#he is right about 99% of things‚ arguing with him is not smart

[classicintp]

Can't stand it when professionals have objectively bad takes but they're legitmately professionals and you're just some guy. You recognize this, you acknowledge it, you even appreciate it in the appropriate context, but it's so fucking infuriating. Even if the professional is humble and concedes to your point, which is usually not going to happen to even the humble in general unless it's a correction directly being witnessed, you still have their diehard fans demonizing you because you proved their idol wrong (even if you weren't pompous or obnoxious about it, just the idea that their beloved expert was human and made an error drives them mad). So I white-knuckle it and say nothing and then log into Tumblr and blurt it out in the tags.

[itsclydebitches]

Can we talk about how asinine it is making Jaune the heart when apparently from what CRWBY has said, he’s supposed to be building up to killing Penny? They say his character journey is doing morally grey things but he literally does the fucking exact opposite of morally grey. He goes for the much more emotional choices of saving the people and Oscar, and then suddenly becomes pragmatic enough to kill Penny? HOW THE FUCK ARE YOU THIS BAD AT WRITING?

Based on what I've seen online (haven't listened to the commentary myself) the comment seems to be:

There were many small, quiet moments for Jaune that shows he is willing to do the hard thing since he still has a job to do. And that carried through to the ultimate moment with him and Penny.

I assume this is very close to what was actually said, if not an exact quote, given that I've found at least two separate posters with this exact phrasing. And yeah, though "willing to do the hard thing" isn't exactly the same as "morally gray" that still didn't happen? In Volume 8, 99% of the time, Jaune either a) straight up does not have "small, quiet moments... that shows he is willing to do the hard thing" or b) he does something hard, but it's indistinguishable from the hard thing others are simultaneously doing, making it useless as a means of setting up his specific encounter with Penny. To break down the basic plot:

Jaune goes to help Mantle just like Oscar, Ren, Yang, and the Happy Huntresses do. That's a hard job, but one every non-Amity fighter is engaging in.

Jaune doesn't fight the Hound. I just re-watched that encounter and though people are right to point out how ridiculous it was for them all to stand around during the transformation/attack one at a time, at least Ren and Yang made an attempt. Jaune only unsheathes his weapons, but otherwise doesn't move. Instead, his job (from a storytelling standpoint) is to comment first on how grimm aren't supposed to be this smart and seconds later express horror that it spoke. Here, Jaune is cueing us in to the group's emotional state and clarifying for the audience the ways this fight is abnormal, but from an in-world perspective he basically freezes. Jaune is not doing the job here. He's terrified and explicitly not doing the hard thing. This severely undermines Ren's later comment as well as the crew's.

I would have argued that Jaune does the opposite of the job by choosing Oscar over Mantle – choosing their friend is emotionally easier than choosing their responsibility to the civilians – but Jaune doesn't make any decisions here. Yang is the one who rides off and responds to Fiona's call, making it clear that they won't be heading to the next spot to help.

Jaune walks away from Ren in the snow. The hard thing, specifically the hard thing relating to "he still has a job to do," would be to agree that they could have done better and that they need to change for the good of the world. The job demands they put aside their discomfort and disagreement and, frankly, ego to strive for a compromise with Ironwood. Instead, Jaune ignores Ren's points, provides a non-related pep talk, tries to comfort Yang about Ruby, and then that's all done.

Jaune offers the compromise to go after Oscar while still allowing the Ace Ops to drop the bomb if necessary. This is indeed a hard decision that keeps the larger goal in mind. This is the one time in the Volume where I'd say yeah, Jaune made a tough call. However, even that isn't a sacrifice. It's not pragmatic. He's still prioritizing Oscar, he just intends to get him out before the Ace Ops take action to protect everyone else. If the window hadn't been available, it's highly unlikely he would have been willing to sacrifice Oscar for the greater good. Now, we can debate whether that prioritization is heroic or not, but in a discussion about how Jaune got to a point where he was willing to kill someone, it's kind of important whether, just hours before, he's upholding one life over thousands. Oscar is essentially the test run and Jaune said, "Saving the individual is more important than saving the larger whole." With Penny, it's suddenly reversed.

Jaune is very courageous for heading into the whale despite the threat of Salem... so what are Yang and Ren? Chopped liver?

There are no meaningful interactions between Jaune and Salem. Yang is the one who calls Salem out on her nonsense.

Jaune helps Ruby heal Penny rather than letting her sacrifice herself. Again, that's a very good thing, but the opposite of what he'll eventually do in an hour, or however long it was.

Jaune attacks Ironwood once because the whole fight is less than a minute long.

He gathers the civilians for evacuation.

...Then he kills Penny.

Jaune straight up did not have a journey of making small, quiet, hard decisions because the job needed to get done. He did everything everyone else did, with the exception of when he did things that overtly contrast this claim, and one time where he sort of straddled the line. And if we don't have this journey for Jaune, if there's no reason for him as a character to make such a pragmatic act, then all we're left with is the assumption that killing Penny was the only option left. Yet as we've discussed to death, RWBY failed to persuasively write that kind of scenario. So, what we're left with is a Jaune who quite randomly became that level of pragmatic... when he didn't have to. Honestly, at this point I just don't think RT is capable of viewing their work with any real distance. It seems like they want to accomplish certain things, largely fail to do so, but then read their own intentions in the work, filling in the gaps much like the fans do with headcanons. Whereas they (apparently) look at Jaune and still see a journey they'd tried to write, we're looking at what actually ended up on screen and the two aren't matching up. And, of course, this is far from the first time this has happened. As the continually easy example, RT was apparently writing Volume 8 with Ironwood's semblance in mind, they just forgot to put that semblance in the show. It may well be that they wrote Penny's death with Jaune's development in mind, they just forgot to include the development too.

[arvandus]

So hopefully I got in on time! Btw, I’ve been absolutely loving your HC’s, the stutter one was friggin adorable! I love soft Dabi, there’s not much of him out there in stories 😢

Anyway! I was wondering if you could do HC’s with Dabi for someone who may be deaf or just hard of hearing? Ifff your comfortable, I would love to see what he would do for a male s/o (or platonic friend/league member, etc, whichever you choose!) If you don’t want to do this it’s completely fine and you can switch it to ambiguous/female (I don’t know if you have ever done men before haha!)

Hello! I’m so flattered for this ask because you’re trusting me to portray something that’s personal to you and outside of my own experience. I can absolutely do this with a Male Reader (my first one!).

I’m not sure what type or level of hearing loss you had in mind, so I did my best with this and went with an acquired hearing loss that’s moderate-to-severe. Also, I wrote Reader as someone who wears hearing aids. I hope that’s all right, since that’s typically the case for those with more severe hearing loss (otherwise communication is really difficult to do, since I don’t suspect Dabi would know sign language). Also, I got a couple of cute ideas that I really wanted to fit into this that follow more of a friends-to-lovers sort of vibe rather than established relationship. Anyway, I hope you enjoy!


Headcanons for Dabi x M!Reader who’s Deaf/Hard of Hearing (HOH)

Warnings: None.

Word Count: 1240

💙 When you first join the LOV, Dabi will be skeptical at first, as he is with all things. How could someone with a hearing loss really be of any value to the league? He can’t help but wonder what skills you’re bringing to the table to that convinced Shigaraki to allow you to join.

💙 Dabi doesn’t interact with you right away... he prefers to observe. Part of it is that he doesn’t care for attachments, even amongst his comrades. Another is that he doesn’t expect you to last very long in the League. If he does interact, it’ll be through snarky quips and insults. After all, he loves getting under other people’s skin... it makes him feel like has an advantage.

💙 So, it goes without saying that Dabi will be a hard nut to crack at first. He’ll definitely have some crappy preconceived notions about people with hearing loss that he’ll get to face as he’s forced to get to know you.

💙 For example, he learns super fast that your hearing has little to do with your intelligence. You’re fucking smart and more than capable of handling yourself, much to his surprise. You quickly become an important member of the team, and even Dabi can’t really argue your value. It only makes his interest in you grow, his skepticism giving way to curiosity.

💙 Another thing he learns about you... you value your independence and hate when others coddle or dote on you due to your hearing loss. The first time Toga had tried to treat you as something fragile (granted she was trying to be nice), you’d quickly put her in her place. Dabi couldn’t help but grin at that exchange...

💙 The great thing about Dabi sitting back and observing everyone else most of the time is that he gets to learn by proxy how to interact with you.

💙 Don’t mumble or talk too fast. Don’t look away when talking to you. Talk more clearly, and slower, but for God’s sake, don’t treat you like you’re dumb. You’re hard of hearing, not stupid.

💙 Even with all of that taken into consideration though, he’ll notice that while you seem to do fine in one-on-one exchanges in quiet environment, you’ll withdraw more in group gatherings. Is the chattering of multiple voices too much? Is the noise overwhelming? Even he can’t always tolerate the prattling of the social butterflies of the group, so he wouldn’t blame you if it got under your skin too.

💙 His interest will finally be piqued when he watches you retreat during a rather boisterously loud game night amongst the League. He’ll follow quietly behind you, watching as you pass your own room in favor of the stairwell leading up to the rooftop.

💙 You don’t notice he’s followed you until he sits next to you. Your eyes betray your surprised at his presence.

💙 “What are you doing here?” you demand.

💙 He’ll give you a grin and a cock of his head. “You didn’t seem like you were havin’ much fun back there. Got anything to do with these?” he’ll tap your hearing aid playfully.

💙 You huff at him. “If you want me to hear you better, you’ll need to sit on my other side. My hearing aid battery died.”

💙 “You don’t have a backup?” he asks as he adjusts his position.

💙 You shake your head.

💙 “Doesn’t sound too bad.” He’ll tease. “I wish I could turn off my ears, especially when Toga laughs.”

💙 You give him a glare at his insensitive comment. “You don’t know what the hell you’re talking about.”

💙 He raises an eyebrow at you and think for a moment, before looking back out over the cityscape. “Why don’tcha tell me about it then.”

💙 You give him a skeptical look but he waits silently for you to continue. His smirk is gone as his sharp eyes glance back at you. He's serious.

💙 You’ll finally open up to him, explaining how hard it can be sometimes. How noisy environments can make your hearing aids nearly useless when the noise is too much, when everyone is talking at once. How frustrating it is to not be able to follow a conversation let alone participate, and how it can sometimes make people assume things about you. At best, they’ll assume you can hear fine with your hearing aids and therefore assume you’re being aloof or don’t want to interact. At worst, they’ll think your slow or stupid, and look at you with pity.

💙 Dabi will listen, but he won’t offer much up except sarcastic remarks about the others in an attempt to make you feel better. After all, sympathy isn’t his strong suit. But you’ll find yourself feeling better by the end, just grateful to be able to vent to someone.

💙 When you smile at him and tell him thanks for listening, it’ll take him by surprise. Not because of your reaction – he expected that, at least. What’ll surprise him is his reaction to it – a strange sense of satisfaction will wash over him, filling him with an unfamiliar warmth. He realizes - a moment too late, before he can bring down his barriers - that he likes seeing you smile, especially when it’s at him.

💙 You’ll feel slightly closer after that, finding more opportunities to hang out on the quiet rooftop and chat.

💙 He’ll surprise you on your next visit with a brand-new pack of hearing aid batteries. You’ll give him a suspicious look, asking where he got them and how he knew what kind to get you, but he’ll give you a wicked grin and brush off your question with an evasive comment.

💙 It won’t take long for you to start developing a crush on him, and against your better judgment, you find yourself staring at him a lot more and finding ways to be around him more. Hanging out at the bar, going on missions together, sitting next to him during the LOV discussions… you try to brush it off as ‘becoming friends,’ but deep down you know better.

💙 It doesn’t take long for Dabi to take notice and begin to suspect that maybe… just maybe… all of your secret glances and increased attention aren’t strictly platonic.

💙 What a wonderful turn of events. He wasn’t sure if you were interested in men, but now he’s 99% sure you are... or at the very least, interested in him.

💙 It leaves his skin feeling hotter than usual, his heart pounding in his chest with excitement. He wonders if you know... or even suspect... that he watches you too in mutual attraction.

💙 He’ll start testing the waters, just to make sure, of course. Hit you with a few flirty nicknames to see how you react. As soon as he sees you fluster and flounder in obvious embarrassment, he’ll know he’s got you, and it makes your exchanges only that much more entertaining.

💙 The more he learns about you, the more interested he becomes. He’ll start to do research on ways to support you with your hearing loss. It’ll be purely out of curiosity, of course... it’s not like he’s gonna go out of his way or anything. But he ends up finding himself down the rabbit hole of hearing aid supports, and learns about Bluetooth capabilities, FM systems, infrared systems... ways to send targeted noise – like speech for instance – straight to your hearing aids, bypassing any pesky background noise.

💙 It won’t take long for him to get an idea – two birds with one stone, so to speak...

💙 You’ll be on the rooftop together, when he says, “I gotta surprise for ya.”

💙 He pulls out a box that’s labelled ‘Dynamic FM System.’

💙 If you try to reach for it though, he’ll hold it out of your reach. “ah ah ah... we gotta find the right place to try it out.”

💙 He’ll lead you downstairs and you’ll think he’s heading to the common space where the others are, but instead he takes you outside of the hideout, leading you down the street.

💙 “Where are we going?”

💙 “You’ll see.”

💙 The two of you will end up outside of a bar. Not just any bar, though… the line of patrons is already a huge hint of what you’ll find inside.

💙 “Wait isn’t this….?” You’ll start.

💙 Dabi will only smirk at you though, before he grabs your hand and leads you in.

💙 Inside will be loud. So loud you have to turn down the volume on your hearing aids, and too loud for you to hear anything of value. But as you look around, your suspicions are confirmed - instead of the usual opposite sexes pairing up like you find at most bars, this one is different. Men are pairing up with men, women are pairing up with women. Your heart is beating like a drum in your chest, your pulse racing with excitement. Of all the places for Dabi to bring you…

💙 You keep close to Dabi, holding onto his arm. He loves that, loves that you’re looking to him for protection. And protect you he does, his eyes threatening violence to anyone who stares too long at you.

💙 He’ll sit you down at the bar with him in the center of the noise while drunken gay couples flirt over their drinks and a group of girls laugh in the corner. He’ll say something to the bartender, and a minute later, two fresh drinks are place before the two of you.

💙 He won’t try to talk to you yet as he opens the box and begins taking out all of the pieces. He’ll plug in the small, cylinder-like component into your hearing aid - the receiver. He’ll be completely up in your space when he does it too, grinning at you with his ocean blue eyes. In his hand he holds the transmitter that contains a button with a microphone on it.

💙 Once everything is hooked up properly, he’ll speak into the mic, his finger on the button.

💙 “Hey there.” He says. His voice comes through crystal clear.

💙 “Hey.” You smile.

💙 Once Dabi knows you can hear him, his devilish grin will widen and he’ll lean casually against the bar counter as he stares at you, his eyes drinking you in. “Have I ever told you how hot you are?”

💙 That’s when it finally clicks… Dabi is actually interested in you. And he’s taken you out on a date.

💙 BONUS: If the bar scene ends up being too much for you, he’ll be more than happy to spend the rest of your date on your favorite rooftop spot with some take-out. 10/10 will kiss you by the end of the date.

[jessiebanethedragon]

White Sands Warm the Cold Sea (pt 10)

Summary: the reader, betrothed to a disgusting Coruscanti Lord flees her home world and lands herself in a plethora of trouble, a ship of clones, and one pirate captain whose cold exterior needs much more than the tropical seaside sun.

Chapter one

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter four

Chapter five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Warnings: Swearing, takes place in time periods where women have dowery's and suchlike. The readers' dad and betrothed are asses.

Chapter Ten: The Echo

Greeting your companions the next morning was just as awkward as bidding them goodnight after the debacle last night. You’re stiff, bruised, and the dirtiest you’ve ever been in your whole life. Lightly retying the corset to support yourself, you collect Gonk from where she’s curled in the Hammock and brace yourself before heading out onto the deck of the ship. It’s already very bright out, and the crew is as rambunctious as ever. With the Captain throwing orders around here and there, Tech and Wrecker working the sails, and Crosshair shouting back down to Hunter. It’s marvellous how they work together when they're not disagreeing about something.

You feel Gonk leap off your shoulder with a curious noise before bounding away, her speckled wings bouncing behind her. She looks clumsy for a lizard, but then again, how many lizards did you know that have feathers?

“Good Morning!” Wrecker shouts to you when he notices your figure. You give him a smile and a small wave. Tech returns your smile and watches you as you glance around. Appreciating the sea and the vessel you’ve found yourself on.

The water of the Corillian run is a rich blue with just enough green to look magical. And the waves the churn underneath you look more powerful than any carriage or speeder you’ve seen before. Just as you’re wondering how deep it is, there's a commotion behind you. Hunter is glaring deadly at Gonk, who’s held by her neck feathers in front of his face. And from the way her wings are flapping and her front claws grab at him, it's no mystery where she was, or where she’s trying to go.

“I’m sorry!” You say, gathering your skirts and rushing over. The Captain glares at you as he shoves her into your arms, her grey feathers bunching up as he does so. His tunic is rolled up again, and in the morning light you can see the symbols on his forearm more clearly. Traitor.

When the wooden ruler collided with your desk you yelped in fear and surprise. Was it the first time this had happened? Absolutely not, and if these lessons continued this way, it certainly wouldn't be the last.

“Pay. Attention.” The Pantoran woman growled at you, she was very smart. You could just tell, and the fact she was instructed to dumb down your education infruiated the both of you. “As I was saying…” She eyed you - a dare to look out the window and start daydreaming again.

“Teach me about the war.” You blurted out the statue of the emperor they were erecting, catching your eye again.

“This is a language class.” She said with a sigh, before placing the ruler down. “I’m guessing you want to know about the Clones.”

“How did you kn-”

“It’s all anyone ever talks about.” She interrupted you, which was shocking in itself, but not unwelcome. Perching herself on the birch coloured desk, you found her staring out the window as well.“It’s well known that there was scarcely a better soldier than a Kaminoan Clone. And so when the war came to its end, and the Jedi went rouge, well they hardly stood a chance. Those who sided with them were caught and killed or branded traitors. Why they let any of them survive is beyond me, but those clones were so fiercely loyal. Some of them just couldn't shake that. No matter how hard the Kaminoans or the Emperor tried, there were millions of them, and some…” She paused for a moment, glancing back at the door as if someone was watching you through it.

“Well even if an inhibitor chip is 99.99% effective, out of one million, there will still be one hundred defects.”

You try to stop staring, you really do. But by then Hunter has caught your eye, and is glaring even harder than he was before. Cautiously you take a step back, finding yourself in the company of clones is one thing, those willing to defy Nython, another. But enemies of the Galactic Empire was a different kind of dangerous.

“Courtesy of your betrothed.” The Captain grits out, and whatever softness was there from the night before is gone. Scared, you clutch Gonk to your chest like a child would a blanket. “What did you do?” You ask, looking him up and down. Even with the scars on his knuckles of cuts and burns, He didn't look like the horror stories you’d been told as a kid, in fact, he didn't look dangerous at all. But the symbols were there, scared into his skin some time ago. Something flashes in his brown sugar eyes, like the ping of a blaster bounces off of his iries in the heat of battle. Like he relives combat right in front of you.

“What we did was rescue a prisoner of war.” He spits, walking towards you and backing you into the banister that overlooks the pain part of the deck. “That hammock you’re sleeping in belongs to someone.”

“I’m sorry.” You say trembling. Looking to the side to see Wrecker place a firm hand on his sergeant's shoulder and pull him firmly away from you.

“Echo’s was in the hands of the Techno Union for some time.” Wrecker explains defusing the situation. “He’s waiting for us on Alderaan, after some much needed rest.” Hunter, who’s now swatting Tech - and whatever device he’s trying to scan him with - away, seems to be ignoring you.

“I-I didn’- I didn’t mean…” You tell Wrecker shakily.

“I know, and it’s okay.” He says with a smile, but Hunter's words resonate with you. Haunting you of acts you have had nothing to do with.

In his cabin Hunter throws his hat as hard as he can against the wall. He hates you, he hates the Empire and most of all he hates Nython. And what’s even more infuriating is how innocent you are, how your morales are driving you away from your betrothed, and how you saved the shit disturbing reptile that seems to like himself and yourself too much. And no matter how much Hunter wants to despise the empire, if it’s still filled with people like you, it means there’s still something to fight for. But if he’s being honest with himself, he doesn’t know how much fight he's got left.

☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠ ☠

“What did he mean, courtesy of my betrothed?” You have to walk quickly behind Crosshair in an effort to keep up, his long legs easily outpace you and even though you’re both still injured he moves quickly. You follow him into the storage area that you’re all too familiar with, nearly bumping into him when he stops to look for a specific crate.

“Why don’t you bother Tech with your questions?” Crosshair says pushing boxes around.

“Because you’ll tell me the truth, no sugar coating.” You tell him, nudging him aside with your boot as you lean over to grab what he couldn’t reach. Perhaps being smaller wasn’t a disadvantage after all. Proudly you hand him the strange looking fruit.

“I need the whole crate.” Crosshair tells you unimpressed, before giving you the singular Meiloorun fruit and leaning over the stack of crates again. “And to answer your question, he was talking about the scars on his hand.” You lean against the tower so you can try to read his face as he yanks the crate forward.

“The burns or the wounds?” You ask, mulling over the fruit in your hands.

“Same thing.” Crosshair explains. “From a mission on Kashyyyk, Nython had the whole forest alight, and Hunter got trapped behind a blast door.” He watches as you cover your mouth with one hand as you remember the boasts, the gloat, the pride Nython had when he recounted the battle.

“You should’ve seen it,” There’s awe in Crosshair's voice now. “The Regs wanted to label him MIA, but that's not Hunter, not the Sergeant of ‘Force 99. When the squad hoisted him into that medical bay, he was barely alive.”

“No wonder he hates me.” You breathe, looking at the clone in front of you who shrugs.

“Don’t take it personally, he hates mostly everyone. We all do, it’s…” Crosshair stops and composes himself, like being honest or genuine with you is a weakness. “Nython decimated everything in his path. There’s what? A handful of Wookies left, half of those are thanks to him and all he can think about is how many he didn’t save.” You gently place your fruit on the box Crosshair is standing before you with. “It’s all a bit narcissistic if you ask me.” You smile at Crosshairs sass.

“You’d know.” You counter, trying to ease the tension in the room. “Thank you, for being honest.” You tell him, catching a smirk as he starts up the stairs.

“It’s one of my many endearing qualities.” He says, before shouting to his brothers about something that you don't even bother trying to understand.

With a look back at the hiding spot that you had chosen when you boarded the ship, you start up the stars and get back into the daylight. The captain is still gone, but Tech, Crosshair and Wrecker are each peeling a Meilroon fruit. You smile at them, they look so picturesque right now. The sea in the background and the three of them scraping the tough skin off of the fruits with knives. You’re reminded of children's picture books of pirates mulling over gold.

“Hey! What’s so funny?” Wrecker calls when he sees your big smile. Walking over, You plant yourself on the floor leaning against the banister.

“I half expected you all to break out into a sea shanty.” You tease reaching up to pick up a fruit.

“Ha ha.” Crosshair said dryly, giving you the handle of the knife to take from him to peel your own fruit. “Try not to chuck it at Tech again will ya?” you nod and very carefully start running the blade along the fruit.

“So no sea shanties then?” You ask, popping a piece into your mouth.

“We don’t sing.” Tech states.

“Yeah we do!” Wrecker argues, jamming his knife into the lid of the crate, “we know that one from-”

“Ferrik if you start singing that again.” Crosshair grumbles.

“THERE ONCE WAS A SHIP THAT PUT TO SEA” You all cringe when Wrecker starts shouting rather than singing, both of his brothers shout back simultaneously for him to stop, while you giggle from your spot on the floor. You could almost get used to their company, that and the fresh salty sea air, you are already beginning to enjoy the life of sailing. On the second floor, emerging from the captain's quarters, Hunter generally steps. Even someone without enhanced senses would have heard Wreckers incessant shouting and he has every intent on giving the three of them a lecture when he hears something else entirely.

“There was once a soldier who carried a mighty sword, and he had saved the village, oh lei, oh lai, oh lord.” Your voice accompanies soft taps to the wooden boards to create some kind of beat. The sound stops as soon as it starts.

“Don’t stop on our account.” He hears Tech's voice, and a stealthy Hunter moves to try and get a better view, he wants to know what you’re up to, and if you’re still trying to manipulate his crew.

“I’ve been told I have an atrocious singing voice.”

“It’s better than Wreckers.” Both Crosshair and Tech comment simultaneously. And Hunter hears you let out a half laugh. Some kind of reserved dainty thing that has him rolling his eyes.

“There was once a sailor, he had travelled the globe, his love he was chasing. oh lei, oh lai, oh lord.” You continue tapping again, “And there will come a captain who’s heart is completely pure, he will find those who are lost, oh lei,...” He hears you stop. As something catches your attention. And Hunter takes the opportunity to make an appearance.

You hear the captain’s footsteps before you turn your gaze away from the birds flying alongside the ship. “Who let the Aaray get a’ hold of a knife again?” He says looking down at you, the fruit and the blade. Hesitantly, and with only half of the Meilroon fruit peeled you give the knife back to Crosshair the same way he had originally given it to you. Pointing the handle towards him whilst gently holding the blade.

“I wasn’t going to…” You start.

“Going to what? Try and kill one of my crew again?” Hunter raises an eyebrow as if he’s daring you to disagree. You take a deep breath in, and hoist yourself onto shaky feet. Wrecker gives you a hand when your legs shake still in pain. Letting out your breath you lock eyes with the captain.

“I understand your hatred for that man,” You begin softly.

“No.” He snaps, “you don’t” You plead with his unforgiving eyes, and the way his half tattooed face scrunches in annoyance.

“You can’t be reasoned with.” You say hopelessly, knowing that whatever you say, it won't be enough.

“I should not have to reason with the likes of you.” Hunter bites. And at this point even Wrecker has given up trying to reason with him. Behind you, Tech’s Holopad beeps.

“I am not my Fiance!” You exclaim. “And yet you attribute all of his crimes to me, even the crime of trying to rid myself of Ny-”

Before you can react, Hunter moves fast as lightning, a hand on your throat, his own vibroblade dangerously close to you, bending you against the banister that stops you falling into the abyss alone. The three others brace themselves and when they move to help you, stop at the growl of anger from their sergeant.

