#look i still think it's a worth it talent i just genuinely haven't needed it (mostly due to ubercarry KEKW) i'll def end up getting it (1/2 | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

xpao-bearx · 4 years

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Part 1 HERE

NOTE: OMG I really wasn't expecting for the previous first part of Heavenly Sins to blow up as it did, but I just wanted to give a huuuge THANK YOU to all of you amazing folks!! 🥰🥰🥰 Your support truly means so fooken much to trashy ol' meh and y'all are the reason I am writing this story series in the first place :')

I do have my ideas, but I still don't know much yet of what to do or even how long (or short) this story will get. So, if you would continue to give me your mindblowing support, it would seriously mean the W O R L D.

I do, however, very much enjoy writing Negan in particular so far. He's one of my absolute fave characters ever and JEFFREY DEAN FUCKIN' MORGAN NEED I SAY MOAR?!? 🥵💕💕

But this second part will be focusing a bit more on our beloved sheriff Ricky boi! Of course, Daryl will also get some much deserved love and attention tho I think he will appear in the story a lil later on.

Also, if you ever feel compelled, you are more than welcome to take some inspo from this story and make your own imagines and such! I'd love to see 'em, so please tag me 😁

P.S. There won't always be long ass notes like this, only if I wanna say something or bring up whatever is important. Also, if you wanna be tagged on any new/future story parts, then just tell moi and I will dedicate the latest one to the people who wanted to be tagged!

DEDICATED TO: The wonderful @buttercandy16 💖

"Heavenly Sins"

Part 2

After your little spiel, you haven't spoken to Negan since then. But on the way home after church, you passed by his house and found him tinkering away on his motorcycle (which you previously learned he interestingly named Lucille) in the garage. Not being able to help yourself, you paused in your tracks and just curiously watched him for a while.

His leather jacket was off, revealing a plain white t-shirt. The shirt was quite tight, and you noted how it perfectly hugged the taut muscles of his chest. Your eyes then slowly trailed to his toned arms, adorned by tattoos you wished you had a better look at. He stopped briefly, placing his tools down before grabbing the hem of his shirt and wiping the sweat on his forehead.

You didn't even think twice as your eyes dropped, hyperfocused on his abs. He wasn't the buffest guy out there, but he was lean and fit and--to put it bluntly--hot. A part of you screamed bloody murder to get a grip on yourself, to just turn your stiff body around and proceed on home. But another part completely squashed down those protests without even a fight; as if your pathetic excuse of a resolve wasn't even meant in the first place.

"Take a goddamn picture, darlin'. It'll last longer."

Your head snapped up, meeting the tantalizing hazel stare of Negan. His lips were curled in a smug smirk, and nevermore in your entire life have you wanted to both slap and kiss someone so badly.

But you only clicked your tongue, shooting him a sharp glare before (at last!) turning and walking away as you hid your blush. In the distance, his amused chuckle begrudgingly sounded like the sweetest fucking music to your ears.

♡♡♡

You woke up at 7:05 a.m. like you typically did the next morning, Monday. It was the dawn of a new week, and while most people dreaded it you actually didn't mind it so much. You had your job to thank for that.

Sure, it wasn't always easy, but it was worth it in the end. You loved teaching and spending time with the children, and you were even more ecstatic since you knew Judith was going to be at the daycare.

As you finished eating breakfast and preparing for the day, you grabbed your bag then went out the door. You opted to walk again today, the weather far too beautiful to miss plus the daycare really wasn't that far away.

Eventually arriving at your destination, you approached the daycare building's doors with a little spring in your step. Once inside, a young woman with her blonde hair high in a ponytail smiled and waved.

"Hi, Y/N! Goodmorning!" Beth Greene greeted energetically.

"Morning, Beth." You chuckled, the girl's radiant smile infectious. You've known Beth for some time now, especially since the Greenes were one of the oldest families in Alexandria and they were well respected. But you got along best with Beth, you thought she was the friendliest and she was also the latest hire of the daycare.

Stashing your bag away in your personal locker, you fixed yourself up a bit before getting your nametag and sticking it on your top. Looking up at the wall clock, you read that it was 7:50 a.m. Perfect, just in time for the kids' drop-offs.

You waited outside with Beth and the rest of the daycare workers, until finally the parents started rolling in. It was the usual; some of the children were wailing, snot snivelling down their nose as their embarrassed parents tried to tug them away from clinging onto their legs. You could only offer a sympathetic smile as you tried to help, while other children were much more relaxed and didn't even spare a second glance at their parents as they were dropped off.

"Well, that's about all of them." Beth piped up.

"Wait, we're still waiting for Judith." You said, searching for the toddler. "Rick said she'd be here."

Beth checked her watch, her brows creasing a little in worry. "That's odd. Sheriff Grimes is never late when he's dropping Judith off."

Just as she said that, there was a honk that disrupted the peace. You and Beth both spotted a crying Judith being held by Lori, the woman appearing utterly exhausted before her eyes locked with yours and didn't waste another second dashing towards you.

"Please don't run when you're holding Judith. Also, no honking is allowed on the premises." It was hard for you to keep the malice out of your voice, but you mentally gave yourself a pat on the back since you miraculously managed to not make it sound the worst it could get.

Lori raised a brow at you, but only handed Judith over to you. Judith immediately quieted down when she saw it was you, you cooing gently at her as she giggled and snuggled up comfortably against your chest.

"Rick will be picking her up later." Was all Lori said, pressing a quick peck on Judith's curly little head before parting ways. As Lori rushed back to the car, you saw Shane in the driver's seat shamelessly attack her neck with fervent kisses and you couldn't restrain an eyeroll.

"Fucking bitch..." You grumbled.

"Uh-oh. Bad!" Judith giggled again, clapping her hands gleefully.

"Right, right. Bad. Don't copy me, okay?" You laughed, completely forgetting about your aggravation as you rubbed your nose with Judith's and went inside.

♡♡♡

The rest of the day rolled along splendidly. No one threw a tantrum and for the most part, all the kids properly shared the wide assortment of toys and even did their activities orderly and on time. So, you decided to indulge them with a small yet much sought after reward.

Painting.

When it comes down to children, painting can be utter chaos. But you figured since they were being so good, you'd allow it. At the daycare you worked in, painting was quite a rare occurrence and that only solidified how much the kids adored it.

Once the materials were set out, it was a dizzying flurry of excited hands grabbing anything it could latch on to. As the kids went about doing their creative business, you found Judith all alone sitting in the corner playing around with some blocks.

"Whatcha doin' there, Judi?" You asked, sweetly calling out her nickname. "You don't wanna paint?"

"I wanna, but not with papers." She replied, shaking her head.

"Oh? Then where do you wanna paint?"

"I wanna paint on faces, but no one wants me to!"

"If that's the case, then I'd be more than happy to let you paint my face." You smiled.

"Really?!" Judith's whole face lit up, jumping up and wrapping her tiny arms around you as tightly as she could. "Thank youuu!"

You chuckled, ruffling her hair and watching as she happily gathered some paint and brushes.

♡♡♡

It was finally the end of a long day, and your face felt a bit itchy from the paint Judith put on you. But it didn't matter; as long as the little girl was happy, it was the best damn day ever.

You were holding Judith's hand as you waited outside for Rick to pick her up, and once he came up with his car Judith beamed.

"Daddy!"

"Hello, sweetheart. Did you have a nice day?" His face looked tired, his greying beard making him appear slightly older than he really was, but his smile was genuine as he carried Judith in his strong arms.

"The bestest! Y/N lemme paint her face!"

"She did, huh? What did you pai--oh my god."

You bursted into laughter at his reaction, flashing him a toothy grin. "In the words of Judi: You're a pretty tiger! Grr!"

"Now that you mention it, I can see it." Rick joined in your laughter, nodding his head. "Looks like we've got a talented lil artist in our hands!"

"Daddy, I wanna paint your face next! You can be daddy tiger and Y/N can be mommy!" Judith proclaimed.

You and Rick flushed pink at the same exact time, but Rick was quick to clear his throat and change the topic. "A-Anyways, Y/N, how 'bout me and the kids give you a ride? Thank you for today, by the way."

"No problem, and sure! Thanks so much."

As you settled in the passenger's seat, two hands covered your eyes from behind. "Guess who~?"

"Hmm..." You hummed, making a show of thinking. "Are you an elf?"

"No!" The hands were removed, Carl popping his head out from the backseat to look at you as he laughed. "It's me!"

"Oh, sorry! You're just so short, I thought you were an elf." You teased good naturedly.

Carl huffed, sticking his tongue out at you. "Y'know, in a few years, I'll be way taller than you!"

Once Rick was done buckling Judith into her carseat, he took his place in the driver's seat and drove out of the premises. You just talked about anything that came to mind: work, the weather, Alexandria's local shops, etc. To anyone else, maybe it seemed like regular boring conversation. But speaking with Rick was truly one of the highlights of any of your days. He was extremely easy to talk to, and he never failed to cheer you up. And it was obvious Rick was the same. He was allowed to simply be himself around you; to loosen up, momentarily forget about the stress and sometimes even the woes that came along with being the town's upstanding sheriff.

As you were nearing your home, Carl decided to cut in.

"Y/N, can we stay at your house? It's been a while since we had a sleepover." Carl asked, his baby blue eyes identical to Rick's alight with hope.

It wouldn't be the first time Rick and the kids would be staying over. You were very close to the Grimes family, sometimes even almost considering them as your own. You didn't mind it. Since you lived alone, it can get pretty lonely. And having people around surely brightened up the house and made you keep your sanity.

"I don't mind, but you gotta ask your dad." You chuckled.

Carl turned to Rick, pouting and giving his best puppy dog eyes. Rick rolled his eyes, but couldn't suppress an inkling of a smile.

"Yeah, yeah. But let me drop you and Judith off with Y/N first. I'll be back, I just need to get some extra clothes and essentials."

"YAY!" Carl cheered, Judith following suit as they both raised their arms and hollered.

"You're so whipped for them." You laughed, shaking your head as you looked at Rick.

"I ain't denying that." He sighed dramatically, grinning.

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mollyphoria · 4 years

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(off my chest post.)

As soon as I turned the age of 27 last year it was like I've been awaken from a cruel false dream. I opened my eyes then boom I see 27 years of my life laid out in front of me wasted. Yes it took 27 effin years for me to wake up. I wasted all this years and now I'm suffering the consequences of not following my heart, now I'm suffering the repercussions for not realising my dreams sooner as well as pursuing them. I don't believe in myself enough to stand for what I really want so I let society dictate me. I dont love myself enough to believe that I have the capabilities to follow my dreams, luck wasn't on my side too,the odds were never in my favor. So yes I guess I blame both myself and the circumstances given to me on why I failed in life. I failed myself. Society failed me. The system failed me. Oh how I envy people who were able to realise their dreams when they were a kid. these people mostly turns out to be the successful ones in life while I'm left in shambles of not knowing what to do or having such a huge dream I knew I would never reach it. I wanted to become a supermodel but I'm not pretty and tall enough plus I'm from a country not supported by society on having supermodels. Then I wanted to be a rock star. Touring the world, playing the guitar, performing on stage. I can probably make this happen but once again I don't believe in myself and lack of support from family/society was what made this dream seem to get more impossible. I would like to pursue the arts anything from singing, dancing,writing ,painting,drawing etc but I let myself be influenced by what our society drills in my head everyday that there's no money with any of these endeavours so I never got serious to try to achieve greatness from these "useless, juvenile" dreams and plus you need God-given talent to qualify pursuing the arts and I don't have an ounce of it.

So as time goes by I continued to grow older like a dead leaf flailing around in the wind without a specific direction but downwards. But deep-rooted in my soul I knew what I wanted but I chose to stupidly ignore that little voice in my heart that tells me what to do. I to this day continue to beat myself up why I haven't even tried to listen to myself.

So what I did was to completely surrender myself to settle for a lesser,smaller dream that I could possibly reach according to the circumstances I'm handed with

I took up a course in college that I felt at the time would be something I would enjoy and easy,cheap enough to simply graduate and have that diploma just for the sake of it. When I got into the real world and became a full pledge adult for the first time ever I got hit by depression and that's when I first acknowledge that I'm not made for this at all but what I did instead of abandoning it was to try again and aim higher which is to have my own wings and to fly high in the sky and see the world. I held on to that dream. I went to school again. For a moment I had a purpose and for the first time I had direction. I thought I found myself as I try to get those wings. I thought that this will be my redemption. I made myself to believe that I'm meant to do this. I went above and beyond to achieve success. But alas I continued to be the chosen reject and once again odds weren't exactly on my favor and I have given up by the time I'm 27 years old. This is when it all crashed down on me I was chasing a dream gone dead all those years and basically wasted my youth as a result and gained nothing at the end. And I have to admit that i somewhat resent God for putting this dream to flourish in my heart but never gave me a breakthrough to even achieve it. I was left beaten and destroyed. I slaved myself away for nothing, experienced all those sufferings for nothing. I got nothing for all those sacrifices and hardwork I did. Literally all those blood,sweat and tears were for absolutely nothing at the end. I was utterly broken down,my heart was utterly crushed nothing left but broken pieces and a whirlpool of regret. If even this small, mediocre dream I settle myself for is still unattainable for me then my life is no longer worth living. I then proceed to wallow on self pity and resentment and went down to the worst depression I've ever experience in my life. Tears kept on falling like faucets in my eyes. Every streak of effort, energy, motivation ,hope left my body,mind and soul altogether. I turned ultimately dead inside. I don't have anything left in me to even pretend to continue fighting my way into this world. I can't even help myself to help myself. it's like I already died and what was left is just a hollow husk of my former self.

At 27 yrs old i went back to zero. I'm left with nothing to hope for, I didn't gain anything from all the things I went through. After Having the painful knowledge that the journey I made for myself all throughout my teenage to mid twenties is only to become of worthless dust and vomit at the end it made me inevitably bitter about life in general. I started acknowledging thoughts of dying for real. How I realized that it's better to be dead than to be alive, how I wish to have never been born at all. I missed all of these opportunities to win in life and I felt like giving up. Because Life is Suffering nothing more nothing less we will continue to suffer coz that whats life for this is the true meaning of life we are just put here to live so we can suffer and I'm not cut out for it I'm too weak to even restart again.

I realized alot of things. When I was a kid I was always looking forward to the future. I was foolishly, completely convinced that my life will get better as I get older and now that I'm older it turned out to be such a stupid thought coz life didn't get better it only gotten worse and it could only get worst from here on out.

Starting now I shouldn't hope for things to change for the better. It's dangerous to have a false hope and I swear to myself that I wouldn't let myself be fueled by false hope anymore.

And now that it's October I will turn a year older unless I cease to exist first.

I'm honestly scared of the future, now that I can see the true essence of it in its whole entirety.

At 28 I'm running out of time.

I missed the chance to get my life stable.

At 28 I'm entirely clueless on how to get my shit together and I don't even think I have the strength to improve myself. I felt like I just don't care anymore.

At 28 I should have already bought my mother a new house instead I'm stuck and rotting away in a room at her own old house.

At 28 I'm still miserable asf

Still bitter asf

Still dumb asf

Still doubtful asf

Still a loser asf

Let me discuss the thoughts I have about this song 28 of Agust D. This song single handedly describes the anxiety I feel for getting older. The fact that the age he pertained on the title of this song is 28 exactly the age I'm about to turn into soon just solidifies the strong grip it acquired to hold my heart and soul. I felt extremely lucky to turn 28 at the same year with someone as genius as him (tho his 27 international age) nevertheless I'm thankful about this.

Tho there are things that I'm honestly confuse about him having the same fears with someone like me who's a nobody without any single awards, recognitions, accolades or any kind of impact to the world, who's not loved and praised by millions nor have millions of money in my bank account, who doesn't have a big house,big cars nor big rings.

It baffles the living daylights out of me that a person like Min Yoongi who achieved so much in life would feel scared about not knowing his dreams is really about as he gets older. He basically achieved every single one of the dreams I have for myself. His overly set for life that his great great great great great grandchildren will be also set for life. His life wasn't the same like before. His life changed for the better . He earns millions of money by doing what he loves at such a young age. He simply won in life.

We are both 28 but the life I'm bestowed in is the utmost opposite of the life his bestowed in. I'm at the loser end of the spectrum while his in the winner side yet we share somewhat the same fears and anxiety about having to grow older.

This made me question if happiness is really just an illusion. well the genuine authentic euphoric kind of happiness.

Is existence all really just a one big mess with occasional ephemeral pleasure?

If a person who accomplished so much at only 28 still feels depression what's left for me then should I just go kill myself?

