#but some of them seem to only have like. one-time guest appearances in a ton of tv shows rather than any other lead roles

[stellacendia]

It seems I have a terrible habit of growing attached to actors that have one outstanding lead role and then only have roles that are relatively minor by comparison and/or in genres I have zero interest in watching

[mysteryshoptls]

Twisted Entertainment News ～April Fools 2024～

The Aniplex Youtube Channel dropped a parody news segment for April Fools Day, which had Kazuki Furuta (Kalim) and Kaname Futaba (Jamil) as "commentators." A full official MMD clip of Absolutely Beautiful was shown, and afterwards, Furuta and Futaba "taught" the viewers back home how to do the dance. I don't normally do transcriptions of videos, but this one made me laugh with enjoyment that I wanted to make sure that everyone else could enjoy it too, especially since I know this video is region-locked. I've highlighted Furuta and Futaba's names with the colors for Kalim and Jamil's that I usually use for their vignettes. I've also added small commentary on their movements and expressions, which is not something I normally have to do for vignettes. I also only translated the "news" portion of the video and left out the final part, which was them returning to reality and talking about the monitors in the in-game shop that could be bought for the Guest Room. I hope this transcription is enjoyable for everyone else, too! Please check it out under the cut!

Newscaster Yasuda: Good evening to Twisted Wonderland and to all those who have found themselves transported here. It’s time for Twisted Entertainment News, where we report on all the hottest entertainment topics. I have with me today two very well-known commentators who have appeared on so many of the variety talk shows as of late: Kazuki Furuta-san and Kaname Futaba-san.

Commentator Kazuki Furuta: Good evening, I’m Kazuki Furuta. I’m beyond honored to have been asked to come on this show as a commentator. Thank you very much for inviting me.

Commentator Kaname Futaba: Good evening, I’m Kaname Futaba. You know, I really dig Twisted Entertainment News.

Furuta: I do hear you say that often.

Futaba: Yeah. I watch it every week, and even record it.

Furuta: Indeed.

Futaba: I’m really hoping we’ll have a ton of great things to talk about. Thanks for having me.

Yasuda: Well, let’s get right into today’s entertainment news. First, Magical Motors is finally venturing into space. Second, are the rumors that the Mysterious Amusement Park is closing true!? And finally, the Absolute Dance is the current breakout trend. Of these three topics, the Absolute Dance is probably the most eye-catching, so, Furuta-san, Futaba-san, have you heard of this dance before?

Furuta: Very much so. It is very popular even in my circles, so not a day goes by that I do not come across it.

Futaba: I’ve known about it for some time now, too. So, I guess it feels like the times have finally caught up.

Furuta: You’re so right.

Futaba: Yeah.

Yasuda: Now then, we’ve prepared a video to show what exactly this dance is all about. Please take a look.

[Absolutely Beautiful Official Dance MMD plays while Yasuda, Furuta, and Futaba are shown in the top right corner, watching]

[clip ends, Yasuda, Furuta, and Futaba applaud politely]

Furuta: How amazing was that?

Futaba: Yeah, a great clip.

Furuta: Indeed.

Yasuda: So, this “Absolute Dance” originally comes from the dance movements of the song “Absolutely Beautiful.” It seems that thanks to the performance by Night Raven College stu－

Furuta: [interrupting] Night Raven College!

Yasuda: …Right. The students performed this song and dance at the school’s cultural festival and this garnered a lot of hype.

Furuta: [jumping in] Hype!

Yasuda: …Right. I do believe that this is a rather complicated dance that cannot be mastered just from watching it once. So, today I hoped to have our commentators, Furuta-san and Futaba-san, to show those of you watching this show at home how to perform it so that everyone can dance along.

Futaba: I see.

Furuta: Of course.

Yasuda: Furuta-san, I’ve heard that you may be a commentator, but you are also a very good dancer.

Furuta: [sounding like he wants to protest politely but is also smug at the praise] Ah, well― that is― by myself, I― [background music cuts] Yes, I am!

Yasuda: Right, thank you. And so, I was hoping we could receive an instructional demonstration from you on how this dance is performed.

Furuta: [politely but smugly trying to refute] Ah, that― Heh― Of course.

Yasuda: Wonderful, we would be so grateful.

Furuta: Of course! Now, I’ve chosen 4 specific points of the song to dance to in order to help anyone master the Absolute Dance. Those of you watching, please feel free to dance along!

[screen transitions to Furuta standing in front of the desk, with Futaba and Yasuda sitting and watching]

Furuta: Now for the first dance point: I’ll start with the opening dance for the song.

[Furuta dances Vil's movements from the chorus at the beginning of the song while Futaba's eyes widen as he watches intently]

[dance ends]

Futaba: Just hold on a sec. That’s so amazing?! I’m so shocked. Like, especially the third part of the second-eighths was really good.

Furuta: The third part of the second-eighths, you mean this movement, yes? [shows off the specific dance move again]

Futaba: It’s fantastic! And this dance looks like it moves your entire body, so I bet it’s really good for your health, too.

Furuta: Oh yes, especially that movement. It uses the whole shoulder joint so I believe it could be good for relieving any stiffness in the shoulder.

Futaba: This is spectacular.

Furuta: Thank you very much.

Futaba: Man…

Furuta: Now then, I think it’s time to move onto the second part.

Futaba: [quietly, to himself] That was shocking.

Furuta: The second dance point:

Futaba: [quietly, to himself] I’m so shocked.

Furuta: Jamil’s― [turns to address Futaba] Oh, was it shocking?

Futaba: Yeah, totally shocking. Sorry.

Furuta: I’m so glad to hear that. [turns back to the camera] I'll now dance the part with Jamil’s rap.

Futaba: [quietly, to himself] Really shocking.

[Music begins to lead into Jamil's rap, Furuta prepares himself to start dancing]

Futaba: [quietly, to himself] Man, I’m still reeling from that shocker.

[Furuta starts by dancing Ace/Deuce's movements while Futaba stares in awe]

Futaba: No way...

[Furuta continues by dancing Kalim/Rook's movements while Futaba continues watching him in awe]

[dance ends]

Futaba: This part… I mean, your dance was just astounding, don’t get me wrong. But… this voice rapping just now… I really like this voice!

Furuta: [turns to address Futaba] It’s a very familiar voice, isn’t it?

Futaba: Yeah, yeah, yeah.

Furuta: [turns back to the camera] Almost like it feels really close to me, that’s right.

Futaba: It’s just so smooth.

Furuta: Smoothly, yes, the lyrics just come so smoothly.

Futaba: So smoothly.

Furuta: Yes, it just enters my mind so smoothly.

Futaba: It really gets me hyped.

Furuta: Just from the first sound, it just― [Furuta starts dancing] I can just flow with the music.

Futaba: Yeah, this’ll just get your body dancing on its own. Amazing.

Furuta: [turns to address Futaba] Would you like to dance up here together?

Futaba: [background music cuts] Ah, no, I’m good.

Furuta: [turns back to the camera] It seems he’s good, so I’ll move on to the third dancing point: The solo dances by each student during the song’s interlude. And for this― [a little out of breath] for this…

Futaba: Uh-huh.

Furuta: Well, for this part, I will be dancing Kalim’s portion.

Futaba: You’re breathing a bit hard, you good?

Furuta: [turns to address Futaba] Oh, I’m fine.

Futaba: You sure?

Furuta: [turns back to the camera] I’m not tired whatsoever. I am very used to dancing, after all.

Futaba: Then please, go on.

Furuta: Of course.

[Furuta begins dancing Kalim's movements during the interlude while Futaba keeps gazing intently]

[dance ends]

Futaba: No way, that’s so aggressive! Woaaah, this part feels like the most aggressive of the whole set!

Furuta: [turns to address Futaba] How about it, Futaba-san, would you like to dance this aggressive part with me?

Futaba: [background music cuts] Ah, no, I’m good.

Furuta: [addresses Yasuda] Yasuda-san, would you like to dance with me?

Yasuda: No, thank you.

Furuta: [turns back to the camera] Alright then, moving on! Time for the fourth and final dance point: I’ll dance from the song's hook to the end!

[Furuta dances Kalim/Ace's movements for the end of the song while Futaba looks on in amazement and awe]

[dancing ends, Futaba starts a slow clap, picks up speed, then stands up]

Futaba: EXCELLENT! PERFECT! BEAUTIFUL! Futaba-kun, you’re amazing! You’re an absolute genius!

Furuta: [turns to address Futaba] Thank you very much. Shall we share a dance together?

Futaba: [background music cuts] Ah, no, I’m good. [sits back down]

Furuta: [turns back to the camera] It seems he’s good, so for everyone else, I hope you were able to learn how to dance this song. After all the energy and effort I put into this instructional demonstration, there’s no way you can’t dance it now, I’m sure.

Futaba: Absolutely. Thank you for the dance lecture, Furuta-san.

Furuta: [turns to address Futaba] Futaba-san, I do hope you’ll dance with me on the next occasion.

Futaba: [background music cuts] Ah, no, I’m good.

Furuta: [turns back to the camera] It seems he’s good.

Fin

[wires-and-hellfires]

Hi could you do Alastor x Vox's sister that's staying at the hotel. Vox didn't know they were in hell and they are not a tech demon like him if this makes any sense.

Vox only realized it was his sister because unlike her brother who's good with tech she opposite like the best equivalent comparison I can think of is someone who's so bad at cooking that they could burn water.

Sorry for the long request you dont have to do it if you don't want to

look at how well you took care of me

Pairing: Alastor & fem! reader (queer-platonic), Vox & sister! reader

Description: Vox comes to the realization that he may have made a mistake... he can only hope it's not too late.

Warnings: The battle in episode 8, violence, murder, injuries, alcohol, Alastor as a warning in itself, Rosie being Rosie,

Author note: Hi hi! Thanks so much for the request!!! I don't write romantic relationships for Alastor, but I loved this idea so I hope a QPR is okay! The title is from "Whispers of Your Brother's Blood" btw. This was tons of fun to write and it kinda got away from me but hopefully it's okay.

Part 2 with a reunion coming soon!

Meeting Alastor was likely the best thing that happened in your entire life, including your time on Earth and in hell.

You weren't stupid. You knew how Alastor treated people, hell, how he used to treat you, and yet, somewhere along the way he showed you more kindness than anyone else.

You met through Rosie, which was likely the best way to come face-to-face with the radio demon.

Rosie found you when you first arrived in hell, and despite very obviously considering eating you, she saw potential of some sort. Perhaps it was your steady gaze or the way you gripped the broken glass in your bloody hand like a knife, but she took you in and showed you life in hell, even if you didn't share her... dietary choices.

When Alastor came for their weekly gossip session meeting, she introduced you two. At first, he seemed to disregard you. You didn't mind.

You did your best work behind the scenes anyhow.

Alastor mentioned a man from the Weapons District who had been speaking badly of Rosie, laughing that he was practically volunteering to be a guest on his broadcast. You could hear the static in his voice from your spot in an armchair across the room. He wasn't joking.

Which meant you had to act first.

Later that night, you bid farewell to Rosie with a smile, claiming you had errands to run, which to be fair, wasn't entirely untrue.

The man was easy to find thanks to Alastor's description. He reeked of cheap booze and tobacco, already drunk in the bar you tracked him to.

Sliding up to him with promises of "a good time" and more booze, he stumbled out of the bar after you, straight into the back alley.

He was dead within 10 minutes. A mugging gone wrong, they'd say.

How tragic.

During the next meeting between Alastor and Rosie, Alastor invited you to sit with them, much to Rosie's delight. And if his smile seemed a bit too knowing and he made a few jokes about drunks in dark alleys? Well, that could stay between the two of you.

And that's where it started.

Every visit, regardless of what you were doing, Alastor would ask if you'd like to join them. You three would chat over tea, sharing gossip and talking shit. You couldn't tell if he genuinely enjoyed your company or if he just found you entertaining, though you suspected those two things weren't too different with Alastor.

And when someone was a bit too careless with their opinion about Alastor in the bar you frequented one night? The radio demon didn't need to make an appearance, you would destroy that scum yourself-

The next day, Alastor paid you a visit personally.

In the parlour, he expressed an interest in your... skillset, laughing about how you worked in the darkness.

He offered you a deal for your soul.

Whatever care he had developed for you likely saved your life when you refused.

"Partners or nothing," you had offered. When his grin sharpened, you knew he was intrigued.

He was the flashy showman, broadcasting the screams of overlords and inspiring fear across all of hell.

And you?

You were the shadow on the wall, charming those who would be too stubborn or too afraid to usually talk, convincing them to give away the information you needed to build your empire further.

Those who knew of your existence understood the consequences of speaking out. The radio demon didn't take well to those who threatened you.

In a dangerously comforting way, it all felt far too close to your life on earth. Sure, you weren't killing nearly as much back then, but flirting for information, gathering secrets and destroying those who opposed you or those close to you?

Yeah, that was familiar.

Your brother would be proud, you thought.

Or maybe he'd be just as unappreciative as he was in life.

Half a decade at Alastor's side, the two of you taking the phrase "partners in crime" very literally.

As a show of trust, he once allowed you to help with a broadcast, as long as you promised to keep quiet. Admittedly, he quickly discovered your... less-than-ideal skills with technology, but you appreciated the thought nonetheless.

You relied on one another. You leaned on him and he would lean back.

And then he disappeared.

No goodbye, no warning at all, not even a body.

Just... gone.

After five years, you moved into an apartment in Cannibal Town, further isolating yourself. Finding work wasn't difficult, but you refused to use your skills for just anyone, and there were few people you trusted more than Rosie.

You arrived late one night, two years into working with Rosie. Setting the keys down on the counter, the dull buzz of static spread through the room.

Alastor was holding you before you even hit the ground, legs giving out in relief.

And yes, he wasn't the most physically affectionate demon, but for you?

