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death-fears-by-deaf-ears · 3 years

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swan lake || t.h.

pairing: tom holland x reader

summary: you can't stand tom holland, the guy in your ballet ensemble. But when you two get the roles of Odette and the prince, you two will have to put your differences aside and learn to work with each other.

word count: 2.5k

warnings: language

chapter one

Not again.

This was starting to become a recurring theme - it was Monday and your bus had just left without you. You mumbled profanities under your breath, your duffle bag slung across your shoulder. Frustrated you slumped against a street lantern, when you felt the first drops of rain on your skin. You let out a groan of anger and pulled your hood up over your head, cursing yourself for staying up too late last night. But because you anticipated this, you had already put on your leotard and tights on at home, so when you got to class you’d only have to strip your clothes and start your warm up.

Last week you had gotten whacked on the head with a newspaper for being that late, but with a little bit of luck you wouldn’t have to endure that today.

When you arrived in the ballet studio almost an hour later you were soaked and freezing. You ran through the halls of the studio, already in the process of taking off your jacket and shirt, revealing your dancing clothes underneath. Three minutes left to go.

Your usual locker was already occupied, making you rush to the next best one, ripping the door open, throwing all your clothes in there and only taking your training ballerinas out and slamming the door shut. You had done your hair in the bus already, so it was in a low tight knot. You put your shoes on, running toward the door. One minute left.

“How kind of you to join us today on time,” Sophie, your dance teacher said, following you with her eyes as you took your position. Everyone in the room was staring at you and you could feel their looks drilling in your back. Tom next to you was bowing his head down, obviously trying to hide his laughter. You shot him a poisonous look, rage as well as embarrassment burned inside you. Tom had a special power of making your anger levels go from 0 to 100.

“I’m sorry, ma’am,” you said, your face running hot.

“Let’s start with the warm up, shall we?”

“Why is everyone whispering and staring at me,” you whispered through gritted teeth to your friend Hannah, who was helping you stretch. “Ouch!”

“Loosen up,” Hannah whispered, pulling you even closer to her. You were sitting in front of each other on the floor, pushing the others’ legs out. “Haven’t you seen the role sheet today?”

“Fuck,” you whispered, partially because of the stretch, but also because you had forgotten that today the roles for the upcoming show were published. You must’ve not seen the sheet in the locker rooms. “What role did I get?”

Hannah shook her head as you pulled her towards you, adjusting her pose. “You got the role of Odette.”

You immediately let go of Hannah, slapping your hand on your mouth, making her fall forward. You grabbed her shoulders. “I got the main role?” You whisper-screamed, trying your hardest not to get caught by Sophie. “Well, who is playing the prince?”

Hannah cringed and turned her gaze to the side, where a few of your colleagues were standing. Instead of stretching they were very obviously flirting with… Tom. He must’ve noticed you staring at him, as he turned his head and met your gaze. Both of you rolled your eyes as you turned away from each other. “You can’t be serious,” you said.

“I’m sorry,” Hannah huffed, sweat pearling on her dark forehead. “But hey, congrats on the role?”

You finished stretching and continued with your training, going through forms and positions, polishing your moves and getting scolded for flailing your arms too much. As you were approaching your first break, Sophie stepped towards you.

“We will begin with your training for Swan Lake today at 3, make sure to bring your pointe shoes.”

“Yes, ma’am,” you said, your heart fluttering at the idea of dancing to your favourite show. The fluttering quickly vanished when you noticed Sophie walking up towards Tom, telling him the same. So you’d already dance with him today.

You tried to shake the bad feeling and it mostly worked, since focusing on your dream always made things easier. Dancing and performing was a way for you to let go, to get completely lost in the story and think about nothing else. There wasn’t much in the world that could ruin that for you.

Oh how wrong you had been.

“I have never seen people with less chemistry than you two,” Sophie sighed. You have never heard her be this exasperated and desperate. “Do you two even dance? Are you really professional dancers? Where did your grace go, where did the love for dance go! Look each other in the eyes for God’s sake!”

“It’d be easier if you didn’t squeeze the hell out of me,” you spat through gritted teeth.

“It’d be easier if you weren’t this heavy,” Tom spat back, his face falling immediately after he realized what he had said.

You jumped out of his grip, staring in disbelief. “Well-” you stammered, not knowing what to retort. “How about you get a little stronger…”

Sophie whacked him with her newspaper over the head. “That is NOT something you say to a lady!” Tiny strands of hair were escaping her neat bun, making her look even more stressed than she was. “We’re finishing this part today and then you two can go home.”

“Sorry,” Tom mumbled under his breath.

“Save it,” you said, taking your start position. Kneeling down on the floor, Odette would wait for the prince to come and lift her up to start the dance with her. In the original the two would fall in love the minute they laid eyes on each other. You tried to do the choreography justice, although your dance partner made it incredibly difficult for you.

“Smile!” Sophie shouted, making you two put on fake plastic grins.

“I’ll spit on your face on stage,” you said through your grin as Tom lifted you up, making you look down on him.

"Do that and I'll rip your lashes off," he said softly while lowering you on the ground again.

You tried to continue the choreography without any incidents but you couldn't help but feel every step, every nudge to be executed with a hint of passive aggression. Tom basically let you fall on the ground instead of putting you down, you avoided each other's eyes, grabbed too harshly, turned too sharply.

"Alright," Sophie said after about four hours of it. "I can't watch this any longer. You both know the choreography, and that's all I can teach you for now. If you don't know how to be nice to each other, don't bother coming to me for help until you do. We'll work on the solos and the other dances first, until you two calmed down. Dismissed."

You slumped down on the floor, rubbing your face. You untied your shoes and took them off, throwing them in your bag. This was going to be hard.

“So how was it?” Hannah asked while the two of you sat on the studio floor.

As an answer you slammed your pointe shoes on the ground several times, breaking them in a way that made them comfortable for your foot. “Take a wild guess.”

She raised her eyebrows as she was sewing the elastic band into her shoe. “What did Sophie say?”

“She refuses to work with us anymore until we get it together,” you grumbled. You slammed your fist on the top of your shoe, softening the box. Suddenly the door opened, making you and Hannah turn your heads.

Tom was marching in the room, directly towards you.

“What the hell,” you mumbled, putting your shoe down and looking up at him as he stopped in front of you. “Can I help you?”

“Are you free today after class?”

You raised an eyebrow, looking at him up and down and smirked. “Are you asking me out?”

Tom crossed his arms, not saying anything. His foot was tapping impatiently on the floor which was tiled with dancing tiles.

“Yeah, I am. See you then,” you said, rolling your eyes. You waved as a good bye, signalling him to leave you alone. You turned to Hannah. “He told me I was too heavy to lift.” “Excuse me?” You shrugged, taking the thread and the needle. Your friend slapped her hands on her thighs in exasperation. “What an ass.”

You finished sewing and breaking in your shoes while talking about anything other than Tom - mostly Hannah’s new date she was going to see that very day. It was nice talking about something else, preparing yourself for class. You could feel that today was going to be a slow one - you eased into your shoes, then into your stretches, and finally into your training, testing out the waters with your new footwear and getting more comfortable as the day progressed. Your mind was empty, completely free of oppressive and depressing thoughts. Your body moved in unison with the music, following the tides of the melody, back and forth seemingly weightless and freed of gravity.

Before you knew it afternoon rolled around and class finished. You packed your stuff, and settled down in the locker room to have some lunch and lie down, coming down from your training.

As always your lunch break went by way too fast. You stood up, shaking your limbs and grabbing your things to go back to the now empty studio. Tom was nowhere to be found, so you warmed quickly up on your own. Your body had cooled down a bit, and you didn’t want to pull a muscle or something, so you did a few squats, jumping jacks and push ups to get moving again. You took your position at the railing in front of the mirror, practicing positions and movements, taking your sweet time. The clock ticked in the back of the room, showing 3.16pm. Where the hell was Tom?

At that moment the door swung open.

“Took you long enough,” you said in an arabesque pose.

“Sorry,” he said, getting in and throwing his duffle bag in the corner of the room.

You put your foot down, looking at him properly. You raised your eyebrows at his childish demeanor. You were already annoyed by him. “Bad day?”

He plonked down on the floor and began to put on his shoes. “I just want this day to be over.”

“Well then cheer up, do you expect me to dance with an energy as bad as yours?”

He looked at you incredulously. “Can’t I be in a bad mood? Do I have to be all sunshine and daisies all the time?” His voice rose now, making you back away a little, but you weren’t having none of that. You had an idea.

“I just said to lose the fucking attitude,” you said, getting louder now as well.

“What if i don’t want to?! God, you’re annoying!”

You took a deep breath putting force in your voice. “Then scream it out, because I don’t want to deal with this!” His hands turned into fists, his eyes lighting up a tiny little bit at the memory your words just triggered. But he was still angry. “Fuck you!”

“No, fuck YOU!”

And without a cue you two just started wordlessly screaming in the other’s face, a prolonged and agonizing scream, throwing it all out. Dancing didn’t require vocal chords, so you had no qualms absolutely shredding yours. You didn’t know if anyone else was in the building, but you didn’t care.

As you two ran out of breath your shoulders slumped, moving heavily up and down as you gasped for air. The room was awfully quiet except for your breathing. Your bodies seemed to mirror each other, more in sync than when you tried to be. Destruction seemed to be more constructive to the relationship between you two than anything else.

You swallowed, standing up straight. “Can we start now?”

Again you were on the floor, folded over in your starting position. You had decided to train without music, so you jumped a little as Tom’s hands touched your wrists, softer than usual. He lifted you up off the floor, placing his hands on your waist. This dance wasn’t particularly difficult or demanding, but for it to work you need a prince who guides Odette just enough without gripping her too tight, and an Odette who knows how much to rely on the prince and how much on herself. There were a few hang ups here and there, but you danced through the whole routine without saying anything once, enjoying the flow of your movements. The dance was still clinical, mostly about getting the order of the moves right. It ended with Tom lifting you up, and slowly lowering you down, and bringing your faces together, hinting at a kiss between you two. You still needed to work on that part.

“So,” he said as you jumped away as the dance ended. “With music this time?”

You nodded. “Maybe don’t grip me this tight when I do the pirouettes,” you said. You took a sip of water and put the bottle away. “I can basically do them on my own, just give me a quick spin and I’ll be able to do them faster.”

“Alright,” he said, getting into position. “But try to do your moves independently from me. It’ll make them look better.”

You folded over on the floor and waited for the music to start. When it started you closed your eyes for a second anticipating the touch on your wrists. Still it sent a jolt through you. “Softer,” you said as you did your pirouette, and the grip on your waist turned to a fleeting touch every few moments, accelerating your turns.

“Lean in properly,” Tom said as you leaned in his hands to the side to lift your leg. You did as told and managed to lift your leg even higher and with less effort. He lifted you by the waist, brows furrowed the slightest in concentration, turning in a circle. Your hands rested on his shoulders, eyes trained on him. You wondered if Odette really fell in love with the prince on sight.

The routine went smoother with each time you tried it, your movements dynamic and easy like a well oiled machine.

After a while you decided to call it a day, and after you awkwardly said your goodbyes, you went home. Suddenly you didn’t know how to act around him, everything you did felt clumsy and weird. You were used to being annoyed by him and just being generally mad at him. But now that you had to cooperate and put those things aside, what was left?

a.n.: this is the first chapter of maybe two or three, lmk what you think! this is the first time i post to tungle, be kind lmfao

#tom holland #tomholland #tom holland fanfiction #tom holland fanfic #tom holland one shot #tom holland smut #tom holland fandom #mcufam #tom holland x you #tom holland x fem #tom holland x reader

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dailyniallnews · 4 years

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Niall Horan: Live at The Royal Albert Hall

While some may argue that too few artists have done their bit to raise awareness for the people of the music industry who since March 2020 have been forced to stop practicing their profession, one artist who has stepped up to the plate is singer-songwriter and former One Direction star, Niall Horan. Joining forces with the crew-led organisation, We Need Crew, on 7 November 2020, the singer welcomed fans from around the globe to bear witness to a one-off performance from the eerily empty Royal Albert Hall, with all profits going to his touring family and technical entertainment charity, Backup.

In the lead up to the livestream, Horan could be found on almost every television network, promoting the show and explaining why the performance required the attention of all music lovers. In his own words: “I’m putting on this gig to raise awareness of the immense value they bring to an industry enjoyed by so many and do something to help them and their families. I ask all my fans to support them with me and buy a ticket if you can, and I encourage all artists to do the same.”

With several weeks passing since both artist and crew took over the RAH, TPi caught up with the crew behind the project and to get their thoughts on this very special event.

PRODUCTION ORIGINS…

“I remember it was a Monday morning when I got the call from Karen [Ringland] and Alice [Martin], who explained the concept of We Need Crew,” reminisced Ant Carr, Head of Production for Modest! Management. Both founders of We Need Crew explained to Carr that the goal of We Need Crew is, in association with #WeMakeEvents, to raise money for touring professionals who have fallen on hard times due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“What really appealed about their organisation was that it was created by crew, for crew,” Carr said. “Around the same time, I was having conversations with Niall, who had already seen a few peers doing livestream performances, and we discussed the idea of performing in an iconic venue to raise awareness for the plight of the industry.”

With these two conversions in mind, Carr began to pull the pieces of would become Horan’s streamed performance together, as well as a big launch for the We Need Crew campaign. Carr and the rest of the Modest! team got to work reforming his touring family, whose album cycle had been stopped prematurely in March 2020.

“We were in LA when everything began shutting down,” stated Carr, who explained how he and the rest of the crew were in their last few weeks of promo before heading into rehearsals for Horan’s world tour. “We were finishing up a week on James Corden when the announcement came that the borders were due to be shut, so we all had to head back to the UK pretty quickly.”

After several months with no work, both Carr and the rest of the crew were all enthusiastic about getting back together to put on a very special performance. “In many ways, it was like we had never been away,” explained Production Manager, Andy Colby. “There was a part of me that thought it might have been a bit strange with it being so long since we worked together, but 30 minutes into the first rehearsal at SW19, it was like we had just got off the plane from LA.”

Colby was one of many familiar faces from Horan’s touring family who got the call to help with the livestream, alongside several technical suppliers including Wigwam and midnight:lights. KB Event provided a Megacube Artic for rehearsals in SW19 along with a Tech Kit for the show, oversaw by Lead Driver, Steve Crawley. Pulse Films and promoter, Driift were brought into the fold to make the event a reality.

In total, some 127,000 tickets for the performance were sold to 151 countries. “The response we had from fans was fantastic,” enthused Carr. “The funds raised are going to be able to help a good number of touring crew and their families and we kept this in the forefront of our mind in all aspects of the show.”

Carr was also quick to complement the attitude of the man in front of the camera. “Niall was very involved in every step of the process. He really gained a full grasp of the situation and during the promotion of the show, he really wanted to educate the public, and his fanbase, about what was going on in the sector.”

SETTING THE STAGE…

A few weeks from the broadcast date, a small group visited the Royal Albert Hall to make a start on planning how the show would come together. Lighting and Show Designer, Emma Bull and Director, Paul Dugdale led the creative vision. The livestream began with Horan performing a song on the piano on the venue’s stage, before walking down to the centre of the room to play the rest of the show in 360° in the centre of the hall. A top priority for the visual team was putting both Niall and the venue in the spotlight.

Bull elaborated: “Although several dance shows utilise the centre of the room, Paul’s Dugdale’s suggestion to do this for a music act felt fresh and was a strong starting point for the design,” she noted. “Having Niall and the band in the centre gave us a few options to really show off the building and take advantage of the fact the whole space was empty.”

One of her design ideas to make use of the space was to fill the empty boxes of the hall with lights. “It really ‘shined a light’ on the fact that there was nobody in the space,” she commented.

Aiding her in both the programming and running the show was Richard White of midnight:lights. “In total, we built 114 bespoke plinths for the audience boxes,” he stated. “On these sat a combination of Robe LED Beam 150s and Robe Spiiders.” The arrangement of these fixtures and boxes created a 360° backdrop of the central stage, with fixtures focussed into the room as well as back on themselves to flood the boxes.

The other key lighting elements included three Robe BMFL Robospots for keylight, which were placed in the venue’s gallery level. “We kept most of the control of these at the console with it being a 360° shoot,” stated White. “We were then able to shift the keylight/backlight across the fixtures as the camera tracked.” Around the central stage, the lighting team deployed SGM Q2s to provide some glowing footlights, along with Litepanel Gemini Softlights for Niall’s microphone position. “From the beginning, I knew I didn’t want there to be any rigging or trussing in the shot,” explained Bull. “We didn’t want anything to distract from the key elements of the shot – Niall and venue – to produce a clean look.” This is also why the visual department moved away from the idea of a backdrop and instead showed off the immensity of the famed venue.

Aiding both Bull and White in their endeavours was Lighting Programmer, Dan Young. In the lead up to the show, both Young and White spent several days in the previs suite at midnight:lights using Syncronorm Depence² to plan the show. “I have worked with both Dan and Richard several times and they have a great understanding of my aesthetic,” praised Bull. “I like things to be quite static in terms of colour palette with refined looks.” During the show, White oversaw the key lighting with Young programming all the moves. This gave Bull the freedom to act as a go-between between both the lighting and the stage to ensure the integrity of the design for the broadcast.

“The main challenge for this show was to provide consistent lighting over the different shooting styles,” mused White. “On one hand, we needed to have soft beauty lighting for close-up shots and steadycam work, but we also needed to make sure that the stage was physically as clear as possible for all the wide room shots and overhead wire-cam.” To add a level of accuracy, most of the live show was programmed to timecode because the visual team were situated outside of the room during the shoot.

LIGHTS, CAMERA, LIVESTREAM…

Jim Parsons was brought in by Pulse Films to assume the role of Producer. “By the time I got involved, the concept had already been fairly well developed by Emma Bull and Paul Dugdale,” Parsons began. “From my side, it was a case of getting all the video and visual elements and working out some of logistics of how we’d get the event to the finish line.”

Parsons has collaborated with Horan several times over the years. “The fact he came from the TV world means he has much more of a grasp than many of his peers of what goes into this style of performance and how to connect with fans through a camera,” he enthused.

Speaking a few weeks after the event took place, Parsons reflected on what he and the team achieved with the livestream. “We always knew we had an opportunity to do something different with this show,” he commented. “The end resulted was big and beautiful, but it was still ‘live’. It had the feel of a real show and didn’t come across prescriptive or dull.”

Parsons went on to describe the collaboration between himself and Driift, having worked together several times during 2020 on shows for Kylie Minogue and Sleaford Mods. “Ric Salmon and the rest of the Driift team are the kind of broadcasters I really like collaborating with in that they just let you get on with your work,” stated Parsons plainly. “They were obviously interested in the initial conversations and in the creative, but once it was all in place, they left us to it.”

Driift CEO, Ric Salmon offered his two cents on the project. “The fact that Niall ended up selling 127,000 tickets for the event is such a huge achievement, made all the better as it was all for such an amazing cause,” he stated. Unsurprisingly, 2020 was a busy year for Driift as the company offered livestreaming solutions for several artists. “There are almost too many benefits with this format of show,” stated Salmons while discussing the progression of livestreaming solutions that have only expanded in the past few years. “As we move forward, I think you’ll find more people opting for this style of event over, say, music videos,”

Parsons described what it was like working in the RAH. “It’s a beautiful venue, but we have all seen it thousands of times and there’s no denying that making it look different is quite a challenge. So, hats have to go off to the visual team for making this livestream look so unique.”

A Luna Remote System Junior 5 Telescopic remote compact dolly on a circular track along with a Dactylcam Pro point-to-point wire camera system captured the magic of the livestream. The spanned the periphery of central stage to present virtual audiences with a 360° view.

Camera Supervisor and joint Owner of Luna Remote Systems, Dean Clish discussed what it meant to be involved in such a prestigious show. “It was an honour to be involved in Niall’s show,” he commented. “It was for such a great cause and it’s always good to be in the Royal Albert Hall – you can’t go wrong with such a beautiful location.”

He continued to discuss why the camera selection was ideal for this type of performance. “The Junior 5 and the Dactylcam Pro are perfect for this kind of shoot because of the need to socially distance and, of course, with this sort of intimate production, they are both really unobtrusive and discreet systems,” he explained. “We’ve rigged the Dactylcam in the Royal Albert Hall before. It’s a brilliant system to use in there as you can really capture the essence of the hall from a height, in flight, in a way that you can’t with static systems.”

SOUNDING OUT…

The production brought back the audio double act of FOH Engineer, Matthew Kettle and Monitor Engineer, Joe Campbell to oversee the mix for the livestream and the band on stage. Having started working with Horan on his first solo album cycle, Kettle gave an overview of his time with the artist. “I didn’t really know what to expect before I’d heard the debut record and, as I was more known for working with rock music, I wasn’t sure I’d be the right fit,” he commented. However, with Horan’s solo music citing influences including Fleetwood Mac and Bruce Springsteen, the Engineer explained how it had been a fruitful partnership over the past three years. “Niall is really quite involved with the audio production and often during rehearsals will listen to the mixes to get a feel of what is being produced.”

Having been put on a hiatus since the tour’s cancellation in March, Kettle described what it was like to pull the pieces back together for the tour. “It’s really quite a different process producing a mix for a livestream compared to a live show,” he mused. “I have always had massive respect for broadcast engineers as it is such a different craft. When you’re mixing live in a venue, if anything goes wrong, you can fix it for the next performance. However, with a broadcast, everything is under much more of a microscope and under a great deal of scrutiny. Not only that, but you only have one shot at a show.”

Kettle explained that once he and the team entered rehearsals, they soon found their rhythm. “The approach to mixing was not too dissimilar to what we had already been working on for the tour. Just like the visual department, we didn’t want the production to be too flashy, aiming to simply reflect the intimacy of the performance without too much embellishment,” he commented.

For this reason, both Kettle and Campbell virtually replicated their audio setups they had planned to use for the world tour, featuring two DiGiCo SD5 consoles for monitors and FOH, along with Shure Axient Handhelds with Sennheiser 2000 Series IEMs, d&b audiotechnik wedges and a V-Series for side fills.

The console setup was not significantly different from the touring configuration, with multiple inputs from various SD-Racks in different parts of the stage and performance areas going to the broadcast SD5, all connected by an Opticore loop and shared with Campbell’s SD5 in monitor world. “The SD5 is my favourite console in the world,” said Campbell. “I love it and, because DiGiCo products are well proven and rock solid reliable, we rarely have to include them directly in what we do.” Cambpell was initially concerned in the lead up to the show, having not touched a desk since March. “Thankfully, Wigwam had kept the desks in pristine condition – so much so that our show files were even still loaded on the desk from the tour. This saved a great deal of time in rehearsals and certainly made it easier to get back into the saddle.”

Campbell was keen to replicate the same stage setup for Niall and the band. “During the tour, although he uses IEMs, I still have a wedge and side fills just in case he wants to take out his ears to hear the crowd,” he explained. “Even though it was a livestream with no audience, I wanted the show to feel as familiar as possible for him and the band.”

Despite a relatively “meat and potatoes” band setup, Campbell had just under 100 inputs on his desk – the result of several reverb returns and an elaborate talkback system. “Each one of the band members have a talkback mic so throughout the performance they can talk to one another and me,” he noted.

Meanwhile, Kettle’s ‘FOH’ position was slightly further away, setting up in a corridor off from the main hall. “Wigwam prepared an acoustic treatment kit so I sat at the desk with several studio monitors to mix the show and then sent my audio feed to the Pulse team,” stated Kettle. “Before going into the RAH, I was concerned with how the room would react with no audience in there to dampen the sound, but from the first sound check it sounded fantastic.”

