#like i dont know if i could commit to it without getting distracted by something else

[asthedeathoflight]

wait i saw your tags and i'm so hyped that you're having thoughts about my witches and familiars au???? i can't see your ideas being beyond your skill level though, i think you're a great writer! (also would be down to beta read)

also also. you talking about "every stage play is technically a timeloop" mindblowing.

so. who do you think would be the best/worst/most emotionally agonizing character in ntn to be stuck in a time loop?

For a second I thought this was gonna say Warriors and I was so offended I was like does my time loop fic mean NOTHING to you I already answered this VERY definitively- and then I actually read it lol. Anyways this is me being biased because I'm in love with her but also I'm right because the answer is Pyrrha. Pyrrha could already be stuck in a time loop in canon and we wouldn't know because she would make all the same choices every single time. She's always gonna try and go get Gideon. She's always gonna try and convince Cam and Pal not to fuse. (she's always going to fail) She's always going to use the herald bullet on Ianthe. Like I think the time loop of ntn isn't that bad compared to like a timeloop of gtn because there's nothing in there that really suggests canon is like a bad ending? Nobody dies or anything. I don't know what like the victory condition is for a time loop of Nona, unless canon IS the victory condition. In which case it's still Pyrrha.

However if we're talking time loop of Gideon the Ninth. It's Palamedes. He's in the time loop and Camilla isn't, but that's fine because she believes him every time. They've got a whiteboard in their room where they record everything he's ever learned in every loop. They've got it down to three hours the first morning. That's also why he thinks he and the Ninth are best friends immediately, it's because to him they've been stuck on this rock for months and months. Obviously in the beginning he tried recruiting the other houses as allies but the Ninth are just his favorite allies. Abigail has interesting theories on the time loop but gets lost in the weeds, Ianthe wants to steal the time loop from him, the teens are cute but useless, and the second and eighth flat out refuse to believe him. Harrowhark is the only person insane enough to both believe him AND immediately start working on a solution instead of freaking out and he just thinks Gideon is fun :)

Realizing that Dulcinea was murdered before the loop started and he can't ever save her nearly broke him.

[meshla-cyarika]

SFW alphabet

Nathan Prescott's SFW alphabet!!!

--------------------------------------------------

A - affection (how affectionate are they with you?)

In public, Nathan's affection towards you is dropped down to holding hands, an arm around your shoulder or waist. You'll get a kiss, if you're lucky. He isn't big on PDA because his parents raised him to think that showing your love for someone in public is inappropriate and frowned upon.

But when you're all alone, it's a whole different story. If you're trying to concentrate on something, Nathan will make it his life goal to distract you and steal affection from you. Whenever you're alone together, he's holding onto you in some way whether it's having you sat on his lap, or just holding onto you in some way.

B - best friend (how are they as a bestie?)

Fucking insane. Expect to do some crazy ass shit 24/7. He'll hang around you like a lost puppy, whether you're doing weed somewhere, or terrorising the neighbourhood

C - cuddles (how do they cuddle?)

This man will cuddle you in any position, as long as he's touching you he doesn't care. Although, in the beginning of your relationship he was very tense when it came to cuddling you and physical touch in general. He didn't want to be seen as vulnerable or weak, because he was scared that you were going to make fun of him for it. Because of this, he resulted to spooning you, so he could still hold but be able to not show how much he's enjoying it.

Now, he prefers to be held by you, because he knows that you won't laugh at him for it and you won't tell anyone. He'll also just lay ontop of you and rest his head on your chest.

D - domestic (their thoughts on settling down)

Nathan has never had a domestic moment in his entire life, until he met you that is. He does want to spend his entire life with you, but he isn't prepared to drop everything and become a normal citizen of society yet. He wants to spend his youthful years as rebellious as he can, but not to the point where it could ruin both your lives.

E - ending (how would a breakup go?)

A breakup with anyone else, wouldn't bother Nathan the slightest bit. But with you, he would actually lose his mind. Expect alot of shouting and yelling, then sobbing and begging for you to stay. Nathan has spent so much time with you, the thought of you splitting up never crossed his mind, so he was really shocked. He would start spiralling downwards rapidly. Not attending his therapy sessions, not taking his pills, lashing out at everyone. All he wants is you and that's the one thing he can't have.

F - fiancée (how do they feel about commitment?)

Nathan was originally very weary of commitment, purely because he feared that you'd leave him like everyone else. But after a year of you dating, he realised he couldn't picture his life without you. Nathan was raised to think that marriage is the best way a relationship could go. So, he waited a little while after you both graduated before very nervously popping the question. Obviously, you said yes. (If you dont I'll personally murder you for crushing this poor boy's heart)

G - gentle (how gentle are they with you?)

You know that Nathan is the most rigid person to ever have existed and won't hesitate to through someone out of a window. Which is why you were so shocked when he held you so delicately as if you'd break like glass. And the way he speaks to you is so timid and soft, a tone he's never used with anyone else. You're the only thing in his life that he actually gives a shit about, so he's going to protect you at all costs.

H - hugs (their thoughts on hugs)

He's not a very big fan of hugs. He'll side hug you tho, wrapping his arm around your waist to bring her hips next to his. The only time he'll accept hugs, is if you reward him with a kiss aswell.

I - I love you (who's the first to say it and how often is it said?)

Surprisingly, Nathan was the first to say it. It happened when you were comforting him after one of his many nightmares. He tucked his head under your chin and you ran your fingers through his hair. You let him sob and tell you all about it, while comforting him. Nathan realised in this moment, how this is the first and only time someone has treated him so gently and softly. In comparison, everyone else treats him like trash. So, in the darkness of the night he muttered a small, "I love you." And his heart was pounding agaisnt his ribcage as he waited for your response. "I love you too, idiot." You said back, kissing his forehead.

You only share "I love yous" in intimate and private moments. Nathan doesn't like the idea of just saying it every five seconds, because then he thinks it loses it's meaning. So, you both always cherish your "I love you" moments because you can tell how sincere it is.

J - jealousy (how jealous do they get?)

Jesus Christ, this man can go from zero to one hundred real quick. If he sees you having a conversation with a guy he isn't friends with for a little too long, he's marching over and making an obvious display that your taken. If he sees someone straight up flirty with you, he'll straight up tell them to fuck off. When they eventually leave, he'll kiss you with a burning desire, as if proving that you're all his. Despite all of this, he's never angry at you. He'll never say that you were purposely leading the guy on or anything. He trusts your loyalty.

K - kisses (their thoughts on kissing)

Nathan's all for kissing and making out, but not so much in public. He'll stick his tongue down your throat to his heart's content in the safety of your rooms, but not in public. He'll kiss your cheek, or peck your lips quickly in public, so people don't see him as soft and vulnerable.

But drunk and high Nathan is a whole over story. He'll take you to a quieter area of a Vortex party and press himself agaisnt you while you're backed up agaisnt a wall. You can't say you don't love him like this, but you do remind him that you can't do this here because of how fast photos and videos spread around Blackwell. You don't want him to do something he'll regret while he's not even sober.

L - little ones (their thoughts on having children)

Honestly, Nathan is fucking terrified of having kids. Purely because, he fears that he'll turn into his father. If it ever were to happen, he definitely wants to be in the right state of mind, not on any illegal drugs and not drinking any alcohol. He really doesn't want to fuck up raising his kids, like he has with everything else (his opinion).

If his father comments on how he thinks that Nathan is doing a shit job as a dad, his heart will shatter into a million pieces, because someone confirmed his biggest fear. But you and his sisters make sure to tell his dad to shut the fuck up and assure Nathan that he is doing a good job and he is a good dad.

M - mornings (how do mornings usually go?)

When you're still in Blackwell, mornings last only for a couple of minutes. You wake up from the light bleeding through the curtains and listen to the students starting their day in their dorms. You and Nathan sleepily talk about how shit your days are gonna be, while pressing lazy kisses to each other's skin.

When you're on summer break, or you've graduated and in your own home, your mornings are so much more relaxed. You stay in bed for atleast two hours, holding each other and telling each other how beautiful you think one another are with sleepy voices. It takes you atleast half an hour to convince Nathan that you actually need to start your day.

N - nights (how do your nights go?)

When you're still at Blackwell, your nights start with one of you sneaking into the other's room. Then, you watch a movie on his laptop and cuddle in bed, sleepy kisses passed between you both before sleep consumes you.

When your on summer break, or you've graduated and living in your own home, nights are more calm and layed back. You huddle up under the covers and do whatever you want. Watch a movie, talk about your days, make out 👀. You end up falling asleep way later than you do when you were at Blackwell, as you have more freedom over your schedules.

O - open (how open are they about your relationship?)

It takes a few months for Nathan to annouce your dating, he just wants to make sure that this isn't just a fling or something and that it's for real. He doesn't show PDA alot, but people know that your dating, mostly because Nathan wouldn't let anyone get as physically close to him as you do if you were just friends.

P - patience (how much patience do they have with you?)

Nathan is alright with you requiring some time to figure something out in your relationship, considering how much time he needs in your relationship aswell. If you need him with you alot of the time, he doesn't mind that either. He admires your presence.

Q - quizzes (how much do they remember about you? Like little details?)

It might not seem like it, but Nathan is very observant of the things you say. He makes mental notes of your interests that you've mentioned and stuff you've said you want. Which is why he's an amazing gift giver. If you say you like something as a one off, months later on your birthday he's got it wrapped up for you. "Nathan, this was five hundred dollars!" "So?"

R - remember (their favourite memory with you)

Nathan's favourite memory of him and you is your first kiss. He took you to the lighthouse and you were looking out at the sea, a golden ray of sunshine lighting up your face. Discreetly, Nathan pulled out his camera and snapped a photo of you, causing you to turn to him. You tried to grab his camera to delete the photo, but he raised it above his head, where you couldn't reach. You were up on your tiptoes, trying to snatch the camera, not realising how close you and Nathan were. You stumbled forward a little and Nathan instinctively wrapped an arm around your waist to steady you. You looked into his eyes and he looked into yours. Before you knew it, his lips were on yours.

S - security (how protective are they of you?)

This man is able to act as your boyfriend and your gaurd dog. It's well known around the school that Nathan and you are an item and that your both off limits. So, when the oblivious new kid was trying to hit on you, Nathan was beyond fuming. You're surprised there wasn't any steam coming out of his ears. Nathan was fully prepared to smash the new kid's nose into sidewalk, but you felt bad for him and let him down easy, telling him that you already had a boyfriend. That's when Nathan appeared. You subconsciously stepped inbetween them, knowing that Nathan was about to become uncontrollable. The kid hastily left after seeing the dirty look Nathan was throwing his way over your shoulder. That's the plus of having a gaurd dog boyfriend, he's an asshole but he's your asshole, so you can some what calm down his anger.

T - try (how much effort do they put into dates, anniversaries etc)

When it comes to dates, Nathan uses his rich boy privileges. He takes you out of Arcadia Bay and into a nice town that has an even nicer restaurant. As much as you love that Nathan has spent all this money on you, you don't like these type of dates as much as you would like. You know, that Nathan isn't being his real self when he does things like this, he's just doing it because this is what a stereotypical boyfriend should do. You prefer it when he takes you to quieter places within Arcadia Bay, like the Two Whales, the lighthouse and the beach at sunset.

When it comes to anniversaries, Nathan only cares about the main ones, like when you two got together and when you got married etc. He doesn't really care that much about the more little ones. But he does go all out for anniversaries, again because he knows that this is what a boyfriend/husband should stereotypically do. He gets you expensive gifts and takes you to the lighthouse, where you share so many fond memories.

U - ugly (a bad habit of theirs)

Nathan has a habit of putting his status first beyond anything else. Which means that sometimes he does stuff that he doesn't really want to do, purely because it will make him look cooler and boost his popularity. This is why he doesn't like PDA, because he fears that people will make fun of him for loving someone.

V - Vanity (how insecure are they?)

Nathan is very insecure about so many things. He's made this facade that he presents infront of everyone, so they don't get to see the damage behind it. You can see right through it, but you'd never call him out on it. You both have a silent agreement that when he let's his gaurd down with you it stays between the two of you.

W - whole (do they feel while when they're with you?)

Yes, one hundred per cent. He feels so complete and content when he's with you, because he knows he doesn't have to act like someone else. He can just be him. And you love seeing the real Nathan and how you can now understand him so much better.

X - xtra (a random headcannon)

Nathan can't sleep in silence. He needs a tv on, or his laptop playing something, or a playlist playing on his phone. He can't sleep without something playing in the background, because when he's left in silence he over thinks things too much. The sound distracts him and eases his mind.

Y - yuck (a personality trait they hate)

Nathan hates it when people try to get close to him just for popularity, or just to try and get closer to the Prescott family. He can't stand people using him and he doesn't have time for it. So, if someone tries that with him he tells them to fuck off and he can ruin their lives in a millisecond.

Z - zzz (sleeping habits)

Nathan has to sleep holding onto you somehow. He has to be holding onto your arm, or keeping one of your legs entangled with his own. This isn't really sleeping habit, but he has a fucked up sleep schedule. Like he'll wake up at five in the morning one night and then only just get into bed at five in the morning another night. #fixthisman'ssleepschedule

[madaboutmunson]

A Lovely Way to Spend An Evening (Sweet Home Chicago Series - Part 3/4)

Summary for overview of the whole fic can be found here

For @eddiemonth (2023 - Better late than never?)

Week 3 prompts used: Committed, Curious, Tolkien, Introspective, Sci-fi/Tech, Cryptids & Folklore, Tenacious

Warnings: None that I could think of unless you dont like spaghetti?

Summary: In an attempt to help Steve achieve his dreams, Eddie offers to take some of his workload, but that involves asking Steve's Ma over dinner. Which would be fine if Eddie wasn't hiding a mass of curls under his hat, and hats at the dinner table are a no go.

Romance/Fluff Word Count : 10.2K

Ao3 Link -------------------------------------------------------------------------

Eddie stares at himself in the mirror of the bathroom cabinet. He takes another quick, deep breath and holds up a chunk of his dark wavy hair. The perspiration forming on his palms contradicts his mouth's dryness, yet they are caused by the same thing.

The metallic gleam catches his eye as he brings his other hand, holding the scissors closer, letting the blades sit on either side of the antenna of hair he's made. He has to do this. He can't go back out there without doing something because, this time, he can't run. Eddie can't help feeling this is all his own stupid fault for being so impulsive. Well, that and not being able to say no to Steve Harrington.

Until now, Eddie had been living in a dream of a kind. His inspiration was back and flowing like someone had just stuck dynamite into a dam. He always said to himself that it was someone, but really, he had one specific muse, and that's his new best friend in the entire world, Steve.

Due to the temperature dropping rapidly recently, Eddie's writing table had been moved inside. It wasn't exactly warm in the store, but it was the Bahamas compared to the elements. At first, he'd elected to stay home in the apartment, but an hour or two into lack of inspiration and enough pacing and pondering to wear a path in the carpet and a hole in his head, there was a knock at the door. He'd quickly thrown on his hat to answer it.

When Eddie had opened it, he'd been met with the adorably cross face of Steve looking down the stairs, but then as soon as he turned to face him, his whole face relaxed in relief, "Jesus, Eddie, I was real worried! Not a call or nothin'?"

"Shit, I'm sorry, I just thought cus of the weather, it wasn't ideal for writing outdoors, you know? And I didn't wanna be a bother when I can write right here."

Steve's eyes had scanned him, and he leaned confidently against one side of the door frame and folded his arms, "Oh yeah? Let's see all 'dis writin' you been doin'."

Eddie had opened his mouth to say something, but when nothing came out, Steve smirked confidently, "Get your stuff. I moved ya table indoors, ya knucklehead," he laughed, and on that melody, Eddie had rushed to get his things and put his hair up properly. Leaving Steve to have a walk around the apartment.

Working inside the store was a little different. The pros were significant. Firstly, it was warmer. Steve even gave Eddie one of his knitted jumpers in case he got chilly. He and Steve could chat all day. He didn't have to wait for Steve to be on a break. They'd even draw together sometimes. And over time, he barely noticed Steve's accent anymore. His voice wasn't Chicago anymore. It was home. Because it was Steve's. Eddie had also gotten used to that charged syrupy espresso, biscotti every day, and cannoli every other day.

He caught glimpses of the other Harringtons occasionally. There were two girls, Robin and Max, and two boys he hadn't learned the names of yet, but one seemed distinctly shyer than the other.

Eddie would have introduced himself, but Steve wasn't overly enthusiastic about it, shooing them away from the store or distracting Eddie with something before he could say hello. Eddie found that very curious because, with both his mom and his friends, Steve had been very enthusiastic to introduce Eddie to them. Maybe, being an only child, there was something Eddie didn't get about the whole sibling experience or something.

There were really only two cons to this situation. One was that whilst Steve was very inspirational to be around, he was also very distracting. Eddie started counting seconds in his head to make sure he didn't stare too long at this beautiful man who just happened to want Eddie around as often as possible. But the second con was the worst. It made Eddie press his pen or pencil too hard into his paper. It made him excuse himself for smoking way too many cigarettes in a row or pulling at the fraying threads on the knees of his jeans.

Girls.

Whatever the weather, regular as clockwork, they would come. Like they had all pre-arranged at some point to create a schedule whereby they could have interrupted flirt time with Steve. Most were alone, but the younger girls were in giggling groups.

With the younger girls, obviously, Steve didn't really flirt with them. He just gave them sweet smiles, a free candy each, and called them young ladies, and that apparently was enough to set them off and have them squealing and sprinting out of the store.

The ones more around their age, however, were the problem. If he didn't know Steve and just watched these interactions with these girls, he'd swear he was head over heels for every single one, still with the baseline of sweet smiles, candy and young lady, but with the added leaning into their space, an occasional innuendo, brushing past them to reach for the thing on the top shelf that they absolutely had to have. The ladies older than them all received a kiss on the back of the hand. The ones older than that got him to run around the counter, a kiss on each cheek, before they pinched his face with glee and then he'd collect their shopping for them.

To look at him in the moment, you'd swear he was having the time of his life, but as soon as he'd waved them goodbye, he'd flop into the chair opposite Eddie, looking worn out, "Tell me something, Ed. Anythin'" he'd sigh, and Eddie with a pool of venomous jealousy simmering in his stomach would do just that. Tell him about something he wrote, an idea, something he just read about, or a story. Whatever it was would calm and recharge him, put a gentle smile back on his face.

