#of course if anything recently exciting/interesting has happened then please do be my guest to share any hype

[the-nysh]

What are your thoughts on Versus so far?

...Oh! :O To be honest I must've completely forgotten about it - I suppose I was at ch5/6 or so and decided to wait for some more chs to accumulate first before binging/catching up. You can see what I previously thought about it the last time(s) I left off here, here, and here.

[the-dream-beyond]

Episode 10 - Tapping Into Your Inner Knowing With William Donius

Nik Tarascio 

I'm super excited about today's guest. It's someone who has a completely different and super simple way of tapping into that inner knowing if you've ever wondered, what's next in your life, what you're supposed to be doing, you're trying to solve difficult problems. This guy has just an incredible process. That is so, so simple. It sometimes feels like it shouldn't be that easy. But I really hope you enjoy this one. And I hope you find a ton of value in trying to apply this to your life.

Nik Tarascio 

Welcome to the dream beyond. I'm your host, Nik Tarascio. I'm a CEO, musician and overall seeker of Truth, inspiration and simply put, how to live the most fulfilling life possible. Growing up surrounded by extremely wealthy and successful people gave me unique and unfiltered perspectives of those who have seemingly made it through on the dream beyond we're letting you in on what it really takes to achieve your dreams. What happens when it turns out your destination isn't the promised land you are expecting? How to process the lessons from your past while mapping of course to true fulfillment. Let's get started.

Hey, guys, really excited to be talking with the New York Times best selling author of thought revolution, how to unlock your inner genius, Speaker ideation facilitator and former banker and CEO. He had a recent TEDx Talk unlocking the brain's hidden app, which explains a new approach to brainstorming. And he's been teaching at the Esalen Institute and a personal development workshop called Meet your better half. Please welcome Bill Donius. Thank you so much for being here, Bill.

Bill Donius 

Sure, Nik, great to see ya.

Nik Tarascio 

And I actually wanted to start off on on how we met, because I just find that life has this funny way of throwing interesting people in my path. And you are on the top of the list of some of the more interesting, unique characters I've met. So is that, uh, well, we were both at a conference in New York City. I think you and I had been chatting about where I was getting stuck in my life. And you were like, Hey, do you want to go try something kind of interesting, you want to do this nondominant handwriting. I was like, I have no idea what any of that even means. But yes. And I remember we were sitting on the corner of 34th and eighth on some rooftop bar, overlooking the street. And I was writing what I felt was chicken scratch. And then we deciphered it. And it was basically like my inner voice guiding me through some relationship challenges, what I wanted to do with my life, who I want to be when I grew up, and I can't remember the exact words, but something tells me the idea of me having my own voice was a big piece of that. And sitting here with you doing my podcast is like such a full circle moment. So I thank you for in many ways guiding me here to this and then being a participant as well.

Bill Donius 

Well, thank you for sharing that I I also remember that moment, because it's it's one of the things that really has excited me most about this work that I do is getting to be in those moments with individuals where they unlock something, especially in many cases where that have defined them kept them stuck sometimes for decades. So to be able to break through that in a in a way that's unorthodox, and amazingly simple and easy. And, and even profound in many ways. Is, is exciting for me.

Nik Tarascio 

Yeah, it was very cool to witness and I gotta tell you, my skeptical mind, was challenging that all the way until the moment where we really kind of picked out things on the page. And I was like, wow, that's not anything I would have allowed myself to even think or feel. So very cool to see that. And I'd love to before we dive into what it is that you even do, I find it super interesting where you came from. And I'd love it if you would just kind of give us a little bit of a background of, you know, your upbringing professionally, where you started out, and kind of leading into what was that first moment in your life where you're like, I made it? I'm successful.

Bill Donius 

Okay, cool, great question. I would say I had the Forrest Gump experience of life and work and business and MIT. After graduating from business school at Tulane University, I really had a number of things that I was interested in. And, but then I quickly found that they typically, you know, they didn't work as well as I intended or I wasn't as interested. I was bored. So I moved on from healthcare, sales to public relations to management, consulting, to television production, to retail food, and did all those things for 11 years before getting into banking. And then was in banking for and something I guess, I tried to avoid, in some ways, because it was my family's business and I wasn't that interested in doing it. But that ended up being the most satisfying part of my career. I did that for 20 years, succeeded.

My father took the company public, we did the that was a went really well for for employees, shareholders for everybody. And then we sold the bank and in banking is basically overbank. So we don't need you know, 1000s and 1000s of banks in the United States. So that was one of the realizations, it's an overly competitive market it and then I was able to move on from that to rebalance my life at age 50. And go into this space that I've been in the last 14 years, helping people like deal with issues that come up and in their life where they're stuck and or just potentially realizing their potential, helping them move through life in a way that is much more meaningful. So that that's been a really satisfying time in my life. And it was, and it says, and frankly, probably most wouldn't say it, but it really overshadowed company, and then the business successes were great. And I guess it propelled me and allowed me I was financially blessed to be able to do this and kind of quit and go in this direction. But it's, it's been a great ride.

Nik Tarascio 

What was the single moment that you feel like you really made it in a business context? I'm really curious where you're like, Well, I really, I really did it.

Bill Donius 

I suppose it was realizing the dream. And the many years of hard work and taking the company public, and finding that that process worked out well. And were able to succeed for shareholders, employees, customers, it was a big success, I guess growing a company eight fold and, and doing really well for shareholders. And that was a, you know, a wonderful moment. And for me, I was lucky that had happened earlier in life. So that was also a plus.

Nik Tarascio 

I'm kind of wondering from the perspective of, you know, some people have these exits in a particular industry, and then they stay in that industry, and they keep doing it. So I'm wondering for you, how much of that front half of your professional career was out of familial obligation? Or for some other reason carrying a torch versus you chasing your deeper calling?

Bill Donius 

That's a good question. I don't think there was a huge familial obligation because I essentially it was maybe the opposite was maybe true, because I avoided joining the bank for 11 years and just wanted to go out on my own, I also didn't want to be that son, or grandson in a family business that is the know, at all, and is 21 years old, you know, so I feel like I needed some life lessons to, to learn, but it was it was really a number of things coming together, I think I gain the wisdom of being out in the workplace, going to business school, being out there 11 years, and really sensing that, that some of my interests were aligning with what the company needed. And my father was getting older and closer to retirement. And we were very, very, very different people. So I don't think I could have worked for him more than five years, which I did. But because we just saw the world differently. We were very good friends. And you know, I had a good relationship, but it was just different differing business philosophies.

Nik Tarascio 

So that's actually pretty great to hear. I mean, I think a lot of the family business stories I've heard, like, even my own I mean, much of it was there to take care of my family. And part of my curiosities against you come out of this, this relationship with the bank, you have this big win, which again, I don't know how many people ever experienced taking their company public. So I mean, it must have been such an extraordinary moment. And how long was it between that? And this current clarity around what your next calling was? Did you already know what that was? Did you already have a sense of that?

Bill Donius 

No, it was it was about another 10 years. So took the company public at age 38. And then at age 48, after putting in 20 years of hard labor, was they the investment banker said, you know, work good, it's probably you've probably got five years, and it's all going to be over. Because something will happen, you'll either buy or sell, or there's, you know, have to leave or whatever is going to happen. And so by at the end of 20 years of, of that kind of work at at 6070 hour, we pace with, you know, we're talking to analysts and PR firms, you know, the institutional markets for 10 years of that I was a little burned out and and so I went to Santa Fe and was on a retreat, thinking about what's next and what the rest of my life The purpose was. And it was in that retreat process using what I also had learned in therapy 10 years before at age 38.

This process of intuitive writing, right brain writing ideation, however you want to call it that I took on that question and said, God, what do I want to do? And what came up for me was sounded at the time trade it was held people was like, that, that's, that's, you know, sounds pretty good. Well, like how and then I got well, you need to consider Teaching the methodology that you've personally used for these 10 years in your life and in business, you need to consider sharing that. And I was still again, like, like, how would that happen? It was like write a book. And I was like, oh, write a book. That doesn't sound that great sounds like more work. And I'm trying to balance my life maybe a little bit more so.

But then that I realized in the, in the, in the following weeks that that registered with me. And that became sort of my Northstar. And I decided to essentially retire early at 50. And head in this direction. And again, I was fortunately financially able to do so. But it just I realized it was a whole nother chapter of my life that I needed to go and do that also involve rebalancing, because I didn't want to be working 6070 hour work weeks, you know, for the next 10 or 15 years, or what have you.

Nik Tarascio 

So you did feel it sounds like you felt a little bit of resistance when this was starting to present the idea to you as it was starting to come through the filters. That's like the you know, Ken, I don't know if I necessarily want to go down that road. What was I love coming into these moments? Like, what was that moment where you realized I have to pick up the sword? And this is my calling, I must do this with my life?

Bill Donius 

Well, that's a great question. Because it is like, you know, the slaying of the ego, right? How do you go from, you know, the CEO job earning, you know, a lot, and doing really well. And being that guy, especially in a, in a net that St. Louis is a small town, but I you know, had stature in St. Louis and the business community I was down. And, you know, I enjoyed the work itself, I enjoyed the customers, I enjoyed that whole experience. And so it did take some time. And I think the key to it was that I had learned to trust, the intuition that I got from, in my parlance, from the right side of my brain, which I associate with the higher consciousness, that spiritual part of the brain, the problem solving part, the part that we get those that we get those messages that can be transformative in our lives, and whether solving a simple everyday problem, or something really big, like, what do I want to do with the rest of my life, I felt as though the weeks went on that that really resonated with me.

So I started putting things in motion that made that so a couple of years later, and then, you know, what it wasn't like I was ever 100% confident, but I felt like there was a strong sense that, that that was my, that that was kind of my North Star, and that it would work out. And that that was my calling. And, and then and then I was the dedicated I guess, and the years after I did 200 interviews with people in the in the lead up to, and so doing the research to or to be able to write that book on that topic that that that really validated that I was on the right path, because I saw even in those interviews, that I was able to help people and that it was, you know, that was useful. And that even a singular meetup of a hour and a half could really help someone get some insight about their life or a problem or an issue.