Alot of the reasons why I got into this level of depression is because I didn't fulfill anything Yoongi fulfilled.well I'm not really into fame so much but i hope i succeeded on not having to worry about whether I could buy a house or rent an apartment. Yoongi could buy a building for himself while I can't even afford a bedspace of my own

Yoongi could travel the whole world in a whim while I'm mostly stuck in the same place

The stark contrast of our lives is so immense I cant even get my head wrapped around it

My only dillema is that I'm afraid to die but I'm also afraid to live

It's been proven to me now that living in this world is not really living at all it's just purely surviving and I can't deal with this

I'd rather die than to be a slave to the system. And it seems like I don't even have a choice maybe to disappear is the only way out

I'm just not cut out with the cards I've been dealt with

If only I could voluntarily pull my existence out of here then I would do it in a heartbeat

I wish there is a stop button from all of these

#twenty eight #agust d #october #time #sadnees

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windless-hurricane · 5 years

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She's the One

Chapter 2: Your Name

A Billy x Reader x Steve Fanfic

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

SUMMARY: You're One, one of the many kids experimented on in Hawkins lab. Eleven's sister. You were found and now you're here to stay.

AUTHOR'S NOTE: This took a lot longer to write than I anticipated, but here it is! I'd also like to apologize to anyone who sent me an ask. I accidentally responded and now I can't find y'all. If you're still interested, just let me know in the comments. Thank you.

WARNINGS: Language, violence, and scenes involving blood and/or death.

WORD COUNT: 2.8k

TAGLIST: @cherrym4rk @torntaltos @bun-dpdbny @5sosxgrethan @acidrain707 @evelynfreakinaddams @qtmeryr @kayln97 @uwu-bucky @book--butterfly @laurmillen @art-flirt @thecornerstoreoftheuniverse

LAST CHAPTER

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“What can you do?”

“How old are you?”

“Are you Eleven’s sister?”

“Just how strong are you?”

“Can you show us?”

The kids continued to throw question after question at you, expecting them to be answered, but leaving you with no time to answer them. You just stared at them with wide eyes until Hopper cut them off with a harsh tone.

“I’ll be asking the questions here.” And silence befell on them once again. Wow, you thought. He really had a talent for getting people to shut up.

You looked to him and he reeked of frustration and worry. However, when he spoke, there was an ounce of sympathy in his voice. “Why were you in that chamber?” You knew he was going to ask that. It was obvious enough, but it still made you cringe with discomfort. You didn’t want to talk about that chamber, because for you, that thing was a personal hell you thought you would never escape from. It was frightening and you never wanted to go back. However, answers were something that they deserved. Not only would it have helped them through this crisis, it would also give them some trust in you.

So, you cleared your throat and began to speak, slowly but carefully. “Well...since you know Eleven...you must already know...what the lab did…to her...to us.” He nodded. “I was the first one...they did it to… They always said that…they got lucky with me. That I was their best experiment and...would lay the groundwork for the others after me. That's why...all the kids who did survive the experiments, got one or two of my abilities.”

“And what exactly are your abilities,” Dustin asked with a grin, but Hopper wasn’t amused. He shot Dustin a death glare, but he didn't seem to notice it.

“I-I can move things...with my mind,” you revealed. “And make people see what I want them to see… I can read minds too and...tell what people are feeling.”

“Can you control people?”

“No. I haven't been able to that...not yet at least.” You caught a glimpse of Hopper's annoyed expression and gulped nervously. “Anyway... The reason I was in that chamber in the first place is because...I helped the other kids escape. Three, Seven, and Eight.”

“You mean there's other kids out there right now,” he asked.

“Well, not ‘here’ here, but...around. That day...I wasn't able to get Eleven out, but luckily...she was able to get out on her own.”

“While I was in there though, I could hear things - voices. At first, I-I didn't know who they belonged to, but I slowly started to realize what was going on. The first voice I heard was from that woman, Joyce...and she was talking...about him.” You pointed to Will who was asleep on the couch with a blanket over him. “He went missing and you found him, but now...something's wrong with him.”

“You know what's wrong?”

You nodded, while never breaking eye contact with him. “I know everything...because...I heard everything. I know all of you too. I recognize you from your voices.”

At that, everyone glanced between each other in astonishment. You, you were someone that they just met, someone who had just entered the picture without warning. Yet, you seemed to know more about what was going on than they did. Hell, you even knew all of them without a proper introduction. So if that didn’t show a fraction of what you were capable of, then they didn’t know what could. You were someone worth the bargain. Even so, Hopper felt compelled to ask one last thing.

“How long were you in there?”

You shrugged, “5 years, give or take.”

“Shit,” one of the kids breathed out and you could make it out as Lucas. Hopper sighed deeply and you could tell it was from a mixture of sympathy and desperation.

“I'm sorry to ask this of you, but...we need your help.”

“And I'll give it,” you blurted out without hesitation. “I was going to give it regardless.” You said more quietly as you looked over to Will. “There’s a darkness in Hawkins that we need to stop...and it starts with him.”

__________________________________________

“Okay, so if this thing is like a brain that’s controlling everything, then if we kill it...we kill everything that it controls.” You nodded as you continued to stare at the page from Dustin’s D&D manual. Mike’s deduction made sense, but the same question still stood. How do you-

“How do you kill this thing? Shoot it with fireballs or something?”

You jumped in surprise as Hopper snatched the manual away, trying to find the answer for himself. Dustin eventually spoke up, but it was less than confident.

“Well, uh, you summon an undead army, um, because-because zombies, you know, they don’t have brains.” He began to stumble over his own words. “And the mind flayer, it-it… It likes brains. It’s just a game. It’s a game,” he finally confessed.

“What the hell are we doing here,” Hopper groaned. Things weren’t looking good and that became more evident as Hopper and Dustin started to argue.

“I thought we were waiting for your military backup.”

“We are!”

“How are they gonna stop this? You can't just shoot this with guns.”

“You don't know that! We don't know anything!”

“We know it's already killed everybody in that lab. We know the monsters are gonna molt again. We know that it's only a matter of time before those tunnels reach this town.”

“They’re right,” a voice interrupted. Joyce. “We have to kill it.”

Your face softened as you turned to face her. She was being overwhelmed by grief, sadness, and anger, but who could blame her obviously. She lost someone she loved.

“I want to kill it,” she declared.

“Me too, Joyce. Me too.” Hopper was doing his best to calm her; but deep down, he couldn’t even do that for himself. “But how do we do that?” And it hit you.

“Will knows.” Everyone stopped and turned to you. “Will knows how to kill it, because he’s connected to it. He already knows everything about it and that includes its weaknesses.”

“I thought we couldn’t trust him anymore - that he’s a spy for the mind flayer now,” Max reminded, causing Mike to shake his head.

“Yeah, but he can't spy if he doesn't know where he is.”

“Exactly,” you confirmed. “This will work.”

__________________________________________

You all decided that the shed in the backyard would be the best place for Will’s interrogation. It was small, making it perfect to disguise in a short amount of time. So, you all went outside to find materials that could help in your endeavor.

You were encouraged to not use your powers until the real threat came and while that wasn't a terrible idea, you also hadn’t used your powers in five years. You were rusty and needed as much practice as you could get. So, whenever the kids came upon an object that was either too heavy to carry or too high on a shelf to reach, you helped them. It was enough for now.

You let out a small sigh as you wiped the blood dripping from your nose. “You okay,” you heard someone ask and you turned to find Hopper. You nodded.

“Ye-yeah, I’m okay. Thank you.” You moved to go back into the house since most of the preparations were finished already, but stopped once he spoke again.

“I’m sorry again that all of this was so sudden and that...we weren’t able to save you under more normal circumstances.”

“Oh… That-that’s okay,” you told him. “I’m just glad that...that you got me out...and honestly, this couldn’t have been a more perfect time. You need my help to stop this thing. So… I guess what I’m really trying to say is...thank you. Thank you for saving me.” You managed a small smile as you looked up at him and he simply nodded in response. However, the tiniest of smiles reached his lips as well.

“I know you said you already know me, but I think...you at least deserve something more proper than this,” he reached his hand out. “Jim Hopper.”

You gazed down at his hand for a bit before taking it like you thought you were supposed to. You tried to match his grip as you smiled wider, “One.”

__________________________________________

You sat in the kitchen, hugging your knees to your chest. It was the first time you were left alone since being freed and now, you couldn’t ignore all the emotions floating around you. Anger, fear, regret, guilt, sadness, pain. To make it worse, you could hear every sad thing being said in the shed. It didn’t matter if you weren’t there. You could still hear everything like you always did.

Do you know what March 22nd is? It's your birthday. Your birthday.

Do you remember the day Dad left? We stayed up all night building Castle Byers… just the way you drew it.

I just felt so alone and scared, but… I saw you alone on the swings and you were alone too.

Tears ran down your cheeks and you couldn’t tell if they were for them, yourself and the life you could’ve had, or both. It was all becoming too much to bear and you couldn’t help the tears that kept falling and the sniffles that started to leave you. It wasn’t until you heard someone walk in that you tried to contain yourself. You tried to get rid of the tears with the sleeves of your shirt, but it seems like you didn’t try hard enough.

“Hey… Hey, are you crying?” And you froze. No one had ever spoken to you like that before. No one had ever used a voice that was so genuine and calming that it was enough to make your tears stop. That voice provided instant relief and you didn’t know why. You looked up to the owner of that voice and it was none other than Steve with a face of worry plastered on him.

You gazed into his eyes for a bit before answering. They were brown, just like most of the world’s, yet they still managed to be different. They still managed to be incredibly warm and beautiful. It was quite soothing. You gulped softly before averting your gaze.

“No,” you uttered, but of course he wasn’t convinced.

“Then, what’s all this,” he asked, gesturing toward your glossy eyes and red nose.

“Um, I- It just comes with the power.” You smiled softly in an attempt to make him believe you.

“Oh, so a bad case of allergies comes with your powers?” You looked at him in astonishment before bursting out in laughter, something you didn’t even know you were capable of.

“What? No.”

“Well, that’s what you said,” he began to laugh as well as he grinned a smile that could’ve made your heart stop.

“That’s not what I meant,” you tried to explain. “It’s just that...with my power...I can feel the emotions of everyone around me, but it’s not something I can really turn off. So sometimes... it can be very overwhelming...like right now.”

“Yeah, it really isn’t the best time, huh?” You shook your head, causing him to hum in response. “What if you just focused on one person?” Your eyes widened.

“Huh?”

“What do you feel when you feel me?” His eyes widened too. “Wait, that sounds weird.” You let out a small chuckle as he started to panic. “I mean, what do you feel when...um-what do you feel when you see me?”

You tilted your head to the side as you felt him. Not physically, but just through the way you gazed at him.

“Worry and...nervousness,” you confirmed. “You’re a lot more tame than everyone else here.”

“Well, that’s a good thing, isn’t it?”

“Yeah, it is,” you chuckled, and you didn’t notice the way his eyes scanned over your features or the way he smirked after.

“So, your name’s One, huh? Like the number?” You furrowed your eyebrows.

“Yes.”

“But it’s not your actual name.” You shook your head, only confirming his thoughts.

“No. I don’t remember what my actual name was. One was just the name they gave me. We were never...people to them. We were just numbers...experiments.”

“That’s really messed up. I’m sorry.” You shook your head again.

“It-it’s okay.” However, he could still tell from you expression that it wasn’t.

“How about...we give you a new name? A real name?”

For some reason, your heart flutter at his suggestion and a warmth flushed your cheeks.

“Um, I think-I think I’d like that,” you told him and his eyes gleamed.

“Ok, names names. What do you look like?” He brought his hand to his chin and pondered for a bit. “How about… Stacy?” You grimaced without meaning to and he took that as a no. “Alright... Oh! Heather.” You shook your head. “Really?”

“Really,” you responded.

“Ok, ok. How about… Let me think. (Y/N). That’s a nice name.”

(Y/N). It was simple and different all at once, and the way it rolled it off his tongue made you like it even more.

“I think that’s it,” you smirked and he mimicked you right away.

“Well, (Y/N). I’m Steve Harrington.” He stuck his hand out and you took it gently. His hand was a lot bigger than yours in comparison, but a lot softer. It was warm and careful, like he was afraid he would crush your hand if he squeezed a bit too tightly. It was sweet.

“Well, Steve Harrington. I’m…(Y/N).”

“Nice to meet you.” You both giggled softly until you were cut off by Mike yelling ‘We got something!’

“Duty calls,” Steve sighed and you nodded, letting go of his hand reluctantly.

Although the moment was short, you appreciated Steve going out of his way to make you feel better. He comforted you and even made you laugh. It was like for a moment, you weren’t in this situation. For a moment, it felt like it was just the two of you - living and living happily.

_________________________________

While you and Steve were talking, the group in the shed was able to bring Will back. Not fully, but partly. It turned out that the recollection of his memories was helping him gain some control within his body. It wasn’t much, but it was enough. He tapped his fingers until he spelt ‘Here’ and with every memory someone spouted, a new letter came after. Eventually, you all got the answer that you had been hoping for.

“Close the gate,” you all read aloud in unison. Before you could even process that however, the phone started ringing and a nauseating pain was sent to the pit of your stomach.

The feeling only worsened when Nancy yanked the phone out of the wall. You already knew it was too late.

“They know where we are,” you stated and the monsters screeching in the distance only proved that.

“That’s not good,” Hopper muttered. “Come on. We gotta go.” He motioned for everyone to follow him, but there was nowhere to go. It was too dangerous to leave. It was too dangerous to even think about leaving. You could already feel those things nearby.

You shook your furiously, “No, no. Get away from the windows!” Everyone was stunned by the volume of your voice, but seeing as you were the only strong enough to handle these things, no one complained. They easily compiled and started huddling up in the living room, preparing themselves for attack. You subconsciously put your arm in front of Steve and the other out in front of you. The growling steadily grew closer and closer and the closer it got, the more you tensed up. You weren't strong enough yet and you knew it, but that wasn't an excuse. You still had to protect them. You would protect them.

So you waited, waited for something to come crashing through the door... But it never came. Instead, the growling was replaced by thrashing and you instantly knew who it was.

Something came crashing through the window and everyone pointed their weapons at it. You glanced over and it was one of the monsters, freshly dead. Everyone else was alarmed but you.

“It's okay,” you whispered, but they were more confused than reassured. The lock to the door slowly started to turn and everyone aimed their weapons at it.

With a small click, the door unlocked and creaked open. Once they set foot into the house, you smiled softly.

“Eleven.”

206 notes · View notes

thelocalshooter · 5 years

Text

The Local Shooter Vs. Kira

(LS) Goodmorning thank you being part of this great come up, and welcome, so Kira; do you mind telling us where you’re from and why it is that you do?

(K) Originally I’m from Mesa but I been all around, I initially got into making music by making beats. This was when I was living In Alexandria Virginia, I had a homie who had the same interests in music as me and we would try to create our own version of shit we were listening to. The homie actually put me on to a lot of legends in this scene We were barley walking into. Those artists consist of Lil Ugly Mane, Supasortahuman, and SpaceGhostPurrp, just to name a few. These influences really shaped the type of sounds I was using in my beats. I eventually started releasing my beats as $limKira just before I turned 18. I would promote myself on twitter a lot by posting little snippets of beats I was working on at that time. People would fuck with it and I was really social on my Twitter at that time always working making new connections, always sending out beats that type of shit, I happened to find myself in a group chat full of artists that were from a lot of different parts of the country and I just kept building from there. Eventually I turned 18 and made my way back home to Az were all this music shit for me really started and where I Progressed into becoming an artist of my own. FuccKira.

(LS) Being from Arizona how do you feel the music scene has changed in the last couple years? I know we’ve had prior interaction through Ace McCain but doing it back then I’m sure was a bit more different and definitely harder based off the fact people didn’t really have venue selections, or even ways to get music recorded, but now everyone is throwing shoes left and right! Do you think Arizona separates themselves within groups or? As far as being an east valley or west valley artist.

(K) Not too familiar with Ace McCain but I’m really close with Multiplexes out there, he pretty much took me under his wing when everything else didn’t pan out as planned, really good and genuine dude he is. But to be honest I feel like I haven’t been in Arizona in so long I can’t give an opinion on the current state of the music scene, I know when I was out there in 2017-2018 the group I was with would get shows at club red or it’d be a warehouse show and shit would be jumpin. Recording wasn’t really a problem for me cause we’d just record at a homies crib or wherever we were staying at, it’s all about the mixing lmao but a lot of bridges since then have been burned so for me now it’s really a matter of staying true and making good music. Don’t get me wrong although the Music scene in Arizona can get hectic, it is definitely full of talent no matter where your from within it or who you fuck with out there, and just for the record I have love for everyone out there It takes a lot to be an artist and to be a successful one at that and so it’s always respect from my side.

(LS) You’ve released many projects and have done a handful of shows, why do you think you’re still missing as an artist? Are you constantly elevating yourself to be greater or are you still trying to figure it out yourself?

(K) Facts, I have released many tracks but they’re not anything I would say I’m proud of and that’s why I’m missing as an artist because I’m still trying to figure out what music I love making. I haven't truly focused on only myself or my own progression with my music and that’s another reason why I feel I’m still missing as an artist, my confidence behind each track needs to be 100% in order for me to drop and feel good about it. That’s why most of my tracks are on private and I’ve only got 3 tracks on my SoundCloud currently . They need to be worth listening. I want people to hear my music and want the next track immediately. Shows are always fun and give people a way of seeing a face behind the music, my experience with shows has taught me it really brings a better connection with your audience/fanbase when your up there performing what they been bumping on their own time, that was a big favorite of mine out there was seeing the energy at each show. I remember waking up the next day after my first show with my whole body sore ready to schedule the next one. As far as the question goes I’m still trynna figure myself out as an artist, but progress is definitely being made. I’m always looking to make a better track than my last, so I would also say it’s a goal of mine to continue to exceed my own Expectations.

