#finally gathered the courage to watch this episode a second time

[fandomfrolics]

1x10 || 3x01

[webslinger-holland]

Forgiveness | Crosshair from The Bad Batch

Summary: When Crosshair reunites with his old squad, there are some unresolved tension between you.

Warning: spoilers from episode four, slightly jealous Hunter, recalling imprisonment with the empire, some angsty feelings

Pairing: Crosshair x Fem!Reader

Type: Oneshot

Word Count: 2.1k words

Note: Just had this one shot on my mind for a while and wanted to get it fully written. Let me know your thoughts down below!

The past several months had been incredibly difficult for the team. Having just lost Tech and Omega, they didn't quite know what to do or where to go from there. They spent months chasing down leads, desperately searching for any sign that would tell them where the Empire was keeping Omega. But every mission only resulted in another dead end with no usable intel.

It felt like they'd fallen into the same repeating cycle. They'd hear a whisper of something, follow that whisper, and find nothing that could aid them in their search. They refused to give up, especially their leader who was more determined than ever to bring her back home.

After many long tiresome months, their search was finally over. In the end, Omega was the one who had managed to escape from confinement and send a coded message to rendezvous somewhere safe. Now, Omega stood directly in front of them with big tears in her eyes. They'd never felt a stronger sense of relief than having her back safe and sound.

"I had help," Omega told them.

Turning around to face the ship that she'd arrived in, their eyes seemed to follow her line of sight. A figure emerged from the ship's gangplank, descending the ramp slowly. When the infamous sniper came into view, Hunter and Wrecker felt slightly unnerved. They still didn't trust him, watching his movements with extreme caution.

However, as soon as you'd seen him, it almost felt like your heart had dropped to the lowest point in your stomach. Your breath hitched in the back of your throat and you fought the tears that threatened to release. You couldn't believe your eyes.

Sensing your sudden swelling of emotions, Hunter spun around on the heels of his feet to face you. He took a single step forward and reached out to you as if to comfort you, calling your name very so gently.

But you just couldn't look away from Crosshair. Your Crosshair.

The one who had betrayed his family to join the Empire's forces. The one whose chip had activated during the order and changed who he was as a person. The one who hunted you. The one who was finally offered the second chance he wanted so badly by his squad, but refused them in the end. The one who left you and vowed he didn't love you as you had loved him. That Crosshair.

After the Fall of Kamino, Hunter was left to comfort you during one of your lowest times having since been rejected from his younger brother on that platform. He lost count of how many nights you cried yourself to sleep in his arms. You never talked about it, but he knew somehow. That maybe there was still apart of you that cared deeply for him, which was why it hurt all the more.

Now, coming back to your reality, you truly didn't know how to feel. You never thought you'd see him again or if you had expected to see him again, it wouldn't have been in this current situation. He just stood there looking directly at you.

His face was blank. He showed no emotion whatsoever.

Finally, having gathered your courage, you started walking towards him without taking your eyes off him. Hunter had tried to stop you once again, roughly grabbing your forearm to halt your movements.

"Y/n. Wait," Hunter's voice came out rather gruff and harsh.

He was warning you. He didn't know what else to say, but it didn't matter because you quickly tore your hand out of his grasp. And you continued your approach across the space between.

Finally, you came to a halt in front of him. His eyes never looked away from yours and he continued to remain unreadable with his emotions. He waited expectantly.

He didn't know how you'd respond to seeing him again because the last time he had seen you, you confessed your true feelings for him and he chose the empire over you. He'd seen the hurt flash in your eyes when he said he didn't love you, how you fought the tears from falling at his words.

Months later, you were standing in front of him once again. He half-expected you to lash out in anger at him. He wondered what you'd say to him, thinking of how your voice would sound when you tell him: "How dare you show your face again?" He'd even take a couple hits from you if you were angry enough. He wouldn't care, because he deserved all the hate you had for him.

The very last thing that Crosshair expected was to hear a choked sob escape past your lips as your walls came crashing down around you. You closed the distance between the two of you, wrapping your arms tightly around his torso and burrowing your head into his chest. You clung to him so desperately as if you were afraid he'd slip through your fingers again. The tears began to fall down your cheeks as you held him close.

At first, Crosshair didn't know what to do with himself. He stood in your arms stiffly and awkwardly. It took a while before his shoulders finally eased up and he shakily raised his arms to wrap around you. He propped his chin onto the top of your head, relishing in the sweet feeling of your embrace. He closed his eyes slowly.

In the distance, Hunter's gaze hardened. He felt his fists clench at his sides instinctively. A newfound sense of anger began to arise in the pit of his stomach.

"I don't care about the things you've said or the things you've done," you spoke softly. This confession confused him even further. "What matters to me is that you're back."

After another moment, you reluctantly pulled yourself out of his grasp. You flashed him a brief smile, quickly wiping away the tears that stained your cheeks. You created a little distance by taking a step back, wanting to respect his boundaries. He watched you silently because he was honestly too shocked to say anything.

Leaving the rendezvous point in the Marauder, the now reunited members set a course to return to the safe haven planet known as Pabu. The Marauder was traveling through hyperspace, enveloping the entire ship in a tunnel of blue and white flashing stars. The little gonk droid waddled into the cockpit happily.

In the sleeping quarters, Wrecker and Omega had long since fallen asleep in each other's arms. They held Lula between the two of them. If you looked closely, you'd be able to see the faint smiles on their faces while they slept, knowing that they were both so happy to be reunited with one another.

Meanwhile, Hunter tried to busy himself at the control center. He typed on his brother's old data pad, figuring out what their next steps were going to be. If he was being honest with himself, his mind wasn't entirely focused on the task at hand. He often found himself glancing towards the cockpit upon knowing that was were his brother currently resided.

Brushing right past him, you walked directly into the entrance of the cockpit. He watched your retreating figure, which went unnoticed by you. An overwhelming sense of sadness filling his senses as he remembered the longing feeling you felt towards his brother and not him.

When you came into the cockpit, Crosshair was sitting in the copilots chair with his back turned to you. He was chewing on a toothpick, mulling his thoughts over. You were slow to make your presence known to him, gingerly stepping forward in your place.

"I made up your old cot for you," you told him with a hint of hope in your voice. "Thought it would be a good idea for you to get some rest."

He hummed. "And where will you sleep?"

"I--I don't know what you mean," you stumbled over your words, laughing awkwardly to cover it up.

"You used to sleep in my cot during my leave of absence," Crosshair recalled this piece of information because Omega had once told him about it during their time of confinement. "So where will you sleep?" Crosshair repeated himself.

"There's always that extra cot," you said rather sorrowfully. Your gaze fell to the floor when you remembered the notable absence of your squad member.

Hearing your response only made Crosshair close his eyes. It was all still new to him: the fact that he lost one of his brothers. He wasn't used to the feeling of him not being there because he'd always been there. He never imagined what life without Tech would look like. And now, he had to live that reality.

Since Tech died, you hadn't been able to bring yourself to cleaning up his personal space. His old workbench was left exactly how he'd left it with tools and gadgets scattered randomly. His cot was a whole other ordeal. There were wires coming out of places there shouldn't be wires and greasy parts had stained the sheets. Every time you looked at it, it was almost like he was still there living among you. So you never touched it.

That was until now when the need for another sleeping place arose.

"He's been watching you like a hawk," Crosshair's voice was quick to pull you away from your thoughts as he quickly changed the subject. You furrowed your eyebrows in slight confusion.

"Who?" You asked.

"Hunter," Crosshair rolled his eyes. His tone almost hinted: who else would it be?

"Oh," you replied softly, not really knowing how to respond to that.

"He worries about you, you know that right?" Crosshair added. He kept his back to you.

"Well, I--I never..." you threw a brief glance over your shoulder, but you were still at a loss for words.

"He'd be better for you," Crosshair confessed. He dropped his gaze down to his hands which shook ever so slightly in his lap. He clasped them together to stop the shaking. "He's cared about you for a long time and he's been able to take care of you. That's more than I can say."

"Crosshair," you breathed steadily. You called out for him and tried to peer around the chair. "What's this all about?"

Contemplating his next words carefully, Crosshair remained silent for a moment. He closed his eyes and turned his head away as if he wanted to run away from all of his thoughts and feelings. But he knew he couldn't do that.

"I---I care about you," Crosshair confessed, but he still refused to look you in the eyes.

Shoulders depleting at his confession, you felt your own breath escape your throat and your heart clenched tightly in your chest. You struggled to find the words to respond, opening and closing your mouth like a fish out of water.

"B-But I thought..." your voice trailed off as you took a single step forward. You recalled the conversation on Kamino.

"I know what I said!" Crosshair yelled back a little louder than he expected initially. You weakly took a step backwards in retreat, feeling him pushing you away again.

"What changed?" You inquired curiously.

"When I was...in confinement...I had a hard time sleeping," Crosshair began to explain. He kept his gaze locked on his hands as he relived the painful memories. "Every time I managed to fall asleep, I'd think of you. And it made me realize how much I missed you."

There was only silence that followed.

"I've made mistakes; done things that I'm not proud of. But one of my biggest regrets was pushing you away," Crosshair was speaking from the heart.

Before Crosshair knew what was happening, he felt a warm hand come in contact with his cheek. The hand urged him to turn his head and look up directly into your soft and kind eyes. You observed him silently, gazing deeply into the depths of his eyes to look for any deceit or falseness.

But all you could find was a truly broken soul. He had never looked at you like that before with such a tone of pain and hurt behind those eyes. He raised his shaky and unstable hand to grasp your wrist and hold your hand against his cheek. He seemed to lean into your touch, relishing the feeling of your skin against his own.

His hand tremors didn't go unnoticed by you. It was something he carried with him now. And he'd have to find a way to work through that struggle.

There was a part of him that wondered if this was all just another one of his dreams of you. That he'd only imagined escaping prison with Omega, fighting for his life, reuniting with his brothers, and finally confessing his feelings towards you. He closed his eyes and expected to wake up from this horrible dream at any moment. But instead: Crosshair only heard you say.

"I forgive you."

[celestialcrowley]

My mom and I were finally able to watch the final episode of Good Omens season 2.

Before we dive in, my mom is very — how do I say this — anti on certain things. My friend said it perfectly. He said she gave him the homophobic put the fear of God type vibes when he first met her.

I don’t believe anything will ever fully change her opinions or views of us. I’ve not even referred to myself as aromantic / asexual in her presence, and I doubt I ever will. I simply tell her I’m done dating. It’s clearly not in my future, and, after trying it a couple of times, it just isn’t something I’m interested in.

I hope that one day she will open her eyes and realize that it’s all fine. Whatever we are. It’s okay.

My mom enjoyed season one. When I asked her what she thought of Aziraphale and Crowley, here’s what she said. Not her exact words but close enough to what I can remember.

“Aziraphale seems like he’s afraid of getting into trouble with Heaven, but not enough to keep him from going against God’s orders.”

Just enough of a bastard to be worth knowing.

“Crowley isn’t as evil as he paints himself to be.”

Just a little bit a good person.

The only thing, as far as I’m aware, that didn’t quite sit right with my mom is that God is a She.

Wibbly wobbly timey wimey…

I was terrified for her to watch the second season because of Maggie and Nina and That Big Damn Kiss. She’s told me some less than desirable things previously. Here are a handful of them.

“I won’t watch shows that have gay couples in them.”

“I will watch them, but I’ll just turn my head away when they kiss.”

About my friend who is a lesbian —

“Your friend just says that, but she doesn’t actually know what she is.”

Okay, mom. You go ahead and keep telling yourself that.

I am certain, despite my fear, that I wanted her to watch Good Omens so badly because I thought maybe it would be the golden ticket. It’s uniquely different.

We have been gifted with Anthony J’I’m Not Actually Either Crowley and Mister AZ Smitten I Believe Fell, The Almighty God She, Nina I’m Not Your Type and Maggie You Have No Idea.

I was expecting my mom to frown upon Maggie and Nina’s story in season two, but she didn’t. She actually didn’t even have anything negative to say.

Y’all should have seen me when That Big Damn Kiss was coming up. I was fidgeting probably as bad as Aziraphale was when he was gathering up the courage to ask Crowley to dance with him.

I don’t think I’ve ever fidgeted that much in my life.

And then it happened.

That Big Damn Kiss

And she watched all of it. She didn’t look away. She didn’t make a face. She didn’t say anything negative.

I don’t necessarily think her views have changed because she laughed at something my uncle told her about a former coworker of his. This coworker used to go by Craig, but he later came out as trans and asked to be called Cindy. My uncle said, “The best we can do is Crindy.”

Most of my family are homophobic, and I don’t care for it.

I don’t know if it’s the way Neil Gaiman has written Good Omens, but I was surprised that she watched the entire show, had nothing negative to say and even added that she needs to watch all of both seasons again to better understand it.

That’s something, I suppose.

Maybe she’s coming around.

