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kylesvariouslistsandstuff · 1 year

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Making Peace With It

There's plenty of discourse, as per usual, going around about the latest film from THE Walt Disney Animation Studios...

A lot of the more deriding comments remark that the film in question, Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn's WISH, is just the same movie as TANGLED/FROZEN/MOANA but with a cheap 2D filter. I'm sure that it's not a filter nor is it cheap, and while it doesn't seem to be doing what experiments like PAPERMAN and FEAST did a decade earlier, there's still plenty of hard work on the screen and I think the visuals look very, very nice.

I've noticed, amidst a lot of the discourse, that some people just want WDAS to make a new hand-drawn animated film instead of what they consider an "imitation". A 2D film, not a film that's made up of 3D models but looks like a painting or illustration, but an actual 2D film with some CGI stuff... Something that looks like TARZAN, not PAPERMAN.

But, I don't see a 2D film happening there anytime soon. I know legendary animator Eric Goldberg said something about a particular 2D project being in the works about a year ago, but that to me meant a new short or maybe a Disney+ series/special... Not a full-blown feature length film. Disney removed what remained of their 2D animation unit in early 2013, pink-slipping several of their best 2D animators. All the assets and desks, gone. Goldberg, Mark Henn, and Randy Haycock stuck around, their work usually amounting to small stuff like Maui's mini-Maui tattoo in MOANA, 2D pencil tests, and the opening theme to STRANGE WORLD.

The attempt to make hand-drawn features a thing at the studio again amounted to disappointment. I love THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG and WINNIE THE POOH, but the former did so-so at best at the box office, the other was sabotaged... But also, this may sound a bit harsh, but I feel that Disney made a big mistake in having those two stories be their comeback 2D features... An old-school-style fairy tale movie that looked like it could've been made in the early '90s or even before that... and a very '60s-looking Winnie the Pooh movie that only ran an hour long and had very muted stakes... Not necessarily the most thrilling-looking things to audiences in the era of UP, HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON, TOY STORY 3, TANGLED, and KUNG FU PANDA 2, for sure. Like, even much-maligned movies like CARS 2 and THE SMURFS did way better than both of those movies.

So that didn't happen. Disney's future was CGI once more, because capitalism had once ruled - in the early 2000s - that hand-drawn animated features just weren't worth making in America... Unless they were based on hit TV shows, like SPONGEBOB. And it seemed that the ho-hum box office of PRINCESS AND THE FROG, and WINNIE THE POOH's lightning-fast in-and-out run, further "proved" that. When PAPERMAN debuted before WRECK-IT RALPH in fall 2012, it gave us something of a glimmer of hope... That 2D *could* live on as a part of CGI. The three-dimensional qualities made less complicated in CGI, but with hand-drawn's special sauce, so to speak... But it didn't amount to much, either.

But no, the reality is, you have to look elsewhere for 2D animated features... Anime, non-American features, films like KLAUS, etc. That's where it's all thriving, in alternative avenues. It's not happening at the big studios, including Disney Animation themselves.

However, here's the thing about the whole "bring back 2D already!" and "WISH isn't like PAPERMAN so it's a failure" discourse...

I feel that we are lucky that Walt Disney Animation Studios even exists.

Do you know when they were last on the chopping block? As in, facing a complete and total shut down?

2006...

Not that long ago...

Disney Animation had no new movie released in that calendar year, their latest movie at the time was their first in-house all-CGI affair, CHICKEN LITTLE. That movie did okay at the domestic box office, but what it coughed up overall worldwide wasn't all that great against its bloated budget.

Michael Eisner had stepped down as CEO of The Walt Disney Company in September 2005, after a very turbulent and controversial final set of years running the joint. Bob Iger, his deputy, had taken his place and after seeing firsthand what was going wrong, he sought to fix some of the major problems... Namely, the severing relationship between the DizCo (to borrow an abbreviation from Steve Hulett) and Pixar. Pixar's contract was over after the completion of CARS, released in 2006, and they weren't keen on renegotiating because of how Eisner was running things. Iger repaired the broken bridge, and DizCo bought Pixar in early 2006 for a whopping $7.4b.

And with that move, change came to Walt Disney Feature Animation, which would be renamed to Walt Disney Animation Studios...

But the road to the studio's future was rocky. Steve Jobs, who of course was one of Pixar's founding fathers and former owner, had actually proposed the idea of **shutting down Walt Disney Feature Animation**! His reasoning? Basically, "Well who needs them when you got Pixar?" John Lasseter vetoed this, and he and Ed Catmull were named the new heads of Disney Animation, tasked with helping restore the studio's box office fortunes.

If Jobs had had his way, Walt Disney Animation Studios' whole "canon" of animated features would've possibly ended with... CHICKEN LITTLE... Ending a decades-long legacy that began with the very, the one and only SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS!

Upon "reviving" Disney Animation, the initial plan was to have a new hand-drawn feature every two years. THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG would've gotten that whole ball rolling, but it didn't... In fact, the Lasseter-era CG pictures got off to a rocky start as well. MEET THE ROBINSONS was largely dumped and it failed to recoup its budget, BOLT did so-so. TANGLED would be the first big hit of that then-new line-up of CG Disney movies, and then WRECK-IT RALPH and FROZEN continued it. It was a straight, uninterrupted hit streak from there until COVID-19 broke out in March 2020. None of the movies really deviated from the assets and style and tricks used in BOLT, TANGLED, and FROZEN. Even a sci-fi techy movie like BIG HERO 6 still felt like it could be set in the same universe as those other fantasy movies, albeit set far into the future.

That continues today in movies like RAYA AND THE LAST DRAGON, ENCANTO, and STRANGE WORLD. WISH is that same look, too, but rendered and executed differently. Whatever the 2024-release feature film is, probably the same deal.

Other studios, even Pixar, have been varying it up. Disney Animation, the oldest of these big studios, is staying the course...

I sometimes grouse about it, I sometimes say "C'mon Disney, vary it up a bit!"

But the other part of me is saying... We're lucky they're even still around.

Walt Disney Animation Studios is literally the bedrock of the entire company. No Disney cartoon studio, no Disney company, plain and simple. Walt Disney didn't get into doing live-action movies until the 1940s, TV in the early 1950s, and themes parks in the mid-1950s... and a lot of that took off because of the strong image he and his crew had built with all the Alice Comedies, the Mickey Mouse and friends cartoons, the Silly Symphonies, and the beloved animated features.

It seems shocking and almost sacrilegious that Steve Jobs himself took a look at that studio, after 68 years of making animated features and had just released feature #46... and thought "Ehh, shut them down." In the brutal world of capitalism, sadly, WDAS at the time looked like an old and injured horse that needed to be put out of its misery. Whatever we might think of those divisive early 2000s features sans THE EMPEROR'S NEW GROOVE and LILO & STITCH, they were - at the time of their release - not critical darlings nor box office giants. Certainly not enjoying what Pixar's movies were rewarded at the time. MONSTERS, INC., FINDING NEMO, and THE INCREDIBLES were critical darlings and box office titans, LILO & STITCH got great reviews but only coughed up around $273m worldwide. That was around as much as what MONSTERS, INC. and THE INCREDIBLES made *domestically*. CHICKEN LITTLE outgrossed LILO & STITCH at the worldwide box office, if you can begin to wrap your head around that!

2D got the boot over these box office failures and many other reasons, but the studio was also on thin ice...

But you would think, they're safe again! More than safe! TANGLED was a hit, WRECK-IT RALPH was a hit, FROZEN made gazillions of dollars, and so on and so forth... But I get the sense that Walt Disney Animation Studios is only kept around for... Legacy reasons. Because it is *the* studio, again, the bedrock of the whole company. It's kept alive simply because of that. And what's better than having two animation studios making big hits year after year? And movies that are 95% of the time guaranteed Oscar locks?

Consider how long *other* animation studios and projects lasted at Disney...

Blue Sky Studios, which they got as part of the package when they purchased 21st Century Fox film/TV assets from the Murdochs? They shuttered it after SPIES IN DISGUISE, *one* single movie, lost money at the box office. That was the *only* Blue Sky movie that Disney distributed. Then they proceeded to pull the plug on NIMONA, which was roughly 3/4 done! Though luckily, instead of yeeting it into a black hole as a "tax write-off" or locking it away so that no one else could score a success with it, they surprisingly offloaded the picture to someone else. And that someone else, Annapurna and Netflix, have finished it and it's coming out this summer... The one that got away. I'd have a good chuckle if NIMONA, in addition to be a great beloved movie, beats both of Disney's animated offerings at the Oscars. Would be poetic justice, in a way.

There was also Disneytoon Studios, the makers of all those direct-to-video films from the '90s to the mid-aughts. LION KING II, LADY AND THE TRAMP II, BAMBI 2, ya know? It was kept alive after John Lasseter purged all of the direct-to-video sequel projects that they had in the works (such as DUMBO II, THE ARISTOCATS 2, and a prequel film about the Seven Dwarfs), and it was rebranded as an outlet for CGI Tinker Bell movies (I guess Disney really wanted to compete with Barbie Fairytopia at the time?) and spin-offs of Pixar's CARS franchise. Fascinatingly, PLANES and PLANES 2 would've lead to a movie about subway trains, and also a spacecraft movie. Said spacecraft movie was aiming for a spring 2019 release, with footage shown off at the 2017 D23 Expo... After Lasseter's ouster from The Walt Disney Company in mid-2018 following misconduct allegations, out went Disneytoon Studios. It wasn't rerouted to make a different kind of movie following Lasseter's ouster, it was just gone. Just like that. It was as if Lasseter had kept that small studio on life support.

Those are the most recent examples I can think of.

We can also stretch back to the '90s, when Disney's goldmine that was WHO FRAMED ROGER RABBIT, didn't get beyond a handful of short films and some theme park stuff. A ROGER RABBIT sequel or prequel was a NO-FREAKIN'-BRAINER, but due to various complications, it stalled and stalled and stalled... and didn't happen.

Speaking of Roger Rabbit... Robert Zemeckis, director of that film. Remember how his company, ImageMovers Digital, formed a brief partnership with Disney to create motion-capture movies? It only resulted in 2009's A CHRISTMAS CAROL and the massive flop MARS NEEDS MOMS. They got pretty far long with a gnarly-looking remake of YELLOW SUBMARINE, but that was canned when the partnership ended.

Or how about their partnership with Skellington Productions? THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS was a respectable success in 1993 that became a cult favorite thereafter, but JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH - despite being directed by Henry Selick and produced by Tim Burton - failed to recreate that success some three years later. Doors shut on that whole collaboration, a feature film adaptation of TOOTS AND THE UPSIDE-DOWN HOUSE canceled, Skellington was no more a little after that.

Heck, Pixar themselves could've been toast if TOY STORY didn't do well. Or A BUG'S LIFE. Or even MONSTERS, INC. and FINDING NEMO. And weird contractual agita prevented them from making sequels, save for TOY STORY 2. If one of those originals had flopped in the early 2000s, they wouldn't have had a TOY STORY 3 or an A BUG'S LIFE 2 to back them up.

Anyways, yeah, Walt Disney Animation Studios themselves were almost on the chopping block as late as 2006... And they were on the chopping before that, too. There were eras where each movie of theirs needed to do well in order to justify their existence. If anything, that's been almost their entire existence. SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS was a box office phenomenon in 1938, but World War II completely took the wind out of the studio's sails, partially causing PINOCCHIO, FANTASIA, and BAMBI to flop. The studio spent almost the whole decade making anthology movies made up of smaller, disconnected segments until returning to single-story features in 1950 with CINDERELLA... Then when SLEEPING BEAUTY bombed hard in 1959, the studio was on thin ice once more. Roy O. Disney and the business side of the company saw no future for animated features and felt "Why not just continue to re-release the 10+ movies that we've already made?" Walt still kept animated features going, but the studio was significantly scaled down.

So throughout the 1960s and 1970s, each new movie had to be a profitable success, or else they would've been shut down. 101 DALMATIANS was a blockbuster, as was THE JUNGLE BOOK. THE SWORD IN THE STONE did alright, THE ARISTOCATS, ROBIN HOOD, and THE RESCUERS made decent coin in North America, and did significantly better in Europe. I swear, France and West Germany literally carried Disney's feature animation wing on their backs during those decades!

And then when outsiders came in and took over the Disney enterprise in the mid-1980s, and THE BLACK CAULDRON was released to middling reviews and weak box office? The reasoning was "Why are we still making these?" New CEO Michael Eisner and new chairman Jeffrey Katzenberg seemed more interested in the adult-oriented Touchstone division that Walt's son-in-law Ron Miller founded in 1984 before his ouster. That, and the then-newly opened Walt Disney Television Animation. Imagine that! THE BLACK CAULDRON being Disney's final animated film, and their future only being in Saturday morning cartoons and adult live-action comedies. Luckily, Roy E. Disney - Walt's nephew - also happened to be there, and he knew the cornerstone of the company was the animated features, *not* this new Touchstone thing that was founded by a family member he didn't see eye to eye with. It took some time, but animated features proved themselves viable again... Funny how it took *one* movie to almost put an end to that! It's not like THE BLACK CAULDRON came off of a long series of floppy movies, it was the studio's first money-loser in decades...

So yes, I feel we're in this prolonged period of Walt Disney Animation Studios merely existing. Now that they're 100 years old and have produced - to the company's estimation - 61 animated movies, soon to be 62 with WISH, they're just... There. Still making movies, but likely not moving the needle. They're pretty much a legacy brand now, and I guess they'd change course if people stop showing up to their movies. STRANGE WORLD was a massive flop, yes, but that had more to do with other things than it being yet another CGI WDAS movie. ENCANTO exploded on Disney+, and RAYA was successful as a streaming title as well. WISH would have to bomb, and their next five or so features, to make a big reinvention happen... Or, they would be shut down. "You had a good run!"

Believe me, I'd love to see Disney Animation shake things up a bit. I'd love to see them try all-new styles and stories in CGI once more, like they did with many of their short films. I'd love to see a feature that looks *nothing* like TANGLED, FROZEN, MOANA, and STRANGE WORLD. And directed by someone who isn't Chris Buck, Don Hall, or Byron Howard. A complete and total outside voice, with a new spin on the Disney animated feature. The way someone like Mark Dindal did with THE EMPEROR'S NEW GROOVE, or Chris Sanders and Dean DeBlois with LILO & STITCH. Films that were classically Disney in a unique way, but totally did their own thing and redefined what a Disney animated movie could be! Of the CG pictures, I felt the same about Rich Moore's WRECK-IT RALPH, which feels like the freshest picture of that era to me. ZOOTOPIA, also directed by Moore, a runner-up candidate.

(I know that there have been other directors on some of the recent films, but the main directors are the ones that have been there for quite some time and have been directing all the movies. I see more of a Hall picture in RAYA AND THE LAST DRAGON than I do a Carlos Lopez Estrada picture.)

I have no idea what the future of Disney Animation looks like. Jennifer Lee has been CCO of the studio since Lasseter's 2018 ouster, and all of the movies she's overseen so far are Lasseter-era greenlights. Movies that were likely locked down and determined a while ago, plus she spent a good chunk of her first year and a half balancing her CCO duties with writing/directing FROZEN II.

WISH might be the first greenlight under her watch, and it appears that she was one of the writers on it, too. After all, she did direct FROZEN and FROZEN II with Chris Buck, in addition to writing them. Other than WISH, the only things that seemed to get greenlit after her promotion were a handful of Disney+ shows, only a single one is an original - IWAJU. A collaboration with a Nigerian upstart studio. The few images they released last autumn, it just looks like a generic Disney Junior show to my eyes. The show itself may be pretty good, but I'm thinking... This is all they've got? They're very mum about what they have coming out, we don't even know what Feature #63 is. We know ZOOTOPIA 2 and FROZEN III are in the works, but not what the next original movie after WISH is. Pixar next door, we know what original movie they have coming out in 2024, but WDAS? No dice. Heck, we didn't even know a thing about WISH until this past year, when it was officially unveiled at the D23 Expo. A little over a year before its release.

So, I don't think we truly have an idea of what's next anyways, other than WISH and IWAJU. And maybe they do just stay the course for the rest of the decade.

I try not to complain or grouse, there are things I "wish" (hah!) they would do... But, I've just got to accept that this is the status. They're alive and running and making movies and keeping people employed, and they may have been morphed into a mere legacy studio at this point. Another brand. Like Marvel and Lucasfilm. Marvel is comic book superhero movies, Lucasfilm is just Star Wars and Indiana Jones, and... Disney Animation? "We make Disney movies, just the way you like 'em." WISH sounds a lot like that, honestly: A fantasy musical adventure with a princess and a funny animal sidekick in it.