(LS) What the next move? You currently dropped “Voodoo” (https://soundcloud.com/fucckira/voodoo-prod-srry ) over 48 hours ago, now do you plan on doing any visuals or are you already back in the booth?

(K) A visual would be cool for the track, I might look into getting one made for it if the track continues to do well. Visuals are 2nd to my priority when it comes to what I’m trynna do right now. Actually releasing quality music is my main focus right now but like I said I’d be down to do a video, I actually know a couple people that can get that done. As far as any new music I do have a song ready to release prod. rose (my lil bro) , it’s wild my lil bro watched me do all this shit as a kid and now he’s making beats for other artists and myself. Deadass makes better beats than I ever did and he makes em off his phone lmaoo fuck a beat pad kids only 15 too. No doubt in my mind he’s gonna be successful. Lil dude is already building connections wit people on his own it’s only a matter of time.

K- Goals for me this year is to really gain and maintain a steady fan base. Thats something I’ve always strived for and wanted, I love when people give me feedback on how the songs make them feel, like I said energy is a big thing for me. I also would like to finally figure myself out as an artist and find my own sound I feel like I’m on my way there. Besides music I fuck with clothes heavy my homie Albert owns a brand out there called Macabre, fuckin ridiculous. I don’t own a single shirt that doesn’t say macabre. Anyway I would be down to do modeling for any upcoming clothing designers or any street wear brands. I’ve done it in the past for Garza out in AZ, (idk if your familiar) but it’s pretty cool would love more opportunities like that from other designers/brands.

(LS) With music being a main focus for you I’m sure it has a heavy impact on your life, when do you first remember falling in love with music? Was it a certain track? A certain time in your life?

K- I remember the first major thing I did for

music was use the money I had saved up for a

car to buy a new computer to make music on

because my laptop had completely died. Had to use my skate board to get everywhere until I turned 18 and got a car lmao. During this time in my life my parents trust in me was at 0 so I pretty much was secluded to my room most of the time making beats and getting high. Music was all I had when I felt I had nothing so I believe buying that computer was a pretty fuckin good decision. Just wish I coulda used Uber back then lmao

(LS) As an artist, do you find it difficult to work with other artist? Especially other local artist? Being that everyone in Arizona has their own sound, do you usually go out of state for collabs or how does that work?

K- working with other artist isn’t hard at all. I’m very straight forward when it comes to the music ima be working on. If I dont fuck with it I’ll tell you and try to find something I can get a hit with us both on. As far as Collabs go I don’t like doing them if I’m being honest. Reason being I just truly believe I’m better off on my own shit UNLESS the energy is right. If we in the Stu and everything is going right and the engineer knows what he’s doing and everythings organic then fuck yeah that’s a collab ima fuck with. Dont get me wrong I still got collabs on the way. matter of fact I have a few with some artist out of El Paso, TX

Chris Apex , Saybien and Jesse Commas just to name a few.

(LS) Are you looking to stay independent? Or to sign a deal one day? What’s your game plan as far as career wise? And why? Which do you think will help you more in the long run?

K- I wouldn’t be opposed to signing a deal one day but the freedom of being an independent artists is something that would be hard to give up. I’m really early in this scene as far as being an artist so for now I’m just focused on releasing quality music and gaining a loyal fan base. I feel if my supporters are behind me with every track I drop it’s bound to bring me more opportunities in the future.

(LS) Making music for over 5 years already, what’s are some tips or struggles you faced as an artist you’d like to let new up and coming artist know? Any motivation you can give knowing how hard the grind is?

K- lmao don’t join any groups. Stick to yourself. Be transparent and be consistent! Don’t be scared to be social either that’s how you build connections. When I first started I would send beats to MY favorite artists for ex. Supasortahuman was one of the first artist to follow me back and support my music by telling me through dm. That was wild to me because like I said previously he was an inspiration for me when I was barley starting making beats. For him to tell me he fucks with my music and he keeps up with me really gave me the motivation to keep making music and sending it out.You never know. Shouts out sortahuman too he still supporting the music I make as an artist.

(LS) Thank you again for being apart of this great come up and is there any last things you’d like to mention to the viewers? And links you wanna add where they can check out your music or even contact you? Much love Kira!

(K) Viewers can keep up with me through my social media’s!

Instagram.com/fucckira

Twitter.com/fucckira

Also my Music Links:

SoundCloud.com/fucckira

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/fucckira/1485190577

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/0brnKNJ2UDC6e4dAOXU6YN?si=mx245oXGTEO6WtaBlRLK3Q

Thank you for the opportunity to let y’all know a little bit about me and what my goals are looking like this year. I appreciate all the love and support. More music coming soon!

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punkscowardschampions · 5 years