Discussing Wigwam’s involvement with the project, Tom Bush commented: “We were all extremely proud to be supplying Niall’s livestream, especially as it was addressing the We Need Crew and #WeMakeEvents funds and highlighting what goes into putting on a production with the unseen and behind-the-scenes rolls.”

Bush went on to explain the approach to this type of performance: “A slightly different thought process can be needed – the standard positions for mixing, for example. The package wasn’t too dissimilar to the one we had ready for the world tour, so we had a good starting point. A few additions and tweaks were needed to adhere to the show setup, but Matt and Joe’s attention to detail made sure the process was smooth. The need for trucks full of PA hasn’t been required yet, but soon hopefully. We currently have a few livestreams pencilled in that we’re all looking forward to.”

#WENEEDCREW…

Looking back at the slew of 2020 livestreamed performances, Niall Horan stands out among the crowd, not only for its aesthetic, but because of everything it represented – not to mention the sizeable pot of funds it raised for the live events industry.

As we enter a new year with the live events sector entrenched in the clutches of the COVID-19 pandemic, the hope is that more musicians will follow in Horan’s footsteps to shine the spotlight on hardworking crew members that are so often out of sight and mind to the average live music lover. In the meantime, more information regarding the We Need Crew initiative can be found on www.weneedcrew.co.uk

#niall horan #article #rah live stream promo #13jan21

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bright-molina · 4 years

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together

@jatp-week day two fanfiction prompt: write an au

synopsis: Your sister has been hiding more than a few things from you recently, it’s just not at all what you expect.

characters: Molina!reader (older sister, she/her pronouns), Julie, Flynn, the boys are all briefly mentioned

warnings: follows the themes of the show so there are mentions of death/dying but other than that none

a/n: I’ve been debating posting fics for Julie and the Phantoms for a week or two now and I figured I’d jump in head first for JATP week! Huge shoutout to @meangirlsx cause I know its been like a week since we talked about it but you’re a huge part of the reason I’m posting this!

Lowkey tempted to do a part two cause there’s so much I wanna explore with this reader so thoughts and feedback are very much appreciated <3

A twisting feeling you absolutely despised filled the pit of your stomach as you marched straight through the halls of your sister’s high school. It started with an offer to pick her up and go get ice cream together as you usually did when one of you was feeling down. The fact that she’d been removed from the music program was definitely deserving of pick-me-up ice cream.

Can’t. Busy. Later? She’d responded within seconds and that in itself was worthy of concern. So you’d promptly left the last half of your own school day to go and see what was wrong. It was when you were pulling up to the school that Flynn had texted you, Jules is performing???? Text you updates…

“Julie,” Your voice caught her attention almost immediately, tearing her attention away from the singing coming from the front of the gym.

“Y/N?” She frowned and met you halfway, letting you wrap her in a hug. You being there was the last thing she expected. Her first instinct had been to want to tell you all about the boys. She hadn’t been able to though, not without worrying you. Not without figuring out an explanation first.

“Why didn’t you tell me?” You could see the way her eyes widened and you let out a soft sigh. “Dad texted me about this morning and Flynn is the one who told me you were gonna give performing a shot again.”

“Oh that,” Julie relaxed upon realizing you weren’t talking about the same thing but she didn’t miss the hurt look in your eyes. The way you were pulling at the rainbow colored bracelet she’d made you years ago. The way that you didn’t look like your usual confident self and it was all her doing. “I was going to but -”

And then with the absolute worst timing possible the three ghosts she purposely hadn’t told you about flashed into the gym right behind you. Her eyes narrowed at them, not noticing the fact that you thought she was both speaking to and glaring at you. “What are you doing here?”

Julie had no clue who to focus on. A look of hurt flashed across your face, she noticed it right away, but then the boys started talking too and all she could do was look back and forth between all of you.

“Look if you don’t want to tell me that’s fine -”

“Who’s this?”

“I’m here now, though -”

“Wait the family picture!”

“So if you want I’ll stay to watch you sing.”

“That picture really doesn’t do her justice.”

“Don’t even think about it!” Julie’s glare turned impossibly harsher as she focused her glare on the boys behind you.

You, meanwhile, remained oblivious to the fact that she wasn’t talking to you. Admittedly you struggled to force the slightest smile onto your face. It was hard not to let it hurt you. The past few months had been complicated to say the least and now it seemed she was moving on without you. “Okay then, I guess. I’ll see you later.”

“No, not you!” Julie reached to stop you, pulling you so you were now on the opposite side of her as Luke, Reggie, and Alex. She ignored the rest of their comments and instead held one of your hands in hers. “I was just um, a little distracted. I’m really glad you’re here.”

You couldn’t help but relax then and give a more genuine smile, “Well I’m glad I’m here too.”

“Still up for ice cream after school?” Julie glanced behind you as the music ended but didn’t move from her place yet, still ignoring the boys telling her it was time from behind her. “I promise I’m not doing anything anymore.”

“Sure,” You laughed then nodded towards the stage at the front of the gym. “Now go blow everyone away.”

It was then that she nodded and left after giving you one more hug. Meanwhile you moved towards Flynn who immediately grinned and locked one of her arms through yours. “Thanks for telling me.”

“Of course,” She smiled before nodding encouragingly at Julie who had started playing a few notes while you gave her a thumbs up. “Hey, have you thought about moving home? I think Julie could really use you back right now.”

“Believe me I want to,” You gave a sigh and thought briefly of your own home.

After your mom had died your Tia Victoria wanted all of you to move on quickly. Literally. You had noticed right away how much just the idea of leaving the house bothered Julie, Carlos, and your dad. Eventually you’d been the one to give in and accept moving in with her for the pure reason of giving them a break from her constant lecturing.

She meant well, you knew that. And really you did have fun with her and it was nice to have the connection between you grow stronger. But there were also days where all you wanted to do was cry and be allowed to remember. You missed being home more than anything.

“I just don’t know if tia would be too -”

You didn’t get to finish your thought. Before you knew what was happening a bright flash came from the front of the room and the music that had been coming from what you’d previously assumed was the gym speakers started coming from the stage.

Three boys now stood on the stage with Julie singing alongside her as they played. They knew every single word that was coming out of her mouth. Knew the song. Knew the notes. Knew everything.

You couldn’t help yourself. Slowly you walked towards the stage, taking small steps as you tried to figure out what was going on. As hard as you tried you couldn’t shake the feeling that you had seen these people before.

It wasn’t hard to notice the fact that somebody was staring, you could feel eyes on you before you saw them. When you finally looked at the person on the far side of the stage you found the source of the feeling. It was also then that you were positive you knew them, knew him. You just weren’t sure from where.

Then the twisting feeling returned and you felt more anxious than you had been before. Julie was happy. She was singing for the first time in months and all you could think about was the fact that it wasn’t you that had been able to get her there. On that stage she looked free and you were glad, you really were. But you still couldn’t help the voice in your head that kept telling you you’d done something wrong.

You were the first person Julie searched for after the song ended, momentarily ignoring the confused whispers echoing across the room. She found you near the back of the crowd, taking slow steps back towards the door. You knew her well, she knew that, but she could read you just as easily.

She could see the anxiety quickly building inside you as you tugged on the bracelets on your wrist again, identical to the ones she wore. Your movements were a little jittery and rushed as you held up your keys and nodded towards the door. I’ll be outside, she could see you tell her before rushing out of the gym.

“I’m sorry.”

Your words broke the silence that had fallen around you and Julie just an hour later. You’d been wrapped up in your own thoughts as you drove to the ice cream place you frequented then again as you drove to an empty field that was definitely worth the thirty minute trip.

Julie frowned, turning her head so she was looking at you instead of the clouds above her. “For what?”

“I promised you I’d be there.” You hadn’t looked away from the sky just yet. “I told you I’d listen when you needed me to. Support you no matter what it was you wanted to do. After mom died I promised we’d do all of this together and instead I left you alone.”

“Y/N -”

“And now you’re singing again, Julie, and god I’m so proud of you. And those guys, your band apparently -”

“They’re not -”

“I don’t know where they came from but they did what I couldn’t and actually helped you. I don’t know, I’m just sorry for leaving in the first place. I know how hard it must’ve been and I wish I could’ve -”

“Y/N!” It wasn’t until Julie shouted, sat up, and reached over to cover your mouth with her hand that you stopped talking. You stared at her for a moment, watching as she dropped her head and let out a heavy sigh. “They’re ghosts. They live in mom's studio.”

You sat up after her and she waited patiently as you processed what it was she was saying. Eventually you gave a single nod, “I don’t believe you. You sound like Carlos.”

“I swear!” Julie sat up straighter and slammed one hand down on the grass, leaning towards you a little. “And I can prove it.”

“How do you plan on doing that?” Before you knew it, Julie was pulling you up from the floor and in the direction of where you’d parked the car. “Jules, where are we going?”

She stopped and shot around to face you, a newfound smile on her face. “To introduce you to my ghost band. Now come on.”

#jatpweek #jatp fanfiction #julie and the phantoms #julie and the phantoms fanfiction #julie and the phantoms fanfic #julie and the phantoms x reader #jatp x reader #julie and the phantoms imagine #jatp fanfic #jatp imagine #jatp #i have no idea how to tag whoops

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queenoftheworldisdead · 4 years

Text

The Cookout

Note: Inspired by art from @nix-akimbo seen here.

Summery: Your friend’s mom invites you over to neighborhood cook out.

Warning: Sex in a shed. Rough sex, cream pie, choking, spanking

Bucky x Reader

As soon as Sam's mom opened the door she lit up like a Christmas tree. You were in town and thought you should swing by, before heading back out of town.

"I feel like I haven't seen you in forever!" Mrs.Wilson squealed.

"Sorry I'm just so busy at work that I don't have time to come out to these parts often."

Mrs. Wilson released you and shouted out to her son. Moving to the side she walked you through the house where you found your childhood best bud unpacking groceries.

"Well, aren't you the domestic" you kid the goofball.

"Aye!" Sam shouted, arms out stretched, putting down the item in his hand to rush over and hug you. "What are you doing here?"

"Just swinging by. I am heading back to the city tonight."

"Oh no! Stay the night. The neighbors are putting together a big BBQ party tomorrow. I'm making ribs" she nudged you with a wink. Your stomach nearly growled from that alone. Mrs.Wilson's cooking was legendary.

Living in the city you rarely cooked for yourself. Sustaining heavily on a diet of takeout or frozen confections.

"Hmmm" you pondered playfully "What do I need to bring?"

"Nothing but your appetite" Sam chimed in.

"Well OK then, let me see if I can get my room, back and I will come round ar.."

"Girl don't make me spank you! Sam's house is big enough for you too. Sam! Go get her things out the car!" You laughed as she barked orders at her boy.

Back in the day you could not have imagine this super religious woman would ever allow you to sleep under the same roof as her boy, but times seemed to have really changed. But you slightly figured ulterior motives were at play.

The next day you arose to the sound of Marvin Gaye and smokey charcoal from the large barbecue grill outside.

After brushing your teeth, washing your face and slapping on some yoga pants and loose tee you make your way down to the kitchen.

Thankfully a pot was already percolating and of course Mrs. Wilson had set a side a plate of bacon, eggs and toast with a note addressed to you.

Walking over to the cabinet you waved to Sam and his mother, the pair arguing over something on the grill outside. The familiar sight of their banter bringing a smile to your face.

Searching the cabinets you sing to yourself as the Isley Brothers started to play.

"And who are you?" A strange voice startled you from behind.

"Oh shit!" You screeched, dropping the procaine cup in fright.

"Sorry Doll didn't mean to scare you."

His open Hawaiian shirt exposed his tattooed arms and chest. Your eyes scanned his body, your teeth dragging across your bottom lip as he stood before you.

"See something you like Doll?"

"I-i um" you stutter out.

"James!" Mrs.Wilson shouted as she came through the patio door.

"Good morning beautiful!" He smiled turning his attention away from you to her.

She embraced and hugged the stranger. Sam's mother stepped back and introduced you to him. Stretching out a hand he asked that you call him 'Bucky'.

"Nice to meet you."

"She is an old friend of Sam's, just in town for a bit." She explained to him.

"James lives next door and served with Sam, helping to protect my baby." Mrs. Wilson pinched his cheeks adorably making you giggle.

"Hey man!" Sam called from behind you. "Come around to steel our secret recipe huh?"

Bucky held his hands up in surrender, the two men chatted while Mrs. Wilson stayed back with you. You watched the exchange while picking up the pieces of the shattered cup from the floor.

Mrs. Wilson sent you on a quick errand to pick up a few bottles of Hennessy and Crown Royal. As you drove back to the neighborhood the party was already starting to kick off.

Parking in front, you unloaded the car and brought in the bottles. Fumbling with the door as you try and open it a hard body brushed up against you making you gasp.

"You scare easily don't you Doll?"

The smooth sound of Bucky's voice appeared from behind you. You scoffed at his remark. Taking one of the bags from your grasp, he opened the door and pushed past you.

Following behind you both march to the kitchen and through the back door. Placing the booze on a picnic table that was beginning to be stuffed with food and drink.

You looked around for the familiar faces of Sam or his mother, but weren't around. Presumable making their rounds to the other houses.

"You look like a lost puppy Doll." Bucky said as he poured a drink into one of the plastic cups.

"Not really a party person" You shrugged, Bucky passed you a cup and you reluctantly took it. The generous pourer didn't dink mix the hard liquor with soda so the burn was strong.

"Moved on from scaring and now trying to kill me huh?" You popped open a coke to dilute the awful drink.

"Sam never mentioned you were such a light weight." Bucky teased.

“Sam doesn’t mention a lot of things its seems.”

He was handsome and you were sure he knew it. He hovered around you, talking to neighbors that passed by. While you took out your phone a sipped your drink.

"If you are done baby sitting your drink do you think you can help me with something?" Bucky asked.

"What?"

"I need help getting the extra tables out of the shed. Can't find Sam so I figured you would do."

You ignored the way he looked you up and down. "Fine lets go."

Walking behind him to the shed, he opened the door and allowed you to walk in first. The small cramped space held a rusted muscle car that Sam had told you he was going to fix up. The old clunker surrounded by rusty tools and folded tables. Bucky squeezed past you, accidentally knocking you forward onto the hood of the car.

"Hey watch it Bucko." You scolded him as you try and push up.

"Sorry Doll" he paused finally noticing your awkward position. Pulling back from the tables he moved to squeeze behind you again.

When he pressed his cock on your ass you felt instant heat.

"Do you mind? Kinda hard for me to move with you like this." You looked over your shoulder at him.

"I can see why Sam has kept quiet about you now" rubbing his groan on you, standing up straight he didn't allow for any space.

"I think the tables are over there." changing the subject, you point and try to move, but he placed hands on either side of you not allowing you to move.

"Big city girl so up tight" he spoke into the shell of your ear. Bucky's cock felt hard as he pressed on the fat of your ass.

"You know I think they might be looking for us" you try and move again, but Bucky bumped you a harder with his hips.

"Nah they're fine" Bucky hummed as he hooked his thumbs in the waist band of your yoga pants. Your hands move to the top of his and you hesitate to pry him off. The buzz of the booze started to course through your veins. Pulling your pants down past your ass you couldn't find the strength to stop him.

Bucky pushed your shoulder forward and you found yourself on the hood of the car again. A part of you wanted to bring an end to this while the other half blamed it on the alcohol.

"Fuck Doll your already making me pre come." Bucky tapped the head of his cock on your as and growled. You could feel yourself grow wet, thinking about him putting his cock inside you.

With one hand gripping your hip, he guided his tip to your folds. Playing with your wetness, teasing you with gentle pressure at your entrance. "We should probably s-stop" you started to stutter. Thinking of how you didn't want Sam or his mom to find you like this.

Bucky only tsk'd as he pressed in to part your slick lips with his dick. The slow stretching made you moan lowly. A hard smack came across your ass making you hiss in pain.

"Don't be shy on my account Doll" he pushed his weight into your ass, leaning into your ear."I want to hear you scream."

"Mmm" you grit your teeth as you try and adjust to his size.

"So tight Doll, you fit me so good."

Standing up straight, Bucky pulled your hips back with it. Rocking his hips slowly into you, smacking your ass with each odd stroke. Your hands cup the side of the car for support as you threw it back on him. Bucky groaned watching you bounce on his cock, praising your efforts to take him deeper before taking control again.

The music of the party bled through the walls giving you the courage to moan louder as be fucked you. You didn't care that your knees hit hard against the tires of the beat up car. Or that each stroke had you gasping as he hit the inner wall of your mound. Now the idea of being caught made this event all the more exciting.

"Fuck Bucky!" You shouted as your hands move to scrub against the hood of the car.

"That's it Doll, tell me who you belong to." His cocky tone bringing out your bratty side. Looking over your shoulder, Bucky's body glistened in the dimly lit room.

When he locked eyes with you, you shake your head no. His cocky smirk returned with the build between your legs.

He gave a hard thrust and it took every thing just to choke it down. Pushing and holding himself deep inside of you, the fullness almost too much to bare. Your feet dance in place as Bucky's hand snaked up your spine, wrapping around smoothing over your breast until he rested on your neck. His grip tightened on your throat, forcing your back into an uncomfortable angle. Your hands barely able to touch the hood of the car.

"Fuck shit!" You choked out.

"That's not my name Doll" he growled as he made his grip tighter around your neck. His hips slammed into yours with a punishing pace.

"Ahh shit fuck" you moan out as you feel your mound start to throb.

"Still not my name. Say it!" He commanded.

You couldn't take it, you felt so full. Your pussy stuffed with his dick, your eyes start to roll as he grunted your name.

"Bucky! Bucky! Shit!" You mewled out as your cunt worked his dick while you cum.

His victorious chuckles mixed with a primal moan. His pace steady as a warmness filled you, leaking out past him and down your thigh. Bucky's cock twitched as he emptied himself inside of you.

"Shit! Did you cum in me!" you exclaim as he slowly pulled out. His seed dripping slowly down your leg, turning to face him, he only gave a shrug and a smile. Pulling up your pants you fume at his irresponsibility and your own stupidity.

#Bucky x Reader #bucky x black!reader #black writer #didn't proof read this enough #will cringe about it later #lazy writing

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mccoymccoymccoy · 4 years

Text

Wesley - Fair

A/N: ain’t it convenient that y’never have to wait in a line??

Word count: 2827

“What should we do first?”

The scenery around you was too incredible a sight to respond to your boyfriend’s question. While passing through, the Enterprise had been hailed and invited to come to relax for a bit- there was a fair happening this weekend, they said! The inhabitants were an incredibly peaceful people, but curious, and only wished in return to meet and learn from some of the senior officers. The captain was apprehensive at first, of course, but commander Riker and Wesley had been able to get through to him after organizing a few fully in-depth scans and reports of the planet that proved no ill-intent.

Your mouth was slightly agape at all the colours and attractions surrounding you. There were countless rides- You weren’t sure what most of them were, but they looked absolutely thrilling. Twinkling lights in the evening light, music blaring, people milling around enjoying themselves, the smell of sweet treats drifting towards you… It was all so much to take in. And since the people wanted to speak with the senior officers for a bit before they got a chance to join, you and Wesley had a while to hang out on your own without worrying about his mom coming to check on you.

“Earth to Y/N, you there?” He tapped your shoulder. You turned to the side to face him, and as soon as his eyes met yours he mirrored your grin. It was infectious- there wasn’t anything like this to be excited about on the Enterprise! There was the holodeck, of course, but knowing it’s the real thing brought on a different feeling. “Yeah, I’m here! We’re here! We’re here!” The excitement was practically oozing out of you, it was hard to keep your eyes on Wesley. He giggled and took your hand, which you promptly used to lead him into the mess rather than the other way around. With Wesley being dragged in tow, you marched straight over to a chain of large booths decorated with plush toys to be won. A large Cardassian man stood behind the counter of the first one with an impossibly wide grin.

“Welcome! Know how to play?” He asked, gathering darts to give to you. There were balloons behind him, so you assumed the goal was to hit them, but you shook your head anyway. Wesley stood next to you and leaned on the counter while the man explained. “Red balloons are worth one point, yellow are worth three and blue are worth five. You get five darts,” he paused to hand the darts to you, “and the goal is to get fifteen points. Ready?” You nodded, smiling, then turned to Wesley. “Wanna split?” You held three darts out to him.

“Hard to split an odd number. I’ll go after you, okay?” He curled your fingers over the darts and pushed your hand back. You nodded, then turned back and focused on the balloons. Three blue ones would be most efficient, but you weren’t entirely confident in your skills, and there was far fewer blue than yellow and red. Despite that, it was still the most logical choice to go with. Wesley stepped closer and set a hand on your shoulder as you took a deep breath and aimed for your first blue balloon. Like a rubber band snapping, you shot the dart forward, only to have it hit a yellow one that was nowhere near where you had aimed. “Aw, man!”

“Hey, not bad!” The man offered. You wanted to win, not be patronised! Aiming again, Wesley squeezed your shoulder reassuringly. The next dart hit blue, at which both you and Wesley cheered. Your third and fourth hit yellow, which meant if your last dart hit blue, you’d have just enough points to pick one of the hundreds of plushies surrounding you. “You got this,” Wesley encouraged, by now having his other hand on your back and feeling just as excitedly anxious about your last shot as you. You lined up, aimed straight ahead for the blue balloon that taunted you at the start, and shot… and hit red. A large sigh shook through you, and it truly felt like the world was crumbling! “You did great, for what it’s worth!” Wesley cheered after pressing a sympathetic kiss to your cheek.

“Sorry, kid. Wanna try again?” You shook your head, wrapping an arm around Wesley’s waist for a moment before slipping away behind him. “Your turn,” you said, smiling again. You knew he could do it. And… he did, of course. Not only did he do it, but four of his darts hit blue, amassing a total of 21 points. Naturally. You had to try very hard not to feel insignificant next to him most of the time, but now wasn’t one. You were simply too excited to be here to worry about that. You both cheered at the last balloon, and the man behind the counter laughed before asking: “All right little man, what can I get ‘ya?”

As you giggled at ‘little man,’ a grinning Wesley turned to face you. “Which one do you want?” You smiled, but sighed. “Wes, if I recall correctly- and I’m sure I do because it was just ten seconds ago- you scored the points, not me. What do you want?” He thought for a moment before his eyes lit up like the stars, however, he continued as seriously as he could. “I want whatever you want.” You shook your head and sighed, but smiled a little bit as you vaguely gestured towards the one you had your eyes on. “The big orange tribble?” He prompted, knowing fully well that that wasn’t what you meant. Wesley Crusher? Teasing you? You shook your head exasperatedly. “The rabbit, please?”

He grinned at you and nodded to the man behind the counter, who promptly grabbed the plush rabbit and set it down in front of you. It was a soft and velvety peach colour, with a big white bow around its neck and little white hearts on its paws. You took it, hugged it close, and waved goodbye to the man as Wesley took your hand and started to guide you away from the stall.

“Thanks, Wes,” you said quietly, kissing his cheek quickly as you walked. He smiled at you in return and replied: “No problem. Are you gonna name it?” You hadn’t thought about that yet, and turned your head back to the view around you to consider before looking back at him. “Dunno. You got any suggestions?” He shook his head and looked out ahead.

You walked in comfortable silence for a few moments before stopping in front of a large, colourful, and oddly shaped building. You leaned forward and read the sign on the gate out loud. “Funhouse?” The man standing next to it- this one seemingly human- grinned down at the two of you. “Y’never heard of a funhouse before?” Both of you shook your head this time, wondering what it could mean. Wesley looked at you. “Should we try it?” You nodded, beaming once again and adjusting your hold on the rabbit plush. The man opened the gate, after which the two of you walked through and into the strange structure.