“You do not. Say that name. On. My. Ship.” He tells the trembling woman beneath him.

“What happened to you Sergeant?” You breathe out, searching for the man that his brothers seem to think he is. Everything they tell you about him, every ‘he’s not like this.’ All of his actions point to the fact that he is like this. Something changes in his face, like he remembers where and who he is. And like Hunter is on fire, he steps away from you. The second there's room, Wrecker forces you behind him protectively.

“Sarge.” Tech says, his voice echoing like blaster fire in the mountains. “I think you should come with me.”

Tags: @the-mandalorian-clone-lover @peacefulwizardfox @rex-meshla @s1st37 @and-claudia @kamino-mermaid @thelambandthewolffe @starwarsmeninhelmets

@bronvin @myeternalsin @sweetsunflowerkisses @loverofclones @beizm @gunsmoke-blu

@logina6 @wondergal2001 @lafy-taffy @lafy-taffy @m-o-o-n-s-g-o-o-n-s

@starskenobiwan @lordellbell @kaetavlos @violetjedisylveon @​​vergol @Lackofhonor

[atsvmi-x]

my personal characterization of eren bc i’ve been thinking about him a lot🥰 this is all modern!au bc canon literally never happened.

these aren’t x reader headcanons but i have more than enough thoughts about eren in a relationship to provide those soon!

General

Loud, brash, and loyal to a fault - you either love him or hate him (or if you’re Jean, you both love and hate him)

Those that he allows into his inner circle are friends for life. He’s easy to piss off but he’s quick to forgive when it comes to friends and family. If that doesn’t apply to you, or you cross those closest to him, he’ll hold a grudge long after the issue is resolved. You’re on his shit list for life.

He wears his heart on his sleeve. It’s literally impossible for him to conceal his emotions. If he’s angry, sad, annoyed, happy, literally anything his feeling you will be sure to know.

The same goes for his opinions. Blunt beyond belief. If he thinks something is stupid he won’t hesitate to say so. He’ll backtrack to soften his delivery if he notices that it offends other parties though.

All of these factors can lead to awkward moments. 99% of the time he’s confident enough in his stance to ignore how others might receive him but the other 1% of the time you might catch the rare sight of his cheeks heating up.

Contrary to popular belief, Eren is actually smart. Not to the same caliber of Armin, Erwin or Hange when it comes to critical thinking and analysis, but it is still above average. That being said, he doesn’t necessarily apply himself to subjects that don’t immediately interest him. However, he has impeccable game sense, making him quite the accomplished athlete.

Anger issues. Clearly. It made him a difficult child... for most of his life (and probably the reason he’s an only child) but as he’s gotten older he’s learned to manage his temper. It’s still easy to rile him up though, and it’ll be a cold day in hell before he backs down from a challenge. But for the most part his attitude is a running joke between those he’s closest with.

He has a strong moral compass and sense of justice. Not in the sense that he’s conservative, far from it. His personal ideology is: as long as it’s not hurting anyone people should do what they want. and anyone that messes with that is wrong. He’s a simple guy

Bad at flirting. He can be super oblivious and when he does catch on, he’s not smooth at all. But he’s tall and pretty so it comes off as endearing 99% of the time. It’s his boy-ish charms that save him every time.

Childhood

Cute as a button as a baby. Poor Carla and Grisha were blindsided when he hit his terrible twos.

Had no friends besides Armin until middle school when his parents adopted Mikasa.

Before Mikasa, he and Armin were the black sheep of the neighborhood kids. Eren easily alienated himself from the neighborhood kids and his schoolmates due to his brash nature. Looking back on it, he still stands with his decision since it meant he found his first friend.

(Armin didn’t fit in for his old soul thanks to being raised by his grandparents)

Super curious and didn’t realize how small he was in such a big world. On several occasions he wandered off because of his curious nature. Would have been a leash kid if leash kids were a thing when he was growing up.

Could technically be considered a school bully for talking down to kids on the playground. HOWEVER, he was smaller than other kids for a while, meaning his haughty attitude resulted in petty school yard fights that he lost most of the time. Still, he never cried and never learned his lesson.

Since we was never against a fight, he made it his mission to take up for Armin. When Mikasa joined his family he did the same for her when their peers made comments about her different looks. As we know, those roles soon reversed with Mikasa taking on a protector roll

To try and find a suitable outlet for his excess...energy...Carla and Grisha signed him up for every sport under the sun. Was pretty good too but excelled at football and track and field.

Teen

Was on a first name basis with administration during his school years for getting too invested in classroom debates. His fired up nature easily boiled over outside the classroom resulting in several fist fights

Got suspended once for said fights, but more often than not Mikasa saved him before he could get into more trouble.

So angsty. Literally a textbook case of teen angst from the loud music, dark clothes, to butting his heads with his parents he was truly a nightmare. (He recognizes this and is forever apologetic to his parents for being so difficult during this time)

Started to grow out of his rebellious phase by his junior year. There was no real explanation for it he just...did. That’s not to say that he was any less combative, he just knew what battles to pick. Good job Eren.

By the time he graduates he’s such a mama’s boy. He’s always loved him mom but now his eyes have been opened to how much of a handful he was growing up. He’s embarrassed anytime she brings up old stories but he knows it’s all in good fun.

He’s also had a major growth spurt by the time he graduates and his years of playing sports have definitely paid off. He’s a total heartthrob by his senior year and unintentionally a heartbreaker. Again, it’s hard to break into his circle, nothing personal.

Young Adult (College/Post Grad)

Commits to playing football exclusively. Not out of hopes of going pro but he just really likes the sport. He’s well known around campus between sports and his personality.

Still, he can be found with any one member of his crew at any given time. It’s rare to find him by himself unless he’s in his dorm room. He’s a total extrovert and gets bored easily when left to his own devices.

BUT he’s not a total party animal. Definitely prefers kickbacks to partying. But he will show his face if someone personally asks him to come.

Smokes and drinks the normal amount. Knows his limits and isn’t a lightweight for either. But under the right conditions (i.e. drinking games, bets, etc.) he’ll over indulge. Far too touchy when he’s under the influence.

Struggled to find his “calling” in school. Most of his friends fell into majors that they clicked with but it wasn’t that easy for him. He probably ends up with a fifth year under his belt. since he didn’t officially declare a major until maybe junior year.

Graduates with a political science degree! 1) He fooled his parents into thinking he’d go to law school which satisfied his doctor dad. 2) While he doesn’t exactly know how, he wants to improve daily life for the less fortunate and he thought this was a good step to do that. 3) He loved being able to argue for a grade during in-class debates

I know we all love streamer!Eren but I really do think he’d end up going down a creative/independent route where he’s not tied to a desk 9-to-5. It really stressed him out to think about doing thing for 50 years and then being able to enjoy life after retirement.

Other

Like previously mentioned, his music tastes were pretty narrow. But as his social circle grew and he was exposed to new genres his musical pallet has expanded. His go to genres are still heavy, but he’s not against asking what song just played if he liked it (unless you’re Jean, he’ll never give him the satisfaction).

I feel like his celebrity crush is Doja Cat. I have no evidence I just feel like he’d be into her.

Baby can NOT dance. if he tries hard he can bust a two step but usually he doesn’t usually put forth the effort though. It just gets worse if he drinks.

Very much a night owl but surprisingly, he doesn’t like to sleep in either. Feels like there’s too much stuff to do in a day to just waste it in bed. He contradicts himself though bc he can spend all morning in bed playing around on his phone (he’s addicted)

[ahsokasleftbicep]

Name and Soul: Chapter 3

AH! Here we go! Enjoy!

@mqgriett @darkangel4121 @thelambandthewolffe @maulscrosshair @trash-dino-5000

Crosshair x F! reader

Word Count: 2091

Warnings: SPOILERS for episode 3, Wrecker being best uncle, Sad Crosshair stuff, internal conflict, Tarkin being awful

“That doesn’t look very comfortable, kid.” You crouch down to Omega, who set herself up against Gonky and a wall.

“It’s okay, we’re fine.” The girl smiles up at you before looking back to her datapad.

You sit down next to her, patting the droid behind her. “How’s that diary coming along?”

Omega smiles and reaches next to her, opening the diary excitedly. “Really well! I can’t wait till we get him back. Do you think I could be as good of a shot as he is?”

“Oh I know you can,” You lean down to her ear, “And don’t ever tell him this, but I think you could be better.”

“No way, you’re lying.” Omega smiles and pushes your arm, laughing.

“Omega, I swear on my life, that I would never lie to you. You have talent and you're smart. You have a lot of opportunities out there.”

“Y/n! Can you give me a hand over here!” Echo pokes his head out from the cockpit.

“Yeah, one sec.” You rest your hand on the girl's shoulder, “I’ll be right back.”

“Y/n!”

“Alright alright, I’m coming!” You roll your eyes as you walk over to the man.

“The ship got hit hard when we left Saleucami. Everything has been glitching ever since. Things would go faster if I had some help.” Echo glares at Tech, who’s fiddling with… something.

“As soon as I finish this scanner.”

You lean on Tech’s chair. “But if the ship crashes, you won’t have the tools to finish your project.”

The man raises his eyebrow and glances at you. “If the scanner isn’t finished, we might have a repeat of Kamino’s events.” The three of you go silent before Tech changes the subject. “Besides, the ship's diagnostic report indicated no critical systems were compromised.”

The ship rumbles and you and Echo are thrown to the floor. When you look up again, you no longer see the blue of hyperspace.

“What were you saying about the ship being fine again?” Tech glares at you before grabbing the controls. The ship rumbles, nearly knocking you down again. “We’re crashing.”

You strap yourself in across from Wrecker and Omega. The internal lights start flashing red.

“We’re gonna die! We’re gonna die!” Wrecker grips his seat.

“Wrecker!” The man looks at you, following your eyes to Omega, who looks terrified. She frantically looks between the two of you.

“We’re gonna… be fine. We’re gonna be fine.”

--

“Is it over?” Omega looks at you, still shaken up.

You walk to her and squeeze her hand, “Yep, it’s all over. Are you okay?”

The girl nods hesitantly, “Y-yeah, I think.”

“... we have one spare capacitor onboard.” Tech states to the rest of you.

Omega walks over to a shelf and pulls out a box. Something you recognize.

“Omega…”

“Is it in here?” The girl looks at you all, stopping on your mute expression. “What?”

You straighten up, “That’s Crosshair’s weapons kit.”

Wrecker groans, “I’ll say it. I kinda miss him.”

Tech begins to describe what the inhibitor chip can do, but Hunter cuts in. You furrow your brows at his actions.

“Look, debating this won’t fix the ship.” Hunter glances at you before continuing. “We need to get off this rock.”

--

“Is it possible to implant a chip into a natural born?” Tarkin stares at the clone through the glass.

“It is.” Nala Se speaks quietly. “Why do you ask?”

“Private L/n is a very skilled soldier, those skills would be useful. Once she is caught, I need her unwavering loyalty.”

“Governor Tarkin.” Rampart walks into the room. “I have the report on Private L/n.”

“Very good, what did you find?” Tarkin turns his attention to the man for a split second.

“She’s as skilled as any clone, if not more. She graduated top of her class as a marksman at the Academy of Carida. If I may, L/n’s skills would be incredibly useful for Project War Mantle.”

“My thoughts exactly, Rampart.”

--

You stuck your hand out from the floor of the ship, Omega handed you a tool, curiously looking down at you.

“Where did you learn all this stuff?”

“Oh way before the war, this isn’t my first.”

“It’s not? Where were you before?”

You take off Tech’s spare goggles and sigh, “I think that’s a story for another time.”

Wrecker walks by, rubbing his head. “Ow! Ow”

You stand up and tap Wrecker’s leg. “What’s up with you?”

Wrecker winced again, “I must’ve hit my head in the crash. Ow.”

You hop up, setting down your tools. “I have an ice pack, that’ll help.”

“Thanks, Y/n.” Wrecker follows you back, “Y/n?”

“Hm?”

“My head doesn’t hurt that bad. But I wanted to ask you something.”

You turn around, confused. “Go ahead.”

“Well, you know how Omega has no room, like one of her own? What if we made her one? Make it a surprise.”

You smile widely, “I think that’s a great idea, Wrecker. We need to distract Omega though.”

“Guys, you need to come see this!” Hunter calls out.

As you walk out, you see a large shadow cross the window. “Woah! What the heck was that?”

Omega looks at you wide-eyed, “Some creature with a huge tail!”

Tech clears his throat, “Most likely an Ordo Moon Dragon, it took the part.”

A moment and some banter later, Hunter and Omega are getting ready to go after the creature. You look at Hunter, “Be careful.”

“Will do.”

You then look at Omega, “And you stay close to Hunter.”

“I promise! Cross my heart!” The girl responds happily.

You chuckle and wave as the two walkout. You glance at Echo and Tech arguing in the cockpit. You roll your eyes and walk to Wrecker. “Okay, let's get started! With Hunter’s senses, we don’t have a lot of time.”

--

Crosshair stands at the door, “Sir, you called me again.”

“Yes, you will have to abandon your search for Clone Force 99 for a moment. Onderonian insurgents have been found again, I will introduce you to your new squad. Find the insurgents and eliminate them. After you complete this, then you can continue your original task.”

“Yes sir, find Private L/n, terminate Clone Force 99.” The man walked out and back to his barracks. He sits on his bunk, grabbing the same necklace that he’s looked at more than a dozen times before.

Why do I care? I don’t know this woman. I love her… Wait, no. She’s a traitor. Don’t hurt her.

Crosshair lifts the ring into the light. He falls back onto his bed, clipping the necklace around his neck, completely unaware of what he did. I miss her. She betrayed the Empire. I miss my brothers. They left me. I’m sorry… I’m so sorry.

--

“What’s this?” Wrecker picks up the diary from the floor. You look back from the blankets you tie up to the top of the ceiling.

“Omega is writing all the stuff that happens in there. She said it’s for when we get Crosshair back.” You turn back, looking out the window of the gunner room.

“You don’t believe her?” Wrecker places the diary on the gunner chair.

“I do. But every day we leave him there makes it feel like it’s impossible. And no one acknowledges what happened. Not even Hunter…”

Wrecker places his hand on your shoulder, “I know, but Hunter misses him. You know how he is, he can hide that stuff easy.”

“I know, but I wish he would talk about it.”

--

This man was pissing Crosshair off. He’s arrogant. And chatty.

“Hey clone, what’s that around your neck?”

“None of your business.” Crosshair glares at the blonde man.

He smirks, “A little lady, maybe?” He scoffs, “Why would someone go with a clone.”

The group steps out of the ship, sneaking through the woods. Crosshair straightens his back.

“Move out.”

--

“Wrecker, I think we need one more blanket, just to be safe. And do we have any lights?” You jump down from the room, waiting for Wrecker.

“We have lights.” The man lifts a string of them up. “I’ll get 'em.”

“I’ll go get another blanket.” You walk to your room, glancing at the bunk. Crosshairs blanket is folded at the end, just like you left it that morning. You pick it up and hold it to your face. You smell him. It’s comforting, warm, and very uniquely Crosshair.

“Here we go, one blanket.” You place the blanket with the others. “It looks great so far.”

--

“Where’s Gerrera?”

“I don’t know, I wouldn’t tell you anyway.” The insurgent sneers at the helmeted man.

Crosshair tilts his head, “I believe you.” He lifts his blaster. NO! He pulls the trigger and the woman falls to the ground.

He lifts his weapon to the civilians. STOP!

“What are you doing? Gerrera’s fighters are dead. We should bring civilians in.” The blonde man steps forward.

“Those weren’t our orders.”

“Forget it, this is wrong.”

Crosshair walked up to the man, stopping toe to toe.

“You want to know why they put me in charge?”, stop it… please. “It’s because I’m willing to do what needs to be done.” He pulls out his blaster and pulls the trigger. The man drops. No, no, NO! Good soldiers follow orders. “Finish the mission.”

--

You are finishing up the room when Wrecker comes up. He’s holding something. Lula?

“What’s Lula doing here?” You look at the large soldier, who rubs the back of his neck shyly.

“I thought that Omega would like it, something to hold onto.”

“I think that’s great, Wrecker. She’ll love it.” You hold the doll and place it on the bed… next to her diary.

--

Crosshair looks at what’s left of his “squad”.

“If any of you tell higher-ups about this,” He pulls the necklace from under his armor. “I will kill you all.”

The soldiers tense up and all nod at the same time.

“... good.” I- I killed them. Innocent people. The ship lands, he goes through another lengthy debrief, he goes back to his barracks. Ignoring the others, he sits on his bunk, completely silent. Images flash through his head… of you. This woman. Y/N! Your smile, your hair, everything about you. He looks at the ring around his neck. He was right. Why would she be with me… who could love me?

--

“Tech! Can we please leave?”

“Gladly.” The man flips a few switches and the ship starts moving.

“Y/n!” Omega runs up to you.

“Omega! I heard you completed the mission? How’d it feel?”

“Well, I was really scared at first, but then I was able to get the part by tricking the creature!” The girl smiles up at you.

“I knew you’d be fine! And you saved Hunter.” You put a hand on her shoulder. “I’m proud of you, Omega.”

The girl hugs you, “Thank you, y/n.”

Wrecker walks up behind you, “Hey kid. Come with me.”

Omega raises her eyebrow, looking at Wrecker, then you.

You and the man chuckled, “Just cover your eyes.”

Wrecker guides Omega to the back of the ship, you following behind. He stops in front of the gunner room.

“Okay, open ‘em.”

Omega gasps at the view, looking from the room to Wrecker, back to the room, then you.

You walk up with a smile. “Well, what do you think?”

“I- I love it. You guys did this?”

“Yep! Y/n picked out the lights. We put it together when you guys left.”

“It was Wrecker’s idea. A great one at that.”

“Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!” Omega jumps up and down before climbing up the ladder, sitting on the blankets. “I never had my own room before.” She picks up Lula, then sets the diary on her lap.

“You’re a part of this squad now too. You deserve your own room.”

--

You are lying in your bed, staring at the ceiling. The door swooshes open, revealing Omega, holding the diary loosely in her hand.

“Omega, it’s late. Why are you up?”

“I couldn’t sleep.” She walks across the floor and crawls up onto your bed. “Can you tell me a story? Please?”

You look at the girl and nod. Omega scoots into your side and rests her head on your shoulder.

“Hmmm, how about another mission story?”

The girl nods, paying attention.

“So, we met with a Jedi, Anakin Skywalker…”

Hunter walks to your room the next morning, finding you asleep against your headboard, Omega asleep, snuggled into your side.

[forthehpfanboys]

Unexpected But Accepted

Pair: George Weasley x Reader x Fred Weasley: he/him.

Summary: Fred and George have been driving you bonkers. You try to get away for five minutes but find out they’re arguing over you. You snap when you see it happen right in front of you and punish Fred for sass. Basically, you fuck George, then suck off Fred.

Warnings: SMUT (MDI), poly, dirty talk, bondage, probably took this too far, oops, swears, way too long and probably not good.

Notes: Requested! Hope you enjoy!

~DO NOT REPOST ANYWHERE~

-

Your back pressed against the wall, your chest heaving with quick breaths leaving your lips. The small room was quiet and dark, allowing you to hear the pair of rushing footsteps that’d been chasing you for the past 10 minutes come down the hall. You covered your mouth, trying to hide your panting breaths into the skin as the steps came closer and closed your eyes in hopes of not being found in the small broom closet. Suddenly, one of your chasers spoke up, causing you to go rigid against the wall.

“Do you see him?” One spoke up while a sigh was released from the other.

“No. How did he disappear?”

You tried to sink deeper into the darkness without making a peep. Godric, if they found you, you’d never hear the end of it. You just wanted some peace and quiet.

“I don’t understand! Is there a hidden room we haven’t discovered?”

“I highly doubt it, Georgie. Let’s be real.”

“So should we split up?”

“Probably best if we just head to class.” Heavy footsteps trailed down the hallway, voices fading more with each step.

“Since when do you care about grades?”

“I don’t. Come on. We might bump into him on the way.”

You didn’t step out of the broom closet until you were 10,000 percent sure they’d left, allowing you to let out the breath you didn’t know you were holding. Shutting the door behind you, you leaned against it, wincing to yourself when your head smacked against the wood alittle harder than you intended. You didn’t like hiding from them, but you didn’t have much choice. 

The two redheads had been acting differently lately and it’s been taking a toll on your mental health lately. You couldn’t have five minutes alone without them almost tearing eachother apart for your attention and, honestly, you just needed a break. Or maybe food. You haven't been able to eat in peace because of the twins antics. Hermione and Harry would bring you food while Ron, the forever charming redhead, laughed at your demise.

You’ve tried talking to them about what’s going on, but they always brush you off and ask if you wanna go do something somewhere and drag you away anyway. It wasn’t that they were being creepy or anything, it was just overwhelming you and you needed some serious (Y/n) Time.

It almost felt like they knew something you didn’t and it was frustrating beyond comprehension. Sure, you and the twins were close but fuck, it was almost like they made a bet to torture or something along those lines. Maybe it was a prank?

What you didn’t know is that you were kinda right. A couple days before this specific one, the twins made a bet after learning two truths that changed a few things within their brotherly bond. Truth one was how George's feelings for you changed from friend to lover. The second truth was how Fred's feelings  for you changed in the exact same manner.  The bet resolved over you, of course, and how they’d win you. More specifically, whichever twin managed to win your feelings, won the bet and you were the prize.

You looked both ways, checking the hallway to make sure it was empty before abandoning the hiding spot with a feverous sprint. Your footsteps echoed down the empty halls, your robes flapping behind you. You proceeded to multitask. You ran down the intertwining halls while debating on going to class or hiding away in your dorm. In the end, your feet decided for you. Before you knew it, you were sprinting up the moving staircase up to the Fat Lady.

“Cherry top.” You spoke quickly before she even had the chance to open her mouth. You ignored her grumble on how kids used to care about her singing and focused on walking through the empty room. You plopped yourself down on the couch facing gently crackling fire. A quiet sigh left your lips, hands going through your hair. “What changed?” you whispered to yourself.

“You really have no clue?”

The voice made you jump and turn around seeing.. No one? You felt the couch sink further closer to the ground and you were met with another redhead, allowing you to relax back against the plush cushions.

“Godric, Gin, you scared me.” You let out a meek chuckle and ran a hand over your eyes. “What’re you doing here anyway? Shouldn’t you be with The Golden Trio or something?” 

“Or something.” She cast a smile in your direction. “I heard what’s going on between you and the two idiots. Figured you could use some help sorting them out.” The youngest Weasley tucked her feet in and turned toward you fully, the smile turned into a grin.

“I’d adore help.”

“I thought so.” She let out a chuckle. “Rumor has it they have a bet going. Lee overheard them arguing over it and who was winning.” Ginny’s grin turned into the classic Weasley Side Smirk. The words rolled around in your head, your nose scrunching in confusion. Arguing? They never argue. You tried to come up with a time where they actually fought and only mock up arguments made themselves clear. “People are saying it’s over a specific absolutely oblivious Gryffindor Quidditch player, others say it’s over who can burn the school down first-” Ginny laughed, shaking her head a little as she spoke.

“Quidditch player? Oh- Angelina, right? Yea, it’s pretty obvious they’ve been pining after her for a while. “ You forced out with a very small and very fake smile across your lips. You knew how the two pranksters looked at her. It only made sense they’d be after her, she was smart, great at the game and a looker. You swallowed hard. You were just the Keeper for Gryffindor, not a chaser or a seeker, just kept to the goals. It didn’t feel as special as the others. “But I don’t see how this involves me.” You could’ve sworn you heard her mumble ‘oblivious’ again, but she spoke up before you could even question it.

“So, you really don’t know?” 

“Don’t know what?”

“Oh my Godric, you really don’t know?” 

“Know what, Gin?”

“I thought they would’ve told you!” She looked down at her fingers, playing with her nail. Her long hair fell around her face like a curtain, no doubt hiding the grin. She was ignoring you on purpose.

“Gin, so help me, I will shatter your knee caps. Tell. Me.” You threatened, giving her a strong glare. Your glares could kill. Students and teachers alike knew your temper was not something to trifle with and made up for 99 percent of your detentions. You’re not one to throw fists first, but you definitely don’t hold your tongue. While the castle got nervous around you and you ralmost famous temper, the Weasleys did not give one flying fuck. They’d tease you until you die because they all knew you had a sweet spot for them.

“I mean, you're their best friend and you don’t know. Damn, that’s so.. Bad, yet just like them, wow.” She moved the hair away from her eyes. “Ok. Listen, the twins don’t fancy Angie, (Y/n). I think you need to consider both sides of the spectrum.” She paused, giving you an expecting look before sighing and going on. “They’re bisexual. Came out last year.” 

“Oh, haha. Really funny.” You stood up, moving away from the couch to one of the towering glass windows. Pressing your weight against the brick wall, you gazed out, watching students rush to classes and others just goofing off. Ginny knew of your crush on the two red-heads, but she didn’t have to joke about it like this. “Now isn’t the time for jokes, Gin. “

“I’m serious, (Y/n). Think about it. They’ve been all over you, everyone has noticed.” Ginny walked over to you, resting a hand on your shoulder. She could tell you were gonna be on the fence no matter what the words, so she just sighed and retracted her hand. “I’d never joke about this. It could very well be you the identical idiots are drooling over.”

“They're really bi?” You turned to her, your eyes sparkling with hope.

“Honestly, (Y/n). Would I lie to you?” She snickered patting your back before heading over to the portrait hole. “Really, think about it. It'll make sense with time, i'm sure.” With that, she popped through the hole in the wall. With a final creak of the portrait shutting, you were left alone in silence, rolling her words in your head. 

Ok, maybe it did make a small, tiny, miniscule bit of sense, but why didn’t Fred and George tell you? You sighed, your hot breath fogging up the glass. Maybe they didn’t want you to know. Maybe they thought you’d call them freaks or weirdos, but you’d never. You remember when you came out to them as (s/p) and they didn’t judge you at all.

You wanted to scream when you heard the creak of the entrance opening again. For fucks fucking fuck, even without the twins there you couldn’t get alone time. You needed to think, especially with the new info Ginny told you.