Text

Rio & Buster

Rio: Distract me and tell me how it is like you haven't just got back there Buster: Summer ain't arrived here yet in any sense, I feel like I'm in a old school gothic novel, staring at the rain & brooding Rio: Awh, baby Rio: just don't go aimlessly wandering through it and catching your literal death Buster: I'm not an invalid 💪 nor an amateur, babe Buster: Just as well, 'cause I saw your snaps & you're obviously already surrounded by the latter Buster: I can easily make them into invalids for you though Rio: Oh, so that's what you were doing Rio: Mr Darcy approach Rio: be mean to girl at party BUT look great in a wet t-shirt = get laid Rio: fair play, babe Rio: 🙄 honestly do, it's properly dickhead night tonight, worse than usual for no reason 'cept I already didn't wanna come in Buster: You know it Buster: 'Prideful but nobel at heart' is basically a summary of me Buster: Is any night not dickhead night? Genuine question, like Rio: Can't argue Rio: so chivalrous 😍 Rio: You've been a punter in enough to know the answer to that Buster: So only when I'm there? Okay, I guess I'll have to come back Rio: Looks like it Rio: Tough job but someone's gotta Buster: Not afraid of hard work, don't worry Rio: Exactly Rio: you need a challenge Rio: school ain't it Buster: Can't argue Rio: How bad did all your mates miss you then Rio: not bad as me, obviously Buster: None of 'em wear lipstick so how bad they missed me is an easy secret to keep Buster: Unlike you Rio: 😏 Rio: Amateurs Rio: and I'll pay for your dry-cleaning, was worth it Buster: Telling me to get friends who do? Please, you'd be so jealous of any girl who got to spend the day with me Buster: Nah, you spent enough on the hotel & that was even more worth it Rio: 😒 Oh tah Rio: make me sound like that bitch 🐇 Rio: You can have whatever friends you wanna, including boys who might wanna glow up, no judgment 💁 Buster: 😂 Rio: I am jealous of anyone and everyone who gets to see you right now though Buster: Tell me about it, I'm even jealous of your undesirable customers Buster: I really miss you, you know Rio: You can tell me about that Rio: you better Rio: 'cos I miss you stupid amounts Buster: All I've done since I got back here is think about you Buster: I'm already in trouble, but I can't & don't wanna stop Rio: What kind of trouble Buster: I have to write lines & they ain't about how much I wanna be with you so it'll be a struggle Rio: I didn't know they still did shit like that Rio: I won't make you write it out but can think of lots of ways you can show me Buster: My school is stuck in a different century, I've told you before Buster: Yeah? Let me know when you've thought long & hard about it then Rio: Could at least make it fun and cane you though Rio: honestly Buster: Like I've also said, there ain't any young, hot female professors to make that a real shame Rio: I remember Rio: Just trying to get distracted, like I said Buster: I approve of how committed you are Buster: Keep trying Rio: 😞 Don't be mean Rio: I don't wanna go back to the flat after this shit either, I miss the hotel Buster: Not mean, motivational Buster: Come on Buster: You could go back to the hotel Rio: Live there Rio: my life ain't that goals yet that they're giving me permanent residency Buster: Well, I was thinking more like get the same room & stay a few more nights to remember & reminisce Buster: If they've fixed the bed Rio: 😏 Don't worry lads, I'm just here to 'reminisce' Rio: I wonder if I could go that hard alone Buster: You have to go & find out Rio: Well if I have to Rio: that settles it Buster: It's the only experiment that'll hold my attention so unless you want me uneducated Rio: Can't have that Rio: gotta keep everyone on side Rio: your parents and professors included Buster: Exactly Rio: 'cos you know I'm so good at keeping it secret, don't lie Buster: I know how good you are at everything Buster: You're a very talented girl Rio: 🤤 Rio: Please Buster: Please, what? Buster: Use your words, baby Rio: Please can this month be over so you can be here again with no need for excuses Buster: You don't need to wait that long, I'll come at the weekend if that's what you want Rio: I can come to you Buster: Whichever Rio: but you can be here all summer, right? Rio: or we can go somewhere Buster: Of course Buster: Think about somewhere you wanna go Rio: I'll start looking Rio: not getting shit for being on my phone enough, obvs Buster: Me too Rio: I don't care Rio: should consider themselves lucky, if you were here, I wouldn't be at work at all so Buster: They are lucky, there's nothing I wouldn't do to have you here right now instead Rio: I really miss you Buster: I know Buster: & You know I feel the same way too Rio: I know Rio: but always like hearing it Buster: Alright, I really fucking miss you, Rio Rio: Name too Rio: you really wanna make me happy 😊 Buster: Yeah, obviously, 'cause I like saying your name as much as you like hearing it Buster: & Making you happy is all I want Rio: It sounds good in your mouth, baby Buster: It tastes good, just like the rest of you Rio: Ugh Rio: you're so hot Rio: why can no one here get close to your level Rio: if they feel they've gotta try Buster: No one anywhere can get on this level Buster: It's only me & you Rio: Yeah Rio: I know that now Rio: had suspicions but now I'm sure Buster: You better, babe Rio: You know I do Rio: wasn't I vocal enough? Buster: You can always give me more Buster: I believe in you Rio: So encouraging Buster: Yeah Buster: [sends a selfie like oh hey to be even more encouraging] Rio: God Rio: This is gonna be so motivational when I finally get off this shift Buster: When's your next break? Rio: How inspirational are you planning to be? Buster: As inspirational as I always am Rio: Give me 10 then Buster: Okay Rio: Hey good looking Buster: 😏 Buster: You're the one who looks fucking beautiful Rio: I'm knackered Buster: Well, you don't look it Buster: What can I do so you don't feel it Rio: Tell me how you're gonna help me relax Buster: So many kisses, of course, I'm just debating where to start Rio: [selfie pointing to her pouting like here] Buster: Baby Buster: I'm gonna make it better Rio: I believe you Buster: Expect a delivery, you need all your other favourite things when you're done since I can't be there Rio: I just Rio: love you Rio: you know Buster: Where are you gonna be, I'll do it now Rio: The hotel Rio: I do want just one more night Buster: Easy then Buster: Prepare to be spoilt, babe Rio: You're the best Buster: I love you & it's even easier to do Rio: Is it so weird being back Buster: Weird ain't the word Rio: I've been worried about you Rio: Know I don't need to but Buster: You're right, you don't Buster: It's only a month, like Rio: I know Rio: but so many people around you suck Buster: I can be a bigger cunt than any of 'em, there's no contest Rio: No Rio: you're such a sweetie Buster: Shut up & keep my secret Rio: 😏 Rio: fine Rio: I like having it just for me Buster: Good 'cause I'm all yours Buster: & There's nothing you can't have, you know Rio: Really? Buster: Really Buster: Anything you want Rio: I just want you Rio: I should think of more but Buster: What more could you want? Like you said, I'm the best Buster: Come see me Rio: Exactly Rio: When? Buster: Whenever you can Rio: I have Wed-Thurs off this week but I can still come Rio: easy enough to entertain myself during the day, get some work done Buster: Be here then Buster: I'll come home for lunch Rio: Find me some cheap hotels that aren't a million miles from you Buster: You can stay, there's nobody in during the day Rio: Are your parents really not gonna realize Rio: or do I have to be really really quiet Buster: You're gonna have to be a good girl at night Buster: Quiet enough they don't hear us on their floor Rio: 😇 Rio: Always, you know that 😏 Buster: I'll take you out if you need to be loud Rio: See how long you last Buster: Always underestimating me, babe Buster: Worry about yourself Buster: But don't 'cause I can handle keeping you quiet too Rio: Nah, just miss your noises 💔 Rio: but that'll make it up to me Rio: I reckon Buster: [sends her a little recording so she doesn't have to miss his voice saying hot things at least] Rio: 🤤 Rio: your voice Buster: [even hotter things said in an even hotter voice] Rio: Daddy Buster: Call me Rio: [Does, obvs] Buster: Do you have to go back now? Rio: Yeah Rio: only got a couple of hours left Rio: but 😞 Buster: I'll be here with you Rio: How are you nicer to me than any boyfriend I've had tbh Rio: even the not crazy ones Buster: I told you, no half measures Buster: Everything I do is 100% or why would I do it, like Buster: & You're the best thing that's ever happened so obviously you're getting the most Rio: You'd have been such a good boyfriend Rio: no wonder they're raging, like Buster: Am I? Rio: Are you what? Buster: A good boyfriend Rio: Are you my boyfriend Buster: Yeah Rio: Oh Rio: then yes Rio: the best Rio: of course Buster: [a selfie that's trying to be OTT smug but just looks happy cos that's how he really feels] Rio: that's my boyfriend Rio: 😋 Buster: I like the sound of that Buster: I never thought I would, but coming from you, it's just Rio: Yeah? Good Rio: I didn't think I'd ever say it so Rio: headfuck but good Buster: Can I tell people I have a girlfriend then? Rio: If you wanna Rio: will make turning everyone down easier, for sure Buster: Not that that's the reason Buster: But agreed Rio: You're cute bye Buster: I'm in love, I don't wanna have to hide that as well as who with, that's all Rio: You don't have to Rio: Me either Rio: just don't make your fake gf absolutely nothing like me or I'll be fuming 😒 Buster: I mean, you've gotta be American, 'cause that makes the most sense Buster: Unlucky like Rio: Truly the worst Rio: I'll deal but it'll be a struggle, like Buster: Loads of 'em are always going on about their 1/9th Irish heritage & shit though so Rio: How do they even work that out Rio: I don't think they know how percentages work, tbh Buster: After having sat in many a maths lesson there, I can confirm Rio: 😂 Rio: You'll take my 1/4th and be happy with it Buster: What do you want your fake name to be? Paris? Sydney? Odessa? Vienna? Buster: So many possibilities, honestly Buster: 😂 Rio: World's your oyster, duh Rio: gotta be Paris Rio: really changed the sex tape game Buster: Have you been there? Rio: No, haven't actually Buster: I'll take you then Buster: You'll like it Rio: That's a trip sorted then Rio: still have to do a guaranteed sun getaway too, obviously Buster: We need at least a week alone somewhere hot & beachy, if not a fortnight Rio: Definitely Rio: Maybe we should save that for the end Rio: right before you have to go back Buster: Good idea Buster: One of the week's anyway, we can do another somewhere else if you have the days Rio: We're gonna go everywhere together Buster: Definitely Buster: I don't wanna go anywhere without my girlfriend Rio: There you go, making me weak Rio: baby 😍 Buster: Lie yourself on that bar, baby Buster: Take a moment Rio: Don't tempt me Rio: though the tips would be amazing Buster: But tempting you is my fave Buster: & You'd look so perfect up there Rio: But I want you here to see Rio: more than see Buster: You can show me Buster: & If I like what I see, when I'm back, I'll lift up there & show my appreciation in person Buster: you* Rio: Challenge accepted Rio: as I'm closing tonight Buster: Good Rio: if we can call it a challenge Rio: obviously, you'll like it Buster: I didn't reckon challenge was the word Buster: Unless you really are that tired Rio: I'm revived now Rio: not to fuel your god complex more than I already do Buster: It ain't your fault worshipping me feels so good that you wanna do it all the time Rio: Can't disagree Rio: just evangelical like that Buster: Yeah Rio: Hard work being an 😇 but I like it Buster: Not being my angel Buster: I'll make sure that's easy Rio: I don't mind if it's hard Rio: I can handle it Buster: I know you can Rio: You're worth any amount of bullshit, for real Buster: I miss you Rio: I miss you too Rio: sleeping without you is shit Buster: It's worse here than when I was away, there was host families & shit around then Buster: I hate it Rio: Babe Rio: I'm sorry Rio: you know I'll always be here though, even though it's just on the phone Buster: Probably too late for me to move schools & to Dublin too, yeah? Rio: Probably Rio: you didn't put in all that hard work and as many years for nothing Rio: gotta let your school's clout work for you or else what was the point, yeah Buster: Obviously, it's just not how I thought it'd be, coming back Rio: What's different? Buster: Me Buster: Us Buster: But too much of the bullshit is still the same Buster: I've wanted to beat the shit out of half my friends today, just for being who they are & were, like Rio: Makes sense Rio: It happens Rio: some of my friends I've got nothing in common with now Rio: and lots of yours were already immature before you really started to change yourself so Rio: it's awkward when you still have to see them though Rio: be part of it and not feel it Buster: I don't know what the fuck to do & uncertainty ain't me Rio: Well Rio: what are your viable options Rio: you can pie 'em all but then, like it or not, you'll be more lonely unless there's other people you wanna be friends with but assumedly you would be already Rio: or you can deal for the sake of company but have to deal with their bullshit without smacking 'em one Buster: I'll just shut myself away studying when you aren't here then 🤓 Done Rio: 😏 Rio: Do you just play football for your school Rio: you should join a team if not, outside of it, they can't all be nightmares too Rio: you'll be fine, fuck them, like Buster: I have a team & all the boxing lads too Buster: Obviously, I'm a delight 👑 everyone loves me Buster: I'm gonna join a new gym for my general workouts though, further from school 'cause your point is valid Rio: As long as it's not as much as me, I'm happy about that Rio: good idea Rio: just do what you gotta to make day to day school bareable Rio: you'll be gone sooner than you know it so Buster: Rio Rio: yeah Buster: Cheers Buster: Shit was feeling like a lot there for a second Rio: 'Course Rio: I'm gonna try and be a good girlfriend too, like Buster: You are Buster: I mean it, I feel well better 'cause of you Buster: Having you here with me, on my side Rio: Get used to it Rio: 'cos that's how you've got it now Buster: I'm doing my best to Buster: At least it's a positive headfuck Rio: As long as it is Rio: I only wanna be good for you Rio: in all the ways I could mean that Buster: It is & you are Buster: I love you so much Rio: I love you the most Buster: There you go again with your underestimation of me, babe Rio: If you wanna make it a competition, babe Rio: don't see how I can lose Buster: You will but it'll feel like a win anyway Rio: Exactly Rio: I want you to love me best Rio: 👑 Buster: Don't I? Buster: You want better, yeah? Okay Buster: Noted Rio: You know you do Rio: I want it forever Buster: I'm yours forever Rio: You'll be hot when you're old Buster: Unless my kids age me horribly Buster: But then I'll go under the knife, like Rio: Would you Buster: With the size of my ego, obviously Rio: Don't get all plastic and non-moving Rio: that ruins the whole point Buster: I know you wanna see all my facial expressions, don't worry Rio: 😏 Buster: [selfie that's basically that emoji but sexier] Rio: rude Rio: indecent Rio: trying to concentrate Buster: Not yet Buster: [sends a pic that's actually rude & indecent] Rio: Well now you're just being Rio: ugh Rio: I can make everyone leave early right Rio: that'd go down well Buster: It's what they deserve for being cunts Buster: Concentrate on me Rio: I can't not Rio: tried that Rio: didn't work, not worth it Buster: I can't focus on anything but you either Rio: I really will have to start helping you study Buster: Please Rio: 🤤 I mean Rio: I was going to but since you were polite Buster: What can I say? You've taught me that much already Rio: You're a good pupil Buster: I'm a quick learner, yeah, but I'm an even better teacher Rio: Are you now Buster: Deny it Buster: You've never regretting following a single instruction from me, have you? Rio: No but Rio: if I started thinking about this fantasy I ain't gonna wait 'til they're gone Buster: Don't wait Rio: Is that an instruction or an idea Buster: I'm telling you, not asking you Rio: Yes sir Buster: Don't just say what I wanna hear Buster: Do it for me Rio: Everyone's looking at me Rio: but I am Buster: Everyone's always looking at you Rio: I can't handle it right now Rio: trying to focus Buster: So focus Rio: Okay Buster: Priorities, babe Buster: [sends her something motivational, wink wonk] Rio: I did promise I'd do better Rio: I meant it Rio: You deserve it, look at you Buster: You deserve it more, I don't even have to look at you to know or mean it Rio: [Sends 😳 pic anyway] Rio: I want you to look at me Buster: I can't look away now Buster: Fuck Rio: you are meant to be teaching me here Rio: lead by example Rio: show me how it's done Buster: [obviously shows her a lot of things but I'm loling imagining like an 80s instructional video] Rio: Good thing it is so loud in here Rio: oh my god Buster: & Warm 'cause you're gonna work up a sweat following my lead Rio: I'm already so red Rio: but I can get hotter Buster: Red suits you Rio: Yeah? Buster: Of course, that lipstick didn't just look good on my collar, like Rio: 🤤 Rio: If you like it that much I better show you what I'm wearing under what I'm wearing Rio: ['cos of course a bitch would wear red under white lmao] Buster: 😍 Buster: See, I'm always right Buster: You look so fucking good Rio: I feel it Rio: you're so right Buster: I can tell Buster: You're really making me feel better too Rio: Good Rio: Don't forget who you are Buster: How could I? I'm yours Rio: You're mine Rio: and I only deserve the best of everything Rio: that's you Buster: We've both got the best of everything, that's this Buster: I'm never gonna forget that Rio: Promise Buster: I promise you, Rio Rio: Not just for me, you know Rio: I never won't care about you Buster: Good, 'cause you're the only person I've cared about for such a long time Buster: I'll love you forever Rio: I'll love you forever too Rio: no matter what Buster: You can, you're safe with me, no matter what Rio: I trust you Buster: Even if you're the only person who ever says that to me, I don't care Rio: I won't be Buster: It's you I wanna hear it from anyway Rio: Easy Rio: it's true Rio: no matter how much I like making you happy, I'm never saying anything I don't mean Buster: Me either Rio: That's why I trust you Rio: you've definitely said some bullshit in the past but on the whole Rio: you don't lie like most people do Rio: without even knowing they are Buster: It's a self-preservation thing for me, but I'm developing better habits for coping now, like Buster: Loving you being the main one Rio: Beats heroin Buster: Good to know, babe Buster: Haven't tried it myself Rio: Shut up Rio: Idiot Buster: 😂 Rio: You think I'm so scummy 😒 Buster: No, I don't Buster: I think you're a goddess, you know that Rio: [sends dramatic pouty selfie] Buster: Baby Buster: How else can I treat you like one? The hotel's been sent so many treats for you Buster: Do you want more? Rio: You don't need to do that Rio: I'm only playing Buster: It's done Buster: [let's say he's also just sent flowers to arrive at the pub before she finishes cos extra like that] Rio: Buster Buster: Rio Rio: You can't keep spoiling me like this Buster: Yes I can Buster: It's literally the least I can do Rio: You are so lovely Rio: too good Buster: You mean good enough for you Buster: That's what I am Rio: No, too good Rio: but I'll keep you anyway Buster: You're too good & I'm keeping you Rio: I need to up my game Rio: motivational always, babe Buster: Me too Buster: So much work to do Rio: Teamwork 💪 Buster: Cheers for the reminder I need to hit the gym as well Rio: Don't worry, all that we do 100% counts as a full body workout Buster: Only if you wanna go again for a few more hours Rio: Who do you think you're talking to rn Buster: An angel, obviously Buster: A good girl like you can't take the risk of getting fired Rio: They'd never fire me Rio: the only reason to drink here, like Buster: Oh so you wanna test the limits? Okay I'm good at that Rio: You know I like breaking boundaries Rio: that along with how much I always want you isn't exactly news Buster: Just 'cause I know it don't mean I don't wanna hear you say it again Rio: I wish you were here Rio: not just so I could tell you all the things I wanna Rio: but it's so rude I never got to close up whilst you were here Buster: Make sure you do in summer then Buster: Or give me a weekend sooner Rio: 'Course Rio: I'll get to more now Rio: Shona and Mark always wanted to do it 'cos they were having a really blatant affair but that's on the rocks so Buster: Their loss is our gain Rio: Soz babes Rio: they're both married so console yourselves with your neglected partners, like Buster: Or cheat outside the workplace Buster: Either/or Rio: Don't reckon we can judge anyone for doing things they shouldn't, babe 😏 Buster: Everything I'm doing I definitely should Rio: Hey, I think so too Buster: Though, it could be argued that my strong desire to say fuck it & catch a flight to be with you goes against that Buster: By several people if not me Rio: I've said it hundreds of times Rio: no need for school to be in person Rio: but you know Rio: 'til then, baby Buster: My school needs to stop being so old fashioned & let us study online Rio: We've all been socialized enough by our age, lbr Rio: ugh, real life Rio: what a drag Buster: Even my parents would struggle to deny how much socialisation I've had Buster: They've seen the aftermath of every house party, like Rio: 🙄😏 Exactly Buster: Your visit will keep me going though Rio: 'Course Rio: that's the plan, like Buster: Do you wanna stay in, go out or both? Rio: Hmm Rio: Should probably go out Rio: so we don't become hermits, for one Rio: and so I have things to post for all these weekends away Rio: besides pictures of you that are trying to look like not pictures of you Buster: Well, as long as we leave this postcode we ain't gonna run into the cunts I know Buster: The rest of London is all ours, babe Rio: Easy Rio: World definitely does not start and end in SW, like Rio: don't tell 'em or nothing Buster: I'll take you shopping, buy you more red Rio: 💖 Rio: We are gonna need city break AND beach resort wear so Rio: a must, really Buster: Exactly Buster: We're not gonna wear the shit we did last summer, fuck that Rio: Not even for the mems Buster: Okay, I admit I might keep some from this one Buster: 'Cause the memories will just be Rio: 😍 Rio: So adorable Buster: I'll probably give most of it to you for when you miss me though Rio: Why are you trying to kill me Rio: It'll be the best summer in Rio: forever Rio: I swear Buster: I haven't looked forward to going back there this much since we were kids, you know Buster: Unsurprising that again it's your fault, like Rio: I'll take the credit, happily Rio: even though I will have to share you some of the time so it's not suspect Buster: Yeah, I'll show up for granddad as per Buster: Be less of a drunken mess this time though maybe Rio: You what Buster: So you want me to get wasted then? Rio: Oh, I thought you was calling ME a drunken mess Rio: like rude and untrue 😂 Buster: I know my memories of fam functions ain't that reliable but I can safely say I reckon calling you out for that would make me a next level hypocrite even if you were Rio: You can try it like but I could be that bitch and scroll 'til I find evidence Buster: You're alright Rio: 😂 Rio: You don't wanna relive those memories, then? Rio: fair Buster: Are you telling me you do? Rio: Probably not Rio: I try not to think about before Christmas Buster: You don't have to, we're gonna make so many more good memories for you to think about instead of that bullshit Rio: It wasn't all bad Rio: idk Rio: a lot was but Buster: Regardless, I'm gonna do better Rio: Me too Rio: no more wasted time Buster: I love you Rio: I love you Rio: are you gonna invite me to your birthday this year or what Buster: Before I decide, are you gonna jump out of a cake for me or not? Rio: I know how you feel about being upstaged, babe Buster: You know you're the exception Rio: Then sure Rio: I'll stick to the strict non-costume dresscode this time Buster: Like I said, those rules don't apply to you, if you wanna wear a costume, I won't be mad Rio: 😏 Rio: Keep it as a maybe Buster: Alright Rio: is Halloween after-all Rio: how gutting, you have to share with your sister AND a holiday, like Buster: Don't Rio: Poor boy Rio: I'll make you feel special this year, don't worry Buster: Yeah, you will Rio: What did you do for your 16th anyway? Buster: I know you saw all my holiday pics, don't act like you didn't Rio: 🙄 Of course Rio: That one kept showing me how lavish he was living, even if I was trying to ignore you at the time Buster: You didn't post as much as I expected on yours though Rio: Meh Rio: Standard party Rio: can't drink, can't drive Rio: weird birthday to rate in this country, like Buster: Fuck that we're having another sweet 16 for you this summer then Buster: Me & you Rio: 😂 it's alright, you can