#i have no idea what HR is doing but it worked in my favor this time so I don't really care

[arinrowan]

Further work gossip:

Apparently a person who I thought got fired but quit back in late January ALSO had HR lock her accounts before her two weeks was up.

she works at a restaurant now and the main (and most senior) IT guy apparently came in with his friends, who spent most of the meal trying to convince him to quit because the job is so toxic

she ALSO had issues with the supervisor the clinical director was telling me no one had problems with 

I’m sure none of this is going to impact our clients or contracts at all

[spearxwind]

Hiya, I’d like to put some thoughts out there on my blog (my house) bc I need to yarf some intense feelings or I fear I will explode on a nuclear scale. This is about hollowridge (not in a negative light!! just explaining + reminiscing of old stuff and talking about new stuff. Pouring my heart out more than a little bit.)

I will put them under a readmore of course, this is PRETTY long winded, so you can read or ignore at your leisure -w- 

I was in my adri tag a while ago looking for some images and ended up going through the whole thing and seeing the evolution of him as a character and HR as a story. Additionally, I recently organized my external memory where all my art files are stored and also saw my old stuff, old concepts, old documents with info and ideas, etc etc and like other times where I have looked through my old stuff I have been WRACKED with so many emotions about it. It’s always a dangerous game to go back into my folders/tags to look because I always end up feeling this whooole spiel all at once and very intensely.

Seeing my content shifts is jarring. Very much so. It always is. I don’t think I can pinpoint causes, some of my better creative highs were at really low points in my life, and then other times my creativity and worlds were subsequently really hardly hit during similar lows. I like to think that I am on the up now though, both mentally and creatively. I’m getting back into a lot of things I love, and I am surrounded by people who I love dearly and who love me back, and things in general are really good! I feel less… I wouldn't say wrathful, but way less frustrated when looking back at my old stuff and more inspired to go back to these concepts with a healthier more open mind + knowing that I have improved nonetheless. 

Specifically for hollowridge. Hollowridge feels like a home to me, simple as that. It's something immensely dear to me and I think this is clear by how much effort I have put into it over time, not all of it well placed or with good results, but effort to make it the best that it could be (at best) and effort to keep it afloat (at worst). HR is a strange thing to look back on because it has gone through so many iterations that its hard to pinpoint just one when looking back, but there's a specific time slot (2017-2018 roughly… I’m not gonna check) that I believe is where it was at its best, and that is specifically the vibe that I am trying really hard to go back to with the newest iteration.

I’ve always struggled with it a lot, I've often voiced this publicly, or to friends who would hear my woes out (god bless them for hearing me go on and on about this like a bass boosted and emotional broken record), often because there was so many possibilities that I could run with and I had a lot of really, really conflicting ideas that I wanted to explore. I also had a lot of trouble with lore in general because for many years I was haunted by the absurd need to “make things make sense”, whatever that means. Having things grounded so that people wouldn't be able to poke holes into the watertight plot.. which I never achieved of course. It was less watertight and more of a welded together pringle shaped monstrosity (This was not only true for hollowridge, but was true for everything I have ever made. like in general. It’s been a consistent creative problem for me). 

Eventually what happened iteration after iteration was that I throttled myself too much with rules, random limitations, all in favor of making something cohesive and deleting all the fun bits off the project in the process.

For this reason I also can’t just up and go “yeah i'm gonna turboscrap everything and go back to what worked in 2017” because it also DIDN’T work then. But that vibe specifically is what I am aiming for. The “classic” vibe, if you will (if that means anything to you as it does to me.)

What didn't work for me back in the day was giving everything a reason for existing, which is something I no longer wish to do (it’s better that way) and also something that failed back then both in HR, and in extinction (earlier drafts) and just about any version of a story I ever tried to make was THE SCOPE. It always spiraled out of my hands. God entities always escape me. Magic systems always escape me. How cities and such would be regulated in these scenarios escape me. Its just things I’m not comfortable writing about in general

So that’s why I have made changes to it currently (the whole lens of technology over it) because it makes it easier to think about, and easier to handle. Post apocalypses are fun to handle, and also easy to handle (for me, in this context). Technology going awry feels like its easier to think about than just vague “magic”, even if in the end the aesthetic looks literally exactly the same. Does that make sense? I hope it makes sense.

To give an example: Magic spells and circles → programs and code lines. That can be shot into machinery or meat (recodes your fucking genome in real time and gives you super brain hemorrhage idk). I guess it just gives my brain something to latch onto that isnt just vague rules of a magic system that could potentially be anything and everything? It essentially works the exact same way… its just the lens of looking at it is changed.

Mimics are their own thing now (nanotechnology, instead of vague.. shadow things). Adri is his own thing while still connected to mimics (an angel array made of the same stuff, instead of.. whatever else). Connected to the world. AND all the conflicting but dearly beloved concepts I had for him actually fit (snake, scarf, smoke, usurper of a body that is not his. Hey remember when he was made out of ashes/smoke and eventually out of goop. Well all of that is true at once now! It’s ALL canon! Bitch! The concepts have been reconciled!!)

There are also more “normal” creatures besides these, animals that have either evolved aboveground due to fit into new world niches (so I can design Whatever without being too limited) and there’s also machine/biomachine chimeras, and purposed grown organisms, and just Weird Shit made by machines in the belly of the earth (meat is just complex machinery. you know this. your heart is a piston and your blood gasoline. but I digress.) So I have the space to Get Weird if I so choose, on my own terms this time. And it will have a proper place in the world.

There used to be a lot of concepts that were cool that I missed a lot when I had to shift away from them. Like mimics infecting people and pretending to be them, and then being able to break the hosts bodies apart to make bodies for the mimic itself. That did not fly in pretty much 80% of the later versions of HR but I was able to bring it back for this one. I’ve tied mimics to the epidemic and to Adri in a way that MAKES SENSE but lets me go wild anyways

I guess… the short way of explaining is that. Instead of it being very vague supernatural stuff of dubious origin, now it's a ‘manmade horrors beyond your comprehension’ type deal (still of dubious origin). Which obviously neither the characters nor I would be able to explain to you the details of its origins but the distinction MATTERS to me (to my brain).

Something else about HR is that it’s made up of me having rounded up a bunch of ocs who’s stories were empty or were left to the void so that they could have a fitting home where they could shine. At the end of the day I just wanna do my characters justice. I don’t want to just relegate them to nice set pieces (even though they ARE cool set pieces), but each of them has years of backstory stuff that I would like to keep to not lose the essence of said character and its where I put the bulk of my writing effort into.

I want their connections to the story to be solid, but I also want their base vibes and the vibes I am familiar with for those characters to BE THERE too. So if I’m slow with revealing info, or writing in general, its literally because all the processing power in my skull is being used to think of how to best approach that and not just throw low quality spaghetti at a wall. (Sometimes the spaghetti method works very well, but often. It does not. And only makes things more complex in the long run, so I have learned to be more careful with it)

Dianne and Nirven are over 12 years old now as characters. That 's insane. And she still has the same core concept of how her magic works as I created it ages ago.

Same for Bei. He still has his same vibe back when I made him 10 years ago.

And Adam when I made him 9 years ago. Though I’m working out stuff for him still in this new edition, but I’ll get there. I promise. 

Sooo……….. What I’m really trying to say is that I’m learning to have fun again. And at the same time (re)realizing I used to have some super swag ideas that I have never fully let go of that I am VERY adamant on keeping. And my aim is to go back to that unhinged unbridled joy of creating for a world that is just So Fucked Up but it Works somehow. And yeah, if you’ve ever been frustrated at my changes don’t worry: me fuckin’ too buddy. A thousandfold. And if you’ve ever been curious as to the why of everything, then I hope this rant serves as some sort of explanation?

So yeah, if you’re an old fan and missed old stuff, I hope I am able to do it justice once more and from now on. I promise I am trying my best, I always have been. It just works better sometimes. And if you are someone new and dont know what the fuck I’m talking about, 1. thank you for reading this far and 2. I hope you enjoy the ride regardless

And who knows…. knowing me in a few years I might see this all changed again. Or maybe this will be the one, finally, that sticks. We’ll see. At the moment like I said, I am focusing on loving my characters, their world, their and my original intentions, and just having as much fun as I can with it. If I create confusion in the process then that’s something I will have to accept. I’m not a big media corporation with a team or writers, or even just one (1) accomplished author with a huge brain. I’m not tolkien. I’m just some guy having fun with made up guys in my brain

Thank you for reading this far, if you did, if there’s anything you’d like to comment or discuss (if anything, I don’t expect it) please feel free to reply or DM me, I try to respond in a timely manner when possible <3 

Thanks for sticking around too. It means the world to me that you have. Have a really good week, cheers

[tblsomedoodles]

(Sorry for asking a lot of the Donnie Au, it’s living rent-free in my head 😓) In the series, Donnie has a lot of centric episodes which could work well (in my opinion) with this Au:

Donnie gifts: rewatching the episode, it could show how Dee is way better trained and has more battle iq than his brothers.

I could also give a reason off why he made those gifts. I personally see it as him making the gifts as his way to both help them be better fighters and to keep them safe. (also does he still get captured by MeatSweats?)

The Purple game: I don’t think this episode would really change a lot, maybe bringing a motive for why Dee got obsessed by the game. (Maybe brings memories of him and Uncle Mikey playing but the again he wants nothing to do with past memories so…)

The Lair games: I think the change is more directed to Leo than to Dee, cause just like Angie, it’s Dee first Lair games so imagine how pissed Leo would be when all of a sudden his lost twin comes back and destroys his 5 year champion record, first try.

Breaking purple: this is one is just me but I could see Dee thinking back and remembering his Pops while looking for SHELLDON ( the junk yard scene )

Turtle Degan Nights: Ok so this episode could explore Dee’s feelings/relationship with rise splinter. (Prepare yourself it’s long)

Something about Donnies character is the fact that he lacks parental support and validation which is plays a big part in this episode (with him looking for ways to bond with Splinter and getting exited every time when he’s about to say proud). But Raphie (and the 03 gang) fix those problems, meaning he no longer has those needs.

How would that affect this episode?: would he still go or not? And If he does go, would he back down when arriving (since he’s no longer blinded with the idea of bonding with splinter [unless he is]) and giving his bottle up emotions (and that he probably misses Raphie), would that affect the moment he confronts Splinter.

(I’m sorry, this got WAY longer that I expected 😓Donnie has a plenty of centric episodes)

No apologies needed! He's been stuck in my head all day too lol

But yeah, for the Donnie's gifts, Dee definitely made them mostly to help. He knows leaders are supposed to make plans before fighting so a helmet that helps Raph make plans? Brilliant. Mikey keeps getting hurt when he's trying stunts he can't quite land yet so bubble suit? Perfect. Leo? He wasn't quite sure about leo, but his 'it's 4am and i haven't slept in 36 hrs' brain thought getting him to stop joking mid fight would need a taser so he built one. (then realized after the fact, ok, maybe the jokes weren't bad enough to tase him like that. and does awkwardly apologize.)

The Purple Game, you're right, would probably stay the same. Context wise, he gets hyper-fixated on it b/c it reminds him of home, but not enough to have feelings over it.

Lair games, oh definitely! Leo's just like, yeah i'm going to win again this year, and then doesn't. (which was definitely not Leo's plan to start so he never wagered his room.)

Breaking Purple, yeah i could see that being the case. Like he's looking for Shelldon and has the brief thought of "is this how Papa felt when i left?" before he buries it again.

And Turtle-dega Nights, oh that one would be fun. His differences in being raised (i know there's a word but idk what it is right now) would certainly effect this episode.

Like, for one, he does not want to go. At all. He actually resents Splinter for his original disappearance (logically he knows it's not his fault, illogically, that was his dad. Why couldn't he chase the cat away like pops had?) and he very much hates how little attention this guy has been giving his brothers (and him since he came back), b.c his lack of attention is very apparent to him after having so much of it back in 03. So he doesn't want to do this man any favors.

It's Mikey that talks him into it (b/c he's trying to get Dee and Splinter on better terms.) (so essentially, their spots are switched, Dee's the one going "I don't want to be here, it looks off" and Mikey's like "no, it's great! We're bonding with dad.")

When it's revealed to be a demolition derby, Dee is pissed and refuses to participate, eventually pulling the parking break like in cannon and full on yelling at Splinter (swears and all. He gives no shits) about how he tricked them and he was never going to trust him again and how he just wanted to go home to his pops b/c at least he doesn't trick him into bringing his creations to demolition derbies.

They have a little heart to heart while Mikey is freaking out in the background (b/c this was not how his 'get Dee to bond with dad' plan was supposed to go!) and things are a little better between them 1) b/c Splinter apologizes and promises to do better, and 2) shows he's serious by (like cannon) being willing to give up the trophy to take his boys home.

(Dee then decides the best course of action was to take out every single competitor in the derby so they wouldn't be stopped when they went home, thus (completely unintentionally, he swears) winning the trophy anyways.)

Thank you!

[felonious]

The Big Exhausting Auto Day

The night after my big exhausting auto day I went dancing. The next night I played bass in a punk band and helped take the concert down. And today I washed windows for four hours. Tomorrow is more window washing. Tuesday is therapy day so it’s a me day. Wednesday I have band practice from 1 till we quit which could be 4 or 5. I have the morning to relax and the afternoon to play. I’m kind of jazzed after the gig and have some ideas about practicing for gigs. And I wanted to do a punk version of Nick nack patty wack then I searched on YouTube and found that Korn did that already so I guess I want to write a song about Columbo. I don’t know if I have to work on Thursday or not. If not I want to sketch out a painting idea to propose to Will and Pam. I haven’t been making any time for art. And since I asked for help I’ve had enough donations I can think about an art supply purchase. There is also an opportunity to show work at a gallery in Gallup I want to get in on. My kitchen is completely cluttered in piles of dirty dishes. Laundry is piled up. Dog hair and dust is breeding. And the plants need to be harvested. Oh, and my car is in complete disarray. Like my whole life.

It was Thursday. I left home at 4:30 am because I like to allow time in case there is a catastrophe. I don’t know what time my tire blew out. I was going 70-75 mph after just overtaking a semi. I didn’t notice the time but it was before the San Fidel turnoff on i40 before sunup. It was unnerving. I thought about how I’m a 64 yr old woman and considered crying but honestly, I’ve been through much worse. Like being battered by a state trooper and thrown into a county prison for 22 days, and even that could have been worse. I mean, you have to find a way to ease on through those sticky situations. They will make you stronger if you don’t let them defeat you.

I changed a tire in the dark. And I did this as fast as I could after thinking about how I could possibly die a brutal stupid death. Best to focus on the task and not think about it being hard. It was impressive how fast I loosened the lug nuts. Getting the spare on was easy enough. After I got back going I stayed off the interstate in favor of frontage roads and sticking to 45mph all the way to the auto shop where I was expected for a service and inspection. I rushed in badly needing to pee and blurted out ‘never mind fixing my heater today’s gonna be a tire day.’ I got four new ones. The inspection showed a weak u-joint and I thought that sounded serous but the shop owner was out in a meeting. Before he left he’d said we’d talk about further work on the phone when I got home so I left. Driving slowly. Feeling uneasy. The shop is 140 miles from home. I stopped at Rte66 casino and called him, said I wanted to come back, get the driveline sorted. It was going to be more money than I had. When I got there I got online and posted I needed help and asked for donations. I called a friend with a credit card. I asked for and received help.

The drive home was very relaxing but I noticed at some point my ass was sure tired. I got home 16 hrs after I left that morning. The next morning I noticed how tight my thighs were. Then the arms. Changing that tire I just went for it, I used my legs and my arms like a boss.

[nervouscandypeace]

The Pros and Cons of what is thco acetate

The Definitive Guide for Thc-o Is The Semi-legal Psychedelic Cannabinoid

Table of ContentsGetting My Thc Acetate/thc-o (The Psychedelic Cannabinoid) User To WorkThc Acetate/thc-o (The Psychedelic Cannabinoid) User Things To Know Before You BuySome Ideas on Thc-o Is The Semi-legal Psychedelic Cannabinoid You Need To Know

No worries simply making an effort to uncover if numerous people are actually preforming the formation and if any have a COA however for potancy 5 Suches as Intend I can easily learn on my own. That has a specification I was quite persuaded that the acetate was thermolabile at dabbing temperature levels. what is thco acetate. Curious - performed your https://diigo.com/0q4hji bit preference like white vinegar at all? 4 Suches as Possessed some coming from Medusa last opportunity I organized him for dinnertoo considerably being actually wiped on to claim what possessed what impacts lol however wiped an entire g over a time or twono untamed way of life changes or deep degrees of knowledge led hahaha From what I know at the very least when in justed the body utilizes that molecule to metabolize anandamide 4 Likes I noted "dmt" like tastedso perhaps alkaline massive tastes? 1 Like I likewise know it possesses a rather fast deterioration curve probably 1 Like Possessed an extremely tremendously extremely extremely Small tip of heptane with a menthol/limonene resemblance in scent. thc-o acetate.

1 Like It absolutely worked with my mind and body for my 2 timed bits for a sound hr. I will definitely test as a consumable not long. Carries out anybody understand why it's thus quick and easy on the bronchis? Is it the viscosity? I do not assume I've ever smoked or vaped anything that experienced therefore favorable on the bronchis without totally numbing on the means in.