For you, he could make an exception.

The hotel could wait until tomorrow. Tonight, he had apologies to make and a partner to comfort.

The next day, after Alastor pitched his ideal to the princess of hell, he brought in Niffty, Husk and you as help, and if everyone thought you were a soul under his command, well, it was easier that way.

However much you didn't want to admit it, you grew to care for everyone. Losing at cards with Husk, cooking lessons with Angel, sparing with Vaggie, watching musicals with Charlie, crafts with Niffty, failing at inventing with Sir Pentious...

And doing absolutely everything with Alastor. After his reappearance, you were reluctant to let him out of your sight, and the radio demon was all too willing to keep you close, even if Husk seemed concerned over it.

Which was probably why when Alastor tried to get you to leave during the night before the battle, you refused.

You could tell his desperation to keep you safe drive you out of the hotel by the static in his voice, his subtle requests turning to false threats and finally a plea that neither of you would admit to leaving his mouth.

"I'm a lot of terrible things, Alastor, but I am not disloyal. I will stand tomorrow with you and everyone else. You're not leaving me again."

And for the first time that you've met him, he lets it go. No further bargaining or attempts to trap you, just a sigh and "Whatever you want, my dear," with a tighter smile than usual.

The next day, everything goes to shit.

Alastor and Adam are fighting, with Alastor firmly kicking his ass.

Then Sir General Pentious yells to unjam a cannon near you, and while pushing random buttons and gesturing angrily, you scream, "I don't know how to use this shit!"

You don't see the VoxTech drone nearby recording everything for the Vee's future entertainment.

With your back turned, you cry out at the feeling of a spear slicing across your back.

The pain of the blow sends you stumbling forward into the side of the cannon, causing it to finally go off, turning the angel behind you into pieces.

The force behind the machine sent you crashing into the wall of the hotel next to Angel, who turned to you in shock.

At the sound of your pain, Alastor's focus breaks for only a second.

It's enough for Adam to gain the upper hand, breaking his staff in two and sending him to the ground.

As he fades into the shadows, he focuses on your energy signature and pulls you into the darkness alongside him.

Across hell, at the top of V Tower, Vox swore wildly at the screen.

What a fucking coward!

Alastor running away to die off camera had to be the biggest disappointment in his entire afterlife.

Scratch that, second biggest disappointment. Still a pretty big bummer though.

Saving the other views of the battle for later inspection, he and the other Vee's watched as Lucifer slammed Adam into the dirt in delight.

It was 3 hours after the extermination was cancelled that he found the footage of you and the cannon. Of you hitting the wall and disappearing, but you're not dead, you can't be dead oh please not again-

How long have you been in hell? He assumed that you had been killed permanently before he arrived in hell after you, or maybe you'd even been sent to heaven, despite your sins. If anyone deserved to be forgiven, it was you.

But no, no no- You'd been here, the whole time, in that stupid hotel with fucking Alastor-

Vox's fans speed up in an attempt to keep his whole system from crashing.

Your appearance had changed, sure, but he would recognize the sight of you cussing out technology anywhere.

He would recognize his little sister anywhere, even in death.

This was all his fault.

You and Vox grew up close. Always the two of you, there could be no one else, the sheltering of your parents ensured that.

Over time, Vox's mastery of technology grew, and so did his influence. When he needed someone he could trust to keep things clean and running in the background, you were the obvious choice.

He took you for granted, Vox knew that now. You had argued about something stupid before a job one night, he couldn't even remember what he said, only that he went too far. When you left to go do some "clean up" for a previous situation, he resolved to properly apologize for once when you got home. And to say thank you. He wouldn't forget this time.

But you never came back.

You were found shot dead in an alleyway by a couple of employees from a nearby bar later that night.

Did Vox send you on a job that was too much for you? Were you distracted from the argument?

Either way, it was his fault you were dead. His fault the one person he loved, his baby sister, lay in a casket.

It didn't take long for him to get put into the ground himself.

Arriving in hell felt like a second chance. He would find you and everything would be alright again.

And yet, you were nowhere to be seen.

The drones around the hotel (or what was left of it) circled, scanning for a sign that you were there. That his ignorance hadn't killed you for a second time.

On the screens, the clean-up of the rubble continued.

Vox twitched.

Vox hadn't prayed since he was a child in the front pews of the neighbourhood church. Back when purity was still an option and repentance was unnecessary.

Now, he didn't know who he was pleading to. Does God listen when demons pray?

Please. Please, let her live. Let Alastor have saved her. Let me make this right.

Please.

[good-beans]

Concept that just popped into my head: Milgram characters doing "get ready with me" videos

Aw, this was so fun!! I always love your hc style of normal au/everyone's chilling, and tried to go the same route -- it was so cute to think about :D

Haruka: Puts on his outfit for the day and explains everything in great detail. He has lots of comfortable items and fun colors. At the very end he speaks off-camera and you realize Muu was standing there cheering him on the whole time. He gets a lot of encouraging comments, and Muu and Fuuta keep an eye on the account to delete any nasty ones that may come in.

Yuno: Shows her outfit, makeup, nails, and bag she’s taking with her. She tries out a variety of styles (not just sticking to the more feminine looks we see in canon). She gives a bit of a tutorial and tips as well as showing things off. Has a main account for her daytime outfits, and a more private one for her nighttime looks. Mahiru is the only one aware of the latter account.

Fuuta: Layers. Lots of layers. There will be three sweatshirts laid out in front of him and you wonder which he’s going to choose before realizing he’s putting them all on. He focuses most on his sneakers and sportswear. He plays loud music over the videos, not knowing what to say. Has gotten into comment-section arguments over those yellow socks.

Muu: Also does a full look at her appearance: nails, accessories, etc. She mentions where you can buy everything, and it’s unclear whether she was sponsored by these brands or is just excited to talk about them. (Whether they’re actually together or not,) she’ll have Haruka on as a guest a lot to show off couple’s outfit ideas. She definitely has the biggest following, and loves recommending Haruka and the others’ accounts.  

Shidou: He doesn’t really know what he’s doing, but his account is getting tons of views so the others keep encouraging him to make videos. He’s just glad to be connecting with the other prisoners as they show him how to do it. He dresses in a mix of the sleek patterned shirts and dad fits, and both types of videos are equally popular. 

Mahiru: None of the serious-faced flirts or little pouty faces – it’s all smiles for her. Every video is basically a full tutorial – she has captions and a voiceover giving commentary on everything. She has the next biggest following, and interacts constantly. She loves getting questions “what should I wear on an x type date?” “How do I dress to impress x type of person?” because she always comes up with the perfect outfit to help. 

Kazui: A bit confused as well, though he does know a lot about style. His interro question makes it seem like he wanted kids – I think he’d really get into the account as one of those “Dad How Do I” types. He talks about matching things, clothes upkeep, shaving/hairstyling. 

Amane: Also wouldn’t have made the videos without prompting from the others, but enjoys it a lot. She usually talks about practical things instead of “vain” fashion: she’s excited to show off a new raincoat, sturdy shoes, useful pockets, etc. Over time, she leans into outfits that are more cute and colorful, gaining confidence in them. 

Mikoto: He started the account as something for one of his design classes, and got really into it. He likes to challenge himself with unique styles and clothing articles, making pretty much anything work. He keeps everything professional in case an employer/coworker sees, but isn’t afraid to add some flirting and flaunting in there. If he’s open about his plurality, he’ll have some special videos, “choosing an outfit for John today!”

Kotoko: Like Amane, she’s more excited about practical outfits. She’ll show off clothes that have good flexibility, places to store and conceal objects, and heavy duty materials. She’ll rate jackets, boots, and other “military-grade” things for what has worked best for her. She’s very attentive to the accounts that follow her – she does full background checks to make sure her info is being used for justice, not more crime. Mahiru convinces her to do a special where she puts all her piercings in and talks about why she chose them/what they mean.

Es: Experiments with a lot of new styles, trying to figure out what they like. They also just play music in the back, not having much to say about each outfit. They'd rather focus on their series of dressing-up-Jackalope videos, much to his dismay...

[ox-imagines]

Entering an Academy of Ghouls

2.1k words, starring Zenji + Leia, featuring Subaru, Nakami, and Akira, with a special guest appearance by Alan and Tohma

Leia could not wait to get to her dorm. In theory, an entrance ceremony sounded fun. But in practice? It was a small auditorium, which meant not a ton of space to move around and it got uncomfortably warm during the ceremony. On top of that, being on stage in any capacity made her nervous. That was over now, though, and from what she knew about Darkwick, she was mostly happy with her house placement. Hotarubi, an art-based house. Though she did wonder about the part where the purpose of Hotarubi was to preserve Japanese culture, especially pertaining to anomalies. Would she be of any use in that department? She’d only been in Tokyo for two months. When she was sorted into Hotarubi her robes had melded into some sort of traditional Japanese outfit, which already felt inappropriate enough though no one seemed to mind. 

Oh well. Everything would be fine once she got out of the stuffy, loud auditorium, or at least everything would be better. Supposedly the Academy would already have the ghouls’ belongings in their new dorms by the time they got there. Leia just wanted to be there already to see her cat. He was a normal cat, but the Chancellor had agreed he could live on campus, oddly enough after asking to hire him?

A hand landed on the back of Leia’s shoulder as she tried to shuffle out of the auditorium and she flinched. “Oh, I apologize for startling you my dear! I simply wanted to catch up with you to introduce myself and possibly walk back to our dorms together!”

Leia turned to find herself face to face with a very tall boy wearing colorful clothes similar to hers. He beamed at her, long indigo hair framing a pair of sparkling crimson eyes sporting immaculate eyeliner and set behind round-framed glasses. She vaguely recognized him as one of the other ghouls who’d been sorted tonight. “I’m Kotodama Zenji!” He gave a half-bow with a dramatic sweeping motion. “We’re housemates!” His voice was loud and full, resonating with a joyful timbre.

“I’m Leia,” she gave him an awkward smile and stuck her hand out. “Sorry my Japanese isn’t great, I’ve only been learning a few months.”

“I think your Japanese is perfectly acceptable!” He took her hand but didn’t shake it, rather holding it between them for a moment before letting go to loop their arms together.

Something in Leia’s chest ached despairingly at more contact when all she wanted was to just get out of there into the welcoming calm of the night. If she was going to live with and take classes with this guy though she should at least tolerate his attention. He was probably just excited.

“If you ever have trouble with translations, though, I’m your man!” He threw her a wink with a playful grin. “I’m rather fluent in English myself and bear no holds in aiding you if or when you need,” he bestowed another gracious smile before his expression fell a bit. “Are you feeling unwell? I may not know you well but I wouldn’t say you look like you’re having a good time.”

She fixed him with another half-hearted smile. “Sorry; I’ve certainly been better. Everything’s just… a lot. I was actually on my way out of here.”

“Oh! I understand, you don’t find crowds favorable? My younger brother gets that way sometimes. Here, let’s get on our way.” Without hesitation, his arm tightened around hers and he forged a way through to the exit. “You know, I don’t believe I saw our new captain or vice captain here tonight. Wait, I do think Vice Captain Kawakami was in the audience for a while, but he mustn’t’ve stayed the whole time. Oh, and there was another ghoul sorted to Hotarubi tonight, wasn't there! I suppose he slipped out unnoticed just after the ceremony ended. Now, let us figure out where we’re going… this way, if I’m correct.”

For a few minutes, he couldn’t seem to stop talking, but he took notice of Leia’s quietness at his side as they walked across campus and calmed. A part of Leia wished she was alone so she could just put in her earbuds and enjoy the evening walk, but it wasn’t all bad already having a new friend in such an unfamiliar place, she supposed. That, and she had no clue where to go. It didn’t seem like Zenji knew much more than she did in that department unfortunately.

“Horsefeathers,” Zenji sighed as he stared at his phone screen. “I’m not even much of a tech man but why are things here so archaic? I don’t see any good reason to have to print a grounds map from the library and have no online equivalent. Of course the library is closed at the moment. It would've been rather helpful if our dear vice captain had stayed long enough to escort us back to our housing.”

Leia sighed tiredly in response.

“Excuse me?” Zenji dragged her over to a boy he could rival in height but not in frame. Zenji also couldn’t possibly match the unnervingly serious energy emanating from the boy, Leia thought. “Could you please direct us toward the Hotarubi grounds?”

A soft, derisive laugh sounded from somewhere on the other side of the large boy. “He won’t be able to help with that, I’m afraid. Lucky for him I found him wandering around trying to find his way to our house.” A boy only slightly smaller in stature than the first stepped closer, ashen hair taking on an almost pink tint in the sunset. He had the sharp, playful eyes of a predator but in a stunning cornflower blue color, and a pretty face to match. A yellow hoodie was zipped up most of the way over a black mesh shirt; a Vagastrom student. Leia hadn’t noticed until then but the other boy was also in yellow-accented streetwear. “I guess you both are lucky too then,” the blonde spoke again, tilting his head slightly. He raised an arm to gesture southeast. “Hotarubi is that way.”

“Thank you kindly, friend!” Zenji grabbed the Vagastrom’s hand and shook it, taking the boy by surprise. Fortunately, he just chuckled again.

“No problem. Have a safe walk back,” he nodded politely to Leia before turning to lead his housemate on their way.

“He was helpful!” Without further ado, Zenji dragged Leia off in the direction the Vagastrom student had pointed them in. “It’s certainly a pretty campus! There are worse places to be left to wander around.”

“Well, I’m glad you’re enjoying yourself,” Leia grimaced tiredly, fighting to keep up with the ghoul’s long-legged strides.

“Here at last!” Zenji exclaimed, entirely too cheerfully in Leia’s opinion. They were both soaked from the apparently constant rain that showered Hotarubi’s grounds and it had taken much longer than she would’ve liked to get there, rain or not. For better or worse, though, their walk together had finally come to an end. They stood on the porch of a traditional Japanese structure, the building they’d be living in.