“There ya are, (Y/n)! We’ve been looking for you everywhere!”

Your eyes focused on the reflection in the glass pain, a groan leaving your lips at the sight. Of course. Speak of the devil and he shall appear.

“Hey.” Your voice was stiff, revealing how you felt deep down. Frustration and irritation. You noted how the redheads both stepped closer to you. One gently pulling you by the hand to sit down in a chair not too far from the window while the other taking the seat across you, shooting you a soft smile.

“Ok. What’s wrong?” Fred spoke, his back slouching in the chair, his arms crossing over his chest. George was standing next to you with a cocked eyebrow, a soft smile on his face. 

“Yeah, we know you (N/n). What’s going through that pretty head of yours?” George ran his hand through your hair before squatting next to your seated form. You could vaguely smell his cologne. You turned to George, missing the glare from Fred. 

“I.. Just stressed, is all. Exams coming and not getting enough sleep.” It wasn’t fully a lie, so.

“Are you sure you’re not sick or something?” Fred stood up and walked over, the back of his hand reaching out to press against your forehead. It was halted when a matching pale hand grabbed his wrist. 

“Fred, I think if he was sick, he would’ve said something along those lines. It’s just stress.” George’s voice held a barely noticeable amount of venom as his grip tightened ever so slightly on his older brothers wrist. The death glares they exchanged as Fred whipped his hand away from his younger twins grip had you raising an eyebrow in question.

“So you're a doctor now?”

“Can you stop with the attitude? I’m so sick of it!”

“You’re sick of it? I’m sick of you! I was just gonna check if he had a fever.” 

“Don’t touch him, Fred.”

“I was just checking if he was ok!”

“Well, you don-!”

“Ok and I’m putting an end to this.” You stood up and shoved your way between them, pushing them away as you stepped forward. “What the hell has been going on with you two? This is- Godric- you guys are driving me nuts.” Before they knew what was happening you were ranting. “Seriously! I can’t even shower without you guys trying to be there! Like just- What is going on? This week feels like a year and I’m drowning in Wealsey cologne and fancy candy from Honeydukes-” Your hands were running through your hair sporadically, which the twins both thought was adorable, but knew now wasn’t the time.

Fred and George looked at each other as you went on.

“Please. Just- It hurts so much to see you too fight and it makes me want to punch something- literally anything- because you guys are my everything! Just fucking talk to me! Please.” Your chest was heaving when you finally finished, your entire body getting warm.

“Everything?” They turned to you, everything matching up insync.

“..What?” You felt even hotter than before. Wait, did you actually call them your everything?

“Aw, don’t playdumb now, (N/n)! You said we’re your everything.”

“You’re hearing things, Fred.”

“Hmm, no. I don’t think we are.” They stepped closer.

“Ah, well, I.. never said that, Georgie. Very simple.”

“Do we have to go back to fighting over you?” Fred joked as they separated and began to advance toward you. The twins trapped you between them, one on both sides. George rested his arm on your shoulder while Fred shot him a teasing smirk, his nose scrunching up. “Cause we’ll do it, princey, don’t tempt us.”

You don’t know what came over you, maybe it was your built up tension or your anger issues, but you grabbed them by the ties of their uniform and yanked them over to the staircase leading up to the dorms. You pressed them against the wall just before the stair cases and trapped them there with your body. 

“Do it and fucking see what happens, Weasley.” One hand tangled their ties together, your other hand coming to press against the wall by George’s head. The boys’ faces erupted into a blush, causing you to smirk. “You two have been driving me absolutely nuts these past few days. I dare you to push one more button.” You tried not to act surprised by how your voice dropped. Fred’s tongue swiped across his suddenly dry lips and George turned even redder.

“Oh yea, (L/n)? What are you gonna do? Give us a stern talking too?” Fred smirked, his eyes trailing down your figure, then back up to your eyes. He was challenging you. You got closer to his face, your voice dripping even lower.

“I could tie you to the bed and fuck your brother right infront of you, make you watch him get what you oh so desperately crave.” Your head was cocked to the side, your eyes dark with something Fred had never seen before.

“Well, that was unexpected-” George all but whispered before he swallowed thickly, his hand coming up to cover his face. 

“But damn, so accepted. Who knew he was so dirty?” Fred groaned out. His hand wrapped around the back of your neck to pull you into a kiss. You released the ties and favored running your fingers through his hair, grabbing onto a few locks and giving it a tug.

“Should we confess or should you guys just keep kissing?” George spoke up from the sidelines, fidgeting with his hands. Fred separated from you and got him the classic Weasley Side Smirk. 

“I think he knows now, Georgie, come on!” Fred yanked his tie free and slipped free from you and proceeded to run up the steps, skipping 2 at a time. You took this time to appreciate his mile long legs. “Hope your good at keepin’ your promises, (L/n)!” He called from the top of the steps. With a laugh, you gave George a short kiss, grabbed his wrist and led the blushing redhead up the stairs. 

By the time you and George came up the stairs, Fred was already trying to disrobe. I say trying because he’d given up on unbuttoning his white polo and is trying to pull the still buttoned collar over his head. Watching the older twin thrash around in the stuck shirt made George and you erupt in giggles.

“Should we help him?” George asked his laughs.

“Nah, he can figure it out himself. Besides, I wanna kiss you.” You cornered George against one of the bedposts, not caring whose bed was whose and immediately pressed your lips against his. He let out a needy moan and pulled you closer, his arms around your neck. Your hands landed on his waist as your teeth nibbled on his bottom lip. You pulled from the kiss when a second pair of arms wrapped around your waist, which you prompt slapped away. “What did I say? Get on the bed, Freddie.” 

The groan that left the older twins lips was lewd, causing you to chuckle and shove him away from your back. He reluctantly laid on the bed, sprawled out like a starfish, his bulge prominent against his dark uniform. Damn, he must really want you. The idea of one of the twins drooling over you had you hardening in your pants.

“Not like that, Fred. Back against the headboard.” You spoke, gently leading George to the bed and pushing him to side down on the edge. You untied the younger twins tie and with a kiss to his nose moved to his counterpart, climbing onto the plush mattress one he obeyed. You smirked down at the redhead as you plopped yourself on his lap, causing him to groan. 

“Having fun, doll?” Fred spoke as his hands instinctively moved to your hips, pulling you closer. You pulled his hands away from your waist, kissed each wrist before tying them to the headboard with his brother's tie. 

“You know it, babe.” You casted him a wink. Climbing off his lap and prompt ignoring his whine, you brought your attention back to the younger twin and dragged him into a kiss.  “And how are you feeling, Georgie?” 

“Perfect.” His voice was soft and airy, causing you to giggle.

“Oi. Stop being cute without me.” Fred spoke up, nudging you in the side with his foot.

“Shut it. This is why you're tied up.” You smacked his foot away and pulled George onto your lap. You kissed along his neck, your fingers trailing through his hair. His hands slid from your shoulders, down your flat chest to your belt, promptly undoing it and pulling it free from the loopholes.

“Oh, please. You love my teasing.”

“I wish you gagged him with his tie.” George snickered out. He'd thrown the belt to the side and was now unbuttoning your white button up shirt.

“I’m debating on it, actually.” You laughed out. You sucked a mark on the side of George’s neck and shrugged off your shirt once it was fully undone and threw it to the side. Your hands came up to undo George's shirt, but ended up just ripping a few of the buttons free. “Fuck it, I’ll buy you new ones.” You pressed your lips to his again, your hands sliding across the bare skin. Fuck. His skin was so soft, but you could feel the muscles under it rippling with a soft moan.

“You know we have magic, right? You could’ve just spelled his clothes away.” 

You let out a groan and pulled away from George's lips and glared at the older redhead. You shook your head in disapproval and tsked at him.

“You gag him, Georgie. I’m gonna finish stripping.” You stated, giving the tall redhead a slap on the bum before standing up. You watched Georgie snicker and slide Fred’s tie free.

“Wait, no. We can talk this through-” Fred was interrupted by the tie being shoved into his mouth. “I’d apologize, but I’m not sorry, Freddie. Should’ve shut your mouth. Had the chance.” Geogie patted his shoulder and scooted back. When he turned to you, he blushed a brighter red than his hair. You were lazily stroking yourself, your boxers hanging around your thighs. “Blimey-” George choked out, licking his lips.

“Like what you see?” You chuckled, stepping closer to him. He eagerly nodded his head. The boy was holding back the biggest urge to drop to his knees and suck the soul out of you. You flashed him a smirk. “Come on, then. Strip, baby,” 

He rolled onto his back, lifted his legs and all but ripped himself free from his constricting jeans. The enthusiasm made you giggle. Your eyes followed along the pale skin and you wanted, oh so desperately to count the freckles sprinkled across his skin. God, he was so absolutely beautiful and it was safe to say Fred was just as beautiful.

“Merlin’s fucking beard. You’re so beautiful.” You stepped over, running your hands along his toned legs. “Godric, I should use your legs as earmuffs some time.” Your confidence grew when Fred and George both let out a whine. “Ok. Here’s what I want.” You sat him back up and leaned into his ear, your hands slowly sliding up his thighs. You licked your lips when you heard the younger redheads breath hitch. “I want Freddie to have a nice view, ok?” You whispered, your hands hiking higher up his thighs before you dragged your nails down the skin gently. “Go to the foot of the bed, spread your legs and lean over to put your hands on the mattress.” 

George slipped out from beneath you and went to the foot of the bed. He was half bent over, legs spread and staring down at his hands on the mattress. Following him around the posts, you stood behind him and ran your hands down his toned back. 

“Oh, fuck, you’re freckles go down your back-” Your voice came out breathy and light. Your eyes looked between Fred, who was whining against the tie and the twin slowly turning red.

“Is that good?” George asked, his ears tinting a bright red. 

“Of course. You’re so beautiful. Does Freddie have the same patterns?” Your thumb ran over a patch of freckles.

“Yeah. He’s got these little patches of freckles everywhere.” George turned his head to look at you, a smile on his face. You couldn’t help but giggle, your hands rubbing over his globes.

“Godric, I can’t wait to see.” Your dark eyes turned to lock with Fred’s, as a dirty smirk came across your mouth. He let out a little whine, his legs shifting on the bed, trying to get some form of simulation.

“Don’t get your hopes up.” George laughed, pressing his forehead to the bed. You gave his asss a slap, causing him to whine.

“Be nice to him.” You snickered, leaning over to kiss the back of his neck whine your hand trailed down his abdomen. Your hand wrapped around his wood, his hips bucked in response. “You’re so hard.” 

“Obviously.” 

“Do I need to tie you up, too?”

“Oh, no sir.” His voice dripped sarcasm. 

“Georgie.” You warned while pulling your hand away. You sucked on your pointer finger and brought it to his entrance, gently pushing it in. He was chewing on his bottom lip, trying to stay loose and relaxed. “Be nice.” You leaned off his back, standing up fully. Your other hand grabbed his cheek and spread it while your finger pulled back some. After spitting on your fingers,you gently slipped in a second finger. Godric, his moans were so perfect. 

George was shivering. Sure, he’d played around in the shower, but damn was it better with a person, especially when that person was your crush. You prepped the bottom for what felt like hours and he was just about drooling into the sheets. 

“Merlin, you really wanna be safe, don’t you.” George moaned out when you pressed your fingers against his prostate. 

“Well, yeah. I don’t wanna hurt you.” 

“My god, you two are so gooey it hurts.” You both turned to Fred. He had a smirk on his face. Fucker had literally pushed the tie out of his mouth. “Get to it, (L/n).”

“For fucks sake, Fred.” You chuckled out, pulling your fingers away from his entrance. You held your own dick by the base before pushing the head in gently. George pressed his cheek against the bed, a whine leaving his lips. His freckle covered hands grabbed the sheets. His knees pressed together once you pushed all the way in him. “You ok?” 

Your hands hopped from his hips to wrap around his midsection once he nodded. You let out a sigh of relief and placed a few kisses on the freckles scattered across his broad shoulders. 

“I wish I was getting some of that action.” Fred’s head hit the headboard. This felt like he was having a wet dream and seeing it from 3rd person. 

“If you kept your mouth shut, you could’ve joined us.”

Your hips pulled back slowly, your chin resting on George’s shoulder. The gasp that left his lips when you pushed back in had you shivering. You kept up a steady pace, your bottom lip trapped between your teeth. Groans, whimpers, moans, gasps- every noise echoed in the nearly empty room. George’s hand had found his dick between his legs and was shamelessly jerking it to match your hips.

“Godric, Georgie,” your voice so close to his ear had him moaning your name, “you're so tight, baby.” 

Watching you fuck into his brother had Fred licking his lips. The older redhead desperately wanted to be in George's position and he was gonna throw something if he didn’t get some attention soon. He bounced his legs in dismay. His dick was painfully hard and throbbing in his boxers. 

“I’m still here-” Fred did jazz hands against the headboard.

“And I'm busy, shut it.” You spat out as you rocked into George faster, who only grew louder beneath you. Your hands gripped his hips, your nails digging into his skin as you moved. George’s hand moved faster between his legs, which were shaking harder than an earthquake.

With a gasp, George came into his fist without a warning. A cry left lips, his hips bucking between your actions and his fist as he pressed his forehead into the bed. You kept the pace up, your own orgasm just around the corner.

“Almost there, Georgie. You’re so perfect.” You cooed in his ear, your teeth gently biting the tip of the cartilage. You moaned against his neck when you finally reached your own orgasm inside him. You stayed against him for a good while, just holding his sweaty form against his body.

You slowly pulled out and chuckled as George just kinda plopped onto the bed and climbed on the plush mattress with him. You ran your fingers through his sweaty hair and kissed his head. 

“You did good. Are.. Are you falling asleep?” You laughed gently, watching the man's eyelids flutter. “Adorable. Love you, Georgie.” You shook your head when he mumbled out a quick ‘love you yoo’ and almost immediately began snoring. Fred cleared his throat, getting your attention. 

“Yeah, yeah, I got it.” You crawled over to him, undoing his tie. “Did you learn your lesson?” Your hand grazed over his bulge, your noses practically touching.

“You know I didn’t, baby boy.” Fred cupped your face, his calloused thumbs ran over your cheeks. 

You let out a mock sigh of frustration before shaking your head back and forth. You watched his pale hands go to his belt and rip it off. He threw it off to the side before undoing his pants and simply pulling his dick out over the boxers.

“Wanna take care of this for me? I did sit and wait patiently.” 

“You didn’t have much of a choice.” 

“Just suck my dick, won’t you?” 

The bluntness made you snort but you dropped your head down anyway.

“I guess you deserve it.” You held the base of his dick and licked across the head, looking up at him with false innocent eyes. Fred ran his hands through your hair.

“Oh, yeah. You’re amazing.”

“I haven’t done anything yet.” You said between laughs.

“So get to it, dove!” 

You rolled your eyes and took the tip into your mouth, your hand moving up and down on the base. The fingers in your hair slowly tightened, grabbing as much as he could. A moan fell from his lips as his head fell back against the wooden headboard with a thud. You licked along the underside of the head. It was clear he wasn’t going to last long. 

You took him down to the base, gagging on the head hitting the back of your throat and began to pull back. About half way up, Fred pushed you back down, a needy whine leaving his lips. He used the hand in your hair to control your head going up and down.

“Amazing, dolly. Absolutely perfect.” He was just mumbling under his breath while he listened to you gag and whine around his length. He licked his lips as his hand somehow tightened on your locks. “Gonna cum. Swallow it, oh please swallow it.” 

Your eyes were watering by the time he came down your throat, leaving you sputtering and choking. He gently pulled you off. He reached for the closest piece of fabric, which ended up being George’s shirt, and gently wiped himself down.

“I knew there was a reason I loved you.” Fred teased as he threw the cloth and pecked your swollen lips.

“Wow. Only here for my bj skills?” You raised an eyebrow. “And here I thought we had something.” You planted a soft kiss on his lips. He suddenly reached up, holding your face as he stared into your eyes. His entire demeanor shifted to serious as he spoke. “(Y/n). I can tell you right now, me and my brother-”

“My brother and I-”

“Shut it. My brother and I,” his voice was filled with sass again, “have never, ever, ever, eevveerr felt this way about another person. We both love you, we have for a while. Granted this whole thing is super unorthodox, but we care about you.”

“It’s true.” mumbled a half asleep George as his arms snaked around your waist. You couldn’t stop the smile spreading across your lips. “I know, Ginny was right.”

“She’s always right.” They said in unison. 

“Now come on, let’s snuggle.” With that, George tugged you down next to him and Fred joined you. The three of you got cozy under a blanket and slowly drifted off, enjoying the body heat of each other.

The next morning, Ginny said ‘I told you so’ more times than you could count, but that was expected, even if you didn’t want to accept it.

[dr-fumbles-mcstupid]

Happy pride month everyone! A friendly reminder that I identify as asexual aromantic. There is a lot of bullshit discourse in the Lgbtqia community about a lot of things. One of those things is that Aro & Ace people don't belong, they aren't discriminated against. Or they aren't "actually queer."

Fun fact #1. I first heard the term asexual as a 22 year old. I found it through a fanfic online, it was so underrepresented I didn't know it was a thing. No form of published media had ever told me about it, no person I knew had ever used the word. To this day

in popular media, off the top of my head I can think of 3 asexual characters, only one of which identifies as aromantic. Jughead from Archie comics (but not in Riverdale, because aro/ace isn't part of LGBTQ+ so it isn't erasure right?), Todd from BoJack Horseman, and apparently there was an ace character in the SYFY channel series lost girl.

Fun fact #2, I went on a few dates with a guy at the age of 20, it didn't go any further. He apparently told people I slept with him. I found out my older sister was close friends with a mutual friend of his, and when Briana (my sister) spoke up to that friend and said that was 100% a lie because she knew I did not (we didn't talk about a lot of sex things, but I think she had an inkling about me being ace even then), her close friend said that I had obviously lied to mysister becuase no one got to the age of 20 without having sex.

Fun fact #3, our whole society is really based upon the ideas of cohabitation and romance in particular. Almost all forms of media portray romance, and it often shows that a person isn't happy, or that their life hasn't really started until they find their perfect romantic partner. Leaving out how toxic that is to people romantically inclined (the need to constantly be with a partner, making it seem like you need to find 'the one', bad portrayals of what a relationship should actually be) it is incredibly disheartening to an aro person, and it makes it much much harder for non aro people to relate to, or even comprehend aro people.

Fun fact # 3b, a number of years ago a close friend of mine started a new relationship and had been in the "puppy love" phase where They dropped everyone but their Significant other for almost 7 month. I asked Facebook what the normal timeline for 'puppy love' or what they thought it should be was. Almost 99% of people said that when they met their significant other, or when they got married they dropped Almost all of their non familial aquentences including friends. People argued that this was normal and expected. They believe that once they found their romantic love that no other relationships were needed

Fun fact #4, I don't identify as sex repulsed, talking about sex or even engaging in sex with others, doesn't disgust or trigger me. Despite this people often treat me as ignorant of sex, and sexual urges, Sex Ed in general, and even if I was, like so what? Where this gets worse, is there is a perception that I am inoocent, or infantile becuase I haven't had the experience of sex, or have no desire to. This goes to relationships as well. I did have one serious relationship, and I dated people casually as well. Even if I didn't I am a smart person, romantic relationships are built on the foundation of compatability, honest open conversation, and friendship. I know this Even though I don't want a romantic partner. 😱 I still like movies and books with romance in them!!! 😱 I understand the concept of romance!!! 😱 You don't have to treat me like an idiot, or think I can't have advice for you/somone who is in a relationship!

Fun fact #5, I experience multiple micro aggressions every day, even from friends and family members. Every time I go to a new therapist I will mention being asexual, and their response will be "well that is probably because of your medication." I know some medications can erase your libido, but I have been on over 20 different medications over a period of 15 years. I still have a libido (sexual desire does not = sexual attraction, look up sex favorable and sex repulsed asexuals). I will explain this to them and yet every therapist I have ever had has still tried to persuade me that I was wrong about this.

People in my life will make jokes about me going on dates or meeting the mother of a friend becuase you know, I'm obvs gonna fall in love! People can't be friends, and "I don't think aromanticism is a thing." On the other side of the spectrum I have a few friends who say they support me, but then whenever I say "Chris Hemsworth is so attractive" or "She-Hulk is Bae, 10/10" , they automatically use it as ammo for discourse on why "maybe you are confused?". Being able to tell that someone is aesthitcally pleasing does not = sexual attraction. Even aro and ace people talk in this manner a lot becuase of fandom and online discourse, and how people Interact in general.

And finally, if I was wrong and I am just confused and not "really aromantic or asexual becuase it is just a mental or physical disease" (it's not) how does this hurt me or you? I am happy without sex or a romantic partner, I would be fine living the rest of my life without it, friends are enough! (although a queer platonic partner would be 👌👌👌). Even if I was misinformed and misguided (I am not), It isn't hurting anyone.

TLDR, #Aromantic and #Asexual people are #LGBTQIA, we are discriminated against, and it is a valid identity. The more you know #Pride2019

[florrickandassociates]

TGF Thoughts: 5x02-- Once there was a court...

Season five is off to a great start. I’m feeling more energized about TGF than I have in ages, maybe since the beginning of season three. After the mostly standalone premiere, I wasn’t sure what to expect from the rest of the season. Episode two introduced a lot of new elements that I’m intrigued by and excited about, so here’s hoping the rest of the season can sustain that energy. (Many) more thoughts under the cut.

And, again, since the most consistent thing about Tumblr is its inability to roll out new features that are actually helpful, here is a link to view the post so you don’t have to read it all on your dash. (Omg, Tumblr, not only do you force people to keep reading on their dashes but you also jump down to the middle of the post when the full version opens? Do you have ANYONE beta test these features?)

Reddick/Lockhart is bustling when the episode opens. The fact they’re calling it Reddick/Lockhart seems like an indication that Liz chose to partner with Diane—it's not. The firm just needs a name, and it can’t have Boseman in it. (The signage still says RBL... for now.)

Everyone in reception is talking animatedly, except for Carmen Moyo, who’s just taking it all in. You might be tempted to read her as nervous. You would be very, very wrong. But we don’t know that now. Right now, it wouldn’t be wrong to assume she’s Maia 2.0. This scene strongly parallels Maia’s first day at the firm (opening with the reception saying “Good morning” and the firm name, then showing new associates waiting for an orientation by David Lee). And in that scene, Maia is absolutely nervous, like you’d expect a new hire might be.  

Carmen focuses on another associate’s hand. I assume this is meant to be a parallel to how Maia fidgets with her rosary ring in that initial scene. Carmen then peels a price tag off her portfolio—possibly another Maia parallel, since the portfolio Diane gives Maia is such an important symbol in Maia’s arc.

I also see shades of Alicia and her first scene here—Alicia's silent and focuses on small details (the thread on Peter’s jacket) too.  

I don’t say any of this in hopes of comparing Carmen directly to either of those characters. Carmen is not like any other character this show has had before. But these parallels are quite good at establishing character, building intrigue, and showing contrast (even if you don’t see them as parallels, we’re still getting a lot about Carmen just from watching her reactions, even if we don’t yet have the context to understand how to read Carmen). Since I’m now thinking about Maia and Alicia, I’m also now thinking about how Carmen is different from them and triangulating her spot in this universe—that's a good thing. She’s not a copy of either character, but I understand a little more about what the writers are telling me about her from the parallels.

The RBL sign in the background is being taken off the wall. It falls and adds even more chaos to reception.

David Lee walks in and screams, “Stand up! Those seats are for clients.” This is the exact same language he uses in the 1x01 scene; this is definitely an intentional parallel.  

Btw Carmen already has more personality than Maia and she’s been in one episode so far! I didn’t hate 1x01 Maia, but I will say that nearly everything that intrigued me about early Maia was that I could project more about Alicia (whom I, obviously, care a lot about) onto her. I can and will compare Carmen to Alicia, but when I do, it won’t be because Carmen is an interesting lens through which to analyze Alicia... it will be because Alicia is interesting precedent to use to understand Carmen.  

I still hate Maia, yep.

David Lee accidentally instructs a client to stand and then has to save face, heh.  

In David’s tour of the office, we see the partners squabbling. Sounds about right. And STR Laurie is still a thing, which explains why David is there (though not why he is giving a tour).  

Throughout the tour, we get a lot of shots of Carmen. Again, she’s silent and looks like she could be nervous. (Spoiler: this is a fakeout and when you rewatch this scene, you can see what new cast member Charmaine Bingwa is doing here—expertly putting on a face that looks like anxiety in one context, but is actually just Carmen calmly sizing things up.)

Marissa eagerly joins the tour. “That’s right. They’re letting you play lawyer, Marissa. How nice,” David says. Carmen takes this in, too. “Fucking prick,” Marissa mutters. Carmen hears.

David Lee introduces “someone from HR” which is a great sign that HR is very effective at this firm.  

In the conference room, the partners are still arguing about who should replace Adrian. Diane tries the “all options are open to us and we plan to decide in the next 48 hours” strategy, but this audience is too smart for that. Madeline asks about the new leadership structure. (I am kind of hoping that one nice side effect of having to kind of shoot the season in a COVID bubble will be that we’ll get more small recurring characters. Madeline’s been around for a little while but we’re already seeing her get to do more this year.)

“Diane and I are going to run the firm together. For now,” Liz says. Oh, no, Liz, do not open the door to change. Letting the partners know you’re not sure is probably the worst strategy. You’ve gotta decide or they’ll sense weakness.  

“Just the two of you? A black firm being run by a white woman?” a partner asks. “Well, I’m not running it alone. I’m here to assist Liz,” Diane says, trying to deflect. “Really? Because she needs assistance?” he counters. Diane doesn’t know what to say, but she and Liz both know these questions aren’t going to go away.

HR is running an orientation for the new hires and it involves having them all take pieces of toilet paper. Man, I hate ice breakers. Carmen takes a moderate amount and then passes it to Marissa, who takes only one square. Carmen notes this and makes eye contact with Marissa. And this is where it starts to become obvious that Carmen is not nervous—just observant and not chatty. Carmen knows Marissa is one to watch from how David reacted to her presence. She gives Marissa a look that’s meant to be noticed and start a conversation. It works, and Marissa explains that for each square you take, you have to share a fact about yourself. Carmen hates this and hides the rest of the toilet paper so she only has one square.  