Maybe I'm wrong, but we shall see... For now, I'll take what I can get. I've generally liked all the post-Lasseter movies anyways, some more so than others (particularly RAYA and ENCANTO over RALPH BREAKS, FROZEN II, and STRANGE WORLD), would love to see them push the envelope again, but hey- What can ya do?

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passerkirbius · 1 year

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Hey, I have a question wrt the general podcast community but I list admit I started thinking about it bc of the article about RQ. What's it like to unionise in the audio community? Ik have a niece who works as a stage/prop master and in the theater world there is a heavy union tradition, and some of the situations raised in the article feel like the exact spaces you'd pull in a union. It's also something that strengthens workers' positions in general, could prevent future predatory contracts, and it's a call to action that I honestly kind of missed in the article - but then again I have no idea how the landscape is in that community! Would love to hear if you have any experience with unions or unionised workplaces in your podcast jobs!

So... Unionisation is not (yet!) quite a thing in podcasting circles. I mean, it kinda is, but until recently the various associated unions haven't really done much work to engage with the podcasting sphere. The radio industry has a history with unionisation, and voiceover work has also typically been covered by the various acting unions, but my experience of emailing the union (The MEAA in Australia, BTW - they're the consolidated union for all film, television and radio workers in Australia) asking if they have podcasting award rates has generally just been for them to send me the commercial VO rate card. Which, ya know, nice to have, but not useful for other rates I might want to know about.

And in many ways this isn't too surprising, because podcasting traditionally has either functioned under radio station management, that typically already has a union covering it, or you (the talent) are also the management - because you're running your podcast on your own. Full fiction podcast production house companies like Rusty Quill are actually quite new in the scheme of things - we've always had "production houses", but those are generally more like brand names, allowing a production team to put a catchy name to the work they produce (and, perhaps, set up a company shell so they can deal with finances). Fiction Podcasting, as I have alluded to many times, is much less a space filled with professionals getting paid, and more a space of amateur creatives caught in the desperate act of trying to create with limited-to-no resources, so the lack of money going around has mostly been due to an actual lack of money, rather than a concerted effort to not pay cast and crew.

(In fact, I am very tempted to make a post specifically about how to ethically work with collaborators in such an environment, so keep an eye out for that in the next week!)

With that said, that's been changing in the last while, as Big Film Money has started to notice Fiction Podcasting as a relatively cheap way of testing potential stories (and production teams) before picking up the IP for television or film. Unsurprisingly, this has resulted in a lot of television and film writers and the like being paid a lot less than they would like (that's why it's relatively cheap!), and earlier this year the WGA in the US have been turning their attention to Fiction Podcasting, developing rate cards for writing, and from what I understand, entertainment unions around the world have been watching with interest and hoping to use their work once the industry becomes relevant in their area. This doesn't, of course, necessarily help other crew, like sound engineers and sound designers - in the US, theoretically the IATSE is their representative union, but it seems that their focus is (surprise surprise!) much more on theatre, film and live music rather than studio work. The recent trend in the US towards unionisation (that I wholeheartedly applaud) has meant that a number of non-fic podcast companies have seen unionisation pushes (like the iHeart Podcast Union), and it may well be that once enough unions start to pop up, that they'll start merging and forming larger union groups that can start to organise the space more effectively.

So, in short, podcasting has been such a small area of the general audio industry, has been so new, and has generally not been a place where people have worked in a company context, so the union structures that exist have sorta let the whole thing fall through the cracks. As the industry is growing, Unions have started to take notice, but I suspect that it will be quite some time more before all the components of the podcast industry have representative bodies that are paying direct attention to them.

#industry explainer #podcasting #fiction podcasting #unions #worker rights #support your union #your boss certainly doesn't support you

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kwalityoffsetprinters · 1 year

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Advantages & Benefits of Modern Digital Printing over Traditional Printing

With increasing digitization, there has been a surge in demand for digital printing rather than traditional printing. While there are several advantages of digital printing over traditional printing, we have discussed some advantages that explain why more and more organizations and professionals are opting for modern digital printing.

Advantages of Digital Printing

Amazing Quality

Registration: Digital print has perfect color registration. This is the only method of printing that can achieve this.

100% consistency: When your orders run every time after the initial, the output will match the original.

There are no sharp lines like in traditional flexographic printing.

Trapping Traditional printing requires that colors be trapped together to hide normal color registration movement. This results in lines where colors overlap. Digital requires zero trapping. This allows you to create a more attractive label.

The output of printed graphics is unmatched as long as the artwork is high-resolution and properly prepared.

Lower costs for low volumes than traditional printing

No need for printing plates. This saves money on prepress costs. You can often get your entire digital order for less than what you paid for plates and films for traditional printing.

Machine setup takes much less. Low volumes of traditional presses would require more time to set up than print. It takes hours to set up and only minutes to print. You can cut down on the machine setup and save many custom label costs.

No Color Change-Overs and Plates It can be quite a hassle to shut down a traditional press to change a plate or color. You can either add the downtime to your label cost or charge it separately. It can quickly add up if you have many items. Digital printing charges a minimal item change-over fee. This is a fraction of what you would pay for a traditional press change.

Press proofs for digital printing cost only a fraction of traditional presses. A press proof can be printed at a fraction of the cost of setting up a large press. There are no plates or prepress.

Variable Data Flexibility or Multiple Versions

Digital printing can be converted to a new label in minutes if the dies and material sizes remain the same. This is significantly faster than traditional presses. You get to keep your time and money. You save more money by not wasting material on a changeover.

Variable data capabilities are amazing on digital presses. Let’s suppose that each digital item needs a unique number. It’s not a problem. Digital presses can read data from a database and print it on beautiful graphics labels.

The press will continue to run as long as it has variable information pulled from a database. The machine will stop if it switches to a different label or tag version. This allows items of any volume to remain separate on the floor. We wouldn’t want your vitamin C or vitamin D labels mixed up.

Short Lead Times

Digital orders can be delivered faster thanks to the elimination of printing plates and reduced setup time.

Design and Revision of Artwork

Digital is great for testing market applications. Digital printing is great for smaller quantities. It is the best option if you are looking to make prototypes or test small market quantities. This makes your Marketing Department happy, and your Accounting Department happy.

Benefits of digital printing

Multifunctional Many improvements have been made to digital printers through innovations in printer technology. Multifunctionality is one of their most popular features. You can order customized envelopes, letterheads, and business cards all from the same device. These are like a full-service printing shop in a small box.

Faster turnaround Although it is possible to print large quantities of business cards, thank-you notes, and invitations quickly using an offset printing press,it can take a while to set up. However, digital printers can produce shorter-run jobs faster than offset. Digital printers can produce short-run jobs in full colour or black and white much faster than offset.

Increased Throughput Offset printing presses use printing plates with wet ink. This means that printed collateral must dry before any finishing can be done. Digital printers produce dry stock that can be folded, stapled, or inserted into envelopes as soon as they arrive from the printer. This allows for faster throughput.

A wide range of stock options Digital printers of high quality operate at higher temperatures, which allows for better toner adhesion and print compatibility with a wider range of stocks. You can choose from plain, coated, or uncoated paper, magnetic, metallic, or plastic materials, wood veneers and heat transfers, as well as translucent stocks.

#Best Labeling company #traditional printing #digital printing #Labeling company in delhi #Labeling and Printing company in delhi #Offset printers in delhi #Offset printers near me

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christinahobbsofc · 2 years

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Best Crops For Hydroponics Most Recommended Plants

Best Crops For Hydroponics Most Recommended Plants Best Crops For Hydroponics. Congratulations! Now that you've built your first hydroponic system, you can begin growing! What should I grow in my hydroponic garden, though, is the big question at hand. You probably have grand aspirations of feeding your family from your abundant setup at each meal. That is possible, but we suggest that you start out slowly. If you attempt everything at once and encounter difficulties, you might become frustrated and abandon the entire project. Running through a few test crops is crucial because you definitely don't want that to occur. Your hydroponic garden can be expanded and varied once you have a handle on the system. image of Best Crops For Hydroponics Most Recommended Plants for New Hydroponic Gardens The following are the top five plants for hydroponic systems: - Lettuce - Spinach - Strawberries - Peppers, bell - Herbs These plants respond to hydroponics like a duck to water, according to growers. They have great qualities that give a novice grower some leeway, including durability, quick growth, and low startup costs. Let's now examine best crops for hydroponics of these in more detail: Using hydroponic lettuce Your first plant to try with a hydroponic system should be lettuce (and the majority of other leafy greens). These plants have short above-ground heights and shallow root systems. Therefore, there is no need to tie stakes to the ground or install plant guides. Simply allow them to grow while frequently changing their nutrient solution is the better option. They'll eventually appear appetizing enough to eat, and then you can! - 30 days or so for growth - pH 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal. - Stagger your plantings to ensure a steady supply of lettuce for your lunchtime salads! - Romaine, Boston, Iceberg, Buttercrunch, and Bibb are available as options. Using hydroponic spinach In a hydroponic system, spinach grows quickly, especially when the Nutrient Film Technique or other techniques are used to maintain a high oxygen content in the nutrient solution. In comparison to an underground garden, you'll also use a lot less water. These plants are simple to grow from seed, and you can introduce them to your system a week after they sprout. - 40 days or so for growth - pH 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal. - Keep your growing temperatures between 65 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit for spinach that is sweeter. Lower temperatures could, however, shorten the growing season. - Savoy, Bloomsdale, Smooth Leafed, Regiment, Catalina, Tyee, and Red Cardinal are some of the variety options. Hydroponically grown strawberries The fact that strawberries are a seasonal food is their worst drawback. If you rely on trucked-in berries, they start to degrade as soon as they are picked if you don't get them when the crop is ready locally. All year long, strawberries that are ready to eat can be grown using hydroponics. It's very convenient to harvest because you don't have to bend over. Deep water culture or the nutrient film technique can work for a small crop of strawberries, though an ebb and flow system seems to work best for them. - 60 days or so for growth - Best pH range: 5.5 to 6.2 - Don't buy strawberry seeds because they won't produce berries for several years. Instead, you should purchase runners that have already reached that stage and are cold-stored. - Brighton, Chandler, Douglass, Red Gauntlet, and Tioga are among the options. Peppers grown hydroponically A slightly more sophisticated hydroponic plant is the bell pepper. Instead of letting them reach their full height, pinch and prune the plants when they are about 8 inches tall to encourage pepper growth. For peppers, deep water culture or ebb and flow systems work best. - Grow time: approximately 90 days - pH 6.0 to 6.5 is ideal. - Plan to give these plants up to 18 hours of light per day, raise your light rack as the plants grow, and maintain a distance of 6 inches between the plants and the lights. - Ace, California Wonder, Vidi, and Yolo Wonder are some options for variety. Hydroponic herb growing Herbs come in a huge variety and are excellent for hydroponic gardening. According to studies, herbs grown hydroponically have a stronger flavor and aroma than those grown in the field. Which herb would you like to grow? Great choices include basil, chives, cilantro, dill, mint, oregano, parsley, rosemary, thyme, and watercress. Another excellent way to test your new hydroponic system is by producing some herbs, and almost every system style is suitable for this as you get the hang of it! - Growth Period: Varying by Plant - Best pH: Depends on the plant - To get rid of any extra nutrients that your plants haven't (or won't) absorb, flush your growing medium about once a week. - Choose from a variety of options, and you'll find instructions for growing it! FAQ Best Crops For Hydroponics How often should I water my hydroponic drip system? Drip-feeding with different media types In free-draining substrates, such as clay pebbles or rock wool cubes, irrigation frequencies can be as often as every hour or two when plants are feeding heavily. And in larger pots using substrates such as coco and soil, they often only require water once or twice a day. How do you set up a hydroponic drip system? What are the pros and cons of drip irrigation? Drip irrigation Pros Cons Saves water by minimizing evaporation Method cannot be used with high iron content water because emitters become clogged Nutrient losses from leaching is reduced Maintenance is required to keep system going No land grading required Chewing on tubing from insects and rodents can cause water leaks What water is best for hydroponics? Distilled water is the most preferred type of water for hydroponic systems due to its lack of harmful contaminants. Once diluted with tap water, it is the best option. Alternatively, tap water that has undergone reverse osmosis filtration is another great choice. How long should drippers run? How long to water Emitter type Length of each watering High-flow emitter (Up to 20 gph) 12 minutes Low-flow emitter (Up to 4 gph) 30 minutes Low-flow emitter (Up to 2 gph) 60 minutes Low-flow emitter (Up to 1 gph) 90 minutes How long can hydroponic roots be out of water? In general, most hydroponic plants can survive for as much as two to three weeks without water. However, many species are more delicate and may die in as little as three or four days, without water. Do you need a pump for drip irrigation? Unless you are using hundreds of emitters at once, it is not recommended to use a pump to provide water to drip emitters. Instead, we recommend using zero-pressure emitters, such as Flag Emitters, where the pressure created by gravity on an above ground tank is sufficient to provide water to the emitters. How many GPH do you need for hydroponics? Basically, you need to pump 25 gallons per hour if you're running a two hour cycle. This is a good rule of thumb to use to get a baseline for how many GPH you need in a hydroponic pump. However, depending on the size and type of your system, as well as your plants and ambient conditions, that number will vary. Is aeroponics better than hydroponics? Deciding whether to choose an aeroponic aeroponic Aeroponics is the process of growing plants in an air or mist environment without the use of soil or an aggregate medium. The word "aeroponic" is derived from the Greek meanings of aer ("air") and ponos ("labour"). It is a type of hydroponics, since water is used in aeroponics to transmit nutrients. What is the downside of using drip irrigation? Disadvantages of the drip irrigation system are given below: High initial investment requirements. Regular capital requirement for replacement of drip irrigation equipment. Drip irrigation emitters are vulnerable to clogging and dysfunction. What are the problems of drip irrigation? One of the main problems with drip irrigation is blockage of the emitters. All emitters have very small waterways ranging from 0.2-2.0 mm in diameter and these can become blocked if the water is not clean. Thus it is essential for irrigation water to be free of sediments. Which irrigation method is the most efficient? Drip irrigation is the most water-efficient way to irrigate many different plantings. It is an ideal way to water in clay soils because the water is applied slowly, allowing the soil to absorb the water and avoid runoff. Is tap water OK for hydroponics? To answer the question – can you use tap water for hydroponics? The answer is yes. Know the water in your area. Know the chlorine, chloramines, and PPM level of your water and treat it properly before starting. Is rainwater OK for hydroponics? But can you use rainwater for hydroponics? It is safe to use water collected from rain barrels in your hydroponic system. Unlike tap water, rainwater does not contain added chlorine or chloramines. In addition, rainwater does not contain as many dissolved minerals as tap water. Do plants grow better with tap water or distilled water? distilled water In side-by-side comparisons, plants watered using distilled water tend to grow faster and stronger than those watered with tap water. We find it the “Best Water for Indoor Plants”. Plants watered with distilled pure water usually produce more leaves and grow more vigorously. Read the full article

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sweetsmellosuccess · 3 years

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Film Review: Together

Dir. Stephen Daldry

Many couples faced the 2020 lockdown together with an unearned sense of optimism about their relationship that got severely challenged as the weeks wore on into months, and whatever small frayings at the fringes of their coupling got yanked into full-blown rending. It was, cruelly, perhaps the truest test of how strong your emotional foundation truly was. You got to see first-hand how things went when the regular day-to-day schedule of work and errands got mostly eliminated, removing the demarcation line between your time/space and your partner’s.

For the protagonists in Stephen Daldry’s nearly up-to-the-minute relationship dramedy, known only as “He” (James McAvoy), and “She” (Sharon Horgan), however, there is no such hopefulness at the outset of the lockdown: “I hate your face,” he tells her — and us — flatly, right after explaining how the best part of his day, pre-lockdown, was saying goodbye to her in the morning. She rejoins with an equally withering depiction of him, explaining how she sometimes wakes up in the night in a “cold sweat,” realizing “I actually used to love him.”

The couple relay their unsparing sentiments towards one another in conspiratol glee, staring right at the camera, in direct address (it’s not so much a breaking of the fourth wall, since no such barrier was ever constructed — they address us and each other in this manner from the get-go), as if speaking to an unfortunate dinner guest caught at the table at the wrong time and place.

Their hatred of one another remaining held in comic equilibrium — they had planned on breaking up, separately, until they went away for a weekend of mushroom picking, and he got deathly ill after eating a poison fungus, and they decided to give it another go, only this time while having a child, Arthur (Samuel Logan), a “curious” and “peculiar” young lad, who mostly steers clear of his heavily emoting parents — the pair begin the lockdown in March of 2020, only worrying that her elderly mother gets well cared for in their absence.

The film moves on from day one, at first in monthly increments, while keeping a running tally of the number of UK COVID deaths (beginning in March at around 400; and ending a year later with the death toll at over 126k), loosely following he and she as they are helpless to save her mother from a lonely and miserable COVID-contracted death at an overrun hospital, and her resultant anger and bitterness against a national health service that seems as hapless and short-sighted as our own.

