Benny panted as he racked up the bar onto the squat rack.

“With what?”

“Can you…uh…take a picture?” He turned around, offering Frankie his phone.

Frankie furrowed his eyebrows. “A picture? Of what?” 

Benny’s eyes looked left and right. “Um…me?” 

“Can’t you just do like a selfie or somethin’?” Frankie leaned against the weights.  

“No…it’s more of an…action shot. C’mon Fish, it’ll take two seconds.” Benny walked over to an open space, peeling off his shirt so he was left in just his black basketball shorts. He flipped his baseball cap around and got into a plank. “Just take a couple of me doing pushups.”

“Por amor a díos, Benjamin. What the hell?” Frankie shook his head laughing.

“C’mon, Fish,” he grunted through another rep, the pendant of his chain hitting the floor each time. 

Frankie tried his best, even bending down on one knee to get a better angle. “Ok…see what you think.” 

Benny chewed on the inside of his cheek as he scrolled through the mostly blurry photos. He was about ready to prop up the phone against a dumbbell and try it again but managed to find a clear one that showed off the definition in his shoulders. “Good, thanks, man.”

“Hey…um…think you could… never mind, it’s dumb.” Frankie rubbed the back of his neck, walking back towards his water bottle. “Who’re you taking that for anyway?”

“It’s for uh…my Instagram…damn that sounds really fuckin stupid to say out loud. I'm a grown-ass man,” Benny chuckled. 

“Hoping that someone in particular sees it?” Frankie raised an eyebrow, lightly punching Benny in the arm.

“Yeah…kinda,” Benny blushed, eager to change the subject. “What? Like you don't send any pictures to your lady.”

“Uh…that’s actually what I,” Frankie sighed, shaking his head as Benny’s face lit up with the realization of what Frankie was trying to ask about earlier.

“Oh hell yeah, Fish! Tryna show off all that hard work aren't ya,” he winked, slapping Frankie in the stomach. 

Despite the focus on Benny and getting him in ring shape, Frankie reaped some benefits from their daily gym trips too. Recently he noticed his shirts fit a bit tighter across his chest and arms, a fact Jo was all too pleased about during his little weekend getaway. 

They'd exchanged photos over the past couple of weeks, but they had been pretty tame. Mostly silly selfies as they went about their day. This morning, however, Frankie did manage to send one of himself shirtless, brushing his teeth which seemed to get quite the reaction. He was having fun and feeling playful.

“Can you help me?” He looked over at Benny who sported a lopsided grin.

“Hell yeah!” He led Frankie back to the locker room. They stood in front of the mirror as Benny gave him tips on how to pose and hold the camera, taking a couple of his own to show as an example.  

“I dunno man, this feels kinda dumb,” Frankie winced, looking at himself in the mirror. 

“Stop it…she’s gonna love it. You’re lookin’ good these days, Fish, show it off!” Benny shook him by the shoulders, making Frankie’s shy smile grow more confident. “I’m tellin’ ya, send her one of those and you’re in for a good night later,” he winked.

Nine Days to Fight Night 

Will and Santiago finished the work on Melissa's backyard earlier than expected thanks to some extra help from Connor. It was perfect timing, with a little over a week before Benny’s fight. All the guys rallied around Benny, helping him prepare however they could.

Today started with an early morning jog around the neighborhood. Benny, Will, and Connor ran together, the younger boy pushing the older two to keep a faster pace. Frankie followed on a bike, barking out encouragement. Meanwhile, Santiago sat on the Millers’ front porch drinking a coffee and reading the paper, giving the guys a little wave each time they came around the block.

“Nice, that was your fastest yet,” Frankie stopped the bike and clicked off the stopwatch.

Benny stood bent over trying to catch his breath while Will took off his shirt to wipe the sweat off his brow, tucking it into the waistband of his red gym shorts. Santiago strolled down the driveway with some water bottles as David drove by, giving a polite wave. 

“It was all this guy,” Benny panted, patting Connor on the chest. “Your coach is gonna make you run the drills this season man,” he chuckled.

“Happy to help. You feeling good?” Connor asked as he took the cold bottle from Santiago. 

“Yeah. Cardio wise I feel great.”

“You testing out that cardio in your free time?” Santiago smirked as Frankie smacked him on the back of the head, cutting his eyes over to Connor.

“He hasn't even kissed her yet,” Will added before dodging out of the way and hiding behind Frankie to avoid a slap from Benny. The guys broke out in a fit of laughter as Benny blushed. 

“She’s excited about the fight,” Connor said as he took a long drink of water, eliciting confused looks from the guys. “What? She cut my hair earlier this week so it came up. Thanks for noticing by the way,” he teased as he removed his baseball cap and ruffled the top of his hair.

Santiago assessed Connor’s haircut with a sharp nod, approving Vanessa’s handiwork. “Looks good, kid. Maybe I’ll go and see what those hands can do.” He winked at Benny, getting a sense of glee at seeing his fist ball up and his nostrils flare.

Oblivious, Connor continued, “She gave an awesome scalp massage, she has long nails so it helps to…” He stopped when he saw all the guys looking at him with blank stares. Benny’s mouth twisted while the others tried to hold in their laughter. Finally, Will’s snort made them all bust out laughing. 

“Better be careful there C,” Will smirked. 

“Oh…ah…sorry Benny, I swear I didn’t mean it like that,” he winced, fearing he’d offended Benny.

Benny clenched his jaw, before taking a deep breath. “All good lil dude,” he patted Connor on the back. “I’m used to these guys being assholes…so…what did you guys talk about?” He raised his eyebrows.

More relaxed now knowing Benny wasn’t mad, Connor told them about how she seemed excited to watch Benny but a bit nervous too. “She mentioned something about how Victoria is going to be there to help too?”

Benny shifted from one foot to another, feeling butterflies in his stomach at the thought of her excited to see him in action. “She…uh…yeah, Vic’s gonna help tape me up before the fight, you’re off the hook, Fish.”

“Ha, I see what you did there!” Connor laughed as they all groaned.

“You've been over there every night this week,” Will observed, taking a long drink of water. 

“Vic has been doing some treatments…to help me with recovery. Now that I’m getting older, I'm feeling it a lot more than I used to…now I know how you all must feel,” Benny smirked.

“Vanessa hasn't been helping you with some extra um…treatmen-” Santiago could barely get it out before bursting into another fit of laughter.

“Hey, you boys are having too much fun,” Lucille joked as she wheeled her trash bin to the curb. 

“Lulu, qué estás haciendo? Trash comes tomorrow not today,” Frankie knitted his brows taking the bin from her and walking it back up her driveway. 

“I thought so, but David told us it was a special day and to take it out to the curb right away and…well never mind,” she shook her head. “You boys are coming over on Saturday, right?”

“Wouldn't miss it for the world, Lulu,” Will regarded her with a soft smile. 

“Are you cooking Lulu?” Benny's hopeful look made her laugh.

“Sí mi amor, I am starting today. And I'm making some extra empanadas just for you…although I hear I have some competition,” she winked.

“What? Someone else is making empanadas?” Benny scoffed. “Doesn't matter, I know where the best ones are made darlin’.”

“Ah well, vamos a ver, I think you may like these more…you boys going to the gym?”

“Yeah, one last hard workout today and tomorrow, and then it's all maintenance, right Benjamin?” Frankie clapped a hand on Benny's shoulder.

“You're coming next week to watch right, Lulu?” Benny's puppy dog eyes made the biggest smile come across Lucille's face. 

“Por supresto mi vida, I’m looking forward to it.”

Eight Days to Fight Night 

Today’s gym session was especially fun because everyone got into it. Connor and Benny started off alternating between jumping rope and running sprints on the treadmill. Of course, they had to make it competitive and see who could jump rope the longest without messing up or who could run for the fastest speed on the treadmill. 

Santiago and Frankie spent time lifting, getting a chance to catch up on each other's week. Will went off to a corner to do an ab circuit. When Benny finished his cardio, he and Will faced each other on the ground to do one of their patented Miller Push-Up Contests. They'd started doing this as kids and it became something Benny would do to lift everyone's spirits during missions. 

Each time they came up for a pushup, they extended one arm out to slap hands before going down for another push-up. Will rolled his eyes because Benny wanted to push the pace rather than go at the slow and methodical one Will set. Like always, they ended up play fighting, with Benny putting Will in some kind of WWE-style hold.

“Ok, ok you two break it up,” Frankie chuckled. “C'mon Ben, let's get some sparring in so we can all go eat.”

Seven Days to Fight Night

"Bean what the fuck is a 'thirst trap' and why did Sarah say she saw it on your Instagram? Jesus I don't even know what half of that shit even means," Joel muttered to himself, pinching the bridge of his nose as he sat in his truck outside of Steph's house. 

“Oh…ah…I dunno man, you know the kids and how they talk, can't keep up,” Benny tried to laugh it off but Joel pressed on until he finally revealed what that phrase meant.

“What kind of picture you posting Ben? My daughter, your niece, is on that app!”

“No, no, it's just a selfie in the mirror at the gym. I had my shirt off, it's what she'd see at the beach, man, nothing worse than that.”

“Hmm…” Joel rolled his eyes, “It's not you I'm worried about…why'd you post that anyway? Not enough havin’ all those stay-at-home moms at the gym goin' crazy for you.”

Benny could practically see the smirk on Joel's face. He knew he could try and bullshit his way around this, but Joel would get the truth out one way or another. “I…shit this sounds so fucking silly, I'm almost 40 for fuck’s sake, but…I was kinda doing it hoping someone would see it.”

“Someone in general or some specific? Is it for Nox?”

“Who the fuck is Nox?”

“Your girl…you said she drove an Equinox, so I’ve been calling her that in my head,” Joel chuckled.

“Nox…” Benny tilted his head. “You never gave Amy a nickname...”

“You didn't answer the question, Bean.” Joel countered.

Benny leaned back in his dining room chair, pausing from the drawing he was absentmindedly shading as he talked with Joel. “Yeah,” he said softly.

“Ha, I knew it. Trying to remind her what she's missing when you're not around?”

“Ahh…well…”

“Y'all’ve done stuff right? Will said you've been at her place like every night this week.”

“No man…I…we almost kissed last weekend but her sister and brother-in-law got home from their date night,” Benny scratched his scalp as he continued, “I dunno…I haven't felt nervous like this around a girl like…ever.”

“Well, she sounds special Bean…I'm looking forward to meeting her.”

Benny sat up straighter in his chair, “when's that gonna be?” He eagerly anticipated Joel's response.

“Well, that's kinda why I called. Dropped Sarah off at Steph's for her two weeks and we got to talkin’…the county is draggin’ its feet on these permits and some of the materials we need for this job are back ordered so I'll have some downtime while Sarah is with Steph…looks like it's going to line up with your fight.”

“Holy shit! You're coming? Fuck yeah!” Benny pumped his fist in the air.

Joel chuckled, “knew that would get you excited. You actually have Steph to thank for this one, she made the decision for me…says I need to take a vacation.”

“I can't remember the last one you went on.” 

Joel shook his head, “Hey Tommy, Sarah, and I went tubing last summer…or was that two summers ago…”

“My point exactly J, plus that wasn't a vacation. So is Tommy coming with you too?”

“That's the plan, as long as he doesn't do anything stupid.” Joel rubbed his eye with the heel of his hand. 

“Oh shit, it's gonna be a hell of a week with you two down here.”

Joel smiled as he drove, listening to Benny go on and on about the different things he wanted to do while his cousins were in town. 

“...and Pope mentioned this cigar shop, we were thinking of getting some to celebrate but I dunno I don't wanna jinx anything and -”

“Ohhhkay Bean, gonna stop you there. I'm about to head in to grab some food. We'll chat later…try and I dunno dance with Nox at the party tomorrow night, put on that Miller charm.”

Six Days to Fight Night

“Mmm, it smells so good in here hermanita,” Victoria walked through the door with Nico and Mariella in tow. 

“Thanks, got the last batch going,” Vanessa said over her shoulder, careful not to take her eyes off the hot oil. 

“Oooo Tia you made empanadas?” Nico bounded over, getting his hand slapped by his mom for reaching for the tray Vanessa had already neatly assembled.

“It's ok Vic, he can take one. Here mi amor take from this plate, those are the guava y queso ones.”

“My favorite! Gracias, Tia!” He managed to say between bites. 

“Cooking up quite the storm huh?” Victoria regarded the counter which included a glass dish full of boiled yucca, a container of citrus-garlic mojo, two types of empanadas, and a tres leches cake.

“We can't show up empty-handed,” Vanessa fished out the last empanada and placed it on the paper towel-lined plate.

“Well you know what they say…fastest way to a man's heart is through his stomach,” Victoria giggled as Vanessa rolled her eyes. “Speaking of his stomach, d’you see his Instagram? Ay Papi! She wiggled her eyebrows. 

Vanessa blushed as she started packing up the empanadas into containers. “Um…yeah…I mean, I think I saw it when I was scrolling.” In reality, Vanessa set up notifications for Benny’s posts, so she immediately saw yesterday’s gym selfie. Not wanting to seem too eager, she waited about an hour or so after he posted before she actually liked it. 

