#and the fact that there's several things I didn't do before midnight because of that but I don't remmeber being asleep I just remember

[after-nine-at-the-oasis]

HAPPY HSMTMTS EVE!!!!!

[delulujuls]

tinder buddies | ln4

hi! i have no idea how to comment on that. i've got inspiration from the rumors that are now going on twitter and tiktok about lando and his activity in sm and i thought man, i need to write something in this narrative because sexting with him??? scuse me??? but of course all of this is fiction and and i dont have any statement on the rumors about lan, mostly because all of these are rumors and not facts. anyway, pls leave his poor papaya ass alone and enjoy this instead!

summary: when you met your tinder buddy irl and realize how indeed world is small

warnings: masturbation on cam (both male and female), bit of swearing, in general alott of sexual tention

pairing: fem!journalist!reader x lando norris

Y/N thought that she was good at what she was doing. She thought that despite her young age she fit in the world of motorsport really well. Sometimes it even crossed her mind that she was no different from her older colleagues, what's more, sometimes she even thought that she was better than them. However, she admitted this only to herself with complete modesty and behind tightly closed doors.

Apart from the fact that Y/N was a really good journalist whose career was growing at a surprising pace, at the end of the day she was just a twenty-two-year-old girl who, like many other twenty-two-year-old girls in the world, had her smaller and bigger sins.

Y/N breathed heavily as she entered her hotel room. She set her suitcase and bag aside, taking off her shoes and plopping down on the bed. It was well after midnight, her flight was delayed by several hours and she was simply exhausted by the passing day. Even though she was excited about the events that awaited her in a few hours, right now she was just tired. However, she knew perfectly well what would help her relax before going to sleep. Not so much what, but who.

The girl unlocked her phone and easily found the Instagram icon, clicking on it and going straight to the messages. She entered the first conversation and was about to write some prosaic message, but she didn't have time to type out half of the sentence when a new message appeared in the chat.

"u up?"

Y/N smiled to herself. It looked like she could count on a pleasant end to the day.

"I was just about to ask you the same thing"

The reply message appeared a moment later.

"i was waiting for you to be available. i thought the evening would be wasted"

"And yet you see, surprise"

The person on the other end smiled and untied the drawstring on his sweatpants. He quickly wrote his answer with one hand.

"wanna call?"

"I think you know the answer"

She smiled and reached for the switch and turned off the light, pressing the camera icon with her other hand.

Y/N and the boy she had been messaging with for a little over a month knew next to nothing about each other. She had a private account and a few photos, he had a black icon and an empty profile. He only knew her name, she only the first letter of his. They met on Tinder, their profiles there looked quite similar. She has a few photos, more of the body than the face, he has the same, mostly in black and white. They had never seen each other's faces, but they knew each other's bodies inside and out.

Y/N placed her phone on the table and leaned it against the lamp, which she turned on a moment later. The light from it was dim, but it illuminated her body enough. The angle her phone was at only showed her from the neck down. She was perfect at maintaining her privacy.

"New background?"

He asked, seeing that the surroundings behind her were different from those he had seen before. She pulled her sweatshirt over her head, leaving her in only a bra and a thin t-shirt.

"I'm away from home"

"Work?"

"Too many questions"

There was quiet laughter on the other side. He liked her temperament. He liked her curves even more and the sounds she made when, at his command, she pushed her fingers inside her and brought herself to orgasm. Yes, he liked that too.

"Yeah, you're right. Strip."

Y/N pulled the t-shirt over her head and her interlocutor saw a red, lace bra that he never seen on her before. He smiled and ran his hand over his crotch. He felt a chill run through him.

"You look good, baby. Red suits you"

She laughed and pushed her hair behind her shoulders.

"Is this the first time you gonna tell me to keep my bra on?"

"For now, yes. I'd love to look at it for a while" he squeezed his cock and began to lightly massage it through the fabric. "You know what to do, dont'cha?"

Y/N bit her lip and lifted her hands, placing them gently on her shoulders. She slowly moved them down her body and when she found her breasts, she slowly started massaging them in circular motions. She closed her eyes and tilted her head slightly, hearing the sigh that came from her phone. He watched her carefully, following her every move.

"Take it off," he said after a while, "It's pretty, but I think I prefer you without it."

She quickly took off her bra and threw it aside. He smiled at the sight of her breasts. Y/N returned to them, continuing their massage. As she lightly pinched her nipples, she moaned softly. His cock vibrated at the sound that came from his headphones. He smiled.

"Does it feel good, baby?"

"Mhm, yeah" she answered, looking again at her phone "But you're playing unfair again. I have to see you too."

He chuckled and shook his head.

"You don't let me enjoy you"

He replied and put down the phone, quickly pulling his shirt over his head. He fell back on the pillows and turned on the light on his phone. Y/N smiled at the sight of the familiar, slightly tanned and toned torso. Her interlocutor didn't see it, but she smiled even more when he tightened his hand on his cock, which was now clearly visible on the gray material of his trousers.

"Take off the rest of your clothes and lie down"

He ordered. Y/N obediently lay down, taking off her pants and underwear. When the rustle of fabric could be heard on the other side, he easily freed himself from his pants and tight, slightly damp boxers. He spat on his hand and spread the saliva over his cock, feeling it tighten under his touch. Fuck, what he would give if instead of his hand it was this tiny hand that disappeared between the pair of thighs he saw on the screen of his phone.

The girl complied with his command and he saw her middle finger slowly sinking inside her, only to come out after a while covered with her juices.

"Fuck," he muttered under his breath, "You're so wet, baby."

“I wish you were here and licked me clean.”

Y/N said, rubbing her clit. She felt that she wouldn't need much to reach orgasm.

Her interlocutor smiled under his breath, but she wasn't able to see it.

"I'm afraid that i would make you even more wet."

"Someone has quite an ego here"

"I know my capabilities, baby."

She snorted under her breath and made herself more comfortable, inserting her finger into herself again. First one, quite slowly, and soon she added another one. A long moan filled the hotel room as she began to move them, imagining that it was not her but him who was fucking her. And not with his fingers, but with his wet, hard cock.

"Yeah, just like that, baby. Keep going."

His eyes carefully followed the screen and the activities taking place on it. His hand moved smoothly over his cock, his lips were slightly opened. As he was stroking himself, the glass of his watch on his wrist reflected the light from the phone. He wore it every time they cam together. Y/N didn't know anything about watches, so she didn't know what brand it was or whether it was expensive. They never talked about it, honestly, they basically never had a normal chat. However, he once asked her about the tattoo on her forearm, just below the inner bend of her elbow. He noticed it after the first time they met on camera. When it was all over and they were about to hang up and return to their real lives, he asked about it.

"What does 33 mean?"

He asked when the girl started getting dressed.

"What?"

"Tattoo on your arm"

The girl looked at her forearm and only then did she understand what he was asking about.

"I can't tell you because you'll make fun of me"

Hearing this, he smiled. Not because there was probably some stupid story behind it, but because the girl was concerned about not looking bad in front of him. Even though they absolutely didn't know each other.

"I barely know your name, I don't know why I would make fun of you."

Y/N was silent for a moment, glancing at her tattoo and lightly stroking it with her thumb.

"Do you know Formula 1?"

He smiled and nodded. His reaction, however, was beyond her reach.

"I know a thing or two"

"My favorite driver drives with this number. Well, actually he did, now his number is 1. But for me it will still be associated with 33"

The girl explained. She felt a bit embarrassed to expose herself to him, especially with something like this. However, he did not laugh at her or comment on her confession in any negative way.

"I have a friend who is also involved in motorsport and has the same number. Actually, not anymore, because he also had to change it. But for me it will also be associated only with 33"

Y/N smiled at his words. Sometimes she wondered if they could become friends and get to know each other a little better. But then she decided to come down to earth and remind herself that she had no time for relationships or friendships. Now the most important thing for her is work and career, everything else can wait. After all, no one will satisfy her as much as herself. Right?

"Fuck, I could fill you so good, baby," he moaned, gasping for breath. He felt that he was only seconds away from orgasm "You have no idea how much pleasure I would give you."

The girl's lips were opened, her eyelids were shut tightly. She massaged her clit with her left hand and moved the fingers of her right hand inside her in quick, uneven movements.

"I'm about to- I…oh my god-"

“Yes, baby, thats it" he gasped, speeding up "Cum for me.”

She felt a wave of pleasure wash over her. The moment her back arched, she heard a long "fuck" coming from her phone. He came shortly after her, staining his toned abs with his sperm. He squeezed his eyes shut and tilted his head back, trying to calm his breathing. There was silence on both sides for a moment, neither of them moving an inch.

After some time, Y/N sat on the bed and reached for a tissue, wiping her hands on it.

"I have to go now. I have a lot of work waiting for me tomorrow."

"Me too. I wanted to let you know that we may not be able to have a call tomorrow."

He answered, also wiping himself.

“It's okay, no big deal,” Y/N replied and took one last look at the muscled, tanned torso visible on her phone screen, “Good night. And good luck with your chores tomorrow.”

“Good night, baby. You too.”

She smiled and reached for her phone, ending the call. Exhausted from the previous day and the evening cam session, she just buried herself in the blanket and shortly after fell asleep. The next day, when her alarm went off, she was full of energy despite several hours of sleep. She couldn't wait for saturday's qualifying and all she was thinking about as she was getting ready was whether she would be able to get good material.

As she put on her red bra, she smiled involuntarily as she remembered last night. She wondered if he had already gotten lost in the whirlwind of his today's duties. Y/N quickly got dressed, gathered her things and, putting her pass around her neck, left the hotel. When she got to the track and was in the paddock, she couldn't think about anything else. Her only thoughts revolved around what was going to happen on the track in a few dozen minutes. However, for a split second she wondered what her tinder buddy actually knew about Formula 1. Maybe they could have something to talk about? Maybe she could even take him to some grand prix?

Her thoughts disappeared when she noticed Lando Norris hanging around the McLaren garage. The girl asked the cameraman to prepare the equipment and she would ask the Brit if he would be willing to have a short conversation. She squeezed the microphone in her hand and without thinking, she approached him, introducing herself and asking if it was possible to record a short conversation.

Hearing her name, his heart did a flip. He knew that name very well.

"Sure, no problem"

He replied with a smile, obviously not revealing himself, and ran his hand through his hair. The glass of the watch strapped to his wrist gleamed in the sunlight. Y/N had seen this watch before. Many times.

The girl smiled back and, hearing his agreement, gave a thumbs up to the cameraman. When she raised her hand, the sleeve of her shirt rolled up, and Lando's eyes involuntarily caught the tattoo on her forearm. A slight 33, just below the bend in the elbow.

He felt a sudden wave of heat wash over him. It's a coincidence, right? It must be.

"How's your mood before qualifying?"

Y/N asked, putting the microphone down and straightening her shirt. As she was arranging her collar, Lando's eyes caught a glimpse of her red bra strap. He smiled to himself and looked down. He wondered how many accidents and coincidences had come together in the universe and resulted in this situation.

"What? Something wrong?"

The girl asked, not knowing what made him react like that.

He shook his head and after a moment looked up again. He looked at the girl carefully. However, she was completely lost and looked at him questioningly.

"Sorry, as you can probably see, my mood is great. I'm positive about today's qualifying."

Y/N tentatively gripped her microphone. When the cameraman approached them, they started recording the footage and she had no time to analyze Lando's strange behavior. In fact, it was possible that this was their first and last conversation ever, so why should she care about it. When they managed to record a short material, Y/N thanked him and wished him successful qualifications. After that everyone went their separate ways.

Immediately after entering the garage, Lando found his phone buried in a pile of his things. He quickly entered his latest conversation on Instagram and, without thinking, decided to send the girl a message. Worst case scenario, he'll just make a fool of himself, which isn't a big deal since they don't know each other at all. At best, he would spend tonight as he had long dreamed of.

"ure even prettier than i thought, baby."

Y/N felt a vibration in her pants pocket and without thinking, she unlocked her phone. She was surprised to see a notification coming from Instagram, and she was even more surprised when she noticed who sent her the message. After reading it, she felt a cold sweat break out on her. However, she decided to think and act soberly.

"How do you know what I look like?"

"turn around"

Lando replied quickly and leaned against the threshold of his garage. The girl clutched her phone in her hands and obeyed his command with her heart beating wildly. Lando smiled at her, holding his still unlocked phone. Y/N felt a lack of saliva in her mouth. It's impossible, it's not really happening.

"Are you sure we're looking at the same person?"

She replied, having difficulty pressing the appropriate keys with her fingers. He was amused by her reaction. This whole situation didn't make sense to him. It was crazy.

"im looking at a pretty neat journalist with a mad bunda who has a tattoo with my friend's racing number. and u?"

Y/N blushed. Fuck. It's him.

"I see that your jumpsuit is a little tight in some places."

Lando snorted under his breath. The girl wasn't lying. The whole situation made quite an impression on him.

Y/N bit her lip and looked up. She'd be lying if she said it wasn't arousing.

"u know exactly why its tight"

"I guess I have to find out in real life. The camera likes to lie."

When she sent the message, she looked up again and their eyes locked. The Brit winked at her and quickly replied, turning on his heel and disappearing into the depths of the garage.

"my driver's room in five minutes. ill be happy to dispel your doubts"

[pascaloverx]

DANDELIONS

Summary: You are the new guest of the Bridgertons. Your mother, an old friend of Lady Violet Bridgerton, has requested that you spend a season at the Bridgerton house in hopes that you will change your perspective on true love and marriage. You are convinced that love is a fictional construct and that a marriage without love will be your downfall; but some time with the Bridgerton siblings might change your mind.

Author's Note: The characters belong to the Bridgerton universe and Julia Quinn. However, the story will have some changes from what happens in the Bridgerton series (2020-). Dear readers, this story may contain strong language and steamy romance scenes. It may even feature a love triangle. Be warned and enjoy the reading.

AO3 LINK TWO

ONE

"A great idea," you grumbled the entire way from your house to the Bridgerton house. Your mother had told you it would be an excellent idea for you to venture into society. "An independent mission," she said. Your father is so ill and trapped in his own world that he didn't mind letting his only daughter go to a stranger's house. Your mother has given up on arranging a conventional marriage for you. She doesn't respect the fact that you don't want a marriage like hers. You wonder if it's so wrong to want a marriage filled with tenderness, passion, love, or any feeling other than indifference. You basically grew up knowing you were the product of an obligation. The only child your parents managed to conceive before your father became too ill to have more children. Or rather, before your mother gave up trying to love him. When you were born, at least she had shed the moral burden of having to provide your father with an heir. Obviously, both she and he had hoped you would be a boy. But you think that over the years they have grown accustomed to you. This year, for some reason, your mother wants you to get married. Perhaps it's because your father is on the brink of death. If you find a husband who can manage your father's properties and investments, maybe you will become something useful to your family. Your father only mutters about wanting a male grandchild to carry on his legacy, and your mother wants you married. After Lady Violet Bridgerton successfully married off her daughter Daphne, your mother began to think that perhaps she could help you. So, after exchanging a few letters, you are now on your way to the Bridgerton house to be introduced to society's marriage system.

