#edit: dynamics in progress

[oscarisaacss-wp]

DYNAMICS IN PROGRESS — Nora Cleary & Viktor Krum in Act I of Strangeness & Charm, A Harry Potter Fanfiction.

“You’re the only person I’ve ever met who seems to have the faintest conception of what I mean when I say a thing.”

virginia wolfe / the voyage out

i. wattpad ii. pinterest iii. spotify

[pyrepostings]

Whumpee who goes in a slightly different direction mentally than 'caretaker is new master. New master won't give rules. Means punishment is around every corner, landmine of unsaid rules.'

It initially go through that phase, but quickly realize caretaker isn't punishing it for following whumper's old rules. Which obviously means they want it to continue following those rules.

So it does. It keeps calling them sir, keeps it's eyes down, doesn't eat without asking. Clearly caretaker wants this, and what they want is all that matters, right? If they didn't want whumpee to continue, they would have made that painfully obvious.

Just, a whumpee who is so sure of its ability to follow the rules, the habit. It's easier to follow the rules it knows than to find out they were lying, or testing it by telling it that its free.

[mulders-too-large-shirt]

s8 episode 4 “roadrunners” thoughts

we! are! back!

i haven’t seen an episode in 5 days, so i’m feeling the excitement. and this one seems to be scully-centric! i cannot wait! it is called “roadrunners” and it seems that scully is going to find herself stranded somewhere… i have a feeling i will be SPOOKED!!

let us begin! i have no further thoughts beyond that scully loves to make cartoon references, so even if the episode called “roadrunners” didn’t have her face on the thumbnail, i would imagine she would feature heavily. and also, i am worried for her… girl, please be safe. i’m scared. 

okaaaay!!

(post-episode thoughts: this was a good episode- compelling plot, the pacing was excellent, and i have no major qualms with how the characters were handled like i usually do when i don’t enjoy an episode- but i didn’t like it because it was toooooo scary and nasty💀💀 i’m speeding through editing these notes so i can upload them right away and Not think about the spine worm any longer.

and while there were some very interesting things going on in the doggett and scully dynamic in this episode, especially with her not telling him about the case, and then their conversation at the end- analyze as you please- i need time to detox from those images. i trust you understand

🧼scrub scrub scrub it from my brain!!!!)

back to past me!

oh girl, i clicked play and it already seems creepy. we are in a utah desert. someone takes pills by the side of the road. puts on some headphones. goes to a payphone. 

he might be lost. oh no, he is hitchhiking. trying to flag down a bus. and it stops for him, luckily, even though he got mad and started yelling. he takes his stuff on the bus and yells at the driver, who says nothing. it seems none of the passengers say anything to him, either. this doesn’t bother hitchhiker man, who puts on his headphones and tries to sleep. 

the bus stops and almost everyone departs, including the woman sitting next to him. and he’s asking where they are going and getting ignored. but he follows along. 

they are all staring at this one guy who is using some sort of crutch-like mobility aid… and then the bus driver smashes him over the head with a rock?? hitchhiker fellow is GAGGED!!! are they SACRIFICING him?? OH MY GOD??? hitchhiker tried to run away, but they surround him, also holding rocks… 

GIRL. I AM SPOOKED!!! 

scully honey, please stay away from these people.

she is SERVING in that new intro headshot though, let me just make that clear. more intro imagery: creepy baby. eyeball. mulder falling. we’re getting familiar with these sights.

let’s goooo to spooky town!!!

BLEH, there is blood at the scene. SCULLY IS TAKING PICTURES! oh, scully with a camera… i want to know what she would take pictures of when not working. she is still in heels. still in a desert. we need to get her to stop with the heels in the desert thing.

she finds a rock covered in goop and scoops it into a bag. is she out here ALONE?? where is doggett? and she has no cell service!!!!

ah, roadrunner is the name of the bus line. she goes to the payphone and tries to make a call there, right beneath the sign for the bus.

she says good morning to doggett and he says “good afternoon”- time zones! she is out of town! a local coroner called and asked for help… and i guess she was who they came to? who knows. he didn't know where tf she was!

the body had some… anomalies. a 22 year old backpacker was last seen 6 months ago in perfect health, but his body shows signs of advanced osteoporosis, arthritis, and kyphosis of the vertebrae. and i don’t even KNOW what that last one means!! what did these townspeople do to him? anyway, the body had the spine of a 90 year old woman. yikes.

doggett seems a bit surprised she didn’t need him- she says they called over the weekend and she didn’t want to bother him- but he offers to do anything he can from the bureau. aww. can he get her a ride?

(author's note: hmm... so many ways you can interpret her "not wanting to bother him". i find myself wanting to read the script to understand what was written. that is the thing about TV- when you don't have the words the actors were given in front of you, there are so many ways you can interpret the acting choices!)

she actually wants some help! they have some files about a murder case… and she doesn’t remember the details like where or when it happened, but she remembers some glycoproteins at the crime scene. unidentified mucus. and since he recently went through all the files, maybe he could help…. her face is desperate. 

“well, i don’t have a great memory for mucus, but i’ll be happy to look”, says special agent john doggett, a deeply serious man.

he asks for any more info… but the scary bus goes by so she can’t hear him!! once he finds it, could he please fax it over to the local sheriff’s office? <- FAX! how truly vintage.

she watches the bus… it makes a turn. and then gets in her car. YAY, SHE HAS A CAR, I MEAN I REALLY HOPED SO, but i didn't see it while she was sleuthing… and goes to get some gas. the station seems empty… 

she calls out “hello?” and then honks the horn, which nearly made me jump, LMAO. everything looks so hot. i am thirsty just watching this. she has her map and her green button up under a brown jacket and the world against her.

as she looks at the map… a man approaches. she wants to know where the road goes and also what happened to his hand. EEK, he cut it with his saw. she is gonna investigate his hand while asking about the murder. 

AWW, she tells him to wash it out and put on some iodine “you sound like my mother” “yeah? well i also sound like a doctor” “medical doctor?” “yeah” <- aww… you can take the doctor into the desert and she is gonna find someone to heal up. 

she asks for some gas, and he says he doesn’t have any. she says she’ll be fine- she has a quarter tank- but he runs around the back to get something, which she thanks him for. aww, scully making polite small talk...

she still cannot figure out this map. it must be wrong, because she knows how to navigate stuff. 

he comes back with some gas and she says thank youuuu!!! and btw, where tf are we? he says we’re not really a town… just a few like-minded people trying to keep the modern world at bay. tf does THAT mean? is he evil? is he putting diesel in her car to make it break down?

maybe not, at least on the disesel front, because she takes off. while gas guy goes inside and finds the bus driver AND THE HITCHHIKER?? and declares that help is coming. the hitchhiker is writhing in bed. is he going to get her to come back somehow and heal him! but what are they even doing to him?!

nooo!!! her engine starts to sputter. so she walks back. “you put something in my tank that killed my engine” <- GET HIM! does she have all of her stuff though? or is she here with just her jacket!!

and she wants to see the gas can, so don’t even try to play dumb. she pours it into her hand… smells it… and declares it to be WATER! he pretends he didn’t know that. “it must have gotten rain in it” “oh, and it rains a lot here, does it?” <- LMAOOOO

she is soooo mad. all traces of earlier polite small talk scully have evaporated in the desert heat. he says he doesn’t have a phone. but there is one up the street. so she goes. opens the door. calls out hello. no response. 

oh, one of the guys from the bus is here, and his name is milsap. he is all in shadow. leads her to a room. the phone line is dead. but he says it’ll come back on. in ten minutes… two hours… who knows when. she’s welcome to wait here. he can even give her a room!

“what the hell is going on here? i get the distinct impression that somebody doesn’t want me to leave” but he denies everything… even that a bus came through. her eyes are so blue. she is weirded tf out. 

and she does not wanna walk those 20 miles. that hand on her abdomen… the deep sigh. i am doing a deep sigh of my own.