Thank you, Neil Gaiman.

You truly are a legend. 💚

[whore-ibly-hot]

💚👻Yan!Harold Biddle Hc's💚👻

"Viewer beware, you're in for a scare."

18+ Minors DNI

Warnings: Yandere themes, dark behavior, possession, general spooks, serial killer, bullying, angst teen ghost boy?

AN: Requested by an Anon, this man has me down so bad, and I hope this inspires others to write for him. I love both old and new goosebumps media, and how our reader meets Harold is VERY similar to the goosebumps TV show episode 'The Phantom of the Opera'. Enjoy and happy belated Halloween! Go watch Goosebumps on Disney ➕️. Never done an HC before...

👻💚👻💚👻💚👻💚👻💚👻💚👻💚👻💚👻💚

💚In a situation for Harold to grow truly attached to someone, you would have to be from out of town, or visiting a family member, perhaps. Harold is filled with such hatred for his former classmates and there spawn, that even those who didn't kill him, he knows stood idly by and ignored him in school. Because of this, he probably wouldn't want the son or daughter of a former classmate.

👻Maybe you moved to Port Lawrence with your family, whether for work or a fresh start, or maybe your a distant cousin of one of the people in town. As long as you aren't a direct descendant, Harold will have an easier time coming to terms with these feelings.

💚Being new in town was hard for you, nerve wracking even. Everyone at this school seemed to have a clique or group, and even the loners had their own things going on. Luckily, you caught wind through overhearing some classmates that a party was being held on Halloween night. Hoping to make some real friends, you donned a costume and set out.

👻The address had been kind of hard to find, some old, blocked off road with a creepy mansion at the end. Still, the party was in full swing, teens dancing and drinking, strobe lights and shitty music filled the main room of the house. You asked one of your classmates, Lucas, about the house.

"Oh, yeah. Some kid died here like, a hundred years ago or something. Big explosions, a fire..." A skinnier boy in a cat costume cut him off. "Don't listen to Lucas, it wasn't a hundred years ago, dude. It was like, the 90s." He rolls his eyes.

💚A little uneasy about sneaking into a house, much more the site of a gruesome death, you tried to enjoy the party. After a few drinks, Dr. Pepper, you weren't trying to call your parents to take you home, you went looking for a bathroom.

This would prove pretty difficult. That same boy from earlier, Lucas, ate worms, and was puking in bathroom number one. The second bathroom was locked, and from the groaning and smacking inside, you could tell you didn't want to know what was going on inside.

👻This had left you with not choice but to go to the bathroom in the basement. Standing at the edge of the stairs and looking down the dark hallway, floored with rickety wooden steps, you had gathered your courage and descended.

💚Biddle had expected company, but unlike the mask he coerced Isabella into taking, or the camera he snuck in Isaac's bag, you didn't take anything. He waited for another, foolish teen to take something. He had a few items set out for specific peoples... but, he wasn't against another thief falling victim to his cursed items.

👻However, you surprised him. Just looked for the bathroom door, went, and then headed right back up to the party. When Mr. Bratt came home, the teens scattered, to cars and into the woods. Harold used this time to torment Allison, his burned, ghostly form shrieking at her. She had screamed in terror, and Isaiah soon found her.

💚You were driving home, but took pity and stopped to help a few of your classmates whose rides had fled. After several hours of dropping people off, you were finally able to get back home. A pair of pale ghostly eyes watched you from the window of your room. No one else had stopped to help their friends, much less strangers. How nice you were...

💚As days went by, and mysterious terrors afflicted the teens of Port Lawrence, you grew close to some of them. A busy body named Margot, a cheer leader named Allison, and a jock named Isaiah. All shared and English class with the new teacher (and owner of the Biddle house), Mr. Bratt. Mr. Bratt was odder at sometimes than others, almost like he was fighting with himself. He was always tired and dark eyed.

👻From deep inside, viewing the world through Mr. Bratt, Harold would observe the teens. It was just as he remembered it, the gossip, the catty looks and the fake smiles. But nothing sickened him more than watching you interact with the others, so sweet and kind, but only friends with the filth in this town.

👻On your end, you really liked Mr. Bratt. He was a funny teacher, always cracking jokes and saying something odd. He always gave you perfect grades, which was odd because you noticed you had gotten a few questions wrong when you would compare projects and assignments to classmates. Still, he was a great teacher.

💚Harold wasn't a fool. He had always been smart when he was alive, and his evil intentions had made him no less cunning. He knows he can't pursue you romantically as long as he's possessing a teacher. He'd rather not get his possession vessel arrested and sent to jail. He doesn't want his house empty, not right now.

👻When he heard you had taken up the role of a tech member for the drama department, he formed a plan. The old elevator platform to the schools abandoned basement was 'accidentally' left open, a gaping hole in the dark of the stage.

💚You unfortunately weren't aware of this, and had stayed late to finish some lighting set up. As you close up and turn out the overhead lights, the floor had felt as those it disappeared beneath you. As you plummet, you let out a pitch scream. It wasn't a long fall, not even that deep, but it hurt. Your hips and ankle were aching, throbbing, and red hot tears had begun to stream from your cheeks. You felt to scared to stand or move, but it was late. How were you supposed to get out of here?

👻As you whimpered, you heard a sound in the silence. Just then, a sound from the side. It sounded like a creaking floor panel.

"H-hello? Is someone there?" You called out fearfully. A boy, haired curly and tall looms over you. His eyes have dark circles, his face almost blends into the shadows of the basement, but... you chalk it up to blurry vision and bad lighting.

💚"Aw... how'd you end up down here?" He asked, voice low and slow as he had tilted his head. "I'm on tech crew, I fell. I think my ankle is... twisted or something. Could you help me?" She asks.

"Of course..." he drawled. His eyes darkened and a grin tugged at his cheeks as he said the next statement. "What kind of sick, sick monster would leave someone to die in a basement, all alone?" He said. You gulp and chuckle awkwardly. "Well, it's just my ankle. Don't think I'm dying." You joked.

👻"Course not. Come on." He had extended his hand to you, and hoisted you up against him with surprising strength. Despite the soft flannel shirt he was wearing, his skin felt frigid to the touch, yet oddly warm, an icey burning sensation could be felt where his hand was still on your arm.

"Should be a lever... right over-" he looks around, the snaps his fingers and points. "Right there." You had both hopped on the platform. "How'd you know how to get out of the basement, I heard it's been blocked off like, forever." She asks.

💚"I guess I just, know more than other people." He shrugs. Once he had helped you out of the school, you had gone to your car. Fidgeting with your keys, you faced away from him as you unlocked your car. "What did you say your name was?" You ask.

👻"Doesn't matter. Just a friend." When you turn to him with a confused look, he's gone. You looked around, but tired, you drove from the lot.

💚Back at the Biddle Manor, while Mr. Bratt tried to get a peaceful night of sleep without being possessed for once, Harold is in the basement, playing with the Polaroid camera Isaiah had tried so hard to destroy. He wonders, can it just take normal photos if he wills it too? He has other things to attend too, he can't always watch you, but he'd love a few pictures of you.

👻Even if the camera could only take pictures of your fate, maybe it wouldn't bother him too much. What would the future hold? Would you be with him? He hoped so, but the idea of what he could see that would displease him swayed him away from that path. No, he'll stick to watching you through Bratt, when he can, or through your windows on those precious nights you leave a curtain open.

💚As he sits in the room of his demise, he looks at his hands, black char marks occasionally appearing. For once, he doesn't focus on the burning rage and actual burning feeling that courses through his body. No, this warmth is softer. The warmth from when you touched him and he touched you. Contact, from someone who cared. Someone who he saw every private moment of, just to ensure that you had only pure intentions with everyone you met. Would you betray him if you knew, what he was like, who he was? He shakes his head. No. He holds all the cards now. He won't be weak ever again, he won't let you slip away.

👻💚👻💚👻💚👻💚👻💚👻💚👻💚👻💚👻💚

General bonus hc's:

💚Harold only wears what teens at Port Lawrence high now think of as 'grunge'. Oversized sweatshirt, flannels, loose pants. He has never once brushed his hair, even when he was alive. He doesn't hate that grunge is popular now though. He enjoy leaving a flannel or a Jean jacket in your closet, hoping you'll assume one of your parents gifted it to you.

👻You can always tell when his ghost in nearby, even if he's not visible there are tells, even if you don't realize what they are pointing too. You might feel a stinging if he passes by, a side effect of the pain from his burns. The smell of smoke and dark room chemicals fills the air if he's around, and you feel like your being watched.

💚He'd like to kiss you, or hold you, but he's not ready to even attempt that, much less a real introduction. He's got a lot going on right now. For now, you'll only see him around town, at night when your alone. At a bus stop? Oh, that mysterious boy from the other night us passing by. Buying a snack? He's got some spare cash. Walking home alone at night? Good thing his lanky silhouette can be seen leaning out from under a streetlight. Don't worry, he'll walk you home. You wouldn't believe the sort of monsters that live in this town, that lurk. It's enough to give you goosebumps...

You wonder why you always forget to ask his name...

[mirai-e-jump]

UTB (Up to Boy) Magazine, February 2024 Issue (Vol.334) ft. Hirakawa Yuzuki Interview and Photo Shoot (translation below)

Publication: December 22, 2023

Immovable Upside

Currently appearing in "Ohsama Sentai King-Ohger," the currently airing Super Sentai series, actor Hirakawa Yuzuki-san makes her second appearance in our magazine. She's changed her hair, having it cut into a shorter style, as she presents her pure and mature duality, which has become even more transparent.

-We've been rushing through the year-

"You've cut your hair short, and your look is totally different from the last time we saw you. Personally, how do you feel about your current short hairstyle?"

Hirakawa: Before I started acting, I always kept it short, so it somehow feels nostalgic. I cut it because of my role, but I thought it was abit of a waste since it's been that long for about 5 years (laughs). Still, I think it'll be fine since it grows quickly.

"Starting from episode 27, the second chapter of King-Ohger is set two years later. We think the change in hairstyle made it easier for you to make changes in your performance."

Hirakawa: That's true. I think I'm able to show more strength. I think that after two years, they're more aware and prepared as a king, and that they have a greater sense of responsibility.

"Now that the story has progressed considerably, are there any memorable moments from the episodes that have been broadcast so far?"

Hirakawa: In episode 25, the sense of distance between Rita and their retainer Morfonia, or rather, the values of their relationship have become much closer. It was a time where Rita gathered the courage to take another step forward on their own, so that episode left quite an impression on me. From there, the way they interacted with Morfonia changed completely, so I think it was a turning point for them. Also, in episode 38, they reveal the face they've been hiding up until that point, and showed all kinds of facial expressions as an "idol," so I hope you enjoyed it.

"It's already aired, so if you haven't seen it yet, please catch up and watch it…..! By the time this magazine comes out, filming for the final episode will be underway, right?"

Hirakawa: In about another month or so……"We've got such a long time before it starts!," is what I thought, but only for a moment. I think it was more instantaneous after the Summer film ended. Until then, we weren't used to filming, and everyone was in a state of just trying to figure things out. The cast members have been good friends since the beginning, but since we spent alot of time together, including during the regional promotional campaigns for the Summer film, we became even closer, and that time really flew by.

"For those who view things similarly, the "loss" seems to be intense."

Hirakawa: It might be because me and the rest of the cast are starting to become aware of the end, or maybe it's because some fans are also like, "It's coming to an end….?" I still go out to dinner with all the cast members after filming, so I think we'll still probably see each other again ever when it's over. We've been together for a year and we've gotten to know each other very well, so when I imagine the end of filming, I feel incredibly sad.

"As a fan, I'm going to miss seeing everyone's friendly conversations on Toei Channel very much……Now, 2023 will soon come to an end, looking back, what kind of year was it?"

Hirakawa: We've really been rushing through the year. I've been working hard during the filming of King-Ohger in order to make it better and to help myself grow. I was able to experience many things this year, as there were quite a few jobs that came about as a result of King-Ohger, and it was the most thrilling year for me as a performer. Of course, there were many things I worried about, but I think it was also an extravagant year, filled with many happy and frustrating experiences.

"What kind of year do you want 2024 to be?"

Hirakawa: I think I'll be apart of King-Ohger until the first half of the year, when we perform at G-Rosso, but after that, I'll have to move forward on my own. I'd like to "polish" my inner self and become a more appealing person. As for my work, I'll do my best to continue to appear in productions without taking any breaks inbetween.