Leia raised an eyebrow in thought, but then frowned. “Damn it, these clothes probably aren’t fireproof,” she muttered.

Zenji gave her a slightly confused head-cock. “What was that, my dear?”

“Oh, sorry, it was nothing.”

“A-alright. Shall we go inside, then?” Without awaiting a response, Zenji opened the door. Warm lighting and the aroma of tea and incense greeted them, beckoning them in from the rain. Three boys sat on the floor around a tea table, drinking a light but fragrant blend. One was damp, and all three were still in their traditional clothing that served as their house uniforms. 

“Ah! Welcome!” The one furthest from the door stood quickly and gave them a deep bow, fluffy lilac and silver hair floating around his hair like a halo as he dipped. The boy next to him shot him an alarmed look at his sudden movement that melted into one of exasperation. “I’m the Hotarubi captain,” the lilac-haired boy greeted them warmly before turning away to cough into his elbow.

“Fuck, Nakami,” the boy at his side mumbled and stood, setting a hand on the captain’s back. His robes were primarily scarlet, with black accents and cranes flying over them. Long, black hair hung down past his shoulders, hanging in his face as he concernedly surveyed his captain with gleaming pink eyes. “I’m the vice-captain, Kawakami Akira. Our captain here is Furukawa Nakami.”

“I’m fine, Aki.” Nakami pulled a hair tie off his wrist and carefully moved Akira’s hair off his face. Akira lowered his head to allow the other boy to tie his hair back. The captain displayed a serene smile as he turned back to face them, a stark contrast to the coughing fit he’d just had. His eyes were the color of a fresh, ripe orange peel and held a startling depth, his robes brightly colored in patterns of burnt orange and teal and cream. Whereas Akira’s shirt under his robe was a turtleneck, Nakami’s sported a rather low cut, showing off the top of a large, colorful moth tattoo sprawling across his chest, as well as a nasty-looking old scar trailing over his shoulder. “You’re both soaked! You didn’t get lost on your way here, did you?”

“I’m afraid we did, Captain Furukawa-sama,” Zenji returned his deep bow as he addressed him and the captain chuckled, waving his hands. 

“No need to be so formal, you can just call me Nakami or captain.” The younger ghoul's formal respect had quite amused him, and Akira subtly relaxed as he watched him. “Let’s just get you two dried off. Oh! How could I forget!” Nakami lowered his gaze to the boy still sitting at the table, gesturing for him to stand and introduce himself. “You’re such a quiet little guy,” he chuckled.

“Hello,” the damp boy stood and bowed awkwardly, blinking up at them with large, lavender doe eyes from under a light brown bowl cut. “I’m Kagami Subaru.”

“Pause!” Zenji exclaimed. “The Kagami Subaru? What an honor!” The tall ghoul gave a lofty bow.

Leia glanced between the boys. She was clearly missing something, but she had no clue what. Subaru appeared a bit shy under Zenji’s excitement. He rubbed his reddening neck and glanced away.

“Yes, that’s me.”

“I’m honored to make the acquaintance of such an esteemed up-and-coming actor! I’m Kotodama Zenji.”

Subaru’s polite smile faltered a bit. “Don’t think of me like that, please, I’m no better than anyone else. I’m just your classmate and housemate now.”

Of course, Zenji ignored such a sentiment, glossing over the fact that Subaru had said it at all. “To think that the Kagami Subaru is a fellow ghoul! Well, I look forward to our time together, Subaru!”

Subaru let out a soft, exhausted sigh and chose to turn his attention to Leia instead of justifying Zenji with a response. “Hi.”

“Hi,” she returned his gentle smile and tone. “I’m Leia.”

“Nice to meet you.”

While the first-years acquainted themselves with one another, Akira had quietly slipped out to get towels for Zenji and Leia. He returned without them realizing he’d even left. “Here. Go dry off.” Despite his somewhat serious presentation, the vice captain’s voice was surprisingly caring. “Leia, your room is the first room on the left. Across from your door is the bathroom, and Zenji, your room is the next door on the right after the bathroom. Your belongings are in your rooms already.”

Leia took her towel and bowed before leaving to find her room. As soon as she closed the door, she heard a nervous cry from somewhere in the corner. “Lindor!” She hurried over and kneeled next to the feline’s crate, opening it. He was laying in the back of it, staring at her with rounded green eyes. “It’s alright, you can hang out there.” Standing, she took in the room. It had a sliding door rather than a hinged one, but thankfully had a proper mattress bed, as well as a dresser, a wardrobe, and a nightstand. It was almost as big as her flat the last couple of months had been and had a cozy energy to it. “This is gonna be good for us, I think,” she spoke to her cat and stripped out of her wet clothes, hanging them in the wardrobe to dry. All her housemates she’d met seemed nice, even if she was the only girl among them and Zenji had come off a bit overbearing. She supposed she should go out and join them for tea after changing. “I cannot wait to get in bed, but getting in bed will have to wait,” she gave a resigned sigh and opened her box of clothes.

[annoyangle]

One Stanford Pines from a completely different dimension than the one who'd had his memories erased suddenly appeared in the middle of Bill's partying shenanigans seemingly without the use of a portal. He looked bruised and bloodied and was breathing heavily. He had on some kind of metallic collar which was flashing red and green and similar metallic creations decorating his wrists and all the way up to his elbows. Some of them were broken and lit red, some were lit green, and others were flashing like the one around his neck. He almost didn't look fully there - as if he were fading in and out of existence entirely.

"Bill!" Ford called out, his voice rasping and tinged with desperation. His voice sounded as if it were coming from multiple places at once - though all completely out of sync with each other.

Suddenly, he poofed into a baby, and he screamed and cried, another poof and he was a teenager. "Need your..."

Poof. He was an old man, and there were three of him in various states of phasing and fluctuation. "Help," they pleaded, then phased into each other and vanished entirely.

To Ford, it felt like dying and being born again as he suddenly reappeared. He tried to steady himself and ended up knocking over several bottles of substances before passing out, still shifting from one time period to the next, still phasing, still in a state of several quantum uncertainties. Ford's "time" was not only incredibly fractured; it was nothing short of several time-related disasters occurring at once.

So, of course, the party was in imminent danger of being crashed by a metric ton of Time Cops.

[AFTER SHOOING THE OTHER GUESTS OUT OF THE WAY OF THE TUMBLING ASK FROM TIME-DISPLACED SIXER, BILL WAITS UNTIL THE FLASHING, TIME-GLITCHING AND GENERAL INSTABILITY STOPS - IS HE GONNA END UP CLIPPING THROUGH THE FLOOR? NOPE? OKAY THEN - AND THEN, HE DRIFTS OVER TOWARD WHERE THE FORD HAS FAINTED FACE DOWN, THE HUMAN NOW COVERED IN HALF A BOWL OF COSMIC STARBLASTERS AND BITS OF CANAPE AND CHEESE. ] UGH. UGH. NOT ONLY DID THIS JOKER JUST CRASH MY PRIVATE PARTY BUT HE BROUGHT A NARRATIVE WITH HIM! UGH!! WHY? WHAT DID I DO TO DESERVE THIS?! [BILL THROWS HIS HANDS UP IN THE AIR IN ANGRY PROTEST AND THEN GROWLS AND DOES SOMETHING QUITE STRANGE. HE.... RIPS IN HALF? YUP, THERE'S A FLARE AND A BIG SPLASH OF FUNKY ARCANE LIGHT AND SUDDENLY TWO BILLS HOVER WHERE ONE PREVIOUSLY FLOATED. THERE'S YELLOW BILL, AND THEN A KIND OF YELLOW-ORANGE BILL, A FEW SHADES DARKER THAN THE FIRST. THEY IMMEDIATELY START TO ARGUE. ORANGE!BILL PRODS YELLOW!BILL JUST BELOW THE EYE.] DON'T YOU PAWN THIS CRAP OFF ON ME, YOU THINK I'M GONNA LET YOU SKIP TOWN WHILE I GET STUCK IN A NARRATIVE?? [YELLOW BILL SMIRKS HARD] YUP, SURE AM! HAVE FUN BEING TRAPPED, SUCKER!! [A TIP OF HIS HAT AND YELLOW BILL POPS RIGHT OUT OF EXISTENCE WITH A BIG LOUD CACKLE. THEN HE POPS BACK IN FOR A BLIP, TAKING THE PARTY GOERS, WHAT'S LEFT OF THE FOOD, AND THIS AND THAT ALONG WITH HIM! LEAVING SLIGHTLYORANGE!BILL ALL ALONE TO SCOWL RIGHT THERE IN THE MIDDLE OF THE FLOOR.] ... I HATE THAT GUY. [HE GRUMBLES, DRIFTS OVER AND KIND OF POKES AT UNCONSCIOUS, BLINKY-LIGHTS SIXER WITH A FOOT.] OKAY, BRAINIAC, YOU MADE YOUR DRAMATIC ENTRANCE AND RUINED MY WHOLE PARTY... ARE YOU HAPPY? GET UP ALREADY. [OH WAIT, THAT'S RIGHT, THE TIME COPS. CRAP! WELP. GUESS IT'S TIME TO SEE HOW MUCH ABILITY HE GOT LEFT WITH - CAN HE MOVE THE HEXAGONY? OH, IT SEEMS HE CAN. GREAT. LET'S GO BE ABOUT 40 DIMENSIONS NOR'WEST OF HERE RIGHT NOW. THAT OUGHTA SLOW THE TIME CREEPS OFF FOR A FEW MINUTES ANYWAY...]

[popculturebuffet]

Chirstmas in July: Here Comes Garfiled A Garfield Christmas: A Rope of Sand (Patreon Review for Emma Fici)

Hello all you happy people and welcome to christmas in july! Kev had the idea, I said why not, a bunch of my other friends and finical contributers got involved, and here we are.

And starting us off we return to Here Comes Garfield, my look at all the garfield specials and films. Last time I looked at the minty fresh Garfield Movie, which was decent and had John unraveling as it should. This time we look at one of the franchise's high points with A Garfield Christmas.

Garfield Christmas is the 7th TV Special, airing in december 1987 and being the last special to air before the advent of Garfield and Friends. I suspect they took a bit before doing christmas both to get it right and to be ready as they'd be directly compared to the juggernaught that is a Charlie Brown Christmas. And understandably so but i'm happy to say this special, while not reaching those near impossible heights, is still excellent and worth checking out both for the novelty of being the only story to focus on John's family from this era of animation and for genuine quality. Find out why and more under the cut

The special follows Garfield as he's unwillingly drug out of his bed to go down to the farm on Christmas Eve Morning to go see John's Family, something it's implied they do every year. IT's stuff like this that reminds you Garfield is more "spoiled teenage son" than "housecat" and it is great. He also has an elaborate dream about a gift giving machine with a lou rawls song about christmas greed which parents all over the world reacted to with a resounding

So let's talk about Jon's Family. Jon's two unnamed parents and brother Doc Boy are some of the strips only recurring characters. Part of the reason you get so many special exclusives is that Garfield has a very limited cast of the cat himself, Jon, Odie, Liz, Irma, Nermal, Arlene and John's Parnets. And lyman before he was banished to the phantom zone. They later added the meanest dog in the world but aside from a few one off sin the earlier days, they tend to stick to these guys.

Yet weirdly they aren't used a ton when it comes to garfield adaptations: His parents only appear here, in ONE episode of the massive run of garfield and friends, and for a guest apperance and a cameo on the garfield show. Doc Boy actually seems to get a decent chunk of apperances on the latter, but his only apperance during peak animated garfield was this special. There's also Jon's Grandma, who wasn't as recurring as the other three, but did get a week to herself early on and got a redesign for this special that stuck for the strip

As for the rest of the Arbuckles they were introduced early into the strip, two years in 1980.

As you can grab from context, Jon's parents are farmers, his mom an avid baker and loving mother his dad a somewhat terse but loveable farmer. The two don't show up a ton these days, but still show up ocasinally. They were also originally the owners of this guy

Who owns nermal now I have no idea, but yeah, while Nermal debuted before them, he was their pet originally. Later apperances including this special just sorta soft retconned that and Nermal's current owner remains one of the great mysteries of garfield lore, and one of the few left unsolved as bigguns like "Where's Lyman?" And "Who's His dad" have been answered by the Garfield Show with Lyman having gone to australia as a wildlife photgrapher and staying to protect the wildlife by dressing up as a mythical beast... and I suddenly want to watch this entire four parter because what. While the Dad situation was resolved with the movie.. which raises further questions in regards to the strip continuity, etc etc, but at least vic's appearance gives us an idea of what he looks like in most continuities if nothing else.

Doc Boy was, as I forgot till I grabbed his first apperance from teh wiki, originally not living with Jon's parents before being retconned as such witht his special. As such he stayed home while Jon moved to the city, adopted an overweight son who treats him poorly and another son who treats him better, sexually harassed his vet then backed off enough that she actually reciprocated his feelings. You know a normal track.