There had been some other changes, too. Maybe because he saw these extra facets of Steve, but Eddie swapped the knight in his story for something else that had captured his imagination over the last few years. Science fiction. Extraterrestrials specifically. He found them in an odd way relatable.

In his mind, they'd travel the universe, studying the planets and other life forms to report back on, and didn't mean any harm for the most part. They were kinda strange looking and had weird ways and customs he could invent. He bet that if they did exist, their society would be so advanced it wouldn't have strange rules around what love is acceptable and what isn't. If it's all consenting adults, what did it actually matter? But apparently, on Earth, it still did.

He wished that wasn't on his mind as much as it seemed to be all the time lately. It felt dishonest to feel that way about his friend. He was trying his best not to, but it was difficult when Steve was so kind, funny, supportive, welcoming, handsome, and, even though he'd scoff or pull a face when Eddie would mention it, he was smart, too. Maybe he was not smart in the way a professor was, but he'd challenge any professor to get through any day of Steve's in one piece without struggling.

Sometimes, the register got jammed and Steve knew exactly the correct amount of leverage to use with his mom's nail file to open it without damaging it. His mental arithmetic was flawless. Pricing as he worked out percentage discounts at the drop of a hat. He was bilingual, quadrilingual if you counted the mixed language of Italian and English spoken around here as its own language, which Eddie thought it should be, and the silent hand gesture conversations he'd have with his mom. He knew the geography and history of this area better than anyone else. A cartographer in the making when anyone was lost looking for directions. 

Despite being able to list many things Steve seemed to be an expert at, one thing has illuded Eddie, and that is Steve's dream. He must have them. Eddie sometimes watches him daydream at the counter while waiting for one of the delivery guys to finish what he needs to do so Steve can sit with him again.

"Did you ever think of taking up art?" Eddie asked, without looking up, avoiding any pressure for him to answer.

"Nah, it's fun. Couldn't do it for a living, though," he said without looking up from the apple he had been drawing. Eddie was teaching him about shading techniques.

Eddie continued shading the side of an oddly shaped planet, "What about History, or I dunno, tourism? You know so much about this place, Steve. People would be interested in knowing about it. People who visit would pay hand over fist for a real tour of this part of Chicago. What with all the Al Capone stuff, Little Hell, and Death's Corner. The best time to hit the planetarium and Lincoln Park. The safe nightlife spots, the best pizza and coffee in town-" Steve's chuckle cut him off.

"Eddie," he said fondly, "You know those are things you like, not the general public. It's not sure money," Steve reminds him, and Eddie looks up with a slightly guilty smile, "I like it here. I like running this place. I've been doing it for years. I know this place and how it runs," Steve said enthusiastically.

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean that running this place wasn't enjoyable," Eddie apologised and attempted to take a chance, "I guess I talk to you about my dreams and ideas all the time, and I wanted to see if you wanted to do the same?" Eddie looked down quickly, afraid of the expression that might cross Steve's face.

But he heard a gentle "Oh, um," from Steve. Curiously, he sounded nervous, and in that realisation, Eddie thought this might be a mistake.

Eddie sat up and looked at him with a smile, "Hey, I was just wondering, you know? Just being my usually talkin' too much self," but Steve was just looking at him, a soft surprise showing on his face.

"I, uh, no, I wanna answer, just, uh, no one's asked me that in a real long time," Steve stumbled over his words. Eddie could see him chewing on his lip nervously, and it shouldn't, but it intrigues him. Steve hardly ever looks nervous. 

Eddie placed his pad and pencil down slowly and quietly, said nothing, just waited patiently and sipped his coffee.

"It's kinda dumb," Steve said forlornly, and Eddie absolutely cannot have that.

"Your dreams are not dumb!" Eddie said firmly, leaning across the small table.

"Well, you ain't heard it yet," a half smile twitched on Steve's lips, but Eddie knew that wasn't through amusement, not the way his eyes looked unsure. He looked between Eddie and the table a few times, "Don't worry if you wanna laugh, just laugh, okay, but don't tell anyone, alright?" Steve looked at him. Analysed his expression, and though their features differed, he recognised it from when he'd seen it on his own face. He knew the feeling that caused it. The anticipated hurt before the strike. Eddie would give anything to have reached over and clasped his hands in his own, telling him he would never laugh at his dreams, but instead, he just nodded.

Steve took a breath, looked directly at Eddie, and then wrapped his arms around himself. His hands holding his elbows. "I think I wanna, maybe, I dunno, something to do with food. Like a chef but not just shovelling out courses, ya know?"

Eddie thought he knew what he was getting at, but he wanted Steve to continue. He tilted his head and gave him a big closed-mouth smile, "Well, there isn't anything ridiculous about that, buddy. But can I ask you a question about it?"

Eddie watched Steve's arms fall gently to his lap, "Yeah, sure. Shoot," 

"Round here, there are a few restaurants already. Didn't you try getting a job there?"

"I did. I was a bus boy, helped out with prep and stuff, but then I couldn't do both and school. I gotta sleep sometime," Steve laughed.

Then suddenly, all the pieces started slotting together for Eddie. Steve has been running this place with his mom for years. He had to give up his restaurant job, and he mentioned school, so probably that, too. Eddie thinks back further. Steve gave his bike to Jonny. He never pursued any of the girls that came in here. He rarely went out. When he did, it was an errand or with him.

Steve's life was on pause. He was Eddie's age, and he was co-running a business, making sure his family had everything they needed. Through no one's fault, Steve was shouldering a burden that shouldn't have ever fallen to him to carry. But he did every day. Rain or shine. Eddie couldn't help but be reminded of one of his favourite characters, Frodo Baggins from The Lord of the Rings books. A sweet guy plunged into the unimaginable. His life turned on its head instantly, the fate of his loved ones hanging around his neck like a weight, draining the life out of him.

This was Steve's life now. His Dad wasn't going to magically turn up and save the day.

"Ed? You okay?" Steve looked concerned.

"Yeah, yeah, good. I was just thinking." Eddie swallowed down the lump in his throat.

"I told ya it was stupid," Steve said, shrinking before he stood.

Eddie leapt out of his seat urgently and grabbed hold of his arm. At the contact, Eddie remembered his breath leaving him altogether, not just because maybe grabbing an upset Steve might land him on the wrong side of a knuckle sandwich, but because of how Steve had looked at him. Perhaps he knew Eddie's deep, dark secret. Like Steve knew how glorious it felt for Eddie to feel his warm skin under his cool fingertips. How he felt the muscles of Steve's arm in his grip and had fought desperately not to give in and run his thumb over them. Eddie quickly looked to the table to avoid his eyes and guided Steve back to his chair with a much looser grip.

"That wasn't what I was thinking. I swear. Please, let me explain," Eddie said quietly. The shame made his voice small. To his surprise, Steve hadn't yanked his arm away but let himself be led back to his seat and sat down. As Eddie sat in his own chair, he couldn't help but notice Steve had placed a hand over where Eddie had grabbed him, and he wondered if that was because he hurt him or if he just felt weird about it. But Eddie couldn't take it back. He wished that he could.

"I was just thinking, maybe I could help out here sometimes. I mean, I'm here all the time anyw-"

"No! No fuckin' way! You're writin', an-and doin' your drawin's. For your book. No, and that's final!" Steve said sternly, and Eddie recognised that, too. The absolute horror of someone doing something for you out of pity.

He finally looked into Steve's eyes as if that was enough to convince him of his truth, "I can write and draw anywhere. Whether I sit here or behind that counter, and you know, sometimes it's good for my brain to take a break, to just think for a while. So it's more hungry to get back to what I want? Don't you want that, Steve? Don't you want to feel that hunger for your dream?" Eddie felt his chest noticeably rising and falling as he inadvertently worked himself up. His words increased with passion as the thought of Steve abandoning his dreams grew in his mind, and he wouldn't have it. He respected Steve, but this felt wrong. And it felt even worse to sit there and let him walk away, not knowing that Steve should have the same chances as everyone else.

Steve blinked at him, his mouth parted slightly, and Eddie wished he would say something. Anything. But he wasn't talking, and Eddie felt the desperation take hold, as he felt his friendship possibly slipping away as he revealed a more passionate side of himself. But he was in it and might as well say it all.

"I just think you've helped me so much. I wanna help you, and now I know your dream isn't this. I can't just sit here and pretend it is," Eddie's eyebrows pinched together, eager for Steve to understand, "You deserve a chance, Steve, and it's no one's fault that it's been pulled away from you. But I could maybe pull it closer? If you let me help."

Steve's expression didn't change much other than him biting his bottom lip. The world around them seemed to disappear for Eddie until finally, Steve spoke, "I'd have to ask, Ma. I don't want her to feel bad about all of this. It's not her fault either."

"No, I know that. I know, okay," Overheated, Eddie removed the knitted jumper. He didn't want to get it all sweaty. He began pacing backwards and forwards, deep in thought, until it came to him, "What about… Yeah, what about I ask your mom for a job? I could do with the money, and it could help me get to know people around here," he sees Steve shift in his seat at that. Maybe he thought Eddie might try and muscle in on the local girls, "You know, for writing."

"You wanna ask my Ma for a job, to work in this store, just so I can cook things?" Steve said.

"No. No, Steve!" Eddie said dramatically, rounding the table and crouching beside him, "So you can shoot for the moon!"

Steve's expression looked almost afraid, so Eddie backed up a little, "What if I don't make it to the moon, huh? What if I fail?"

"Then you'll be amongst the stars, Steve. You'll have tried. You'd have given it your best shot," Eddie's eyes darted between Steve's pleading as they plunged back into silence again, and it was in that stalemate he realised two terrifying things.

He wasn't just pleading with Steve. He was pleading with himself, too, don't give up , and more than that, he realised that maybe having a sense of normalcy in his life, like a job, might actually take the pressure off of himself to create. Especially when he was stuck. He could still get a sense of achievement out of something else. He could help out more at home.

But the thing that scared him the most was because Eddie realised at that moment how delusional he actually was about this situation. The worry that entered Eddie's head before he'd gotten so passionate was he couldn't face watching the person he loved not have everything they wanted. Like he and Steve were going to be like that forever. The crushing reality was one day, Steve would get married to whichever girl he chose, and Eddie would just be there occasionally for a beer or party. What they had these last few weeks would be long gone, even if it was just friendship. It still meant so much to Eddie.

And then there was that word. Love. Like a goddess, terrifying and beautiful, antidote and poison, cruel and kind, saviour and torturer. Something Eddie thought would never enter his world finally had. He wished he was back in Hawkins to talk to Wayne about all of this. And he really wished it hadn't happened between him and another man, especially not his best friend.

Eddie backed away again, stood up, sat back in his seat, scanned his eyes along a shelf of canned produce, and was about to apologise when Steve spoke, "You'd do that? For me?"

"Well, of course I would," Eddie replied like it was the most ridiculous thing on the planet, "You're my best friend," he said. I love you, he thought. He wanted to be his Samwise or at least his eagles.

"Maybe, uh, maybe you could ask her tonight, at dinner?" Steve muttered quietly.

"Yeah. Yeah, of course, I will," Eddie reassured him.

"You ever worked in a store before?" Steve asked, and Eddie didn't miss how the corner of his mouth ticked up into almost a smile. Eddie laughed with relief but also the realisation that he was asking for a job where he had next to no idea how to do. He shook his head in a no as the chuckles spilt out of him, and to his delight, they bubbled up out of Steve, too.

"Come on, lemme show you a few things. Get you a head start with Ma," Steve beamed at him.

For the rest of the day, Steve let Eddie shadow him. He showed Eddie how he rotates the stock, how the store is divided into sections to make it easier for customers to find what they want, where the price cards and the markers are, the knack with the register, and the tidbits of information Steve had about each of the customers who came into the store. Finally, he showed Eddie the back room, where all the stock is kept.

It was dark and cramped back there. A little wooden step ladder leaned against the shelves that towered over them and lined all the walls and in between. Even with the light on, it didn't quite reach some areas back there, making him a little on edge. Something brushed past his leg, and Eddie let out a less-than-flattering yelp of surprise, but Steve only laughed and bent down to pick the unseen offender up.

It was a big old moon-faced cat with deep black fur, and light eyes save for the void in its pupil. Steve held the cat up, and its head bumped his chin, "Security," Steve laughed, "His name's Caesar."

"How come I've not seen him before?" Eddie asked. It was a large cat, and the fact he hadn't seen it in the store or out front the whole time he'd been coming here seemed strange.

"Well, there are two reasons. He generally keeps to the back or upstairs and doesn't tend to like new people that much." Steve smiled at the cat, slowly blinking up at him, and Eddie could hear how loudly it was purring from where he'd stood, "The second reason is you only know he's there when he wants you to know he's there." Steve turned to Eddie, "Did he scratch ya?"

"No, just caught me by surprise, is all. Just against my leg,"

Steve scoffed out a laugh as he frowned, "Really? Hmmm," he looked back at the cat in his arms, "You cast your judgement, did ya?" The cat pawed at his face and purred loudly again, making Steve laugh, an adorably uncurated laugh that Eddie wanted to remember forever. He placed Caeser back on the ground and turned his attention toward Eddie, "You think you can handle all this?" Steve smiled.

"I think so, yeah. Well, I'm gonna try my best, and I am a pretty quick learner," Eddie beamed back at him.

Then he'd felt something unusual as if the air around him had become charged with something, and he'd become very conscious of how close they were together in this dim lighting. Which was strange because they had been closer than this so many times that day, but none of them had felt like this. Like something was going to happen, but Eddie had no idea what.

The muted light was playing tricks and tugging at his heartstrings. Making it seem like the highlights in Steve's eyes sparkled just for him. Or shadows beneath each of his lips had Eddie's name hidden within them.

Steve broke the atmosphere by turning his eyes to a box of tins that he handed over to Eddie and then grabbed his own. "You keep your eyes on me," he said, walking toward the door. Eddie followed quickly after him and came to a clumsy stop when Steve halted in the doorway and looked over his shoulder with a smirk, "Just like you always do, Eddie." 

Even standing pale in front of the mirror now, Eddie recalled how glad he had been that Steve couldn't see him then. His face must have been as red as the can of tomatoes he was carrying.

While Steve left Eddie to restock the tomatoes, the whirlwind of the rest of the Harringtons raced through the store. Steve handed out things from a box he had already made up of fruit and candy as they tore past. Robertina, who goes by Robin, Steve told him, took pause as Eddie saw her observe his empty table in the corner of the store. Steve nodded in Eddie's direction, and Robin made direct eye contact with him, almost making him drop the cans he was holding, but he managed to make the save and smiled awkwardly.

Eddie was used to the other Harringtons blasting past him and Steve waving them on to do their homework, not acknowledging him, but in that look, it was clear he was very much noticed. As she narrowed her eyes at him playfully, it still made him feel like he might be suspected, but when she said nothing, took her apple and jogged after the others, Eddie relaxed and turned back to the shelves.

Steve guided him through a gradual close-down, explaining that he stayed open a little longer for those running late from work, as they were only picking up cigarettes, drinks, or something grab-and-go. When one such customer came in, Steve grabbed the cigarettes he knew they'd buy while they grabbed their sodas and pulled Eddie in front of the register.

He wasn't sure if it was Steve's hand wrapping around his arm tugging him towards him or the anxiety of serving his first customer making his palms sweat and the numbers on the register look like symbols from an ancient civilisation. But Eddie took a breath and plugged in the numbers.

"New staff, Stefano?" The man asked as Eddie packed the small grocery bag for him.

"Hope so, Pauly. Hope so. Whats ya verdict?" Steve smirked as Eddie looked between the two of them nervously.

The man smiled warmly, "Don't be so nervous, kid. We ain't so bad."

Eddie smiled in return and handed the guy his change.

Pauly checked the money in his hand and nodded his thanks to Eddie, "Ay, would ya look at that. It is possible not to get shortchanged 'ere," he said, grinning at Steve, who immediately rolled his eyes.

"Yeah, yeah. Get outta here. You ain't never been shortchanged here, Pauly. Just you expect a discount that don't exist," Steve called after him, laughing as he left and waved him away playfully.

Steve's eyes fell on Eddie, as did that dashing smile. Suddenly, the room became hot and small again.

"You did great today, Ed," Steve said, patting him on the back. The hand of which smoothed across his shoulder blade and rested on his shoulder.

"If Ma agrees, I can let you get more practice on the register and with the customers."

Eddie nodded, "Yeah. I definitely could get more practice with people, not one of my strengths."

Steve gave a light laugh down his nose and shook his head. If anyone had dreamed of doing that to him in the past, he would have painted it as condescending and immediately got his hackles up, but when Steve did it, well, when Steve did anything, there wasn't a drop of ill intent in it, and all Eddie could see and feel, were these bonds of friendship growing bolder and tighter.

How he wished that could be something much more. 

"Everyone I like that has met you thinks you're great. The customer thing is more to show people you aren't just a member of staff. You're one-a us," Steve smiled kindly and added quickly, "Not to be fucked with, ya know?"

Eddie was incredibly glad his hip was pressed into the counter because he felt like his knees had vanished for a moment when Steve made him part of his territory.

He knew that Steve meant so people wouldn't give him a hard time as the new guy, but in Eddie's dreams later, that was going to mean so much more.

He nodded dumbly in response because speaking was not an option.

"Stefano! Mangiare," he heard Steve's mom yell from upstairs.

Eddie had heard that enough to know it was a call to food, especially combined with the way Steve hurriedly took off his apron, dumped it on the counter, pulled out the register draw and started to head upstairs.

He paused to look back, "What ya waiting' for, Ed, a handwritten invitation or somethin'?" Steve said with a light laugh.

"No, I was just gonna head home to wash up and change," Eddie replied nervously.

"You can wash up here, come on," Steve said, nodding to the stairs, and Eddie was helpless to follow.

And that was precisely what Eddie had done. Steve had directed him to a small washroom with a toilet and basin, explaining that the one upstairs would have a queue but that Eddie should come up straight after.

 Eddie had happily nodded and agreed, headed into the small room, pulled the book latch over where the bolt should have been, and stood at the basin, his world had come crashing down around him.