The secondly was actually, "That is actually not what I anticipated." Some small refined light-toned color changes. A restful loosened up catholic higher, at tranquility along with the world. Quick rack lifestyle along with some acetic acid bite as it diminishes. 14 Just likes Pretty spot on to my current take in 1 Like I recently obtained a set of acetate from a trustworthy vendor that i will definitely be publishing a testimonial as well as concerns concerning listed here soon, but i intended to discuss my 2 cents concerning my thought and feelings on THC-o thus far.

Due to the opportunity the pizza was actually performed i was eliminated, feasted on the entire thing and possessed such a hefty couchlock i had to battle myself to receive up and comb my pearly whites. I am actually certainly not a large guy and haven't been receiving munchies off the bits recently but still had room for half a pint of ben as well as chamber pots after (thc-o acetate experience).

But when you combine it with other cannabinoids it carries out take it to the next amount (thc o acetate). I may have a low potency batch of d8 which i will be actually publishing ready to find what i am in fact smoking on 9 Likes I possessed their sets as well as yet another labs set. Similar results to both, no noticeable difference although i was actually updated that a person batch was pure d9 OA and also the various other was a 70/30 D9/D8 OA litre - thc o acetate near me.

The laboratory didn't possess the standard for d8 thco and also simply possessed d9thco. They seemed to be to have actually identified the height for d8 in addition to 7 various other compounds. 8 Ases if.

The 6-Minute Rule for The Secret Cannabinoid 300 Percent More Potent Than Thc

But our team carry out certainly not question as time proceeds, this are going to change. However, meanwhile, you may look into if you realize any of these companies and also if you've actually had a Delta 8 cart from them, it's a pretty really good substitute to second hunch what kind of top quality to anticipate when it pertains to THC-O vape containers - thc-o acetate experience.

For those of you guessing, that is actually Reddit, youtube, and various other deep, dank smoke-filled bunny gaps. Our company have actually spent hours reading subreddits and finding what current individuals are actually saying about the current THC O carts. So just in case you wish to socialize with our company THCO followers, go to the THC-O subreddit (thc o acetate near me).

Yes, you have actually been advised! Now for what you have actually been waiting on. If you wish to reach the skies as quick as feasible, at that point maintain reviewing for our recommendations on the most effective THC O containers 2022. Binoid is a well-known player in the alternative Hemp area. Initially coming from California, the brand name now has a few of the widest circulation our company've found.

This features D8/D10, HHC, and a few of the strongest THC-O carts you'll locate on the market place today. Leading Decide On: Many Well Established Company PROS (+) Recognized Hemp company, Effective THC-O cartridges, Very rated on discussion forums Free of cost freight on all purchases drawbacks (-) Marijuana derived terps cart expenses even more Great for: People after the best THC O Vape cartridges with worth prices to match and an excellent brand credibility and reputation (thc-o acetate).

When it boils down to market value, Binoid is steps ahead of the competition. If you get wholesale (4 or even 8 pushcarts) as well as utilize our twenty% off special savings code it works out to approx For circumstance, the common prices our experts have actually viewed for a THCO vape container is actually around $0 (what is thco acetate).

So you'll save all around 60% compared to the competition. The reason for this is actually mainly considering that of the scale Binoid now possesses and also the amount of clients that come back to buy from all of them each month. In situation you seek the (real-time material) marijuana obtained terps possibility click below. Overall, if you seek any sort of sort of product stemmed from the Hemp vegetation our company will recommend you examine out Binoid (thc-o acetate).

Some Of What Is Thc-o Acetate? What You Must Know

Why? Since they use the finest natural terpenes! Relevant Read: Greatest HHC Carts If you are actually a user of D8, you'll be actually cognizant of Delta Extrax aka the D8 specialist. Naturally, they have actually lately extended right into THCO non reusable vape markers (thco vs hhc). As well as of course, it's certainly not as concentrated as the last pick but this is still a space rocket contrasted to D8 by itself. thc o acetate.

While this vape contains merely Hemp-derived THCO extract as well as terpenes it's not as powerful as our other selections. However, it still reaches hard as well as has plenty of taste and also cannabinoids. The Exciting feature of Extract Labs is actually the do-it-yourself packages you may generate to save 20%! Yes. thco acetate for sale. You know that right.

Certainly not so excellent for: Anybody certainly not interested do it yourself! Along with 7g-1000g every bottle, this is the area to fill up on the best THCO distillate. Use it to produce your very own THCO carts, edibles, or for very powerful bits. Readily available unterped perfect for swabbing with the addition of your very own terps - thc-o acetate.

Although state regulations may differ therefore always do your own due diligence prior to acquiring THC-O vape carts. I believe our company have actually all of existed - what is thco acetate. Smoked a doobie too challenging as well as finished up couch-locked or in a brand-new measurement of room. However, after an even though, the buzz comes to be, effectively, not as almonds as it utilized to be.

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate hyperlinks to products (thco vs hhc). Our team might get a percentage for acquisitions produced via these web links. If you are actually appearing for an extensive THCO testimonial, you have actually involved the right spot. Within this post, our team are going to go over every little thing you need to recognize! So, whether you are actually thinking about purchasing THCO items or even simply desire to know more concerning them, this write-up is for you.

THCO, meanwhile, might have numerous end results based on the person it affects (thco acetate for sale). Although this holds true for every person, some effects look widespread as well as have been found out through THC customers. THCO is actually a combo of THC, or other cannabinoids, and air (as in "THCO2") that's stemmed from hemp oil and also cannabis.

[didsomeonesayventus]

What have you been up to? Ramble away about your current interests my friend 👉😎👉

uhhhhhhh well. in the years since consistent activity I have:

Started, Subscribed, and MSQ/Major sidequest Cleared FFXIV and it occupies my brain like a parasitic worm (but I love it) as goes most people who get into it it seems. For those wondering started with WHM and have run it through just about everything so I'm fairly confident I am at least Somewhat Competent in pretty much everything except Savage and Alexander raids (shudders in Eyes of the Creator if you know you know)

Not only that but have main 5 categories of battle class leveled- WHM for healer, PLD for tank, MNK for melee, DNC phys ranged, RDM caster

I should stop talking about FFXIV help

I think I've changed jobs??? still call center-based work boo been there two years and I Hate It Homie (but hey 16/hr without a degree is hard to beat)

my cringe ass ff.net is poised for deletion as I've got ebook back ups of everything I just can't commit yet (and might not have to since I hear. Gasping Dying rumors about ff.net being on last legs)

I've developed a hobby of making FEH wlw ships- Azura/Deirdre, Mathilda/Lilith, Nagi/Natasha, Felicia/Selena (sacred stones) to throw some out -and stubbornly want to write fic but can't seem to figure out how to finish it oops

also generally feel awkward posting on AO3 because I don't really agree with their "you can write fic of actual people" stance but also Where Else Post Fic but also jokes on me I can't finish fic anymore

speaking of I did contribute to a zine or two with the Invincible Zine group over on twitter a handful of Duo Unit scripts and a 5k one shot on the Horrors of Adrift Corrin

("Katie isn't that the "uwu" corrin alt that looks after baby azura what is possibly horrifying about that" you ask and to which I respond "eldritch horror of being a dream-based sentient clone made real babeyyyyyyyyyyyy" and I didn't even use all my concepts and ideas)

Genshin Impact made a character I finally was willing to eat the lore for Miss Shenhe I love you so much what a wlw icon I think I did reblog something of her earlier but yea love

Played through Persona 5 Royal was a good game but I have never seen a game Say So Much and Nothing At All at the same time while also contradicting itself (and somehow in 100+ hours of gameplay even on 2nd easiest difficulty and w/ a friend and a guide hello). Core cast is poggers tho love these high schoolers and I don't think anyone would be surprised to hear I love futaba the most

Have kinda accepted that I've fallen out of love with KH and frankly don't feel a lot of hype for 4. 3 was a solid gameplay entry with some neat use of worlds for the filler plot but the more time goes on the more disappointed I get with how it handled resolving anything from all the build up, shafting it in favor of setting up a game that doesn't even exist yet.

Because of this I REALLLLY loved Endwalker and was very happy to play it on release (oops back on XIV braincell)

I do miss RikuVen tho and think about how Re:Mind validated the hell out of me by confirming Riku hung out with the Wayfinders and to the lil guys out there making content big fucking salute I'm sorry I'm a bitter woman who couldn't handle expectations.

Have a wild ass idea about XIV/Fates crossover to give an excuse for Ysayle/Corrin to exist they are just about perfect together but can't quite figure out how to make a plot to justify it that I'm satisfied with

I made a quotes bot on twitter that may not last much longer but eh

Gotten really into The Oh Hellos not out of any christian love but moreso the lyrics are just (chef kiss)

TAZ Ethersea season one was. Okay? It started really strong but fell off like the shoreline which was. sad. I can hope season 2 learns better from the mistakes there but also can't be too mad improv-based storytelling is hard to 100% nail

is that everything? I think that's like everything. still me just now several years older and just a smidge wiser and man I'm gonna be 26 in like. a week.

oops.

[kaitlynpcallmebeepme]

Two hearts beat as one

Two hearts beat as one

Spencer Reid x Fem!reader

Idea: Spencer x reader friends to lovers based the idea off of a blurb from @rintsuru where Reid shows the reader a magic trick where he writes something on a card and shows it to the rest of the team (they know he likes you) and shuffles the deck and pulls out not their cards and then says something like its behind your ear and then that's when the reader pulls the card out and reads will you go on a date with me. Reid frames that card in glass later.

Add a part where spencer just loves how she thinks of random things, after she gets shown the card and answers she says, you know the doctor had 2 hearts, how do you think cpr would work on him

Requested: Nope.  @halloween-is-my-nationality​ This was the Spencer idea I had that I said I would write.  

Author’s Note:  Ok, 12 hour night shifts aren’t terrible, for me at least.  It’s just bad when I either have not gotten sleep the night before or I have to do something the morning I get off.  I’m currently 7 hrs after getting off my night shift and I’m not tired enough to go to sleep, so I finished this (which I also started on my bored night shift last night).  I’m going to try to sleep after this.  I made the perspective Spencer’s in the first person for the most part.  I couldn’t resize the card picture.  Requests are still open.  Feedback is always appreciated.  Also, tell me if you want to be part of a Tag List and I’ll tag you when I upload something new.

Warning: Just some cuteness, card magic, Doctor Who references, and Morgan being the big brother that Spencer needs.

Word Count: 1,351 

“You can’t just keep staring at her forever pretty boy.”  There goes Morgan again teasing me about my very obvious, but still trying to hide it, crush on my co-worker and team member.  

“I’m not staring.  I’m silently observing and you were staring at her first, I just followed your line of sight.”

“But I haven’t kept staring at her for 3 minutes.”

“2 minutes 47 seconds. You’ve been staring at her for 23 seconds.”

“Just ask her out pretty boy. You got some game to you.”

“The last time you tried this with me it was really awkward, we were on a case, and in a loud bar.  My brain was distracted with too many things that time.”

“It’s definitely distracted now.”  I hate to admit when he’s right.  She’s the only person who can make me lose my train of thought if she’s speaking or just listening to me.    

“Ok well if this is so interesting to you instead of all of the other women throwing themselves on you, then at least try to be helpful.”  I couldn’t stand Morgan’s teasing much more.  Yes, we hung out every weekend and watched some nerdy show or movie.  So what.  Garcia has seen most of them already and Y/n’s the only other person in this building who will watch any of that genre in general, much less with me.  She’s just perfect, from the way she’ll read Harry Potter at her desk or has Supernatural and Sherlock stickers on her laptop and will trace them with her fingers every so often.   

“Hey, I'm trying to help my brother ask out his future wife.”

“And you’re jumping from step negative 10 to 8 of relationships.  I start on the scale at a negative 20.  Work with me.”

“If you are not going to ask her out, there has to be reasoning behind the hesitation.  You only ever do things when the odds are in your favor.”  That was one thing Morgan was right on.  There was a lot of hesitation.  No one’s ever liked me that way, liked or put up with my rambles, and wanted to stick around for the stressful and dangerous career I chose.

“I just don’t want her to not like me then leave like those who left before.”

“I guarantee you that won’t happen.  You guys hang out every break we get, she’s met your mom, always sits next to you on plane rides, plays with your hair when you don’t notice, knows to grab you lunch and take care of you when you won’t take care of yourself, and if we could, you two would be sleeping in the same room on cases.”  What a list Morgan.  You’ve been keeping tabs on us.

“Hotch would probably make us have ground rules to keep professionalism so the department doesn’t separate us off the team.”

“So you do want there to be an ‘us’?” Morgan’s teasing tone is so annoying.  But I have to admit he’s right.  I want to wake her up to breakfast in bed and read to her until she falls asleep next to me.  

“I just don’t want to lose her either way.”  

“I get that.  It’s the fear that’s holding you back.  Fear of if it’s worth it to not have that happiness but still have her in your life.  But, from what I can see, the way she look at you, always asks about how you’re doing when I get a call from her on a case, the way she's the first person you ask anything to case related or not.  You two were made for eachother.  You aren’t going to find that magic in just anyone.”

That phrase hit me.  I know now how to ask her out without saying anything and, if I’m honest with myself, it was one of the better ideas I’ve come up with.  

"You know what I'm going to ask her right now."  I opened my office desk drawer, grabbed two things, and marched off to her, avoiding the unnecessary stress from Morgan’s smirk.  Having already finished her paperwork, she was reading Goblet of Fire at her desk, but her attention turned to me as I went up to her desk.  

"What's with the cards Spence? You have another magic trick to show me?"

Ok Spencer, now or never. 

"Yes, and so you don't have to memorize the card number I'm going to write on this one and this will be your card." I took out the marker I had brought with me and wrote on one of the cards.

"Are you sure Spence? Wouldn't that be ruining a good deck of cards?"

"It's fine.  Now." I flipped the card with the note on it over so only the back showed and she didn’t see the message.  I could start to see the team at least gazing in our direction wondering what was going on.  I turned back to her because I wouldn’t be able to finish this if I was focusing on the team.  I placed the card in the middle of the deck.  "These are going to get shuffled by you." She grabbed the deck, split it in two, shuffled it three times, and handed it back.  Counting strategically I moved a couple more cards out of the deck that I knew weren't hers.  I placed one card in front of her.  "Flip that card over and see if that's it." She picked it up and, not surprisingly, it wasn't her card. I flicked through the backs of a couple more cards deleting some from the counting.  I handed her another card. "Is that your card?" 

She flips that card over. "No. Spencer are you sure you're doing this right?"

"Yes I am.  Ok, one more try."  I pay close attention to cards as their stiff corners flip through my fingers.  I pull out the last card, my nerves rising as I pushed it across the table to her.  "That's your card." I said with the most amount of confidence I could mustard up at the moment.

She picks it up, and her eyes widen.  

"Yes."

"Yes what?"

"Yes. I would love to go out with you Spencer Reid."

She smiled as she held the card.  I was just cherishing that this moment went so well for how little time I planned it. 

"Did you pick the two of hearts because of our two hearts or because the Doctor has two hearts and we both love Doctor Who?"

"Mainly for the two of us and that couple saying 'two hearts beat as one'."

"How do you think CPR would work on the Doctor since he has two hearts?"  That was a question I wasn’t expecting after this.  Back to our nerdy-selves.

"Well they showed that in the 2005 version Season 3 episode 1 where Martha performed CPR on the Doctor.  Although it was inaccurate CPR as she did 5 compressions per breath where as it's supposed to be 30 compressions then two breaths, and the doctor was suffering from blood loss as well as hypoxia, so compressions and breaths alone would have done little to help without a transfusion or a fluid bolus, but I think it would still work as long as the compressions are helping to pump both of his hearts. However, I sus- *kiss*."

I did not expect her to kiss me that quickly.  It was only a quick kiss as she also knows I’m not someone who shows big signs of PDA, especially in the work place, but I’d let her kiss me any time.  

"And that's why I love you Spencer Reid."

I could care less about the fact that the rest of the BAU could see us, or that Morgan was probably about to clap me on the back, or Penelope filming this whole interaction right now.  I found my other half.  She kissed me again, longer and deeper this time, and then took the playing card. "This is getting framed, so you'll be down one card babe."

"That's ok. I don't think Jack and Henry will mind."

[thotsforvillainrights]

hope youre ready for more Re-Destro asks now that the ask box is back open LMAO i adore your writing so much 💕

could i get headcanons/a senario for Re-Destro who hires (eventual) S/O into Deternat after moving to Japan for the position, but they have a young daughter with them? shes behaved and all, just too new to Japan for a babysitter, and they slowly warm up to Re-Dad-stro and the MLA?

(personally i think skeptic acts annoyed but secretly loves to play like, hide n seek with her around the office 🥺)

(My fingers are fired up at the sheer mention of writing for that man!!! I hope I go this right. I wanted to include the no babysitter aspect but it just kept flowing when I was writing so this is what I came up with haha. Hey wait a minute! Would that make him a...)