We then jump months ahead to December of 2020, as the couple are more or less happily trimming their Christmas tree, and teasingly talking about a resurgence of passion that took both of them quite unexpectedly in recent weeks; before going further on into 2021, after he has politically swiveled fairly dramatically from bootstrap-capitalist (before lockdown, he owned a boutique data analytics consulting firm that goes belly-up in the course of the year), to sympathetic humanist; and she, from gritty charity-worker, to outspoken government critic.

Shot over just ten days during the lockdown, at first blush, you might conjure a comparison between this film and Sam Levinson’s heavily criticized Malcolm & Marie, also a film about a couple stuck together in close confines, but this screenplay, by Dennis Kelly, is much sharper, its focus beyond the couple’s relationship politics — no matter how … complex … they seem to be — to something very basic about human connection and infernal difficulties of cohabitation in the first place. The writing is sharp and incisive, and often brutally funny (“Watching you eat,” she tells him in one early particularly wicked diatribe, “makes all the eating processes more apparent. Like mastication, and rending of flesh, grinding of masher, mixing with saliva, and sucking it down to yer big old meat bowl of acid...”), performed superbly, with crackerjack timing by McAvoy and Horgan, who take to their richly resonant lines with the relish of a pair of famished leopards.

As much as the COVID lockdown may have exposed the faulty construction and deep divisions of many relationships, for others, the film suggests, the proximity and churning anxiety can lead to better understanding of each other, if not the rest of the world at large. As humans, we might very well not be kicking around for much longer — in fact, in this country, with its savagely politicized COVID encampments, the end might be sooner than later — but Daldry and Kelly seem to hold out a smidgeon of hope that the coming apocalypses might actually serve to unite humanity in one last ironic swing around the dancefloor, before laying waste to us all.

#sweet smell of success #ssos #piers marchant #films #movies #together #stephen daldry #james macavoy #Sharon Horgan #dennis kelly #couples #relationship #covid #lockdown #romance #england

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hookingminor · 2 years

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"That should be our Christmas card this year." with matty?

2. "That should be our Christmas card this year."

send me requests :)

Deciding to take advantage of the few days Matthew had off for the holidays, you followed him home to spend time with his family in St. Louis. The days were jam-packed with various Tkachuk holiday activities like participating in the annual hockey game (that they now had even numbers with when you were there), classic Christmas movie marathons, gingerbread house contests, and right now, the snowball fight. Almost anything in this family could be easily turned into a competition.

Snow whipped around you in light flurries, adding to the already nearly seven inches piled on the ground. The rules of the competition were pretty ruthless when it came to a family fight, but you’d grown to expect nothing less when it came to the Tkachuks.

Chantal elected to sit this one out, claiming last year’s sprained ankle caused by Matthew as grounds for not participating this year. It was an easy choice after that to target Keith first, and within a few short minutes he was sidelined along with his wife.

That left you on Brady’s team now since everyone argued Matthew couldn’t play favorites by picking you and Taryn was still mad at Brady for the previous day’s hockey game slapshot that ended up bruising her thigh.

You motioned to Brady standing behind a tree about twenty feet away, signalling for him to get in position. Chantal and Keith watched as referees, though most of their time was spent filming the catastrophe in front of them instead of actually helping their children.

The tactic was simple: distract Matthew while Brady went in for the kill. Normally, you would have objected to being used as a pawn, but your desire to beat your boyfriend was greater.

You emerged from behind your own tree, hands held up in surrender as you approached Matthew.

“Oh no, get away from me. I know exactly what this is.” Matthew threatened with a smile, palming two snowballs in his gloved hands.

“I just wanted to take a timeout,” you said innocently. “This game has been going on for too long, I need a break.”

“I’m sure you do,” Matthew said, retreating backwards with every step you moved forward.

“Matty,” you whined, pouting for extra effect.

“Baby,” he mimicked, strategically circling around you with arms at the ready. “I will throw this. Don’t test me.”

“You’d really throw a snowball at my face, Matthew? Really?” You asked, inching closer.

“Yes.” He was such a liar.

The crunching of leaves sounded behind you, and a quick glance of Matthew’s eyes over your shoulder had you whipping your head around to locate the threat. Taryn stood far away, and you spotted a twig a few feet from you, one that she’d probably thrown in an attempt to distract you. And sadly, it worked.

The second you turned your head, Matthew was on the run towards Brady, and you sprinted off to catch him. You got lucky when his boot caught a little deeper than he anticipated, slowing him down just enough for you to jump him.

You launched yourself onto his back, throwing your full weight behind him and tackling him to the snow-padded ground. Matthew fell with a disgruntled ‘oof’ beside you.

“Go, Brady!” You shouted as you rolled to sling a leg over Matthew’s body to immobilize him further as he squirmed on the snow.

“You cheater!” Matthew shouted in protest as Brady ran by you.

Reaching down to haphazardly gather a clump of snow, you pressed the cold ice into Matthew’s face. “Sorry, what was that? I can’t hear you!”

“You’re such a brat.” Matthew flipped your bodies in an instant, placing you beneath him and smothering his snow-covered face into yours.

“Matthew!” You flinched away from the cold.

“Oh no, you made your bed, you can lie in it,” he teased. Reaching for more snow to sprinkle over your face.

“Guys, you can stop!” Brady shouted from yards away. “Taryn got me!”

You shoved Matthew off of you in one last huff, wiping the melting snow from your face. He looked at you with a smug grin that made you want to shove more snow in his face.

“Come on, babe,” Matthew pushed to his feet, extending a hand for you to take. “Let’s go soothe your bruised ego with some tea.” You had no choice but to begrudgingly take his hand, but you silently vowed to get your revenge during the next family competition. Boyfriend be damned.

Within the hour you were showered and snug under a blanket on the couch with Matthew, tea in hands and head against his chest while he scrolled through social media apps on his phone.

A notification alerted at the top of the screen, indicating a new message from his mother.

The thread consisted of ten or so pictures from the snowball fight earlier today, specifically when you tackled Matthew to the ground and smothered him with snow.

“Oh my god,” Matthew groaned. “This is so embarrassing.”

“You have to send those to me,” you pleaded, zooming in on one particularly hilarious picture of Matthew’s face full of snow. “Oh, that should be our Christmas card this year."

“Please no, I look ridiculous.”

“Matty, they’re so cute. We have to.” He met your eyes with an unamused stare.

You didn’t have to beg him more than adding a saccharinely sweet ‘pretty please’ before he was reluctantly agreeing to let you use them for this year’s cards.

Pressing a swift kiss to his cheek, you forwarded the pictures to yourself and spent the rest of the night cropping and editing the photos into a card you’d print later all while Matthew muttered his complaints from your side.

“I’m never going to hear the end of this from the team.”

#matthew tkachuk #matthew tkachuk imagine #nhl imagine #hockey imagine #my writing #blurbs #flames19 #requests

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therenlover · 3 years

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The Boy With The Easel (A Young Artist!Helmut Zemo x Reader Oneshot)

(Hey! If you end up enjoying this fic, it’s the first chronological part of a new fun expanded AU I’ve created with @creme-bruhlee! Their fic Bliss is part of the same timeline and takes place about a year after this one, so you should check it out!!!)

Synopsis: About a month into your first semester at Novi Grad’s top university, you finally meet the strange young man that you’ve taken to calling “easel boy” in the back of a bookshop. From a distance, he always seemed cold and aloof. As you get to know him, though, you realize things aren’t always what they seem.

Tags: Meet Cute, College AU, First Meetings, Coffee Date, Artist!Zemo, Embarrassment, Awkward College Kids Falling In Love

Rating: T

Warnings: Very Vague Mention of Sexual Content, Swearing, Zemo Says The Word Daddy In Reference To His Father and The Reader Thinks It’s Kinda Hot

Word Count: 7000~

This fic has been crossposted to my AO3!

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The University of Novi Grad

Fall 1996

Mornings in Novi Grad could be beautiful if you knew what to look for.

Sokovia was… different from America in many ways. From the language to the scenery, you often found yourself adrift in the strangeness of it all. There had been nothing quite as old as the buildings in the historical district of Novi Grad back home, no towering grey behemoths serving as a reminder of a bygone fight against Soviet invasion in the memories of your childhood. Still, though, there was beauty in the strangeness nonetheless.

From your tiny room in the Helena Lyudmila International Scholar’s dorm, for instance, you had a perfect view of a large campus courtyard hosting a statue of the donor by the same name. She was some royal who had invested in education a few hundred years ago, and by the looks of her metal likeness, she had been quite pretty. The sight of her shining in the early morning sun was one of the things that made uprooting your whole life seem worth it in the end, no matter how silly that seemed.

There were other small comforts that you had found beauty in during your first month attending your prestigious university, too.

You found beauty in the way the sunlight streamed over the rooftops like the opening to an Oscar-winning film. In the sound of traffic below and the overcast skies above. Sandwiches from corner stores, wildflowers growing in the median of the road, cups of the worlds best black coffee served steaming by scowling attendants at the cafe; Everywhere there was something small and kind and just familiar enough to relish in, more than able to distract you from the stress of living hand-to-mouth in a country where you didn’t even know the language. It made it all worth it.

That being said there was something else too…

Someone else to be specific.

The campus tended to run like clockwork. The same groups of students would walk past your window to their classes, the same professors would get their coffee and lunch at the little cafe across the square, and every weekday morning at 8 am on the dot, easel boy would set up his palette and canvas and paint the same bustling street.

He was talented, that you couldn’t deny. Even from the 6th floor, which was a considerable distance away, it was possible to admire the detailing and consistency with which he painted. His talent wasn’t when kept you captive at your window in the morning, though. Though you were sure his art was beautiful, he himself was a thousand times more stunning.

All dark eyes and dark hair and dark clothes, he parted crowds with his piercing gaze alone. He was always dressed like the protagonist of some awful artsy film. Massive argyle sweaters, untucked button-ups, corduroy jackets, and flare bottomed pants that must have survived his father’s wardrobe from the ’70s… his style was as close you could get to atrocious while still being impeccable as possible, and that wasn’t even getting started on the smudged black liner always present under his persistent gaze. You had never had the pleasure (or embarrassment for that matter) of meeting him in person, but you were sure that you would have had the same awed and slightly frightened reaction if you ever did. He could have been plucked entirely from the pages of some awful romance novel.

You were well and truly smitten with the idea of him.

If you looked at your morning routine through the eyes of a stranger, you’d consider yourself odd for your strange obsession with him, but you didn’t look at it like that. It wasn’t an obsession. You never overstepped your bounds. He was simply pleasing to look at and so you did. That didn’t constitute as obsessive, right?

Even if it did, you weren’t causing any harm.

Easel boy, as you had come to refer to him, was simply a tool you used to ground yourself in your new and frightening environment. Nothing more. If you ever met him, you would surely hate him from the short interactions you’d seen him have with strangers. They never ended well. He would remain an unattainable, attractive ideal in your mind until he eventually faded away into a funny memory you’d share with your kids one day.

Until then, though, you would watch him from your window before your morning classes and refused to feel guilty about it. So, that was that, no ifs, ands, or buts about it.

On the morning in question, you had woken up a little late and in a foul mood. In preparation for a test in your foundations of algebra course you had spent the better part of the night pouring over formulas while your upstairs neighbor’s bed slammed repeatedly into the wall and floor. Though you were sure they were having an excellent time, you were most definitely not. It all culminated in you missing your original alarms and despite the fact that your first class started at 10, you were exhausted, furious, and not looking forward to missing breakfast to finish the assigned reading you had put off the night before. The only thing keeping you from throwing in the towel and just giving up was the promise of seeing the painter.

So, when he arrived for the day at 8 am sharp, you were positioned at the ledge by your window, textbook in hand with a mug of instant coffee at your right. It was like a breath of fresh air.

As usual, he retrieved a small pack of cigarettes from the back of his eternally paint-stained jeans only to bring one to his lips and light it quickly. He always smoked before he worked, and just like always, he took an extra cigarette from the pack to tuck behind his ear for later. Then, he got to work setting up his easel and the small stool where he set his palette.

Pulling tubes of acrylic, brushes, and pencils from his well-worn messenger bag, easel boy flipped out the kickstand without any problem and set his thick, pre-primed canvas on the worn metal. You watched in fascination. Art had always seemed so unattainable to you. Instead, you were drawn to the more academic. The man before you, though, created beauty with an ease that had evaded you all your life, and it had you both jealous and entirely intrigued. Slowly, you reached down to take a sip of your coffee as you let your eyes drift back to your reading.

Learning about ancient Babylon was far less interesting than watching him, though.

When you next looked out the window and away from your work the handsome artist had created his base sketch already. How did he do it so fast? You assumed it was practice. He had been drawing the same 3 buildings every weekday morning for at least a month, so after a while, it must have been second nature to measure out the lines and put things into perspective. You smiled. He tended to have that effect on you.

The process was repeated until a little before 9:30. You would read a few paragraphs then look up to watch the painting progress from a sketch to a full-fledged work of art. It was good today from what you could see. The colors were a bit more muted than usual, but that was only on account of the awful, dreary overcast sky that threatened to dump rain on the city at any time. Overall, you would have considered it a masterpiece. Easel boy didn’t seem to think the same.

He regarded the painting with a sort of begrudging satisfaction that bordered on disappointment before he pulled the second cigarette from behind his ear, lit it, and began the process of packing up his materials. You finished the last of your coffee watching him do so. Smoking, well, smoking tobacco at least, had always been a vice you had avoided and yet you often wondered what it would feel like to take a drag of one of his cigarettes after it had been between his lips. Then, the magic lifted.

He folded up the flimsy easel, tucked it away with his materials back into his messenger bag, hoisted the stool under one arm and the painting under the other before taking off at a brisk clip down the street away from your window. You watched him until he was out of sight.

You were snapped from your concentration by a knock at your door.

“Y/N,” a heavily accented voice called, sending you scrambling for your bag, “If you are not outside in the next 15 seconds I will break down your door,”

Shit.

“Coming, Sasha!” You wailed. It took about 10 of those seconds to grab your backpack and shove your textbook inside, an extra 2 to check your appearance in the mirror- you looked slightly disheveled, but it was the best you were gonna do after the night you’d had. Besides, it wasn’t like you were doing anything important. You didn’t need to be dressed for a date -and you were opening the door for a quick save at the 14th second. Your door was safe for another day.

Out in the hall waited Sasha Balandin, arms crossed and grey eyes piercing in the flickering light of the terrible overhead fluorescents. As a fellow international student, you had become fast friends with Sasha. He was a little rough around the edges, and definitely didn’t take your bullshit, but he was a rare friend. “I have been waiting for 10 minutes,” he griped. You tried your best to look apologetic. “Don’t do that,”

“Do what?” You asked, closing and locking your door behind you as you began walking down the hallway.

Sasha huffed. “Do not pretend you were not too busy ogling that painter in the courtyard to hear me knocking on your door,” His Russian bluntness was on full display now as you shook your head in mock disbelief.

“I can’t believe you’d accuse me of something like that!”

“It is not an accusation if it is true,”

“There’s no way you know for a fact that I was watching him again,”

“But you were. This happens every week,”

You sighed, pausing at the top of the stairs. “I was,”

Taking the stairs in twos, Sasha sighed. “You are too soft, Y/N. Besides, you have said so often that he seems like an asshole. Why do you continue to get all mushy at him out the window if this is the case?”

“Because… well, because…” for a moment, you floundered in search of an answer that wouldn’t make you sound like a complete freak, but you found that there really wasn’t one. It came down the one small factor. “He’s just really hot, okay?”

The look Sasha gave you could have killed. He kept his mouth shut, though, choosing to let his silence shame you more than anything else did. It worked. For the entire trip down the stairs and the mile-long walk to your lecture hall, you felt the weight of shame heavy on your shoulders. Or maybe it was just your backpack. You didn’t know which you’d prefer. He did start speaking again eventually, going on about some party you had missed in favor of studying, but the feeling never left. Even as you sat down for your lecture it was still at the forefront of your mind. In fact, you were so busy thinking about your crush on easel boy and the problems with it that you barely paid attention to the professor’s rehashing of the Epic of Gilgamesh.

Your error only hit when the professor flipped the PowerPoint to the final slide.

“Before you go, I want to remind you that you have a paper on the importance of Enkidu in the Epic is due at the beginning of class this Friday. The details and requirements should be listed in your syllabus. Class dismissed,”

Fuck.

Friday was only two days away.

You were so screwed.