"I need to step out of this carriage for a moment," you say as you stop murmuring your mother's words. Your companion gives you a look that says, "She's lost her mind," but you know she will eventually let you get out of the carriage.

"Actually, we are already in front of the Bridgerton house entrance. I must remind you that your mother recommended I stay by your side most of the time," Mrs. Lydia says, as if you didn't know that, as your companion, she is supposed to always be nearby.

"I know your job is to protect my honor, but believe me, if I enter the Bridgerton house in my current mood, they will expel me before midnight. I need a moment to think," you say, nervously adjusting the hem of your dress. Your companion gently nods as if she understands. Lydia is the closest thing to true family that you have. So it's no surprise that she understands you.

"Enter the house for a moment and be polite. There's a stable on the Bridgerton property; I'll see what I can do. Ask Lady Bridgerton or the Viscount Bridgerton if you can go for a ride. And try not to get into trouble. I'll pretend to accompany you but give you some time alone," Lydia says, and you hug her tightly. A good horse ride after meeting the Bridgertons is just what you need. Not that you know much about them. You can only imagine. They are several siblings, and you are an only child. It's not hard to imagine there will be some incompatibilities. Minutes later, you step out of the carriage with Lydia, observing several people standing around you two.

"Dear Miss Y/L/N, it's a pleasure to welcome you here. I must confess that when your mother informed me of your arrival, we all looked forward to it," Lady Violet Bridgerton says as she approaches you. She seems so friendly that you feel inclined to hug her.

"I would like to thank you, Lady Bridgerton, and your lovely family for your hospitality. Unfortunately, my mother couldn't come with me, but my companion Lydia is here," you say awkwardly. The truth is, you're feeling that this season at Aubrey Hall with all the Bridgertons might be more challenging than you imagine.

"Let's not waste time exchanging pleasantries and let's go inside so you can see your quarters. I believe it will be the perfect time for you to get to know my children better," she says as she guides you into the house. The place is spectacular. As soon as you enter, you see some people approaching.

"Miss Y/L/N, I must warn you that this family can be a bit lively, but we will try our best to welcome you with courtesy," says a girl who must be a little younger than you. She has a book in her hands and is the first to approach you as you enter.

"Eloise, don't scare off our guest. Welcome to our abode, Miss Y/L/N. My name is Colin Bridgerton, and if you need someone to talk to, I'll be available. But I know that after a journey, the best thing is a good night's rest," Colin says to you, who smiles, finding it amusing how many Bridgertons are showing up.

"I believe I should thank Miss Eloise for the warning and Mr. Bridgerton for his kindness. Although I believe I still have a long way to go until my restful moment," you say, looking at the two who seem pleased with your gratitude.

"Your dress is beautiful, Miss Y/L/N. By the way, unlike my older brothers, I know how to introduce myself. My name is Hyacinth Bridgerton." A girl who seemed not to be at the entrance of the house just moments ago suddenly appears, saying this as she walks quickly toward you.

"You're mistaking knowing how to introduce yourself with flattery, Hyacinth. I'm Gregory Bridgerton, but you can call me Gregory," says a young boy who appears to be almost the same age as Hyacinth, while the girl taps him on the shoulder. You find it cute and funny how they behave. Having siblings seems to be at least entertaining.

"The younger ones are so noisy. I wish you a pleasant stay with us, Miss Y/L/N. You'll need it. If you need some peace, just look for me. My name is Francesca," a young woman says kindly as she moves away from the confusion that this introduction session is becoming.

"Now that Miss Y/L/N has met most of the Bridgertons who reside in this house, how about having some tea in the garden of the property?" Lady Violet speaks gently, touching your arm. You nod in agreement.

"I would just like to go to the quarters where I will be staying for a change of clothing. I hope you understand, Lady Violet." You were already starting to feel pain in your back from the corset that was too tight on you.

"My dear, you can call me Violet, and you may go. I'll ask them to take you to the room where you'll be staying, and your companion will join you shortly to assist. Once you're done, I'll be in the garden waiting for you." Lady Bridgerton speaks, and you follow the servant she assigns to show you where you'll be staying. Knowing that Lydia will be with you shortly, as soon as you enter the room, you lock the door.

"What are you doing here, Miss?" A male voice speaks as soon as you lock the door, and you startle as you turn around to find a man, his shirt slightly unbuttoned, staring at you.

"I'm almost certain that I should be the one saying that, sir. I must warn you that if I were to scream, you'd be in trouble," you say, composing yourself as you observe the man looking at you curiously. Perhaps he knows that you wouldn't scream because it would ruin your reputation, or maybe he is part of the Bridgerton family, considering your mother warned you that there were three older adult brothers.

"Do you really want my family to know that I'm inappropriately dressed near you? Let me guess, you're desperate for a marriage and want to make your life easier by tying me to you?" The man speaks as he straightens up, buttoning the rest of his shirt.

"How dare you accuse me of such a strategy, considering that it is you who is in the quarters assigned to me, improperly dressed, and with an attitude worthy of pity. Honestly, my last thought at the moment would be to force a scandal so that you would have to become my husband," you reply, holding yourself near the door, keeping yourself away from whoever this Mr. Bridgerton is in front of you.

"Forgive me, Miss, but I don't trust a word coming out of your mouth at the moment. However, I assure you that this type of situation is not customary. I was trying to enter through the window of my room or one of my brothers' rooms, but I ended up in here. I had no idea that you would be arriving today. In fact, I'm being rude at this moment. I am Viscount Anthony Bridgerton," he says, approaching you cautiously as if analyzing you. Perhaps he is trying to figure out if you are an opportunist or not.

"Without intending to be rude, but already being so, whether you are a Viscount, Prince, or Duke, I don't care. What matters now is that no one finds out that we are alone here," you say, looking him squarely in the eyes, as if to firmly convey that you absolutely do not want them to be discovered.

"If you can draw the attention of the people in the house to yourself for a couple of minutes, I can leave the way I came in. Do you think that would be possible?" Anthony says with a certain petulance. However, a bold idea occurs to you. You give him a determined look and then step closer to him, bringing you both very near to each other.

"I'll simulate a small fall down the stairs. You'll have the time it takes for me to miraculously recover. Be efficient, Viscount Bridgerton," you say briefly and storm out of the room, aware that spending more time in the Viscount's presence would be a real test of your self-control. The room was starting to feel quite warm.

You descend the stairs, doing your best to appear slightly unsteady. You kick the last step with all your strength before reaching the bottom of the stairs and let out a loud groan of pain, loud enough to be heard from afar. You even manage to tear up a bit, waiting for everyone to come and check on you. Just as you are lightly sprawled on the floor, a man walks through the door. You don't remember being introduced to him before, but he is certainly a Bridgerton. He sees you and immediately rushes towards you.

"Miss, are you alright? Can I help you up?" The man asks with a concerned and caring expression. Knowing that Anthony needs more time, you let out a cry of complaint as if in fake pain when the Bridgerton in front of you tries to help you up. At that moment, you start to be surrounded by several people.

"Oh, I think I twisted my ankle, but there's no need to worry. I just need a moment," you say, uncertain if you can keep up the pretense much longer.

"My dear, don't strain yourself. Benedict will help you to a room where we can call for Dr. Lewis to examine you," Lady Violet Bridgerton says as she lightly touches the arm of who you presume to be Benedict.

"May I?" Benedict asks seconds before you nod your head in agreement. But to be honest, you're not even sure what you're agreeing to. Until Benedict lifts you, asking you to put your arms around his neck. You hold on tight to him, somewhat afraid he might drop you.

"Mr. Bridgerton, you are very kind. I believe you didn't need to lift me. But I am grateful for your help," you say as you are leaned close to Benedict's chest, which you now notice is slightly exposed. What's with the Bridgertons today that everyone is showing more than they should?

"I must admit, before my family enters here, that it was amusing to take part in your charade. It was quite artistic of you. I hope you'll call on me if you want to star in another theatrical piece to get my brother out of trouble. Have a good afternoon, Miss Y/L/N," he says all this as he gently releases you onto a sofa. He doesn't seem angry or anything like that; genuinely, he seems to be enjoying himself. As soon as he leaves the room where he left you, the rest of the Bridgerton family and some servants surround you. Now you'll have to pretend to be in pain for a little while longer while you're intrigued not only by one but by two Bridgerton brothers.

[yok00k]

coming down

pairing: non-idoloc! x idol!jk

genre: angst

“i always want you when i’m coming down”

sypnosis: although you sleep next to jungkook every single night, it feels like you’re million miles away from him.

wordcount: around 1,000

warning: in 1st pov, it’s a little sad (for me), open ended ending, one sided love, allusion of cheating, oc’s world revolves around jk (don’t be like her)(lowkey im her), toxic relationship, lack of communication

author’s note: this did not go as I initially planned help-_- i was gonna make light jealousy oc/jk drabble idk how I ended up with this. i hope yall sob w/ me or lmk ur thoughts

an absolute ideal.

his performance. the concept. the way he sang his new released songs flawlessly. how smooth his dancing movements were. how the stage composition and development were so sumptuous.

and most importantly, how romantic the live performance was, given the fact that there was an actress involved in the show.

calling Jungkook an amazing artist would be an understatement. He’s creative, unique, and original in his masterpieces. Everything he does, no matter what, is just mesmerizing and astounding. He’s indeed a true performer.

Jungkook dedicated several months to work on his solo album. The time and effort he had put to his work is just admirable. On most days, he stays up late, trying to come up with so many possible ideas and options he can add on his album.

and I was there by his side. I chose to be.

I was there, waiting for him to come home every single night, or usually midnight, in our noiseless living room, wrapped with a thick blanket and loneliness. He would arrive home, but as night by night goes, I was accompanied by nothing but solitude. it feels like it’s taking over me.

I was there, in bad days where Jungkook is focusing on the negatives and having doubts in himself. Days where his standards for himself weren’t being met. both of my shoulders were closely next to him if he needed something to lean into. Reminding him that it’s okay and he’s doing wonderful.

I was there, even in times when he didn't want or need me to be there. times where he just wanted to be by his own with no distraction. but here I am, continuously showing him my undying love and support for him.

I chose to stay there. on nights where he stopped saying “i love you” back before going to dreamland. I hugged him closer as I convinced myself to believe that he just didn’t feel like saying those three words at those moment because of all the stress he undergoes through day to day.

I gave all of myself, I’ve done my part as his other half. Just like how Jungkook produces his works, I poured all my love and time to him, leaving not a thing for myself. It sounds foolish, but that’s just how I love

⋆｡ﾟ☁︎｡⋆｡ ﾟ☾ ﾟ｡⋆

we’re both lying on the massive bed, only inches apart from one another’s body yet it feels like he’s millions of miles away from me as I stare at his cold, broad back that’s facing me.

I’ve got to used to this upsetting scenario at this point but that doesn’t mean it hurt less.

The whole bedroom feels chilly. I’m freezing, solely due to the fact that his warm arms weren’t wrapped around me like they used to be. as i’m not hearing his snores, I know that he’s still awake

“Do you still love me?” I manage to ask out loud and clear, immediately regretting the words that came out of my mouth even though it’s simply an inquiry.

a question that’s been going around my head for quite some time now. a question that i’m afraid to know the answer to because his response might be the response my heart doesn’t wish to hear or else it will shatter into millions of pieces.

my hope for an answer rapidly decreased as seconds went by filled with silence. The absence of noise that surrounded me was deafening; abundantly mocked the emotions I was feeling at the moment, screaming at me that my feelings didn't matter.

It's alright.

I did nothing but wipe the single tear that uncontrollably rolled down my cheek.

it’s stupid. I should’ve just kept it to myself. maybe that would be less embarrassing. less problematic. less painful than I was feeling minutes ago.

I turned my back against his as I accepted my defeat. maybe I’m just tired. maybe drifting to sleep will make me feel okay although I know deep inside that I won’t take the pain away. this is not some type of feeling i’m unfamiliar with to begin with.

I shut my eyes, as I try to put myself to sleep. but in that process, i felt his body moving, turning around, and finally snakes his warm arms around me. a pair of arms, the same ones I longed for so many nights.

“____, why would you ask that?” he giggly asked, sounding like he just heard a silly question. as if i was just being clingy and wanted some piece of his attention.

‘because i don’t feel like you love me anymore’

the man waited for a response, waiting to see if I was just fooling around or that was really genuine. the noiselessness, just like all times, answers the question we both interrogate to each other.

the heavy feelings just got worse, if not heavier. even so when he talks more. “i won’t be laying next to you if i wasn’t.” as if that makes me feel better.

indeed, he’s physically here by my side yet distant. Jungkook is so far off that I’ve lost him. numbness was all I felt as I heard his words. I couldn’t be more content now that I have my answers.

his indirect answer to a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ question is enough for me to know where we stand.

I can’t help but to turn my body to face him, just to stare at his doe eyes that I easily get lost in due to the fact that they hold thousands of stars, if not a whole world in them.

regretfully, my eyes should’ve just maintained contact with doe-like eyelids. but rather, they drop their focus on the side of his neck, detecting a foreign lipstick shade that he might have forgotten to wipe off. a shade that will be tattooed in my brain and will forever hate.

Inhale. Exhale. I chose to shrug it off, bringing my attention back to his worn out face.

“I love you” truthfully and whole-heartedly confessed to him once more just like I always do. although this was a little bit different because I don’t expect him to say it back anymore.

and with that in mind, this was also the last night that I will to express my love for him.

[ckret2]

Chapter 29 of human Bill Cipher will find a way out of being the Pines' prisoner or so help him, featuring:

Summerween!!!!

and also:

Henchmaniacs.

Kryptos doesn't actually talk like that, it's just how he's currently feeling.

####

January 1, 1982

"You're late," Bill said, a bit reproachfully.

Ford gave him a surprised look. "Did we have an appointment?" He didn't remember one. He was pretty sure he'd remember an appointment with his muse, even if he'd made it in a dream.

"Pfff, appointments are for people without an eternity of time! No, I'm just used to you dreaming by midnight. It's weird for you to stay up past two when you aren't working on a project."

"I suppose it is." Ford was flattered Bill was paying close enough attention to notice his sleep habits. "I thought I'd stay up late to bring in the new year."

"The what?"

"The... new year?" What wasn't registering. How do you explain New Year's to an alien/angelic messenger? "It's when—"

"Oh, oh right." Bill waved off the rest of Ford's explanation. Several calendars and clocks spiraled in the air like a Ferris wheel in front of Bill, "Between trying to figure out whether you meant it was 0 Pop or Tishrei 1, I completely forgot about Chaos 1. You guys have too many calendars!"

And he'd skipped over January entirely. Wryly, Ford said, "The next time somebody asks for my input, I'll let them know you want us to use a few less."