~Stepdad?~

headcanon|scenario|imagine|match-up

-It was that time again for the Detnerat company. The time when they opened up their doors for potential employees/new-hires. As the CEO he never really needed to take the part of interviewing someone. Therefore, he let the HR department handle their job. Besides, the real interview would be the possibility of recruiting any new blood into the Meta Liberation Army ranks (but that was another story). It came, it passed and so it was done. He personally took the time to walk around the building and get familiar with all the new hires during orientation. The only one that stood out to him in particular was you. There was something about you that he just couldn't shake. The man was no fool and he knew just when his heart was doing backflips that he wanted a possibility of being with you. From that moment on, he seemed to favor you more than your coworkers. You hadn't caught onto it as easily as some of the others did. Your new boss had the hots for you. He'd often stop by even when it didn't make sense for him to be on your floor/department. He'd chat with you, offer you some valuable information and lessons with work, ask if you had time to eat lunch together and evaluate your performance.

-It all really came together when you started to develop feelings for him as well. A big part of you was screaming not to go through with it. An office romance can get messy. Not only was this you boss, but he was also the CEO of the entire company. Your face would likely make tabloids even. Not only that but if things didn't work out then you could lose your job at Detnerat. You needed this good paying job because mainly you needed to support your baby girl (either born or adopted depending on the reader). In the end, when he finally confessed to you officially, you couldn't turn him away. It was a good decision on your part. Rikiya was from the beginning a top notch lover...husband material if you want it. You told him from the start about your daughter. If he (or any person you were to date) couldn't accept her then they would never have a part in your life. Lucky for you he was all in. In fact he was eager to meet her from the beginning but you held off on that for MANY dates until you got a clear idea of the type of man Rikiya was. The first time he came to meet her, he was so gentle and patient with the child. She was very shy at first but eventually opened up fully to him. Watching them interact for that first time warmed your heart. For the longest time its just been you and her but now it didn't feel as lonely with him around. By the way he treated her, you suspected he always longed for a child of his own.

-Everything fell into place when you developed a little bit of a family with the rest of the MLA members. Curious was DETERMINED to take on the role of the rich auntie by all means possible. No need for a babysitter because she was going to fight Trumpet tooth and nail for it every single time. She'd taken to kidnapping your daughter and taking her on mini shopping trips when you were busy. You'd often return home to the babysitter gone, replaced by Curious yet again. Your daughter has a matching dress with her in nearly every single color. Curious took it upon herself to buy a shirt with the words "best aunt" on it. Trumpet was almost as worse as she was. That man was a wonderful uncle to your child. Now if only you could get him to stop fighting with Curious over hang-out time. Geten was more mellow with your daughter. Because he was around 19-20 he felt more like an older brother than anything else. He wasn't always around and he never really volunteered to babysit (not that you needed him to since Curious and Trumpet would do it), but he still cared for the kid whenever she was around. He hovered around in a protective but quiet kind of way. Your daughter calls him Getty.

-The one person who you least expected to love kids was Skeptic. Compared to everyone else, he was more elusive when it came to her. He actively avoided her touch and really only tried to keep distance between him and her. You understood fully. Not everyone is a child person and that's rightfully so. However, your little girl didn't feel the same. If anything she loved her *ahem* "Unkey Skep" the most out of the entire group. You tried everything to get her to respect his personal space but it wasn't as easy as you thought. One day she ended up pulling his hair rather roughly because she'd fallen and was trying to catch herself. He was silently fuming at her, grinding his teeth and trying not to lash out at a literal toddler. What saved her from crying (and you from apologizing) was he blurting out in her precious little voice "Unkey Skep uh-oh! Big big fall down!" He just froze for a moment and stared...Unkey Skep??? He's become that meme where it's like 'I've only known *blank* for a day but if anything happened to them I'd kill everyone in this room and then myself (or something like that). Suddenly he's all about her. He wants her to learn everything he knows but that'll be hard to teach at this age lol.

-And yes if you're wondering, he takes part in hide n seek sometimes even getting his puppets involved for extra players. It's rather heartwarming to see.

-So in summary, you've not only found a good life for yourself here but also for your daughter as well. Nothing beats falling in love with a man willing to fill whatever size shoes he needed to be a good father to a child that was not even his by blood. On top of that, who could beat the uncles and aunts (and big brother) that the MLA provided for her? The answer is no one.

[criminalmindzjunkie]

Unlucky in Love

masterlist

Gif credit to @ogledalo-moje-duse​

Summary: Spencer is unlucky in love - until he isn’t.

Pairing: Spencer Reid x Fem!Reader

Warnings: swearing, some suggestive content

Word Count: 3.4k

           Spencer Reid is, by most people’s definition, unlucky in love.

           It wasn’t for lack of trying. In his early twenties, Spencer often caught himself fantasizing about being on the receiving end of some great storybook romance straight out of one of the classic novels on his bookshelf. On the rare occurrence where his mind was able to slow down long enough, Spencer would daydream about what his future partner would be like. Would they share his fondness for the written word, or his penchant for foreign cinema? Would they find his tendency to go off on tangents endearing and his less than fashionable style of dress charming? Spencer liked to think so, but the likelihood of finding someone who could accept him despite all of his quirks seemed low.

           But still he hoped, even though he knew hope was a dangerous thing. Hope gave life to the possibility of disappointment – and if there was one thing Spencer did not need more of, it was that.

           Spencer Reid was in love with the idea of love – obsessed with the idea of his soul intertwining with someone else’s. But with his thirtieth birthday quickly approaching and absolutely no prospective love interests in sight, Spencer was feeling more than a little disheartened. It certainly didn’t help that everywhere he turned, love was running rampant. Hotch had Beth, Penelope had Kevin, Jennifer had Will, and Morgan had… any number of possible partners. Emily and Rossi were both unattached, but happily so in a way that Spencer just couldn’t quite manage.

           It wasn’t that he didn’t like seeing the people around him happy – it was just that he couldn’t help but wonder when he’d finally get his chance at love.

           A month before Spencer’s thirtieth birthday, everything changes.

           When a member of Garcia’s victims’ support group goes missing, it’s all hands on deck at the BAU. It’s not that they’d give any less than one hundred percent on any other given day, but as with any case that hits close to home, everyone on the team is in a frenzy trying to put the pieces together. The thing that makes this case different is the fact that people from other departments are quick to lend a hand. It comes as no surprise to Spencer – Penelope is a social butterfly by nature. She made it her business to know and befriend everyone in the building. Her sunny disposition is hard not to love, and her current distress had garnered the support of more than a few non-team members.

           By the time the case wraps up, the bullpen is much busier and, much to Spencer’s chagrin, much louder than usual. The steady influx of people has Spencer’s head spinning and he can’t seem to focus on the papers sitting in front of him. What should take him thirty seconds to read has almost taken twenty minutes, and at this point the words on the paper are all running together. Spencer knows that it doesn’t help that he’s running on less than three hours of sleep, as evidenced by the frequency of his yawns. Worse even is the fact that his coffee cup is empty and no, he thinks, that simply will not do. With a sigh Spencer pushes away from his desk, bones creaking as he stands.

           With his coffee cup in hand, Spencer shuffles to the breakroom. He goes through the motions of preparing his drink, lazily stirring in the mountain of sugar before turning to leave.

           Spencer supposes that if it weren’t for the fact that he was horribly sleep deprived, he would’ve seen you walking down the hallway. But alas, Spencer’s alertness had been compromised by poor sleeping habits, and he isn’t aware of your presence until his body is colliding with yours and his hot coffee is dripping down the front of your blouse.

           “Ouch,” you whimper, and Spencer is immediately overwhelmed with guilt.

           “O-Oh my God, I am so sorry,” he splutters. Without waiting for a response, Spencer’s rushing into the break room and procuring a thick stack of napkins. The part of his brain that controls logical thinking is apparently overrun by the onset of his mortification, and in an act of absolutely panic, he begins to dab at the stains with one of the napkins.

           “I-I wasn’t looking where I was going. I’m so so sorry,” Spencer stutters out, frantically attempting to blot the stain. “I’ll give you money for a new shirt. A-Actually, you should probably take this one off.  The best way to treat scalds is to immediately get the person away from the heat source. You should also run some cold water over it.”

           In his hurry to rectify his mistake, Spencer hadn’t managed to take a good look at you. When his eyes leave the stain in favor of looking at your face, he prepares himself to see anger there. What he doesn’t expect is for your face to be just as flushed as his, with eye brows raised in shock.

          Spencer also doesn’t expect this to be the moment he’s been waiting on his entire life, but one look into your eyes tells him this is it - this is your person.

           Stunned into a stupor, Spencer stills, eyes boring into your own. You’re even more beautiful than he’d dared to let himself imagine, but in all honesty that didn’t matter much. What matters is the fact that there’s a faint hint of smile lines etched into your skin, and your eyes are so inherently kind that Spencer has no doubt that you’re as gentle as you are alluring. Your benevolence is also evidenced by the fact that you hadn’t immediately begun to yell at him, and for that he is thankful.

           Spencer’s revelation renders him unable to form any semblance of thought, and before he knows it almost a solid minute of him gaping at you passes. You begin to squirm uncomfortably under his gaze.

           “I, uh, appreciate the help, and you seem like a nice enough guy, but your hand is on my boob and I kind of make it a point to not let strangers touch the goods. So, if you don’t mind,” you stammer, looking pointedly at his hand that is still pressing a napkin to your chest. Spencer recoils as if he’s the one that’s been scalded.

           “I-I didn’t mean to, um, t-touch your -,” Spencer gulps, “- chest. I swear I was just trying to get the stain out. I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable,” he chokes out. Spencer had imagined the moment he’d come face to face with his person a million times, and none of his daydreams had accounted for the possibility of him giving her second degree burns and inadvertently copping a feel. His emotions fell somewhere between mortification and elation.

           “Mm likely story,” you murmur, lips upturning into a smile that has Spencer feeling weak in the knees. Spencer practically swoons. “Do you make it a habit to ask strangers to take their tops off, or am I just special?”

           Oh God, had I really suggested that? Spencer cringes and wonders what good an IQ as high as his was when it seemed to fail him at times like these. Speaking to women had never been a specialty of his, despite Derek’s coaching, and Spencer was floundering to come up with an acceptable response.

           You are the most special woman in the world, probably. Nope – too creepy, and Spencer definitely doesn’t want to scare you off. Not when he’s been waiting the better part of thirty years to meet you.

           I didn’t mean to insinuate that you should take off your shirt, but I also wouldn’t particularly mind if you did. Even worse – that would certainly earn him a stern talking to from HR.

           Spencer decides to go for the honest approach.

           “I-I’m not sure how to answer that.”

           His honesty draws a laugh from you, and Spencer loves the sound so much that he decides then that he’ll never tell a lie again. You shake your head at him and reach for the napkins that he still has clutched in his hands.

           “What’s your name?” you ask him as you continue his earlier efforts to sop up the coffee.

           It’s probably the easiest question he’s ever been asked. That doesn’t stop him from making a fool out of himself, though.

           “I’m Doctor Spencer R-Reid. Uh, I’m Spencer. Y-You don’t have to call me Doctor.”

           Someone please put me out of my misery.

           Your eyes meet his again and he can tell that you’re holding back a laugh.

           “Okay, then, Spencer,” you say as you discard the napkins in a nearby trash bin. “I’m Y/N.” You punctuate your words with an outstretched hand, and before Spencer can think better of it, the usual spiel come tumbling out of his mouth.

           “The number of pathogens passed during a handshake is staggering. It’s actually safer to kiss.”

           Your lower your hand and cock your head to the side.

           “Are you always this forward, Doctor Reid?” you tease him, eyes flashing amusedly.

           “I-I didn’t mean that we should kiss,” Spencer interjects, cringing at the way his voice has suddenly raised in pitch. “N-Not that I wouldn’t kiss you! I-I’m sure that kissing you would be really n-nice. I just meant that… you know. Germs.”

           Are you there, God? It’s me, Spencer. A hole opening up in the ground and swallowing me up would be great.

           To Spencer’s delight, you don’t seem offended in the slightest.

           “I cannot believe that they’ve been hiding you up here, Spencer Reid. I should’ve come to visit Penny years ago.”

           Wait – what?

           “You work here?”

           You nod.

           “I work on the floor below this one – sex crimes,” you explain.

           “For how long?”

           “Coming up on three years now.”

           Three years. You’d been right under Spencer’s nose for three years and he hadn’t the slightest clue. You’d parked your car in the same parking garage and taken the same elevator as he! How many times had your paths nearly crossed in the last three years? If he’d been just a little bit earlier or a little bit later getting into work, might the two of you met earlier? The possibility of it was maddening.

           “Oh, wow. I-I’ve never seen you,” Spencer mutters lamely. But miraculously, you don’t think he’s lame, if your response is any indication.

           “Nor I you, Doc. It’s a shame, too. You’re a funny guy.”

           Spencer Reid has been called a lot of things in his lifetime – funny was never one of them.

           “Y-Yeah. I’m a real riot at parties,” he deadpans.            “I’ll be sure to keep that in mind,” you hum, and Spencer really hopes that you mean it. “Would you mind escorting me to Penelope’s office?”

           Spencer nods, and the two of you fall in step together. Spencer’s wracking his brain again for something – anything- he could say to fill the silence. Thankfully, you don’t seem quite as inept at conversing as he, and you beat him to it.

           “You look a little young yourself, Spencer. How long have you worked here?”

           “Uh, I’ve actually worked here for almost eight years. I started when I was twenty-two.”

           Your eyebrows raise in shock.

           “Twenty-two, huh? That makes you – what? Thirty now? I wouldn’t put you a day past twenty-five,” you muse, and Spencer isn’t quite sure what to make of that. You must pick up on the conflicted look on his face, because you clarify. “That’s a good thing, Doc. I hope I look as good as you do when I’m thirty.”

           Spencer has to remind himself how to breathe.

           “I’m not thirty yet. Technically I have twenty-three more days. I could have a rapid decline in attractiveness by then.”

           Spencer’s not usually one to try to be funny, but she seems to have a good sense of humor and he wants to impress you in any way he can.

           “I guess I’ll have to swing back by in twenty-three days and find out.”

           The two of you come to a stop in front of Penelope’s office and Spencer tries not to look as disappointed as he feels. He doesn’t want your meeting to come to an end – not when there’s so much about you that he wants to know. He wants to ask about your opinion on books and obscure foreign films and most importantly, Spencer wants to know what you think about him. Did meeting him affect you in the same way it did him? Did you secretly wish to make this moment last, too?

           Spencer wants to say so much, but he can’t. He’s too awkward and too scared and too nervous to find the right words. So instead, he gives you a tight-lipped smile.

           “I’m sorry about your blouse. Can I please give you the money to buy a new one? I feel like it’s the least I can do.”

           “Absolutely not. It’s really not that big of a deal. Didn’t even really care for the shirt, if I’m being honest. Red really isn’t my color.”

           Spencer wants to tell you how wrong you are – that he’s infinitely certain that you’d look irresistible in any color – but he doesn’t.

           You reach for the door knob, and Spencer’s shoulders slump.

           “It was nice meeting you, Spencer.”

           And then you’re gone, and Spencer can’t help but think that he royally fucked up the most important introduction of his entire life.

--

           When Spencer envisioned how his life would look at age thirty, he’d imagined it being a lot different than it is now. He’d hoped to use his intelligence for something great – finding a way to cure Alzheimer’s had been his main aspiration. Yet, here he was, thirty years old with nothing more than three PhDs to his name. He’d accomplished nothing of great significance, and the idea of having wasted his intelligence was eating away at him.

           In short, Spencer Reid was in a bit of a funk.

           It didn’t help that he hadn’t seen you since that fateful day in the bullpen. Spencer had contemplated paying you a visit, but the lingering embarrassment over his actions kept him from reaching out. He didn’t think he could handle how badly a rejection from you would hurt, so instead he sulked around the office and wallowed in his own self-deprecation.

           Spencer’s birthday wasn’t something he tended to advertise. From a young age, he’d chosen to observe it silently. Usually, his mother would forget, and he never really had any friends to celebrate with, so the day was always rather unimportant to him. Perhaps he would order takeout and gorge himself on greasy food while he sat alone in his apartment. It had been good enough for him last year, and he supposed it would have to suffice this year as well.

           He made it a point not to mention it to his coworkers, and the day passed by just as any other day. By the time five o clock rolled around, Spencer was waving a goodbye to his coworkers and heading out the door. As he waits for the elevator, he debates on whether to order Thai food or pizza for dinner.

           Just as he settles on Thai, the elevator doors open.

           “Oh, thank God, I was worried that you had left already!”

           Before Spencer can get over the initial shock of seeing you, you’re stepping out of the elevator and into his space, an excited smile on your lips. And then you’re holding out your hand, and Spencer’s almost moved to tears when he sees you wielding a single chocolate cupcake.

           “I wasn’t sure if you’d like chocolate or vanilla better, so I went with my gut. I get the feeling you’re a chocolate kind of guy,” you say, eyes shining as you look up at him. “So, was I right?”

           “You brought this for me?” Spencer asks, voice barely above a whisper. He can’t fathom it – that you had spared him any thought past your initial meeting. Spencer had surely expected you to forget about him entirely. Either that, or you’d written him off as someone to be avoided.

           You nod.

           “Of course, I did. It’s your birthday. Everyone deserves something sweet on their birthday.” You pause, the smile dropping from your face. “It is your birthday, right? I didn’t miss it, did I?”

           Spencer is slow to shake his head.