So I saw the power in that. And I thought wow, to be able to do this every day would be would be wonderful to be able to make a difference, you know, do my small part and perhaps making the world a little bit better place because I check that was felt lucky enough to check the financial box. And although not fortunate enough to have a jet, I'm sorry, I would have been called you earlier, but there was enough to it was enough to, you know, have a good life and then really focused with intention.

Nik Tarascio 

Yeah, well, I'm sorry, it's been a hard life without a jet. I know it's a bit of a slog.

Bill Donius 

Would have made things so much easier for me, you know, traveling to all these events that I have to go to so. So maybe there is a an idea that I have that I'm percolating with a small team. So who knows maybe that'll maybe that'll kick in and and it'll be possible for kids as they get older and will want to travel more comfortably. So maybe that's still annoying. Yeah.

Nik Tarascio 

I definitely I definitely know a guy who can help with that when the time comes. So your diverge call? Yeah, fantastic. And, you know, I think for people that are listening again, I had the fortune of experiencing this firsthand not even knowing what I was doing. How do you describe what you do for and with people?

Bill Donius 

So I describe it as, as a way of activating the neural pathways to the right side of the brain. And, as is almost inconceivable as that sounds, or an unorthodox as that sounds. It's based on a Nobel Prize winning discovery that Roger Sperry made in and was awarded its Nobel Prize in 1981. On when they were looking at patients through the years, trying to understand brain function, and they were looking at how specifically how to solve for epilepsy. And so they started cutting the corpus callosum, which did completely separate the two hemispheres the left from the right. And they they learned a lot about brain function.

If you want to Google something interesting, if you if you Google split brain patients, you know, cut a split corpus callosum that you'll you'll see those patients struggling to hear in response to the command, grab that pen, you'll see the left hand and the right hand of the same patient, like as if it were two different people. So the the the amazing, and whether this is you know that now sciences, you know, advanced in the years since 81. And people believe a lot of different things and somebody didn't have potentially have debunked this. And they say whether it's metaphorically true or scientifically valid on it's a generally suggest to people just try and judge for yourself, if it works for you.

Great. If it doesn't work, great, try something else that I have about in the in the many people that have taken this to from huge global companies like Hitachi and Kawasaki to small nonprofits to medium to national nonprofits to workshops around the world that works for about 90% of the people that do this. Because if you're an extreme type A, it may be difficult because you have to be willing to let go and trust the process and allow this to happen. Because you have to get your mind into that flow state. Because it's really a thinking tool, much more than much more so than a handwriting tool, because it's still I can show you my handwriting 26 years later, it's still messy, you know, so it's, it's really about learning how to think differently.

Nik Tarascio 

So as you're talking, I mean, a bunch of questions come up. And again, I'm I'm a layman, when it comes to neuroscience and how the brain works, what I think I hear you saying is, on some level that you know what happened for me, that day that we sat down was I was using the dominant part of my brain to try to solve my problems, which is I guess the left side is what I'm doing to do a lot of my rational problem solving. And you gave me access to my creative part of my brain or the other side of my brain that I may not have predominantly used, or I'm not listening to or something to that effect. But you gave me a pathway to it without me even knowing what I was doing.

Bill Donius 

Yeah, and scientists would say that we in and I did a lot, I worked with a team of 11, psychologists, psychiatrists, neuroscientists, in the writing of the book, because I didn't want to write something after my whole business career that was you know, malarkey. And be, you know, laughed at. So I was very careful to make sure there was scientific standing. And then one of those bright guys who studied with whose mentor studied with Roger Sperry, it was at Harvard at the time, and he actually opined, read the whole book have commented, you can add a couple pages into the book.

So scientists know we use all our brain all the time. So I think this is like the difference between, maybe a good analogy would be between, if you've always been a runner, and then you you decide to swim, as a way to supplement your workout, it's, it's, it's, your body's gonna respond differently, right? So it's, it's, it's just a different function. In this case, it's what what it feels like to me all these years later, is that we're activating the brain in a different manner. So for just a moment, if we can just get that activation to occur to, to bounce over to that right side of the brain, which is known to house those functions of intuition, dreaming, problem solving creativity, so all that good stuff is there, it's sort of like we have to be using that sword analogy, we have to just pierce through for a second to get it and then we can run back to the way we typically think and operate.

And interestingly, though, the the most of us 92% of us in the United States are right handed which is controlled by the left side of the brain. And the left side of the brain controls in is known for, you know, mathematic mathematics and reasoning and linear thinking logical thinking, speech, you know, all those things that that put food on the table gas in the car, and, and also, you know, I think can be the definition of the box and in many cases, so, it's no it's no accident that think outside the box is the most overused business hyperbole, because we all say it but we don't necessarily know how to do it, you know, we just do the same thing. Kind of maybe Trying to do it quicker, faster, better, but so it really is hard to get outside that comfort zone. And this process does it, in my estimation about as well as any.

And it's also been applied to the art world drawing on the right side of the brain was written in the 80s. And it still is a fantastic process for those who want to learn how to draw better. And then that is basically you've got to get your brain out of the way to be able to draw better because most of us don't draw any better than we did at age five, you know, so if we're trying to draw an image of a person in a chair, it's, it's not going to be very good. So it's the brains getting in the way.

Because all that we know about the chair, the person, the age is conflicting, with just drawing the damn thing you know, so we don't see it in the way that we could otherwise. And then, a woman that I studied with and was my mentor, Dr. logika, pop Yoni wrote recovery of your inner child. And so she helped launch the whole inner child movement in psychology. So in psychology, this versions of this process had been used for decades and decades and decades, they typically refer to it as intuitive writing. And when patients, you know, have something where it's not working any other way, which was the case for me, and my therapist gave me which he has book and when I was 38. And it really helped crack the code of where, where I was stuck.

And I had already spent a year. And I was saying that my therapist, hey, we need to speed this up, you guys just have a busy job. I mean, I can't come here every week and not see major progress. So which is book really helped me break break through, but it's not for everybody, you know, as you have that suffered some sort of abuse it's in earlier in life, or whenever it's, it's, it's not, it's a tough read, and you're going to put it down and fast. So my thought was, what about all the rest of us in the world who need help with garden variety problems, you know, how to improve the profitability of their company, how to get improve the relationship that hasn't been working well, how to make the team collaborate better, how to be a better human, you know, how to have what's your highest and best purpose, all these big questions in life, or I found her better served by activating the brain differently and getting essentially what feels like a second opinion.

Only the best part is it's not from a friend or a treasured professor, maybe even or a psychologist, but but from himself, you know, it's getting this wisdom from this higher self is higher consciousness is what it feels like.

Nik Tarascio 

So I'm curious to know if you know, how does this relate to fulfillment as you're talking about this. And again, I'm someone that's mostly solved problems in my life, through my rational mind. And I'm really now kind of, in the introspective phase of, you know, I'm after a feeling amount after external conditions, I think I've only recently made sense that that actually doesn't matter how many whatever's I have, or how much money I have, or where I live or any of that stuff. It is a state of fulfillment, peace, happiness, joy that I'm looking for, how does this process relate to that?

Bill Donius 

Great question. And I think it relates very directly to your purpose and what your meaning for life is, like, why are you here? What are you here to do? Or where do you hear that you need to do next? Because maybe you've done you know, 15 different things. And, you know, what's next? What's next for you to realize with the rest of your life in this gift that we have? You know, how do you make the most of it? And in my harlots, I think that the right side of the brain is so closely connected to our souls journey, that it and tapping into that higher consciousness is, is the most direct and, and fat, kind of easiest also, way to go there and get what we need to get to get the self awareness to know why we're here, what our journeys about, what's left to do, why we're stuck, while we need to work on, you know, all those big kind of existential questions or we can get help accessing, and if you will, outsourcing in some ways, maybe those thoughts to the right side of our brain to get that wisdom that we're seeking.

Nik Tarascio 

And as you were doing this, I mean, is that what you had come up for you? And that's why you felt called to do this work? Because it did kind of answer that big, deep search question. Like the Viktor Frankl question, right? It's, it's, we're all looking for that meaning?

Bill Donius 

Yeah, absolutely. Because I thought it was to help finance people's dreams, you know, which was great as a banker, and I was doing that in spades increasingly, you know, more and more helping is the bank room many, many, many more people and that was satisfying. It was great and creating a great employment environment for employees were voted Best Place to Work in St. Louis. So that was fulfilling, doing well for shareholders. I was fulfilling and, and so there was a partner who was like, Okay, great. I'm checking all the boxes like, what else is there? And so it was in that retreat that I pose that cell that question to myself like, Okay, what is my highest and best purpose? What else have I have left to do? Now, if you if you've been able to check the box, fortunately, financially, then it gives you the freedom to go off and do either what you really want to do or what you need to do or what you're called to do. You know, that is, that's fantastic. But I found you don't have you know, sometimes that's the excuse to the Lie we tell ourselves is that, oh, I can't do anything until I've attained this economic success. Well, I've seen in the workshops, I've led it as at the Esalen Institute and other places over the years that that Now oftentimes when we find our bliss, we find our passion that can also lead to great financial success. So we may be trapped in a job that we hate. And no, it's a wonder we're not doing well at it because we hate it. And so it isn't until we leave that and and pursue where our skill sets, talents, and purpose align that we also achieve the financial success we want to achieve.

Nik Tarascio 

Is there a particular story about someone you've worked with that really that one you can share and to it is one of your prouder accomplishments?

Bill Donius 

Yeah, that yeah, there. I mean, there's a flood of things that come to mind, I guess, the most recent because it's the freshest and it was also in it one out who is in in the recent podcasts that I did with the Esalen Institute voices. Veselin was the workshop participant who was working and had been working was trained to work as an oncology nurse and had achieved a high level and great status in that role and was doing really well but unfulfilled in the work, and really did a deep dive to understand why that was the case. And figured out that she really wanted to spend her time caring for the patient, rather than administering the drugs and, and then figured out a pathway to do that.