AWWW, she runs after someone else who hides from her :( there is a whole group of people in there ignoring her!!! WHAT IS GOING ON… she knocks on each door…. looks in the window…

while that creepy milsap guy stares at her. so. she accepts a room. cocks her gun. sits in bed with it in her hands. while people with lanterns approach!! so many people with lanterns!!! 

this is so CREEEEEPY. 

she falls asleep. someone wakes her up with a knock on the door, so she GRABS HER GUN AND HAS IT POINTED. WHEW!!!! do NOT mess with her- it will be the last thing you do. it’s milsap, and he calls her “doctor”, asking to speak with her. saying there is an emergency. 

she opens the door. carefully. he claims a man downstairs needs help. 

hitchhiker man is having a seizure, and she tells bus driver to stop holding him down. and she’s doing her doctory thing. huh, i guess if someone smells like acetone, that means they are hyperglycemic! who knew? she did, but i didn’t. they don’t know his name, which is suspicious… possibly he is epileptic and stopped taking meds.

BLEAUGH, his back is covered in blood. they claim they don’t know how that happened. they need to get him to a hospital NOW. 

and she presumes correctly that the phone is still “not working” and no one has a car. DOGGETT, CAN YOU SEND A GUY DOWN… 

milsap says they can send someone on foot to the state road. in the mean time, she asks for corn syrup. 

DOGGETT IS CALLING THE UTAH SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT SHE WAS SUPPOSED TO BE AT!! and they don’t know where she is!!! he asks them to send a car out. she called him yesterday somewhere north of sugarville. he says thank you. and then calls someone else. asks for her call to be traced.

scully still has no cell service while the bus driver asks if she is doing this right. well, raising his blood sugar could help if that is what is wrong with him, but they DO NOT KNOW. and unless you can get some diazepam or phenobarbital…. 

he starts to cough!! he says he feels okay and that he just needs rest. and he asks scully to stay. “thank you for, uh, helping me” “well, i’m not sure if i’ve actually done anything. in fact, i don’t even know, uh… i don’t even know what is going on with you right now” <- LMAOOOO, i respect the honesty, it just sounds very funny from her

he doesn’t even remember his name or how he got here. or who these people are. and she tells him she thinks they stranded her here to tend to him. 

why would they do that? well, a guy was stoned to death nearby. perhaps upwards of a dozen people were involved based on the footprints… a group has to be tight-knit to murder together. a cult. like these people. “what are you, a detective?” <- well kinda!!

AUGH, SHE SQUEEZES HIS BACK WOUND with her BARE HANDS and he moans. and another bump comes up. and it is MOVING. while he writhes and writhes. OH SHE GOT HER PLIERS, I CANNOT LOOK AT THIS SHIT! LALALALALA… WHY IS IT MOVINGGGGG?? WHAT DID SHE PULL FROM HIM?? SHE IS LIKE STARING AT A CHUNK OF SOMETHING???

HELLLLLLLL NOOOOOO 😫😫😫😫😫

deep. breathing. NGDJSKDNSKS

nasty, nasty…. are they putting something in him that leeches out all his nutrients??

doggett is printing a missing persons poster… he wants to know if the local utah police are canvassing for scully!!! he is sending someone down there AND he will be arriving shortly himself!!! they need to look at this from the angle of the payphone she called from! only one call was placed other than hers, it was 4 days before she called, and it was a guy named hank… WHO IS THE HITCHHIKER ON THE MISSING POSTER!! he said he would be at his sister’s in 2 days and never showed.

scully is talking to a the guy we now know as hank. while the others praise god. and he asks what is wrong with him, telling the others to go. she slams the door in their faces. 

a parasite is in his back!! it lives in his spine!!! something she has never seen before!! and she doesn’t know how to get it out!! she tells him that he will die if they cannot get it treated and that she thinks they put it in him. they killed the last person in his position and she is scared they’ll kill him too. she wants to get them out of here. so she opens a window to go investigate. 

“you’re not gonna be gone long, right?” she pauses. asks if he knows how to use a gun. NOOO, DON’T LEAVE YOUR GUN!!! but this is exactly what she does. i’m not buying this guy isn’t somehow in on it. 

milsap and bus driver knock on the door right as she leaves… and he tells them she says he is dying, “we need another swap” <- what does THAT MEAN?? so his ass WAS in on it?? and now he has her gun!!! NOOOO

doggett is here in utah with the sheriff and some fellows from the FBI. he hands the sheriff a photo of a wound… sheriff says that it is from the murder victim. but doggett says it is from a 1991 texas john doe!! and it happened again in arizona, and then new mexico, and then nevada! all victims had their brains beaten out and their bodies dumped in remote areas!

scully had him find the first case… the mucus one! which she found at the crime scene! the more remote, the better for these murders….

scully is breaking and entering back in town. she has a little flashlight and finds a camper van!! but will there be a key?! nooo!!! someone approaches her!!! what will she do??

the dark, the flashlight… getting flashbacks to the early seasons

it’s hank! with the same mobility aid as the first victim we saw, hobbling toward her!! but he is followed by the others!!! she is surrounded!! they all have lanterns… and they grab her… and she screams that the FBI is searching for her. 

hank starts to say that her life will take a wonderful turn… that she will become a part of something greater than she is. “you’re going to be… so loved” “amen” they all chant

AND THEN THEY START BEAT HANK WITH ROCKS WHILE SHOUTING AMEN!!!! AND THEY PULL OUT THE WORM THING. 

AND THEY’RE BRINGING IT TOWARDS HER SO SHE YELLS THAT SHE IS PREGNANT, BUT GIRL, IDK IF THE WORM PEOPLE ARE GONNA CARE ABOUT THAT??? 

OH GOD… I NEED A BREATHER. 

if you could SEE my face right now… DOGGETT… WHERE ARE YOUUUUUUUUUU?

moral of the story: NEVER give a guy your gun 😭😭😭😭

they’re putting the worm thing in her BACK I THINK?? and she says she will kill all of them. but milsap says she will love us, protect us, teach us. that she’ll be one with him. “THAT THING IN MY SPINE IS A HIM?” <- lmao.

she is HOWLING and screaming, very convincingly for someone who has to act out the prompt "they're putting a worm in your back", which i imagine someone with less talent could fumble. lines like "that thing in my spine is a him?" do make you remember the inherent silliness of this TV show... but that is the only thing that feels silly right now. because this is very serious.

“that last man just wasn’t a suitable tabernacle”. milsap says they are taught not to be jealous, but they all are…. there is always the chance that her body won’t fail him. that he’ll be in her forever. 

car approaches. doggett, please light this place up. 

she screams for help, but they shut her up with a gag…..

and it is doggett!!! bus driver and milsap approach him. he shows them a missing poster of scully, who they deny seeing. 

she is bound up. knocks a lamp with her foot. starts a fire. they keep denying it to doggett’s face. he starts to leave…. gets in his car…. but someone stamps out the fire she started. 

where is he going….. he calls the sheriff. says he is getting a vibe. says to hurry. talked to a guy with a gun in his pocket, and that did not mean he was happy to see him. again. lmao. but only briefly.

she is screaming and groaning while the gas guy looks on… doggett comes in!!! knocks gas guy out!!! finds scully. who demands he get her the hell out of here.

he starts to carry her… she tells him to go to the camper van. gently sets her down. and he says he can certainly hotwire it.

she starts screaming, cut it out of me, cut it out of me now. but they're coming!!!!!! slamming their hands on the windows!!! while he’s trying to do it!!!!

they’re smashing the windows in!!! he gets the worm!!!!!! shoots that sucker!!! they’re all silent. 

he wraps up scully in his jacket and carries her back to his car. they say nothing. 

sirens approach. oh my god…..

so, a week later, she’s still in the hospital. packing up her things. bandage on her neck where he ripped the damn thing out. he knocks on the door. doggett asks if she is ready to go. grand jury convenes today, he says. the cult believe they worshiped christ and that thing was the second coming. 

she says she is sorry for leaving him out. “it was, you screwed up” “and i won’t do it again” “i appreciate it” 

she goes to grab her things... but he takes her bag before she can grab it. then follows him out.

oh my god…. 

the end.

well, that ending was pretty fascinating.

did she really not want to bother him and that is why she left him out of the case? was this about her confronting her vulnerability? the nasty facts of it? that you have to rely on a partner, even if it isn’t your soulmate?

or was she trying to keep him at arm’s length and do her own thing because she still doesn’t fully trust him? or do you think this was about reclaiming her autonomy and doing something on her own terms when so much is out of her control, and then it backfired?

god, her begging him to rip that thing out and then carrying her…. whew. WILDLY intense. again, she was selling it, which is a hard thing to do when you have to act like a parasite is in your spine. and i will admit that i barely looked as he got it out because i was gagging, but: noble agent doggett, ripping a worm out of his new partner's body, wrapping her up in his jacket, and carrying her bridal-style to safety... all performed silently... whew. there are LAYERS there, man.

do you think he went home for the week she was in the hospital? or do you think he stayed by her side? do you think he hated her a little bit for doing something so reckless? do you think he blamed himself? 

how tf do you treat a person for a parasitic life form? i would assume a course of antibiotics... but can you even do that when you’re pregnant? maybe the thing was only in there for like a few hours so it didn’t mess with her system or the baby or anything *that* much, but like, holy fuck. her medical history is absolutely crazy, and that is a notable addition.

they kept her there for a week, so i assume doggett knows her secret now… and also, the creepy townspeople knew, and she likely had to testify about what happened anyway, which he might have read... he probably had his suspicions after the first time they kept her in the hospital for so long… oh my god, is she ever gonna, like. NOT put herself right in the face of danger? but in her defense, she really didn't know- she just went up to look at a body. there shouldn't have been any harm in that!