As he looked at his reflection, he realised he still had his hat on. The hat he always had on because this is how he hid his long hair.

A cold chill ran down Eddie's spine. He was in a no-win situation. You cannot wear a hat to a dinner table , but he also couldn't bolt home because he'd be letting Steve down. All that talk about helping Steve with his dream would be absolute horse shit if he ran home now. Maybe he'd lose Steve's trust forever and his friendship.

He slid off his hat and removed a hairpin.

And that's why Eddie was standing in front of the old medicine cabinet with scissors poised to cut his hair. His hair could grow back, but his bond with Steve could be lost forever.

But as his world dropped to slow motion, the bright gleam of scissors he'd found against the dense darkness of his hair only made the lump in his throat harder to swallow.

He steels himself, trying to convince his mind that everything would be easier after the first snip. He'd do a countdown, just snip off the end, and quickly butcher the rest.

3, 2, 1

"Eddie? Are you ok in there? We're almost ready to plate up," Steve's smooth voice came through the door's wood.

"Yeah, I'll be right out just, a bit nervous is all," Eddie thought using the truth might make his lie more convincing.

"Hey, listen, you got nothing to be nervous about. You know everyone, and we don't have to do the job thing. It doesn't matter, just come and get something to eat, ok?" Steve requests gently.

Eddie can hear the disappointment in Steve's voice, and it's enough to snip the end of his hair off.

"Eddie, what was that?"

"Nothing. I'll be right there."

"What are you doing in there?"

"I'm just freshening up, I'll be right out,"

"Eddie, why are you lying? What is going on? Let me in. Whatever it is, we can talk about it. I'm happy here. I don't need the other stuff, ok?" Steve's voice drops quieter, but Eddie can hear his concern perfectly.

Eddie doesn't reply. He just holds up a strand of hair with the scissors at the base, vibrating with emotions of all kinds, staring at himself in the mirror when the latch lifted and the door opened.

"Sorry for barging in, Ed, but you're worrying-"Steve starts to say, averting his eyes until he realises Eddie is dressed at the sink, and then he looks over him and freezes for a second before closing the door quietly behind him.

"What is this?" Steve says, gesturing to what Eddie is doing, and then his eyes are everywhere all over Eddie's hair, his pride and his shame.

Steve's mouth is making a perfect o shape, but no sound is omitted from his lips.

"Steve, I can explain. Just please don't tell anyone else. I-I can just go," Eddie stutters, realising he's still wielding the scissors as he backs away from Steve in a tiny space. He sets them down on the sink between them as his legs hit the toilet bowl behind him. He raises his hands, palms out in defence, and screws his eyes shut for the incoming insult or thump.

But neither comes, just the sound of the medicine cupboard closing and the soft fabric on the lining of his hat on his fingertips.

"Put ya hat back on, and come to dinner," Steve says quietly with a slight smile as he clears the curl of hair from the sink.

"But you're not supposedta-" Eddie starts to protest, but Steve simply turns to him and repeats himself.

"Put ya hat back on, and come to dinner, Eddie," Steve says with those kind eyes that make Eddie want to cry because they keep giving him chance after chance, "Don't worry about what ya supposed to do, and do what I ask. I'll handle the rest."

Steve leaves him, closing the door behind him, and Eddie can hear him jogging back up the stairs. He can hear the muffled rise and fall in volume of a language he doesn't understand. One voice is unmistakably Steve's, the rest a cacophony of others until his mom silences them all with a few words, and with that, he hears the scraping of chairs and the general rumble of conversation.

He looks at himself in the mirror, neatens himself up, washing his face and hands, and finally puts his hat back on as Steve requested.

His heart pounds as he leaves the bathroom. Every stair he takes pushes a new worry in his mind of what excuse he could use and how disrespectful they might think he is being. Was it an insult to Steve's mom?

Before he can talk himself out of it, he's in the open doorway and can hear all the commotion and chatter inside. He awkwardly steps in, his hands clasped in front of him, before giving a swallow and shy wave, "Hi," he manages, looking around at the faces seated at the large dining table, but can't find the one he's looking for, Steve.

"Eddie, sweet boy, come-a sit down, Stefano is ina kitchen," She says with a warm smile, walking up to Eddie and taking his arm, guiding him towards one of two empty seats next to one another.

"Wait, maybe I should go help," Eddie offers, gesturing toward the kitchen, but she shakes her head in response.

“No Stefano, wona be long. You sita down," She ushered him into the seat between the empty one and the youngest sister, Max, with the bright red hair.

The young girl turns to look at him for a moment. She squints at his hat, which almost makes him break out into a sweat if it not for the clatter of swing doors as Steve reverses into the room, arms laden with bowls of food that he dishes out around the table. 

He serves his mom first, giving her a kiss on the cheek as he does so, and Eddie's heart thumps as he thinks this might be a custom, but is relieved to see that isn't the case as Steve puts some other bowls down in front of his siblings, to a mixture of faces ranging from excitement to disgust, as Steve weaves his body, primarily directed by hips, around the dining chairs and table corners.

"Hey, you made it! That door gets stuck sometimes. Don't worry. Happens to everyone," Steve gives him a sweet half smile.

"Yeah," the curly-haired brother scoffed, "I got stuck in there a full twenty minutes the other day, and someone wouldn't help me out."

"I was accepting a delivery. You know I gotta pay attention they don't mess it up Dus'" Steve says, pushing past the kitchen saloon-type doors again.

Dus widens his eyes at Robin, "And what was your excuse?"

"I was watching Steve accept the delivery," she replies without taking her eyes off her reflection in her compact mirror as she grumbles at a pimple emerging on her face.

"You were not!" Dus slams his fist on the table. "You were outside giggling with Max!"

"Oh, I suppose Will snitched on us, did he?" Max snaps back, rolling her eyes. 

"Don't take it personally, Max, Will snitches on everyone," Robin sneers in the young quiet boy's direction.

Will shifts uncomfortably, avoiding eye contact with his siblings. He takes a deep breath and finally speaks up, his voice barely above a whisper, "I didn't snitch. I just… I just said I heard someone laughing outside. I didn't know it was you. I was just trying to help Dus when he was stuck."

"Basta!" Mrs Harrington shouts, and the table falls to silence. Her expression softens, and she turns to Eddie, "Means, stop," she adds, reaching over to pat his hand.

Eddie takes a moment to look around at the food in the bowls, and his stomach sinks. He knows what this is. He saw it in a movie a few years ago. The one with all the dogs in. He's even heard his mom talk about how delicious it is, but he has never actually eaten it himself. 

Spaghetti.

He wasn't accustomed to food he couldn't shovel onto a fork or spoon and then straight into his mouth. And this was not that kind of food. Well, it could be if he cut it up. He decides to wait to see what the Harrington's do.

The kitchen saloon doors swing open again, and Steve returns with the last three bowls of spaghetti. One for Robin, and then he sits next to Eddie and puts their bowls down simultaneously, giving Eddie that smile that made the rest of the room disappear.

"Hope you like it, Eddie. It's a family recipe," he beams excitedly, and the sparkle in Steve's eyes means whatever this food tastes like, this will be his new favourite meal.

"Who's family? Not mine. There is a distinct lack of parm on the top here," Dus complains, Max hums in agreement.

"First of all, you can help yourself to as much cheese as you want, after prayer. Second, you should really think about cutting back on the cheese at your age," Steve says matter-of-factly.

Dus and Max are aghast, much to the hidden amusement behind Will's hand.

"You hear that, Ma? He called us fat!" Dus pleads his case to his mom, and she immediately leans over, strokes his cheek, and looks disappointedly at Steve.

"Stefano. Please. No talk about your brother like that. My sweet boy, look at his perfect angel face," She coos, pinching Dus' cheek.

Steve pulls an exasperated face at Dus, who is grinning back hugely, and then turns to his mom.

"Ma, I would never. I was just talking about how his body sometimes reacts after too much dairy, ya know? When you get to this age, you gotta watch that stuff. Could give him pimples."

His mom looks confused for a second. "Brufolo," Steve adds and pokes at his own face, making his mom gasp.

"No! No, my angel boy. Das it. No more for you." Mrs Harrington says with an urgency as she pats Dus' cheek.

"But Ma!" He protests.

"No, but ma, Destino, listen to your brother. Stefano always has the most beautiful skin."

Dus, Dustin, or Destino, as it appeared to be his full name, glares daggers at Steve, who easily bats them away with a pump of his eyebrows and smug smile laced with mischief.

Robin rolls her eyes, "Enough golden boy competition. The food is getting cold."

Max hums her agreement.

Eddie watches everyone bow their head and clasp their hands together. He pauses to take it in, and got a slight nudge from Max, and quickly follows suit.

He has little to no idea what Mrs Harrington says next. He recognises a few names. He is surprised to hear his own and his mom's and also makes out the words for food and thanks. He hears a few words repeated throughout, Dio and Signore. He makes a mental note to ask what they mean later.

He hears the familiar 'Amen', which the rest of the table says in unison, and Eddie mumbles on the tail end of it.

Then it is as if it's suddenly rush hour. Everyone is reaching for cutlery or grated cheese. Dus gets his hand slapped away by everyone except for Eddie whenever he goes for the cheese. Eddie notices that no one touches the salt and pepper even though it's on the table.

Steve passes Eddie a fork and stabs his own into his food, twirling it around and eating what was on the fork in one bite. He falls back in his chair and makes a noise that Eddie thinks might haunt his dreams for the rest of time as he chews his mouthful.

"Mmmmm, Ma. You've outdone yourself. Perfect. Bellisima." He gushes, kissing his bunched fingers and seemingly throws the kiss somewhere in the room.

Mrs Harrington beams proudly at Steve.

"Take it down a notch, Romeo. You already got out of doing the dishes by serving and making dessert," Robin snorts sarcastically.

Steve makes noise through his teeth at her like he's trying to shoo away a pesky stray.

"Robertina, be nice, and Stefano is no a Romeo," Mrs Harrington starts, pulling a disgusted face, "He's a good boy. No chasing strange girls or shoutin' up at de 'ouze" 

"You sure about that? He's always shouting up at this house. Ma! I'll do it once I've finished daydreaming! " Max points out, utilising an excellent impression of Steve, to Eddie's surprise.

There is a smattering of giggles from Steve's siblings, even a fond smile on Mrs Harrington's face, but all Eddie can read from Steve is worry. Was he concerned Eddie might think less of him because his family were teasing him?

"You know that's how I come up with a lot of my ideas," Eddie blurts out, and it's as much a surprise to him as anyone else, "I think we all do it a little for inspiration, whether it's poetry, comedy, science, adventure, cooking, problem-solving, music, any-anything really," Eddie started to get a lot quieter when every face at the table has turned to him.

At first, he's concerned he's talked out of turn, but every face has a gentle smile on it. He turns to Steve for direction, but he's met with a killer half smile that makes him feel like his heart might burst right through his ribs and top his spaghetti.

"Guglielmo, good day at school?"

"Mama, please, it's Will."

"I didda not spend hours in pain to call you Will under my roof," she frowns.

"Sorry, Mama," Will concedes softly and gives a quiet recollection of his day.

A gentle nudge in the other side of his ribs startles him, pulling his thoughts from their chaotic spiral. Steve's voice, low and warm, whispers into his ear, sending a shiver down his spine. "If you don't like it, I can make you something else. Ma won't mind."

Eddie shakes his head quickly, feeling a blush creeping up his neck. "No, no, it smells delicious. I just, uh..." His words fumble, faltering when his gaze met Steve's. 

There is something disarming in the way Steve's hazel eyes hold his own, but it is too much, too risky, so Eddie drops his gaze back to the bowl in front of him and grabs his fork in a desperate attempt to focus.

No matter how hard he tries, he can't get the damn spaghetti to stay on his fork. He almost gets it to his mouth a few times and fails at the last second.

Steve laughs softly, the sound vibrating through the air, wrapping around Eddie like a warm blanket. He sighs, offering an apologetic smile to the most beautiful man he's ever laid eyes on. Movie stars included.

"Like this," Steve said softly.

Eddie almost passes out because of what is happening. Steve is shuffled up next to him. Part of his chest is pressed up behind Eddie's upper arm, and it only adds to the passing out problem due to the impossible heat he can now feel where they touch. But it's about to get so much worse because Steve doesn't take Eddie's fork from him. Instead, Steve wraps his hand around Eddie's, his fingers warm and steady, guiding Eddie's trembling hand with ease.

The only safe thing to do is keep his eyes on the demonstration and whatever he does, not look up at Steve because if he does, then everyone will know. Every single person at this table will know about his gigantic crush on his best friend.

This had to be some kind of dream. Steve's breath was ghosting across Eddie's cheek now, and it took everything in him not to lean into it. The smell of Steve's cologne mixed with the faint scent of tomatoes, some kind of herbs, and the slightly sweet smell of powdered sugar. That last one he was more familiar with. That meant Steve had baked. He let a small smile break free from the knowledge that these little Steve details were neatly tucked away for himself.

But he must not look at him. Because if he did, if he saw that same warm, easy expression on Steve's face, there would be no hiding it. No hiding the fact that his heart was practically beating out of his chest, no hiding how desperately in love he is with his best friend.

His hand shook slightly in Steve's grip, and he prayed Steve didn't notice. He guessed he could blame it on nerves.

"Ed, you alright?" Steve's voice, quiet with concern, broke through his thoughts. Eddie's breath caught in his throat, and at the sound of his name wrapped in the most heavenly voice, he was met with Steve's soft, worried gaze. His honey eyes, always warm, always so full of something Eddie couldn't quite read, were locked on his. "Thought I lost you for a second there."

Then by some deity in the universe showing pity on him, he sucks in a breath and laughs weakly, "No, all the twirling. It's, uh, hypnotic."

There is a laugh from the end of the table, "He's right, with the sauce. It looks like the posters for that Vertigo movie," Will chuckles.

A small argument breaks out about how Will has even seen that poster, the blame falling on Max and Robin. Steve smiles then, slow and genuine, making the rest of the room fade away. For a moment, it's just them. The way Steve's fingers linger on Eddie's hand a second too long, the quiet intimacy of their closeness. Steve's smile, so disarming, sends a flutter through Eddie's chest, and for the briefest second, Eddie lets himself believe that maybe, just maybe, Steve isn't so unattainable after all. 

Then Eddie's fantasy world shatters as Steve releases him and gestures for him to put the spaghetti-constricted fork into his mouth, which he does without question.

At first, the textures are unusual, but the flavours are all recognisable as things he's familiar with. Everything tastes so fresh. Like they plucked the tomato straight off the vine, and it was bursting in his mouth. The cheese was saltier than he was used to, but the combination of it with the spaghetti was out of this world.

Eddie leans back in his seat, closes his eyes, and understands completely why Steve made that noise after his first mouthful earlier. This meal is delicious.

When he reopens his eyes, he is met with the smiling faces of Steve and his Mom, who quickly look back to their own food. Without eyes on him, Eddie tries again to master the spaghetti on his fork. 

The first few tries are a weak effort of a few strands of spaghetti making it to his mouth. Another time, he winds it so well he has enough on his fork to fill his entire mouth. A few unravel just before getting consumed, and he sucks them in as he'd seen Steve doing and, for his attempt, gets attacked by sauce flicking from the stray ends on the tip of his nose and on his cheek.

Eddie picks up the napkin his fork has been resting on and wipes his face and mouth as best he can. He's sure he is a complete mess, as is his shirt, but he would gladly throw this shirt into a furnace if it meant Steve turned and smiled at him like he was doing right now. Sweet, confident, maybe a little impressed?

"That was fantastic," Eddie said, rubbing his very full stomach.

"Not bad for your first time," Steve praises, and Eddie sits a little taller.

"You learn fast. That's very good, Eddie," Steve's Mom nods her praise, "Very smart. Very smart to be friends with Stefano. He's a good boy."

"Ma," Steve says with a laugh in an effort for her to stop.

"Too good for the girls in this city. They no appreciate him. He works hard, very kind, very handsome, very loyal, don't you think, Eddie?" She asks, holding Steve's chin and turning it towards Eddie.

He can see the slight rosiness on his cheeks of embarrassment and the rolling of eyes, but this is Eddie's chance to be honest, "Ma, please," Steve tries again.

"I think so, Mrs Harrington. Stev-Stefano is a really great guy," he answers fondly, and Steve gives him a bashful smile in return. his chin is let go of, and Mrs Harrington's eyes are fixed on Eddie, "My Mama thinks so too." Eddie adds quickly, "Want me to help clear the plates?"

Mrs Harrington shakes her head, "No, no, Eddie. You are a guest. Today anyway," she smiles mischievously. Eddie figures she means when he starts working there, he will be allowed to help out more, but he realises he has yet to ask her.

"Hey, Dus. Eddie has changed up his story. It's about all that space alien stuff you're into," Steve says as he starts gathering up the plates, and as he heads back into the kitchen, his Mom follows him.

"Really? You know about sci-fi? What about Cryptids? You know what they are?" Dustin quizzes Eddie, and he notices Will is also very interested in how this conversation will go. He pulls out a copy of Strange Tales from under the table and clutches it to his chest. Truthfully, it looks like it's on the verge of falling apart, but he seemed very attached to it.

"What like Bigfoot, the Loch Ness Monster and the Jersey Devil?" Eddie asks in return. The duet of gasps from the boys meant he was on the money. They quickly move around, slamming two notebooks on the table to show Eddie their theories.

Amidst the hum of conversation, two things happen, the telephone rings, and someone starts coming up the stairs.

"PINA!" A deep voice yells up the stairs, "I got ya beef, and I left the baking stuff in the store room, cus ain't no way I'm dragging that and my sorry ass all the way up these stairs, because-" 

The exquisitely suited man in the doorway stops talking as his eyes meet Eddie's. He starts talking that non-verbal language all the Harrington's do.

His eyes rapidly scan over Will and Dustin, and the assessment is the age gap is too large for them to be friends. He doesn't even bother looking at Max and raises an eyebrow at Robin, who shakes her head at him. He frowns momentarily in thought, then raises both eyebrows, and Robin rolls her eyes in response.

He extends a hand out towards Eddie, who is already getting out of his seat to shake it when suddenly he is whisked out of the room by Mrs Harrington. Eddie can hear them talking, and due to hearing the word Americano so often, he thinks he is the topic of at least part of the conversation.