           “N-No, you didn’t miss it. I’m just surprised you remembered.”

           You chuckled softly.

           “You’re very unforgettable, Doctor Reid,” you say, and Spencer’s heart flutters in his chest. “And you didn’t answer my question.” You gesture to the cupcake expectantly.

           “Chocolate is my favorite,” Spencer breathes out, raising a shaky hand and taking it from her. “I… Thank you. You didn’t have to do this. It’s not that big of a deal.”

           “Are you kidding me? You’re turning thirty. That’s a very big deal, Doc.,” you argue, and Spencer gives you a tentative smile.

           “If you say so.”

           “I do,” you smirk, before hitting the button to open the elevator doors. “So, do you have any big plans to celebrate?”

           The doors open and you and Spencer file into the elevator together– an event three years in the making.

           “Not really. I was just going to order some food and stay in,” Spencer says before taking a bite of the cupcake. It tastes wonderful – better than a store-bought cupcake could ever be. This cupcake was undoubtably made from scratch, and the thought of you taking the time out of your day to bake something for him makes him feel weak at the knees. Pair that with the way you’re looking up at him and Spencer worries he might collapse.

           “What kind of food?”

           “Thai,” Spencer says around the mouthful of cake.

           “Mm,” you hum. “You know – I happen to love Thai food. And I also happen to not have any plans for the evening.”

           Even Spencer, who struggles to decipher the simplest of social cues, can deduce that you are insinuating that you want to spend the evening with him. He’s thankful, then, that he had already swallowed the bite of cupcake, because there’s no doubt in his mind that he’d have choked on it. Spencer gapes at you, but your gaze is unwavering and your body language gives no indication that you were joking.

           “D-Do… Do you want to, uh, come over?” Spencer trips over his words more times than any grown man should, but in his defense, he isn’t exactly well versed in matters like this.

           “Do you want me to come over?”

           “Yes.” Spencer answers so quickly that it should be embarrassing, but it’s hard to feel anything but happy when you’re looking at him like that.

           “Then in that case, I thought you’d never ask,” you sigh dramatically, and then the door opens up and you link your arm with his. “You know, I was beginning to think I’d never see you again. I’ve been driving Penelope crazy asking about you, Doc.”

           “You’ve been asking about me?” Spencer asks, incredulous.

           “Absolutely. It’s not every day that you meet a guy who has the audacity to feel you up and ask you to undress within the first five minutes. I just had to know more,” you tease, and Spencer can’t help but laugh. Despite the cold air of the parking garage, Spencer feels warm – warmer than he’s ever felt and he knows that it has everything to do with the way you’ve pressed yourself against his side.

           “In that case, I’m very glad I spilled my coffee on you,” Spencer says and you let out a snort.

           “Yeah, I could’ve done without that part. And the part where you called me germy.”

           “I did not mean it like that,” Spencer insists. You hum and detach yourself from him, and Spencer instantly misses the contact.

           “Because it’s your birthday, I’ll let you off the hook,” you announce, making your way to the other side of his car, all while never taking your eyes off him. “And if you’re lucky, birthday boy, I might just be willing to test that theory of yours.”

           Spencer cocks his head to the side.

           “Theory?”

           You nod, and the smile that creeps across your face is the best birthday present he’s ever gotten.

           “You said you thought kissing me would be nice. I think we should find out.”

           Spencer Reid is, by most people’s definition, unlucky in love. But as he steals glances at you on the way to his apartment, his chest swells with a hope that maybe – just maybe – his luck is about to change.

[settsunoie]

Osomatsu-san ps vita game prologue - English translation

Nobody translated it so I said fuck it and translated it myself. I took a girl character so I will refer to MC as she/her. I’m also refering to the sibings as their first letters because. I should add pictures but one day. I may do mistakes because I’m still learning

Translation under the cut~

The Matsuno household, an all semingly peaceful and normal family But it isn't a typical family because the Matsuno brothers are sextuplets. And...

Matsuyo : Neets, breakfast's ready ! O : Coming ! Ahh I'm starving~ I'm craving meat ! K : Me too. I'm coming like the wind I : .......Shut up Shittymatsu C : What, soumen* again (white noodles) J : Tsuruttsuru ! Tsuruttsurun ! T : There are still left from the year-end gifts Matsuyo : You all, you left it on the side J : Ahahahaha ! Nice save Matsuyo : Haaa...

That's right, the sextuplets of the Matsuno family, became neets...

Matsuyo: Haa...Serisouly, I don't knwo what to do with all of you Now we're in good health but what if one day we can't work anymore, what will you do You could even end up in the streets since no one will look up after you all ...Hey dad are you listening ? (Her calling him dad isn't weird trust me) Matsuzo : I remember something, I recieved a flyer Matsuyo : "Neet buster corp. ! Aren't the neets living under your roof bothering you ?" "Your neets will be deligted after rehabilitation ! We'll protect the hapiness of elders !!" Matsuzo : This sounds really fishy, as if something like this would exist Matsuyo : Here's the solution ! Matsuzo : M-Mom !? Matsuyo : Let's hurry up ! We have a call to make ! At this rythm their will all be failures !

Girl employee : Yes, so tomorrow, someone in charge will come. Thank you for your call Director, we have a request from the Matsuno household Director Iyami : Finally.... Can you leave it the me, the director ? Girl employee : ...... Director Iyami : Understood ! I can do how I please ! So, let's assign the person in charge. You call that girl/boy (you can choose your gender) Girl employee : Right away

Director Iyami : Well well, you really came ! I heard about your from HR. If I'm not mistaken your name is...

Minigame time ! So here you’ll have a slot machine that will determine the rarity of your character. I have no idea what it does on the gameplay but it’s kind of fun. I wont translate for now what appear on screen but just know that the last one is your character’s age. From common to epic we have, blue + brown, silver, gold, rainbow, try to get the rainbow one (gold is good too)

Director Iyami : Yes yes that's right Can you give me a favor, I have this case. It's about fairly strong neets. That why you have to preapre yourself...!

-Director Iyami gave me the responsability of the Matsuno family-

Matsuyo : Welcome in our house ! Please, come inside ! You neets ! We have a guest ! Come and greet them ! C : You said a guest but do we have anything to do with it ? O : More importantly who's this ? Matsuyo : Hey ! Don't be rude. It's someone from Neet busters corp. I : ...What's that ? K : It has a american sounding name...My heart's...racing ! Matsuyo : I quit trying to rehabilitate you from your neet status all by myself K : Eh, I'm ignored...? Matsuyo : That's why I asked help from this person. To make each one of you decent working adults J : Hahahah ! Dead ball ! End run ! (this is so hecking hard I know nothing about baseball) T : I think any kind of resistance is futile now...Anyways Matsuyo : In short ! All of you, listen to what she has to say, but stll have some self-reliance !! If this continues like this when dad will be at retirement age, we won't be able to live O : That will be bothersome C : Yes very bothersome I : ...But working is no T : For sure Matsuyo : That's.why. I asked this girl ! Are you properly listening, to un-neet all of you ! Understood !? All 6 : Yees Matsuyo : ...I hope that will change them Well. I'm sure they'll do fine Then...what will you do first ? I see, with this employee adaptability measuring device you'll be able to measure working adult gauge C : Mom, today you're explaining things in a strange way Matsuyo : It's fine see, strech out your arm then hold it tight in your hand O : Haa...What a pain. But I mean isn't that a regular blood pressure mesurer ? Matsuyo : Hey Osomatsu, don't be so rude Let's start. Hold your breath... ...ah !? Ehhhh !? C : What's wrong mom ? Matsuyo : It's...it's such a high number ! See, It went up suddendly J : 100...200...800... ! 999 !! Home run !! K : That's my brother, going higher that the sky...! O : For real !? My hidden strength is finally revealed !? C : No...wait a sec, this is wrong ! It's not 999 but minus 999 ! All 6 : Ehhhhh I : ...Well, I figured something was wrong Matsuyo : W-wait. Then it's not a working adult gauge T : But a neet gauge indeed That's... I know ! What about the other five neets...! ...... T : We're all at minus 999... J : Everyone's friendly and happy !! Matsuyo : This is really a reality check, I was very harsh Eh...? It's still okay ? You can do something ? Thank God ! Such powerful words ! Will you accept to take care of all of them ? They are good kids on the inside, not fully neets That's impossible... Ha...right Eh. You want to give to each a smartphone ? I get it, in order to know about their everyday life's, to watch over them you need them So if they need a consultation at any moment they can call you up They don't know how to use tecnology in this era of overwhelming internet so you've taken measures ? As expected, companies for sure are different Then everyone one by one. Those rental phones sure are pricy, take a good care of it Don't pawn it Osomatsu ! O : Why me !? I'm the only one you don't trust !? C : Well, you were for sure thinking of going to the pachinko with that money O : Wrong ! If I can increase the value I would buy myself an even better smartphone ! Matsuyo : In any case if you get rid of it, you can say goodbye to your allowance O : Ehhhhhhh...

Matsuyo : Then, my sons are in your care ! Come on you neets too ! All 6 : We'll be in your care

[random-thought-depository]

Tangent from my last post: reading over this and thinking about it, I’ve pinpointed a disagreement that I think reveals a fundamental disagreement I have with the ideas I was responding to there.

Seph’s essay talks about liberal sexual consent practices as requiring a shift toward a more Culture A style of social interaction; requiring a willingness to actively assert your own interests instead of engaging in Culture B accommodationism. And that’s true, but I immediately recognized that it’s incomplete in a way that I think fundamentally distorts what’s happening, though it took me a while to think out exactly how. Saying “no” involves a degree of Culture A type assertiveness, but respecting that “no” and pro-actively making sure your partner is enjoying things involves an attentiveness to feelings, an accommodationism, and an attentiveness to maintaining harmony that’s more Culture B.

Like, if you drew up two columns, one labeled “Macho Republican Dad Boomerpost Stuff” and one labeled “Softy SJW Stuff,” and started sorting things into those columns by which group they’re more stereotypically associated with (bacon, guns, capitalism, Christianity, complaining about “cancel culture,” and calling people sissies as an insult into the Republican Dad column, tofu, queerness, feminism, socialism, veganism, accusing people of microaggressions, and being a Wiccan into the SJW column, etc.), I think liberal sexual norms placing a high premium on explicit consent would definitely stereotypically belong in the “SJW” column. And in this context I think that’s revealing.

I think what’s happening here is fundamentally orthogonal to Culture A vs. Culture B. I think, like a lot of left vs. right divides, it fundamentally comes down to hierarchy vs. egalitarianism. Liberal sexual norms emphasizing consent are a rejection of the pecking order method of simply resolving sexual conflicts of interests in favor of the person with more power, whether that power is social status, physical strength, emotional intelligence, or just being more willing to press for their interests. Culture A vs. Culture B is fundamentally orthogonal to what’s really going on here; trying to understanding this issue through that lens is at best like trying to understand the US Civil War through the lens of doctrinal disputes between different types of Christianity (you may get some genuine insights, but you’ve mistaken the fringes of the conflict for its core), and at worst like trying to understand the US Civil War through the lens of doctrinal disputes between Sunni and Shia Islam.

Actually I think the “trying to understand the US Civil War through the lens of Christian doctrine disputes” may be a good analogy, because I think this does tie back to the “the left/liberal side of the culture war is waging a war against Culture A” hypothesis in a way that reveals how that idea is not exactly wrong but misses an important dimension of what’s happening. I think what’s happening is that hierarchy is more explicit and explicitly enforced in Culture A, and therefore as society becomes less like a pecking order hierarchy tends to assume Culture B characteristics.

Culture A is where you find the human hierarchies that look the most like actual pecking orders, which are maintained by literal physical pecking. It’s where you find the openly brutal world of bosses screaming “the leads aren’t weak, you are!” into a cringing subordinate’s face, cops quietly taking an uncooperative suspect into a convenient alley and roughing him up a little to “teach him to respect our authority,” gangsters beating somebody up for being insufficiently deferential to them, some 6′3 250 pound guy in the grips of road rage punching some 5′7 150 pound guy in the face over a smashed bumper, teachers disciplining students by giving them hard blows on the palm with a ruler, a swaggering thug threatening a woman with physical violence because she had the effrontery to object to him groping her, and jocks having some fun inflicting casual physical abuse on the nerds in the locker room and on the playground. Hierarchies in Culture A are often maintained by physical violence and the threat thereof and put-downs and other explicit verbal bullying. When somebody in Culture A thinks you’ve gotten a bit above your station and wants to put your in your place, they’re likely to either actually use physical violence against you, explicitly threaten you with it, or explicitly insult you. Abuse in Culture A tends to look like our stereotypical picture of some swaggering thug openly terrorizing somebody who has some sort of vulnerability.

By contrast, hierarchies in Culture B tend to operate under more polite fictions of relative egalitarianism, cooperativeness, and non-violence. Enforcement of Culture B hierarchies tends to be less overtly violent. Culture B hierarchies are more likely to be covert and legible only to somebody with inside knowledge (e.g. you’ve ostensibly got a group of equals, but some are more equal than others because of advantages that mostly aren’t explicitly acknowledged). Culture B tends to have more of an ideal that coercive power can only be legitimately exercised for moral reasons, while Culture A tends to have more of a “master morality” culture where power is seen as worthy of respect in itself (Culture A is what gave us “Chad” and “alpha” as aspirational ideals), which is why bullying in Culture B tends to have a moralistic and fearmongering nature (see: Tumblr call-out posts) while bullying in Culture A tends to follow a more “master morality” logic of “our victim is weak and aesthetically displeasing to us, and that in itself makes them deserve punishment” - though much like “Culture A rewards strength and technical skills, Culture B rewards social skills and popularity” that’s a dichotomy that can easily be overplayed; most human hierarchies come with a hefty dose of community-minded moralism (even if the community is a pirate ship or criminal gang or something like that), and social skills and popularity are hugely important in almost any culture. Culture B is for people who wouldn’t dream of doing anything so barbaric as yelling at you or punching you because they’re mad at you; they’d complain to the human resources department who’d force you to spend a Friday evening listening to somebody lecture you about the need to “make our store a welcoming environment for our valued customers.”

An archetypal abusive Culture A authority figure is the macho thuggish “respect mah authoritay!” cop. An archetypal abusive Culture B authority figure is the gaslighty Nice Lady Therapist. The former is more-or-less open about the fact that he sees himself as above you in the pecking order and if you dispute that he’ll be delighted to enforce the pecking order in approximately the way chickens do it. The latter pretends to be your friend (and perhaps believes themselves to be that), and expends a great deal of effort tailoring their pecking order enforcement to not look like pecking order enforcement - significantly, they might like to be as openly brutal as the “respect mah authoritay!” cop is, but in strong Culture B that social strategy just doesn’t work; their social strategy represents a compromise with socially influential ideals of egalitarianism and non-violence, a tribute that vice pays to virtue (less charitably, it may simply reflect playing to different strengths and trying to minimize different weaknesses, e.g. the thuggish cop may have chosen that social strategy because he’s a physically powerful but not particularly socially intelligent Biff Tannen type, while the Nice Lady Therapist may have chosen that social strategy because she’s a socially intelligent and Machiavellian but physically feeble 4′10 woman).

In short, Culture B tends to both meaningfully soften the blows of pecking order enforcement and obfuscate them. It follows that as equalizing movements gain ground and explicit pecking order logic becomes more taboo, hierarchy will increasingly take on Culture B characteristics. In 1700, if you angered your boss in some petty interpersonal way he might have whipped you, which was his right as your master. Today, if you anger your boss in some petty interpersonal way she might think a little about how to get revenge on you in a way that doesn’t risk blowback if you take it up with the union, and then find some excuse to arrange for you to have to attend some mandatory HR remedial training that isn’t officially a punishment but let’s be real, totally is. Maybe in 2200 you won’t have a boss because you’ll work in an officially egalitarian syndicalist union, but there will be some union members who are “more equal than others” because of personal connections or charisma or some combination of both, and if you anger one of them in a petty interpersonal way they might through whisper networks arrange a quiet campaign to make sure the union votes against your requests for your favorite foods on the workplace lunch menu.

I guess I’m staking out a position as a hedging kind-of partisan of Culture B here. There’s a lot of talk about how Culture B gets an undeserved good reputation and can be just as unfair and cruel as Culture A but in a more insidious way, and I’m sympathetic to that and I think there’s a lot of truth to that, but, y’know, if I had to choose between pecking order enforcement that has to maintain a plausible veneer of being something else and just open undiluted sadistic pecking order enforcement, I think I’d prefer the former. I think even just adding in a requirement of hypocrisy improves things, because it forces pecking order enforcement to optimize for plausible deniability instead of sadism and effective tyranny. Admittedly, as somebody who finds this very relatable I have a strong personal bias here.