The problem was, you didn’t have a spare copy of the Epic of Gilgamesh just lying around your dorm room. Usually that wouldn’t have been an issue, the professor for your current history course used English for her slide because her particular history course was specifically for first-year international students. Unfortunately for you, though, you hadn’t been taking notes. Instead, you had been daydreaming about how it would feel to have easel boy blow his cigarette smoke in your face and then subsequently scolding yourself for having thoughts like that about a total stranger. In a terrible twist of fate, the professor only held office hours after her last classes on Mondays and Fridays, so even getting the information from her then was off the table. Dread began to pool in your stomach.

Any other student would have been able to cut their losses, rent a copy from the library, slog through it in a night, and write the damn essay even without the help of the classroom slides for context. The only problem was all the books in the library were in Sokovian, and you still barely knew how to order a coffee correctly. Reading the language in a full Cyrillic alphabet would just be impossible, especially for a book as stupidly old as the Epic of Gilgamesh.

In short, unless you could get your hands on a copy in the next day or so, you were absolutely, well-and-truly fucked.

Sasha was quick to find you as the hall cleared out, waiting near your seat as you packed away your notes. “That was all bullshit, no?” He asked, but the second he took in your slightly panicked expression he stopped short, pinching the bridge of his nose and breathing deeply. You knew what he was going to say before he ever said it.

“Something is wrong. You were not paying attention. Were you thinking-”

“Yes. Okay? Yes, I was thinking about him,”

He shook his head slightly. “I am concerned for you,”

“Who isn’t?”

Despite his usually stoic demeanor, that made Sasha huff out a soft laugh. “You got yourself into this mess, Y/N, you will get yourself out somehow,”

Your jaw dropped as you slung your bag over your shoulder and started making your way towards the door. “You’re not gonna help me?”

“Though I would love to be helpful, you forget that my English is poor. It will do me better to read the book in Sokovian myself than to use the information from class,”

Oh, yeah. You winced. “Sorry, Sash’”

“Nothing to be sorry for,” he shrugged as you walked out onto the lawn, chilled to the bone by the wind that whipped in every direction.

A storm was brewing. It might not fully take hold of the city for a few hours yet, but it would make the walk to your evening class absolute hell if the rain fell as hard as it had several weeks prior. You could only hope that it wouldn’t start until after you had walked home. Your odds were looking slim, though, based on the way you could already hear thunder clapping in the distance. After a moment you hit the edge of the sidewalk where your paths would diverge.

“Good luck with the paper,” you offered weakly.

Sasha replied with a sharp, “Good luck with your crush,” and then he was off in the opposite direction without another word. Sasha was blunt like that, never overstaying his welcome or lingering when he didn’t need to. There was something enviable about it. What you wouldn’t give to be able to simply say things as they were without an unnecessary sugar coating to save face and spare feelings. It lingered on your mind for the whole half-mile walk to the campus bookstore. Speaking of which...

There was only one place where you might possibly find an English copy of the Epic of Gilgamesh. It wasn’t the big student bookstore, most of the textbooks there had been in Sokovian, Russian, or German and you hadn’t even tried to set foot in their actual book section. No, your only hope was the tiny hole-in-the-wall bookstore you had stumbled upon during move-in. It was only about half a mile away from your dorm from any of your lecture halls, so you often found yourself wandering inside when you had time to kill. They were one of the only stores you’d come across that sold anything in English, magazines included, so despite the fact that the young cashiers rarely spoke your language you often found that the back shelves of that tiny shop kept you from going mad.

Now, they might also be keeping you from ruining your GPA.

You could only hope. If anybody could save you, it was them.

Ducking in through the small doorway, you were greeted by the soft ring of the bell above your head. The attendant at the register simply regarded you with a polite nod. You had seen her there before and she knew you barely spoke a lick of Sokovian, so she didn’t attempt a pleasantry. Instead, she simply let you wander through the entrance and into the towering bookshelves, passing a few other faceless shoppers on your way towards the back. You were grateful for her nonchalance.

If there was anything worse than feeling foolish for not knowing Sokovian, it was being talked down to in perfect English by a Sokovian citizen. Most interactions left you wishing you’d actually taken anything away from your high school French class other than emotional trauma from your teacher and a caffeine addiction. Damn America and its terrible public-school language programs…

The path to the English classics section was one you’d walked many times since discovering the book store. It was right in the very back corner of the shop, tucked away where the city natives wouldn’t have to address or see it. You had snagged a copy of Pride and Prejudice a few weeks back, so you knew exactly where to search. The only problem was slogging through every single book on the shelf in search of the one you were looking for.

Your eyes scanned the wall.

Gilgamesh, Gilgamesh, Gilgamesh…

Gilgamesh!

On the 6th shelf up sat one small copy. Score! You were saved! As you reached up to grab it, though, you were met with yet another roadblock. The shelf it was on was juuuust a little too high for you to reach. Oh, come on…

You hopped a little, extending your hand up as far as it could go, but your fingers just barely brushed the spine. Somewhere behind you, you could hear footsteps. Then someone coughed to suppress laughter. The shame was plain on your face. As your flannel rode up and you stretched up in one last desperate attempt to grab the book when suddenly someone, you assumed the same person who had been laughing at your misfortune, spoke.

“They have stools, you know,” he said, accented voice thick with amusement. The English surprised you, but you assumed they used it for your benefit. You were in front of the English language books after all. Besides, the shame of it all kept your mind from questioning it too much. “For reaching the top shelf,”

Of course they had stools.

If your face hadn’t already been burning with embarrassment it definitely was now.

In a split-second decision, you decided playing dumb was the only way you could walk out of the situation with any dignity left at all, so you plastered on a confused smile and spun around to greet the stranger. “Really? I had no cl-”

You stopped short.

Oh.

Oh no.

You’d know those paint-stained jeans anywhere.

There, with his hands in his pockets and the most self-important, thin-lipped smirk you had ever seen, was easel boy in all of his cocky, intimidating, hot glory. Had you really noticed how hot he truly was before? It didn’t feel like it. Not now that you’d really seen him close up and reveled in the way his dark eyes hypnotized you with their smudged liner that felt borderline obscene. You could smell him too, all charcoal and turpentine and cigarette smoke. If you had it bad before when he was just a blurry ideal out your window, you were completely and utterly smitten now.

He regarded you with a sort of practiced annoyance, and yet there was a strange softness to it that you hadn’t found in many native Sokovians, especially ones that saw you as the stupid, bumbling American wandering blindly around their country.

“Would you like my help?”

“Huh?” You were so lost in his eyes that you couldn’t even focus on his question.

“To reach your book. Would you like my help?”

“Oh!” With a brisk nod, you stepped away from the shelf to make room for easel boy, “yeah, I’m just trying to grab that one there. The, uh, Epic of Gilgamesh,”

In one swift movement, he was stepping right beside you to easily reach up and grab the offending piece of literature. The closeness of it all nearly sent you into a tailspin. That wasn’t even mentioning the way your heart thudded just a little faster when he finally handed the book to you, his calloused fingers brushing against your own. You barely find a grip on your brain strong enough to thank him through the fog of embarrassment and attraction. Eventually, though, you managed to choke out a placation as your eyes explored the cover of the book.

“Thanks for that,”

“It was no problem,” he shrugged. He didn’t move though, still standing just inches away from you. When you looked up from the book you found his eyes were still on you, watching intently as if he expected something from you. The answer to what he actually expected was a mystery but you could tell he wanted something. When you didn’t speak, he spoke for you. “So, The Epic of Gilgamesh? That’s definitely a bold choice,”

You looked up at him sheepishly through heavily lidded eyes. “It’s not a choice at all, actually. I’m only buying it so I can write an essay,”

“Ah,” Something about his tone was almost disappointed as the conversation stalled.

You quickly changed the subject to the first thing you could think of.

“Your hair is really nice!”

“My hair?”

“Yeah… your hair,”

Smooth move, dumbass.

Easel boy’s expression seemed to soften once more as his signature grin crept back onto his face. “Thank you, I grew it myself,” Between his accent and the way he was looking at you like he was going to eat you alive, you weren’t exactly sure how you hadn’t had a heart attack yet. Still, the attention was nice, even if it was bourne out of you repeatedly embarrassing yourself in a never-ending cycle of fuckups. He ran a hand through his loose brown hair. “I like your shirt. Very American,”

Silently, you cursed yourself for not taking a few extra seconds to pick out a better outfit when you woke up. Standing next to him, even while he was dressed in his paint-stained jeans and undone button-up, you looked like a wreck in comparison. He didn’t seem to be speaking from a place of judgment, though.

If you didn’t know better, you’d think he was being nice, but that couldn’t be the case… could it?

“Maybe it’s just that I haven’t met very many Sokovians that are fond of America, but I’m not sure if that was meant to be a compliment or an insult,” You joked. It was a bit sarcastic, the lilt of your voice masking your deep insecurity, and to your surprise easel boy laughed. He really laughed. From your place beside him, you could almost feel the warmth radiating off of him as he shook his head.

“It was definitely a compliment,”

Oh.

Your heart skipped a beat.

That was a new revelation.

You steeled yourself with a deep breath. Fuck it. It was now or never.

“I, uh… I’m Y/N, and you are?”

He regarded you once again with that strange expression of expectation. “What?”

“I asked for your name,” you repeated, and yet he still stood, slightly dumbfounded, staring down at you with that same expectant expression from earlier. For a moment, you almost thought he expected you to know it already. That fact was quickly glossed over when he moved to rub the back of his neck with his hand, eyes drifting down to the floor.

“Sorry,” he chuckled, “I’m not very good with people. My father thought college might help me finally connect with my peers, but I don’t think he expected that I was the problem, nor do I think he expected me to pick a degree in the arts,” Suddenly, he paused and stuck out his hand to you. “I’m Hel. It’s very nice to meet you Y/N,”

With only a moment of hesitation- because wow, your name had never sounded more right on someone’s lips -you took his large calloused hand in your own and shook it gently. His palm was warm, his fingers lingering on your own for just a moment even as he pulled away. It wasn’t much, just a soft brush against your flesh, but it sent a flash of heat and liquid confidence through your chest.

“Is that short for something?” Your eyes met his in the soft yellow glow of the overhead lamps. Seeing him like this, so up close and personal, he looked a lot more human than he had from your window. Sure, he was imposing. Underneath the initial harsh facade, though, was something softer and almost poetic. You weren’t an artist by any means but if you had been, you had no doubt that he’d be your muse.

“It’s short for Helmut, but only my father calls me that, and only when he’s cross, which, unfortunately, is most of the time,” he chuckled, “Besides, it’s an old man’s name. It doesn’t suit me,”

The words left your mouth before you knew what you were saying.

“Well, it’s better than calling you easel boy,”

Shit.

Today really just wasn’t your day, huh?

In the split second where you were mourning your chances with the most stupidly handsome guy who had ever shown any interest in you, you almost missed the way Helmut’s eyes lit up at the admission.

“Easel boy?” His voice was teasing, but not demeaning. That didn’t do much to ease your mortification, though.

“Is there any chance that I can get you to forget I said anything?”

“If you already have a nickname for me when we’ve barely met, I think you already know the answer to that question,”

His knowing smirk was enough to get you pleading. “You can’t just let me off the hook this once?” you begged, scrubbing a hand across your forehead in a desperate attempt to get away from his piercing gaze. The things those brown eyes did to you could be classified as obscene… “I will genuinely do anything if you don’t make me explain myself right now Hel,”

Hel quirked up an eyebrow. “Anything?” The way your stomach turned at just one word from him was both terrifying and extremely exciting. It felt like a promise. Without hesitation, you nodded. That made him smile. “In that case, get coffee with me today?”

Once again, you were rendered speechless.

“My treat,” he added, “unless you’re not interested…”

“No!” Your answer left your lips embarrassingly fast, “Or- yes? No, no, I think I meant no. No; I am very interested. Yes; I would like to get coffee with you,” There was a hint of shame in your words, but only a hint. After the day you’d had already, there wasn’t very much there to be ashamed of. Still, that same pit of dread began to open up in your stomach as you mulled over your choices.

Thankfully, Helmut continued to take it all in stride. “Wonderful! Is there anything else you’d like to do here before we go? It’s best we leave soon if we want to beat the rain,” He offered up his arm as he spoke like some sort of Disney prince. It was, by far, the cutest gesture you had ever been lucky enough to receive.

You linked your arm with his without hesitation. “As soon as I pay we can get going,” He was warm. It radiated off him in waves just like the warm hints of tobacco and wintermint that seemed to seep from his skin and clothes. With that, you made your way to the front desk as Hel shot you a sly smile.

“Who said anything about letting you pay?”

True to his word, he didn’t let you pay for a single thing for the rest of the afternoon.

The two of you made your way up to the cashier together, and Helmut only separated from your side to grab his wallet before you could grab yours. He then spoke in rapid-fire Sokovian to the lady at the register and pulled what could only be described as a wad of Sokovian koronas while you set the book on the counter, and from the looks of it, she seemed more than pleased with the two of you. Who wouldn’t be, especially when Hel seemed to insist that she keep the excess? In the end, after the book had been wrapped nicely in a paper bag and deposited in your backpack, Helmut held the door open for you like some sort of gentleman and followed you out into the grey afternoon.

Then, you were off down the street on Hel’s arm, pushing through the wind and the biting chill that had settled in the air.

“So, you don’t sound like a big fan of your dad,” you asked, half laughing as you attempted to broach conversation once again.

Helmut groaned beside you. “My father is a menace who is unable to understand that some people want more in life than to sit behind a desk all day making phone calls. In fact, most of my family is the same way. The only reason I haven’t completely cut them off and changed my name is the money,”

“I assume you get a lot of it if it’s worth sticking around someone you hate so much,”

“Never ask a man about his net worth,” he chuckled, gently elbowing you in the ribs, “but yes, I’m very comfortable. I have my own apartment just far enough away to be considered off-campus with my own car and as much money as it takes to keep me happy and getting good grades; Daddy makes sure of that,” The word daddy was a deep sneer, barely there in the wind, but something about it sent butterflies through your stomach. Well, that was never something you thought you were into… “Little does he know, I’m not here to make money. I’m here to find inspiration worth my time while out from under his thumb,”

You snorted softly. “Artistic and rich? You’re just ticking all the boxes, Hel,”

“Good for me. Would offering help on that essay of yours endear you to me further?”

“Absolutely,”

The next 5 minutes you spend discussing the Epic of Gilgamesh. Surprisingly, in one of the first stokes of good luck you’d had all day, Helmut seemed to be one of the only people on earth who knew plenty about Enkidu off the top of his head. When he was the one lecturing you in his smooth, heavily accented timbre it was so much easier to pay attention to something so very tedious than when you heard it from your aging and often monotone professor. In fact, you were so enthralled by his retelling of the tale that you barely noticed you’d made it all the way to the cafe that sat across from the international dorm.

If you didn’t consider Hel to be smart as a whip and twice as clever as he was smart, you would have thought it was a coincidence. It couldn’t be though. No, there was no way anything was a coincidence with Helmut around. You shot him a smile when he opened the door for you and ushered you inside.

“You know Hel,” you muttered, “I’m starting to think you might know more about me than you initially let on,”

He shrugged. “You’re American, so it’s unlikely you live anywhere else and I wanted to make the walk home easy. It’s supposed to rain, you know? Besides, despite the… interesting waitstaff, they make the best pastries in town right here in this cafe,”

“Did you mean it when you said you were paying?”

“Absolutely,”

“Then I can’t wait to try one,”

The two of you were seated quickly (you assumed it had to do with the waitress finding Hel as hot as you did, because you caught her looking at him from behind the counter and whispering excitedly in Sokovian to her coworker at least twice over the course of the meal) and the conversation flowed easily as you waited on your coffees and the deserts Helmut insisted on splitting to let you try. Millefeuille, pear tart tatin, chocolate devil’s food cake, and a towering plate of apricot kołaczki awaited you, and they kept you sitting and talking and snacking for over an hour as you really got to know each other. The more you learned, the more you fell in love with the man across from you.

Over the course of the afternoon, you learned that Helmut was majoring in studio art while minoring in psychology just because it interested him, he hated the Beatles almost as much as he hated Freud’s theories on women, his favorite color was purple, and he spent most of his free time reading or getting high off his ass in his massive studio apartment in what you now knew was one of the most expensive areas in the city. He, in return, sat at rapt attention across the table as you gushed about your life in America, your reasons for going to university in Sokovia, your favorite books, and the ridiculousness that was trying to pass college-level classes in a country that seemed to avoid English at all costs.

Eventually, though, you did touch upon his nickname.