Upon entry, there was an even more colourful room with two hallways to choose between. You chose left, and through that found a room full of warped mirrors. “Y/N, look! You’re taller than me!” Side by side, you were both in front of two different mirrors- his squashed him down to a third of his height, and yours stretched you almost to the ceiling. He laughed, wrapping his arms around your waist and spinning you around- you looked so funny from all the different angles! Regretfully shoving him off, which earned an adorable whine, you prompted him to continue through the house. “C’mon, c’mon! We gotta go check out the other hall!”

Through the other hall was a set of stairs that were each a different height, and on the floor above was a room filled with poles reaching from the floor to the ceiling. You had to weave your way through them to get through to the next room, where you found just a balcony that overlooked the attraction and a ladder not unlike the stairs. While you started to climb the ladder, which was quite difficult to do while holding on to the rabbit, Wesley walked over to the balcony and stood for a moment. “Coming, Wes?”

“Isn’t it pretty?” He looked completely lost in the view. Hopping off the ladder, you stepped over to join him. It was absolutely gorgeous- You could see everything the fair had to offer. You didn’t think you could get sick of it, but you did want to finish this little attraction. “Positively stunning,” you quipped, mocking him though you agreed. “I wish I could see it from higher,” he sighed. Your heart skipped a beat at the thought of going any higher than the next floor. “Higher? Are you crazy?” He smiled at you with furrowed brows and kissed your cheek quickly before slipping away to climb the ladder.

You made your way up as well to find one long room with conveyor belts crossed along the floor and tubes hanging from the ceiling, once again having to navigate through them, only this time with a floor throwing you left and right with each step. Wesley took your hand, and you hopped along behind him, giggling when a tube he pushed out of the way hit you in return.

At the end, there was a slide. Wesley stood aside and gestured for you to get in first, then sitting behind you and wrapping his arms around your waist. Yours were around the rabbit, but you shifted one to put a hand over his. “Guess it was more interesting on the outside, huh?” It was more of a statement than a question. “Yeah,” he responded in a small laugh. “Ready?”

You hummed happily in response, and he pushed the two of you down. It seemed like a startlingly long slide- it curled around more times than you cared to count, which was probably why. When you got to the end and stood up, you promptly stumbled forward, and probably would have hit the ground had Wesley not grabbed you and pulled you into his chest. You smiled and enjoyed just being close for a moment before he turned you around and started dragging you forward again.

“Aw, what’s the rush? No hugs for poor ol’ me?” He turned his head to offer a smile for your whining, and you couldn’t help but return it. “Don’t worry. I’ve got a good ride in mind for next, and we’ll be plenty close there.” What was he planning? You passed a food stall that put a little growl in your stomach. Hopefully, whatever it was, you could eat after…

“Here!” You looked up ahead of you to see the one thing you had hoped not to encounter tonight: the Ferris wheel. Your stomach did a somersault, and suddenly, you weren’t quite so hungry. “Wesley, I’m sorry, I really don’t think that’s a great idea.”

“Come on, it’ll be fun! We’ll be able to see everything from up there,” he insisted.

“Wes, please, I-” He pouted, and it was like he cast a spell, because you couldn’t continue saying no when you looked into his eyes. You sighed, pinching your forehead and looking down to your dearest ground. “Fine, fine. Don’t you dare let go of me though, or I swear when we get back down here I’ll just cry on you.”

“Of course!” He grinned and kissed your cheek before tugging you into the car at the bottom of the wheel. A ball of anxiety started growing in your stomach, and you tried your best to ignore it as the lady running the ride locked a bar over your laps. “It’s totally safe, see?” You nodded, tucking the rabbit into the space between your lap and the bar. You looked at him, and he had to try hard to hold back his laughter- your face had gone pale from the fear, and you looked like you would either throw up or punch him at any given moment. “Hand. Now.” Wesley picked up your hand immediately and you scooched closer to be right next to him. “It’ll be nice,” he whispered, wrapping his other arm around you. You had to admit, he did a good job of making sure you felt safe.

The ride started to move and you breathed in sharply. Wesley giggled and rubbed his hand up and down your arm as the ground got further and further away from you. The wheel spun painfully slowly until it stopped about halfway, halting suddenly- the car swayed gently, not doing anything to ease your fears. You snuggled into Wesley’s side and heard him sigh gently. “Y’know how cute you are?”

“Shut up.” You never meant to snap at him, but this was truly pushing your buttons! He chuckled and kissed the top of your head. His next words were softer than you’d heard from him in a while, inviting you to look out at the ground instead of staying curled into his shoulder. You did so, turning your head and peeking with one eye at the sight in front of you. It wasn’t too much yet- you were only about twenty five feet above the ground, what you imagined the third floor of the funhouse must have been. You lifted your head entirely and looked around.

It was fully dark out now, making the contrast between the lights and the sky even prettier than earlier, but otherwise the same. People were still running around, kids were on rides, it still smelled marvellous- just up high, which wasn't necessary to you to enjoy it. “See, if this was the top, this would be fine! Great, even!” As if your fearful words had prompted it, the wheel began to move again, causing you to withdraw into Wesley’s shoulder again.

The seconds seemed to last a lot longer while waiting for it to reach the dreaded top. But it did, and you did not move an inch. Wesley shook your shoulder gently, giggling at your clinginess. “How do you manage living in space, hanging in an infinite void, but you’re afraid of heights?” You looked up at him, blushing with frustration. He did have a point.

“It’s different! In space, you’re not stuck in an open seat fifty feet above the ground!” You gestured around you, and he smiled.

“I mean, there is always a small possibility of losing control and crashing into a planet.”

“Shut up, Wesley! Just hold me.”

“Could I do you one better?”

Before you could ask what he meant, he was kissing you. It wasn’t the first time you’d really kissed, instead of just little forehead or cheek pecks, but it sure felt different. He pulled away too quickly, though, at which you pouted. “Ah, was that- was that okay? I should’ve let you answer first, I’m sorry, I just thought it would be romantic to take you up here, and-”

You cut him off with a kiss of your own, squeezing his hand tightly and bringing your other one over to cup his cheek. He smiled against your lips and broke away for a moment. “See? Not so bad up here,” He cooed, moving his own free hand to mimic yours and brushing his thumb over your cheek. You blushed, knowing fully well you were still paralyzed by fear. “Not so bad no. I’d still rather kiss you on the ground, though.” Wesley smiled at you. “Is that a promise?” Cheeky boy! You leaned into his side again, taking his free hand into yours. “Sure,” you started, smiling at the thought. “It can be.”

For as slowly as the seconds seemed to move before, they seemed to slip between your fingers now- the ride started moving backward, rolling you down to the last quarter mark. There was a comfortable, content silence. If you tried to categorize it, you’d call it light and fluffy, maybe. Wesley was absentmindedly brushing his thumb over your hand, and you started to match your breathing to his to ease the anxiety that was still sitting in your stomach. Before you knew it, though, it was moving down again, and when it stopped at the ground, a wave of relief rushed through you.

“See? We lived!” You giggled and punched him playfully in the chest, but thought for a moment. You swallowed hard, knowing what you were about to say was likely to make you feel even worse.

“Should we go up again? We didn’t really get to see the view like you wanted.”

Wesley beamed at that. He nodded, tightening his arm around you and kissing your temple. The car started moving again, and this time, it didn’t seem so scary.

#star trek #star trek x reader #star trek imagine #wesley crusher #wesley crusher x reader #wesley crusher imagine

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itsivyberry · 4 years

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tri-wizard champion {5}

The Maze

Draco Malfoy x Hufflepuff!Reader

a/n: my Christmas gift to you because 2020 has sucked ass and I want to finish this series before it’s over❤️ enjoy also READ THE MF TRIGGER WARNINGS THEY ARE REALLT IMPORTANT THIS TIME

word count: 4590

warnings: major character death, lots of blood, anxiousness, mentions of vomiting, sad sad stuff dude, also literally loss of a limb (there’s a warning before it begins, please don’t read if you can’t stomach it)

summary: the truth about the Y/L/N’s is to be revealed soon when Y/N is facing the dangers within the maze of the third task.

tag list: @drawlfoy @fanficflaneuse @ccelinewritess @accio-rogers @babyhoneystvles @nekee-lilac02 @dracofeltonmalfoy

masterlist

{ 1 } { 2 } { 3 } { 3.5 } { 4 } { 5 } { 6 }

gif credit: @harrysweasleys

The final task approached rapidly.

News about the sudden death of Barty Crouch spread throughout the student body quickly.

Y/N was growing anxious, more than she ever was for any other task. The spots from the grindylows had faded to a lighter color, similar to the two gashes on her back.

But now here she was, waking through a doorway to face the entire Hogwarts student body along with families and the Beauxbatons and Durmstrang students clad in a black and yellow outfit to represent Hufflepuff.

The three Hogwarts champions stood by their entrance to the maze. Cheers could be heard from every angle at which they stood, a lively march being played by the band.

Many students had homemade banners with the champions’ last names written all over. Y/N smiled at the sight of Draco holding a large banner with a silly drawing of her and Y/L/N written in big, bold, sparkly letters. She gave him a funny face and a thumbs up, and he blew a kiss right back mouthing “good luck.”

“Sonorus!” Dumbledore casted the amplifying charm, and the sounds of cheers and music died out. Students clambered to sit down, eager to hear about the task.

“Earlier today, Professor Moody placed the Triwizard Cup deep within the maze. Only he knows it’s exact position. Now, as Mr. Diggory...” cheers erupted at the sound of Cedric’s name, and Amos held his son’s hand high in recognition, “...Miss Y/L/N and Mr. Potter...” cheers grew louder and students stood, yelling for Harry and Y/N, including Ron, Hermione, and Draco, “...are tied for first position, they will be the first to enter the maze, followed by Mr. Krum...” more cheers, “...and Miss Delacour.”

“The first person to touch the cup will be the winner. I’ve instructed the staff to patrol the perimeter. Should, at any point, a contestant wish to withdrawal from the task, he or she need only send up red sparks with their wands. Contestants! Gather around. Quickly!”

Y/N rushed up, following Cedric to where Dumbledore stood. Her heart was pounding.

The five champions huddled up, and Dumbledore placed his arms around Y/N’s and Krum’s shoulders.

“In the maze, you’ll find no dragons or creatures of the deep. Instead you’ll face something even more challenging. You see, people change in the maze. Oh, find the cup if you can. But be very wary. You could just lose yourselves along the way.” The ominous undertone to his voice gave Y/N goosebumps.

Draco watched intently, trying to listen to what Dumbledore was saying to the five teens, but had no luck. His heart was pounding just as hard as Y/N’s was.

“Champions, prepare yourselves!” Dumbledore instructed, and the crowd cheered again.

Without thinking, Y/N turned around and bolted to the stands, stopping right in front of where Draco was.

“Wish me luck!” She said, jumping up to wrap her around a around his neck and pulled him close. He sat up to lean over the railing blocking the two of them, hugging her so tightly. “Awes” and “oohs” circled around the two of them.

“Good luck.” Draco whispered in Y/N’s ear, pulling back just enough to press his lips on hers in a rushed and anxious kiss.

She pulled away quickly, touching her feet to the ground and smiling warmly at him, before rushing back to her designated entrance to the maze, unknowing of what she should find inside.

Y/N looked into it, her heart hammering. It was too foggy to see any clearer than maybe 6 feet in front of her, and the hedges were impossibly tall.

Her thoughts began to bite at her. What if I don’t make it through in time? What if something in there kills me? What if I get lost and nobody can see the red sparks?

She wished she had the support of a representative like the other champions did. Y/N looked over to see Amos giving Cedric a tight hug, whispering something in his ear.

Just as quickly as he had hugged his son, he made his way over to the young girl and gave her a big hug too. “You’ll do amazing, Y/N. I wish both you and Cedric the best of luck.” He said into her ear.

“Thank you, Amos.” She smiled at him, allowing him to step back over to his son.

Cedric smiled at her, but it was wobbly. He could tell she was just as nervous as he was, and tried his best to comfort her with the distance between them.

“On the count of three. One-“ Dumbledore’s voice was cut off by the canon exploding early. Y/N couldn’t breathe as she watched Harry take the first step into the maze. Cedric followed right after, and the lively music from before flooded through the small arena.

The second Y/N stepped at least two feet into the maze, the entrance sealed off. It was deafening, how silent it had suddenly become.

Draco watched closely, as his girlfriend was suddenly separated from the eyes of the spectators. He knew her parents were watching somewhere in the crowd, feeling just as nervous as he was.

The only thing Y/N could hear was her own staggered breathing and the snaps of twigs beneath her feet. The passage was narrow, and she kept her want tightly in her hand.

The maze seemed to change every passing second, passages forming quickly. She was running now, trying to make sure she wouldn’t get crushed.

The first scream caught Y/N’s attention. It was loud, and bone chilling, and echoed throughout the entire maze. She was so sure the other champions must’ve heard it.

She was frozen. The scream must’ve come from Fleur, she had decided, and was silently praying the girl wasn’t hurt.

It was when an explosion over head, red sparks from only a passage over, had broken Y/N from her trance.

From outside the maze, everyone was silent at the first sight of surrender. Draco was repeating a mantra in his head.

Don’t be Y/N. Don’t be Y/N. Don’t be Y/N. Don’t be Y/N. Don’t be Y/N. Don’t be Y/N. Don’t be Y/N.

A glimmer caught her eye. She had barely moved from the entrance, not nearly putting in as much effort as she thought she would.

Y/N walked slowly towards it, whipping around and keeping her eyes open for any threat. A twig cracked behind her, and she screamed when something tackled her to the ground.

Draco heard the second scream. He knew it was Y/N after Fleur was removed from the maze. It took all of his control not to jump from the stands and force his way into the maze to find her himself.

“Y/N? Oh, Merlin I’m so sorry!” Cedric pulled himself off of her. “I thought you were Krum! He’s gone insane!” He helped her up.

Y/N’s eyes were blown wide and her breath was short. “You- you scared me! Don’t do that!”

Cedric must’ve seen the glimmer too, a glowing object in the distance.

“Together?” He asked her, not taking his eyes off the prize.

“Together.” She spokes quietly, taking the first step towards the cup.

Indistinct shouting not very far from the two Hufflepuffs made both of them jump. Krum, who’s eyes seemed to be incredibly cloudy from what Y/N remembered they actually looked like, was shooting hexes at Harry.

Harry’s defenses were down. “Get down!” Cedric yelled, jumping in front of Y/N and dodging the hex that had missed Harry. Y/N shrunk into the hedge to the left of her, covering her face with her hands.

“Get down!” Cedric yelled once more, Krum yelling another indistinguishable hex at Harry who was now on the ground.

“Expelliarmus!” Y/N gained the courage to jump up, hitting Krum square in the chest. He was thrown further away from the three of them, and seemingly unconscious.

Cedric ran over to him, kicking his wand from his hand. Y/N and Harry both realized he was about to cast another spell on him, Godric knows which one.

“No! Stop!” Harry yelled, holding him back. “He’s bewitched, Cedric!”

“Get off me!” He shoved Harry harshly.

“He’s bewitched!” Harry repeated.

“Cedric! Stop! Listen to him!” Y/N yelled, holding him back as well. Cedric shoved her to the ground so hard, her wrist snapped in half from the angle at which she hit the hard dirt. She cried out and it echoed, using her elbow to sit up and her feet to push away from the two boys. She had already caught a look at the ungodly angle her hand was suddenly bent at, and it made her want to vomit.

Cedric realized what he had done at the sound of his best friend’s scream. He was about to hold his wand up to send sparks for both Y/N and Krum, but Y/N jumped up before he could.

“Stop! We’ve already made it too far.” Her voice trembled. She was shaking violently, keeping distance between her and the two boys.

It was silent for a moment, the deafening sound taking over between the three teenagers just as when they first entered the maze.

“Together?” Cedric asked quietly, repeating what he said earlier, and looking at both of them.

“Together.” Harry and Y/N said at the same time.

Just as Y/N took a step towards them, a violent gust of wind hit her back and loud cracking echoed.

“Go!” Cedric yelled, grabbing Y/N’s good hand and running towards the cup. Harry ran after them, as quick as he could.

They made it to the center of the maze, and there stood the magnificent Triwizard Cup.

“Go on! Take it!” Cedric yelled.

“Together!” Harry yelled back, looking at Y/N who still had tears streaming down her face.

“One, two, three!” The three students jumped forward in the nick of time, grabbing ahold of the cup. A bright white light filled Y/N’s vision, and she was suddenly dizzy.

The three of them dropped onto the ground. She could sense their location had changed before she opened her eyes.

Harry and Cedric were on the ground near each other, gasping for breath. Y/N was thrown on the ground along with the cup, just a few feet away from them. The shock was beginning to wear off, and the pain was almost unbearable in her wrist.

“Come on, Y/N. Get up.” Cedric spoke quietly, the stillness of their new location scaring him. “You okay?” He asked both of them.

“Yeah.” Harry stood, looking around. Y/N allowed Cedric to help her stand, and she could finally see where they were. He held her broken wrist loosely in his hand, putting a protective arm around her shoulder.

A graveyard. The cup was a portkey. The sky was dark and cloudy, fog covering the rolling hills. Y’all tombstones towered over the three of them.

“Where are we?” She whispered.

“I’ve been here before.” Harry spoke suddenly.

“It’s a portkey. Harry, the cup is a portkey.” Cedric smiled mischievously down at the glowing cup.

“I’ve been here before.” Harry repeated. “In a dream.”

“Cedric! We have to get back to the cup. Now!” Harry’s voice was filled with fear and realization.

“Harry, what’s wrong?” Y/N asked, her eyes filling with tears again, thinking the worst that could possibly happen. Were they set up?

“What are you talking about?” Cedric pulled Y/N closer, trying to keep her safe from whatever Harry had realized.

A door creaked open loudly in front of them. It made Y/N jump, and the first tear rolled down her cheek.

Harry began shouting when a figure walked from the doorway. A scruffy man turned as he collapsed on the ground, and a fire was lit from under a large cauldron in front of the doorway. Cedric released Y/N from his hold, rushing over to Harry.

“Harry! What is it?” He spoke, his voice cracking from fear.

“Get back to the cup!” Harry yelled out of pain again, sounding rather irritated.

Cedric put distance between him and Harry as the figure stepped out from the doorway. Y/N immediately recognized him as Peter Pettigrew, a good friend of her parents before he betrayed them all for Voldemort. Her eyes were wide when she realized what he was holding in his arms.

“Who are you? What do you want?” Cedric spoke, holding his wand up as a threat.

“Cedric, back down now!” Y/N yelled pulling his shoulder back. He shrugged her off.

“Kill the spare. Keep the girl alive.” A raspy voice spoke.

“Avada Kedavra!”

“No! Cedric!” Harry yelled, attempting to stand but was too late.

A bright green light temporarily blinded her. She watched the unforgivable curse hit Cedric and throw him over her head and behind her. The second his corpse hit the ground, a loud sob escaped her mouth.

Peter rushed over to Harry, using his wand to force him to stand. He backed him up into a statue that locked him in place.

“Do it! Now!” The raspy voice spoke again.

Peter hesitated for a moment. He walked over to the cauldron, keeping a hold of the blanket in his hands but dropped whatever was holding it into the boiling substance.

“Bone of the father unwillingly given.” A disgusting bone was levitated from the ground, caught on fire and into the cauldron.

Y/N’s breathing was too short when the realization of a dead body behind her set in.

“Flesh of the servant...” he turned suddenly, rushing to Y/N and forcing her towards the cauldron.

“Stop! What are you doing to me!” She yelled, trying to release herself from his grip, but it was too strong.

“Willingly sacrificed.” A large knife was pulled from his sleeve. He forced her broken wrist above the steaming substance as she thrashed against him.

********THIS PART IS GROSS PLEASE PLEASE DONT READ IF YOU CANNOT HANDLE REALLY GORY STUFF!!!!!!!!!!! ‼️‼️‼️‼️

With no hesitation, he dug the sharp knife into her wrist, cutting through the bone and severing her hand into the liquid below. She screamed, louder than she ever thought she could. Blood spurt from her hand, staining the grass by her feet. Peter threw her on the ground, away from him and Harry.

She made quick work, ripping part of her shirt to wrap around her wrist, trying not to pass out from the loss of blood and the sight of her bone. Y/N had been taught what to do in this situation, just not to herself. She could barely even register what was happening as her fight or flight took over.

“And blood of the enemy...” he used the same knife to cut part of Harry’s sleeve. “Forcibly taken.” Peter dug the knife into his wrist, blood rushing down Harry’s arm and dripping from his elbow. He cried in pain, and it made Y/N wince.

Peter tapped the hilt of the knife over the cauldron, letting a few dropped of Harry’s blood sizzle into the liquid.

“The Dark Lord shall rise... again.” He spoke, breathing loudly.

Harry’s screams broke Y/N from her daze due to the blood loss. The entire cauldron caught on fire, melting away to reveal none other than the slimey, naked, disgusting body of Lord Voldemort.

Black smoke surrounded him before his pale feet touched the ground, forming into a cloak of some sort.

Y/N could hear him inhale deeply, running his hands along the pale, veiny skin on his head. She could tell this was the first time in a while he had taken his human form.

Peter stepped forward, his face full of awe and adoration.

Voldemort walked forward to Peter, looking down and laughing quietly but maniacally and the form he had taken.

“My wand, Wormtail.” Voldemort spoke harshly toward his follower, holding out his hand. Peter brandished the wand, bowing deeply and holding it out to Voldemort.

“Y/N, hey, look at me! You’re going to be okay. We are going to make it out of this. Stay close to the portkey.” Harry whispered, turning his head to see Y/N in her awful state. She looked petrified, seemingly wishing this was some sort of nightmare.

They watched as Voldemort took the wand from Peter, inhaling deeply.

“Hold out your arm.” He commanded Peter.

“Master...” Peter started to cry. “Thank you, master.” He began to hold out one of his arms.

“The other arm, Wormtail.” Voldemort spat. Peter’s eyes went wide as he held his other arm, allowing Voldemort to take a grip on it.

He shoved the tip of his wand onto the bare skin of Peter’s wrist, and the dull ink that once was there grew darker, revealing the Dark Mark in its true form.

Thunder rumbled throughout the graveyard. Y/N jumped, trying to stay as quiet as she could.

Voldemort looked up into the clouds. Y/N followed his gaze, and right before her eyes a dark skull formed. The skull opened its mouth, and a thick trail of smoke bellowed out of it, heading right towards where they were. The smoke broke off into different paths, becoming darker.

The second the smoke touched the ground, a person appeared. There were too many for her to count. Dressed in dark cloaks, skull masks and pointing hats, she couldn’t identify any of them.

“Welcome, my friends. Thirteen years, it’s been, and yet... here you stand before me as though it were only yesterday. I confess myself... disappointed.” Voldemort spat again, his voice echoing through the graveyard.

“Not one of you tried to find me. Crabbe!” Voldemort yelled, rushing up to one of the figures and ripping the skull mask off. Dark smoke followed.

With just a flick of his hand, Voldemort was now revealing the figures.

“Macnair! Goyle!” Y/N recognized the names. Crabbe and Goyle, two of Draco’s closest minions. She was silently praying there wasn’t a Malfoy among them.

“Not even you, Lucius.” Voldemort walked up to the last standing figure, ripping of the mask. A crow flew away violently from behind them.

Y/N was trying to stop the bleed of her wrist, but it soaked through the fabric she had wrapped on it. She was fighting off the black spots of her vision.