Liz tries to say there will be a discussion about the partnership, and Daniel (that’s what the captions call him, though they do reference him as “Barry” at one point but I'm like 99% sure I know which actor is Barry and it’s not him) says it feels like they’re just being told what the new state of things is. Liz says she hears him but right now they need a senior associate to backfill Lucca.

Daniel doesn’t think they need one. I don’t get why, unless it has to do with the budget cuts.  

“We need someone with real experience to take on her caseload,” Liz notes. Hell yeah you do!

Liz asks if any of the partners want to take over family law. None do.  

After the meeting, Liz asks Diane if she can call a head hunter. Diane approves. David Lee pops up to ask which one of them is taking Boseman’s office and they haven’t discussed it yet. I love that they managed to order a sign with their names on it before they’ve talked about how being partners will actually work.  

(Also, Adrian’s office is quite obviously going to end up with Liz. And it would be weird if it were Diane, anyway, because it’s Diane’s old office from Lockhart/Gardner and it would look it if she sat there again lol)

David notes that an empty corner office looks like failure. He is correct. He gives them until Friday to decide.

Marissa does not like the ice breaker at all and pointedly notes she only has one secret, and it is that she used to be married to a mime. She makes a whole bit out of it and then whispers to Carmen, “I usually just make things up.”  

Carmen’s next and she finally gets to speak her first words of the series. You know who else didn’t speak at all in her first scene? Alicia Florrick. Very different scenes, but I can’t help but think this is intentional. From what I’ve seen of Carmen, both she and Alicia use silence strategically and are comfortable with quiet. Alicia’s first scene is silent because she doesn’t need to use words to be expressive, but it does establish that she’s going to be a character with a lot of internal thoughts she won’t vocalize and that she’s observant and tries to maintain composure. Sure, you can watch the first scene of Pilot and just see a woman who’s stunned into silence, but when you watch it knowing Alicia and realize how much of the essential parts of her character are in her totally silent intro sequence that kicks off the show... it’s kind of amazing.

So comparing Carmen’s introduction to that? I mean this as a huge compliment. Carmen deploys silence for reasons both similar and different to Alicia. While Alicia uses silence to maintain some kind of boundary between her inner thoughts and the outside world, Carmen uses it to get a chance to observe and take things in without showing her cards. (We do see Alicia do that as well, especially at work, but I would call this a side-effect of Alicia being a quiet person rather than her intention; Carmen seems to be more conscious of how she uses her silence.)  

Carmen is from Victorville, California. That means nothing to me but I’m sure there’s some significance. Carmen mimics Marissa’s response when asked for her secrets—she also responds with, “secret,” emphasizing she only has one. But what she says next also shows her in contrast to Marissa. She says her secret is she hates games. We already know so much about her and she’s said like ten words!  

I think it’s smart to set Carmen up as a contrast to other characters. I know who Carmen is not because of how she differs from more familiar presences like Alicia, Maia, and Marissa. Marissa hates ice breakers, but her reaction to them is to use them as an opportunity to say something funny and over the top. Many others (including probably both Alicia and Maia) would likely resent the activity but play along and say something unremarkable (I could see Alicia overthinking it and sharing something surprisingly quirky though!). Carmen just does not give a fuck, and in a different way than Marissa doesn’t give a fuck. Marissa insinuates that she thinks the whole activity is stupid... Carmen just flat out says it. I would not pull this move on my first day of a new job! And that is the point—who is this person who is so self-assured she’s willing to insult HR on her very first day of her very first job as a lawyer?  

ALL OF THIS FROM A FEW WORDS AND SOME WELL-ACTED GLANCES! As I said, I’m very intrigued by Carmen. I have some questions about the logistics of this plot, her endgame, and how she’ll function when brought into the firm drama/debate plots, but for now, I only have good things to say.  

Liz interrupts the ice breaker to announce that everyone will be assigned a mentor. She then pauses to greet Marissa, which Carmen, again, notices. Liz is really there to say that they’ll be working on client maintenance that day, and each new hire will get to help with one of their clients. When she reads off their top clients, all the hands shoot up—except Carmen’s.

Madeline’s last name is Gilford. Noted. John’s last name is Wilson.  

No one raises their hand to assist with Oscar Rivi, who is in a maximum-security prison. Carmen confidently raises her hand.  

Barry’s last name is Poe. Noted.

Marissa and Carmen exchange glances. Super curious to see how this evolves. There are too many Marissa/Carmen exchanges in this episode for the writers to not plan to have them interact more in the future.

I’m kind of loving that it seems like the show’s leads are now Diane, Liz, Marissa, and Carmen. Diane’s obviously great, Liz is someone who’s been deserving of leading material for ages, Carmen seems interesting, and I’m so impressed they have managed to make Marissa, usually good in small doses, into a character who can handle larger plots without wearing on my patience (like that awful Elsbeth centric episode of Wife).  

Diane has a client who received a summons directly, which Diane finds strange. But, since she is already working with this client on the same case (teaching kids during COVID) in another court, Diane is optimistic about this second suit. She thinks it could set a good precedent.  

Diane introduces Phoebe, an associate who will help out on the case. Diane says she’s not personally going because it’s a formality and Diane needs to work on the brief. I’m like 99% sure Diane isn’t personally going because Diane’s role here is to convince the client she’s getting senior-level attention while having junior people do the work, but nice story!  

Diane asks Marissa to go along with Phoebe. Marissa thinks she’s going to get to argue in court... Diane says no, Marissa gets to hand hold a client.  

Oscar Rivi is basically Lemond Bishop, which is the only explanation I have for why RL would represent him. And, you’ll recall, I didn’t understand why RL would represent Bishop either. But we’ll just have to go with it.  

(I think representing multiple drug lords is probably a bigger PR issue for RL than having a white partner! How come no one ever talks about this! Actually, new complaint: wasn’t Liz, who now has more power than before, the one who was most against representing Bishop?)  

(I guess it may make sense that she’d be more okay with this Rivi dude than Bishop. Whatever Rivi’s done, I don’t think he’s threatened Liz’s kid like Bishop did!)  

(Also, I’m fine with them switching it up and suddenly having this new drug kingpin. Mike Colter is obviously unavailable since he’s a lead on Evil, and I was tired of Bishop anyway. If the writers stop using Bishop and Sweeney as shorthands for corruption I will be very happy; I don’t think there’s much more mileage left there. Speaking of, Dylan Baker popped up in 2x02 of Evil!)  

“I don’t want you to be intimidated,” Barry tells Carmen as they arrive at Rivi’s prison. Carmen reads articles about Rivi on her phone, saying she’s taking notes. Barry tells Carmen to “sit, listen, leave.” But then he discovers his ID is expired (he didn’t get it renewed during the pandemic) and he can’t go visit Rivi as a result. Carmen says she’s fine alone—she'll sit, listen, leave. She’s calm and not at all cocky as she says it, and it really takes until she’s actually talking with Rivi to realize that she’s not (just?) a hypercompetent law school grad trying to impress. She doesn’t seem to care at all what people, no matter how powerful, think of her, as long as she’s able to find security of any sort. (Tbh, it is kind of amazing she doesn’t get fired in this episode.)  

(I’m getting ahead of myself but in Alicia’s first ep, she also changes up strategies on the partners. Alicia does it almost without realizing she’s gone against their wishes—she's just sure of the right strategy—and Carmen does it much more intentionally.)  

Marissa and Phoebe can’t locate Judge Wackner’s court. Marissa asks a security guard she’s friendly with (of course she is) for help. He says there’s no Judge Wackner there, and the security guard notices that it’s a summon for a “9 ¾ Circuit.” The guard laughs at the Harry Potter reference; Marissa is not amused. They leave the courthouse when Marissa spots a sign for “9 ¾". She follows the sighs down an alley. Phoebe wants nothing to do with this; Marissa and the client are intrigued. They end up in a store called Copy Coop and are directed to a warehouse.

In the warehouse, an argument is resolved through Rock, Paper, Scissors. Then it’s Marissa’s turn. She asks for a continuance just like she was supposed to, but she uses the wrong phrasing. Judge Wackner notices. That’s when Marissa notes she’s not a lawyer, and Wackner responds that he’s not a licensed judge. So it’s fine that Marissa isn’t a lawyer.  

Marissa tries to protest again that she’s not a lawyer, and Wackner basically tells her to proceed anyway. The client wants to stay, weird as this fake court seems.

Carmen reads with Rivi. She stares at him, getting him to speak first. His translator asks if there’s another lawyer with her; she just introduces herself. The translator does a terrible job of translating Rivi’s complaints, sharing very little of what Rivi said with Carmen.

Unsurprisingly (to me at least, because scenes like this ALWAYS have the twist where a character doesn’t let on that they speak the language until the exact right moment), Carmen speaks Spanish.

She lets Rivi know she speaks Spanish AND insults the translator in one go. Pretty big move. That gets Rivi’s attention and he kicks out the translator. He asks who she is and she repeats her name again (characters reacting like this will never not remind me of “Who are you?” “Kalinda.”).

Carmen notes that she’s just out of law school, explaining that’s why she’s eager to help. She doesn’t reveal that by mistake—she's using it to her advantage.  

Credits! As I predicted, things are blowing up again this week like normal. No more kittens and puppies. There’s a new couch that blows up in the credits. Wackner’s desk also makes it in. I can’t remember if the purses were in this position before; they might be new. All the exploding TVs show footage of January 6th (which I hear is going to be a major theme of the season, though it’s not heavily featured in this episode). And the zoomed in shot of the closet (that I’ve never really liked) is gone, as is the falling curtain!  

I still hate the font of the logo for this show. I also don’t understand why the show seems to have three logos—the one that’s the TGW logo but with “fight”, the one in the credits, and whatever the one they’ve come up with for this season’s marketing materials is. I like that they’re trying with the marketing of this season but I don’t get why the show has three logos.  

While I’m talking about the marketing, can we just talk about the “Goodbye Lucca” graphic the official social media account posted? It had a fucking crown drawn over her head like this is a 2013 Tumblr shitpost!!! Who are they targeting with this?! WHO ARE THEY MARKETING TO? DOES THIS WORK ON ANYONE??? It literally says, “Chi-Town” on it. I cringed so hard. Sometimes I feel like the marketing of this show is meant to cater to the people who would, like, watch the credits of last week’s episode and be like, “Yes! It IS all now puppies and kittens! Everything bad in the world has been resolved!”  

But hey, at least it’s better than the absolute trash they used to post for TGW. Remember when there’d be episodes about Alicia making career moves and they’d be like, “#TeamPeter or #TeamWill????”  

OR, OR OR OR, the fucking time they tried to crosspromote TGW and the Victoria’s Secret Fashion show (yes) with a tweet that read, “All ‘Saint Alicia’ needs is a pair of wings&she practically turns into an Angel.” I... have no words.  

Hey, Caleb is back! I was not expecting them to actually wrap up his arc with Liz. I think I’m actually pretty thankful it’s ending like this—he comes back for what I assume is one last episode and I don’t actually have to deal with the Liz/Caleb plot. Apparently the writers were setting that up so they could do some plots about power dynamics and interracial couples and who is seen as having power. Caleb and Liz were going to have an encounter with the police, who were going to listen to Caleb instead of Liz even though this encounter would’ve taken place in Liz’s house and Liz is the name partner and Caleb the employee. Interesting enough, but anything boss/employee just squicks me out and I don’t need it around and Liz deserves better.

But I did like Caleb as a character, so I’m glad he gets an exit, unlike past characters who have just disappeared. (Remember Robyn Burdine? Or that time Taye Diggs was a major character for two seconds?)  

Liz was NOT expecting to see Caleb as a candidate for Lucca’s old role. Things are instantly awkward. I guess Caleb left STR Laurie?  

Diane immediately senses that things are awkward with Liz and Caleb. Caleb is very professional throughout all this. Diane gets an important call and leaves the room, so Caleb and Liz can chat privately.  

Caleb says he thought Liz was reaching out; Liz says she should’ve reached out but things ended abruptly. Love that Caleb checks that no one else is in the room with Liz before getting even more personal. He says they should just act like nothing ever happened between them and Liz asks if he can do that. “I’m the employee. Of course I can,” he says. This is why you don’t sleep with employees.  

He says he really does want the job and he liked the firm. Liz says she’ll talk to Diane. Caleb says if it doesn’t work out he’ll be fine.  

Phoebe tells Diane about 9 ¾ and Diane does not understand... at all. “If it has no power, and it doesn’t have jurisdiction, what does it have?” Diane wonders.  

A little more on the case: RL is representing a woman who taught a small group of students during the pandemic, and some parents are suing her for preaching socialism at the children.  

The woman suing did NOT like being called a Karen by her daughter or being compared to the family from Parasite. She wants a refund.  

Marissa objects and makes up her own grounds, realizing that since it’s not a real court, she can object for any reasons she wants—as long as they follow common sense.  

These scenes could so easily feel ridiculous, like a gag that goes on for too long. They do not. There’s just enough zany humor and theatrics to make the 9 ¾ court feel surreal. And, most helpfully, Wackner is a GREAT judge. He is engaged with the work and only concerned with the facts and arguments rather than politics. He’s tough but fair. He’s direct and he maintains control over his court. He’d be one of the best judges in a normal court. His sincerity is enough to make you wonder why courts DON’T operate like this. It’s easy to see why the characters are sold on this BS-free, rational, and effective system, even if it makes no sense that it would exist and it has no power. It’s simultaneously idealistic (if only things were resolved fairly) and threatening (how can something like this exist?! What does it mean that the real courts are so ineffective that there’s a need for something like this?! What happens if this goes beyond what are basically mediations for simple issues?).

This type of thought experiment is where TGF excels. I think they were going for something like this with Memo 618 (which hasn’t gone away!), but that arc always felt like it was on the verge of going off the rails. Mandy Patinkin’s performance and the writing for the 9 ¾ court already have me more invested in this than I was in Memo 618.  

Marissa tries yet again to wait for help to arrive, but Wackner insists that they keep things moving. She tries to stall and ends up referencing George Clooney. Wackner cuts through that, too—he hates speeches “unless I'm giving them, and even then I’m just trying to stall.” Then he holds up a sign that reads, “CUT THE SHIT” and the audience laughs. He says this isn’t the kind of court where you can just run out the clock. Kind of ridiculous that real court IS that kind of court, no? (And that’s why this is an effective device so far.) (I say so far because I have watched content from these writers for long enough to know that things that work in small doses or initially can go wildly off the rails.)  

Marissa changes strategies and does what she does best: she goes on instinct and adjusts her strategy as she goes. She eventually catches the woman accusing her client of teaching socialism in a lie about Parasite. It’s very Legally Blonde and very smart of Marissa. And I’m rather proud of myself for seeing what Marissa was doing (getting the woman to commit to a time frame and then baiting her to talk about a moment that proved the time frame fake) before she revealed what she was doing.  

Sarah Steele is so good in this scene. I love her smile when she realizes the woman took the bait, and that she reacts with “AHA!” instead of something more proper. This is pretty much the perfect court for Marissa.  

Diane and Jay arrive; are confused.  

Carmen leaves Rivi after quite a bit of time has passed, making Barry nervous. Carmen tells him very little and repeats that she sat, listened, and left. She told the translator to go fuck himself (almost in those words) so she’s gotta know that Barry will hear what happened from someone. She does not care. She lies to Barry like it’s nothing.  

Diane does not understand the 9 ¾ court, nor does she understand why a non-lawyer like Marissa is arguing. She does not understand why losing in this venue would matter or why a lawyer she knows (ha, I looked him up to see if he’d been on Wife or Fight before, and he has... as a totally different character!) is there.  

“Okay, I’m losing my mind. Look, this is not legal. We have got to get out of here,” Diane says. Toni, the client, wants to stay.

I don’t actually know the answer to this—would there be repercussions to someone who is a member of the bar participating in something like this? Everyone knows it’s not real or binding, so nothing is being misrepresented, but this FEELS illegal?  

Toni notes that a lot of people suing her are there watching, so walking out or losing would look bad. She also likes Judge Wackner because he is “better than the judges in real court.”

“Diane, what is real?” the client asks when Diane points out again that this court is fake. The client’s spent 8 months on this case in limbo, so this feels like reality to her. Fair point.  

Diane chats with the other lawyer and asks what he’s doing here. He says he’s getting paid—with business down and court dockets backlogged (how much would that affect a large firm that settles most cases out of court? I’m actually curious about this), it’s a good source of money.  

Diane realizes it’s basically arbitration. Then says she doesn’t understand anything anymore. The other lawyer replies, “Sure you do. That’s why this is throwing you. Welcome to 2021.” Yup.  

Diane goes with it. A former teacher is on the stand. He’s got a grudge and wants money, so he’s helping out. He tries to say something that is the most obvious hearsay ever... and Wackner has no problem with it. Marissa likes that.  

Wackner basically says he’s fine with hearsay because he can use his brain to figure out what’s real and what’s fake, just like we all do every day. Crosstalk is also allowed.  

Wackner also doesn’t allow for bullshit breaks where lawyers tell clients what to say, because he “likes the truths found in sudden utterances.” All his rules make a lot of sense. They are all also counter to every single sneaky legal strategy these characters tend to use.

Toni made a comment that she “couldn’t fall in love with anyone who voted for Trump.” That gives a point to the plaintiff. Diane notes that this belief is shared with most of the country, and Wackner asks her if she shares it. “I’m not the question,” Diane replies, because she definitely doesn’t want to talk about her husband who worked in the Trump administration.  

Wackner flat out tells Diane that Marissa should argue instead of her. “Marissa is not a lawyer,” Diane tries to say. “Well, I’m not a judge!” Wackner responds. And that’s it for the day.

Diane asks Jay for intel, and then we get one of the most effective Jay scenes in a while—he bonds with the Copy Coop security guard, who only has good things to say about Wackner. I like how the writers use COVID in this episode—they treat it like it’s recent past (fingers crossed) and reference it when it makes sense, like how the courts are backlogged, or this guard was laid off.  

The security guard notes that he thinks Wackner is building something good in his spare time. He also notes that Wackner is a big Grateful Dead fan.

Carmen takes it upon herself to visit someone else in prison to help Rivi. She points out they’re under surveillance and convinces this other dude to take the fall for Rivi so he can go free. It’s very smart. I assume this is all her own strategy, as we see her look up this other dude before she’s even met with Rivi, though it’s possible Rivi came up with some of it.  

There is something about Carmen’s demeanor when she deals with clients that is very Alicia-like in interesting ways. She’s very direct and unflappable in a way that people seem to take to (remember how all the creeps loved Alicia?), and she only shows emotion when she decides to. The similarities stop there. Carmen doesn’t seem remorseful or conflicted (Alicia always did). Sociopathic definitely isn’t the right word for her, but I’d be lying if I didn’t say it didn’t cross my mind. Carmen knows that her clients are bad guys. That doesn’t trouble her. And she doesn’t try to take the easy way out—she does more than she needs to. I don’t know what she’s really trying to do here, but I suspect she does.  

Carmen is 28, just fyi.  

Liz gets a call from Charles Lester. Obviously, Lester now works for Rivi, because Rivi is New Bishop. (Usually I’m a bit against saying any character is the new version of an old one, like how Lucca was not the new Kalinda (even if she was brought in to bring new energy to the space Kalidna occupied) or how Carmen is not the new Lucca (same), but I’m pretty comfortable saying Rivi is New Bishop. He’s not the same personality, but he... is New Bishop.)  

Lester notes that Rivi only wants to meet with Carmen from now on. Liz does not understand this and she’s not thrilled with it. She notes that Carmen is a first year who has been there for two days, but she doesn’t want to lose Rivi’s business so she goes along with it. Was that Carmen’s endgame? Job security? Does she not care about the RL job and see a good opportunity to... just represent Rivi without a firm behind her? I can’t tell.

(This is where I could see this arc faltering. I get why Liz keeps Carmen on—she doesn’t want to lose the client—but I don’t really understand why Liz wants Rivi as a client. Losing Carmen who’s been there for two days and Rivi who she probably doesn’t want to represent seems like a fine outcome to me. And, beyond that, if Carmen doesn’t care about the firm and also doesn’t need them, what’s in it for her to stay? I don’t think she really cares that the firm would have more resources to use in defending Rivi. Like, why isn’t the outcome here just that Carmen teams up with Lester and leaves RL behind?)

Diane listens to the Grateful Dead and writes down lyrics she can use in court. Kurt gets home from work. Diane asks him if he thinks she should give up her name partnership since it’s a black firm. Kurt asks if she’s the best lawyer there. She says no, but she’s one of the best, and besides, it’s a bad look and she wants to do what’s right for the firm. “You and I disagree on so much. You obviously ask my opinion because you know that I will argue something you know you won’t,” Kurt says. This is a very good, and very accurate, response.

Diane keeps going, though. Kurt plays along and starts talking about identity politics. Diane starts debating back, ignoring that Kurt is not really wanting to play devil’s advocate. Kurt doesn’t give Diane an easy out and tells her she’s right—she should step aside. That’s not what she wanted to hear. Kurt laughs and then goes to take a shower.  

Liz is eyeing Adrian’s office when Carmen walks up. She’s invited Carmen to talk to her. She asks her how things are going. Carmen just wants to know if she did something wrong. Carmen says she likes the firm and it’s great to be out of the legal clinics.  

Liz shares the news that Rivi only wants Carmen going forward. Carmen is pleased and says that’s surprising... though she looks more pleased than surprised.  

Liz suggests maintaining a professional distance, to which Carmen replies “I’m very professional.” “Oh, I don’t doubt it,” Liz tries to backtrack. “Is the firm dissatisfied with my work?” Carmen asks bluntly. Liz says no. “It’s my intention to treat all my clients like humans. Even the ones who might be murderers, or definitely are murderers. And I think Mr. Rivi might be responding to that because it’s something that he hasn’t received at this firm previously,” Carmen notes. This is QUITE the tone to take with your boss.

One question I have—and this is mostly inspired by the recap at I think Vulture?-- is to what extent Carmen knows what she’s doing. It seems like a lot. I can’t tell how much Carmen knows vs how much Carmen THINKS she knows. She’s definitely smart, and I don’t think she is an idealist (when she says her intention is to treat her clients like humans, she means that’s her strategy), but she is young and new to the law and only out for herself, which makes her vulnerable.  

Liz does not take well to Carmen’s talk and notes she’s talking about her personal safety. Carmen thanks her and says she’d understand if Liz doesn’t want her on the case.

There is something a little unnerving about Carmen. She keeps saying things that are boldly inappropriate but masked by how professional and correct her arguments sound (like the line about treating clients like humans). And she has a way of gaining power over a conversation. Liz squirms way too much in that conversation and loses some of her control as a result.  

I just need to know more about her!!! The fact that I can’t understand her makes her immediately interesting.  

Diane and Liz interview Julius for Lucca’s position. They all know it would be a demotion for him, but they’re seriously considering it. I feel like this would look awful for the firm and they are going to handwave it anyway after a few lines about how bad it would look.  

Diane quotes the Grateful Dead in court and it works. The other lawyer tries to quote songs too... it does not work.  

Carmen gets Rivi a bunch of candy bars from the court vending machine so he can have a snack he enjoys. The security guard doesn’t want to let Rivi eat them, but Carmen is right that this is permissible. The guard smashes the bars in defeat. Carmen opens one for Rivi.  

It is a little distracting to see the main characters pretend that COVID is in the past when the extras have masks, but honestly, that’s kind of what life is like right now?

Carmen zones out a little in court—not sure if she just does that or if she is trying to look unfamiliar with the rules so people will go easy on her/have low expectations. I think it’s a combination of both, considering that we’ve seen her laser-focus on things elsewhere in the episode AND she tells the judge it is her first day in court.  

Court stuff happens; Carmen’s strategy works.  

The judge tries to give Carmen advice and a warning. Liz is also there, watching, which is good because I was shocked anyone would let Carmen do this unsupervised.  

Carmen is also kind of like if you removed all of Maia’s worst traits (her selfishness, her spoiled brat attitude, her sense of entitlement) and skipped right to her willingness to partner with Blum.

Liz and Carmen talk again, this time about the reputation of the firm. Liz notes that Carmen is clearly capable and reminds her sternly that she needs to conduct herself in a manner that does not put the firm at risk and that’s the only reminder she’s going to get. Carmen twirls a pen and stares at it instead of listening to Liz. She says she’s just listening like she’s perfectly innocent. It’s the right thing to say and, again, it’s SUPER UNNERVING.  

“Wow. You really don’t give a shit what people think about you, do you?” Liz says in frustration. “I’m here to do a good job for my clients,” Carmen notes. Is she??? Does she just not care who she’s representing and want to do a good job, and that’s her whole motivation?? I would find that interesting but I need more to believe it. She’s so perplexing.

(Again, I don’t really get why Liz hasn’t fired her, because if she and Carmen keep having these interactions, Liz IS going to end up ceding all of her power and looking weak. But maybe Liz is as intrigued as I am.)

Liz also tells Carmen she’s going to be her mentor. Carmen says thanks and that she respected Liz’s father. Liz does NOT take that well. Audra’s reaction—a mix of shock, irritation, and confusion—is perfect here. I think Carmen is trying to say that she respected Carl Reddick—but she has no such respect for Liz. (It could also be about the sexual harassment, but I don’t think that’s public knowledge.)  

I noticed earlier that the courtroom was #305 and was wondering why they chose that number (it’s similar to Courtroom 302, the book that inspired the bond court arc, which is why 305 stuck in my mind). I see now that the Copy Coop’s address is 305. Heh.  

Turns out that the woman suing Toni is someone who would break COVID protocol and be generally terrible. I’m shocked.

Wackner decides to skip closing arguments and rule. He sides with Toni.  

See, this is where this kind of thing is dangerous. Wackner is great and fair. But you can’t really replicate a system like this (though I also think this system would fail if replicated on too large of a scale; the reason it works is that everyone involved is buying into it and if it were to be corrupted no one would buy into it unless forced to—and if people are forced to buy into an extrajudicial system then that’s its own problem). What if some other judge were to just decide to skip closing arguments or decide suddenly a trial was over? That could be unfair in so many different ways.  

After the resolution of the case there’s clapping and even Diane is surprised at how reasonable the verdict was.