[whumpslist]

A bunch of answers 4 and recap

Hi everyone,

I’m sorry for my lack of answers, I’m trying to keep up with the current airing whumps’ lists but also completing the finished shows’ one and the new seasons’ episodes’ ones:

* The current airing shows’ lists are all updated: Law & Order SVU, The Flash, Magnum PI, Taxi Driver; I’ll soon watch Carnival Row and update it with the first two episodes aired as well;

* I am doing a whumpslist for Will Trent, which is currently airing, and the books by Karin Slaughter the TV show is based on, I'm still undecided whether to publish it or wait to complete them all. What would you prefer?;

* I have to update the Titans' list with the first part of the fourth season;

* I’ve finally updated the Prodigal Son's list with the second season (I will reblog it right after this post); The Boys' one has already been updated with the third season;

* I’ve recentely updated Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan and Strike (TV show and books) too, and posted a new K-list, The Veil;

* I have started to watch the second season of The Witcher (I’ve watched the prequel Blood Origin and enjoyed it so much);

* I have K-drama The K-2 list to complete from... forever, I will gather my courage to finish it and goodbye one of my favorite character; same for The Musketeers, only a bunch of episodes left to review...

You can find all the lists and the links into the Whumpslist’s links Sheet here. Plus, I've made another sheet to include all my gifs, short clips and audios posted as Tumblr allows only a certain amount to links into a single post.

-- . .- -. .-- .... .. .-.. .

Meanwhile I’ve received many messages, I’ll gather the answers here into a single post.

Have you ever seen doctor who or torchwood? cuz they have a lot of whump, especially jack harkness

Doctor Who would take an eternity to be watched from the first episode, besides it’s not my kind of show so I’ve never watched it. Neither Torchwood, and that’s because I don’t like John Barrowman very much.

in your endeavor post, what ep was the second to last gif from?

Hi Anon, I suppose you mean the post of January 12th. It’s from Endeavour 1.00 “The Origins of Inspector Morse" when he’s listening at the Rosalind Galloway’s disc.

Ooo have you watched ER I’ve wanting a whump list for John Carter

Sorry @marahm30, I’ve never fully watched it back in the days, only some (whumpy) episodes already reported into The Whumpapedia.

I love love love your lists! Do you think you'd ever do Stargate SG1? I have a list of the daniel whump eps from the first handful of seasons, I'd be happy to help if you wanted to make a list

Maybe, @ravenwingdark, but surely not in the foreseeable future, my hands are full.

would it be possible for you to do Rise of the teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, the Series and the movie? I saw that you had done the 2003 version and was wondering if you would do the 2018-2020 one

You’re mistaken, @the-true-alpha-04, I’ve never watched nor compiled a list for it neither I will do it in the future, sorry @rachealwolf25.

Clay Spencer

Nope, as I’ve already answered it several times: I will not do a list for SEAL Team, I've only made a gifset for episode 2.17. Despite the potential, it’s pretty lacking in whumps (even if the last season had some improvements). The ones shown are widely reviewed in The Whumpapedia, though.

Do you know any good Chloro Man scenes from shows?

Interesting trope, Anon! Not one of my kind, so I can’t really recall some specifically, but I report it in my lists when it happens. Maybe you can use a selected filter to serch it into The Whumpapedia, though.

Could you do whump lists of…Forever, TVD, The originals, Legacies and other crime sci-fi shows?

It’s highly unlikely it will happen, sorry @anonymous-persona, especially the vampire shows, because of the immortality things, whumps are almost pointless...

Hi! would you be able to make a list for the Mandalorian? specifically pedro pascal’s character! thank you

I’ve thought of making one while I was watching it, but they are just a few, plus Pascal always wears the mask and it’s limitating.

do you know of any whump from All Saints, the '00s australian medical drama? the stabbing episode whumpypepsigal posted was amazing, but the whumpapedia doesn't have much to offer for more... i don't know if the show just isn't very whumpy or if it hasn't been combed through yet, but maybe you'd know, or people in the notes would? thanks!

Nope, I don’t know the show. After receiving your message, I’ve looked for it but I was unable to retrieve it. Please, let me know if you have more luck.

That’s all, folks!

[lulu-world]

LuluWorld, Episode 1: "How Am I Supposed To Be A Writer With This?!"

I’m sorry, what?!

“Passable“?

I just wrote the best possible paper on Pride and Prejudice this school has ever seen and I get a passable?!

How am I supposed to be the most magnificent author in this and all future days and ages if my understanding of one of the key feminist literary works is passable?!

It had to be a mistake. I was staring at the scribbled word in red pen, on the bottom of the page, under my meticulously written conclusion, cursing the day my English teacher, Ms. Austen (the irony!) was born. Who does she think she is, a descendant?

Could she be?

Let me rewind a bit.

I’m Lulu, of Lulu’s World fame. Okay, that fame part might be an exaggeration - I have a book podcast that has about ten regular listeners, and I can name three of them. Jack, Ava and my dad, and even he isn’t that much of a regular. My mom is too busy and my sister “cannot be bothered with childish takes on books of dubious quality”. She’s so annoying.

I learned to read at three.

By age seven, I had read all the fairy tale books I could get my hands on.

By age nine, I had decided.

I’m going to be a writer.

Yes.

And now, weeks before my sixteenth birthday, I am being discarded in the basket of semi-literate high-schoolers who write passable papers on serious literature.

How is passable even an acceptable grade?

“You can wipe the shock off your face, Lulu,” I heard the treacherous voice behind me.

Ms. Austen.

“It’s far from what I’m used to from you,” she said casually. “It’s written well, but you’ve completely missed the point of the novel. Excellent work, Ava,” she added casually.

My best friend did not get passable. On the contrary.

“Isn’t that debatable, though?” I couldn’t keep my mouth shut.

“It is,” my teacher said. “However, you’ve set the bar high with your previous work. You’ll have to do better next time.”

Oh, so it’s my fault I’ve set the bar high. She must have thought it was such a motivating thing to say. Gah, I can’t even be bothered anymore. This is counterproductive to my work. I need my writing brain stable. I need my beauty nerves intact. Not all bookworms need to look like they’ve been dragged through mud, thank you very much, movies from the early 2000s. I just need to snap out of it, because it’s coming.

My birthday is coming and I will finally gather the courage…

To invite him.

Aren’t you just amazed at how you can do everything right, like, you’re smart, you’re doing good in school, you have friends, you have a family you don’t hate (okay, I love them), you have everything planned so well… 

And you’re a complete idiot when it comes to the guy you like?

I’m sorry. Not like. Have an epic crush on. A crush of soul-drenching, knee-trembling, cheek-exploding proportions.

And he, given my luck these days - has a girlfriend.

Of course he does.

Like he’s going to wait for me to gather the courage and say a tiny, croaky ‘hi’, at his age of sixteen, in a school full of hot girls, in the presence of a thousand batting eye-lashes? And I’m not even that shy!!!

At lunch, I had my forehead on the table, completely uninterested in the food in front of me, thinking only of how miserable I felt watching him from a distance.

Ava patted my back.

“Just screw him,” she said. “He’s not worth it, someone new will come along.”

I admire her attitude sometimes.

“I don’t want someone new,” I said, staring at my knees. “I want Lucas.”

“Who is she, anyway?” Ava asked, as I had already informed her the second I found out. It was a long, long texting sessions, with me freaking out and her trying to talk me out of freaking out.

“I don’t know. I just saw a story on his Instagram where he’d put his hand around her and plastered a tiny heart emoji somewhere between them. It was horrible.”

“The tragedy,” Ava said.

“I know you’re mocking me.”

“I swear I’m not.”

But Ava wouldn’t understand. She had a boyfriend of two years and her days of quiet romantic suffering were over. Mine on the other hand were threatening to rain on every other aspect of my life.

“What’s the next episode of The World about?” Ava tried to change the subject, in hope of me getting unglued from the table and engaged in productive conversation.

“Well, it was going to be on Pride and Prejudice, but it turns out I completely missed the point, didn’t I?" I snapped. Not at her. At the world.

I spent the rest of the classes sulking and jotting down ideas for short stories. And when I left the building, I could swear I heard a sad blues song as the soundtrack to my pathetic being.

I’m illiterate.

Lucas has a girlfriend.

I have a few hours to think of a completely new concept for the podcast.

I’ll never find love, will I?

Of course, when I got home, my dad immediately had an opinion.

“And what tragedies have the heavens bestowed upon my child, might I ask?” he quipped from behind his laptop. To the uninitiated, this would sound like my dad was a Biblical character, of the most solemn kind.

But it was his way of showing that he’s once more unbothered by my life’s turmoil, in fact - he thought banter would be more appropriate. A comic, my dad. And a horror writer by day.

“Not now, dad,” I dropped my backpack and made my way towards the stairs.

Up in my room, I buried my face in my pillow. I was preparing to treat myself to a thorough cry, it was long overdue. The paper, Lucas, the stupid girlfriend, who wasn’t even that ugly. Who am I kidding, she was gorgeous. One can’t even take a break.

And just as I was about to surrender, I felt my phone vibrate from somewhere under me.

I swear, if it’s dad with another attempt at a joke, I’ll…

But the name on the screen certainly wasn’t Dad.

My jaw dropped and my heart started pounding, threatening to rise up in my throat.

It was him.

And right under the name Lucas, it said:

Hey.

NOW WHAT?!

[reids-rendering-reality]

Guys My Age

Summary: Y/N is the newest addition to the BAU team and Spencer appears to have taken a special liking towards her. The only problem is, he thinks he’s too old for her. However, that’s all about to change when they share a hotel room.

(A/N: I’m such a sucker for the hotel room trope so I combined it with two of my other favourite ideas: Spencer being older than the reader and catching her doing yoga)

Type: fluff + a sexual innuendo or two

Warnings: dirty thoughts, insecurity about age, age gap, anxiety, yoga?

Word Count: 2.1K

Spencer Reid’s POV

I pulled the handle of my satchel over my shoulder as I sighed. It was a very long day in a small rural town somewhere deep in Alabama. Everyone else had gone back to their hotel room, besides Hotch and I. There was just something about this case I couldn’t get out of my mind. The feeling of being so close to the final piece of the puzzle, as if it were on the tip of my tongue but I couldn’t grip it. Yet I had to let it go for the night and get some rest. The much needed REM sleep could give me an entirely new perspective on this problem to me tomorrow. At least that’s what I hoped.

On the walk to the hotel room I was getting increasingly nervous, the more rooms I passed in the hallway. This small hotel did not have enough rooms to accommodate the whole team separately. They only had four rooms for the seven of us. JJ and Emily had immediately paired up, just like Rossi and Morgan. And Hotch being the team leader took the single room. Leaving me with our newest and youngest member, Y/N.

It’s not like I didn’t like her. That’s not what it was at all. Just, she made me a little bit nervous. She was so beautiful that sometimes I couldn’t get out any words around her. And that says a lot because I always have something to say. But as cheesy as it sounds, in some moments there is not a single fact that I can recall. 

But the elephant in the room demands to be heard. She is younger than I am. And that by a lot. By exactly ten years and three months. That appears to be a lot. I don’t really know why, but that bothers me. We are both adults, but because of social conventions at our age, I feel as though it is inappropriate. Yet if I were 60 and she were 50 or I was 80 and she was 70, no one would even blink at the gap. Yet because we are young it matters. I feel sad when I think about it because I like her a lot. And when we talk I don’t notice the age gap. In fact, I’d even go so far as to say that it wasn’t even there at all.

What surprised me as I was having these thoughts and neared the room was the fact that I actually considered asking her out. Since Maeve I have not been on a single date. And who said she would even be interested in anything beyond a casual friendship or even colleagueship with me? That’s not even considering the amount of courage it would require for me to tell her. But it’s not like that would be a fruitful endeavour.

And that was the last thought I had before I reached the door to room 179. A prime number. Prime numbers would be my lucky numbers if there were such a thing.

As I rummaged around my pockets and satchel for the key card I noticed the sound of music coming through the door.

“Gotta thank him he’s the reason

That I’ll find what I’m looking for.”

I heard a woman sing over the sound of an electric guitar. I still hadn’t found my key card.

“Guys my age don't know how to treat me

Don't know how to treat me.”

My movements stopped when my brain registered the lyrics. Guys my age…?

“Guys my age don't know how to touch me

Don't know how to love me good.”

My breath hitched and I gulped, key card in hand. Did she mean that? Could it be possible that she would be interested in someone ten years older than her? The feeling of hope was beginning to form in my brain, scenarios of what could be clouding my vision. But they were quickly pushed aside by a dark storm of self-doubt. Because most people don’t listen to lyrics as closely. The lyrics to a song don’t mean anything to them. Did they mean anything to her?

I realised I had been standing in front of the door for way too long and gathered all my confidence to go inside. But nothing could have prepared me for what I was about to see. After closing the door behind me and tucking away the key card into my bag I turned around for the first time.

There she was. In the middle of the room in front of the two twin beds on a yoga mat. Her front leg was bent as she stretched her back. She was only dressed in skin tight pants and a matching bra that complimented the way her body was contorted. The soft light from the night lamp next to one of the beds made her skin glisten just noticeably as if it were glowing. I could feel my eyes widen as I my brain finally added up the pieces of what I was seeing.