say you don't fancy our chances of making it to december, like Buster: I'm serious Buster: Pick a day & that'll be your birthday re-do Rio: It wasn't THAT bad, babe Buster: You're really turning down a day of me doing whatever you say or giving you whatever you want? Buster: Who am I talking to right now, like Rio: I thought I got that all summer 😉 Buster: I like telling you what to do too much Rio: Lucky for you I like that too Buster: Lucky ain't the word Rio: I miss you Rio: you can still tell me what to do from far away but sometimes I just need you to make me, you know Rio: I can only be so good when you ain't here Buster: I miss you too, baby Buster: I'll see you really soon though, yeah? Buster: Book your flights Rio: Yeah Rio: I will Rio: everyone has finally pissed off, pretty much Buster: Good 'cause I was about to get on a plane & kick 'em out for you Rio: ♘ Rio: our security is laughable, like Rio: bless 'em Buster: Don't tell me that Buster: Now I really am gonna have to get you a new job Rio: You're so cute Rio: I'm just saying, I do a beter job of getting them to shift than Mike, who's probably starting a game of pool or something Buster: I'll have a word with him next time I'm there then Rio: He's pushing 60 Rio: you big bully 😂 Buster: An actual word not a word 🥊 Buster: Behave Rio: 😘 Rio: Not my fault you look hot in the ring Buster: I look hot whatever I'm doing & wherever I am, like Buster: I've got a fight coming up actually though, 'cause there weren't no time to do more than practice in the US, you can come if you want Buster: [sends her the deets] Rio: If you say so, baby Rio: Sure, I can bring Janis Buster: You should be saying so, babe Buster: Yeah, she'll be into seeing me win Rio: Come on Rio: have to tease you sometimes Rio: just keeping you on your toes, it's practice Rio: you're welcome 😉 Buster: I'll forgive you only 'cause of that seamless 🥊 tie in Buster: Not 'cause I like being teased, obviously Rio: 'Course not Rio: I'll never tell Buster: It gets hotter every time you say that Rio: You like secrets too Buster: I like our secrets Rio: They're the best kind, obviously Buster: 'Course Rio: What other secrets you got then 👀 Buster: You know I ain't ever been able to keep any from you Rio: 😏 Good answer Rio: you sure you've not had a girlfriend before, like Buster: Shut up, it's true Buster: Whether I've always liked or not Buster: You pay too much attention Buster: Such a mum, like Rio: How rude Rio: calling me nosy Rio: you just weren't that good at keeping secrets Rio: you've got better, all this practice Buster: 'Cause I wanted people to notice, obviously Rio: Yeah Rio: I know Buster: I can keep secrets when I want to, don't worry Rio: I know that too, baby Buster: Why do you think I keep telling you how smart you are? Rio: You love complimenting me Buster: Yeah, but not lying to you Buster: They have to be true Rio: You're just nice Rio: you think they're all true Buster: They are all true Rio: I'm not gonna fight it Buster: Good, don't Rio: I'm not stupid Rio: you can think whatever good thing you wanna Buster: Yeah, I can Buster: Clearly, 'cause I do Rio: Shh Buster: I'd like to see you try & make me Rio: That is a challenge Rio: if you wanted me to get you to make some noise Rio: no problem Rio: Hmm Buster: 😏 Buster: Well, if you can't do it, you can't do it Rio: Did I say that, boy Buster: It was heavily implied, but alright Rio: 😒 Buster: Calm down & rise to the challenge Rio: I am Rio: be patient Buster: Fine, I'll do my best Rio: You'll have to Rio: I'm busy Buster: Like I said, fine Rio: [video from on that bar like hey] Rio: don't you dare be anything other than speechless Buster: [reaction vid because they just that extra] Rio: I'm saving that for the hotel Rio: finally leaving Buster: It's only fair 'cause I'm saving yours forever Rio: Glad to know you aren't deleting everything now Buster: I never did Buster: I've still got it all Rio: Cheek Rio: you made me Buster: Did you actually? Buster: Come on Rio: What if I did Rio: you owe me Buster: If you did that's a rookie mistake Rio: Don't be rude Rio: meanie Buster: Don't be an amateur, you're better than that Rio: You're the one that freaked, boy Rio: I didn't delete it anyway 😏 Buster: Fuck off Buster: I did not Rio: You so did Rio: know it was a while ago but please Buster: You so did Rio: I don't recall bribing my sister Buster: Well, you should recall that it worked, first of all & second of all, that's not losing my shit that's handling it Buster: You were the one who looked like you were gonna puke or cry, babe, that's what I recall Rio: 🙄 Rio: You definitely weren't looking at me Rio: drama queen Buster: I shouldn't have been which you should know means I definitely was Rio: Mhmm Buster: & Don't call me a drama queen Rio: 😂 Rio: That's what you're taking issue with Buster: Yeah Buster: I already knew you weren't as good under pressure as me, like Rio: Fuck off Buster: Calm down, nobody is Rio: You're ridiculous Buster: Shut up Rio: You Buster: I'm not the one taking the piss, that's you Rio: Poor baby Buster: Stop Rio: I'm only joking Buster: 'Course Rio: Don't be moody Buster: I ain't Buster: I just don't need the reminders of how close we came to fucking everything up Rio: but we didn't Buster: Still Buster: We're gonna have an entire summer that literally starts with a fam function Rio: You worried? Buster: Obviously not, we can handle it, but Rio: It'll be easier, if anything Rio: if you think about it Rio: less tension Buster: That's true, finally getting to fuck you did clear the air, a little Rio: Lovely 😏 Rio: People were only looking 'cos we was making a holy show Rio: I still maintain she didn't see anything anyway Rio: it'll be good, promise Buster: I still maintain it's not my fault you're the most distracting person to ever exist Rio: Who's gonna blame you Rio: true Buster: Whoever wants to can try but I don't care Buster: Being your boyfriend feels right & is probably the best thing I've done Rio: Yet Buster: Yeah, so far Buster: We're gonna do epic shit together, remember Rio: Yeah Rio: and just in general Buster: That goes without saying, we are who we are, like Rio: Not staying in that pub forever Rio: not the plan Buster: You ain't staying in that pub a second longer than you need to Rio: I don't hate it Rio: just gets boring Buster: You don't have to hate something to want better than it Rio: Yeah Rio: it's just about getting out there Rio: getting known Buster: You know what you're doing Rio: Cheers Rio: you're probably the only one that reckons so but me Buster: I'm the only one who really knows you other than yourself, so it stands to reason Rio: Do you think that's fucked or normal Buster: It's normal for this family & that's the one we've grown up in Rio: Yeah Rio: it's just weird to think about Buster: You don't have to think about it Rio: It's not a choice, like Buster: Yeah, it is Buster: Change it or move on from it Rio: Again Rio: how is that up to me Rio: I'm not being fake Rio: I can't force people to look deeper if they don't want to Buster: It's up to you to accept it or not Buster: Most people you'd have to open up to in order to change things aren't people you'd have to force to listen Rio: It's not that deep Rio: people don't need to know people like that Buster: You're the one telling it's weird Buster: I didn't say it Buster: I'm alright with my own circumstances, cheers Rio: Weird doesn't equal bad Rio: it is weird Rio: I've got loads of friends Rio: almost as much family Buster: Weird has more negative connotations than it does positive but whatever Rio: Not in my fam Buster: 😂 Rio: I'm being disappointingly normal Rio: far as they're aware, anyway Buster: Plenty of time for you to change that Buster: You ain't even 16 until we have your birthday again Buster: Whenever that re-do is gonna be Rio: Really repping 'barely' legal Rio: probably boost the views, tah Buster: You're welcome Rio: 😬🤢 Buster: You know you couldn't be normal on any day though, yeah? Buster: Not on my level Rio: I can tell that was meant a compliment so Rio: thanks Buster: It is, you're literally extraordinary Rio: Shut up Rio: you're such a nerd Buster: I'm keeping up with you, I keep telling you Rio: I love you Buster: You'll love me more when you get to the hotel & see everything that's waiting there for you Buster: Miss me less too Rio: 😍 Rio: I'd run rest of the way if I had more sensible shoes on Buster: I'd carry you if I could, but alas Rio: When wouldn't you Buster: You love it almost as much as you love me so shh Rio: 👑 Buster: You're so cute Rio: Yours Rio: you gotta look after me Buster: When don't I? Rio: Don't forget, that's all Buster: I won't Rio: Good Rio: I wish you were holding me right now Buster: Me too, baby Rio: I feel lonely too Buster: Don't Buster: I'm always here even when I'm not there Rio: I'm just letting you know Rio: I feel it too Buster: I knew that Buster: It ain't opposites that actually attract, is it Buster: I told you before that we're the same Buster: & We are, about shit that matters Rio: Think what you wanna of my previous choices Rio: and it'd probably be fair Rio: but never been following that cosmo level of advice, like Buster: I don't reckon I'm the right person to judge any of your choices Rio: Where's that realization come from? Buster: I've never let it stop me before 'cause I didn't want it to stop me before Buster: Don't mean I wasn't aware of the fact it wasn't my place Rio: Fair enough Rio: it's not like I didn't know Rio: or others weren't Buster: Yeah well Buster: There's only one me & I'm responsible for myself so Rio: I don't care, don't worry Buster: I care Buster: About you Buster: & Doing better Rio: Okay Rio: then it's okay Buster: Good Rio: All that's in the past Rio: I don't think about it anymore Buster: Yeah Buster: I only think about the future too Rio: We can try anyway, yeah Buster: Of course Rio: Let's stop talking about it Rio: we're not meant to lie Buster: I haven't lied Rio: Alright Buster: Do you wanna try again? I reckon you could easily sound more like you don't believe me Rio: It's got fuck all to do with believing you Buster: What then? Rio: I said, I don't wanna talk about it Rio: think about it Buster: Fine Rio: No it isn't Rio: you don't get what I mean Buster: Well, either explain it to me or don't Rio: If you're gonna be like this about it then forget it Buster: Jesus Christ Buster: I'm not being like anything Buster: I'm just saying, if you want me to understand something, tell me about it Rio: I don't want to start shit for no reason Rio: but yeah now I am thinking about it Rio: and you've said a lot worse to me than about having shit boyfriends Buster: What's your point? Buster: I was there, I know I have Rio: My point? Rio: Maybe it ain't alright Rio: I don't know Buster: It obviously isn't Buster: I've never said it was Rio: I did Buster: Don't Buster: I'm not asking you to Rio: It isn't just that Rio: saying it Rio: it's everything Rio: everything I do Buster: Do things differently then Buster: You're not my doormat, you're not anyone's Rio: You're still telling me what to do Rio: that's fucked Rio: I'm fucked Rio: I've got to go Buster: Okay Rio: Don't Buster: What? Buster: If I tell you to stay that's telling you what to do too Rio: Don't say it's okay when it clearly isn't Buster: If you need to go, you need to go Buster: I'm not gonna say fuck you, am I? Rio: This is pointless Buster: What do you want? Rio: Maybe actually kill him Rio: that might work Buster: Alright Rio: Right Rio: I'm going home Buster: That's not gonna help Buster: You know that Rio: I don't want to be alone Buster: You're not Rio: I've got to be the one to say it, yeah? Buster: Apparently so Rio: Fine Rio: it's not always the same Rio: I need someone here Buster: I'll get on a plane right now Buster: Just wait Rio: You can't Buster: I can Buster: & I will Rio: No Rio: There's no need Rio: I just need to be around other people then I'll be fine Buster: You won't be fine, that's bullshit Rio: But I will be if you come, will I? Buster: Don't be stupid Buster: Obviously not Rio: That's me Rio: stupid doormat Buster: Fuck's sake Buster: That's not you, stop this Rio: You said it, not me Buster: I said the opposite actually Rio: No, you said that I needed to change Buster: No, I said you don't need excuse how much of a cunt I was Buster: & Yeah, you can always change if you want, which you said you did Rio: Well you implied plenty by telling me I WEREN'T your doormat Buster: I told you, you aren't anyone's so you don't have to act like you are & tell me what I wanna hear Rio: Are you seriously talking about that right now Rio: that has nothing to do with it Buster: It has to do with why I said it Buster: So don't put words in my mouth Rio: I wasn't acting like anything, that's bullshit Buster: Oh my fucking god Buster: You know exactly what I mean Buster: Pick your battles, like Rio: Shut up Buster: Don't Rio: Whatever Buster: I'm not gonna let you provoke me into having a fight with you Buster: Just go home Rio: I'm on my way Rio: this conversation can be over Buster: Consider it over then Rio: Yeah 'cos I'm the one that needs to Buster: With that attitude, yeah, you do Rio: I've got more to worry about right now than my attitude Rio: sorry Buster: All the more reason to go & focus on that Buster: So goodnight, like Rio: I'm in a cab Rio: too far to walk Rio: but okay Rio: night Buster: I never assumed you were walking in those shoes, babe Buster: But cheers for the clarification on that much Rio: Should've tried for a lift but you know Buster: Too late now Rio: Figured if he's not in and I have to text him, he'll already think I wanna fuck him Rio: can't risk it Buster: What are you talking about? Rio: Drew Rio: he's the only other person who knows enough about this to talk to Buster: So you're going home to talk to him Rio: What did you think I meant Buster: You said you wanted to be around people, not have a heart to heart with the local drug dealer Rio: if I just wanted oblivious people near me I'd go home home Buster: That could've been what you meant as far as I've been made aware Rio: You said the conversation was over Buster: It hadn't been a conversation before then Rio: It's hard to talk about this stuff Buster: So you'd rather talk to Drew about it? That makes sense Rio: Yeah, it does Rio: I've told you, it's embarrassing it's Rio: too much Rio: with you Buster: You also said you trust me Buster: But whatever Rio: It isn't about trust Buster: If you can't talk to me about anything, whatever it is, then yeah, this conversation is over Rio: Fine Buster: Of course it is, you'd rather talk to him anyway Rio: Yeah, was waiting for that Buster: Well, I aim to please Buster: You're not gonna be disappointed Rio: Cute Buster: Yeah, I know Rio: Don't worry about it Buster: Why would I? Buster: I'm only in love with you, like Rio: I am sorry about that Rio: really Buster: Don't fucking say that to me Rio: What do you want me to say, Buster Rio: I am Buster: You're the best thing that's ever happened to me, you know that Buster: Why would I ever wanna hear that? Buster: You're not a mistake I've made, none of this is anything to apologise for Buster: Fucking hell Rio: You might not want to hear it but I want to say it because Rio: it breaks my heart that that's true Buster: I don't wanna hear it 'cause it's bullshit Rio: Not to me Buster: Yeah to you, 'cause this isn't what you really think, it's what that cunt thinks & has tried to make you think Rio: I'm a mess Rio: why would I wish that on you Buster: You're got no more shit than anyone else has Buster: Why would you want me to be alone? Rio: I don't want you to be alone Buster: Well, I don't wanna be with anyone but you so if you're gonna push me away, you clearly do Rio: No I don't Rio: it's just not that easy Buster: I want you, forever, no matter what, it's that simple as far as I'm concerned Buster: There's nothing you can say that'll change my mind Buster: & There's even less that cunt could say Rio: I'm sorry Rio: everything is shit Buster: No it's not, he is Buster: But I'm gonna kill him Rio: He always knows what to say Buster: It's not gonna happen anymore Rio: It's like Rio: the way he says things Rio: like he knows me better than anyone Rio: even me Buster: He doesn't know you, Rio Buster: He's just knows what works Buster: On literally one part of you Rio: It shouldn't work Rio: I should be stronger Buster: It ain't about strength Buster: We've all got shit can be exploited Rio: I swear Rio: I ignore him so much Rio: whatever he's saying or doing Buster: I know Buster: That's strength, babe Rio: Just sometimes, when I already don't feel all that great Rio: it's easier to listen Rio: or harder to ignore, idk Buster: If anyone understands how easy it is to give into negative impulses or self destructive bullshit, it's me, yeah Buster: You can always talk to me Rio: It's like Rio: I just want to be better Rio: you've seen too many of my worsts Buster: Don't do it for me, I already think you're the fucking best Buster: Nobody has ever made me feel like you make me feel Buster: They've never even tried Rio: I want it for myself too, obviously Rio: I wanna be the person you see Buster: Then obviously I'll do whatever I can to help you Buster: I know I'm too blunt & I make everything black & white & I'll never understand what you saw in him or half the shit that's happened 'cause of but I'll do anything for you Rio: Attention Rio: that's what I saw in him Rio: he was always at the same parties, he was nice to me, you know Buster: Well, alright I'll correct myself then, 'cause I do understand that Rio: It wasn't supposed to be deeper than that Buster: Him wanting it to be more than that is the only thing I can't blame him for Buster: 'Cause you're perfect Rio: Buster Buster: Rio Rio: I still don't know why you like me Rio: but I'm glad you do Buster: I love you & I'm going to forever Rio: you can't help that Rio: but you could choose not to like me Buster: That'd be a bad choice & I'm not making 'em anymore Buster: & You do know all the reasons why Buster: I'm not gonna let you forget just 'cause that's what he wants Buster: Who the fuck is he? We get what we want Rio: Yeah Rio: ugh Rio: no chance we can forget this ever happened, I suppose? Buster: Nah, but I won't hold it against you that it did Rio: Alright Rio: that's fair Buster: & It won't happen again after I kill him so Rio: I wanna think about you now Rio: not him Buster: Okay Buster: Are you back yet? Rio: Yeah Buster: Is that where you wanna be still? Buster: I can get you another cab if not Rio: I'll stay here Rio: I'd still rather have people nearby Rio: but I don't wanna talk to him now Buster: Is Indie home? Rio: Yeah Rio: school night Rio: must be planning on going Buster: Helping her with her homework won't be as fun but she'll cheer you up Rio: Yeah, normalcy is welcome Rio: if not the absolute ideal, obviously Buster: I'll allow it Buster: That kind of understanding god, like Rio: Why I love you Buster: Yeah Rio: You know I love you Rio: don't ever doubt it Buster: Don't you ever doubt it Buster: That I love you & you're worthy of me Rio: I know Buster: There's a reason you're the only girlfriend I've ever had & it's not that I just really wanted to keep it in the fam Rio: 😂 Rio: Don't make me laugh Buster: Your laugh is cute & you can't stop me Rio: You're cute Rio: I missed you Buster: I miss you Buster: Just come & move in for this month, yeah? Rio: Yeah Rio: sure Rio: we'd get away with it, easy Buster: We could Buster: Say yes for real & I'll make the rest happen Rio: Baby Rio: you know I wanna too Buster: Then why not? Your job is boring, he's there & it's nearly summer so Indie's as focused on that as we are Rio: There must be reasons Rio: though when you put it like that Buster: There are loads of reasons why you should Buster: I'll look after you & neither of us have to feel lonely Rio: Say I did say yes Rio: why do I need to be in London for a month Rio: and will your parents let me stay Buster: Tell everyone your boyfriend's here Buster: I'm letting you stay, I'm here more than they both are Buster: But I'll get you a hotel if you don't want the questions, like Rio: Not for a whole month you won't Rio: but it's feasible Rio: hmm Buster: Say yes then Rio: I would have to sort stuff first Rio: giving in my notice, for one Buster: Of course Rio: and tell Indie Rio: and all the others Buster: Yeah but then you'll come be with me Rio: Providing that all goes okay Rio: then yeah Buster: Alright Rio: is this stupid Buster: Stupid ain't the word Rio: It feels like this can't happen Buster: No risk no reward Buster: Trust me babe Buster: If you want it, you can have it Rio: 'Course I want it Rio: I always wanna be with you Buster: Then we'll sort it Buster: Easy Rio: We've still got to be good though Rio: you go to school, I'll work Buster: 😇 Rio: 😏 Rio: Convincing Buster: I'll be so good, I swear Rio: Yeah? Buster: Hold me to it, baby Buster: I'll make you feel so good too Rio: I need you Buster: You can have me every day Rio: All to myself Buster: Just me & you Buster: All night as well Buster: As soon as you're ready Rio: I'm gonna sort it Rio: fast as I can Buster: I know Buster: I just need you too Rio: You do Rio: you don't just want me to come 'cos of all this Ryan shit, do you Buster: Obviously I want to get you away from him, but I'd still need you here if he didn't exist Buster: That's about us, not him Buster: I love you & I want you Buster: Even more than I wanna kill him Rio: Okay Rio: I just had to ask Rio: I wouldn't want to come if it was just that Buster: It's never gonna be just that Rio: I know Buster: It is gonna be okay Buster: I promise Rio: Yeah Rio: he's just annoying Rio: that's all Buster: Annoying ain't the word Buster: But we don't need to talk about him anymore if you don't want Rio: I'm so excited Buster: Yeah? Rio: Obviously Rio: how could I not be when you've already promised to be so good to me Buster: I'll keep every promise Buster: But actions do speak louder so, just wait until you're here Buster: If you reckon you're excited now, like Rio: 🤤 Rio: You're hot Buster: You're hotter Rio: Gonna be Rio: you won't ever want me to leave, like Buster: I already don't Rio: Then I'll just have to stay Buster: Please Rio: Please what, babe? Buster: Stay forever Rio: Alright Rio: I will Rio: gonna need a bigger bag Buster: That's a given for summer anyway Buster: Do you have one? Rio: Yeah, at my parents Rio: I'll get it and tell them tomorrow probably Buster: Get some coke to help you pack, it really worked for me Rio: 😂 Rio: Not the worst idea you've ever had Buster: How many times do we have to go over the fact I have no bad ideas Rio: Keep proving me wrong, babe Rio: welcome it always Buster: Keep making it sound so hot & I won't be able to help myself Rio: Please Buster: Since you asked so nicely Buster: I'll lose control for you, babe Rio: Good Rio: it's all I really want Rio: today, anyway 😏 Buster: Tell me what you want tomorrow too & I'll get a headstart, like Rio: 😂 Rio: Be more you Rio: not necessarily tomorrow's request but wouldn't be mad Buster: I'm not mad that there's no challenge there Buster: Keep that secret for me though, yeah? Rio: Of course Rio: not everything has to be one to be fun, yeah Rio: I coulda told you that ages ago Buster: I don't reckon I would've listened ages ago Rio: Probably not Rio: all talk, you were Buster: Shut up Rio: 😘 Rio: Bless Buster: Behave Rio: I don't wanna Rio: I miss you Buster: I'll call you if you're good Rio: How good have I gotta be Rio: and for how long Buster: Depends how long you want me to talk to you for Rio: 'Til I fall asleep, obviously Rio: who am I Buster: Well, how tired are you right now, then? Rio: Not very Rio: why, are you? Buster: No Rio: is that a no no or a not going to admit it no Buster: It's a 'how could I be tired when I miss you this hard' no Rio: Good Rio: only ever trying to exhaust you in fun ways not actual Buster: Don't be doubting my stamina Rio: You could still be jetlagged Rio: my poor baby Buster: I'm as fine as I can be without you here Rio: So soon Buster: I'm gonna make you so happy every day that you're staying, I swear Rio: You always do Rio: I dunno how I went without before Buster: You don't ever have to now Buster: Wherever I go, I'm bringing you with me Buster: Literally as much as possible, but always on my phone if not Rio: Not that I'm needy or anything 😏 Buster: You know I like it Buster: & That I want you just as bad every time Rio: That's why I don't feel weird Rio: or mind letting you know Buster: That's why you're the only girl I've ever really wanted Rio: Yeah Rio: I feel it too Rio: we're just the same Rio: in loads of ways Rio: but especially that way Buster: Exactly Buster: I didn't know it was possible to actually be this compatible with someone Rio: I can't even bring myself to be mad that it's you, of all people Rio: not anymore Buster: Excuse you Buster: So impolite Rio: Obviously not personal, silly Buster: Good backtrack, babe Rio: I meant 'cos you're my cousin, duh Buster: You also meant 'cause I used to be such a cunt though Rio: Well I didn't but you know Buster: Say that you're lucky to have me Rio: Really Buster: Come on Buster: Be nice Rio: You know I love you Rio: 'course I am Buster: [calls cos he said he would if she was a good egg]