I've always loved Jon's family partly because I relate: my own dad was raised on a farm as one of 9 children, moved to the suburbs later and visited frequently, while like Garfield I was carted along. It wasn't nearly as much of a put out for me.. except when he made me attend church as going to a catholic church with adhd and a poor phsique is a form of torture I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy. Point is I visited the farm often so I relate to getting up early, being forced to help with choring despite plenty of your uncles being there who have more muscle to them, and the quite serenity of farm life. My grandma also had a nice little toy room under the stairs for the various grandkids and a giant mountain of disney and other kids vhs'. it's how I found my love of problem child and the little rascals, both of which are on my bucket list review wise. If your curious

All-Star Superman Total Drama Island (Original) Child's Play Child's Play Comic Problem Child Little Rascals Bloom County Home Movies Daria: Is it Fall Yet? Daredevil By Mark Waid House of X/Powers of X Scarlet Witch by Steve Orlando FF by Fraction and Allred Giant Days Scary Go Round TMNT IDW Steven Universe Doom Patrol by Gerard Way Doom Patrol V2 #75 Hazbin Hotel The Legend of Vox Machina For Better or For Worse The For Better or For Worse Christmas Special For Better or For Worse Animated Series Fantastic Four by Jonathan Hickman More of JLI X-Factor by Peter David (Both Runs) Wolverine and the X-Men Marvel Graphic Novel #4: The New Mutants Wolverine and the X-Men (Comic) Kireon Gilleon's Uncanny X-Men The Wicked+The Divine Bad Machinery The Dream of a Lifetime Space Jam Chew An Arc from Fox Trot Batman: the Caped Crusader Crisis on Infinite Earths Heart of the City Phantom of the Paradise Something Positive WALL-E The Peanuts Movie Cats Don't Dance JLA First Arc Crisis on Earth 3 That Shang Chi Arc where he has to fight a train X-Men 97 X-Men: From The Ashes (Story Arc) Birds of Prey by Gail Simone Nightwing by Tom Taylor Booster Gold TMNT: The Last Ronin Something Samurai Jack Sonic the Hedgehog Reboot by Ian Flynn (Archie) Mega Man 3 Tuca and Bertie An Extremely Goofy Movie Scream An Episode of the Red Green Show Letterkenny Shorsey Beef's Lovelife Retrospective Flame Princess Retrospective CJ Retrospective OK KO Let's Be Heroes! Storyline Retrospective A Doonesbury Special Phantom Investigators Danny Phantom: The Ultimate Enemy Final Space Top 12 Close Enough Episodes Ready to Rumble No Holds Barred The Aristocats Hades Mother 3 Ikenfell Banjo-Kazooie X-Factor by Louise Simonson X-Factor by Leah Williams The Flintstones by Mark Russel Exit Stage Left: The Snagglepuss Chronicles Tim Curry's Album Donkey Kong Country Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong Quest Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie's Double Trouble More Legion of Super Heroes The First time X-Men fought Dracula That time Superboy became hitler The Death of Superman Retrospective The Death and Return of Superman DuologY Batman: The Long Halloween (Comic) The Megas Retrospective Earthbound It's CHristmas, You Dorks Girls with Slingshots House (Japanese Film) The Fall Guy (Movie) Transformers The Movie Transformers (Energon Universe) Disney Rap Album Christmas Vacation A Christmas Story My Summer Story

It helps that John's grandma looks exactly like my grandma on my dad's side... no really it's eerie: frizzy white hair, big glasses (if not blue ones), the only diffrence is my grandma pauline is more sweet , soft voiced and sedate while Grandma Arbuckle is loud, rambunctious and sarcastic. She shoudln't entirely work, essentially being one rap ballad away from being the sterotypical wacky grandma.. but there's a realness to her antics. She's mildly passive agressive with Jon's mom in a way that comes off less mean and more "they do this a lot", talking over her when she gets worked up and spiking her gravy because Jon's mom is just.. better. With Chilli Powder mind you this is still for kids. Vodka was last week when the kids werne't looking. She also sings a rocking as hell version of o christmas tree that no one else seemed to like but is easily one of the best parts of an already stellar special.

What really sells Grandma as a character though is her friendship with garfiled. While she makes the weird wood burning cat joke (something that took me YEARS to figure out and wasn't that funny when i did), after that the two really get along, from their similar sense of humor to him sneaking her food to Garfield being the only one to keep hre company in her chair as she waxes on her husband. The scene is really touching with her talking about how he didn't show much emotoin, but really cared. You get the sense Davis put his own dad into the special with Jon and Doc Boy's pajamas based on his own as a kid. It's really sweet and heartfelt. it also pays off lovely as Garfield bumps into some letters while trying to figure out what odies up to and finds their old love letters from her late husband.

IT's one of the specials strengths: i'ts warmth: Garfields around to keep it from getting TOO schmaltzy, but it still has more than enough to fit the season. The special is mostly just some fun hangout stuff as John's Mom overcooks food, Garfield snarks and hangs with grandma, and Odie works on something> We also get some fun bits as Jon and Doc Boy act like kids at times. Sometimes it's just to play with their dad as mom makes his read how binky saved christmas. I assume it was fighting the world serpent with sword in hand while riding Smaug as we don't get much. it's also fun as the two later do act like kids, wearing footy pjamas, waking their parents up at midnight, and being threatned with chorin. It's oddly adorable and works with both being manchildren, but isn't overdone enough to get annoying.

The special just moves right along footloose and fancy free and getting there is half the fun. We get bits like working in the snow (With garfield unable to see anything form how thick it is), and a few musical numbers but it's really relaxed and uses every minute well, with grandma and odie's little side plot givnig the special just enough plot to not feel aimless but just little enough to feel like a christmas.

So those musical numbers: Besides the usual from lou rawls, we get a fun one with jon that shows thom huge can really sing, while Garfiled interjects. I especially like when he responds to "wiring all the lights" with "electrical contracting". God Lorenzo music was great. I miss him.

We get a pretty bland christmas is here song that coming right after the jazzy version of o christmas tree really makes Jon's family come off bland as fuck for not liking the former. Which fits his whole personality, but still. We get another fun lou rawls bop with you can never find an elf when you need one as Odie finishes his b plot of making some thing in the background.

It's a fun runner as he grabs random stuff and the reveal it's his present to garfield, a backscratcher he can rub up against, is really sweet as is their hug. We then get a country christmas song to close it out that's a lot of funa nd stuck in my head now thanks.

So yeah, there isn't a ton to say about a garfield christmas: i'ts nostalgic, despite having seen it in high school, warm and hits me right in the heart with some really sweet moments> It's also REALLY funny when it wants to be, with garfield getting to use both his catchphrases "Nice touch", my personal faviorite and "Whoever did (X) outta be drug out into the street and shot" which works for the time but I haven't used at all for obvious reasons. Should use nice touch more. This special.. is easily one of Garfield's best if not the best. I'll have to wait till the end of this project to see, but it is a wonderful special, eaisly on par with a charlie brown christmas and worth your time this.. july season. Thanks for reading

P.S.: This episodes ranking

[rabbitcruiser]

International Day of the Nacho

While tortillas have been around for thousands of years, nachos are a much more recent invention. Learn more about and celebrate the fun of this Mexican food by participating in International Day of the Nacho!

History of International Day of the Nacho

The inspired idea of slicing up corn tortillas and frying them in oil, then piling salsa, meat, cheese and other goodies on top seems to have occurred in the early 1940s.  

The story goes that Ignacia “Nacho” Anaya was the chef in a restaurant along the northern border of Mexico. When some American soldiers came in late at night, the chef was low on ingredients. So he tossed some tortilla chips in with shredded cheese and pickled jalapenos, and the dish was a hit. Of course, it was named after his nickname and it wasn’t long before “nachos” became a household term.

Nachos gained popularity in the 1970s, along with a variety of other foods of the Mexican and Tex-Mex influences. Moving beyond just Mexican-style restaurants, a quick version of nachos began appearing at concession stands in places like state fairs, sports stadiums and more, topped with hot, melted cheese.

When famous sports announcer Howard Cosell talked about nachos on the air during a Dallas Cowboys game in 1978, the media bump caused nachos to go wild. Nachos expanded to movie theaters, convenience stores and even school cafeterias.

International Day of the Nacho embraces and promotes everything to do with this simple and tasty food that now brings joy and delight to people all over the world!

International Day of the Nacho Timeline

7000 BC Corn tortillas are invented

During prehistoric times, corn tortillas are a staple food in what is now Mexico. 

16th Century AD Salsa is invented

Prior to this time, Aztecs may have invented salsa by mixing tomatoes with chilies, but it doesn’t make history until the Spaniards conquer Mexico during this time.

1941 Nachos are invented

Nachos are credited as the brainchild of Ignacia “Nacho” Anaya, who was a restaurant owner in Mexico. 

1947 Salsa makes its way to American homes

Creating a now common condiment for nachos, David and Margaret Pace begin making salsa in Texas, calling it “picante sauce” at the time.

1993 First Chipotle restaurant opens

In Denver, Colorado, Chipotle opens and begins serving their famous burritos as well as nachos, which are on their “secret menu”.

How to Celebrate International Day of the Nacho

Get on board with the fun of International Day of the Nacho with tons of different clever ideas about how to celebrate! Start with some of these ways to get inspired, and then create some that are uniquely yours:

Go Out for Nachos

Depending on the location, nachos are often an easy-to-access, readily available menu item served at loads of different restaurants. Try out a fast and fresh restaurant like Baja Fresh or Del Taco. Or choose a sit down place like Chili’s or Applebee’s for a full-on pile of nachos to share as an appetizer or enjoy as a main dish for one person.

Host a Nacho Party

Grab a few friends, family members or neighbors and get ready to host a party in honor of the International Day of the Nacho! Not only are nachos an easy to make dish that can serve a crowd, they are also a great party dish because it’s easy to ask each person to bring a different part to contribute!

Have one guest bring the tortilla chips, another one bring the jalapeno peppers and a different person can bring the beans. The bigger the guest list, the greater the options for the different recipe items to be brought to the dinner party!

Don’t forget to decorate with various Mexican and Tex-Mex themes, and guests can even be invited to wear a sombrero or serape in honor of the day. For dessert, feel free to serve a Mexican dessert such as churros, sopapillas or individual dishes of flan.

Learn Some Fun Facts About Nachos

In an effort to raise awareness for International Day of the Nacho, remember some bits of trivia about nachos that can be shared with friends or coworkers. Start out with some of these fun facts:

In Mexico, “Nacho” is actually a nickname for the male name Ignacio. The dish that Americans call nachos is actually referred to as “totopos”.

The first recorded appearance of the word “nachos” in English is dated from 1949 when it appeared in a book called The Taste of Texas by Jane Trahey.

Nachos are truly “Tex-Mex” because they were invented just right over the border from Texas in Piedras Negras, Mexico.

Create a Music Playlist for International Day of the Nacho

Take International Day of the Nacho to the next level by making a list of music that goes along with the theme of the day. It can even be played at the previously mentioned party!

Of course, considering the dish’s origins in Mexico, perhaps choose some culturally themed music – perhaps by a Mariachi band or another Latin American group. Get started with some of these popular, classic songs:

La Bamba by Ritchie Valens (1959). One of the most well-known Mexican songs in the US, this one only went to number 22 on the charts when it was originally released, but the film related cover by Los Lobos in 1989 was super popular and went number 1 for three weeks.

Historia de un Amor by Carlos Eleta Almaran (1956). Part of the soundtrack of a film of the same name, this song, “The History of Love”, was written to encourage the musician’s brother after his wife died.

La Cucaracha by many different artists. Originally recorded in 1934, this song, written as an ode to the cockroach, is a classic folk song whose true origins are actually unknown.

Oye Como Va by Tito Puente (1963). Another one of the most recognizable Latin American songs the world over, the most well-known version was recorded by Carlos Santana in 1970, which stayed at the top of the charts for six weeks.

Compete for the Largest Plate of Nachos

The record for the world’s largest plate of nachos was set by the University of Kansas in Kansas City in 2012. The dish consisted of a pile of chips that were 80 feet long, two feet wide and ten inches deep, weighing more than 4600 pounds! Toppings included 860 pounds of ground beef, 860 pounds of nacho cheese, 1200 pounds of beans, 315 pounds of jalapenos and more.

Don’t worry that this much food went to waste, though! Portions of nachos were dished out and sold to people attending a track and field event, in an attempt to raise money for charity.

Those who are interested in competing to top this massive amount of nachos might want to consider creating an event and accomplishing this goal in honor of International Day of the Nacho!

International Day of the Nacho FAQs

Are nachos Mexican?

Yes. Nachos seem to have originated in Northern Mexico, just over the border from Texas. 

Do nachos have gluten?

Nachos are almost always gluten free, as long as they are made with corn tortilla chips and the spices used in the meat do not contain gluten.

Does Chipotle have nachos?

Although they are not necessarily listed on the menu, it’s easy to ask Chipotle to make nachos instead of a burrito or bowl. They’ll happily comply! 

Are nachos healthy?

Most of the ingredients in nachos are highly processed, making them less healthy than some foods. But if fresh vegetables are added, as well as beans as a source of protein, they can be made healthier.

How to make nachos?

A super easy snack or meal, nachos are made by piling toppings, such as cooked meat, cheese, salsa or beans, on top of tortilla chips and then baking them.

Source

[eisforeidolon]

https://www.tumblr.com/eisforeidolon/715334586684604416/jensen-was-just-announced-at-a-supernatural-con-in

A few other blogs have addressed this, and the Crossroads con organizer has. Most European cons just can’t afford both Js because they cost a ton in fees. Pair that with the fact that they have different schedules but aren’t stuck in Vancouver for most of the year, and it makes sense why they are starting to do separate European cons. Also, it kind of makes sense that they might want to appear not always as a pair when they have different careers. This also makes the more accessible since cons with bath if them are very expensive.

They also still do all Creation cons (which there are a ton of this year still) and JIBs together.

Thanks, anon! I admit I hadn't really thought much about the European cons other than it probably being an issue to schedule in the past because of needing so much more travel (and possibly some recovery) time. Especially on top of having to fly back and forth to Vancouver all the time.

But yeah, it makes sense organizers without Creation's pockets might struggle to afford both J's at the same event. A lot of tumblrites seem to think they would be able to just decide to have a convention and magically get all the stars to show up. Like, no, you have to pay the guests, and the actual stars do not come anywhere near as cheap as demon #5.

Add on that they have different schedules where Jared's is still tied to full TV seasons while Jensen's is ???, Jared may still have to try and get that knee surgery in somewhere, going solo likely opens the floor for more current project questions for fans who have less opportunities to see them, and they're still doing oodles of Creation cons together all year long where it's not only not the case that they never see each other, but not even the case they never get to do cons together, even European ones given Jibcon?