“I just thought it was really interesting that you did the same thing every single day, no matter what,” you explained, grabbing one of the last kołaczki from the plate and ignoring the powdered sugar that stuck to your fingers, “and by watching you… I don’t know, I guess it kind of felt like I had another friend who’d share breakfast with me in the morning if that makes sense,”

Hel nodded, swallowing his last bite of chocolate cake. “I understand completely. It can be lonely, coming to a new place without any friends or connections, but you were brave enough to take the leap. I admire that,” He brought his napkin to his lips before crumpling it and setting it one of the now empty plates before him, “But I can’t say I’m not a little disappointed that you didn’t watch me because I’m attractive,”

You nearly choked on your pastry. “Well, I wouldn’t say your pretty face didn’t help…”

The grin that spread across his face was heartstopping. He grabbed a napkin from the little holder next to the two of you and grabbed a pen from one of his pockets as he spoke. “In that case, you should join me tomorrow morning. Bring coffee if you can, I never have enough hands to bring a cup for myself, but even if you can’t bring some, if you want to come and watch me work I’d be more than happy to have a companion for the morning,” he paused for a moment, flustered, “or every morning, for that matter,”

“That sounds like a deal,” Your cheeks were hot, but not from embarrassment this time. No, it was anything but, because here you were across the table from a kind, attractive, intelligent Sokovian boy with money to spend and time to spare for you. You couldn’t help but feel a little bit proud too. He wanted you back, after all. You could see it in the way his eyes lingered on you just a little longer than he should, and even more plainly in the way he wrote his phone number in bold blue ink on the napkin and signed it with a doodle of a heart before passing it across the table to you.

“I’m going to go pay,” he said quietly while standing, “but I’ll be back in a second to walk you out. Alright?”

“Alright,”

There was something strangely similar to sorrow sitting in your chest when you watched him walk away. The sight of his ass as he went made up for it, though. Once he was obstructed by other patrons, you turned your attention to the napkin in your hands. Hel’s handwriting was neat as far as artists’ handwriting goes, but it still held a sort of looseness in its curves, a freedom in the way the numbers had flowed effortlessly from his pen. You popped the last kołaczki in your mouth as you admired the blue ink before devouring the final bites of pear tart and millefeuille. How had you gotten so lucky to have someone like him giving you his number and buying you pastries? You pondered the bizarre nature of it all until Helmut returned.

You stood quickly, folding the napkin and putting it away in your pocket. “Ready to go?”

“If you are,” he replied. In an instant, you were standing beside him again as he opened the door for you. The wind was even stronger now, strong enough that his loose hair whipped wildly around his forehead from the force of it. You couldn’t help but giggle at his appearance.

He caught you off guard as he walked you across the street. “You have such a pretty laugh,”

It was like you were seeing him again for the first time. You fiddled with the strap of your backpack as you got closer and closer to the door to your dorm. “Thanks. I’m pretty fond of your laugh too,”

Then, you were there, just two college kids standing awkwardly before your first departure.

“So,” you said before you could stop yourself, “when I tell my one friend all about this afternoon after my math class tonight, should I say it was a date?”

Hel’s cheeks flushed pink. “You can call it that, if that’s what you would like it to have been,”

“I think I would,”

“Good, good,” he let out a little chuckle, “I’m glad. Would you… would you consider going on another? I promise I have much more to offer than just small talk and tips on where to buy the best pastries,”

Looking into his brown eyes, so full of uncertainty and hope, you knew you couldn’t have denied him even if you wanted to. Still, you weren’t going to give in to his advances without a little bit of taunting. It made it fun, a game to be played where, hopefully, you both would win big in the end.

“That depends,” you teased, letting your lower lip catch between your teeth, “what do you have in mind?”

Helmut shoved his hands into his pockets as he rocked back and forth on his heels, pensive. “If you want to, we could go to my place and I could actually show you all of the paintings I’ve been working on while you watched me. The view from the rooftop is lovely too. We could have dinner up there while looking out over Novi Grad. I have to warn you, though, it’ll probably be takeout. I’m an atrocious chef,”

Slowly, a brilliant smile spread across your face. “Does Friday work?”

The smile Helmut shot back was as bright as every star in the night sky and even more enthralling. “Friday is perfect. Can I pick you up at 7?”

“As long as you come in that fancy car you were talking about,”

“Then it’s a deal,”

“Well,” you turned away, walking up the steps towards the door before turning back to him, “I’ll see you tomorrow morning, Hel, and I’ll bring coffee. Have a good night,”

“You too, Y/N. Parting is such sweet sorrow and all that,”

With that, he gave one last short wave before turning on his heel and pulling out a cigarette from the pack in his pocket. You watched him walk away until he turned the corner and disappeared from view. Only then did you enter the punch code and race up the stairs to your room.

Your back was pressed to the door of your dorm room the second you had shut it, your hands clutching at your chest in a desperate attempt to keep your heart from beating right out of your ribs. The second you were in the privacy of your own place, your cool facade had melted away to reveal just how much of a wreck you really were.

He had invited you over to his apartment.

He liked you.

Easel boy really, honestly liked you.

No, not easel boy. Helmut. Hel.

Hel liked you, and he invited you over to his apartment, and you had plans to meet him with coffee as he painted the next morning.

You smiled softly under the fluorescent lights and pulled the book that had brought you together from your backpack. It seemed so unassuming now, just a fresh paperback with an unbroken spine, but in reality, it was so much more than that.

Hel.

It was such a nice name. You liked it a lot.

Now you couldn’t wait to see what else you liked about him too.

------

a/n: I have been so excited to start sharing this AU with you guys, and it’s finally here!!! If you liked this fic, I once again will direct you to Bliss by @creme-bruhlee because that’s technically next in chronological order for this AU. I hope you enjoyed!!!

TAGLIST: @tatestripedsweater , @elaineygrace, @multiyfandomgirl40 , @lovelymischief , @rami-malek-trash , @avgravy , @wh0re-4-techno , @forcebros , @sugarsweetkiss , @grandmuffinsharkbailiff , @killsandthrills , @novasstudy , @thnksfr-ptrkstmp , @inmate-marmalade, @alanathedeer , @your-pixels-are-showing , @shit-post-things , @bbarton , @sux-ubus , @halefirewarrior , @janelongxox , @rax-writes , @mossybank , @simsiddy , @xxspqcebunsxx , @be-cautious-around-bri , @metaphorical-love-for-a-car , @frothonthedaydreams

#zemo #helmut zemo #baron zemo #baron helmut zemo #zemo x reader #helmut zemo x reader #baron zemo x reader #baron helmut zemo x reader #fanfiction

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shesawriter39049 · 3 years

Text

|UNWRAP ME|M|

CHEEKY SNEAK PEEK #2

Pairing : Jimin X Reader (Ft a lil Tae)

“There’s a bow on my panties because my ass is a present!”

About- Honestly, you were just trying to prep gift bags for your company’s holiday party! But Jimins stressed, and needs a little brain reset sooo….I guess we’re prepping gift bags later!

Or- The company has quite a few deadlines to hit before you guys close for the holiday! Jimin’s in charge of talent and everybody’s fucking up…but in your line of work it’s a domino affect! So if his crew falls behind ultimately everybody’s behind! Hints Jimin’s stress and frustration....

WC: Sneak peek (1k)

WARNINGS: (FULL THING): Teasing, light edging, dirty talk, top/bottom OC, top/power bottom Jimin, hand restraints, unprotected sex, over stimulation, fingering (F receiving), biting/marking kink, VERY light degration kink (he playfully calls her a “little bitch/slut” once) light come play, light spanking

FINAL NOTE: This is a stand alone smut drabble within my OT7 poly universe called “7 DEEP”. Short AU SUMMARY: Your husband Namjoon and yourself run a successful Adult Film Entertainment Company called “Onyx” with your 5 best friends from college who you also happen to be in an open relationship with! P.S. If you’re new here Kookie joins the party a little later….

*Pierced Jimin/Red haired “Dope” Era Jimin meets 2020 Jimin!?

*Also it should go without being said but Jimin, IS Westernized, he’s from LA in this ffs!

*I’m a perfectionist and re-worked the entire smut scene which is why the post is late, I felt bad and decided to drop this cheeky little sneak peek!

______________________________________________________

“You can do this shit in your sleep, this was just a curveball you weren’t expecting so it knocked you off your square a little. There’s nothing wrong with that, it doesn’t make you any less capable of doing your job!” The words hushed off your lips as you started to leave little butterfly kisses up the side of his neck. Lacing your lips and teeth around the lobe just enough to tease. A sharp breath catches in his chest, as he reclines his neck to give you more room to work while his palm flexed against your ass. Welcoming the much needed distraction “We got this, you just need to step back, breathe...regroup and refocus.”

You watch his mouth open in protest and now it’s your turn to shut him up “So, we’re down two models shit sucks, but dwelling on it won’t suddenly make their test results change! So now what’s our next move? Business strategy 101 baby let’s go!“ There’s a blatant challenge within your delivery!

“But I -“

“Jimin. Park!” The grip you hold on the hair at the nape of his neck tightens until you hear him hiss! Eyes fighting to stay open, mouth parting reflectivity. ”Breath, regroup...and refocus...”

He sighs around a moan, and if you didn’t know any better you’d think he’s annoyed. Realizing it’s a lost cause because he knows damn well this isn’t a game he can win. “Yes, ma’am” There’s a whole lotta crass laced within that but you’ll take it I guess!

“Thank you!” Responding with the same bitchy little attitude you received! It is the time of year for giving after all! Batting your lashes up in his direction, far too innocent for your attitude! Pressing a couple quick but firm kiss to those pouty lips of his!

“Right, well, in the office, we get various incentives as motivation right? Whether that be gift cards, free dinners, bonuses..” Jimin murmurs right into your mouth, though the topic seems casual his voice is lower, taunting and huskier than usual. “So what’s mine tonight Mrs. Kim Hmm? Breath fanning against your lips, almost able to taste the remnants of liquor and cinnamon on your tongue. “What do I get as an incentive to regroup and refocus?”

Ohhh so now he’s the one challenging you...and your always down to play ....

Reaching over to take a languid sip of your cocktail, finger's trickling down his thighs as you appraise him from over the brim of your glass.

“Well Mr. Park, I'm sure you're very much aware just by looking around the room that one of my main love languages is gifts! Whether that be giving or receiving…..’ Voice dropping down to a purr, and there’s a little smirk playing on your lips that’s speaking volumes, as you shift off his lap....standing between his thighs, placing your drink aside.

“Not to mention it is that time of year after all is it not?” Slowly, tugging the shirt over your head, spine sitting in an exaggerated arch as you do so! Showcasing a matching red bra that’s completely mesh! The faint shadows from your nipples poking through the fabric and Jimin’s breath hitches within his throat! “Time for giving, putting others first, being selfless...the full nine…”

“Yeah” He’s winded already....Tongue darting out to wet his lips, though his throats suddenly what’s feeling painfully dry!

Delicately roaming your hands up your frame. Starting at your waist, slowly venturing up to caress the swell of your breast, dipping over your shoulders. Trickling up the side of your neck, and ending with your fingers tangled within your hair.

“Fucking hell….baby…” He whispers low and thick, almost as if he really wasn’t speaking for you to hear, as if he was just simply enamored!

You hum approvingly, lips curling into a smirk, teasingly trickling your hands down your sides before turning around whipping your hair over your shoulder in the process, swaying towards the obnoxious 10ft tall Christmas tree placed right in front of your wall of windows and Jimin’s mouth runs dry!

“I don’t know if you’ve even noticed all the presents Santa's already left for us this year….I guess we must’ve been exceptionally nice or something!”Pointing to the various wrapped boxes cascaded along the ground and your delivery is far too innocent for the pure chaos your erupting within this room right now!

Jimin’s gaze instantly darkens and it’s straight primal, he wants to unravel you in every sense of the word! Shamelessly he allows himself continue drinking you in from head to toe and god fucking dammit Y/n! Your ass literally looks like it belongs under the tree, the way the lace and ruffles frame the swell of your cheeks, the cute little rhinestone sitting between the exaggerated bow resting right in the center! Let's also not forget the main selling factor again...there crochless..which also means assless.. So in conclusion there's all of like 3 tiny pieces of fabric covering or I guess I should say not covering your ass and It’s just….

Inhaling sharply, biting down on the swell of his lip, soothing a palm up his length which is already straight throbbing beneath his fingers! Idly stroking himself in an attempt to relieve a little tension, which is duly noted because you're already over here doing the most!

Not missing the way you wiggle your ass a little whilst while apparently finding the need to adjust a couple of ornaments. Because of course, that was necessary... “Did your parents ever let you open a gift of two early Jimin?” Peering over your shoulder in feigned curiosity, brow titled in his direction.

“No, which fuckin sucked because I’m really impatient” Jimin already sounds breathless and throaty with pure need, you keep fucking around and he’s going to tackle your ass.

Literally.

A low hum flutters through your chest as you gracefully slide to the floor, right next to said obnoxious tree. Landing on your knees, feet tucked beneath your ass which again looks like a whole ass present at the moment.

Bow and all you're literally sitting right where you belong!

“Come here…” Head lolling to the side, signaling him closer with the flick of a finger “Since you had such a shitty day I’ll let you pick one gift to open early, if I were you’d I’d pick that pick box to the left...I think that’s from yoon.”

Patience is a virtue...one that Jimin does not have.....

#Jimin #Jimin smut #jimin x reader #jimin x you #park jimin #park jimin smut #park jimin x reader #bts #bts smut #bts au #bts poly #bts poly au #kpop #kpop smut #jimin au #park jimin au

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chaotically-chill · 3 years

Text

Let’s see how this goes lmao.

Chapter One of Tears Come From Cracks in Her Weak Skin

(This is only partially edited lmao)

TW// gore, torture, water boarding, blood, suffocation

She screamed. Her soft voice exhaling sharp profanities in languages she knew her captors couldn’t understand. She made sure they knew of her fury though. Pleading, begging to be let out, for food, water, anything. Nobody came. Until hours later, when they dragged her exhausted body out of her cell and into another. Her once kind, open heart pounded, bloody thoughts of her near future raced through her mind replacing memories of her home, her beloved bakery, and country, her friends and family, with blood, fear, and pain. Instinctively, her short frame tried to squirm out of the tense hold of her captors had on her shoulders as they strapped her down onto the chair, two ropes on each of her arms, four on each leg, six on her chest, and one on her neck, which forced her head back, exposing all of her vital organs. They were careful. Smart. She could hardly even breathe. Then, a camera was brought in, it's red light already aglow. They were filming her, she realized. It’s probably being sent to Will. She shuddered. Visualizing her leader forcing himself to watch, not even caring if Tommy or Tubbo or Fundy was watching or not. She suppressed a sob. She would not let them see her cry, see her weak, see her break.

The door opened, heavy footsteps steadily growing louder. “I thought I was clear about your terms of citizenship and when I told you that fraternizing with enemies of Manburg was considered high treason. But I guess I was wrong.” The rough voice of the president ground against her eardrums. “I guess I should have known your little boyfriend would employ you as his little fly on our walls.” he’s not my boyfriend, she wanted to scream at him, “Don’t worry though,” Schlatt turned to the camera, a shit-eating grin spread across his face, he was speaking directly to Wilbur now, “we’ll be done with her soon, whether you like it or not.” They would not see her cry, see her weak, see her break.

A bucket was then brought into the room, already full of water. A thick washcloth was placed over her face. And before she could comprehend what was about to happen, before she could scream, or plead for mercy, Schlatt emptied the bucket over her, letting the water soak in. Her lungs hiccupped and stuttered. She coughed, choking on the taste of the cloth mixing with the water. “That was just a test run, see how you would react. You know? Now, if you answer my questions, then maybe I’ll spare you of more pain. What do you say?”

“Fuck-Fuck you. I will never talk.” She stuttered, trying to gasp for breath, but the ropes on her neck were too tight, the water was too heavy. But they would not see her cry, see her weak, see her break.

“Whatever. Maybe you won’t talk. But I’m sure that, after a couple sessions of this, your family will.”

They could not see her eyes widen, but they certainly heard her scream, “Do not come for me, Wilbur! L’Manburg comes before me! That’s what I value most, its secrets will die with me if they must! Do not come for me!” Another failed gasp for breath, “I’ll be okay. I won’t let you down!” Her words and breath were cut off by another swath of water.

“That was getting boring.” Schlatt’s annoyance was prominent in his voice, “Now, let’s start with something easy: Who are the others? That Wilbur Soot isn’t dumb enough to give you such a heavy task, so there must be more. Names and we’ll cease the pain for today. If you don’t talk, well,” Schlatt chuckled, “I’ll make sure that never happens.” She stayed silent. They would not see her cry, see her weak, see her break.

More water. The cloth on her face was beginning to get too heavy, too suffocating. Her lungs burned with each inhale. The seemingly never-ending cycle of question then water then question then water seemed to go on for hours, even though it probably only lasted likely a half-hour or less. She never spoke a word the entire time, not after her cry to Wilbur. She never let them see her cry, see her weak, see her break.

When they brought her back to her cell, skin bruised and raw from the ropes and head spinning from the torture, she dragged her weak body to the far back corner, curling in on herself. This was where she finally allowed herself to cry, to be weak, to break.