“My lord,” Lucius was brought to his knees. “Had I detected any sign, a whisper of your whereabouts-“

“There were signs, my slippery friend. And more than whispers.” Voldemort interrupted him.

“I assure you, my Lord, I have never renounced the old ways.” Lucius removed the hat from his head, revealing a familiar platinum blonde. Y/N let out an involuntary sob as she realized, but soon quieted down.

“The face I have been obliged to present each day since your... absence... that is my true mask.” Lucius continued as the other Deatheaters around them stood.

“I returned.” Peter spoke shakily, raising a hand for recognition. He gasped and doubled over when Voldemort rushed over to him, the cloak bellowing behind him.

“Out of fear, not loyalty. Still, you have proved yourself useful these past few months, Wormtail.” Voldemort’s voice softened just the slightest bit.

Y/N didn’t have time to realize when he was walking over to where she sat on the ground, over by Cedric’s body.

“Oh...” he spoke, pushing his face around with his foot. Y/N winced as he tutted loudly. “Such a handsome boy.”

“Don’t touch him!” Harry yelled, shrinking back when Y/N flinched and Voldemort glared at him.

“And who might this be, Wormtail? I see you used her for the spell.” Voldemort sneered, looking down at Y/N.

“Y/N Y/L/N, my Lord.” Wormtail spoke up. From behind Voldemort, Y/N saw Lucius whip around with an unrecognizable look on his face.

“Y/L/N?” Voldemort repeated, and Peter nodded. “Stand, girl, now.” He demanded.

Y/N stood slowly and shakily, keeping her composure in front of the Dark Lord himself.

Voldemort’s hand whipped out to grab her wrist, taking a look at the damage that was done. She inhaled sharply, letting out another sob from the grip he had.

“Well done. You have served me well, Y/N.” Voldemort said, dropping his grip and letting her arm fall limp. She kept a hard face despite the tears running down her cheeks.

Her eyes flickered to Harry. He had an expression that said “back down.” Voldemort followed her line of sight to look at the boy he hated so very much.

“Harry. Oh, I’d almost forgotten you were here. Standing on the bones of my father. I’d introduce you, but word has it you’re almost as famous as me these days.” Voldemort paused, maintaining eye contact for a second more.

He turned suddenly to his followers. “The boy who lived. How lies have fed your legend, Harry. Shall I reveal what really happened that night 13 years ago?”

“Shall I divulge how I truly lost my powers? Yes, shall I?” Hs muttered to himself, walking away from Harry.

“It was love. You see, when dear, sweet Lily Potter gave her life for her only son, she provided the ultimate protection. I could not touch him. It was old magic. Something I should have foreseen. But no matter, no matter. Things have changed.” Voldemort ended his monologue, rushing up to Harry and raising a hand as if to strike him.

“I can touch you... now.” He brought his pointer finger to touch Harry’s scar.

The screams that filled Y/N’s ears were agonizing. She shrunk into herself, wincing away from the noises. When Voldemort screamed along with Harry, ripping his hand away from his face, the screams stopped.

“Astonishing what a few drops of your blood with do, eh, Harry? Pick up your wand, Potter!” Voldemort released the statues grip on Harry, letting him drop to the ground.

“I said, pick it up! Get up! Get up! You’ve been taught how to duel, I presume, yes? First, we bow to each other. Come on, now, Harry. The niceties must be observed. Dumbledore wouldn’t want you to forget your manners, would he? I said, bow.” He was speaking so quickly, almost going crazy at the thought of fighting Harry once and for all. With a wave of his wand, Harry was forced into a bow.

“That’s better. And now!” Voldemort growled, running towards Harry and throwing him onto the ground. Y/N watched, using her feet to shove her back farther from the scene. When she hit something, she turned around quickly to see Cedric.

“No, no, no, no.” She kept repeating, grabbing his face in her hands. It was as though she finally realized what had happened. She had lost her best friend. Sobs were heard from where she sat on the ground. Her tears dripped down her chin and onto Cedric’s cold face as the dual behind her continued. She winced at every hex that was sent to either of them.

“I’m so sorry, Ced. Please. Please.” She begged him, grasping at his shirt, still sobbing violently.

Y/N never took her eyes off of Cedric, even when Voldemort and Harry cast such strong spells that they collided, created a blinding light from behind her. It was went Harry’s Expelliarmus spell finally hit the tip of Voldemort’s wand when she turned around to see an abonormallt large spark erupt.

It took the form of Cedric, alive and smiling at the two of them. Another old man, presumably a muggle, took place on the other side of them. Two more sparks formed to be a woman and a man. The man was speaking quickly to Harry.

“Harry! When the connection is broken you must get to the portkey! We can linger for a moment to give you some time, but only a moment. Do you understand?” Harry nodded.

“Harry, Y/N,” Cedric spoke from above. Y/N’s tears began to start again at the sound of his voice. “Take my body back, will you? Take my body back to my father.”

“Let go.” The woman’s voice was heard. “Sweetheart, you’re ready. Let go. Let go!” All four spirits rushed forward when the connection was broken.

Harry ran quickly over to Y/N and Cedric.

“Hold onto him! Accio!” Harry pointed his wand at the portkey, grabbing Y/N’s hand as she wrapped her arm around Cedric’s. The portkey took them right back to the arena.

The three of them landed hard on the ground. Cedric’s body was sprawled, and cheering erupted. The lively music started once more, nobody noticing what had happened. Harry was crying now.

“Harry, let go of him. Let go of him!” Y/N sat up, pulling Harry off of Cedric’s body.

He knocked her off, the exhaustion finally hitting her as she collapsed on the ground. Fleur rushed forward, and Y/N had never been so glad to see her.

She screamed loudly, looking around and covering her mouth with her hands in terror.

“Harry!” Dumbledore yelled, rushing from his spot in the stands. Hagrid hesitated to continue clapping when he realized what was happening. The music finally died down with the sounds of a trumpet flailing.

“For God’s same, Dumbledore, what’s happened?” The minister rushed to the ground by Harry and Cedric. Two Beauxbatons girls were helping Y/N up, her head lolling as she finally began to lose consciousness.

“Help! We need help here!” One of the girls called, her accent thick. Draco rushed up so quick, breathing heavy. “I’ll take her.” He spoke to the girls.

Y/N looked up quick at his voice. “Don’t touch me! Don’t let him take me! Get away from me!” She screamed, thrashing away from his hands.

He seemed so hurt and confused, putting his hands up in surrender. Y/N could tell he looked scared, more than she was at the mere sight of him.

Madame Promfrey was quick to rush up to Y/N, Taking her from the girls and putting her on a stretcher. “She’s coming with me alone.” She spoke harshly to every student surrounded it Y/N. Gasps were heard as the stretcher was levitated and everyone could see the damage.

“That’s my boy!” The faint cry of Amos filled Y/N’s ears. She used all her strength to lull her head to the side, watching her best friend’s dad collapse next to his son’s corpse. Her face scrunched up as hot tears escaped her eyes, dripping from the bridge of her nose onto the fabric of the stretcher.

Y/N eventually succumbed to the darkness, not caring who could see how hurt she was. Every student saw the blood soaking her shirt, how dirty she was, and her missing hand. It was an awful sight, and some people had to turn away so they wouldn’t lose their dinner.

Pomfrey was quick to take her to the Hospital Wing, fixing her up and cleaning her off so she could rest comfortably.

~.•*✰

Students would linger in over the next few days, checking up on Y/N to see how she was doing. She was always the same every time; asleep, but alive.

There wasn’t much Pomfrey could do about her hand. Tragic, it really was. Y/N would have never been considered as a follower to Voldemort, much less a loyal servant to him.

Dumbledore helped shield her from the press and the students that were begging to know what had happened in the maze. He made sure Y/N wouldn’t wake up to threats or feel incredibly unsafe somewhere she called home.

Professors were now worried about how to tell the students about the death of the golden boy, and how to not let it slip that Voldemort is back, alive, and rapidly gaining power.

But that was an issue for when Y/N woke up, and the truth about her family would finally be revealed.

~•.*✰

a/n: wow! Sorry about this one! I decided to leave on a cliff hanger, lol my bad. I’m done using the movie as a reference so the last chapter is coming straight from the noggin onto my cellular device. Merry Christmas tho, hope y’all got everything you wanted! Happy holidays and happy Hanukkah, Kwanza, or whatever you celebrate during this time! Love you all so much

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thepriceofbeingaroseisloneliness · 4 years

Text

Toshiya Personal Interview Special Headbang Vol.27 Translation 1/2

The upcoming new chapter of the bassist who established himself while evolving his playing style in the middle of fierce battles he experienced overseas “We want to challenge both, our activities and songs, while constantly incorporating what seems new to us. Right now, once again, we want to try it with the feeling that Dir en grey can do anything”

Notes before reading: This is the personal interview of Toshiya from the magazine Headbang Vol.27 released on 18th August. Toshiya’s interview is the last one after Kaoru and Die.The interview is 11 pages long, this part covers the first 5 and a half. You can read the second part here. You can buy the magazine at Amazon Japan or CDJapan Feel free to correct me if you spot any mistake or any confusing parts. ------ “For example, when we were making the album “DUM SPIRO SPERO”, the Great East Japan earthquake (March 11, 2011) happened. I remember clearly that our mood was ‘Is it ok to play music now?’. But this time, with this Corona situation, unlike that time, on the contrary I feel positively the only thing we can do now is music” Text by Hiroko Goto The last featured member is bassist Toshiya, boasting a magnificent presence while sustaining the base of the sound. Placing “Ochita koto no aru sora” as a new chapter when they started the production, he talked about the “past, present and future” of the band which can be a very important content to know the present position of Dir en grey. Also, he approaches his roots, which he has never talked about very positively so far, in a “Albums that inspired you” interview that starts with the story of the encounter with the band GUNS N' ROSES, taking a look at the style of DEFTONES and KORN with whom they went on tour together as an example while he reiterates his own style, making it a interview in which you can see exactly his real image. “We wanted to think about what we could do until the last minute. At first, we didn’t think about simply postponing it” -Looking back, because of Corona, the tour scheduled for March “Tour20 Sogai” and the PIA Arena MM final performance "THE INSULATED WORLD"-THE SCREAMS OF ALIENATION-" scheduled for July have been cancelled. Toshiya: Right. -Thinking about your past activities, it’s like the flow of the ’The insulated world'（2018）is completed at this point. That’s the image I’m getting. First of all, when you were getting ready for the “Sogai” tour, what kind of thoughts did you have about it? T: 'The insulated world' tour had been done quite a few times until last year, so I was thinking about the set list changes for this “Sogai” tour. So, as I thought it would be interesting because there would be new elements, I was very disappointed because we couldn't tour. -Rather than a continuation of the tour from the last year, were you looking ahead of the album? T: “Sogai” is also a tour of the album but, when I thought about the final Pia Arena performance, I imagine it as a concert that would connect with that. -Does that mean the Pia Arena performance was the culmination of 'The insulated world'? T: Yes, I think that idea was there. -After all, it was a shock that it had to be cancelled due to the current circumstances. T: For me too. If you ask me if it was a shock, at some point, it was. But it couldn’t be helped as we couldn’t do it. I had no choice but to put my feelings behind and move on. Rather than that, the biggest problem was wondering what we could do for the fans who were looking forward to it. That’s why we wanted to think hard about what we could do until the last minute. At first, we didn’t think about simply postponing it, on the contrary, we were thinking how we could make it possible (the performances) but after all, as expected, in the end it was difficult. -In that sense, you did a live without audience, ‘The world you live in’, on the day when there was originally a live concert in March. In May, you did a live stream ’Dir en grey audio live stream 5 days' with setlist planned by members and broadcasted a talk ’Dir en grey live archive & Special talk’ . I think you were moving forward in many positive ways. Did the members propose any idea about what moves you wanted to make? T: Yes. How could I say it?.... In this situation, on the other hand, we thought there were quite a few things we could do only now, we tried to think in that direction. As there are things we couldn’t do anymore, what should we do now, so the idea of ‘what things could we do in the current situation?’ came up. -For you personally, during the period of the voluntary lockdown (Japan’s declaration of emergency state), did you have that mentality? T: That’s it…. I guess I didn't feel much the impact of being in that situation in my private life . I don't usually go out so much (laughs) To be honest, my daily life didn’t change. -(Laughs) T: It was very disappointing that my plan of going on tour and eating delicious food all over Japan was gone (laughs) I was like…. “But I was thinking of eating delicious food, drinking delicious sake, and doing my best at the concerts”. “It was fun. If you talk seriously as usually, it won’t be interesting” - Actually, how did you feel about the voluntary lockdown (stay-at-home)? T: The tour was cancelled, and after all, I was making songs and within limitations, there were many things to do. As I was doing those things, I felt like I was always at home. So, if you ask me if my routine changed much, it didn’t. -In the broadcasting of the set list and the live streaming of the talks among the members, there was a feeling of being closer with the members than the Dir en grey we had seen until now. T: I was very concious about that, so thank you for telling me that. That’s why we made the talks like that, I thought people would enjoy it more if we show the parts that we don’t usually show. -In the talk, I got the impression that you were relaxed while having a drink. T: (Laughs) That’s true. - Were you conscious of that feeling of naturalness/raw feeling ? Were you trying to create it? T: Hahaha. It was fun. Well, I did it like because I thought if you talk seriously as usually, it won’t be interesting. For things like that (serious), it’s better to use properly the power of the media and magazines. -Twitter was really excited about it, I enjoyed it too. T: Thank you (laughs) -Also, at the time you announced the release of a single ‘Ochita koto no aru sora’. Was this single originally scheduled to be announced at this timing? T: Since last year more or less, it was decided it would be released around that time. Originally, as it felt like we weren’t going to play it during the “Sogai” tour, we started working on it at the beginning of the year. But this time, I was able to spend a significant amount of time due to the Corona situation, so I think as a result I was able to concentrate on it very much. - So, was there any aspect of your recording style that was influenced by corona? T: The recording style is always done member by member, so it doesn't change. I didn't have any particular influence because until preproduction, the work was done in each member’s home and recording was done one by one, so there was no particular impact. As it didn’t feel like when we are in the middle of a tour or between rehearsals, rather, I felt that I could dedicate the whole time to it. - The previous single was a magnificent song called "The world of Mercy", which was a continuation of "The Insulated World" and had the image of the final chapter of the album. What were the expectations for the new single? T: It was discussed between the member which type of song it would be, if it was going to be an upper (upbeat) song or a downer one with calm feelings. There were about 4 candidate songs, so doing them, this was the one that worked the best for us. - The feeling is that it is the next image of "The world of Mercy" or is it in the direction of something completely new? T: Personally, it felt like something new. As I said earlier, I personally think that "The World of Mercy" is the final chapter of "The Insulated World". -The world of "The Insulated World" has being going around for a long time, so from there, did you imagine switching to a new feeling immediately? T: I try to imagine it every time but after all it is still vague, and I don’t know. After finishing “Ochita koto no aru sora”, and as result of its final shape, there was a response to those questions but during the process of making it, I was worried about how it was going to land. -From previous two choices, the upper/upbeat song was selected. T: That’s right. Only because there was a sensation that it fits nicely. “Unlike that time, we felt like ‘we can only do music now’”. -In terms of playing, as a bassist, what position were you dealing with? T: Basically, unison* is the main one. While playing the same phrase as the guitar, I had the feeling that it would be good if I could play in order to stand out at every important point of the song. That's the position I've taking in recent songs. *Unison: It’s the simultaneous playing of a note (or a series of notes constituting a melody) by different instruments. -It's a song that feels like a beginning, but still has a certain amount of 'The Insulated World' energy. Looking back at the album 'The Insulated World', what kind of album was for you? T: When we released the previous album "ARCHE" (2014), I had an image of the band returning to the origin, I think the album for taking a new step from there was ‘The insulated world'. After all if a band continues, it may be like going around in circles, a similar circle may come around but, there was also a feeling that the band had regained a fresh feeling and was taking a new step. -During the tours of the album, was there an actual feeling that you could certainly take the new step you just mentioned? T: There is, there is. That's why I think there is enthusiasm for the next single. -Furthermore, when it comes to timing, it’s running in parallel with the Corona virus disaster. Did that affect you? T: That’s right. We were making it while the world was in a situation like that. As one would expect, it's something that really impresses you. For example, when we were making the album “DUM SPIRO SPERO”, the Great East Japan earthquake (March 11, 2011) happened. I remember clearly the mood was ‘Is it ok to play music now?’. But this time, with this Corona situation, unlike that time, on the contrary I feel positively the only thing we can do now is music. We can’t go anywhere, weird stories around, we have nothing to do. So, when we asked ourselves what we could do, as the response was “music”, there was a moment we thought positively “well, let’s make music”. -Also, for the coupling side, a reconstructed version of "CLEVER SLEAZOID" with Japanese lyrics was recorded. T: This was during the European tour, while talking about what to do with the coupling song, we narrowed it down to a few songs and we actually decided to try to do it at the time of the rehearsal. We made a rough framework of how it would be. At that rehearsal, when we were sitting silently, it felt like all the members decided to do it. -Rather than the reconstructed songs you have done so far, it’s an arrangement that uses the original song as it is very well. T: When we were matching it at rehearsal, we were trying out to change the rhythm a bit. As a result, the tempo was a bit faster than the original song. It was refined with the arrangements. Certainly, we used to change the arrangement quite a lot, but recently, our mode is that we don't change it that much and we take a slightly softer approach. -The simplicity of using the current sound of the band. I feel that mode as you can put the song out as it is. T: I can’t explain how that happens in that mode, because we do it in an intuitive way. Also, since this song has originally English lyrics, it’s seems like he wanted to sing it properly in Japanese. -That’s something big. How did you feel when you heard this song with Japanese lyrics? T: Mmm…. His (Kyo’s) lyrics and melody are an instrument in my mind. Everything feels like an instrument that once is put all together, it’s called a “song”. That’s why, whether it's Japanese or English lyrics, it may not change much. -I see. Also, at that time, this song was released as a single at that time, after the album 'Withering to Death' (2005), when it was a time when you were moving into a new phase. In that sense, I think it could be said that it was the same mode as you are now. T: Certainly, at that time, it was when we started to think about overseas as a band. Now that you have mention it, it’s not the same thing that we’ve talked before but, there is a feeling of bouncing around from one place to the next. “At that time, there was a moment where we wanted to somehow to leave claw marks of a band called DIR EN GREY” -You would say that the band is about to change? T: That’s right. I think there are some parts that are about to change. When we first released ‘Clever Sleazoid’, in ourselves as well, there was a feeling of ‘Let’s spread our work at overseas!’, I think it was a turning point that was about to change everything. So, now ‘The Insulated World’ was released, and we are trying to get to the next phase, so in that way, it’s connected. Well, there is a feeling of trying to find our new weapon in order to fight something. - Comparing how you were at that time and how you are now, have you changed your way of thinking/mindset? T: To be honest, the way of thinking is completely different (laughs) At that time, we had a strong feeling of going to overseas. In order to go overseas, there was a feeling in ‘Clever Sleazoid’ and the songs around that time, like we wanted to compose music with a conscientiousness of overseas music. In that sense, I think there was a moment in which we were very conscious of overseas. Right now, we are constantly playing overseas, but on the contrary, the idea of ‘What activities should we go based on overseas?’ is no longer there. It’s not because of overseas, it’s not because of Japan…. the way we are doing it from now on is what we want to deliver to the people. -In other words, you were in a more glaring moment? T: That’s right. More than glaring, at that time, there was a moment where we wanted to somehow to leave claw marks of a band called DIR EN GREY. I think that feeling was something that only could appear at that time, it was something that it only could be done at that time. Now, I think that there are several ways to do it (laughs) - Certainly, I've been watching your live performances in recent years, and instead of standing somewhere, it’s feels like your stance is making use of your originality. It seems that it has become a natural thing for the band without forcing or changing anything. T: That’s true. That’s why when it became a circular thing that you catch a hold of it, as a band that it’s in a mature point, I think the important point is what we can release or not. - Even as the start of a new chapter, I think it will be a great time for those who have been waiting for it. I’m looking forward to the reactions of the new single. T: That’s right. Also, this time, it’s the first time we are releasing a single in this way, so I wonder how is going to feel. It's a little wait-and-see. (Second part here)

#dir en grey #toshiya #interview #Headbang Vol 27 #translation #toshiyatranslations #completed

187 notes · View notes

green-blue-heller · 4 years

Text

Look What You Made Me Do (Cockles FanFic)

Title: Look What You Made Me Do

Pairing: Cockles (Jensen x Misha)

Fandom: Supernatural RPF

Rating: GA

A/N: Part of my 500 follower celebration. This was based off a prompt by @dolphindiluna.

If you want to send me a prompt based on the theme, coming out, check out my pinned post.

Words: 2729

Read on AO3

Jensen stood on the stage, Robbie and the boys of Louden Swain behind him, music pumping into his earbuds as he smiled at the roaring crowd. A wave of panic filled him as the opening notes of his intro music sent the crowd into a frenzy, and he tried to swallow the lump in his throat.

In the back of his mind, there was a voice screaming at him to turn around and leave the stage as quickly as he could. That would be the smart thing to do. Especially since his stunt was about to lead to career suicide.

But as he glanced to his right, he caught sight of Misha and the smile on the other man’s face took his breath away. With a shy smile, he looked down at his feet for a moment.

You can do this, Jackles.

It wasn’t a spur-of-the-moment decision that brought him up on stage during the con’s Saturday Night Special.

It started out as something he wanted to do for Misha. Which was totally the wrong reason to want to do this. But he’d had such a hard time after the show ended.

Truthfully, he’d been having a hard time the last couple of years, and Jensen knew he hadn’t made things easier. Misha had never shied away from his sexuality, while Jensen had still very much been in the closet except for a few close friends.

But the whole Destiel thing had been like watching a trainwreck you just couldn’t look away from. The network and studio handled things badly and forced Misha to take the brunt of it, even though it wasn’t anywhere near the scope of his responsibility.

But he did it.

And Jensen hated it.

There had been a few bigwigs in charge who hadn't known but highly suspected that Jensen and Misha had been an item. It wasn’t like they really hid it on set, but they didn’t flaunt it either.

Misha called their remarks whenever they were on set or at a con, a microaggression.

Jensen took his word for it, as he really had no clue, other than that Misha meant it was homophobic, even if they didn’t seem to be on the surface.

So, he wanted to do something for Misha. To show him that he was loved and appreciated. And that he was committed to him, even with the show being over.

Misha and Danneel were his forever. And he never wanted either of them to forget it.

He had spent long hours over the last couple of weeks leading up to Vegas Con, talking it out with not just Misha, but with Danneel and even Vicki. They, along with the kids, were his life. And he would never make a rash decision, especially a possibly life-altering one, without consulting them first.

But they understood what he wanted. And what it could mean for all of them.

And they were all ready to stand by his side, no matter what he chose.

So, two months after he first got that cursed idea, he found himself on stage, in Vegas for the first time since the show wrapped up.

What a clusterfuck that had been. He knew it was bad as soon as it had been pitched. There were too many ways that things could go wrong by the time they got to the finale. And boy, did they ever go wrong.

Not that he was against Dean and Cas ending up together.

Jensen snuck another peek at Misha and smiled to himself. No, he definitely did not mind Dean and Cas ending up together. They deserved to be as happy as he and Misha.

The only problem was that, as he suspected, by the time push came to shove, no one was able to pull the trigger.

They’d cocked the gun and pointed it, had Cas confess, but then the execs at the studio were on edge over the dailies they’d been sent. With a global pandemic knocking on their door, they were afraid to go with anything but sticking to the status quo.