“Hmm…sure. Anyways, what are you wearing tonight?”

Vanessa sighed, “I don’t know…it’s a casual backyard party so nothing too fancy.”

“C’mon,” Victoria grabbed her sister’s hand and pulled her up the stairs holding Mariella on her hip. “Vamos, Nico…let’s help Tia figure out what to wear tonight.”

Frankie took a deep breath as he looked at himself in the mirror. Benny's words from the other day were in his head encouraging him to show off all of the hard work he'd been putting into the gym. As he contemplated which of his colorful, silky buttoned-downs to wear, a thought popped into his head. Earlier, Jo sent him a picture of her outfit before she headed out for the night with a friend. She looked gorgeous, but of course, she did. That photo would be in his head all evening, so he thought it would be fun to return the favor. 

He pushed back from the mirror and pulled the bill of his baseball cap down low so that just his mouth was visible. He checked the angle of his phone making sure he was in the frame before looking down and snapping a couple of photos. He sighed as he scrolled through them. This was so unlike him, but he had to admit, it was kind of fun. He got a little rush of doing this for her, curious what her reaction would be. Having fun like this, being silly and carefree and just being in…love? Is that what he was feeling? It had been so long.

“Alright, let’s see what you think baby…” he muttered to himself as he hit send, immediately putting the phone down on the counter and walking back to his closet to figure out which shirt to wear. 

Bucky enthusiastically greeted Katie as she walked into Megan's house. He was excited to see her, sure, but he was more excited about the tray of little Cuban sandwich sliders in her hands.

“Bucky, no no this isn't for you…maybe your mom can give me one of your t-r-e-a-t-s instead,” she winked as Bucky jumped up on her legs. “Ohhh ok, note to self, he knows how to spell,” she laughed, rounding the corner into the kitchen where Megan and Connor were getting their stuff packed up.

“He acts like we never feed him,” Megan laughed. “You've got it good my man,” she looked down at Bucky who gave her big puppy dog eyes. “Don't…ugh dammit it works every time,” she laughed as she grabbed a Milkbone. “Damn you Benny Miller. He got Bucky addicted to these damn things so I had to go to Costco to get more,” Megan gestured to the new treat container as Connor snorted.

“Speaking of Benny, how’s it going with the training, C? Katie leaned against the counter.

Connor sat at the kitchen table, “Oh pretty good. I feel like this week it's all really clicked for Benny. He seems to be having fun. Plus he got some good news, so that put him in an even better mood.”

“News? What news? Ooo something about Vanessa?” Megan asked.

Connor absentmindedly scrolled his phone, “Nah, no it's about his cousins from Texas they're coming to town.”

Megan and Katie looked at each other, a smirk forming across Megan's face. “Cousins from Texas huh?”

“Yeah, Benny was excited about it,” Connor added.

“I guess we'll see if all of Melissa's detective work paid off huh?” Katie tried to sound neutral but she knew Megan was onto her.

“You gonna give David that bit of news or am I?” Megan raised an eyebrow.

“I mean, your kid was the one who had that little tidbit, so it's all yours Meg,” she winked.

With Frankie headed to a party at Lucille's tonight, Jo finally took her neighbor Bea up on her invitation to join her and some friends for a trivia night at a local brewery. They finished the first round and awaited the results, so she had time for a quick trip to the restroom. She checked her phone out of habit, not expecting to see any messages from Frankie. Her stomach did a little flip when she saw she had a message from him – and a photo at that. Intrigued, she leaned against a wall and looked over her shoulder to make sure no one could see her phone. 

Frankie. Without a shirt. Wow, he looked good. And the part that made the slick start to pool between her legs was the little smirk she could see from under his baseball cap. It reminded her of a week ago, looking up at him as he was buried inside her, one of her legs wrapped around his waist. She pushed her thighs together for some relief before responding.

Jo: 🫦

Jo: Benny is teaching you well there Morales

Frankie: Thought you might like that

Jo: Call me later 

Jo: Actually, we should FaceTime 😈

Giving herself one last look in the mirror, Vanessa fussed with her hair before heading downstairs. She could hear Victoria going over the kid’s nighttime routine with their cousin Maria, who agreed to come over and watch them for the evening. She smiled when she saw Nico lying on the couch playing a game on his tablet, watching him as she turned the corner into the kitchen, she nearly ran into Marcus. 

“Vandy!” He narrowly avoided crashing into her and took a step back to take her in. “Wow…you look beautiful,” he leaned down to kiss her cheek. “He’s going to love it.” He whispered in her ear.

She shyly smiled, “It’s not too much?” 

“No, you look perfect.” He winked as he walked over to the kitchen island to help pack up the food they were taking to Lucille’s.

“You don’t look too bad yourself Buck, is that the guayabera Tio Gerardo got you?”

Marcus looked down at his black linen dress shirt, “Yeah this is the one. Some of the guys wear these to the office and now I see why, they’re comfortable as hell,” he chuckled.

Lucille hadn’t thrown a party like this in ages. It felt nice to have the house full of people, the music playing, and the aroma of food wafting throughout. She was thankful to the boys for helping her get the backyard in order. Frankie and Benny set up a beautiful display of twinkling string lights among her trees while Will and Santiago and Connor constructed a dance floor and moved furniture out of the way.

A group congregated in the kitchen, David holding court as he took stock of all of the delicious food Lucille had on the menu. He let out a loud whoop as the Delta Force guys arrived. All of the neighbors showered them with hugs and warmth. In their own ways, each of the guys relished this. It was nice to have people genuinely excited to see them. 

Everyone decided to take the party outside, helping to carry out various dishes and containers. Once everything was set, Benny reached into a cooler to grab a beer. He heard Lucille excitedly announce that the guests of honor were there. Turning around, he immediately locked eyes with Vanessa, like a magnet that found its other half. He let out a breath as he saw her. Fuck, she looks beautiful, no idiot, she looks gorgeous, he thought to himself. Will patted him on the back, but Benny couldn’t hear what he said. It was like everything was in slow motion. 

Vanessa wore a simple forest green wrap dress with a floral pattern that hugged her curves in all of the right places. The straps of the garment were delicate and the neckline formed a modest v, showing just enough cleavage to leave something to the imagination but also enough to make his mouth water. His eyes honed in on her collarbone, wondering what it would be like to pepper kisses along it as he moved his way up her neck to behind her ear and…

“Ben? Earth to Ben?” Santiago chuckled next to him.

Benny shook his head to bring himself back to the present. “Hmm?”

“You’re staring, Bean. Put your tongue back in your mouth and go over there and say hi.” Will added as Frankie smirked. 

“Shit. Yeah, ok.” Benny smoothed the front of his short sleeve blue button down, undoing another button because it suddenly felt like it was a thousand degrees outside despite it being a very pleasant evening. 

A crowd formed around the new arrivals with everyone eager to welcome them to the party. Benny made a beeline to Vanessa waiting impatiently but respectfully as David chatted with her. 

“Girl! Stunning. Tens across the board on this. I didn’t know you had this little figure on you mama!” David winked. 

“Aw thanks, you look great too!” Vanessa blushed as she caught Benny’s eyes from over David’s shoulder. 

David followed her gaze. “Ah, Benny! Hey, d’you hear we have more empanadas? Vanessa made some too, so now we don’t have to fight over all the ones Lulu made. Although if we did actually fight you’d kick my ass so…” David chuckled.

Benny snorted as David excused himself, taking the opportunity to ask Will about his new motorcycle. “Hi,” Benny looked at her with a soft smile, pushing the hair out of his eyes.

“Hi,” Vanessa replied, a bit shaky. 

For as much as he was in awe of her, she was equally as mesmerized by him. He’d been almost exclusively wearing a baseball cap since they met, so she hadn’t noticed that his hair was getting a little bit longer. His shirt fit him perfectly, showing off all of the hard work he’d put in at the gym. She looked down at his chest, appreciating the fact that he had a few buttons undone. His chain glimmered as it sat nestled into some sparse hair on his chest. He looked like a model and Vanessa couldn’t believe he was standing there talking to her.

“Y-you look absolutely beautiful,” he gave her a quick but appreciative up and down, trying his hardest not to let his eyes linger for too long.

“You clean up pretty good yourself Bun,” she smiled back, brushing some lint off his shoulder. Her stomach did a little flip when he chuckled at the mention of his nickname. 

Benny looked over his shoulder as Marcus and Will moved dishes and plates to make room for the newest additions to the buffet. “D’you make all of that?”

Vanessa nodded, looking down feeling her face getting hot as she tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. “Yeah…spent most of the day doing it.”

“Well, I’m excited to taste you…I mean your um…whatever you brought. What ah, what did you make?” Benny rubbed the back of his neck, thankful it was dark outside and she couldn’t fully see how red he was turning. 

“Want me to show you?”

“Absolutely, lead the way boss lady,” Benny winked, letting her walk in front of him so he could check her out, noticing that she put a little extra swish and sway to her hips.

Lucille stopped for a moment as she walked outside with another plate of empanadas and croquettas to refill the trays. She took in the sight of her backyard so full of people, of laughter, of music, it brought a tear to her eyes. She wished her Julio could be there to see how their little neighborhood had grown. With a deep breath, she set down the plate and turned to see everyone starting to hit the makeshift dance floor thanks to David who has commandeered the speakers.

“Vamos bailar Lulu?” Marcus winked, extending his arm out to her which she happily took. 

“Habalas español muy bien Marcus,” she complimented as he led her onto the dance floor.

“Well, I had to learn quickly. Had to know what my mother-in-law and her family were saying about me,” he chuckled.

On the other side of the backyard, David dragged Olivia onto the dance floor, to the cheers of everyone including her husband Chris. They didn’t get out much and were so thankful to Aria for coming over to babysit so they could have a night with their neighbors. Santiago twirled Victoria around, the two keeping up with the quick beat of the song.

In a move that surprised most of the neighbors, Will was eager to get out on the dance floor, bringing Katie along. Although she was a bit unsure of how to keep to the beat, she was pleasantly surprised to see Will take the lead.

“Where'd you learn to dance like this?” Katie giggled as she held one of his hands and lightly rested the other on his shoulder.

“Learned a few things from my exes,” he winked as she rolled her eyes.

“Didn't pass along those tricks to your brother?” She nodded towards Benny who was sulking in the corner nursing a beer as he watched everyone.

Will shook his head as he twirled her, “Tried…we finally found something he's actually not good at,” he chuckled before cutting his eyes over to check in on Benny. With a sigh, he added that Benny's ex used to make fun of him when he tried to dance, one of the countless ways she found to tear him down.

“Aww poor Bean,” Katie pouted, sneaking a look at Benny as Will spun her around again. She noticed Benny's eyes were glued to Vanessa who sat twirling her Solo cup and politely chatting with Ty at a table.

“He'll get his big boy pants on soon,” Will smirked.

“So…your motorcycle is the talk of the neighborhood,” she teased.

“Ha yea,” he twirled her before bringing her back in close. “I have to admit, it's been kinda fun, you should go with me sometime.”

“No way,” Katie shook her head. “Couldn't pay me enough money to do that…but I know someone who would,” she arched her eyebrow. 

“And who is that?” Will looked skeptical.

“Miranda, my coworker. She's been watching this show about a motorcycle gang and it's kind of a thing for her now,” she chuckled, noticing Will's ears getting red. 

Despite the fact that the two of them had moved on from anything romantic, Katie still had love for Will and wanted him to be happy.

“Oh c'mon, I think you'll like her. She's really sweet and super smart.”

“She been helping you with that big presentation for work?’

“Yeah! Poor thing, she's been juggling a lot because of…well, she has a lot of responsibilities at home. But yeah, we both are looking forward to Monday being over with,” she chuckled.

“You gonna dance with her or what?” Frankie leaned against the wall, turning his head to look at Benny who stood chewing on the inside of his cheek and looking down at his feet. He kept missing the occasional hopeful glances Vanessa tossed over her shoulder. Frankie sighed, shaking his head, “Well if you won’t, I will.” He pushed off the wall and strode over to Vanessa.

Vanessa heard someone clear their throat behind her and she felt a lump form in her throat. 

“¿Quieres bailar?”

She tried to hide her disappointment that the voice behind her wasn’t the one she was hoping for. Turning around she saw Frankie looking down at her with a soft smile. He looked so much like her ex she had to do a bit of a double take. “You’re sweet. It's ok, Frankie, I don't really like this song anyway,” she forced a tight smile. 

“C'mon,” he leaned down and lowered his voice, “show him what he's missing.” He offered her his hand with a wink.

Vanessa chuckled to herself and with Ty’s encouragement took Frankie up on his offer. She stood up from the table, smoothed her dress and placed her hand in Frankie's as he led her to the dance floor. Victoria cheered and Lucille clapped as she welcomed the newest couple to the dance floor.

Benny scratched the back of his head and took a long swig of his beer, wishing he could get past his insecurities. He watched everyone carrying on and having fun, but really he was only watching one person. He couldn't take his eyes off Vanessa. The way her nose scrunched as she giggled at something Frankie said, the way she tossed her hair, the way her hips swayed.