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kpopmalereader · 4 years

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the bodyguard ; kim taehyung, jeon jungkook

• summary: you’re jungkook and taehyung’s new bodyguard, and they’re immediately intrigued by and interested in you because you’re tall and intimidating but care about them a lot. as you work together they begin to fall for you (and maybe each other too) • pairing: kim taehyung x male!reader x jeon jungkook • word count: 2487 • to do

Jungkook reaches over to pull Taehyung’s shoelace. He very carefully unties Taehyung’s shoe, keeping his eyes moving around the room to avoid being noticed.

Their manager continues to assign bodyguards. Namjoon looks at both of them, making quick eye contact with Jungkook. Jungkook smiles innocently but Namjoon sees a bit of mischievous twinkle in his eyes. Namjoon scans Jungkook up and down, seeing Jungkook’s fingers pulling Taehyung’s shoelace centimeter by centimeter. Namjoon raises an almost-disappointed eyebrow at him, making Jungkook sheepishly turn his attention to catch the last bits of their manager's speech.

“We’ve never worked with Y/N before but he has been a bodyguard for multiple other groups for a show or two and the company strongly recommended him. He’s going to be watching over Jungkook and Taehyung primarily,” Their manager points to both of them with an amused expression. “Recently they have started to wander away while we are out and before we sign a full-term contract, he should get a test run of a difficult day.”

Taehyung and Jungkook open their mouths simultaneously, getting cut off by their manager.

“No, that does not mean you try to force him to quit. Act like you normally would day-to-day.”

“We’ll see,” Jungkook says. He leans over to untie Taehyung’s other shoe before standing.

The group’s two other bodyguards hold a steady conversation together, keeping you in the loop without forcing you to actually speak. They’re closer to each other than they are to you, having known each other and worked together longer. You’ve met them twice before this, once before your last job, and once to get to know each other and learn about BTS and their schedules.

The other bodyguards learned pretty quickly you prefer to observe than get in the middle of a conversation. The only time you step in is if a situation gets dangerous or worrying. You have a silent intimidation about you. The only time anyone notices a change in expressions in different scenarios is if you want them to notice. Even then, only your eyes change. They go from normal and unsuspecting to harsh. They thin and your glances around the room to examine every possible outcome morph from constant sharp looks to smooth, fluid, and slow lines.

They also realized you notice everything, and you remember everything. One of the bodyguards mentioned their favorite movie when you first met, months and months before you took this job, and when you met the day before and you forced yourself to make small talk you asked if it was still his favorite movie. He didn’t even remember telling you this but played off his shock at you remembering the fact when you started to apologize for remembering it. You also notice every change in expression or mannerism despite how small or meaningless it may be. When you were interviewing for the position you noticed the manager’s pants were too short for the shoes he was wearing and one of his socks was inside out. One of your co-bodyguard’s takes ten minutes to button his cuffs, the other pops his knuckles at least twice every hour.

The boy’s manager walks out and asks the bodyguards to follow him inside. The other two take the lead and you follow after, studying the halls and rooms you pass through. Their manager opens a door and leads to a room with seven bickering adults. Namjoon (you learned their names after your interview) stands closer to the door and watches his group with raised brows. Their manager closes the door behind you. The noise makes the boys look up.

You’re standing behind the other two bodyguards but you’re taller; Taehyung can see your eyes. They’re calculating, some would say harsh, but Taehyung would describe them as… intense. You seem to be inspecting the whole room one second, eyeing him and everyone else the next.

His manager doesn’t allow introductions. Instead of allowing Taehyung to ask questions about the handsome and mysterious man standing behind him, he jumps into their schedules for the day. “Okay, there is going to be some walking around in public today. I urge/need all of you to stay with your bodyguards.”

You’re still scanning your surroundings, but you seem to sense the eyes on you. Taehyung isn’t the only one watching you, you make eye contact with Jungkook and Hoseok before him. Your face doesn’t move before going back to what Taehyung was tuning out.

Hoseok moves on to the conversation between Namjoon and their manager. (Not before noticing Jungkook and Taehyung’s continuous looks.) Jungkook attempts to keep you from noticing his staring, glancing down if you look near him and facing towards their manager, but keeps his eyes on you. Taehyung is less-hidden about it. He smirks if you look near him and follows you with his eyes.

You still don’t change your expression.

Taehyung holds a portable camera up, explaining his and Jungkook’s plan to the audience. Jungkook is visible in the corner of the screen but he’s not paying attention to what Taehyung is saying. Instead, he’s looking at you.

You’re not doing much, keeping an eye on their surroundings, making sure no fans storm at them, but wow are you mesmerizing. Your shoulders are relaxed but you’re still standing tall. An imposing presence with the simple yet difficult task of keeping him and Taehyung safe. A ray of sun peaks over the buildings and you slide a pair of sunglasses on. They add even more difficulty in knowing what you’re thinking, not that he had the ability before.

Taehyung signs off on the camera and hands it to a staff member. “Jungkook,”

Jungkook doesn’t look at him, attempting to memorize every tiny detail about you.

“Jungkook!” Taehyung shoves his shoulder. “Stop making eyes at Y/N.”

Jungkook’s eyes widen and he looks over at you twice. “Keep your voice down. And you can’t judge me! You were doing the same thing earlier!”

Taehyung smiles, crossing his arms in a taunting manner. “But I’m not embarrassed about it and you are.”

“I’m not embarrassed.” Jungkook mumbles. “I just don’t want to make it obvious and freak him out.”

“Sure.”

One of the staff members glances at their watch, saying something to the cameraman and you. You nod your head and look down at your phone.

“Okay, both of you need to turn your personal cameras on. We will be out here getting some extra shots, Y/N will follow you inside.”

You stand to the side as Taehyung and Jungkook sift through piles and racks of clothes. Jungkook picks out an outfit for Hoseok and Taehyung gets clothes for Jin. When they first started to shop they debated buying real, nice outfits, or joke outfits, and they both pretty quickly decided to buy joke outfits. Taehyung is making it his mission to find the worst outfit Jin has ever worn.

You stretch your shoulders and switch the foot you're leaning your weight on, keeping a constant eye on the boys.

Taehyung watches you shift around and turns his camera off to look at you. “Are you tired of standing there?”

You shake your head, pointing to the camera. They’ve only ever heard you say two words. They make eye contact and Jungkook smiles as he turns his camera off. You raise an eyebrow at them and turn to look at the entrance.

“Instead of shopping for Jin and Hoseok, we should shop for Y/N. You look nice in the suit but it’s a little plain.” Taehyung mentions.

“Yeah,” Jungkook agrees. He grabs a shirt and holds it up, closing one eye to really see the picture. “We can pick out a whole new outfit!”

“We have very good taste.”

You crack the faintest edge of a smile and they capitalize on it. You continue to look around the store as they grab different shirts and discuss what color looks best on you.

Finally, after ten minutes of them planning different outfits and offering to buy you half the store, you get them back on track. “I appreciate this, but I don’t want you to get in trouble because of me. You need to start filming again.”

Jungkook feels light-headed. He begins to swoon at your voice and your worry but tries to make his feelings less obvious. Taehyung protests against turning his camera on, Jungkook joining him a few seconds after. You shake your head but your smile grows. Taehyung and Jungkook make grinning eye contact and laugh together.

Jungkook feels a surge of confidence and takes a step closer to you. He takes the hat Taehyung was convinced you would look fantastic in and puts it on your head. “We’re still going to buy you that later. It looks cute on you.”

They walk back to the previous position they were filming in and Taehyung leans closer to Jungkook. “Since when are you so bold?”

“I don’t know.” Jungkook giggles, slightly delirious from what he just did. “I don’t know what came over me. But now I feel very embarrassed. He hides his facial expressions too well.”

“He smiled when you walked away.” Taehyung nods. “And when you said it, his eyebrows went up. He wasn’t expecting it either.”

Jungkook grabs Taehyung’s shoulders and shakes him quickly. “He smiled? You’re joking. You’re lying. Don’t play with my feelings!”

Taehyung laughs and cups Jungkook’s face. “I’m serious. I saw him smile. I’m jealous of it, why would I lie?”

“Please, you’re too confident with him to feel jealous of me making him smile. You’re the one that made him smile before that. He probably likes your version of flirting more than mine.”

Taehyung hums and takes his camera out. “I think he likes your version. I certainly do.”

Taehyung turns his camera back on and begins talking to it, walking away like he didn’t say anything worth talking about. Jungkook shakes himself out of his stupor when you walk over to him. You hold your arm in front of him and watch a group of people walking closer. Jungkook’s heart quickens and doesn’t stop even when you decide it’s not a problem and walk back to your watch-spot. He sighs and shakes his head, starting his camera up and wiping his conflicted and blushing face of any emotion.

Hundreds of fans run towards the opening doors, pushing into each other and stomping over anything in their way.

Taehyung and Jungkook walk side by side and you follow a step behind. You’re halfway between glaring and watching the fans at your sides, moving to block anyone who gets to close. A fan gets past the hired bodyguards in front of them, pushing past Jungkook to get to Taehyung. They force Jungkook to stumble back and almost hug Taehyung to the ground before you can pull them away. You move closer, pushing Taehyung behind you and blocking him from the fan as they’re pulled away by security. You walk around the boys, keeping a wide birth around them.

“You alright?” You’ve switched to full glaring at the people around you, making sure both of the boys are okay.

“Yeah,”

Taehyung moves closer to Jungkook and you lean to the security walking in front.

“Let’s pick this up.”

You escort them to the van, going back to your neutral face once you get inside. You make sure to lock the van doors and lean back in the seat. You examine the boys next to you openly and notice Taehyung’s sleeve.

“Your shirt is ripped.” You state and pull it up, lifting his arm. “You have a scratch.”

The tips of Taehyung’s ears begin to turn pink and he shrugs. “It’s alright. It doesn’t hurt or anything.”

You reach into the back seat, digging into your bag. You pull a package of band-aids out. “Here.”

“You have band-aids?” Taehyung asks.

You hold the box up for him to pick a band-aid and nod. “I felt bad when Jungkook hurt himself and I didn’t have any so I bought a few boxes.”

Jungkook gasps and reaches for the box despite not needing a bandage. “They have monsters on them?”

You smile shyly. “I would say someone else picked them out but I was alone when I bought them.”

Jungkook pulls a pink and a blue band-aid out and hands the box to Taehyung. He puts the blue band-aid on his cheek and reaches over Taehyung, who’s looking at his options, to put the pink band-aid on the same spot on your face.

Taehyung hands you one of the band-aids and pulls his sleeve up.

“You can’t do it yourself?” You ask, already opening the bandage. You put it on his scratch and pat his arm.

“You’re becoming more comfortable with us.” Taehyung continues to dig in the band-aid box and you already know you’ll have to buy another pack soon. “You’re talking more.”

“I spend most days protecting you two, I might as well enjoy it.”

Taehyung pulls another band-aid out and puts it across your nose. Jungkook smiles and leans over Taehyung, watching you closely.

“We’re glad,” He says. “We like you talking and smiling more. Your voice is nice, and your smile is very pretty.”

You look out of the window quickly, scratching the band-aids on your face. You can hear them giggling behind you and you pretend your face isn’t warming.

“I want to give you one too.” Taehyung unwraps another band-aid and pushes it on Jungkook’s cheekbone lightly. “Now you both look even cuter than you normally are. Which, I’m going to be honest, I didn’t think was possible.”

Jungkook takes one and puts it on Taehyung’s forehead. “You are too.”

You look back at them, enjoying the moment without showing too much.

“I have to take a phone call,” You slide open your phone and walk out of the room. “Hello?”

Jungkook pulls a sweatshirt over his head, pulling one of his arms out before he speaks. “Tae.”

“Yeah?”

“Do you flirt with Y/N?”

Taehyung fixes his earring, letting the room go silent for a few seconds. “Yeah. I guess I do. Why?”

Jungkook taps his foot. “Do you like him?”

“I think he’s very nice and sweet and handsome, and I’m sure if he asked me on a date, I would not say no.” Taehyung raises his eyebrow and asks again. “Why?”

“Because I think I like him. I know you’re probably going to roll your eyes and say you’ve already known, but I thought it was just in a “he’s new and cute and mysterious” way but it’s not.” He doesn’t wait for a reply before he speaks. “But you like him and I think you would be cute together, so I’ll back off-”

You walk back in, making both of them go quiet. “Ready?”

Taehyung stands and leans closer to Jungkook, making complete eye contact. “He’s not the only one I like, Jungkook.”

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fun-without-lubricant · 3 years

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i’ve been thinking about saw .5

more accurately, ive been thinking about david.

now i know saw .5 is in essence just a cute short film that eventually became a scene in saw 1, but in canon it has some interesting implications, and by that i mean im going to read into it in a way that makes no sense in order to create a batshit headcanon <3

basically (based on, might i add, zero evidence) i like to think adam and david are the same person, seeing as theyre played by the same guy, have the same accent (which was an intentional choice seeing as leigh whannell is british), and more or less the same personality. theyre even both smokers. now a normal person would say that saw .5′s “david” character is what eventually evolved into the character of adam, but i am not a normal person!

what i like to think is that “david” is his middle name. his nickname. (yes that would make his full name adam david faulkner stanheight) he used to use it because he thought ‘adam’ sounded lame, especially as he was big in the alternative/grunge scene at the time and david was just ultimately more bangin of a name than adam. after escaping the trap jigsaw placed him in, he decided he couldnt trust anyone, since the (near) killer was never caught, and thus he moved away, cut everyone off, and stopped going by his old name. He wanted to run from who he was not only because it dragged up horrible memories for him, but because he thought if he rebuilt himself into someone who “appreciated life” then hed be good enough to avoid getting caught again.

still though, hes haunted by the idea of people watching him, and the reason he becomes a PI is to ease that feeling. he cant be watched if he’s the one doing the watching, and he cant be tested if its his camera bringing others to justice, making him ultimately good. thats how he thought it worked, anyway.

anyway this hc makes legitimately no sense according to all we know about adam in canon but i do not care you can suck my fat balls david is adam

#not even putting this in the main tags so i dont get humiliated

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mysecretatticsstuff · 4 years

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Pranks

Pairing : Jeon jungkook x reader

Word count: 27.3k

Warnings: Smut, Fluff, emotional breakdown.

Summary: You thought you were going to enjoy college. Even with unfortunate events and a poor sleep schedule you were trying to live your best life. Untill one particular kid, aka golden boy of campus came dashing into your life.

College. The place you got excited to go thinking you would finally meet good people, make friends and have the time of your life. And yet here you are, 3 am in the morning just barely hanging in there with a paint brush in your hand finishing up the poster that was supposed to be a group project for physiology class. You have dozed off a couple of times now, with eyes open doing the detailed line work that you suggested not to put in it because of the amount of time it takes. You almost messed it up but your multitasking skills save you. In short you hate college. Or more so, you hate your luck for always putting you in the companionship of the worst people in the world. You can now permanently stamp a "pissed off" warning to your forehead to avoid casualties.

Grumpy wasn't even a mood anymore, it's a lifestyle. And some people just make it real difficult for you to not eat them alive. On top of that list was Mr. Jeon Jungkook. Golden boy, good at whatever he does, loved by everyone he has a conversation with. Well except for you. You on the other hand want to kill him. Not because you're jealous or anything. Heck you would be happy for him if he didn't make your life a living hell. You always wondered what you did for him to hate your existence so much. He kept pulling off weird ass stunts with you. Once he filled your water bottle with chilli tomato ketchup, you took a gulp without knowing and had a red face for a legit hour. Another time he issued the last copy of only book that had the reference you needed and kept it untill a day before the assignment was due. So you had to beg him to give the book to you and complete the whole assignment in one day. (Which was not fun of course). He mixed salt in your drink, splashed water from behind while you were returning to your apartment and what not. At first you thought to ignore him, when the stunts were small. But he just kept doing that shit and you grew angrier. When you asked him, why the heck was he doing that to you he just simply smiled like a devil, winked at you and walked away. That was a year ago, since that day you have been wanting to kill him.

You weren't the aggressive type by nature, your friends would agree that you were the most calm and collected, amiable and open minded friend in the group. Your personality was more of a mediator than a murderer. But the golden boy brought out the beast in you. When you realised that he isn't stopping with the obnoxious pranks. You started pulling off your own as a revenge. To be honest you didn't even regret it. Heck it was even cathartic. Once you hid his clothes while he was in the gym, so basically he had to wait inside the bathroom for the whole day in a towel. (You took his phone too so that he couldn't call anyone for help). You "accidentally" splashed juice onto his crisp white t-shirt before an early morning class. You wrapped his bike with cling film and bubble wrap. It was tiring but worth it when you saw his face, glaring daggers at you cause he was getting late for class and couldn't leave his apartment. You made sure you smiled sweetly at him when he saw you that day.