Bill laughed. "Smart aleck." The calendars and clocks vanished. "And all you did to celebrate was stay up a little later than usual? No parties? Okay, I know you don't know anyone throwing a party—but you didn't even celebrate at a bar?" Bill ruffled his hair. "All work and no play makes Ford a dull boy!"

Ford endured the ruffling. He wasn't quite sure whether Bill was scolding him for staying up celebrating, or for not celebrating enough. "I... suppose I could celebrate in here?"

"What do you want, a fireworks show?" In the distance in Ford's mindscape, a single large firework exploded. It shifted colors, purple to yellow to green to red, before fading. "I don't think so! If you wanted fireworks, you should've gone to the show on the lake. I've got some prophecies to pass on, and I'd rather get to them this REM cycle."

By "prophecies" he probably meant a random assortment of warnings about Ford's upcoming week, which historically had varied in severity from "don't visit the lake Tuesday evening or you'll get caught in a snowstorm and die of hypothermia" to "you'd better get groceries in the morning before they sell out of your toothpaste brand." And Ford was always grateful for such messages—but now he wished he could see what sort of fantastical color-changing dream fireworks show his muse could put on. "I take it it's not a new year on your calendar."

"I don't keep track of that stuff. When you're as ancient as me, celebrating the new year is like celebrating a new hour."

Bill had so easily brushed off the implicit invitation to discuss "his" calendar. Ford wasn't surprised. Over the years of sporadic meetings with his muse, Ford had noted that Bill never shared information about where he'd come from or how he filled his time when he wasn't bestowing his wisdom—as if Bill was a thing that simply is, a muse that offered inspiration because it was made to inspire, with no history or identity outside of its role in service to humanity. He always dodged the questions gracefully.

But he never seemed bothered that Ford had asked. In fact, as long as Ford didn't pry into Bill's history and kept his inquiries comfortably shallow, Bill always seemed happy to receive personal questions. Ford had found that even when Bill talked like he was in a hurry, it was very easy to get him off track (and consequently extend his visit to two or three more dreams) by asking him about himself.

Ford wondered why that was. Was it a part of his duty—was he compelled to answer his chosen students' questions, to enlighten them on the mysteries of the universe, to help tug back the curtain of reality to reveal wonders unknown—wonders that included Bill himself? Or perhaps Bill was used to students seeing him as a source of knowledge without seeing him. Perhaps he was grateful that somebody was interested in him enough to ask.

Whatever the case—Bill clearly liked being asked about himself, and Ford liked getting his muse to stick around a little longer than planned. So rather than letting Bill get on to the prophecies he'd promised, Ford asked, "Do you ever... participate in any human holidays? After all, you've offered so much to humanity. I'm sure any of your prior protégés would have been honored to invite you as a guest to our celebrations. I would be honored." And Ford wouldn't mind having friendly company on the holidays that he'd gotten in the habit of ignoring until they shrank to nothing but a square on a calendar.

"Ha, I know you would! But no, not really," Bill said. "Don't get me wrong, it's not that I look down on your cute little local festivals. They just don't have any relevance to me! A celebration of a bountiful harvest, a prayer to get through the winter, the veneration of a local long-dead celebrity... I come from a timeless realm of divinity, sublimity, color and light! Most of your planet's holidays are about issues that don't matter to me."

"Ah. I see," Ford said. "Are there any human holidays you care about?"

Bill mulled over the question. "Maybe one or two."

####

June 22, 2013

Bill thundered down the stairs, charged into the kitchen, and announced to the Pines, "If I don't get to wear a Summerween costume I will literally die."

Without looking up from the morning paper, Ford said, "Then die."

####

It took ten minutes for Bill to bargain Ford up from "death" to permission to wear a costume—provided that it was free; that Bill agree to stay inside for the holiday without complaint (WITHOUT COMPLAINT) no matter what fun activities he heard happening outside; that Ford didn't have to do anything to help Bill obtain said costume; and that Bill take a dang shower.

Bill groaned. "Another shower already?"

"You wouldn't need so many if you didn't insist on running around in an acrylic sweater and polyester leggings in summer."

Bill knew that. That was one of the reasons he did it. It was useful for the humans to think the showers were their idea.

Bill agreed to all terms, and even volunteered to get the dang shower over with now so they could both get on with the rest of their days.

He'd never admit it, but Bill had been wanting a shower. Not for the hygiene, but for the privacy. This was the first time he'd had a door between himself and the Pines since he'd broken the shack's unicorn hair barrier.

Time to call in reinforcements.

Bill covered the mirrors, turned on the shower, undressed, stuck his head under the shower stream so that if anyone barged in on him he could use his wet hair as proof he'd been showering, and squinted through the wooden door to confirm there weren't any humans lurking nearby. Coast was clear—but wow, it hurt to bend his eye that way. He rubbed at it irritably as he set up his ring of candles again, and wasn't surprised when his fingertips came away bloody. He thought it hurt more than it had last time. He wondered how many more times he could glance into higher dimensions before this body's eyeballs gave out on him. Hopefully he wouldn't need them that long.

He drew Kryptos on the floor, lit the candles, and started muttering the chant to summon him. "Rhombus sapphirinus. Fraternitas, caritas..."

The steamy air went chill, the water pattering in the tub grew muffled, the whole world slowed and paused. For weeks, Bill's every attempt to break into the mindscape had been a futile strain; but now, instead, the mindscape surged up and swallowed him into its gray twilight, like evening embracing the land on the heels of sunlight's departure. Bill knew he wasn't awake anymore. It was working.

A force outside of Bill borrowed his throat to speak the last of the ritual—it worked!—and before his eyes, a diamond window opened into the Nightmare Realm.

####

Standing at the edge of one of the Quadrangle of Qonfusion's many perpendicular floors, arms crossed, scowling deeply, Pyronica glared at a neon-acidic cotton candy nebula light years away. "Guys," she said, "it's doing the thing again."

8 Ball, Keyhole, and Zanthar glanced away from their video game toward the nebula. Amorphous Shape peeled a few squares off a column to peer at it with Hectorgon.

"Look at this." Pyronica clapped her hands.

In the nebula, crackles of lightning-like bolts of light millions of miles long shot through the starry clouds. A noise like thunder boomed from it, rattling the Quadrangle. An ugly statue fell off a column-shaped pedestal and landed on a wall.

She clapped twice more—each time, eliciting more lightning—then gestured emphatically at the nebula. "How am I doing that!"

"Can't be you controlling it," Amorphous Shape said. "That nebula's over a dozen light years away. That light had to have happened years ago, we're just seeing it now."

Already turned back to his video game and determinedly trying to murder Keyhole, 8 Ball said, "Maybe the nebula's controlling you."

Pryonica said flatly, "You think a bunch of stars is making me clap."

"Eh. Like astrology or something."

Hectorgon said, "Could be a time loop thing."

"Could be," Amorphous Shape said thoughtfully.

Pyronica threw up her hands, which made the distant nebula's colors shift slightly. "If it's not weird butterfly effects or faster-than-light light, it's time loops. I hate this place. All it'd take is a hard sneeze to knock the whole dimension down."

She'd been saying things to such effect for the past few months. Consequently, nobody really paid much attention to the latest round of griping about the Nightmare Realm's poor maintenance, until she said, "I'm bailing on the Quadrangle. Soon as I can find a decent rock in some other dimension. Who else is coming?"

8 Ball glanced down at Pyronica from the floor with their gaming setup. "Hold on, are you serious?" He quickly had to look away as Zanthar took advantage of the distraction to attack.

"Yeah, I'm serious. I don't wanna break up the gang, but I'm sick of this dump."

Huddled on a nearby wall like an unemployed gargoyle, Paci-Fire said solemnly, "I will stay, Mother. The Quadrangle of Qonfusion is the only home I have ever known."

"Probably one of my worst life decisions," Pyronica muttered. "The Quadrangle isn't our home, it was Bill's. We're just... just..."

Ducking in from between two columns that seemed to lead to a purple-shadowed nighttime meadow, Teeth said, "Eternal couch-surfers."

"Ha! Yeah, that. Hey, where you been the past week?"

"Took a wrong turn to the bathroom. I ended up in that pocket dimension Bill grounded the electrical wiring into."

"Again?"

"I never know how many times to cross that one infinitely looping hallway!"

Pyronica gestured at Teeth. "See, this place is a complete mess. We'd be better off moving to any other dimension. And you'd like living in a real dimension if you gave it a shot, Paci!"

"No." Paci-Fire crossed his arms. "I do not want to."

"At least think about it. Wouldn't you like to live somewhere that has moons? Instead of going on a road trip to another dimension every time you want to drive a civilization to extinction?"

Keyhole muttered, "I hate those stupid road trips. They're always a zillion light years long and we never do anything fun."

"Hey!" Pyronica pointed at Keyhole. "Watch it! My kid's a lunarcide prodigy, he gets to go on as many moon-destroying trips as he wants!"

Keyhole cringed. "Right, right, sorry." 8 Ball muttered something disparaging about Keyhole's intellect, right before blowing him up for the second time.

Paci-Fire asked, "And say we were to move to a dimension with more moons. What would we do when the authorities follow us home after another successful slaughter?" A side-effect of growing up in the Henchmaniacs was that Paci-Fire regarded The Authorities as a nebulous bogeyman that was personally out to get him and all his family and friends. "Are we to lock the door and cower from them like—like cowards? Or constantly flee from one dimension to the next? No, Mother. I do not wish to live like a pariah in the dark corners of—" his lower mouth sneered around his pacifier, "civilized dimensions. There is nowhere safer for us than the Nightmare Realm."

"Sweetie, you don't have to be afraid of the authorities in other dimensions—"

"Mother! I know no fear." Paci-Fire's eyes flared a bright, dangerous red.

Pyronica playfully tugged one of his horn. "We can find a dimension as primitive as 46'\ without any interstellar cops. Like—which dimension were you from, Teeth, it doesn't even have any organized space authorities, does it?"

"Oh, yeah, pretty much every world in my galaxy was still ground bound when Bill recruited me." Teeth stepped on a column, slid off, and shuffled around it, trying to remember which side doubled as a walkway to the kitchen. "I don't really mind staying here, though. I mean yeah, we don't have a roof, or consistent walls, and the wiring's a mess. But the rent's really reasonable for a place this size in this part of the Nightmare Realm."

Hectorgon processed that. "Hold on." He lay on a wall and slid up it until he was mouth level with Teeth. "You've been paying rent?"

Teeth paused mid-column. "Wh—yeah? What's that supposed to mean?"

Pyronica bit her lip to keep from laughing, elbowed Paci-Fire, and hissed, "I thought Bill was joking about charging Teeth rent!"

Paci-Fire murmured, "Bill Cipher was always a most droll prankster."

"Who are you paying it to?" Hectorgon asked.

"I mean—I was paying it to Bill. But I dunno who took that over, so I guess, kinda... no one?"

With a mildly offended tone, Hectorgon lied, "You were supposed to give it to me now."

"Oh." Teeth shifted awkwardly. "Uh... sorry, Hect, no one told me. I don't think I've got enough on hand to cover all the..."

"It's fine, everything's been topsy-turvy since... the last few months. Just give me what you have and pay back the rest as soon as you can, okay?"

"Sure, sure, no problem. Thanks, man."

Pyronica bit her lip to keep from laughing. "All right, so Teeth is stupid enough to stay here."

"Hey!"

"But I don't see why the rest of us should be." She looked up at the trio playing games below her, then tried to remember which stupid paradox staircase led to that level. She hesitantly headed up one that looked promising. "Moving out would be worth it just to be somewhere with consistent physics!"

"I am contented with the inconsistent physics," Paci-Fire said.

"It took you fifty years longer than most kids to learn how to walk," Pyronica said. "I know you're my little genius! It's this dimension that's holding you down!" 

"Boo," Paci-Fire said sulkily.

"Paci, you don't even like the Quadrangle. Nobody does."

Amorphous Shape let out a chorus of sharp gasps. They slid around a corner and reappeared sliding from the underside of the staircase to the top, laying zigzag atop the steps to glare at Pyronica. "Excuse us."

"I'll step on you, Morph," Pyronica threatened. Amorphous Shape grudgingly slid over for her to pass. "Fine, Bill's stupid 2D groupies like the Quadrangle. But the rest of us don't."

"What's wrong with it?" Morph demanded.

"What's—?!" Pyronica gestured upward at the floor below them. "You don't see the problem with this?!"

"It's supposed to be like that. It's a shortcut." 

"It's a—!" Pyronica covered her face and suppressed a scream. "It's giving me vertigo!"

"It doesn't give us vertigo," Morph said defensively. They partially peeled off the steps to look at Hectorgon. "Does it give you vertigo?"

"No, I'm fine."

"What about you, Kryptos?"

There was no answer.

"Krypt?" Morph reluctantly peeled off the stairs entirely and hovered in the air to try to get a better view.

"He probably got sucked into The Void," Keyhole muttered, "it was vibrating this morning."

8 Ball sighed. "Why do we even have that Void?"

"Man, I dunno."

Pyronica ascended to the bottom of the stairs, sat on the arm of the gamers' couch, and said, "The point is—none of us need this place. I got by fine before joining Bill, most of you guys did too, and we can get by just fine now without squatting in his weird architecture project."

She leaned behind Keyhole and 8 Ball to poke Zanthar's arm. "Big Z, you still have worshippers in your home dimension, right? Aren't you still getting offerings?"

Zanthar shrugged noncommittally.

"They've still got legends of you, you can whip them back into shape in no time. Keyhole, you've got family—"

Without looking away from the screen, where he was losing hideously, Keyhole muttered, "I'm not moving back in with my mom."

"I'm not talking about your mom, stupid, what about your sisters?" 

Keyhole winced, though it was hard to tell whether it was from Pyronica's question or from getting killed for the third and final time. "I don't know... Bill and I were talking about them once, and I realized they're as bad as Mom was. Bill said probably the only reason they didn't treat me as bad is because they never got the opportunity—"

"Who cares what Bill said," Pyronica snapped. "Bill's dead! We don't have to listen to him anymore!"

"Hear hear," 8 Ball muttered; but he couldn't throw in anything else, lest Zanthar blow him up and win the match.

Pyronica said, "Face it: the only reason the rest of us didn't leave the Nightmare Realm millennia ago is because Bill couldn't leave."

Morph drifted through the kitchen—reaching around Teeth to grab a drink out of the fridge as they passed—and unfolded questioningly around a corner. "There you are."

Kryptos was in the rec room, lounging on Bill's stupid tacky optical illusion throne with the fabric of reality upholstery, staring out a window (or skylight, depending on your point of perspective). He grunted at Morph.

Morph said, "Bill's gonna be furious you're using his throne."

"Whatever. Z's already spilled time punch on the armrest." Kryptos pointed at the patch of reality on the armrest that was out of chronological synch with the rest of the throne.

"He's not gonna be furious," Pyronica said, shouting through the doorway that inexplicably connected to the rec room. "He's not gonna be anything because he's dead. He died. D-E-A-D."