Except the show had been anything but status quo for quite some time. They were just too slow to realize.

He knew some of it was personal bias but that most of it was business. Though they managed to screw up even that.

But he was at the con, and he was going to do what he could. For everyone involved who deserved some vindication. They deserved to know they weren’t crazy.

Jensen took a deep breath and looked out at the crowd and gave them the most charming Dean Winchester smile he could manage.

And it sent them wild.

“Hey, guys!” When the crowd cheered their own greeting back at him, Jensen grinned.

With another deep breath, he steeled his nerves and mentally nudged himself forward. This had been his idea, and he still knew and agreed that it was the best idea, but that didn’t make him any less nervous.

Especially since he knew he was about to piss off the studio execs who were footing a large portion of the bill for his and Danneel’s production company.

He was almost certain he could kiss that goodbye.

“Look, I know there has been a lot of discourse since the show ended, and even more questions. I wish I could give you all the answers you’re looking for, but I hope that tonight, we can clear some things up.”

He knew it wasn’t a lot, but he wanted to be able to give the fans as much as he could, as much as he was comfortable with.

“Wow,” he said with a chuckle. “I haven’t been this nervous up on stage in a long time.”

He grinned at Rob as the music morphed and the opening bars to a Taylor Swift song kicked into his ears.

Part of him felt stupid. This was a stupid song for him to sing. But it was fitting.

He didn’t like to be backed into a corner, nor did he like his loved ones to be put into uncomfortable positions. And that had happened with most of them since their twelve-to-fifteen-year tenure on Supernatural ended.

Jensen knew he made a lot of mistakes in the last decade, and tonight he planned on correcting some of them.

A cleansing breath went through his lungs as he caught sight of Misha again, who flashed him a grin and a thumbs up.

He could do it.

He needed to do it.

Misha deserved it.

Jensen deserved it.

Their wives deserved it.

He opened his mouth and as soon as he started to croon out the first line, his voice low and smooth like a fine whiskey, the fans erupted into such a frenzy. Jensen thought might never stop grinning.

“I don't like your little games

Don't like your tilted stage

The role you made me play of the fool

No, I don't like you

I don't like your perfect crime

How you laugh when you lie

You said the gun was mine

Isn't cool, no, I don't like you”

As Jensen finished the first verse of the song, he felt his confidence grow. He’d practiced - a lot. He knew what he was doing and he trusted the band to be there for him and back him up as they’d rehearsed.

They’d smoothed out some of the music, made it more fitting to his vocal style, and the crowd erupted as the music morphed into what was more likely to resemble a 90’s rock ballad than a Taylor Swift song.

In the back of his mind, he thought it was a little sacrilege, but he’d never admit it out loud.

“But I got smarter, I got harder in the nick of time

Honey, I rose up from the dead, I do it all the time

I got a list of names, and yours is in red, underlined

I check it once, then I check it twice, oh!

Ooh, look what you made me do

Look what you made me do

Look what you just made me do

Look what you just made me-

Ooh, look what you made me do

Look what you made me do

Look what you just made me do

Look what you just made me do”

Jensen soon found himself bopping his head along with the crowd.

With a grin, he turned and strode over to Rob, who shook his head with a hearty laugh.

“I don't like your kingdom keys

They once belonged to me

You asked me for a place to sleep

Locked me out and threw a feast (what?)”

This was it.

His moment.

Their moment.

Jensen is no longer looking at the crowd. He’s all but forgotten there is even anyone else there as he continues to sing without even thinking about it.

How could he think, when he found himself lost in the perfect storm of those blue eyes that stared back into his green ones?

He moved with purpose as he marched across the stage.

“The world moves on, another day another drama, drama

But not for me, not for me, all I think about is karma

And then the world moves on, but one thing's for sure

Maybe I got mine, but you'll all get yours”

And in one swift motion, he pulled Misha, who had taken his outstretched hand, and pulled him out on the stage and Rob picked up the vocals and sang the chorus.

They had taken a few steps back when they let go and Jensen’s hand reached up to cup Misha’s face while his left hand, which still had his microphone, snaked its way under his boyfriend’s arm and wrapped around his back.

Jensen gently pulled Misha against him, who complied, putting both his hands on Jensen’s hips as their lips met and lazily molded together.

They fit perfectly.

Kissing Misha wasn’t even something Jensen had to think about, it just came as naturally as kissing Danneel.

He was sure the crowd was going crazy, but all he could hear was the whimper he elicited from his boyfriend as their lips parted and Jensen’s tongue caressed Misha’s.

“But I got smarter

I got harder in the nick of time (nick of time)

Honey, I rose up from the dead

I do it all the time (I do it all the time)

I got a list of names, and yours is in red, underlined

I check it once, then I check it twice, oh!”

Jensen pulled away, hand sliding down to Misha’s shoulder, breathless as always when Misha is near.

“I love you, babe,” Jensen whispered as he looked into Misha’s shining eyes that threatened to spill tears. Because even though he knew what Jensen was planning, it was real, at that moment, and Jensen could see that it was hitting Misha harder than he could have imagined.

His heart swelled as he moved his hand from cupping Misha’s shoulder to wrap around the back of his neck and pull him into a hug.

As he turned their bodies to face toward the crowd, Jensen smiled, his own teary eyes taking in the crowd that had gone wild, and dropped a soft kiss onto the top of Misha’s head.

With a grin, he stepped back and glanced over his shoulder to see Rob grinning at him. He threw the other man a wink as he gave a nod of appreciation for all his support and love not only given to him, but to Misha.

As he turned his gaze back to the crowd, a wicked grin spread across his face as he tilted his head at Misha, who was still securely snuggled into his side, and brought the microphone back to his mouth.

“Ooh, look what you made me do

Look what you made me do

Look what you just made me do

Look what you just made me-

Ooh, look what you made me do

Look what you made me do

Look what you just made me do

Look what you just made me do”

Jensen couldn’t help but chuckle into the microphone as he caught Misha’s eye roll. Of course, the older man thought he was being over the top and more protective than he needed to be. But he also knew how much it meant to him.

The look in his eyes, at the unshed tears and the smile that went on for miles, was all Jensen needed at that moment.

He knew he made the right decision. His family was more important than some job. There were plenty of things he could do besides acting or having a production company, if it actually came to that.

There was the Family Business Beer Company, there was Radio Company, not to mention the profits they turned from renovating houses and flipping them. And it wasn’t like the studio or network could now retroactively go back and undo the contract he already had for residuals from the show.

Jensen tried to swoop in and steal a kiss, but Misha let out a shy laugh and playfully pushed his face away as he gave one of his patented not-so-subtle winks. He immediately found himself letting out a chuckle as he let his arm fall from Misha’s shoulder and took a step forward, really paying attention to the crowd for the first time.

They were on their feet still, and going wild. All the bright lights from the cameras snapping pictures was a little much, especially since there wasn’t supposed to be flash photography, but he couldn’t find it in him to complain about anything at the moment.

As the bridge was about to kick in, he motioned with his hand for the crowd to join him.

“I don't trust nobody and nobody trusts me

I'll be the actor starring in your bad dreams

I don't trust nobody and nobody trusts me

I'll be the actor starring in your bad dreams

I don't trust nobody and nobody trusts me

I'll be the actor starring in your bad dreams

I don't trust nobody and nobody trusts me

I'll be the actor starring in your bad dreams”

He was grinning like a loon as he dropped his arm to his side, but he really didn’t care. Especially as he made his way back over to Misha and slid his hand home within Misha’s. They were a perfect fit.

“(Ooh, look what you made me do)

(Look what you made me do)

(Look what you just made me do)

I'm sorry

But the old Jensen can't come to the phone right now

Why? Oh, 'cause he's dead (oh)”

He knew he’d get in trouble for it later, but with a dramatic flourish, Jensen held his arm out in front of him and let the mic fall to the stage.

What were they going to do? Fire him?

As Jensen stared into the endless pools of Misha’s blue eyes, he didn’t really care what they did anymore.

He was going to do what he wanted, what felt right . And not let anyone else tell him differently.

And at that moment, all he wanted to do was kiss Misha.

His movement caught the other man by surprise, as he reached over and put one hand behind his back, and one behind his head, and gave him a slight dip before he leaned down and claimed his lips.

When they came up for air, they didn’t even realize there was anyone else in the room. They only had eyes for each other as they reached for each other at the same time, took each other’s hand, and walked off the stage as Rob and the band finished out the song.

Ooh, look what you made me do

Look what you made me do

Look what you just made me do

Look what you just made me-

Ooh, look what you made me do

Look what you made me do

Look what you just made me do

Ooh, look what you made me do

Look what you made me do

Look what you just made me do

Look what you just made me-

Ooh, look what you made me do

Look what you made me do

Look what you just made me do

If you want to be added or taken off my tag list, please let me know either in the comments or via a DM.

@dolphindiluna @kristina710

#supernatural rpf #rpf #jenmish #cockles #coming out #jackles sexy silence #doing the right thing #comfort misha #jensen done with the network and studio bullshit #taylor swift #look what you made me do

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vintage-brass-tc · 3 years

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Band Camp || 7/27-31/2021

Wow. This week of band camp was amazing!! I’m smiling from ear to ear just thinking about it. I’ve met so many people, done tons of hard work, learned new music, etcetera. But beyond that, of course, I had the opportunity to get to know M even more than before.

M has been absolutely phenomenal the entire time. His attitude, his voice, his outfits, just everything. I forgot what it was like to be directed by him, and even the feeling of being around him for a long period of time left my memory after a while.

But having it happen again, for more than five hours a day….it’s like he never left. Being with him is like being home; I feel tranquil and safe by his side. I’m so glad he’s back.

Enough with me rambling, I’ll list some highlights from the week above!!

(For some background, one of my peers had noticed that my sousaphone was causing a great deal of pain to my shoulders and neck, to the point of leaving marks on my skin. They decided to reach out to M about it without me knowing.) Onto the story.

||||||||||||||||||||||||

I was late to the marching grid. After walking across the parking lot with my sousaphone, I made a little dash to my section’s usual spot and set my water jug and instrument down as fast as I could do so without being reckless. With my now free hands, I remained next to my things and paused to observe the grid in search for my section. The kids were warming up, walking along the lot’s border like it was a track.

I attempted to scan the area once more for the tuba section, eventually finding someone that I thought looked like one of the members. They were more towards the left, so I began to move towards them. To my surprise, before I reached the beginning of the grass by the lot, I noticed that someone was approaching me from my left.

After witnessing what was in the corner of my eye, I turned to clarify whether the person speed-walking in my direction was actually who I thought it was. Yep. It was M who was approaching me. And he was giving me a more attentive look than usual. I felt my face twist slightly in nervousness. I thought he was going to question my tardiness.

When he came to a stop two feet away from me, his demeanor, I noticed, was careful and understanding. He was bearing a light smile. Despite this, I was still anxious. “Don’t worry about (the)—“ He began, before being cut off. “I’m sorry. That was my fault,” I interrupted before shooting a disappointed look his way. His face expressed a more sympathetic look after my statement. “Don’t worry about it,” he reassured me, tone slightly softer now. He then got more serious.

“I heard about your shoulder.” He commented. “Oh..” I gave him an awkward smile. He returned it kindly, telling me that if I ever felt too overwhelmed with things— like a headache, lots of pain, etcetera—, that I should feel free to sit down out of the field for a while. “I don’t want you to pass out,” he finished.

I looked to my right, at the other kids, then back at him. “I can’t do that to my section…” I stated. He frowned a little before smiling again. “It’s okay.” He paused slightly. “You come first.” Following his previous speech, he provided some more words of comfort. With my heart feeling warm and fuzzy, I thanked him before running to my dot on the field.

Some kids and I were called to the front of the field by M’s (newly appointed) assistant director, U. I made my way with my instrument to the front of the field before turning back towards all the other kids. When all was said and done, I looked left to be greeted with a smiling and giggling M right beside me.

He wouldn’t make eye contact with me at all, even after I let a confused giggle escape from my mouth at his behavior. I think he was looking at the floor or his phone. Maybe he saw something humorous. Whatever it was, I’m glad it made him smile.

During our lunch break, I noticed M was walking around the place with a cardboard box in his arms. I wasn’t sure what was in it, but it was pretty big. Without waiting any further, he approached my section. “Where’s R?” He asked, before locking eyes with me. I sat up straighter to look up at him from my spot on the ground.

“Do you want a towel?” He asked me with a hint of hopefulness in his voice. “You can put it on your shoulder so it doesn’t hurt. (Like a shoulder pad.)” He grabbed a couple of the light blue towels, then turned his wrists back to place them over each of his shoulders as a demonstration. 🥺

I smiled at his genuine kindness. I wasn’t too sure if it would help at all, but I really did appreciate his attempt at trying to help me. I let out a small, slightly confused chuckle before replying, “I’m okay, thank you though.” I didn’t want to inconvenience him anyway, even though he had offered. He talked a little bit about wanting to get the tubas shoulder pads to avoid this issue, all the while looking at me for a majority of the time. His expression was soft, with relaxed eyes and a caring smile. It was so heartwarming. I thanked him once again and he took it as a cue to keep on moving and talk to some other groups. The whole rest of the lunch break I couldn’t stop thinking about it…he was just so open and sweet to me. In front of everybody else.

With these thoughts swirling in my head, the clock struck the time where my section would usually get going. We all got up, and I quickly swallowed the remnants of my food before walking up to M, who was actually right next to me. He was turned the other way, so I decided to verbally request his attention.

“Sir.” I spoke. It took him half a second to turn back and meet my eye. Immediately, his face was attentive and ready to listen to whatever I had to say. “Thank you…for caring.” I felt emotions wanting to spiral up but I pushed them down. I didn’t really want to start crying in front of him anyway, especially since we stood two feet apart.

“Of course..!” He gave me a slightly goofy smile, like I had said something silly. “I was worried.” He stated, “I don’t want you to get blisters.” I felt my fluttering heart grow warmer, making it even harder to keep myself together. I was so fond of this guy, and seeing that he actually cares about me…it just meant a lot. Still does. ❤️

“Aww…” I put my right hand on his shoulder, gave it a light pat with my palm, and grazed my thumb against it wholeheartedly. “Thank you.” We held our silent but meaningful gaze for what felt like forever before I lifted my hand off of his shoulder. “I’ll let you know if anything happens.” I told him. He nodded. “Okay.” We then went our separate paths for that work hour.

This is a very small moment, but I keep thinking about it. I was in my sectional room, sitting idly while my section got off topic. While I let myself drift off into my thoughts, I heard the faint murmur of M’s voice. It sounded like he was speaking to someone else. Now more alert than before, I began to gaze out of the open door beside me, where the noise came from.

While I was looking out the door, I saw someone walk past it. It didn’t take long for me to figure out it was M, accompanied by someone else. The whole time he was moving forward, though, instead of looking at the one beside him, he was focused on the door as well…. causing him to gaze right back at me.

So we locked eyes from when he first passed the door to when he finished passing the door. It was only a second, but it felt prolonged somehow. I wonder if he thought about that too, if only a little bit.

He passed in front of me while everyone played a segment of one of our pieces. I saw him bob his head back and forth at the tempo like a bird would do when walking. His face presented furrowed eyebrows, a slight squint, and a smirk. Like he was feeling the rhythm.

After the rep, he turned over to us with a very proud, determined, and excited expression on his face. He then pointed at me. “YES.” He told me before going down the line of tubas to point at each one. “YES. YES. YES.” He then backed up a little bit so he could stand more towards the middle area, where everyone could see him. “I want to hear that every time.”

After that very happy moment, he positioned himself between us and another section, listening on and on for the rest of the time. He was really feeling it with the sousas’ playing. That’s so awesome.

M said a joke, smiling, after V told the band to always turn counterclockwise. Upon hearing M’s comment, I couldn’t help but furrow my eyebrows and shoot a quizzical smile his way. He had said this the previous rep as well, but with little to no response from the kids. Normally there would be a chuckle or two, but I remember that time being silent.

I could be wrong, but since there wasn’t a reaction like the usual to acknowledge his thought, he may have been searching for a hint of a smile, at least, from anyone. And on the subject of searching, I just happened to be one of the first people he thought to look at.

A second passed after his words, and I noticed that his head, which was previously moved slightly to his right, began to turn more in my direction. He had seen my reaction and nodded a few times at my frazzled expression, smiling openly with his teeth.

Seeing his cheerful attitude, I grinned and adjusted a little on my dot. I couldn’t hold back a shake of the head and a few breathy chuckles at his poor attempt at a joke.

“Mr. [M]!” I called as he walked towards the stairs of the main hallway. He didn’t hear, so I ran closer. “Mr. [M],” I called once more, causing him to pause and turn to me, “I need to show you something..!!” He was quiet for a second as he looked in my eyes, noticing my excited demeanor, and bearing a small grin on his face. He appeared entertained.

“What.” He didn’t hesitate to take a step over to me and lean over in my direction slightly, which was pretty unexpected, so I felt my heart stop. He probably saw my surprise, so he stopped in place. “Ummm!!” I sang out as I pulled up the photo. I then happily twisted my phone over to display the picture straight at his face. I was now gazing at him expectantly for any sign of a reaction.

He blanked. He was pretty caught off guard seeing the photo. He didn’t know what was going on, so it took him a moment to process it all.

Two long seconds passed before he cracked, furrowing his brows and letting out a snicker, which then caused *me* to laugh. Right when he snickered, puzzled, he turned and continued forward.

I beamed from ear to ear as I sped back to my original spot. Man, he’s so cute, but he was so caught off guard as well. I wonder what kind of thing he expected to see from me initially?

||||||||||||||||||||||||

So yeah! That was a little blast from the past— ‘the past’ being two weeks ago. In case it wasn’t obvious enough, my section switched from contrabass tubas to sousaphones this year. Slowly adjusting to that. Other than that unexpected change, things have been great!! The update took a little while to type out, so I apologize about that. And if the writing is choppy as well, forgive me. It was tons of fun looking back though! ^^ I hope everyone is having a great afternoon.

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natromanxoff · 4 years

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I am sure many of you have already read this one but here are some parts from Ash Alexander’s Queen journey for those who haven’t!

“...At some point in early At some point in early 1983 on a visit to Jacky at the QFC, John Deacon wondered into the office. He came into the basement office and said hello as Jacky introduced me, sat down and spent a little time reading through press clippings. He could easily have slipped away back upstairs, but the fact that he stayed was a nice touch.

Another fan club letter arrived with good news. In Another fan club letter arrived with good news. In November 1983, fan club members were invited to help in a video for the new single 'Radio Ga Ga' at Shepperton Studios. Again, my Mum stepped up and drove me down for the day. I took the day off school and had just turned 14. We arrived at the studio and were ushered into a huge hanger where we were kitted out with white body suits and then sprayed with a light grey stripe on each arm - even now I’m not sure what the spray paint was for as you can’t see it in the video. When we had all been prepared, we were taken into an adjoining hanger and were greeted by the band and an initial play through of the song. The rest of the day was spent clapping as you’ll see in the video. I wound up in the front row, opposite Brian. If you look closely and you know what you’re looking for, you can see me!

In between takes, I approached John Deacon who was surprisingly on his own. I remember trying to remain calm as I approached him. I didn’t mention our brief meeting, I asked him how to get a job in recording studios and that I was interested in pursuing a career as a sound engineer. He was really helpful and took time to explain the usual route.

On 22, March 1984 at Limehouse Studios in London’s docklands, the video for ‘I Want To Break Free’ was filmed, again with the help of fan club members. I went along with my brother Andrew. The set was a big dark staircase that we all stood on. We were given black bodysuits this time that were sprouted with hello paint on the arms. We also wore a hard hat with a head lamp attached to it. The band were set in the middle of us all. After all the filming, we returned to the main building where we said hello to Roger. He’d come out to say thanks. Later, waiting for a cab down in reception, Freddie glided down the staircase and past us with his entourage. I remember wanting to get up and say thanks, but the opportunity was missed.

...20th April 1992. My friend Chesney Hawkes was managed by Trinifold. They also managed The Who. He invited me along to the Freddie Mercury Tribute gig at Wembley. Roger Daltry was appearing and Ches had a spare ticket. He only had one backstage pass though. This was overcome by him befriending the chap on the security door. Ches came out to meet me with his pass. He returned on his own and got in. I confidently flashed my pass and entered the Hard Rock tented area. Ches beckoned me over from the other side of the room. He was signing autographs for a lady, her two children and an older lady was with them. He introduce me to them saying I was a huge Queen fan. ‘This is Freddie’s mother' he whispered to me. I remember saying to her that I wish we’d met under different circumstances and how deeply sorry I was about her loss and how incredibly proud she should be. I often wonder about her.

...In Spring 1993, I was in front office. It was well after midnight and I’d left a s session for a little break. As usual, I took a look in the studio diary to see what was coming up. I flicked through the weeks and came upon an booking entry “Studio 3 - QUEEN” for 2 weeks that was pencilled in. There was no further info than that. I put my initials next to the booking thinking there would be a rational explanation as to what the booking really was. I soon found myself on a 2 week session with Queen.My diary from 1993 is lost, so I have only a mental note as to when & what songs were touched upon at this initial stage of 'Made In Heaven'. We started taking delivery of various multitrack tapes on varied formats. These were then transferred to digital 48 track tapes for future work. Roger & John were alone on these sessions as Brian was touring in Japan. I remember Roger being rather dismissive of Brian being unavailable, much like a brother sledging his sibling would do, with a slightly jealous edge but genuine at the same time.

...Over the 2 week session, Roger would suggest we went out for dinner. We had 3 or 4 meals out at a local Italian restaurant. Even now I laugh at jumping into the back of Roger’s Merc and the four of us driving down Abbey Road to the restaurant. It was owned by an Italian lady that would force you to smell her ‘wonderful mushrooms’ from a jar, which she made Roger do. On our initial meal she told Roger he looked familiar. ‘I know you’, she said. ‘Where have I seen you before?’ ‘Well, I’m in a band and we’ve been on TV before.’ Roger replied. John seemed calm with his lack of recognition. ‘What group do you play for?’ she asked. ‘I’m the drummer in a rock n roll band called Queen’ he replied. ‘No - I don’t hear of this band’ …We finished our food and the bill was called for. It showed up. John took it and asked Roger if he should use the Queen card to pay for it or his own card.

Roger’s drum kit arriving half way through the first week of sessions was a surprise for Noel Harris (the engineer) & me. We expected the sessions to be playing back tapes and working through the various formats to find possible material to be worked on at a later date. Noel was unfamiliar with the room in studio 3 and asked my opinion where to set the kit up and what microphones I would use. Eventually he left me to it. The kit was positioned and I mic’d it up that evening. John had his red Fender bass DI’d (no amp was used) and sat with us in the control room. I doubt these recordings made it through to the final mixes, it’s nice to think that they did.

...Tuesday 5th September

During the afternoon Brian’s guitar and a Vox AC30 appeared in the studio, brought in by Pete Malandrone. We were to do guitar overdubs on ‘You Don't Fool Me’. David asked me to put two Shure 421 microphones pointing into the back of the speaker cabinet. We did have two SM57’s on the front but these weren’t used in the recording.

I had to do a recall of the mix, which meant noting all of the studio outboard settings so we could get back to the mix and finish it off.

We had a technical problem with the Sony 3348 tape machine and eventually had it swapped for a new one. Brian clearly wasn’t aware we weren’t ready for him. I was half way through telling him and Jim Beach jumped in and finished off my explanation. Brian got really cross with him and slammed an empty coffee mug down on the studio table. Later Brian was so apologetic for his outburst. He must have told Jim he was sorry 4 times. As I type this I note it was Freddie’s birthday.