“Oh, hi Spence!” she said gleefully turning her head towards mine, “I was feeling a little tense after sitting in that conference room all day. I hope you don’t mind.”

I didn’t even bother to attempt to talk, I could feel how dry my throat was and how my lips would not listen to any command I would’ve given it. So I just shook my head and pulled my eyes away from her as she moved her upper body towards the floor, holding herself up by her ellbows. I walked towards the beds in her general direction trying not to notice how gorgeous her ass looked now that her body was turned away from me. That I even had that thought surprised me and caused a blush to rise to my cheeks. I was thankful that she couldn’t see my face in that moment as I loosened up my tie. Taking a deep breath to calm my nerves, my attention drifted back to the song.

“Don't know how to love me good

So I'm never going back”

There was nothing in that moment that could keep me sane. My wildest dreams could have not come up with this scenario. It felt utterly unreal.

As the song ended I saw her change positions again from my peripheral vision.

“You’re awfully quiet today,” she said while turning the music down.

I noticed panic begin to fill my brain. She wanted to have a conversation.

“I um- it’s been kind of a long day,” I said and cleared my throat, while deciding whether or not it would be a good idea to turn around towards her.

“Have you been at the station the whole time? You must be exhausted,” she responded and continued when I didn’t answer, “I thought you could show me that show you’ve been gushing about.”

How was this real life? My brain began to lose control of my executive functions as my body turned around to face her. She was now sitting on the floor, legs stretched out in front of her, her hands wrapped around her feet as she looked up at me. The low-cut top she was wearing gave me a perfect sight into the curves of her-

I dared not continue that line of thought, already flustered enough as it is.

“Really? You’d be interested in watching that?” I said and blinked.

Her lips spread into a smile, twinkling her eyes, “Yeah, of course. The way you described it makes me really curious.”

“We could watch an episode or two before going to sleep, if you want.”

I just had to take this chance. Even if I could only begin to have a friendship with her, I wanted to be close to her because for some odd reason, I couldn’t bear to admire her from afar.

So not long after, I was setting up the odd hotel room tv to watch the show. It took me the entirety of her taking a shower so that I was only standing back up when she was walking out of the small bathroom in a white bathrobe and a towel wrapped around her head. She smiled up at me as she walked past me, her hand brushing my arm so casually that I questioned whether it actually happened. 

I hesitated again before sitting down on the bed. Was she going to get dressed in front of me? Because no matter how much my amygdala wanted me to see that, my frontal cortex wasn’t going to allow it. I forced myself to look through my satchel in an attempt to find a distraction as I waited for her next move. But luckily, she didn’t tempt my brain too much into overdrive.

I felt as if there was a higher power not willing to spare me for the night when she came out of the bathroom a second time, now something someone might call dressed. She was in a loose light coloured satin pyjama set that showed off her legs perfectly. And as if that were not enough to torture me for the night, she joined me on my twin bed with her bag of chips.

“I hope that’s okay with you, then we can share snacks,” she said so innocently that I almost believed it. But I could still hear the song ringing in my ears and I noticed her eyes take a short glance down at my lips as she said it. I was almost convinced that I wasn’t imagining things.

What really sealed the deal was that I noticed her scoot a tiny bit closer to me every once in a while. At first I could only feel the warmth she radiated, but after about 30 minutes I felt the bare skin of her arm against mine. My breath quickened, which I was sure she had noticed.

I knew the episode off by heart. Which was to my advantage because then my brain could run in a speed that I could barely follow. I tried my hardest to calm down a little bit, which was hard when I could feel the movement of her body as a whole-hearted laugh filled her throat.

“Y/N,” I whispered with all my courage. It was so low that I almost thought she wouldn’t hear it, but she turned her head towards me her eyes following a few seconds after.

Her eyes met mine and it was like I could feel my neurons firing electrical signals throughout my entire body. And just like that, in one swift movement she had grabbed my face by the back of my head and pulled me into her lips.

That was the first time that night that my muscles began to relax as I eased into the sensation of her soft lips moving against mine. It was as though I was beginning to lose myself in the kiss, all insecurities about her feelings towards me or my inexperience gone.

When she ultimately pulled away and rested her forehead against mine, we were both panting gently. My whole body felt warm with the feeling of her breath on my skin and her hands still in my hair. I didn’t dare open my eyes, still afraid that I would wake up from this idyllical dream.

We both didn’t know what to say as we pulled away further and looked at each other. I wanted to say something, to let her know how I felt, but once again, my brain did not follow my commands.

“Did you know when you kiss someone for the first time it causes your dopamine levels to increase for a short period of time? It also makes your heart rate and the oxygen supply to your brain to raise,” I heard my voice say in something between a whisper and my normal talking voice.

“For the first time, huh?” she grinned a little at me.

I reached for her hand and gently took it in mine. I moved her palm over my shirt to the centre of my chest. I could feel my heart race through her hands and I know she could feel it too. She looked up into my eyes again with a look on her face that told me all I needed to know.

[uncpanda]

Reassured

AN: I want to preface this by saying I have not watched this episode where JJ confesses her love to Spencer. Mainly because I stopped watching after Hotch left the show, all though I really like Tara, Matt, and Luke! I just didn’t get the same enjoyment out of it. So if something is wrong with this, I suppose just consider it AU! 

Prompt 12: pushing a strand of hair behind their ear

Requested by: ANON 

You watch your boyfriend as he stares at his book. He’s been staring at the same page for over ten minutes now, and it’s never taken him more than a minute to read through a page. Add in the fact that he’s been largely silent these past few days, and a recent kidnapping by an unsub and you’re more than a little worried. . You grab two pieces of fruit and plop down on the couch next to him. He gives you a small smile that turns into something real when he takes the offered piece of fruit. 

You sit in silence for a few seconds before you finally gather up enough courage to ask, “Is everything okay?” Your heart thuds as you wait for the answer. Some small part of you, the part of you that never thought you were good enough or smart enough for your boyfriend, is worried he’s about to end it. Never mind the fact that you’ve been together for three years and living together for two of them. 

He closes his book and turns to face you, “Something happened.” You bit the inside of your cheek as you wait for him to continue, “When JJ and I were being held hostage, she told me that she loves me.” 

You try to process that for a few moments, and you can feel Spencer’s eyes on you while you do. “I’m guessing you don’t mean in a platonic or brother sister kind of way.” 

He shakes his head, “She said I was her first love.” 

You lean away from him a little bit, “And what does that confession mean?” 

“Nothing. She’s married with two kids. And you and I are together and . . .” 

“Do you love her?” The words hurt to say, and you actually have to close your eyes as you ask them because you’re terrified to see a look of pity on Spencer’s face. Instead, you feel his fingers graze your cheek as he tucks a loose strand of hair behind your ear, before his hand returns to cup your cheek. 

“Open your eyes sweetheart.” 

You don’t for a second, you’re terrified of what you’re going to see. Things had been really rough in the months following Spencer’s return from prison. He’d had a bad case of PTSD that had left him jumpy and overprotective before he had sought therapy for himself and the two of you as a couple. It had meant a lot that he hadn’t pushed you away, and had instead wanted to make the relationship even stronger. 

One thing the two of you had discovered in therapy together was that his touch seemed to calm you when your anxiety got bad. You take a deep breath and look him in the eye. “I’m in love with you.” His thumb swipes back and forth a few times, before his hand slips back to cradle your skull, “JJ’s words confused me for a little bit, because at one time I had really strong feelings for her. But I had accepted a long time ago that she and I weren’t going to happen. And that hurt for a little bit, but then I found you and I realized that we weren’t meant to be. I’m in love with you.” 

You let out the breath you’d been holding and surge forward and into his arms. He hugs you tight, positioning your body on top of his so that he can hold you. His fingers play dance up and down your spine as he places reassuring kisses on your temple occasionally. 

After nearly half and hour like that you ask, “What are you going to do about you and JJ.” 

He shrugs, “She loves Will and she loves her boys. I don’t know where that confession came from, and I’m not really sure I want to know, but I think she needs time to figure things out. In the meantime, I was thinking of taking the weekend off. I thought we could go away somewhere; just you and me.”

You press a kiss into the side of his neck, “Oh yeah?” 

“Yeah, a Vineyard, or maybe the beach? We could get a lot of reading done on the beach.” 

“You would burn way too easily.” 

He laughs, “Yeah, I’d have to stay slathered in sunscreen and under the umbrella, but I think it would be nice.” 

The smile doesn’t leave your face, as the two of you discuss plans for a minivacation, because you feel reassured, you feel loved, you feel wanted, and you are madly in love with Spencer Reid. 

[momtaku]

Hello, Mrs. Momtaku! I finally gathered enough courage to ask if my mere thoughts are worthy of discussion. I was reading your analyses for a long time and can bet I have improved my way of thinking by reading your posts! :D 1. I have many Jeagerist friends, but one of them are my best friend. He states, that, Floch Forster is the true successor of Erwin Smith, and Hange and Armin are illegimate and inept in their positions. He also states that Erwin would have agreed with Eren Yeager's salvation plan. What might be your opinion about these? 2. What do you think Keith Shadis thought upon Erwin Smith's and the Survey Corps' damningly costly victory? Even under his command, the Survey Corps were not obliterated. Do you think he became more inclined to act upon seeing this, considering it also has shown how "undefeated" they are, which is why Keith Shadis looked on them for? 3. Is not it amazing how Keith Shadis survived for certain 10 years as commander, and many more perhaps, even more than Erwin? He deemed himself a bystander, but what kind of bystander can stand against overwhelming odds by himself while all others perish? 4. Do you think Hange's opinion of Keith Shadis was damaged after revealing of his low self esteem? A comrade in the Corps asked to Erwin, if they should do something about the Commandant for hiding information, which Hange replied with something like "he is not worth their time." 5. Lastly, again about Commandant Shadis, I deduce that they learned Grisha Yeager being a shifter by Keith's memories, of which Keith seem to be not suspecting. Why do you think Keith was not suspicious about Grisha at all?

1. Oof. Your friend is either willfully misreading the manga, or he isn't reading it at all. More likely, I suspect he gives more consideration to the thoughts on r/titanfolk and r/yeagerbomb than the actually manga. These are all ideas that are promoted on those subbreddits that have no actual basis in the story.

2. Hmm... I'd say is that Keith is one of the more fair minded and least judgemental characters in the story. His kind treatment of the cadets who allowed him to be beaten by Floch is proof of that. Knowing how impossible the job is, I don't think Shadis would ever second-guess or think poorly of Erwin or Hange's decisions. I touched on Keith and Erwin's relationship in this post.

3. It is amazing!! In fact, I wrote a post about how amazing Keith is. He was always special. He was never just a bystander.

4. Hange was definitely frustrated with Keith after he revealed to them what he knew of Grisha, and earlier in the chapter Hange seemed genuinely embarrassed at being teased about their former crush on Keith. But I don't think Hange would ever be one to hold grudges. If Hange was upset with Keith, they got over it. But now that you've brought this up, I'll be watching the upcoming anime episodes with new eyes to watch their interactions. I don't have a post on this topic, but a more general discussion of Hange's admiration for Shadis is in this post by @mannatea. And I think @tsuki-no-ura has a discussion somewhere on their blog about whether it was a crush or not but I can't find the post.

5. Keith has many fine qualities but imagination does not appear to be one of them. He'd have never suspected such a thing as shifters existed when he found Grisha outside the walls. I have a post on this too. Basically I do not blame Shadis (or Hannes) for not coming forward initially about Grisha because it was a very different world, but once Eren was revealed to be a shifter at Trost, Shadis really should've come forward and told Erwin everything he knew of Grisha's origins.

I hope I covered everything anon. Thank you for your kind words and thank you for the ask. Shadis is a favorite of mine so this was especially fun to consider.

[mrssakurahatake]

For a prompt, "I'm in love but I'm lazy" with a tip of the hat to the Beatles ❤️

Tipsy, my first thought was the Meet the Beat Alls episode of Power Puff Girls, and I tried making all the dialogue Beatles lyrics. It turns out that is really hard. So I stared over and came up with this. I hope you like it.

The first two weeks of Sakura’s first C ranked mission as jonin sensei had passed uneventfully. Her team of genin medics had a simple task, visiting Kumogakure and exchanging research results, as well as giving her team the opportunity to learn new techniques.

As far as missions went, this one wasn’t too bad. Very comfortable quarters were provided for the team, and it had given Sakura the chance to catch up with friends she’d made during the war she hadn’t seen in a very long time.

It was until C was walking her home after their second dinner that she suddenly realized this was a date. A date she really hadn't known was a date, until he was holding her hand and leaning close to kiss her.

After a polite, but firm rejection, Sakura retreated to her room. But sleep didn’t find her, instead she spent the next several hours with her brain reeling. Why had she rejected him without a thought? They’d had a good time, and she couldn’t deny there was some chemistry bubbling.