An illustrative personal anecdote: the usual stereotype of high school is that bullied kids (or at least bullied boys) suffer a lot of casual physical abuse, but I noticed that in my school there was a lot of verbal bullying but mercifully little physical abuse; the worst that was likely to happen in terms of physical violence was somebody tripping you up or throwing a box of kleenix at you or spitting their drink at you or something like that. I suspect the reason was that blatant physical violence was pretty much the only form of bullying the school administration would reliably punish (though they’d likely punish the victim right along with the perpetrator), and that’s why it usually wasn’t done. I suspect what happened is that stereotype of chronic casual physical abuse reflects what schools were like when the baby boomers were growing up (and boomers then wrote fiction etc. that reflected that experience that shaped the pop culture stereotype), but then anti-bullying reforms came along and by the late ‘90s and early ‘00s they’d achieved one great success: mostly eliminating that schoolyard culture of casual physical violence. And that was a very incomplete fix, just addressing the tip of the iceberg of the problem and probably often redirecting bullying into psychological abuse rather than actually reducing it... but, y’know, I’m really glad my middle and high school experience didn’t conform to that pop culture stereotype of the school dweeb getting regularly beaten up by four or six bigger kids. I had an awful time in middle and high school, but judging from pop culture stereotypes it could have been so much worse, and if suspensions for kids who punched other kids is what created that difference, then I’m profoundly grateful for that reform.

I think the left is kinda-sorta waging war on Culture A as a side-effect of its war on pecking order culture, in which high-status people enjoy the advantages of Culture A while low-status people labor under the disadvantages of Culture B. It’s not an accident that Culture A is associated with men and Culture B is associated with women. Accommodation (sometimes to the point of self-harm) is a survival strategy for low-status people in a social structure that resembles a pecking order; if you’re going to lose the fight, it often makes sense to pre-emptively accept a settlement that favors the interests of the stronger person (often to the extent of trying to anticipate the stronger person’s wants, performing even the brain work of figuring out their preferences for them). Competitiveness is a social strategy for upward mobility in a pecking order society or defense of a place near the top of the pecking order (it also has more pro-social functions so we probably want to keep it around in some form, but social competition is very much part of its function). Women tend to be reluctant to openly advocate for their personal interests because for much of history a woman openly advocating for her personal interests was likely to provoke status-guarding retaliation from men. Men tend to be reluctant to show vulnerability and see doing so as feminine because for much of history other men were likely to perceive a vulnerable man as an opportunity to increase their own social status by lowering the vulnerable man’s social status, and as a rule of thumb to lower a man’s social status was to give him a social status more like a woman’s. In the context of a pecking order society, a lot of Culture B makes sense as social strategies for people at the bottom of the pecking order with little realistic shot of escaping its lower levels, and a lot of Culture A makes sense as social strategies for people at the top of the pecking order and people at the bottom or middle of the pecking order who have a realistic shot at using high-risk high-reward social strategies to move up in the hierarchy. I think there’s some complicating factors around reproductive dynamics that explain why this is a gendered thing instead of just a class thing, but I won’t get into that here. So it makes sense that as society becomes less like a pecking order that process will involve shifts toward Culture A in some areas and shifts toward Culture B in other areas, because those cultures are probably both somewhat maladaptive in a more egalitarian social context.

A relevant example is that for much of history vigorously advocating their own sexual interests was often very risky for women, so Culture B primes women to pre-emptively accept a settlement that favors the man’s sexual interests, so liberal consent norms work better if women develop more assertiveness about their own interests, which looks kind of Culture A-ish. At the same time, women now have more leverage to effectively demand that men perform pro-social Culture B behaviors of accommodation, empathy, and consideration for the feelings and interests of others in the context of heterosexual sex.

----------

Tangential aside: I think thinking of hierarchy as the fundamental tension point of the left vs. right conflict illustrates a way that post I was responding to might be kind of too meta and you might get an illuminating perspective by stepping back from all that meta-level theorizing about fundamental epistemological differences and looking at the object level.

If you analyze left-wing “cancel culture” at the object level, what does it look like it’s trying to do? It seems to me that it’s trying to lower the social acceptability of what leftists perceive as defenses of hierarchy. Who are the stereotypical targets of campus “cancel culture”? They might be a “race realist” who’s very eager to tell you about how he thinks certain human groups have lower IQs or other congenital traits maladaptive to modern society and darkly hint about political implications. They might be a business libertarian economist who wants to stump for the gospel of the free market. They might be somebody who has a habit of delivering the academic equivalent of boomerposts about kids these days with their coddling and their trigger warnings and their genders. They might be some principled “free speech” type who seems to spend a lot of their energy white knighting for neo-Nazis and other far-right types. They might be somebody who you’d think would be relatively unobjectionable to leftists but who’s said something that can be uncharitably interpreted as bigoted at some point. Besides raw factionalism, the obvious common point is something that can be reasonably interpreted as a defense of hierarchy. The “race realist” at least implicitly says “some groups are smarter or otherwise better than others and may therefore be rightfully deserving of privilege.” The business libertarian economist at least implicitly says “if you’re poor because you can’t get a job or can’t get a job that pays well, that’s basically your problem and the system working as intended; a society with great inequalities of wealth and status may not be ideal but it’s at least better than all the realistic alternatives.” The academic boomerposter at least implicitly says “some people struggle in our education system because of personal emotional sensitivities; their weakness is their own problem and us more functional people have no obligation to accommodate it, if that harms them it may be regrettable but it’s basically the system working as it should to weed out those unfit for it.” The principled free speech proponent at least implicitly says “wanting to kill the Jews and re-enslave the blacks and have white Sharia should be a tolerated opinion in our society, at least insofar as it should not be legally persecuted, and I am willing to devote considerable efforts to defending that principle.” The basically unobjectionable liberal who happens to have a dodgy comment or three in their social media record at least implicitly says “I don’t think I should get too much blowback for once implying that [insert group of concern here] maybe deserves the jackboot to the face.”

And sure, you can dispute the fairness of such judgements, but the over-arching project outlined by these targets seems fairly obvious: to raise the social costs of what leftists perceive as defending pecking orders.

And, like, yeah, there’s some meta-level differences about the role of tolerance and debate too, but I suspect a lot of the disagreement is really more object-level, over how objectionable certain opinions actually are, e.g. a lot of the dispute over “cancelling” the business libertarian guy is probably going to be over 1) how objectionable defense of hierarchy actually is, 2) whether libertarian beliefs are actually defenses of hierarchy.

[shewillreadyou]

Me before you: Chapter 3: Excuse me miss

A/N: This is a TRR AU. Liam is already married, but see’s Riley and wants his cake. If the readers are receptive this might turn into more than a mini series. Enjoy!

Disclaimers: Most characters are property of Pixelberry

Warnings: Language, adult content, mild sexual innuendo. 

Word Count: 3468

Catch up: Haven’t met you Yet  For Real

Prompts: None 

Pairings: Drake & Riley

Song inspiration: Luther Vandross Take you out & Wait for Love

Be Kind: Hit the heart button, leave a comment or reblog. It makes a writer so so happy.

The hot water cascaded down his sculpted body. He groaned as he ran his hands through his luscious chocolate locks. He lathered his shoulders as thoughts of her ran through his mind. He was captivated by her. She seemed to consume his every waking moment. Liam had crossed the line yet again. Every time it seemed his transgressions got more and more out of hand. He refused to allow his friend’s actions to ruin his final couple of days in the states. 

Bastien had taken over the King’s detail while they were in Waxahachie for Savannah’s wedding. For the next 48 hours, Liam was not his charge, he was his friend. His thoughts went back to her. She represented hope, possibility, promise. He had no idea what was to come, but he knew that it would be an exciting adventure if she was at his side.  

As he pulled his white henley tee shirt over his head, his mind went back to the conversation he had at the reception with his cousin Tyler, who was a cyber-security analyst with the Department of Homeland security. Drake explained to Tyler that he would no longer be sitting with him and the rest of the bridal party because the girl who he had been telling Tyler about who works in advertising, who he met in New York was there, and he intended to spend as much time with her as he could. She was something special. She could be the one. “So you invited her to Sav’s wedding?” he inquired. 

“No, actually she is the friend of Sav’s college roommate, Mackenzie, and came as her plus one. I had no idea she would be here.”

 “Sounds like fate.”

“What are you saying?”

“I’m saying that of all the places in the world this one person could be, she is here at your sister’s wedding... in Waxahachie, TX. If this girl is the one, you’re screwed. You might as well spruce up your resume. She’s a career woman. She is not going to move to Cordonia for you, and you suck at long-distance relationships. I can probably get you in at my job. My guy Rob in HR owes me a favor.”

“I’ll keep that in mind if I ever get the courage to ask her out,” he told Tyler.

The truth was, he could easily see a future with Riley. She’s beautiful, honest, smart, quick-witted, and kind. His cousin’s words bounced around in his head as he pulled on his favorite distressed jeans giving himself a quick once over in the full-length mirror in the room his Mom had decorated for him at the ranch after she returned to the states when his dad passed.

He opened his laptop and took a look around the room. The Walker Ranch had been in his father’s family for several generations being passed down to the eldest male child, like each generation before. Drake stayed in Cordonia after his father died and was handsomely compensated by the crown. His college education was covered, and he and his sister received a stipend each month. Drake was always taught to do a lot with little and to save the rest. For years he lived at the palace and saved every penny. Being friends with Liam, he learned how to invest wisely and he did pretty well in the stock market. His newest pastime had been real estate investment. He had been buying foreclosed homes in and around Dallas and having his Mom’s brothers and his cousins fix them up before selling them for a generous profit. 

He was curious, he was now the rightful owner of the Walker Ranch. It had struggled in the past, but because of his business plans and wise investment, the family business was as strong as it had ever been and his mom was nearing retirement age. What if he and Riley did end up together? He knew the plan was for his cousin Miranda to replace his mom when she was ready, while he retained ownership, but where would that leave him? He pulled up the DHS website and clicked on the careers tab. He was reading a description of a position that he believed he would qualify for, Intelligence Analyst.  

Just then Liam plowed through his door without warning. 

“Li! What the fuck man?” he shouted as he closed his laptop abruptly. 

“My apologies, I hope I'm not interrupting.  I just wanted to apologize if I offended you. You were right, any woman can be a lot. Carsyn is not speaking to me, she thinks I'm interested in Riley.”

“You are interested in Riley. She's just not interested in you and it's killing you. Let me ask you something, why is it so hard for you to grasp that a smart beautiful woman would be interested in me over you?”

“It’s just.. It’s not that. I'm not accustomed to rejection. It intensifies my want for her.”

“ I hate to cut our conversation short but I have to head out. I’ve got a few stops to make before I pick up Riley.”

“Then I shall take my leave. Enjoy! Smart man, planning a date when it’s going to storm. I’m sure you won’t have a problem closing tonight,” he said as he left the room.

The evening came and Drake drove along the winding Country Road towards the city. He tapped his thumb against the steering wheel to the beat of Chris Stapleton’s, “Starting Over.”

Then he switched from Prime country to the Heart and Soul station on his XM Radio. If he was going to have her in his life it meant embracing all aspects of it. He knew that music was a big thing for her and although she would listen to a little bit of everything she loved R&B and Jazz.  A song by Luther Vandross came on and to his surprise, it was not very different from the country music he listened to all the time. The chorus was catchy and very fitting. 

“Excuse me Miss, what's your name? Where are you from, and can I come? And possibly, can I take you out tonight?”

He found himself humming the tune as he stepped into the local Nursery to pick up a houseplant to go along with the Pinot Grigio he bought as a gift for Riley.  He decided on a Prayer Plant. 

It was relatively low maintenance and he thought it would be entertaining to watch it curl up in darkness. He didn't want to do the same flowers and candy that everyone does. He wanted to take her something that she would keep for a while, and possibly would make her think of him when she saw it.  As much as he didn't want to admit it the thought of her dating someone else while he was back in Cordonia was driving him insane. 

He was nervous and he couldn't figure out why. They were just going to hear some live music.  But he wanted to impress her so badly. He knew that it was more likely that he would end up putting his foot in his mouth but with her, for some reason, it did not matter. When he pulled up in front of her place he put on ChapStick, and reached into his glove box, sprayed on some Chrome, and checked his breath before quickly gathering the gifts for her and heading toward the door. He tucked the house plant under his arm as he smoothed over his clothes as the elevator took him to her floor.  A small lump formed in his throat as he approached her door. 

She opened the door and his breath caught in his throat as he took in her appearance. She was dressed in a denim outfit with matching stiletto boots and oddly enough, the denim matched his jeans. It would almost appear planned. He was secretly thrilled. She smiled at him and he was sure he forgot his own name for a few seconds. She stretched up on her toes and kissed him sweetly on the cheek.

“Hey Drake, you smell delicious.”

 “Hey. Thanks. These are for you.”

“Aww, you brought me a houseplant and wine? I’m not worthy, but I love it. Thank you. Come in! I promise I’m almost ready.”

She sat the plant on the counter and placed the wine in her wine fridge. 

“You look greeeeat,” she squealed. 

“Thanks. So do you.”

“So how’d you know what kind of wine I like?” she asked as she finished her eye makeup in the mirror. 

“Observant, I guess. I saw a bottle in the trash when I was here yesterday.”

“I’ll keep that in mind. Are you ready?”

He stood moving to open the door for her. “After you.” They made it downstairs as a couple of her neighbors made it home from what he only assumed was church. He couldn’t figure out if the staring was due to her outfit or if it was because she was with him. He looked at her in awe as she strutted with confidence to his car. 

He opened the door for her and she smiled before thanking him. 

He could feel his heart pounding in his chest. She was rattling on and on about the artist performing in the festival and he was secretly praying she wouldn’t ask him a question that required an intelligent answer. She kept touching his biceps and his hand. Her hands were so soft and he was sooo turned on. He hoped that she didn’t notice the bulge in his pants and think that he was a creep. He wondered if she kept touching him because she was nervous too?

“Um, Ri? You good?”

“Yeah, why?”

“You are extremely chatty and you keep touching me.”

“I’m excited. I’ll try to keep my hands to myself, but the way this henley hugs your arms,” she wiggled her eyebrows. 

He let out a low chuckle as he quickly glanced at her for the seventh time.

“Are you ok?” 

“Yeah, never better. Why?” 

“You keep looking at me.”

He grinned keeping his eyes on the road. They were nearing the venue when she glanced at his pants. He immediately assumed that she spotted his retreating erection. 

“What?”

“We’re matching you know. People are going to think we did this purposely.”

“Do you care what others think?”

“No, I suppose not.”

“Good because we’re here.”

They parked and he asked her to stay put for a moment. He got out of the truck and grabbed a blanket and wicker picnic basket. He walked around the truck and opened the door for her and she blushed furiously as she stepped out.

They made their way to a free spot among the crowd. Riley noticed a few glares from both men and women, who obviously had an issue with she and Drake being there together. Then she smiled as one woman gave her a smile, wink and thumbs up as she stood to the side watching while Drake spread the blanket and invited Riley to sit. She knew that some people would have opinions of them being an interracial couple, but Drake didn’t seem bothered. In fact, she thought it showed how courageous he was. When another woman mouthed, “That’s a good look!”

She bit the inside of her cheek trying not to smile. The truth was she didn’t need any validation. She knew Drake was a catch. The fact that he was easy on the eyes was a bonus.  

“What’s in the basket?”

“Uh, a little something my mom helped me with.”

He opened the basket and pulled out wine glasses, a bottle of her favorite Pinot Grigio, cheese, cashews, summer sausage, deli turkey, sliced cucumbers, grapes, strawberries, whipped cream and 2 brownies. The opening act took the stage and Drake pulled Riley close. 

“I hope you’re hungry.”

“I am,” she said coyly as she settled between his legs.

They cuddled for a bit before eating, until one of the performers played a rendition of The Gap Band’s, “Outstanding.” She jumped up and pulled Drake with her. He wrapped his arms around her from behind and swayed back and forth with Riley. She felt so comfortable in his arms, he actually had rhythm. There went another stereotype out the window, it just felt right. 

After several acts had gone on and several glasses of wine later Riley settled in his lap as a performer started to play a slower song. “I love Luther,” Riley squealed as she began to sing along.

Knowing love the way I do

I can say for certain that it's true

There's a chance for me and you.

I surely feel like the time is near

The picture in my mind is very clear

I think love has brought us here

I remember not too long ago

I was just a lonely person

With a lonely heart, yeah

And I was hoping there could one day be,

Be a chance

For me to get the love

That I'd been missing

Sometimes love takes a long time

Wait for love

And you're gonna get the chance to love

Wait for love, wait for love oh, my

When you take the chance on love you'll see

It's not a waste of time if you truly believe

The impossible can be..

So hold on tight if you think you're right

Cause nothing hurts as bad as when you see

You gave up too easily

Now I remember spending all my time

On a dream that kept me wishing that you could be mine, yeah

And I was hoping there could one day be, be a chance, whoa

I never stopped believing there could one day be, be a chance

For me to get the love that I'd been missing

Sometimes love takes a long time

Wait for love, and you're going to get your

Chance to love

Wait for love, wait for love

And you'll get the love that you've been missing

Sometimes love takes a long time

But wait for love

And you're going to get your chance to love.

Drake couldn’t help but hang on to her every word. He wondered if she was trying to send him a message through the lyrics. She had a voice like an angel and when the song ended he was breathless. 

“Ms. Riley sings too?”

She giggled as she rested her head on Drake's shoulder, her back to his strong chest. He fed her  grapes then strawberries with whipped cream soliciting jealous glances from some nearby onlookers. She made sure to let her lips and tongue graze his fingers.  For a few blissful moments, they both silently enjoyed the closeness.

“You know, this is pretty cool,” he whispered in her ear.

She smiled as his breath tickled her ear. Feeling the effects of the wine, she paused for a few moments before she responded.