"He's not." And suddenly Morph were in Pyronica's face, all of their polygons and lines and piercing slitted eyes circling her head like angry moons. Keyhole leaned toward 8 Ball to see the screen around them, and 8 Ball elbowed him back over. Morph said, "He can't be. If Bill was dead, the Nightmare Realm would be falling apart even faster—"

"So let's bail while we can—"

"—but it's not," they said. "If anything, its degradation is slowing down. That would be impossible if he were dead, he's instrumental to holding the Nightmare Realm together—"

"Unless he lied about that, and he was actually making everything worse," Pyronica said.

"Bill's not a liar! We have the data to prove it, we've been measuring the degradation for billennia—"

"I'm sick of your stupid measurements! It was your 'measurements' that said 46'\ was perfect to take over! Was that stupid barrier part of your measurements?!"

"That barrier was extremely localized, there's no way we could have detected—"

"The portal was right in the middle of it! How did you idiots miss it?!"

8 Ball groaned as Zanthar whittled away the last of his HP. Zanthar let out a gentle hum like the sound of an apocalyptic vacuum cleaner as the game declared him the winner.

8 Ball tossed his controller at the TV. The TV squealed in fear. "If Bill is alive, that's just another reason to get out of the Nightmare Realm! Leave before he gets back! He can play king in this dump by himself."

Paci-Fire said, "Surely, you do not mean that. Were Bill still around..."

"No! No, I do mean it! The only reason we've stayed so long is because everyone's too starstruck or too scared to ditch him! Not anymore! If his flat-brained cultists wanna wait for him, fine! But why do we all gotta stay?"

"Hey!" Hectorgon rushed in from the kitchen to snarl at 8 Ball. "Who're you calling flat, cue tip—?"

Kryptos tuned out the argument downstairs/next door as 8 Ball and Hectorgon started brawling. Who were they kidding? Nobody was leaving. Maybe 8 Ball, he'd tried to split four or five times before crawling back, but Kryptos didn't care about him anyway. Bill had always been right about him: he was too selfish to care about the rest of the gang but too stupid to make it on his own. They'd taken in losers like that before and it had never been a big loss when they left. But no one else would leave. Where would they go?

Where could they go?

Kryptos didn't care about the outerplanar Henchmaniacs' reasons for joining Bill; but the shapes were here because Bill had promised to make them a new home. He was the only one in all of reality who could do it. Kryptos was as desperate to hear from Bill as Morph and Hect were. They'd held fast to Bill's promise for a trillion years—so how could they let go of whatever thin thread of that hope remained? Who would they be if they lost it?

But in his heart, Kryptos didn't really believe Bill was out there. He'd been gone too long. And Kryptos couldn't imagine anything less catastrophic than Bill's destruction could have reversed Weirdmageddon.

Yet he was still here, and still waiting, because he didn't know what else to do. He'd stay in the Quadrangle until the whole realm finally fell apart, just in case Bill casually floated back in one day. He'd do anything they could think of to find him and bring him back.

And then Kryptos got a call from Earth.

He sighed heavily.

Calls from Earth weren't unusual. Perks of having helped found the Fishmasons: Kryptos was occasionally summoned by the Fishermen high-ranked enough to be told their organization really did know an interdimensional alien who was their de facto secret leader and presided over their most important rituals. Assuming "de facto secret leader" meant "living equivalent of a beloved sports team mascot," and "presided over" meant "got free invitations to," and "most important rituals" meant "most fun parties." But the humans liked to pretend that their little group was a lot more important and cloak-and-dagger than the social club it really was; and all the wink-wink-nudge-nudge pretending-Kryptos-was-in-charge, while silly, was also kind of flattering. You didn't get many chances to be the star of the show when you lived around a supernova like Bill.

So, Kryptos got calls from Earth from time to time—at least a handful a year—typically from a middle-aged man in a business suit trying to pretend he wasn't giddy about being the guy who'd gotten permission to pull out the candles and contact The Alien.

Kryptos was not in the mood to talk to humans. Humans were why they were in this mess. Humanity could go jump in a lake.

But it wasn't every human's fault that a handful had somehow taken out Bill. And maybe they were calling for a party. Maybe it would cheer him up.

So he sighed again, half heartedly shouted, "Guys—guys, shut up a second, I'm getting a call," and opened up a window to Earth.

His vision was filled with a brown-skinned golden-haired haunted-eyed human who, at the sight of Kryptos, gave him a relieved, face-splitting smile. "H—"

Kryptos hung up.

To reiterate: he took calls from middle-aged men in business suits. That was a naked woman crouched on the floor like an animal.

"Who was it?" Hectorgon asked.

"No one. Some woo-woo witchy type who probably dug up a leaked Fishmason ritual online."

Hectorgon laughed. "I bet it thought it could ask a 'demon' for lottery numbers."

"Sorry, sister, but that's Bill's schtick," Kryptos said. "My number is unlisted for a reason."

Kryptos wondered about Bill's human pals. Well—"pals" was a bit of a stretch—devotees and students. How often did he get calls? And now they couldn't reach him.

Stinks for them. Must be awful, reaching out to someone in another dimension for help and getting nothing back.

####

An ethereal, sourceless voice whispered in Bill's ear, "The all-knowing dream demon you're trying to reach is currently unavailable for visions and prophecies. If this is an emergency, wake up and call your nearest Masonic lodge. Otherwise, please leave your prayers or petitions after the beep." Beep.

Bill stared, jaw dropped, at the empty patch of air where Kryptos had been projecting just a moment ago. After several seconds of mute outrage, Bill said, "Kr... Kryptos. You... I swear, if you don't get back here this SECOND—"

The sheer force of his anger woke him up. His eyes fluttered open to the world of color and humidity and pattering water. He grabbed every towel he could reach, wadded them up, and screamed into them. "KRYPTOS YOU SON OF A— I KNOW YOU NEVER CHECK YOUR VOICEMAIL! AND WERE YOU ON MY THRONE, WERE YOU SITTING ON MY SPECIAL THRONE—!"

He shrieked until his lungs were empty.

####

At sixty minutes exactly, Ford knocked and opened the bathroom door. Bill stood scowling behind it.

Dryly, Ford asked, "Have a pleasant shower?"

Wet hair hanging in tangles, face flushed red, eyes even redder, Bill snapped, "Yeah. Refreshing."

####

"Mabel?"

Mabel glanced down from the stepladder at Bill, then pointedly looked away and continued taping Summerween decorations to the hallway wallpaper. "What."

"Mabel," Bill tried again, a touch more pleading. "O great Shooting Star. My hero. My one and only friend in this hostile universe. Last person who hasn't utterly forsaken me." He leaned on the wall, the back of his hand pressed to his forehead. "The sole illumination in the dark night of my accursed postmortem existence—"

Mabel grudgingly looked at Bill again. "What do you want?"

"Listen: I know I upset you at the mall, and I still need to make it up to you—I do, I do, I just haven't had a chance yet—and you're still a little mad at me, okay—buuut... can you help me make a costume." He pressed his hands together. "Please. I'll owe you one. I'll be in your debt. Just let me dress up for Summerween."

Mabel frowned at him. She frowned a little more. She said, frowning, "You're so lucky I love costumes."

####

(Next week: Summerween part 2!! Thanks for reading, if you enjoyed I'd love to hear from y'all what you think! I've been waiting to get to the Henchmaniacs for a long time. Mainly in the hopes y'all will yell at me for putting Bill through heck again.)

[notscarsafe]

Okay, so in honor of all the Hermits stirring things up on Twitter today, let's REALISTICALLY consider Season Ten. What do we know, what are our clues, actually???

(Speculating and overanalyzing are really fun so I'm just going to embrace my tendency to Listify Everything and spill my thoughts on Season Ten under the cut!)

First Evidence: The Words of the Hermits.

Nine Days ago Scar said in his Jellie tribute video that Season Ten was “Just around the corner”. Five days ago on the 18th, right after the Hermit meeting that probably finalized their start of the season plans, Cub posted his cryptic tweet whose incorrect capitalizations spelled out “SEASON TEN SOON”. I can't imagine either of those hermits using that phrasing if the season start was more than a month away.

What's more, Gem posted yesterday the 23 that “If hermitcraft s10 doesn’t start soon I’m gonna explode!!!” I can't imagine Gem being that impatient unless there was only a couple of weeks or maybe just one week left before filming.

Second Point to Consider: Hermit Conscientiousness.

The Hermits sre generally really kind to each other and have known when the Hermitcraft Vault Hunters challenge was going to end (Jan 31st, midnight) for months. Per Iskall, the videos of the Herald Vault will drop February 1rst and I can't imagine they'd want video competition between that content and the new season.

Clue Three: The Streaming Activities of the Hermits.

The sheer amount of time Joe has spent playing Vault Hunters lead me to believe they can't have started filming for Season 10 yet. Seriously, when Joe finally has a day without a bonus Vault Hunters stream I'm gonna get mighty suspicious. Joe has streamed more than three hours of Vault Hunters every single day for a week. There was Wednesday when he did his art stream, but I wouldn't expect that to have been a launch day because:

Fact Four: Editing turn around times are so grindy.

The traffic series always has a several day turn around for editing time (IE film Monday post Friday) and several Hermits still struggle to get them out on those days. Even if the hermits were going to ignore the Vault Hunters conflict and start filming season ten this week, tomorrow even, they'd just barely have enough time to squeeze those videos out before the Herald Vault videos. As I'm editing this post Impulse just said he's trying to finish his office reorg this week and have a tour out next week. That does not sound like 'filming this week and editing the new season opener' behavior.

If it goes as Iskall indicated on stream, the Vault Hunter hermits will film the Herald Vault and post as soon as possible on February 1st, meaning the earliest they could kick off season ten would be Friday the 2nd. Even if they film on then I can't imagine them dropping new season videos/having them edited any earlier than Monday the 5th. Furthermore:

Clue Five: A lot of Hermits are very protective of their weekends.

Pearl for example almost didn't join the Decked Out visitor day because it was a weekend. It may be that Monday the 5th would be the more likely earliest useable day for filming after Vault Hunters ended. With editing turn around, we'd guess the start date to be Friday at least.

In Conclusion:

My totally bullshit overanalyzed but still blind guess is that the Hermits will film season ten starting February 5th and will drop videos sometime between February 7th and 9th.

That being said, Cub's cypher today that may have just been trolling said season ten would be “sooner than we'd think” so they may surprise me yet.

Keep an eye out for days where no hermits stream or days where Joe does a brief “1 hour chill stream” to see when the Hermits might be suspiciously behind the scenes. I won't be mad if I'm wrong, overthinking is fun. Either way I hope you join me in hypong up the new season and the new Hermits joining the Hermit Fam. I can't wait!

(Note: this post originally reported the herald vault videos as dropping the 2nd which was an estimate from a stream, but Iskalls video today reported they'd drop the first and this post has been edited to reflect that ❤️)

[rukminis]

I have a theory about Lady Tilley Arnold in the show and how it might be an indication that the next season is Benedict's (please gods, let it be Benedict's), here we go

SPOILERS for Bridgerton season 3 and An Offer From a Gentleman under the cut!

Right, so I was pretty mad when they introduced yet another love interest so flippantly for Benedict, but I rewatched the portions with Lady Tilley and there are two things that go unexplained.

1. She mentions that she had a husband, and had had several seasons to mourn him already

2. She was arguing with a solicitor when Benedict called on her, and never properly explained why

I'm hoping Part 2 will give us more insight, but here's what I make of this, and the book comes into play now.

What if Lady Tilley is a shoe-in for Araminta?

The circumstances do seem similar: Araminta also married Sophie's father, the Earl, shortly before he died. Tilley didn't mention having children at all, so either she hid the fact that she had daughters from Benedict, or she doesn't have children in the show at all.

And funnily enough, not having step-siblings would really add to Sophie's story, because Tilley might certainly be bitter about the fact that she didn't get to produce a rightful heir to her husband's estate and the only remaining person with an actual blood relation to the Earl is Sophie. It would also serve as such a great plot point for why Araminta/Tilley might torture Sophie in the show.

On to the second point, Tilley was arguing with a solicitor. When Benedict asked, she just explained it away saying he was overcharging her, but what if it was more?

What if, like the books, the late Earl left everything to his ward Sophie and Araminta/Tilley was trying to get the solicitor to hide or edit out that portion in her favour? Araminta did conceal and lie about the will to Sophie in the books, so it isn't too much of a stretch to have that in the show too.

If we assume Tilley married her husband in her early 20s, he died in her mid 20s, and she's now in her early 30s, it still gives us a huge time span for her to raise (read: enslave) Sophie for more than half a decade.

ALSO, in a promo reel where Bridgerton cast members were associating this season with emojis, Luke Newton said 'drama masks'. Yes it could be about Penelope's mask as Whistledown coming off, but Benedict and Sophie's storyline is centered around the masquerade ball, which also involves masks.

Eloise's midnight deadline for Penelope to reveal herself (in the part 2 teaser) also seems significant to me because it's a converging point for the drama. And Sophie escaped the masquerade ball at midnight in the book.

I'm thinking that, at some point during the last two episodes, Violet hosts her masquerade ball. Benedict meets Sophie like the books, even leaves Tilley alone to dance with this mystery woman. And when midnight approaches, Penelope reveals herself as Whistledown.

There will, naturally, be pandemonium. Benedict might even have to rush to Colin and Pen's rescue, he's a Bridgerton after all. And in this chaos, Sophie leaves. That very night, Tilley realises that Sophie went to the ball. Not only is she angry that her little servant flouted her orders, she is mad because Sophie stole her man's attention away. And she casts Sophie out (we may actually see this whole POV in the next season though, so hmph).

But I think this season will end with Benedict coming out of the masquerade utterly smitten, and vowing to find the woman in the mask who has won over his heart. And that's how his season will begin.

Unless they decide to break my heart and pursue Francesca's story.

Ah well. Let's see haha.

[captainsarahscratches]

Thin Walls

Reader and Kenny Omega are staying the night at a friend house unexpectedly. Ruining their plans for the evening.However, Kenny disagrees and convinces Reader that they can still have some fun.

....................

Kenny Omega x Fem Reader

SMUT, Muffling, Light Choking, Taboo Sex, Quasi-Public Sex, Anal Play, Degradation : Slut, Whore, Cunt, Potential Caught in the Act Scenarios

....................

"damnit, I knew I should have taken the car in yesterday." You said as your engine failed to turn over yet again. "I told you, you can't ignore a check engine light y/n." Rolling your eyes and mimicking his voice "YoU cAnT IgnOrE the LigHt, Im Kenny And I know things blah blah blah"

Chuckling, "Come on baby, let's get inside. It's starting to rain. Let's see if Matt is okay with us staying a bit longer until we can figure something out." Wrapping his arm around you, you lock your car. He looks down at you, "What? Worried someone is gonna steal it? It can't even move." You laughed, cheerishing the fact he can still make you laugh in a shitty situation.