Steve quickly emerges from the kitchen with a box of cannoli, "Sorry to cut our evening short, Ed. Unexpected guest," Steve says with a somewhat regretful smile.

"That's ok. It's getting late anyway. I should head back," Eddie lies. He was just getting the hang of things here, but maybe it was for the best he left before he got too comfortable around everyone, "I even forgot to ask your Mom about the job," Eddie cringes at his failure.

"Oh!" Steve exclaims in realisation, "Sorry, Ed, I got so caught up at the table. I forgot to say Robin already told her. She asked me in the kitchen, and she said yes," he says happily as he almost guides Eddie down the stairs using the baked goods as bait. Not that he needed those to lead Eddie anywhere.

"That's great news, when can I start? When can you start?" Eddie asks eagerly as they enter the store floor.

Steve stops walking, turns, looks him over with a huge smile, and shakes his head with a laugh, "Eddie Munson. You're like a dog with a bone, huh? Committed. Bet you'll make someone a great husband one day. I could always put in a word for you with the local ladies."

"Oh no!" Eddie says much too quickly, leaving him wide-eyed and terrified, "Wh-what I mean to say is, uh, is..."

Steve tilts his head at Eddie, a smirk on his face, "What you mean to say is?" he teased playfully.

"That because of my writing, I don't have the time for dating. And if I was to, you know, date someone, I'd wanna give them my entire attention, right?" he laughs nervously, "Court them properly. Dances, flowers, dinners, romantic strolls and night drives, stuff like that," Eddie's rapid flow of words is punctuated with a nervous swallow.

Steve raises an eyebrow, and his smirk morphs into a smile, "Yeah, stuff like that," he laughs as he gets to the door to hold it open for Eddie and hands him the box once he's outside.

"Well, goodnight. Thanks for everything today, and please thank your family for me, too. That was so great," Eddie says genuinely.

Steve leans in the doorway, his arms wrapped around himself, looking at the floor, "Course I will, and thank you, Ed. I never thought I'd have this chance again. All my brothers and sisters are gonna go to college. Ma's getting older, this place is still my future. But maybe, with what I've now got the chance to learn," he toes the top stair and then looks up and makes direct eye contact with Eddie, and it feels like Steve can see right into his soul, "I can make some changes. Keep the name, but change the business to suit me more."

Eddie nods supportively, "I know you will."

Then that feeling is there again, like in the storeroom, and Eddie isn't sure what it is, but it's giving him goosebumps. Steve goes to take a step down, but he's halted by his own name.

"STEFANO! TELEPHONO. IS NANCY!" Mrs Harrington shouts.

Eddie watches Steve take a deep breath and shouts up to the open window she's leaning out of, "MA! I told her I'd call her back! I'LL BE RIGHT THERE!"

Steve pinches the bridge of his nose, sighs, and mutters about patience. It confuses Eddie a little. He knew Steve and Nancy were a thing, but she was with Jonny now. Maybe things had changed. It was probably an excellent opportunity to show Steve he had his back.

"Must be tough being Little Italy's most eligible bachelor," Eddie chuckles, even though his heart is sinking.

Steve looks confused and goes to say something.

"STEFANO. NANCY!" Mrs Harrington shouts again, but this time spots Eddie, "Ah. Good night, Eddie, see you for your next shift," She smiles fondly at him and winks before retreating inside and closing the window.

Steve looks a little harassed, "Listen, Ed, I really gotta go, but uh, you got any Halloween plans? We was gonna go to a spooky old house and then my Uncle's club. Do you maybe wanna come?"

"Yeah, that sounds great," Eddie answers, nodding so enthusiastically that he thinks his head might come off.

Steve claps his hands, "Yes! I knew you'd be game. Ok, so, uh, yeah, see ya tomorrow?" 

"Of course! Maybe you can teach me why Ms Fiore always picks the pasta on the top shelf, no matter what kind you put up there."

"If I told you that, you might not wanna work here," Steve laughs, "Night, Ed. Thanks for everything."

"Night, Steve. See ya tomorrow," Eddie says with a salute and takes the short walk around the corner to his place.

It should take Eddie much less time than it does to reach the steps to the apartments, but the ingredients of the cool night air, a handful of incredible fantasifull moments, really helping Steve, even with the extra squeeze of bitter jealousy, didn't spoil the feast that filled his heart and mind.

Once indoors, he puts the cannoli in the refrigerator, leaves a note for his mama to let her know she was sent one, and heads to his room.

He hangs up his jacket and hat, heads to the bathroom to start unpinning his hair, to let it free, and chuckles at the blunt cut end, the other part of which is currently in a Harrington trash can.

After brushing his teeth, he heads to his bedroom and is just about to turn on the light when a warm glow catches his eye.

From the darkness of his room, he can see Steve's bedroom and more exciting than that, he can see Steve, who appears to be looking through a tin of papers and adding another folded piece of paper to it. Love notes, no doubt.

Eddie bites his lip. He shouldn't spy. It's wrong, maybe even creepy, but he swears if Steve removes any clothing, he'll look away.

Luckily, Steve does nothing of the sort unless you count kicking off his shoes. He flicks through a large box, produces a vinyl record, and puts it on the turntable.

Eddie observes him pull the arm over, and as the stylus must meet the groove, Steve closes his eyes and clutches the album sleeve to his chest.

He turns around a few times to a rhythm and words Eddie can't hear, but whatever it is, has Steve thinking about someone. The way he sighs deeply and flops back onto his bed, eyes closed and a gentle smile on his lips, spells out he's in love. Nancy must be really something to make a guy, who most of the area want for themselves, turn to mush.

Still out of sight, Eddie leans his chin on his hand, with his own sigh of longing. What he wouldn't give for it to be him that Steve was head over heels for.

Before Eddie can spend too long on that thought, Steve's bedroom door bursts open, and he startles but laughs when he sees it's Robin.

It takes Eddie a second, but he eventually realises from her outfit, miming and mannerisms that she's pretending to be Steve. She gets a pillow thrown at her for her efforts.

Soon, another figure joins the party. Eddie can make out the red hair crammed under a brown curly dress-up wig, her nose stuck in a book. 

Eddie recalled drawing the girls when he sat on the steps that day, and it's clear from Steve's half-annoyed, amused face that they were teasing him. Which made Max, Nancy.

Max-Nancy walks past Steve, engrossed in her book, and walks into something, sending her reeling back, only to be caught by the capable arms of Robin-Steve.

Steve waves his arms around in complaint about something, but it's too late. Robin-Steve and Max-Nancy are already waltzing around the room, only to stop on occasion when Robin-Steve pulls out a small bunch of grapes to feed to Max-Nancy.

The display should make Eddie boil with envy, but it is much too funny, especially when Steve chases them around and out of his room.

Eddie chuckles quietly in the dark and thinks about heading to bed himself. He takes one last look over at Steve, who, to his horror, appears to be looking right back at him.

Eddie freezes on the spot. The icy chill of being found out charges down his spine, but the fear is short-lived. Eddie takes one last adoring glance at Steve before he draws his curtains, and Eddie is left alone again.

[likeadog]

the barbie movie like. ok so [spoilers and long paragraphs under the cut]

yeah it was really basic ideologically it didnt cover all the various intersections and theories of feminism but i think when people saw conservatives flipping their shit people expected it to be like, a manifesto. its a film, and more importantly, it's the Barbie Movie. i think expecting a gender and womens studies class from it would be silly, and while i get why people are disappointed in how much sympathy it lends to the men in the movie, i dont think like, once again, that was ever something to not expect?

furthermore on that point i think showing misogyny from a place of defining the self around a sense of loneliness by men isn't...far off. theres never an excuse for misogyny but thats rhetoric that radicalizes a lot of incels and shit i would rather that than they treat it like some mysterious miasma.

also, i think, once again while it was pretty basic in the ideas it presented... how often is it show that explicitly in broad-audience film? like stated directly to the audience in that manner? theres no flirting with the feminist theory in the movie; it says it outright, which is something a lot of films shy away from out of fear of alienating men once it becomes too "girl power"-y. im not usually for the use of a lot of buzzwords in film and discussion of issues but these buzzwords are never said with cheapness or to obfuscate. it could be heavyhanded at times, but that heavyhandedness wasnt ever really obnoxious? it walked the line of "haha silly" but still took its point seriously enough that you could appreciate the use of that heavyhandedness for comedic effect without being mocked

i also think the fact they just like "solve" the patriarchy in the barbie world isnt meant to imply that you can just fix the real world with a woman president or by being aware of misogyny. in fact a lot of the movie is dedicated to showing how the barbie world and real world are different. the conclusion of the movie is that barbie wants to become human, even though the human world is messy and unsolved and nothing like she assumed it was. she believed barbie had solved misogyny forever, which is a direct jab at the idea that any "one thing" or "girl power" movement can just suddenly whisk away the very power structures that created that sort of oppression.

its very much coming from a cis/heterosexual/white basis. they flirt with further intersection but dont commit, which im really not a fan of. my friends after the film were like "it was more homoerotic than i expected haha" and...yeah, it was, but it didnt do anything to address gayness or what that means in such a heavily gendered heterosexual society. you could read that subtext through allen and his thing.... but allen is a joke. his story is never resolved. hes one of the guys but he isnt, hes one of the girls but he isnt, he benefits not at all from "kendom" but conversely is not oppressed the way the barbies are and vice versa. he's just allen, and the only allen there is. when sasha and her mom want to go back to help barbie, the fact he just goes "God im never getting out of here" and thats just like, left was kinda. well. it was something for sure.

still. i know i just wrote like 200 words on the ideology of this movie but first and foremost its a pg13 comedy meant to be shown to broad audiences in theaters for money. its meant to be an enjoyable watch, and it is! its a gorgeous film, its funny, the songs are fine, and the way it makes its side comments arent distracting nor meanspirited. it knows when to take itself seriously, and i like that. i was actually expecting it to be a general audiences like, kids movie i was so fucking surprised when barbie said penis.

i also think saying the line at the end about the gynecologist is like "saying you need a vagina to be a real woman" is disingenuous honestly. one its meant to be a bit of a shock quip to get a giggle but two i think a lot of people who need gynecological care (which can include trans women) are afraid when it comes to that first visit and finally sitting down and talking about those areas because of the shame and lack of proper education. maybe its bc i grew up mormon but i dont think its meant to imply thats what MADE barbie a real woman or that its fundamental to being one.

once again it definitely isnt a perfect movie. i think the way the ken and barbie talk happened at the end was still a bit coddly and the scope of the ideology underneath the movie was, once again, still very much centered in white cishetero society and thought with only passing mentions of intersectionality that felt both shallow and (especially with the gayness and racial dynamics) occasionally like it was being turned into a joke

still all in all it was a pretty good movie. weird barbie #1. allen get behind me i will protect u

[wisteria-tarot]

thank you so very much for the reading about the dreams and alternate realities i find it a fascinating subject, could they also reveal hidden messages that we are or were meant to know or things we mightve experienced without us being aware of it? for instance i used a dream related subliminal that seemed to have many messages or a general scene i had to follow now cause i used the sub i didnt know if it was just coincidence or if it was acrually real becquse if if i dont use said subliminal i dont get any sort of violent or heartdropping dreams u know nothing that would make u thini anything different?

except when i did use the subliminal it was dreams that i was being chased hunted or followed and closely watched by something ir someone usually people i didnt know or occasionally people and relatives i do know would be randomly staring at me as if judging me so idk what any of that means per se but its still interesting that the dream subliminal showed me those scenes without me intending for it specifically. i dont think anyone would want to dream of being hunted by an older man in a mansion / estate somewhere lmao but otherwise my dreams are usually non existent. so are subliminals genuinely real and is it our subconcious that manifest things or do we experience things in reality based off some weird dream reality? thanks once again i hope this makes some sort of sense

Disclaimer: This reading is only for entertainment. Take it with a grain of salt. These are my personal interpretations of the cards with a sprinkle of intuition. Tarot is not set in stone it is not the end all be all of someones life.

Do subliminals really work?

3 of wands (rx), queen of wands, 8 of swords, 4 of cups:

Subliminals alone might not be enough or might require more time, effort, or alignment with other actions to see results. The more actively engaged and empowered you are with the process, the more likely you are to see success. If someone is not open to the idea or is unconsciously blocking the process with negative thinking, subliminals may not have as strong an effect. For subliminals to work, there needs to be a level of active engagement, belief, or emotional openness.

How does manifesting things into reality work?

2 of pentacles (rx), 3 of cups, 2 of cups, the tower (rx):

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, distracted, or juggling too many things, it can block or delay the manifestation process. If you’re out of balance or not fully committed to your goals, manifestations might not come through as effectively. manifesting works best when you align with others who are on a similar path, it can enhance your manifestation abilities, creating a sense of unity and collective energy. Manifesting is not just about thinking about what you want, but also aligning emotionally with your desires, trusting that they are meant for you. To manifest fully, you may need to let go of old patterns, beliefs, or situations that no longer serve you. Manifesting requires being open to transformation, even if it feels uncomfortable or uncertain.

[maestro04yayyy]

Antivillain au

((Post chloleka confession and reveal) Hypothetical situation that i wrote cause im bored.)

Tigress hurried along rooftops away from her girlfriend and toward the emergency meeting called by Rena Rouge (still dont know how to spell it). Usually they were called because a permanent hero would be absent for a few days to reduce worry and allow them to plan ahead. She knew this one was different because not only was she the last one there, everyone was sitting in a pre-planned semi circle. Even her brother was somehow there before her and she knew he was twice the distance to the rendezvous point. She sent a quick text to her brother that was just question marks and then one to her girlfriend saying she was there. They told her to sit opposite of the group as they all faced her, some with worry others confusion. Her brother had his unmistakable shit eating grin as he silently replied to her msg with 'they know'. Tigress tried to hide her her panic and reply with 'know what?'. Before Viperion could reply Rena stood up.

"So I'm assuming, we've all seen the LadyBlog?"

Tigress had not seen the Ladyblog, and became very worried when she shot a glance at her messages and the Hen rapidly replied: 'Sounds good!' 'holly shit' 'babe' 'check the ladyblog' 'fuckit' 'im omw' 'as hen' 'dont say anything'

"Um..." Someone was about to say they hadn't by was shot a glare by Rena.

"Tigress?" Rena switch from sour to sweet in an instant. "Have you seen the Ladyblog?"

"Uh," both Chat and Viperion were hiding laughs in their palms while Carapace holds Ladybug's shoulder to keep her from intervening. "I have not."

"Allow me to show you." Rena grabbed her flute and pulled up an image, glancing between the image and tigress like she was double checking something. She turned her flute around and there was an image of Tigress kissing the Hen in an alleyway. It was a split second occurrence in the middle of a chase, a literal peck as she remembered it. How did someone get a picture of the actual kiss? Yeah they stared at each other for multiple seconds before and after, but the actual kiss happened so fast she wasn't sure if they were still being chased. "Care to explain?"

"Ummmmm..." She looked around at her teamate and friends for assistance. Some shrugged, Viperion muffled even more laughter, and Chat looked like he was going through a crisis. "Photoshop?"

"See, I thought that too, so I ran it through some programs." Ladybug really looked like she wanted to intervene but Carapace held his grasp. "Its legit."

"Um, oops?"

"Yep, big oops" Rena returned the flute to its sheath. "Now, Ladybug thinks, maybe, possibly, even a tad bit likely that you are a liability."

"Oh." It was Chat's turn to hold back Ladybug as Carapace stopped Viperion from stepping in.

"Now, we've been working together for so long that I trust you to give an honest answer.-"

"I will."

"Okay, do you know the Hen's true identity?"

"No." She said with as much confidence as she could summon, y'know, like a liar.

"Does the Hen know your true identity?"

"No."

"Are you and the Hen romantically involved?"

Before she could answer multiple fireworks went up behind the group, distracting them enough for the Hen to run through and grab Tigress without conflict.

"I'd love to stay and chat,-" she spoke fast, glancing at the conflicted cat hero and smiling at her own pun. "-But I've got a crime to commit."

Quickly everyone looked around to see if this was planned. No one knew so they all chased after the villain. "I guess thats a yes." Carapace nodded to his girlfriend before following their teammates.

(The entire time the conversation happened, Chat is trying to figure something out. He starts off laughing because of the situation but then he remembers tigress is Juleka and Juleka is dating Chloe so holy crap, Juleka is cheating on chloe as tigress with the hen. And then he thinks about how smart and confident Chloe is so she had to know that Juleka was 'unfaithful'. So why were they still dating? He comes to the conclusion that chloe and Juleka were secretly in an open relationship and the hen was also dating juleka. And then a thought occurs, just as the blonde villain runs off, 'what if Chloe is the Hen?' (I typed juleka so many times not im not even sure if im spelling it right anymore))

Holy shit i love it!!!!!

Oh and I love a lot that chloe used fireworks.

By the way ladybug is very lucky she hadn't tried to retrive the miraculous from juleka while chloe qas able to see. That would have triggered her pretty badly.

Oh and honestly adrien is smart but he is goofy so I think he will belive the open relationship theory more(also he would probably be in denial too, since even if they play a lot, THE HEN is still his enemy)

[wriringramrles]

Murder mystery time!

So i did so much outlining. So much.