Wackner then insists that everyone shake hands because “the thing we all crave most is respect and acknowledgement.” They also have to say, “I respect and I love you.” And they do! And no one even seems that unhappy with it Marissa and Toni are super into it.

And, someone in the gallery wants to get Marissa’s number because she did such a good job. Yep, sounds about right.

Diane fills Liz in, and Liz can’t believe it. Liz wants to hire Wackner (jokingly). Then she says she wants Julius since they know and trust him. Diane’s good with that, but she also chooses this moment to playfully let on that she knows Liz slept with Caleb. We’ve seen Diane observe Liz’s reaction to Caleb/mentions of Caleb all episode, and I don’t think it’s coincidental that Diane brings this up now, and in a friendly way. Diane doesn’t need to bring it up. I don’t think Diane needs the answer. I think she just wants to throw Liz off without making it obvious that’s what she’s doing.

I really, really hate to say it, because my whole thing about this season is wanting to see Liz be a great manager, but I don’t... actually think... Liz is a great manager? She’s second-guessing herself far too much. She’s more thrown in this scene than Carmen, who has like two days of experience, is by anything she encounters. And worse, she doesn’t hide it when she’s thrown. I think Liz is very smart and capable, but this episode is a pretty good case for why she might not be able to manage alone.

I know I’ve said that I want to see Liz manage and think she’d be good at it. I still think she could be. But I’ve also tended to think that Liz is a good manager and Adrian talks down at her, and I’ve dismissed some of her less strategic ideas as the fault of the Adrian/Liz dynamic. But nothing in this episode seems out of character, so now I’m less sure. (And to be clear, Liz not being a great manager isn’t a problem with the show, it’s actually pretty interesting to me.)  

(Here are some of the things Liz has done in this episode alone that she needs to stop doing to be more effective: 1) Everything about her reaction to Caleb (and the fact she slept with him-- and yes I would, and did, say this about Will too so this is not a double standard!) 2) Not having a clear plan when meeting with the partners, even though she—and not Diane—is the one who is seen as having power. 3) Not being able to hold her own nearly as well as she should be able to with Carmen. I’m curious to see how the other partners hold up, and in fairness to Liz, I may be able to make this criticism of any character who doesn’t just immediately fire Carmen.)  

And, I say all of this now because Diane in this scene is SO smart and SO strategic. She mentions Caleb to disarm Liz, then casually notes that she thinks Liz should take the corner office since it’s a black firm.  

Liz isn’t sure if she should thank Diane for that (it is a little patronizing) but she does anyway.

Diane has another “last thing” to say, and it’s that she wants to bring on another partner, a black one. She wants to be in the discussion and to retain a name partner position. Liz says yes, as long as she has any power over the decision. This is a very smart move for Diane. It’s a compromise that’s to her benefit, and she makes the request of Liz at exactly the right time. I think Diane likes Liz as a person and wants to work with her, but she’s definitely buttering her up. This is kind of like an audition to show Liz that she should stick with Diane—Diane will be friendly with her! Diane won’t judge (but definitely knows about!) her indiscretions. Diane is reasonable and not power-hungry! Diane is understanding!  

(And again, to be clear, I don’t think Liz is falling for Diane’s trap or anything. If Diane is smart enough to plan all this out, Diane is absolutely someone you’d want to keep on as a name partner. It’s just that Diane showing how smart she is, is a pretty stark contrast to Liz getting disrespected by a first-year associate.)  

(And, because I feel like I'm being quite harsh on Liz, I don’t think Liz has handled the Carmen situation badly... yet. I just see signs that Carmen is able to shift the balance of power in her favor without really trying, and that Liz is getting flustered. I think Liz mentioning the mentorship is a way of Liz asserting power, and I think/hope that now that Liz knows the situation, she will try to regain control. And, I could very easily see this same plot happening but with Diane—it's just that there are a few other plots where Liz seems flustered in this episode alone, so it feels like a pattern. I’ll be looking out for more of this.)

Marissa and Carmen, both with large folders of casework, get in an elevator together. “So. I guess it begins,” Marissa says as the episode ends. I very much want to see more of Marissa and Carmen interacting. Mostly, I just want to see what Carmen does when she’s in situations that aren’t about representing a client or defending her work. I know what type of lawyer and employee she is, but who is she as a person?  

Wow, this might be the most I’ve written about characters on TGF—as opposed to plots—in quite a while. I think that’s what has me so excited about this season. Carmen is interesting as a character because she’s so unique (or, perhaps, because she feels so much like a part of this universe yet so little like any other character—that's why I keep trying to compare her to others and find out where to place her). The 9 ¾ court is interesting because Wackner is so grounded, because it challenges Diane’s sense of reality in a way that’s new and interesting (this whole series is about making reality seem like it’s shifting under your feet; this is a new take on a familiar theme), and because it is a great match for Marissa’s personality and will give her a lot of opportunities for growth. It seems like we’re heading for some interesting material with Diane and Kurt, and there’s been a little bit of a tense undercurrent in their interactions in these first two episodes—I truly can’t tell if it’s supposed to be part of their banter or if there are mounting frustrations; I think the former but could see it being the latter. And, as I’d hoped, Liz is getting a lot more material.  

[elianamarie-blog]

The Things You Give Part 2 Steven Hyde x Reader

Author’s Note: I hope you really enjoyed Part 1! Here is part 2 and I’ll put a link to access part 1 if it’s your first time being here. Leave a heart and subscribe to my blog if you want more! Thank you and stay safe, folks. 

Warnings: None

Part 1 here: https://www.tumblr.com/blog/view/elianamarie-blog

The next morning, Y/N found herself waking up at noon. She cursed at herself because she hated waking up late knowing her day was now gone, but at least it’s Saturday and her day off from work. She dragged herself out of bed and trudged her way down into the kitchen where she was greeted with Red, Kitty, Steven, and Eric eating lunch at the table.

           “Well, good morning, sunshine,” Kitty greeted, looking up from her glass of lemonade. “Or should I say ‘afternoon?’”

           Y/N yawned as she plopped herself in a chair across from her mother. “I was up late last night.”

           “Doing what?” Red questioned like she didn’t have any good excuse.

            Y/N eternally cursed herself as her eyes flitted towards Hyde’s wide ones for a split second. She didn’t think this through. “I-I just couldn’t sleep. Tossing and turning.”

           “Again?” Kitty asked. “This has been happening for the last couple months. You might be suffering from insomnia. At first I thought it was because of your finals and looking for colleges, but this has gone longer than that. You might have insomnia.”

           She chuckled to herself, relieved. “Yeah, probably do.” She grabbed a sandwich from the middle of the table and at the bag of chips, dumping it on her plate.

           “Eric, what’s your plan for today?” Red asked.

           “Well, since I’m on my one year of doing nothing, I’m going to answer with nothing,” he responded with no emotion in his voice.

           “Wrong,” Red answered harshly, like he normally does when he spoke to Eric. “You’re going to trim the hedges, sweep the driveway, and fix the dent on the Vista Cruiser.”

           “Dad, that’s like eighty bucks!” Eric cried. “I don’t have that kind of money.”

           “Then it looks like you’re going to have to get a job!” Red said.

           “But that just interferes with my plan!”

           “Exactly,” Red responded slowly. “If you’re going to live in my house you will do as I say. Or you can drive around town with that big ass dent.”

           Eric thought it over for a split second before pointing at Red. “Can’t Y/N pay for it? She has a job.”

           “No!” he said. “She’s not the one who put the dent there.”

           “Neither did I!” Eric argued. “Mr. Fitzgerald ran into me.”

           “And don’t worry, I already talked to him, but unfortunately our insurance won’t cover it. So it falls on you to replace it.”

           “This totally blows, man. I’d rather drive around town with the dent.”

           Red rolled his eyes at his son and turned to face him fully. “Why can’t you be like your sister? She got a job straight out high school working at the bridal store, applied for college in Denver, and has her life planned out. While you sit there eating my food, taking up my heat, taking up space, being a no-good bum.”

           “Red, honey, that’s enough,” Kitty interjected. “Let’s just enjoy our lunch.”

           “Dad, I only stayed because of your heart attack!” He shot back at his ill-tempered father. “You know, to take care of you guys. I could be in Madison right now.”

           “And that’s worked out great so far, hasn’t it?” Red spat.

           “You’re so ungrateful!” Eric said, clearly hurt. “Why can’t you just say ‘thank you’ for once?”

           “I would if you just do something around the house,” he responded, his voice raising. “Pick up on household chores, work and bring a paycheck home, help your mother out, take me to doctors appointments. Anything other than sitting around all day playing you’re your toys.”

           “Red, you’re going to give yourself another heart attack,” Kitty informed him. “You need to calm down.”

           Red put his hands up. “Fine, fine. But I want those chores done today, Eric. And if you half-ass it, I’m going to make you do it all over again, plus cleaning out the gutters and fixing the leak under the bathroom sink.”

           Eric grunted. “Fine, I’ll do it.”

           Red nodded, pleased he won the argument and turned back to his meal. It was silent for a moment, the air thick with tension. Hyde and Y/N just sat there, eating quietly and stiffened. Well, not so much Hyde because it was always amusing seeing Red yell at Eric, but for Y/N it was different. Even though she was used to the constant fighting, their argument had never been this intense.

           “So,” Kitty said, clearing her throat, trying to ease the conversation. “Steven, how’s work going?”

           “Oh, you know, working at the kitchen is great,” he said, taking a chip to his mouth. “Ever since Kelso and Eric left, things have been pretty quiet. We hired a new server so it makes things a little easier.”

           Kitty beamed proudly at him. “I’m glad to hear it. What about you, dear?” she asked turned to Y/N .

           “It’s good,” she responded. “Helping brides pick out their dresses. It’s nice and easy.”

           “Well, good,” Kitty replied and patted her hand. “I’m so proud of you. Although, you’re going to have to leave me to go to Denver.” Her smile turned into a sad one and her voice cracked.

           “Mom, I haven’t even been accepted yet,” Y/N responded, trying to comfort her mother. “Who knows, I might end up going to the college in Kenosha or staying to go to the community college here.”

           Hyde sat up a little straighter, hope filling him.

           “Have you applied to them?” Red asked.

           “Well, I applied to Denver first and then if I didn’t get in, I was going to apply to Kenosha. If that didn’t work out, then the community college here since I can just go sign up.”

           Red beamed at her proudly. “That’s my girl.”

            Y/N smiled up at him. He can be a hard ass, but seeing him smile proudly at her and being the softy he was with her, made it all worth it. “Thanks, Daddy.”      

           “What are you going to study?” Kitty asked and suddenly all eyes were on Y/N . Kitty was hoping she’d follow in her footsteps and become a nurse, but Y/N wasn’t too sure if she even wanted that.

           “Um,” she stumbled, gulping. “I’m not sure. I was thinking either engineering or automotive.”

           “Oh, honey, you don’t want to do that,” Kitty said, handing her another sandwich.

           “Why not?” Red asked before Y/N could. “She’s knowledgeable about that kind of stuff. Hell, I’ve taught her all about cars and the mechanics. Unlike dumbass over here.”

           “Hey!” Eric called out. “We both know that I am not strong enough to hold up a tire.”

           “Yeah,” Red said, dragging it out and glared at him. “I know.”

           “Mom, why shouldn’t I study those?” Y/N asked.

           “Well, you don’t want to work in a man’s place,” she responded. “It’s dirty and hot, and it’s super hard to do. Besides, you’ll just distract the boys from doing their jobs.”

           While Hyde’s mind went to dirty places after hearing the words dirty, hot, and hard, he noticed Y/N getting visible angry.  

           “Really?” she hissed. “You think I can’t handle it because I’m a woman? Or smart enough? If I can do the job, why does it matter? I am not and will not be responsible for the other guys not getting their job done because they’re too stupid to do their job.”

           “C’mon, Y/N , you deserve better,” she said. “You don’t have to work there. Why don’t you work at the hair salon? Or better yet, sell Tupperware?”

           “No, mom!” Y/N said. “I want to do something meaningful with my life. I don’t want to fit into societal norms. I deserve a well paying job just as much men do.”

           “Kitty, let her decide what she wants,” Red spoke up. “We’re not going to be living her life. You didn’t say anything to Laurie when she went to beauty school.”

           “Yeah, well, it’s not like she has many options anyway,” she responded.

           “But I do and you’re trying to limit me?”

           “Oh, honey, don’t take it so personally,” Kitty said, trying to deflate the conversation. “You’re the smart one out of all of us and I just want you to have a better life.”

           “I’m sitting right here,” Eric whined.

           “Yeah, but you don’t what you want to do yet. Figure it out and then come talk to us,” Kitty said and turned back to Y/N . “We just don’t want you to get hurt.”

           “Kitty, you can’t limit her just because you don’t want to her get hurt. That’s not fair.”

           Kitty sighed. “Fine, do whatever you want.”

            Y/N rolled her eyes and stood. “I’m not hungry anymore. I’m going to go check the mail.” She slammed her plate in the sink and stomped out the swinging door.

           “Way to go, Kitty,” Red said and stood up tp put his plate in the sink. “You had to anger her by telling her that.”

           “What, this is my fault now?” Kitty defended.

           Red looked at her emotionless. “Yes.”

           “Well, excuse me for wanting a better future for my baby girl!” She cried. “I’m relieved that we don’t have another Laurie and all I wanted for her was to be safe! But. I’m just terrible mother who can’t control her kids. Is a peace of mind for a mother really too much to ask?!” She screamed and finished her huge scene by grabbing her emergency bottle of wine and stomped upstairs to her bedroom.

           “Aw, crap,” Red groaned. “Even when she’s wrong, she’s right.”

           “Women, man,” Hyde said and put his plate in the sink as well. “From what I learned about women, they’re always right and we’re always wrong.”

           “Well, I’m glad my Donna isn’t like that,” Eric spoke up, also bringing his plate to the sink. “She will apologize to me if she did wrong. She’s smart like that.”

           “Yeah, but she has you whipped like 99% of the time,” Hyde shot back.

           “Not true!” Eric defended.

           “Man, you so are!” Hyde said, laughing. “What happened last week? You wanted to go watch Star Wars for the billionth time and she wanted to see a chick flick. And what did you end up seeing? The chick flick.”

           “Well, if I hadn’t she wouldn’t have let—” he stopped dead short when he saw Red staring at him. “She wouldn’t have let me kissed her goodnight on the cheek. Like the innocent and responsible adults we are.”

           Red rolled his eyes. “Can it. I’m going to check on your mother and if I don’t see you doing what I asked in five minutes, I’m going to put my foot so far up your ass, I’ll be able to control you like a puppet.” With that, he pushed the swinging door open and exited out to check on Kitty.

           “Forman, you should write a book ‘Things Red Threatened To Put In My ass.’ Chapter one: His foot.”

           Eric could only roll his eyes and exit the kitchen to start on those dreadful chores.

           Hyde decided to go check on Y/N once Eric was out of sight. He took the steps two at time until he came across Y/N’s room. He knocked on the door and gently opened the door.

           “ Y/N?”

           She was sitting at her desk, looking over the college pamphlets. “Hey,” she replied miserably.

           He shut the door and sat on her bed. “You okay, man? That was intense what happened down there.”

           “Yeah” she replied curtly, but not towards him. “It’s so typical of my mother to try to control everything I do. I’m not Laurie so she feels like I’m not good enough to make own decisions.”

           “She just doesn’t want you to be like her,” Hyde defended. “You’re the only child that your parents don’t worry because you have your head screwed on straight.”

           She looked at him with a defeated look. “I know, but there’s other ways about it,” she responded and sat down next to him.

           “Your mom doesn’t want you to leave,” he continued.

           “Well, I need to,” she said without thinking about it. She noticed hurt flash across his face. “I mean, it’s not like I want to, really. I want to explore the world and see what it has to offer me, but staying here is not going to give me that.”

           “I know,” he sighs. “It just sucks hearing you talk about it.”

           “I know, I’m sorry,” she said and grabbed his hand. Right there, she wanted to invite him to come along with her, but she was afraid. Afraid that he would run away. Then what if she doesn’t get accepted? Then she’s going to have to deal with seeing him everyday and make it harder for her to move on., but little did she know he was secretly hoping for the same thing. Just like her, he was terrified to ask her. He didn’t want to show too much vulnerability. After seeing what his mom went through, he doesn’t want to get into a relationship and then move away only for them to break up. And then what? He’d be stuck there, or worse, she’d see him for who he truly is and run away. It was easier for him to keep everything hidden than to spill it.

           “Anyway, it doesn’t matter,” she said. “I’m going to do whatever I want regardless what my mom says.”

           “Did you check the mail?” he asks, changing the subject.

           “Yeah, nothing yet.”

           He stared down at their entwined hands. “I don’t know why this is so hard for us to talk about,” she said. “It’s not like we’re in a committed relationship. “

           His heart dropped at hearing that, but why? They were both on the same page. It’s not like it meant nothing, but it meant something. It may have even started off that way, but it definitely wasn’t like that now. They wanted to make it official but the sneaking around and hiding it from everyone kind of prevented it from happening. Even if they did, it would be saying goodbye so much harder.

           He knew he was in for it when they started. He had never felt this way about anyone before. And that scared him. He was afraid to lose her which sucked because he never felt that fear with anyone, but she was different. She made him feel at home, at peace. She made him a better man. He was actually happy. Before, he had trouble running in with the law and relatively being a jerk to everyone. Hyde was a good friend, but showed it differently than the average man. When it came to women, he hardly ever got attached. Women would leave anyway once they found out the true him. Or at least, the side that he wanted them to see. She saw his heart, through the wall he built up, and tore it down. With her, he wanted her to tear it down because for once in life, he was able to trust someone that wasn’t within his normal group, but even then this was way different with him. He finally felt safe and didn’t have to be ready to run if he had to.

           She knew that if she stayed here, she would have Steven, but her future would be bleak. She knew if she left the state, she would be able to accomplish so much more. But the thought of leaving him was almost unbearable to her, which confused her. She knew what she was getting into when they started seeing each other. She knew it would be just a fling, but the more they did it, the more they connected; spiritually and physically. It wasn’t supposed to end up like this. She wasn’t supposed to develop feelings for him, but she did. Even though they clearly like each other, she didn’t want to suggest anything more in fear of rejection. What if he didn’t feel the same way? It’d be easier to leave, but she doesn’t want to forget him and go without him. If more than anything, she wanted him to join her. The only way she would find out is by asking.

           “Yeah,” he scoffed. “It’d be stupid of us to do that since you might be leaving.”

           “Well, um,” she began, suddenly feeling so nervous that she started shaking. He felt it and held her hand tighter.

           “Are you okay?”

           “Yeah, ‘m fine,” she responded and looked into his shades, even though she was trying to look into his eyes. “Maybe, we…we don’t have to split up.”

           His eyebrows came together which made her more nervous for his answer. “What d’you mean?”

           She took a deep breath. “Maybe…you can come with me.”

[9tzuyu]

the art of delicate hands pt. ii

[ it's your turn to learn! (or maybe not.) ]

part. i

notes:

99% of the words that are italicized are wanda signing :).

After Natasha discovered Wanda's secret, she immediately wanted to begin learning it. She asked her girlfriend if she'd teach it to her, to which Wanda happily agreed, but only because Tasha was her girlfriend. Wanda started off with the basics, teaching her the alphabet and numbers. It'd keep Natasha busy for awhile before she mastered that set and wanted something new.

(because that's how good Nat was, she was far above average when it came down to memorizing and remembering things she needed to know).

And together, they practiced every night when the rest of the house was either asleep or not around.

Sometimes Wanda would catch Natasha practicing to herself when she was meant to be studying. She was a perfectionist – something Wanda frowned upon; not because Nat wanted it to be perfect, but because she would be too hard on herself.

Like now.

"Will I ever fucking get this right?" Natasha growled, letting out a frustrated sigh. Wanda saw this and came up behind her, placing soft kisses all over the side of her face. Natasha instantly relaxed into Wanda's hold, grinning as she felt her girlfriend's smile against her cheek.

"Study. Or else I won't practice with you tonight, sweet girl." Wanda giggled, sending small vibrations through Natasha's neck.

"You're so cruel." Wanda gave her a wink and walked off into the main room, leaving Natasha alone to work. She found her brother and Steve in the kitchen, preparing what seemed like some sort of lunch. She grimaced as she walked by, seeing a bowl full of unmixed items cooking on the stove-top.

'What are you making?

Pietro looked up and smiled at his little sister, "Food, Wanda. Food."

‘Do you even know the first the about cooking?’ She laughed and he gave her a not-so-serious-serious look. "Please, Of course I do! Do you know the first thing about cooking?" He challenged.

'Yes. And I know that you're not supposed to burn whatever you're making,' she smirked as Pietro panicked and went to fix his mistake. Steve awkwardly stood in the back, quickly getting secondhand embarrassment from the silver haired man.

'Hello Steve,' she greeted. He waved back at her and went to help Pietro with his mess. Wanda walked off, letting the two figure it out on their own.

She was bored.

All her studies were complete, she didn't have work today, and everyone else was busy. What could she do? Whatever it was, she didn't want to do it alone that's for sure. She wanted to have fun.

Licking her lips, Wanda suddenly had an idea. "Fun," she repeated. The brunette bounced her way back to her room (though it was more their room) where her favorite redhead was. She peeked in and saw Natasha biting her lip, her eyes focused on the textbook in front of her.

"Tasha?"

"Hmm?" She put down the book and stared at her girlfriend. (God she's beautiful.)

'Park?'

Natasha shot up, "You know I'd never turn down spending time with you. Let me get my jacket and we can head out." Wanda clapped her hands excitedly as she was ready to go.

The two women sat together in a tight embrace, enjoying the cool air. It was perfect – her head rest gently in Natasha's lap, fingers tracing Nat's jawline from below. Wanda couldn't remember the last time she felt so secure.

‘How are your classes?’ Natasha groaned, causing a small laugh to slip out of Wanda's mouth. "I came here to get away from that, not to talk about it."

"Here to help," the brunette whispered. After a few minutes she sat up, turning her body to face more Natasha. Wanda stared into green eyes, softly tucking a loose piece of red hair behind Tasha's ear.

She did what she naturally knew to do. She signed.

'You're beautiful like the sky, and the trees, and the earth all around us. I know you're the only one for me.'

Natasha tilted her head, curious as to what Wanda was signing. When she was done, Natasha placed a soft kiss on her lips. Both of them smiled into it, wanting nothing more than to live in the moment forever.

Unfortunately, however, their blissful time was soon interrupted by the sound of loud voices coming from behind them. Wanda looked over and saw a group of boys ganging up on a smaller girl.

Everything in her body told her to go help. She got up and jogged over to where the commotion was, surprised that no one else was stopping this. As she got closer, she could hear all the mean things they were saying about her.

"Stupid girl."

"Nobody will ever like you."

"Mute freak."

The last insult angered Wanda even more than before. And before she could control herself, she yelled.

"You think it's nice to pick on other people?" All three of the boys turned their heads, wide-eyed because they'd been caught.

But one always had to be a smart ass.

"It's not like she’s going to fight back anyway." The taller boy argued. "Don’t go near her again." She growled. Natasha stood back from the scene, watching her girlfriend with a proud smile on her face.

(Of course Wanda would stick up for someone who couldn’t fight for themselves. And it was so like Wanda to not care about using her voice in that moment.)

"Why should I listen to you?" He spit out, anger evident on her face.

Wanda quickly found the boy’s mother heading their way, her face scrunched in disapproval.

“Because I wouldn’t want your mom, who’s right behind you by the way, to get upset with her sweet boy.”

The boy paled as he turned his head to find his mom fifteen feet away from him. He tugged his friends away and ran towards his mother, leaving Wanda alone with the girl.

'What's your name?' She signed.

The little girl's eyes lit up. 'Aniah. Thank you for helping me.'

'I'm Wanda, and it's no problem. Where are your parents?'

'They're here somewhere. I'll find them. Is that your friend behind you?' Wanda smiled and looked back at Natasha. 'That's my girlfriend. She's the love of my life. She'll never know just how much I love her though, only a small amount.' She winked.

The smaller girl blushed. 'I hope I can find someone that loves me like that someday.'

'You will, I was just lucky. I don't actually deserve her.' Wanda finished and grabbed Aniah’s hand seeing that the child spotted her parents.

Before Aniah made her departure, she made sure to give Wanda a hug and a small wave to Natasha. Both women were left with a smile on their faces.

Wanda turned to Natasha, "She seemed like such a sweet girl, I don’t know why-” A soft pair of lips cut her off. Hands started roaming her body. Oh.

Before Nat could take it any further Wanda stopped her. "Tasha we're in public."

"Oh I know." She purred in Wanda's ear, sending a chill down the brunette’s spine.

"But for now, are you gonna tell me what you told that girl? What'd she say?" Natasha wondered curiously. She intertwined their hands together as they began walking.

Natasha couldn’t help the rush of excitement she got as Wanda continued to talk. This was a large step for her, but Natasha knew not to make a big deal about it. Instead she listened intently, taking in every accented word Wanda spoke.

"She told me that her name was Aniah and that she was thankful I helped her." Natasha snorted, "Oh come on! Even I know there was more to it!" Wanda simply shook her head, holding in a laugh because it was true, there was more to it.

"Whatever you say, sweetheart."

The redhead let out a small whine, "Wanda please."

"Hm?"

"You know..." She pouted.

"I really don't," Wanda smirked. Natasha decided she'd had enough and delivered a small pinch to Wanda’s side.

"Hey! That hurt."

"Doesn't hurt as much as it does when you won't tell me what you were saying."

Wanda rolled her eyes, "I wasn't saying anything, I was signing." Natasha raised her eyebrow, "Wanna repeat that, princess?" Wanda shook her head, backing down from the playful argument.

She knew she'd be paying for it later in bed.

"That's what I thought."

For the time remaining the two walked together making their way back to the house, hands clasped together.

[honeyyu]

Drive | Johnny

!Oneshot

Word count: 4.2k

Pairing: Professor!Johnny x Student!Reader

Genre: Smut

Warnings: Metions of cigarettes, blowjobs, unsafe driving, deep throathing, age gap. 

Summary: Mr Seo wanted to have a talk with you after class which ended with him driving you home, where things escalated quickly. 

A/n: This took me way too long to finish. I saw this gif on pinterest and I immediately thought of Johnny being a teacher and smoking so yeah. I hope you like it!