You go to knock at the door but the door swung open and Matt said to get inside quickly as the rain was getting worse very fast. "Get inside, car won't start?"

"Someone ignored her engine light for too long." As he gently nudged you with his arm, "Can we stay a little longer until we can get someone out here?"

"Dude, just stay the night. Its pouring outside and it's almost midnight anyway. No one is coming out in this shit. We have an extra room." As he was explaining himself Matt's wife Dana handed you a stack of towels, "You're staying. I'm not letting you two drive in this."

You just smiled and said thank you. You continued on to settle in. After saying goodnight to Dana and Matt you laid in bed beside Kenny.

"Well, I know this isn't what we had planned for tonight but I'm glad we didn't have to drive in this." he said as he flipped through channels stopping on the weather channel showing the severity of the storm.

Sighing you replied, "I know, but I was looking forward to tonight. I love when you play with my ass" He cocked an eyebrow in your direction. "And what makes you think that isn't happening?'' He turned over to hover over your body, his hand tracing the skin of your thigh. You were shocked, did he actually just suggest what you think he did? "Ken, we can't do that here."

"And why not? We have this nice big bed to ourselves and a storm outside always gets you in the mood. What was it you said? Drowns out your moans for the neighbors?" He started to lay kisses on the nape of your neck.

You moaned softly at his touch but caught yourself. "Exactly why we can't do that here. You know how loud I am, and especially when you train my ass. I dont want then to hear."

Sucking harder on your neck whispering gruffly in your ear, "What dont want Matt to hear how good I fuck you? How I make you scream for more. Listen to the absolutely filthy fucking moans you let out when I fuck you senseless as I thumb your little virgin ass." He smacks your ass hsrd making you yelp and roll towards him trying to stifle your moans. "That's exactly what I dont want." You lay on top of him staring into his eyes, his arms wrapped around holding you tight, his cock hard and against your core. You can't help but to bite your lip looking at your man kike this.

"See there it is..."

"What?"

His hand gently cups your neck, "See you love the idea of being caught. I can see it in your eyes. But you're right, you're too loud. But I can fix that." His grip becomes tighter. "See we'll make it a game. Lets see how long you can keep yourself quiet. If you're quiet, I fuck you until we cum and kiss you good night like my sweet little girl filled with daddy's cum.... But if you start to make a scene and scream as I fuck you, well.... I won't be as sweet. Because baby, if you let them hear you, you're going to let them know exactly how good I fuck you."

Befor you could even respond you felt his length thrust into you, causing you to moan and bite your lip harshly. Kenny's hand cupped your cheek.

"Oh this will be fun. Won't it Sweetheart?"

you could only desperately nod, not daring to open your mouth.

"Mmm good girl"

His already darken eyes look up at you as he starts to suck hard on your breast, turning into little bites, making sure to mark you. You can see a smirk on his face, as his hand reaches back to your throat, gently bringing you face to face with him. "Now see, why am I not surprised that you cant keep quiet darling? Huh? One little bite and you're already moaning. What are we going to do about that?" His lips millimeters from your ear, his breath on your neck, you pussy clenching around his cock with every word. "Aww I can feel how bad you need me baby. Your little cunt is begging for me." He starts to flex his cock inside of you, causing you to bury your face in his shoulder. Grabing your hair he bring your head up again, "Do I need to find a way to shut your mouth for you?" You look at him with needy eyes. "Yes, Sir" you whisper quietly.

Bouncing on his cock, biting your lip so hard you think might bleed. "Lets get rid of this though, let me see my beautiful girl" He strips you of the shirt Dana loaned you, instantly encapsulating your nipple in his mouth... Causing you to break your silence. "Oh fuck yes..."

"On your knees."

You looked up at him with excitement, slowly stroking his cock in your hand. Taking time before placing a soft kiss on the tip of his cock, swiping your tongue slowly up his length. "That's a good girl, show me how much you can take down that pretty little mouth of yours" You smiled as you took him inrto your mouth, hollowing your cheeks and running your tongue on the shaft of his dick.

He dropped his head backwards, growling at the feeling. "Fuck Y/N... Such a good fucking Slut for me" It was then, when it clicked in your mind.

This wasn't about you not being loud, this was a contest to see who made who break first. You hummed around his cock with an mischievous look in your eyes. Kenny inhaled deeply laughing quietly to himself as he realized what you were thinking. "No, now this is about you. Be a good girl, and. Fuckkk" You starting to bob your head up and down vigorously, stroking his length as you came up, taking his length to the back of your throat, softly gagging around him. But it didn't stop you. You wanted to be the reason he came undone.

He pulled you to your feet flipped you around and bent you over the bed, hand on you shoulders to keep you down. "Yeah, baby? You want to suck me like a little whore? You're going to get fucked like a little whore." He spread ypur ass apart, smacking it hard and without any build up slammed into yoh. Gucking you harder with every thrust. You bit onto the pillow, but Kenny ripped it away, throwing it on the floor. Leaving you on an empty bed with nothing to muffle you.

"God damnit y/n, fuck... Suck that fucking cock." He inhaled quickly, taking your hair in his hand thrusting into your mouth. "Yeah, you want to suck my cock like a little whore? huh? Being such a sneaky little slut for me. Thinking that your going to make me wake up the house?? Not tonight darling. Come here"

"Let me hear you. Tell me who's my little slut?"

"I am"

He smacks your ass again.

"Who??"

"I am your little slut, daddy"

He leans over you, whispering in your ear.

"That's right baby, I love when you act like a little slut for me. Taking Daddy's cock so well in your little cunt. Letting me use you no matter where we are. You dont even care that Matt can hear right now do you?" He felt your walls clench around his cock again "Oh so you like that he can dont you? Well if thats the case, let's let him hear what we've been training for. Oh and don't hold back. I want them to hear how my sweet little y/n is a dirty fucking whore for me, and only me. I want you to make them so horny with your moans that we hear them fucking too. Yeah, you want everyone to know how much you live my cock don't you baby?"

With that, you felt his thumb press into your asshole and that was it. Loudly you moaned out "FUCK DADDY, YES" You couldn't hold it any longer you were moaning into the matress to no avail of covering your moans. Kenny loved it and you could feel it. He started to finger your ass faster and deeper and thrusting himself ruthlessly deep into you. Your orgasm was uncontrollable and with little warning. You came around his cock, making a mess of the two of you and the sheets of the bed.

Kenny couldn't hold back much longer. He removed his hand your ass and gripped both sides of you hips so hard, you started to bruise. Throught gritted teeth, eyes shut, head falling into your back "Fuck y/n, God you're so fucking tight."

Smacking your ass over abd over again, leaving your ass red and wanting more.

"Fuckk baby you're going to make me cum."

You looked over your shoulder getting the best look you could of him.

"Do it, Cum for me Kenny. Cum inside me, Breed me Daddy. I need it, Let me be a good little slut for you."

Kenny yelled out in euphoria. Grunting loudly as he fought to keep fucking you through his orgasm. His cum flood and overflowing your cunt. He was sweating and breathing hard, after a moment he pulled out of you. Hands on your ass and bent dow you clean up the mess he made. Something he had never done befoe, making you gasp and like second nature grind your ass against him. He started to take the mess and spread it over you fingered asshole, sliding his middle finger inside one more time. "Yeah, Im going to make this ass mine tomorrow. At home, so I can hear you properly moan out."

Moments passed and he helped clean you both up and settle into bed properly. Snuggling up againdt him, the two of you still coming down from your high. You said "I'm honestly surprised we didn't wake them after that." Before Kenny could even respond, you both heard a distant moan from the other room accompanied by a rhythmic thumping against the wall.

Kenny looked so surprised and giddy as he said

"See, I told you. Your moans are so fucking hot thwy get everyone horny. 😃" You laughed softlt slapped his chest. "Shut up, you dont know that's what happened."

"Matt you're not putting anything in my ass!" "Fine, I'm sorry"

You look at each other and smile but then it hits you both how thin the walls actually are....

Breakfast will be very interesting tomorrow.

[lovesuhng]

[14:08]

couple: bestfriend! yuta x bestfriend! reader

“Please sleep over”

Today was the day before your best friend Yuta's birthday. For weeks you were thinking about different ideas of what to do to make that day even more special and you decided to do something that would definitely make your friend happy: buy a ticket for the concert of The Last Rockstars, a super band formed by the four biggest Japanese rockstars and great inspirations from Yuta.

“Come on Yuta, get off that couch, go take a shower, change your clothes because we’re going out.” You said, entering your friend's apartment, who was lying on the couch watching something.

“Hi Yuta, how was your day? Your birthday is tomorrow, right? What are we gonna do to celebrate? These are things I would like to hear. And I don’t want to go anywhere today.”

“Maybe you’ll change your mind when I tell you where we’re going” You said, taking two papers out of your bag. Yuta changed his expression instantly, his eyes widened, not believing what he was seeing.

“Don’t tell me that’s…” “Two tickets to the sold-out The Last Rockstars concert? Yes, it is, but since you said you don't want to leave the house, I'll see if someone else wants to…”

You were interrupted by the tight hug from your friend, who lifted you off the ground and then gave you several kisses on your face saying “thank you”, some of them being dangerously close to your mouth, but even as your heart beat faster, you ignored it a little, seeing the happiness on his face.

“Now you have to get ready soon because we only have two hours before the show”

Yuta got ready quickly and a few minutes later you were already at the place where the show was going to take place. You could feel that he was very nervous about being about to see his idols, so you just held his hand and smiled, trying to calm the man down.

The show started and you could see the sparkle in your friend's eyes. He screamed, sang at the top of his lungs, got emotional and that made you have fun with him, after all, you also knew some songs, not all like Yuta, who was the biggest fan in the world. Some moments in the show, when they played slower songs, he hugged you and anyone would think you were a couple and that didn't bother you, you liked it more than you could imagine. It was almost two hours of great fun and, on the way out, you even bought band shirts to wear as a “couple outfit”.

You went to drop him off at home and made a point of going to the door of his apartment.

“Seriously, when Hyde appeared, I thought my heart was going to come out of my mouth and that I was going to lose my voice because I screamed so much. It was surreal.” You just laughed at how excited your friend was talking about every moment of the show.

“I can already see that you won’t stop talking about this show for the next few months”

"Thanks to you." Yuta placed his hands on your waist, pulling you closer to him. "Thank you for everything."

“No need to thank me, you know I would do anything for you.”

“Even give me a birthday kiss? It’s past midnight.”

You blushed in embarrassment, but nodded. Then, Yuta came over and kissed you. The kiss was much better than you expected, after all you thought about what it would be like to kiss your best friend constantly. You felt him smile between the kiss and, if it weren't for the fact that he was holding you, you would definitely fall, as your knees practically turned to jelly after that.

“Wow. Happy birthday” You said, still with your forehead pressed against Yuta’s. “Well, I think I better go, we’ll meet later to celebrate your birthday.”

"Wait!" Yuta said as soon as you were out of his arms. “Please sleep over.”

Even though you found the request unexpected, after all you had never slept with Yuta, you couldn't deny your best friend's request.

"Sure"

“This is going to be the best birthday I’ve ever had.”

[sihtricfedaraaahvicius]

The Honey Trap part 2

Note: the idea of sexpionage is wonderful to use in fics, but I want to make it clear that sexpionage is a daunting and grim reality too, and I am very aware of that and do not mean to ignore that. It is a trope I am using, lighthearted, but I do not want to pretend that the actual act of sexpionage is not horrific to many involved. That being said, I will not describe the horrors of it. This is a work of fiction, but created with some knowledge about the real thing.

follow up to part 1.

Warnings: 18+! smut.

Pairing: Modern Spy!Sihtric x Spy!Reader (f)

Summary: You gave Sihtric something in return for some information.

Word count: 1,7k 

Masterlist

Chapter 2: the confirmation.

The first night you met Sihtric he truly thought you'd invite him up to your room to have sex, and he was surprised when that didn't happen. In fact, you didn't invite him at all, you simply kissed his cheek and told him to call you before his eyes landed on your buttocks as you walked up the stairs to the hotel entrance. He was as disappointed as he was surprised, and he didn't know that it was just all part of your plan. A plan that still seemed to be very much in motion the next day.

Another lesson taught during your training was to never give your target what they want straight away. You have to slowly lure them in, only giving a little each time. And when Sihtric called you early in the afternoon the next day and asked you out, you knew he had fallen for the trap you had so carefully set up. He seemed to believe the lies you told him, that you were just a girl in a big city looking for a way to make her dreams come true as an actress. You couldn't afford a home yet, so you rented a hotel room at a fixed rate. Your story wasn't uncommon, Sihtric knew, as many girls lived like you in order to chase their dreams before realising it would never happen. Sihtric felt for you in a way, if you were truly one of those girls, but then again… he still didn't exactly trust you, yet you had piqued his interest in multiple ways.

You accepted his invite and met up early in the evening at a fancy restaurant, one that was supposed to be way above your budget and you knew that Sihtric had chosen the place on purpose. It was a man's way of having a certain power over a woman, because he would pay for you and therefore probably thought you'd owe him something in return. 

You put on some makeup, never too much as it would risk leaving traces, so you only used a hint of eyeshadow and a red matte lipstick; liquid, so it wouldn't stain. You wore a little black dress that showed off your shape and you carried a matching shoulder bag, which held some cash, a credit card, lipstick, a mirror and a small knife that was lethal enough to kill with.

You had been taught to tune out your emotions, and that is what you did when Sihtric embraced you firmly upon meeting again. He looked handsome, dressed in all black wearing tight fitting jeans and a silky blouse. He had several shiny rings around his fingers and an expensive watch around his wrist, clearly flaunting his dirty richness.

You played the part of being the interested date and, just like that night before, conversation with the stunning man went effortlessly. It seemed that he swallowed every lie you told him with ease again, and soon you found yourself sitting next to him with his arm resting on the back of your chair, his warm fingers lightly caressing your bare shoulder. He leaned in every time he spoke, using his voice again as a way to enchant you, while you used the same tactic on him too. You eventually had dinner together and shared a few drinks as time passed by.

The entire evening you enjoyed each other's company and listened to the lies you told each other, which you both weren't aware of. And regardless of the lies, you both felt that there was a strange sort of connection between you two.

'You know, I was surprised you called me,' you smiled when it was almost midnight.

'How so?' Sihtric asked as he leaned back slightly.

'I thought you only wanted sex, and I didn't give it to you.'

'I didn't just want sex last night,' Sihtric half lied, 'but I wouldn't have declined if you had offered.'

'Well, I'm not that easy,' you said and gave him a playful wink.

'Good,' he said and took a sip of his drink, 'because easy bores me.'

'Then tell me,' you leaned closer, his arm still around your shoulders, 'what excites a man like you?' you asked as you trailed your fingers over his chest.

'I'm also not that easy,' Sihtric laughed, 'you'll have to stick around if you want to know what excites me. But what about you, hm? What excites a lady like you?'

'I guess you'll have to find out too,' you teased.