I wrote out exactly what each character was doing when and why and what their thought process was and I've got some damn good motives and lies and red herrings

Like for instance Dan is gonna be super fuckin worried that someone is controlling him and he's murdering these ppl without realizing, (to be fair, thats a pretty reasonable fear given his track record) he's got a good alibi for the first one, since he was in bed with Hephzibah, but gets a bit framed for the second, when the lights come back on and Purl is dead pretty much in his arms... so he's spiraling into paranoia which distracts from the fact that that is exactly whats happening, just to a different character. And I deepened the Talasi-Lavinia beef which I will now explain, so backtrack a longass time, Talasis dad was a drunk and a terrible person and basically married them off to someone he knew, Marcus, who was also a drunk and a terrible person (which we learn more about while Talasi is drinking to quiet their curse pain, they see themself as going down the same path and it terrifies them but they dont think they have a choice. Anyways) they have a child together, named charis, but Marcus goes too far in a drunken state and hits or shakes the baby or something awful like that and Talasi put up with that kind of behavior when it was directed to them, but not to their daughter, so they stole all his money, burnt down his house, and went on the run with Charis. Tgey ended up giving her to their friend Lavinia to care for, begging her to be careful and to disappear and never let Marcus find the baby and then Talasi also changes their name and disappears. They go to school, they start a career, they feel guilty, but they're happy knowing Charis is having a better life than they could give her, right? And so I drop lil hints abt this throughout their story, and then when we get to Lavinia, Talasi is of course like um can i see Charis does she remember me does she hate me and lavinia has to tell them that Charis died not long after Talasi gave her up. Lavinia lies and says that Charis died from an unavoidable illness, but later, in a heated moment she reveals that yeah no Marcus did find them and he threatened Lavinia and she gave up the child to save herself and she felt very very guilty about it, guilty enough that during this whole murder mystery she committed a murder herself to cover Talasis tracks.(since Fatima was killing people through Talasi, and Talasi has enough on their mind that they didnt pick up the clues but Lavinia did) But yeah and so this murder that Lavinia commits, she drowns Anne in the river, stabs herself in the leg and soaks herself too, pretends Anne did it, and that works for a bit but then simultaneously Fatima is forcing Talasi to attempt to kill Lavinia-- y'know funny thing is I've got everyone's motive figured out except the one doing the actual killings. Idk man just cause she's evil dw about it. --and further down the river Johnny is dredging Anne's body up and reanimating her and she's leading him right to them. So depending on how much room I have I either end the chapter right after that fight, or they escape that fight and then have some time to chat before he attacks again and they all get scattered but either way the book ends with Dan getting captured and everyone else split up and running.

[hellsideangel]

Yes more on aoi. Mainly cuz this character resonated with me. Rn I'm labelling myself as biaro (bisexual aromantic) and so I saw alot of myself in this character (thou I know it's mainly projecting cuz I don't believe she fits into any specific category).

SHIT FORGOT TO SAY WARNING SPOILERS. WOOPS. MAYBE DONT READ MY POST BEFORE THIS ONE?

At the beginning shes presented as a weirdo which gets makatos interest which I love. Cuz I tend to make friends weirdly out of no where due to curiosity and weirdness. And she took noticed that makato was special compared to everyone else which peaked her interest leading to be her falling in "love" without knowing it wasn't love. I understand being confused and unsure about feelings what one should feel and what one does. An it is really complicated because there is love, lust, admiration, interest, curiosity, fun, obsession, uniqueness and well it's hard to know what if what your feeling someone sets within the boundaries of society. Would this be considered friends? Closer than friends? Family? Lovers? Because I tend to get close people easily and it took growing to realise and be aware of boundaries not to cross the romantic line and mislead people including myself.

Anyways, something about Makato drew her in and she accepted Makato as Makato no matter how Makato appeared. In fact she liked being able to see the 2 versions and kinda came of as pervert. But with her it seems she doesn't really think the way most do. Even with the question of do I join basketball or do I reject them. She very clearly went you don't wanna commit so just join when U feel like, why choose do both. And I feel like I look at creatures the same way. They just are what they are. And this pressure to pick a category to just live the way you want resonates with me.

Anyways, the way she hits on Makato felt sexually bi so when the turning point hit and it was revealed that she actually didn't love Makato I felt quite happy to see some form of biaro even if that isn't who aoi is. And they way they presented it with her grandmother blindly wishing for aoi to find her special someone or something to love and how she masks to reassure her grandmother since she knows the grandmother means no ill will. But she wished for it.

Later they introduce this idea of loving something so much something to die for. Since her father is a whale fanatic whales are what was special to him. Introducing this idea that if it can't be someone it could be something and how she jealous that she doesn't have either. In a way I feel the same as a kid I wasn't hyper about rock or pasta. I just didn't find it as boring as everything else. It started with a misunderstanding that pasta was my "favourite" and I kinda went with it. Soon enough I kinda discovered a range of different pasta dishes what I liked and didn't like and somehow made it special to me. With rock it was slight interest. But once I deep dived I found meaning and reasons to stay obsessed. Now I can safely say I love these things. I wouldn't necessarily die for them but I couldn't imagine living without them either.

So for aoi. I feel like she's in love with the idea of being in love. Having someone. And frankly her home life sucks and she's very lonely. She also masks her real wants for the people around her as if she's scared of she doesn't be easy going they won't come back again. This need to be liked. I wouldn't say I had that but as a kid I tended to bounce from one person to the next trying to make friends with people who clearly didn't want to. Didn't really understand fake friends boundaries rejection. I just saw it as this looks fun you guys look happy can I join? It used to be a distraction. Idk if it's the same for aoi but it seemed like a distraction from the fact she's lonely and has no one close to her.

When ryuji comes over to her place after a scare (aoi knows ryuji loves Makato) she says in roundabout words the only reason I'm relying on u rn is because I know U don't like me. I wouldn't be stuck masking it's ok since it wouldn't be an issue dragging u here. It would be if U liked me. (Since she wants to be liked not disliked) And I kinda of get the logic. It's alot more difficult when Ur like this to deal with people that like. The feeling you owe the people that like you to not disappoint them.

Anyways, she then says the begining thing I reposted that if his love falls throu and she doesn't love anyone either in the future can they live together. Which I just love because alot of aro feel this way. Wanting to connect and be close platonically. For me I guess I want the same but it's more complex so not getting into that but it goes to show she wants permission to be close to someone without the heartbreak of breaking someone's heart because Ur unable to fulfil their desires. The idea of suppressed Ur own desires for the sake of others. Then ryuji responds that'll never happen. Ull be fine. She cried and he goes you're actually pretty dark Hu? Which I love can't explain.

And then later Makato has a moment with aoi and might love her proving he doesn't love ryuji despite dating him. In this moment he says the words she'd been dying to hear I'd be there for U always. Mainly cuz she's been lonely her whole life even her family isn't a constant so a friend whose seemingly safe cuz they meant to be dating Ur other friend hugging U in Ur darkest moment saying I'll be there fills U with hope that being aro (whether or not aoi is) doesn't necessarily mean being alone.

She also has a momentary panic is this ok? Because she knows she's the third wheel. And the way she tries to get them together l, stay away and distance herself is something I love being portrayed because it's a sad truth. At least for me, once a relationship has been established U can't be as close, U have to distance and I've lost alot of friendships that way. In this one thou they return to her or that it's ok and stay close even thou she basically does break up their relationship. However that's good because Makato wasn't gonna fall for ryuji even without aoi. Which is nice to see that it shouldn't have so much pressure to not be the tag along not get in the way not mess it up.

The: is this ok? might also stem from is it ok to lean on someone knowing you can't love them back? Which is one most struggle with.

Anyways the depth of the relationships and characters is astonishing. I only picked aoi mainly cuz I was surprised how much I related and personally I love her depiction especially when she let the mask fall and it all got too real.

But I also love makatos story and depiction as well and ryujis.

#u never asked for this

#overshare

#need to share after watching and feeling

#this is my opinion don't come for me

#yes I know it's long sos 😜

#senpai wa otokoto? Okonotoko? Okotokonoko? Have I spelt that wrong? Oh well.

#my appol

I am so hooked on this anime!! Ugh. I swear she's giving the aroace vibes! With the previous episodes, it feels like she's trying to convince herself that she loves her senpai. But I think she's just in love with the concept of falling in love because she thinks that's what's normal. I'd be bummed out if that wouldn't be the case because tbh this is a good representation of being an aroace. Like I can totally relate to Aoi. I've been through this phase before. And even now I am also considering living with someone who's also aroace (if the chance presents itself, of course living alone would be fine too).

I do hope the series will have a proper ending. Taiga is already aware that he's gay but we can't say the same for Makoto. I think we are yet to figure out whether Makoto will actually fall in love with Taiga or not. He crossdresses and he likes girly stuff but that doesn't mean he's gay based on that. I just hope they get to fix their relationship. Whether Makoto would remain friends or pursue a relationship with either of the two. If Makoto prolongs his relationship with Taiga without developing feelings for him, that would be really unfair for Taiga. I feel bad for Taiga accepting to go out with Makoto simply because Makoto doesn't want his friendship with Taiga to turn bad. That would just be too unfair. :(

[madwomansapologist]

How about meeting death from sandman?

meeting Morpheus would include

Masterlist | Rules | Taglist | Library | More Morpheus | AO3

synopsis: Humiliating, degrading, intrusive, impotent: being held captive for a century was many things for Morpheus, but it was, maybe more than anything, lonely. Who would thought that by accident someone could be responsible for his release? Not him.

warnings: shoting and angst (he is not at good moment when they meet and it is totally understandable)

ps: thank you for requesting! i am so in love with the show, I needed to write something about our dear emo boy. i hope you like It! :)

pps: i just realize now that I respond a request about death with a story about sandman and I so sorry for being dumb 😖 HOW NO ONE HAD SAID ANYTHING ABOUT THIS? I FEEL SO DUMB, I AM REALLY SORRY FOR THE PERSON WHO MAKE THE REQUEST AND I GONNA WRITE AVOU DEATH, OK?

• Offended. Thats how Morpheus felt since he wake up naked, imprisioned, stolen. He gave everything for humanity, he cares about every single soul and create a especial place for their fears and desires, and still he was treated like less than a dog

• Every day the came with the same questions and try to negotiate, but he would never give them what they want. Even if they we're his friends, he would never betray the force that moves besides humanity: the end

• The word he hates the most is almost. Almost heald failed potencial. Almost was at the peak of glory but fell of the cliff. Almost was Bessamy, almost saving him, almost touching his skin, almost warming his heart again, almost at reach, but then shot dead

• After that no more hope, just a quiet hate that he knew one day would be released against those who hurt him and who he loves. Morpheus would have his own revenge, time is not a problem for him

• What he didn't expect was you. To be fair, you didn't expect to be there either

• You didn't want to be there. There is nothing anyone can say about that mansion to prove that it was a haunted place, but everyone knew that. The same way, nothing could be said about those who live in that house but everyone knew that nothing great come out of them. You shouldn't be there, but you need to

• Your precinct captain was clear: no one mess with those people. They had evidences about crimes, horrible crimes, your squad worked for weeks to understand everything, and he simply ignore everything. You believed him, you trusted him, and know he showed everyone what he was: a corrupt cop

• You know you we're doing something wrong when you invaded the house to tap the phones, hoping it would helps the commissioner to act against them, but you also know that someone need to do something

• But after you taped the phones and was almost escaping without being noticed, two armed men climbed the ladder and you had to hide from them. You heard them talking about how strange the thing was, how it acts like an animal, how it looked inside their eyes in a way that made them shiver

• You grab your own phone, opening the camera, and wait for those men get distracted in another conversation. The truth you learned as a detective is that most people won't seem what they dont think is going to be there. You wasn't invisible, but managed to descend the same ladder they climbed without being noticed

• And what you saw broke your soul

• You we're looking for papers that could prove that they we're commiting crimes. You we're looking for conversations that made clear what your squad had already proven. You wasn't looking for it. For a men, trapped in a glass globe, without clothes or the minimum dignity that any human being deserves. His eyes, eyes hard and dry, locked onto your skin with a screaming stillness

"I gonna help you" you wispered, getting close to him while trying to find a key or anything that could help. "Just stay quiet, so they won't hear us, okay? Do you speak my language."

The lack of response was everything you need. You put a finger in front of your lips, this he would understand, and analise the globe. It wasn't build with a braid. You would need to break the glass. You saw two man a the first floor, but there where at least seven on the house. How could you break the glass and get out with him without being noticed?

You take your gun, preparing yourself, and send a message to your colleagues with your location.

"Everything gonna be okay" you said to the men looking at you, but maybe more for yourself. His eyes we're different. The we're shining. "Help is coming."

But how long would that take? How could you helped him? What do you do? Suddenly, you we're laughing while helping your little brother up the stairs to the slide. He would slip up laughing and run to another place, you wouldn't have noticed the man if your brother hadn't been right in front of him. Beside the child, he bent down and picked up a handful of sand and when it was blown into your eyes, your finger was pulling the trigger nonstop and all you could hear was the explosion of glass.

• When the guards came running, you felt your body falling to the floor. Your eyes we're so heavy, all you need to do was close them for a second and everything would be fine. Just a second.

• Morpheus had his revenge. No one inside the house beside him was breathing. Except for the person sleeping on the floor of the basement, dreaming about an unstoppable child.

• He could had gone, but you was a question mark on his head. Why did you helped him? What do you wanna? What do you know about him? So many questions and just one way of getting a response. He kneeled beside you and just that movement made you wake up from a good dream

"I was shot?" you asked, trying to understand why suddenly you we're on the floor. The man, he was free, you saved him. But how?

"Who are you?" His voice was hoarse like he didn't use it for a millennium.

"A detective" you moved from the floor, sitting on it. "Please, sit, you need medical care."

Morpheus would need more than that to believe you had anything to do with his prison.

When you try to get up you realize why you we're on the floor. All that blood should be inside your body, not going out by the bullet hole. You feel again at the floor, know noticing the pain. The horrible pain.

"Why did you helped me?"

You we're almost panicking, going crazy with so much pain. Your vision wasn't working anymore and you feel that you was almost passing out.

"Because you need it" that was the last thing you said before passing out.

When you woke up, you wasn't on earth anymore.

"You saved me" there was someone in all black clothes beside the men. "I won't forget that."

• And Morpheus is not a liar

if you enjoyed, please reblog! i promise it makes a difference ♡

@ madwomansapologist.tumblr.

[leyencia]

Convincing fools is tedious work

Viktor x Gn! Reader (SFW)

Part 2

Summary: You have a crush on your favourite inventor and your second favourite inventor finally convinces you to confess. Warnings: Angst (Fear of rejection), swearing A/N: The thought of Jayce having to get oblivious idiots together just wouldn’t leave my mind, so… here you go. I know I’m a little late for Valentine’s day :’( My exams are mostly over but I’m finding myself really not liking most things I write, so I’ll probably try to bury myself in books again to get some fresh air into my writer brain :> Like always, have fun y’all and interactions and feedback are welcome and appreciated! This time’s musical inspiration: Dont Know How - Ricky Montgomery Word count: 2,4k

Your fingernails burrowed into your palms, leaving burning indentations. It was better than thinking though, better than letting a single doubt get in the way of what you were about to do. Confess. Just tell him! had Jayce’s words been once you’d revealed your crush on his friend to him. I’m sure it'll be fine. He’s always so at ease when you’re around. Always at ease… Was that a good sign though? If he liked you back, shouldn’t he, well, be nervous or distracted or… anything else than calm? Maybe this was a bad idea. Maybe you should turn around and think about this again. Apparently, Jayce had decided today was going to be the day. The day you’d confess to Viktor. He was adamant you’d have to do it despite swearing that he didn’t know of the other man’s feelings. Every time you asked why he was so insistent he’d just shrugged and said something about how you’d only regret never telling him.

He had prepared everything that was needed – which was, honestly, just getting himself out of the lab, so you and Viktor had some time alone. To your friend’s dismay though, you had taken your sweet time, so that when he returned from taking an especially long time making coffee, he found you, still shuffling through the hallway, cheeks tinted red, deep in thought.

You gave him a pained smile when you noticed him. He only rolled his eyes, before approaching and guiding you away from any ears that might listen. “I’m serious, Y/N. I can’t watch this any longer. Just go in there and… Do it. What’s the worst that could happen?”, he asked in a low and impatient voice. He’d been working on encouraging you to confess for a few weeks now with a commitment you’d only expect him to have for experiments. “Ugh, you have no idea”, you mumbled and looked up into his eyes. “First of all, the rejection itself. Then, I could risk this entire friendship depending on how he feels about it, you know?” Jayce sighed and there was a hint of annoyance in his voice when he spoke again. “That very much doesn’t sound like the Viktor I know and I’m sure you know that too. Stop overthinking so much, you’ll feel better when it’s out in the open.” His arms came to rest on your shoulders like he was a coach talking courage into one of his players. “And however he feels about you, I’m sure he values your friendship too much to let this get in the way. Okay?” While his words did encourage you somewhat, you still weren’t entirely convinced. “Well… yeah… But it could still get awkward even if he doesn’t want-“ “Y/N! I can’t listen to this anymore. It’ll be fine, trust me.” His hands tightened gently but firmly enough around your shoulders and he shoved you back towards the lab. “You’re gonna confess now.” He muttered something else under his breath along the lines of “I’ve about had it with you two”, but your brain was too focused on his first sentence to pay this one any mind. As you realised what he was doing your heart probably missed a few beats. Maybe a few too many. You felt lightheaded. Panic. Yeah, somewhere in all this mess, there was panic and lots of it. Fear. Fear of rejection and what if you ruined this perfectly good friendship and it got all weird and- Only when the old door cried out from being opened without warning did you return to reality from the panic-induced worst ‘what-if’s’ your brain could come up with. You felt Jayce’s hands leave your shoulders. You stared into the lab, a familiar big room that only your two favourite inventors seemed to fill perfectly. Other people just looked… lost in its entirety whereas the two men seemed perfectly in place. Like their purpose was here, discovering and improving the world. The tall frame hunched over the table was one you’d always recognise, an expected but also most welcome sight, in a position that could not possibly be comfortable. Not that he ever cared, no, sometimes he even slept like this. Jayce had told you that. Viktor. You felt the pace of your heartbeat pick up even more as you watched him. It almost felt wrong, looking at him invested in his work without him even knowing. But he looked so beautiful even though only his back was facing you. You could envision his steady and precise hands working on whatever had caught his attention, his golden eyes calm and focused until he discovered something new and exciting that filled his thoughts with an entire new array of possibilities. 