SIGH. she really wanted to help that hank fellow… but he was in on it. i mean, or was he? once it was in him, it seems like it takes over your brain, makes you do things in service of it. makes you think you’re anointed or something. even though he knew they were going to smash his brain open, he didn’t seem bothered, just truly excited for her opportunity to be next. and you know scully is always going to want to protect the innocent. it is in her DNA.

fuck. well. i don’t like this one, LMAO. don’t get me wrong!! it was a fine episode, i don’t have broader critiques about it mangling characters or whatnot... that was just TOOOO much for me. another case of the show where spooky things happen actually being a little TOO spooky for yours truly. i’m not looking forward to editing these notes tomorrow and rewatching it by proxy, so i might try to speed through them just so i don’t have to dwell on it. 

NASTY. nasty. 

fascinating things going on in scully and doggett’s brains, though. i wonder if she thought going down to utah and doing something on the side would distract her and keep her busy- make her days feel more purposeful as she waits for a lead on mulder. maybe she wanted to slight doggett. maybe she wanted something to be just hers. maybe she didn’t think about it at all and felt all these things subconsciously. she didn’t even tell him when she left… maybe she didn’t think it would be that long. either way, she is definitely in a lot of distress, so it’s not like she is in her normal state of mind. and it seemed like an easy enough thing to do… it makes me sad.

and poor doggett, too. i don’t think understanding scully will ever come easy to him. but he seems like he really wants to. she might be shutting him out purposefully, or perhaps not, but she is shutting him out either way, even when it seems like they’re getting closer, it must sting for both of them that he has to be mulder’s replacement, which stirs up all kinds of emotions… but finding her like that, listening to her howl in pain, and then cutting that thing out of her back...

and there is something really sick and twisted about them carrying each other's bloody and broken bodies to safety, but being unable to talk about anything other than work. something verrrrrry twisted there. and frankly, i am eating it up.

fuck. her having to tell her secret to someone she didn’t want to because it was her only chance of saving her life… sooo evil. that should be what she gets to share with her loved ones, not people trying to STICK A SPINE WORM IN HER. nasty. nasty. and in the end, they didn't even care!!

and we STILL haven't seen her mother... maybe they talked off-camera... well, i would have liked to see that... or maybe it is just coming later?

i wonder if she’ll be roughly 20% more cautious now. i wonder if the recklessness is a form of denial of her circumstances. i wonder if skinner would yell at her if he found out she slipped out to utah without telling anyone. ooo, tag me if you write that. 

for now, i end my thoughts here, because i do not wish to dwell on spine worm any longer. it was a perfectly fine- nay, even a good episode! but: YUCKY.

[cathymee]

maybe it's to maintain a sense of tension & turmoil that would eventually reach an explosive peak, a sense of tug-of-war, a back-and-forth to hammer home the ideals they want to deliver and for the viewers to chew on, but although these arguments regarding hiroshi & his stance as a man torn between his loyalty for his country & the loyalty for his Filipino friends and lover is of course important, how they write these scenes & the points they present from this week alone is getting too repetitive...? literally the argument scenes from last night & tonight between adelina & hiroshi is basically the same; the ideas were the same, the dynamics were the same: the aggressive, radical adelina, bristling rage and fear over the injustices she's seen thus far, and the cautious, inspiriting hiroshi, all hopefulness and reassurance one moment as a lover, defensiveness and sternness as a japanese soldier in another. this debate will be ever-present ofc, it is one of the series' biggest conflicts, but it is unfortunately so easy to tell when it is a.) being pulled up as a main topic to move the plot along / be a necessary conflict for character development/introspection / be the conflict to deliver the morals & messages the writers want to send to their viewers, or b.) when it is being pulled up only for the drama and filler to pass the time. like watching the characters sit down to argue for 10 minutes, do other things for the plot for 2 minutes, then sit down again to argue for the next 20 minutes. lol.

[quibbs126]

So I saw a post talking about how it's weird having Arcee now be like a core Transformers member and put with the other classic g1 characters, and how her design just doesn't really fit because she's not from that group, she's from the 2005 Transformers group

I think the post was intended to be more about her design in comparison to those other classic characters, but honestly now I'm thinking about it from a character perspective as well

Edit: here's the link to that post, if you're curious

Because like, yeah, it's a bit weird how she's a character from post-time skip, part of the new group of Autobots, and yet she tends to be placed with the classic original characters. And also, how she tends to be the only one from that 2005 group that shows up, save for sometimes Ultra Magnus, Hot Rod/Rodimus and occasionally Blurr (but usually not for long from what I can gather). Like I have never seen Springer

Like it's basically the case of taking one character from another continuity and putting them within a new show with the older characters, sort of like Blackarachnia in TFA. Except her being from a different team entirely is almost never brought up, she's just part of the classic cast. I mean sure, she is from g1, but not from when everyone else is

And from what I can gather, she's never given particular connection to the other Season 3 characters when they do reappear in other shows, or at least nothing that would indicate that they have any special connection due to their origins. Anyone else could have that connection to that character

I don't know, it's kind of weird when I think about it

Like I get why Arcee was basically made part of the main cast. They wanted more female Transformers, and at least from a meta perspective, Arcee was far more deserving of the role of "main female Transformer" than Elita-1. Arcee was the first female Transformer developed and the one who paved the way for other female bots to be made, and she was a main character of both the 86 movie and the following season of the g1 cartoon. Elita-1 meanwhile was a one-off character (outside of technically Ariel in War Dawn, but I'm given to understand Ariel being Elita was a last-minute addition, so), even if she's meant to be Optimus' counterpart and is from the same era of g1 as the other classic characters. So you know, Arcee makes more sense

It is just kind of weird that her history as originally being from an entirely different group of Autobots just isn't mentioned, she's just part of the classic cast, despite technically not being part of it

[nthflower]

Super subjective rambling with not so thoughtful progress below

I really don't like vibes of invincible comic for some reason. Like I really wanted to read it but it's so bleak and somehow unsatisfying. Now praying show actually fixes it because now I am more happy and satisfied with it like show doesn't have same awful vibe I didn't like and I actually care about characters and story.

Which feels so fucking weird to say as someone normally being a elitists comic fan who hates every adaptation and have unjustified grunge against show only people of my fave comics.

Anyways so it's free to think I'm stupid I'm being very subjective.

[artistcheez]

Working on a short story series centered around Hobo Heart, in which Slenderman doesn’t exist but the pastas somehow end up clustering together as a community. Mainly features OCs and is an excuse to use up the random horror story ideas I wrote down but could never use for a longer form stand alone original story. It’s called “Freaks of Bear County” on AO3.

Anyway this is Toby as a middle aged man and resident redneck. He is for the most part stable but still has some feral raccoon energy in him and will throw down with god if he looked at his “family” wrong.

[commanderofthegrey]

i will say i do not know what people who like leliana but are incredibly reluctant to bring up her less morally pure actions (including, say, her 4-7 year stint as the left hand of the fantasy catholic church and participation in its violence) are like... engaging with. this isn't even a criticism i am just genuinely confused i dont know who that woman is.