Brian slipped on his guitar that was linked to his amp with one lead. No pedals. His sound was instant and we were soon ready to record. He stood in front of the console in the control facing David & me.

Brian had an idea of what he wanted to play. The guitar riff had already been recorded. The solo guitar is what was added. Brian used a scrap of paper that he drew a map of dots on. Not like musical notation but his own short hand. It reminded me of being at the 'Radio Ga Ga' video shoot 13 years earlier. I was the same distance from Brian as I was then, but the scenario was beyond my imagination.

...Friday 8th September

Day Off - I may have met Pete Malandron at the Sun Inn in Barnes this afternoon. The QIFC was based round the corner at the time & Brian had a house there too, although I'm not sure he lived there at the time. I was with a friend and Pete joined us in the pub. He sat near the window and kept looking out of it. I asked what he was looking at and he replied "I always get worried when I'm out with Brian's guitar. It's in the boot of the car you see." He stayed for one drink and decided it was time to leave.

...One of the evenings of this second week, George Michael came to visit. There was a strong possibility that he would sing on one of the songs. Roger, John, Brian, David, George & I sat chatting in the control room. One of the conversations moved onto the Beatles and their current 'best of' release. I think Brian suggested that it was a bad idea releasing all their old material and I piped up that the fans would buy it regardless, much like the scenario Queen were about to face with the imminent release of the album. There was a deathly hush as I realised what I was saying. I wasn’t being at all derogatory. I was helped out of the hole I was digging by George who agreed with me and we moved on. No one actually spoke about doing a vocal. After George left the studio that evening, Roger was clear that he wasn’t keen on the idea.After looking through the Vintage Car garage across the road from the studio one afternoon, Roger saw a black Cadillack convertible that he quite liked. The following morning he came into the studio and said ‘Don’t tell Jim, but I bought the car.’ It was £80, 000.

Brian asked me if had been involved in the Abbey Road Sessions. Perhaps he’d seen my name on the tape boxes. I said that I was. Immediately he made a phone call. I didn’t hear all that he said, but I knew it was about a special thanks on the album credits. The following morning, after the artwork had been finalised, Roger came in and said ‘morning Aardvark’. Because the special thanks were alphabetic, I was on top of the list. It wasn’t until I bought a copy of the album and saw my name on it that I finally took on board that I had actually achieved one of my dreams.”

#queen #queen band #roger taylor #brian may #john deacon

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tk-writer · 4 years

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Just like old times. [ATLA - Zukaang]

Shortly after he laid down to rest that night, Zuko was yanked awake by yet another frightful nightmare.

He was drenched in sweat, despite sleeping shirtless with all the bedroom windows open, and his lungs desperately gasped for air as if it were foreign to his body. Grounding himself back in reality was proving to be a challenge with the image of his father still burned into his mind.

It was the same dream that had plagued him since the age of thirteen. Five long years had passed since the fateful day of their agni kai, but being forced to relive it almost every night made it seem like it had just happened yesterday. It was as if the wound was still fresh, the fire still hot, the pain still throbbing.

The fire prince let out a dejected sigh before he decided to get up. He stumbled around in the dark until he was able to shove his feet into a nearby pair of slippers. Then he marched to the nearest bathroom in search of water.

Things were pretty quiet in the palace of the fire nation. After his father had been defeated at the hands of the avatar, the world entered an era of unfamiliar peace. Nowadays, the palace felt more like a home and less like a prison. There wasn’t the same aura of tension surrounding everyone and everything that stepped foot inside, partially in thanks to the fact that Aang had decided to stick around for a while. Something about helping rebuild the fire nation and introducing the element of “fun” back into the culture. What was supposed to be a short term stay had quickly turned into a year, then two, until Aang had practically moved in.

(Not that Zuko really minded.)

After downing two cups of cold water, he felt his body return to homeostasis and figured it was best to try and get some more sleep. He made his way back to the bedroom, fumbling around until his hands felt the coolness of the slightly damp sheets. He plopped down unceremoniously and let out another sigh before closing his eyes once more.

His eyes shot back open when he sensed movement beside him and hot breath on the right side of his cheek. He turned his head ever so slightly and came face to face with a lithe figure, donning the goofiest grin known to man.

“... AAH!”

“Waaah!”

“Who’s there?!” He leapt out of the bed with a fighting stance, hands already ablaze with fiery blue embers.

“Chill out! It’s me, Aang!”

The flames provided just enough light for him to see the airbender lounging across the mattress like it was his own. It was enough to pacify his fear. Zuko lit a candle on the nightstand before putting out the fire he’d summoned and inhaled sharply, crossing his arms in annoyance.

“What the hell are you doing in my bed?”

“I heard you yelling in your sleep and it woke me up! I just wanted to make sure you were okay.”

Feeling a bit sheepish, Zuko scratched the back of his head and lowered his gaze to the floor.

“Oh, uh… sorry about that.”

Aang looked concerned, his brows furrowed with worry. Zuko didn’t dare meet his gaze, knowing it would give away his uneasiness and cause even more trouble for himself.

“Are you okay? You looked really stressed.”

“I’m fine. You can go back to your room now.”

He waited for Aang to move, but instead ended up staring at him awkwardly as the avatar showed no sign of leaving. Instead, he rolled onto his stomach and practically shouted out a suggestion.

“Why don’t we have a sleepover tonight?!”

“What? No. Why would we do that.”

“Come oooon, it’ll be just like old times when the gang was all together!”

“You mean when we slept on the ground and had no money?”

“Yeah! Except this time it’ll be more comfortable. Ya know, with a bed and a roof over our heads and all.”

Aang seemed pretty gungho about it, and Zuko found it difficult to keep saying no when he was giving him those damn puppy dog eyes, so he found himself giving in without much more of a fight.

(How did he know those always worked on him?)

“Alright. But only for tonight.”

Aang let out a triumphant cry, eliciting a stern “Shhhh!” from Zuko who didn’t want to disturb the others sleeping in the rooms next door. He cautiously crawled back into the king sized bed, taking care not to bump into his uninvited guest. Turning his back to the airbender, he curled into a fetal position and closed his eyes in another attempt at peaceful slumber.

“Goodnight, Aang.”

“Goodnight, Zuko.”

It was quiet for about two seconds, until Zuko felt something thin and soft flutter around his waist. On instinct, he let out a muffled cry as panic struck through his chest.

He relaxed once he realized it was just Aang’s hands.

“Aang,” he warned in a low tone. “Why are you hugging me.”

“For reassurance!” He sang out happily. “So you don’t feel scared anymore.”

“I told you, I’m fine,” Zuko argued as he started to squirm from the feather-light touches on his sides. “You don’t need to -aheeha!”

Another cry slipped out after he felt Aang’s hands brush right above the band of his pants. It was a silly sensation that made him twitch wildly, against his better nature. He felt Aang adjust himself, wrapping his arms a little tighter as his fingers continued to absentmindedly brush against Zuko’s bare skin. The firebender struggled to keep from laughing. Physical touch had not been a part of his life for many years, and being reintroduced to it now was making him very, very flustered.

“Hah! What was that?”

“It’s no-ahaha!-thing! Stop touching me like that, jeez…”

“Why? Wait, are you…”

Zuko tensed up, sensing what was to come next. Aang fell silent, spurring the fire prince’s anxiety even more. There was no need to finish the question when he already knew the answer.

“Aang, no.”

“Aang, yes.”

Ten fingers suddenly skittered up both of his sides, and in an instant Zuko burst out into a fit of cackles. There was no way he could hold it back; it tickled way too much. Aang’s touch was like air as he danced his fingertips over his exposed skin. The feeling brought forth the most musical giggles, an unexpected treat from someone who was usually so stoic. Zuko slammed his arms down and curled into a ball, but that didn’t deter the avatar from his attack.

“Aheeheeheehee! No, no, nonononono-OOOOO! Dohohon’t!”

Aang laughed merrily along with him, as if he were having the time of his life. Which he probably was. He always took the opportunity to make Zuko laugh or smile whenever he had the chance, and now was no exception.

“No way! I never knew you were ticklish! Haha!”

“AHAHAHAHAHAHAHANG!”

The airbender pulled away momentarily to let the fire prince breathe, but his mercy didn’t last long

“So, your sides are ticklish… what about your armpits?”

He jammed his hands in between his clamped down arms and wiggled around as much as he could, with Zuko attempting to squirm away and all. In truth, he was trying really hard not to struggle too much in fear of accidentally hurting his friend. A painful memory of Toph’s burned feet etched in his head as he made sure to keep his hands away from Aang and free of their usual fire. Instead, he just kept laughing until it felt like he was going to choke.

“No… not there! Pleheeheeheease!!”

“Okay, so your sides and armpits are pretty bad. What about your stomach?”

Zuko felt the wiggling hands leave his body for a second, then once again sensed them scurrying across his skin, this time exploring his belly. Soft, muted giggles escaped his lips, but it wasn’t nearly as bad as before. Still, his skin twitched wherever Aang made contact.

“Ahahaaa… noooo! Stahahap!”

“It’s not so bad here… but what about here?”

Aang gave no warning this time before he began pinching Zuko’s ribs, which spurred another round of maniacal cackling from the sullen firebender. He thrashed from side to side, kicking his legs frantically until Aang had to climb on top of him to avoid getting kicked. The airbender cracked up as he watched him descend even further into uncontrollable giggles.

“Wow, this must be a really bad spot for you!”

“Shahahahahaddup!! It’s not funny!”

“Heh, it’s kinda funny! Who woulda thought the big strong fire lord would be weak to a little tickling!”

Zuko found himself unable to respond as the tickling went on, his pleas turning into babbles thanks to Aang jumping around from spot to spot and teasing him into oblivion. Each time he’d explore a new area, he’d ask Zuko before honing in. And each time, Zuko wasn’t ready. He’d let out a high pitched shriek before succumbing to more upbeat giggles, uncharacteristic for someone of his nature.

He had no idea how long things went on, but when Aang threatened to tickle his feet, he suddenly grabbed both of his arms and held firm.

“Please… no more…”

He spat out his last pleas in between haggard breaths, and that signaled to Aang that enough was enough. The avatar pulled away, allowing him some respite after the tickly torment he’d just put him through. When Zuko opened his eyes, he saw the avatar staring at him with a warm, sunny smile. It made his cheeks flush with embarrassment.

“Zuko… I wish you’d laugh more. You have a really nice smile.”

“Wh… huh? Why would you…”

Now it was Aang’s turn to act shy. He let out a sheepish chuckle, backtracking a bit before explaining himself.

“Ah, sorry. I guess that’s kinda sappy. But, I dunno, you seem so sad a lot of the time. Sometimes I wish I could just come up to ya and do this!”

He scribbled across his stomach again, making Zuko squeal again, but stopped before it got to be too much. When his laughter died down again, he mumbled something so softly that Aang almost didn’t catch it.

“Well… maybe…”

“Maybe what?”

“Hnh, nevermind.”

Aang opened his mouth to protest, but clamped it shut almost immediately. Zuko wondered what he was going to say, but decided to let it be for now. After all, he was pretty spent after the surprise tickle attack he’d just endured.

“Uh, can we go back to sleep now?”

“Oh, yeah! Sorry, heh.”

Aang slid off and made himself comfortable on the other side of the bed, giving Zuko some space just in case he wanted to be alone. Zuko blew out the candle and laid down as well, and for a few seconds the room was silent. However, as Aang’s eyelids began to droop, he heard a timid voice speak up through the darkness.

“... Um… Aang?”

“Yeeeees?”

“Can you… can we… uhm…”

Aang chuckled under his breath, quietly enough that his bedside companion couldn’t hear. Without another word, he hugged his arms around Zuko and pulled him in close until they both were in a comfortable position. He pressed his forehead against his back and felt the firebender relax for the first time all night.

“Goodnight, Zuko.”

“Goodnight, Aang.”

Aang couldn’t see it, but that night Zuko fell asleep with a small smile. Neither woke until the bright light of late morning greeted them through the window.

#tickling #tickle fic #atla #zukaang #ler!aang #lee!zuko #this is for you #u know who u are #hehehehee #anyway stoic serious bois need to be wrecked all the time send tweet #tried to make this a balance between shippy and platonic #dame gets carried away once again #to absolutely no one's surprise #cuddling #Sharing A Bed #Literal Sleeping Together #this blog is slowly turning into a cuddle fic blog and idk what to do about it kjahfjkasf

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thejosh1980 · 3 years

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I was lookin' back to see if she was lookin' back...

Yesterday Alex, Mum and I celebrated...

It's been one year since Alex and I arrived at Mum's place in Ocean Shores, NSW Australia.

If you've read my earlier blogs in 2020, you'll know that we had a lot of trouble getting home. Between the government and airlines, at one point it looked like we'd never get here; we were stranded. I was living in constant worry, stress and hopelessness - in fact, we all were: Alex's family in Germany and Mum's family down under.

Our July 2020 flights were cancelled or rescheduled many times, and eventually we decided to buy new, more expensive flights, on another airline through an agency, which gave us some assurances we'd be on the flight. Our new flights booked and confirmed for early September.

We flew Frankfurt to Adelaide, which was not our original plan. Adelaide had no COVID, and the chance of getting on a flight and getting into the country was higher than say, Brisbane, or Sydney. We could quarantine in Adelaide for 2 weeks and then fly on to Brisbane, which is closer to Ocean Shores.

That was like.... so last year...

This area where we now live is known as the Northern Rivers of New South Wales, and when we arrived at Mum's there was no COVID in the area. We are only about 35 minutes south of the Queensland border, about 8 hours north of the big smoke, Sydney.

Now, a year on, COVID has arrived here.

It's been biting at the heals of tourists and essential workers travelling north since Sydney went into lockdown a couple of months ago.

It's not our idea of a good time.

Right now it's school holidays, which is meant to be 2 weeks of families holidaying in caravan parks and hotels, an essential part of this tourist attraction mecca. Byron Bay, Brunswick Heads, and surrounds are usually very popular places; so popular that most locals complain about how busy it gets here during the holidays. You just can't get a parking sport anywhere!

The Northern Rivers was locked down for about 6 weeks through August into September because cases from Sydney were getting into regional NSW. These regional areas affected by COVID weren't near here, but they made a blanket rule for everywhere outside of Sydney, just to be on the safe side.

Honestly, I don't blame them for the rule, regional outback Australia can't cope with COVID, there's few hospitals, beds, or COVID experience in the scrub and farm land.

Anyhow, I digress...

After those 6 weeks or so in lockdown, they lifted the restrictions here in the northern rivers (and other areas of NSW).

And now, after 2 weeks, lockdown is back on...

There are a couple of cases in the area. Snap lockdowns are the government's preferred method of containing outbreaks. Lockdown areas wherever cases pop up for a week or two (or longer) to limit exposure.

It reminds me constantly that life can change quickly at any time. I have decided I will not waste time once this current lockdown has ended (who knows when that will be). I will visit friends, family, and musicians who live close by. I want to see as many folks as quickly as possible, before another lockdown kicks in.

Besides the boring, never ending tale of COVID, there have been a few things happening this past year...

Alex has been working consistently in the real estate industry since her temporary visa kicked in late last year.

Her first job was a few more miles away than any of us locals would consider driving, and the position wasn't as enjoyable or rewarding as she had first hoped. She really dived in the deep end, and while she didn't drown, she probably needed a few swimming lessons before the attempt. It was a life lesson, one she took on board, and when a new job came up closer to home, she nailed the interview (as she always does), and hasn't looked back.

The 2nd job is less than half the distance away, strictly 9 to 5 and in a company which she enjoys. There's a strong company structure, good work ethic, and entertaining colleagues. Her supervisors, colleagues, and managers are all very supportive; I think she'll be sitting tight on this one for a while.

Alex has also found her creative side again, scrap book journalling, instant camera photography, and some kind of couples diary/journal/photo book too. It's become an almost nightly affair of focusing, creating, and having something to show for it fairly quickly. She's very proud of her work, and it's something she does just for herself. I don't expect you'll get a chance to see a photo of what she's done, and she likes it like that.

I had a bit of work late in 2020 and early 2021, nothing special really, but wait until the premier!! It's interesting to think that some day soon I'll be able to go to the cinema and see my ugly mug on the big screen (even if it will most likely be out of focus). I'll be on Netflix too.

Having the opportunity to be an extra on film and TV was a real boost for my confidence after being off stage for so long. I felt creative, met some great people, made some friends, and had a few bucks in my pocket. Happy days.

By jumping into an industry I hadn't been in before right after arriving here, it reminded me that Australia has a lot to offer. I found myself comparing Germany and Australia, and Australia often feels like it comes up short. This was a chance to prove to myself that there are adventures awaiting here down under.

So, I decided to go back to school.

The last time I was in a class room was in 1998!! I am studying a Diploma of Counselling, and am currently half way through my studies. I've found it very challenging, but have passed every assessment so far, and gained some handy skills too. I have a good connection with my teachers, and I really enjoy the company of my classmates; some of which I can even call friends.

I chose counselling for a few reasons, but the first step was really just a process of elimination. Besides being a freelance professional musician for several years in Germany, I had worked in offices, shops, warehouses, kindergartens and various other jobs. While I could go back into IT or something similar, I wanted to use this opportunity to try something new.

I had my fair share of mental health issues in the past (and present). I thought maybe those experiences could help me connect with folks who need support as well. When looking at course options, the counselling course stood out. So now I'm making a mid life crisis gamble that I'll pass the course, and feel confident and knowledgeable enough to take on the role that many others have taken on for me over the years.

The course has helped me find a routine too, one that I didn't know I needed, until it happened. When you're jobless and unfocused, the mind wanders, the days pass. Now my mind is focused on study, and I feel better for it.

Up until the lockdown hit, we were in class 3 days a week and then I'd study from home 1 to 3 days a week. When lockdown hit, we had to go online. However, being on the computer so much has worn me out, and I really start to enjoy those rare days where I am not looking at a screen!

To be honest, it's been challenging every step of the way, and I even thought about quitting several times in the past few months. However, my confidence has steadily risen to each challenge and I felt better for it.

That's the kind of vicious circle I enjoy.

In July I had my first live show in 13 months! In fact, to date I've only had 3 since the pandemic started! Fingers crossed I can cross the border next month and add a 4th.

I was approached by Cherry Divine to play guitar for her. It's a relatively easy gig for me. The songs are fun rockabilly tunes, Cherry sings great, and she already has a band and gigs. I'm helping her write a few songs too, for her next album. I can't thank her enough for sparkin' the fire in me to keep music alive in my life; for a while there I thought it was all a thing of the past.

With the spark has come the possibility of “The Josh” solo band coming together. While the band isn't moving at any great speed (the recent 2nd lockdown kicked in right as I was about to arrange a rehearsal), I'm finally eager to get a band together. I miss playing live, and I miss having musicians in my life. I miss the spontaneity of a show, life on the road, and crowd reactions.

I've even started to write some new material, and get those ideas on “tape”, well, on the computer. Slow and steady, between studying, family, pets and surfing, music is coming back into my life, and it feels good.

Our family unit here is doing well. Alex and I have been under mum's roof and mum's care for a year now. There are some ups and downs, but mostly I'd say they're ups... The house is big enough to give all of us space, all of us get time outside of the house (except during lockdown, I was mostly stuck at home, but that's OK for me)...

Last night we couldn't go out for dinner, but we did have take away from the local Indian which was really good, and a special treat for us, we don't eat out often.

Alex and I plan to get away every 5-6 months for a visit to somewhere we haven't been. In March we were on the “Sunshine Coast” and checked out Australia Zoo, and in June we went south to the mid north coast to pick up BB Junior.

It's nice to get out and explore. A bit hard to do at the moment, with the restrictions, but we've agreed another trip away (before Christmas if possible) is in order. Those trips are part of the reason why I came home, to see some of Australia, and I'm lucky I get to make those experiences with Alex.

It's also nice to get away from it all. I know we live in a beautiful spot near the ocean, but here, at home, there's the computers, the life and routine, and getting away keeps us fresh and focused on each other. It's definitely something I look forward to!

Speaking of BB Junior, he's almost 7 months old now, and a real character. While he's not the easiest cat to train, I've been getting a few tricks out of him, and he enjoys his time outside, with his harness and long lead. He visits his cousin each week for play time, Charlie, who is another ragdoll of a family friend who loves to play chase all day long with Junior. Alex adores Junior, and Junior adores Alex; they can't wait to cuddle when she comes home from work. He's very vocal too, so even when everyone is at work, I have someone to talk to!

Losing our little boy Mijo was a real difficult experience. I know I've written about him before, but he deserves a mention here, as he was a big part of our first year here. He was full of character and strength, he and I bonded very quickly and not a day goes by I don't think of him. He also brought Alex and I closer together. When she chose him for me, and when he passed, and all points in between, he brought us closer.

I've been focused on sport a fair bit since getting back and settling in. I bought a RowErg, also known as a rowing machine, and I row about twice a week, in addition to riding my bicycle about twice a week. I try to surf every chance I get, which unfortunately ends up being only a few times a month. It's my goal to do something sporty to get my heart rate up every day, and of late, usually I get there too. I don't really do it for any other reason than I love to snack and I can't snack if I don't do sport!

A benefit of my sport/snack workout routine is it helps me stay calm and focused and connected with those I ride and surf with.

I haven't asked Mum how she's feeling about having her middle aged son and his wife living with her recently. Maybe I should, but do I really wanna know the answer? Well, I think she's OK with it. After all, we drive her wherever she wishes! I suspect it goes a little deeper than that, and in all honesty, we enjoy each other's company.

Since Alex and I have been here, I'd like to think Mum has been living a little bit fuller life. I don't think her eyesight has deteriorated much in the past year, but we've been able to provide her with support, eyes to read the small print, driving and help with google, or something around the house. When Mum was diagnosed with celiac disease earlier this year, Alex took her shopping to check over the ingredients of Mum's favourite food, and when needed, found alternatives. It definitely made the transition to gluten free a little easier on Mum and it was a load off my mind that we were around to help her through that phase.

Winter 2021 was over before it even started. I forgot how warm this part of the world is, and I don't know why I own so many jackets! Returning from Europe, where I was wearing a jacket daily for about 9 months of the year, here it feels like, if it's really needed, and I mean if you're desperate, you might need one for 9 weeks of the year. I think the heater was on a handful of times, and the sun was shining just about every day.

I tell ya, it's some kind of paradise here.

It's been a bit difficult keeping up with our European friends and family. I sometimes find it hard to find the time to be proactive to contact the 20, 30 or more friends I'd like to keep in touch with regularly. I know our lives keep on keepin' on, but time passes by so quickly too, and next thing you know it's been 4 months since I last contacted you!

Sorry about that!

Don't take it personally, and I'll get back to you, eventually!

My overall mental health has improved over the year, I'd say it's become quite stable since I started the course. I mean, can't you tell? I write less and less in this blog, because I have less and less to process. I'm not sure if it's the fact there's a lot of self reflection that is inherently a part of doing that kind of mental health course, or if it's the routine of being a student or the new friends I've made and classmates I study with.

It could be that it's taken a year to come to terms with being back here, cause when I first arrived I felt uncomfortable, depressed and worn out... There were a lot of questions; is this a mid life crisis? What am I doing here? Will I ever feel good again? Is my music career over? What am I going to do now? Is Alex OK? Is Mum OK?

My journalling, blogging, and support from friends and family has helped a lot too this past year. Processing my thoughts in words, by clarifying and reflecting, has helped a lot. I've been trying to care for myself a bit more now and then too, I think people call it self care, sometimes I call it sport! Alex has helped me to recognise my achievements, however big or small, and focus less on what I haven't done.

I'm not perfect, but definitely improving.