'I suppose,' he agreed, then decided to subtly pry, 'so, what brought you to that pub? Not many know how to find it, and those who do don't stick around and they definitely don't look like you.'

'I…' you paused, surprised by the sudden question and you tried to gather your thoughts, 'I guess I just… have a thing for bad guys.'

'Bad guys, huh? What makes you think I'm a bad guy?'

'You look like one,' you smiled sweetly, 'all handsome and yet so rugged looking with those scars and your tattoos, while also having a form of mystery around you and clearly, you are very wealthy. I think it's sexy. And I won't lie,' you decided to give him some truth after stroking his ego, 'I am aware of the crowd that goes to that pub. And maybe I like that.'

'So that's what excites you?' Sihtric grinned, 'so-called bad guys?'

'Perhaps,' you shrugged with a sly smile, 'or perhaps… only you excite me.'

'Hm, so then I take it, you know who I work for?'

'I think so,' you played dumb, 'I mean… I think everyone knows the stories about Skade and those who hang out at that pub. But I don't know if they are true or if you actually work for her.'

'Everything you hear about her,' Sihtric said quietly, 'is true. You can take that from me, I know her very well.'

'Gosh, I want to be like her,' another lie spilled easily from your lips as you looked into his eyes, 'she is so powerful and rich. It would be an honour to meet her sometime, but I know that's impossible.'

Sihtric smiled at that and, after you had finished your drink, he invited you over to his luxurious apartment. You knew he was expecting some form of sexual pleasure, and you would give him just enough to keep him interested, but also to reward him for confirming that he indeed worked for Skade and was close to her. And the sexual tension had been there all night, one that seemed almost real, and for the first time in your career you were actually rather excited to please your target.

But as your training had taught you, you knew to keep your distance too in order to not have your own feelings interfere with your job. So you didn't kiss him, no matter how many times Sihtric tried to pull your lips towards his as the elevator took you to his floor. You always subtly rejected him by kissing his jaw or his neck, and you popped the buttons of his dark blouse to trail your lips down to his chest. His hands were all over you as you hooked your fingers around his belt, pulling him with you inside his apartment and pushing him down to sit on his couch, which overlooked the city skyline as his place was located on the 16th floor.

Sihtric sat back and lit a cigarette, completely relaxed with hooded eyes while he watched you unbuckle his leather belt after you had dropped smoothly down to your knees in front of him. Your mouth was practically watering at the thought of giving him a blowjob, and you would make sure it was going to be the best he ever had; meaning you would trap him even further as he'd become addicted to you in a lustful way.

You locked eyes as you unzipped his pants, licking your lips seductively while he helped to lower his boxers just enough to allow his hard cock to jump out. You hummed pleased at the size of him and the way his cock was already glistening with precum; you were to wrap him around your finger so easily, it was almost too good to be true.

Sihtric took a drag of his cigarette while you quickly tied your hair, then worked him first with your hand while using your saliva and tongue to prepare his length to which he smiled almost devilishly, and he spread his arms across the backrest of his couch as he enjoyed the view. You kept your purse nearby, in case your target was to try something and you had to defend yourself, but you couldn't help but feel just as relaxed as he was. Which was a pleasant change in your line of work.

You then wrapped your red lips around his cock, slowly sucking him while using your hand at the same time. You looked up at him as you were down on your knees, and the moment you heard him hiss between his teeth and saw how he threw his head back… you knew your trap had just closed further on him. You bobbed your head up and down, keeping a steady pace that simply made his head spin and soon you felt his hand in your hair. He gradually pushed your head down further as you sucked him, and you tried to relax in order not to gag as you let him fuck your throat. 

'Fuck,' Sihtric breathed, then took another drag of his cigarette.

You couldn't help but moan as you felt yourself getting wet while pleasing him. His soft moans increased in volume while you gazed up at him as tears ran down your cheeks, a sight that tipped him over the edge almost as soon as he looked down at you. Not much later you felt and tasted his warm cum as he came in your mouth, and he slowly released his grip on your head.

'Swallow,' Sihtric rasped, 'be a good girl and swallow every fucking drop I give you.'

As you wiped your mouth and tear stained cheeks, you didn't realise that you had walked straight into his trap, for the entire evening Sihtric noticed you did everything according to the sexpionage rules that he had been taught as well. But as it had truly been the best blowjob he had ever received, Sihtric had no problem ignoring the red flags, and so you further trapped each other with sweet honey coated lies…

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[justrainandcoffee]

“When you wear nothing at all” (Alfie Solomons x fem!oc)

Alfie x Rose masterlist

Summary: After her birthday party, a masquerade that Alfie organised without her knowledge, the couple is resting alone in their house. A piece of cake and sweet words it's all they need to share. Of course, she notices that he's still wearing his mask and she knows why: the mask is a perfect excuse to cover his scar. But Rose also knows how to make him feel better "You know, Al? I like you more when you wear nothing at all."

Warnings: None. Although some things could be a bit suggestive but it's almost nothing.

Words: 1.7 k || I wanted to post this last night, but I couldn't.

1928

The party is over. The guests left Margate and only the owners of the house remained now.

Rose is sitting on Alfie, resting her sore feet on the armrest of the couch where both are. The shoes are somewhere between the entrance of the house and the living room. On her lap there's a slice of cake that both are sharing. Their daughter went with her uncle Samuel to sleep in his house, giving them the chance to be alone.

"Open," she says with the fork near his mouth, offering him a bit of it, he accepted it. "I didn't tell you but this is delicious, Al," Rose adds looking at him.

"Thanks, sweetheart. I'm glad you liked it."

"Everything you organized today for me was perfect, you didn't have to."

"No, maybe, but you deserved it, luv."

Alfie knows that he couldn't do it without her. Not just now, but always. Rose is the most important woman in his life. The only one in fact. And that party wasn't enough to compensate all the things she did for him.

In that living room only illuminated by the moonlight, the couple find a moment of peace.

"You know," she says looking at Alfie before eating another piece of cake. "I like you more when you wear nothing at all."

Her husband chuckled, misinterpreting her words "that's for later, Rosie."

She smiles at well "I'm not referring to that, Al. But to this."

With her finger, she touches the mask that he's still wearing. "Just this. Why are you still wearing it?"

"I like it and it cost several hundred pounds. I want to use it as long as possible."

The mask is indeed beautiful. It's gold plated and even has little gems on it. Alfie ordered two in one of the most exclusive jewelry shop in London. One it was for her and the other for him.

But Rose knows there's another reason. Since the attempted murder by Thomas Shelby, that fortunately cost him only his eyesight in one of his eyes and a scar on his cheek, something in him changed. The hats that he wears now are bigger than in previous times and if they decided to go out, he always preferred the nighttime. She understood, people were always judging. But not her, much less to him.

"Okay," she says kissing his other cheek.

Rose puts the empty plate on the floor and rests her head on his chest. Alfie embraces her tightly at the same time that she relaxes against him.

It's summer already, it's more than midnight and the calendar says that it's already 21th of June. The summer solstice.

Alfie partly believes in magic, he has to believe because his prophetic dreams aren't infrequently and sometimes are quite accurate. So he knows that his wife was born exactly when she had to. Because she's warm and radiant like the sunlight in spring but not suffocating like the summer sun. Sometimes, when he's sitting exactly where he is now and he sees Rose walking around the house, back and forth, and her dress following her movements, he can't help but think that she looks like a butterfly flying over a garden. A grumpy butterfly, but a very nice one.

And that's his Rosie, so different from him. Especially since the incident with Tommy, she's a being full of life and he feels that he lost part of it.

No party is enough for her, neither is an expensive mask and, sometimes, Alfie believes that not even him is enough for her.

"I love you," she says snuggling up and planting a little kiss on his neck.

"I love you too, pet."

"Let me see you," she says, trying to untie his mask but he moves his head back. "I see you every day and night. Why can't I now?"

"It'll break the magic, luv."

Rose giggles, "what are you talking about?"

"The magic trick where I'm the same as ever."

"You're the same as ever."

"I'm not. But I can pretend. Tonight no one stared at me like I was a fucking freak. Everyone was wearing masks and so I was, so I was one of them, too."

"They're our friends, Al. No one of them would stare at you like you think. It's in your head, Alfie. Not true."

Alfie isn't sure. It's true they were their friends but… The scar is that part of Alfie that he couldn't make amends with himself.

"If you take your mask off, I take my dress off. Come on, Solomons. I didn't show you my gratitude for the birthday party but I can start now."

"You're bribing me, sweetheart."

"How dare you?!" Rose leaves her spot on his legs and stood up. "It's business. You're a businessman, I'm a businesswoman. One thing for another. It's fair… the beach is waiting us, Solomons. This time the two of us alone."

Alfie watches her unzipping her own dress as she looks at him over her already bare shoulder. Her mischievous smile appears in her face before she starts to down the stairs and Alfie can't help but mimick her.

"Fuckin' 'ell…"

She's quicker than him. Far away in time were the days when he was the faster of the two of them, but he doesn't mind. Alfie goes after her and when he reaches the back door, he sees her in the seashore. The black dress she was wearing is now over the sand, like it is part of the landscape.

She's wearing nothing but her panties now. From the distance he can see the curves of her body, that one that he knows so well.

Alfie can't remember the moment he took off his mask, nor his shoes. Next time he's conscious of his actions is when his arms finally find her waist again. He starts to kiss her neck, as his hands go where only he can explore.

"Did you take it off?" she's not watching at him. Her eyes were on the sea when she hugged her from behind. And now are closed, feeling him.

"I did. You know how to convince me, luv. And how to make my ghosts go away."

She turns around and put a hand on his face, her thumb is caressing his scar with tenderness. Alfie his hands are on her hips and he leans in to kiss her. If any demon is trying to get in his head now, it's impossible because in his mind is only her.

Maybe he's not faster as he used to be, but he's still stronger than her and that's not going to change. Easily he picks her up and both end lying on the sand, one over the other.

"I like you more when you wear nothing at all," he says throwing away the last piece of clothing that she was wearing. His cocky smile is decorating his face and it makes her laugh. Both of them kiss again.

It's good that the beach is their private spot in the world because soon he's naked as she is. They know they're alone, especially at those hours and and during a night that it's far from being warm, but that apparently they don't mind.

The beach is quiet except for the sound of the waves and the words he's whispering in her ear. Rose is his arms now, after the moment they shared together.

"I love you," he says once more.

"Me too, Al. And to me you're the most perfect man on Earth. As always. I don't care about this," she says touching his face once again. "Besides, it gives you that appearance of bad boy."

He lets out a laugh that could be heard across the empty beach "bad boy, eh? Ya like that, ain't you?"

"Do you want me to lie?," she pushes herself away from him a bit, "I have sand in every part of my body and I need a hot bath. Let's go inside so I can show you how much I love bad boys."

"Again?" he props on his elbow to look at her who's already on her feet. Alfie is still smirking.

"The night is young, my love. And I deserve a second gift."

She winks at him and waving her hips, Rose starts to walk towards their house again. The woman can hear his footsteps behind her and smiles.

Maybe it's still her birthday night, but it's Alfie, apparently, who's going to get another present from her.

And for her, his happiness, is the best thing she can receive.

[bokutosmochi]

SHAME! SHAME! SHAME! or embarrassing moments with jjk men

what's it? crack with a sprinkle of fluff

allergen warning/s? gn!reader, kind of spoilers for gojo's past arc in nanami's (not exactly canon, but you'll see teehee), smoke alarms (no actual fire though)

sugar level? 1.1k

names for the order? gojo satoru, geto suguru, fushiguro toji, nanami kento, sukuna ryomen

regulars? @tahonet​, @tokyometronetwork​

bon appetit!

GOJO SATORU:

"are you a piece of candy? cause you're a tootsie, and you're on a roll." you couldn't help the way your eyebrows quirked at gojo's statement and failed pick up line. "what does you're a tootsie even mean?" and to that, he simply shrugged. "dunno, but it's a cute nickname and it always works on cute little buttercups just like you." he leaned down to boop your nose that is now scrunched up as a result. "satoru," you sighed. "you know i love you dearly, but i doubt that has ever worked on anyone. you need better pick up lines." at your brutally honest words, gojo stomps his foot, reminiscent of a child and pouts. his arms are crossed across his chest and he looks like a perfect blend of intimidating and non-intimidating. he turns his head to the side and sticks up his nose. "my methods of flirting have worked with plenty of people. maybe you're just different and quirky." you spat out your drink "that's how you flirt?" because you know just how many people threw themselves at the feet of your boyfriend before you got together and this is how he got laid? you pinched the bridge of your nose and sighed for the nth time. "pretty privilege does crazy things. baby, you cannot flirt."

GETO SUGURU

"geto suguru, oh. my. god" the words that came from you were almost squealed. it was nearing midnight and geto has had a very long day; meeting with his fellow curse users who share his vision, tending to the pathetic, helpless monkeys who called for his aid in getting rid of equally weak curses, and of course, walking around kyoto, tending to mimiko and nanako's every need and want. in fact, he was so busy he didn't even hear neither the front door or bedroom door open and close. "sugu baby, you look so cute!" now that was most definitely a squeal. the man in question had a toothbrush in his foamy mouth, and his hair was held back by a soft brown headband with bear ears and various glittery butterfly hairclips. he went back to the bathroom to spit the toothpaste out and gargle before greeting you properly with a hug and a minty fresh kiss on the lips. "the girls got a hold of me." he chuckled lightly, pulling the cutesy headband away. "if you arrived any earlier, you would've seen me with makeup on." you shook his head at him, the worst curse user. "you would do anything for those girls, wouldn't you?"

NANAMI KENTO:

"kento, you never told me you had piercings." you murmured softly, running your thumb over the space below his bottom lip where there were two tiny holes on either side, assumingly from piercings. he caught your hand and kissed your warm palm, eyes closed. "did gojo tell you about those, angel?" at the mention of his troublesome former upperclassman's name, his nose scrunched up - after all, it seemed like ever since learning about your relationship, the snow haired sorcerer would not stop telling you stories from when they were students. nanami knew that gojo picking the embarrassing ones were not some sort of a coincidence either - making you laugh as you shook your head. "no, i just noticed the piercing holes on your lip. are there more?" you did not wait for his answer though. instead, your eyes were already looking all over his face. you spotted more on his nose and several ones on his ears. "you never told me you had a punk rock phase, kento." you told him, poking his cheek with a giggle making him grumble out something you could not decipher as his face heated up with something akin to embarrassment. "the opportunity never came up."