[sneekysoft]

𝐊𝐎𝐑𝐖𝐘𝐍 & 𝐙𝐘𝐁𝐈𝐋𝐍𝐀 — i miss the friends i had to leave behind my dad saying "i'm proud of you son" it makes me wanna go home could i ever call this place home?

[fangsandsoftgrass]

I've said it so many times but I haven't said it here Fennwedh is what Twilight could have been if it was good

[amongsnot]

👀 hi

[oscarisaacss-wp]

DYNAMICS IN PROGRESS — Leah Berman & Nicholas Gwan, in Hurricane Drunk as a Doomed Love.

“He’s waving his arms around and telling us about how pain is worth it, how it makes us stronger, but he’s wrong.

Or maybe I only think so because I’m still suffering.

Or maybe only some people come out the other end of shame a better person, while others can’t escape.

There are fields on fire and I lay burning.”

excerpt / ANONYMOUS

i. pinterest ii. spotify iii. wattpad

[greengoblinswifey]

Between Takes- Nicholas Chavez x Actress!Reader

summary— you and Nicholas Chavez navigate a tumultuous on-screen rivalry that evolves into a passionate off-screen romance. amidst teasing banter and sizzling tension, a rehearsal kiss blurs the lines between acting and reality.

warnings— enemies to lovers, unprotected sex, oral(f receiving), L bombs, fluff, established relationship.

You and Nicholas play rivals in a popular Netflix show. Your characters are constantly butting heads, with heated confrontations in almost every scene. The fans love the tension, and it’s one of the key dynamics of the show. Behind the scenes it’s the same, but there’s an undeniable spark between the two of you, though neither of you admits it. You’ve developed a bit of a love-hate relationship on set, filled with teasing, sharp comments, and banter that everyone assumes is just your way of staying in character though sometimes it gets overbearing.

One day, after a particularly intense scene, you find yourself doing an interview for a popular entertainment magazine. Sitting across from the interviewer, you try to maintain your composure, but the thoughts of Nicholas linger.

“So, how’s your chemistry with your co-star, Nicholas?” the interviewer asks, a teasing glint in her eye.

You chuckle, rolling your eyes slightly. “Honestly, working with him is like wrestling a bear. He’s arrogant, sometimes late, and way too confident for his own good. The edits are getting to his head.”

The interviewer laughs, and you realize you might have said a bit too much. But it’s all in good fun, right?

“And what about those heated confrontations you have on screen? Are they as fiery off-screen?”

You smirk. “Oh, absolutely. We love to argue. I think it’s half the reason the show is so popular and we’re able to make the show as real as possible.”

The interview ends, and as you step out, you see Nicholas leaning against a wall, arms crossed and a smirk on his face.

“So, I heard your little interview. Arrogant, huh?” he teases, raising an eyebrow.

You cross your arms, feigning indifference. “What can I say? It’s a talent of yours.”

“And what about that kiss scene we have to rehearse today? Think you can handle it?” His voice drops lower, a challenge hanging in the air.

You raise an eyebrow, feeling a rush of excitement. “Please. I’m not the one who needs to worry about handling it.”

As the day progresses, you can’t shake the tension in the air. During a break, Nicholas corners you in the hallway. “You know, I didn’t appreciate what you said in the interview,” he says, his voice low and serious.

You smirk. “I thought we were just having fun. Can’t handle a little friendly competition?” His gaze sharpens, and he steps closer. “It’s not just competition, is it? There’s something more.”

“Like what? A deep-seated desire to kiss my rival?” you reply, your voice laced with sarcasm.

But beneath the teasing, you both feel it, an electricity that has been building over time.

“You might just find out how good I am at kissing,” he says, smirking again, and your heart races at the thought.

The real shift happens during a major storyline arc where your characters have to share a kiss, something neither of you expected. As you both prepare for the rehearsal, the tension is palpable.

When it’s time to kiss, the world around you fades away. The rehearsal kiss is intense, full of the chemistry that’s been simmering beneath the surface. Your heart races as his lips touch yours, igniting something deep within. It’s a spark you’ve both tried to ignore, but now it feels undeniable.

As the kiss breaks, you both stand there for a moment, breathless. “Well, that was, unexpected,” Nicholas says, running a hand through his hair, his usual confidence wavering.

“Yeah, I didn’t think it would feel like that,” you admit, your voice barely above a whisper.

Nicholas takes a step closer, the air thick with unspoken words. “So, does this mean we’re not just bitter ‘enemies’ anymore?”

You chuckle softly, a smile creeping onto your face. “I guess it depends on how we handle the rest of the season.”

Nicholas smirks, leaning in slightly. “I can handle a lot, trust me.”

“Oh, I bet you can,” you reply, your voice playful but laced with flirtation.

The banter continues, but the teasing has a new edge to it now, hinting at the deeper connection you've both begun to acknowledge. The lines between acting and reality blur, transforming your playful rivalry into something far more passionate.

As you navigate your way through the show, the tension between you escalates both on and off the screen. The two of you find excuses to be near each other, whether it’s rehearsing lines or grabbing coffee between takes. Each moment feels charged, filled with unsaid words and lingering glances.

One evening, after a long day on set, you find yourselves alone in your trailer. Nicholas is leaning against the door, a mischievous grin on his face.

“You know, I think the show would be much better if we had more moments like that kiss,” he says, a teasing glint in his eyes.

“What are you suggesting? We start kissing off-camera too?” you shoot back, your heart racing at the thought.

He steps closer, closing the distance. “Maybe we should. I mean, it’s not like anyone’s watching.” You feel your breath hitch as he inches closer, the teasing in his eyes replaced by something deeper.

“Okay, then. Show me what you’ve got,” you challenge, heart pounding.

Nicholas leans in, capturing your lips again, and this time it’s not just for the cameras. It’s heated, passionate, and everything you’ve both been holding back. In that moment, you both know that the rivalry has turned into something much more complicated, and exciting. As you pull away, breathless and wanting more, you can’t help but wonder what this means for both of you moving forward.

A couple of weeks pass, and while your relationship deepens, it remains primarily physical with lots of kissing but no further progression. As the season approaches its finale, excitement and uncertainty linger in the air.

The end of filming party is at a lively club, filled with cast and crew celebrating the end of a successful season. Music pulses through the air, laughter and chatter surround you as you enjoy the night. You and Nicholas are together, and the playful touches become more frequent. He brushes his fingers against your arm as you talk, igniting warmth in your skin.

As the night goes on, you find yourselves in a corner booth, drinks in hand, laughter spilling between you. Suddenly, Nicholas pulls you closer, his hand resting on your thigh.

“I can’t believe we actually made it through that entire season without killing each other,” he jokes, his voice low and teasing. You lean in, a smirk on your lips. “I think I’ve managed to tolerate your presence.”

He raises an eyebrow, his expression playful yet serious. “Tolerate? Is that all? Because I think we both know it’s more than that.”

In a moment of spontaneity, you lean forward, capturing his lips in a heated kiss. The atmosphere around you dims, and all you can focus on is the way his hands grip your waist, pulling you closer. Gasps and laughter surround you, but you’re lost in the moment, oblivious to the eyes of the other guests.

When you finally pull away, both of you are breathless, and a mixture of surprise and excitement dances in the air.

“Looks like we’re the talk of the party,” you say, glancing around at the surprised expressions on your co-stars’ faces.

“Let them talk. I don’t care,” he replies, his eyes dark with desire.

You share a lingering look, and before you know it, the night wraps up and you’re making your way back to your hotel room together. On the way, Nicholas receives a call for a quick interview about the season’s finale.

“I just have to say a few things. You good with that?” he asks, glancing at you.

“Yeah, go ahead,” you reply, your heart racing as he steps aside to take the call.

As he speaks, you catch snippets of what he’s saying.

“I just want to take a moment to say how much I admire my co-star,” he says, his tone sincere. “She’s incredibly driven, intelligent, and truly talented. I feel honored to have shared the set with someone as smart and passionate as her.”

You can’t help but smile, warmth spreading through your chest at his words. He finishes up the call, walking back toward you, a proud grin on his face.

“What did I miss?” he asks, wrapping his arm around you as you walk into the hotel.

“Just a little praise from your biggest fan,” you tease, leaning against him.

You both enter your hotel room, and the atmosphere shifts again, the earlier tension returning.

“I really appreciate what you said in that interview,” you admit, your voice softening.