And so she did all that in a period of a few months. And that was last year. There's also a, a 27 ish year old who was in a job where he was doing really well financially. But he just knew that that, you know, he, the golden handcuffs were kind of on and he was well regarded in the company doing really well. But it wasn't really helping him achieve his passion of being an entrepreneur and learning how to be his own boss or, and so he took the big risk and jumped out into a much more entrepreneurial opportunity and understood what that meant, why he was doing it, and felt good about making a huge change in his life and career and taking the risk and so doing so. And then there's some that have had really successful, there was the gentleman who was a Mensa member, and had been fired five times in his career, and his wife referred him to me, his, she was tired of them getting fired and having their whole life be interrupted. And he was able to unlock why it was with him, that he progressed. And it was typically when he was directly reporting to the CEO that that would happen. And it wouldn't happen prior.

But he unlocked the reason. And the CEO was a proxy for the father figure that that he had in the father that he had, he had completely erased and forgotten, something that happened at age 14, where it was a pretty minor thing in the scheme of things. But that comment from his father, then was very triggering little, you know, decades later in life and was interrupting his career. And just the awareness of that singular comment allowed him to understand the impact it was having on his life. So that's a few, I guess, independent kind of examples.

Nik Tarascio 

And I think the part of it that is quite interesting to me is we're kind of in this world of everyone has these expensive solutions to problems and these massively complex things that just seems like such a simple tool at the end of the day, and I'm wondering, Is it is it the kind of thing where someone could just learn it for themselves and do it on their own? Or do they really need to lean on a facilitator like you?

Bill Donius 

You know, it's absolutely the former. In fact, the reason that I wrote the book and through the lens that I wrote it after those 200 interviews, which I framed it sort of is through the lens of the lies we tell ourselves and that this process is essentially a truth detector, helping us break through where we're held back. So I densified a different lies, it seemed common amongst those 200 people that I interviewed, and the objective was to make it you know, and truly a self help book that you could help yourself by reading it. And there are 54 questions and working through it. So one of the most satisfying things about the work actually, is to hear from people who I'll meet somewhere somewhere in the world, and, or who will reach out and write to me through my website, and we'll share that they did this work, you know, six years ago, 10 years ago, whenever and, and the impact it had on their life.

So, yes, it is. And then there are some that are not able to learn that way. And so they attend workshops, which is great, you know, that's more immersive the workshop in SLN, as a whole weekend, leading one at the modern elder Academy and Baja Mexico in May. And that's a whole week. So people learn in differing ways. And I'm realizing also that experimented last year with a whole digital hybrid cloud set, thinking I'd probably need to do that it was kind of forced on me during COVID, where we couldn't be in person. So I developed videos that with clients, big corporate clients to continue to do the work by zoom. And so it's, it's, you know, it's the good news is it is very relatable, and easy to learn, and easier for Shawn perhaps. But yes, it's, it's a, it's truly a process that is efficient and effective.

Nik Tarascio 

You know, as you're talking, I'm kind of hearing some patterns in what you shared is that it seems like you're one of those people that has throughout your life gone within to allow yourself to steer to the next thing that felt right for you. I don't know if it was in your nervous system, or in your consciousness or what it is. But it's kind of cool to see that after navigating so many different jobs that you talked about choosing to go back to the family business having success, they're finding your way to this thing that as you talk about it, it's like, how did you even figure that out? Right? It's amazing that it was like this Well, of wisdom within you that you've been able to tap into, it doesn't surprise me, it doesn't surprise me at all, to hear that this is what you help people do. It sounds like that is your innate gift, is, you've always been able to go within yourself, even if you've resisted it, and you're helping people get access to the same thing, which I just think is such a cool calling. We're all...

Bill Donius 

You know, it's probably a very polite way of saying I'm an impatient person. But I've not thought of it that way before. But now I think there may be something there because I've always felt like I was able to take what was my Achilles heel, in intimacy and relationships and what I learned in therapy, and overcome that Achilles heel, and then that the process that I learned then has become my superpower. But I really feel like my life really changed and my late 30s learning maths because I was somewhat adrift, somewhat impatient, somewhat bothered some, you know, somewhat a seeker and searching and just it and I guess I was unwilling to accept boredom or unwilling to accept scenarios, work scenarios, especially where I was, felt like I wasn't contributing or doing something meaningful. And if I was just kind of, on that hamster wheel of sorts, like, life's too short, I don't want to do this, you know, for a long time.

Nik Tarascio 

What's the dream now? I mean, you've you've had incredible success in multiple areas in multiple domains, you've had incredible impact on people. What do you dream about now? What, what what drives you through the day?

Bill Donius 

Yeah, so that's a good question, too. I've been thinking about this in the last year or so. And, and I think it's, you know, being open minded to continue to learn and being aware of what else is out there and what other possibilities exist, a new opportunity has opened up in the in the whole grease arena. And I've been invited to I've led a national webinar, and then I'm going to be one of the speakers that have a grief retreat in Connecticut this summer.

So it's helping people understand that intersection, you know, as life and death, and how do we survive bodily death? Where did we how do we grieve? Why are we grieving? How can we turn channel that into something that's useful? Helpful, so that that's of interest to me, also, hopefully finding a way to somewhat institutionalize this process. So it doesn't sort of end with me, you know, that I've already have a number of people that, that I've trained to do this work that in various forms, that I think there could be some sort of digital course that would, you know, exist out there to be able to really build at great, much greater scale, teaching this out into the world, because it's not been happy to go at the pace that I've gone at.

And, you know, I'd haven't really looked at it as a as a money making thing as much as it is a, you know, a passion affirming project. So but I don't think those two things are independent, you know, I think I can get my passion out there more would be satisfying. And rather than doing it, you know, just dial it up on a bigger scale. So I'm looking at those kinds of opportunities, because it, it works really, equally well in the workplace. So these big corporate teams that I work with, in some cases, a decade later, now still use this process, and their managerial meetings and their processes, especially when they're stuck or have a problem.

So and then they and then the other satisfying part has been when they've used it at work, and it works, they've integrated into their personal lives, and they used it to help find, you know, why they're depressed or upset at something or why something else wasn't, isn't working as well. So it really deserves to live in, you know, both the workplace and in the personal development world. So it's how to continue to drive that foreword, I guess, is the is the other part that I'm thinking about.

Nik Tarascio 

I mean, it's incredible to hear just someone to help us process the human experience, right. And we really, especially the I think the depth conversation, which is, and I think a lot of people think that it only surfaces later in life, but more and more, I'm realizing how many of us are trying to avoid the topic, trying to you know, try not to face the topic or dealing with even unpressed, onyx, unprocessed death experiences from childhood, right, losing grandparents, or parents or pets, or whatever that is. So uh, just, I don't know, it's just been awesome to watch what you're doing and to hear more of your story. And it's just, it's such a gift that you're giving to the world.

Bill Donius 

So, I can definitely recommend what helps amplify my paths. And down this in this direction is the book I've since met her at Esalen. She's a New York Times reporter and took a journalistic approach to the topic of death and wrote the Netflix it's a Netflix series wrote a great book that I highly recommend titled surviving deaths. And the Netflix series is by the same name, it's when you it's it's really almost impossible to read her book or watch the series and not come away with an understanding that we do survive. And that there is more to it. We're not just in the ground, and it's over. But it's it's so it's really fascinating.

Nik Tarascio 

Well, I think kind of to sum it all up what what is so cool about what you're sharing to me is that life really is like a Disney movie where like the answers are inside of us, right? It's it just takes that courage to believe our own intuition or to make the space or to learn the skill of being able to tap into that. And, you know, again, I'm just ungrateful to have the time with you and be able to talk about this. And I hope people that are listening, really take this to heart and try the exercise because again, I was very skeptical. very skeptical the first time, Mike, this is silly. I don't see how this is going to do anything. There's expensive, difficult methods to solve this problem. Why would this work? And I did find just so much value. And you know, really unearthing things about my relationships unearthing things about my path in my life that I was unclear about and resisting, mostly because it was fear based. And I would say that what you did with me, allowed me to answer a question from beyond my own fear. And I really was a tapping into my heart, my courage, my gut. That's what that allowed. So I highly recommend you guys. Take a moment to try it. Just check out Bill's book. I mean, there's so much to recap from this, I really feel like the major sentiment, though is that you already have the answer. You may not think you have the answer. And even if you don't, there's a way to get there. And that's really what Bill's work is about is really learning to do something that is so not Western. It's to trust yourself. It's to trust yourself and not need to go to, you know, therapists and doctors and career counselors and all these people that tell you what you should do. There's really an opportunity for you to find out within yourself what you're really called to do, what you came in to do. And I hope that for all of you and Bill just thank you so much my recommended Asians are again, check out Bill's book thought revolution, how to unlock your inner genius. If you're curious to really get some FaceTime with Bill, you could check out modern elder Academy. He'll be down there in May, you could also check out the Esalen Institute. And he's also got an event there in May as well I think from the fifth to the seventh. And man, I'm gonna see if I could squeeze some of that into my calendar. Otherwise, I'm just gonna hunt you down wherever you are in the country just to get some catch up time.

Bill Donius 

It's it's still in formation, but I'm likely leading a workshop in New York City on July 12. For specifically for creatives, writers, directors, actors, and the experience with them, just kind of anecdotally has been so positive through the years that the idea was to, like, really create something specifically for them to help them so that that definitely is I'm gonna try to sleep and so that'll posted there, williamdonius.com

Nik Tarascio 

Fantastic. Well, again, thank you so much for the time this was really lovely,

Bill Donius 

Thank you and I appreciate who you are in the world, how you show up in the world and, and I'm delighted that you're doing this getting the message out there and helping people kind of awaken to their own superpowers and to what's important in life. So kudos to you man.

Nik Tarascio 

Thank you so much. I hope you all enjoyed. Thank you for listening to the dream beyond. I hope that you receive whatever message or inspiration you were meant to get from today's episode. I had a great time recording it for you. If you love the show, please take 30 seconds to subscribe rate and review it. That really helps get the word out. And if you want to connect with me, you can find me at:

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[gintokisimp]

Happy Birthday Gin-san!