She closed her eyes, trying to work it all out, but the details all seemed to swim about in her mind, and every time they got to that ill-fated good night kiss his blond hair started to turn silver, he was just a bit taller, and his smile was hidden behind a mask.

Sakura shot up, shocked at the sudden realization. When had that happened? Kakashi was her friend, her hokage, but he had never been more than that.

The question weighed on her mind for the next two weeks, and in true Sakura fashion she buried herself in her work, and did her best to avoid being alone with C, preferring to take at least one of her genin with her everywhere.

All things considered, Sakura was overjoyed when it was finally time to return to Konoha. The trip back was uneventful, filled with the gossiping of teenagers, and the talk of all the new friends they had made. With every step closer, it became harder not to think about Kakashi, until there was no hope of ignoring these new found feeling.

When they finally arrived back at the village gates, it was too late to report in. Sakura dismissed her team, with instructions to meet back for their debriefing tomorrow. She turned toward her apartment, and then her feet started to carry her to the hokage tower without her even noticing. She was standing outside the door to Kakashi’s official residence far too long. Long enough that she was sure the guards hiding in the shadows were begging to grow suspicious.

Finally, she gathered her courage and knocked lightly on the door. Hopefully so lightly that she wouldn’t be heard, and could sneak away as if nothing had happened. But Sakura had never been that lucky.

A moment later the door swung open and there stood Kakashi, freshly showered, water still dripping from his hair, in nothing but low slung jonin paints, and a mask. It was all Sakura could do to keep her eyes locked on his face.

“Sakura,” he said, sounding both pleased and surprised. “I didn’t know you were back.”

“Oh, I’m sorry,” she blurted out, starting to panic. “I should have waited until tomorrow. It’s just…”

“It’s just what?” Kakashi asked, leaning up against the door frame.

Sakura looked around, and though the bodyguard still remained hidden, she could feel their judgmental gaze. “Um… would it be possible to talk in private?”

Stepping back from the door, Kakashi welcomed her in and closed the door. Sakura had been in this room thousands of times before, both when it belonged to Tsunade and Kakashi. It had never felt so large.

It was too late to back down now. Sakura took her usual seat and tried to relax. It wasn’t easy with Kakashi watching her so closely, and for some unknown reason he still hadn’t put on a shirt.

Keeping her focused straight ahead, and just over Kakashi’s shoulder, Sakura said, “Well the thing is, I missed you. And I didn’t even realize it until the date. Well the second date. Well, more like when C tried to kiss me.”

“Sakura,” Kakashi interrupted, sounding just the tiniest bit jealous, “when did C try to kiss you?”

“After the date, I swear I didn’t even know it was a date.” Finally, she turned to look at him. “It’s just that the whole night felt less personal than the nights I’ve spent with you. And after he left, I started thinking about why I wasn’t attracted to him, but all I could think about was… you.” Gathering all her never, she continued. “I think I might be in love with you.”

Kakashi’s face lit up, and even with the mask Sakura could see his smile in every line of his face. “I’ve been in love with you for a long time.” And a moment later his mask was discarded on the floor and he crossed in the room in one breath.

Taking in all the lines of his face she’d never seen before, Sakura asked, “Why didn’t you say anything?”

“I didn’t want to scare you away. It would have been a lot of work to get you back. I’m in love, but I’m lazy.” With that, he slanted his lips over hers.

[ayuuria]

Yashahime Translation: Animage Magazine September 2021 Issue

Please do not repost this translation without my consent! This includes screenshots of any type and amount. If you wish to share this translation, simply link to this post.

For more information regarding the use of my translations, click here.

Smash It!

Under the blazing midsummer sun, the Yashahimes are fully in the middle of enjoying watermelon breaking. In ‘The Second Chapter’ that will broadcast this fall, will the harsh destiny surrounding the girls also get smashed like a watermelon!?

It’s summer! Leisure! Watermelon breaking! The Yashahimes normally face off against atrocious demons, but their opponent today is a large watermelon. Before the juicy fresh taste, Moroha’s fired up swordsmanship looks even clearer than usual♪

Just as exciting as the fever surrounding the three princess is the arrival of new information regarding ‘Hanyō no Yashahime’ The Second Chapter! There are a lot of things of interest like what will happen to Setsuna who lost her life in the battle with Kirinmaru, the true intent behind Sesshōmaru’s actions, and the whereabouts of Kirinmaru and Zero. But right now, everyone is probably curious about the new character, Rion. It seems she is Kirinmaru’s daughter but why hasn’t she appeared on the center stage before? Also, going forward, how will she affect the story of Towa and the other Yashahimes?

Regarding the growing anticipation of ‘The Second Chapter’, according to the newly appointed director, Hishida Masukazu-san, he is currently working in earnest while placing importance on “How to produce the three Yashahimes so that they are awesome and cute”. We now can’t wait for the day when we get to see the three princesses once again running around powerfully in the Feudal world!

Character Bios

Takechiyo

A young tanuki (racoon dog) demon who works at the “Shikabaneya” which deals in demon bounties. He’s always tough towards Moroha, but he can’t but be surprised by the quickness of her stick!

Moroha

A quarter-demon girl born between Inuyasha and Kagome. Making a living as a bounty hunter and having plenty of experience in battle, breaking watermelons is a piece of cake?

Higurashi Towa

A half-demon girl with Sesshōmaru as her father. She treasures her younger twin sister, Setsuna, more than anything else. She seems like she would happily share the broken watermelon with Setsuna.

What Will Happen to Setsuna’s Life!?

Setsuna

A half-demon girl with Sesshōmaru as her father and Towa’s younger twin sister. She is normally cool, but it seems she can’t help but smile seeing Moroha and the others having fun.

In the final episode of the First Chapter, Setsuna lost her life in the battle with Kirinmaru. Sesshōmaru entrusts a broken Tenseiga to a despairing Towa, as if to tell her to revive Setsuna with the sword. Tenseiga is a sword that can revive a dead person just once but is it still possible with it being broken?

What About the Reunion with Parents!?

“Towa, Setsuna, Sesshōmaru, and Rin” and “Moroha, Inuyasha, and Kagome”, whether each family be able to safely meet or not is one of the biggest points of interest in ‘The Second Chapter’. Rin sleeping within the Tree of Ages with her fate still tied to Zero and the safety of Inuyasha and Kagome who have been imprisoned in the black pearl is of interest.

Kirinmaru’s Daughter Makes Her Appearance!

One of the key people in ‘The Second Chapter’ is Kirinmaru’s daughter, Rion. According to Director Hishida “While Rion was raised properly, the parent-child relationship between her and Kirinmaru has become quite complicated”. We want to hurry and find out the parent-child back story between Kirinmaru and Rion!

— There is a feeling of ‘Who would’ve thought Director Hishida’ but please tell us the details of how you were appointed as director.

The Three Girls Will Grow Up Little by Little

Director Hishida Masukazu

Hishida: Since the announcing of the ‘Hanyō no Yashahime’ project, it seems there was a large echo to “create ‘The Second Chapter’ as quickly as possible”. It’s just that the previous Teruo-san (Director Satō Teruo) already had his next assignment set so they reached out to me to be his successor. Producer Naka Hisakazu-kun joined Sunrise when I was directing my first work “Onmyō Taisenki” and he oversaw production; it seems he remembered my name in the corner of his mind. For me, I made my production debut with ‘Inuyasha’ so when I received talks of this work that has gathered everyone I’m indebted to, I thought “I absolutely cannot refuse this job and it’s my destiny to accept it!”

— It has been roughly 20 years but please tell us some of your memorable moments from back when you were working on ‘Inuyasha’.

Hishida: Not only was I in the production rotation, but I was also a production assistant, so I think I was involved in all the episodes in some way in the first year. I remember back then my senior (senpai) producers pushed a lot of things onto me *laughs*. The flash of Tessaiga’s “Wind Scar” turning up boulders and the effects of Miroku’s “Wind Tunnel” were things I came up with after receiving the unreasonable request of “You think of something” from my senior producers. At the time, it was a cell animation only anime, so I remember struggling quite a bit to produce something flashy with only a limited number of moves.

Also, I created the sequence flow of Sesshōmaru (destroying) countless demons into little pieces. At the time, I had only just started doing digital drawing but because I went overboard with it, the CG person got angry with me like “Because you made such a difficult thing (it became the standard), it’s gotten rough for me!” *laughs*. However, those materials were used as *bank shots for ‘Inuyasha, The Final Act’ and the current ‘The Second Chapter’. No one else will say it so I will, but I was quite involved in building the foundation for ‘Inuyasha’!

*Translator’s Note: Reusable shots (helps to save time and cost)

— That is quite the meritorious deed. Regarding work on ‘The Second Chapter’, what sort of plan do you have?

Hishida: In terms of art creation, continuing Teruo-san’s direction is the foundation. Also, an important aspect is how much will we be able to produce the three Yashahimes in way that makes them awesome and cute.

This time, I told everyone in the production/storyboard team “In ‘Hanyō no Yashahime”, the girls are the stars, so I want you to think about how to make them shine on screen”. With Inuyasha and Sesshōmaru, I think it’s fine to just have them stand in a savage wasteland, but we specially have girls, so I wanted to be a little conscious of the showy aspect. I separated from Sunrise after ‘Inuyasha’ and created anime that was geared towards primary school girls at other studios, so while utilizing that experience, I want to depict the courageous Yashahimes.

— What are some overall highlights for ‘The Second Chapter’?

Hishida: The process of the three girls slowly growing up will be depicted, so I think that’s a point worth noting. For those with children, I would certainly like for them to watch from a parental point-of-view. Also, in ‘The Second Chapter’ all of them will get new weapons. On the point of getting stronger both physically and psychologically, the flow will inherit from ‘Inuyasha’, and will have not just a shōnen manga component but also a fun factor that I think is possible with ‘Hanyō no Yashahime’. By all means, please watch over the development of the three (girls).

— Thank you very much. In the next issue, we will be asking about the highlights for each character as it pertains to ‘The Second Chapter’!

[waywardimpalawriter]

“I’m done. I’m done trying so hard only for you to never even look in my direction.”

With Marcus Pike? Maybe BFFs to lovers because I want it to end happy? Thank you 🙏

Love of his life

Pairing: Marcus Pike x best friend!Female Reader

Characters: Marcus Pike,

Setting: five years after the last episode Marcus was in.

Rating: PG:13

Warnings: 2,774

Summary: Conversation overheard leads to feelings of regret at the chance not taken. Will he take that risk and go for who he wants or let it slide away just like the past?

Word count:

Notes: Written for the lovely @hnt-escape asking for the prompt “I’m done. I’m done trying so hard only for you to never even look in my direction.” Will be in bold in the story. I hope you enjoy sweetie.

Tag List:

Forever tags: @chickensarentcheap @jedi-mando

Pedro Pascal tags: @evyiione

Staring into the caramel colored liquid ceramic mug warming your hands, thoughts clouded by a certain brown eyed man and how to handle the feelings you��ve harbored since grade school.

“Trying to divine this weeks lotta numbers from you coffee sweetie?” Soothing southern accented voice breaks through the fog smile in the sweet lilt.

Head snapping up to look towards the blonde, grin firmly in place over her ruby lips, “I wish, would donate at least half to research the antiquities we have that no one’s cataloged yet.”

“Wow devoted,” chuckling, walking over to the Keurig k-cup spinner to pluck the last Colombian dark roast pod. “What or should I say who’s on that gorgeous your mind that’s got your brow furrowed deeper than the Mariana Trench?”

Not wishing to discuss your thoughts right now, you deflect to ask, “Those things waste so much Donna and bad for the environment. Why don’t you just buy the bulk grounds?”

“Great way to keep from answering the true question,” baby blues lock, sincerity written deep and meaningful. Knowing she’s only trying to help having confided many times your dilemma those feelings you’ve held on to for so long brings about. “I don’t know why you haven’t told him sugar I mean you came to DC…”

“For this job Donna, Marcus turned up later… not much later,” last few words muttered into cooling coffee you try to hide behind while taking a sip. “I didn’t upheave my life for a man,” not sure who you’re trying to convince more yourself or Donna.

Established in your position at the museum a month before Marcus’s transfer and at the time he’s heavily invested with one Teresa Lisbon. Memories flood through like film reel before your eyes. Of that very night he comes to you heartbroken bags in hand with no one beside him and no real place to go. Promising yourself to shove your feelings aside and help him get back on steady legs. Even letting him stay till his place became ready to move in.

Loud snort greets your ears, breaking you from memory lane. “You keep telling yourself that and while you’re at it keeping him friend zoned when your clearly in love with him does neither one of you any good. He ain’t gonna wait around forever sugar trust me on that one,” hurt coloring her tone speaking volumes of her own pain. She looks away to watch the final drops of coffee land in her mug. You know exactly why she’s not looking at your right now, the hurt she tries to hide behind the bubbly personality. Fixing her coffee up just the way she likes to hide her own pain she’s shared a few times.