Nicholas steps closer, a serious look in his eyes. “I meant every word. You’ve impressed me in ways I didn’t expect.”

Without another word, you lean in, kissing him deeply. The kiss ignites something fierce between you, and suddenly, he’s all over you, hands roaming, breath hot against your skin.

“I want you so bad,” he murmurs against your lips, his desire palpable. “I’ve been aching for you.”

Your heart races as you pull back slightly to meet his gaze, desire burning in your eyes. “Then let’s not waste any more time.”

Nicholas pulls you in for another kiss, his hands gripping your waist as he backs you against the wall. The kisses become frantic as you lose yourselves in the moment, and soon enough, you’re moving to the bed.

Clothes are shed in a frenzy, and as you tumble onto the soft sheets, Nicholas takes his time exploring every inch of your body. He kisses a path down your stomach, sending shivers down your spine. When he reaches your core, he takes his time, skillfully working you to the edge. “You taste so good,” he whispers, his breath warm against you.

You’re surprised at how skilled he is with his tongue and he makes sure to use it to plunge inside you, drawing the sweetest moans from your lips. Your hands grip his hair and you grind against his face, his groans against your pussy making you shiver and squirm. The world melted around you, all you could focus on was the pleasure he was making you feel,

You feel the wave of pleasure building, and as you climax, you gasp his name, feeling your body quake beneath his touch.

Afterward, you’re both a tangle of limbs, breathless and glowing. Nicholas wraps his arms around you, holding you close as you catch your breath.

Once the haze of passion begins to settle, he looks deep into your eyes. “I want you to be my girlfriend,” he says, sincerity etched in his features. You smile, feeling a rush of happiness. “I’d love that.”

After a passionate night together with Nicholas eating you out, you both navigate your way through the press runs filled with playful touches and stolen kisses. Finally, the season premiere arrives, and excitement buzzes in the air.

As you both prepare for the red carpet, butterflies flutter in your stomach. You glance at Nicholas, who looks stunning in a tailored suit. He catches your gaze and smirks, making your heart race.

“Ready to blow everyone’s minds?” he asks, his confidence radiating. You roll your eyes playfully. “As if I’d let you steal the spotlight.”

The two of you step onto the red carpet, and a hush falls over the crowd as cameras flash. The buzz is palpable as reporters and fans whisper, remembering the long-standing rumors that you and Nicholas didn’t get along.

You strike a pose together, your bodies instinctively leaning into one another. “You both look amazing!” a reporter shouts. “Can you tell us about your chemistry?”

Nicholas glances at you, a mischievous glint in his eye. “It’s just as fiery off-screen as it is on-screen. Isn’t that right?” You nod, smirking. “Let’s just say it’s been a wild ride, but we make it work.”

As the cameras continue to flash, Nicholas takes your hand, pulling you closer. Suddenly, he leans in and kisses you, catching everyone off guard. Gasps and cheers erupt from the crowd, and the whispers of shock turn to delight.

“What’s this? Are you two an item now?” another reporter calls out, excitement in their voice.

You break the kiss, breathless but grinning, and glance at Nicholas.

“Guess we just made it official,” he says, his eyes sparkling with mischief.

You both continue down the red carpet, posing and kissing, basking in the spotlight as the rumors of your on-set rivalry dissolve into cheers of support.

During interviews, the two of you take turns praising each other, the chemistry undeniable. “She’s incredibly talented,” Nicholas says, his voice full of admiration. “I’m lucky to have her as my co-star.”

You blush at his words, feeling warmth spread through you.

“Nicholas has this incredible drive. It’s inspiring to work alongside him,” you reply, your smile wide.

Then the moment of truth arrives during a live interview when a reporter asks Nicholas how he feels about this new development in your relationship.

“I feel... I feel amazing. She makes me happy,” he says, his expression earnest. Then, almost as if he’s caught up in the moment, he blurts out, “I love her.”

Silence falls for a split second before your eyes widen in surprise. He blinks, realizing what he just said. “Uh, yeah, I love you,” he repeats, a mix of disbelief and affection in his voice.

“You do?” you ask, your heart racing. He nods, sincerity flooding his gaze. “Yeah, I really do.”

You’re momentarily taken aback, but then a smile spreads across your face, and you lean in, capturing his lips in a kiss as the crowd coos and cheers.

“I love you too,” you whisper against his lips, and everyone around you erupts in “Awws!”

The premiere ends on a high note, filled with excitement and love. As you both head back to the hotel, the energy is electric.

Once inside your hotel room, the door closes behind you, and Nicholas pulls you in for a passionate kiss.

“You have no idea how beautiful you are tonight,” he murmurs against your lips, his hands caressing your waist.

You shiver at his touch, feeling desire surge through you. “And you’re absolutely irresistible.”

Nicholas grins, his eyes dark with hunger. “I want you, all of you.”

With urgency, you both shed your clothes, losing yourselves in the heat of the moment. As he pulls you onto the bed, he worships your body with soft kisses and sweet words.

His pumps his cock a few times before rubbing the glistening tip on your wet pussy before slowly pushing in.

“You feel so good,” he breathes, his lips trailing down your neck. “You’re everything I’ve wanted.”

You moan softly, feeling the heat rise between you.

“And you’re all mine,” you reply, looking into his eyes with fierce determination.

You gasp his name as he starts to rut into you softly, his forehead on yours and you stare into each other’s eyes. He was your entire world, everything faded away as you felt his cock brush you cervix and his fingers reached between your bodies, rubbing your clit slowly.

With a shared understanding, you both fall into a rhythm of passion, bodies moving in perfect harmony. His hands explore your curves as he whispers sweet nothings, making you feel cherished and desired.

“You’re so so beautiful baby, I love you, you’re everything to me.”

The words almost bring you to tears but the constant brushing of his cock against your g spot made you focus more on the pleasure you were feeling. “Fuck I’m gonna cum baby, I need you to cum with me, cum around my cock okay?” You nodded frantically feeling the overwhelming feeling of being near your release.

As you reach your climax, everything around you fades, and all you feel is him, his voice, and the intimacy of the moment.

Afterward, you lay entwined, breathless and content. Nicholas brushes a strand of hair behind your ear, his gaze softening.

“You’re incredible. I’m so lucky to have you,” he says, kissing your forehead.

You smile, feeling a deep sense of love and belonging. “And I’m lucky to have you.”

In that moment, you both realize that you’re not just co-stars anymore; you’re partners, and this is just the beginning of your journey together.

[fallminlove]

svt telling you "i love you" for the first time - ot13 ver

8 letters, 3 words, every one of the words by itself has such a simple meaning, but together, it weighs an amount that’s indescribable with just any simple words

-> paring: seventeen x gn!reader -> genre: fluff, angst-ish (ljh), established relationships, non-idol!seventeen -> word count: 4.7k -> content warning: mentions of food (csc, hjs, jww, xmh, kmg, lc), mentions of alcohol (ksy), usage of the word "damn" (lsm), pet names ("my love" - hjs, xmh ; "babe" - kmg ; "bub" - lsm)

p.s. this has been something i've been working on for a while ! but my life has gotten so busy i never got around to finish / editing it. now this finally sees the light of the day, i really hope you enjoy this and enjoy all the little blurbs i wrote !!

❥ C. Seungcheol - while you were making dinner for the two of you Though it was still early in your relationship with Seungcheol, something clicked and everything felt just right with him. It felt like it was a calling that you decided that you’ll move in with him. (Let’s just admit it was the fact that Seungcheol can’t stand one moment without you-) Usually when making dinner, it was a time of the day that you both get to enjoy each other’s company. The two of you would be home together after a long day of work, prepping the ingredients, taking sneaky little bites before the meal is finished, having silly little banters like what’s the best type of pasta. But today, Seungcheol had a meeting at the company that ran a little late. You decided to cook a nice warming stew awaiting the other’s return. 