One-Shot about Gintoki's 30th birthday. Tsukuyo has a special present for the clueless Gintoki.  The setting of the fic is an already lightly romantic established GinTsu relationship. They already had some kind of romantic encounters, but it was never quite enough for anyone to make a first move. Basically all of them could be seen as „Well, that was awkward, but we are friends so it’s funny.“

Genre: Fluff, First Kiss Stuff

Rating: General Audience

Word Count: 1,960

"Gin-chan, wake up! wake up!"

Kagura's scream echoed through the Yorozuya banged on his door before tearing it open with an ugly sound.

"You're an old man now, no more sleeping in late" She continued to scream with full volume.

"Shut up!" Gintoki screamed back and opened his eyes. He sure felt like an old man already. His life was okay now, after the ending of the canon material. But something was missing, but he also didn't care enough to find out what exactly was missing.

Kagura brought in a birthday cake with 3 sloppily placed candles, topped with one single strawberry. Gintoki frowned looking at the candles.

"I'm 30, not 3." He blurted.

"Yes yes, right. You're so old, I need to use one candle for 10 years, that's how old you are!" She explained to him. Gintoki snorted.

"Why are you so happy so early in the morning?!"

"Here, eat up or mommys gonna be pissed!"

She ignored his bad mood and lifted the fork, forcing the cake in his mouth.

"Ah Kagura stop that, I can eat myself." He picked the fork out of her hand and grumpily ate the cake, sharing it with her. To be exact, Kagura shared with him. She ate most of the cake.

"We're gonna have a party today, yes we will!" She announced.

He groaned in disapproval, a party was the last thing he wanted.

"Zura and Elisabeth are coming, that weird space guy, Shinpachi of course, Gorilla boss lady, -"

"How many people did you invite?!" He interrupted her.

"Mayofreak, Gorilla, that sadistic assface" She ended her list.

"Did you invite the whole Shinsengumi?!"

"Yes of course! It's a special occasion after all!"

"Who's gonna pay for that?!"

"You don't need to pay, don't worry. It's your birthday!"

She happily jumped to her feet, snatching the plate from his hands, on her way to leave his room.

"Thank you, Kagura" Gintoki mumbled. She turned around and smiled.

He laid down again and sighed.

Just forget my birthday already, no one cares about that.

"No more sleeping! Get up now!" Kagura screamed from outside.

Angrily mumbling Gintoki crawled out of his futon and prepared himself for the shitty day.

---------------  x ---------------

The Yorozuya office was packed.

Every possible sitting space was occupied, the room filled with familiar faces. The mood was exuberant, but Gintoki still didn't warm up to the idea of the party.

All guests had arrived by now and the alcohol rose to everyone's head, while Gintoki tried to keep the excitement down. They tried to toast on his birthday several times, but he always denied it, frantically searching for excuses.

Once, he spurted over to the kitchen, pretending that he left the stove on.

Another time, he feigned to be asleep on the couch.

There was no reason for a celebration. There never was.

Katsura had just spilled his third beer all over the floor and Gintoki was kneeling down, searching for some napkins in a drawer, when suddenly the shoji door opened and another trio entered the room. "Hey Tsukki, Hinowa, Seita!" Kagura shouted happily.

Gintoki's heart stumbled. He abruptly lifted his head, banging his head against the drawer. Rubbing his back of the head, he stood up straight and faced the new guests.

Kagura didn't tell me they were coming as well..

"Tsukki…,what are you doing here?" He asked nervously

"Gin-san, Happy Birthday!"

Hinowa said with a singing voice, reaching for his hand to press it lightly, shaking it excitedly.

"Here, we have a present for you!" Seita hugged him turbulently with a small package in his hands, giving it to him with a big smile.

"It's ya birthday, are we not invited?" Tsukuyo mumbled, arms crossed in front of her chest, averting her eyes, Kiseru in her mouth.

Hinowa slightly pushed in Tsukuyos ribs.

"Don't you-?"

She whispered and Tsukuyo blushed slightly before she eyed Gintoki.

Confused, he tilted his head, Seita still jumping around in front of him.

Tsukuyo sighed, closed the few steps between them, walked around Seita and spread out her arms, wrapping them around Gintoki.

He was baffled.

Hugs? Since when does she give out hugs?

"Happy Birthday" She mumbled incomprehensibly.

Tsukuyo hugged him tight, a little too tight. He could feel her arms cramping around him and her heart racing against his. Well, that's awkward. Gintoki felt his heart speed up as well.

"Oi oi, not so unruly, you're almost assaulting me" He laughed nervously.

She tensed up, let out an angry sound and smashed him to the ground, pressing the air out of his lungs.

"That's a nice present, did not expect anything else from you.." He mumbled, lying exhausted on his back.

Tsukuyo was standing over him, her face beet red.

"Tsukki, are you okay? Are you sick?" Kagura shouted from her seat on the couch.

"'s fine" She blurted.

"Oi, why does no one care about me? It's my birthday and I just got crashed into the damn floor" Gintoki grumbled.

"You're fine." Kagura simply replied.

"Nothing new" Shinpachi shouted from the other side. Hinowa smiled happily.

"Oi, why are you happy? Why are you happy?!"

---------------  x ---------------

The evening had gone by mostly uneventfully. Katsura had tried to battle everyone in a game of uno, but he failed miserably, losing every single time. The now close to tears samurai was comforted by Elisabeth in one corner of the room.

"This never happens to me, I'm so good at this game!" He cried in his sleeve.

Elisabeth held up a sign: You're the best player!

Tatsumas laughter repeatedly echoed through the room. It was the most annoying sound of the evening. Gintoki had the strong urge to kick his head in.

"Kintoki, drink something with me!" He called out to him, completely wasted.

"It's Gintoki, can't ya at least get it correctly on my birthday?!" Gintoki hadn't touched a single drop. He still didn't feel like celebrating.

The Shinsengumi members happily drank in their own little round and were joined by Hinowa, Kagura and Shinpachi. Seita played on his new TS. unbothered by the commotion around him. Otae and Kyuubei sat on his table, sharing some food, leaving Gintoki and Tsukuyo alone.

"So.. how are ya" Gintoki started after some minutes of silence between them.

"Whaddaya mean?" She replied uninterested, smoking her kiseru.

"I asked about your well-being , what do you not understand?"

"Why are ya asking, you never ask that" She simply replied.

"Fine, I won't do it again." Offended, Gintoki crossed his arms in front of his chest.

He glanced over to her, their eyes met and both of them turned away, slightly blushing.

Hinowa turned her attention to Tsukuyo, noticing the thick tension between them.

"Tell him how you are, it's not that hard." She chuckled, slightly drunk and continued talking to Kondo with great interest. Hinowa had recently started to bond with him, much to her disapproval. She didn't want the police involved in Yoshiwaras business.

Tsukuyo huffed.

"'s fine, I guess." She finally replied to his question.

"Ah.. I see."

"and how is it?"

"How is what?"

"Being old." She grimaced maliciously.

Gintoki scoffed. "It's not that different from yesterday, it's just one day later."

"okay.."

"I don't know.. lonely" He continued.

"You don't have to be lonely," Tsukuyo said, still looking in another direction.

"..what do you mean?" Gintoki turned in her direction.

"I urr I.. I mean..you have Kagura and Shinpachi.. you're not alone"

Gintoki paused.

"Yea right, I'm not alone, but still lonely"

"That's not true, Gintoki."

"Sooner or later Kagura will move out, Shinpachi will find a girlfriend, and they will be living their own lives. I'll be a single left alone dad by then. Maybe I should buy myself a woman in Yoshiwara.." His thoughts trailed off.

"Ya couldn't afford that anyways. Besides.. I'm sure there's someone for you" Tsukuyo's voice got lower with the progression of her sentence.

"Really? Who is it, is she hot? Does she have big boobs? Please tell me she's not from the Hyakka"

"..kind of"

"Tell me, who is it?" He was invested now.

"Well..-"

"Tsukki, don't you still have another present?" Tsukuyo jumped at Hinowas interruption.

"No I don't. It's already late, let's go home." Tsukuyo answered quickly and she stood up hastily, leaving the disappointed Gintoki behind.

"Okay, if you say so."

Seita helped Hinowa and they said their goodbyes, walking to the front door. Gintoki stood up as well and accompanied them to the exit like a good host.

"You can tell me Tsukki, I won't tell anyone!"

But she just ignored him. He gave up.

"Thanks for coming, hope you enjoyed it." He said politely.

"Oh Gin-san of course we did! It's always pleasant to be around both of you !" Hinowas smiled.

Gintoki was confused "Why do you say 'both of you' so weird?"

Hinowa didn't reply and Tsukuyo pushed her to the door. Halfway, she stopped and turned around, facing the in the door leaning Gintoki.

"Gintoki..I .. I actually have another present for you" She started quietly.

Hinowas gasped slightly.

"She's gonna do it!" She whispered to Seita.

"Eh? I don't need presents, I thought I already said that." Gintoki waved his hand dismissively.

"It's just.. something small."

"uh.. okay?"

"you jus..just need to come a bit closer."

"You're scaring me."

"Or I can just come to you.."

Tsukuyo carefully walked back, stopping right in front of him at a very short distance. Sweat formed on his forehead.

"Close your eyes." She whispered.

He did.

Gintoki felt her small hands on his, turning his palm around, laying her hand in his. But there was nothing in her hand.

There's nothing there, What could it be? -

That's when she kissed him. No warning, no preparations. She just kissed him then and there in the doorway, right on the lips, in full view of everyone.

Gintoki forgot to think at all.

Her warm soft lips on his spread a fire in his body, crawling under his skin, burning the hands that were covered by her soft fingers.

One second.

The whole room went silent, Tatsumas laughter died.

If you listened carefully enough, you could've heard a feather falling to the wooden floor.

Two seconds.

Gintoki's head started to spin. His eyes opened slightly and he saw her face through his lashes.

Three seconds.

That was over the limit of an accidental kiss.

It was not a shy kiss,

it was brisk,

setting a complete new point in their relationship.

Her feathery touch on his hand tightened, sending a shiver that traveled down his spine, making his heart beat painfully fast.

Gintoki slightly opened his lips, about to return the kiss, but she retreated, her face tinted in a shade of red he had never seen before.