Frankie kept a respectful hand at her mid-to-upper back, but still brushed against some of her exposed skin making Benny’s fingers twitch. As she twirled around again he saw her smile, a smile he swore could light up a pitch-black room. He was so caught up in this trance it didn't even register that Megan had walked up next to him.

“You know, you strike me as the kinda guy who is the first one out on the dance floor no matter what the music. Didn’t peg you as the wallflower.”

“I…ah…I’m not a good dancer,” he pulled his lips into a tight line. 

“I don't think she'd care,” she nodded towards the dance floor.

As the song ended and another started, a musical chairs of sorts ensued as everyone switched partners. Marcus kissed Lucille's hand and passed her off to Frankie just as Victoria crashed into her husband's arms in a fit of giggles. Santiago danced with Olivia after Melissa walked away from him, while David whisked Katie around, leaving Will and Vanessa. Even though Will had been nothing but sweet to her, she was still intimidated by him, like she wanted to make a good impression.

“Wanna dance darlin'? I’m not as good as Fish but I can hold my own,” he chuckled, looking down with a shy smile that reminded her of Benny. 

“That's ok, as long as you're having fun that's all that matters,” she smiled, taking his hand.

Somewhere between the second verse and the bridge, Will’s eyes clocked Vanessa stealing a glance over at Benny.

“Dancing isn't really his thing, at least not fast songs like these. For as good as his footwork is in the ring, he's not the most coordinated on the dance floor...’specially when there's a pretty girl in his arms distracting him,” he winked, which made Vanessa's cheeks feel hot. “He just doesn't wanna look dumb, it's nothing on you sweetheart.”

“Thanks, Will. Hey, you know for a gringo you dance really well. Took Marcus forever to learn,” she giggled, making Will break out into a huge grin.

As the song neared its end, Will tried to subtly get Benny's attention while also making sure Vanessa was having fun. Finally, he caught his brother's eyes and gave him a stern look that said get your ass over here now and dance with her. 

Benny finished his beer and took a deep breath, willing his legs to move even though it felt like he had cement blocks tied to his boots. Thankfully, the tempo slowed down considerably for the next song, easing some of Benny's anxiety. 

Vanessa's back was to him as approached, which gave him another chance to admire her even though he could feel Marcus and Victoria's eyes on him. He cleared his throat and tried to muster some of that Miller charm, “S’cuse me miss, this guy bothering you?”

Will smirked, looking down to see Vanessa's face light up at the sound of Benny's voice. He let her go putting up his arms in surrender, “just keepin’ her company waiting for you,” he snorted. “Thanks for the dance darlin’,” Will kissed her hand and made his way over to Olivia since Santiago had bounced to Katie.

“Hi,” Benny smiled, suddenly feeling like a middle schooler who finally worked up the courage to ask the pretty girl to dance. 

“Hi,” Vanessa tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. 

“I…um…” Benny's Adam's apple bobbed up and down, his mind went blank.

“Here, give me your hand, Bun,” Vanessa reached her hand out. She guided his hand to her waist, placing it lower than Frankie or Will's hands had ventured. She rested one hand on his shoulder and with her other she threaded her fingers with his. “There, now rock side to side. See? All good.”

Benny shook his head before a mischievous smile danced across his lips. “Not yet.” His fingers dug firmly into her back as he brought her closer, their bodies flush against each other. She let out a surprised giggle which was music to his ears. “There. Now we're good.”

Vanessa dropped his hand, seeing his brows slightly furrow before relaxing again as she wrapped both of her arms around his neck. They swayed side to side, completely off the beat but it didn't matter, they couldn't hear the music anyway. 

Benny willed himself to keep it together but his eyes fluttered closed when Vanessa started lightly scratching the back of his neck with her fingernails. He wanted so badly to feel her fingers through his hair, to feel her tug on it while he….he took a deep breath and tried to think about puppies or baseball, anything that would distract from the fact that his body was pressed up against hers. An abrupt inhale made Vanessa's eyebrow twitch.

“Are you ok?” She recoiled a bit.

Vanessa's words pulled Benny back to the present. “Hmm?”

“Did you just fall asleep on me?” She chuckled.

“No, no…I'm just really relaxed…the way you're scratching the back of my head, it's um…” He trailed off laughing to himself as he shook his head to rid his mind of the dirty thought that flashed through it. 

“Sorry, I…didn't mean to…” She moved her hands back to his shoulders.

He shook his head and with a smile gently placed her hands back around his neck as his hands then traced down her sides, before finally resting on her hips. “No, it's ok, I like it,” he licked his bottom lip, deciding to test things just a little bit. “You’re just distractin’ me a bit is all…” he looked down at his feet.

“Oh…well, I think you're doing a good job.” 

“You're a sweetheart, but you and I both know I'm shit at dancing,” he said with a lopsided grin.

Vanessa's eyes narrowed as she stopped, bringing her hands down to Benny's biceps. “Don't say that about yourself. I'm having fun. Aren't you?”

The corner of Benny's mouth curled up as he nodded. “Course I'm having fun. I somehow convinced the prettiest girl here to dance with me and my two left feet.” 

Vanessa tried to stay calm and coy, but inside she was exploding at not only what he said, but the way he was looking at her.

“Well, you can't get any better unless you practice right?” 

Benny smirked, feeling bolder seeing her reaction to his flirting, “You tryna help me then? Help me…practice.”

“Maybe,” she bit her bottom lip, their eyes locked on one another.

Benny took a deep breath through his nose as one of his hands snaked its way to the small of her back, resting at the top of her ass. Hearing her breath hitch gave him an extra boost of confidence to affirm he wasn't misreading this entire exchange. “Well, darlin' I wonder if I may bother you for some um…private lessons…you know, so I can get better,” he winked.

Vanessa could feel her heart pounding in her ear drums and the wet spot in her underwear growing. She gave him an up and down and leaned in, nodding so he'd lower his head toward her, “I tell you what, you win your match and,” she leaned in further and whispered in his ear, “let’s skip the lesson and I’ll give you a little private dance instead.”

“Fuuuuck,” Benny let out a shaky breath and Vanessa swore she felt him instantly get hard. His grip tightened on her. She smiled to herself seeing the effect she had on him. I've still got it. 

She giggled and leaned into Benny, resting her head on his chest and they continued to rock back and forth. Her mouth was dangerously close to his chest, thanks to the undone buttons. It took everything in her to remember where she was and who was around because all she wanted to do was grab his chain with her teeth and drag him to the nearest bathroom. She hadn't felt like this about anyone since the early days of dating Luce.

Benny cleared his throat and she looked up to see his Adam’s apple bob up and down as he swallowed, sensing he was a bit flustered. “Y’know, it's gonna be a hell of a long week till Friday knowing that’s what’s waiting for me darlin’, but I'm patient. I can wait,” he winked. “Do I get to pick the song?” He raised his eyebrow which made her giggle.

“Nope.”

They continued to giggle and talk in whispers, as one song bleed into the next and the next. They didn't even realize they were the last two on the dance floor. Looking around Vanessa felt a bit embarrassed, but she saw that everyone else was off talking or eating leaving the two of them in their own little bubble. A yawn escaped, the excitement of the day finally starting to catch up with her. 

“Tired?” Benny looked at her with some concern.

“Yeah a little…woke up early so I could start making the food.”

“You um…going to head home?” Benny asked, a little sad that their evening would come to an end. 

“I should…we're talking the kids to the aquarium, so I could use the sleep,” she smiled. 

Benny cleared his throat before locking eyes on her again, “Mind if I walk you home?”

Her first inclination was to say no, that she could handle walking a few houses down the street by herself. But seeing how earnest Benny looked, she thought she'd take him up on the offer. Plus, she knew Victoria would rip her a new one if she left this hanging. “Yeah, I'd like that.”

Victoria saw Vanessa give her the signal that said she wanted to leave. After 10 years of being in the family too, Marcus picked up and saw it too. 

“Should we start packing up since Vandy is leaving?” He asked.

“Not yet mi amor, I think she has an escort home. I still feel bad that we cock blocked them last week. C'mon let's get another drink,” she winked, squealing a bit when Marcus lightly swatted her ass. 

Normally a fast walker, Vanessa deliberately slowed down her steps to prolong the walk back to the house. She and Benny walked closely side by side, their hands occasionally brushing against each other until one time where Benny reached for her hand and she took it. They both struggled trying to mask the massive grins on their faces.

“I had fun tonight,” Benny looked over. 

“Me too. I really like it here, everyone’s so nice. Feels like it was the right decision to move here.” She whispered to herself.

They walked the rest of the way in silence, just enjoying each other’s company. Occasionally Benny’s thumb would rub up and down her hand.

When they finally reached the Pike residence, Vanessa turned around, still holding Benny’s hand. “Well … this is my stop.”

Benny looked up at the ceiling of the porch with a smile before returning his gaze to her, “Yes this is.” He stepped a little bit closer, hearing her breath hitch. All he wanted to do was cup her cheek and kiss her, but he didn't know if it was too soon…or if he'd be able to control himself because he wanted to do a lot more than just kiss her.

“Y'know I didn't have dancin' on my bingo card for tonight, but I'm glad I was able to check that off.”

“What else did you check off?”

Benny gave a mischievous smile, a playful glimmer in his eye. “Hmm, let's see. David made a comment about Frankie's hair. Check. Delicious food. Check. You played a big role in that last one by the way.”

She blushed at the comment, giddy that he enjoyed the food she made for the party. “I'm happy to cook for you whenever you want.” Her eyes darted back and forth between his as he stepped a little closer. “What…um…what else did you check off tonight?”

Benny snorted, “Melissa avoiding Pope, that counts for two.”

“Sounds like a pretty packed evening.”

“It was…pretty awesome night I'd say. But I am missing one thing I was kinda hoping for.”

“Oh yeah? What's that?”

It was now or never. Benny could hear Joel’s voice in his head telling him to go for it, so he took a deep breath. “A kiss.”

“Well, I'm sure the ladies would line the block if you’re offering,” she smirked.

He shook his head. “No, not just any lady. I had a…uh…very specific one in mind.”

She stepped a little closer as he sucked in a breath. “Tell me about her.”

“Well, she's smokin’ hot,” he said with a lopsided grin which made her giggle. “She's got the most beautiful smile, her laugh instantly makes me feel better, and her eyes…” he trailed off. “Yeah, I can get lost in them. But as beautiful as she is on the outside she's even more stunning on the inside,” he ran his hands down her arms and stopped to take both of her hands in his. “She’s smart and kind. Plus she's an amazing cook. She's kind of a catch.”

Vanessa steadied her breath and smiled, feeling like her heart was going to explode out of her chest. “Well, I didn't think Lucille was your type but I can see it,” she teased.

Benny threw his head back in laughter. She loved seeing the way his entire face lit up when he laughed. 

“No way I'm taking Frankie's girl from him,” he chuckled, licking his bottom lip and returning his gaze to Vanessa.

“Well, this…great catch…seems pretty special. I hope you're able to kiss her.”

“Yeah me too.” He looked down, his Adam's apple bobbing as he swallowed and mustered up the courage. “Vanessa, I…” he let out a little chuckle, trying to suppress that nervous feeling he felt in his stomach before doing something that scared him.

Ever since he suggested walking her home he thought about kissing her. But seeing her now, the way the soft light of the porch glowed around her, she looked like an angel. And she was looking at him in a way that made him feel like the most important person in the world – a fact that made him feel both unworthy but also like he could conquer any obstacle.

He brought his hand to cup her cheek, his calloused thumb caressing her soft skin. He willed his mind to not wander to how soft she must feel in other places.

“Vanessa…I really like you. And I…” he closed his eyes, shaking his head with a chuckle. Composing himself, he decided to just take the plunge. “Can I kiss you?”

She enthusiastically nodded, knowing she couldn't trust herself to form a sentence. All she wanted to do was kick her feet and squeal with excitement.

“Yeah?” 

“Yes, please,” she whispered.

He slowly lowered his head, wetting his bottom lip with his tongue as he moved his hand from her cheek to her neck. Their lips softly touched, both of them stunned but utterly giddy that they'd gotten to this point. 

Benny pulled away, resting his forehead on hers and nuzzling her nose as they both smiled. “That was…wow…can I do that again?”

Vanessa tugged on his shirt, their lips crashing together. Benny walked her backward, his hand extending out behind her so he could catch the wall, guiding her to rest against it. With one hand still cradling her neck, his other trailed down her body. 

She opened her mouth a bit wider, giving him permission to test the waters further. He softly licked along her bottom lip as started to explore. A soft moan from her was all he needed to push himself right up against her groaning as her hands found his hair and tugged slightly.

From a distance, they could hear some whooping and cheering from Lucille's house, instantly transporting them back to reality and the fact that they were making out on a porch. Benny pulled away, his thumb caressing her kiss-swollen lips. 

“Can't believe we were able to do that without getting interrupted.”