But nah, they didn't prioritize scheduling a couple European cons together, J-vorce is obvs real!!!

[solitalien]

A Portal to Another World

Just want to put this here to say that one, the story is really long and two, is kind of creepy. I’m not really gonna put a warning because I don’t necessarily see what’s creepy just strange. Anyway, this was the dream that I had last night.

Last night I had a very strange dream. One, that although may appear like the rest, actually kind of freaked me out for some reason.

It started with me at a friend's house for a sleepover. It was kind of pool party that never really led to us going into the water. The house was huge and reminded me of a car dealer ship with how it was formatted. Though held tons of furniture, mostly couches and bean bags all in a monochrome setting.

This “friend” who had invited me similarly looked like my ex-partner but also not. It sorts of translated in the dream that this was my ex but looked nothing like them. They had a different face and body but just felt like them. it was strange.

There were five of us total in the beginning with it ending in three. the other three guests who had attended was one of my coworkers, my younger sibling, and a random girl who was just made up from my dream. I don't quite remember how it got to only three of us by the pool, but it just did. I noticed that there were some people missing so I went to go and search for them. My ex gave me a very confused look as they also didn't understand why we were the only one's hangout. I looked around the house when I stumbled upon them.

The two other people who “left” were my younger sibling and the girl. They went into a spare bedroom and just laid in their seeming very annoyed when I went and questioned them on their behavior. They were just lying there on the beds playing on their phones when they said the left because they were bored.

When I went to go and tell the others my ex seemed really upset, but not angry upset, but sad actually. They went and laid down in the lounge area and my coworker who had stayed with them tried to cheer them up to no avail. It made me really sad about the whole situation that I went and lay down with them. Facing them.

I remember that their expression the whole time from when I came out to of the spare bedroom was mixed with disappointment and confusion. That it was their fault the party "wasn't" as "interesting", that they were on the brink of tears. It made me genuinely sad, because I knew what that felt like.

When I laid with them, I rested my forehead against theirs. I did it as a way to show that I’m here. Even if no one else showed up today. I’m here.

I remember in reality that when me and my ex broke up that I told them that if they needed me for anything they could always reach out. They hadn't ever since, but still, it's true.

The moment broke when their mom came home, and it was time to have dinner. Everyone gathered around the table and the house changed from a spacious place to suddenly a cluttered one. The dining room remained me of a Texas Roadhouse without all the animal heads and was actually kind of messy. I sat across from my ex with my coworker and their mom on the same, with my younger sibling and the girl sitting with me.

We were enjoying our meals and engaging in conversations when something about a painting was brought up by the mother. My ex looked as though they had done something absolutely unforgivable then looking up at the wall behind me. Wanting to know why I look as well, and I see a row of paintings above me all old and with very detailed frames. With a spot in the middles where one should be, empty and full of mold.

The next dream I had I was shopping. Specifically for skin care products and other things that I would try out or enjoy.

Nothing too crazy happened, at least for a long while until my younger sibling showed up with their “friends” to also get things. It was a group of girls with one standing out. She had shoulder length wavy brown hair and was taller them my sibling. They were all trying to persuade me to get certain items that cater to their interests, and I wasn't bugging. They all sounded selfish and bratty after all.

I decided I’d had enough of their blabbering and went to the checkout to buy my things, with them of course following me.

I remember specifically when I arrived the tall girl got in front of me and started scanning my stuff. She looked very eager as she did so, as if maybe she was the one scanning the items, it meant she could have them. I stopped her saying that I can check out my items just fine, and she gave me a very angry expression that was a mix of frustration and defeat. She went over to my sibling complaining, and I bought myself a pack of gum.

The last part of my dream I was in a very strange convenience store that was like a huge garage and was mostly empty being only the four walls. I was an employe there and it consisted of workers who were either very much in their forties, or young teens. I worked in the back which was with mostly teenagers who I didn't really talk to. Nothing was really needed, and I would mostly crouch against the wall not really talking or interacting with anyone.

I remember there being one girl who for some reason thought I was really cool and wanted to be friends with me. She never really got the chance as I always kept my distance from everyone. I don't know why.

In the back there appeared to be tons of drawings scattered against a certain wall. It was by a wall that was near the exit the building, except the exit looked more like a very small door. Held together by old scraps wood.

My coworkers told me that the wall of drawings were there for inspection because of the school.

Oh, did I forget to tell you that the store was also apart of a school? Sorry, dream logic.

The school was very strange with one of the class I was apart of being art. The teachers seemed really strict, teaching in strange ways that never made sense. I was always proper around them as I could easily stand out if I missed behaved. The class only consisted of five students.

When I appeared back at my job I remembered the teachers talking about an art inspection. I understood the paintings now.

I went on break when the art inspector showed up, who appeared to be a very cutthroat type of guy. He tried to question me as to all my coworkers I was very emotionless, which meant something. They were right.

When I arrived in the break room my younger sibling was there. I was questioning them and it lead to an argument. I don’t quite remember what we were yapping about but it ended with them saying “If the worst thing I could be [my name], it would be you.”

When they said that it completely tipped me over I started laughing. Like a crazy man who had lost his damn mind.

The inspector heard this and smiled all twisted. He knew what he had to do. He ran into that small run down exit door which was actually the missing painting at my ex’s house.

The man was giggling nonsense when I calmed down like he was the one who had truly gone insane. It was like he was calling for me too. To join him. To enter into this world that I possibly couldn’t imagine. And that I did.

I entered the painting and I was no longer myself. I was in my backyard and the sky was a soft orange. I was moving around as if I was on the moon having no control over my body. I became so upset over this that I spit into four. All of us moving around even phasing through each other.

I hated it so much that I was trying to figure out a way to leave. When for some reason written on a piece of cardboard was the word “cherries” being written itself. That was the flavor of gum I chose. I made my way over to the cardboard and tried writing it down as well the best I could. When I did the door to my house opened and it was bright. I ran as fast as I could and when I entered, I was on the other side of the painting on the floor exhausted. When I looked up, I saw my ex looking at me with such love and worry in their eyes. When we made eye contact, we instantly ran towards each other embracing one another so tightly. After that I woke up.

[mystical-strawberry-sheep]

🍓Elements of the Meadow🍓

🍓 The main body of the meadow is, well, the meadow. The grassy hills that expand farther than the eye can see. There are no trees on the meadow. I really can't find one that looks the way it's supposed to in any images anywhere, but it's just the same green grass for miles and miles. There are patches of strawberries that grow here and there in no particular order, and around a selection of land around the large tree that serves as Aku's home is a white picket fence. Aku didn't build it by hand, it was there when she woke up. She hasn't traveled beyond the fence, and she doesn't know what's past it, other than the meadow that continues to stretch.

🍓 The meadow has tons of deep crags in it. They all go down into a connected expanse of tunnels, but the logistics of them do not make sense in any logical way. They're almost like mini portals into a new world, and each of these have their own areas which contain their own elements.

An area full of crystals. Pretty much everything here glows in the dark, as if it produces its own light. The crystals are no different. They will make melodic tones when you tap them and can be used to make music. If something dies within reach of the crystals, they will grow over it. Therefore, the small cults that form around Aku have on occasion placed remains of Akusheep victims in the crystal caves to create shrines in her honor.

An area full of mushrooms. The mushrooms can be eaten and cooked. They do not thrive on decomposition but rather crop up on their own over time.

An area with glowing sand. It feels very much like a midnight desert. It is very cold and the walls are so far away in this room that it's hard to remember one is underground. It's easy to get lost in the desert without having Aku as a guide.

An area full of tree roots. The roots pulsate. They are not underneath the tree that serves as Aku's house on the surface. They don't appear to be attached to any living plant and almost seem to have a life of their own. They move around sometimes, but they don't appear to have much of any sentience and don't attack people.

An area full of very large stone columns. They don't seem to serve a purpose aside from just being a source of light. This area is also very large and mazelike.

A stretch of very tight, claustrophobic passages. They branch off of each other several times and some of them lead to dead ends. It is an area that Aku tends to avoid if at all possible.

🍓 The tree that Aku makes her home is the only one attached to the ground. Every other tree is suspended in the air with it's roots splayed out among the sky. The tree that serves as her home is much wider than any other and it's hollow all the way up despite appearing to be alive. It accommodates all of the space Aku needs to live.

🍓 There is a cliff on one side of Aku's meadow. The fence stops a few paces before the edge and there doesn't appear to be any ground past the meadow. There's a chunk of land off of this cliff that houses a floating tree that sports pink blossoms and is the only one of its kind in Aku's meadow, as far as she knows. There's also a lake on this chunk of land that creates a small creek that dumps water off of the land in a thin waterfall. It never empties the lake and the waterfall never stops, despite the fact that it does not rain in the meadow.

🍓 Aku explores her meadow when there aren't guests around and will occasionally discover something new. She's also creating the meadow to be bigger and bigger as she meets people and hears stories of her life, but those parts are outside of the fence and she's completely unaware she'd doing it. There's a house somewhere out in her meadow beyond where one can see. It doesn't look quite right, however, since she's never seen a house in person.

[sereinegemini]

Intentions & Tiaras

— Prologue

Pairing: Anthony Bridgerton x Princess!Reader

Word Count: 1.3k

Summary: Princess F/n of Prussia travels to London in hopes of finding a husband in this year’s season.

Warnings: This fic takes place during season two of the show

The Season of 1814

F/n’s POV

“Sister, are you quite ready yet?” Friedrich called through the door. His impatience implied the ball would be starting soon, and your nerves buzzed with anticipation.

“Just a moment!” 

Alice, your lady-in-waiting, was fidgeting with your ice-blue gown and winced at your volume. You offered her an apologetic look. “Sorry.”

“No worries, Your Highness.” She gently placed a silver tiara in your hair, its sapphires gleaming in the sunset seeping through the castle’s windows.

You studied her face while she adjusted it to her liking, wishing you were even half as calm as she was right now. “Do you think any of them will be a good match for me? The lords of the ton?”

“I would not fret. Her Majesty seemed quite confident in the bachelors she had in mind.” Alice smiled softly, the two of you admiring your stunning appearance in the mirror. The dress’ neckline flattered your bosom in all the right ways before flowing into puffed sleeves and skirts. The two details contrasted perfectly to form a naively elegant silhouette.

“And what if they do not like me?”

“You are a princess. They will have eyes for no one but you.”

“I know, but, Alice–” You gripped her hands between you. “What if they do not like me? What if they care only for what I am and not who I am?”

Alice squeezed your hands comfortingly, leaning in and fervently whispering, “Then do not marry them. Wait for the man who sees your mind and soul and does not shy away from you being more than just your title.”

· · ───────── · ♔ · ───────── · ·

“My dear, I almost feel sorry for whoever I choose to be this season’s diamond. They shall pale in comparison to you,” said Queen Charlotte, studying you across the plush carriage.

You were the epitome of dignity: back straight and chin up, a soft smile permanently gracing your lips, knees and ankles pressed bruisingly together. The tension in your muscles was sure to catch up to you at some point this season. But, if for some reason you did not find a husband the least you could do was leave knowing you’d impressed your aunt. “You flatter me, Your Majesty.”

“Why not declare F/n as the diamond?” Friedrich asked from beside you, where he’d been stealing worried glances your way. As a princess you’d been raised to be proper all of the time, but at home in Prussia you weren’t so…high-strung.

The Queen chuckled. “There is no need. Anyone with eyes could see your sister is worth courting. Naming another lady as my incomparable will give the men of the ton more of a chance to obtain a gem this season.”

Distant chattering and music met your ears and you peered out the window as the carriage drew ever closer to the ball. The sight was breathtaking. The white building was lined with windows and a giant glass dome atop the center—all glowing with golden light.

The carriage came to a stop and you eagerly took the hand of the footman, following the Queen out onto the torch and bouquet lined path. In Prussia, court and society were not so exquisite, and you found your worries replaced with excitement at the sight before you.

It was a struggle not to gawk at the many couples swirling and gliding across the floor, their performance enhanced by the shining chandeliers above their heads. This event was truly grand. It was as if you'd been placed in the middle of a fairy-tale. And if the whole season was to be this way, you were sure you’d never want to step foot out of England again. 

“So many flowers,” the Queen sighed, pausing to survey the guests, “when what I really seek is a gem.”

A middle-aged woman with a walking cane approached your group. Her confidence and blood-red gown contrasted drastically with the nervousness and golden attire of the woman at her side.

“Lady Danbury. A delightful soiree, as expected. Though my own later this week will be much more exclusive.”

While the comment could be taken as quite rude, the woman—Lady Danbury—seemed completely unaffected by it. Obviously no one would dare return the coldness of a royal, but usually one could find some hurt in their expression if looking close enough. Lady Danbury answered with nothing but a smile. Perhaps the Queen and Lady were friends of a sort. “Your Majesty, I would not think to compare.”

Your aunt seemed pleased by this. “And rightfully so. Lady Danbury, I would like to introduce you to my niece, Princess F/n of Prussia. You of course remember her elder brother, Prince Friedrich.”

Lady Danbury bowed her head in your direction. “An honor, Your Highness.”

“It is so very nice to meet you, Lady Danbury.”

“And welcome back to England, Prince Friedrich. I so look forward to you finding yourself a wife this season.”

“Thank you, Lady Danbury,” your brother said from beside you, his hands clasped politely behind his back, “But I am merely here to aid my sister in finding her own match.”

You glanced his way, hoping he’d find some comfort in your empathy even though you could not openly express it here. He had been so heartbroken when last season’s diamond, Daphne Bridgerton, had chosen someone else. Yet pride also swelled in your chest at the fact he’d been genuinely happy for her.