Tsukuyo smiled lovingly and lifted a finger, brushing it over his open mouth, caressing his lips.

"Happy Birthday"

She whispered and turned around on her heels, hooking the excited chattering Hinowa into her arms and quickly excited through the front door.

Gintoki just stood there, dumbfounded, unable to move.

The kiss wasn't that long, and it certainly wasn't a scene from a shoujo manga with a great backdrop, exciting atmosphere and a big buildup, but it was wonderful.

Nothing else was able to reach his mind in this moment, he only knew he would remember it forever.

Several minutes went by.

Still, no one had said a word.

Everyone stared at him and Gintoki stared at the door where he had last seen her.

“ehh.. Gin-san..? Is everything ok?" Shinpachi asked carefully, the sounds slowly returning to the room.

Gintoki's fingers slowly lifted up to touch his lips, her sweet taste still lingering on them.

“what…?" ..did just happen?

[alpacaparkaseok]

Mine

1. He what now?

Genre: Yoongi x OC

Warnings: none

Word Count: 2.4k

Synopsis: The first time Cara Richie sets foot on the Graham Norton show she’s confronted with questions that have less to do with her upcoming film “Young Rising”, and much more to do with BTS. More specifically with one of their rappers, Suga. Cara is an open supporter and fan of the band, however when Min Yoongi is shipped with the bilingual up-and-coming actress after mentioning her in an interview, things start to get out of hand. Fanart, twitter trends, and stalkers ensue, leaving Cara’s career up to an unknown fate. Then comes the moment the world didn’t even realize it was waiting for: a solo track from Agust D that raises more questions than answers, especially for Cara. 

I would recommend the Graham Norton show to anybody purely based off the quality of their couches. 

 It’s our five minute call when Sebastian Stan, my co-star and annoyingly close friend, shakes me out of my half-asleep daze. 

 “Hey, we’re about to be called up. Ready?” He helps me to sit up, laughing at the state of my hair. No doubt it looks like a bird’s nest. He motions for one of the crew to help me out, a petite makeup artist appearing out of nowhere and touching up my hair.

“Yeah, I’m excited I swear. I just wish I wasn’t so tired.” Sebastian and I rolled in from where we were shooting in the Democratic Republic of the Congo at about ten o’clock this morning. I have yet to recover from the long trip. Unfortunately, our interview was scheduled for tonight, and we stand to begin our course of promoting the movie for the foreseeable future. It’ll still be a few hours before I can crawl into a bed.

“At least it’s only an hour time difference, right?” Sebastian stands me up, instructing me to do some stretching.

“At least we finally have service. I haven’t spoken to my family in three months, they probably think you killed me and left me there in the middle of the jungle.”

One of the perks of our on location shooting was the fact that we only had a couple of satellite phones. No contact with the outside world for nearly three months. I grew way too attached to it, although the one downside was not getting to know how my family and friends were. A lot can happen in three months. I’ve been so rushed to get ready and get over here to the show that I’ve hardly had any time to even glance at my phone besides a cursory text to my group chat with my family letting them know that I’m still alive and back in civilization. 

 “Tempting, but too many witnesses.” Sebastian winks at me, coming to attention when we’re motioned over by one of the staff. Glancing at the TV in the waiting room I can see Graham Norton beginning to introduce us. 

 “Our next guests have just re-entered into civilization, so do excuse them if they’re a little off. Please welcome the dashing Sebastian Stan and lovely Cara Richie!”

Sebastian motions for me to go first, and I jump out into the bright lights. Even though I’ve been on a few shows by now, it never gets old. Granted, I’ve only had one successful blockbuster. Maybe I won’t feel the same once that number starts to climb. 

 I greet Graham before settling down on the couch beside Billie Eilish, the musical guest of the day. I’ve met Billie before, we actually became fast friends. I was invited to a music awards show (I found out that actors are often invited to them for some reason), and we decided to ditch the after party and settle for pizza and a movie instead. 

 “It’s been so long since I’ve seen you, glad to know you’re still alive.” Billie mumbles. 

 “Barely,” I whisper back. Sebastian sits down on the other side of me, waving to a few people in the audience. There are a group of girls near the front row that scream even louder when I look their way, and I smile at them. Sebastian sure does have an affect on people.

“Well, well. Glad to see you’ve made it. Didn’t you two just fly in this morning?” Sebastian jumps in to answer. I appreciate him taking the lead, he definitely has a lot more experience than me. 

 “Sure did. I think you’re trying to kill us, Graham.” Graham gasps, every bit the entertaining host. 

 “Now, Cara,” I smile at the man, hopefully masking my exhaustion. I’m a huge fan of him, and I want to leave a good impression. “This is your second major film. How are you feeling with all of the attention you’ve received? Because really, you came out of nowhere.”

I nod, reminding myself not to depend on Sebastian. “That’s true, I kind of did. It’s been amazing though. I think they sent me off to the middle of nowhere so it wouldn’t go to my head.” Graham laughs, the audience joining in. I sit up a little straighter because of it. 

 “That’s probably smart on their part. Really, from what I’ve seen of the previews for this film, it’s called ‘Young Rising’, correct?” We nod. “Right. It looks quite intense. But you two, you two are lovers in this.”

 I shoot Sebastian a look that tells him we are anything but. “Yeah,” I draw out the word. “You could say that.”

“I really don’t know what they were thinking, putting the two of us together.”

“You mean to say that you don’t like each other at all?” Graham asks, feigning concern.

I shake my head. “I loathe him. But he won’t leave me alone, can you believe it?”

Graham nods. “Actually, I can. After all, you were recently named among the ‘most wanted’ stars in the world.”

I look at Billie completely surprised. “I was?” I ask her. She nods, shrugging her shoulders. 

 “Most wanted? That makes me sound like a criminal!”

“Isn’t that the point?” Sebastian taunts. 

 We continue bickering for a while. “I had no idea, but really I have no clue what’s happened over the past three months.”

Graham hums, shuffling through his papers before coming upon what he was looking for. “Really? Well I find that quite interesting, because something happened just last week on this show.” Suddenly the girls up front start screaming again, hardly able to contain themselves. 

I look at Sebastian. “What did you do?” I whisper. He shakes his head at me, mouthing ‘nothing’. 

 “Alright, calm down you three. I haven’t even gotten the chance to tell her yet, you’re going to spoil the surprise!” WIth great effort the girls pipe down. Graham swivels back to me, a mischievous smile on his face. 

“Oh no, what surprise?” I groan. 

Billie pats my knee. “I know what this is about, it’s been all over twitter. This is what I’m thinking of, right?” Billie asks, shooting me a close-lipped smile. 

“All over twitter? I haven’t had a chance to check twitter.” To be honest, I was putting off checking the hot mess that is social media. Three months of peace and quiet have been so nice, I’m clinging to it before I have to dive back in. 

“Last week, we had a very special musical guest. You’re a fan of BTS, aren’t you?”I nod, furrowing my eyebrows. Where is he going with any of this? 

“Yeah, I love them. We were just listening to them in the car, actually.” I gesture between Sebastian and I. Graham studies us like a textbook, nodding along. 

“That’s perfect! They came on the show last week, it was amazing. Wasn’t it?” The audience cheers and claps in response. “We got to have a little chat before they performed. A nice little heart to heart if you will. Somehow, I have no idea how, we got onto the topic of their love lives.”

We all give him a complimentary laugh, knowing full well how they got onto that topic. Any successful interviewer knows their way around questions to make even the most composed celebrity fidget in their seat until they slip up. 

“Oh did you?” Sebastian prompts Graham on. I know him well enough that he’s just wanting to move on at this point. We’re here to talk about our movie, not BTS. Heaven knows they’re famous enough already.

“Yes. You’ve heard of Suga?” I nod. I know who each of the members are, I really do like them a lot. “Well, he said something quite interesting, er, about you.”

My eyebrows flit up. “About me? He knows who I am?”The audience laughs, the girls in the front are practically causing an earthquake with how much jumping around they’re doing. 

“He most certainly does. In fact, when I asked the boys if there was anyone they had their eye on, they all immediately turned to him! It was difficult to get it out of him, to say the least, but I found out that he’s a big fan of yours. And not just from a professional standpoint, if you know what I mean.” Graham winks at me even as my mouth falls open.

Me?

“You’ll have to watch the clip,” Billie says, nudging me. “It’s been all anyone can talk about all week. It’s been so annoying, I see your name everywhere now.” She laughs, and I pull myself together enough to laugh along with her. I look around, reminding myself that I’m on international television, and word will get around quick if I look like a high schooler that just got asked to the prom by her long-time crush.

Even though that’s exactly what I feel like.

The rest of the interview passes in a blur, Graham even going to far as to show me a couple of tweets with the hashtag, #CaraBTS. I’m just relieved there isn’t some weird couple name trending...yet. 

“Oh, look at this one! You’ll love it.” Graham holds his paper up to the light, reading off of it. “‘This is not a drill, I repeat, this is not a drill. Cara and Yoongi are finally happening. I’ve been pushing for this since I found out she went to school in Seoul!’ It would appear this has been a long time coming for some fans. There are others that aren’t quite as excited though, as you can imagine.” 

Shuffling his papers he pulls out another tweet. “Here we are, ‘I’m telling you if Cara Richie lays a single finger on my lil meow meow I’m suing.’ Well isn’t that lovely?”

We finally move on, Sebastian telling a funny story from our time filming in the Congo. I add in whatever tidbits I can, but I remain so focused on looking normal and unbothered by this new information that I nearly miss Billie getting up to sing. It’s during her performance, when the lights are down low and our mics are turned off that Sebastian nudges me, whispering something under his breath. 

He makes it look like he’s pointing something out on stage, “Hey, you alright?”

I nod along, looking for all the world like we’re chatting about the lighting. It’s true that it looks striking, the dark greens and blues cut across the stage, highlighting Billie’s haunting voice. 

“I think I will be. Is this going to be a disaster? Now all anybody will want to talk about is my love life.”

“Which we both know is nonexistent.”

“Exact-hey!” I shove my friend before turning my attention back to the performance. I still can’t quite relax, but I feel a little better. At least I have Sebastian by my side. He certainly knows how to remain low-key when it comes to the press. 