Vanessa let out a soft giggle. “I know…Benny that was…”

“Perfect.”

“Yeah.” She brought her hands down his chest, stopping to play with the pendant at the end of his chain as his hands lightly rested on her waist.

He let out a shaky breath, “I want to kiss you again darlin' but I won't be able to stop,” he smiled as she giggled. “I…um…I want to do this right.” He pulled back, both hands moving to rest on her waist. 

“Me too. I don't want to rush this.”

“And what is…this?” He arched an eyebrow.

“Well, I'd like to explore that, if you're up for it.”

“Yeah, I'd like that.” He kissed her again and he'd never felt more invincible like he could take on anything as long as she was by his side. He trailed kisses down her neck, lightly tracing her collarbone with his tongue, in a move that made goosebumps appear on her skin as she mewled. He kissed up the other side of her neck. “I really can't fuckin wait until I win that fight now,” he whispered in her ear as he grabbed a handful of her ass and grinding his hardened length against her.

It was a miracle she was able to remain standing and not dissolve into an instant puddle. Feeling his warm breath against her ear and hearing the need in his voice, it was intoxicating. They made out a little bit longer, neither one wanting it to end but knowing if they continued things would escalate to a place they both wanted to go, but weren't ready for yet. 

Benny kept trying to say goodbye but ended up kissing her, both of them giggling as they continued to explore with their hands and mouths.

Vanessa pulled back, cupping his face between her hands. “We are definitely going to get interrupted soon, I'm surprised we haven't yet.”

“You're right. Can I see you tomorrow?”

“I'd like that. You get home safely Bun.”

“Yes ma'am.”

Next Time on As the Mule Falls: Friends. The long-awaited arrival of Cousin Joel is here. He arrives in the next chapter oh my am I excited. We’ll also gear up for fight night. 

A/N: Hi! Woof that was a long chapter but we had a lot to get through, didn’t we? I mentioned this after the last chapter, but I’m experimenting with doing a few little side stories/extras for this main series. I’ve written two stories - Strike a Pose (Benny x Vanessa) and Weathered In (Frankie x Jo). You don’t have to read them to keep up with the main story, but they add a little extra to the whole experience. We’re gearing up for a storyline I’ve been tinkering with since the fall and am so excited about it and hope you all love it as much as I do. 

On a personal note, I’m headed out for a work trip and then vacation, so I’m hoping to get some writing done but we’ll see. Until next time! Thank you as always for reading, sharing, or sending me a message about this story!

Taglist: @goodwithcheese / @gemmahale / @trulybetty / @noxturnalpascal / @periodtsparadox / @ramblers-lets-get-ramblin / @maggiemayhemnj / @mysterious-moonstruck-musings / @avastrasposts / @meveispunk / @chaoticfestninja / @beboldbebravethings / @casa-boiardi / @katw474 / @laughing-in-th3-purple-rain / @pimosworld / @lynnchun / @anoverwhelmingdin /@lilmizmoz / @pedrit0-pascalit0 / @titlee78 / @noisynightmarepoetry / @inept-the-magnificent / @perennialdoll247 / @for-a-longlongtime / @readingiskeepingmegoing / @harriedandharassed / @musings-of-a-rose / @anavatazes / @sherala007 / @midnightraain / @partyofone3413 / @inthedarkestnight / @millennial-teenybopper / @csarab615 / @darkheartgatita / @southernbe / @weho2kcmo / @itspdameronthings

I'm having some issues with tags so apologies if you aren't getting tagged!

[venusvity]

.ﾟ۪ ♡ ۫     VENUS VICTRIX ... THE THRID FULL ALBUM !

Venus Victrix is the third full album of the fictional South Korean girl group VENUS. The album was released by Flowerbank Entertainment on December 18th, 2023. Before the release of the highly anticipated album, the girls released two pre-release singles, "DRAMA" and "I AM THE BEST," both getting two weeks of promotions and being met with widespread praise. With a total of twelve songs, VENUS would promote "THE BOYS", "UNTIE", and "BYOB (bring your own bestie)" for three months.

Venus Victrix has a total of 12 tracks, with all the girls having writing credits on every song. The tracklist is nearly entirely produced by other people as Venus decided to take a step back from producing for the time being, with the exception of "Making The Bed," which is written, composed, and produced by Chloe.

Long-time creative director Adrian Reyes produced a majority of the album alongside Ideal Music producer CLOSURE AKA Zion of Arm Candy, THATZTY AKA Tyler of Sunlite, Piper of SNS, Yuki of SNS, LULU formerly of ALLUME, SOOORA AKA Sora formerly of ALLUME, TSUISON AKA Noah of DeepDive, DOWN2LEE AKA Finn of DeepDive, and most notably Lee Chang.

The girls were given the honor of picking a song from the Flowerbank Vault, choosing "I Love You" out of the 50 songs within the Flowerbank Vault. All money earned from the song will go to his mother.

TRACK OO1. THE BOYS

TRACK OO2. I AM THE BEST

TRACK OO3. DRAMA

TRACK OO4. UNTIE

TRACK OO5. I LOVE YOU

TRACK OO6. BYOB (bring ur own bestie)

TRACK OO7. 7SECONDS

TRACK OO8. THAT GIRL

TRACK OO9. WE'LL TALK LATER

TRACK O10. THROUGH YOUR WINDOW

TRACK O11. TALLY

TRACK O12. MAKE THE BED

Venus Victrix, received an impressive number of pre-orders, indicating its widespread appeal. Within just six days of the pre-order period starting, the album had received over 800,000 pre-orders, and by December 12th, the number of pre-orders had reached one million. Out of these one million pre-orders, 670,000 came from Korea, while 340,000 were from the US and Europe. Moreover, a limited edition vinyl of only 18,888 copies had sold out within days, further highlighting the album's popularity. As per the latest reports, the album had accumulated 1.2 million physical sales worldwide by January 12th.

The album debuted at the top spot of the Gaon Album Chart and broke the record for first-week sales on Hanteo among girl groups. It sold an impressive 590,000 copies in just one day after its physical release date. Gaon Chart would go on to announce that Venus' album received an official million certification after selling over a million copies in South Korea on January 22nd.

Undoubtedly, their highest performing album yet, VENUS, would be virtually unavoidable for the three months they were promoting, whether it be their songs being played on the radio or their faces on billboards; Venus was everywhere. Citizens would dub this era "The Venus Virus" as it seemed everyone and their mothers were listening or talking about the group during this time.

Venus was gaining popularity not only in South Korea but also worldwide. Venus Victrix made its debut at number two on the US Billboard 200 chart, with a total of 110,000 album-equivalent units. This includes 81,000 pure album sales, 26,000 stream-equivalent sales, and 2,000 track-equivalent sales.

Pitchfork would go on to rank the album 8.1 out of 10, making it the second highest-rated album on the site. "Venus not only pushes the boundaries of K-pop with their stellar vocal performances but also elevates the genre with 'Venus Victrix.' The album's catchy hooks and dance-worthy tracks are complemented by lyrics that delve into deeper themes, making it a standout release in the world of pop music."

Multiple Youtubers would go on to review/react to Venus Victrix. Music reviewer Anthony Fantano would be the first to review the album, giving it a 7.8 overall.

"While 'Venus Victrix' has its merits, I can't help but feel there's a missed opportunity here. The vocals and lyricism are commendable, but the overall sound lacks a certain adventurous quality. It's a solid 7.8, but I expected a bit more risk-taking from Venus."

Twitter's favorite reactionary Zach Campbell would go onto react to "The Boys" music video, heavily praising the girls and the song for it's energy and visuals. Unlike Fantano, Campbell would go on to become a darling amongst Constellations.

"This music video is like a visual feast. [...] Venus is playing in a league of their own!"

Most notably, AJay Delux would post her video "Venus Victrix - First Listen." just two weeks after the album dropped. Her review of the album was very positive, praising the girls for their vocal talent and versatility. Sena and Jiah would go on to post the video on their stories, thanking her for her review and mentioning how much they love her videos. AJay would go on to rate the album a 8 out of 10.

"Alright, that was a wild ride through Venus's 'Venus Victrix.' The vocals and lyricism held it together, and the diversity in sounds across the tracks kept it interesting. I'm giving this a solid 8 out of 10. Venus delivered the fun pop with meaningful lyrics they promised."

OO1. LOTS of interactions with other idols, especially for TikTok! Venus tends to stay in their bubble most of the time, but this time around, they really put themselves out there! Even bliss was socializing more, which is something constellations haven't seen since FOREVER. They mainly did the "BYOB" challenge with other idols, but for a few (mainly girl idols, lol!), they did the "UNTIE" challenge, which constellations ate up!

OO2. The long promotional schedule seemed to confuse a lot of fans with how fast-paced the industry seems to be nowadays. "I felt like we missed out on an opportunity with Burn The Witch by only promoting it for such a short period of time," Creative director Adrian Reyes would go on to explain at a press conference, "Things move too fast, and I want to change that. Venus is supposed to not be like other groups, which is why we went with what I feel is a proper promotional schedule. If it was full up to me, I'd promote this album all year." And while a majority of the internet knew what he was getting at, disgruntled K-pop stans on Twitter took this as an opportunity to frame Venus as "Pick Me's" and "Not Like Other Girls," which caused a multitude of fan wars on the site. None of the girls use the app, so they didn't see or care.

OO3. For the three-month promotional period, they will promote a different song and b-side for that month. For Dec-Jan, they promoted "The Boys"; for Jan-Feb, they promoted "BYOB" and concluded promotions with "Untie" in March. This gave fans an insane amount of content to be and look forward to, making sure none of their fans were bored. Even then, they still caused problems on every social media site they could.

OO4. Through their reality-styled web series, "VenusVentures," they would give their fans an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the making of Venus Victrix. However, the chaos backstage would turn out to be more entertaining than anyone expected. From funny bloopers during dance rehearsals to unexpected moments during the photoshoots, the web series was a hit, with many of the clips taken from the show going viral.

One of the more notable clips to go viral was a clip of Baebi and Chloe arguing over what they're going to have for dinner after they finished filming.

"I want a fruit bowl," Baebi would snap at Chloe over her shoulder, who would huff and flip her hair over her shoulder, looking annoyed as usual.

"I want Thai food. You always want nasty fru-"

"And action!" The director would shout, cutting the girls' fight off. Both of the girl's expressions would change in a split second, their annoyed ones being wiped away and replaced with fierce and confident ones, and the intro to The Boys would play. The clip, while not only hilarious, showed off the girl's professionalism and dedication to their craft.

OO5. Though there were A LOT of fan events organized by Flowerbank, one of the most notable ones would have to be the art gallery they put on. Venus invited Constellations to submit their fan art to Flowerbank to be displayed in a "Venus Gallery" as well as hold an art competition where the winners would receive not only VIP tickets to their upcoming tour but also to have their art incorporated into Venus' official merch, and also $10,000. The members of Venus personally selected the three winners. The event became one of the most special and heart-warming events between constellations and Venus, causing much buzz and conversations around all corners of the internet.

OO6. Though the girls are known for their versatile concepts, the music video for "Through Your Window" surprised many fans with its controversial yandere concept, which was a bit surprising due to the song's light and almost mystical sound. The visuals, though beautiful, depict the girls stalking their love interests and presumed murdering him after they see him talking to another girl. "We could've gotten Venus as fairies, but instead, we got them killing men," one fan would tweet, though another fan would quote the tweet in defense of the video, saying: "I would actually like to see Venus kill more men idk why yall are complaining," causing an internal fan war. Though the video's concept was questioned, the girls acting and visuals were highly praised, and a selfie of Bliss with blood splattered on her face soon joined the "the most annoying mfs have this picture as their icon" list.

OO7. Of course, it's not a Venus comeback without some drama. Chloe's iCloud would be hacked, leaking multiple pictures of her with a lesser-known actor, Jeon Juyeon. What really caused controversy around this was not the fact the pair might be dating but that Juyeon was Chloe's long-running fansite "CozyChloe," having over 50k followers on his fansite Instagram account. This blew up the internet essentially, causing just a shitstorm for literally everyone. The rumors only got worse when Juyeon went on to deactivate CozyChloe and private his personal account. Chloe would catch a lot of heat for this, a lot of people saying she's abusing her power as an idol and taking advantage of her fans. Though their relationship was never confirmed, Chloe would go live on the official Venus account, issuing an apology in front of the infamous "apology wall" at Flowerbank Entertainment.

OO8. More importantly, they'd collaborate with Tate McRae! Venus would release an English version of Untie with Tate on it, even performing the version with the pop star a few times. Most notably, they'd perform with Tate on the show with her acting as a six-member, causing a lot of jokes and memes between the two fandoms. While Tate was in Korea, Venus would make her an honorary sixth member, letting her stay in the dorm and taking her to their favorite restaurant. While the collaboration was a bit sudden and off guard, many people found the girl's bond cute and wholesome. The vlogs, including Tate, would go on to reach a collective 12 million views.