FUSHIGURO TOJI:

"heya baby boy!" you greeted toji with a quick kiss on the scar on the side of his lip before plopping down on the opposite side of the loveseat. you were certain there was nothing out of the ordinary, but your boyfriend's head immediately snapped towards your figure for a reason you did not know. "you okay, big guy?" you chuckled nervously, scratching the back of your head. his mouth was slightly agape and his face was flushed red. he swallowed thickly, adam's apple bobbing and cleared his throat, "what'd ya call me?" you blinked at his words, the gears in your head turning. "baby boy?" his cheeks got a shade of red darker. but this time, the nickname he was not used to no longer flustered him. "do i look like baby boy?" he snickered at you. "'n if i remember correctly, last night, 'y were callin' me a much different name." he trailed off, a smirk gracing his lips. you shook your head at him, crawling towards him on your hands and knees and cupping the side of his cheek, gazing into his eyes tenderly, hoping to caress any sort of weakness from him, break down his cockiness from last night's activities. "oh toji," stroking the skin of his cheek with your thumb, your lips were pouted and head tilted. "you're always gonna be my baby boy."

SUKUNA RYOMEN:

"ring! ring! ring! ring!" that was the sound that woke you up on your birthday. not your alarm clock, not the familiar weight of sukuna's arms on you, or his rough voice commanding you to get up and not sleep in. no, this one is unfamiliar, because it's the smoke alarm. you quickly pushed the duvet off of you, taking a mental note of the curse's absence from beside you, and rose up, running to the kitchen to see what has transpired within its four walls. there sukuna was, standing on his tippy toes to reach the fire alarm. he sighed in relief when he finally turned it off, but he still rolled his eyes. "stupid twenty first century gadgets.". he was sure he'd never get used to them. it was only when he turned around did he see you. his eyes were narrowed into slits before looking back up. "the unnecessary thing woke you up, didn't it?" he nearly growled out. you just hummed out a response. "it's not unnecessary, 'kuna. house fires from not paying attention to what you're cooking is a real danger." you murmured, walking to where he is by the stove and wrapping your arms around his waist. "for example, burnt," whatever this was on the pan. "pancakes." he mumbled out, answering your unasked question. "was supposed to surprise you for your birthday."

i get: reblog

you get: a jjk boy of your choice

[dameronscopilot]

Dads best friend Santi 🥵 just. Teasing you throughout dinner. In my household tea is a really big thing after dinner so like serving tea and the eye contact while handing him his cup and trying not to spill it everywhere? Trembling hands? Setting up the guest room for him and he walks in? Midnight hour makeout session? 🫢

(hello my beloved i hope this tickles your fancy. also i went super overboard so ENJOY I GUESS??? i'm going to Hell)

Dad's Best Friend

Santiago "Pope" Garcia x f!reader

Surviving visits from your dad's best friend, Santiago Garcia, is nothing but a losing battle for your resolve.

Content: NSFW 18+, smut, age gap, forbidden relationship, fingering, unprotected p in v, creampie (author does not recommend seducing your dad's bestie IRL please!!!!! mucho inappropriate, etc.)

Santiago's younger than your dad, but he's still older than you. And he's still your dad's best fucking friend. Despite those facts, all reasonable thoughts fly swiftly out the window any time he comes knocking for what's recently turned into regular visits.

(And sometimes, when you're a moaning, gasping mess pumping a slick, lubricated vibrator in and out of your cunt the morning before those visits—in an attempt to at least stave off some of the downright feral horniness the man brings out in you—you're fucking convinced that Santiago winks at you every time you open the door to let him in.)

You've choked on your food during dinner on several occasions while you've been distracted staring at the way Santiago has a habit of unconsciously playing with his butter knife at the table, spinning it around in his thin, dexterous fingers.

More than once, when your dad sometimes decides to turn the conversation to your love life (in which he'll typically grumble about how much he didn't like the last guy you brought home), you've caught Santiago staring at you. Hard. It's a fucking searing gaze—and you can't help but clench your thighs together underneath the table in response.

(And when he turns to your dad with what's turned into his classic response, "Call me when she's bringing boys home, and I'll come over and straighten them out," he always has the audacity to smirk at you afterward.)

You have no idea why you continue to offer to be the one to serve tea after dinner when Santiago's there, because it's an olympic sport trying to hide the trembling of your hands as you bend down in front of him with the cup. (And you're still trying to figure out how he stopped you from dropping it one time, firmly wrapping his hands around yours while his eyes remained trained on your face.)

Sometimes, Santiago stays the night. And after the first time he startled you while you were making the bed in the guest room, standing there leaning against the doorway with a lazy smirk on his face, you start making sure you're wearing one of the shorter sundresses from your closet whenever you have to perform the chore.

(One time, while you're bent over and reaching out across the mattress to fluff the pillows—and maybe you forgot to put on underwear that day, it's an honest mistake—you find yourself caged in against the edge of the bed. Santi's breath tickles the hair at the nape of your neck, and his voice is rough as he says, "I'm not going to be able to control myself if you keep doing this, sweetheart.")

(He walks away, and the rest of the visit carries on as if nothing happened.)

Even though the guest room is located directly beside yours, that alone can never stop you from resisting the urge to shuck off your clothes and plunge your fingers into your soaking wet mound the moment you turn in for the evening.

(Sometimes, after you're finished, you fucking swear you hear the wet slapping of skin through the thin walls between yours and the guest room.)

All bets are officially off when Santiago stops by one hot summer day to drop something off for your dad while he's at work, only to come in through the back gate to find you lounging in the pool in a bikini. The only thing more shocking than your invitation to him to come in for a dip to cool off...is the fact that he obliges you. ("I shouldn't be doing this," he says, "but you also shouldn't be moaning so loud the whole house can hear you when you're finger fucking yourself at night.")

(His idea of teaching you how to be more quiet is pulling you into his lap as he sits down on the ladder. And as you're both still submerged under the water, he challenges you to swallow down each and every moan as he hooks a finger into your bathing suit bottoms and fingers you right there in your goddamn pool.)

The next time Santiago visits, you both run into one another on your way to the bathroom in the middle of the night. "I fucking can't stop thinking about you," he groans before pinning you up against the wall with a bruising kiss.

Stolen kisses become a ritual for the two of you when he's at your house—chaste ones in the kitchen when he slips in to put his dirty dishes in the sink, languid ones against the washing machine when he catches you doing the laundry, reckless ones on your porch when you find an excuse to walk him out the nights that he doesn't stay.

But Santiago Garcia won't have sex with you, and it's driving you insane. So if you purposely invite a guy over for dinner on a night that Santi's also there, well. The jealousy burning in his gaze all throughout dinner is certainly worth it. And when you walk into your room to go to sleep later that evening, you're startled to find Santiago sitting on your bed waiting for you, arms crossed.

Putting far too much trust in the meager lock on your door handle, Santiago Garcia fucks you right into your mattress that night. He fucks you so hard and filthy, your pussy is still throbbing when you wake up the next morning, cum dripping from your folds onto your sheets.

—

Comments, reblogs, and/or asks are always appreciated!

» OSCAR ISAAC MASTERLIST » SANTIAGO GARCIA MASTERLIST

[wr1t3w1tm3]

The Outsiders a New Musical Cast Recording Reaction

Here you go @its-a-hare-pom-pom

Please note: I do not actually know the voices of who is who. I am having to assume who is who in some of the songs so I'm doing my best. I looked up a cast list for this. This is confusing and I'd need several more listens through to figure out who is and that's probably not gonna happen anytime soon (ya'll fill find out why in a later post).

Also, I curse a lot and there's a brief mention of suicide in my section on I could talk to you all night, so be warned.

Tulsa '67: Interesting how they changed Johnny's jumping to just a week before the events of the musical. I don't mind that change. I kinda like it? Maybe?

Okay. I need to rant a bit here. I grew up just a day's drive from Tulsa in a town not very dissimilar from it. Just switch East and West and you're halfway there. (Meaning in my city the East side was the old money and West was more of everyone else/the new money side of town).

Ponyboy's diatribe about how people get stuck in the town for life hits home for me because, like, of the nearly 300 person graduating class from my highschool, a vast majority of them went to school either in town or within the state. While I'm technically still in the state, I'm right across the river from our neighboring state so the line's a bit funky. I feel his longing to get the hell out. I feel the sort of resentment he feels towards Darry, who could've been a sports star had circumstances panned out differently. I feel his heartache for Soda when he mentions that his girlfriend up and left and broke his heart. My little sister and younger brother are both up-and-coming in similar ways to Darry (albeit a different sport for my sister) and Soda. The only real difference is that my family isn't just above the poverty line. In this economy maybe we're starting to slip down there, but if that's the only difference... shit. I'm in for a ride.

Moving on...

Grease got a Hold: I did watch the performance of this for Good Morning America or whatever it showed up on so this isn't my first time listening. This is the first time I can't tell who is who. I looked up the cast so I think the first singer is Dally? IDK. It's the whole gang except Johnny. This is when I discovered that Steve was in fact a named ensemble character.

Not my favorite song. But I'm sure that it introduces everyone well. I don't mind it, just def my least favorite of the ones I'd heard before.

Runs in the Family: I'm pretty sure it's a Darry song. Shit. I feel this song. I am literally Darry in this song, except I have parents, they're just not around a whole lot due to work.

I think I mentioned here that I work at a Nursing home. And especially during the winter if I worked twelves (luckily I'm PRN, so I can pick up shorter shifts) I'd be in before the sun and out after it. That is one of the worst feelings I've ever felt. You feel like you didn't do a damn thing but your so tired you can't do anything so you end up getting down and just scrolling while you eat and you barely have energy to grab something to eat. Had I not been still living at home I would have just gone through a drive through. You are a different kind of tired after a long day of taking people to the toilet and passing meds and working with memory care patients as they sundown.

So while I'm not a roofer, I'm not out every night working till midnight, I think I can relate to Darry the best out of the three here, being an eldest daughter an all especially. I like this song as a character set up, though I have to point out it sounds like he's whining but I also know I've done this so like... I can't complain if I wanna keep my whining privileges.

Great Expectations: This is the first song out, I'm sure we've all heard it. It's about Ponyboy relating to Pip, one of the characters in the book Great Expectations I think by Charles Dickens. I never read it in school I think due to Covid so...

That being said, great song. Still very much relate to him and his wanting to get the hell outta town but feeling trapped by family and obligations. Like I get the kid is only fourteen, and S.E. Hinton was about this age when she wrote this but it is raw and I still feel it.

Come on, we've all felt like everyone expects everything of us and have just wanted to get swept up in a fictional reality where shit is hard but we know everything will be just fine in the end, right? Right?

The line about Darry hits harder after Runs in the Family. His bit about Johnny has always hit me too, because I've always wondered (anxiously, of course) about what my life would've been like had I been born to different parents. And as much as I think about that, pretty sure I'm lucky to have what I have and I'll take it over worse.

Friday at the Drive-in: So there is also a drive in in my city, and I've been several times. I freakin' love it, and it's kind of sad that they're disappearing. This chapter/scene/song has always been a favorite of mine in all Outsiders media. I love Cherry's actress. She's able to do a more country/southern accent without it sounding like a characture. Kudos to her. I'm sure this song is really cool to see in person.

I Could Talk to You All Night: Confession time: I don't like Cherry. I understand that maybe she does have a rough life, but it has always rubbed me wrong the way she told Ponyboy it's "rough all over". Bitch, both his brothers work to keep their house you shut up. Like I went through highschool with my mom hurt, grandpa dying, Covid, a whole lotta other shit and some kid literal told me to off myself b/c I got in his space while practicing a tap number for the musical. Also, I was working through the entire school year. It wasn't terribly uncommon among my peers, but to be in the musical was a sacrifice on my part and we just... we couldn't see under each others skin. My school was on the west side and his family was new money, so I guess he and Cherry are alike in my eyes in that way (even had the same hair, lol). I didn't know what was going on with him and I guess when he broke up with his gf (she was a senior and he was a junior) he got better.

That being said, I really like Cherry's character in this song. They see each other beyond the labels for the first time in their lives. It sort of feels like a love song, but also not so much, and I really dig it. I may eat my words later but I like this version of Cherry. She comes off a lot less snooty than book/movie Cherry. Its so cute.

Runs in the Family (Reprise): Shit. Darry. Okay. The silent oldest sibling burden has fucking snapped. Bro. This is so good. Seeing what all was going on behind his outburst at Ponyboy. Shit. Shit. Shit. I'm even more in love with Darry's character. Shit. The oldest sibling being a parent when the parents aren't there. The younger siblings all leading into it. The abrupt stop that is Darry slapping Pony. I wanna scream IT IS SO FREAKINNG WELL DONEOAWE RUH!!!!!! I can practically hear Pony throwing open the screen door and Darry yelling back that he didn't mean it!I@ :OUhoihlacwijhr ;iuaweh' riu

Far Away From Tulsa: Oh, oh Pony. You're innocene it showing honey. This is the one thing I feel I've got on him is that I actually live on the edge of town, so I really live within a smattering farm fields and disappearing small farm towns. Those people will be judgey as hell, they will stalk you anyway possible to get info on you and there will be rumors. Like I love that you two have a dream, but we're getting into Of Mice and Men territory with Lenny and George (is that his name?) with the rabbit farm.

Also, are they changing Pony and Johnny's motivations? Obviously I'd have to watch this but this sounds like they might be changing their motivations a bit.

The transition into Great Expectations!!! The leitmotif!??! The key change?!?!?! HOLY FUCKING SHITHLIUWE RHF AIVCWH TLGIUAWEHCFIUHA. I'm screaming!!!!! But they're dream sounds like a cowboy western fantasy. And the ending where they talk about that not being in Tulsa... realy gives me pause. I think maybe their motivations changed just a bit? BUt IDK cause I'll never get to fuckin' watch this because I am but a poor midwesterner and Broadway is a bitch.

Run Run Brother: Shit. I love this. The little boys coming to Dally. The only one they can trust to know this. This is the loss of innocence in real time. The implication that he gave them all he had (the 50 bucks) is realized here. The song sounds so frantic. Aggggg. It's so good.

The background: if you're not born into money your born into despair? The background singers are great. Grease isn't given its something you earn??? Shit. Run through the fire your bound to get burned? They really like using fire as a symbol (for obvious reasons).

The transition into "You're a Greaser now and you ain't going back?" Like he literally cannot go back. Johnny killed a kid and Ponyboy would be tried as an accomplice probably. Cheezits this is so fucking good! The wrapping back to earlier songs is so freaking well done! The desperation in whoevers voice pointing out the sign to Windrixville? I love.

Justice for Tulsa: Did they come up with a new character? Are there others? Is this the Greasers talking to each other? Immediatly suspecting Dally? So they added the interrogation that he mentions he got brought into.

Is Cherry at Bob's funeral? Honey, he's an asshole. Like I get he could've been cool but gees. I'm torn up about her. They made her way more complicated. So far I'm glad for Dally and Cherry's sake that they added this scene.

Is this Darry or Soda? No. It's a Soc. Is it Randy? Oh I love his voice. Shit, is she grilling him? She's talking about Johnny. Randy. Are they getting onto her for talking with Pony. What she did wasn't wrong? Yeah, it's a senseless tragedy. If you pushed him into it.

So this is the explanation of how they started jumping Greasers and how that tension switched things up. This might be the Act break? But I'm not sure.

Death's at My Door: Is he talking about his parents dying?