“My eldest daughter has the same intention for her sister, but we shall see if she truly ends this season alone,” the woman beside Lady Danbury stated.

“Oh yes, Your Majesty, may I present Lady Mary Sharma, whom you must remember,” Lady Danbury remarked as if she had just remembered the woman was there. You tuned out the rest of what she said, examining Lady Sharma and wondering why the Queen seemed so displeased by her presence. 

The next thing you knew you were being swept away, looking back to find Lady Sharma looking a little stung. Had the Queen said something rude?

“Come, dearest,” your aunt led you to the front of the room with a hand on your back, “We must make your presence known.”

All eyes were already on you as you passed through the whispering crowd. You smiled flirtingly at a few of the men refusing to take their eyes from you, impatient to know which would ask you to dance first.

Brimsley, the Queen’s Butler—and from what you’d gathered, her right hand man—cleared his throat loudly and those still talking grew quiet. “Her Majesty requests everyone’s attention for an announcement.”

Queen Charlotte glowed when addressing her subjects, and you couldn’t help but be jealous of how at ease she seemed in the position. “Welcome to the first event of the season, and a thank you to Lady Danbury for hosting it, as always. We have a special guest participating this season. My stunning niece Princess F/n of Prussia, accompanied by her brother, Prince Friedrich. I trust you will all make her feel most welcome to London.”

As one, the whole room bowed to you and your family. Despite the slight embarrassment the act always had and would cause you, you lifted your chin and presented them with a thankful smile. “I thank you for such a warm welcome.”

The Queen motioned for the orchestra to continue and elegant music once again drifted through the air. And, as if the room was lifted from a trance, men darted in your direction.

The first to reach you was a dark and handsome gentleman, his clean-shaven face giving him a bit of a boy-ish presentation. Though, his stern eyes hinted at his years. His hand dwarfed yours when he took it, bending to place a warm kiss to your gloved knuckles. “Viscount Anthony Bridgerton, Your Highness. It is such a pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

Masterlist || Chapter I »

Author’s Note: Credit for the lovely royalty divider

Be notified of future chapters!

[imaginesbymonika]

Pure Honey, or whatever she said.

the final chapter to pure honey, a pedro pascal fanfiction

Read previous chapters here

warnings: none, just fluff fluff fluff fluff - got teary eyed at the end :’) i love these two characters together so much

imagine: pedro is talking about his relationship to the musician Y/N and how the media has reacted to it

a note by me: i want to say thank you so so so much, everyone who has read and commented it, it truly means a lot <3 so this is a small present to all of you!!!! love you tons, stay safe :)

song to listen to while reading:

"So, a couple of days ago a picture on the Internet managed to get quite the buzz. Dare I say it went viral.", Jimmy Kimmel says after Pedro sat down on the couch. As soon as he finishes the sentence the crowd laughs and even the actor can't help but smile at the repetition. "I think you know where I am going with this.", the late-night host turns his head towards his (very giggly) guest. "I hope we are talking about the same thing."

Jimmy laughs as he leans his upper body on the giant table: "You and Y/N, huh?" At the sound of the musician's name, the crowd erupts in cheers and whistles, which makes the older man blush almost immediately. He clears his throat a few times while he shifts in his seat: "Y-Yeah, me and Y/N." He watches how the comedian takes a couple of thin wooden plates in his hands: "Who would have thought?" "Yeah. Who would have thought?"

Pedro who really doesn't seem to be able to stop giggling nods his head: "Well, first of all, how did it happen, and second of all why did it take so long?"

The audience laughs and he rubs his chin: "Well, you know to be honest with you. It was primarily my own stupidity that kept this thing we had going on a secret for so long. We were like discreetly meeting up and I don't know, dating- because I was worried people would judge us. This is so...stupid because people are always judging you, no matter what you do. But I don't know, I was worried it would do more harm than good."

Jimmy chuckles softly: "Well, I am just glad that you guys have figured it out." At that, the actor lets out a sigh, which makes a few audience member laugh: "Me too, dude. Me too."

"But we aren't the only people who are happy about this. The internet nearly exploded when you were seen together in New York. So I thought maybe...", Jimmy once again takes the wooden plates in his hands:" Maybe you could read some of the tweets that people have written about you two." "Yeah, sure." 

"The concept is super easy. I will turn these plates around and you will just read whatever's written on them out loud." The actor nods and watches how the host flips the first one around. 

Pedro laughs together with Jimmy:" Whoever wrote this appears to be screaming at the end, but yeah, our first day out in the open we did go to grab bagels for breakfast." "I love bagels.", Jimmy adds before moving on. 

” Oh god.", Pedro runs a hand through his hair:” Oh man, people seem to be very invested in us:" That’s so crazy. Oh my god, another one." 

"And to think that I was so worried that people wouldn’t be supportive.”, Pedro leans back in his seat and crosses his legs:" So stupid." Jimmy nods: "Well, we were all rooting for you guys, and by the way, just real quick before you leave." Jimmy takes a new plate in his hands and quickly turns it around. It reveals a picture of a random couple standing next to a Starbucks. His finger glides over the wood and lands in the background. The cameraman zooms in and a few people gasp.

"Just how it started, just you two spotted-."

"In the background of another photo. That's crazy."

"History repeats itself in the weirdest ways, right?"

Y/N who has her back turned to the front door listens to footsteps coming her way: "Oh you're already back?" The woman is standing in the kitchen, putting a few plates back into the cupboard:" How was it? What did you guys talk about?" But when she isn't receiving any answers, she turns around:" Pedro, are y- Oh my god."

Her eyes widen. He is kneeling, staring at her with the most sincere look in his eyes:" Initially I really wanted this to be more romantic, but when I was sitting in the car. I don't know, I just- I don't want to waste another day without asking you this. Y/N, I actually don't think that I could tell you how much I actually love you. Even if I knew all words in every single language. There is something about you that seems so ethereal. But I never actually managed to put a finger on it. And ever since we've met I really tried to do that: figure you out. I needed to know what drew me to you in the first place. Every time we were meeting up, I wanted to know what it was so I could try to find it outside of those hotel rooms. I knew from the time we talked at that bar, that I would chase that feeling you gave me for the rest of my life like some blood-hungry shark. And fuck I got too scared, every time you left- every single time I assumed that that's it. That would be the last time that I would be able to feel this 'something' that I couldn't even name. And it broke my heart in such a weird way. But now I know that it's okay. It is okay, that I don't know why I love you the way I do. Simply because I know I have a whole life ahead of me where I can try to get to the bottom of you. But I also understand, that one lifetime simply isn't enough for that. I love you Y/N, will you marry me?"

Without waiting a single second she nods. First sluggish, but then quicker until hot tears emerge in her eyes:" Yes! Oh my god. Yes."

They got married four months later. In Italy, a tiny city near the beach. Not a lot of people were invited, they both figured that they would want their closest friends and family there. Neither of them announced their engagement or wedding to the public. Not because they didn't want the world to know about it, but simply because it really doesn't matter. 

In the end, it is just like Taylor Swift once wrote: “All these people think love's for show, but I would die for you in secret.” You really can’t understand that until you feel it, can you?

[bbangsoonie]

forget me not

member: jacob genre: angst word count: 2,539 synopsis: after months of silence, jacob finally breaks through to you. warning(s): depictions of depression and ptsd

“The weather’s nice today,” Jacob commented as the sun shone brightly through the windows.

It was too blinding.

“I can’t believe it’s summer already. It feels like just yesterday that we were talking about how we couldn’t wait for winter to end,” he reminisced.

You merely stared at the television screen with a blank expression. There was nothing playing.

“Do you want me to turn the TV on?” he asked.

It didn’t really matter. You never paid attention to the boring shows anyway.

Nonetheless, he grabbed the remote and began surfing through the channels. He skipped past a ton of news stations, a few entertainment programs, and a couple of old dramas.

As expected, there was nothing to watch.

“The hospital has a very limited selection, huh?” he sheepishly chuckled as he settled on a rerun of a show that had been canceled years ago.

You mindlessly zoned out as the comedians dramatically welcomed the episode’s guests. You couldn’t recall the name of the actress they were introducing.

“I’ll bring my laptop tomorrow so we can watch Shrek together. You mentioned that you watched it in the hospital as a little kid. Maybe the familiarity will help,” he chirped.

You didn’t think he’d remember. You told him that in a passing comment months ago.

“Or should I bring my guitar instead? I never got to play you “Falling Slowly”. You asked me to cover that for like the longest time.”

You had asked him since the day you found out that he plays the guitar. With his honey voice, you excitedly pointed out that his tone would suit the song.

“Are you upset that it took me so long to play it for you? Is that why you won’t talk to me? Are you mad at me?”

No, that wasn’t it.

At 12 o’clock on the dot, the nurse walked in with your lunch. Making room for her, Jacob moved out of the way and excused himself to the side.

You barely opened your mouth when she held a spoon up to it. Because you refused to eat, she stayed by your side and fed you until you finished each meal.

As always, the food tasted bland. You wished someone would just get you a ham sandwich from the visitor’s cafeteria. Just a ham sandwich with lettuce and mayonnaise. No cheese.

Perhaps Jacob would remember your favorite order and bring it one day. But until then, you swallowed the tasteless porridge gently shoved into your mouth.

Sure enough, Jacob appeared the next day with his guitar. You wanted to scold him for bothering neighboring patients with the loud volume but no one seemed to mind as no one came in to stop him. Maybe it was because it was the only thing saving your ward from complete dreariness.

Falling slowly.

You did indeed fall for him slowly. It all began on the first day of high school. You immediately got along with the transfer student from Toronto and your friendship was some type of slow burn romance as the entire school shipped you two together.

It was the kind of skinny love that exhausted your friends. In hindsight, you understood their frustration. It was no wonder they took matters into their own hands.

Just a few days before graduation, they blatantly brought it up at a game of truth or dare. The real reason they threw a hastily prepared farewell party.

You had them to thank for your long-term relationship with Jacob. Or curse.

“You have suffered enough and warred with yourself. It's time that you won.”

His sweet voice filled the dull room. You hadn’t realized that the song was nearly over.

“Take this sinking boat and point it home. We've still got time. Raise your hopeful voice, you have a choice. You'll make it now.”

You were right. The song was perfect for his soft tone.

Before you knew it, he was putting his guitar down and asking for your feedback. As a perfectionist, he was always critical of his performances. Although there was never anything to improve.

“I didn’t practice enough,” he pouted.

At your lack of response, he followed your gaze that rested on the vase of dying flowers at the table. As if he could read your mind, he got up to examine it up close.

“Pink roses. Someone obviously doesn’t know you too well,” he hummed.

Your favorite color was pink but you never really cared for roses. You preferred the blue hues of forget-me-nots. They looked so pretty when bunched up in a bouquet.

“They should really replace these with some forget-me-nots,” he looked towards you for a look of approval. Perhaps searching for a compliment for remembering your favorite flower.

Instead, you blinked at the sight of the dirty water and rotting leaves.

Sunday. The day your parents visited.

At first, your entire family would take turns looking after you every day. But as time passed by, they inevitably grew tired and had to return to their own daily lives.

So now, your parents reserved the weekend to come see you as a pair. Your brother, who was now working at a large firm, could hardly make it to the hospital once or twice a month.

When your parents walked in, Jacob quickly stepped out to provide some privacy. You wished he would just stay.

Your dad always looked at you with such pity and your mom always made a fuss. Today was no different.

“My baby, you must feel so stifled and lonely here, right?” she teared. “Hurry up and get better so you can go back home with us. Come back to us, hm?”

Your dad could barely make eye contact with you without bursting into tears. So he mostly lingered by the window by himself. The direct sunlight highlighted the random strands of white hair on his head. Were your parents that old already?

“Please talk to me, Y/n,” your mom begged.

It was the same routine every week. You felt bad seeing their desperation but you still had no will to speak.

Jacob reentered after they left. He hated seeing the lifelessness in your eyes. In an attempt to provoke a reaction, he squeezed in between you and the bed.

It was much too tight for the two of you. And it was something the nurse would surely tell him off for.

Still, he stubbornly shoved you to the side to make some more room for himself. It almost made you snort in laughter. Almost.

“Time has been rough on all of us but I must say your parents aged gracefully,” he smiled.

You wondered how much your appearance had changed since you were first admitted. You knew your hair grew a lot longer but couldn’t see your face in a mirror. Well, you never wanted to.

But now you did. And again, Jacob knew you well enough to know that.

He pointed at a small mirror on the wall and you caught a glimpse of your reflection from afar. Your complexion was paler than you remembered. It was probably the lack of vitamins, sunlight, and exercise.

“You’re still pretty,” he affirmed as he tucked a loose piece of hair behind your ear. “Stunningly beautiful even in that drabby gown.”

He was a smooth talker for sure. His comments would usually prompt an eye roll from you but you simply peered at his face.

His long lashes accentuated his doe eyes. Those doe eyes that stared straight back into yours. The intimacy made you slightly uncomfortable and you shifted your gaze to the new flowers that replaced the old ones. More pink flowers.

“Take as much time as you need, Y/n,” he gently assured. “I’ll wait until you find the words you want to say.”

Your brother was your next visitor. He came with his friend Younghoon and it reminded you of when you three would hang out with Jacob. Who was strangely nowhere to be seen today.

“Hey Y/n, sorry I haven’t been able to stop by often,” Jaehyun apologetically smiled as he took a seat next to your bed. “I’ve been super busy lately.”

You knew he was working hard to pay for your hospital bills. As your stay there extended, the costs were adding up.

“He also got a new girlfriend,” Younghoon teased.

If your memory was accurate, Jaehyun had just ended things with another girl about a month ago. He was your brother but he was also quite the playboy.

“Hey, it’s different this time,” Jaehyun defended. “I really like her. I don’t wanna mess things up with her.”