I was hoping that Alex and I would be in a position to start looking at buying our own house around this time, a year in, but unfortunately, with one of us being a student and the ever rising cost of housing, we have to sit tight on that idea for a while longer. Sorry Mum, you're stuck with us.

There's been many smaller things happen during our first year here. Lots of moments of gratitude, love and support. There's some stuff we've forgotten, or that has been overtaken by something bigger. All in all, I'd say it's been a real rollercoaster home coming!

We're still here, a year on, still going strong, making motions, taking chances, being in love, talking shit, laughing, smiling, misbehaving and focusing... What more could we ask for?

Thank you for reading, for your support and love. I love you too.

Josh

#covid pandemic #1 year celebration #reflection #family life #relationships

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wiypt-writes · 4 years

Text

Leave No One Behind

Ch4- Not So Little Problem Co written with @icanfeelastormbrewing

Episode Summary: Ari deals with the aftermath of his conversation with Hannah the previous night, and the resort has some unwelcome visitors

Episode Warnings: Bad Language words.

Episode Pairings: Ari Levinson x OFC Hannah Horowitz

Leave No One Behind Masterlist // Main Masterlist

Chapter 3

“I’ll be there to comfort you, build my world of dreams around you, I’m so glad that I found you.” I’ll Be There by the Jackson 5

19th March 1971

“Oh Mama!” Hannah beamed at her mother as the large chocolate cake was set in front of her, complete with candles “Did you make this?”

“Of course I did!” her mother smiled “I’ve made you every birthday cake you’ve had, naturally I would make your 21st one!” “It stops here Han!” Sammy grinned, leaning back in his chair. “Mama ain’t made me a cake for the last 7 years.” “You’ll get one on your 30th.” Mama Navon narrowed her eyes “That is if you cut your hair. What on Earth makes you think it looks good?”

Ari let out a snort at that point and Sammy gave him a punch on the arm. “It’s a mullet, Ma, it’s fashion”

“Fashion, really?” Ari asked.

“You’ve no room to talk…you had that dodgy mop top for years.” Ari shook his head laughing, running his hand through his newly shorn hair, careful so as not to disturb the side parting he’d spent ages ensuring was pristine.

“Yeah, you’ve gone from George Harrison to George Lazenby.” Hannah winked at him and Ari grinned back.

“Whatever, get those candles blown out, I want some cake.” Sammy grumbled.

“Yeah, Han, make a wish!” Hannah’s friend, Amira instructed. The rest of the table began to join in, and with a grin she leaned forward, pulling her long bouffant pony tail back out of the way. She glanced over the table, looked at Ari before closing her eyes and blowing her candles out.

“Speaking of Bond…” Sammy spoke as their Mother began to slice the cake up. “The new film is due next month.”

“Connery returns, thank fuck!” Hannah nodded “Because Lazenby is shit.”

“Yeah, hear that, shit…” Sammy nudged Ari who shrugged.

“Hey, the fact that Firefly think’s I’m like James Bond is good enough for me.”

“Well you are an agent so… “ she shrugged, before she grinned wickedly “Although I’m not sure he would wear white skinny Levi's...” she gestured to his pants and he looked at her, his eyebrow raising.

“Erm, I’ll have you know that these are Sta-Prest and happen to be the height of mod fashion” he scoffed.

“Whatever.” she shrugged, before she smirked again “At least you don’t look like Rod Stewart. Mama’s right, that mullet needs sorting Sammy.”

“Can everyone stop taking the piss out of my hair?” Sammy glowered.

Once the cake was eaten, they all had another drink each before the meal came to a natural close. At this point Hannah’s mother wished them all goodbye and headed off home, the rest of them heading to the club across the road.

They headed straight to the bar and then Sammy vanished to go and find a couple of American Green Berets who were on a secondment into Mossad for 6 months, pending a potential formal recruitment following a successful mission a few weeks back.

They all placed their orders, and Ari took a quick check over his shoulder before he moved behind Hannah, bending over to speak into her ear.

“You know, you should be careful what you wish for, it might come true”

Hannah took a breath before letting it out slowly, and turning her head to look at him “What are you talking about?”

“You know exactly what I’m talking about Firefly…” he arched an eyebrow at her.

“So you think you know what my wish was, Levinson?” she asked, coyly, looking up at him.

“I think I know, yes” his voice was loaded.

“And are you gonna make it come true Lobo?” her eyes were suggestive as she bit her lip and Ari smirked a little. He wasn’t an idiot, he hadn’t missed the signs Hannah had been giving him for the past 3 years since her 18th. He’d been trying to ignore it, due to the 7 year age gap but in the 4 years he had known her he had watched her turn into the amazing, gorgeous young woman stood in front of him, and now, well, it was getting increasingly hard to come up with reasons as to why he should be ignoring her, especially now she was 21.

Before he could respond, Sammy returned interrupting their little moment, slapping Ari’s back.

“Let me introduce you to my little sister, this is Hannah, Hannah meet Andy and Max.”

Ari didn’t miss the way Andy’s eyes travelled up and down Hannah’s form and felt himself bristle a little as the man took in her outfit. He couldn’t blame them though, she did look good in her blue and purple paisley print mini dress and knee high white boots.

“Nice to meet you guys!” Hannah smiled at them both.

“Pleasure is all mine” Andy grinned.

“Sammy say’s it’s your 21st” Max looked at her “Happy birthday” he grinned, kissing her hand.

“Thank you” she smiled

“Yeah, congratulations.” Andy grinned, bending over to kiss her cheek. .

Ari shifted on the spot, reaching for the scotch that the bar tender had set in front of him. He took Hannah’s Campari and Soda, handing it over to her, her fingers brushing his slightly as she took it and he saw that adorable pink tinge appear on her cheeks.

“So if it’s your birthday why you hanging bout with these 2 morons?” Max asked, jerking his thumb in Sammy’s direction.

“I’m not, they’re hanging with me.” Hannah shrugged, taking a sip of her drink through the straw.

All of them laughed, and Max looked at Sammy, then Ari, then back to Sammy again. “I like this girl.”

“That’s my sister for you.” Sammy shrugged, turning to the bar tender to place his order.

“Yeah, be careful, she looks like a Firefly but can bite like a mosquito.” Ari looked at Max before he glanced at Hannah.

She winked at him and then turned to Andy and Max. “Well, seeing as you guys are in town for a while, come with me and I’ll introduce you to a few of my friends”

Ari watched as she led them over the light up dance floor, tapping Amira on the shoulder. She started to talk to the rest of the her group of University friends, and he saw one of them, a red head, Abigail, lock eyes with him and he smiled politely before looking away.

“She giving you the eye again?” Sammy smirked, nodding to Abi and Ari shrugged.

“Got my eye on someone else.” he said simply. For once Sammy didn’t pry.

15 minutes or so later, the band was in full swing running through a number of hits from the 60s through to the present day. Hannah seemed to be having a good time, and as the opening bars to Sweet Caroline struck up she grinned over at Ari and Sammy. Ari, done with observing from a far, downed what remained of his drink and jerked his head towards them. Sammy nodded and followed him over to the group where they joined in the dancing and singing and laughing as they all chanted along, When that finished it morphed into another song, then another, then another… they were dancing for a good half an hour to hit after hit, and then Twist and Shout by the Beatles started. Hannah gave a cheer at this point before her and the girls launched into some kind of dance routine, twisting on the balls of their feet, dipping to the floor, laughing as they did so.

It was the perfect opportunity for Ari who moved behind Hannah, giving her a hug from behind. No one paid them the slightest bit of attention as they were too busy dancing themselves so he took it upon himself to pull her back closer into him, his hands falling to her hips as he swayed with her to the music, grinding up against her, his face resting against her neck, the short whiskers of his beard scratching at her skin. Taking her hand in his he spun her out, then back to face him, his spare arm curling around her, hand splaying on her back.

She glanced up at him as the music faded into “I’ll Be There” by the Jackson 5. The song was slow enough but not too slow, so he could keep her in that hold and it looked perfectly innocent. Just two friends enjoying a dance, even if the electricity between them was crackling…and then she leaned up to whisper into his ear.

“What were you saying about making my dreams come true?” she purred, her eyes locked onto his, a sultry look on her face as she blinked slowly.

Ari swallowed and glanced at Sammy, who was fooling about with Max, Andy and a few of Hannah’s friends and he felt himself hesitate. Was he doing the right thing? Was this really appropriate? It was an unwritten rule that you didn’t touch your best friends little sister, especially when she is 7 years your junior. And then there was the whole thing about was he good enough? She was a bright, young, clever woman...with a huge career as a doctor ahead of her which was almost unheard of for a female... Fuck! He had been so sure before but now it actually came down to it, he was plagued with doubts. Subconsciously he loosened his hold slightly and Hannah, as perceptive as ever noticed.

“Are you backing off, Levinson?” she looked at him, reading his face as always.

“Hannah, you look amazing, you are amazing but..”

At that point she rolled her eyes and pulled back slightly “Oh just don’t…”

“Firefly…” he began to protest but she stepped away, shaking her head.

“I need the bathroom”

And with that she headed off over the dancefloor.

Ari watched her leave, groaning as he ran a hand through his hair, grappling with himself once more. He wanted her, like he had never wanted anyone before, and he knew that there was something there on her side too. But was it right? But then again, how could something that felt this good be anything but?

With a last glance at the group, he strode after her. Positioning himself outside the women’s bathroom he leaned against the wall, trying not to look like too much of a pervert. It took her a little while but when she emerged he reached out, grabbing her hand.

“Ari?” she asked but he didn’t say anything, simply laced his fingers between hers and dragged her outside.

Once there he spun round, backing her against the wall to the left of the door, placing his hands lat against the concrete either side of her head, looking down at her

“You’re driving me crazy.” he looked down at her as she bit her lip, her eyes wide, suddenly her demeanour was all coy. He chuckled and shook his head, “Don’t play innocent with me now, Han. You want me as much as I want you.”

“Well, sometimes we don’t always get what we want do we, mi Lobo hambriento?”

Fuck that nickname! It did things to him, inappropriate things and he gave a little groan as he looked down at her.

“You can have what you want Firefly.” Ari’s voice was low as he looked at her “I’m all yours, but I think you already know that…”

Her breathing became deep and Ari could tell she was turned on but he wasn’t going to do anything until she had given him a sign. He was ensuring she had the power, that this was her decision. Her eyes bounced across each of his, as if she was searching for something, making sure he was absolutely telling the truth. Which he was. He had come clean about his feelings it was up to her now. As he watched, her gaze flickered down to his lips and then back up again and she took a deep breath that was almost a gasp.

“Ari it’s almost midnight…” her voice was soft, almost a whisper. “And I’m pretty sure birthday wishes are supposed to be granted on the actual day…”

Ari grinned, arching his eyebrow slightly “Better not keep my girl waiting.”

His hands moved to her face, cupping her cheeks gently before he leaned down and kissed her. It was soft at first but quickly became heated as her hands slid up to his chest, clutching fistfuls of his black sweater. He kissed the life out of her. It was raw and heated as they both poured out 4 years of fucking frustration in one another.

Eventually Ari broke the kiss, more to breathe properly than anything, pressing his forehead to hers, both of them breathless.

“Were you serious?” Hannah asked.

“About what?” he frowned, and he watched as she bit her lip and looked down before she glanced back up at him.

“About me being your girl…”

“I thought I just made myself perfectly clear…” he said, his eyes boring into hers.

She looked at him, a smile playing on her lips before she shrugged, her hands sliding up round his neck, pulling his face back down to her.

“Hmm, maybe you better show me again…”

******

Ari woke up when the first rays of sun seeped through the latticed window above his bed. When he opened his eyes he was hugging his pillow for dear life and it took him a couple of seconds to adjust to reality, the memories of that night slowly retreating to the back of his mind where they had been kept for nearly 9 years now. He yawned and stretched and pulling his bed sheets away, he sat up on the edge of his bed and rubbed his eyes.

He groaned when he looked down and his eyes focused on his erection. Fuck, he thought. He tried to remember when the last time he had had a wet dream was but couldn't even recall it. Being around Hannah and stirring old feelings and painful memories was surely having an effect on him. An effect he had to sort immediately if he wanted to impersonate his role as the owner of this God forsaken hotel in front of the group of Germans that had unexpectedly arrived the previous evening.

Once he had got rid of his, not so little, problem in the shower of the small bathroom attached to his hut and after pulling on a pair of black shorts he headed out in the scorching Sudanese sun.

He went round the side of the building and he met Max leading some kind of class to a group of tourists, apparently Tai Chi. He saw Max turn to him standing on one leg and give him a wave, and so did the tourists mimicking Max movements. Ari waved back, an astonished smile on his face. He was surprised Max knew Tai Chi, a trained assassin and sniper giving an ancient soothing martial art class clad in what looked like a pair of pyjama pants. And to make it more surprising he had stopped eating to do so, seeing as he, for once, didn't have food in his hands.

Ari watched him for a second before looking down and giving a huff of a laugh. He decided then to head towards the main building with the intention of getting a cup of coffee. He stopped again as he saw Rachel walking from one of the jeeps, carrying a load of what looked like new bed linen, followed by a member of the staff carrying a box of groceries. Ari wondered where the fuck had they got all that, but then concluded they must have gone shopping as he spotted a load more boxes and baskets in the back of the open trunk of one of the jeeps.

And just as he turned towards the doors of the main building he saw Sammy walking from an outhouse with a basket of laundry and a blatantly grumpy expression on his face. He didn't stop, but gave Ari a stare instead of a good morning greeting. What was wrong with him? Ari wondered if he would still be pissed at him for the incident during the mission the previous night. Whatever. He shrugged and headed inside the main building.

He entered the kitchen and grabbed a mug. The kitchen and the reception area were deserted at this time of the morning. As he poured some coffee he noticed there was still no sign of Hannah, or Jake for that matter, and he thought it was probably for the best given the way things had gone last night and his damned dream and issue that morning when he woke up. Moreover, he wasn't quite sure how he should handle himself around her. She would probably be upset at him if not mad. Or maybe she simply wouldn’t give a damn, which would be worse because that would mean she didn't care anymore about their.... past. But then again it had seemed like she cared last night. A lot if you asked him, she had even admitted she had been in love with him back then.

Sighing slightly he grabbed his coffee mug and headed out to the seafront part of the building only to find Jake led on a sun-lounger in a very tight pair of red speedos. And, Damn it!, he spotted Hannah next to him in another lounger. She was lay on her stomach, her chin resting on her folded arms, and her head turned towards Jake who was explaining something to her, probably some of his exotic diving adventures.

Ari then noticed she was wearing a red bathing suit which had cut out panels on each side of her waist. She hadn't worn it before, Ari thought he would definitely remember if she had. Her hair was piled on her head in a messy bun and her eyes were covered by her Aviators. Ari couldn't help but check out those damned legs and curves, and that ass and he was suddenly glad he had jerked off in the shower that morning, though he still felt something stirring in the pit of his stomach.

He hesitated but he then decided to approach, watching as Hannah turned half her body to Jake and resting on her right elbow, her head on her hand just a moment before the two of them burst out with laugher. With the green eyed monster in the pit of his stomach groaning, Ari walked over to them and saw Jake had matches between his fingers and thought that would give him the perfect opportunity to engage in conversation and see where that would lead.

"What's with the matches?" he asked Jake.

Hannah lifted her head to face him. Ari couldn't see her eyes, hidden as they were by her shades but her demeanour didn't appear angry or stiff…just passive which was what he feared the most. Had someone asked him how to handle her, the answer would have been no fucking idea.

Jake looked up and then at the matches, which fell out at the motion of his hand moving his shades up his face, before answering which gave Ari the perfect opportunity to steal another glance at Hannah. A very appreciative one, now that he could take in the curve of her breasts and her cleavage.

“It's the only way to spread the tan evenly.” Jake answered.

"That's the stupidest thing I ever heard." Ari replied.

Hannah snorted at Ari's comment and Jake looked at her slyly before saying “You won’t be laughing at the tan lines you'll get from that thing.”

She frowned and looked down at her body. As did Ari, and Jake. Ari looked at Jake a second later and caught him checking her out. Not that he could blame him. He himself had been doing the same thing since he had spotted them both, but for some reason it pissed him. Then Hannah spoke bringing him back from his thoughts.

“Not like anyone’s gonna see em Loop.”

Ari swallowed hard and brought his coffee mug to his lips to conceal his raising uneasiness. Ok, so now we are on pet name terms. Fuck my life.

“You never know Red…” Jake winked.

Hannah laughed before retorting “I should be so fucking lucky…”

What in the name...

Ari tried to divert the attention and looked around him before asking Jake "What's going on here?"

"Well, your brochure mentioned the daily relaxing Tai Chi class. Irving" he said nodding at Max. "Liam is doing laundry because he lost a bet." he continued.

Ari looked down back at Jake, a dumbfounded expression on his face.

"He bet Rachel that Max didn’t know how to do Tai Chi…stupid bastard, not like he ain't known Max for 9 years or anything…" Hannah explained rather harshly.

“Are you mad at your brother?” Jake asked turning to look at her.

“Damned right I am.” Hannah snorted. Jake looked at her, raising an eyebrow but she said no more so he looked at Ari who shrugged. It was clear to him that he was not getting a reason why.

Ari shifted position and put his left fisted hand inside his shorts' pocket as he knew all too well what the reason for her bitterness against her brother was. He suddenly felt uncomfortable and looked behind them both, seemingly interested in the Tai Chi class while Jake continued his report of the chores assignment at the resort.

“Angela went shopping after giving a massage to a hairy Nazi. And now I'm giving a diving tour…” and at that he looked at his diving watch as he stood “which starts in exactly 12 minutes…” Jake informed, giving Ari a look “as per your fucking brochure.” But before leaving he glanced down at Hannah.

“You coming sweetheart?”

“Hell yeah…” she replied taking the hand Jake was offering her to help her up, but she then stopped.

"You promise I'm not gonna get eaten by a shark?" Hannah asked.

"Don't worry, I'll look after you." he chuckled. "Come on."

They both started to walk off without any more explanation before Jake turned to Ari. “Care to join?”

Ari looked at them for a moment but didn’t answer, he simply scoffed and drank his coffee. He was taken by surprised. He hadn't expected Jake and Hannah to hit it off and become so close in such few days. The green eyed monster now stopped groaning and started growling. He decided to shut it up by finishing his coffee and going to call Ethan and Isaacs to debrief the previous night successful mission in the privacy of his the outhouse where they kept the diving equipment.

***** Ari got back to the main building after the call to Tel Aviv and sorting a misunderstanding with a German couple who had been assigned separate rooms by mistake. Ethan and Isaacs had been giving him a hard time about the radio failure issue, Ari was willing to bet Ethan hadn't believed any of the excuses he had improvised. And seeing the turn the conversation with Isaacs had taken, he wouldn't like to be in Ethan's shoes and having to deal with Isaacs in person.

By the time he entered the main dining room Hannah and Jake had already come back from their diving tour and Hannah was gushing about the marine life, and how Jake had been amazing on the tour, showing everyone where to go and what to see. Max, Sam and Rachel listened carefully to her colourful account of Jake's expertise in the matter while Jake leaned back casually on one chair smoking and brushing off Hannah's flattering comments.

Honestly all Ari wanted to listen to was the sound of Jake's jaw breaking from his punch. But he faked interest as he sat on one of the free chairs and lit a cigarette after brushing his hand over his hair, an equally fake smile on his face. Rachel then suggested it would be nice if they all took a trip that afternoon after lunch seeing as they would be dismissed from their chores by then.

So for the second tour of the day, the entire team bar Sammy, who allegedly had a phobia of fish no one knew anything about and so offered to stay in the boat as spotter, decided to take a dive.

Later that day, when all the equipment had been checked and the tourist taking part in the diving tour were all settled in the boat on the way out, Sam sat next to Hannah who shifted in her seat.

“What the fuck is wrong with you?” he whispered. “You’ve been avoiding me all morning and now you’re looking at me like I murdered someone…”

“Not someone…” she replied without even bothering to look at him and shrugging.

If Ari could have turned himself invisible he would have, but seeing as that was impossible he was seriously considering throwing himself overboard and getting eaten by a shark instead. But chances were there wouldn't be sharks in the Red Sea, given his luck lately.

"What do you mean?" Sammy asked a bit taken aback.

Hannah shrugged again not looking at him. She still was undecided about how to confront her brother about his big fuck up many years ago, but it surely wasn't gonna happen in a boat in the middle of the sea with a group of chubby sunburnt tourists and Ari fucking Levinson nonetheless.

"What have you done to her, man?" Max chuckled.

"The fuck I know." Sammy groaned, looking at him

"Time of the month cracker?" Max asked Hannah, grinning.

“Seriously?” Rachel groaned.

"Like, that’s the one thing I never understand, why men assume when a woman is a little moody that they’re on their period?" she huffed.

"The one thing I never understand is why lesbians use dildos or strap-ons. I mean they either like cock or not." Jake thought out loud.

Ok, I might as well give a chance to the sharks, Ari thought.

"Maybe they like cock but just can’t be arsed dealing with the 6ft useless ball sack attached to it…" she offered before cursing in Spanish "Maldito cabrón." (Fucking asshole) Ari noticed Sammy rolling his eyes, clearly understanding whatever curse she had just spoke. Then a middle-aged German woman laughed and said something to Hannah in Spanish.

"Con quién estás más enfadada?" (Which one are you most angry at?)

Hannah laughed and glanced at Ari, Sammy, Max and lastly Jake.

"Ahora mismo, con todos." (Right now, all of them)

Sammy turned at her giving her a questioning look, but he couldn’t blow cover in front of the tourists so he bit back the urge to ask her what the fuck was going on.

Ari rubbed his face. Suddenly this boat trip was taking too long for his liking and his wetsuit felt far too tight.

Everyone remained silent, lost in their own thoughts. Silence only broken by sound of the waves and the lively chatter of a pair of overexcited German youths. Once they had reached the diving spot, Jake helped Hannah as she tumbled backwards into the sea before helping the tourists to do the same. Then it was Rachel and Max. Ari was the last to go.

"When did those two become so close? Is Jake hitting on my sister or am I imagining things?" Sam asked Ari, who merely shrugged before he tumbled backwards into the sea effectively determined to have his date with destiny... and sharks. Thanks, Sam.

God. Hannah had been right. The bottom of the sea at that spot was gorgeous. Being there, underwater, diving through the crystal-clear waters among all that rich variety of fish was simply overwhelming. Ari could recognise butterflyfish and clownfish along with sea turtles and some eels, and then a school of an unknown to him species of fish came swimming off a breath-taking coral reef when the group approached it. And just when he thought he couldn't be more amazed, Jake led them to a rather ghostly ship wreck.

The experience was as amazing as Hannah had described it, yes. But it would have been even better if Ari hadn't had to put up with her and Jake diving close together the whole time and him guiding her instead of the tourists. He would be lying if he said he wasn't low key pissed at them, had he a reason or the right to be or not. And he might or might not have not voluntarily kicked a school of fish with one of his fins. And to make things worse, that tight short legged wet suit she was wearing was doing nothing to help.

Just when he had decided to dive a bit more inside the ship wreck in order to keep his mind and his eyesight away from the pair, he felt a tug on his line. He swam up a bit and saw it was Sammy pulling so he heading up to the surface. He bobbed at the side of the boat gripping the boat side handle with his right hand and pulling his mask off with the left one.

"What's up?" he asked Sammy catching his breath.

Sammy just nodded towards the shore and said "Turn around."

Ari turned around and saw a bunch of armed guards all stood along the beach.

"Shit" he cursed. "Ok, I’ll go down get the others."