Your favourite scientist. Content of embarrassingly many of your dreams. Who you were supposed to confess to. There was no reaction from him as the door opened. Either he hadn’t heard it in his workaholic focus, or he assumed it was just Jayce returning with the promised coffee. You looked up to your friend and panic kept spreading through your veins like a burning fire. Your eyes certainly told Jayce more about your feelings than you wanted, yet he still shoved you into the room. Not without giving you a reassuring pat on the back though. There was no way you could do this. It really felt like you couldn’t. Not that you weren’t aware how much more difficult things you’d managed, no, but they’d never felt like… like you could lose so much. And like it could be avoided entirely at the same time, if you just hid your feelings and stayed in that safety. But Jayce had other plans for you. “Viktor”, he called his friend’s name to gain his attention. “Yes?”, did a distracted voice answer. Fuck. Viktor hadn’t even bothered turning around. It was still possible to retreat. Not like Jayce could just keep you here or- “I ran into Y/N on the way and they told me they wanted to talk to you.” Too late. There was silence for a solid second and you watched the movements of him working cease, a hesitant and distracted action like he was taken off-guard. What if he doesn’t even want to see me? He does seem pretty busy with his work… Then, he laid down whatever he had been focusing on so deeply and turned around on his small chair to face you and Jayce. In a quick movement he rudimentarily tidied his messy brown streaks, yet one of them still found its way in front of his view.

When his eyes met yours, it made your heart weep a little, the exhaustion and fatigue clearly evident in deep eyebags that silently spoke of never-ending nights of research that pushed his own limits further and further. He really needs to take better care of himself. While you were analysing the inventor in front of you the other one had swiftly disappeared from your side after alerting Viktor’s attention. Ugh. Without much thought, your legs made their way to him. They felt stiff like you hadn’t used them for hours even though you just had. Viktor just looked at you, silent. Waiting. Oh god, you were supposed to say something, no? Oh fuck. Your mouth opened, almost by mistake, trying to get… something out. An explanation, an apology, an evasion perhaps… something. But you just stared at him, lips slightly parted like they had acted before your brain had. And maybe that was true. His eyes were round with expectation. It was a cute look on him, one he usually only spared promising experiments. “You… wanted to say something?”, he asked and looked up to you with his pretty amber eyes that seemed more intense than the man himself. His brows were furrowed, and you couldn’t help but want to run your thumb over his forehead to smooth out the wrinkles it caused. To take away the reason that made him worry in the first place. He felt around for his cane that had settled leaning onto the desk and grabbed it with a loose, well-accustomed grip like he’d never known anything else. Which, as far as you knew was true. You wondered how often it fell, just leaning there like that. He rose from the little stool and suddenly you had to look up to him. His free hand disappeared in his trousers’ pocket, something you’d noticed him doing every now and then, contrasting his well-put-together attire and manner of speech just a little without actually compromising it. Viktor was just so tall, it made you feel even smaller than usual like he was looming over you. Perhaps it intimidated you a little. But that wasn’t the only thing intimidating you right now by a long shot. Your now sweaty hands found the hems of your sleeves and nervously fidgeted with them, something you’d found yourself doing often in tense situations. You could just… lie to him, say you’d wanted to ask him something trivial, something about Jayce or literally anything else than confess your crush on him. Right? But you’d understood Jayce’s intentions well enough. The uncertainty of Viktor’s feelings, whether he liked you back or not, was torturous enough as is. You could end that right now. But you could also- “Yes”, you mumbled, interrupting your own thought process, before you could get caught up in a spiral of worry again, voice way shakier than you had wanted it to be. “I have something to say.” He seemed so utterly oblivious by the way he shrugged his shoulders casually. “Please do so, then.” You didn’t care how your exaggerated breath must have seemed to him, it felt like a necessity. Like you might suffocate in your fear without it. The grip of your fingers tightened even more on the fabric of your sleeves as you spoke, almost like they were looking for support. Support you desperately needed for the next few words. “I like you. A lot. Like… more than I probably should.” You laughed nervously, not even sure why. At this point, most things you did were involuntary and only to get through his nerve-wrecking situation. He just stared at you for a moment and then started to chuckle like you had just said something incredibly funny.

That sounded bad. Like, really bad. Had Jayce and you misjudged this situation this much? Misjudged his actual thoughts? Did he think your confession laugh-worthy because you weren’t even worth being considered an option for him? God, you’d been right. You should have kept this to yourself and- He seemed to realise what his action implied and almost tumbled over his next words. “No, I mean. Ah… Apologies. Please don’t misunderstand. I like you too. A lot.” Wait what? “You… like me?”, you repeated his words, not quite believing them. His laughter had seemed like a heart-breaking rejection. A faint smile started to form on his face, a shy, embarrassed look you’d never seen before on him. It seemed so contrary to his usual collected behaviour. It was utterly adorable. “Yes”, he said. “I apologise. I only laughed because of Jayce’s seemingly… tremendous efforts to this whole endeavour. He has kept… hm, pestering me, telling me to, how did he put it? ‘Get a move on.’” Hold up. What now? Jayce had known? You heard Viktor chuckle again as the emotions rushed over your face as you processed his words, a quiet yet incredibly amused sound. “This is his doing, yes? Am I safe to presume he convinced you to come here and did not unintentionally meet you in the hallway?” You could only nod, unsure as to how you even felt right now. Relieved, certainly, but also mad at Jayce that he had pushed you to confess when he could have just told you. “Well”, Viktor’s voice reached your ears, unusually quiet and hesitant, “perhaps we should… meet then?”

You had to swallow when you realised what he was actually saying. He was asking for a date, right? Involuntarily the corners of your mouth rose to a happy smile you really couldn’t suppress. “That sounds great.” Your words caused the same happy smile to appear on Viktor’s face. “There is… a nice café just outside the academy. What do you think if we went there tomorrow during our lunch break?” You knew that café. It was fairly quiet and had a touch to it that felt a little like home whenever you visited. It was perfect. “That sounds lovely.” He nodded and blinked a few times like he wasn’t believing the situation that was occurring right in front of his eyes. You felt the same.

“Splendid. I… look forward to it.” “Me too”, you said and scurried back to the door as quickly as you could, happiness mixed with a hint of nervous anticipation overtaking you entirely. You felt like you wanted to scream into a pillow because you were so overwhelmed with joy. “Good luck with your work!”, you quickly yelled behind you to the already sitting Viktor and barely heard the “Likewise” as you shut the door behind you. Only now did the fact that he had agreed to go out with you really sink in. Viktor had said yes. Your heart suddenly felt so light you feared it might just fly away if you didn’t pay attention. Oh god. You leaned against the door and excitedly ruffled through your hair with your hands until it was probably completely dishevelled. You couldn’t believe it. He’d actually said yes. To a date. “I assume that went well?”, you heard a smug, familiar voice approach and quickly tried to fix your hair at least somewhat. Then you did the only other thing you could think of and punched Jayce in the chest. “You knew! You fucking knew!”, you shouted before hugging him as tightly as you could. He returned your hug with his strong arms and chuckled. “Well, I figured it is better to do this in person. And I sure hope I was right because otherwise, I would have wasted so much time just convincing the two of you.” You wholeheartedly agreed. But he didn’t need to know that. Or at least you didn’t have to say it like that. “Idiot”, you whispered as annoyedly but at the same time lovingly as you possibly could. “You two were the idiots though, being so oblivious and all.” “Ugh, shut up, Jayce”, you mumbled into his chest, and then, more seriously and sincerely: “Thank you.” He quietly chuckled before letting go of you and patting you on the shoulder. “You’re welcome.” Then it hit you again. You had a date with Viktor. Tomorrow. Oh god.

[kat-anni]

Can't believe I'm entering scrum discourse on Tumblr dot com but here goes -

I am actually a scrum master (hi!) And totally agree with my two prev; the retrospective is super important and the sprints are about focus. They are also about commitment. You commit to a sprint goal and you work towards it and focus on it's completion.

One thing I haven't seen mentioned much on this post is; feedback. It is so important and what makes scrum so different from other systems. You built something for x days and then you /show it to your customer/. This makes sure you're going in the right direction and not building something nobody needs. The customers / stakeholders should be coming to the review presentation. And then you have the retro for your team to reflect on work. This should result in improvement of processes and trust me, when you work, you'll desperately want that. You want a platform for reflection of that kind. Even if it's just to tell Janice that she didn't test her code properly and now the master branch is fucked (and to not do that again mhk).

Also the scrum guide (I'm hoping that was your required reading?) specifically states that you should be working at a SUSTAINABLE pace. I've even seen it stated that you should only plan for 80% of your team's capacity because something always gets thrown in (or someone gets sick or smth) and then they dont overwork themselves.

Scrum was made (this is one of the like. First sentences) to bring a kinda predictability into complex, uncertain environments. You can work with the most complicated software structure in the damn world, but you know you have your daily meetings and your review as your goal to work toward and then your reflection in the retro. If you are not doing these events and if you don't have the dedicated roles and artefacts, you are not doing scrum. If you skip the retro and the feedback and just build and build, that is not scrum. Maybe sprint is the wrong word but I see it more as focus time.

It's not a requirement to stand during meetings but some teams do it to keep attention (it's really easy to drift off esp during online meetings. If you're typing you're not listening) during the dailies as it is v important that you know what the others are doing so you can maybe also help each other (v collaborative btw, Scrum). Also v important; teams are supposed to be small (10 or less) and I actually have heard the ideal is 5-7 and I think that's a nice size for you to really work closely with people. Scrum also encourages for you to always improve your own skills and leaves space for that.

So yeah maybe I'm actually a huge fan of this framework haha. If it's actually applied properly it can be a HUGE help in the whole development process. Don't get distracted by the terms, it's still all about the people you work with and how it's implemented.

Empiricism is key and the base of scrum and that is actually really really nice. I cant imagine a more terrible thing than working and working without reflection periods or testing with customers and at the end of a like, 4 year period you go to market and - nobody wanted this. Nobody needs this product. You totally just wasted all that time and energy. Look into the chaos report, it's amazing how many projects fail under traditional management. Instead, you could have done a very minimal prototype with like two buttons and a fake website in 3 weeks and found out if people want it and adjust accordingly.

Idk. I think that sounds p nice actually. I'd rather work in a scrum team than in traditional waterfall. Many companies also really adjusted to remote work with scrum and I think that's just really nice for people working from home.

I'm learning about Scrum at the moment, because computer science school, and. is it just me, or does this feel really dystopian?

The entire thing seems to be built on the concept of sprints and daily base-touching, but. they are rushing. The daily meetings are 15 minutes or less, and the developers usually stand during it. The sprints are 1-4 weeks of concentrating on a work goal and making progress towards it. And I feel like I get it, intense bursts of energy and will to Make and Work is close to my M.O, keeping daily contact during intense times to keep me on track can be helpful, but.

this isn't bursts of intensity. The next sprint starts right after the previous one ends. The rush never eases. you are not even professionals, you are a code factory.

sprinting is supposed to be a short-term thing! If you run a sprint, you'll need to fucking stop! And rest! :(

But then, I've never been in one of these teams, im just a student as of now. does anyone know anything about this?

[dailytatsu]

Hello! I saw request were open so i was wondering if i could request some headcanons of the Archons and/or the Adepti meeting a God reader who is the God of Chaos and destruction. The reader is not a Archon tho and travels all over Teyvat cuz small bits of destruction were ever they go. They're pretty mischievous and somewhat smug but despite how they act they're actually a good person. They dont mean to cause problems(most of the time anyways) chaos follows them were ever they go. Idk if you have a character limit but if you do please tell me so i wont make a mistake again. And if there is you can just do Zhongli and Xiao. Optionally could you make them a dendro user, there not a lot of dendro content and if not thats fine. I understand. Could you make the reader Gn or Non-binary they/them pronouns please? If not male reader is totally fine. Im so sorry for the long post and I hope you have a good day/night!

Ohmy, it’s my first time just writing headcanons! I’m use to write a lot, so let’s hope I did it right (^ ^' )7

Thanks for the request! ✨

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[HC] God of Chaos! Reader and the Archons + Xiao

Characters: Zhongli, Xiao, Venti, Shogun Raiden (Ei).

Gn! Reader

I tried doing it with everyone but I’m no still that confident to try writing with some characters ＿|￣|○

Sorry for any mistakes!

Request are open!

Genshin Masterlist

Second part ->

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VENTI

To be honest, he didn't notice your presence at first. He had other concerns on his mind that day to perceive the chaotic (and slightly threatening) aura that Mondstadt was infected with that day.

Barbatos is a person of habit, so he couldn't help but be curious when the crowd in front of him began to look a little agitated instead of seeming to enjoy his lyre and his songs.

But then a series of domino events appeared in front of his very eyes.

The purity of the chaos was such that he felt overwhelmed, even without the white-haired boy around, if it wasn’t Bennett fault, then how was it possible for everything to be ruined in such a short time?

His patience ended when, out of nowhere, the strings of his lyre jumped close to his face as they snapped. Making that awful noise that couldn’t mean nothing good.

Okay, enough, who is messing around in here? No more joking in his nation!

He concentrated a little, a faint but unique presence kept his nerves on edge, as if he was being watched from afar. He moved away from the busy areas and then chased that ephemeral energy to the highest point of the church, where the bells were ringing in an irregular and stressful way.

Then he found you. Snoozing against one of the columns, somewhat tired because the trip you made to reach Mondstadt.

Surprisingly, Barbatos understood you since the first exchange of words. A god of chaos who was also a free spirit, you followed no rules ever written in Teyvat, and you had no plans to apologize for the mess you made.

Both of you were Zhongli’s worst nightmare, but that’s another story.

He managed to through your arrogance and your teasing nature that you, in fact, were a lonely spirit that liked to witness the life from above of everyone.

The difference between teasing someone accidentally and committing a crime was really visible, but he still couldn't help but feel like he should scold you after your mere presence messed up with the guild's baskets full of fish.

But hey! He also enjoy the company! Venti tried to teach you how to enjoy the calm and the whisper of wind, music can also contain chaos, feelings, old stories waiting to be told again, expressions and desire united, in a wonderful piece of-

As you yawned his lyre broke up again. Making clear the message.

Okay, not even God of Freedom and Wind can control chaos. Anyways, what a tragedy, but there’s nothing a simple bard can do, smh.

“Do you like kids, don’t you?” He said once, after a nice day of hearing him sing before your chaos reached his little concert. Again watching everyone from above on the hands of the statue, with your attention caught by some kids playing tag.

“… I don’t know what do you mean.” Once discovered you had no choice but to remain defensive, pretending to be disinterested.

“Heh, you aren’t a good liar.” It may not be the wisest thing to make fun of someone who could destroy the place where you were resting, but Venti was confident that he knew you well enough to know that you were not so explosive. “You know!, I just have some pieces, but I think it’s because they are little walking concentrations of pure and innocent chaos, am I wrong?”

He wasn’t, no at all. But you would never confess something that embarrassing.

This guy wrote a ballad about the days when Mondstadt got immerse with that strike of bad luck. Kind of an apology of not being able to handle the situation.

Now there’s the rumor that says that, every time somebody sings that song, something unlucky will happen in front of you.

The song is cursed.

One night when the moon was shining on the Cider Lake his well tuned ears distinguished a melody that was broken from time to time by the accidents of his performer, distracting him of his way to look for you.

It could be painful to listen to, but Venti could certainly feel the dedication of the one who was playing the imperfect song.

The ballad of the god of chaos, hummed like a lullaby that instead of making you sleep makes you question the events of the day. Wishing for the slightest thing to be different after an exhaustive week of peace and tranquility.

A lonely spirits cursing their existence, sitting in the highest point of a stranger’s palace, where you can reach the sky by only rising your hand.

The next day, Barbatos invited you to drink some wine, this time near Windrise to avoid accidents in the city.

As he almost dropped the bottle when a lot of slimes were attracted by your presence, he confirmed the theory about that the way to spend time with you would not be his personal definition of hanging out.

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ZHONGLI

Okay, there’s only two scenarios that could happened when you set a foot in Liyue.

Old man has a soft spot for you for being a relative young deity.

Or he’s always lecturing you for not having control of your aura and powers.

How u dare bringing chaos to the nation of order? It’s that a death wish?

Jokes aside, you’re not really a threat. And he could sense that after he saw how you tried to avoid having direct contact with the city. Rex Lapis found your silhouette jumping and crossing through the mountains until reaching the fairest point that allowed you to enjoy the view of the streets that were filled with life and light as the sunsets.

He even noticed how you sighed in frustration when a storm started out of nowhere. A rain dedicated just for the arriving of the God of Chaos. Not even bothering of getting shield, you stayed in your place to look at all the people who were getting back to their places.

The rain seemed to stop over your head, for a second was enough to stop you from being cruelly swamped by the very weather you had created. An elegant umbrella covered you, the long awaited surprise you expected from someone as outdated as Morax.

You looked up, and found his expression calm and attentive, watching you. As if he had made a great discovery that he could not believe

“May I have a moment of your time to keep you company? Letting out your sorrows in the middle of a torrential storm is not what I would recommend as way to spend a good day.”

“… What are you talking about? Get in your own business, old man.”

“Well, you should know that a sorrow shared is a sorrow halved.”

Next time you knew was that he was helping you to dry your hair with a towel once you let him guide you to his place.

Zhongli picked you up like a abandoned cat that day. Even if having you near meant to deal with new the roof leaks.

Also kept you away from Hu Tao, if you two ever get along for being partners in crime he would seal himself underground-

For all the time you spend exploring Liyue, there he was. Like a little kid showing his treasures. But also like a worried father looking after his child for them not to stumble making their first steps.

Look at you! Almost crushing those Treasure Hoarders when a bunch of rocks fell down after you jumped at the edge of the cliff.

Wait, no- come back here! You should verify the surroundings and be aware of the weight of your power if you’re going to explore in that bold way. You, chaotic brat.

Another one who believed fervently that your mood was to blame for the constant chaos you caused. He also tried to show you the wonders of peace and calm, teaching you how to prepare tea while listening to the storyteller (also both being a little far away from the rest of them, just in case).

He couldn’t help but sigh when the teapot arm broke as soon as you tried to serve the tea. What a waste, he thought.

You apologized to him, kind of stressed with yourself after you took all the pieces with your bare hands to run away with them. Leaving a confused Zhongli behind.

Next day you were back, with the teapot repaired and just like new.

He let out a lot of thankful words, some flattering and a lot more cheesy things that you never had received before.

With that unexpected affection you couldn’t help but react flustered; then a cat that was chasing a bird jumped through a lot of decorations and merchandise, almost starting a fire as the chained events kept going.

Yeah,, uh, Zhongli got some useful mental notes about you and your chaos that day.

Hey, before you go, want to make a contract? You won’t regret it!

But as the wandering spirit you were you had no problems in reject his offer, but also promising that you would visit Liyue if he wanted you to.