Once the interview ends the three girls at the front squeal until I look at Sebastian who gives me a shrug.

“I don’t think it’s for me,” he gestures to them. “Look at their sign.”

Sneaking a glance over there my eyes widen and I struggle to keep my mouth from hanging open. One of the girls holds up a little poster that I didn’t see before. She probably wasn’t allowed to hold it up during the show because she would block other people’s view. 

There, written in big bold miss that only a blind man could miss it reads:

                Cara x Yoongi nation

Graham notices my attention from where he’s saying goodbye to Billie and makes his way over to me. He gives me a pat on the back. 

“That,” he points out the sign that is now burned into my eyelids. “Is only the beginning, love.”

🌙

By the time Sebastian and I make it back to the hotel where the rest of the cast and director/producers are staying, I want to lock my door and throw something. 

Sebastian told me not to check twitter, but I ignored him. Curiosity did kill the cat, folks. News flash. 

If I wasn’t known before, I certainly am now. Twitter is a mess of supportive fans, those fans who are heartbroken but happy for Suga, and the fans that are out for blood. Like, real blood. I’ve read the words “better watch out” so many times that I can’t help but look over my shoulder every few minutes. 

I do appreciate the fans that claim that only true ARMY will support the boys’ decisions. Nevertheless, I decide to hold off any kind of presence on social media until further notice. A glance at the official BTS twitter shows them doing the same thing, apparently. I’m not sure whether I should be relieved or worried about that.

“I told you not to,” Sebastian chides once we enter the hotel. “Now you’re all depressed.”

“I’m not depressed,” I defend myself. “Just nervous. I’m not sure what this means for my whole acting career. I don’t like knowing that I have no control over it.”

Sebastian wraps an arm around my shoulders as we enter the elevator. “Not to worry, I’m sure the PR team is on it. Stacey is good with these kinds of things. Trust me, I’ve put her through enough near disasters that this will be a piece of cake.”

Sebastian and I share managers, PR reps, and many more things. We’re strange friends, thrown together through a series of random events, but I’m so grateful for him. I would be so lost without all the resources he’s provided me with. 

I give a dry laugh, slumping against my friend as the thought of being so close to a bed only serves to make me more tired. “She’s probably glad that it’s not you for a change.”

“Yeah, probably.”Sebastian bids me goodnight, heading down to his room on the other end of the hall. I can hear our director and a couple of the producers talking, but it’s too muffled to make out much more than their voices. I’m too tired anyways, so I opt to head straight to my room and get into bed before anyone can ask me any questions. I barely make it into my pajamas before I hit the mattress, sighing as I sink into the covers. 

“Ah, finally. Goodnight world,” I mumble, turning to flip my phone on silent. The moment I go to grab my phone, it lights up with a notification. Groaning, I pick it up, squinting at the light. 

“He...he what now?”

Next

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What do you guys think Yoongi did?? 

taglist: @taylorroe3​ @eusticenatalie​

[x0401x]

Jeweler Richard Fanbook Short Story #25

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Sri Lanka Nakata Diary

 Title: I got to make some time all of a sudden.

Hello, this is Iggy.

Just as the title says, I suddenly managed to make some time for myself here in Sri Lanka. The guest who was supposed to come over had to go on a last-minute trip, so I wound up with almost an entire day off.

My boss told me that I should take it easy while I was at it and that studying was forbidden, so if you’d like, please give me suggestions. I think there aren’t many people living in Sri Lanka among the ones who are seeing this, so anything goes. Like your favorite ways to spend your leisure time, for example.

By the way, I like cooking when a senior acquaintance of mine comes over, but I noticed lately that I don’t cook much when I’m alone. Eating out is best when it’s Sri Lankan curry.

 Ely_03

Hi, Iggy. I always have fun reading your blog. I live in Greece. I have interest in Japanese people because my daughter is studying abroad in Japan, so I’m happy to have found this blog.

 1975Halleluja

Do they not have night clubs there? How about you try going to one? I’m reading you all the way from Egypt.

 BB_Typhoon

How about trying to clean up your room? It might be surprisingly messy.

 Archangel

Hello, nice to meet you, Iggy-san. If you are in Sri Lanka, apparently, there is a Sri Lankan massage called Ayurveda. You are finally having a day off, so isn’t it a good idea to relax in a way you have never experienced before? Take care of your body. I found the spa below. Not so bad, is it?

(This URL is only visible to the administrator.)

   Title: I went to do Ayurveda!

Hello, Iggy here. Thank you for your previous comments to my blog.

I went to the spa that Archangel-san introduced to me, and it was a series of first experiences, so I was very excited. Back in my country, I kind of imagined that women were the ones who get this kind of massage, but if my tired body would get better, I could keep getting it in the future too.

The owner of the spa was a Tamil speaker. It would have been great if I were more able to talk to them. Thanks to them, I experienced enrichment in many aspects.

Iggy out.

 Archangel

Iggy-san, it seems you had a fulfilling day and nothing makes me happier. I think that the most efficient way to study about languages ​​and gemstones is to proceed with the two paralleling each other like wheels. I hope your training will be fun.

 Punk_Of_England

When I read a blog from someone who’s having fun, I have fun too! If there were a ‘like’ button, I might have pressed it nonstop. Take care of your health. Man, anonymous sections sure are convenient.

   Title: Three-Wheeler

Hello, Iggy here. I had a question in one of my updates.

Do you remember that, last time, I wrote an article about purchasing a three-wheel bike called Three-Wheeler? I’ve been addicted to riding it around lately.

I did have a driver’s license in my motherland, but I was the kind who didn’t have a car or bicycle, so maybe my eyes opened up to the fun of driving a car when I came here.

This thing is like a bike with a hood, so it feels good when the wind hits my face. Finding waterfowl when I’m running around the man-made areas in the evening makes me feel satisfied.

I’m going to study now. After I’m done, I’ll go ride on the Three-Wheeler again. Looking forward to it.

 Archangel

Iggy-san, hello. It seems that you are enjoying your new vehicle. Although this is excessive concern, but if I may share my worries about the Three-Wheeler, while it does have a casual ride quality to it, is not appropriate for crime prevention. For example, there is no wall to protect your body if a thug happens to attack from the side of the vehicle while it is temporarily stopped. Your senior and boss have probably already told you not to carry valuables with you when you are riding. Please be careful.

 Iggy

>Archangel-san, thank you for always leaving comments. Indeed, I do recall my boss telling me that. I never take valuables with me when I use the Three-Wheeler, but I’ll make sure to take it to heart once again. Thank you very much.

 ilovestones

I went back to read the article about the Three-Wheeler. So cute! I don’t see bikes like that in my country at all. Must be fun to drive around one of those. I think this would come in very handy if you ever feel like renewing all the strata within a 20km radius of your house. I’m jealous.

 Punk_Of_England

This might be the anonymous section and all, but I think people’s quirks show in their text, so it’s hard to tell if they haven’t yet been discovered or if they’re just being let through...

   Title: Men in Skirts

Iggy here. Just as the title says, I’ve passed by several men who were wearing skirts. I wonder if it was traditional wear. But it also had a colorful and casual feel to it, so I’m slightly confused about what it was. I’m not very confident as to whether or not I was making a rude face when I looked at them. My apologies to them.

 Archangel

>Iggy-sama.

That is called sarong, which is a traditional wear in Sri Lanka. Please refer to the URL below.

(This URL is only visible to the administrator.)

I believe you understood that it is used as formal wear. Perhaps the fact that there were so many men wearing colorful sarongs means it was a wedding ceremony? Do not be so discouraged.

   Title: I was given a sarong!

Iggy here. For now, please take a look at this photo.

(The image is displayed only to accounts authorized by the administrator.)

I got a red and blue gingham check sarong! It’s comfy! Since it’s the locals who wear it, as expected, there’s lots of pros to it – it’s breathable, doesn’t bleach in the sunlight, and it’s easier to walk in than I had imagined.

As you can see in the picture, the length is down to the ankles. It’s longer than a Scottish skirt and that helps. It seems people put this on to go to wedding ceremonies. So cool. Above all, it suits the climate of Sri Lanka, so I think that’s better to wear than Bermuda shorts if you want to spend time here.

I received this from my neighbor, but it’s extremely comfortable, so I’m planning to buy one or two more for myself. I wonder if this can’t be worn every day.

 Shinghalion

I am a local. It makes me happy that you like my homeland’s clothes. This sort of garment also seems to be trending amongst Sri Lanka’s elite college students in the recent years, so if there are any places near you where college students hang out, then the boutiques next to them are where you should aim to go. Please have a pleasant life. By the way, it seems to me that someone is leaving several comments. Are you okay? If they are being a nuisance, it seems that there is also a block function here. Just my excessive concerns.

 Archangel

>Shinghalion

Pleased to meet you (just for the sake of it). Please do not say such outrageous things to someone you have never even met.

   Title: I ended up accumulating sweets.

(The image is displayed only to accounts authorized by the administrator.)

I made too many...

The picture is of coconut rolls, pudding and caramelized date. As one would expect, I can’t eat them all on my own, but when I tried to share with my neighbors, they told me that it’s bad for children’s teeth and got a bit angry, so things are awkward. What should I do?

   Title: My boss came over!

The sweets that I made in big quantity didn’t go to waste. Lucky me.

Weird coincidences do happen. I’m truly glad for that.

I wonder what I should make next time he comes. Please leave a comment if you have any suggestions. As for Sri Lankan sweets, I still only know about things like watalappan, and also the rolls, cream buns, and coconut dumplings sold at the station’s kiosk. But all of them are delicious, aren’t they? If you have any recommendations, please tell me.

 Archangel

>Iggy-sama, I saw your post with great interest. However, I do not think you should forget about the true feelings of the person in question. Please use every day to improve your own skills and promote your physical and mental health. In that respect, as expected, I think that the sweets you are supposed to make should have focus on your current specialties, but do you agree?

 Shinghalion

>Archangel, overprotection can be a bad habit if it goes too far. How about you realize that already?

 Archangel

>Shinghalion, Neither I nor you know each other at all. Please refrain from speculating and saying such things on your own accord.