“How,” licking your lips slowly, mug placed beside you on the counter to clasp your hands in front of you. “I’m not even sure how or where to start Donna. He’s my best friend knows me inside and out I don’t…”

“Do you love him?” Simple question with no easy answer as grey blue eyes land on and pierce you with their intensity.

“I…” wringing those hands her question chases thoughts around your head. Finally giving the heart answer, “I love him, just unsure if he loves me in the same way. I don’t know if I’m strong enough to change the dynamics of our relationship and loose what we have for a what if.”

“Oh sweetheart I know it’s not easy to bank on what if’s but trust me when I say that man loves you in ways I’ve never seen and I’ve seen a lot.” Giving you a teasing wink then sobering, “Why do ya think I haven’t tried to snag him up myself?”

“Cause he’s not your type?” Joke sounding stupid to your own ears, glaze dropping to your shoes. “What if… what if I’m not his type? I mean you’ve seen the women he’s gone out with before. I’m hardly in the same league.”

“No your in a league of your own sugar.” Head nodding in understanding Donna comes over resting a hand on your bicep giving a gentle squeeze. “Compensating maybe even trying to replace the one he truly wants sweetheart. Don’t let a good man slip away especially since you love him.”

“I do, he’s,” head shaking at a loss for words to describe Marcus. “Amazing and sweet, the kind of man that’s so easy to love and care for. I’m lost truly without him.” Happy tears blur your vision for a moment thinking about him. How he’s always at your side just when you need him without notice at times. Sixth sense when you need those late night pancakes from the best diner in town. Watching old movies after a crappy break up, snuggled together with popcorn and beer, snacks of all kinds. Snap shot of his face filters across your vision, “I’m gonna tell him in fact,” glancing down at your watch finding end of day fast approaching. “Would you close down for me Donna I need to tell him now before loosing my nerve.”

“Don’t have to ask me twice sugar go get your man,” nodding towards the doorway you start for, coffee long forgotten in favor of someone more sweeter. “Don’t do anything I wouldn’t.”

“There’s things you wouldn’t do?” Cheeky grin highlighting your features, the sound of crinkling plastic reaching your ears so you look down. Frown replacing the smile at finding a small bouquet of blue tipped carnations laying on the ground. Bending to scoop up the beautiful flowers knowing only one man would’ve brought these. “Shit,” curse flying from your mouth while your feet start to eat up the distance towards the back doors bouquet held firmly in your grasp.

Missing Donna yelling about your keys and belongings, to not forget about the storm rumbling in the background. Wide smile forming watching you go hoping you’ll catch Marcus just in time.

While you pray with each step taken you’ll catch him in time to explain. Thoughts running rampant wondering what he heard and didn’t. If the reason for the dropped flowers has to do with the fact he thinks you love someone else. That last thought spurs you on into a run, thankful for the flats you wore today instead of customary heels you normally wear. Eating up the distance you burst through the back doors into a curtain of rain meeting your eyes as more curses fly from your lips. You pause eyes narrowing through the gloom looking for Marcus’s car, his back, hair surely plastered to against his head. Something to point you in the right direction. At the right moment a flash of lighting illuminating the darken skies, makes you jump but press on determined to find him. While stepping out into the pouring rain, clothes soaked through low rumblings of thunder taking your calls out for Marcus away with the howling wind.

Tears form and slide down cool cheeks, still franticly looking around but coming up empty till you catch the flash of grey out of your periphery. Whipping around you head in the direction calling out his name praying there’s a break in the rain so your voice carries to his ears.

And for a moment that one split second he catches a sound other than the storm raging around him. Sweet desperate voice calling out his name, giving him pause in dragging footsteps. Looking around but seeing nothing but the driving rain, drops soaking his suit and blurring his vision. Before turning to resume his path the voice calls out again, nearer and stronger than the last time.

His doubts cloud the mind, accusing him of hearing things the wind brings from other parts of the parking lot. Till a vision dressed in black slacks, creamy silk blouse, hair and clothes plasters to your body appears in front of him. Hand raised in the vain attempt to keep the rain from your face as you search for him.

Eyes lock surprised deep chocolate orbs meet the relief in yours, “You’re gonna get sick sweetheart go back inside.”

“No,” single word yelled out as you near Marcus, gripping his bicep and moving closer to speak into his ear. Warm breath making him shiver despite the cold rain trying to drown the both of you. “Why’d you leave?”

“Saw you busy didn’t want…” shaking your head Marcus swallows catching sight of the flowers in your free hand.

“You dropped these why?” Hurt lacing the tone in your voice as you bring the small plastic wrapped bundle up between you. “Thank you.”

Eyes dart between the flowers and your eyes unsure how to answer your question as so many of his own chase around his mind. Wanting the truth Marcus gather’s his courage to ask, “Do you love him?”

Confusion coats your veins, drawing up your brows with the same emotion till it clicks. “Yes, very much in fact you just doesn’t know it.”

“I’m done,” pain etched into his voice heart aching behind its prison of bone and flesh. Misunderstanding the look in your eyes and the words your spoke. “I’m done trying so hard only for you to never even look in my direction. I just can’t do it anymore it’s so much worse than any of the other.” Taking two steps back from your touch that sears the skin under heavy suit jacket and starch white cotton dress shirt. Gaze dropping to concrete unable to look into your eyes a second longer knowing he’s lost the chance. Internally cursing himself for waiting so long, letting other’s in his heart when the one woman he’s wanted all along stood by him through all life’s ups and downs.

Frowning at the loss of touch, his words sinking in you step forward he matches with one back. “Marcus,” soft achingly tender voice reaches out towards him. Heard now the rain has slowed to light drizzle. “Do you know how long I’ve waited to tell you I love you? Not as a brother or best friend, but in love with you.”

“What?” Single word choked off on a gasp, eyes reaching your smiling orbs trying to find the jest. Only seeing genuine love backed by worry and fear that he doesn’t truly have the same feelings. “You never told me.”

“You didn’t tell me either Pike so we’re kinda in the same boat,” carefully reaching out for his nearest hand tugging him back towards you. “So many times I’d try to tell you, to explain, to see if there’s a chance for us. Every time someone else got my shot. I gave up almost for good this time.”

“Why didn’t you tell me?” Moving closer, warm palm coming up to cup your cheek from apple to jawline. Thump brushing slowly over soft delicate skin drowning in your eyes as you rubbing your cheek into his large palm. “Never would’ve guess you felt the same way.”

Not sure how to answer the first question, so you joke instead. “Not only good at picking out a fake piece of art but putting on a good show.” Trying to infuse a little lightheartedness into the tense moment. “Gonna call Oscar see if they’ll give me one of those little golden guys for my performance. Not Ingrid Bergman worthy but I can hold my own,” nervous little laugh leaving your lips that Marcus brushes his thumb over the bottom lip. Stuck dumb by the action breath shallow before held while trying to depict the emotions running through those sweet brown eyes. “Say some Marcus.”

The tremor in your voice shakes the shocked cobwebs from his mind to focus his thoughts. Picking up that you haven’t answered his first question, “Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Which time?” Breathy sigh leaving your mouth as you try to gather the right words. “Not to mention your my best friend Marcus I didn’t want to fuck that up especially if you didn’t feel the same way,” taking a breath fresh rain mixes with the warm subtle cologne Marcus wears. “Couldn’t risk loosing you and changing our relationship for a what if.”

“And now?” Cupping the other side of your face, keeping your chin tilted upward, eyes searching the depths of yours. Finding the peace he’s missed out on with everyone who came before. Home written in your embrace, sweet light flora scent wrapping around his senses reminding him of just who he needs.

Swallowing, pink tongue coming out to wet your lips, a path he follows with rapt attention. “I recently became enlightened by a good friend reminding me sometimes you need to take those chances.” Both arms wrap around his neck, flowers still clutched tightly, free hand carding through rain soaked strands at the back of his head. Blunt nails scratching gently over Marcus’s neck receiving a shiver that vibrates through your body and has nothing to do with the cool air or wet clothing.

“And you want to take that leap with me?” Inching closer with barely a millimeter’s breath between your lips. Eyes still wide open assuring each other and finally showing the truth and need.

“I think this is the beginning of a beautiful love affair,” cheeky smile splitting your face at the crinkles appearing at the corners of his eyes. Knowing full well you’ve gotten the quote wrong on purpose.

“Here’s looking at you kid,” deepened voice sending tingles of excitement racing down your spine. Slightest brush of his chapped lips to yours bringing a sigh and parting your mouth that’s captured and devoured.

Angling your head just right as he licks into your sweet coffee tasting mouth mixing the minty freshness of his. Low groan whispers between your lips, which moves and changes. Nibbling his bottom lip, slipping your tongue over the bruised skin to sooth before sliding back into the warm cavern of his delectable mouth. Dreams having no merit on the real kiss that makes your toes curl a moan of your own existing to join with the groan he’s let loose. Air becoming much needed and you part to rest foreheads together.

“I love you to have for a long time,” admitting his feelings frees a part of him held back for so long. “I’m sorry for all the missed opportunities but if you’ll let me I’ll make them all up to you.”

“Start by taking me home to change then out for pancakes,” bright smile blooming over your lips that press into his. Unable to stop yourself from giving another tender kiss while wrapping your arms around his shoulders tighter. “And kisses lots more kisses,” mumbling the words into his mouth while initiating another kiss for emphasis.

Only breaking when someone clears their throat you both turn to see Donna standing there with your purse in hand. “No making out in the parking lot you two take it home,” grinning extending your purse towards you. “Just remember don’t do anything I would,” before turning to start back towards the museum. “Congratulations by the way took y’all long enough.”

“There’s things you’d do I wouldn’t Donna,” you call after her shaking your head before looking back up at Marcus. Catching the look burning in his eyes, “I’m guessing pancakes won’t happen tonight huh?”

Soft smirk slides over those kiss swollen lips, “Later but right now I have other plans.” Tugging you against his chest for one last deep drugging kiss that leaves you weak kneed and panting.

“Care to share those plans?” Snuggling into his arms as you both head the last short distance to his car.

Opening then crowding you into the corner of the door hands braced on either side to lean in placing a soft chase kiss to your cheek. “Making up for all the missed time and then later,” pausing to brush his lips over your ear. Whispering the last words with gentle puffs of air floating across your skin. “I’ll make you those pancakes and lick the syrup from your lips afterwards and any other place you’ll let me.”

“Only if you’ll let me return the flavor,” mischievous smile stretching across your lips, ducking under his arms to slide into the car. Finding him still standing there, you tug on his jacket gaining his attention.

Darken eyes meet yours, “I’ll even paint you like one of my French girls,” sending you a playful wink while closing the car door and running around to the drivers side. Marcus slides in, key slipping into ignition, simple flick of his wrist the car flares to life and he’s backing out heading for home and a new start filled with promise.

[thoughts-on-bangtan]

Let’s talk: In the SOOP 2 - Episode 2

by Admin 1

A week has gone by and episode 2 has aired on TV and was posted on weverse. It’s seven minutes longer than the first episode and it opens with a little recap of episode one, in case anyone didn’t watch it or simply forgot. Considering the episodes do air on TV and might also get watched by non-ARMY, it’s a nice thing to add.

A lot more happens throughout this than it did in episode one so unfortunately this post won’t be quite as neat as the first one. It’s much harder to keep track of seven people and summarize what everyone is up to without this just turning into word chaos, but, as always, I’ll try my best!

The episode itself begins basically where last episode ended with the members gathered around the dinner table finishing their very late breakfast, if you can even call it that at two PM, and wondering if they want to eat some hwachae--chilled watermelon mixed with soda and milk. JK says that he’s full to which Seokjin argues that if they were to make it, JK would still devour it. JK ends up agreeing, as do the other members, and so they begin clearing up the table a bit and making hwachae.

Once Yoongi and JK cut the watermelon in half, JK is supposed to wrap the second half in some plastic wrap so he asks Namjoon about it, who like the genius he is, uses the fact that wrap and rap sound very similar and instead raps at the watermelon. 

After finishing tidying the kitchen and preparing the hwachae, five of the members return to the table and dig into their food. That is until the question arises of where Jimin has gone since him and Tae are missing.

Jimin is outside by the basketball hoop practicing his shots which, as the members note, aren’t going all that well with him missing most of his shots for a while. The question is asked about why Jimin is suddenly playing to which JK basically says that Jimin wants to show his skills to ARMY. In the end Namjoon suggests that Yoongi should go and coach Jimin to improve his skills. Still Hobi goes outside and asks Jimin if he’d like to eat some hwachae, to which he declines, and when asked about Tae if he’d like some, Jimin says he doesn’t know. Makes sense. Hobi returns inside and asks the other four where Tae has gone to and even calls his name thinking that he might still be in the building.

It’s in that moment that we find out through Namjoon that Tae is back in his room for his trumpet lesson. The members says how impressive that is and we get to actually join Tae for his lesson, listen and watch as he does it.