Of course he wanted! But.. maybe next time you should stay in Huaguang Stone Forest instead of roaming near the city,,

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XIAO

Tried to kill you.

I mean, your aura is threatening and full of a destructive energy, how is possible that you weren’t a demon to eradicate??

Sorry, but he had a point.

Your first met was on your way to reach Huaguang Stone Forest along with Zhongli for introduce you with the Adeptus.

Xiao, in the other side, thought that you were about to attack Morax from behind, so he just struck against you. With his polearm near to go through your chest, just stopped because you felt him before.

Lifting your hand at his direction, summoning chaos, this time, on purpose. The wind gained a wrathful nature and the biggest roots that were hiding under his feet rose to caught him.

And when you were about to hit each other Zhongli’s shield appeared just in time to separate both of you. Preventing a real catastrophic event.

Now stop fighting and introduce to each other.

Nice(n’t) to meet u.

What if you tried to awake Azhdaha to bring chaos and destruction to Liyue? What if you wanted to summoned Osial? What if… ?

Zhongli had to confirm and promise to him that those cruel possibilities won’t be a near future for respecting the real reason of your travel.

No matter if he wasn’t comfortable with your presence, it wasn’t his decision to allow you to roam freely, so he had to get use to it.

He immediately knew after hearing about your nature that was your fault that lately there were a lot more demons and monsters. Even his karma was getting more painful than usual.

(If you ever meet Hu Tao, please think twice before doing Xiao a prank)

You both didn’t interact a lot, and being honest, it was better that way.

He hadn’t a single intention of talking with you again until the day you were practicing the song that your Anemo friend taught you. By the other hand, Xiao noticed that the melody had the same nature as the one he once heard before being consumed by the karma.

It wasn’t a flute, but a worn lyre that was still in one piece after weeks of being repaired again and again.

“That song… ”

“Do you know it?” Xiao just nodded, staying in silence, being your very first audience even if you still have a lot to learn about playing a lyre.

It wasn’t as effective as the original, but was still… nice, kind of nostalgic.

Next morning, the Yaksha called for you. Made you stay still in the middle of a plain and then he disappeared of your sight.

He abandoned y- wait, what’s that? Why those monsters has that weird dark aura?

You were about to defend yourself until Xiao appeared back just in time to defeat them.

That day you became his personal bait for demons and monsters. Naturally you attracted chaos, so anyway you were, there will be also something to fight.

I guess this is your way to pay for all the troubles you made for him and his duty, so no complaining about it.

If you ask for a unexpected experience to Ganyu she would said that once she found both of you fighting along against the catastrophe, looking after each other’s back and almost having a perfect synchrony.

➷➹➷➹➷➹➷➹➷➹➷➹ ➷➹➷➹ ➷➹➷➹ ➷➹ ➷

SHOGUN RAIDEN; EI

Also tried to kill you.

Well, the puppet tried to.

And then Ei tried when you had the opportunity of facing her.

But since killing a god just mean the releasing of a lot, pure, energy she couldn’t afford that risk, much less considering your “speciality”.

Who knows what would happen to Inazuma if your vital energy burst across the nation. Just like that old story about Sal Terrae and their goddess.

She just defeated you. Letting you rest and recovering in the midst of the plane of her reality within her mind. Your inert body in the middle of the battlefield as she kept meditating.

When you woke up she ignored your presence, but also denying your complaints about letting you go out back.

In her words, you were a burden, another enemy of eternity. Something as unpredictable as you and your “accidents” couldn’t get along with her utopia.

Ei could banish you from Inazuma, but she knows your type. Stubborn and not accepting the most simple orders to obey.

She knew that you would found a way to be back.

It’s better like this.

And in the hypothetical case of you being freed when she trapped the traveler (kicking you out) and then having a chance to see her again after the end of the war, then things would be somewhat different.

There’s not that much of civilization on some islands, so she allowed you to explore as much as your heart wanted. But if something serious happen, she promised that would end her work in the middle of the sea so your remains never be found.

Okay, message clear. Just do chaos near monsters and bandits, got it,,

Even if she wanted to spend some time with you and telling you some stories about Inazuma and other gods she couldn’t found the right time to call you at her presence.

As the current ruler of Inazuma she was busier than the rest of Archons you have meet. Maybe just some letters now and then like a way to keep a logbook, but not really a face to face talk.

Until she got the opportunity of a day off, just to found you messing around near some ruins. Trying to solve a puzzle before your speciality strikes in. The structure fell down after your fingertips reached the stone.

When the dust dissipated, you discovered her figure judging you from the other side of the remain ruins.

Give her a good reason for not errase you from the map, I dare u.

You felt the worst was about to come when Ei ordered you to follow her after a long sigh. Crossing her arms and starting to walk away from the bunch of old and worn rock.

Plot Twist, she actually invited you to rest under a tree, asking in her serene voice the reason for your journey and your origin. In such a direct way that it seemed more like a sentence than a talk to get to know each other better.

You answered what you could remember and then the silence stayed like the only way of interaction between you two.

Ohno, you know this pattern. Something’s about to happen-

“There is some strange beauty in the chaos, it may be the calm after the storm, but the catastrophe itself is seen as a necessary evil to appreciate the stillness. How much it would last until the lighting hit the valley?”

“So I arrived to keep order between the humans?”

Well yes, but actually no.

“… You see, if there is nothing but order and a lack of problems, mortals are likely to create them on their own. Their minds feels the need to be tested, to prove their worth, so I guess some of your chaos may be part of the history.”

“… then shall we take a walk in Inazuma?” You did not know if you were right, but you thought you saw a faint smile through his lips in the same way that lightning can be seen in the sky.

“I’ll allow it.” She said.

Her only condition was for you not to approach the huge boxes of fireworks down the street.

[tsukishumai]

pairing: Sakusa Kiyoomi x f!reader word count: 2.7k (idk I’m sorry) tags/warnings: fluff, smut, NSFW, bondage, oral(f!receiving), MINORS please DNI with this post a/n: a big thank you to @forgetou and @neobakas for beta-reading this piece for me. ilysm <3

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* 　　 *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

You were always incredibly considerate of Sakusa. It had been that way from the moment the two of you had met. You didn’t scoff at how he needed to be the first one in the locker rooms after practice, or laugh at his post-game rituals. You quietly adjusted to his odd habits, no fanfare or complaints. You never did so with any disdain nor treated his quirks as if they were a nuisance. You just accepted those parts of him without a second thought, considering it just as important to him as his limbs.

So yes, Sakusa fell for the kind girl that made him feel normal – the one that avoided taking him to crowded places, and stitched his jersey number onto a face mask. He thinks your jokes are hilarious, and he feels proud when he’s the one making you laugh. He likes it when you cook his favorite meals, and he appreciates the way you stay up to wait for him when he gets home a little late. He notices the effort you put into always looking pretty for him every day, always waiting for him to initiate contact for fear of invading his personal space.

But that’s just the thing.

Sakusa doesn’t want any personal space from you. He loves the way you smell, and the way your skin feels beneath his fingers. He daydreams about holding you in his arms, and rubbing circles along your back as you relaxed against him. He gets butterflies in his stomach when you kiss his cheek without asking him first, and he revels in the timid look on your face when you apologize for doing so.

He doesn’t mind. Why would he? Despite any preconceived notions one might have of him, Sakusa enjoys affection – from the right person. He’s not going to give Bokuto a high five, nor is he going to shake Hinata’s hand. Sakusa never fails to get the odd look from Atsumu when he slides his hand into yours without a second thought, or when he ‘allows’ you to brush his hair away from his face.

Sakusa wants to scoff whenever he hears that phrase. He doesn’t allow you to touch him. He yearns for it like his lungs need air.

So of course he notices when you try to keep him at arm’s length.

You were never afraid to tell him how you felt, easily slipping I love yous and I’m missing you into daily texts and conversation. It made his heart flutter, but Sakusa wasn’t a man of many words. He’s not sure how to write a love letter, and he’s never even picked up a poetry book. When you ask him how much he loves you, he’ll just look you dead in the eye and say “A lot?”

No, you won’t be receiving sonnets nor prose about his undying affection. He’d much rather just show you.

His every touch is filled with so much care, delicate but sure as they travel across the stretch of your skin. He places gentle kisses along your pressure points, feening for the feel of your pulse against his lips. He wants to taste every inch of you, and commit the sensation of you on his tongue to memory.

Yet whenever he tries to lower his head past your navel, you push him away. You try to distract your rejection with your kiss, rolling him over instead to take him entirely in your mouth.

It’s not that Sakusa is complaining; how could he when he’s pumping his dick into your silky throat, watching your saliva dribble past your chin as you choke on his length?

He forgets about your denial until his next attempt, when he’s nipping at the skin of your hips, moving his mouth to forge a wet trail that lead to the space between your legs, and yet again you pull him up from his spot, kissing him and grabbing him until he plunged himself inside of you instead.

As he collapses next to you in bed, wrapping his arms around you while you nuzzle your face into his chest, for the first time ever, he feels unsatisfied — as if he hadn’t done all that he could have.

He brings this issue up to you the next day, unabashedly asking why you wouldn’t let him kiss you.

“What do you mean, Omi?” You asked, confused. “We kiss all the time.”

“No, I mean,” he turns slightly red as he gestures to your crotch, “There.”

The flustered look on your face shouldn’t have made him hard, but it did. He liked the way you stuttered and widened your eyes, searching desperately for the right words to say.

“I dont know,” you answered finally, “I figured you thought that kind of stuff was gross.”

You cut the conversation off there, no longer wanting to speak on the subject, but it haunted Sakusa for the rest of the day.

Gross? Why would you think that of him? Don’t you know that he wants to claim ever single inch of your body, wants to dip his fingers into you and watch your eyes roll to the back of your head, wants you to sit on his face until he can’t breathe? Had he not been doing a good enough job showing you this?

Sakusa shakes his head, feeling disappointed in himself.

It’s alright. He’s got a plan.

Later that night, as he ran his hands along your waist, lightly dragging his nails across your stomach, he leaned down and whispered in your ear, “I want to try something new tonight.”

You didn’t even think about it as you nodded your head eagerly like he knew you would, gazing up at him with half-lidded eyes that screamed of lust.

He sits up, and you try to sit up with him but he just pushes you back down onto the mattress. You looked up at him curiously as he reaches down the side of the bed to where he placed a plastic bag with his earlier purchase.

Sakusa’s hand emerged holding a pair of silver handcuffs, and he smirks at the way your eyes gleamed with excitement.

“Hands up,” he commands, and you quickly obliged. He looped the handcuffs behind the bars of his headboard, cuffing one of your wrists on each side. He left it slightly loose so as not to injure your skin, but as you struggled against your bindings, Sakusa was pleased to find that it would be impossible for you to get out.

Your arms were outstretched above you, and Sakusa roves his hungry eyes over your dips and curves, so exposed and vulnerable to whatever he wanted to do.

But only one thing was on his mind.

He begins with a soft kiss placed in the crook of your neck, ghosting over your collarbones before leaving marks all across your chest. You fidgeted beneath him, and he placed two hands on your waist.

“Stay still,” he commanded, and you simply gulped.

Sakusa dips his head back down, supple lips enclosing around your hardened nipple, and you arched into his touch. You shiver when his teeth nips at you, while he brings his other hand to cup your other breast, fingers pinching and twisting the previously ignored bud until you were a whimpering mess.

He disconnects his mouth a loud pop, but it wasn’t long until he begins to drag his tongue across your stomach. His direction slowly moves further down, and he can feel you slightly tense up. He ignores the way you try to wiggle your body away from his ministrations; you have nowhere to go, and he has you right where he wants you.

Sakusa draws circles around your navel, his hands finally coming down to rest on your hips.

“Omi,” you say nervously, the handcuffs lightly clinking against the metal bars they were attached to, “I’m not sure if...”

Your words died on your tongue when Sakusa’s grip tightened on your hips, looking up at you through his lashes before darting his tongue out to wet his lips.

“Relax,” he cooed, “Be a good girl for me.”

You nearly choked, your throat feeling dry watching Sakusa move his hands down to your thighs, kissing his way down to uncharted territory. You felt uneasy, and nervous, unable to keep your insecurities at bay when you felt Sakusa lick at the junction of your thigh and pelvis. He was so close to you – what if he thought it was dirty? Or didn’t like your scent? You could feel the warmth of his tongue trace up your pussy lips, and it was involuntary the way you tried to kick him away.

Suddenly, you felt a hand grip you tightly behind your knees, forcefully pushing your legs apart and up against your chest. You gasped in surprise, face turning red at your position. You squirmed against Sakusa’s grip, but his hold on you was strong, and the silver cuffs around your wrist were doing their job well.

“I thought I said be a good girl?” Sakusa questioned, his expression stern while he had your legs pinned down. “Or am I going to have to punish you for being such a disobedient little slut?”

The butterflies in your stomach manifested themselves as the slick wetness between your legs, and Sakusa smirked at the starstruck look on your face.

“I’m a good girl,” you whispered, though the position you found yourself was anything but.

Sakusa responded by pushing your legs even wider, looking down to admire the view. He could feel the tip of his dick struggling against his boxers, a large wet spot on the material indicating just how much he wanted to wreck you. But that could wait.

You start to feel shy under his intense stare, trying not to wiggle away and get another reprimanding.

“Omi, what are you – ahh!”

Sakusa licks one long stroke up your slit, and you couldn’t stop your entire body from shivering. He could feel your legs tremble beneath his fingers, and who knew just one lick could already elicit such a reaction from you?

He moves one hand away from your leg, using two of his fingers to spread apart your folds. Like a man finding treasure, he plunges his tongue onto your swollen red clit, sucking and nipping at it gently before flattening his tongue, drawing patterns that made you feel like your entire body was on flames.

Your head was thrown back against the pillows, back arching as you struggled to catch your breath. Sakusa flicked his tongue against your pussy so expertly, alternating his speed and rhythm in a way that had your legs shaking violently.

“Ohh fuuuuckk,” you managed to groan out, gripping onto your bindings so tightly, your knuckles were turning white. The lewd sounds of him lapping at your clit could only be heard in between your gasping breaths.

Sakusa flicks his tongue up one last time before pulling away slightly, staring up to drink in your flushed expression. Your tongue was lolled out the side of your mouth, eyes rolled back and chest heaving as you tried to catch your breath. Your arms hung limp from its tether, and Sakusa can’t think of a prettier picture.

He looks down at your shining cunt, glistening and swollen and Sakusa didn’t think twice about slipping two fingers into your slopping entrance.

He hooks your leg over his shoulder, smiling as you thrashed helplessly, body reacting fiercely to the way he hooked his fingers and found your gspot with ease.

You squeezed your eyes shut, screams and moans filling the room, unable to adjust to the pleasure of Sakusa rhythm.

You could feel the heat pool into your stomach, tightening in a knot so fraught with tension, it was only seconds before you snapped.

Sakusa could feel the way you pretty little cunt began to tighten around his fingers, quickly slipping in a third one and burying them in deeper.

“Ki...kiyoomi.. I’m .. I’m gonna —“

Sakusa latches back onto your clit, flattening his tongue and sucking in rhythm to the way he pumped into you.

Your legs tightened around his head, but Sakusa didn’t stop. He could feel every tremble, every shake of your thigh against his cheeks, blocking out the sounds of the way you called out his name.

You bucked your hips up into his mouth, and he could feel you gush on his tongue. Sakusa lapped up every single drop, and you felt your body twitch as he continued to lick your sensitive clit. Finally, he surfaces from his meal, looking up at you with your sex dribbling down his chin. It was sinful the way he withdrew his fingers from your cunt and reached up to shove them in your mouth. You sucked on them eagerly, eliciting a smirk from the wavy haired man.

“You taste so fucking good, don’t you?”

Sakusa pulls away, standing up to get rid of his boxers before quickly returning to his spot on the bed.

Your arms were numb, and your legs felt weak, but Sakusa gave you no chance to recover from his previous performance, grabbing your ankles once more and pressing your legs down into a press.

“Such a good fucking little whore,” Sakusa murmurs in your ear, nearly crushing you in the process. “You just let me do whatever the fuck I want, don’t you?”

Without a warning, he slams into you in one hard thrust, the only retaliation coming from your mouth was a strangled groan.

“This pretty pussy is all mine,” Sakusa muttered, keeping your ankles steady by your ears, his cadence unforgiving, and unwavering.

“Omi.. I.. I can’t —!”

Sakusa responded by angling his hips to hit your sweet spot, reaching deeper than you thought possible.

“Yes, you fucking can.”

The crude sounds of his drive were only amplified by the way you gushed all over his dick, the mess you made staining the 400 thread count sheets he so carefully picked out for the both of you.

Sakusa wanted to hold out longer, he really did. But the way you looked under him right now, so fucked out and stupid, he couldn’t help but feel himself get closer and closer to his limit.

“Kiyoomi— please!! I can’t —“

In one swift movement, Sakusa pulls out, pumping his cock until he spilled hot white all over your stomach.

You hadn’t done anything but lay there — bound, at that — but you were desperately gasping for air, your heart beating so fast, you thought it would explode out of its cage.

Sakusa sits back on his heels, equally out of breath, his dick growing limp in his palm, though it still twitched at the sight of you covered all over his cum.

He leans over to give you a peck on the nose, leaving you to walk to his attached bathroom.

He returned a few seconds later with a warm towel, gently cleaning the mess he had made all over your stomach. You nearly fell asleep at his touch, only opening your eyes when he unlocked the cuffs around your wrists.

Your arms fell back down limp, and Sakusa chuckled, kissing the red marks left by the cold silver metal.

“I’m sorry for this,” he mumbled against your skin.

You smiled at him lazily, bringing a hand to tuck a loose strand of wavy hair behind his ear.

“Don’t be sorry.”

He smiled once more before planting a soft kiss on your lips. He settles into the empty space next to you, pulling you on to his lap. You laid your head on his shoulder, and your hand settled on top of his chest, sketching soft circles with the pad of our fingers. He rested his cheek on top of your head, while he supported your back and held your thigh.

“Did you… like that?” He asked quietly, his deep voice disturbing the calm that had nearly engulfed you.

You felt your face heat up, burying further into his chest. He chuckled lowly, holding you tightly and placing a kiss on your temple.