 Punk_Of_England

Phew~! This is getting kinda interesting. I’ll be watching over the course of events.

 ilovestones

Hum, please leave it as that. This is Iggy-san’s blog. Aren’t you being a bother to him?

 Archangel

I resent my actions.

 Shinghalion

I apologize.

 Punk_Of_England

I’m sorry.

 Mura_Shimo

Heya, Iggy-san! It’s your well-acquainted H.S. I came to see your blog! It’s a fun one with lots of comments. Considering that you said you didn’t advertise it to anyone, that’s amazing! Natural virtues maybe?

I wanna see you again and talk! Do lots of updates~! I’ll do my best at guitar practice too~!

 Punk_Of_England

The possibility of toleration has disappeared, huh. A-san, you okay? Are you going to be silent for the rest of your life?

 Archangel

I have absolutely no idea what you are talking about, but I am hesitating as well. Remaining silent might be the safest.

 Archangel_Of_Archangel

Hello, nice to meet you, Iggy-san.

I read your entire blog. You seem to be having lots of fun. That is a relief. I have experience with working in a country a bit farther to the southeast than Sri Lanka, so seeing you live a fun daily life reminds me of my youth, which makes me both cry and laugh. This is a very good blog where your daily life comes to mind in vivid colors.

Also, the way that so many people are looking after Iggy-san in the comment section made the corners of my eyes feel hot. Speaking of which, do the people who leave comments on this blog really have no relation to Iggy-san and just watch over him through this blog?

>Archangel-san, can we talk again?

   Mail account

 Sender: richard@xxx.uk

Destination: n_yasuhiro@xxx.jp

Message: I shall contact you through the usual phone number.

 Sender: n_yasuhiro@xxx.jp

Destination: richard@xxx.uk

Message: I will be waiting for it. Thank you for always taking care of my son.

   Title: The comments decreased?

Hello, Iggy here. Ever since the last update, I feel that the people who always send comments to the blog have gone quiet somehow. Have I written anything weird? It is weird for me to make such a request, but if there is no problem in particular, please be as dynamic as always. I mostly spend my time by myself, so I get encouragement when I read from you.

The city has become lively with the preparations for Perahera. It seems there will be many plans for the summer again, but will I be able to see it live? Iggy out!

 Archangel

>Iggy-sama, hello. I shall write a long comment in due time.

[davidfarland]

Over the last few weeks,

I’ve been talking about some of the tawdry practices that go on in our industry, and I’ve been wanting to talk about rules of conduct when giving reviews. Too often online I’ve seen instances where people are buying reviews or selling them or trading favors.

Here are a few rules that I think you should consider adopting:

1.DON’T REVIEW EVERY BOOK THAT YOU ARE ASKED TO DO

In the course of your career, you will most likely get thousands of requests for reviews. On an average week, I get two requests for cover quotes. Unfortunately, reading a long novel (say 800 pages of manuscript) can take as a much as 20 hours. If I were to read two novels a week, I wouldn’t have time to write anything at all. So, here are some basic reasons why you must turn things down.

a) If you don’t have time to give a quote, just be honest. There have been times in my life when I really wanted to give a quote and just couldn’t. For example, one of my students, Brandon Mull, asked for a quote a few years back for his novel Fablehaven. I felt terrible, but his timing was just bad for me. (I’ve read the novel since, and I loved it.) He’s gone on to have a great career (#1 New York Times Bestseller), but every time that I see him, I just feel crummy. Now that he’s in my shoes, I know that he understands just how hectic life can be.

b) If you give too many reviews, then it devalues your reviews. Many authors set a limit of say, 2 per year. That’s a wise thing to do. Years ago, when Terry Brooks gave me a nice cover quote for The Runelords, I felt grateful. When I later learned that Terry almost never gives cover quotes, I felt even more honored. (I think that he has only given a couple of quotes in his life, as I recall.) So lend some credence to your quotes by restricting the number that you give. More importantly, if you really want to give a quote to a novel, make it a priority.

c) If the novel is not in the genre that you write in, then most likely the publisher won’t want your cover quote anyway. I write fantasy. If someone who writes horror or romance or mainstream or young adult asks for a cover quote, then I don’t feel that it does them much good to give them a cover quote. In fact, I’ve given a couple quotes that the publisher has never used, so aside from heartwarming the author, it really didn’t help.

2. NEVER GIVE A QUOTE FOR MONEY

I know a couple of authors who, in an effort to cut down on the number of people who ask for quotes, have said that they charge a high dollar amount for a cover quote. The argument goes like this: it costs me a lot of time (and therefore money) to read a book. If I’m going to read a novel with an eye toward a quote, which may have a huge impact on sales, why shouldn’t I get paid to do it?

The problem is that it causes a moral conundrum. If I get paid for a cover quote, will it be an honest one? Won’t the fact that I’m getting paid skew my perceptions? I think that it would. So I would never pay for a quote. On the occasions where people have asked me to give quotes for a reading fee, I’ve always refused to even read the book. Sorry, it just feels weird. Of course it goes without saying that you should never offer to pay for a cover quote, nor should you offer to give another author a quote in return for a favorable quote.

I do know that some places, like Kirkus and Publisher’s Weekly, do offer to review books for a reading fee. Personally, I wouldn’t do it. I realize that it takes time (and therefore money) for a reviewer to read and critique a novel that way, but I worry that this is one of those practices that gets a little too close to the line.

Please note that there are times when you may have an author that you admire who also happens to like your work. For example, I’m a fan of Brandon Sanderson, so I was eager to give him a cover quote on his first novel. In fact, for enjoyment I picked up his novel Steelheart this last Saturday and it is next on my reading list. Brandon recently gave me a quote on one of my novels.

I also happen to be a fan of several other best-selling authors. So I wouldn’t feel bad if one of them gave me a cover quote, and I would feel honored if one of them offered a quote. That of course is different from agreeing to give rave reviews to a stranger that you’ve only just met online.

3. BE HONEST IN YOUR REVIEW

I’ve had people send me books that I just didn’t enjoy. This is tough. Can you give a plug to a book that you don’t think is really any good? If you read the first chapter, and you really don’t want to read on, you have to stop right there. You can be gentle with the author and say, “This really just didn’t grab me. I’m sorry.”

You don’t have to be brutal about it. Remember that as authors, whether we’re indie or traditionally published, we are all struggling to get better, and we may have different aims and different emotional triggers. A novel that doesn’t interest me may thrill someone else.

When I read, if I suspect that I’m not the audience for that book, I ask myself, “Is there an audience for this book? And if so, can I tailor my remarks to that audience?”

I recall one author who hated Lord of the Rings. When he was asked to review a fantasy novel that he also hated, guess what he compared it to?

That’s a little bit cynical for me, but the concept is sound, so long as your remarks are honest.

4. PHRASE YOUR WORDING CAREFULLY WHEN GIVING A REVIEW

Remember that you need to have short bites that can fit on a cover. You can review both the author and the work.

For example, I recently read a science fiction novel that I loved by new author Milo Behr. It will be debuting this week, and I’ll let you know more in a day or two. I could say something like “Milo Behr’s novel Beowulf: A Bloody Calculus was the most exciting cyberpunk debut I’ve seen in twenty years,” and I’d be completely honest about the book. I haven’t seen one that I personally liked as much since William Gibson made his debut.

But what if the author so impresses you that you want to give him or her a quote that could be used for all future novels? In Milo Behr’s novel, he did something both brilliant and nearly unthinkable. He wrote his novel as an epic poem, then put it in narrative form. The result is that the novel has a hypnotic effect, unlike anything that I’ve seen outside of Poe and a couple of mainstream writers. So, for example, I might say something like, “Milo Behr’s work is brilliant and mesmerizing.”

5. REMEMBER THAT AS A REVIEWER, YOU’RE NOT ALWAYS RIGHT

Many years ago I reviewed a novel that, quite frankly, really bothered me. The protagonist was so reluctant to do anything at all that I just couldn’t relate. I wrote a review for a small magazine, then heard from some fans who loved the book. They said, “When I read that novel, that protagonist was me.” And I realized, that there was a huge audience for the book, but I just wasn’t part of it. When offering a review, you’re making your own artistic judgment. Others might not share your opinions.

What I want to emphasize here is that giving reviews can be tough. It will take time that you may not have to give, it will present moral challenges that you might not want to face, do it with caution.

Happy Writing!

David Farland

On Monday, Sam Payne, musician and storyteller will be talking with the Apex Writers Group.

On Saturday, Glen Thomson will be our honored guest on Apex.

Reserve your spot by visiting www.apex-writers.com

Come see me at FanX at booth #233. Thursday at 6 in 250a for How to Write Sci-Fi or Fantasy Series. Friday at 11 in 151D for Ask a New York Times Bestseller. Friday at 1 in 355B with Writers of the Future! See you there!

[senacal]

Dr. Charles Xavier (Pt. 1)

Request: Requested by @saltysebastianstan

Pairing: Charles Xavier x Fem!Reader

Part 2

Prompt: Could you please do a Charles Xavier x female reader, where Charles has been asked to do a lecture about mutation at your non-mutant university, and let’s say he takes a liking to you due to your knowledge/interest rather than the other girls.

OH MY GOD, YOU COULD TURN THIS INTO A SERIES... IMAGINE

Warnings: None that I come to mind.

Author’s note: I am going to do my very best to fulfill this request because I love it, and I love Charles, and this is the first Charles Xavier’s request I have had, so I hope I do well. I have been thinking of this all week, and I did some research about a mutation to accurately portray a sort of understanding about the subject lol Xx.

Requests are open! 

(Gif not mine)

For a whole week, (Y/N)’s nerves were on fire. She knew she was excited, why wouldn’t she be when her dreams were about to come true? But she didn’t understand why she was so nervous. The whole week she couldn’t sit still. (Y/N) was continually shaking her leg, fiddling with whatever was in her hands, or drumming her fingers. (Y/N) just wanted to make sure that she had everything she needed before the most important day of her life happened. What day would that be? Well, her university, (Uni of your choice), had recently booked Dr. Charles Xavier, the current expert on Mutations to give a lecture, and (Y/N) was excited because she had a keen interest on the field. 