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austinstahl · 7 years

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City Paper is Dead, Long Live City Paper

It's hard to describe, to someone who's never experienced it, the pleasure of being a part of something you'd previously loved from the outside. It's what I imagine it might feel like to be drafted by the team you grew up rooting for.

I'd been reading the Baltimore City Paper since high school in the late ’90s, when I'd pick up a copy on occasional trips into the city, and it was a window into a world of arts and music and general adult freedom that I longed to enter. After I moved to Baltimore for college, it became an indispensable companion to the city I was now exploring, and to a growing music scene that I was attempting to infiltrate. And it was a consistent source of great writing about things I cared about — it seems weird to say now, but at the time, it was not easy to find genuinely good writing on the internet — with great photography and illustration alongside it.

So when, as a newly-minted college grad in 2004, I got invited in for a job interview after an acquaintance had recommended me, it was both exciting and surreal to see where this thing I loved got made. (I believe the only time I ever used the stately front entrance to the offices at 812 Park Ave, a converted Mt Vernon rowhouse mansion, was for that interview; staffers, as I soon learned, customarily slipped in via the back alley.) I had spent the previous several months searching for a “real” graphic design job, and this City Paper position was for a production assistant, so I wasn't entirely sure it was the right move, but it seemed like too much fun to pass up. Even for a measly $12 an hour.

It was. The vibe of the Production department was like being in a class populated entirely by class clowns, on a day where you had a substitute: You knew you'd need to get your work done eventually, but in the meantime a feeling of let's-see-what-we-can-get-away-with anarchy hung over the whole enterprise. We occupied a large room on the second of the building's three floors, appropriately between Editorial (above) and Advertising (below). There, six of us laid out some parts of the paper—whatever wasn't handled directly by Joe, our goofily ebullient art director—and designed a massive number of small ads for local advertisers. (We offered this service for free, and it was like layout boot camp.) Music was usually blaring from a boombox perched on the mantel of what had once been a bedroom fireplace, often controlled by the eclectic tastes of our senior designer Matt. A second sonic layer, made up of constant jokes and banter, floated overtop of and intertwined with the music. Even if the work itself sometimes felt like drudgery, I was never bored.

On Mondays, we worked a 12-hour shift as final ad approvals came up the stairs from Advertising and final article edits came down the stairs from Editorial, all needing to be placed onto pages. At dinnertime we'd wait anxiously for a call from the basement to tell us the company-provided pizzas had arrived, and then march down past “the morgue,” where nearly thirty years' worth of papers were archived—a weekly reminder that this madcap pursuit had a long history (longer, indeed, than my life to that point).

I'd gotten a lot of advice in design school about making sure my first job was one where I could keep on learning, and while I'm not sure that CP was quite the type of job these advice-givers had in mind, I was undoubtedly learning plenty: When to push back against bad ideas (no, Mr Advertiser, the fact that the ad we designed for you contains a few slivers of white space does not mean that we can now cram 50% more content in) and when to grin and bear them (usually making private use of my colleague Rebecca's oft-repeated saying: “If that's what you want...”). How to wrangle disparate pieces of content into a coherent whole (it was our job to create “The Map” that determined which content/ads went onto which pages, no small task when we had so many different ad sizes that we used the letters of the alphabet to refer to them). How to keep your cool when the pressure was on and tensions were rising.

And though I didn't fully recognize it at the time, I was beginning to learn that publication design was what I was meant to do; I loved spending my days working alongside people who were putting something of value into the world. As difficult as I found the schedule—after Monday's 12-hour slog, you'd grab some sleep and then head right back for the mad dash of Tuesday morning, sending pages off to the printer—I immediately appreciated too that if a week's work wasn't your best, well, you didn't have to wait long for a chance to do it better.

After a little less than a year, though, I was growing weary of that weekly grind. Adding to my weariness was the peculiar mix of entitlement and insecurity that perhaps only young twentysomethings can feel with the ferocity that I did; I felt that my numerous design talents were not being properly utilized as a mere Production department drone, and simultaneously feared that dronehood was perhaps all I was capable of. It didn't take long for this mixture to curdle into a bad attitude that I evidently didn't hide well—at some point that summer, our production director, Athena, called me down into the alley (the only place one could have a private discussion at 812 Park) to ask if I really wanted to be working there. I admitted, to her and to myself, that I didn't.

(Athena, thank you for putting up with me.)

So I moved on. I only worked at the paper for less than a year, but that time has taken on an outsized importance in the life story I tell myself, looking back with a dozen years' distance. As short as my tenure was, I had the privilege of being a small part of this local institution, this forty-year history of documenting and shaping the social and cultural life of my city. There's a pride in that, which I expect will never go away.

City Paper itself, of course, has now gone away, killed by its parent company earlier this month. Count me among those who felt the paper had experienced a sharp decline in quality and consistency in recent years, though to be fair, at least some of that must have been due to rapidly shrinking resources. Certainly they were still capable of great heights: their dispatches from the summer's Baltimore Ceasefire and their longform deep dive into sexual harassment and abuse in the arts scene, to name two from the final few months, were engrossing and important pieces. These are the kind of community-serving features that they seem ready to continue in new form over at the Baltimore Beat, which launched this week under the leadership of some recent CP vets. I look forward to following it.

City Paper's demise has been framed widely as a symptom of the 21st-century media landscape, where the internet has killed print advertising so thoroughly that no free print media can survive, but apparently CP was still profitable—just not profitable enough for the corporation that chose to end it. The narrative that it really fits into is the one where more and more independent media entities, print and digital alike, are bought up by the rich and powerful and don't always survive the whims of their new patrons.

I still have a copy of the first issue of City Paper I worked on, from October 20, 2004. It contains 136 pages (compare this to the final issue's 40) and lists fifty-one employees on the masthead, not counting contributors or distribution. (Baltimore Beat's full-time roster, reportedly: five.) So, yeah, independent media in 2017 is leaner in more ways than one. But I think it can still be a force, a beacon to draw kids like me to cities like ours, and a vital resource for those who are already here. Even if there are fewer opportunities to be drafted by the home team, I have to believe that there are new teams to start, new games to invent that we haven't yet dreamt of.

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punkscowardschampions · 5 years