“What’s that?”

“This. Us. The festival. It all just feels right.”

She wordlessly looked up at him. She wondered if she could will him to kiss her with her “come get it eyes.”  Suddenly, a torrential downpour covered the venue, leaving Drake and Riley scrambling to gather the blanket and basket before sprinting to his Jeep. Before they could get there he stopped snaking his arm around her pulling her close. 

This was it, he was going to do it, it was now or never. If she was the onehe wanted to look back at their first date and tell a romantic tale of their first kiss in the rain. Now was the time. He leaned in and when she opened her eyes her lips found his instantly. It was everything she expected and more. It was hungry and passionate and lustful and it made her lady parts twitch. When he pulled away he watched her for signs of regret, but her eyes said she wanted more. 

“Hurry, get in,” Drake urged her as he took the time to throw the basket and blanket in the back.

They were both soaked. She laughed hysterically when he finally got inside. 

“This entertains you, does it?”

She nodded as she continued laughing, her eyes were clenched tightly. 

He went back in taking her lips again as it continued to storm all around them. Her hands roamed his body and her eyes went wide when she made contact with the bulge in his pants. Another stereotype out the window…Drake cupped the back of her dripping head with his left hand deepening the kiss while his right hand explored the soft skin of her thigh as a soft moan escaped her. Suddenly his phone rang, “Mama’s Song” by Carrie Underwood blasted from his pocket startling Riley. Drake huffed and looked at her with apologetic eyes before answering.

“Mom? What’s up?”

“I’m so sorry for interrupting your date Drizzy.”

Riley smiled.

“Mom, what’s wrong?”

“The power is out and the generator didn’t kick in. I gave Larry the weekend off..”

“I’ll be there as soon as I get Riley home safely. Sit tight.”

“Thanks Driz. How’d it go? Did you kiss her?”

“Mom! She can hear you.”

“Hi, Mrs.Walker.” Riley chimed in.

“Hi, sweetheart. Did he kiss you?”

Riley laughed again. 

“Bye Mom!”

Drake ended the call and turned to Riley, cheeks flushed red.

“I’m sorry.”

“For what?” She asked as he pulled out of the parking lot.

“For the way, tonight is ending. For my Mom.” 

“Nothing could ruin today. Not even your Mom Drizzy,” she laughed again.

‘Geez, Ri that was below the belt.”

His comment made her think about his bulge and she began to blush.

“Are you blushing?”

“Maybe.”

“Why?”

“Oh, it’s too embarrassing to share.”

“Now you know I won’t stop until you tell me.”

When they pull into her neighborhood the entire area is pitch black. Her building was also dark. 

“Good thing I have candles.”

“Or you could go back to the ranch with me,” he said shyly.

“Really? I don’t want to put anyone out.”

“It’s just Mom and I. Liam and Carsyn should be out for the evening. Besides, I promised you dinner and it’s Sunday, I bet my mom cooked.”

“I can’t meet your Mom looking like this. I’ll be ok.”

“Riley, I’m not leaving you alone in the dark.”

“If you want to spend more time with me just say that.”

“Fine, I want to spend more time with you and I’m not leaving you alone in the dark. My Mom would kill me. Pleaaase! I can get you one of Sav’s outfits. I promise it will be an adventure.”

“Okay, I’ll go. But only because you’re so cute when you beg.”

He bit his lip. “You haven’t seen anything yet.”

“Drake Arrington Walker!” she warned.

“Too much?” He smiled.

When they arrived at the ranch, Drake showed Riley to his room and gave her towels and a change of clothes while he went to help with the generator. She quickly showered, pulled her hair up into a messy bun and moisturized with his Nivea lotion that she found on the counter she walked back into his bedroom pulling on the leggings she borrowed. She was still bare from the waist up when the door opened. Her back was turned when she looked over her shoulder to reprimand him.

“Drake!” 

“Riley, it’s me, Liam.”

Riley screamed as she scrambled to cover herself.

“Get out!”

“My mistake. I thought Drake was in here. But this, you are much better.”

“Get. Out.”

“Come on, what’s a little fun between friends?” he asked as he closed the door.

Before she could answer Drake barreled into the room, his fist connected with Liam’s jaw before he tackled him. 

“Have fun with me you bastard, I told you to leave her the fuck alone,” he yelled as Bastien pulled Drake off of Liam. Riley watched the entire scene in horror from the corner.

“Get the fuck out Li!” 

After Bastien escorted Liam back to the guest house, Drake checked on Riley.

“Are you hurt? He didn’t touch you did he?” 

“No, I’m more embarrassed than anything. He walked in without knocking while I was changing.”

“Well, you don’t have to worry about him.”

“What in tarnation is all that racket back here?” Bianca asked as she turned the corner.   

“Just Li being a creep. Everything is fine Mom.”

Riley stood when Bianca entered the room. 

“Riley, this is my Mom, Bianca. Mom, this is my Riley.” 

His eyes went wide as soon as the words left his mouth. He grimaced as Riley extended her hand to his Mom. Bianca pulled Riley into her embrace instead. 

“It’s nice to meet the girl who makes Driz nervous.”

“Mom!”

Riley laughed.

Come on darling, I know y’all were supposed to get dinner. It’s Sunday so I cooked some pot roast, mashed potatoes, carrots, and green beans and for dessert, banana pudding funnel cakes.

“Oh my God, Mrs. Walker, that sounds amazing. Drake, you were holding out on me.”

“Not, really. Maybe I wanted to cook for you first.”

@txemrn @pixie88 @secretaryunpaid@khoicesbyk @blackkingliamstan @mom2000aggie @shannonwrote @hopelessromanticmonie @chemist-ana @rideordiechronicles @lucy-268 @dcbbw @darley1101 @maurine07 @sfb123 @bbrandy2002 @kingliam2019 @schnitzelbutterfingers @lem-20 @choicesficwriterscreations @no-one-u-know @jessiembruno @queenrileyrose @thefrenchiemama​ @somersetmummy​

TRR: @twinkleallnight  @bebepac @mainstreetreader @romereadingshop @romewritingshop @lem-20 @texaskitten30

[utterlyinevitable]

Hc on what would have happened if edenbrook and MK merged???

thanks for the request! 💕

If MK and Edenbrook Merged 

If the merger went through, the two diagnostics teams would have to be consolidated. There wouldn’t be any point in having both when one was world-class and the cases were selective.

The Edenbrook board obviously wants Dr. Ramsey to head the department because he’s the most renowned (he’s also a lot cheaper with that $1 salary). 

MK’s board liked that idea as well. Money talks and Ethan is an absolute steal.

But June and Tobias don’t like that decision. Everything falls into Ramsey’s lap and they’ve had enough.  

Also because of budgeting, the team has to make some cuts. Mostly on the MK side. It becomes a fight for keeping members between Naveen, MK’s Chief, Ethan and Tobias. 

There was a lot of throwing back and forth about keeping MC because she’s the newest and youngest on Edenbrook’s side. As smart and invaluable as she is MK would rather lose a resident than a seasoned doctor. Ethan and Naveen were adamant on keeping MC but stacked up with Baz and June she’s the weakest link as much as they wouldn’t admit it out loud. 

Technically, Aurora is the newest in contract out of all the doctors.

When brought up MK points out Edenbrook’s not firing anyone and their fellow should stay on. 

As a whole, MK lose out. 

The Team is Ethan, Tobias, June, Baz, Terrence, MC and Aurora.

Besides all the layoffs in other departments, Diagnostics took the most change in the merge. All other departments were able to function with smaller teams in their respective hospitals. 

Their main office was at Edenbrook and the team would meet daily to run over cases that have come through. Then the MK team would go back to whatever other patients they had at MK. (Eventually they’ll figure out how to set up the video conferencing function in the diagnostic office but it’s Ethan and he’s slow with new technology.)

Tobias and June try very hard to form a coup. They recruited Terrance who was all too willing to find faults in Ethan’s leadership. 

The easiest avenue to exploit is his budding relationship with MC. It wasn’t a secret there was something going on between them after the incident. And anyone could see his affinity for her at the softball game.

The two lovers were very discrete while they were at work. No PDA or talking out of turn unless it was MC telling Ethan off for letting his pride overshadow the best interest of the team.

It was difficult to pinpoint an action to report to HR.

So they tried Aurora.

June used her manipulative wiles to ask questions about the “way Ethan favors MC” but Aurora wouldn’t bite. She knew there were feelings between them but she wasn’t going to throw her friend under the bus. Whatever was going on between Ethan and MC was none of their business. And it certainly didn’t affect their job performance.

Tobias may be a cunning asshole but he didn’t stoop to June’s level. He wasn’t about to ruin Ethan or MC’s careers without cold hard evidence of wrong doing. If June and Terrance uncovered something, he’d support them.

Eventually the schemes make it a really uncomfortable place to work.

MC knows she’s being targeted and just wants it all to stop. She’s reached her breaking point one evening filled with a lot of tears.

Ethan couldn’t have that. 

So the next morning he marched to HR and told them he’s in a consensual relationship with MC.

“Okay,” the rep said and handed him some forms.

Ethan left after making an appointment for him and MC to speak with the rep later in the week.

Then he stalked into the office a few minutes before the meeting on a fueled high.

The team were sitting at the meeting table. Terrance was leaned over, goading MC like he’s been doing and leaning much closer than anyone would like. Ethan’s blood boiled seeing this asshole in action for the very first time. 

“Terrance, step away from my girlfriend”

The entire room fell silent. MC’s eyes were wide. No one could believe it.

Terrance had a disgustingly sly smirk, “So you admit you give her preferential treatment.”

“I admit I’m dating Dr. Lao, yes.”

Tobias added, “You’ll be out of a job once the board hears about this, Ramsey.”

Ethan got extreme satisfaction from saying, “HR knows. And until then I am still director of diagnostics and we have work to do.”

In the end, Mc and Ethan had to go on the record about the ins and outs of their relationship.

Although it wasn’t against the code of conduct it was frowned upon within the same department, especially one with a power imbalance. 

Ethan offered to step down and the board was quick to rectify their position on the matter. Ethan Ramsey was too valuable.

And Mc’s the most priceless thing to him.

________________________________________

Masterlist

Perma:

@rookiemarsswiftie @lucy-268 @binny1985 @thegreentwin @queencarb @danijimenezv @starrystarrytrouble @terrm9 @interobanginyourmom @adrex04 @maurine07 @mercury84choices @schnitzelbutterfingers @theeccentricbibliophile @wingedhairstylemusicweasel​ @whimsicallywayward15​ @mvalentine @rookie-ramsey @drariellevalentine @lifeaskim @otherworldlypresents​ @therookie​ @aylaramseycarrera​ @angela8754 @fireycookie @stateofgracious​ @missmiimiie​ @uneravine​  @peaceinmidstofchaos​ @choicesaddict5​ @iemcpbchoices​

Ethan:

@udishaman​ @honeyandsunfl0wers​ @hutchereverlark23 @ohchoices​ @dulceghernandez​ @blossomanarchy​ @stygianflood​ @caseyvalentineramsey​ @rookieoh​ @openheartthot​ @senseofduties​ @lilyvalentine​ @tsrookie​ @kalogh​ @aworldoffandoms​ @takemyopenheart​ @casey-v​ @ramseyandrys​ @ethanramseylover​ @ramseyreader​  @a-crepusculo​ @aarisa-frost​ @shanzay44

[metalheadkells]

ALSO here is a little corporate AU drabble because I’m not that excited by it but also should I write more? WHO KNOWS. 

“Excuse me?”

Marshall drags his eyes away from the glow of his laptop screen in the dimly lit block of cubicles to the source of the voice that had rudely shattered his concentration. The point of showing up to work at seven in the fucking morning was to give himself a couple of blissfully undisturbed hours to start his day before his coworkers started noisily piling in. He opens his mouth to express something along those lines to whoever it is that’s deigning to speak to him at this unacceptably early hour, but the words die on his tongue as soon as his eyes land on the offender. Standing in front of Marshall’s desk is a young man that he knows for a fact he hasn’t seen in the office before, because he’d definitely have remembered him. He towers over Marshall, a glossy black messenger bag clasped to his front like a shield, an unmistakable neck tattoo peeking over the crisp collar of his dress shirt, tiny black roses embroidered all over his charcoal-gray slacks. Who the fuck…? Marshall stares for a second, his eyes latching onto the guy’s ridiculous cheekbones and long eyelashes, before he snaps out of it and grumbles, “Modeling agency’s two floors down.” Pretty Boy seems confused by this, his forehead creasing as he says, “What? No, I… I’m not… I’m the new intern?” Marshall blinks. “Intern?” “Yeah? I’m gonna be working with the Sales team?” The way everything he says comes out sounding like a question is making Marshall’s eyelid twitch. “Paul said I could stop by his desk first thing,” he continues, “but I’m, uh, obviously super early.” This kid wants to work in Sales? This stammering, shy, unreasonably attractive - “There’s a dress code,” Marshall blurts out of nowhere, having also noticed the subtle silver hoops affixed to his ears. Pretty Boy raises his eyebrows. “I know?” “You’re violating it,” Marshall clarifies impatiently. “We’re pretty traditional around here. Those piercings aren’t gonna fly. And you need to do a better job of covering your tattoo.” Pretty Boy’s face falls, and Marshall almost takes pity on him. He looks young enough that this could be his first real job out of college - he’d probably had no idea what to expect. “You got a name?” “Call me Kells,” he says. “The fuck kinda name is that?” Marshall hadn't really meant to say that out loud, but oh well. That’s what you get when you try talking to him before 9 AM. Kells scowls at him, and the overall effect is… intense. Marshall smiles involuntarily, then glances back down at his laptop to hide it, wondering at the little spark of excitement shooting up his spine. “I’m Marshall,” he offers, scrolling aimlessly through the Excel pivot tables on his screen to appear busy. “And you think my name’s weird?” Marshall stops his scrolling, eyes flickering up to note the righteous indignation taking over the kid’s expression.

Ah. Maybe not as shy as I thought. 

“Senior Vice President of Sales,” Marshall finishes, just to watch Kells blanch as that revelation sinks in. “Oh fuck,” he murmurs, then presses a large palm to his mouth, his entire face turning red. “I’m - Sh-shouldn’t you have your own office? Sir?” “I do,” Marshall says, forcing himself not to grin like a loon, “but I like to work out here before the cavalry clocks in. One too many windows in my office.” Kells looks at him like he has a retort on the tip of his tongue, but is holding it back out of deference to Marshall’s seniority. It makes Marshall want to laugh. But laughing isn’t his thing. So instead, he asks, “And what’re you doing here so goddamn early? Were you planning to sit around doing nothing until someone showed up?” “Well, yeah,” Kells says, biting his lip. The motion shouldn’t be as distracting as it is. “I get… anxious. I was gonna kill time at some café or something until 9, but nothing around here’s open yet. So I figured I’d just come up.” “Hmm. You’re from LA, aren’t you. Or SF.” “No,” Kells splutters, like he’s offended by the notion, “I’m originally from Cleveland.” He pauses, then adds, “But I did just move here from LA.” “I knew it,” Marshall says smugly, “You have the look. And the presumptuousness.” Though I’m not compelled to murder you, so that’s a point in your favor. Once again, Kells looks like he’s holding his tongue, his eyes pained with the effort it must take. Marshall is gripped by an oddly strong urge to drag a feisty retort out of him. “Anyway, Paul gets in at 8:30. Find somewhere to sit and post your Snapchats and your Twits until then.” “You are so - ” Kells bursts out, then stops himself, steam practically coming out of his ears. Marshall turns an innocently questioning look on him. “Yes?” Then, Kells’ temperament shifts so immediately that it gives Marshall whiplash. “So generous, to have taken time out of your busy day to talk to me,” he says, sickly sweet, all earnest blue eyes and animated hands. “Thank you so much. I’ll get out of your way now, sir.” Marshall stares after him as he walks off without a backwards glance, thinking, Well-played, kid. His heart is thumping in this uncomfortably erratic rhythm that he knows can’t mean anything good. He whips out his phone and shoots off a text to Paul. This intern you hired??? He’s gonna be a distraction. We can’t have that. He adds: I can fire him for you. Take that off your plate. And a few seconds later: Well, maybe it’d be better to give him a test run first. See how the team likes him. It’s only fair. And half a minute after that: You need to tell him to do something about his face though. This isn’t some fucking froofy LA design firm that exclusively employs hot 20-somethings. And after he reads that last text over: Not that I’m calling him hot. Because that would be an inappropriate thing to say to the head of HR. And finally: I’m just saying he could play down his looks a little. Jesus, he walked in here dressed like a fucking Bloomingdale’s mannequin. By the time Paul texts him back, nearly half an hour later, with nothing but an ominous, oh no, Marshall is still recounting his interaction with Kells in his head moment by moment, his work entirely forgotten.

[chemist-ana]

Chapter 9. The Ride Along— Sams POV

Book: The Nanny Affair

Characters: Sam, Ana Schuyler (MC), Robin

Pairing: Sam Dalton (male) x Ana Schuyler (MC)

Rating: 18+

Content Warning: NSFW, Sexual Language, Adult Language, Sexual Situations

A/N This is a brand new series that I was inspired to write. I am going to go chapter by chapter in Sam Daltons POV. This story is completely inspired by Choices The Nanny Affair. I have used most of the dialogue from the actual story, anything written in BOLD was taken directly from the book and therefore is not my writing- credit to our good friends over at Pixelberry! All characters are credit to Pixelberry except for my OCs

Summary: When an office tour of Dalton Enterprises takes a turn, who will be left picking up the pieces?