OO9. The outfits for Untie would come under fire by religious organizations, saying the outfits were too promiscuous and revealing for television. At first, the girls would ignore the accusations, but once the internet caught hold of them, it blew up and was impossible for them to ignore. "While I don't agree with them, I do understand why old people would think a strappy tank top is promiscuous," Sena would go on to say when asked about the controversy, "I think it's important as artists that we're allowed to express ourselves even if that means showing our shoulders. So, I guess don't watch it if you don't like it. It seems kind of easy. We're adults. I thought we knew that." And she'd give a cute smile and a fingerheart, causing the audience to laugh.

O10. Towards the end of their promotions, VENUS would announce their third world tour! In April, the girls will travel to 22 countries, performing 66 shows all around the world. This will be their most extensive tour yet. The tour was announced via a promotional video posted to their YouTube channel. The video was set in a cyberpunk setting, with the girls dressed in sleek and futuristic outfits while walking through a city, being the only ones in black while the citizens are dressed in white. "Do you feel different?" The girls would ask in various languages, such as Korean, English, Thai, Mandarin, Japanese, and Vietnamese. The video ends with all five of Venus in front of a massive screen that is surrounded by little screens. The screens glitch for a moment before flashing white, the phrase "(IM)DIFFERENT." appearing on all of them, revealing to be the name of the tour. It's a short video but effective. In the description was a link to VENUS' official website, where tickets will be sold.

.ﾟ۪ ♡ ۫     OUTFITS #1 ... THE BOYS !

.ﾟ۪ ♡ ۫     OUTFITS #2 ... BYOB (bring ur own bestie) !

.ﾟ۪ ♡ ۫     OUTFITS #3 ... UNTIE !

[brights-place]

Ticci Toby As your BF

He met you on a mission where he was assigned to help you with killing an detective that was too close on finding out where they were. (Thank Jeff)

He thought you were boring at first and he hated that, you kept quiet

he hated the fact every-time he ticked you glanced at him.

He noticed how you put out your arm when he was about to step into a bear trap.

When killing the detective he thought you where awesome knowing what to do.

Toby was all over the place

You saved him about 3 Times knowing he forgot to take some meds

Slenderman thanked you guys for your work and sent you off.

Toby followed you around the whole day trying to start conversations.

Took him about 1 Month to finally get you to have a full conversation

Whenever he had a tic attack you where beside him and taking care of him.

Him switching emotions quickly didn’t ever make you scared.

Happy that you understood he couldn’t control himself sometimes.

Black cat X Golden Retriever relationship

Started dating after a year.

He was hanging upside down on a tree branch caught in one of your traps because he saw something shiny and eh confessed on the spot when seeing your faces inches apart.

When he gets serious outta nowhere you secretly swoon.

Remind him about his schedule and he hates it yet loves it.

When he yelled at you once because he was under to much pressure he felt horrible. He hugged you and apologised so much

Cuddles

Love language is Physical touch and act of service.

You taught him how to do a trick with his axe, and he showed it off to BEN and LuLu both clapping their hands.

Gives you a peck on the lips when he see’s your stressed.

When he gets hurt on missions instead of going to Dr Smiley or Nurse Ann he goes to you instead making you scold him.

If he does need to go see nurse Ann or smiley he drags you along with him saying you were emotional support.

He just wanted you there cause he didn’t want you to leave him alone.

He brought a racoon into your room.

The racoon lives with you guys now his name is ‘Sir Raco the Third’ you where confused

When you where talking to slenderman and the proxies entered Toby had to be held back by Rogue when wanting to rush up and hug you.

Willson Tells you about how many times toby complains on not being around you while Rogue agrees.

Toby finds it amusing when seeing you cuss out or lose your temper.

One second your arguing about him spilling something on your important paper work then you start cussing in another language or with your accent showing more when yelling he finds it so hard not to laugh and kiss you on the spot.

He likes to talk about his interests with you while you listen.

Whenever you show affection to him out of nowhere he is going to melt like a puddle before he starts ticking.

When wanting your attention he pokes you or taps your shoulders.

He slow dances with you but it’s kind of difficult yet he loves doing it.

[mrsbsmooth]

I don't know if this is a safe space for me to share my opinion on S8 but I disagree with your take on WLW relationships in S8. As someone who is exclusively WLW, I've got to say that Season 8 is the worst season that I have ever played. It's not worth it. I regret every second that I have spent on it. I wish I never played it. I feel like I have wasted my time. Watching Claudia grind on Theo made me feel physically sick. If you're bi, you're automatically locked out of the WLW route and Bea dances for Claudia instead. If you're doing a WLW route, the two female LIs are merged together. There are only two female LIs and they're hidden behind a gem wall. You can't couple up with them until the final week. The male characters are forced on MC no matter how many times you reject them. Being LGBT is treated like a fun side mission. It's something you're only allowed to do behind closed doors. You can pay to make out with a girl in every episode and the other characters will keep pushing the OG guy and CA guy on you either way. If you're romancing a girl, you're made to feel like a cheater. The WLW routes in S8 are written to be a bonus thing for bi women to do once they finish the good routes. They are not written to be the main course. The S8 WLW routes  are something to play around with but not something to commit to. S5 was no fun but at least we could be in an unofficial relationship with Dana and we could choose to befriend Alfie. We could couple up with Vicky in S7. S8 is like S6 but somehow even worse. The openly homophobic and racist comments that I have seen some straight players make about Bea and Hari are only making it harder to feel accepted. What hurts the most is that MC was a bombshell and she was not coupled up with her OG LI before the Casa. They could have let us pick a female LI the moment MC walked into the Villa. There was no better way to justify a WLW main route. The way they waste Luna and Felicity is unbelievable. I wouldn't recommend S8 to anyone who isn't super into the male LIs

Hi lovely, of course!! Always happy to hear a different opinion as long as they're respectfully put, which yours absolutely is, and as long as you don't mind me disagreeing back!

[Note: Sarah's just pointed out to me that you asked for a safe space and my response doesn't really do that and just disagrees with you. She's right, and I apologise for not being clearer about the fact I was planning to do so when I hit post. But you are always welcome to share your opinion here. I can't guarantee a safe space, but I can guarantee an open mind.] Because I do genuinely believe that the WLW routes in S8 are better than they have been previously.

I'm not going to be addressing homophobic and racist comments about Bea and Hari. My advice for those? Stay the hell off Reddit. I'm not getting into the way this fandom talks about race, especially for Asian islanders. I just want to talk about the WLW routes as that was the main point of your ask.

I want to make sure I've acknowledged and responded to everything you said, so please see below.

[This got long AF. TL;DR at the end.]

Locked out of routes, and Male LIs being forced on you

This isn't new to this season, and in my opinion it's been done dramatically better than previous seasons. I've played all of them, and almost every single season holds the female LI back until the end. Marisol, Elisa, Najuma, Angie, Dana, Lulu, Bella, Chloe, Flo, Bonnie, I don't think you could couple up with a single one of them until the final recoupling. The only exceptions were S1 and S3, I think? I believe you could get with Talia slightly earlier (and have Sammi come in later as a LI for the guy who otherwise would be dumped), and AJ/Yasmin you could couple up with and make Tai and Ciaran get together. But that's only 2 seasons from 8.

(Note: I see you said you could couple up with Vicky in S7, and I'll be honest, I barely played S7 as I found the writing itself extremely lacklustre. So I'll have to take your word for it that they somehow made that work.)

I get that it's frustrating to be separated from a female LI until late game. It's a sentiment I've heard every single season since I started playing alongside the releases. But realistically, this is how the game is structured. Love Island, as a premise, is based on heterosexual relationships. Pairing off and being in heterosexual couples, etc. Same as something like 'the Bachelor'. Two female contestants could be together, sure. But that's not how the show is structured. The only real solutions have been in S1 and S3, both of which I've already mentioned. I'd love to see more MLM couples made canon, or creative ways of letting us couple with women earlier, but I don't think there's one simple solution. This particular show is aimed at het couples. As unfair as it may seem, that's how the game is structured. (Crossing my fingers for canon MLM couples. PLEASE!)

I also disagree that WLW routes are written to be a bonus thing for bi women to do once they finish the good routes. Claudia's route has been a main route since day one in the villa. The fact that you can only have a relationship with either Theo OR Claudia means they intended from the very beginning to have whichever one of that couple you choose be the slow burn route- the route that you can't get on until the very end.

To say that 'Watching Claudia grind on Theo made me physically sick'-- Congratulations and welcome to the slowburn route 😂 I feel exactly the same way when Theo REJECTS ME OUTRIGHT and says he's only interested in Claudia, or when Suresh's heartrate gets raised the most by Lulu, or when I finally couple with Jake and he tells me I should pursue Levi. Don't you think the fact that it's had such an impact on you shows how well-written she is as a female LI? Claudia is AMAZING. But she's also bisexual. She's allowed to be torn between a male and a female LI and want to explore relationships with both, and I don't think it's fair to be angry that she's playing out all her options. That just means she's a well-written bisexual character. (Side note may I remind you that you've been able to take Claudia to the hideaway, and sleep in a bed with her, whereas Theo girls were only able to KISS the dude for the first time within the last week!!!! 😭) I think the only canonical lesbian routes are Angie from S4 and A.J. from S3. But even so, they're both questioning while in-villa and only come out either towards the end or in the post-season. You can watch AJ's route on Youtube if you didn't get a chance to play. Also, you're not locked out of the WLW route if you're bi/into men. Only if you're interested in Theo specifically. This is definitely somewhere they could improve-- I wanted Theo and Claudia, but eventually went back to play a straight route for Theo. However, I DESPERATELY wanted to flirt with Bea. It would've been wonderful if we'd been able to flirt with her separately. (I think I did get this option, but I believe it may have been a glitch). An option early in the game when the female LI asks you could be:

Yes, I'm into you!

No, I'm not into you, but I might be into other women

No, I'm not into women.

The Female LIs are merging together

Welcome to Love Island the Game by Fusebox games, where all the love interests merge and the personalities don't matter. You're not alone here, and it's not NEARLY as bad as previous seasons. Watch Najuma, Bruno, and JAMES have exactly the same dialogue in S4 despite being wildly different personalities. Watch Lewie, Jamal and Ryan be completely interchangeable. This isn't exclusive to WLW routes.

The female LIs are hidden behind a gem wall.

Again, this is the same for everyone, even players on a straight route. FB are greedy.

Being LGBT is treated like a side mission

It's something you're only allowed to do behind closed doors. You can pay to make out with a girl in every episode

This is hard. I get why you feel like this, anon, I really do. But I genuinely do think that this is the devs trying to give you something. They know it's frustrating to have to wait so long to couple with a female LI, so they try and give you bonus opportunities along the way to connect with your love interest. Almost every single smut scene written in the scripts has a female alternative. Again, I'm not saying that it's perfect, but having looked at and manipulated the scripts for four seasons now, I can absolutely assure you that this has not always been the case. They ARE improving and giving you more opportunities to spend time with your female LI than you had in previous seasons.

TL;DR

I'm not saying S8 is a perfect season for WLW routes.

The part I'm disagreeing with is where you said it's the worst season.

I absolutely disagree with that. There are far worse seasons. Even the golden child Season 2 didn't let you couple up with a woman until right at the end, watching her graft and grind on everyone BUT you. We also don't even know for sure that we can't couple up with a girl until the last week. The game's still being released. (I won't be surprised if that's the case though.)

I think Claudia and Bea are EXCELLENT female love interests in comparison with what we've had previously. They're both beautiful, they have unique personalities, they have very different routes (Claudia's confused between you and Theo, Bea's your bestie to lover and she's got terrible taste in men, dear god please save her).

I understand WANTING more WLW routes, but from a development point of view, there are simply not enough opportunities in the real-life structure of LITG to have fully blown out WLW routes. And even if they were, FB Games are not going to be financially motivated to do so. Their main customer base ($$$) is pursing a het route, so that’s who they’re creating for. They can't even get through the hetero routes without the characters merging personalities. There are other games doing this well, including fan-made games, which I'd recommend checking out. I don't have the link handy to the game pages, but check out @thatwheelchairchick, I believe she's working on an alternative game?

Anyway, I hope that clarifies my position on why I think they're worth playing. Sorry that it turned into an essay.

[speedierthanasubmarine]

I decided to watch helluva boss and imma do 2 separate posts for seasons 1 and two (why did I write it like that…?)

Season one

God I love this show. The writing is way more my speed than Hazbin hotel on Amazon, I enjoyed the writing in the pilot, but once Amazon took over the humor just didn’t really land for me, and tbh the plot took over and I started focusing more on that, and in general I’m more partial to the rapid fire YouTube dry comedy and this sentence is a friggin mess- I found HB SO FREAKIN FUNNY

Dude when he goes “FUCK, a new hole” I lost it

“Just try and sue us”

“We’re rich and we’re hot”

“I can just buy all the things!”

“You should commit die”

“Hehe, Trumpet!”