You were hardly listening as they talked about this new girl. It wasn’t until you heard a certain name that your attention returned to them. A name you hadn’t heard from anyone else’s mouth in a while.

Jacob. It was the only name that stirred a response out of you. Your eyes landed on your brother as the name fell out of his lips.

“I should’ve listened to Jacob when he told me to go for her in senior year of high school. Who knew we’d run into each other again years later?” he chuckled.

Noticing your slight engagement, Younghoon jumped out of his seat. He held your hand and asked if you were okay.

“I’m so sorry I brought him up,” Jaehyun covered his mouth in shock.

Why was Jacob a forbidden topic? You regretted asking yourself that question as soon as the flashbacks started to hit you. A ringing in your eyes made you wince as you recalled the first memory.

“How did you guess my ring size so perfectly?” you admired the diamond ring on your finger.

“I hold your hand so often it’s like it’s a part of my own body,” Jacob laughed.

You yelped in pain as the ringing grew louder. Covering your ears with your hands was futile as it seemed like the sound was coming from inside your head.

“Really? A midnight drive?” Jacob raised a brow as you stuck your head out the car window.

“I don’t want this night to ever end. It’s the happiest day of my life,” you grinned. “At least until I walk down the aisle.”

You knew what was coming next. Not wanting to relive it again, you grabbed your head in hopes of deleting it from your mind.

The sound of tires screeching. Of you screaming. Of Jacob desperately calling your name.

The feeling of warm blood seeping through your clothes. Of glass shards crunching beneath you. Of Jacob’s grip on your hand.

The sight of Jacob’s bloodied body. Of the flashing lights outside. Of his eyes slowly closing for the last time.

You were now hyperventilating as Younghoon ran out to call for a doctor. Jaehyun tightly held you together as if you would fall apart if he didn’t.

“I’m sorry, Y/n, I’m so sorry,” he tearfully cried.

“Is there something wrong with her brain? Why can’t she talk?” your mom worriedly asked.

“There is nothing physically wrong but we believe she has become selectively mute due to the trauma of the incident. Which means it is hard to say when she will speak again,” the doctor sighed. “I’m sorry but the only option is to wait for her to overcome this.”

As you fell into depression, the only way you could cope was to bring Jacob back to life—even if it was just in your imagination. Even if you didn’t talk to the made-up Jacob either.

Despite having so many things you wanted to say to him.

Before you opened your eyes, you recognized the sickeningly familiar smell of disinfectants. When you finally came to, Jacob was standing in front of you.

“You’re not real,” your quivering voice was laced with a mix of emotions. Surprise, betrayal, disappointment, and fear. You wondered if you had gone insane from the accident.

“No, but I’m here because you need me,” he forced a smile. “You made this version of me because you needed time to accept things and move on. Is that time now?”

“No,” you grasped at the air in an attempt to hold his hand. “I still need you. I’m not ready to let you go yet.”

“Y/n,” he softly said. He only said your name yet there were so many words behind it.

“It’s all my fault. I shouldn’t have insisted on going for a drive that late,” you sobbed.

“It’s not your fault so stop blaming yourself. It makes my heart break to see you like this so how could I comfortably rest?”

“I’m sorry, Jacob. I’m so so so sorry. I’m sorry for making you go out that night and I’m sorry for surviving alone and I’m sorry for still holding onto you.”

You were overwhelmed with guilt as you wailed. This was the first time in months that your vocal chords were being used so your voice was scratchy and hoarse but you didn’t care.

“You’ve suffered enough. It’s okay to start focusing on yourself. Stop warring with yourself and let yourself recover. You’re not on a sinking boat. You still have time to save yourself so make that choice. Use your voice.”

“Now you’re just quoting “Falling Slowly,”” you let out a short laugh as tears ran down your face.

“No, you are. I’m just a fragment of your imagination,” he grinned, reminding you of his nonexistence.

Right. Jacob wasn’t really there. Either alive or as a ghost.

But you didn’t care. As long as you could see him, it didn’t matter if no one else could.

“You know that’s not healthy,” he chided. Of course this version of Jacob could actually read your mind. “I’m only here to help you return back to your normal life.”

Normal. What was normal?

Normal was waking up from this terrible nightmare to Jacob comforting you. Normal was brushing the past half a year off as a shitty alternate universe.

“Normal is getting discharged from this hospital and going back to work. Meeting up with friends and spending time with family. Visiting my grave with some forget-me-nots,” he paused before continuing. “Actually, don’t visit me too often. Maybe just a few times a year.”

“But you like sunflowers more than forget-me-nots,” you pointed out.

“I like you more than anything,” he beamed. “And forget-me-nots remind me of you. Plus, the name and meaning behind the flowers is fitting.”

He joined you on the bed once again. This time, you rested your head on his chest.

“Promise me you’ll live life to the fullest,” he said as he stuck out his pinky. “Visit all the places I couldn’t and eat a lot of good food on my behalf.”

Slowly, you brought your pinky up to wrap it around his. Seeing him smile made the corners of your lips curve up as well.

You stared at the ring on his finger. Then at the one on yours.

“I love you,” you whispered. Something in you knew that this was the last time you’d envision him next to you.

“I love you too, Y/n,” his eyes twinkled one last time before he disappeared.

There was no way you could ever forget Jacob Bae.

tag list: @geniejunn​ @wooyoung-a​ @cloudskyu​ @bb-fic-rec​ @junjungsunwoo​ @karsohn​ @changmin-wrlds​ @jwnghyuns​

[rubysunnday]

driver’s licence

Dear Gentle Reader, tonight is a grand occasion. It is a rare feat for  Lady Danbury to throw a ball for the ton but it is even rarer for the Duke and Duchess of Hastings to be able to attend, what with their ever-growing brood. 

Tonight, however, Dear Reader, these two things are happening in concession. Not only are our beloved Duke and Duchess of Hastings returning to us, but the eldest Bridgerton daughter, Y/N Bridgerton for those who struggle to remember the numerous children’s names, has been seen promenading with Lord Barclay in Hyde Park. 

Perhaps tonight will be Miss Bridgerton’s lucky night and will fulfil the Dowager Viscountess’s wishes of seeing all of her children married. The Viscount Bridgerton has recently been married to, formerly, Miss Kate Sharma - a marriage that seems to be a perfect love match.

Could the 1814 season see two Bridgerton children married in a matter of weeks?

Lady Whistledown’s Society Papers, 4th June 1814

If she was being entirely honest with herself - something Y/N rarely did because most of the time it meant that her mother had been right and it meant admitting that she’d been right - she wasn’t expecting to be married off anytime soon. 

Unlike Eloise, Y/N wasn’t entirely opposed to marriage. She wasn’t going to marry just for the sake of it, however. Whoever it ended up being had to be perfect and had to be someone she would happily spend the rest of her life with.

Y/N had two excellent examples of marriage to live up to. Daphne and Simon and Anthony and Kate - both love matches and both couples completely and utterly obsessed with their spouses. 

Lord Barclay had been nice to her. He’d danced with her, promenaded with her and had bought her - and her sister’s and mother - flowers. He was relatively knew to his lordship, his father had passed away the previous year and left his estate and title to his first son. 

Lord Barclay - Matthew, he’d told her to call him Matthew - had a younger brother who was nearer Y/N’s age but she hadn’t seen him anywhere in London. If the ton’s rumours were to be taken as gospel, he’d fled to America to get away from his father and his older brother.

But Y/N didn’t care about him. She liked Lord Barclay and after almost two years out in society and no sign of any marriage offers... well, her mother had always wanted to see all of her children married. 

And if he asked her to marry him - which she suspected would be coming soon - she wouldn’t say no.

But there was a niggling voice in the back of her head (one that sounded suspiciously like her mother and her brother, Colin) that kept asking if she was happy or if she was just settling. 

Colin’s displeasure and hatred of Lord Barclay was evident. He wasn’t admitting why he hated the man but every time his name was brought up or he came over to offer Y/N a dance, Colin would step forward protectively and pull Y/N away - unless another member of the family was around.

Colin was part of the reason why Y/N was having doubts about agreeing to marriage. He’d confided in her one night about how he didn’t want her to just settle and wanted her to be happy. 

But Lady Danbury’s ball was going to be the night she finally decided. Y/N could feel that something was going to happen that night. She was excited to see Matthew again and to, maybe, become his fiancee. 

It’d been a wonderful day. Daphne had joined Y/N, Eloise and their brothers for a ride through Hyde Park. They’d had picnic and then returned home to prepare for the ball that night.

Y/N had chosen one of her favourite new dresses to wear - Matthew had suggested the fabric when he’d accompanied her to the modiste to pick up some new dresses. 

She was excited to see him at the ball and talk to him. He’d been a bit distant, lately, but Y/N put it down to stress about his lordship. But there was still something niggling her in the back of her mind. And it wasn’t Colin, who was yelling up the stairs for her to hurry up. 

The dress was a beautiful lilac with silver flowers and pearls. She had her maid curl and pin her hair up with a circlet of flowers around it and wore the earrings Daphne had given her for her birthday a few months ago.

“You look beautiful, dearest,” Violet said, standing behind Y/N. 

Y/N smiled at her mother in the mirror and brought a hand to the necklace around her neck. It’d been a present from Matthew a few days ago. “It does suit the dress.”

Violet paused, looking as if she was contemplating saying something. “Y/N... are you sure about Lord Barclay?”

Y/N looked around at her mother and frowned. “What do you mean?”

“Are you happy with him? You’re not just settling?” Y/N paused. She’d been so certain and now, with her mother voicing the doubts she’d been having since... well, since Monday’s Whistledown had come out and since Colin had spoken to her.

Monday’s Whistledown had mentioned Matthew and had said he’d been seen with a mysterious young woman who most certainly was not Y/N. But she’d just put it down to her being his sister. But now she wasn’t so sure. She loved Matthew, she truly did. But... it was nothing like the love Anthony and Kate had for one another or what Daphne and Simon shared.

“I...” Y/N hesitated, looking down at her shoes. “I don’t want to lie to you, Mama,” she whispered, looking up at her mother, “but I don’t know. Monday’s Whistledown has made me doubt some things. I love him, I do but... well, I doubt it would ever be anything like Anthony or Daphne both have.”

Violet sighed softly and walked over to her daughter, embracing her tightly. Y/N  hid her face against her mother’s side, suddenly overcome with emotions and wrapped her arms around her waist, relishing in the comfort and reassuring she was giving.

But as Y/N walked down the stairs of Bridgerton House, her dress trailing out behind her slightly, she felt like the most beautiful woman in the world. Her two brother’s - waiting in the hallway for her - stared in awe at her.

There was something so special about a woman in love. She glowed and sparkled as if she was a star on Earth itself. She held herself in higher regard and felt like a queen. Everything seemed a little bit more okay and a little bit happier. 

Even if the doubt was beginning to seep in about whether she did truly love him.

Y/N took Colin’s arm and let him lead her to the carriage. The night was young and the air was warm. She’d never been so excited for a ball before. Kate was coming too - her first ball as Lady Bridgerton. 

Everything seemed to be going perfectly. 

Y/N tried to ignore the niggling feeling in her stomach. She wasn’t going to let it ruin her night. Even if she hadn’t heard from Matthew since Monday. And even if Colin’s mere presence was making it worse.

She tried not to make it obvious that she was looking for Matthew as they walked in to the room. But he was nowhere to be seen, despite promising he would be there. 

The majority of the night was spent on the edge of the ballroom, watching Anthony whirl Kate around the room in newly wedded bliss. Y/N danced with Simon and Benedict and chatted with Penelope and Eloise - who’d been forced to attend and was making sure everyone in a five mile radius was aware of that fact - and pretended not to be worried. 

But she was worried. Had she been so caught up with being in love that she’d missed the red signs that screamed at her to stop and re-consider. 

Anthony had noticed his sister’s increasing distress and had stopped dancing with his wife, walking over to his sister and standing next to her, shoulders touching.

“He’ll come, Y/N/N,” Anthony said, noting his sister look around the room yet again. 

Y/N nodded, not really paying much attention to him. She’d seen the pitying stares from the mothers of the ton and was beginning to dread what Whistledown was going to say tomorrow. 

Kate finished talking with someone and walked over to them, standing next to her husband. She looked at Y/N and then nudged Anthony’s side. “Do something,” she whispered, glancing at her sister - in - law in concern. 

Anthony sighed. “I don’t know what I can do, Kate.” He glanced back at Y/N. “If he does turn up, however, don’t hold me back.”

“If anything you’ll have to hold me back,” Kate replied.

Five minutes passed.

Then fifteen.

Then another five.

Benedict joined them in what was quickly becoming knowing as ‘Bridgerton corner’. He glanced at Y/N, then at Anthony. Anthony shook his head, warning him not to say anything. Benedict simply sat down next to his sister and causally flung his arm over the chair, pretending to subconsciously drum his fingers on her shoulder when he was actually trying to comfort her.

Colin came over with Eloise and Violet and soon every Bridgerton in attendance at Lady Danbury’s ball was standing in the corner, waiting.

Another ten minutes passed.

Y/N stood up and grabbed a glass of Lemonade from the table. She took a sip of the sour liquid and tried not make a face at the tangy taste in her mouth. 

Not liking the flavour of it she handed it off to Colin - her brother ate and drank almost anything put in front of him. Colin silently took it and shifted closer to Y/N, knowing his gut feeling about Lord Barclay had, unfortunately, been right.

Violet looked over at Y/N and sighed. “This isn’t going well,” she said quietly, leaning closer to Anthony and Kate.

“No, it isn’t,” Anthony replied, glowering at any one who dared approach them in their corner. 

“Oh, he’s here!” Y/N exclaimed, perking up as she spotted Matthew as he walked in the main door. “I’ll be back.”

Y/N began heading over to Matthew, weaving her way through the numerous dancers and chatting guests.