Text

Buster & Rio

Buster: [Comes to find her like we said and sees what he sees but they don't see him because not hanging around to watch boy I'm not letting you] Buster: You need to be in Rio: Oh Rio: okay Rio: why though Buster: 🎂 Rio: Didn't have you down as an emoji kinda guy, McKenna Rio: be right there Buster: Full of surprises, you'd know that if you knew me Buster: Stop fantasizing about how I type & come the fuck on Rio: You wanna have a catch-up? Rio: Cute Rio: It ain't your birthday or cake, calm down Buster: I reckon you've got your hands full but I can't blame you for wanting it Buster: Much better offer, like Rio: Ha Rio: Sure Rio: just that talented, babe Buster: One of you has to be, I guess Buster: Christ knows he ain't it Rio: You two met before? Rio: Really are full of surprises, fair play Buster: Met his type about as often as you have Buster: & I saw what I saw, Cavante Buster: Miss me with your behind the bike shed bullshit next time, school's out for summer Buster: You could at least have the decency to keep things hot Rio: Weren't expecting an audience Rio: What the fuck 😂 Buster: Clearly Rio: And oddly enough, even if we was, you ain't the 🎯 demographic Buster: Like I said, you've got your hands too full to handle me Buster: I don't do triangles Rio: So traditional, love that for you Buster: I got the looks for a teen drama, but this ain't one Buster: Save your drama for your boring boyfriend Rio: You so obviously love drama though Rio: so pressed, babe but I put him down, you can go hit him up now 💋 Rio: [showing up for this cake 'cos otherwise rude] Buster: You obviously know me so well Buster: Not like you got the wrong twin there Buster: Understandable, the coming out party was pretty lowkey Rio: Nah, he's definitely not her type Rio: I'm up to date, see Buster: He definitely ain't mine either, so nah, you ain't Buster: Do you not get pretty boys around here unless they're decked in rainbow flags? Explains the choice you made there with that one Rio: It's a bummer no one thought to invite these pretty boys for you Rio: but you know, is granddad's bday so don't think they were high on the guestlist Rio: what you gonna do, eh Buster: It's alright, you can watch me survive it & tell yourself that's why you keep looking at me Rio: Oh my God Rio: your ego 😂 Buster: It's big, yeah Buster: But if you wanna measure it, probably gonna have to wait until after the cake's been cut Buster: Like you said, it's Granddad's moment Rio: [Audibly laughs] Rio: You're funny, McKenna Buster: [A look like 😏] Rio: Is she actually out then Buster: Ask her yourself Buster: She'll proudly tell you Rio: How'd that go Rio: like at School Buster: Do you want my answer or hers? Buster: 'Cause the lads fucking loved it but her 🎯 demographic, less so Rio: Typical Rio: I'll talk to her later Rio: pry her away from my brother/the corner they're hiding in Buster: She'll say it's fine if she says fuck all Buster: You know that Rio: Probably Rio: but I'm easy to talk to Buster: You're funny Rio: You know I am Rio: can but try, McKenna Buster: Easy to make people laugh when you're a kid Buster: Gotta try harder these days Buster: But you know that, yeah? Rio: I was referring to the easy to talk to bit but thanks Rio: You were never this nice Rio: the effort's appreciated Buster: Easy, for sure Buster: I was trying not to make that cheap of a shot seeing as it's a celebration & all but Buster: Since you're so appreciative of my efforts, don't need to hold back, like Rio: Keep dreaming, boy Buster: It should be your nightmare Buster: But I'm only passing through so none of my business if that's a rep you wanna maintain Rio: No one's talking about what I'm thinking Rio: you're the one betraying yourself but go off Buster: That I want you to have your transformative hot girl summer, yeah sure Buster: That's what a supportive family is for Rio: You're such a bullshitter Rio: Who you fooling, no one here Buster: Of course I am Buster: Haven't signed myself up for Truth or Dare yet, unlucky for you Rio: Gross Rio: Supportive family, remember Rio: don't get your roles confused Buster: That was bullshit, remember? Buster: You want me to be real with you, babe Buster: We don't know each other like that, sorry Rio: Heartbreaking Rio: or just boring Buster: You love to be bored though, so you're welcome Rio: Where'd you hear that Buster: I saw it Buster: There's no way to convince me that boyfriend of yours is anything but Rio: We don't know each other like that Rio: let alone knowing anything about him or what I love Buster: Well done for fooling him but you'd have to try harder to attempt it with me Buster: Got that first rate education working in my favour for one thing Buster: Don't just see what I wanna, for another Rio: Let's hope that's true Rio: for both our sakes Rio: begs the question why you are still looking but you can write an essay on it if you get homesick Buster: Amateurish to rely on hope, but you clearly are so I can't expect better Buster: Why do you care where I look or don't, is the real question Rio: When it's at me, it's my business Buster: You've changed your tune, I was all heart eyes for him when it suited you to play that way before Rio: Can you blame me for wanting it to be that Rio: should've run with it Buster: If you need me to be gay to make this easier that's your problem Buster: You should learn self control Buster: Your boyfriend clearly has some, or it's worse than I feared and he's not holding back at all, that's just all there is Rio: Yeah, that's what I meant Rio: Sorry you want an encore but that ain't happening for you, babe Buster: Yeah, I desperately wanna see that again Buster: I already know what not to do, but cheers Rio: I know Rio: This party is a bit of a let-down but did we expect anything better Rio: super glad to hear you've learnt something worth learning from your first rate education, btw Buster: You wish, but show me something better & I'll consider turning my head, like Buster: Until then it's just cake & candles Buster: Pass it on to my parents if you see them, they'll appreciate the validation of the single good choice they've made recently, I'm sure Rio: No one's trying to turn your head, McKenna Rio: Would but then I'd have to regale them of how I know you didn't always know what not to do and no one needs to relive that, least of all me Buster: Like you said, it's a shit party Buster: Oh so reliving it every night's too much for you? Shame. I'd have reckoned on you having more stamina Rio: Yeah, you wanna pay for my therapy? Rio: The night terrors are really draining Buster: As long as you make sure to tell 'em how you used to follow me around everywhere Buster: You know, the real facts Rio: Excuse you Rio: No I never 😂 Rio: this is my town, you were following me Buster: Is your memory always this selective or just when you wanna save face? Buster: You're the one who is and was desperate for a repeat performance Rio: If only Rio: then I could forget you ever said that Rio: have to go get a drink and try my best instead, eurgh Buster: I don't need to be told how unforgettable I am, babe Buster: I hear it all the time Rio: And I'm the one who's bored Rio: sounds like a riot Buster: I never said I wasn't Buster: I'm here, of course I am Rio: Yeah who wouldn't wanna rush on back to that Buster: I know you'll miss me but like I said, only a quick visit Rio: Been doing just fine with the schedule we had, you know Rio: let's not see each other again for another however many years if we can, tah Buster: If you were you wouldn't feel the need to tell me Buster: This convo can end any time if you're really that fine about it Rio: You're so up yourself Rio: I'm being polite, how families do, at least some of the time Buster: What would you say if you weren't being polite, how much of a cunt I am? Buster: Sounds like more fun if I can be honest at least once Rio: You've already had your turn Rio: remember Rio: ain't my fault you went with the lowest hanging fruit Buster: All I remember is lying through my teeth since I got here Buster: How families do Rio: You can try again if you reckon you can do better Buster: I can always do better Rio: Go on then Buster: I don't reckon kissing you would go down too well with the rest of the fam Buster: But if you wanna meet me outside, say when Rio: Umm we were talking about being honest Buster: What do you want me to be honest about? Rio: Well you said you could do better than 'easy' but did you actually think I wanted you to kiss me, what the fuck Buster: Bold of you to assume I've spent any time thinking about what you want Buster: There's no need when you make it so obvious Rio: You're cracked Rio: there's easy then there's that Buster: Protest some more & it might actually reach your eyes next time you look at me, like Rio: So you're actually delusional, cool Rio: Bet your shrink is soooo much an hour, yeah? Buster: If I had one he would be Buster: Or better yet, she would be Buster: But I'm the well-adjusted twin Buster: Evil but able to own it, you know Rio: Of course Rio: your own self-assessment doesn't reek of narcissism at all, babe 😂 Buster: It ain't my fault the world was set up to revolve around me Buster: A hot as fuck white lad with money & education ain't gonna hate himself, sorry about it Rio: Yeah, put it in Latin and that's the Tory tagline Rio: ain't thick, McKenna Buster: A calidum album et irrumabo iniecit puero pecuniam & educationem est non amet odio ipsum, contristari super eo Rio: [Lols again] Buster: [is again 😏 but there's more a genuine grin vibe to it] Rio: [goes off with her mans for ages] Buster: [change that to 😒 but more subtly] Buster: [When you're lowkey drinking too much even though you are but a child] Rio: [coming back and getting some drinks] Buster: [A look because he's his father's son] Rio: [just like 'hey!' 'cos you tryna be nonchalant but the look threw you a bit like okay] Buster: [when you walk off cos you're that rude] Rio: Charm 101 next year, is it Buster: My mum's written me a note to get me out of it Buster: [When you're trying to get your parents attention like can we leave but its a no go] Rio: The list of perks truly is neverending Buster: Yeah Buster: Maybe they'll adopt you if you keep asking nicely Buster: 3 kids was the dream Rio: Your least favourite number, so Rio: stick with being number one of my family, #2 Buster: If you ever wanna have a meeting of the golden children, you know where I live Rio: Slainte Rio: [raises her glass from across the room] Buster: [Doesn't raise his because dickhead but does down his drink obvs] Rio: Wow don't wish death on me with such abandon, people start to reckon you don't like me or something Buster: This family's worst kept secret, like Rio: Nah, reckon you've got plenty of competition for that one Rio: not even juicy, like Buster: Sarcasm's really lost on you, isn't it? Buster: That an Irish thing or a you thing Rio: You're a letter short Buster: Hilarious Rio: Not really Rio: Ha Buster: I know you've got a shit lad on your arm but don't scrap the barrel even lower Buster: There'll be fuck all left of it Rio: Why do you reckon he's so shit Buster: I have an awareness of my surroundings Buster: Not to mention senses that work Rio: No one's gonna ask you to fuck him, it's alright Buster: He might, but as we established, not a fucking gay Rio: Trust me, neither is he Buster: I'm thrilled for you Buster: Compatibility wise you've got that one thing locked down Rio: 💘 Rio: should cuff him now, is what you're saying Rio: thanks Buster: Yeah, that's my resounding advice Buster: It's worked out so well for so many members of this fam Rio: Ikr Rio: just want an invite to my child wedding Rio: any excuse to be back in the homeland Buster: Only if there's a free bar or money behind it Rio: fucking tightarse Rio: you put money behind it and you don't have to get me too many gifts Buster: I'm not paying to drown my sorrows 'cause I'm at a family function where you're the centre of attention Buster: Fuck that Rio: Please Rio: you love it Rio: sit you at the table with all the other broken-hearted boys Buster: You wish Buster: You don't need a table for a couple of lads, bar stools will do Rio: Easy, remember Rio: real loss for the entire community Rio: have to get out the plastic garden chairs and everything Buster: Why they ain't broken hearted, they got what they wanted without needing to marry you Buster: Keep up Rio: You wanna keep up with how good I am Rio: alas, dear cousin Buster: You wanna be in the same league as me more like Buster: It was cute when we were little but you need to get over it now Rio: Nah, the whole public schoolboy thing is not my scene but I'm happy for you that it's not giving you mad trauma Rio: nice to have fond school memories Buster: You wanna try that again? Make it more believable Rio: What can I say? Rio: Too nice, me Rio: as discussed Buster: What can I say? Buster: More fool you Rio: Hardly sat here taking it personal, babe Buster: Good to know Rio: Like you care Buster: I don't Buster: I thought that was obvious by now Rio: If you didn't you wouldn't feel the need to tell me Rio: Bless Buster: If you could pick up on anything, I wouldn't have to Buster: But here we are, still chatting away Rio: Shit party, like I said Buster: Shit lad, like I said Rio: So? Rio: The wedding isn't actually in the Spring, you know Buster: So don't you want someone who can hold your attention Rio: Don't we all, McKenna Rio: what's your point Buster: What's the matter, not as irresistible as you front? Buster: If you can get any lad, get a better one Rio: That's about holding their attention, not mine Rio: that's easy Buster: You could have it all Buster: That should be easy if you ain't full of shit Rio: All lads are boring Rio: 'til you grow up, which something doesn't happen 'til you're like 50, if ever Buster: Become a gay along with my sister then Rio: You're alright, thanks Buster: You come at me with a problem, I offer you a solution Buster: What families do Rio: Aside from the blindingly obvious fact that girls hold my attention even less Rio: but pat yourself on the back, have at it Buster: You're alright Rio: Mhmm Buster: Are you really not gonna offer to return the favour? Buster: Bullshit are you polite Rio: What's your problem then? Rio: Aside from the obvious, which is what the shrink is for, you're welcome Buster: The obvious being what, according to you? Rio: Oh honey Rio: he's not that boring Rio: we'll be here 'til the next birthday/anniversary/bullshit holiday Buster: [laughs himself] Rio: [when you get to be a lil 😏] Buster: [when you getting drunk on the low, sorry everyone] Rio: Hope you learnt how to handle your drink better than that time we stole that bottle of Rio: what even was it, from the pub and you spewed everywhere Rio: that was grim Buster: I was a kid & it was brandy Buster: The odds were against me Rio: 😂 Rio: we were all kids and you really gave us away Rio: still can't with that smell Buster: Fuck you Buster: You said you'd look after me Buster: Don't take up nursing, yeah? Rio: Don't hold it against me like I knew you'd be redecorating the walls before we were even halfway through Rio: I'm so caring Rio: but the uniform ain't as cute as they let on so I won't Buster: It only looked that bad to you 'cause you were seeing it in triple Rio: Never felt so sick since Rio: should've put me off for life by rights Buster: It put me off for a summer Buster: Felt like fucking ages Rio: Alright, you tiny alcoholic Buster: What can I say? I'm obviously a glutton for punishment Buster: Why I'm talking to you still Rio: Ew Rio: People you can see for that too, McKenna Rio: just don't get your appointments confused Buster: It ain't something I wanna change, but cheers Rio: They don't change it, silly Buster: Or chat bullshit about then, whatever Buster: You know what I meant Rio: Don't act like you don't know what I mean Rio: not that sweet and innocent Rio: your search history is no doubt littered with what I mean Buster: Not at all sweet or innocent, but you've made it clear you don't wanna know Rio: Have I Buster: A lesser man would've taken offense at being called cracked Rio: You actually talk like you're from the 1800s Rio: it's ace Buster: That's basically the first thing that school teaches Buster: You should go if you're that into it Rio: No hiding the accent Rio: you don't sound like scum Rio: or the colour Rio: bet you have like Saudi princes and that's your diversity checked Buster: They don't all sound as hot as me though & they ain't all allowed to be white or male, that'd be a lawsuit Buster: No princes but me, alas Rio: 😂 Rio: What's the point then Rio: not leaving Dublin for less Buster: I can't say I'm gutted Rio: You've said plenty weirder Rio: cracked, remember, I know I said that for a reason but I forgot Buster: I can't say it 'cause I would be gutted to have to go to school with you Buster: It'd be well distracting Rio: I have that affect, yeah Buster: You & me both but I'd rather keep on this side of it & keep my A*s Rio: Humblebrag Rio: keep it for the Oxbridge application Buster: Nah, a not even little known fact actually Buster: I can't be the Golden Boy with any less Rio: Sad Rio: everyone loves me just 'cos Buster: 🍀 Buster: Not sure my parents are capable of real emotion & they're the ones we're talking about so Rio: Sure they are Rio: Anger is an emotion Buster: Everyone knows they used all the positive ones on their grand love affair though Rio: Not trying to turn that into a triangle, don't you worry Rio: though that'd shit on all other worst kept secrets so it's a shame Buster: They are just less hot versions of me, be more blatant Rio: That's a bold claim Rio: and I said I'm not trying so not really Buster: It's a true story is what it is Rio: Hit them with it Rio: see what they reckon Buster: Been there, done that Rio: 😏 'Course Rio: you're such a delight Buster: Not really, but I'm not trying to be Rio: Trying out that sarcasm bullshit Buster: Stating a fact Buster: Right now all I'm trying to be is drunk Rio: I was talking about me Rio: not the only one capable of self-absorption, babe Buster: Oh Buster: Try harder then Rio: You can keep it, I reckon Rio: just another way of chatting shit but acting smug like you've said what you meant Buster: Try it on your boyfriend before you decide to fully uncommit, I reckon Buster: You look hot when you look smug Rio: How drunk are you Rio: aside from the obligatory 'not drunk enough' Buster: I'm not asking you to take care of me this time Buster: Don't worry about it Rio: Good job too Buster: Yeah, if you're still that shit at it Rio: Oh my God Rio: what other grudges are you holding, like Buster: It's what families do, babe Rio: Nah Rio: live and let live this lot Buster: Tell it to Nance, she's gutted I'm not wearing a 🌈 pin in support months later Rio: You two are dramatic Rio: I told you Buster: It's been passed down from both parents, I've told you before Buster: No fucking chance to be otherwise on that Rio: Gutted Buster: I'm rich enough it's expected of me regardless Buster: So I ain't crying Rio: if you are, hankies got the thread count to handle it, got it Buster: I'll just straight up wipe my eyes on the 💸 Rio: Truly a nightmare, boy Rio: give you that Buster: You're still dreaming about me Buster: I'll take it Rio: You're not funny Buster: You've proved otherwise however many times tonight already Buster: Stop laughing & maybe I'll buy it Rio: You have your moments Rio: don't push it Buster: Where's the fun in that? Rio: Shit party will be over soon and you can go back to having whatever passes for in your neck of the woods Buster: & until then we're both bored Buster: Tell me you don't want a little push Rio: What do you have in mind then Rio: or is this all just more chat Buster: You mean to also tell me you can't read my mind? Buster: Way to disappoint me Rio: 💔 Rio: Nothing worse than crossed wires is there Buster: I was thinking a little drinking game from your neck of the woods Buster: What have you got for me? Rio: Alright Rio: Come on then Buster: Go for your life Rio: [like are you two just playing, where is her mans, so many questions] Buster: [it has to be just them though unless he can take her man down and impress her on the low, that's the only way he can be involved] Rio: [the best one I've found is bullshit, basically you have to lie about your card hand and when you get caught in a lie you drink] Buster: [in this land of fiction pretend she knows a badass one/has made up a badass one because would have] Rio: [bin off the boy too] Buster: [what a mood] Rio: [gotta cockblock though] Buster: [better than we did with baze anyway, you got years yet lads] Rio: [get whisked away beech he's gonna be bored af] Buster: [& Buster gonna be drunk af oh lord] Rio: [partayyy] Buster: [your parents can't say shit at least boy cos they were doing it] Rio: [but will, parents are hypocrites for life] Buster: [and baze are the biggest byeeeeee that's the tea] Rio: [trubigfacts] Buster: [this drinking game should involve forfeits and it should be brandy cos the mems] Rio: [lord they're gonna vom] Buster: [he definitely will cos throwback] Rio: is that your pile of vom I just walked past or is someone else flagging too Buster: What kind of lawyer would I make if I answered that honestly Rio: 😂 Rio: Plead the fifth or whatever the fuck Buster: Exactly Buster: Couldn't have put it better myself Rio: let's hope you can or you'll never pass the bar, babe Buster: Never seen a bar I wanted to walk past, babe Rio: Omg Rio: granddad, that you Buster: [lols] Buster: Where is he though? Buster: Fucking done one from his own party Rio: Would if you could Rio: can't blame him Buster: He could've took me with him Buster: I can blame him for that Rio: Awh Rio: cute Buster: Shut up Buster: I wanna go home, that's not a secret Rio: You also wanna be favourite, less of a secret Buster: If you don't, you're stupider than you act Rio: Rude Buster: True Rio: Nope Buster: Yeah Rio: Think what you like Buster: Not gonna think what I don't like Buster: Not that much of a glutton for punishment, like Rio: Neither am I, so I don't care what you think Buster: Cute Rio: 🙄 Buster: If you actually did that instead of 😍 at me, maybe I'd believe you Rio: If I needed any more proof you were wasted Rio: Good thing you can't drive or we'd be taking your keys right now Buster: If I could drive, I'd have left ages ago Rio: Can't say I'd be gutted Buster: Not out loud nah Buster: Say it with your eyes as standard Rio: What are you looking at my eyes so much for then Buster: Safest place Rio: Jesus, McKenna Buster: Well, it is Buster: I didn't dress you in that Rio: I'm a big girl, can dress myself now Buster: Good to know Rio: You're such a dick Buster: & what? Buster: Is your problem that you don't like it or you do? Buster: 'Cause either way, not mine Rio: Oh fuck off Buster: Like you said, I would if I could Rio: you don't have to be annoying me Buster: You don't have to reply to me Rio: Yeah, that's probably how this usually goes for you Rio: like I'm gonna sit here and let you chat shit on me Buster: Mute me, I thought you already had anyway Rio: Why should I Buster: You're the one who's so fine with the way things are between us Buster: Why wouldn't you? Rio: I can be civil Buster: Why bother? Rio: Because I'm not some kid who gets