These are just my kinda lines, I don’t know how to explain it, I was wheezing all throughout the season

The music OH LORD when I say I’ve listened to stolas’s lullabye, lulu land, cotton candy, and house of ozmodius like 100000 times I’m… exaggerating but like you get the point the music here is friggin fantastic I also really like how a lot of the music is diegetic, I think that’s a fun touch. I don’t remember whether this is the case in Hazbin, but in this one it was like… I don’t know, it made sense that they were singing when they were singing… am I articulating myself well? I don’t care, iykyk if not, no prob

The animation is great, Viv loves them spinny shots and I am here for it. The amount of genuinely amazing action scenes is super impressive, and even the chill scenes have a ton of personality

The voice acting might be what steals the show for me, idrk anyone’s names cept Alex Brightman but BLITZS VA NEEDS AN AWARD, also slight tangent but I don’t know what it is with stolas’s va but he sounds a lot like a bird in the same sense that Gary Oldman sounded a lot like a bird in Kung Fu Panda 2, what is it that casting directors recognize in actors that screams bird?! Because both of these men are just SO BIRD DOES ANYONE GET WHAT I MEAN moving on, Ozzie’s voice was also effing PERFECT it slid silkily over me like… silk butter or smtg it was the perfect lust voice, I loved it. Everyone else was also great, but they were extra great.

It was also just so fun? Like in hazbin there’s very little just… shenanigans to enjoy, nothing wrong with that because it’s not that type of show, whereas this season is jam packed with them. Like I’ve heard that everyone hated episode 4, but like I don’t know I loved it😆 I just found it to be good old fashioned chicanery, and I liked the chaos and stupidity of it, made for some entertaining TV. This story engine is just mad entertaining for me.

I also enjoyed the writing of most of the characters (Millie, Moxxie, Loona, and Octavia still leave a bit to be desired imo, but whatever, they can’t all be winners and there’s nothing wrong with them) Blitz kinda reminds me of a Barney Stinson type character, which I really enjoy, and I also really like how his boss persona kinda infects everything he does while simultaneously being what’s screwing him over, his nature is kinda like a snake swallowing its own tail, which is tragic and beautiful, and Stolas compliments him well by being, not an enabler, but… I don’t know a clever way to say this… Stolas is a wreck in the best way and he just works. He’s short sighted, like extremely so, like how he thinks sleeping with Blitz will fill his emotional void so he does it but it just drives them further apart so it’s like he’s in a hole and in order to get out he’s gonna dig to pile up dirt so he can climb out but he’s an idiot and that’s a stupid idea and I loved his whole arc. Very enjoyable stuff drama.

Kinda random but whoever Viv’s foli artist is also deserves an award, the sound effects in this show are pristine and it’s incredible (yes I’ve seen the scene where the gun sounds go off a few seconds too late, and yeah, mistakes happen, but every bone crunch sounds and other stuff like that being so enunciated in an indie show is extremely impressive)

Anyhoo, very fun, very emotional, nice to look at, very funny, yada yada- altogether great season 1.

[riseofamoonycake]

*enters doing a ballerina twirl*

Lulu~ 1st: I don't remember if I sent a request before you closed the ask box, I'm sorry if so :(

2: Confucius, Buddha, Bishamonten and Sasaki with a s/o surprising them on Valentine's Day speaking their native language?~

Luv u girl, remember to take care of yourself

I LOVE THIS I LOVE THIS

Don't worry for the other requests, there is one yours I still have to write, but I have a lot of ideas for it mueheheh

SO! The sentences spoken in their native language are in another color, even if still written in english (I didn't want to use Google Translate, sorry)

Language of Love

💘 Characters: Confucius, Buddha, Bishamonten, Sasaki Kojiro

Warnings: suggestive💓

Confucius

He brings or waits for you at your favorite place, the one in which you two met for the first time; he arrives here three hours before the date and spends the time walking, running in circles and gesticulating, dreaming of the moment in which he will see your smile and adorable eyes.

The moment you arrive, he runs into your arms, nearly throwing you to the ground due to the ardor he feels, and hugs you tightly while rubbing his face against your chest.

"I am so happy you came, Y/N! Yes I know you were going to come but... but well I am so happy! Stay with me for the entire night, the entire year, all the life."

Sweet puppy goes totally crazy.

Especially when you hug him back and sink the fingers into his obsidian black hair, or if you scrape his neck until he moans and melts under your fingers.

Then you smirk, and narrow your eyes. "Of course I came, sweetheart... after all, you are the only one I could cross the entire world for... my beloved Confucius."

Confucius' smile freezes in his face for the surprise. It cannot be real; he doesn't trust his ears. Did he hear you right? You... your words... "Y/N..."

"Yes, darling?" Come on, try to not laugh now. I dare you.

"Love... did you just speak in... in Chinese?"

"Of course! And I am able to whisper too, right into your ear... or, if you want, I can talk when we reach our bedroom... and then..."

SBAM. Confucius drops to the ground like an apple, passed out. Conquered. Completely taken.

You broke Confucius, bestie. Be proud of yourself.

In the next days, be ready to be followed by him everywhere, his eyes full of adoration, his face dreamy while he begs you every second to keep repeating (in Chinese) how much you love him and how he is your only man. Every. Second.

It is the best gift he could receive *^*

Buddha

Buddha doesn't like Valentine's Day that much, but agrees to celebrate it with you in order to have all the candies and chocolate he can obtain. For free, also.

So he smiles widely when he sees you coming at his place with a lot of heart shaped boxes wrapped in soft silk as red as your cheeks, your face bright for the excitement and your body covered by clothes as elegant as soft, moving and trembling...

Yes he is waiting you not only for the sweets eheheheh

Buddha comes to help you and takes the boxes, so he can even touch your arms, his long fingers sliding under the sleeves to tease your sensitive wrists and till the elbows.

A grin widens into his face when he sees you jolting and whining in surprise, and he giggles without any shame while you blush and, to not fall to his traps, slap his hand. "Behave yourself, man!"

He stays still for a second, surprised by the sound of these words, this language he hasn't heard for a long, long time, and then takes a deep breath before speaking again. He tries to contain what he is feeling right now, but he is dramatically failing. "Wo, who taught you this? I wouldn't ever imagine you to come out with this... surprise."

"Never underestimate me, little lotus."

"Little lotus..." He comes closer to you, covering you with his height. "It seems someone here needs to control the tongue, or..."

"You don't want to increase the heat, right? Not in public!"

Buddha laughs again, then gently takes your hand and drags you with him. "Let's go inside, then... we have a lot to speak about, and you still have to receive my present..."

You stare at him in the eyes, and can't help blushing again and even more: it is going to be a long night...

Congrats, you won over him, now deal with the consequences.

Bishamonten

This god is as stern as easy to surprise, and, in the right places and moments, even romantic to the point he can melt and soften like snow under a summer sun. But only with and for you.

So, even if he doesn't show it in public, Bishamonten is happy to spend Valentine's Day with you: due to his duties, he is not always by your side, and he feels sorry and bittered whenever he has to leave you, even if only for some days.

Every moment with you is treasured; every touch, kiss and act of devotion is intense, deep and soft at the same time. And an entire day and night by each other is more than a gift for both of you.

Bishamonten doesn't smile often, to be fair is rare to see his lips curving upwards; but when he sees you running towards him with your eyes sparkling in joy and the arms wide open, ready to close on his huge body and hug him with all the strength they posses, he can't help risking to lose control over himself.

To not fall under your spell in front of everyone (especially of the other Lucky Gods, who are already giggling and looking at you two with a knowing smile), Bishamoten precedes you into your bedroom and only here turns to you, ready to face your cuddles and adoration and to repay you with the same coin.

And he isn't bothered when you jump into his arms and hug his strong neck, proceeding to kiss him all over the face. The god lets you have your way with him and enjoy long, sweet moments, feeling proud and being (secretly) moved by how much you love and care for him.

Then, before resting, you sit up on your bed and smile at him, before kissing him on the forehead and handing him a drawing made by you. The god knows you are a skilled pupil of the Lady of Art and Knowledge Benzaiten, so he is expecting a great gift...

And it is, but actually the thing that surprises him more is not the drawing, but the words written on it.

"For the god who came out from my dreams...", he reads, before lowering his voice, "... You learned my native language..."

You blush a little, then the sweetest smile arises on your face. "Yes, I did. It is my real gift for you, for the lord of my heart. I have a lot to learn yet, but I am working hard, and..."

Bishamonten doesn't let you finish: he grabs you and lifts you into his arms, then presses the mouth on yours in one of the most passionate and intense kisses he ever gave you. You can hear his heart beating like a war drum, and yours matches the sound as soon as the heat of your lover fills your mouth and lungs, and you can't help moaning his name.

"You earned the blessing I am going to give you...", Bishamonten murmurs to your lips, before staring at you and lifting your soul to heaven.

Hurray, a great Fortune is going to fall upon you!

Sasaki Kojiro

Everyone knows that Sasaki is much smarter and more perceptive than he seems, so it is safe to say that he immediately realizes that you are up to something; however he does not investigate, waiting for things to show themselves.

Since Valentine's Day is approaching, he understands that your elusive and even suspicious attitude could be a surprise associated with it, and the thought already melts him: Sasaki is so humble that anything would please him and make him happy, even a simple flower, a kiss on the nose, a smile and a caress. He doesn't expect anything more, your love is more than enough!

However, he can't help but be more and more excited and curious like a child as the fateful day approaches and the moment of truth along with it.

To help you in your aim, he invites you to the place where you met, holding you close to him all the way to it and treating you with the sweetness and respect with which he won you over.

"If you're tired from walking we can stop, Y/N… you don't have to get tired to make me happy." Words calm, gentle and tender, as his fingers intertwine with yours or caress the back of your hand gently, his gaze full of adoration.

"Ahahahah, you are always so kind to me, Sasaki dear… who knows when we will be married, then! Will you crown me as a deity?"

Immediately, the samurai freezes and turns to stare at you, perplexed, eyes and mouth wide open; then an adorable blush covers his cheeks and he chuckles, running a hand through his hair. "Y/N, Y/N…really, this is a nice surprise!"

You hug him tightly, then leave a kiss on his cheek. "I knew it would make you happy… and since you are the best soul a person could find and dream of, this is the least I could give you!"

Kojiro hugs you back, then buries his face in your hair and nuzzles his nose against it. "Well, at this point… why don't you sing for me? Your voice is so sweet, I would really like it…"

You blush and giggle, then nod. "I can try… but only if you give me a kiss."

You get ten kisses, one in a row.

[ladylooch]

The Spiral [Lio Meier] - Part 1

A/N: I have been working on this for weeks. But this past weekend this was the only WIP I worked on. I ate, slept and drank Lio Meier’s downfall. It dominated every waking hour. But I am really proud of this one. Whew! I was in the writing trenches bbys! But here it is, in all its glory. The time when everything in Lio’s life blows up.

I have some very specific warnings below. This is a deep one, layered, and may be difficult to read for some. Please consume your content carefully 😘

Warnings: Childhood trauma (mental/psychological), a lot of mentions and insinuations of abortion, VERY angsty, drinking/ drunk Lio.

Word Count:4.1k

Crackles and pops of the bonfire embers are highlighted by the inky Swiss night surrounding the Meier and Hischier families on a cool summer evening.

“Maybe like thirty seconds left.” Timo murmurs to Lio as he turns over the marshmallow hanging from the fire stick.

“LuLu and I are going to eat these in the tree house.” Lio announces, leaning back into his dad’s chest.

“Okay.” Timo chuckles, squeezing his son tight to him for a hug. “What do you think now? Is it done?”

“It’s gonna fall.”

“Yeah, we should pull it out.” Timo agrees. “Can you get the graham crackers and chocolate?” Lio does. Together, they work the marshmallow off onto the awaiting ingredients. Lio loves summer in Switzerland. He eats his whole body weight in s’mores with Swiss chocolate. His mama is right. American chocolate is not the same. 

“No Reeses cups today?” Timo asks. 

“No.” Lio says, pressing the crackers together, careful not to break them. 

“Mmm, who are you? Mama usually can’t keep Reeses stocked for you.” Timo chuckles. 

“That’s only in Jersey.” Lio says, bringing the s’more up to his lips. He bites into the gooey and delectable treat. He grins at his dad, having no idea his face is already covered in chocolate. “Best one yet.” 

“Good. Enjoy, buddy. Livy, come here and daddy will make a s’more with you.” Lio books it off to the back corner of their spacious yard in Switzerland, where his best friend and cousin, Lucie Hischier, awaits for him.

“You take too long.” Lucie quips, annoyed. 

“Your marshmallow is burned to a crisp.” Lio scoffs in response

“I like it!” She grins holding up her sticky fingers. She already ate one of the two she made. They both giggle as Lio sits down next to her. They eat in content silence. From their spot in the tree house, they can see down to their whole family mingling together around the warm fire.  Mack and Livy are with Timo making s’mores the long way like Lio did. “When we grow up, are we gonna live by each other?” Lucie wonders. 

“Yeah, LuLu. Maybe by then you’ll have patience.” Lucie may be Uncle Nico’s daughter, but she is nothing like him. Lio thinks if Lucie played hockey, she would spend most of her time in the penalty box. 