“I did… d-did you?”

Sakusa brings his hand up to your chin, tilting it upwards until you were facing him.

“I loved it.”

He leaned down to place a gentle kiss, filled with all the tender love and care he never gets to say.

Suddenly, He pulls away.

“Hey, what are you—“

He slid his hands beneath the back of your knees, picking you up bridal style in one easy movement. He turned around and made his way back to the bathroom.

“Come on, let’s take a bath first.”

[goingbackt0505]

Eddie Munson headcannons <3

Idk these headcannons are probably very random lmao

•foreheadkisses

•He wouldn't let you do anything he sells and he would definitely try to not smoke infront of you (wouldn't need drugs with you by his side )

•he likes to talk a lot, dont you dare tell him to shut up he would be very sad and would be like "omg I wanna tell them about this ..." but then remember how you told him to shut up

•overthinks

•would teach you how to play the guitar cause he could have you sitting in his lap hello ?

•would brag about your relationship to the hellfire club members (and everyone else) constantly

•the type of guy to make out with you infront of people who look at you the wrong way

•okay we all know this but it needs to be said : this man is a sucker for cuddles

•he would just like to lay on his bed with u in his arms listening to music all day

•gets so worried and stressed if you're injured ,on your period, sick or something that you have to calm him down

•would definitely skip school for you if you're sick or just not feeling well

•would sneak into school for hellfire club meetings later tho

•sometimes he would just be like : aww come on sweetheart lets go somewhere today school is boring anyway

•you often have to remind him that school is kinda important...

•sings with you

•this man can't cook you can't convince me otherwise, he could maybe make pizza but it would be either still frozen in the middle or completely burnt

•he lives off snacks (please someone cook him a decent meal)

•actually gets so annoyed with his hair sometimes that he puts it in a bun and says something like "would you still love me if I had a buzzcut cause I'm so close ..." he would never do that tho cause he's very proud of his hair

•would let you braid his hair (and he would definitely enjoy it)

•this man does not use 7 in 1 bodywash on his hair there's probably at least 3 different hair care products in his shower

•still uses that 7 in 1 wash on his body tho

• I think he cares a lot about hygiene, his smell and definitely his hair

•has some signature cologne that actually smells good

•he cares about your hobbies. You play some instrument he can't play ? He will ask you to teach him how to play. You like to read ? He would get you some books and would act like hes reading them sometimes.

• This man would get bored of reading so easily tho, can't finish one page without getting distracted. But you reading to him? Thats something else, he would actually love it.

•you're the most important person to him

•need something? He'll get it for you

•he'd shoplift if he cant afford it tbh ...

•Can be very wholesome but you cant get rid of the dirty jokes

•would definitely whisper dirty things into your ear in public

•he's a tease

•loves you the way you are AND if you have insecurities that he knows about he would definitely tell you how beautiful they are like ???every minute??? till you stop being insecure lmao

•makes sure to praise you for everything you do .... praising kink... okay but he would loveee to get praised too

•feel like he wouldn't be into degrading at all

•he's a switch

•puts these handcuffs in his room to use sometimes ,what did you think ? they're decoration? ... uhm no

•loves it when you play or try to play on his guitar, he would be so proud AND LIKE come on he would die on the spot (cause its too hot)

•would make you wear his shirts

•would definitely gift you one of his rings and he would expect you to wear it everyday... (he'd be so happy to see it on your hand or on a necklace around your neck fr its like you're married to him )

•if you're dating him for more than a year he would probably already start planning your future out ...

•he's very much into commitment

•doesn't do short term things it's either for ever or nothing

•this man is loyal as heck and expects you to be the same

•he trusts you but he gets jealous veryyyy easily

•I feel like if you actually MANAGED to upset him he would either not talk to you at all or just communicate through songs

•tells you that he needs space if he's sad / upset but actually wants to hold you and cry into your shoulder...

[gale-gentlepenguin]

Gale Reviews: ML Season 4 Episode 3: Gang of Secret

(Spoilers below)

-So they just beat a villain, and Ladybug is acting SUS. Like she doesn't Want to leave yet. Hmm

-Chat noir YOU SLICK MOFO. (I dare not ruin it, because I am laughing at it)

-She is still not over her break up. So I guess Lukanette stans, get whatever remains of your juice while its there.

-Ladybug ... sweetie. Do you need a hug? Cause you look like you need a hug.

-Chat noir realizing his idea was NOT very smart after that.

-Ladybug ruining experiences for a LOT of couples today

-Chat noir trying to help, but Ladybug aint telling him

-They are going swimming now. Chat noir for once, is not thrilled about hanging out with Ladybug... thats a YIKES.

-She has goggles and a towel, so she did go swimming.

-The Kwami see her in pain, QUICK, TEAR DOWN THE PHOTOS.

-She said no tho, but clearly sad about it.

______________

-So Alya is giving the girl posse the rundown on Marinette. Claiming she is lovesick.

-Rose thought they were cute, and Juleka says nothing. Is it wrong that I want Juleka to have an opinion? Whether positive OR negative

-Juleka is like "Yea, he is sad." shows picture of sad Luka. Though to be fair, that is a decent pic of him.

- So Alya is LAST to know. Double ouch.

-Marinette was crying in the bathroom, baby girl no!

-MARINETTE OMG! HOW DOES SHE HAVE THAT?!

-Alya out here trying to be a good friend. By showing Marinette she has support. (She aint even mad that she was last to find out. She is more concerned about her friend)

-THEY HAVE A SECRET HANDSHAKE!

-They calling her now

-She didn't answer. She is too sad

-So she won't detransform and talk with tikki. Can I PLEASE give her a hug. She needs it.

-Yo... Marinette has zero concern for herself and only detransformed when she thought it was causing strain on Tikki.

-Mylene offering friendship bracelets. Never change dear.

-Okay so are they witches now?

-Alix is like 'Can I not be in a ritual, Id rather give her some juice'

_________________

-Marinette sad cause Ladybug can't have a boyfriend. Cause even if she dated Adrien, it would be the same as it was with Luka.... Tikki knows that aint true but can't say why. UGH! This is pain

-Did Tikki just confirm Kwami can't fall in love? NO! MY CHEESECAKE!

-OH S***! So now she gonna be Perma ladybug?!

-So the girls showed up as soon as ladybug left. This isn't good.

-And of course Marinette is TOO GOOD at making s***, so they curious about the new dollhouse

-OH S*** THAT WAS CLOSE!

-And things going to s*** in 10, 9, 8

-Oh no... this... this is not good. Marinette sweetie no. No please.

-Look can we take a second and APPRECIATE HOW HARD ALYA AND THE GIRLS ARE GOING FOR MARINETTE! Did the writers see all of the alya salt and say 'Yea f*** that noise'? Cause I feel like they did.

-Okay so I know Marinette just didn't want to expose her secret... but damn girl... THAT was harsh.

-Marinette literally going scorched earth for being Ladybug... Okay, this episode PHYSICALLY hurts me. SHE DOESNT MEAN IT GIRLS. PLEASE DONT HATE HER.

-Shadowmoth could you not. Like seriously?! COULD YOU F***ING NOT! MY BABY GIRL IS IN PAIN AND I WILL GO THROUGH MY SCREEN AND [Redacted]

-And then you'll have to f*** sideways.

-So first 5 way akumatization

-So can we talk about how the last 3 akuma were after the secrets of Marinette. well 2, but the other one was Adrien. But still. A Lot of Hawkmoth saying 'F*** this individual in particular'

-THEY JUST WANT HER TO STAY THEIR FRIEND! OMG I CANT EVEN BE MAD.

-I wish I could understand Juleka. Can someone please just translate with what she is saying. It was funny in truth, but I want to know

-OH Timebreaker and Horrificator are BACK. Yay, I missed them

-Just realized how AMAZING their Gang of akuma are. Like damn, thats like a super team of evil. Yea sure

___________________________

-Not to nitpick, but Marinette, you should have led with that box.

-TRIXX IS GONNA USE HIS POWERS OMG FINALLY! A PURE KWAMI POWER. We haven't seen that since Plagg.

-Damn that was a really boss illusion trixx. But question, how was that out of control? Like if anything, that was BETTER then when the user used it.

-Trixx makes a really good point. WHY DOES HE NEED A HOLDER AGAIN?!

-OH, HE WAS LYING. EVERYTHING LOOKS F***ING BANANAS.

-Trixx is now my second favorite Kwami.

-PLAGG! MY SON! HE IS IN THE EPISODE! I MISSED HIM. Also, surprisingly knows.

-Plagg cares about other Kwami.

-Adrien just chilling, watching tv. XD

-Timebreaker casually committing murder

-Hold it, Okay so why are so many people in school right now? Ivan is there, chloé and Sabrina? Oh my tomato son too. Can someone tell me wtf is up with this school schedule?

-Fragrance/Reflekta Power combo is amazing.

-Wow, this gang is MEGA DANGEROUS

-So yea Ladybug. Maybe... idk... TALK WITH CHAT NOIR ABOUT YOUR PROBLEMS!?

-So they really gotta plan this time.

-Ladybug smart to disarm Ladywifi.

-Ladybug trying to get lady wifi to fight the akuma. This is touching

-SHE DID IT! ALYA BROKE FREE! LIKE A MOTHERF***ING BOSS.

-No, shadow moth, you's a b***

-Loving this Alya- Ladybug friendship

-Chat noir looking boss by fighting 3 akuma at once while on the phone. Chat noir Leveled up.

-So Ladybug can now pull the miraculous out of anywhere because she has guardian status. Thats a cool trick. Makes it much easier.

-Thats a secret tho, Alya got trusted with a big secret.

-RENA ROUGE IN THE HOUSE!

_______

-And Chat noir is captured... but in his defense. He did have to fight 4 at once this time. So that took longer than usual. So no shame kitty. You did well.

-Lucky charm is an inner tube

-Clever illusion. POINTS! Using the goal of the akuma to distract. Alya gets gull points!

-WOW! REALLY CLEVER ILLUSION.

-Ladybug suave catch of rose tho.

-So that was probably the best Group akuma attack since Heroes day (and honestly it probably tops it)

________

-Marinette patches things up with her friends. That is a relief. She was able to somewhat explain her issues up to the point. Without spilling the details.

-Marinette has some really good friends.

-Alya knows that not everything has been told... Hold on DONT TELL ME.

-Oh wow, Marinette is breaking down.... My poor baby girl is hurting real bad.

-OH S*** SHE SAID IT! SHE TOLD HER! SHE TOLD ALYA!

____________________________________________________________

wow this episode... This one hurt. This one hurt a LOT. But also, it was really good.

Okay so, 10/10.

I haven't been this enthralled with an episode in a long time.

Are there one or two nitpicks? Absolutely.

Do I wish somethings were not mentioned? A little bit.

Am I glad Alya knows? Out of everyone, she is the second person I wanted Marinette to tell.

(The first one being chat noir, but lets face it, we kind of knew that won't be happening for a while.)

So can Alya salt stop now? Cause Alya CLEARLY showed how much of a motherf***ing boss she is.

But damn I didn't feel this emotional since Chat blanc.

I DONT EVEN CARE THAT THE AKUMA WERE REPEATS.

That was OBJECTIVELY, one of the best episodes in the entire series.

This made me rethink my favorite episode. THATS HOW GOOD IT WAS.

Season 4, You keep doing what you are doing. Your writing (minus some very minor nitpicks) has been pretty damn good.

[workofheart]

hi!! first of all i love ur writing sm!! for the drabble thing i was wondering if you could do levi+24+friends to lovers, preferably canonverse:) thank you lovely<33

this was so adorable :’) thank you for requesting, i had so much fun writing it! it got kind of long but i just couldn’t help myself lol... also this is barely edited i’ll come back soon for that😭

the art of dance and wordless confessions | levi + friends to lovers + “i thought you said you can’t dance?”

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

it’s late in the evening when you finally pluck up the courage to see levi. the sun has long set and the halls of the barracks have gone quiet, the only sounds being the hushed whispers of cadets who have yet to fall asleep.

with the military ball approaching, it went somewhat unsaid that levi would be taking you, because who else would it be? after knowing him all these years and growing so close, it would almost be weird if you didn’t go together. that being said, you desperately hoped he wouldn’t laugh at you.

as one of your long time comrades - and truthfully, best friends - it should be easy to reach out to him for help. maybe it’s because you’re embarrassed, or because you might have caught feelings, but such right now is simply not the case.

your knuckles are held up hesitantly to the door of his office. luckily for you, levi senses your presence before you even have to knock. in a way, he almost expected you to be here at this hour.

“come in,” he calls, voice muffled through the wood. you take a second to prepare yourself before pushing in the door.

inside, you find levi sitting at his desk, hunched over piles of paperwork. his lips are turned down in a slight pout and the shadows beneath his eyes are unfortunately dire. he looks like he hasn’t slept in days, instead reading over the same print sentences again and again, which you know is most likely the case anyway.

“hi,” you say, padding over to sit in the chair across from him.

“hi.” he releases the pen he’s been clutching so tightly to for the past few hours onto the desk and rubs his eyes with his fists, trying to clear them from his working haze. he’s glad to see you.

levi doesn’t like beating around the bush. his patience is visibly thin, so after a deep breath, you force yourself to speak up.

“so we’re going to the ball together, right?” you start, fiddling with your fingers in your lap.

he takes a sip from his tea cup, glancing at you over the back of his hand. you look cute when you’re nervous, he thinks.

 “obviously.” 

“well, i kind of have this problem-”

maybe it’s the late of the night, the exhaustion clouding his train of thought, but he interrupts you without even thinking. 

“do you want to go with someone else?” he asks, and immediately berates himself internally for it. god, he’s so stupid. 

his voice is nonchalant, but his heart sinks at the thought. why would you want to go with him in the first place? there’s so many other scouts that would be dying to take you, so he should have at least expected this.

“no, no!’ you assure him. he quirks an eyebrow. “it’s not that, it’s just…”

“spit it out,” he says. the words are harsh, but it comes out encouraging in a way only you would know. 

you whine in embarrassment, pinching the bridge of your nose before committing to the confession. “i...can’t dance.”

you can practically see his thought process through his expressions. at first he’s relieved you’re not trying to reject him, and then he’s confused as to how that’s possible, and finally he’s delighted that you’ve come to him for help. the thought makes his heart inexplicably warm, despite the fact he would never show it on the outside.

“alright,” he sighs, pushing his chair back. “i’ll teach you.” he cracks his knuckles and stretches his back, thankful to just be out of his seat.

“really?” you ask, eyes bright and swimming with excitement. levi’s stomach flips.

“yeah, ‘need a break anyway.”

he walks around his desk to meet you, extending an open palm to help you up. when you stand, he leads you to the center of the room, using his free hand to put yours on his shoulder before settling it on your waist.

“just follow my lead, you’ll pick it up.”

he ignores the way you swallow, chalking it up to nerves.

stepping forward and to the side, levi guides you with firm hands. he’s assured and confident, leading you even when you stumble, even disregarding how silly he feels when he murmurs small counts to help you. 

with levi, it’s easy to fall into step. when your feet trip up, he’s quick to correct you, and his hold makes your skip a beat. once you have the basic box down, he changes the angle and shows you around the room, slowly turning in small circles.

you don’t even notice how intensely you’re staring at your shoes until he mentions it.

“stop looking down,” he says, “look at me.” 

apologizing sheepishly, your cheeks flush with heat. when you finally meet his eyes, he thinks that he could look at you all day without getting tired, but he can tell you feel awkward from the way your gaze flits around the room.

he speaks to distract you. “i thought you said you can’t dance,” he mumbles, a hint of a smile on his lips.

you breathe out an air of laughter that has his chest tightening. “can’t mentally doesn’t necessarily mean can’t physically.”

his eyebrows furrow at your strange logic. “what does dance have to do with mentality?”

with a shy roll of your eyes, you admit, “i dont want to look stupid.”

and yet again, his heart gets the best of him. something about your presence takes the filter right off his mouth, breaks down the dam that always holds him back from saying what he really thinks.

“i don’t think you look stupid,” he says quietly. “i don’t think you ever look stupid.”

it catches you off guard. for a second, you almost convince yourself that you imagined it. but then his eyes dart away from yours, letting it hang in the air for a second too long, and suddenly it’s simply too late for him to mean it in a way that’s just platonic.

“thanks, levi,” you whisper. you don’t know where you find the courage, but then you’re leaning in and pressing a small kiss to the cheek he has turned to you. 

the feel shocks him from his self-pitying daze. he turns his head back to face you, gaze flicking to your mouth, sees how you’ve pinched your bottom lip with your teeth in hesitation. he doesn’t bother trying to speak - he knows his words will fail him.

his movements fall still along with yours, the dance long forgotten in the span of just a few seconds. your hand drifts closer to his chest from his shoulder and his head seems to cloud with a haze of only you. he leans in slow, tentative, but you don’t hesitate to meet him halfway, effectively closing the gap.

lashes brushing lightly against your nose, levi’s eyes flutter shut. his lips are pillowy and soft as they move against yours, still dark and malty from his earlier choice of tea.

it only takes a moment for his previous caution to blossom into a fond conviction. it’s a gentle, tender sort of warmth that fills your chest when levi kisses you. the spread starts where you connect and flows through you entirely, even reaching right to the ends of your fingertips pressed against him, and the feeling cycles back to where it begins.

your other hand breaks from his hold and moves to his neck, sliding up through his undercut and entangling with his silken locks. a small noise escapes levi, and he has to pull away.

it’s hard to deny the smile that tugs on your cheeks. he has to look away to save himself from the obvious heat radiating off his face - you’re so close, he’s sure you can feel it.

in response, your head hangs, dropping until your forehead rests against his chest. a shy laugh leaves you, one that levi can’t help but follow with.

levi clears his throat and you bring your face back up to his. he’s torn between wanting to look at you and shielding his face from showing how flustered he is. this side of levi is soft and timid, and he’d only ever consider letting you in to see it. 

“i think you’re probably set,” he says, looking down to where his hands lie on your waist. he plays with the cotton cloth of your shirt, smoothing his thumbs over the seam.

“yeah,” you agree, brushing the hair back from his face. it makes him gulp. “thanks for all the help.”

that night, you leave his office assured with more than just your ability to dance a waltz.