his kicks out of being a dick? Rio: You're fucking immature Buster: You get your kicks out of being around me Buster: Obviously Rio: Why do you keep saying shit like this Buster: 'Cause you won't Rio: Because it's not true Buster: Bullshit Buster: I was there Buster: I'm here now Rio: We were kids Buster: Irrelevant Rio: How could that possibly be irrelevant Rio: kids do stupid shit constantly Buster: I do stupid shit now Buster: According to you, I'll do stupid shit til I'm 50 if not forever Rio: So Rio: what are you saying, we repeat that as well as the brandy? Buster: I did throw up so probably not but Rio: Yeah, that's the only reason why not Buster: It's my only reason Rio: You're gonna regret at this when you sober up, so I'll do you a favour and ignore it Buster: Don't do me any favours Buster: You don't know me like that any more Rio: It's just what families do Buster: Yeah Rio: Don't worry about it Buster: I wasn't Buster: I won't Rio: Glad to hear it then Buster: I bet Rio: Why wouldn't I be Buster: Of course you would, it makes shit really easy for you, that's literally what I'm saying Buster: Nobody's worried about it, we're so unfazed it can be like it never happened Rio: What, because you're twatted I should go for it Rio: that's not horrible at all, is it Buster: 'Cause you want to Buster: That's the reason Rio: Buster just don't Rio: alright Buster: Yeah 'cause me shutting up about it is gonna make a world of difference Buster: Been there, tried that Rio: I don't know what you want right now Rio: I don't think you do either Buster: That's the best lie of the night Buster: 🏆🎉 Rio: Thanks Rio: fanfare not necessary but I'll take my prize in cash or booze Buster: Have a drink on me then Rio: Cheers Buster: [finally raises his glass in a cheers which is probably empty anyway] Rio: [imagine bazes faces rn lol] Buster: [does one at them too because shout out mum & dad] Rio: Probably a decent plan if your parents were normal Rio: get so embarrassing they have to take you home Rio: but reckon they'll let you ride it out and suffer tomorrow so Buster: Still, I'll pass out eventually so one way or another, I'm leaving Rio: Don't say things like that Rio: that's really depressing Buster: I'm not here to make you feel good babe, you passed on that Rio: Yeah 'cos I'm worried about me Buster: Bullshit do you care about me Buster: Get over yourself Rio: What kind of bitch do you actually think I am Buster: One who doesn't care, did I slur too much then or what? Rio: Loud and clear Buster: Good Rio: Yeah Rio: have fun with this hangover Buster: Cheers Buster: I won't wait for you to show up in the nurse gear Rio: I wouldn't Rio: Bitch or not, not happening Buster: Talk to my fucking sister if you're any kind of caring bitch Rio: I already have Rio: you're obsessed with yourself but I actually ain't Buster: If that's meant to impress me you've taken a wrong turn Rio: No, it's meant to be a fuck you Rio: keep up Buster: That actually would be impressive if you could come close to pulling it off Rio: Shut up Rio: for fuck's sake Buster: If you don't like it, do something about it Buster: Don't just fucking take it Buster: Who are you now? Rio: You're being that pathetic right now, I'm not going to fight you Buster: There's loads of different ways to fight Buster: But if you wanna take a cop out, go for it Rio: and what's the point in that? Rio: you like being like this, apparently, so enjoy it Rio: like you've said, we don't know each other like that, why would anything you say about me matter Buster: You tell me, babe Buster: Why does it? Rio: This is ridiculous Rio: You're ridiculous Buster: How far under your skin, am I? Buster: That's what's ridiculous Rio: You wish Buster: I haven't touched you for years Buster: I don't need to Buster: What do I need wishes for? Rio: You're disgusting Buster: Like you said, my search history is Rio: At least you can admit that Buster: I told you earlier, I can own it Buster: All of it Buster: Why can't you? Rio: 'Cos you want me to say something stupid just so you can take the piss later Rio: but I ain't gone enough for that shit Buster: No I don't Rio: Yeah you do Buster: I don't Buster: I probably won't remember this later, fuck's sake Rio: You definitely won't Buster: So cut the bullshit Buster: What does it matter? Rio: Alright Rio: when you do Buster: 😂 Buster: Alright Buster: This is why I fucking missed you Buster: Well played, like Rio: 🙄😏 Rio: Win again, do I? Buster: Is that what you need from me? Okay then Rio: Obviously Rio: I'm the competitive one here Buster: It ain't never been all me Buster: Don't lie that hard Rio: Okay Rio: a bit Rio: you bring out the worst in me, how about that for a compromise Buster: I'll take it Rio: Good Buster: That kiss proved you bring out the worst in me too so Rio: 😂 Rio: Don't even try to blame me for that Buster: Nobody else has complained Buster: It's obviously your fault Rio: SINCE Rio: if you're having any success now it's thanks to me Buster: Well there weren't no before Buster: That don't mean you taught me anything Rio: Yeah it does Buster: How would you, you barely kissed me back Rio: We couldn't both be on attack Rio: defensive was my only hope Buster: What can I say? I go after what I want Rio: Hmm Buster: Don't even try & act like that ain't true Rio: Just curious why you were after my tonsils so bad Buster: It wasn't the aim Buster: Only the consequence Rio: You're funny Buster: & yeah my aim was a little bit the problem Buster: But fuck off Rio: 😂 Rio: you were in the general vicinity Buster: Cheers that's well comforting Rio: Hit you with a 'it happens to all lads' if you like, really cheer you up Buster: Don't fucking dare Buster: Trying to jinx me or some shit now Rio: I know you're still a virgin Rio: you'd probably have liveblogged it or some shit if you weren't Buster: Yeah I might Rio: I'll definitely mute you before then Rio: s'all good Buster: Unless your boyfriend needs the tips Buster: Fingers crossed they ain't all gonna be as shit as this one Rio: He isn't my first boyfriend Rio: but I haven't slept with any of them Rio: contrary to what you reckon Buster: What do you want me to say? Rio: Erm try sorry, wanker Buster: Alright Buster: I am then Rio: You're what Buster: I'm not gonna fucking get on my knees for it Buster: You know what I'm saying Rio: Say it then Rio: one word Rio: not asking the rest, am I Buster: Jesus Buster: That's a fucking word Rio: Why you bringing him into this Rio: he would never Buster: He would 100% get on his knees Buster: Guaranteed Rio: You like punishment, I heard Rio: crucifying you is a bit much Buster: He's basically never upright unless you nail him, the soft cunt Buster: That's all I'm saying Rio: Why are you slating him right now Rio: just 'cos he's the bigger man and would apologize Buster: Distraction Buster: Obviously Rio: Well try harder Buster: Don't tempt me Rio: Ha Rio: come on Rio: or do you wanna owe me Buster: Fuck that Buster: Look, I'm sorry, yeah? Rio: There Rio: that was actually easy, wasn't it Rio: apology accepted Buster: Cheers then Buster: Just one more thing Rio: What Buster: Don't bother fucking this one Buster: Trust me Buster: That's me doing you a favour, however we know each other Rio: Looking unlikely Rio: but I'll keep it in mind Buster: Good Buster: I don't need the mental images on top of the boring display I already saw Rio: Well that's your own fault Buster: Technically it's yours for not being inside Rio: Well I'm not sorry Rio: it weren't that bad Buster: You weren't Buster: His case has been made Rio: just keep your opinions to yourself Rio: or at least between us Rio: don't need a scrap right now Buster: I'm not dumping him for you, calm down Rio: Isn't that what brothers are meant to do Rio: don't think Junior is gonna be very useful to me Rio: sorry, like Buster: You can have my sister Buster: She's a proper manhater Buster: It'd be quality Rio: 😂 Rio: Bad enough I dragged him to a family function Rio: can't just let everyone start attacking him Buster: Why did you? Buster: Too much of a rookie error even for you Rio: 'cos I knew it'd probably be boring Buster: Yeah but so's he Buster: You can't fight boring with more boring, babe Rio: I obviously didn't think so, did I Buster: You're only lying to yourself at this point Buster: I could fucking see that you were bored senseless Buster: Come on Rio: I don't know then Rio: beats being alone Buster: Alone with a family this size Buster: Chance would be a fine thing Rio: Easy Rio: like you said, no one's looking, no one gives a fuck Buster: Everyone's looking & pretending they ain't Buster: They don't give enough of a fuck though, that's true Rio: Changed your tune now you're not trying to get me to kiss you Rio: but agreed Buster: I weren't gonna do it in the middle of them all Buster: Hold up everyone, get in a fucking circle really quick Rio: said like you weren't acting like an insane person Buster: When have I ever acted like a sane person? Buster: What kid necks brandy in the middle of the morning Buster: You used to like it Rio: Never said I didn't Buster: So you do still like me then Rio: You sound surprised Buster: That'll be 'cause I am Rio: I'm a nice fucking person Rio: 😂 Idk why you reckon I ain't Buster: You were nice to me 'cause you had a massive crush on me, it don't make you a saint Buster: If anything, it makes you the opposite Rio: Charming Rio: any ulterior motives I might've had, as a literal child, flew right out the window with that kiss didn't they so that's invalid Buster: You were still running round after me for a fair while before though Buster: It took you long enough to take the hint Buster: *after Rio: No I was not Rio: your selective memory Buster: You were & I had to be the opposite of charming Buster: You ain't talked to me since so that fucks your sainthood Rio: That was obviously what you wanted Rio: wouldn't be very saintly to keep 'running 'round after you' Buster: There's your excuse, you can have it Rio: I don't need no excuse Rio: I was here Rio: it was you that was avoiding, making it weird Buster: Don't act like you never avoided me Buster: Just 'cause I started it Rio: Well, it don't matter now, does it Buster: You're doing it now Buster: You can't look at me Rio: [does like yeah I can] Buster: [a moment because of course he's looking at her too] Rio: How many fingers am I holding up? Rio: [flips him off but grins with it] Buster: Not enough for a fun night Rio: 😂 Buster: Unless your grip is like Buster: Really something Rio: Were you always this Rio: I don't even know Buster: Puberty made me even more of a thorn in your side in every way, babe Buster: Take it up with your fave lad, Jesus Buster: Or his dad Rio: One in the same, lad Buster: He's his own dad? How does that work Rio: I know, mental Rio: hear he made the whole universe too? Rio: wild stuff Buster: I could say I did that, It don't make it a real thing Buster: Even wilder stuff Rio: your proclivity for bullshit is known Rio: could tell me anything, don't mean I'll believe it Buster: Shame I won't remember that Rio: Is it? Buster: Isn't it? Rio: What are we talking about now? Buster: The fucked upness that will be my tomorrow Rio: Don't envy you that Buster: At least I won't have to talk to you & vice versa Buster: Small mercy there Rio: Drama queen Buster: 👑 Rio: Should get some water though for real Buster: Me or you? Rio: You Buster: Nah, I don't need that shit Buster: I'm not going to bed Rio: What are you gonna do Buster: Stay here Buster: Like old times Rio: Okay Rio: but don't forget, when you do Buster: You sound more like a mum than the one I've got Rio: Just doing my bit Buster: By rights you should've been a good nurse Buster: What a fucking curve Rio: I would be Rio: it's so rude holding that against me Rio: it was pretty scary actually Rio: thought you was gonna start vomming blood or something Buster: That would've been such a cool story Buster: Let's tell people I did that Rio: Can tell your mates Rio: all posh boys are psychopaths Buster: Yeah Buster: Why they love me at this school Buster: Gonna be Headboy in no time Rio: Probably Rio: but you ain't Buster: Yeah I will, I just had to get a rep first Rio: I mean, you ain't a psycho Rio: unlucky Buster: How do you know? Buster: Easily could be Rio: Nah Buster: Then, I'll just fake it til I make it, I guess Rio: Should work Rio: easy to convince people of what they wanna see Buster: Exactly Rio: What would you wanna be head boy for though actually Buster: Get such a hard on for a badge obviously Buster: What kind of question is that? Rio: [A lol] Rio: Fucking nerd Buster: If I ain't Headboy someone else is Buster: That makes them better than me Buster: Nobody's better than me so Rio: Better in the eyes of teachers Rio: at fucking...being a good example and peer mentor or whatever the fuck it actually means Buster: Don't be stupid Buster: It's a popularity contest Buster: They might as well give you a fucking 👑 Rio: 🙄 Rio: you're so weird Buster: Fuck off Rio: Honestly Rio: be wanting to be prom king next Buster: Obviously I do Buster: What the fuck Rio: 😂 Rio: Stop Buster: You stop Buster: Taking the piss out of me Rio: I'm sorry but you're being funny Buster: You ain't sorry at all Buster: But yeah, I'm hilarious, like Rio: If that's what you care about that's fine, I guess Rio: don't get it but you know Buster: I don't need you to get me Buster: Calm down Rio: I'm not trying, am I Rio: taking the piss Buster: Stop though Rio: I have Rio: I will Buster: Good 'cause I'm gonna be sick Buster: [is but hopefully not everywhere please boy] Rio: Oh God Rio: run Buster: You worry so much Buster: I thought we weren't doing that shit Rio: so I'll just let you chunder everywhere Rio: it's not like above and beyond is it Rio: get you a sodding glass of water if you let me Buster: You're so cute Rio: And you are very very drunk Buster: And I really wanna go home Buster: Why does nobody listen to me? Christ Rio: Let me find a sober adult for you Rio: I think both your parents are drinking Buster: Good fucking luck with this lot Rio: Seriously Rio: [my thoughts are probably Caleb 'cos not a big drinker even as a teen so as an adult, with some small kids still?] Buster: [A logical conclusion I feel like, also less awkward to talk to your dad than like whoever else it could be like Ro god forbid cos we know how that future is panning out] Rio: [also she'd be #horrified at the state of him so avoid that lmao] Rio: My da can take you, if you like Rio: don't like choke on your own sick though Rio: shall I find Nance to come? Buster: Or you could just come so I don't have to talk to your dad Rio: Of course I'm coming in the car Rio: like I trust you and your mouth rn Rio: but someone should stay with you Buster: Stay with me then Rio: Yeah? Rio: Alright Rio: give me 5 to sort shit then Buster: I'll start the countdown now, like Rio: You ain't allowed to say anything about the quality of my nursing ever again, you know that right Rio: [tell your mans its time to go] Buster: I know that I won't remember fuck all about it, either way Buster: Lucky escape for you there Rio: Ha, funny Rio: be less so when I poison you Buster: You don't reckon I've beat you to that already? Buster: Hilarious Rio: There's time and opportunity to finish you off now Rio: fool Buster: Maybe that's how I wanna go Buster: Could all be a carefully planned and orchestrated situation, babe Rio: Nah Rio: got head boy and prom king to win yet Buster: Lying in my grave kinda takes that pressure off Buster: I can just leave them with all these fond memories Buster: Such as now Buster: Be Golden Boy forever Rio: Shh Rio: so morbid Rio: maybe you are 🍀 after-all Buster: Dead babies will do it to you Buster: & yeah, same family, remember Rio: Come on Buster: Shh we're not allowed to talk about it Buster: Actual worst kept secret Rio: You ain't letting that stop you Rio: talk about whatever you like, not listening anyway am I Buster: Of course you are Buster: Never been able to ignore me Rio: You are pretty loud Buster: [laughs loudly so point proven there] Rio: [smiles, when her mans is probably giving him such a dirty look 'cos ruined his plans lmao, get in the car lads] Buster: [Let's hope he didn't see it because we don't need you to smack him boy you're already looking jealous enough when you ain't her mans] Rio: Good thing is if you're sick in here, one of the kids probably did it yesterday so who cares Buster: I don't reckon I can Buster: But if you really want me to, for old times sake, I'll give it my best shot Rio: Sweet but let's keep our bodily fluids to ourselves Buster: All of them? Buster: Shame Rio: [nudges him like 😏] Rio: Behave Buster: Why would I wanna do a thing like that? Buster: Not my dad driving Rio: You don't think you're in enough trouble as is? Buster: I think I could get in more Buster: Easily Rio: Why would you wanna do a thing like that? Buster: 'Cause I'm not your boring boyfriend Rio: No, you ain't Buster: & I got rid of him for you Buster: You're welcome, like Rio: Thought you said you weren't gonna do that Buster: Yeah but Rio: You're alright, I got rid of him Rio: you were just a useful excuse Buster: I aim to please Rio: I'm sure Buster: & my aim's improved since Buster: In case you were worried Rio: 😂 Rio: Pleased for you Buster: You could be pleased for yourself Buster: If you just stop playing Rio: You might not remember any of this tomorrow but I probably will Buster: Promise or a threat? Rio: Take it how you want Rio: just a fact, I ain't as gone Buster: Here's another fact, I don't care Rio: Will when I can rip the piss out of you Buster: If you need this for ammunition you already can't keep up Rio: We've established Rio: I'm nice, you're a dick Buster: Nah, you're passive aggressive, I'm just aggressive Rio: Alright, alpha male 🙄 Buster: That's really not much of an insult, babe Buster: You might as well stop fighting me Rio: I'm not fighting you Rio: wouldn't really be fair would it Buster: That's the difference between me and you Buster: I don't care if the fight's fair Rio: One of Buster: I'll all but knocked myself out for you & you still won't throw any punches Buster: Hilarious Buster: Even Nance would rise to this much bait, like Buster: & she's barely a McKenna Rio: Exactly Rio: wore yourself out, rookie Rio: and don't be rude Rio: she's as much of one as you Buster: [Laughs] Buster: I take it back, that's the best lie of the night actually Buster: You wish, then you could handle it, but nah, stamina for days Buster: & nah she ain't Rio: You're the only one wishing and concerning yourself with what I can handle, boy Buster: Keep telling yourself that, babe Rio: Well, obviously you ain't the ONLY one but in this car Buster: Bold of you to assume your dad don't love me Rio: [lols] Rio: shut up Rio: outweirding yourself Buster: If you weren't too scared you could make me Rio: Who's scared Buster: Me when we were kids & you now Rio: Nah Rio: I know what I'm doing Buster: It doesn't mean you ain't shitting yourself at the prospect of doing it Rio: With my cousin, in a car with my dad? Rio: that's just common sense, McKenna Buster: That's just another bullshit excuse, Cavante Buster: You know where I am & where I've been Rio: You said, you started it Buster: You know why Rio: Yeah? Buster: Yeah Rio: Maybe Buster: Can your dad not drive any faster than this? Buster: Jesus Christ Buster: It would have been quicker to walk, like Rio: How you're stumbling? I think not Rio: What's your hurry, do you need to stop Buster: Need, want, there's not a load of difference Rio: I mean, I'd prefer it if you got out to be sick, thank you Rio: we ain't that far Buster: I'm not gonna puke on you, calm down Rio: You better not Rio: definitely don't know each other like that Buster: The outfit's too good Buster: I won't Rio: Considerate 😏 Rio: [let's get 'em there can't be that far away thanks and bye Caleb] Buster: [have fun getting him in girl] Rio: [get you situated on the sofa 'cos we ain't going to his room rn and be getting water and ting] Buster: [I bet their sofas ain't comfy cos expensive stylish ones never look like they are] Rio: [poor boy] Rio: go get your duvet Buster: You're trusting me to climb these stairs? Buster: Like I said, shit nurse Rio: For goodness sake Rio: where's your room then Rio: it better not be gross or I'm charging Buster: [Tells her cos I can't remember the layout] Rio: 👍 Rio: don't wander Buster: [Lies stretched out on the sofa like a little Crim] Rio: [first throws it at him but then has to tuck 'cos mum] Buster: [Gives her an accidental soft look but when was the last time anyone did that for him lbr] Rio: [puts the TV on 'cos gotta have some pretense of doing something and distraction] Buster: [sipping his water like a good boy] Rio: [is like yasss hydrate lmao] Buster: [when you're like come & lie here with me bitch but in gestures] Rio: [when you do but over the covers] Rio: ['Better?'] Buster: [Just nods because looking at her & having a moment] Rio: ['Good'] Buster: ['Don't go'] Rio: 'I won't, not 'til they get back, don't worry'] Buster: [When you happy about this not only cos you don't wanna be alone but because it's her specifically] Rio: [When you like, don't fall asleep, don't fall asleep 'cos cosy] Buster: [& he's getting closer to her all the time, we see you trying to snuggle boy] Rio: ['when are you going back home then?'] Buster: [Shrugs cos I feel like he genuinely wouldn't know cos can't just do what he wants yet he has to do what baze wants] Rio: ['your friends are probably all at their holiday homes anyway, yeah?'] Buster: ['Course & as far as they're concerned this is mine, don't need to tell 'em it's not on an island somewhere or some shit'] Rio: [laughs quietly 'secret's safe with me'] Buster: ['You sure you can handle keeping another one?'] Rio: ['duh, you know how many brothers and sisters I got, I'm the best at keeping secrets'] Buster: ['Good to know. I'll try & remember'] Rio: [puts up fingers like '10'] Buster: [laughs] Rio: ['don't get ideas though' 'cos throwback] Buster: ['You won't know either way, can't read my mind'] Rio: ['wouldn't want to, filth' but smiling] Buster: ['You'd love it'] Rio: [😏 'go to sleep'] Buster: ['You gonna come with me then?' When you wanna sleep & dream & snuggle together aw] Rio: ['gotta look after you, ain't I' when you stroke his hair but then pretend you just messing it up] Buster: [When you lowkey snuggle into her more than you already were] Rio: ['Don't remember this in the morning, yeah'] Buster: ['Shh, I'm asleep'] Rio: ['Good boy'] Buster: [A smile because always gonna be into that we know] Rio: [when baze and nancy are gonna be so confused like hello?] Buster: [You shoulda known what's up lads, it's always been obvious af] Rio: [she's deffo falling asleep too ain't like she's sober] Buster: [and she's definitely being snuggled rn so who could resist] Rio: when you 'rents probably hitting you up 'cos baze in no fit state to be taking you home like are you staying or what] Buster: [Caleb 100% would, he's that dad who will spam you with texts and missed calls] Rio: [soz babe your kids suck at replying lmao] Buster: [At least he knows where she is] Rio: [true, she'll get woken up when baze get back assumedly then it'll be all sos] Buster: [Dad's taxi come through]

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