“Miss Y/N, would you like to explain the main message behind Brave New World?” Mr Seo’s deep voice echoed through the lecture hall, making you look up from your notebook where you were currently more busy with than the book he was talking about. Every head of each student sitting in the auditorium turned to look at you, waiting for an answer.

Not knowing what to say you cleared your throat while thrifting your eyes back at your notebook again to finish the flower you started sketching from the beginning of the lecture. Mr. Seo didn’t pay much attention to it, for now, because he knew it would end up in an argument and with the whole class here, he would like to just ignore it. “I will speak to you after class.” With that he turned around the lecture hall and asking another person, who did answer the question.

A discussion about the meaning of the book started between, first, your professor and a student. More people eventually started to join by having different perspectives. Now the student he had asked the same question he asked you, got attacked by some people, leaving Mr Seo out of the argument. While the situation escalated quickly with more people arguing, your professors eyes met yours. His dark brown eyes piercing into yours, making you gulp loudly.

It was like his eyes took away your breath, would strip you naked and would make you feel vulnerable by his strong gaze. You didn’t know why he looked at you like this. Simplest reason was, he was blaming you for the situation going on because you didn’t answer when he asked you it first. He was probably angry at you. It only lasted a couple seconds before his eyes avoided yours to look at the other students again.

He could interfere in the argument but when you saw him checking his watch and shrugging you assumed it was almost time for the period to end. And just like you assumed, not a minute later the sound of the bell over topped the students voices, which made them stop talking and rush out of the lecture hall.

You, too was getting ready to leave, hoping he wouldn’t remember about you not answering his question and then also knowing you didn’t read the book because of that. But you could only hope. Unfortunately luck wasn’t on your side that day, or any other day you noticed. “Ah yes, Miss Y/N!”

“Yes professor?” The only option left for you was act innocent. But you knew him well enough he wouldn’t let you go that easy. You had to like promise him that you will buy him a year supply of cigarettes or food before he would let you off the hook. And since you were pretty broke you could leave that option aside.

“I know that nothing I will say will make you read the book but just answer one thing. Why didn’t you read it? Am I that boring?” You were quite surprised by the last sentence. Why would he ask that. If you went around the school and ask just any random person on this campus who their favorite teacher was, 99% will answer Professor Seo. There was no doubt he didn’t knew about that fact. Was he caring about your opinion that much?

“Okay I will answer it honestly if you promise to let me leave after answering.” He nodded at your request. So you continued,” The reason is simple, I can’t concentrate at home.” With that you got up from the seat you were sitting in after he told you to stay and walked towards the exit. “Ho not so fast! I didn’t promise.”

You could literally slap yourself at that time. Because you knew he only nodded when you told him condition of letting you go. You scoffed at his smartness on tricking you. You were only busy thinking about leaving instead of the actual conversation.

“Sit here Y/N.” He said with a sigh, feeling exhausted that you didn’t want to sit down and have a conversation with him. You looked at his hand patting the chair where he usually sits when the class is dismissed. Rarely he seated himself there while teaching.

You slumped towards him and pushed yourself with not much effort into the chair. It was the first time for you to sit here, and not many people could say that they had sat in the chair of Mr. Seo. Maybe they even would be jealous but were not in high school anymore so that was doubtful. But then again girls will be girls.

Finally you stepped back, out of your thoughts and looked up. When you did, Mr. Seo’s face was right in front of you, his eyes scanning your face. Why? Why would he scan me. You started to think he had some kind of crush on you but that would be ridiculous. He was your teacher and would never find someone like you hot or attractive.

Now you were looking back on it, maybe he had a thing for you. Every time you arrived in the lecture hall, he would stare at you a little longer then he would with any other student. When you had a question, even though that was very rare, he would come up with you instead of sharing it with the other students, like he normally did. And when he came up to you and stand next to you, you could feel his breath on your neck and his hand would sometimes touch your shoulder or head to give you a pat. You also had to admit that if he was that close, you wanted to turn around and kiss him. But you always thought it was because you had never had sex or kissed anyone, and you just wanted to experience it.

“Y/n?” Mr Seo’s voice interrupted your thoughts. “Hmm” You responded, still in though but you could hear him. “You wanna touch them?” You frowned your eyebrows at his statement. What the hell. Touch what?

When you finally snapped out of your stare, you realized you had been staring at his lips the whole time. You looked away with your whole face, as fast as lighting but a pair of fingers caught your jaw mid-movement. Now it was Mr Seo’s turn to look at your lips. His touch made you feel like going crazy, and your soul started to leave its body. To make it worse, his fingers trailed to your bottom lip, caressing it gently, while his tongue wet his own lips.

He came closer and closer and closer and when his lips brushed over mine, almost fully kissing each other, a loud knock was heard on the door. The both of you jumped up, scared that the door would open and they would see the scene going on, making your head bump into his. You chuckled slightly at the head bump, only to earn a glare from your professor,” Come in!”

The door opened and a young man came in, smiling. “Oh hey Jeno!” Mr Seo’s voice sounded cheerful by seeing the boys face. The boy called Jeno smiled widely at him and then his eyes concentrated on you. Not knowing what you should do, you gave him the same smile he gave Mr Seo. Luckily he accepted the smile and smiled back, with the same amount of energy.

“Sorry to interrupt you Mr. Seo and..” His voice went silent at the end, signaling you to tell you name. “Oh! Y/n! Nice to meet you uh Jeno, right?” Your joyful voice blasted through the lecture hall. In the meantime Jeno had walked towards the two of you and was now standing on the other side of the desk, nodding at your question.

“Its nice to meet you too! Are you in freshman year?” You nodded excited. You were surprised by your enthusiasm towards Jeno. Maybe you were acting like this because he ‘saved’ you from an intimate moment between you and your professor. Thinking about it, you could also get angry at him. You didn’t hate the idea of kissing Mr Seo. He was hot, extremely tall and muscular. And not even that old. But you couldn’t get yourself to act cold towards Jeno. He looked like a sweet boy, not to forget also very cute.

“Yeah I am, you too?” Jeno’s head nodded as yes while giving a simple ‘yup’ as answer. “You're cute Y/n, do you mind giving me your number?” Your eyes widened at his directness. You weren’t used to people just asking for your number like that. The person next to you placed his hand in his desk. Well more slammed because you and even Jeno looked at the hand, both shocked by the sound it made.

In contrast to his hand Mr Seo looked calm, except for the tense jaw. “Uh yeah sure.” Scanning the teachers desk you came across a small notebook placed on his laptop. It was your lucky day because next to the notebook there was a pen. You grabbed it and to your surprise it was still warm. Probably because Mr Seo had it in his hand for the whole lesson, like he always did. Distracting yourself from the thought of his pen touching his lips, the lips you could never touch, you wrote down your number and handed it to Jeno.

Jeno’s mouth opened to say something but closed again when Mr Seo rudely interrupted,” What are you doing here Jeno?” Ah right, he was here to discuss or give the teacher something in the first place. “Right Mr. Seo! Ms. Hwang already left before I could give her my assignment so I thought I could give it to you sir and then you can give it to her when she comes back?” Feeling a little left out of the conversation, and since it wasn’t your business you started packing your bag to leave.

“Can’t you hand it to her tomorrow?” Mr. Seo looked annoyed. Catching you looking at him you looked at your bag, acting like you were closing it even though he was already closed. Behind you someone chuckled. You weren’t sure if it was Jeno or Mr. Seo, but either way you were embarrassed as your cheeks flustered red.

“I’m not at school then, I have a day off!” Jeno’s voice was full of excitement. You wish you had a day off, then you didn’t have to see all of the professors faces. Or someone in special, the professor you were standing next to at the moment. “Lucky you,” you muttered under your breath. To your surprise Jeno heard and laughed at your statement. “Do you mind Y/n?” Mr Seo told you, with the same annoyed tone in his voice. You rolled your eyes at him and now started to really grab your bag and leave.

“Okay Jeno I will give it, can you leave me and Y/n alone now? I have something to discuss with her.” You breathed heavily, feeling defeated that every time you planned on leaving, he would call you back. Not knowing what Jeno answered he walked past you mouthing a ‘good luck’ with a wink. Mouthing a ‘thank you’ back, you now walked to Mr Seo, again. Hearing the door close behind you, the man in front of you started talking,” Sorry.”

“Sorry for?” You were caught of guard that he was apologizing for. Yeah for what exactly? “For being rude.” You smiled to yourself. Good that he realized that he was being quite rude. You wanted to ask why. Maybe tease him a little by saying ‘you were jealous huh’ but that would be a bad idea. You didn’t want to anger him or anything.

“You should go home.” You nodded, knowing that if you would stay one of you would lose control and kiss one another. Without saying any words you made your way towards the exit, once again. “You want a ride home Y/n” Stop saying my name like that, I wanted to scream. You knew that if you would agree, it will not end well,” I will take the bus.”

“Okay I will drive you Y/n” Huh what? Did the wrong thing came out of your mouth. You thought about it but you definitely knew you said you would take the bus. “Uh I will just take the bus Mr Seo.” You waved your hands in front of you, saying it was really fine. “It wasn’t a question, was it?”

Why you agreed was still unsure but you nodded at him, giving in to his request. Mr Seo grabbed some stuff off his desk, like his laptop, pens, documents and not to forget, the assignment of Jeno. After grabbing all of his things he walked ahead of you, assuming you would follow. And of course you did.

Without wanting to your gaze fell onto his bottom. With he pants he always wore, his ass would really pop out. You had to admit, he looked fucking hot in his pants every day. Your mind wandered off, thinking how it his ass would look without the pants. Your legs around them as he pushed himself into you.

The time seemed to fly if you were staring at his butt because you two were already outside, in front of his car. Your eyes widened, feeling impressed by his car. You didn’t know anything about cars but the model of it looked like one of a sport car. It was shining bright by the sun. Personally you wouldn’t so quickly take a red car, but with the model of it and the shining coat you would maybe consider it for later.

“You like it?” He asked you, walking up to the opposite side of the steering wheel and eventually opening the door. You saw it as the signal of him opening the door for you, so you could get it and so you did. His arm leaned against the door, making you have to go under it in order to get in,” Yeah you have a nice car sir.” You complimented him, or his car. He smiled and closed the door behind you.

Already feeling nervous about the situation you let your hands fall on your lap and you kept your gaze on them. After a couple seconds of you getting in, he himself got in too. Still fumbling with your fingers and skirt he started the car and accelerated, making your head hit the car seat. “Sorry.” His chuckles were deep and it made you chuckle too even though you had a little headache because of him.

Your hands gripped your skirt hard when Mr Seo’s hand patted your head lightly. Your body shrinked in just a little but when he saw how you reacted, he pulled his hand back again, feeling like he crossed the line there if you were uncomfortable. You let out an awkward laugh, continuing the fumbling. “To where?” You told him your address as he typed it into his phone, searching for the directions and after placing it into a special case that was attached to the ceiling so he could look at the directions displayed on the phone.

It wasn’t your intention to look there but being busy fumbling, you had your eyes locked on your fingers. And when you saw something in Mr Seo’s pants in the corner of your eye, you had to look. Just as you thought, there was a bulge building in his pants, making his pants look tighter than ever. You felt bad that you couldn’t look away but his pants looked really uncomfortable. Like they could burst any second. He even made it worse when he started to move around, finding a way to sit better to hide it.

Feeling like you stared enough at it you whipped your head the other way to look outside the window. But that wasn’t any better. In the reflection of the window you saw him. His arm slightly stretched out, his knuckles white around the steering wheel. Following his movements in the window, his hands reached his tie, pulling it to make it more looser and then his hand fell onto his lap again.

Why did he have to act so hot all of the sudden? Feeling aroused by everything he did, you pulled your legs together, trying to suppress the feeling. “Can you give me a cigarette?”

“Huh?” You gave him a terrified look, thinking he said something about how wet you were or anything in that area. “Cigarette.” He couldn’t look at you long to gave you a look of confusion because he was driving but when he gave you a look, you definitely knew that he suspected something. To distract yourself and him you searched for the cigarettes and lit one up for him.

Not knowing what you had to do now, you moved your body to his. He looked at you for a brief moment but looked back again, thinking you would just give it to him. To both of your surprises your hand with the cigarette in it, came in touch with his mouth. He opened his mouth unsure, what gave you the opportunity to put the end of the cigarette into his mouth.

“Thanks.” He said with a unsteady voice, trying to process what just happened. You still hadn’t moved away from him so you took your time to move your eyes from his lips to his bulge again. The hand that gave him the cigarette, now went to reach for his pants. It was shaking like crazy because you were scared he would say reject your touch.

When your hand landed on his crotch his whole body tensed up. You waited for him to scold you for being inappropriate but he didn’t. All he did was relax his body again after a few seconds. He was still tensed you could see on his now two hands gripping the steering wheel hard. So hard all of his knuckles were white. Since he seemed to be fine with it, you started softly rubbing him. In reaction he groaned but his posture remained the same.

Feeling so aroused by now, your other hands helped the other one to unbuckle his belt. By every movement your eyes checked his face to see how he reacted. To see if he was ready to stop you any second. When he still didn’t give any signs for you to get your hands off him you now tried to pull his pants down. Seeing you struggle, he lifted his butt up a little and you quickly moved the pants more down, until they were placed to his knees.

He was wearing loose underwear but you could still see the outline of his dick pressing against the material. Feeling more horny than before because of everything happening, you picked up enough courage to move your mouth towards his crotch. You were unsure about what you had to do but you had read enough smut fanfics and watched enough porn to know you could tease him.

So you did by placing soft kisses on his clothed dick. He hissed harshly. His posture was still the same but you could see how he felt by the whiteness of his knuckles, grabbing harder and harder into the steering wheel. Still looking at his hands, one hand slides of the steering wheel to reach out to the top of your head. His hand started to move around your head. You thought he was giving you another pat on the head. To your shock he started making a ponytail of your hair.

Mr Seo lifted his butt once again, and since he had no hand left to push his underwear down you did it. His dick sprung free, bouncing to his stomach and back. Upon seeing the thick, veiny cock of your professor you started biting your lip while he started picking up the cars pace. “C’mon Y/n.” He complained. Maybe it was because your hot breath brushed onto his tip. Not waiting for you longer, he pushed you by your hair, closer to the tip of his cock.

Deciding to tease him more, you started off with your tongue on the tip, licking it. He grabbed your hair harder and harder every lick, making you whimper out loud. Mr Seo let out a heavy sigh, filling the car with smoke. The smoke reached your face, entering through your nose. You had never smoked so you tried to move your head back, in reflex. Mr Seo caught what you were trying to do. Before you could move your head to far away from his cock, he pushed your head back by your hair, making his dick enter your mouth and instantly hitting the back of your throat.

You gagged around his length, surprised about what he did. The only thing you wanted to do was yell at him for almost choking you but that thought quickly went away when you heard the sounds Mr Seo made. You looked up to his face. His lips were parted, groans and curse words leaving his mouth,” Fuck.” He grunted while his head fell back, eyes still focused on the road.

Tears started to form in your eyes, the tip of his cock keep hitting the back of your throat, his hips thrusting along with your movements. His eyes met yours for a second and the moment he saw you eyes, so desperate with his pre cum leaking from you mouth his thrust started to go faster and faster, feeling turned on by the state you were in.

His cock was so big that even though he was deep throathing you, it didn't fit entirely into your mouth. So your hands roamed around his body, one now finding a place on the rest of his cock and one resting on his thick thigh. You pumped your hand up and down while your tongue was licking up and down his length, going along with the the way he pushed your head onto his cock.

‘‘That’s right suck it Y/n,” Mr Seo managed to choke out, sweat forming on his forehead, trying so hard to concentrate on the road but by every sound you made, he started losing control, wanting to fuck you so hard that you would scream out his name. 

Trying to find a more comfortable position to suck him off, you lifted your body up. Knees now facing his side and butt in the air. Remembering you still had a hair band on your wrist, like you always had, you finally moved your head away from Mr Seo’s cock. In reaction Mr Seo panted heavily, catching his breath. Wanting you to continue, he looked at you trying to figure out why you stopped. Your eyes connected with each other. You seductively grabbed all of your hair, moving it up and wrapping the hair band around it, eyes still piercing into his. Craving for his cock, you pushed his length into your mouth once again, making your butt stick out in the air. Seeing the opportunity, his hand met your ass, spanking it hard. Your body jolted forward, the tip of his dick meeting your throat again.   

Fucking into your mouth harsh and every now and then giving your ass a slap, his thrust became uneven.”Fuck, Im close,’’ Mr Seo moaned out, his hand now moving up to your head, removing some loose hair strands out your face. To let him cum, you began to suck harder, tongue licking down his length. Soon warm cum shot into your mouth. You moved away, still with his cum in your mouth not sure what to do. ‘’Swallow for me,” And so you did. As he saw you gulping he smirked at you before looking back at the road again,” You’re such a good girl.” He breathed out, his front hair sticking to his sweaty forehead. Without looking his fingers met your lips, wiping from the left corner of your lip to the other corner and putting them into your mouth letting you suck his fingers as well. 

The car came to an halt. Mr Seo let go of you so you could sit normal again. “We’re here.”’ You nodded. Before you could leave the car, you moved the rear-view mirror more to your side so you could fix your make up. If your parents would find out you would die first and then Mr Seo so you had to look decent enough to enter the house. Next to you, Mr Seo let his arms fall from the steering wheel, admiring your side profile. 

Feeling his stare on you, you leaned in for a kiss. He catched on with what you wanted to do so he moved his cigarette away from his mouth. Your lips attacked his. Smoke from his cigarette entered your mouth as well. The thick smoke escaped again as you parted away from him, breathless. 

Feeling like everything looked normal again, you opened the car door and stepping out. Both of you had been silent since you two arrived at your home. You didn’t know why Mr Seo was quiet but probably the same reason you had. Progressing what just happened. Still not knowing what to say you turned around to lean forward and grab your bag, causing Mr Seo to see your shirt was pulled down so your bra was in display for him. Since you weren’t looking he reached for your shirt, pulling it up again so it covered your breasts. “That seat can be warmed up more often,” His eyes went up and down your body as he finished his sentence,”Y/n’’ Him saying your name like that, made you wanna attack your lips with his. You couldn’t right now so you gave him a shy smile before you slammed the door closed. Not looking back at him, you entered your house, smiling like a fool. “I’m Home!”

[halfwall]

⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀❪ ⠀   * ⠀ ─          hello!  i’m  so  excited  for  this  genuinely,  it  is  so  seksi  and  socks  +  soda  did  such  an  amazing  job  with  it.  eunjung  is  my  newest  muse  and  the  best  way  i  can  describe  her  is  if  you  took  a  garden  snake  and  aged  it  up  manually  in  the  sims  and  then  took  it  into  the  spore  game  and  gave  it  lips  and  made  it  a  predator.  in  other  words,  my  very  own  looks  like  a  cinnamon  roll  could  k-word  you  (  kiss?  kill?  your  choice  <3  ).  this  intro  is  a  condensed  version  of  my  goog  dooc  and  it’s  still  long  <3  pls  love  n  plot  w  me  anyway.  love  u  guys.

❪  kang  mina,  cis  woman,  she  /  her,  twenty  one.  ❫    i  can  feel  red  energy,  that  must  be  yun  eunjung.  the  third  year  print  journalism  &  international  relations  major  works  as  a  bookkeeper  at  the  house  of  the  lucky  gander,  and  is  known  around  the  manor  as  the  yellow  wallpaper.  i’ve  heard  whispers  about  how  they’re  critical  and  pedantic,  but  everyone  says  they’re  persevering  and  formidable.  i  don’t  know  what  to  believe...  but  with  cc  pulling  the  strings...

links:    google  doc,  pinterest,  stats,  wanted  connections.

⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀𝐚𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭

full  name  :  yun  eunjung

nickname(s) /  alias(es)  :  emma  yoon  (  english  name,  not  used  ),  tbd

age  /  dob  :  twenty  one  /  apr  18  ‘99

hometown  :  tbd  ,  oregon

current  location :  fortuna  ,  maine

ethnicity :  korean

nationality  :  english

gender  :  cis  woman

pronouns  :  she  /  her

orientation  :  bisexual

religion :  agnostic.

family :  yun  hajun  (  father,  alive  ),  han  minji  (  mother,  alive  ),  yun  eunsang  (  twin  brother,  status  unknown  ),  yun  sangjung  (  younger  brother,  deceased  ).

face  claim  :  kang  mina

language(s)  spoken  :  korean  (  first  language  ),  english

speech :  sharp  tongued.  she’s  a  lot  of  opinions  and  a  lot  of  things  to  say,  therefore  has  never  learned  how  to  phrase  things  in  a  way  that  would  deem  her  polite.  often  blunt,  she’ll  be  quick  to  rip  off  the  bandaid  and  just  say  what  needs  to  be  said.  she  doesn’t  speak  with  much  class  or  extravagancies,  rather  falls  toward  crassness  and  crudeness  due  to  her  upbringing.

hair  :  quite  dark,  a  nice  chocolate  in  the  sun  and  a  cool  onyx  in  the  dark.  often  tied  back,  though  eunjung  is  only  ever  seen  with  her  hair  in  two  distinct  styles:  tied  back  messily  or  let  down  naturally.  her  hair  falls  straight  as  if  it’s  been  flat  ironed.

eyes :  big,  round,  and  doe  eyed,  a  dark  brown  in  color.  quite  the  weapon  to  use  when  she’s  in  trouble  or  when  she  needs  to  talk  her  way  out  of  something  (  to  proclaim  innocence  ).

height  :  five  feet  ,  seven  inches.

build  :  lithe.  as  a  former  volleyball  player,  she  has  kept  her  shape  up  with  rigorous  conditioning  (  mainly  because  if  she’s  to  admit  it,  if  she  doesn’t  she  kind  of  gets  lost  in  the  walls  ).

tattoos  :  none  .

piercings :  only  earlobes  .

scars  :  multiple  from  surgeries  at  sixteen.

clothing  style  :  preppy,  thanks  to  her  settlement  money  and  her  own  personal  taste.  never  a  hair  out  of  place  due  to  her  perfectionistic  personality  and  nature,  though  if  you  catch  her  on  any  given  night,  you’ll  see  her  true  colors  shine  through  with  old  (  very  old  )  sweatpants  and  a  hoodie  that  has  someone  else’s  name  written  on  the  tag  in  hangul.

usual  expression  :  sour,  bitter  –  life  has  handed  her  a  poor  hand  and  she’ll  make  it  everyone’s  problem.  she  has  one  usual  expression  and  it’s  resting  mean  face;  not  the  kind  of  person  to  wear  her  heart  on  her  sleeve,  she  looks  the  exact  same  when  she  looks  happy  as  she  does  sad,  though  –  she’s  great  at  acting  and  lying  and  you’ve  never  lived  until  you’ve  watched  her  go  from  :|  to  :)  in  two  seconds.

distinguishing  characteristics  :  doe  eyes  that  scream  tragedy  –  reflecting  the  stars  in  the  night  sky  if  caught  just  right,  the  tilt  of  her  lips  when  she  clearly  wants  something  to  work  in  her  favor.

⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀𝐫𝐮𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬

❪  almost  directly  copied  from  my  google  doc  i’m  sorry  ❫ 

mbti:   istj-a,  the  logistician  /  most  who  know  her  would  assume  her  to  be  extroverted.  not  the  most  reserved  in  a  room  and  always  quick  to  speak  up  when  she  deems  it  necessary.  but,  like  most  logisticians  –  she’s  always  had  a  sharp,  fact-based  mind.  she  has  always  been  self  sufficient  and  hates  relying  on  others,  often  seeing  it  as  a  weakness.  she  is  sharp,  dedicated  and  ambitious  enough  to  accomplish  whatever  she  wants  to  accomplish.

enneagram:  6w5,  the  guardian  /  like  most  of  this  type,  her  biggest  fear  is  losing  her  guidance  and  stability,  which  translates  into  her  skepticism  of  the  world.  therefore,  it  often  leads  to  eunjung  protecting  those  she  is  loyal  to,  but  most  importantly:  herself.  she  will  often  think  logically  and  analytically,  solving  problems  practically  and  efficiently  but  she  will  often  be  selfish  and  can  come  off  as  cold  as  a  result  for  her  actions.

moral  alignment:  chaotic  evil  /  eunjung  has  never  been  the  most  –  angelic  person,  though  she  likes  to  pretend  she  is.  at  the  end  of  the  day,  after  everything  she  has  been  through,  she  has  grown  to  be  selfish  –  prioritizing  her  own  personal  gain  and  pleasure  above  all  good  and  evil,  right  and  wrong.  it  could  be  argued  that  she  belongs  in  chaotic  neutral,  but  she  has  no  care  for  law  and  order,  nor  a  real  feeling  of  her  morality  anymore.

hogwarts  house:  slytherin  /  another  reminder  of  her  selfishness  and  how  much  she  cares  about  her  own  well  being.  all  her  life  as  well,  she  has  been  told  that  she  is  shrewd  and  too  ambitious  for  her  own  good  which  has  only  given  her  an  incessant  drive  to  prove  them  all  wrong.  when  it  comes  down  to  it,  like  most  slytherins,  she  will  try  to  view  every  possible  outcome  until  she  finds  the  outcome  that  will  benefit  her  the  most.

comparable  characters:  juliet  capulet  (  romeo  &  juliet  ),  jennifer  check  (  jennifer’s  body  ),  rosalie  hale  (  twilight  ),  blair  waldorf  (  gossip  girl  ),  sansa  stark  (  game  of  thrones  ).

the  rundown:  as  smart  as  she  is  selfish,  life  has  just  twisted  her  to  be  a  bit  cold.  she  isn’t  cruel  by  any  means,  nor  does  she  necessarily  wish  hurt  and  evil  upon  those  around  her,  but  eunjung’s  huge  main  character  complex  often  leads  to  her  priorities  being:  1.  eunjung  2.  yun eunjung  3.  eunjung yun.  her  biggest  trait  will  always  be  selfishness,  followed  closely  by  her  rash  belief  that  she  is  the  best  in  the  room  at  all  times.

⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀𝐜𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐥𝐞

trigger  warnings:  alcoholism  +  death

this  is  a  rundown  on  the  biography  /  death  /  back  room  /  glass  person  in  the  google  doc,  also  better  written  /  explained  because  it’s  not  prosey  <3

hajun  is  not  a  good  father,  he  never  has  been.  from  a  very  young  age,  all  eunjung  has  heard  from  him  are  his  drunken  spirals  about  how  great  they  used  to  be.  his  surname  was  once  held  in  a  high  regard,  the  name  of  an  empress  and  he  has  always  dwindled  about  to  the  three  yun  children  that  because  of  the  greatness  he  has  passed  onto  them,  they  must  be  great  too.  

eunjung  has  only  ever  viewed  his  spiels  as  hypocritical  though.  she  has  only  ever  known  her  dad  as  a  mean  drunk  who  lives  in  the  dirtiest,  most  run  down  house  in  town  with  his  poor  three  kids.  her  twin  brother,  eunsang,  her  younger  brother,  sangjung,  and  her  spend  their  childhoods  taking  care  of  each  other  because  nobody  else  will.  their  mother  does  something,  they  never  know  what  because  she  only  arrives  with  enough  money  for  groceries  and  bills  and  then  she  leaves.

it’s  that  way  for  most  of  her  childhood  and  most  of  her  life.  it’s  a  continuous  cycle  of  eunjung  +  eunsang  taking  care  of  sangjung  (  who  starts  going  my  samuel  when  he’s  ten  and  the  twins  are  twelve.  the  twins  have  english  names,  too,  but  eunjung  has  too  much  pride  –  like  her  father  –  and  eunsang  is  the  eldest  and  will  do  whatever  his  twin  does  out  of  love  )  and  eunjung  is  just  –  quite  the  difficult  child.  she  speaks  her  mind  and  all  of  her  opinions,  as  well  as  letting  the  festering  anger  within  her  too  grow  because  she  doesn’t  know  what  else  to  do  with  it.

death  tw.  anyway,  by  sixteen,  she’s  just  this  bitter  girl  that  the  boys  hook  up  with  because  she’s  the  poor  girl  from  the  dirty  house  on  the  rundown  street.  she’s  got  a  reputation  as  a  shrew  around  town,  but  she’s  fine  with  being  a  shrew  if  she  still  gets  her  way.  samuel  is  much  more  popular  than  either  of  the  twins  (  who  are  epitome  of  bad  boy  /  bad  girl  from  the  wrong  side  of  the  tracks  )  and  is  invited  to  a  party  at  fourteen.  it’s  tradition  to  party  in  this  abandoned  mansion  out  in  the  woods  and  basically,  an  accident  happens  and  samuel  is  pushed  from  the  second  story  balcony  into  the  foyer  and  d-words.

he’d  called  eunjung  before  dying  though,  asking  for  a  ride  so  the  twins  had  went  to  go  get  him  but  instead  found  him  dead.  while  trying  to  figure  out  what  had  happened,  she  spots  some  kid  that  doesn’t  like  her  still  lingering  around  so  she  tries  to  chase  him  and  he....  like....  pushes  her  off  too  and  she  d-words.  end  tw.

her  back  room  is  just  this  little  room  and  she  still  to  this  day  doesn’t  know  how  much  time  she  spent  in  there  because  it  was  just  so  confusing,  all  she  remembers  is  that  she  (  or  someone  )  was  trying  to  convince  herself  that  she  was  home  and  that  everything  was  fine.  but,  she’s  a  bitch  and  was  like  “uh,  actually,  i’ve  never  had  a  home  <3″  and  broke  out  of  whatever  spell.

her  glass  person  is  just  her.  identical,  but  trapped  in  the  walls  underneath  the  ugly  yellow  wallpaper  in  the  room  she  was  in.  same  as  her,  just  more  lifeless  and  it  is  really  the  only  thing  that  still  scares  her  –  and  it  tried  to  escape  the  walls,  but  it  couldn’t.  the  lasting  effect  is  that  if  she’s  alone  in  a  room  for  more  than  an  hour  she  swears  the  walls  start  stretching  like  someone’s  behind  it  and  just  always  feeling  like  she’s  being  watched.  she  also  doesn’t  like  looking  at  her  own  reflection  that  much  anymore  because  it  just  reminds  her  of  her  glass  person.

anyway,  she  survives  miraculously  and  after  testifying  and  blah  blah  blah  (  i  did  research  on  settlements  and  i  still  didn’t  understand  so  ),  the  family  of  the  kid  who  pushed  her  off  –  and  probably  samuel  –  gives  the  yun  family  a   huge  sum  of  money  for  their  troubles  and  calls  it  a  settlement.  it  comes  with  the  condition  that  eunjung  doesn’t  sue  or  bring  them  up  ever  again  and  she’s  like  fine  that’s  cool,  whatever,  i’m  rich  now.

but  her  parents  still  aren’t  happy  and  before  samuel’s  funeral,  eunsang  runs  away  from  home,  leaving  them  with  only  the  daughter  that  neither  of  them  really  wanted.  she  still  pushes  forward  though  and  ends  school  as  valedictorian,  prom  queen,  etc.  and  heads  to  fortuna  because  she  really  doesn’t  think  she  can  go  anywhere  and  also  her  counselors  are  ass  <3

she’s  studying  international  relations  +  print  journalism,  her  hopes  are  diplomacy  or  something,  but  she  just  chose  the  majors  that  she  tested  highest  on  on  that  career  test  i  can’t  choose.  yeah.

please  plot  w  me  i  have  my  wc  linked  up  there  or  at  /w.  i  love  u  all  i’m  sorry  this  was  long.

[taesthetes]

let’s unfall in love.

what if it began with the epilogue?

pairing: jeon jungkook x reader genre: angst, fluff type: college au word count: 3,291 words warnings: none playlist: 13 (lany) ⋆ 7up (boy in space) ⋆ pancakes (lany) ⋆ i.l.y. (the rose) ⋆ a poem titled you (taeyeon) ⋆ so, soo pretty (lany) author’s note: based on my college shenanigans and a few relationships i’ve witnessed my friends have

⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆

It doesn’t end with a bang.

It ends with a quiet click of the lock and him sliding the key under the front door, instead of letting it hang from the bunny keychain you bought him three years ago. The apartment meant for two now only houses one, and the furniture that two chose together is now only owned by one. His last whispered goodbye echoes softly in the corners of the room before the silence settles around you in a stifling manner.

He had picked up the final box of his remaining items that you painstakingly packed away. The bigger items had been moved in the past two weeks, but you carefully gathered the last of his belongings and trinkets hidden within your once shared home earlier today. Three years of memories have all been reduced to one cardboard box filled with knick knacks. Will he throw away the ticket stub from your first movie date together? Will the small teddy bear be donated? You hope he won’t.

Sitting on the bed that now seemed too big, you reach over to your nightstand, tugging open the bottom drawer. You pull out the oversized, worn out black sweater with a small hole near the right sleeve. With a quiet smile, you register the faint smell of his cologne, balling up the soft fabric and pressing your nose to its collar. You hope he doesn’t mind that you kept one thing of his.

The break up is no surprise.

It’s been making its home in the back of your mind and his until it became so cluttered and prominent that the two of you were forced to address it. Perhaps it was your fault, maybe it was his, or it very well may be the culmination of both your faults. But the last grains of sand have slowly trickled down the hourglass, and your love for one another has reached its end. This isn’t where you and Jungkook envisioned your relationship would end, but what couple would ever predict their downfall? You hope he never did.

You neatly fold his sweater and tuck it away in a shoebox, pushing it into the farthest crevice of your closet: your final reminder of him resting on the empty side that was once his.

⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆

You are exhausted, rubbing your temples, and your throat is hoarse from yelling. Jungkook stands on the opposite side of the room, arms crossed over his chest, unable to look at you anymore. Since when were you no longer on the same team, but fighting against each other in the same war?

The small argument had only escalated into something bigger until all the feelings that the two of you have been pushing down bubbles up into an ugly eruption.

“Where were you? I thought you’d be back by seven.”

“I got dinner with the boys.” he shrugged, dumping his bag on the ground next to the door.

“I told you to hang up your bag because someone can trip over it. And I made dinner.”

He swipes his backpack off the floor and tosses it onto the couch, much to your irritation. “I forget my things if I don’t leave it near the door. If you watch where you’re walking, you wouldn’t be faceplanting over a bag leaning against the wall.”

You take a deep breath, ignoring his sniping response. “I made dinner for us.”

“I’m not hungry. I can wrap it up and eat it tomorrow.”

“You’re never here anymore.” (I miss you.)

“It’s not my fault you haven’t been here for dinner for the past month, so I just assumed you’d be out tonight, too.” (You never spend time with me anymore.)

“I have work and classes, and we never made any plans! If you told me we had dinner plans, I would have gotten someone else to take my shift.” (Life keeps getting in the way of us. Why is it getting so hard for us?)

“It’s one time. I’ve been fine with you missing dinner all this time, so why can’t you be understanding of this one time?” (Why are we arguing like this?)

“I always texted you that I won’t be home! You couldn’t even send me one text?” (What happened to trusting each other?)

“I’m sorry, okay? It’s not that big of a deal. God, you’re suffocating me! You’re always acting like my mother.” (You’re not the person I fell in love with anymore.)

“Maybe if you stopped being so immature, I wouldn’t have to!”  (You’re not the person I fell in love with anymore.)

“I can’t do this anymore.” (Maybe we should break up.)

Where did the two of you go wrong?

⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆

The moonlight filters through the gauzy curtains, casting soft shadows onto the empty side of the bed. It’s nearly midnight, and his place remains empty and cold. You lie in bed, scrolling aimlessly through your phone, as your laptop is abandoned next to you, the Netflix page to Brooklyn 99 already pulled up and open to the next episode for your shared nights together.

Looking at the bright Instagram photos of your friends on what seemed like an extremely fun club outing you had declined earlier in the day, you wish you had accepted their invitation. You close the app before reaching over and picking up your laptop, opening up the document for your upcoming research paper. You might as well work on it until he comes home for your tv marathon Friday night tradition.

[12:54 a.m.] golden bf: hey i took an extra shift and forgot to tell you. sorry

With a sigh, you save your document and close your laptop. Moving off the bed, you place your laptop onto your nightstand before picking up the untouched bowl of popcorn. You make your way to the kitchen, leaving the snack on the counter, before going back to bed alone. 

When you wake up, his side of the bed is slightly messy, any traces of warmth barely lingering behind. You groggily pull yourself out of bed, pulling the blanket around your shoulders, as you stumble out into the joint living room and kitchen area. Jungkook stands behind the counter, downing a cup of coffee.

“Hey,” he tiredly greets you before placing his mug in the sink and moving towards the door. “I’m going to class early to ask some questions before the midterm.”

“Oh, okay.” You make your way to the kitchen before pausing. “Good luck on your midterm.”

“Thanks.” He quickly slides on his shoes and then twists the doorknob and walks out. Halfway through the door, he hesitates before saying halfheartedly, “Love you.”

And then he disappears. You stare at the coffee machine whirring before you, the drip drip of the liquid following soon after. “Love you, too.”

Since when did I love you’s become shortened to love you’s? And when did they start to feel like habitual obligations, instead of heart racing confessions?

⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆

You are pacing back and forth in the kitchen, palms feeling clammy, as you await for the phone call with bated breath. Jungkook is by the stove, glancing at you worriedly, as he pours the last of the pancake batter onto the pan. He makes a mental note to go to the grocery store after his last class tomorrow. Besides the five pack of ramen in the cupboard, all he could find was pancake mix. So pancakes it is for dinner. 

“What if they don’t call?” you mumble, clenching your hands into fists and anxiously staring at your cellphone laying innocently on top of the counter.

“They will. You’ll get the internship,” Jungkook quietly assures you. Sliding the last one onto the tower of pancakes, he turns off the stove and places the pan in the sink. He reaches out to grasp your hands, gently unfurling them and intertwines his fingers with yours. “You’re smart and amazing and kind, and they’d be lucky to have you.”

“But, what if—”

The phone rings, interrupting you, and you freeze. Jungkook squeezes your hands reassuringly. One squeeze. Four squeezes. Three squeezes. You take a deep breath, he lets go of your right hand, and you pick up your phone.

“Hello? ... Yes, that’s me. ... Yes, yes, I understand. .... Yes, thank you so much. ... Thank you, bye.”

You place the phone back onto the counter, and Jungkook looks at you expectantly. Heart rapidly pounding in your chest, you manage to finally get the words out, “I got the internship.”

A full blown grin blooms across his face as he wraps his arms around you, tugging you in and spinning you around. Laughing, you bury your face in the space between his neck and shoulder, throwing your arms around him as well. When you pull away, he presses kisses all over your face as you giggle, swatting at him to stop.

“I knew it.” He smirks at you triumphantly, still hugging you tightly to his chest. “I knew you’d get it. I even bought this on my way home to celebrate.”

Walking over to the fridge, he proudly pulls out a bottle of champagne, setting it on the counter. “Pancakes and champagne. I can’t think of a better way to celebrate. Can you?”

Shaking your head, you grin as he places the corkscrew and two mismatching mugs on the countertop. With a resounding pop, he pours out a drink for the two of you. Keeping the frog patterned mug for himself, Jungkook hands the holiday themed cup to you. He presses a kiss to your cheek and positively beams when you return the gesture.

“I love you, babe. I’m so proud of you.”

⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆

“What about Spike?”

You frown at him. “That sounds like a generic dog name a small child would give to a Rottweiler.”

“Hey, I’ll have you know Spike is a very good boy. Our plant should be honored that it’s named after a canine icon in the Jeon household.” Jungkook stands next to the three plants you had placed in the windowsill of your shared new apartment. “Besides, you already named our first two plant children.”

“I only named one!” you protest, pointing to the tiny budding succulent on the far right. “The other one was a housewarming gift from Namjoon, and he said he already named it Blossom. So I thought we could do a Power Puff Girls theme and named this one Bubbles. And that one can be Buttercup.”

“But I want a Spike the Second.” Jungkook sulks before reaching out and longingly touching one of the prickles on the cactus. “He looks like a Spike.”

Blossom, Bubbles... and Spike.

Your boyfriend stares at you, widening his doe eyes and pouting, and you sigh, relenting. “Okay, we’ll name it Spike.”

He brightens up immediately, leaning down to be face level with the cactus. “You’re the best plant ever, Spike. I’ll be a better plant dad than Namjoon.”

Three weeks later, you notice the dead plant on the windowsill. You don’t know how Jungkook managed to kill a cactus, but you do know that he will be absolutely devastated if he finds out. You quickly run out to buy a new one and replace it before he gets home. Jungkook is none the wiser, ever the doting plant parent.

Luckily, Spike the Third continues to live on.

⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆

You sit on the wooden bench, tugging off your shoes before pulling on the ice skates. You lace them up easily, tying the ends into double-knotted bows. Jungkook takes a seat next to you, slowly removing his timberlands before somewhat reluctantly sliding his feet into the ice skates he rented at the counter earlier.

“Jungkook.”

“Hmm?” He looks up towards you, and you tilt your head slightly. “Is this your first time ice skating?”

“... How did you know?”

You smile softly. “You look a little nervous. Here.”

You kneel down next to him, reaching over to tighten his laces. “These need to be a little tighter. Can’t have you flopping all over the ice.”

He huffs a little, crimson blossoming on his cheeks. He is bundled up in a semi-puffy jacket with a maroon beanie pulled over his head, and you’re reminded of how similar he looks to one of those cute little puffed up robins.

“Around the tree and down the rabbit hole... There!” You finish tying his skates, oblivious to the soft gaze he has on you the entire time, and shove both your pair of shoes and his into the locket below the bench. “You’re ready to skate.”

“W-wait! How do I get over there?” Jungkook desperately clutches onto your arm, legs shaking. You grab his hand, lacing your fingers with his tightly. “Just take one step at a time slowly.”

Leaning heavily on you, he stumbles his way towards the rink, finally reaching the edge of it. He clings onto the wall and your hand before taking one baby step onto the ice. You skate next to him with interlocking hands as he makes a careful circle around the rink next to the wall, precariously wobbling like Bambi on ice.

“This is so embarrassing,” he mumbles, turning pink when some children zip past him.

“You’re doing good! Everyone has to start somewhere.” You gently tug him away from the wall, and he teeters slightly before tightly grabbing onto your arm. The two of you start to move, skating slowly but surely. “See? You’re skating!”

“I’m skating!” A gleeful expression spreads across his face as he pushes one foot in front of the other more enthusiastically. He lets go of your arm, gliding forward. The amount of pure, unadulterated joy emitting from him makes you grin as you skate behind him. “I’m doing it! I’m actually—”

Thump.

Bewildered, he stares up at you from the floor in shock, doe eyes widened and bottom planted firmly on the ice. You can’t help it as laughter bubbles up from your throat, and you quickly skate over to him. “Oh my gosh, I’m so sorry for laughing, are you okay?”

His shoulders relax as he starts to chuckle, eyes twinkling. “I’m good. I think I just fell for you though.”

Your shoulders shake as you laugh even more, reaching down to pull him up. “Let me help yo—”

Thump.

You find yourself sitting on the cold surface next to him, slightly dazed. Jungkook laughs freely, eyes forming perfect moon crescents, and while the coldness may be seeping through the fabric of your jeans, you have never felt warmer than ever, grinning back at the boy next to you. The two of you carefully help each other up. You slip your hand into his, squeezing it tightly, and he smiles at you, eyes sparkling. You bravely lean up and place a soft kiss to his cheek, making him beam.

"I guess I fell for you, too.”

⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆

“Shoot, I’m so sorry!”

The bright red substance more affectionately known as jungle juice has now decorated the front of your shirt, the fabric clinging to your figure more than ever. You look up to see a doe eyed boy nervously standing in front of you, the telltale red solo cup in his hand.

“I didn’t mean to, someone pushed into me from behind, and it just spilled over,” he rambles, placing his cup on the table and scrambling around to find some napkins or towels or just something to help the cute person that he just made a complete fool of himself in front of. “God, do they even have napkins at parties like these?”

“Hey, hey, it’s okay,” you place your hand on his arm, stopping him in his tracks like a deer in the headlights. “Maybe help me find a bathroom to wash this out?”

“Yeah, yeah, okay, there’s one upstairs.” You follow behind him as he pushes his way through everyone until you reach the stairs. “God, I’m really sorry, I don’t even go to parties. Yugyeom said there was gonna be free pizza, so I came, and then all they had were drinks and he insisted I have one, and I just— Sorry, anyway, here’s the bathroom.”

“First off,” you say, dabbing at your shirt with some wet towels, as he anxiously sits on top of the closed toilet. “You should never trust Yugyeom about those things. He told me the same thing before and when I showed up, all he had was an expired frozen Digiorno’s pizza left thawing on the counter.”

He snorts at that, reaching over to wet some more paper towels for you before handing them over. “I was desperate, sue me. I’m down to my last packet of ramen. I would do anything for a slice of pizza at this point.”

You thank him, using the new towels to wipe at your shirt futilely. Sighing, you toss them into the trashcan, accepting the fact that your shirt is past the point of no return. Wine stains are the worst.

“Well, pizza boy, looks like you poured your drink on the right person. I know a great place that opens late and sells whole pizzas for five dollars. You in?”

“Wait, really?”

“Well, I can’t finish a whole pizza myself, and it’s gonna be hard trying to find my friends now.” You wave your hand around vaguely. “So you up for pizza?”

“Heck yes, but wait.” He hurriedly tugs off his jean jacket and pulls off his black sweater, leaving him in a white v-neck t-shirt. He shyly holds out the sweater to you. “Here, put this on. It’s gonna be cold out.”

You grin, accepting his sweater and slipping it on with ease, reveling in its warmth. He puts on his jean jacket again and secretly hides a smile when he notices how the sweater envelopes you, the sleeves covering your hands and giving you sweater paws.

“Thanks...?”

“Jungkook,” he supplies, smiling widely at you. “I’m Jungkook.”

“Nice to meet you, Jungkook. I’m _______.”

⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆

"I’m here, I’m here!”

Standing next to the business building, you look up from your phone to see Eunha running towards you, hair flying. She quickly smoothes down any stray strands when she skids to a stop in front of you. “Sorry, I’m a little late.”

“No worries, how was your class?” You slip your phone into your backpocket, walking side by side with your friend towards the dining hall.

“Ten minutes in, he already assigns us a group project. Like c’mon, we just got out of summer break and he hits us with this thing that’s worth 30% of our grade!” she complains, waving her hands around in frustration. “You know what’s even worse? He assigned us random group partners. Do you know Myoui Mina, Kim Mingyu, or Jeon Jungkook?”

You purse your lips, thinking back to your previous classes. “Mina is really nice. She let me borrow her notes when I was sick. Mingyu was in my business law class, I think maybe? It was an eight a.m. lecture, so I didn’t pay attention to whatever was going on. I don’t know any Jungkook though.”

“Well, at least I know one member of my group is reliable.”

“Did you swap numbers and set up a group meeting at least?”

“Yeah,” she grumbles, “We’re all meeting Thursday night in the library.”

You shoot her a reassuring smile. “See? I’m sure it’ll all be fine. Now let’s hurry before they run out of the good whipped cream for waffles.”

“Oh my god, you’re right, we gotta run.”

⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆

“If I read our story backwards, it's about how I un-broke your heart, and then we were happy until one day, you forgot about me forever.”  — The Tiny Book of Tiny Stories: Volume 1.

[stylesluxx]

hate the club – s.rogers

[warnings: maybe angst? minor swearing and age gap]

summary: in which y/n hates parties but knows steve will be there - inspired by hate the club by kehlani

word count: 4,124

masterlist

You were in training for as long as you could remember. And since you started at a young age, you were good at it; it could be argued that you were one of the best assassins produced, but your only flaw was that the guilt ate you alive. It was the only thing that held you back. And that's how you ended up working with the Avengers.

At the bright age of 18 you were fighting Captain America alongside Iron Man. You honestly had no idea what was going on but Tony had reached out to you. You had been in Nick Fury's records for two years now, which you allowed. If you wanted to disappear, you had all you needed to be able to do so. You figured, if he knew about you he'd offer you a way out. After all, you let him find you.

When it came down to fighting Thanos and his army, you had to put everything that happened in 2017 aside. You hadn't gotten a chance to properly introduce yourself to any of your teammates. You were a last-minute call for Tony in 2017 and introducing yourself wasn't exactly the easiest thing to do while fighting an extraterrestrial army. And when you all went to go visit Thanos at his farm, nobody was worried about introductions.

"I used the stones to destroy the stones. It nearly... killed me-"

"Should've," You mumbled and looked at him with stone-cold eyes.

"But the work is done, it always will be. I am... inevitable," He droned on dramatically.

You zoned out after that performance and only snapped back as Thor angrily cut off the monster's head. And without thinking you kicked it across the room. Not one of your classiest moments, you'll admit, but you were frustrated with the Titan as well.

"Worthless piece of shit," You mumbled and stormed out the house and to the jet.

But when all the dust settled (no pun intended) you got to talk to Captain America.

"I remember you, from the airport?" He said, looking down at you as you walked between him and Natasha. "Where did you learn to fight like that?"

You, Steve, and Natasha had just gone back inside the compound from walking Tony and Pepper out to their car.

"Call if you need anything, Kid," was the last thing Tony said before rolling up his window and Pepper driving off.

"Yeah, uh, I'm Y/N. Y/N Y/L/N. Trained assassin since before I could remember. Speaking of which, I'm a big fan of your work, Miss Romanoff. You're very calculated and smart... in a good way," You spoke softly, not necessarily knowing how to articulate your words.

"Just call me Nat and thanks. It's good that we use our training for good," She said and you nodded in agreement.

"I'm Steve Rogers. Nice to officially meet you. It's... nice when you're not beating our asses," He chuckled.

"It's nice when you guys aren't under my boot, begging for mercy," You said before making a face. "Yeah, sorry that's the assassin talking. But uh while we're all here, maybe you guys could teach me a few things? I could learn a lot from you. 'm only 19."

"19?" Steve asked with his eyebrows furrowed, clearly taken aback.

"Yep! And only 18 when I kicked your ass," You teased and Natasha laughed. "How old were you?"

"Technically... I was 99, but I guess I was only 33."

"Oh man, when's the big day? The big 100?"

"July 4th."

"Well, you only turn 100 once, let's make the most of it," You winked and pat his shoulder.

The rest was history. You made sure Steve had the best birthday he could've possibly asked for despite half the population being wiped out. Everything was good for a while. Five years. Everything was as good as it could be. For you, it kind of felt normal. You didn't have anyone you were attached to go in the snap. The people you had now, grew important to you in the last five years.

But Scott Lang came and shook up your entire world with the whole time travel concept. While they were trying to recruit Tony, you sat with Morgan on your lap. Your leg bouncing up and down was fun for the child but you and Steve knew your brain was working overtime; your anxiety was running wild.

"Hey, what's going on in that pretty little head of yours?" He asked and pecked the top of your head.

"Oh nothing. I'm just..." You sighed. "Thinking about all the people we're going to get back. Our new normal will change but... at least everyone will be back," You lied easily. You knew you had succeeded when he gave you a small smile.

"You'll be able to meet Bucky," He hummed with genuine hope.

"Finally, my assassin idol," You chuckled and shook your head.

"What's an ass?" Morgan asked and looked up at you.

"Don't worry about it, Little Stark," You told her and held her close.

You stayed at Tony's while the other three left to go back to the compound. You sat in Tony's workspace in an office chair that spun, wanting to stay distracted from your inner quarrels.

"What's up, Kid? The compound was too overwhelming?"

"Underwhelming, actually. There's nothing to do, so all I do is think. And after the news we received today, I-I don't really want to think," You told him honestly.

"What's worrying you about time travel? Old demons?"

"If there's a way for Steve to go back to Peggy," You started but stopped so you could breathe. The idea of losing Steve just took the air out of your lungs. You put your hand on the base of your neck and softly pinched at the skin to remind yourself this was reality. "He won't lose the opportunity to do so-"

"I think that might've changed-"

"Is there a way... to maybe... a-act like I didn't happen? I don't want to face him making that decision. I already know what he's going to choose and I don't want to be here for it," You practically begged, you leaned toward him trying to get him to see your desperation.

"You want me to make sure you don't exist so you don't have to deal with your problems? Yeah, no. There's a reason you're here," He said as he waved his hands, looking at a design. "Your problems will go away and you'll be happy again. This pain doesn't last forever, I know they must have taught you that at your little spy academy."