You hear the door click open, and Seungcheol comes into the house. He sets his bag on the floor and shuffles to the kitchen to the smell of the lovely dinner, and to you, of course. His arms wrapping tightly around your waist, placing his face in the crooks of your neck from behind, “I’m home”, he mumbles, “do you need me to help with anything?” You giggle at the tickling vibrations as he mumbled, but also at the sight of how clingy your boyfriend is after he’s tired.  You continued stirring the stew, making sure the bottom doesn’t get burned, “I don’t think so, this is going to be ready soon,” you ruffled his hair with your other open hand, “how about you just rest for a bit? you seem tired” Seungcheol nods as he lets go of you unwillingly, but he knows he has to get out of his work clothes that’s starting to make him uncomfortable.  He came back to the kitchen just as you are scooping the stew into two bowls for the two of you, making its finishing touches. As he watched, several thoughts coursing through his mind, he couldn’t help smiling at how he feels right at home with you, “thank you for making dinner tonight, I love you”.

❥ Y. Jeonghan - while were peacefully taking a nap, right next to him The relationship dynamic between you and Jeonghan have always been playfully bickering and teasing with each other. It was as if you dated your best friend.  One relaxing afternoon, you and Jeonghan decided to put on a movie to watch together. You’re curled up on the side of Jeonghan, with his arms draping over you, holding you in closer. At first, the two of you would make comments at the movie, but as the movie progressed the two of you started making less comments and focused on the plot. As the credits roll, Jeonghan finds it weird that he didn’t hear a peep from you at all. He turns his head to see that apparently at some point during the movie, you have dozed off to sleep in his comforting embrace. At that moment, Jeonghan was so mesmerized by how peaceful you were. He has stopped and taken a closer look at you, he sees how calmly you were breathing, cheeks in a slight rosy pink, and just taking in every one of your features in awe. He presses a gentle kiss on the top of your forehead, “I love you” he whispers.

❥ H. Jisoo - during a business formal event Inside of the ballroom people gathered in groups, making small talks, or wandering around for a light treat. The classical music triumphs through the venue, chandeliers laminating the room. It is the first time you’ve attended an event like this. Noticing that you were a bit nervous, Joshua extended his hand, “if i may?” Taken aback by his very formal language, you smiled at his gesture and took in his hand, the warmth from the touch of his hand did make you feel a bit more comforted.  It was an end of the year company party, each employee is able to bring a plus one, and of course, you’re the number one on your boyfriend’s list. Joshua did warn you how formal and business-y it would be, knowing that you don’t quite enjoy these types of gatherings. “If at any point of the night you’re uncomfortable, let me know, we can head home.” The two of you walked into the ballroom hand in hand, your other hand holding on to your gown making sure you don’t step and trip over yourself. Joshua greeted some clients that he’s been working with, and introduced you to some of his coworkers. Because of having him by your side, you felt a bit more comfortable exchanging some small conversations.  The two of you wandered around a little more and you noticed that some of the couples were sharing a dance together. Seeing where your gaze wandered off to, Joshua asks, “may I ask for a dance with you?” You chuckled at the way of how formally Joshua has been speaking with you all night, “of course,” you responded with a light nod.  Joshua led you to the center, where the others were dancing. The only experience you had with waltzing is seeing it in the movies, and you did the best that you could to mimic what you can remember. Joshua was also there to guide you, placing your arms, holding your hands, and whispering which foot you should step with.  Eventually you got the swing of things, and you started to notice physically how close and how intimate you were with Joshua. You also realized that Joshua was looking back at you, eyes glittering with admiration, “I don’t think I’ve told you tonight, you look beautiful my love. I love you”

❥ W. Junhui - after coming back from a business trip This was the first time in your relationship that Junhui was away for so long, well, two weeks. But for new couples like the two of you, this is like living in the trenches. Luckily the internet is so advanced today you’re able to leave messages throughout the day, or video chat whenever there’s free time between the two of you. But with the timezone difference the timing just doesn’t line up quite nicely. And it just doesn’t feel the same without having the other person right next to you. It finally came to the day that Junhui was returning back home from the long war business trip, you excitedly waited at the gate hoping to catch him as soon as he walked out. When Junhui saw you in the crowd, he made a beeline towards you and hugged you and held you in his arms. You had planned all these things you wanted to tell him that you didn’t get to over the phone, but his warm hug made you completely forget everything that was on the top of your mind. Junhui says softly by your ear, “I love you, I missed you”

❥ K. Soonyoung - when he had one too many drinks during a night out  You knew Soonyoung was catching up with some friends tonight, and knew there would be alcohol involved. But you weren’t expecting that your boyfriend would get so drunk that his cute tipsy rambling voice memos would turn into random mumbling nonsense or just the background noise of the bar where he’s currently at.  It was getting quite late and you were beginning to worry for Soonyoung, you grabbed your light jacket and keys and headed to the bar and retrieved your boyfriend before he went rogue.  When you arrive at the bar, you see Soonyoung and his friends are actually outside getting some air. “Oh you are here!” One of his friends calls to you, while trying to hold Soonyoung upright, “we were just about to call to have you pick him up.” Soonyoung was definitely at his limits, as he’s just leaning on his friends. When he saw you approach his eyes lit up and stumbled straight towards you. You held Soonyoung in your arms, you couldn’t help it but to pinch his bright flushed cheeks. The alcohol made his face glow in a way that takes out all of the fierceness while he’s his sober self, now he just looks like a little kid that wants to be held and cuddled.  You and Soonyoung bid his friends a goodbye and the two of you walked hand in hand down the lamp-lit street. The walk was filled with Soonyoung’s drunk rambles, just like how it was on the phone. The cool summer breeze blows by as the two of you walk, definitely helping Soonyoung sober up a little.  Suddenly you felt a tug on your hand that was stopping your track.  “Soonyoung what’s wrong?” You turned around and saw his head held low, but the grip tightening on your hand, “Do you feel sick? Do you need—”, before you could finish your sentence, you see tears coming down his face. You tried to wipe his tears away as he said between sniffles, “I love you, I’m so happy to have you in my life. Thank you for everything you’ve done for me, I really mean it. I love you, I love you, I love you.”

❥ J. Wonwoo - while you’re on your first trip / vacation together “Wonwoo look! There’s an open spot there!” You excitedly pointed to an open area on the beach as you walked to the entrance. This is a trip you’ve had on your mind for quite a while. Since you wanted to see the sunset at the beach, and you knew that Wonwoo has been getting into photography, maybe he’ll enjoy taking some photos there as a token of memory in your relationship.  But unfortunately the trip keeps getting delayed, either you or Wonwoo’s schedule didn’t line up, or the weather just wasn’t getting the memo. Finally in early June, you guys were both able to set out for this trip as a little weekend getaway.  You did the best you can to “run” to the spot you were pointing at, sinking into the soft sand with each step does make it feel a bit awkward when you run. When you got to the open spot, you lay down your beach towels, putting down the bags you had in your hands and setting up all the snacks and treats you brought.  Since it was still early summer, the breeze that came by was still a bit chilly. Wonwoo cuddled next to you on the towel while you both just watched and listened to the waves coming in.  The two of you stayed like that for a bit, having small chitchats here and there. The sun was starting to set little by little, painting the sky in shades of pink and orange. This reminded Wonwoo that he had his camera and wanted to capture this moment. “Let’s take a walk,” Wonwoo suggested, “maybe I’ll get some photos of you as well” You nodded excitedly and held Wonwoo’s hand to guide him into the shore. You watched as the waves inches closer and closer to you. Suddenly there was a nudge that caused you to stumble, causing you to hit the cold ocean water. You look back and see Wonwoo giggling and snapping pictures of your funny wincing faces, “yah Jeon Wonwoo! You should be lucky that you have a camera, or else I would’ve dragged you with me!” “Ahh, I’m sorry, I’m sorry,” Wonwoo comes over and gives you a hug, “I promise I’ll take normal pictures now” “You better!” You pouted at him, continuing on your path along the shore. Wonwoo stayed behind you, taking photos of the scenery and his surroundings.  There was a moment that you stopped, looking out at the ocean. The rays of the sun hit perfectly on your features, and you were just taking in the beauty of nature. But to Wonwoo, he was trying to take in the beauty of his view, that is you. He snaps a couple of portrait shots of you, before the moment passes.  You carried on your trail while Wonwoo is looking back at the photos he just took. He kept on admiring the photos, well — admiring the person — and smiling to himself, “I love you, you’re just like everything I wanted in my dreams” he whispers to himself.