“I have patience.” She squints. “Maybe we will live here full time.” If Lio’s mama had it her way, they already would. Lio shrugs. He likes both places they live, but it would be nice to see their grandparents more. “I wanna grow up and have lots of babies after I get married.”

“Yeah. Like our parents.”

“Well, like my parents” Lucie shrugs. Lio licks the bit of marshmallow clinging to his fingers. 

“My parents are married?”

“Yeah, but your parents had you before they got married…” Lucie tilts her head at him.

“Well that’s cause they couldn’t wait to get married to have me.” Lio says matter of fact. “They wanted me first cause they didn’t want to have a baby during the season.” 

Lucie anxiously bites her lip, glancing again at where their parents are sitting by the bonfire. 

“That’s not what I heard.” Little Lucie doesn’t think it’s that big of a deal. So she says “I heard my dad tell my mom that Auntie Em only moved to Jersey because of you. That she didn’t want to leave her life in Switzerland and he isn’t sure they would have ever gotten married or been together without you.” 

Lio stares blankly back at Lucie. His little blue eyes lift beyond his smaller cousin where she munches innocently away on her s’more. His eyes crawl up the wood boards to where they had carved their initials inside on the first day they were allowed up here. From there, he moves to his parents laughing together at the bonfire. His mom is holding Livy’s s’more as she takes cautions bites. They never told him that. Lucie must be wrong.

“No, I don’t think that is what happened. You heard wrong.” Lio tries. His voice sounds small and far away to him because his heartbeat is pounding so hard through his head.

“I guess Uncle Timo had told daddy he didn’t want any kids.” Lucie didn’t hear her dad say the full sentence- Uncle Timo didn’t want kids without Emma. So her innocent repeat paints a different picture. “Guess he had to change his mind.” 

Lio Meier is only 10 years old, but the whole world shifts under him from that moment forward.

- - - 

A decade and a half later, Lio Meier slumps low on the couch in his parent’s living room in Switzerland. His right hand rubs at the splitting headache in the center of his forehead, while his left holds a glass of expensive whiskey from his dad’s collection. If his parents are going to sit him down for an intervention, he is not doing it sober. He brings the glass to his lips, sucking down a big gulp as his mom and dad walk into the room. They’re already on their good cop, bad cop shit. Lio sniffs, rolling his eyes as they sit down in front of him.

Emma purses her lips at her son’s obvious contempt at being called home. But what she is hearing around town is concerning. Rumors swirl in their little mountain village that he has… followed in the family footsteps? Maybe? That some nice, Swiss girl he went to school with has wound up pregnant after a night with him. Apparently, when the girl told Lio, he tossed a few bills of cash at her and told her to take care of it. Emma isn’t quite sure how things came to be this way with Lio. She hopes to find out in this conversation.

Timo sits next to his wife, fingers clasped together, silent as he stares at his son. Lio is unrecognizable today, really since he returned home from his last season. Him and Emma knew something happened in Jersey. Lio didn’t elaborate and Lucie was vague to Emma when she asked. The other concern is this being a reaction to his lack of success so far in his professional career. A Stanley Cup seems lightyears away for the franchise again. 

“We just gonna stare at each other all day?” Lio turns his hands up in annoyance at them.

“Lio.” Timo warns. 

“What? You two called me here and now you’re holding me hostage in silence.”

“Honestly, I’m trying to find the right words to say to you.” Emma begins, shaking her head. “I’m hearing things.” She finally settles on. “And I’d like to hear from you if they are true.”

“Depends on what you heard.” Lio reaches for the whiskey glass again. Timo’s laser blue eyes watch him gulp down the brown liquid. 

“Why don’t you put that back down.” Lio pauses with the glass on his lips. His dad stares him down. Timo wasn’t asking; he was telling. Lio puts the glass back on the coaster with a loud ping.

“I heard… someone in this town may be pregnant with your baby.”

“Maybe she was. I don’t know.” Lio waves it off with a flick of his fingers. He puts those same fingers back on his splitting headache. 

“What do you mean maybe and I don’t know?” Timo asks. “Those seem like things you should be pretty fucking sure about.”

“Her and I talked a few days ago. I gave her money to take care of it. It’s handled. You aren’t grandparents.” Emma’s spine snaps to attention. 

“What?”

“I told her-“

“I heard what you said.” Emma seethes, getting visibly angry. “So your approach was to tell her to take care of it? Instead of taking ownership of your choices?”

“Look, I’m not having a kid. I know you two made the choice to ruin your lives by having me, but I’m not following in your idiotic footsteps.”

“Excuse me?” Timo scoffs at his son incredulously. “You’re going to judge our choices right now?” He doesn’t see the way his wife is retreating in on herself. It has been over 15 years since Emma last felt judged about getting pregnant with Lio. But her son is now facing a similar situation and his contempt towards her stings. Small tears fill her brown eyes as she watches Lio and Timo jaw back and forth. Timo gets louder. Lio sits up in the chair. Soon, they’re both standing. This is not how she saw this conversation going.

“We are so disappointed in you right now.” Timo shakes his head, exhaling heavily. His cheeks are tight, lips pursed angrily. Emma stands, dashing between the men, one hand on each of their chests. 

“Disappointed?” Lio spits, lip curling in disgust. “She was trying to ruin my life by getting pregnant. All she wanted was my money and to take away the best years of my career like mom did to you, by turning you into the family man you didn’t want to be. I had to protect myself and I would do it again in an instant.”

Shock stills the living room. Timo forgets his son completely. His hands go to Emma, wincing as she retreats from his touch. 

“I never said that.” Timo says immediately to his wife. “Those are his words, not mine, baby.” Timo turns, snarling back at Lio. “Where do you get off?”

“Me!? You made a mistake having me!” Lio screams at his dad. “It’s why you lied to me about it for so long! So I fixed that for us by not doing it all over again!” Angry tears wreak havoc in Lio’s blue eyes. Timo’s face collapses into a twisted frown at the obvious, intense pain on his son’s face.

“Lee…” Timo trails off. 

“I know all about it. I’ve known since I was ten years old that you two didn’t actually want me. You didn’t plan for me or pray for me or wish for me. I was a mistake.” Every moment Timo and Emma uttered their little white lie runs through each of their minds. They never wanted Lio to feel unwanted. They didn’t think the fudging of the truth was hurtful or would cause any damage. But they also didn’t realize their son had known the truth since he was ten years old. Each lie for the last 15 years has chipped away at Lio. Now, being in the same circumstances as his parents, he has reached his boiling point in their living room.

“No. Lio-” Emma starts, voice shuddering with her emotions.

“You shouldn’t of had me.” Lio looks directly at Emma. “You should have pulled the plug when you had a chance and lived your life here the way you wanted to. You ruined everyone’s lives. You choose to have me and dad felt obligated to take care of us.”

“You don’t get to speak down to me about choices that gave you life because your recklessness is trying to make you accountable.” Emma’s previously silent rage explodes through the room as she steps around Timo. “Get out of my house.” She jabs her pointer finger into Lio’s sternum.

“Fuck you guys.” Lio spits out at them. 

Timo leans forward to go after their son for his disgusting display of disrespect. But Emma’s shocked whimper stops any more forward progress. The house shakes at the timber of Lio slamming door.

“We wanted him.” Emma whispers to Timo, big tears raining down from her brown eyes. “We never lied about that. He thinks…” She puts her hand over her mouth and begins to sob.

Timo doesn’t say it, but he knows what Emma would say if she could speak.

Lio believes his parents love him out of obligation. 

And he has for the last 15 years.

- - -

After the fall out with his parents, Lio heads into town and grabs a post-shift beer with Liv, who obviously has not heard from their parents about what is up. Quickly, Liv leaves to head back to her and Luca’s place for an at-home date night.

“We are going to paint headshots of each other.” Liv giggles, knowing Luca is a shit painter. She can’t wait to see how wonderfully bad it is. Lio would rather burn his eyebrows off than do dopey shit like that with a girl. 

Lio sticks around town, ignoring the looks and whispers that follow him. He’s had people talking about him in some way or another his whole life. He not going to start giving a shit about it now. 

One beer turns into 6, which turns into 3 shots of whiskey too, until he is drunk enough to relax from the confrontation with his parents. He wanders his way back towards home, stopping at Lucie and Connor’s lake house to check in on his favorite little girl. Stella Wood sleeps on her dad’s chest in the living room where he is continuing to watch mindless, toddler TV. 

“The show getting good?” Lio quips.

“Fuck no. But the remote is tucked into the cushion and I can’t get it without waking her up. She’s been a Tasmanian Devil today.” Lucie snorts in the kitchen where she is wiping the stone counter off. “And if I wake her up, hot stuff in the kitchen is going to be very unhappy with me.”

“You were the one who gave her cotton candy.” Lucie calls.

“Yeah, that was a bad idea. You were right, baby.” Connor looks at Lio. “Fun though.” Lio chuckles, collapsing into the big reclining chair across from them.

“You want a beer?” Lucie asks, walking in with three beer bottles. 

“Yeah.” Lio sighs, happy to have the coldness in his grip. He pops the top, taking two big glugs. Lucie goes to sit between Connor’s thighs curling her legs up to her chest as she takes a sip of beer.

“So… what’s new?” Lucie asks with insinuation. Lio looks away from where he is stroking his thumb over the raised words of his bottle. Their eyes connect and he knows Lucie has heard the same rumors his parents have. Probably from her parents. 

“Same shit, different day.” Lio takes another pull from the bottle. Lucie, ever the mom now, holds her calm presence. “Had a little fun last month that caught up with me.” He widens his eyes, thinking again of the conversation with Isabella a few days ago. His stomach had dropped from his body and he choked on his beer. He thought they were going to have a drink and head back to his place. Not have a bombshell explode his whole life in three words. 

“What are you going to do?” Lucie asks.

“Nothing. She did something about it.”

“Oh.” Lucie takes another sip of her beer. A slight crinkle appears in her forehead.

“Yeah and apparently now I’m not welcome at my parents’ house.”

“Really?” Connor asks as he smooths over Stella’s wild, brown curls.

“Yeah… things got a little heated today and they didn’t like what I had to say. Apparently holding a mirror up is not appreciated in this family.” Lio takes another sip. “Like, I get they made whatever decision they did with me, but I didn’t ask to be born, and they shouldn’t get pissed at me for not wanting to continue in their bastard child tradition.” Lucie flinches at the harshness of his comment. She’s never liked that word, especially not now after having their child before her and Connor were married.

“What mirror?” Lucie inquires.

“Just that my dad didn’t want kids and was forced into it when my mom got pregnant with me. Or that my mom wanted to stay in Switzerland and couldn’t because of her choice to have me. My dad’s career was never the same after I was born, so that decision cost them a lot career and money wise. This was a mistake I could fix so I did. They could be more grateful for preventing a rinse and repeat.”

The room is silent for a moment as Lio’s words fall between all of them. The TV is the only disruption. Lio tilts his beer bottle back, hoping the liquid will wash down the awkward air in the room.

“You are a fucking moron. Your parents are doing really well and your family is great, Lee. Happy and healthy.” Connor shakes his head. Lio’s out-there way of thinking about being domestic in any situation is once again rearing it’s ugly head. No wonder he lost Savannah. She’s better off without this version of Lio anyway.

“LuLu gets it.” Lio motions to his cousin.

“No, Lee…. I don’t think I do.” Lucie straightens. “Because from what you’re telling me, I’ve also ruined an NHL player’s life, and stole his best years from him, by getting pregnant with his baby for the money.”

“Luc.” Lio chuckles, shaking his head. “It’s not like you were playing baby roulette with just anyone. Connor was already a millionaire.” Lucie instantly looks taken aback, which confuses Lio because the three of them have definitely joked about this before.

“Oh, so that’s what all the girls in your life have in common? We’re all just gold-digging whores? The girl you knocked up who you told to take care of it? And your mama who wrecked your dad’s life by choosing to have you? And me who found the most expensive rookie in the league to knock me up?” Technically Lio was that year, but that is neither here nor there. Lio is frustrated by the way Lucie is stuffing words into his mouth. 

“At least the one that stuck wasn’t Marco’s. But I’m sure you would of taken care of that one. Not enough commas in his bank account.”

“Alright. Time out.” Connor shakes his head, recognizing how drunk Lio is. Things are about to turn ugly and he doesn’t want to have to time his catch of Lucie’s hand when it inevitably winds up to slap her cousin.

“That is so fucked up, Lio.” Lucie snaps, putting her beer down on the end table with a slam.

“No what is fucked up is that you didn’t take my advice after you two broke up.” He gestures between Lucie and Connor.

“Oh my god.” Lucie gasps, covering her mouth with her hand. The room goes still as tears fill her big brown eyes. She winces, like she is realizing something she never has before. “When I came to stay with you, you told me you would take care of everything. That if Connor and I couldn’t work it out, you and I would figure it out. All this time, I thought that meant you would take care of us. We would be our own family….” Her eyebrows furrow. “But you hoped I wouldn’t pick this at all.”

“Wait, what?” Connor asks, turning to his wife. He looks across the room at Lio who’s eyes are widening.