Word Count: 5800

Tag List: @txemrn @secretaryunpaid @lifeaskim @aussieez @pixie88 @thefrenchiemama @sfb123 @mainstreetreader @shewillreadyou @khoicesbyk @lady-calypso @choicesficwriterscreations @somersetmummy @melalicious8383

I hear the elevator ding and glance at my watch, 6:15… who is here this early?

“Oh good, you are awake.” Sofia strolls into the penthouse, setting her bag on the bar and resting her hands on her lips. “We need to talk.” Oh great…

I fold the newspaper and set it down on the counter, bringing my coffee to my lips and taking a small sip before focusing my eyes on her. I wait for her to start… its too early for me to play these games.

“That little stunt that Ana pulled last night was completely unacceptable.” She purses her lips and narrows her eyes at me. “I can’t have someone under our employment treating my family like that.”

I bite my tongue with a sigh… first of all, she is under my employment… not ‘ours’.

“Sofia… the boys love her… I really don’t want to do this to them.” I choose my words carefully as to not give away my true feelings… I have never lied so much in my life…

“Sam, it was embarrassing and out of line.” Red color rises up her neck as the volume of her voice rises.

“Come on, Sofia. Don’t you think you’re being a little irrational here?” I plead.

“She completely humiliated my father in front of everyone! Some of the club staff heard her.” She takes a step toward me, lifting and pointing one long manicured finger at my chest.

“She was defending you.” Now I am starting to get annoyed, this really isn’t up to you Sofia.

“I don’t care. There’s a way to handle that sort of situation and that wasn’t it. I want her fired immediately.”

“Look, I will take care of it, but there is absolutely no way I am letting her go. That is not even up for discussion, and it ultimately is not up to you.” I turn from her and pick up my coffee, effectively ending the conversation. I hear her scoff as the sound of her heels echo through the penthouse.

I run my hands down my face with a sigh… fuck.

***

My feet pound against the pavement as the sun starts to rise over the New York skyline. Maybe today would be a good day to bring Ana into the lab… I shake my head at the thought… she has been avoiding you…

I stop to catch my breath, resting my hands on my knees before looking up at the bluing sky.

I know she has to have aspirations outside of being a nanny… like being your wife? My eyes widen… what the fuck, where did that come from? I pinch the bridge of my nose before taking the final sprint to the penthouse… Duty and responsibility…

***

I lean against the kitchen counter, bringing my coffee to my lips. She has to come in here eventually… I hear the light tapping of feet and she quietly rounds the corner into the kitchen, her eyes widening when our eyes meet.

“Sam! I didn’t expect you to be up so early.” Her emerald eyes quickly drop to the floor.

“I’ve been meaning to talk to you. You can be a difficult woman to find, when you want to be.”

“I know what you’re going to say, but you’re wrong.” Her eyes rise to meet mine and she pushes her shoulders back with confidence.

“I am?” Where did that come from?

“Maybe I embarrassed Paolo. Maybe I spoke out of turn. But I was also honest and right.” Her eyes narrow as her pink lips turn down in a frown. “Aren’t those the values you want me to teach Mason and Mickey?”

“I’m not going to fire you, Ana.” I breathe a sigh of relief before reaching out and lightly touching her arm.

“But Sofia-“ Her mouth opens with surprise.

“Sofia doesn’t get a say in this.” My tone comes out more angry than I intended. “Yes, she was upset about what happened at the club, but I wouldn’t fire someone just to soothe her ego. Especially when everything you said to Paolo was spot on.”

“Good, ‘cause I’m not gonna stop speaking my mind.” I see determination in her eyes and it sends a wave of desire through me.

“I wouldn’t want you to. Besides, if I fired everyone who voiced their opinion, I’d be an army of one. The world needs more thinkers like you.” My gaze lingers on her lips as she shines from my praise. “Actually, that’s what I wanted to talk to you about this morning… your future. I thought maybe you could come to the office with me today. Carter can watch the boys, and I know you have ambitions outside of being a nanny. This is your chance to see a Fortune 500 company up-close and personal.”

“Dalton Enterprises is a little out of my league, don’t you think?” She turns to get a cup of coffee, looking at me out of the corner of her eye.

“Nonsense, I’ve seen your credentials. I almost handed your resume over to HR instead of hiring you personally.” Don’t sell yourself short Ana, you are as brilliant as you are beautiful.

“Really? I would’ve loved working under you… it any position.” Her eyes darken, making my cock twitch, as I imagine her bent over my desk.

“I don’t doubt it. You’re very… capable.” I turn towards the counter to hide my growing desire… calm down Dalton.

“Thank you, Sam. Or should I call you ‘Mr. Dalton’ again today?” Her pink lips turning up in a smile.

“‘Sam’ is fine. Now, do you wanna tell the boys, or should I?” Her eyes light up as she turns on her heel.

“I’ll tell them.”

***

The car ride to work is quiet and riddled with sexual tension as the memories of the last time we were alone together in the back seat come flooding back. I steal a glance at Ana, who has her thighs clenched shut and a blush creeping across her cheeks. She is remembering it too.

When Carter rolls to a stop and opens the door, I have managed to successfully control the fire building in my chest. Ana and I walk into Dalton Enterprises confidently, side by side. This just feels so natural…

“Good morning, Mr. Dalton. I made a submission to the patent folder whenever you have a moment to review.” Grant walks up to me, effectively ending my day dream.

“Excellent. Grant, have you met Ana Schyuler?” I step to the side, gesturing to Ana.

“Haven’t had the pleasure. Are you new here?”

“Oh no, I-“ Her eyes widen.

“Maybe someday, if we’re lucky. She just got her masters in chemistry, and shows a lot of promise.” I glance down at her and I see her flash me a grateful smile.

“Mr. Dalton, call for you on line one.” Stacy, my assistant, has appeared at my side.

“Be right there.” I look back at Ana with a nod.

***

When I go to rejoin Ana, I watch her face as she talks to Grant. Her features are alight as she clearly talks about something she is passionate about. God she is so beautiful…

“Spoken like a future boss.” I hear Grant say as I walk up.

“Should I be worried about my job?” I ask as Ana’s radiant smile is turned towards me.

“No, I’d keep you around to smooth the transition of power.” She says with humor.

Grant leaves to join a meeting and I fight the urge to place my hand on Ana’s lower back as I guide her to my private elevator. I step in after her, the smell of jasmine filling my senses as her eyes flick to mine. My mind races with the possibilities of being alone with her in this elevator, and right as the doors are about to close, a hand slips in to stop them.

“Sam, we need you. There’s a problem with the office in Milan.” Robin’s face is etched with concern as his eyes meet mine. I watch his concern turn to pleasure as his eyes settle on Ana. “Hey, Ana. Fancy seeing you here.”

“Hey, Robin. What’d you do now?” I stifle my laugh with Ana’s choice of words.

“I never said it was my fault.” His eyes scan her body as his tone drops.

“Strategic guess.” Her eyes are fixed on him.

I narrow my eyes at Robin who is too infatuated with Ana to notice.

“Damn, Ana, I don’t want to just abandon you here, but these meetings can go on and on…”

“I can take her off your hands and skip the meeting altogether. It’ll be lunch before you’re done anyway…” Robin’s eyes still haven’t left Ana’s body.

“I like that idea even less.” My voice gruff as I try to grab his attention.

“Can I sit in? That’s why you brought me today, right? To see you in action?” Her eyes widen as she looks up at me.

“That’s true. Alright, follow me.” The doors to the elevator open and she follows me out. We walk into the conference room, and I watch as Ana takes a seat at the table. Her eyes flick to mine and I give her a smile, that’s my girl. Robin pulls up Luca from the Milan office whose face is dropped in worry.

“Signor Dalton, c’e un grosso problema qui.”

“In inglese, per favore, Luca. Non tutti qui parlano italiano.” I respond back to him, wishing to continue this conversation in English.

“We’ve had a security breach. Several files were lifted onto a jump drive. We think it was a former employee. The suspect was last seen in Lab C.” His words make my temper rise and I quickly forget about the other people in the room as the rest of the board members begin to murmur around me.

“Our customer DNA profiles are in that database. If the data get’s out, it’ll be the most catastrophic violation of privacy in our lifetime.” My hands turn into fists at my side.

“Our stock is going to plummet.” Luca’s voice rings out over the speaker.

“Our stock? What about the millions of customers who trusted us?” Our fucking stock is the last thing on my mind you imbecile. I close my eyes and are a deep breath as I try to collect my thoughts. “Luca, how did a former employee even have access to those files?” I narrow my eyes at him and he seems to falter at my question.

“That was my fault, Mr. Dalton. I lost my temper and gave him immediate notice instead of following our usual protocol. I’m sorry-“

I put my hand up, and he stops his useless apology. “Seal off the complex and tell security to do a thorough search, building by building. Then, alert the police. Call me as soon as it’s done. Your job is on the line here, Luca.” I reach over and end the call before he can say anything else.

“Fiona, follow up with the Milan office in an hour. David, I’m going to need projections on the impact of the breach.”

“You’ve got it, boss.” Fiona pulls out her phone ad furiously starts typing. I turn my attention to Robin.

“Robin, write up a press release. You’ve always been good at getting people who should be mad at you to calm down.”

“It is one of my many talents.” He sits back in his chair with a cocky smile.

I can feel Ana’s gaze on me, but before I have a chance to settle my attention on her, my phone buzzes in my pocket.

“It’s my father. I have to take this.” I reach into my pocket and step out of the conference room making my way to my office.

“Can you get Ana and have her meet me in my office, please.” Stacy gives me a nod before I step into my office and bring my phone to my ear.

“Hey Dad.”

“What the hell is going on in Milan, Sam?”

“We had a security breach. Luca didn’t follow protocol and now we have someone loose in the complex with our customers data.” I hear my dad take a sharp intake of breath.

“Do you know who this person is?” He asks, and I can hear the anger in his tone.

“I have Fiona following up shortly. Luca is trying to clean up his mess now.”

I hear a knock on the door and the vision of Ana is standing there, all long legs and olive skin. I wave her in, my body responding to her presence like a breath of fresh air.

“I’ll update you again when there is an update, Dad… You know everything I do, promise.”

“Sam, I expect a lot more than that. Luca needs to be held accountable for his actions…”

My dad continues to drone on as I look at Ana and roll my eyes. I watch her gaze grow heated as her eyes travel up my body, lingering in all the right places, until finally her eyes rise to mine. Her gaze doesn’t break when she realizes I caught her staring, her emerald eyes dark with desire, and the fantasies of what I want to do to her in this office come rushing back.

“…Dad, I’ll call you back.” I hang up the phone before he has a chance to object. I might regret that later…

“Sorry about all the excitement. This wasn’t exactly what I had in mind when I invited you to the office.”

“No need to apologize. Besides, it’s been kind of… thrilling to see you in action.” She clenches her thighs shut. “I like the way you take charge.”

Fuck…

“Good to know…” Is all I can think of to say in that moment. Try to keep it professional… “It seems you’re quite the hit around the office already.”

“I am?”

“Everyone is so curious about you… I blame Grant.” I also blame how damn beautiful you are. “Well, that and the fact I’ve been so busy, I haven’t been able to give you a proper tour. But I booked the labs for this afternoon to make sure we have them mall to ourselves.”

“Really? That’s amazing! Thank you.” Her eyes light up, god you are so beautiful when you are happy.

“You’re very welcome. Although…” My voice trails off. How do I word this….?

“What?” She asks casually leaning back in her chair and crossing her legs.

“I’m an impatient man, Ana. I’m not sure I can wait that long to get you alone…” My eyes trail over her bare legs as I imagine them spread open before me.

“What did you have in mind?” She notices my heated gaze.

“We could have lunch together, away from the prying eyes of my employees. Honestly, after the morning I’ve had, I could really use the break from the office. What do you say?”

“Let’s go.” She stands up confidently and moves towards the door.

“Great. Let me send a quick text and we can head up there.”

***

Soon, Ana and I are walking side by side along the High Line, I have a picnic basket in my hand. I find a quiet bench and sit down. I watch her fold her body next to me, the electricity that arcs between us, making me feel alive. She grabs the picnic basket and begins ruffling through it, the corner of her lips turning up in a small smile before she looks over at me.

“Are you telling me that they managed to whip all of this up after a quick text? There must be enough food for twenty people in here!” She holds up a whole range of appetizers.

“I admit, I was hoping you would take me up on my offer, so I planned ahead a little bit… But really, all the chef did was pack what they were serving in the cafeteria into a basket instead of onto a tray to send up to my office.” I shrug my shoulders.

“You have this kind of food everyday?” She looks down at the content of the basket.

“One of the perks of the job.” And the perks of being the boss.

“Mmmm, my compliments to the chef.” She says after taking a bite, her eyes fluttering closed with pleasure.

“So, first impressions. What do you think of Dalton Enterprises?” I pop an olive in my mouth and watch her carefully.

“Seems like a great place to work, especially if you get to eat like this all the time. Everyone’s so friendly and excited about their jobs here. I could see myself working here in the future… assuming things aren’t too complicated between us.” Her eyes grow distant as she shifts her attention to the people walking by.

My mood immediately turns serious as I reach over and place my hand on top of hers.

“I think you’d be a great fit. And the last thing I want to be is a ‘complication’ for your career. Regardless of what happens between us.”

“I know you’re not the kind of man to hold that sort of thing against me… but still, it’s nice to hear you say it.” Her emerald eyes swing to mine as she gives me a small smile.

I turn my attention to the view, enjoying this rare moment of peace between the two of us. I think back on the meeting with Luca and wince as I realize she saw that side of me.

“I hope it didn’t bother you too much to see me get tense in the Milan meeting.”

“Not at all. This company is your baby, and sometimes that requires tough love.” She pauses, and takes a sharp intake of breath, her face turning to resolve. “In fact, it made me want you to discipline me someday.”

My gaze cuts back to hers, did she really just say that? God, I want to bend you over and spank you right now for saying that to me out here…

“Ana… you can’t just say that to me. Not when we’re in public. Not when I can’t do exactly what we both want, right here, right now.”

“I’m not stopping you.” She leans towards me, her eyes flashing.

“No, but the threat of a public indecency charge is.” I smile at her challenge.

“Wheres the fun in that? Maybe I should break a few rules until you tie me up and teach me a lesson.” She gives me a knowing smile and I picture her round ass bare and pink before me, begging for more.

“I have thought about creative ways to punish you…” I admit, my voice husky.

“Like what?” She whispers.

“Drive you to the edge and not let you fall over. Even when you’re begging for it.” I lower my voice as my body leans towards hers.

Her eyes darken as she moans my name, a blush creeping across her neck and up her cheeks as I watch her body shudder.

A dog barks in the distance, bringing me out of my fantasy, I sit up and clear my throat.

“Dessert?” I ask her, swallowing down my desire.

“Dessert? Yeah, sure.” She blushes again.

I grab a strawberry, dipping it into the soft chocolate and offering it to her. She looks between he strawberry and my face before taking it carefully from my fingers. I watch as she traces the curve of her lower lip tantalizingly slow, her eyes never leaving mine. Her tongue darts out and licks the chocolate away. I shift to try and hide the growing hardness in my pants.

“Mmmm, that’s so tasty.” She moans, her eyes fluttering closed. “Sam, I need more…”

“Ana…” Fucking hell woman.

I watch her grab a strawberry and dip it into the chocolate, bringing it up to her lips and sucking lightly on the tip. A wave of desire makes my cock twitch as I imagine her lips wrapped around me.

“Are you trying to kill me? Because its working…”

“I can see that.” She gives me a sly smile, her eyes drifting down to the obviously bulge in my pants.

I swallow, trying to regain control as my mind wanders to the fucked up situation we are in, and the reality hits me hard.

“Ana… I’m sorry you’re caught in the middle of all this.”

“All what?” She asks, her face passive.

“My life. My engagement. My… desire. It’s not fair for me to put you through this… not when I can’t give you everything you deserve.” I reach out and gently place my hand on her cheek, running my thumb across her full, pink bottom lip. “But I can’t seem to stay away.” Because I don’t want to stay away.

“What if you are what I deserve?” She asks me, her eyes searching mine.

I can’t help but feel like you deserve so much better than me… I watch her lean her body closer to mine, I can tell she wants me to kiss her…

“You have no idea how much I wish I’d met you first.” I whisper as I look between her emerald eyes which are fixed on mine. My thumb caresses her soft olive skin.

“Sam, it doesn’t matter. We’ll figure it out. I’m not going anywhere. Not after finding you.” Her words strike me hard as I realize what she is saying.

“Really? You’ll wait?”

She slowly nods her head and leans into my palm.

“Forever and ever… although I’d really rather we work something out sooner than that.”

God, she is giving me way more than I deserve… you stupid ass hole, what are you doing?

“Me too.” I say with a smile. “I will find us a clean way out of this mess. I promise.” I don’t even know if that is a promise I can keep, but I am going to try my fucking hardest. “For now, though, let’s just enjoy each other’s company? For one childfree day?”