Lots and lost more below the cut:

Tae tells us how ever since around the time of their debut he’s pondered the idea of wanting to be able to play the trumpet, how he felt inspired by Chet Baker to do so. So, finally, so many years later he got himself a trumpet as well as a tutor and is having his video call lesson even while they’re gone for ITS.

Much the way I wrote in my post about Yoongi and the courage to try, the same applies here as well. It takes courage to try something new, embrace being bad at it at first, but it takes even more of it to share it with millions of viewers ready to judge and drag him to filth for the fun of it. We see him struggle, we see him succeed, and we see him genuinely try and be proud of himself as well. It’s wonderful to watch, even when he makes mistakes and it sounds...less than great. Tae strives on praise, something Namjoon mentioned about him in the past as well, and you can see how each time his teacher tells him he did well, he gets even more motivated and brave.

While Tae has his lesson, we switch over to Seokjin, who’s floating around the pool on the unicorn float and just enjoying his resting time, and Yoongi who takes out his guitar and practices playing while watching TV. We also see JK who walks into the gym and decides to box for a while. First he goes for the box machine before switching over to the sandbag. You can see how good he is at this, his stance and moves well practiced and confident.

Gotta also appreciate the contrast between JKs dark black and black outfit and the brown and pink slippers which aren’t actually his (I think they’re Hobi’s since we see him wearing them later in the episode as well). At one point he even wonders himself who they belong to.

Then going over to one of the moments that had ARMY feeling many types of ways--Namjoon going on a bike ride. The scenery in this is great, ha ha. No but seriously, it’s so nice to see him genuinely enjoy his time on the bike just riding along, singing a bit of Bicycle and get to take in the scenery. It’s so fun to watch because he’s having so much fun as well.

While Namjoon enjoys his bike ride, we get to watch JK back in his room playing with Bam. JK pretends to throw his toy and then hides it and watches with giggles as Bam is confused about where the two disappeared to. It’s such a classic game and so cute to watch. In the meantime Seokjin returned back inside to escape the heat and to apologize the the person who invented the AC for forgetting their name, Yoongi is still strumming away on his guitar, and Jimin has gone to the gym to exercise. 

Hobi finally decides that he will be the first one to jump into the pool and goes outside to get himself wet with the gardening hose. While he does so, Tae has finished his lesson and comes over as well still carrying his trumpet. Hobi pretends to spray him with water and then wanders to the left end of the pool ready to jump in. Tae announces Swimmer 1, Jung Hoseok, and with a happy yell, Hobi jumps in. While he plays in the water, Tae first shows off what he practiced during his lesson and then puts on the tropical remix of Dynamite and decides to make a collab by playing along on his trumpet.

In a little cut scene we see Seokjin lying on the floor flat as a pancake and spread out like a starfish while he talks with Yoongi about how there’s a heat warning advising people to stay in doors between two and five PM. And yet, still, the others are outside in the blazing sun having fun.

Namjoon arrives back on his bike and Jimin comes out of the gym onto the deck, curious about the noise he couldn’t immediately identify, to watch Tae and then sing along. Eventually Tae sets his trumpet aside and the next song begins, HONNE’s Free Love followed by BTS’ own So What to which Tae, Hobi and also Namjoon have their own little dance party. 

After the party is over, Namjoon and Tae return to house C to get changed and Tae asks Namjoon if he plans on exercising more. Namjoon says yes but that he wants to take a little break beforehand since he just got back from biking. Once changed into an all white outfit, Tae wanders over to JK’s and Bam’s room where he gets to see that Bam sleeps in his kennel at night since JK says he shouldn’t sleep with people, and then attempts to play with Bam, who takes the toy and wanders back to JK. It’s truly so cute and endearing how strong JKs bond with Bam is despite, how he later notes, the fact that he couldn’t spend that much time with him since he was at a training center so he’s grateful that he got to run around and play with him so much while they were at ITS, even if it’s just four days.

They play with Bam a little longer, Tae noting how Bam’s personality hasn’t changed at all with which JK agrees though he thinks he can at least stay in place more patiently, though when he tries to show that to Tae, Bam doesn’t sit down but instead lies down, JK saying he’s just tries, that’s why. 

While that’s happening we see Namjoon come back outside in a new outfit, a sleeveless shirt and shorts along with a bucket hat, and jog around the property. What amazes me here, but also whenever any of the members are at the gym, is how he jogs while wearing slippers/sandals instead of proper footwear especially on terrain such as this. The fact that none of them have gotten hurt somehow is amazing. After his run Namjoon joins Jimin at the gym for more working out and Jimin in this screenshot truly represents all of us while watching this scene. The Namjoon work out/thirst content truly was strong in this episode. 

Switching back to Tae and JK, we see Tae throwing a few hoops while Bam tries to play with him and steal the basket ball from him while JK watches them fondly while giggling. Then they decide to actually play some tennis. A solid plan, in theory, if Bam weren’t convinced all the balls are his and Tae and JK are actually playing with him and not each other. JK tries to get him to stay off to the side, which he refuses to do, and then throws one of the balls. But Bam is a very fast boy, so in the end JK brings Bam back to their room so they can actually play.

At first they’re not all that great but once they switch sides and get the hang of it, they manage to play quite well for a little while. They laugh and smile, and even if they don’t talk much, either because they just don’t or because we don’t get to see it, it’s easy to see how much fun they’re having.

Back at the house we see Jimin and Yoongi deciding to play a video game in the PC room. It looks like Yoongi isn’t too familiar with parts of it and yet, funnily enough, later down the line he still wins against Jimin after Seokjin comes to see what they’re doing. His explanation is that he just wanted to show Yoongi how not to play, easy. They’re so funny together! And while they’re playing in the PC room, Seokjin plays Mario Kart on the TV while eating grapes and doing his own commentary while talking about himself in the third person. It’s hilarious, even more so when he gets frustrated and ‘disappointed’ with Seokjin for losing. He’s loud enough that even Jimin and Yoongi hear him.

Namjoon on the other hand finished his workouts for the day and returned to his room to take the selca he posted back in July. Afterward he showers and decides to sit down and paint. Earlier on in the episode JK noted how there is a blank canvas in all of their rooms as well as paint. Namjoon notes later on how he thought about learning to properly paint and how he had this vision in his head of what he wanted to paint, but since he has no technique and no understanding of paint, it didn’t turn out the way he wanted it to. And while he’s painting, Hobi is in his room studying english diligently. I think this might be one of the first times, if I remember right, that we actually see one of the members studying, so far we’d mostly just heard about it.

After finishing their tennis game, JK and Tae decide to drive around on the ATVs while sharing one, laughing and having lots of fun. They race past Yoongi who’s on his way to the basketball hoop where he’s joined by Jimin and we get to watch as Yoongi gradually corrects whatever he thought Jimin was doing wrong that prevented him from getting the ball through the hoop. Their dynamic really is so interesting, while some of the other members indulge Jimin at times, when the question arrises of why Jimin couldn’t get the ball into the hoop, the answer is simply that he’s not good at it, and while Jimin says his way of doing something is cute, Yoongi just flat out tells him that it isn’t so. It’s just so very...them.

The basketball practice gets interrupted by loud repeating bang, bang, bang, which turns out to be Tae with a paintball gun. Having those was his idea, an activity they could all do together or in smaller groups, which also ends up happening here. At first Tae sets up a few empty bottles on his own and manages to hit them really, really well, and then he’s gradually joined by Jimin, Yoongi and Hobi. Side note - when Hobi arrives he has a camera around his neck but throughout the episode we don’t get to see him take any photos with it. Anyway, they eventually split into two teams--Tae and Yoongi vs Jimin and Hobi--and play taking turns. Some are better than others but they all laugh and have fun just the same.

Seokjin announces that he’s hungry and thus begins the preparing for and then eating dinner portion of the episode. He goes to the kitchen to have a look around before going outside to fetch two portions of giant clams which, with some feedback from Yoongi who joins him for preparations, he prepares in some salted water.

While they’re in the kitchen, Namjoon moves to sit on one of the beanbags with a book he starts to read out loud and we get one of the funniest moments of the episode in form of the quiet of Namjoon’s reading being interrupted as JK runs past behind him while singing Dynamite and then, after a quiet pause, the sound of the trampoline. Namjoon looks over confused and we see JK and Jimin jumping around on it, giggling, before boing joined by Tae and thus jumping around as trio. Jimin and JK also show off some flips which truly was super impressive. Personally I’d be way too scared to even try.

After the excitement of jumping around we get a quiet moment when Jimin joins Namjoon on the beanbag and then wonder what they’ll do the next day and marvel at the pretty sky.

The night arrives and we get to see dinner preparations in full force with Seokjin asking JK to help him with the clams, as well as carry the chopsticks and plates outside, which he does. The two of them then wonder how exactly they should grill the clams, and later also if they should open them or leave them, to which Hobi points out that they should open on their own and then can’t force them open well anyway. Yoongi cooks something which he lets Seokjin try, who points out that it turned out quite spicy, with which Yoongi doesn’t necessarily agree but he adds water anyway to dilute the spiciness a little.

In the meantime Tae sings some karaoke and is later on joined by JK so they can sing something as duet. So, how about that JK and Tae subunit song sometime?

While the clams continue to get grilled, the members decide to begin dinner with some hanwoo meat which they praise very highly (because it apparently really is amazing, but also because it’s one of the ITS sponsors). Before they get to it though, their peace is once more disrupted by bugs, Tae getting scared and backing away from a giant one while Hobi also gets surrounded, as well as Namjoon. Tae hides behind JK and then gently pushes him toward the bug so he can see it and ideally get rid of it. Truly the difference between how freaked out Tae, Hobi and Namjoon are while JK and Yoongi are completely unbothered will never not be funny.

The meat vanishes rather quickly, Seokjin at one point asking if there’s any more with first Namjoon offering him some, which he might not have noticed/heard, as well as Hobi doing the same as a joke with the meat he just put into his own mouth. They note how they aren’t fast eaters and yet if you don’t pay attention, everything is gone, which leads them to remembering a story about drumsticks from back when they were trainees, a story Seokjin has told about Namjoon many times over the years. 

Once the meat is all gone, they wonder if the clams are ready and Seokjin decides to volunteer JK as a tester. He doesn’t seem to mind though and, after taking a bite, decides that they’re good and the other members dig in as well. JKs signature angry brows and expression make an appearance during dinner as well meaning it really must’ve been amazing. And like that’s not enough food just yet, Tae goes inside to cook some chapaguri.

While Tae is gone, JK also excuses himself to go back to his room to feed Bam who also needs to eat his dinner. Waking up from his sleep, he’s happy to see JK and enthusiastically eats his food while JK sits next to him and films him with one of the cameras that were standing in his room.

Upon Tae’s return to the table with the chapaguri, Jimin uses his very loud stomach voice to call JK back to the table, who in the meantime laid down on the sofa in his room. JK decides to take Bam with him though Seokjin calls over that it might not be the best idea since it smells a lot like meat but JK claims Bam has no idea what meat smells like so it shouldn’t be an issue. And it really turns out to be fine. Unlike many dogs, Bam doesn’t even get close to the dinner table at all and instead walks around close to the deck having a look around.

At some point the members talk about their pets, starting with Hobi who mentions how Micky has lost his sight, something ARMY have also seen happen gradually through updates from Hobi as well as his sister, and JK says the same is also the case for Guruem. Seokjin notes that Jjangu can’t see for more than two years now which leads the members to remembering the time when Seokjin found out about his passing which happened to be right when they were at a music show where they were meant to record/perform MIC DROP. Seokjin had been crying and inconsolable so they performed just once without rehearsals and everything to get it done, and Seokjin had managed to hold it in for the duration of that performance. As ARMY it’s interesting to hear this story so many years later and to recall how back when this happened, ARMY did notice that Seokjin looked off, most though simply thinking he might’ve been sick or something instead. But unfortunately that hadn’t been the case.

After this sad memory we see Seokjin deciding to try if when he runs, if Bam will join him, which he does, which is followed by Yoongi also getting up to play with him, which the members comment as Yoongi looking like an old man with Bam.

While the members were talking and remembering old times, Namjoon disappeared inside on his own and started playing a video game on the TV. Looking inside through the window they notice Namjoon’s funny expression while he’s concentrated and Hobi tries to take a picture, though he concludes that his expression changed in the meantime and isn’t quite as funny anymore. The six decide that tomorrow they want to play foot volleyball together, as well as playing in the PC room later that evening.

Yoongi notes how usually he doesn’t game, but when he’s with the members, he does. And how seeing them happy makes him happy. This truly is so Yoongi, and it also reminds me of what he said in season one about how he doesn’t like fishing that much but he still enjoys going with Seokjin because he knows it makes Seokjin happy.