"Gosh you're such a dad these days," You mumbled and slumped in the chair, defeated.

"My greatest accomplishment, if I do say so myself. But spend the night, we have a long day ahead of us."

Tony was right. The next day was the longest day you've ever lived through. It was physically draining but also emotionally. You couldn't get the thought of Steve leaving you out of your head, so you decided to shoot him before he shot you. A typical assassin habit.

Five years of your life gone. You didn't even get in the shower before you walked into Steve's room at the old Avengers tower. The newest compound was turned into rubble and luckily, Tony still had this space available. You quietly knocked before letting yourself in and your eyes immediately went to his nightstand where his compass was open and facing him. You sighed softly and looked at him, defeated.

"Hey, what's wrong? It's been a great day. Everyone's back and nobody died. It's a great day for us!" He rambled, worried, and sat up.

He sat at the edge of his bed and put his hands out for you to take. But you shook your head and took a step back. You looked at the compass quickly before looking back at him.

"Go be with her," You said softly.

"What–?"

"When you return the stones, go back to her, Steve. I have the rest of my life to heal a broken heart but you-you only have one chance," You said as your voice cracked. You cleared your throat and tried to turn the assassin back on. "You only have one chance to be with the love of your life. Take it," You now spoke confidently.

You went with him the next day; you promised to be there for moral support and so you could meet Bucky.

"Bucky, this is Y/N. Y/N, this is Bucky, your 'assassin idol,'" He chuckled. "Y/N's been keeping me afloat these last five years. And Bucky's kept me afloat most of my life. You two will get along well."

Bucky gave you a small smile as if to thank you for being there for Steve. You returned the smile before turning back to Steve. You assumed he and Bucky already said their goodbyes before you got there and now it was your turn.

"I'll be okay, Steve," You assured him and held his face in your hands.

"I know, you're beyond resilient. This is not easy for me at all and it's tearing me apart. I've learned that where I want to be isn't necessarily where I need to be but sometimes they just line up that way. Sometimes where I want to be is exactly where I need to b-"

"Okay that's enough," You stopped him. You didn't want to hear him choose Peggy over you. You wanted to get out of here as soon as possible.

He nodded and kissed your forehead one last time. You watched Steve walk over to the platform and you looked at him intently, longingly.

"How are you two okay with this?" You heard Tony from behind.

"What're you doing here?" You asked him, surprise in your voice but you kept your eyes on Steve.

"I'm your moral support. You here for him but you need someone here for you. Steve called me; in case something went wrong I'd be here for you," He explained and stood next to you, a hand on your shoulder.

You shook your head and crossed your arms over your chest.

"Well, assassins are good at letting things go. This is nothing to me," You huffed out the lie, and turned around as Steve pressed the button for the helmet. "See you guys around."

It took you three and a half hours to get to Ithaca from Tony's house. You went three and a half hours without looking at your phone and when you finally crashed on the couch and took a peek, you let out an exasperated sigh.

Tony: He stayed

—

You tossed out yet another party invitation from Tony before sitting at the island in your kitchen.

Y/N: drop Morgan off before the party

Tony: you're seriously not coming ????

Y/N: I'm seriously not coming

Y/N: morgan > party

Y/N: see you when you get here, dweeb

Tony: 🙄

It's been a year since Tony told you Steve stayed here. It's been a year since Thanos was defeated and what better way to celebrate than a party. You've spent a whole year avoiding parties because you knew Steve would be there. He tried contacting you after he stayed, but you ignored all the texts and calls, even when he called from Bucky's phone.

You let him go and he stayed. It embarrassed you that you easily gave up someone who so clearly wanted you. You thought he decided Peggy was the one but you read the situation all wrong. Where he wanted to be and where needed to be was with you and you felt like an idiot for not realizing that.

But Tony figured if you were going to avoid the parties, you might as well watch Morgan, which, honestly, felt more like a reward than a punishment.

"Morgan, tell the loser bye," You hummed to her and took her bags from Tony.

"Bye Loser," She laughed while hugging Tony.

"Maguna, why do you listen to her?" He chuckled and ruffled her hair.

"She's my favorite aunt," She shrugged.

"Well, who else was supposed to be your favorite? Natasha?" You teased and held your hand out for her to take.

"I like Wan-"

"Gosh Kid, your standards are unbelievably low. Wanda? Really?" You cut her off and made a face at her.

You brought her inside your apartment and watched her kick off her shoes and get comfortable, this was nothing new to her. You set her bags down by the guest room (which might as well be her room) before walking over and sitting on the couch.

"So, how's school?" You asked.

"Fun! We have baby butterflies in our classroom!"

"Caterpillars?"

"Mhm," She hummed and climbed on the couch. "Uncle Steve picks me up sometimes. And you'll never guess what he said."

"What did he say, Kid?"

"Guess!"

"Uh, I don't know," You shrugged and clapped your hands together. "You're his favorite niece?"

"No silly! He said he misses you," She smiled and poked your cheek.

"Mmh, I bet," You mumbled and blushed a bright red.

"Why are you turning red?"

"Am not!"

"Well, I think it's time for you to have a baby, so you should talk to him."

"A baby... with Steve?"

"Yep!"

You shook your head, "don't hold your breath on that one."

"And you can name her Morgan too!"

"No thanks," You shook your head and she huffed.

"You remind me of my dad."

"Thank you? I think?"

And this is usually how it went. Tony threw a party and you stayed home and watched Morgan all night. She was great company and she always made you wonder what you and Steve's lives would've looked like if you didn't let him go.

You probably would've found a house in the country somewhere. Sitting on the couch with a newborn in your arms as Steve fixed you a sandwich. Going back and forth with Little Stark on FaceTime about why you didn't name your baby "Morgan." But if you knew Steve, which you thought you did, you knew he would've wanted to marry you first. He'd strive for the most perfect life he could get.

The next invitation you got was for Morgan's birthday and you knew you couldn't miss it. You sighed and texted Tony.

Y/N: will there be alcohol at this party?

Tony: It's a party for kids !!!

Tony: Of course there's going to be alcohol

Y/N: Morgan is gonna be the only kid there...

Tony: Well if everyone got their acts together ... there would be more kids

Tony: For example, Bruce and Nat could adopt ????? Thor and the scientist girl maybe ???? One day ??

Y/N: you forgot clint. we forgot clint has 3 kids

Tony: Honestly? I like to pretend they're agents because how could he not tell us about them !??

Tony: But how could we forget Y/N and Steve ???

Y/N: yeah, you're officially blocked. bye. tell morgan and pep I love them

Tony: See you soon 😘

You arrived at the Stark home and sucked in a breath as you pulled in next to Steve's bike. You exhaled shakily and tapped the steering wheel before running a hand through your hair.

"Okay, relax. You're ready for this. It's just Steve. He's seen your asshole before," You mumbled to yourself and nodded.

You got out the car and grabbed the bags from the trunk. You looked at the house and sighed. It was a cute house. It was a family house and it was everything you've ever wanted since you met Steve.

You walked up to the front door and opened it.

"Little Stark?" You called out and walked into the house, straight into the living room, only to be met by Tony.

"Look who crawled out from under her rock!" Tony laughed and walked over to pull you into a hug.

"I'm only here because I love Morgan. Now where is she? And where's my shot?" You laughed with him and hugged back.

"'Little Stark' is in the backyard with the other kids... well the agents," He said and pulled away from the hug. He kept an arm around your shoulder and walked you to the backyard. "Let me know if you feel uncomfortable and I'll get you out of here faster than you can say 'I love Tony,'" He whispered to you as you saw your other friends sitting in the yard. But Steve was nowhere to be found.

"Is that the code word? Isn't it supposed to be something discrete? People will definitely know something's wrong with me if I said that."

"You're annoying."

"Can you get me a drink? Maybe a shot of 1942?"

"Auntie Y/N!" Morgan yelled and ran to you.

You dropped the bags in your hands and pulled Morgan into a big hug.

"Hi Little Stark! Happy Birthday!" You smiled and spun around a couple of times as you kept her tucked in your arms. You were so occupied with the birthday girl you didn't notice Tony walk off.

"Thank you! What did you get me?" She asked once you set her down. You kept your arms on her shoulders so she wouldn't feel too dizzy.

You laughed and reached for the gift bag with her present. You handed it to her and watched as she opened it.

"Wow! A Nerf gun," She hummed happily as she took it out the bag.

"I thought maybe you could start training. What're you, like six?"

"Y/N! Training?" You heard Pepper.

"What? You're never too young to learn," You chuckled and turned the face her. "How are you, Pep?"

"Much better now than I know you're actually alive and Tony wasn't bringing our daughter to some random nanny," She teased and pulled you into a hug that you returned.

"Yes, I'm alive and well. Waiting for Tony to bring me my drink," You mumbled. "Oh! And I brought the kids candy."

As the mention of candy, Clint's three little ones came running over.

"Hello Mini Clints! Yes, I bought you guys candy, it's in the-"

You were caught off by them and Morgan running off with the candy.

"I-okay."

"Come! Natasha's been hoping you'd come," Pepper said and ushered you over to your former teammates (four out of the six original Avengers) and Laura.

"Y/N!" They all cheered making you blush.

"Hi guys," You said softly and gave a small wave.

"We missed you," Nat smiled and stood from her seat at the picnic table. She hugged you tightly and you laughed.

"I missed you guys too," You smiled and rubbed her back.

"How have you been?" She asked.

"Uh, I've been okay. Pretty good. Honestly? I miss sparring with you. I might have to make a trip to the new compound Tony built so we can go a few rounds," You said and backed away.

"Me, you, and Bucky?" She suggested and you nodded in agreement.

"Y/N?" You heard from behind you. The voice caused your body to visibly tense and everyone at the table gave you a comforting smile.

"Hey... Steve," You said gently as you turned around to face him, but your eyes looking at your feet. "How are you?"

"Better now," He nodded and let out a breath.

"Well that's good. I'm gonna go see what's holding up Tony with my drink. I'll be back," You excused yourself and walked back into the house quickly.

You walked downstairs to the basement where you knew the bar was. And surprise surprise, it was completely untouched. You sighed and went behind the bar to get a bottle and poured yourself a shot.

You couldn't believe you thought you were ready to face Steve. At the sight of him you bolted and you could barely get a conversation in. It wasn't off-brand for you to run away from your problems. But you knew you couldn't just leave the party so you just sat there at the bar. You didn't even know how long you were sitting there until you looked over at the clock.

"Oh wow," You mumbled and took maybe your sixth shot. You stopped counting after a while.

"So this is where you've been this whole time?" Tony sighed and sat next to you.

"Avoiding Captain America," You nodded.

"Technically, he's not Captain America anymore. Just boring Steve Rogers."

"Oh yeah, that's very boring," You scoffed and poured yourself another shot.

"Someone's gonna have to drive you home?"

"Yes please," You nodded. You downed the shot without flinching, causing Tony to shake his head in fake disappointment. "Okay, I'm gonna go talk to him. Wish me luck?"

"You don't need luck, he still loves you. He's upstairs in the kitchen," He pats your shoulder and stands from the stool.

He walked upstairs and you followed him until you spotting Steve in the kitchen.

You cleared your throat, "hey."

He looked up from his phone and smiled at you.

"Hey."

You walked over to him and we're genuinely surprised you didn't fall over. You were both leaned against the counter, he was facing you and you had the perfect view of the picnic table where you saw everyone watching you.

"Tony told me you'd be in here," You said shyly, attempting to spark a conversation.

"Yeah," He nodded. "Got tired of looking for you. The house is nothing like the Avengers compound but it's still a bit big."

"Yeah, but it's small for Tony," You smiled and watched as Tony stood on the picnic table.

"I just want to say happy birthday to Morgan! Besides me, she's the greatest thing to happen to any of you. I also think we should thank her because, without her, Y/N would never leave the house-"

"He loooves an audience," You shook your head and laughed. "There's only- one, two, three, eight adults here besides him. H-He didn't have to stand on the table and give a speech."

"He was right though. You only leave the house if it's for Morgan," Steve commented and turned from looking at Tony back to you.

"This time it was for Morgan and you," You admitted to him. "Do you mind walking me out, we can t-talk on the way to the car? Pleaseee Rogers?" You begged, drunkenly stumbling upon your words.

"Yeah, I'll walk you out," He nodded after thinking for what seemed like a minute to you. It was like he was trying to assess the situation, see if it was a good idea.

He takes your hand in his and leads you toward the front of the house and out on the front porch.

"M-Morgan says you miss me but I need proof," You blurted out. You've been wanting to know if he missed you ever since Morgan brought it up and the alcohol gave you the courage to speak up.

"I never said that," He shook his head and looked at the sunset, avoiding your eyes.

You tilted your head and looked at him with an annoyed expression.

"I-I came all this way to see you and you're lying to me. I c-can tell when you're lying, Rogers, I spent half a decade with you."

"Well, some might say we were only together for five hours," He said to try to deflect, causing you to frown.

It must've been the alcohol because you felt your eyes well up. This was overwhelming to you; you were holding your ex's hand while being emotionally vulnerable and drunk and he couldn't even take you seriously. It was frustrating.

"You're s-still important to me, Rogers. I still love you and I still need you. I d-don't act like it, but I do. If I didn't let you go, we'd probably have all of this right now," You blabbered and used your arms to gesture to Tony's house and little family as you let a tear fall down your cheek.

This wasn't like you at all, this was something that wasn't a part of your assassin training but when it came to Steve, all of that training went out the window.

"Tired of being scared to run i-into you. I hate parties, and you know that but I love Morgan and being with you and I knew you'd be here. W-wanted to see you finally. We can hash everything out later. I just- I just wanna finally go home, Rogers," You spoke with desperation.

You were desperate for him to hear you, understand you, and take you seriously. You didn't want to leave here without him; this wasn't your initial plan but being in his presence changed that.

"You're so drunk calling me 'Rogers,'" He chuckled and shook his head, lovingly.

"Please Steve."

"Let's head home."

[AN: hopefully tumblr decides to let me post this without being shadow banned. I’ve been trying to post this for like a month]

[fizzingwizard]

Another Sunday, another episode of Digimon Adventure: (how tf do I do punctuate??). It is a good time to be a fan of Yagami Taichi.

I remember being 11 years old, the last episode of Digimon Adventure made be bawl my eyes out, and although I was excited for 02, really I just wanted more of Adventure. I guess I’m just slow to like new things (well, I am), but I would have super happy if the producers had been like, “02 will be a reboot for Adventure with the same characters and similar storyline.” And then do the same thing for every new Digimon season xD I’m sure I’m pretty damn alone in that opinion and don’t get me wrong, I love 02, and I think Tamers was good. And yet xD

^The screenshot that sums up the episode: Greymon gets his butt kicked while Taichi hangs on for dear life

I know the bond between children and Digimon is what powers them, and I’m kind of wondering if having a physical connection improves that in this show, because these kids are always riding around on their partners. (Not able exception - Togemon, because ouch. But I expect to see Mimi on her boxing glove at least lol) I have to rationalize it that way because otherwise it’s like why would having an elementary school kid on your head while you rush into the line of fire count as a battle strategy

This ep picks up pretty much where we left off, which means it’s probably only been hours since Yamato joined the group at the fortress. Already the atmosphere is completely changed.

I can see them, but they can’t see me... Ishida Yamato’s modus operandi

more below

Here is a very Digimon-esque tableau: everyone gathered around Koushirou and his computer. Yamato still being standoffish. I imagine he jumped at the chance to stand guard at the entrance so he doesn’t have to get too close to anyone.

Agumon’s fight with MetalTyrannomon went... not so great. Yamato coolly tries to explain to Taichi that evacuating was the only way, otherwise they’d risk all being destroyed, and that would be the end of everything.

Taichi’s fist tightens and begins to shake...

... he doesn’t look like he totally agrees with Yamato’s reasoning, but he doesn’t have a better idea. But, being Taichi, he can’t just let it rest.

Yamato talking to Taichi’s back while Taichi frantically starts to sort out his Feelings is just how they communicate. This is a common shonen anime trope for the hero and his foil. Yamato’s pushing, Taichi’s not exactly hiding, but he doesn’t want to face him until he can face him with resolve.

Yamato: Look at me. Look at me!

Taichi: *sweating* It feels like a hole’s burning in the back of my neck, so... I’ll pass

Taichi finally explains out what’s got him so knotted up: he regrets Ogremon’s death. Like we saw last episode, the battle that began as revenge turned into a battle of samurai pride. And Taichi is evidently a samurai. He wanted to see that battle to the finish, out of mutual respect for the opponent (who he’d never met before and who had been trying to kill him previously... but y’know when you’re kindred spirits that’s all water under the bridge)

Yamato doesn’t really get it. This is where these two are fundamentally different. Taichi attac, Yamato protec, then everybody gets a FIGHT!

I mean, not 100% of the time, but the bottom line is Yamato’s not so big on this pride thing, although he does have pride of his own. But he’s definitely not into taking unnecessary risks, especially if it puts his friends in danger. The trouble is, Taichi doesn’t think he takes unneccessary risks either... just necessary ones ;)

The other kids can already feel the tension increasing and Taichi and Yamato haven’t even raised their voices at each other yet. Lol buckle up kiddos

Jou wonders if he should make them stop, and Mimi instantly turns around and begs him to try. My Joumi heart LEAPT.

TBH I was surprised she did anything at all, I was expecting Jou’s “Should I break them up?” to just end there with nothing happening. Instead we got an adorable Joumi moment where Mimi shows that as much as she teases him, she already somewhat relies on Jou (to be fair, I do think Mimi’s the type to rely on anyone who offers when she’s not sure what to do herself). Jou, being Jou, is unprepared aaaaand wigs out.

Jou: Oh no oh no oh no she actually expects me to get between them?!?! But but I flunked Tough Guy school! That’s literally why I’m a nerd! This girl’s trying to throw me to the wolves!

Fortunately for Jou, he has a redheaded savior.

Sora: Stop it. He’ll wet his pants again and I don’t have any more extras.

Sora shows her insight into people’s hearts and understands that Taichi and Yamato need to hash things out. It’s not dangerous... yet. But the way she’s more or less frozen in place along with the others says she’s... maybe a bit on her guard, at least, lol.

Koushirou, being Kousihrou, is completely oblivious to all of this and focused on his computer.

Oh yeah... the real reason Taichi turned his back to Yamato earlier - whenever they look directly at each other, they suck each others souls out. I CALL BODY SWITCH

I mean jogress

I mean marriage

They spend like the entire first half of the episode arguing omg get a room.

Then... Agumon wakes up!

And even though it’s a cartoon, it’s clear to see the way Taichi’s body fills with relief. I wonder if Yamato didn’t realize or didn’t think Taichi was that worried about Agumon. 99 Yamato tended to feel that Taichi was insensitive to others. But while he can be, Taichi also doesn’t express his emotions in the same way as Yamato. They’re both wont to hide how they feel, but while Yamato goes quiet and aloof, Taichi just acts like everything’s normal. So maybe here, Yamato really thought Ogremon and MetalTyrannomon were the only things on Taichi’s mind. Just a guess.

Awwww montage of cute...

a boy and his dinosaur!!

Maybe to Yamato’s surprise, Agumon totally echoes Taichi’s feelings about Ogremon. “I wanted to settle the score with him.” Weird as it sounds, they made a manly bond with Ogremon and running away just doesn’t sit right. Agumon’s raring to go...

... but his stomach isn’t quite ready yet hahaha.

Yamato’s probably used to Gabumon’s appetie but I suspect Agumon’s tummy growl has errr exceptional resonance

Glad to see the return of the Digimon’s bottomless pit aka stomach. I think it was just last week I complained about that not really being a thing so far. This time it was the other Digimon who went gathering, but I hope to see the human kids rushing around in a frenzy to care for their partners’ appetites soon lol

While the others eat, Taichi and Yamato decide they haven’t finished vampiring each other’s souls and sneak out to the mouth of the cave. Sora follows them to see if she can watch any hot yaoi action.

Lol but I do really like the framing heart. All we can see of the boys is their shadows. Sora keeps her distance but she’s watching them intently from a distance. I assumed she was just gathering more data on how short a leash she needs to keep them on.

Turned out that was not quite correct... reluctant to interrupt though she’d been before, once they start talking about what to do next she adds her input. We’ve got Yamato on Taichi’s one side and Sora on his other side. It’s the beginnings of TAIORATOOOOO *more airhorns*

^I can’t see anything but Goku and Vegeta bahahaha. Also why is eleven-year-old Yamato SO broad-shouldered, between that, his deeper voice, and his perfeclty coifed hair Taichi must seem like a toddling infant to him bahahaha. Like come on Yamato is not a child you must be kidding

Already Yamato is getting into the habit of Looking At Taichi while Taichi Looks At Literally Anything Else.

These two don’t need words. They talk with their vampiric eyes.

Koushirou’s hyper focus on his computer finally pays off and they all gather back around. Everyone starts cheering when the hologram appears even though they don’t know what the heck it is. This is Koushirou, so it must be awesome!

It turns out to be a map of much usefulness.

And it turns out Ogremon was telling the truth about the path to the holy Digimon being straight ahead, while fires Taichi up even more.

^Obligatory ‘Gomamon is cutest Digimon’ cap

Koushirou also gives Taichi special data on MetalTyrannomon, including his weak point. Taichi is THRILLED. He’s happier about this than he is about finding the route to the holy Digimon. This is the difference between Taishiro and Taito guys. When Taichi gets a reckless idea, Yamato tries to talk him down, or at least be sensible about it. Koushirou? Koushirou is a FREAKING ENABLER.

They wait with baited breath for Yamato’s reaction. Though he seems underwhelmed, Yamato admits Koushirou’s information “does seem reliable.” That’s all the permission Taichi needs to go back to freaking out over how awesome Koushirou is.

They come up with a plan to lure MetalTyrannomon away so Taichi can fight him while the others take the chance to escape and head towards the path to the holy Digimon.

^Obligatory ‘Sora is best girl’ cap

Yamato waits for the others to get away before following after... he stalls for a minute as if unsure whether it’s really alright to leave Taichi on his own. In the end he joins the group... All things considered, I think he’s pretty thrown off by Taichi, tbh.

Yamato’s group doesn’t make it far before they encounter a very suspicious looking lake.

^More evidence that Yamato is not really an elementar school kids. He’s clearly at least 15. He’s been routinely failing every year in order to get held back until he can be in the same class as Takeru. That’s the extent of his overprotectiveness

It sure is fortunate that Koushirou’s genius extends to fluency in English or they’d have no idea this lake of dark mist is bad friggin news.

Or... maybe they would have:

Mimi sneaks behind Jou and pulls his middle school exam workbook out of his bag.

And immediately chucks it into the lake.

Where it disintegrates.

This is how Mimi’s mind works. She’s smart! They need to know what would happen if they went into the lake without actually going in it. So they need to put something else in first. So far so good. What should she throw? A stick? A rock? One of Sora’s endless towels?

No, Jou’s workbook. Duhhh.

She probably felt she was killing two birds with one stone here x’D Experiment complete, and Jou prevented from anymore whining about not having time to study. Mimi is chaotic good.

gosh I love Joumi

Jou is lawful neurotic

Greymon shielding Taichi is just soooo cute even if it still feels weird that he has to be up there in the first place

The battle rages between MetalTyrannomon and Greymon, who just won’t quit even though he’s losing... pretty bad... I mean...

He just grabbed a missile with his bare hand...

Taichi: Now I know what it’s like to be a firework

Loop-de-loop! Taichi’s suction cup shoes strike again.

Courage going UP!! Reaching a fever pitch! The evolution that’s been looming for two episodes finally happens!

MetalTyrannomon: Eat my dust!

Woooooooo, MetalGreymon is just as freaky as ever. Always my least favorite evolution in Agumon’s line, but the glowy purple wings are cool.

Also, nipple missiles.

MetalTyrannomon: I can’t believe I was beaten by some meddling kids!

So yeah, we are back to killing Digimon willy-nilly. None of this “but what about their hearts?” shitck. Always found it amazing in 02, a children’s cartoon, that said “Yeah the characters you loved last season were totes murderers but it was justified and sometimes you just have to kill.” And fourteen-year-old Taichi is just like, “Yeah, I’m a murderer, and you should be too.” XD And Miyako hits LadyDevimon with a skateboard. Priceless

This scene is adorable but Taichi’s butt looks so saggy.

I’m kind of wondering how evolution works in this show. They jumped right to jogress in like episode two or something, but we haven’t seen it since (I would sort of expected Taichi to think of it when it was clear MetalTyrannomon was too strong, though I would also expect Yamato to nix that idea both because he doesn’t want to and because to him it’s a pointless fight and not the priority). Since then, the Champion level evolutions went similar to 99 Adventure, with everyone getting their special episode, and I’m sure that’s how it’ll go down with the next level too, but there was no gap at all between going from one level to the next. I’m trying to say, they seem able to reach the next level awfully fast. They didn’t need to meet Gennai and collect the tags and Crests, the Crests appear already uploaded in their Digivices. I’m not complaining, as always I’m glad this show is not just a carbon copy of the old one, but I am curious if evolutions are easier to attain in this series, or if there are going to be more of them and that’s why they come so quick, or if the series just won’t run long enough for there to be significant gaps of time between evolutions.

Episode ends with the group deciding, like I predicted last week, to split up and try the Left and Right routes, since the Straight one is blocked. Gays go right and lesbians go left, of course. :P

This episode was pretty fantabulous, I loved it, Digimon is awesome.

Next week it’s no surprise what we’re gonna get.

WeeeeereGarurumon! Also my least favorite evolution of Gabumon’s line but still cooler than MetalGreymon hahahaha.

I’m also totally stoked for the grouping of Yamato, Jou, and Sora. There’s tons of potential for Yamato and Sora to bond, although my prediction is that while he’ll pretty much like her (even if he won’t admit it to himself), she’s going to find him a little difficult. But she’ll have an easier time talking to him than the others do. I also fully expect Jou to drive Yamato out of his mind lol.

This also means the other group is Taichi, Koushirou, and Mimi. I assume we won’t see too much of them next week, but I hope that means they’ll get their episode the week after, because I am dying for some Taishiro moments. Practically salivating. Also, Koumi fans can probably look forward to Mimi and Koushirou Not Getting each other too, lol