“Deal.”

I drop my hand from her cheek as we continue to enjoy each others company, the lunch hour passing way too quickly.

***

After lunch I lead Ana to my favorite part of Dalton Enterprises: the labs. I feel like a teenager as we descend down the elevator and through the key card locked doors. I ensured Stacy understood that we were not to be interrupted, and ignored the weird expression that crossed her features at my request.

I swipe my keycard in front of the final door, pushing the door open to the robotics lab. I take a deep breath and breathe in the smell of metal and feel the charge of electricity in the air.

“This is where the magic happens. The prototypes, the formulas, the fistfights over whose name goes first on the patent…” I turn my attention to Ana. Her eyes have widened as she looks around in awe.

“I can picture it now.”

“This is my favorite part of our new line. Granted, it’s got some kinks to work out.” I lead her to a table with our latest project, slipping the gloves onto my hands which make the tiny robotic arms on the table match my every movement.

“Whoa. I can’t decide if you’re a mad scientist… or if the tiny robot is too cute for words.” She says with amazement.

“Are those the only options?” I give her a wry smile.

“Cute or crazy? More often than you’d think.” Her gaze lingers for a moment before she turns her attention back to the miniature robot.

“I’ve never seen you so passionate.” Her voice comes out low and my eyes snap to hers.

“Oh, I’m not sure about that. You’ve seen me plenty passionate.”

“I meant about your job.” She rolls her eyes with a grin, and a blush spreads across her cheeks.

“I do love a good experiment. And as messy as it can be, I’m glad that’s a trait I passed down to the boys.” I stifle a laugh.

“So, if you’re in one for a promotion to CEO… will you have to leave all this? The lab?” Her eyes scan the lab and my stomach sinks.

I look down at my hands, slowly peeling the gloves off.

“Unfortunately, yes… I’m not looking forward to that part, but I’ve been waiting to lead Dalton Enterprises for a long time. It’s my namesake. Even if it’s not easy to let go of what I love… sometimes you have to.” The double meaning in my words is not lost on me… but I hope she doesn’t notice.

I watch as Ana leans back on the counter and watches me carefully. The words duty and responsibility ring in my ears like a broken vinyl, the ache in my chest growing as I scan the curves of her body.

“Why is your dad hanging on to the title of CEO, anyway? He’s not even here today.”

“He’s easing his way into retirement, but it’s hard for him to let go… especially given my so-called ‘wild youth’ before the boys. And then as a widower, I think he saw me as a liability. Too fragile. Adrift.” My mind sinks back into the memories of the countless arguments my father and I have been in. “It’s taken so long to finally earn his trust, prove to him that I’m a reliable man.” Which is why you need to control yourself…

I watch Ana reach out to console me, but I hand her the gloves first. Duty and responsibility… self-control… you have worked so hard to get where you are… don’t fuck it all up now.

“Anyway, why don’t you try it now?” I give her a small smile and I watch her lips turn down in disappointment which she quickly masks as she pulls the gloves onto her slender hands. She makes slight movements with her hands, which the robots effectively match.

“Okay, this is really cool.” Her eyes dance with excitement as she blows me a kiss. You are making this really difficult… but the light in her eyes is contagious. You are so radiant when you are happy…

“Clever.” My eyes meet hers with a smile before the moment is broken by the sound of the robot flipping over onto the table.

“Crap! Did I break it?” Her eyes widen slightly in alarm.

“We built it to be more resilient than that. Here, try it like this. You have to go slowly. Gently.” I position myself behind her, and the smell of Ana, jasmine and sunshine, suddenly fills my senses and clouds my judgement. I run my hands down her slender arms, hearing her breath hitch at the heat and contact. My hands come to rest on top of hers and her body involuntarily leans back into mine. “Go too fast, and the whole system shorts out.” I whisper, my lips brushing the shell of her ear.

She turns slowly in my arms, and I am acutely aware of how close we are, our breathes mixing in the silent, still air. My eyes scan the delicate features of her face, ending at the curves of her plump, pink lips. A forbidden place that draws me in like a moth to the flame. I am going to hell…

“Sam…” her lips open and she whispers a desperate plea. She leans toward me until our lips are only centimeters apart. My head starts to swim in the intoxicating smell of her, remembering the sweet taste of her lips, and the delicious blush that covers her body when we touch.

“What if someone walks in?” Her emerald eyes flick between my eyes and my lips.

“No one’s going to. I booked the lab for us. No one will dare interrupt.” My voice is husky as it betrays my desire. My self control is teetering on the brink. I see the moment that her resolve finally crumbles and in that moment I reach up and cup her cheek, as our lips meet in a desperate kiss.

“I tried so hard to hold back… but it feels so good to let go.” She leans back for a moment, her eyes scanning my face.

“I know exactly what you mean…” I pull her lips back to mine in a heated kiss that deepens as my self control effectively disappears. All I can think about is how sweet her lips taste, how intoxicating she smells, and how badly I want to feel every inch of her skin.

My fingertips graze down her curves, as she leans into my touch, a soft moan escaping her lips. She closes her lips around my tongue and sucks hard, sending a shooting wave down to my cock as I groan into her mouth. I feel her lips turn up in a smile and I moan her name.

“You’ve been thinking about this all day, haven’t you?” She pulls away, her lips red and swollen from our kisses and that blush covering her cheeks.

“God, yes…” I admit as I run my hands down the curves of her body, unbuttoning her silk blouse and pushing it off of her shoulders exposing her perfectly round breasts in her lace bra. My fingertips graze her newly exposed skin as I push her skirt down to the floor and I take a moment to appreciate her figure. God… you are the most beautiful woman I have ever seen… “I think about this, about you, all day, every day.”

I put my arms on her lower back, pulling her body to mine as my lips leave a trail of kisses down her neck, then her shoulder, tasting her skin and listening to the soft moans that leave her beautiful lips, have me blind with my desire. She moans my name and the sound of my name off of her lips is almost enough to unman me.

She pushes my jacket off of my shoulders and I watch her shaking fingers quickly unbutton my shirt, pushing it from my shoulders and exposing my chest. She tries to reach out, but I grab her body and bring her breast to my mouth. I suck on her nipple through the lace and I feel her coming apart in my arms.

“I could kiss you forever, Ana.” Because you taste so damn sweet. I drag my teeth across her breast and she gasps as her body responds so perfectly to mine.

“I’m tired of just kissing.” She grinds her hips against my growing desire causing a moan to escape my lips.

“What’s gotten into you?” I look down at her and her eyes are dark and hooded.

“I liked seeing your sexy dominant side. You were so firm and strong and hard with that Luca guy, showing him exactly what kind of boss you are… it was hot” A smile plays on her lips as she continues to grind against me.

“Remind me to let you watch whenever I discipline someone at work.” A fire is raging inside of my body as the friction continues.

“I’d rather you just discipline me instead.” She moans before our lips meet again in a frenzied kiss.

My fingertips travel around her exposed skin before they dip inside of the cup of her bra.

“What’re you doing to me, Ana?” I whisper breathlessly against her lips.

“You’re the one who - oh!- makes me…” I don’t let her finish her thought as my fingers dip lower, feeling the pooling wetness between her thighs. I feel her body start to tremble.

“Sam, are you… sure?”

I pull back and look at her eyes which are wide as she pants. I grab her hand and place it over my racing heart.

“I’ve never been more sure of anything in my life. I’ve never wanted anyone more in my life.” In this moment I realize truer words have never been spoken. This woman has my heart, I don’t know how it happened… but in the few months that I have known her, she has completely consumed me. I realize in this moment that I have to do whatever I can to have a future with her. “Don’t you feel the same way?”

“I have never been more sure of anything too.” Her eyes search mine in her confession. “No matter the consequences. I’m all in.”

Her words send a fresh wave of desire through me as my eyes scan her every curve, memorizing every freckle on her olive skin.

“Tell me what you want, Ana. Whatever it is, it’s yours. I’m yours.”

“Sam, I want you on the table.” She grinds her hips against my desire again.

I lean back and give her a sly smile before she grabs my hand and pulls me to the other side of the lab. I watch her perfect peach of an ass walk away from me, her hips swaying from side to side.

“I always wanted to do this.” She says with a smile before she brushes all of the papers off of the table. She lifts her hips up and lays herself back as if in offering before me. I take a moment to marvel at her body, spread before me.

“Good thing none of that was important…” I smile.

“Would you care if it was?”

“With you spread out before me, moaning my name? Not even remotely.” My eyes travel down to her most intimate place as I spread her legs wide. I bring my lips to the inside of her knee, blazing a trail of hot, fiery, open-mouthed kisses up thigh. I bring my nose to the apex of her thighs, inhaling the sweet scent of her desire. So fucking sweet. I am going to take my sweet time with this delicious pussy. I can feel the moisture as I run my tongue along the lace. Her hips writhing as she moans my name. God, its so fucking good.

I reach up slowly to hook a finger into her panties when the worst sound I could possibly hear in this moment rings through the lab. That fucking buzzer.

My eyes fly to hers as she lifts her head in alarm.

“What was that?”

“Someone just used their keycard to enter the hall.”

I stand up quickly, grabbing Ana’s hips and helping her off the table, before we hurry to the opposite end of the lab where our clothes lay strewn on the floor. We dress quickly, and just in time, before I hear a closer buzzer signal that whoever is coming down here is about to join us. I look over at Ana who is making still blushing and her lips are still read. Fuck. I run my fingers through my hair.

Thats when Robin walks into the room and my anger flares.

“He should just be in here.” He is holding a phone to his ear.

“Robin! What a pleasant surprise!” Ana exclaims and I fight the urge to pinch my nose.

My eyes are fixed on Robin as he looks between the both of us and gives me a knowing look. Fuck, fuck, fuck.

“Sofia, Im gonna have to call you back.” He narrows his eyes at me before pulling the phone from his ear and hanging up the call.

This isn’t good.

***

A/N- There are a few choices in here I really struggled to make with my MC, I played it several ways and ended up with this, before Ana really knew what she was getting herself into. I had to rethink who she was at this point in her life with Sam, but please forgive me if you don’t like the choices that I/She made. Muah!

[legionofpotatoes]

alright here’s ma thoughts on that flick I mentioned

we hatewatched a*my of the dead because we were CONVINCED “zombies in las vegas” would be an impossible concept to screw up, but in so assuming we obviously invoked a holy wager with the universe and got reminded, once again, that hoping for improvement from someone who’s dependably put out bad art is never a wise choice 😐

but we were honestly kinda roped in by the marketing??? and expected a goofy fast-paced flick with the odd traditional undead metaphor thrown in, framing some sort of relationship drama maybe or hell even nothing at all! we’d have taken pure indulgent storytelling, idk italian job with zombies in las vegas, I don’t know fucking anything but??? whatever this was???? spoilers below for it is time for One Of My Rants

I mean the main reason I really want to write all this and complain. this film here probably has the most unappealing cinematography I have ever experienced in my life and that is saying something. who the fuck signed off on that CONSTANT shallow-ass depth of field that imprisons your eyeline and turns every shot into bokeh paste???? and I mean every shot almost!!!! I promise if you think I am overreacting just throw a dart at the seek bar and watch twenty seconds from wherever it lands. it is horrifying to look at. at least it gave my girlfriend a good visual shorthand for what it’s like when I lose my glasses

why was sean spicer in this movie. did they pay him to be here. was sean spicer paid hollywood money for his scene in this film because fuck everyone who was involved in that decision

the legitimately baffling hints at the extraterrestrial origins of the infection that went absolutely nowhere and had no dramatic or plot-level bearing. we love to see the franchise sprouts fellas

yet another big budget waste of everything hiroyuki sanada has to offer. and bautista too I guess? I like him but man was this an odd career move

what was the crux of his conflict/resolution with his daughter btw. I understand it was rooted in miscommunication over their forms of grief irt mom but uhh… it was all rather clunky and didn’t land for me. I tried I really tried to buy in but something was wrong fundamentally with the groundwork there, it did not click and their catharsis felt unearned. I know there’s massive amounts of tragic baggage being projected there from the author so I’m not slapping any judgment down really;

but again it would be an easy thing to wave off if they just had a vibrant cast of lovable simpletons with good chemistry and the kinetic sense of plotting the trailers promised (and this premise never discounts good drama, either). but instead it was just two and a half (!) hours of meandering into situations the filmmaking instincts had no idea how to flow in and out of

to wit. I know talking about “bad pacing” is associated with armchair bullshit but consider the example of the scene were dieter does an out of nowhere little dance after childishly screaming but then still-killing a zombie, with the film framing this as a micro character triumph, and not a second later the bg soundtrack instantly fades into an orchestral score dramatizing a nearby mcguffin reveal, completely 180 degreeing the tone without a semblance of deft insert shot stitching or even I dont know a fucking jump cut maybe. now imagine this whiplash for 2.5 hrs uninterrupted

I will keep complaining about the length yeah because this was not a story requiring this much real estate to be told. Uhh in my humble and personal opinion, of course

[man sees zombie tiger] “this is crossing the line!” you can in fact write dialogue that is not utter nonsense that falls apart once you drill down its single fickle layer of referential meta winking. what line are you talking about. you have rules in this insane situation you’re in? total nitpick moment I know but it got burned in my brain for some reason. like a microcosm of the mismanaged dramatic instincts paired with weird writing that dots this movie. I am sure the director calls this either satire or genre deconstruction. I am SO sure

tumblr domino meme that goes from “dude getting sucked off while driving” to “entire las vegas literally nuked”

tig notaro is always great to see but once you know she’s been filmed as a separate greenscreen plate months after photography wrapped - cause she had to apparently replace some abusive asshole but that’s a whole other pig not worth fucking - it becomes impossible to unsee her odd detachment from everyone else in the movie lmao. it doesn’t really “ruin” anything on its lonesome but it is hard to unsee

why. was. sean. spicer. in. this. movie

a very simple key ingredient missing from fully turning lip service sympathy for main uruk hai dude into actual empathy that would generate meaningful conflict with hero family would be to spend a bit more time articulating what he internally wanted the most. because he was obviously trying to do something here with pointed agenda. a family, to have kids, build a caste system, save his wife’s head, return to his planet??? all of these could represent the bigger context in his psychology that spurred his vengeance but none of them are dramatically emphasized long enough for you to cheer him on. I’m not asking too much I promise. Articulating interiority of a mute character is pretty doable with deft cinema language, just gotta linger and hold a shot here and there for a few seconds, frame as his POV, donezo. I know this is also one of those like. “who cares” moments but the movie does, very evidently so, in making this guy an actual character. you can kinda piece it together and create a framework of sympathy for him, sure, but then again he ultimately becomes a foil to be killed and not defeated, so. Ehh whatever

quarantine zone stuff was not a wildly childish covid allegory quarantine zone stuff was not a wildly childish covid allegory quarantine zone stuff was n

the rooftop helicopter fakout at the end was such an ass-backwards, manufactured moment of what could be a simple setup/payoff it just pissed me off??? you gain nothing by giving sad dad five seconds of pointless crisis that flips right back to previous status quo ANYWAY, except for a weaksauce waste of runtime, which could be used instead to get inside notaro’s head and actually SHOW the remorse form as she took off, literally maybe even a frown playing on her face as she’s headed for safety right before we cut back to drax and the kid. just a simple-ass, minimal, momentary setup for what is the most basic filmmaking trick of creating macro catharsis moments. Just???? g o d if you can’t even land that shit why are you even doing any of this

that lil run final pam did was very very charming and super choreographed in a way that was the tiiiniest bit overdone

the whole intro with the simul-backstories and posing with family photos was just… oddly motivated. what was the goal? “here’s what we’re fighting for” vignettes? why? it’s not a functional setup in that vein. what was all that

also I am sorry if this is insensitive but the reasons most characters end up articulating to justify going back into the hell that destroyed their lives makes them sound seriously insane

I dont like complaining about CGI (honestly) but so much of it in modern movies can achieve higher fidelity if the animation is simply subdued. Do not overengineer and over-apply 2D cell methodologies and kinematics to each tiny twitch and movement in a hyper 3D model and I promise you. it will look a thousand times more natural. look at thanos in those last two movies. your rendering and detail are absolutely perfect with the tiger you just have to let stuff sit instead of constantly simulating swaying hair strands and firing off all facial muscles at once. great moment at one point where makeup zombie horse and CG zombie tiger are both in one shot together and just by unnecessary amounts of movement alone you can tell who doesn’t belong. again; detail, rendering, compositing, lighting, all picture-perfect; but y’all just gotta let the animation breathe sometimes, and chill it out

plot holes don’t really matter to me but it was kinda funny how lilly decided not to mention the enormous wrinkle in intel pertaining to an actual territorial tribe of intelligent zombies that require human offerings to let you pass, just so that reveal could play out in real time through the joyous punishment of the cartoonishly misogynistic dude

total chad move for mister uruk hai and final pam to rule from a rusted swimming pool complex

the ending with vanderohe oh my god. with the. cash stacks at the airport register. and specifically them working in his favor. that is literally something you do to get arrested under suspicion of theft. it was almost played for laughs and I respect that. coulda been goofier. make these movies goofy ya dorks

anyway, weird, weird movie. bad marketing. message unclear (something something sins of the father???), baffling editing instincts, literal worst-looking cinematography I ever laid eyes upon. Confidently dying on that last hill