Oof. I feel him. So in my life I had a series of deaths where my grandma died, then two years later my grandpa died (different sides of the family), then a kid at my college died going home for winter break. Then a girl from my highschool died going back to school after winter break. Then working at a nursing home every time, I come back someone else is dead. So, I feel that sentiment that it feels like death is following you. But that is just growing up, and I think this is Ponyboy finally sort of coming to that realization a bit.

Are they adding romantic elements to Pony and Johnny's relationships, or is this just really flirty platonic stuff? Because now I'm confused. And I'm someone who does really flirty platonic shit with my friends.

Throwing in the Towel: Oh it's a Darry song. Oh. Darry feels guilty. Shit. Okay. Is he making up with Soda? I'm a bit upset that Soda has been jipped in here. Long list of failures, same here Darry.

Oh. Soda. Soda, ever the middle child. Trying to keep the peace, trying to hype Darry up. Their being the brothers we always knew they would.

There little harmony part is so good!

Soda's Letter: I have heard this one as well. We are finally getting a Soda song!! But still, ever the middle child, trying to keep the peace between the oldest and the youngest. Dammit. I like that they added context to the letter, since it's a bit briefer in the book/movie.

The fade in of Pony singing over Soda is so good.

Hoods Turned Heroes: I love the name on this. I think this is Two-Bit singing this. Interesting that they skipped over the fire incident and Johnny talking to them at Dairy Queen. I like that it's Soda and Two-Bit in this song. I love them as a duo. And I love that we get a Greaser son in response to Justice for Tulsa.

Interesting how they changed it to 1st degree murder for Johnny's charge, because it was manslaughter and I seriously doubt there's enough evidence to even get second degree murder.

Hopeless War: Another Pony and Cherry song. I do like the musical duo of them so far. He's not wrong about the soc's declaring the war. Cherry's also not wrong, but girlfriend, your privelage is showing.

Shit, she got a point about black and white morality. "Same mistake a thousand times" "Doing what we've all been raised to do."

Shit. I like this version of Cherry. This sounds like a country love ballad and I am all here for it. Seems like act 2, like many musicals I've seen, has fewer/shorter songs.

Geez, Cherry. Okay. I still like the Cherry best out of all of them. But girl, you've gotta understand that this kids got more skin in the game than you do. Girl. IDK, this version of Cherry is just more nuanced and I think that's what she needed.

Trouble: The way Hopeless War tansitions into this song is so fucking good!!!!

So I don't know if this is at the park or the Gang going to the park but holy shit. I love this. Is Darry trying to keep Pony out? Or is Dally? Who is telling him not to fight? Didn't book Darry let him fight??!

Little Brother: I have heard this one before as well. It's a Dally song, and it still makes me awe;u hgseruig. This is my favorite version of the Dally and Johnny relationship because it solidifies the brotherhood and the way that Dally see's Johnny. It's done fairly well in the book but the musical makes it much more clear. Even the movie does it pretty well but I like that it's a bit more spelled out here.

I think I've heard all of these last three songs so they'll maybe be a bit more in depth. Also, I am gonna say this now Grease got a Hold is growing on me as I type.

I don't really like how Johnny feels very shoe horned to the side in this version of events.

Is... is someone singing with him on the second little brother in the first chorus? Could that be Darry or am I just trippin'?

I love the way that they show Dally's descent. Oh. There's a chorus on here with him. They put a different version out on YouTube with just Dally on it. Holy shit. Holy shit!!!! I love his voice so much. When are the lyrics gonna be up I gotta see who sings what in here damn it!!!

Dally. Shit. The part where the music strips and then starts building. This will never not give me shivers. I love the orchestration on this version!

The now into no!!!!! ;jfh;ajwerhf;ija uvaiwrhf;aiu3wh I AM NOT OKAY!!!

Stay Gold: This hurts like a son of a bitch still. I can't really put my words on here, but it really is written like someone who knows they're gonna die and they're wanting to give their family a final message. Which is something you can do on hospice nowadays, but wouldn't have been avaliable in the 60's.

Can't believe we had to wait the whole musical for a Johnny solo song. But I love the touch that a man came to thank Johnny for saving the kids, because in the book that's not mentioned and neither in the movie and I like that touch. They added just a few scenes and all were very well done if not honestly needed.

The fading of Ponyboy reading it with Johnny will never not get me. They use this technique so well throughout the musical. But again with me questioning if this is platonic flirty friend shit or Johnny and Pony being romantically involved somehow? I lean towards platonic flirty friends due to the time period and the fact that they're both on the younger side... but geez.

Johnny telling Pony to tell Dally, when we know Dally is dead and Dally asked him to save a seat and just owehtouwaehrt;ouiawe I am not okay. Will never not hurt.

Finale (Tulsa '67): Is this an older Pony on the first line? Does he get out? Or is that his teacher reading it? Like the acknowledgement of Paul Newman.

Oh. This is so sweet, him turning to the hometown heroes, the little everyday ones.

He got out!!!!!! Him talking about Darry and Soda!!

Ah! They took the one paragraph directly out of the book!!!

Dally!!! Wearing grease for their disguise? Holy shit. Bro. You are killing it! Killing it! The chorus entering!!?!?! The excerpts directly from the book!

"He was just to damn good for growing old? And for his memory I'll stay gold!?!?!??!" Holy shit okay. Emotional damage dealt. You didn't have to do that.

I love me a legacy explaning final number. Shit. I love this. Beautiful ending. I love the jazzy bits.

My phone immediatly jumped me to Non-Stop by Hamilton. Fuck you spotify, didn't need that now.

Final Thoughs: Unfortunately, this is not like Hamilton in the sense that the entire freaking musical minus one song that not terribly necessary for context is on spotify. There are chunks of context missing that make me wonder how else they may have changed the story. If you're someone who's first exposure to the outsiders is this, you're gonna be left with a lot of questions. Luckily, you've got a book and two versions of a Francis Ford Coppala movie, but if this was a stand alone I think I'd be leaving the cast recording fairly confused.

I think it's amazing. I did find out while finding a cast list to compare to the featured artists that Steve is still a character. I also wonder if they're gonna release the track they use for the rumble, since I think that's a seperate track with no real singing? IDK man. I wanna see that so fucking bad.

A little mad about how they downgraded Soda and Two-Bit. I know Two-Bit was more of a minor character but it really felt like Soda got the short end of the stick here. Same with Steve, though he already had the short end so it was only a matter of time. Two-Bit makes sense despite my love of him so I kind of expected that.

Overall, I do like this, but it feels a bit incomplete as I believe some of the most critical plot details have been left for portions of the musical that are acted or spoken, which sucks for us broke ass plebs who don't live within driving distance of Broadway.

So long friends.

[flutter2deceive]

Bitching about financials and job things under the cut

My company announced like 2 months ago that our jobs are being eliminated, but it's like this nebulous thing because they're outsourcing and we need to transfer all our products, so my end date isn't until 3/31/2026. Like that's so far in the future and I'm gonna get severence (at end date, i will have worked there for 20 years literally over half my life) + a retention bonus, so I'll be ok for a little while after the fact i think i hope

But anyway i decided to immediately start cost-cutting 2 months ago:

•canceled subscriptions (canceled hulu, paramount+ (i have a plex server hookup anyway), canceled ubereats (and also stopped ordering from them altogether), canceled or went down a level on my minimal patreon subs)

•signed up for Shell's rewards system (it's literally free and you save at least 20cents/gallon every single time and sometimes more without having to spend any money you just click a button and boom extra 10cents if you fill up on a specific day.)

•haven't done *any* fun online shopping or regular store shopping for that matter

•severely cut down my fast food spending (i'm sorry taco bell ily), and as my friends are in similar financial woes, we've stopped ordering food every weekend and opted to make cheap dinners where we each bring some small component like 1 brings pasta 1 brings sauce 1 brings garlic bread

•this isn't a recent change, but i never go out anywhere for like drinks or to see local comedy shows like i used to frequently do. I'm a homebody who goes into the office twice a week and goes to my best friend's house on saturdays and just sits at home the rest of the time

Even with all that!! My debit card is at $26, my 1 credit card is $3 away from its limit, the other is $21 from its limit. I *thankfully* get my paycheck at midnight, but like... woof!

Last paycheck i was down to less than $100 the day before as well. It's so mind-boggling to me that it's this bad. Partially because I've had some unfortunately-timed plumbing issues and had to pay a pricey deductible (but glad i have the insurance obv cuz of how much the total cost would've been otherwise.) But also partially cuz i feel like shit is so much more fucking expensive than it's ever been!! And the last gallon of milk i bought and properly refrigerated went sour like a full week before its expiration date.

I have a decent job and make pretty good money (for now at least.) I have made several cost-cutting measures recently. I feel like I don't *do* anything. And it literally doesn't matter!!

My best friend who has an equally comfortable job told me he had about the same amount of $ as me to last him til his next paycheck too.

And on top of the financial stress, i am so fucking stressed at work because no one knows what they're doing and i keep getting roped into things at the last minute with an IM that says "hey got time for a quick call?" And then i end up having to put together a complicated spreadsheet that is needed by end of week. Why didn't you fucking ask sooner than 2pm on a thursday?! Oh cuz someone who will still have a job at the end of this didn't do what they were supposed to? Ok sure I'll get right on that. And I do. I do get right on that and have it back to you within a couple hours. Because i stupidly care about my job.

Ugghhh i hate everything atm... Except i was able to livestream my favorite singer Terri Clark's debut concert at The Ryman tonight. And i have a ton of Fran/CC fanfics queued up to read. And the Ghosts discord is constantly coming up with the cutest scenarios for H$, my current otp. And i am off the entire next week because next Friday is my birthday. And my dog is snoring.

So i guess it hasn't been such a bad day after all, Charlie Brown... or some such sentimental nonsense 🙃🙃🙃

[loane19]

Truth or Dare ?

Hi so this is my first fic, sorry if there are some mistakes, english is not my first language but hope you enjoy ! summary : You do a truth or dare with the team (ler Emily). Pairing : Emily x reader

Word count : 1 120

It was past 10pm and you and the team were at the club, just having a drink after a truly disturbing case. The guy would kidnap his victims and break them into become his old babysitter who's dead and once they'd play his game, he'd kill them and embald them, he would keep them as long as he could before dumping them and finding a new one. They had a hard time catching him but now the unsub's in jail and the team can finally relax. The night was going up pretty well, toward midnight, everyone started to get drunk, Morgan was hinting at some girl next to them, Hotch was in a deep conversation with Rossi and you and Prentiss were kind of flirting, Reid seems to be explaining the concept of the cat of schrodinger to some random. That's when Garcia suddenly exclaimed.

Garcia : Guys, let's play truth or dare !

She said in an enthousiastic tone of voice, she didn't want everyone to be doing their own thing, she wanted to really spent the night together and also having some gossips on the team, she drags Derek away from the girl and get everyone else's attention.

Garcia : You go first. Penelope said, pointing at you.

Reader : Okay, Spence, truth or dare ? You said, a smirk tugging at your lips.

Reid : Huhh truth. He said, looking at you with an unbothered expression.

Reader : Tell me something nobody know about you here.

Reid : When I was small I used to go up to people, in the streets and I would state facts like about economy and crime rate, and I was very passionate about it.

Everybody laughs a bit, this would be the most Spencer Reid thing he could do. After that a couple turns pass, we learn that Derek actually hooked up with more than 5 women this month, that Penelope punched a girl in the face in 5th grade and that at the question "What would you never do, even for a million dollar ?" asked by Rossi, to which Hotch answered, "Letting an unsub go." Always so serious. After that it was Penelope's turn to ask a question, and she choose to ask Emily, you started sweating a bit cause Garcia was giving you a knowing look. Garcia : So truth or dare, Emily ? The blonde asked.

Prentiss : I'll take dare. Emily stated confidently, making Garcia smile in literal delight.

Garcia : I dare you to tickle the person to your right for at least 30 seconds.

Emily looks to her right, like the rest of the team, and you just keep looking right in front of you for a sec, if your face wasn't hot to the touch yet, it is now, you then lean back on your seat, glaring at Penelope for putting you in such a situation and then looking at Emily nervously, who's more than amused by the dare, a smirk is already plattered all over her face, she looks down at the younger agent, tauntingly approaching her hand to your side and wriggling her fingers, Making you speak up in protestation and swat the brunette's hand away.

Reader : No, no but you don't have to, c'mon. You said, almost pleading as your flustered state became more apparent.

Prentiss : You c'mon, it's just a little tickling, you scared you can't handle it ?

Reader : Oh just.. shut up already.

Prentiss : Care to say that again ?

As Emily say this, her hands come poking at your right side several times, making you fold in a squeak and push yourself against her to get the most away from Emily's poking you can get, you crashing against her makes Emily kind of glad because now she can wrap an arm tight and secure around your shoulder while her available hand come gently scratching at your side, going up and down under your shirt, making your whole body shudder before you jerk to the side and desperatly try to get away by stretching away, starting to let out tiny little gigles under the amused eyes of your team.

Reader : Emily stahahap.. c'mon don'tttt no-

You said between gritted teeth and sifted giggles, trying the keep it low so no one in the club hears you, but you're still making those squeaky sounds that are pretty noticeable, and the team is watching with some amused smiles on their faces, especially Garcia who gave the dare. You cut yourself out when her nails trails out and spider accross your belly, making you try to slip away, let yourself fall to the ground but she doesn't let you do that, she keeps her arm wrapped around your shoulder, your head tucked under her chin as she lazily scratch and stroke around your belly, watching you twist and arch to escape her nails, but there's no way out, really.

Prentiss : Where do you think you're fleeing like that. Emily cooed.

Reader : Ehehem stop ! It'ss enohohough, it's been 30 sehehehconds ! you blurted out

Prentiss : But I do think Penelope said at least 30 seconds so that should mean I can keep going. You shake your head no as you try to make it out of her grip, tapping your feets on the ground in frustration and still letting out those small giggles, Prentiss then quickly pokes up your side to then grab it and squeeze it tenderly, her fingers digging into the soft flesh, eliciting a powerful squeal from you, who makes a few heads turn in the club and your face flush with embarassement. You fall into silent giggles as you just burry your head against Emily's shoulder and try to muffle your giggles there.

Prentiss : You know, I had no idea you liked that.

Reader : Wha- I dohoohon't ! stahaahahp ! Pleahahase Em !

Prentiss : Sure you don't.

The brunette simply said, but she's a profiler, you can't possibly fool her, she was kind of tempted to make you admit it but she finally took pity on you, finally stopping her ministrations and gently patting your side before letting you rest against her, you were panting a bit, still shivering slightly as the last residue of giggles die down.

Prentiss : You should've told me you liked it.

Reader : Why would I, youre gonna use it against me ! You quickly protested.

Prentiss : You have nooo idea.

Emily said with a smirk as she squeezes you against her and press a kiss to the top of your head as you just rest there, deeply embarassed but actually pretty happy you got tickled by her.