A few minutes later he had warned Jake and they all had gotten the tourists back in the boat and headed back to shore. Ari trying to keep calm so as not to scare the tourists and to reassure his team at the same time. Everyone more or less succeeding in keeping up appearances till they got to the beach.

When they descended the boat, Ari saw a man in an army uniform, with his hat on his head and a pair sunglasses covering his eyes. He quickly guessed it must be Colonel Ahmed of the local force, the one Kabede had warned him about.

"Hello." Ari greeted walking towards him, followed by his team.

"How can I help you?" he asked reaching his hand out to the Colonel, who looked back at him seriously as they shook hands.

"There's been an incident last night, and we wanted to make sure that all of you in the hotel are safe." Ahmed informed in his thick accent.

Ari looked back at his team, trying to buy some time, before turning back to the man.

"What kinda incident?" he asked faking a curious expression.

"Smugglers." Ahmed replied as he turned and walked back towards the hotel, all of them following. "They drove through one of our roadblocks last night. Nearly killed two of my soldiers."

The team exchanged glances as the soldiers began flanking them as they walk, guns held in their hands.

"I heard there's a smuggling problem up and down the coast, I hope no one was hurt." Ari offered casually.

Ahmed stopped in his tracks and turned to look at him. He inspected Ari's expression carefully before smiling an ample white toothed grin. He then nodded and continued walking, heading straight for the trucks parked at the left front side of the main building.

Ari had to put his quick thinking skills to the test before Ahmed started suspecting he didn't want his trucks inspected. He stopped as Ahmed walked to the trucks and leaned against the bonnet. He removed his glasses and gave Ari that inspecting look again before speaking.

"My soldiers shot the trucks. So the trucks from last night should have bullet holes in them."

Ari kept his face passive. Behind him Max and Jake both move nearer to Hannah and Rachel in a protective mode as the soldiers started circling the group. Tension was rising fast.

Ahmed resumed his walk round the side of the trucks towards the rear of them "There's no reason why your trucks should have bullet holes, Mister..."

"Thomas. Guy Thomas" Ari offered, walking after him. "And no. No reason." he admitted laughing a little with the last two words, as if he found it all ridiculous.

Ahmed didn't spare him a glance and proceeded to check the trucks, pushing at the wooden panels. Ari stood there watching. Then he looked at Ahmed whose face had fallen as he hadn't found the bullet holes he was sure he would find.

Overtaken by frustration Ahmed then barked something to his soldiers in Arabic. A second later a soldier ran up, saying something back as he nodded and Ahmed looked at him, before looking at Ari and returned to check the truck again.

Ahmed comes back a few seconds later and said something to his soldier, his voice steely, before beginning to make his way back down the side of the truck to his troop. Ari lowered his head with relief and in a bold move, encouraged by the rush of adrenaline, he chimed

"I hope you come visit us again real soon."

Hannah looked at Max and hissed "Seriously?" once the armed men had jumped back in their trucks. “I hope you come visit us again?” she looked at Ari, “You’re such a dick…”

Ari frowned as she turned away and with a shake of her head waked back down the sand and took a right towards the boat that they had occupied little over 10 minutes ago which were now moored by the launching ramp near the diving centre part of the resort. Max looked at Ari, gave him a shrug and then shouted after Hannah.

“Cracker, wait up…”

She stopped and turned, allowing him to catch her and Ari stood with his hands on his hips as Max tossed an arm round her, gave her a squeeze and they fell into step with one another walking down the soft sand.

“Come on, let’s get the gear away and we can talk.” Ari said, tearing his eyes way from Hannah’s back and nodding to Jake. Between them they all grabbed various bits of equipment and began hauling it up the beach to outhouses. It was hot work, the boys all undoing the tops of their wetsuits in an attempt to keep reasonably cool, but as Ari felt the sweat dripping down his back he could think of nothing better than getting out of the damned thing.

Once the last oxygen tank was placed on the floor by Jake, he let out a loud breath and wiped at his brow then his chest with a towel. Ari saw Hannah look at Jake and smile and that damned green eyed monster stirred in his gut again.

“Like what you see Red?” Jake teased with a wink and a smirk as he gave a little twirl.

“Well, there’s not much left that I ain’t seen, Loop, thanks to those fucking speedos.” she shot back and he gave a laugh, as she unzipped the front of her wet suit before she paused and then stopped when Max broke the silence.

“Smugglers huh…”

“Well they weren’t wrong.” Hannah mused “Just not smuggling the types of things they expect…”

“I almost shat in my wet suit.” Jake said, with a chuckle.

“Yeah, if that soldier hadn't been too scared to admit he'd missed, we'd all be locked up right now.” Sammy spoke, shaking his head.

Hannah’s attention flicked to Ari who wasn’t listening. Instead he was leaning against the wall, looking out of the window at the guests on the beach, one arm folded across his bare abdomen, the other playing with his beard and she could tell from the look on his face that an idea was forming in his head.

“Come here.” he spoke to the group as he pointed out of the window, his hands falling to his slim hips “What do you see?”

With that he turned and looked into the hut. Hannah, who was stood closest to him stepped up beside him, following his gaze to the tourists who were sat out on the sand, a few of them drinking beer from a cool box. Sammy moved to stand next to her and raised an eyebrow.

“Unsuspecting collateral damage?” he huffed a sarcastic laugh.

Hannah rolled her eyes and give him a filthy look as she shook her head, her hands falling to her hips. She shared a glance with Rachel who smiled at her, clearly they were both on Ari’s wave length.

“Best cover we could ask for.” Hannah said. Ari turned to look at her, smiling as she met his eyes her face almost smiling back.

“Imagine if the Germans hadn't been here when Ahmed arrived.” Ari looked at Sammy before he turned back to the window, folding his arms again.

There was a moment’s pause as the group stood looking out of the window for before they glanced round at one another, Max, Rachel, Hannah, Jake and Ari all grinning. Ari turned his attention back to the tourists, the idea was genius. Operate as a fully functioning hotel! They had the staff, and it was the perfect damned cover should anyone come sniffing around. Granted it might slow things down, they’d need a good few months to get it fully operational, and then there was the task of getting Ethan and Isaacs on board but he was confident he could sell it, especially with all the team’s support.

Well, almost all the team that is.

“You're kidding, right?” Sammy deadpanned.

“Yeah, coz this is one big fucking hilarious joke Sammy.” Hannah snarked and Ari turned round everyone’s attention focussed on her “Ari has a point…”

“What a surprise, you’re backing him up, again!” Sammy rolled his eyes.

Ari gave a sigh and stepped forward a little “Hey, hey come on…” he placated but Hannah ignored him completely and glared at her brother.

“Oh fucking grow up Sammy!” she shook her head, before she barged past him, shoving into him with her shoulder before she stormed out of the group.

“Oh fuck this…” Sammy grumbled, following her out.

Hannah stormed down to the sea front, Sammy hot on her heels.

“Hannah! Hannah, STOP!” he yelled, “What the fuck is your problem?”

“You really wanna know?” she rounded on him, her eyes blazing.

“Well I’d appreciate it if you told me instead of the snidey, bitchy comments and looks!”

“Would you appreciate it if I came round to your apartment one morning and punched you in the jaw…sound familiar?”

Sammy’s eyes grew wide and Hannah shook her head at him as the realisation spread across his face.

“How did you…” he started to ask but Hannah cut him off.

“Fuck you Sammy, how could you? You had no right to interfere in my life!”

“Hannah, you were my little sister…”

“I was 21 years old….a fucking adult.” she shook her head.

“I just…” Sammy sighed, and shrugged “I was trying to protect you.”

“From what? From Ari?” she shook her head “He’s your best friend Sammy, I mean how bad do you really think he is?”

“I know what he’s like Hannah.” Sammy shook his head “He’s a great guy but he’s reckless and arrogant and selfish…” “He wasn’t…” Hannah swallowed “He wasn’t like that with me.” “Look at what happened with Sarah.” Sammy sighed “That would have been you.” “Well, funnily enough neither of us has a husband now do we?” she shot back.

“Don’t say that.” Sammy looked at her.

“Why not?” she shrugged. “It’s true.” “You were 21…he was 28…”

“And?” “You had all your training to do.” “You had NO RIGHT!” she screamed at him “You had not right to decide what was best for me…I fucking loved him Sammy!”

At that Sammy’s face fell, and he looked down, shaking his head. “Hannah, I-“ “I loved him…and you took him away from me.” she sniffed “Why you would do something that you knew would hurt me so much?”

“I was trying to stop you getting hurt.” Sammy shook his head

“I mean, was it jealousy, is that it?”

“Don’t be ridiculous Han.” Sammy scoffed.

“You were scared I was gonna take your best friend or something?” she looked at him

“I didn’t know how serious it was.” Sammy looked at her “I didn’t know you’d been together for any amount of time…” “Hang on…” Hannah frowned “You didn’t know, so what? You just saw us at the party and then decided you’d punch him in the face?”

“I…I never saw you together.” Sammy looked down.

Hannah stopped dead and looked at her brother as he raised his eyes to hers “What? Then how did you-“ “I never saw you Han.” he repeated “Someone else did and they told me.”

“Who?”

“Hannah, does it matter?”

She snorted, remembering how Ari had said the exact same words to her the night before and let out a sarcastic laugh.

“I’m getting sick and tired of people telling me what does and doesn’t matter. I want to know. WHO told you?” “Hannah, don’t do that to yourself.”

“What the fuck does that even mean?” she said loudly “I have the right to know, tell me Sammy who told-“ “It was Andy!” Sammy yelled back “Ok, you happy now?” At his words Hannah visibly recoiled, stepping backwards on the sand. It felt like someone had just slapped her round the face.

“Andy?” she whispered.

“Yeah…” Sammy sighed

Hannah looked at her brother again, before she took a deep breath and turned and headed back up the sand towards her hut, the tears stinging her eyes. Her husband had been the one that had caused Ari to leave her. She didn’t want to believe it, but she knew her brother wasn’t lying. It felt like a double betrayal, from both of them, and it hurt. It physically hurt.

“Cracker?” Max stepped into her path, his voice gentle as he gently laid his hands on her shoulder

“Just...leave me Max, please…” she said, the tears pouring down her cheeks.

“I can’t leave you like this….” he said softly “What’s wrong? What are you and Sammy fighting about?”

“Hannah?” Ari asked softly as he appeared and Hannah groaned inwardly. She really didn’t need this. All she wanted to do was go and lie on her bed, curly up and cry. “Firefly, what happened?”

It didn’t take a genius to work out what the siblings had been arguing about. Ari watched her as her chest heaved with sobs, debating whether or not to hug her but he stopped himself, not sure exactly how well it would be received.

“He…” she started to talk and shook her head, taking a deep breath before she turned her beautiful blue eyes onto his, they were shining with tears “It was Andy.” Ari felt like the rug had been pulled from his feet, he knew instantly what she was referring to but couldn’t quite believe it.

“Andy?” he repeated, looking at her and she nodded.

“Andy saw us that night, and he was the one that told Sammy…” “Aah, shit…” Max sighed, and both Ari and Hannah turned to look at him. “That isn’t exactly what happened”

“How do you…how do you know what we’re talking about?” Hannah frowned.

“Because it was me. I saw you.” “What? Hannah whispered as Ari let out a groan and turned away for a moment to gain some composure.

“I saw you and Ari outside Cracker, and I made a joke to Andy because he liked you….and we knew Ari had some secret girlfriend he was refusing to tell us about and…”

“God, Max!” Ari spun round to look at him, shaking his head.

“I didn’t know he was gonna tell Sammy, or that he did…I swear.” Max finished, apologetically “I’m so sorry.” Hannah looked around at Max, lost for words.

“Cracker…” he said but she simply shook her head.

At that point Sammy approached and that was it, she’d had enough.

“You….” she pointed at Sammy “Had no goddamned right to interfere…” she turned to Max “You should have kept your mouth shut…and you…” she looked at Ari, wanting to scream and shout and rail at him for walking away and not fighting for her, but as his eyes locked onto hers, she saw the sadness behind them and even now, with the anger and hurt coursing through her veins, she just couldn’t bring herself to do it.

Instead, she simply turned and stormed into her hut, slamming the door behind her.

**** Chapter 5

#leave no one behind #Ari Levinson #ari levinson x ofc #ari levinson x original female character #red sea diving resort #chris evans #chris evans characters

30 notes · View notes

prettywordsyouleft · 4 years

Text

Band Sessions: Sungjin

Pairing: Park Sungjin x reader

Genre: band au / fluff

Warnings: none

Word count: 2425

Index: Jae | Sungjin | Young K | Wonpil | Dowoon

You paused before you approached the door, quickly checking yourself over. Once you were satisfied with how one could look whilst in their work uniform and inhaled deeply, you marched the three remaining steps towards the studio door. Knocking, you waited for someone to answer it, mentally hoping it was who you had checked yourself over for.

Your smile deflated a little when it was Wonpil. However, the brunette grinned and gestured you inside. “Guys, Y/N is here. Break time!”

Entering the studio always made your heart race a little. Normally because some of the members of Day6 were still hovering over their instruments, music blaring around the room until everyone realised or smelt your arrival. You smiled politely as you set down the bags of food, holding yourself rigidly as they all came in above you like swooping birds pecking away at their orders.

“Oh yeah, this burger is going to be great! Thanks, Y/N!” Dowoon enthused, Brian tipping his pack of fries towards you in gratitude as he stuffed a few into his mouth. Wonpil was busy handing out drinks and Jae was complaining that he spilled the overflowed one on his shirt again.

And then finally, there was Sungjin.

He grinned. “You’re a lifesaver you know.”

“I don’t know about that,” you replied, chewing on your lip in hopes you wouldn’t come across too giddy.

All he had to do was speak and you were mush for this man.

“No seriously, I think if you hadn’t of stopped by right now, Jae might have lost it at Wonpil for missing his cue to sing one more time.”

“Ah, well, I’ll accept my life-saving skills with pride.”

“You should,” he confirmed with a hearty laugh and then frowned at the remaining food. Sungjin looked up at you. “Not staying?”

“Boss is in tonight, there’s no break time for me,” you explained, smiling politely when Brian pointed in your direction.

“You know, that’s illegal.”

“Kind of want to keep my job, all the same,” you replied, darting your focus towards Sungjin.

Because if you didn’t work at their usual delivery store, then you wouldn’t get to cross paths with Sungjin as much as you did now.

Nodding your head lightly in farewell, you backed off towards the door, going to close it behind you when Sungjin followed you over. You blinked curiously. “Did I forget something?”

“No, I uh… you will eat when your shift ends, right?”

You nodded happily. “Of course!”

“Okay good, because eating is important,” he announced, rubbing his neck before chuckling. “Hey, uh thanks again for the delivery. I know we’re only down the street but still, you go above and beyond for us.”

“It’s what I do!” you enthused and Sungjin nodded.

“Well, I guess you better get back to what you do, Y/N. See you next time!”

Your smile dropped as soon as the door shut, slumping in posture.

Today’s visit was far too short.

Thankfully, it wasn’t long until you received another order for a studio drop-off, and like always, you ensured you looked your best, smiling graciously upon arrival. Several more drop-offs happened in this fashion, and sometimes you’d have a quick bite to eat with them and others you would head off early. Either way, you were seeing Sungjin at least twice a week off-campus, which was more than the times you saw him on it. Your timetables, so you had gathered from observation and casual conversations, showed that when you were both at university during the day, you were in opposite directions. Even if you had enough time to cross paths with him, it would take you fifteen minutes to walk over to his department, and by that time, the chance to meet up would be lost.

So the odd occasion when you did match up always startled you more than it should. Sungjin chuckled softly. “Oh hey, I’m sorry, did I interrupt you?”

“No!” you whispered hastily, shaking your hands to dismiss his claim, your lips curling up into a giddy grin. “Not at all.”

“That looks like quite the textbook,” he murmured, and you nodded gently. “Got a long study session ahead of you then?”

“Thankfully, I only need to read a few chapters out of it for my assignment.”

“That’s a relief,” he mentioned and then tapped you on the shoulder. “Well, I’ll let you get back to it.”

“Are you not here to study?” you wondered, your voice a little loud for library etiquette. Blushing, you bowed your head apologetically to those you had disturbed before darting your attention back to Sungjin.

“I uh, came to find a place to relax,” he admitted, rubbing his neck. He looked at the empty chair beside you and you yanked it out, Sungjin slipping into it, placing his bag on the tabletop to rest his head onto. He gave you a quick smile. “Jae and our manager have started using the studio for extra-curricular activities so I figured I can’t go nap there in between lectures.”

“I’ll make sure to wake you before your next class,” you told him and he nodded, pulling out his phone and earbuds.

Sungjin hesitated before thrusting one towards you. “I recorded one of our new songs. Want to hear it?”

Nodding eagerly, you took the earbud and placed it into your ear. Sungjin hit play on the music and then closed his eyes.

There would be no more study for you now. At least, not from the textbook before you. As the music fed your soul, you shifted in your seat so you could have a better angle to gaze at him. Sungjin was so peaceful, instantly relaxed in his position. Placing your elbow up on the table to support your head that fell into your hand, you watched as he rested, imprinting every part of his face into your mind.

God, he was so handsome. You loved the strong arch to his eyebrows, the light forehead crinkles he had as he dreamed. His eyelashes were longer than you had noticed before, and his nose made you smile. Your eyes then transfixed on his lips, wondering if they were soft or not.

You knew it was foolish but you were certain you were in love with Sungjin.

There was nothing to dislike about him, and your crush had dragged out for over a year now. Still, you were aware that it was an unrequited love. Sungjin just was friendly with you, happy to talk about the weather or good recipes. There were no signs that he felt the same as you did, and instead of dwelling on this thought, you simply enjoyed the unreserved moment where you could admire the man before you. You allowed yourself to fantasise that this could be something you did as a couple, Sungjin seeking you out to nap whilst you studied before going off to your respective classes and then meeting back up for dinner. You thought about how supportive you could be to his band on the weekends when they had a booked gig and he could come to your debates. Hand-holding whilst on campus and gentle, soft kisses that warmed you like the summer wind.

It was beautiful and you sighed in content, lowering your head onto the textbook, still staring at Sungjin.

How you yearned for all you had just envisioned.

It was quiet when you eventually sat back up, blinking away your disorientation. You realised you were still in the library and after checking your watch, it was several hours later. Gasping, you then looked over at the empty space beside you, your gaze shifting all around you until you found a note over your pencil case.

Looks like you needed a nap too. I left my phone here with you so the music could keep you company. I’ll be at the studio tonight if you want to return it.

- Sungjin.

Glancing down at your arm, you snapped up his phone that was still playing through the catalogue of Day6’s songs on repeat. You were surprised by the gesture, smiling when you wondered how hard it was to leave his device behind with you. Holding it fondly within your hand, you tidied up your space with the other, slinging your bag over your shoulder and then headed for the exit. Checking the time on Sungjin’s phone again, you hoped he was still where he said he’d be.

“Y/N,” Sungjin greeted when he opened the studio door half an hour later, frowning when he noticed all that you carried. “You went to your work?”

“I didn’t know if you had eaten dinner or not so I got some food,” you confessed, peering around the studio. It was otherwise unoccupied, which strangely made you feel more at ease.

Besides, you had only gotten enough food for two.

“You didn’t have to,” he murmured and you looked up at Sungjin who quickly grinned. “But I was kind of hungry, so thanks.”

“I don’t know what else you eat so I got something I knew you enjoyed,” you replied happily, settling everything down on the table. And then you pulled his phone out of your pocket. “To say thanks for letting me borrow this.”

“Hey, it’s no problem. I didn’t want to disturb you.”

“I hadn’t realised I fell asleep staring-” Your eyes widened momentarily as you caught yourself. Sungjin watched you curiously. “Staring at that textbook ha-ha!”

“Right, no, I feel you,” he agreed with his signature chuckle, gesturing you to take a seat.

Unlike you, Sungjin seemed more awkward with it just being the two of you. As you chewed on your food, the silence now stifling any of your attempts to converse with him, you wondered if you had gone too far getting food just now. Maybe it would have been better to just hand him the phone and go.

Except, you were kind of living out your daydream right now. You had both fallen asleep together and met back up to eat dinner. You would humour yourself this one time and then never step over the boundaries again.

“So uh-” “You know-”

Both staring at each other, you giggled and then motioned for Sungjin to go first. He smiled. “So what did you think of the song?”

“The first one?” you asked and he nodded. You grinned. “I loved it. I think it’ll be a great hit at the show next weekend.”

“Oh, you know about that?” he asked and you pointed to the board where the schedule had been written on in detail. Sungjin laughed airily. “Right, of course. What would we do without our manager’s organisational skills?”

“So you are playing it at that show?”

“I dunno, will you be coming?”

You tilted your head to the side, watching as Sungjin’s gaze darted all around the place, flickering towards you every moment or so to gauge your expression. It hit you then that this wasn’t so one-sided after all. You smiled, which soon grew into a grin and for once you didn’t check yourself over it.

Your heart felt full.

“Do you want me there? Because I’ll come if you want that.”

“Yeah, that would be cool,” he breathed, clamping his eyes shut a moment later. “Okay, so that would actually be more than cool.”

“True or false,” you stated and Sungjin finally looked at you again, frowning at your statement. You grinned. “Did you stare at me sleeping before leaving?”

“Well-”

“True,” you announced with a giggle. “At least in my case it was before falling asleep. I gave up studying right away and studied your face instead.”

Sungjin laughed. “True as well for me. I was late to my class because I didn’t want to leave you.”

You were certain your heart was going to leap out of your chest with all the realisations you were having. Connecting all the little moments over the past year – the gestures, the haphazard attempts to keep you around just for a moment longer.

Maybe Sungjin was close to loving you as well.

“True or false,” he spoke up next, shifting closer to you on the couch. “You have wanted to kiss me for more than just today.”

“True,” you breathed immediately, sizing up his lips. “It’s been a year, Sungjin.”

“A whole year?” he repeated and you nodded. “Man, what was I thinking?”

“Can you just kiss me now without thinking about it?” you instructed in a voice a little louder than a whisper, leaning in midway to meet him. You had been wrong; his lips weren’t as soft as you thought earlier. But they were real and firmly attached to yours, sending you into delirium.

And that was more than what you could have ever expected when you fantasised about them.

“Come to the gig with me next week,” he said when he was done stealing your breath and you nodded. “Not as the girl who delivers us food. Not just as a fan of our music either.”

“What as then?”

“My girl. Come as my girlfriend,” he suggested and you grinned giddily.

“Does that mean you’ll make time for my debate club match the week after?”

Sungjin nodded. “Of course.”

“But as the guy I deliver food to?” you teased and Sungjin laughed. “Or as my boyfriend?”

“Which would you prefer?”

You nestled into his side and Sungjin instantly wrapped his arms around you. “You know, when I do have to do my job it’s going to be that much harder to just deliver the food and go now.”

“That’s okay, I’ll have to organise that you receive an extra tip.”

“Oh?”

“Mm, kissing in the hallway should be more than sufficient, right?”

You leaned in and kissed Sungjin again. “I don’t think I’m ever going to get used to doing that with you so that sounds like a good tip.”

“Yeah,” he agreed, staring at your lips with a hunger that wasn’t over the food he could taste upon them. “But just so we can get accustomed to it, I think we should keep on trying now.”

“It has been a year’s worth of waiting for this.”

“I can see how the studio works for Jae now,” Sungjin murmured, his lips a breath away from yours.

You could tell there would be more opportunity now to see Sungjin. And if it meant he made your heart sing every time you were in the studio with him, you were ready to ensure it sang loud and clear.

You were in love, after all.

_________________

Next: Young K

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