❥ L. Jihoon - after he showed his vulnerable side to you  Jihoon is not a man that outwardly expresses his feelings, he often bottles them in. Which wasn’t an issue before he met you, but now it feels like you can never understand him, or know what he needs or wants. It is not an easy task for him, and you two often get into arguments because you feel like you’re getting shut out of his world.  After one particularly nasty fight over text, you had to put your phone down and walk away from the situation before it turns into something worse. You walked around the neighborhood, hoping to get your mind cleared, and rethought everything that has been said. You sort of started to understand Jihoon’s perspective and you were feeling guilty for some of the things you’ve said to him. You hurried back to your house hoping you’re able to still apologize and amend for what has happened.  When you reached your house you see a familiar sedan car, it was Jihoon’s. He’s sees you approaching and steps out of the car, he has the hood of his black hoodie up his bangs also covered his eyes, “Jihoon,” you called out slowly approaching to him, “I just thought about what happened earlier, I’m sorry for some of the things I said earlier...” You couldn’t see his eyes, but you can tell his lips were trembling, tears rolling down his face, “I tried to call you earlier but you didn’t answer, I literally thought of all the worse possibilities-“ he takes a deep breath to catch his composure, “I literally thought you were going to walk away and never come back…” You shook your head and held him close, as he sobs into you, “I’m really sorry I said those things to you,” petting his back to soothe his feelings, “I should’ve been more patient, I know expressing your feelings is hard for you. But trust me we can work through this together alright?”  Jihoon wipes away his tears with the sleeve of his hoodie, finally meeting your gaze through the wisps of his wetted bangs, “thank you, I love you.”

❥ X. Minghao - when you surprised him on his birthday   3… 2… 1… As soon as the clock struck 5pm on the dot, you grabbed your belongings and clocked out of the office. You wrote down an itinerary for all the locations you need to visit before you get to your final destination, your boyfriend, Minghao’s house.  It was quite a special day, it was Minghao’s birthday, and this is his first birthday that you spent together. You let him know ahead of the time that you were busy today with work, so all the text responses to him were brief.  What he didn’t know is that you had a big surprise waiting for him.  When you got to Minghao’s house with dinner, a cake, and a beautiful bouquet of tulips in hand, the birthday boy was shocked, “I thought you forgot about my birthday today,” followed with a pout, “you were so busy you didn’t even say happy birthday to me.”  “I thought you said you didn’t care about your birthdays,”you said and you were setting down everything in the house, “But it’s okay, I’m here to make it up now!” Minghao gave you a smile and said he’s just playing with you, but in his eyes you can tell he was a little bit upset and expected something more.  The two of you caught up on what happened today over dinner, and were ready to light the candles for the cake. Though it was just the two of you in the house, the birthday song still felt heartwarming and cheerful.  As Minghao was taking the candles out of the cake, you started, “Actually Hao, there’s another present that I have for you,” you tapped on the screen of your phone before looking up, “okay now check your phone.” Curious and with some suspicions, Minghao looked at his phone, a moment passed and his face expression changed to shock, then to glee, “no way you got these art museum tickets for me?! They were sold out immediately, how did you get them?”  You nodded proudly, “Of course I did! You told me these were hard to get, so I had to prepare myself for war when I got—” before you could finish you were interrupted by an excited tight hug from Minghao.  “Thank you so much my love, I love you.”

❥ K. Mingyu - while you’re taking care of him when he’s sick Mingyu never gets sick, but sometimes, we can’t all be god’s favorites.  Mid-week he started to feel the symptoms of a cold, stuffy nose, sore throat, and other light symptoms that he thought will go away soon.  Unfortunately, it is the weekend and his symptoms got a bit worse after day 1. You couldn’t bear to see Mingyu suffering alone, so you went out to buy some groceries and more cold medicine, hoping you can make a hearty meal to help him fight off his sickness.  When you got to his place he looked like a lost puppy in his big hoodie trailing behind you to the kitchen, “babe you don’t have to stay, I don’t want you to get sick because of me.” “Gyu, I’d rather be sick than know how you’ve been taking care of yourself alone while you’re alone.” You poured a glass of orange juice for him, then shot him a “go sit down and rest please” look.  Your big-pup like boyfriend sluggishly dragged himself and plopped himself at the dining room table so he’s still able to see you from a distance, as he sips on his juice.  After he finished the bowl of chicken noodle soup you made and took the cold medicine, you saw that there was a little bit more life in him.  You brushed out his hair with your fingers, “You’re always there to protect me, now let me take care of you,” Mingyu opened his mouth to respond but instead a yawn came out. You chuckled, “I think the meds are hitting you, go take a nap for now, I got the dishes.” Mingyu nodded and wanted to give you a hug, but remembered he was sick, so he stopped mid-track to make various hearts to you with his arms and body, “Thank you babe, I love you babe.”

❥ L. Seokmin - when he’s seeing you enjoy a perfect date that he had planned  (it is highly recommended to listen to 7PM by BSS while reading this blurb!) Usually you’re the one who’s planning out all the dates that you and Seokmin go on, eating at new restaurants, watching live shows and movies, having cute at home dates. But these past few weeks you’ve been swamped with a major group project with some not so competent group mates, you weren’t able to plan out your next date nor had the energy or time to see your boyfriend. Earlier in the week, during one of your project breaks, you picked up your phone to update Seokmin, making sure he knows you’re still alive. “It’s okay Bub! Let me plan our next date then, I’ll pick you up once you’ve submitted your project,” Seokmin texted a couple days ago. This message definitely peeked your interests and gave you some motivation to finish your project as soon as possible. “I wonder what crazy ideas he has…” You said to yourself. 10 minutes before the deadline of the project, you took a deep sigh and closed the lid of your laptop. You didn’t want to see that damned project ever again after you’ve pressed the submit button.  You didn’t know how long it’s been since you disconnected from the outside world for the last few days, before you could reach for your phone to reconnect, someone rang your doorbell to connect in person. On the other side of the door was Seokmin, smiling big and bright, till he saw your drained face. It was as if the dark rain clouds suddenly covered the sun, his expression turned to full on worry, “oh bub, are you alright? Did you get your project submitted?”  You nodded and gave Seokmin a hug to reassure him that you’re alright, it was a way for you to recharge, feeling his warmth, “sorry to make you worry Seokmin, this project was way more complicated than I thought.” The boy sighs and gives you a reassuring head pat, “at least it’s over now. Now go change, we have a Seokmin Special to go to!” It was as if Seokmin’s energy had rubbed off on you, you quickly got changed and grabbed your belongings to anticipate what’s about to happen. “We are here!” Seokmin exclaims, you looked around, it was a park near the Han River, “I thought after your stressful weeks we should get you reconnected with the nature, and here,” Seokmin says as he’s pulling out a pair of earbuds from his pocket, holding out one side to you, “I made a playlist for our walk.” You put in the earbud, and Seokmin puts in the other. As soon as he started his playlist it felt like it was the missing piece that locked the whole puzzle together for this date. The two of you walked hand in hand, seeing the sun slowly setting on the horizon of the river.  You stopped for a moment to look at Seokmin, your smile couldn’t keep in how much you enjoyed and appreciated what he has done for you, “thank you Seokmin, I really needed this.” Seokmin smiles back, taking a step to be directly in front of you, and having both of your hands in his, “Of course Bub, I love you. I would do anything to keep that smile on your face.”