By now, everyone in your friend circle and both of your departments knew how you both jumped at the first opportunity to ruin each others day. You stopped questioning Jungkook because he never answered instead you focused on how to attack him in the best way.

The past two months have been extra rough for you, both personally and academic wise. Hence, jungkook's bickering has had you in a new level of pissed. A level you didn't know existed. Honestly you were amazed by the fact that you haven't had a breakdown till now. You didn't get any chance to pull anything off against him and that makes you angrier. I guy you were talking to back and forth has suddenly ghosted you and you are wallowing in all the self pity. You've had less than 4 hours of sleep for the past week because of all the requirements for class. You're just a week away from finishing everything off and you're praying that the devil doesn't make it impossible.

You personally hated Mondays, but who are you kidding everyday feels like a monday now. You head to the library first thing in the morning to finish your paper, a semester worth of work. You settle in starting to type out the last page. About an hour later your phone vibrates.

"Hey where are you?" It was Sunmi your best friend.

"I'm in the library" you wisper shout

"Oh.. i had something urgent to say to you can you come out for a second. I'm almost there."

"Okay, coming" you say.

Outside, sunmi was waiting for you with a book in hand.

"Jeez, y/n you look dead. Do you even sleep anymore?"

You sigh out loud, "Don't ask, i feel like i'm gonna pass out anytime soon. Coffee isn't helping anymore. I think i need drugs"

Sunmi just shakes her head in disbelief "What you need is a good night sleep. And for the drugs part, try sex." She says this in such sincerity that you actually consider it for a second before she laughs.

You laugh too, "Uggh, i can't wait to finally go out this weekend, i'm turning into a hermit. Anyways i'm sure u didn't call me out here to talk about hookups..?"

At this she hands you the book, "Yeah I didn't, but we need to talk about your dry state after you're free tho, but till then here you go. The book that you were searching for, you wouldn't believe how I.. or i should say where I found it I-... "

"Wait... Before you start your essay, i need to finish my paper. I meet you after your classes today. Tell me then. I need to go... Bye!" you hurriedly say before you turn around and enter the library

"But it's about Jungkook... " Sunmi tries to explain. But she realises you can't hear her anymore. She says to herself rather, "I hope you don't find trouble."

You almost reach your designated place when you see him. White T-Shirt and olive green cargos. That little shit, what was he up to again? You hurry to your laptop, only to find him smirking as if he knows some secret you don't.

"What the fuck are you doing here?" You ask. "Ooh.. chill Princess, just thought i'd see you and your work". At the mention of work you wake your computer up. A chill ran down through your spine followed by panic when you couldn't find the document you saved. After a moment, your eyes shot up, glaring dangerously at him. He sat up, folding his arms onto the table. "What's wrong? Can't find something?"

"What the fuck did you do, Jeon?" You wanted to scream bloody murder at him, but you didn't know how were you this calm.

"Tsk, tsk,.. last names now huh? Someone's angry. Tell me princess, will I win a prank of the year trophy this time?"

You were unable to speak. Your blood boiled, you wanted to punch him, better kill him. When you didn't reply he continued. "I hope you remember what your wrote in your thesis, even better if your typing skills are on fire, cause you need to rewrite within one week" He was putting a full display of his evil grin. Clearly amused by the situation he put you in. But you slowly realised what he meant. You quickly went to the recycle bin of your computer to test your luck, but soon saw that the demon had already deleted it from the bin too. Your heart sank. This was not fair. You wanted to cry now. Months and months of your hardwork, gone now. What the fuck was that bitch even thinking. This was not a joke anymore. It was your finals. Yes you both have done horrible things to each other but you made sure that it never got out of line. But him deleting your final thesis. This was definitely out of the line. You could not rewrite the whole thing even if you tried in a week. It would never get close to the original one. You would miss many points and the writing style. Damn you for not keeping an extra copy of the thesis somewhere. But again, you never thought Jungkook would go this low. You didn't even want to think how he figured out the passcode for your laptop. Anger doesn't describe what you were feeling now. You wanted to shut down. When Jungkook didn't hear a threatening or a curse, he chimed in. "Have I pulled the most epic prank on miss y/n that it finally shut her smart mouth?"

You couldn't bare it anymore, all these weeks of running around with just 4 hrs of sleep or sometimes non has made you physically weak. You wanted to escape. You throat hurt from the suppressed tears. But you were not going to give him the satisfaction of seeing you cry. You look at jungkook in the eye. Cold. You stand up, take your things and leave.

All the way to your apartment, you wanted to cry, but you waited till you were inside the safe heaven of your bed.How could he do this to you? When this crazy prank scenario started you couldn't comprehend why the nicest guy ( according to students and professors) had taken a toll on you. Yes you were angry at the beginning. But soon it had simmered down to something else. You couldn't pin point what, exactly. It's true his pranks were delirious and you hated him with all your will, but you couldn't help notice the small ways he made a difference in your life. You were an over-thinker, and this stupid game of pranks with him kept you busy. It was kind of the only source of entertainment for you as academics was no joke. It's difficult to explain but you became more productive because of him. You became a more open person, you made a lot of friends and most of the conversations started with how people don't understand why both of yo fight. Jungkook's friends became your friends too. You found out a lot of things about him through them. One that he was a naturally competitive person. He was a big softy inside they said, that was a bit hard to believe for you. But once he stood up for you when you were being cat called, he was so close to beating the shit out of the boys, nevertheless you dragged him out of it. He walked you to your apartment without even uttering a word. You wanted to say thank you, but the very next day he deflated your tires. And the saga continued. The moral of the story is you definitely had developed a soft spot for him. And this prank was definitely a blow to your ego and your heart.

All the emotions, the exhaustion just came crashing down and you let the dam break. You cried like a baby, whether because of the grief of your lost files, anger or because of him entirely you didn't know. You woke up 3 hours later, with puffy eyes and a blocked nose. You decided you can't let him get to you. So you did what you do best, turn all the frustration into anger towards him. You arranged all the resources for your thesis, and then you sat down with your laptop typing away from the beginning.

You didn't go to college next day, thought it would be better to stay at home and work. There were no classes anyways. You already sent an email to your professor informing him that there was a technical difficulty and you lost your files. Your professor was kind enough to excuse you from all the classes that week to work on your thesis stating that you had good attendance already. Sunmi called you, she felt guilty about the whole thing. "I should have known there was something fishy when that asshole gave me the book. I shouldn't have asked you to come out".

"Hey, it's fine, it's not your fault. I'll kill him with my own hands once everything is over"

"Still.. i feel super bad. Let me know if you need anything. I can bring you books from the library.."

"Thank you sun, i'll let you know if I need anything.. "

"Okay.... Oh and y/n,.. Jungkook came looking for you today. He seemed anxious? kinda worried even. I told that fucker i don't know where you are. Thought you should know"

Jungkook was looking around for you, that's weird. Was he feeling guilty? You always came up with a new prank. Maybe he is just surprised you vanished. "Hmmm... Thanks, i don't want him to know anything about me, Anyways i couldn't careless about him now. See you later".

"Take care y/n".

It was 10 pm when you stood up from your desk, your shoulders and wrists were stiff from all the typing. You realised you hadn't eaten anything for 7 hours now. It was raining heavily, you felt a bit dizzy. When you finally get out of college, this would be a hell of a story to tell though. You missed home dearly, you wanted someone to just hold you and assure you that everything is going to be okay. You took some leftover pizza from your fridge and put it in the microwave. Sometimes living alone just gets to you. All the loneliness, all the times you wished someone was there to comfort you. Your body ached and you felt pathetic about yourself. 'Why me?' was your question. A mixture of all these thoughts and emotions were swirling in your head and you didn't even realize that you were crying now. This was your 3rd breakdown in a span of two days.

"Pathetic" you muttered to yourself. Then your heard the bell ring. Confused at who came by at this ungodly hour, you wiped your tears and went to get the door.

You didn't expect the person you were staring at. Doe eyes slowly scanned you, from your feet to face. Jungkook.

You must have puffy red eyes, you think. God you didn't want him to see you like this. All petty and defeated. He was partially soaked from the rain. Jungkook just stood there, staring back at you. You waited for him to speak, when he didn't, you finally spoke, "What are you doing here?"

"I didn't see you in college today" he replied. Jungkook looked guilty? Sad even. "Why didn't you attend?" He asks next.

"That's non of your business" that came out harsher than you thought. At this his face turned stern. "Were you crying?"

At this point you don't know what or when will you break down. You could already feel a little lump forming in your throat. You looked down at your feet. "Go away, i have work". That came out so fragile and weak, you cringed internally. He stepped in. Searched around in his pocket and brought out a small USB in his hand. You looked at it and then his face.

"Your files" he said.

"You... why would you even... What the fuck? Jungkook!" With every word your voice rose. You thought he was feeling guilty, but he was just a little brat, playing games. All your softness was gone now.

You could tell by his devilish smirk that he was enjoying this way too much. "Who do you think you are?" You saw red with anger. With that much of a volcano boiling inside you, you were not sure what were you doing. Your hand flew up involuntarily. Lets just say, you would have punched him if it wasn't for his quick reflexes. He grabbed your wrist, turned you around. His other arm swiftly snaked around your waist.

"Woah.. easy princess. You sure you can fight me?" He tightens his grip around you. You hate to admit how badly it affects you. You can feel your knees going weak. His taught chest pressed against your back. You can feel him way too much through your thin t shirt. Your face heats up without you wanting it. No, no, no, no, you can't let your stupid hormones get to you. This is crazy. You hate him. Then why do you suddenly feel hot? As if on cue he lowers his head and whispers in your ear, " You okay, sweetheart?"

The new pet name, sends a spike of electricity just between your legs. You bite your lip to control the moan that threatens to leave your mouth. He notices the change too, the tension between you two is growing. You turn around to face him. He lets you. "I hate you."

His arms are still around you, circling your waist. He looks soft, as if relieved of some burden. Your clothes are getting wet from the contact. You don't know what to say, because you can hardly process what is happening. Just then your microwave beeps to your rescue.

You half jump half stumble away from him. "Uggh, i'll bring you a towel. Be right back."

When you return, he is standing in front of the couch. Looking godly. You sneak a glance at his chest and now hardened nipples before landing your eyes on his face. You hand him the towel. As if a half soaked jungkook wasn't enough. He swifty stripped off his t-shirt before drying himself off. You freeze. He looks at you gaze piercing.

"W- why.. did you do that?"

"You need to be a bit more specific sweetheart" he takes a step closer to you. You don't move away.

"The pranks.. why do you hate me so much, that you need to make my life a living hell?" You said softly.

"Helps me sleep at night." He smirks. You rolled your eyes at this. You were about to turn around when he grabs you by hand.

"I don't hate you. It's quite the opposite actually" Your eyebrows shot up at this. "yeah right. You think you can fool me again?" You scoff.

"I know you're a fool sometimes, but to be honest y/n I didn't know you were this dense" He mocked with a smirk.

"What the fuck? Okay that's it. Get out of my house Jeon" you demanded.

"What if I say no, Princess?"

You couldn't believe it. This guy has the audacity to mock you in your own house and then refuse to leave. You were beyond irritated now.

"How do people like you? You're such an ass. Leave before-..." you didn't get to complete the sentence before he pulls you towards him, with such force that you stumble, loose your balance and fall straight on his chest.

HIS BARE CHEST. GOD THIS WAS BAD. You felt your throat getting dry. You couldn't speak. He was firm, you kind of wonder about how much he works out. You could feel his silky smooth skin. You just stared at him, like a deer caught in headlights.

"That's it? You're not gonna 'make me' leave princess?" He says, with his face inches away from you.

*Pull it together y/n* you scold yourself mentally. But you body just froze and it feels hot. You probably have a red face now. You make another mistake of glancing at his lips, which are so damn close, it kinda makes you feel things you can't explain.

Jungkook notices this. He sees right through you. He finally speaks, "If you still haven't got it y/n, i don't know what to do with you... I... " He sighs, "I like you y/n. A lot. And I don't know how to behave when i'm around you, so I keep teasing you.." he says with a sincere look. "And besides.. you look hot, when you are angry at me" He smiles.

You realise you're still holding each other. Your heart is hammering in your chest. He probably can feel it beating too. You want to punch him for being such a jerk, but you also want to kiss him. You're so frustrated, at this point you don't know where the courage came from for what you did next. You kiss him. Out of all the things this was something he did not expect. This time he froze, hands paralyzed at your hips. When he finally came to his senses that it was really happening, he kissed back.

You snake your arms around his neck, pulling his hair into a fist. He lets out a small moan. You pull back, smirking. "No snarky comments now huh Jeon?" you mock, satisfied with his look. His face is flushed. You can feel his member slowly growing. He took some time to overcome his initial shock. Then he said, "No shit.. I'm.. God you're hot" And he is kissing you again. More in control this time. You part your lips to let him enter. His hands cup your face. Your kiss gets heated, one of his hands goes down, between your breasts, to your stomach. Then he waits, as if asking for permission.

"What now?" You say in between your kisses. "No guts for that?" You challenge him. And this time he actually has nothing to say. So you smirk, you take his hand and slowly slip him under your t-shirt.

"Shit". He mutters. He touches your skin, you feel like you're on fire. Goosebumps form all over your body. You feel alive.

The next thing he did left you speechless. He slips both hand under your t-shirt and with one go pulls off your shirt and throws it behind you. You gawk at him in suprise. You can tell he liked the way you reacted because his eyes went dark and he looked at you like he wanted to take you right there. "Jeez Jeon.. give the girl a break" with this you latched on him again. He stumbled back and landed on the couch. Seeing the opportunity, you climb on him, Keeping your weight on your knees, you hover just above his member. You know he wants you to sit on him, but you don't want to give him the satisfaction.

"I think I need to mess with her assignments more often" saying more to himself than to you. "Specially if it leads to this" he stands up keeping you close.

" I heard that you idiot" you were now feverishly unbuckling his pants. He moved his lips to suck you down your jawline, he made sure to nib and suck a bit harder right above your pulse point.

You let out a moan. Your hands are shaking but you somehow manage to undo his pants.

You feel really hot. You were about to pull his pants down when he holds both of your wrists. You freeze, your mind racing at 100 miles per hour. Did you do something wrong? Are you crossing your line? Did he not want this and you took it otherwise? God this is embarrassing.

You eyes were still wide when he said, "I'm not messing around this time y/n. I really do like you" he looks so very sincere that he moves some part of you. But you decided that you ain't gonna let him go so easily.

"I had three mental breakdowns since yesterday". You shot back. At this his eyes turned sad. Like he was really feeling guilty. You felt bad for him now, wondering if it was too harsh.

"I never wanted that, I thought you would argue with me and at the end of it i'd give you the usb, but you looked so angry, and when u left without saying a word I knew i had fucked up. Big time."

You backed off, hands crossed in front of your chest.

Jungkook knew you were angry. But he couldn't deny that he was beyond turned on by this site, you just in your bra and shorts, angry at him. You didn't know how hard he was trying not to turn you around bend you over your desk and fuck you silly.

You noticed that he visibly gulped, he was eyeing you like a prey. But he waited, because you were angry. He wanted to do this right.

"And all this time I kept wondering what wrong did I do to you. I hate you, you know that Jeon?...

"Baby, i'm sorry" he purred stepping closer.

A new surge of arousal hit you at this. "D.. Don't baby me..." The stuttering gave you out. He smirked liked a devil. He closed the gap between the two of you. He hovered above your lips, "forgive me please" he said just an inch away from your lips.

"Kiss me please" you said, not being able to process anything. And he did, he kissed you like there was no tomorrow. Strong and urgent. He cupped your ass and gave a tight squeeze. You let out a moan.

"Do you want to take it to the bedroom?" He asked voice an octave deeper.

You nodded, not trusting your mouth. He lifted you and you wrapped your legs around him. His body was divine, his skin was smooth, heat radiated from him although he was soaked before, lips not sparring you even one 1 second. You could feel his hard on, on your stomach and it felt powerful that you can do such things to him.

"God i've been dreaming about this for so long"

"How long, jeon?" You asked stripping him off his pants and underwear.

"From the moment you debated with your proffessor about a theory in front of your department. I watched you prove your points to him, and i swear to god I had a hard on since. I had to run to the bathroom to give myself some relief " he chuckles at the memory.

"Nerd" Fully naked now, you stare at his body.

"Damn, why are you so hot. This is not fair"

He looked at you. "I see you haven't gotten rid of your clothes yet y/n.. i would like to watch baby"

So you stripped, putting up a show for him. He grabbed you when you were about to take off you panties. He turned you around, pushed you onto the wall, you balanced yourself onto the wall.

"You're gorgeous." He said before slipping his large hand in your panties and cupping your entire sex. He then hurriedly took your panties off. He pressed himself on your behind and you whimpered. He fondled your breasts with one hand and the other slowly slid towards your dripping core.