While they game, JK is back in his room to clean Bam’s paws and eventually JK falls asleep on the sofa while Bam lies on the floor next to him and it looks like he’s having a great time chewing on what appears to be a pillow. Very puppy/young dog like of him, adorable. Namjoon though is still in the TV room though he moved on from games to karaoke and sings song after song by himself before eventually being joined by Tae, who sings along with him, and later on by Jimin, who quietly sits next to him and nods along. 

And with that the episode ends.

Opinions and thoughts?

Much the way it was during In the SOOP season one, a lot happens in an episode, and it was very much the case with this episode. But, despite that, it didn’t feel chaotic (even if it might read that way) or like it was too much. There were lots of funny moments, quieter ones, as well as a few moments of thoughtfulness. And some thirst ones. Bam was a cutie once more, still the star of this season no doubt, yet the feeling I had during the previous episode about how ITS season two lacks a bit of that close to nature charm is still kind of the case here as well. Despite the fact that the members did lots of outdoors activities.

Something I liked though was how we’ve seen Tae with his trumpet, Hobi studying english, Namjoon doing things more for himself, basically these moments of more of an adult life peaking in through the air of fun group vacation that’s packaged as family friendly program. It’s good to see them enjoy both the times when they do things together in smaller groups or duos/trios, but also do something on their own since it’s such a realistic thing and I’m glad we get to see that. I know some have tried to twist the fact that some members chose to do things on their own in some kind of negative way, but it would be far weirder if they’d truly constantly stick onto each other and do things as seven. That would just be immensely draining for them, which anyone can confirm who’s ever been on a trip with a larger group. Sometimes you just need some alone time and that has nothing to do with how much you enjoy spending time with the rest of the group and how much you love them.

Overall it was a nice and fun episode with lots of activities, a really pleasant watch. It’s easy to see how much fun the members are having and how much they’re enjoying their time there so that adds to the enjoyment of the viewer, a lot. I’m very curious for the next episode.

Check out my post for episode one or continue on to episode three (post coming next Saturday). 

[jeagerism]

on the tuesday that george begins to admit to himself that he feels differently about you, it's freezing.

the ac in your shared apartment has been off for weeks at that point, leaving the both of you to shuffle towards the living room earlier on in the day; wrapped in fluffy blankets normally kept on the middle shelf in the hall, torsos bundled up in hoodies—his some old one dream had sent him ages ago, yours one he'd let you borrow after seeing the way you'd shivered in the thin sweater you often inhabited.

george had decided to move out of his mom's house earlier that fall, after he'd endured just as much teasing from sapnap and dream as he could handle. he'd found an apartment easy—mostly thanks to the help of his two friends—but affording one on his own was the issue.

he'd eyed the bright red price marking on his monitor with disdain, and had immediately shut down any attempts dream had at paying for him. his teasing had always been annoying, but george also knew he'd done more than he could thank him for already; he'd traced his finger over the tiny ceramic elephant he kept on his desk.

george had nearly been at his wit's end when sapnap had suggested looking for a roommate. and it had seemed like a good idea; he'd be allowed to pick and choose who it was, analyze what type of person they'd be, if he wanted to share his space for the next year with that person.

which was how he'd met you.

of the few applications george had gotten—from an ad he'd spent hours pouring over, writing and rewriting until it was just right—he'd come back to yours the most. nothing much had stood out about the others, and even less about your own; you'd said you didn't make much mess, that you were still in college, so most nights were spent inside of your room studying.

the next day, he'd watched his phone ring against the counter of the painfully empty apartment, biting at the corner of his nails in nervousness. the thought of hanging up had crossed his mind just before you'd answered, a strange sort of crackle echoing throughout his spot in the kitchen as you let out a short, "hello?"

which was how you'd gotten here. three months later, the fall weather having tumbled it's way into cold, frigid nights and frustratingly windy days. george had spent so much time curled up on the corner of the couch—a couch you'd dragged him to buy on your fourth day here, something about the emptiness being saddening—that he's sure there's a permanent imprint of his form in the cushions. the heat in his room had stopped working the first week of winter; in some way, he thinks it had been a warning.

he'd been facing the television, back against the soft material of the cushions, when his shoulders had gotten strangely cold. a short walk over towards the air conditioning had confirmed his suspicions—the heater had broken, and even after waiting another hour to try again, it had remained a blank, glowing blue screen.

and now, he's here, pressed into the corner of the couch, material sinking under the weight of him trying his best to snuggle into any warmth the cushions may be hiding. you've been sat across from him since earlier that morning, feet tucked underneath you for any sort of heat, hands shoved into the hoodie he'd given you—whenever you move, which isn't very often due to conserving as much body heat as you can, he sees the stitched red logo of his channel against the grey fabric.

minutes into another rerun of some reality show that plays on the television, you speak. "it's cold." it's muffled, george notices, probably due to the way your nose is dug into the bunched material of the hoodie. he hums out an agreement, glancing sadly at his laptop resting atop the coffee table, mere inches away. he thinks of risking it, but as soon as he feels the biting cold against parts of his skin, all thoughts of this go out the window. editing could wait, even if he had to suffer through another shitty fight between two annoyingly loud cast members.

"like, unbearably cold." george likes you. you're a good friend, and you'd been willing to put up with his strange schedule from the moment you'd moved in. he'd never had to ask you to clean up any of your mess, and there were even times when you'd offered to take his turn at dishes when he'd had a lot on his plate. there was nothing to complain about when it came to you, so much so that he'd practically sung praises of you on late night calls with sapnap and dream.

george had even mentioned you on stream once, albeit accidentally, on an occasion where he'd been smiling from ear to ear at the fact that you'd brought him some sort of baked treat—"you look like you needed food, and i doubt you'd look away from your computer too much to eat a full meal"—but nonetheless.

it was with burning cheeks that he'd realised he'd never asked you if that was okay. to admit your presence to hundreds of thousands of people, people you didn't know and that didn't know you, but would obsess over any deal of information about you if it came from george's lips. but, you'd brushed it off with ease when he'd mentioned it, laughing with a soft, "it's perfectly fine, george. you tell them about a lot of your friends, don't you? i'm not any different." and after a beat, you'd stood from your chair, wood scuffing against tile, and had winked at him. "plus, georgenotfound talking about me? i should be flattered, huh?"

george is pretty sure he'd spent the rest of the night thinking about that; quackity had made fun of the way he'd kept zoning out, the way his jackbox answers had been considerably less funny that night.

so he did like you, even if he wasn't so sure what that meant. he knew he liked the way you played songs he liked on cleaning days. that he liked when you'd join him on the couch while he edited videos. bought the kind of soda he liked, even if you didn't. he thinks your spectacular, in the kind of way that makes him feel wide awake, like he's been shocked full of energy from knowing you. he thinks you look pretty in the morning time, stepping out the door for class; at night when you've been stressed over coursework.

the episode ends and another starts in the time it takes george to finally open his mouth to speak. "we could move closer." it's the first thing he's said since he'd asked if you'd wanted coffee earlier, voice as hoarse now from hours of being unused as it had been from the hands of sleep still holding onto him. his arms feel sore as he moved them out—he ignores the stinging cold that nips at his knuckles. a few seconds skip by of silence, his neck swarming with an uncomfortable sort of prickling.

"or no-"

"no! uh, no i mean, that's", george watches the couch dip with your knee dug into it, shuffling your body closer to his until you're fit against his side, pressing his arm against the back of the pillows, "that's good."

"yeah?" you're warm. the heat coming from your body spreads over him like a wildfire—he doesn't mind being burned. for the first time since he'd sent that angry email to your landlord, fueled with the desperate shivering that had taken on his body, he's glad that the heater had broken. he supposes this—george feels your arms wrap a little higher around him, head lean back against his shoulder—was worth the last week of freezing his ass off.

some building sense of courage towers in his chest, gathers in his throat, "hey, i want—"

and george watches as you look at him. what does he want? if he thinks about it, he wants to tell you that he thinks you're wonderful. that he likes that you let him use your shampoo when he runs out. that he remembered the night you'd watched all the austin powers movies with him because he'd been sad, even when you'd had school the next day. he wants to do just as much as you'd done for him in the three months he's known you, more than he could ever repay you for.

another part of him, a part that's selfish and wanting and probably a little too high off of the warmth he's been missing since he'd woken up—wants to kiss you.

he wants to.

so he does.

prompt taken from here : "the landlord still hasn’t repaired the heater in our apartment and we’re already wearing several layers of clothes, we need to find other ways to keep warm"

[multimetaverse]

HSMTMTS 2x10 Review

The Transformation was a slow but sweet ep. Let’s dig in!

Seblos was lovely tonight. In A Heartbeat was a great song and really suited Frankie’s voice. Very refreshing to see two gay guys discuss their relationship issues openly with their friends. It was a pleasant surprise to see Seb admit that he worries that Carlos is only with him because he’s the only other out gay guy at East High; it’s a deeper moment than this show is usually capable of depicting. And of course, we got another historic first with the first time a boy has sung a love song to another boy on Disney (Big Shot claimed the first same-sex love song when it had Mouse sing to Harper). 

It was also important that they had Ricky tell Carlos that he and Seb had something worth fighting for and that he helped Carlos write the song and provided guitar and back-up vocals. Having Ricky, the male lead of the series, get so involved both helps raise the importance of the story line within the episode itself and send a clear message to the audience that the story line is important and worthy of attention. For all it’s flaws the openness with which HSMTMTS has depicted the Seblos story line has been a real victory for lgbtq rep on Disney. 

There was some really lame Disney censorship tonight. The word gay clearly wasn’t allowed to be said tonight which is ridiculous since the word has already been used in the show. Not to mention the absurdity of allowing two boys to discuss their romantic relationship and then have one of them sing a love song to the other while drawing the line at someone using the word gay. It’s just completely bizarre reasoning on Disney’s part, homophobic audience members would have stopped watching HSMTMTS a hell of a long time ago; and it’s not like any homophobes would sit through a boy singing a love song to another boy but then quit watching if they hear the word gay said aloud. We also didn’t get a kiss at the end which almost certainly would have happened if this had been a straight couple love song. Though it wouldn’t surprise me if a same-sex kiss is a once a season only kind of thing given Disney restrictions. 

Portwell also had a great ep. The risotto call back was an excellent way for EJ to ask Gina out for real this time. Loved seeing EJ mirroring Gina’s, ‘’not that I know of’’, line from last ep as it shows how similar their personalities are. Nice to see the gang gossiping about them, noticing their moments, and encouraging them to get together just like real friends would do in that situation. I also appreciate that the gang’s reactions  quickly shut down the commonly heard objections to romantic Portwell: that EJ and Gina are somehow blood relatives by proxy because Ashlyn considers Gina a sister, that Gina lives with Ashlyn, that EJ is graduating. All of them swiftly knocked down and Ashlyn who knows Gina and EJ best gives them her blessing. The real reason Gina and EJ were hesitant to put themselves out there again is because they are still traumatized from being rebounds for the Rini love story. But now both have gathered the courage to take their second chance at a relationship.

Ricky was great tonight. He handled that weird Lily call pretty well. And EJ saying that letting Nini go was the best thing he did for really hit Ricky so he correctly decided not to song Let You Go to Nini. He really came through with Carlos, loved their little friendship and the bro moments which again are so important to see because Ricky is the male lead of the series. That Carlos/Ricky hug was touching, you could tell Ricky really needed that hug. We won’t get bi Ricky obviously but little moments like him calling EJ pretty boy are fun. 

Lmao at Kourtney’s love language being gifts, music, flattery, and begging. Also lol at Howie being so willing to sell out North High. We know from the 2x12 photos that Kowie will be fine in the long run.

Ricky and Ashlyn don’t seem to have any chemistry. At least we now know how Ricky sprained his wrist but what happens to Ashlyn?

Nini is clearly not entirely over Ricky. It would be funny if Gina speaking her truth ends up being clearing the air with Nini

Natalie is back! She really dipped after the New Year’s party

Jenzzara therapy session was too funny. They’re so different but really do have a lot in common deep down.

Clearly money was starting to get tight and this ep was designed as a money-saver.

Looking Ahead:

EJ’s Gaston make up looks terrible! He looks more like Gaston without it

So is next week gonna basically count as the Menkies? Wonder who the judge is. Realistically East High shouldn’t win but we’ll see if they pull a win out because they’re the protagonists. 

There’s a good chance that the song Second Chances in the finale is sung by the core four. Second Chances fits perfectly with Portwell but less so for Rini. Especially since it’s very hard to see Rini getting back together so soon, maybe they just have a nice conversation that clears the air between them. 

Gina and Ricky certainly need to talk sometime in the remaining two eps but it’s very difficult to see any realistic way for them to get together this season especially with a Portwell kiss having been teased. Also it’s clear that Lily is the party crasher in the finale so they’re planning something between her and Ricky (maybe we see Lily try to earn a second chance at East High?)

Wonder if Something There will end up being used for Jenzzara.

Until next week Wildcats