❥ B. Seungkwan - when you noticed / picked up on small habits that he has Not everyone recognizes their little habits, since you just do them without you even noticing. You would say you’re a pretty observant person, at least you thought you were, until you’re with Seungkwan.  He seems to be able to remember and notice so many small little things you do, making small noises when you enjoy a certain food, skipping or running when you see a long hallway, needing to have your pillow in your lap before you start reading your book, the list just goes on.  But from how long you’ve been together you feel like you haven’t picked up any of his habits, or at least if someone asked you, there’s nothing that comes to your mind. One night, Seungkwan calls you over to help him run through his presentation for the next day. You can tell Seungkwan put a lot of effort into his presentation, the information was clear and concise, straight to the point. You critiqued some points, and had him run through the presentation a couple more times. And that’s when you noticed something, or at least felt something was off? Seungkwan looked nervous? No, stiff. Then you have an idea of what’s going on.  “Seungkwan,” the boy hums in response, “can you hold on to this pen and start your presentation again?” Seungkwan gave you a puzzled look, as he took over the pen, “Is there something wrong?”  In your mind you had an image, everytime Seungkwan needed to do something serious he had something in his hands. It may be a crumpled piece of paper that was a trashed idea to fidget, or a pen to actually take note during the meeting, he just always had something.  “I’m trying to test a theory, I’ll see if my point is proven after you finish.” Confused, Seungkwan begins his presentation from the top again. This time you can clearly see and hear that he is more relaxed. He’s using the pen to point at diagrams and charts in the presentation, and there’s more of a dynamic and liveliness in his presentation.  It was as if he has caught on too, his facial expression changed to surprised and he stops in the middle of the presentation to look at you, “oh my gosh,” he whispered, “you’re a genius, I love you”

❥ C. Hansol - after he realized you were doing something that you weren’t too interested in but did it just for him Many people say that amusement parks are for little kids, which you don’t disagree with, but who doesn’t want to continue living out their inner child? There’s something about the atmosphere of an amusement park that just lightens up your mood. The cheerful music, the vibrant colors on the buildings, it was just the perfect escape from reality, and luckily Vernon enjoys amusement parks too. But for a different reason. He’s been eyeing and asking if you two can ride the rollercoaster since you guys arrived at the park, but you’ve never told him. You were quite afraid of heights.  You were able to avoid that ride for a bit because of the wait time, or because of maintenance. After all, it is the main attraction and most popular ride at the park.  But you’ve never seen Vernon having this much energy and he’s just so excited about that ride, “let’s go on it! The line isn’t too long!” You didn't want to ruin his mood and you agreed to get into the line. After coming out of the ride, Vernon has finally noticed that unusualness from you, your hands were cold and clammy, “darling are you alright? Do you feel sick from the ride?” “Sorry Vernon I didn’t tell you this,” you looked down at your feet, “I didn't want to ruin your mood so I didn't tell you, I’m kinda afraid of heights...” Vernon sighs, “I’m sorry I didn't notice earlier,” his tone sounds like he’s blaming himself, “I love you and appreciate you considering my feelings, but next time please let me know if you aren’t comfortable with something. I don’t want you to do something for me that you’re uncomfortable with”

❥ L. Chan - when you were looking out for him, making sure he’s taking care of himself “I’m sorry I didn’t let you know earlier,” Chan says over the phone, “I got told to work overtime last minute so I won’t be able to come home in time for dinner” “Aww,” you responded back, “how long are you going to be there for? I can wait so we can eat together once you’re home.” Chan sighs, “honestly I’m not sure. They apparently need these documents ready by tomorrow’s meeting. I’m sorry honey, you don't have to wait for me. I’ll let you know when I finish and ready to head home,” you hear the call end and sigh. You were almost finished prepping dinner, but instead of feeling upset, you were actually more worried if he would make enough time to get a meal for himself.  You looked through the cabinets to see if there were any containers to pack up a portion of the dinner so you could deliver it to Chan. Luckily his office is not too far from home and you could just deliver him a hot dinner before it turns cold.  You arrived at the front of his office building and gave Chan a call again, “Hey Channie, come down in front of the office, I got something for you” Chan was shocked to see you in front of the office, you gave him the lunch bag that’s filled with the freshly made and still warm dinner, “I was afraid you won’t eat properly if you were working over time. Please remember to eat and take care of yourself Chan” Chan pulls you into a tight hug, “I will work hard for you, for us, I love you.”

p.p.s. a new love letter has been shared! @ppyopulii @h4nner -> if you want to be notified when new letters have been shared, please comment or sent in an ask!

[ariesprincesss]

Super Random Astro Observations Pt. III

view more astro observations here🔽

Super Random Astro Observations

Super Random Astro Observations Pt II

Super Random Astro Observations Pt IV

( i am not an astrologer just a silly girl that knows a lot about astrology🤓)

˚✧ lowkey though in my astrology journey ive learned to lower expectations for how you think something can go even if given the “perfect” synastry aspects or soulmate indicators. any of it honestly. lunar return charts do not work perfectly for every month. sometimes even transits aren’t even really felt strongly. what i’m trying to say is see things as opportunities not finalities.

˚✧ this man i know is a leo rising & i swear he looks like this 🦁

˚✧ progressed moon conjuct jupiter when i had a life altering event!

˚✧ transit 8h Northnode conjucted my chart ruler , trine my natal pluto, transit 8h chiron conjuncted my natal sun sun, transit 1h mercury square natal 4h pluto- When I had another life altering event that essentially changed dynamics within how i relate to others in my family.

˚✧ vertex in 8th house in my lunar return chart when i lost my virginity☠️

˚✧ currently have the sun & moon in my 12th house lunar return chart & am absolutely going through it😭😭😭 edit: also going through a mental breakthrough tho which might have something to do with 1h pluto in that same chart so…🙏

˚✧ transit chiron conjuct my natal sun when i was in just the most terrible mood imaginable…

˚✧ transit venus conjuct my natal jupiter the day i met a romantic partner!!

˚✧ i also had vertex ,chiron ,& north node in my 7h lunar return chart when i met them too!

˚✧ okay but the month i had north node and both saturn & neptune retrograding in my 7th house i could not stop thinking ab my ex & eventually ended up texting him😭

˚✧ this is random but is in my head bc ive been watching bob ross videos lately LOL. but i was wondering why he had so much success and after looking at his chart, i feel like like it could possibly be linked to his libra stellium. he had libra mercury, neptune ,& mars. It definitely feels like he would have an ambition for beauty , making something beautiful, an “eye” for beautiful things , or speaking in a beautiful way.

˚✧ i can also say that with south node currently transiting my 1st house as a virgo rising starting literally yesterday i already feel like this weight of feeling like i have to be perfect and appear as such is fading 100%. big on embracing imperfection….🤔

˚✧ so another instance where i had a partners moon square my mercury (their moon was in my 5h) he was like super lovey with me to the point of love bombing , but it just made me feel kind of smothered/awkward when he would make like grand romantic gestures. (his natal moon was also in 7h🫢)

˚✧ a transformative relationship came to me when the asc dc angles were in my natal 1st/7th houses in my lunar return chart!!

˚✧ i definitely recommend doing “solar return synastry charts” between you and those close to you as i think it provides valuable insight on what events occur between you or others in that year! A chart between me and my best friend showed her jupiter in the 10th house squaring my 12h moon, 6h venus ,& 6h saturn in the src.It showed how she has started to work more hours thus having less time to talk to me everyday or as consistently as possible making me feel kind of like :/ bc i want to talk to my bff!!! This showed up 3 months before my birthday so i def agree with solar return energy showing up early.

˚✧ ive said it before but i will say it again when you meet someone of your rising sign they are essentially mirroring you BADDD. especially if you share placements together.

[unboundprompts]

Can you give tips for slow burn/developing romance? I’m good at writing couples once they’re already in love, but when they have a crush on each other or them slowly developing feelings I don’t really know how to do

How to Write a Slow Burn Romance

-> writersdigest.com

-> reddit.com

The Growing Relationship

Make sure the reasons your characters don't get together right away makes sense. It doesn't need to be realistic, but it needs to be believable.

Focus on how their relationship grows. Spend time on the meeting, the getting to know each other, the subtle moments and big moments that draw them to each other. There will be obstacles, arguments, and conflicts to solve.

Make the development of the relationship natural for the characters.

Start as far back in their relationship as you can. This will allow the longest amount of time for their relationship to be exploired in the story. If it fits, you can start when they first meet. Of course, if it doesn't fit your story, you can start later in their relationship.

Build the Tension

You want your readers to be on the edge of their seats when it comes to your character's relationship. They should be screaming "just kiss already!"

Add near-miss moments. An almost kiss interrupted by a phone call. A hug that lasts just a moment too long.

Add little indications of feelings. Soft Smiles. Winking. The brush of a finger. Lingering glances.

Pining. Give insights into your character's thoughts. Constant thoughts about the other person. Butterflies when they think about them. The anticipation.

Slow Burn, Not Slow Pace

There needs to be other plot points happening while the romantic tension is building. Your characters should be dealing with other situations while they are also pining after each other.

Outside Forces

Slowburns are not always endless pining and dancing around one another. Sometimes, there are outside forces that are keeping characters apart when they already realize that the feelings are mutual.

Examples: Distance between the characters, health/mental health reasons, job/work complications, family dynamics, character goals, characters are on two different sides of a conflict, etc.

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