Of course Connor knows it was Lucie’s choice, always her choice. It was early in her pregnancy when the infamous hit happened. Lucie could have… made a different choice. Connor thinks about how safe it felt for her to be with Lio during that time. Then a cold shiver rolls down his spine, wondering if Lio was really in Lucie’s ear telling her not to go through with it. Did he give her money? Offer to drive her to the clinic? Promise to never tell Connor what happened? It was a miscarriage, Con. I’m so sorry. Connor’s blue eyes darken with storm clouds as his daughter stirs slightly against his chest. What lengths would Lio have gone to cover up their mistake like he is trying to do with his right now?

“Did you tell Lucie to get rid of our daughter?” Connor’s voice is tight as he asks the words he has to. Lio flinches.

“What?”

“Did you tell Lucie to not have Stell?” Connor repeats louder, more firm. Lucie glances nervously between the two men. Connor laughs in disbelief at Lio’s panicked face.

“I told Lucie I would support whatever choice she wanted to make… that she didn’t have to do this if she didn’t want to. She was really scared.” Lio points to Lucie generally like she isn’t in the room. She is hearing his words from a completely different perspective than three years ago. “I know that sounds bad now because Stell is here and we love her, but at the time, Lucie needed to hear that she had options.”

“Yeah and the option you proposed to her was to end her pregnancy.”

“It was mentioned, yes. But there was also adoption or raising Stell alone or… this. What you two have now.”

“Alone!?” Connor stutters out. “So, what if she wanted to raise Stell without me?”

“As I said, I was supportive of whatever Lucie wanted to do.” Connor inhales sharply. 

“You need to leave, Lio.” Connor stands, passing their whole world over to his wife on the couch. He smooths Stella’s hair down as she cuddles into Lucie’s shoulder. Connor feels his knees almost give out in pain. What would life be like without Stell? Without her soft kisses and baby giggles and huge hugs when he comes home from the road. How could Lio have supported a life for Stell without Connor? Or a life without her ever existing to begin with? 

“I just wanted to support her! Why is that bad?” Lio’s heart is in his throat now, as Connor slowly steps forward.

“What would be good about Lucie wanting to raise Stella without me? You were going to be daddy to my kid? You are right about one thing tonight, you’d be a shit fucking dad, Lio.”

“I…” Lio never thought about any of these scenarios in depth. He really just wanted to show up for Lucie. And Lucie chose Connor so quickly it didn’t seem to matter.

“Would you have told me?”

“W-what?” Lio puts his beer down, moving to sit up straighter. He swallows nervously.

“Would you, my best friend, have told me I had a daughter?” Lio is silent. He doesn’t know what to say. He doesn’t know if he would have. Lucie was so scared and had held so tightly to his shirt those two weeks she had lived with him. He would have protected her, but that doesn’t feel like the right answer to reiterate now. Lio looks at Lucie, needing her to step in and say something. Her eyes are lined with betrayed tears, looking at him like she isn’t sure who he even is. Why have people been looking at him like this lately? What the fuck is going on?

“Luc…?”

“You’re a fucking coward, Lio. Anyone who thinks our daughter shouldn’t be here doesn’t get the privilege of being in our lives. Get out. You are no longer welcome here.” Lio tries to speak.

“Get. The fuck. Out!” Connor bellows, hands tightened into fists at his sides. Stell startles. She wakes up, immediately sensing the tension in the room and begins to cry. Connor turns away from Lio, rushing back to his wife and daughter. 

“It’s okay, Stell. You’re okay. Mommy and daddy are here.” Connor gathers her back from Lucie. He turns back to Lio. “I’m not fucking asking you again.” 

Lio stands, leaving his half full beer bottle. He rips the front door open and leaves the second home he’s been kicked out that day.

- - -

The next morning, a ping wakes Lio. He wants it all to be a bad dream, but the raw realness of what happened yesterday mars his body with physical aches and pains, including a hell of a hangover. He groans as he grabs his phone, pulling it to his face. He squints, seeing a new text awaiting him from an unsaved number.

Hi Lio, It’s Isabella. I went to the clinic and they told me I’m not pregnant. It was a false positive. Guess we dodged a bullet.

Lio stares at the text, watching his cursor blink in anticipation of him responding. He doesn’t.

Dodged a bullet? Then why does it feel like he is still bleeding out.

Continue reading: Part 2

[unhinged-comics-screaming]

⁺˚⋆｡°✩₊ Weekly Bravern Madness Post ₊✩°｡⋆˚⁺

Episode 11 Spoilers ahead, naturally

I'm actually on my second watch since we found out our water heater is leaking so that was a whole thing so not quite first impressions but that's literally me screencapping every scene and screaming so probably better this way

Okay important things about me to consider for my lens as I go through this

I think Isami is so so so cute. I'll probably make a cute Isami screencaps post as a separate thing. His gap moe is so cute. I love his stern face. I think Smith is great too but I love the focus reshifting to Isami. Anyway. He's so cute

In terms of Smith as Bravern I guess I view it as the reverse too? I don't really know how to explain it but I guess in Japanese there's tags for Smith + Isami (Sumiisa) and Bravern + Isami (Braisa?) and in my head it's all Sumiisa. Like he may look like a giant robot but he's still Smith, if that makes sense.

Second watch bonuses: realizing why she reacts this way at his mention ;-;

Right away, I guess I got my beach episode! I love that Isami and Lulu have Bravern brand summer clothes. I hope they come out as merch. It comes up rarely eg. the boxing shoes from ep 5 have the (Burn?) Bravern specific emblem on them and I just think it's so cute. Like yeah Bravern probably printed them just for these instances and I wish we got enough show to see it in action.

I actually got so emotional at the end of episode 9 when the OP starts playing without the lyrics and this showing up with the ED music is phenomenal. Extra delicious that it starts with part of the full version of the ED that's not in the normal ending.

I also love this because the other two emotional moments where it's like, starting something but not completing it are the after boxing scene and when Isami is crying into Lewis' shirt (okay this can easily be assumed to fill out as "I wanted the two of us to save the world together" but what else did you want to do with hiiiiim). The shipper mind wants to fill it in with some love confession and then!!!

After the like, back and forth name stuff (which parallels the Lulu + Superbia fusion) I was like, pre-emptively bracing for some kind of goofy baiting/played for laughs thing but no he goes for it!!

I actually have a collection of any instance of Isami with any amount of coloring on his cheeks and I've been lamenting that the only full blush moments are when he gets the asian flush drinking but aaaaah so cute. Also he looks so young here! He's 24 he should be falling in love!

Also I'm like, actually really impressed about this scene technically because It's just a really good looking turnaround animation. With Bravern he's 3D so whatever but isami looks good from every angle!

The artist who adds the extra effects like bloom and color tweaks on scenes occasionally tweets out their before and afters and I really hope we get this scene where they point out they added plush, kissable lips onto Bravern.

I reblogged a post about it but I do really love that Isami isn't like, disgusted or pushing him away or anything. Not even grateful Lulu interrupted it. Maybe he's actually disappointed she interrupted.

I know it sets ups the symbolic washing away of it but in case there was any ambiguity to the nature of this love:

There's some discussion across japanese twitter about how you're not supposed to do some line in the middle but based on some cursory stuff I'm not sure how common that thought process is. Also Bravern isn't that much of a pro in Japanese culture (even a lot of JP twitter was confused at his proud "This is OMIAI!").

If you aren't involved in Twitter, a comment people like to point out is that they specifically hired a Food Coordinator for this episode lol. I took a bunch of caps of it but between this and Isami's "we need to eat to be strong enough to save everyone" talk I need to do my Dunmeshi + Bravern food as strength and love post.

Anyway I'm obsessed with the fact that Bravern doesn't need to eat but actually has a mouth which reminds me of this tweet my sister brought to me

Naturally, his mouth is for kissing, Among other things.

Okay honestly the food bit is so weird I was kind of worried the entire first half of the episode turns out to be a dream sequence.

I need to set this as my desktop background or something. I think it's really cute that they added/implied that Isami and Bravern are now a cutesy couple rather than Isami being all weird about the love confession.

THIS! Is the point in the post I realize that watching while typing these up leads to me just doing a play by play which isn't really much of anything. I promise the rest of the post isn't just as long even though we're only halfway through the episode.

(Hey, timeskip OP here. This might be a lie)

Lulu + Superbia symbol! It's cute and has a really nice mix of being similar but opposite in it's own way.

I am obsessed with Segnitas being too lazy to fight and honestly I think he's so cute. The interrupting the fusion is kinda expected for a a show with every bit being in universe but it's still a good gag. I'm glad he is around to make commentary until his true death.

I kind of expected the Bravern + Superbia fight to be an episode 2 thing but I guess we won't have the time for that given the end of this episode. Triple shoutout to my Wednesday post by having the "You can get fulfillment from living!", seeing a callback to Lulu's kick and basically having an awesome fight.

Okay ending time. I have a lot of thoughts but one of the ones as I was watching was just.. He can't eat but he can bleed (and cry)? Actually considering that he explodes it's probably oil or something. Like obvs he isn't going to explode into purple triangles like everyone else but oofda. I am all sorts of sad about this but one thing that gets me is that Bravern doesn't even die fighting! It was a stealth attack!

There's some theories that Isami has a change of heart too fast and this might be another time loop, which I think would be on brand but man his reaction to Bravern dying is too much there's at least no way it's because of a Bravern dying bad end. Actually, I wonder if the damage to Bravern's core is worse than we can tell? Lulu bad end looks way worse though. Or maybe hypothetical Isami time travel route is -> they don't fight Superbia -> defeat one more death drive -> Superbia realizes he doesn't get his warrior death -> he takes on the last Deathdrive 1v1, dies -> remaining DD dies somehow but Superbia is still gone -> Isami goes back to save him for Lulu (they can't risk double time looping her?) -> doesn't ever experience Bravern dying so this is new and terrible.

In this case, Ira is acting unpredictably specifically because they do the no-kill route with Superbia. He's evidently super disgusted and I wonder if it's because its the peaceful resolution between the two? Otherwise I'm curious why else. Actually in general I'm curious why everyone is so personal with Bravern but I think we've all been asking that.

I think some people mentioned it on Twitter but Lulu very casually mentions her time travel lived experiences so it would be weird if they didn't know Bravern himself enabled it. Like I mentioned in my other post. He literally can't take on two giant mechs without Bravern and he knows for sure Superbia can't take on someone.

It's interesting that Bravern has different final words in this timeline than Lulu bad end but he also probably never had that stargazing scene in that route. Actually, you know what, I think Lulu bad end he does know it's Lulu because I don't think Isami was there for the specific curry scene we saw. He's still crying, naked in Bravern during that. Unless he just talks about Japanese curry all the time where we don't see.

Smith's last words are specifically "Brave Bang" (yuuki bakuhatsu) vs Bravern's "Brave Burn" and I'm basically Pepe Silvia-ing it up trying to figure out what it means. It's not really a direct confession about being Smith (because he's still a coward in that regard) but maybe it's a secret move/activation considering the moves are in English?

I think any kind of extra finale speculation requires its own post but that's my thoughts!

hm. Sorry. Maybe I should get into writing fanfic so you at least get something out of this

[ask-la-squadra]

To everyone who wants to answer~

What's your favorite haute couture brand/fashion brand in general?

P.s.

Quanto amo questo blog

(I love your blog so much 💝💕)

(I am going to sob I literally fangirl whenever I see u in my notifs i love your blog so much too, I literally go back to reread your writing at least once a week <3 )

Risotto Nero - I love Vivienne Westwood, but particularly her work in the 90s, I love the theatrics of it all. The corsets, tartan, pirate/clown look but make it regal. I usually stick with the women's stuff and have it tailored, I prefer to wear trousers so dresses and skirts are tailored to be trousers or capes.

Pros - Giorgio Armani for sure, I love their suits, my only problem being that they come quite plain so when I have them tailored I usually have them embroidered and embellished the way I like too. I wish they did more masculine fashion that is complex but not garish. There is one Armani suit I bought for Risso once, that's where his iconic trousers are from.

Maggi - I used to wear a lot of Gucci and Versace but since getting a cat I stay away from the nicer stuff on a daily basis since she usually tears or stains it.

LuLu - I'm quite into Chanel at the moment, simple and classy but not boring. They have some really nice coats for women too which I usually have tailored for my swole frame.

Risotto Nero - No one else really has that much of an opinion, Melone and Ghiaccio either wear their usual (which they have multiple versions of to your better wellbeing) or Fruit of the Loom lounge clothes, Melone is quite partial to Skims by Kim K though. Sorbet, and Gelato wear more practical and comfy items, they don't really care about the brand, just whatever they like when they see it.

And as for Pesci, well, he is having a little crisis, his favourite changes every week, currently he is dressing head to toe in hideous Louis Vuitton, hopefully he will find his style soon

(p.s. mod - i hope i did this justice, im a broke ass goth who can only longingly look at pinterest to fill the void and i mostly buy clothes second hand so i dont know too much about the fashion world)