“Matthew!” She called, approaching him by the door to the garden. “Where have you been? Come on, I put you down on my dance card.”

She held out her gloved hand to him to take but frowned when he turned and gave her a frown.

Matthew shifted on his feet, an uncomfortable expression appearing on his face. “Ah, Miss Bridgerton.”

Y/N paused, dropping her hand. “Miss Bridgerton? Matthew, what is going on?”

Matthew sighed, looking as if it physically pained him to have to explain. “I don’t want to see you anymore, Miss Bridgerton. I have found another woman  - one my family approves of -”

“Your family doesn’t approve of me?” Y/N asked slowly, struggling to comprehend what was happening. “What -”

“I apologise for any inconvenience caused this evening,” Matthew said, bowing. “I wish you well, Miss Bridgerton.” 

“Matthew -” 

Y/N reached out to grab his hand but he brushed past her, walking across the room and disappearing off into the corridor, leaving Y/N standing alone in the corner, her brain trying to catch up with what had just happened.

Anthony slowly approached, having watched the entire conversation. He’d heard what Lord Barclay had said and had seen the way he stared at his sister - as if she was nothing more than an inconvenience. 

“Y/N/N?” Anthony asked quietly, putting a hand on her arm. “What happened?”

“He... he’s found someone else,” she said, her voice a whisper. “Someone his family approves of. I - what...”

Y/N trailed off, stunned and in shock. Anthony sighed, clenching his hand in anger. He glanced up at his mother, who was hovering worriedly nearby, and shook his head once.

Y/N couldn’t form the words to speak. She just stood there, Anthony's hand on her arm being the one thing keeping her grounded.

The room was beginning to whisper and point at Y/N, all wondering what had happened. Anthony noticed a few beginning to wonder over and grabbed Y/N’s hand, gently tugging her forward and to the centre of the room.

Whilst a dance was the last thing either of them wanted - it was the only way to get away from the prying eyes and the endless questions and pitying stared of the Ton. 

“Are you alright?” Anthony asked quietly, guiding her hands to the correct position and helping her take one step forward. 

Y/N, not wanting to be seen crying in the ballroom, forced a smile onto her face and lifted her head up high, breathing in deeply despite the lump in her throat and the stinging in her eyes and the urge she felt to curl up into a ball and sob. “Of course.”

Red lights, stop signs I still see your face in the white cars, front yards

Every time Anthony spun her way, Y/N allowed her facade to crack for just a second. It hurt. Her chest felt tight and every breath was constricted.  Everything hurt.

He’d discarded her to the side like she was a piece of rubbish and as if she was nothing. He’d played with her and showered her with gifts and love and compliments and it’d all been a lie. 

Matthew had lied. He’d lied. 

The words rang around her head like a mantra and it was beginning to consume her. Anthony spun her out and back into him but she almost fell to the floor, her knees beginning to weaken as her body and mind caught up. 

Anthony caught her and held her up, looking down at her blank, emotionless face as she tried not to crack.

Y/N focused on each step - the way her feet rose to the tip toes and then back down to her heel as she stepped back and forth, side to side, up and down. She focused on Anthony’s hand in hers, the warmth of his palm, the familiar, comforting scent of his aftershave.

Can't drive past the places we used to go to 'Cause I still fuckin' love you, babe

The lights blurred past, the numerous people dancing around her becoming one solid merge of colour. 

She couldn’t breathe. Her stays felt tight and uncomfortable - even though she knew they weren’t. The necklace she was wearing felt like it was choking her - cutting off the air she need.

Her dress was too tight, too long, her gloves too thick and too heavy.

Sidewalks we crossed I still hear your voice in the traffic, we're laughing

Y/N didn’t remember much of the dancing - she wasn’t even sure how she was moving one foot in front of the other. Anthony was watching her with concern in his eyes and was leading her and guiding her every step of the way. 

The music was too loud. The candles were too bright. Everything was an overwhelming blur of orange, red, blue and yellow. Her eyes stung as finally, her mind and body came to the same conclusion.

It was over. He was gone and she was free and her entire future was non-existent and she was alone and unmarried and free.

Over all the noise God, I'm so blue, know we're through But I still fuckin' love you, babe

The song ended and before the last notes had even faded away, Y/N was pushing away from Anthony and past her mother and Colin and out the door, running down the corridor away from everyone.

Her shoes echoed loudly on the tiles and she skidded around the corner into the room that had been set aside for the women. Y/n slammed the door shut behind her and panted and sobbed, clutching the edge of the sink tightly. 

She looked in the mirror, her breaths harsh and ragged, and clawed at the necklace Y/N ran down a corridor and into the room that had been set aside for women who need to freshen up or fix their dresses. 

She slammed the door shut behind her and hurried over to the washroom, clawing at the necklace around her neck desperate for air and desperate for it to be out of sight.

I know we weren't perfect But I've never felt this way for no one

The clasp eventually gave way and Y/N flung the necklace to the side, taking in ragged, harsh breaths as she sobbed and clutched the sink to keep standing. 

Her heart hurt. Her chest hurt. Her head hurt. Everything hurt. She couldn’t breathe, couldn't think, could barely see her reflection in the mirror.

She slowly sank to her knees, leaning against the edge of the sink as she curled up and sobbed and sobbed and hyperventilated and sobbed.

It was over. She was free and he was gone.

And I just can't imagine How you could be so okay now that I'm gone.

The door to the side room opened and Violet burst in. She took one look at her daughter - eyes red, skin blotchy, neck scratched from trying to take off her necklace - and ran over to her daughter, falling to her knees beside her and taking her in her arms. 

Y/N clung to her mother tightly as if she were her lifeline in the stormy dark sea she was drowning in. She buried her face in her shoulder and cried and cried.

Anthony stood in the doorway to the room, Colin next to him, and felt his own heart break as he watched his sister fall apart on the floor.  

Guess you didn't mean what you wrote in that song about me 'Cause you said forever, now I drive alone past your street

[ptergwen]

no sleep

pairing: singer!reader x tom holland || w/c: 1.6k

warnings: swearing and many many many suggestive jokes

summary: you’re on jimmy kimmel to talk about your music, but he has other plans

a/n: y’all i’ve literally always wanted to write singer!reader and this idea just came to me and i had to get it out because it’s so cute :,) i really hope ya like it

-

jimmy kimmel invited you onto his show to promote a single from your upcoming album. you stepped out of the spotlight for a while, so this is your first official appearance of the year.

“my first guest tonight...” there’s a cheer from the audience. you grin to yourself, waiting for jimmy to finish announcing you.

“you wanna say it for me?” he chuckles and stands your picture up on his desk. “my first guest tonight surprised fans this morning with her new single ‘no sleep.’ it’s currently number one in over seventy countries.” jimmy holds for applause, which you get a ton of. you cover your hot face with your hands.

“she’s here to talk to us about the song and her short hiatus. please welcome y/n y/l/n!”

the music plays while you walk onstage, followed by more cheers and clapping. you’re beaming as you wave to everyone. you give jimmy a quick hug and exchange hello’s over the noise.

you’ve been in the industry for a few years, but you’ll never get used to responses like this. all the love really warms your heart.

“thank you!” you giggle out, taking your seat on the couch. the audience yells some more when the music dies out. “thank you so much! oh my god,” you make a face at jimmy, who laughs and gestures to everyone. “they clearly hated the song,” he jokes to you. “i was gonna say,” you agree, smoothing your dress down.

you look out at the crowd with a pout. “no, seriously. you guys are so cute.” jimmy copies your pout, earning a playful eye roll from you.

you’ve been on the show a couple of times before, so you two are friendly. tom has also brought you to chill backstage with him when he was a guest. you would’ve brought him this time if he wasn’t away for filming.

“so, you took most of the year off from making music,” jimmy starts the actual conversation. “mhm, i did,” you hum and cross one of your legs over the other. “how was that? was it weird not being in the studio?” you scrunch your face up, then he adds another question. “what did you actually do with yourself?”

“i mean, music is obviously a big part of who i am. making it, loving it, all that stuff.” a small smile crosses your face. “so, yeah. it sort of felt like something was missing at first.” jimmy nods along, you shrugging one of your shoulders.

“at the same time, i really needed to take a minute and just breathe. come back with my shit more together. i think i have,” you let out a reflective sigh. “it didn’t have anything to do with your boyfriend? a mr. tom holland?” jimmy teases, you waving a hand at him. “no, don’t give him all the credit.”

your break genuinely was for yourself. no one needs to know that tom was also off, or that he spent all his free time with you. that was just a plus.

“are you sure? because, it seemed like you two were getting really cozy.” a picture from your instagram pops up on the screen. it’s of tom under a blanket. he’s reaching out for you with a lazy smile. you lean over on the couch so you’re off camera, another giggle escaping you.

jimmy flips to another picture. “that was exhibit A. here’s exhibit B.” the whole audience coos, jimmy raising his eyebrows at you. this one is a mirror selfie from tom’s instagram. your arms are slung around his neck from behind, and half your face is hidden. tom is doing his signature eye crinkling smile into the camera.

“aren’t they just adorable?” jimmy asks the audience, making them erupt in more cheers. you sit up again and clear your throat. seeing those is bittersweet for you. “he’s very cuddly. anyway, back to the music!” you do a small clap. little do you know, there’s much more to come.

“yes, yes. back to the music. talk to me about ‘no sleep.’” the song is one hundred percent about tom. you’re not sure you should say that, considering the... explicit content in it. you and tom did get very cozy over your break, as jimmy would say. it was the only time you weren’t relaxing.

“well,” you plaster on an overly happy smile. that earns more laughter from jimmy. “it’s about what you do in bed when you’re, um, not sleeping,” you explain. “and who do you do those things in bed with?” jimmy glances up at the screen again. “you’re choosing violence today, jimmy,” you say under your breath.

there’s a chuckle from backstage that sounds eerily similar to tom’s. it must have been a PA. all this talk about him is seriously fucking with your head.

“well, everyone in my life inspires my work in some way. they’re such angels,” you dodge the question, thinking you’re clever about it. jimmy won’t let you get off that easy. “friends? family?” he asks you. “yeah, everyone,” you exhale in relief. jimmy widens his eyes at you. “so, that means ‘no sleep’ is about your mom?”

your mouth falls open. he’s really going to make you spill the details of your sex life.

“what the fuck, no!” you squeal, looking out into the audience for help. they join in your laughter. “it’s about tom,” you finally confirm so jimmy doesn’t suggest anything else. “it’s about tom, my god. next topic.” you’re smiling despite yourself.

“why? don’t you wanna tell us more about your lover?” jimmy glances off to the side. what is going on back there? you sit up straighter in your spot. “no, this is my interview!” you’re half joking, half serious.

although you and tom aren’t private at all, you’ve never talked about him this much. it’s overwhelming. besides that, this is making you miss him a lot.

“that’s too bad. we thought... we thought you might like to share it,” jimmy is already grinning about whatever he has planned. this isn’t supposed to be part of your segment. “huh? i’m literally so lost.” you furrow your eyebrows at him, lowering your voice. “we didn’t talk about this.”

he pats the arm of your couch. “they say there’s no time like the present. ladies and gentlemen, tom holland!”

on cue, tom runs out from backstage. the audience practically roars with how loud they are. people even jump out of their seats. you clasp a hand over your mouth in pure shock. this feels like a prank, like jimmy is about to say sike. then, tom comes up to the couch. you almost fall over, jimmy proudly watching on.

tom grins so wide it takes up his whole face. “happy release day,” he murmurs as you get to your feet. you’re not able to speak just yet, only staring up at him with glossy eyes. he brings you into a tight hug. his hands rub up and down your back, your arms snaking around his middle.

“tommy,” you try to whisper the nickname. you forgot your microphone is on. everyone “aw’s” at you both, including jimmy. “my love,” tom’s lips brush your cheek briefly. “hi, baby,” he speaks into your ear. you hide your face in his button up while he rocks you side to side.

he’s been away for a couple of months working on the third spider-man. this is the first time you’ve seen him since he left.

“shouldn’t you be in atlanta?” you ask louder this time for the audience to hear. you’re still doing an interview. “today’s a big day. i had to see you,” tom gives you one last squeeze. “in person,” he adds, before you can say you already facetimed.

the fact that him and jimmy put this whole thing together is making you emotional. you’d be fully crying if you two were alone right now.

“she doesn’t want you here, though. remember?” jimmy chimes in, tom breathing out a laugh. he sadly lets go of you. you flop back onto the couch, tom pointing behind him with his thumb. “i’ll just be on my way. five hour flight, no big deal.” “no, no, no, no. stay,” you whine and make grabby hands at him.

that’s all it takes for tom to slip into the spot next to you. he bites back a smile, putting an arm around you and the couch. you don’t want to annoy everyone with too much pda, so you subtly curl into his side. the people actually love you and tom together. jimmy claps his hands.

“we’ll be right back with y/n y/l/n and tom holland!” he says into the camera, the band playing more filler music. he steps out from behind the desk to greet tom. tom stands up, the two of them giving each other pats on the back. the camera stops rolling.

“hey, man. thanks for doing this,” tom puts a hand on jimmy’s arm. “anything for the happy couple. i’m gonna get some water, see you in five.” jimmy shoots you another smile on his way to his dressing room. you return it. that leaves you and tom to yourselves.

“baby,” you say in a sing song voice, dropping your head onto tom’s shoulder. “i’m so happy you’re here. i real life almost peed when you came out.” tom snakes his arm around your waist. “that would be upsetting,” he mumbles, his index finger drawing circles on you. “it would’ve ruined your very pretty dress.”

“you like it?” you knowingly tug at the form fitting material. tom shifts in his spot. “i’ll tell you what,” he leans in closer to you with a smirk, his breath tickling your ear. “we’re getting no sleep tonight,” he sings from the chorus of your song. you burst into a giggle and squeeze your eyes shut.

he ends up being right.