He kept touching you there, in slow tantilizing movements. You squirmed. He teased you more, knowing you needed some pressure on your clit. He avoided it the most. You were growing anxious.

"Juuunngkook... Please" you draged each syllable.

"What's wrong?" He was enjoying this way too much you could tell.

"I think I deserve being worshipped after what you make me go through kook". You stated with eyes screwed shut.

"Okay, that's fair". At this he dipped one finger inside, testing if you could take him. He gasped at the warmth and the slick that now covered his fingers. He started slow at first, drawing out low moans from you. Then without alarm he added one more digit and started pistoning in and out. You arched your back with pleasure. You were so aroused, and mixed up with your pent up stress and frustration you could already feel something heavy settling at your lower belly, tightening inch by inch.

"Kook... I'm gonna... Cum". You said between grunts.

"You're doing so good baby, cum on my fingers"

You found your release at his praise. Pleasure coursing through your veins with lightening speed. Mid orgasm Jungkook smacks your pussy. And you go crazy at that, so much that you see white. When you finally come to your sense you find his strong arms snaking your waist and holding you, so that you don't fall down. He upper body completely glued to you.

Then you finally speak, head thrown back chest heaving

"I think,.. this was the strongest I ever came in my life"

Jungkook chuckles, "You're welcome". He kisses your shoulder. He slowly lets you go, so that you can stand by your own. You haven't forgotten the fact that, his hard on is pressing onto your back, waiting for the attention.

"So tell me Jeon..." You kiss him slowly moving towards your bed, you stop, look him innocently in the eye and ask, "Where do you wanna cum? My mouth or my pussy?"

"God, if you keep saying such things, I think i can cum just like this" His hand rubs all over your body, "For now, let's put that sinful mouth of yours into good use, okay?"

You nod, leading him to lie down on the bed.

If somebody would have told you, the previous day, that you out of all the people would blow Jeon jungkook, in your bed. You would have smacked them in the face.

You straddle him, and then you start Pickering kisses, first his mouth then his jaw. You have to admit he is a damn good kisser, you get so lost in the kissing that you almost miss that he is grinding himself onto your core. Coating himself with the slick. You feel your pussy tingling. You keep peppering kisses moving to his jawline, then his neck, biting a bit hard on his sweet spot to make sure it blooms with purple afterwards.

At one point he gropes you ass with one hand and pushes you down to grind with more force.

"Change of plans sweetheart. Do you have condoms?" He asks, eye sparking with lust.

You sit straight, a smirk plastered on your face, you bend towards your nightstand, and bring out a foil packet from your drawer.

"Always so fucking prepared" he slaps your ass, you gasp at the sting. He is looking at you, trying to figure out whether you liked it or not. You moan, with your eyes closed.

Jungkook is painfully hard now. If he doesn't put it inside you, he thinks he might burst out of sheer arousal.

"Baby.." he says in a raspy voice

You hurry up at this, you tear the foil and roll it onto him. You raise up to lie down but he grabs you. "Ride me.." voice octaves lower. You're so wet already, you don't think you need extra prepping. You come back to your stance and slowly sink in holding his member for guidance.

Both moan at the pleasure surging through the body. You're impressed by his strength, for holding out so long. He has his eyes tight shut, almost as if everything is too much for him. You feel great, warm where he is inside you. You notice how beautiful he looks under you. Head arched back into the pillow, he looks sexy as hell.

You were zoned out in your thoughts, when he snapped back. "Y/n move". And there you were riding the most handsome guy from campus. And you couldn't believe both of you were making such mind blowing noises. You piston on him for a while before getting tired, thankfully he got the message. He started thrusting his hips up to you with such a velocity that you didn't know was even possible. You could feel another orgasm right around the corner, but you didn't want to finish before him.

"Kook, are you close?"

"So close baby" he whined .

"Me too.. ughhh"

At this he moved his hands from your hips to your breasts. He gave a squeeze. His member was throbbing inside you.

"Come with me y/n" he said through gritted teeth. Suddenly he then spanked one of your boob, while other hand pressed on your clit. You didn't see it coming and the suprise helped to exceeded any pleasure you felt in your whole life. Heat surged from your fluttering cunt throughout your belly. Your orgasm hit you like a truck. It was so strong you couldn't hear anything for some seconds. That followed by ringing of your ears.

You don't know when did he flipped you on your back but you could see his eyes screwed shut, eyebrows drawn together. One last trust and he was coming with you. Your highest high lasted for a while, and left you with aftershocks. Jungkook collapsed on top of you, he hadn't pulled out yet and your sensitive sex was still clenching on him.

You both layed there motionless. It was he who moved first, pulling out with a slight hiss. He tossed his condom with a knot in the trash can and fell back on the bed with a thump. You were still slightly dazed out from the orgasm. He chuckled seeing you in the bliss.

"God, Jeon, i'll be sore tomorrow."

"Well I'll take that as a complement" he smiled.

"That was hot. You're hot" you replied turning away your head feeling shy, all of a sudden.

He grabbed you by your waist and pulled you close, "Damn baby, i didn't know i'd see this side of y/l/n ever."

"Don't stroke your ego too much jeon".

He kissed your shoulder and smiled, "Do you have any idea, how hot and pretty and beautiful you are?"

You looked at him, for the first time you saw how his eyes twinkled while talking to you.

So you just kiss him, which he welcomes whole heartedly.

The next day you step in the college campus feeling amazing. You have been smiling to yourself since the morning. Since Jungkook gave back your thesis, it was just an hour's work away from getting the final sweep before submission. You hit the library, finish off your work and finally submit it. Your proffessor was not surprised when you told him that Jungkook pranked you again. Even if he found it weird that you had no anger or resentment towards him, he didn't point it out. Now that you felt 10kgs lighter, you had one class to attend and then you were done for the week.

You were heading back to class, when some of your classmates commented, "Hey y/n, we're rooting for you both" . They glimmered while talking to you. Unfortunately they passed by too quickly for you to enquire. You entered the class, confused and zoned out enough that you don't eveb notice how everyone's eyes are on you.

"Y/l/n".

You know that voice. You look towards the last row, he stands, smiling at you. You didn't know what was happening, but your nerves were on fire. Your hands suddenly got clammy and your heart beat started to fasten. You internally scolded yourself.

*Calm down, it's just Jungkook*

He looked nervous? You could tell, it wasn't his usual cocky behaviour. He didn't know what to do with his hands. So he just let them hang. It's weird you think.

As your gears in your brain were working, you start walking towards him. But his voice stopped you.

"Y/n".. then he jutted out his chin, pointing behind you. You could hear your heart hammering.

You turn.

" Y/N Y/L/N, I'M SORRY, SAY YES.. PLEASE?

-J.K. "

There it was written on the white board. In bold capital letters.

Is this a joke? If it's a joke you're not going to be able to walk out of here. Did Jungkook sleep with you so that he could pull the biggest prank in history? But he said all those sweet things yesterday right?

Before you could react, Jungkook spoke behind you. You turned to find him in front of you. You were hyperaware now, the students who were entering silently took their seats looking at you two. This felt like a scene from the movies.

"Y/n, i'm sorry that all this time I made your life a living hell. But i'm also glad because otherwise I wouldn't have the chance to know you." He smiles, his nervousness showing.

He slowly takes your hand. You let him. You already feel the emotions surging inside you. Is he really going to ask you out in front of the whole class?

He takes a long pause. It's almost painful waiting for him to finish the speech. Then he says-

"I'm sorry, Y/n will you be my girlfriend?" He says in one breath.

You gasped. All you could do was just stare at him, staring you back. Suddenly you forgot how to speak. Jungkook breaks the silence. "Say something please, you're killing me here. I -"

"Yes". He stops speaking. Grin slowly spreading from ear to ear.

"ABOUT FUCKING TIME" Someone from the class cheers. Everybody starts clapping. You can't stop smiling. Jungkook pulls you towards him, hugging you. You hug him back.

"Aww guys just kiss each other already!!" Hoseok, spoke with a mischievous smiled plastered on his face.

Jungkook pulled your face towards him for a kiss. It was a sweet kiss. You smirked when you felt how badly he wanted to shove his tongue down your throat but refrained since you're in public. Seeing you smirk, he whispers to you. "I can't wait to take you to my place after this". You shiver at the thought.

____________________________________________

"Mmmmm, kook..." He kissed your neck. You could get used to this. Straddling his lap and making out.

"Yes baby.." u feel his smirk against your skin.

"I have a question." You said, putting a space between you two. He took your hands and started leaving pecks starting from your knuckles moving upwards. You giggled.

"Why didn't proffessor take our class today, like he came 1 hr late, gave us homework and went away. I feel like this has something to do with you asking me out.."

"Y/n, babe out of all the questions you could ask me while making out, you choose this?" He pretended to be offended. You smacked his chest looking at him expectantly.

He started- "Well I might have talked to the prof before class telling him, i kinda need a favour from him.. "

"WHAT?" U couldn't believe this boy.

"Perks of having good rapport with prof. Also i always pay attention in class. You should learn from me y/n.." he looked at you innocently. As if he was not kneading your ass right now.

"Jeon Jungkook please tell me that you at least made up a situation or does our proffessor has first hand knowledge about us being in love.." the L word just slipped out. You acted like you didn't notice. But he surely did.

He winked at you, smiling wide like he got a promotion. "What did you just say?"

"Ugh about what?"

" About us being in something."

He was so smug about this, you knew he had won. You leaned into him.

"Let me show you instead" you wispered in his ear. The hair on Jungkook's body stood up , he had goosebumps. He picked you up towards his bedroom.

"Goddamn I love you".

#jungkook x reader #bts smut #kpop smut #smut #oneshot #bts fluff #jungkook #jungkook fluff #fanfic #bts fanfic

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uomo-accattivante · 4 years

Text

The Dune trailer (1:37) releasing online on Wed., September 9!

Sources have confirmed to Inside The Film Room that the first official “Dune” trailer will be released online on Wednesday, September 9. The will come in the wake of a special, theater-exclusive teaser that is attached to screenings of “Tenet.”

A Canadian cinema employee shared the following details to ITFR. The teaser will run for one minute and 37 seconds and will give audiences around the world a glimpse of Frank Herbert’s classic sci-fi world through the eyes of Academy Award-nominee Denis Villeneuve (“Arrival,” “Blade Runner 2049”).

But wait… There’s more! Not only did our source confirm the teaser’s existence and Warner Bros.’ plan for marketing the full official trailer’s release, but they have actually seen the footage – and so have I. It’s nothing short of spectacular and a true tease.

*Teaser Spoilers Below, Scroll Down For Non-Spoiler Section*

It opens with gorgeous, custom WB and Legendary logos that fit the gold and black aesthetic the marketing material has shown so far. Then, it hops right into an iconic scene fans of the novel will immediately recognize: the Gom Jabbar test. This scene takes place early in the novel and is the focal point of this teaser.

Before traveling to Arrakis, Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet) is introduced to the Bene Gesserit Reverend Mother Gaius Helen Mohiam (Charlotte Rampling). She asks Paul to place his hand inside a box that causes Paul to feel excruciating pain without physically harming him. The catch? He’ll die if he removes his hand. The Gom Jabbar is a lethal poisonous needle that Mohiam wears on her finger and presses against Paul’s neck during this test of his humanity, awarenesses and animal instincts. You’ll discover the reason for this test during his journey.

This is nothing short of stunning from a visual perspective. The set that Chalamet and Rampling sit in is enormous and circular, with beautifully ornate carvings in the walls and floor. Sunlight beams through a skylight, and the two characters are centered in the room. The Reverend Mother is wearing a complex gown. It’s almost terrifying how the black, netted material drapes over her entire body, from head to toe. She speaks with a taunting, almost mechanical voice, explaining the test to Paul – the poor boy is clearly in over his head.

As the test plays out and his fear and pain increases, the footage is intercut with a sweeping shot of Arrakis’ deep desert, with dunes as far as the eye can see. It’s exactly how you would imagine it. They’re bright yellow, and you can feel the sun through the screen. We also get quick, big shots of almost every cast member, making their faces obvious to viewers.

We see the door open on an aircraft and the Atreides men stand in their armor as the Arrakis sun shines onto them. Oscar Isaac looks absolutely regal and badass as Duke Leto Atreides. Rebecca Ferguson is hooded and smiling as Lady Jessica, and Duncan Idaho (Jason Momoa) makes a quick appearance wearing a stillsuit. We also see Javier Bardem’s Stilgar remove his face mask to speak to someone and Zendaya’s Chani climbing over rocks with a group of Fremen.

Some quick shots also include an ornithopter touching down in the desert and Paul stepping off. We also see Chang Chen as Dr. Wellington Yueh, Sharon Duncan-Brewster as Liet-Kynes and our first look as “Beast” Glossu Rabban Harkonnen, played by Dave Bautista. He looks almost painted white or covered in dust. There is also the quickest glimpse of a large character’s head emerging from a huge tub full of a liquid that had a similar color to Rabban’s skin. This character seemed to be Baron Vladimir Harkonnen (Stellan Skarsgård), and it was a perfectly grotesque moment.

Throughout the teaser, the intensity of Paul’s test build and builds with each new cast member that is introduced, finally culminating with an epic closeup of Paul in the desert in a stillsuit, walking among Fremen. The score really comes in as the title reveals itself, and I am almost certain this is a piece from Hans Zimmer himself. It sounded like a cross between “Blade Runner” and “The Lion King,” with a good amount of drums mixed in with some ethereal, synth vibes. It perfectly fits “Dune.”

The teaser finishes with the title reveal, followed by a stacked list of every cast member that fills the screen from top to bottom, and a stamp that says “FILMED IN IMAX.” This film wasn’t captured with IMAX cameras, so this could mean they’re going the “Top Gun” Maverick” route of having their digital cameras certified by IMAX themselves. I’d expect expanded aspect ratios for at least part of the film, if not the entire film, when you eventually see it in IMAX. The images themselves look unbelievably crisp and almost surreal in a way that’s hard to put my finger on. I don’t know what exactly Villeneuve and cinematographer Greig Fraser did here (anamorphic lenses might’ve done the trick), but if these simple character shots look this good, I can’t wait to see the big and complex stuff.

*No Teaser Spoilers Beyond This Point*

It must be noted the teaser closes with the phrase “ONLY IN THEATERS,” but this is nothing new. Despite their upcoming films having official release dates picked out, all of WB’s recent trailers have forgone these dates in favor of highlighting the theatrical experience and keeping their trailers evergreen in the event of a delay — they won’t have to release a new trailer just because the date is wrong. I actually recognized this pattern last week with “Judas and the Black Messiah” and “Tenet” and predicted that the new trailers for “Wonder Woman 1984” and “Dune” would also go this route. The absence of a date is not any indication that “Dune” will be delayed; this is simply the new normal in a pandemic.

So, we know it exists, but when and where will this theater-exclusive teaser be available? That is a little less clear. In social media messages posted yesterday, both the Facebook and Twitter accounts for Canadian theater chain Cinemark stated “the teaser trailer for ‘Dune’ will be debuted in select Tenet screenings starting August 31.” Additionally, the Twitter account stated “Warner Bros. has pushed back the date for the ‘Dune’ trailer.”

But despite being rated and ready for theaters when Canada and countries around the world show “Tenet” today, WB has asked for Cinemark to withhold the teaser until next week. The explanation for this is likely two-fold.

Firstly, the trailer for “The Batman” made an earth-shattering splash when it arrived on Saturday and is still dominating social media conversation. I suspect WB didn’t want one of their babies stealing limelight from the other. Despite this teaser being exclusive to theaters, news of it (and bootleg footage, no doubt) would have been all over social media the remainder of the week. Secondly, the first screenings of “Tenet” in the United States begin on Monday. It is entirely possible that WB wanted to wait until domestic public screenings began before allowing the teaser to show overseas, as well.

The final impression that I will leave you with is that this teaser did not disappoint me in the slightest. Although the 1:37 runtime whisked by in a flash, I could not have been more impressed with the look of this film and the way Villeneuve and company are capturing the world of Dune. This will blow every previous adaptation out of the water.

With all the cast members getting shown off, the music, the designs and tease of the official trailer coming soon, this is truly Warner Bros. and Legendary flexing their muscles. They know they have something special on their hands, and they want the trailer debut for this event film to be an event all on its own. With the marketing to this point having been basically nonexistent, I have to admit some concern was growing in me. That’s all gone now. I have no doubt in my mind that the official trailer that drops online on September 9 is going to melt faces and blow minds.

The wait is almost over, everyone. The sleeper has awakened.

“Dune” is set to hit theaters December 18, 2020.

###

#oscar isaac #dune #dune 2020 #denis villeneuve #timothée chalamet #rebecca ferguson #jason momoa #josh brolin #zendaya #javier bardem #stellan skarsgard #charlotte rampling #sharon duncan brewster #chang chen #trailer

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