(Y/N) knew there were people out there with unique abilities, sure she wasn’t one of those people, but it was okay because she didn’t think she’d be able to handle the responsibility and stress of continually having to hide who she was. The reason she knew about these unique individuals was that she had met a mutant when she was a young girl. Instead of being afraid, she was intrigued. It was fascinating seeing the way the mutant maneuvered to keep themselves hidden from prying eyes, though it didn’t seem to work since (Y/N) caught sight of them. Regardless, ever since her encounter with that mutant, she had been obsessed with learning more about them. 

With her limited access to mutant knowledge, she was only able to find a few things out about their biology. It wasn’t too different from human biology, but the added X-Gene made a mutant, a mutant. So it was a dream come true when she learned that Dr. Charles Xavier would be giving a lecture about mutations. Perhaps her excitement was transferring into anxiety. Dr. Xavier, as the guest lecturer, was possibly her only shot at comprehending her preferred subject to the full extent. Perhaps it was the fear that she would never be able to turn her major into an actual career. Her family was always telling her to change her field of study to the point that (Y/N) had told them a little white lie. She may have added a minor in medicine, but she didn’t give up her interest in mutation. It was enough to appease her family, and she continued to learn about mutation under their noses. It was a win-win situation. 

So here she sat in the lecture hall, awaiting Dr. Xavier’s arrival. She was tapping her pen against her notebook, absentmindedly looking around the room. She made sure to get a good seat where she could both see and hear him. She also made sure she had extra pens in case her current one crapped out on her. 

The room was already starting to fill with a big crowd, and the lecture wasn’t due to begin for ten minutes. (Y/N) went from tapping her pen to shaking her leg. She bit the tip of the pen and glanced at the people around her. They were talking animatedly about their daily lives, who was screwing who, who was a bitch, or who was a total hottie. (Y/N) sometimes found herself wanting to fit in among them, but then again, most of these girls were sorority sisters who only cared about partying. Don’t get her wrong, they were beautiful girls, and they all had their strengths, but they were rather dense when it came to their social lives. 

(Y/N) huffed out a small breath as she looked down at her notebook. There were various pages filled with notes of her own, but she was opened to a blank page so she could compare her notes to the brilliant mind of Charles Xavier. (Y/N) dated the page at the top right corner to pass a fraction of the time. 

“Excuse me, may I have your attention please?” 

(Y/N) looked up to the podium to see the Dean calling everyone’s attention. She glanced at the clock to see that the lecture would begin soon. (Y/N) inhaled anxiously and exhaled softly. She faced the front, eager for the start of the speech. 

“Wonderful, wow, I wasn’t expecting such a big turn out,” The Dean spoke with a slight chuckle. “Well, as you all know, Dr. Charles Xavier will be joining us shortly to inform us all on Mutations. As usual, be respectful, no talking unless addressed, and don’t hesitate to ask questions.” The Dean looked off the side of the stage, “Very well, everybody, welcome Dr. Xavier.”

The crowd clapped as none other than Charles Xavier walked on stage. He had a broad smile plastered on his lips, and he waved to the masses.

“Wow, when Dr. Gregory said a big turn out, I believe he was downplaying it just a little. Welcome, thank you all for joining me today,” Charles cleared his throat, “Now, I know many of you are probably wondering why I’ve taken an interest in such a broad subject, mutations can be anything. From the color of your eyes to the dimples in your cheeks. And, of course, physical modifications,” Charles’ gaze scanned the crowds, “The answer to that is simple. I find it fascinating,” He smiled.

(Y/N) couldn’t help but let out a small laugh, ‘That makes two of us.’

Throughout the lecture, (Y/N) noticed that Charles was looking around the room as if he was looking for someone. It was a possibility that he was only surveying the crowd, but it was almost too constant for that. He had to be looking for someone, but who? (Y/N) shrugged off the thought and instead chose to focus on his words.

“Of course, this leads us to the homo superior, distinguished from their possession of the X-Gene. Now, this gene, placed on the twenty-third chromosome in a person’s DNA, allows for the greatest mutation experienced in reality.” 

(Y/N) scratched down notes as quickly as she could, ‘If that’s the case, would that make the father a deciding factor for its inheritance or the mother?’

“Despite the thought of the mother carrying the child with an X-Gene, the X-gene is transferred from the father. It’s almost like the father is the deciding factor in both sex and mutant status,” Charles spoke as if he heard (Y/N)’s question, which was ridiculous unless he did hear her thoughts. 

Once the lecture was over, (Y/N) couldn’t help but feel accomplished. She had learned a lot more that day than any other. As a bonus, (Y/N)’s questions seemed to be answered even though she hadn’t asked any out loud. It was the best day of her life, just as she had predicted. (Y/N) stayed in her seat, scanning the notes she jotted down; she made small annotations next to the one’s that she would cross-reference with her own. Absorbed in her mind, (Y/N) didn’t notice the approaching figure or the lingering girls next to her.

‘Now that I’ve distinguished that the father is the deciding factor in passing on the X-Gene, perhaps it’d be easier to determine their birth rate. I don’t believe pregnant mutants have a reliable doctor to ease them through their pregnancy.’ (Y/N) bit the tip of her pen, ‘I think I know what I want to practice now.’ She couldn’t help but feel giddy. It turned out her added major in medicine wouldn’t be a waste after all. She’d learn all she could about practicing medicine and mutants so she could help bring them into the world. 

“Dr. Xavier! You’re British, right?” 

(Y/N) looked up from her notes and noticed the blonde girl sitting next to her became engaged in a dull conversation with Charles. She couldn’t help but raise her brows at the poor attempt at flirting. It was pretty apparent that he was British, what with the accent and all. 

“Uh, yes, I am,” Charles glanced in (Y/N)’s direction as if he were hoping she’d save him from the conversation.

“That’s so cool, I’ve always wanted to go to England, but then I thought Paris would be a better destination, you know?” The blonde girl shrugged, “Have you been to Paris?”

“I have actually. I’ve given plenty of lectures in the city quite a few times. How did you find the lecture? Did you enjoy it?” Charles asked in the hope of engaging in a conversation about his work.

“Oh, I got lost after you mentioned something about the mRNA or whatever, but I liked hearing you talk.” 

(Y/N) laughed to herself, ‘At least she admitted it.’

‘Indeed, but I’d much rather have a competent conversation about my lecture rather than the expenses of Paris.’

(Y/N) frowned and looked up when she heard Charles’ voice in her head. ‘What the fuck?’

‘Sorry, I didn’t mean to invade your mind, but I don’t think I can continue to converse with this poor girl.’ 

(Y/N) shook her head, her eyes wide. “Dr. Xavier?”

Charles looked at her, relief evident in his expression, “Yes, Ms…”

“(Your Full Name), I was wondering if I could ask you a few questions?”

“Of course! I’d be happy to answer any questions you have.” Charles politely excused himself from the girl with whom he’d been conversing. 

(Y/N) packed her notes and utensils, “So, you’re a telepath?”

Charles shrugged as if to say ‘guilty.’ 

“So, I have to ask, your lecture, were you basing your responses from the questions I was thinking?” (Y/N) wondered. 

“Partly, yes. It was a first that someone’s questions were loud enough for me to hear without meaning to,” Charles shoved his hands in his pockets, “I was pleasantly surprised, of course, even more now that I’ve placed a beautiful face to the beautiful voice.”

(Y?N) nodded, “Does that line work at all?” She stood from her seat so that she could look at him without tilting her head too much. 

“I beg your pardon?” Charles caught off guard, shifted where he stood. 

(Y/N) huffed an amused breath, “I appreciate the compliment, Professor Xavier, but I’m only interested in what you have to say about mutants and mutation.”

“Why is that?” Charles asked.

“Just like you said, it’s fascinating.” (Y/N) winked at him, “now that I’ve saved you from your conversation, I’ll be on my way. I’ve got a class in an hour.” (Y/N) waved and left Charles, where he stood. 

“Charles, did she just brush you off?” Raven asked from behind him. 

“I… I think so.” Instead of being offended, Charles bored a smile.

“I have to get her number because that was the best thing I have seen all week,” Raven boasted.

Charles rolled his eyes, “Oh, shut it, Raven.”

“C’mon, you can’t tell me that you don’t want her number either,” Raven stepped next to Charles and rested her arm on his shoulder.

“Of course I do. If you had heard the questions (Y/N) was asking, you’d be just as intrigued.” Charles brushed off Raven’s arm, “Let’s go now; I’m ready to head home.”

Raven raised her brows, “What, no parties?”

“No, I’m not really in the mood.” Charles shrugged.

“Wow, I have to mark this day down for the history books. Charles Xavier doesn’t want to go to a college party!” Raven clutched her heart, “I never thought I’d see the day.”

Charles rolled his eyes. He walked away from her, intending to go to his car.

“Charles, just one party, please?” Raven begged as she skipped to catch up with him.

“What for? You never want to go to parties.” Charles scoffed.

“Because, I want to get drunk,” Raven grinned.

“That makes the two of us,” He conceded, “Fine. We’ll go to a party, but then we are going home.”

“Deal,” Raven beamed. She just hoped that girl would be there and knowing Charles; he was thinking the same thing.

[pluviophile-bookworm]

HSMTMTS 2x9: so dreaded, so exciting, 'Sword!' (yeah, I went there, I've been thinking about this scene - you know the one - since yesterday for some reason)

After two computer malfunctions and a very tough, very sleepless night, here I am with a third attempt to write this post. The universe is against me today. Is Mercury in retrograde or something? Ugh, I just want to get this over with already. And I haven't even managed to see half the episode yet. You better like this cursed post because it's taken me two hours at this point, and will probably take another to finish - and that is if nothing goes wrong this time. Please bear with me. This is my reaction to HSMTMTS 2x9, take 3. Let's hope and pray it's the last one.

I'm normally [unpopular opinion alert] a very spoiler-positive person (it's the combination of anxiety and ADHD and a bunch of other stuff, I suppose), but for this one I've been refraining from looking at the tag all morning, so by now I'm simply bursting with impatience. But before we dive in, I need to get some stuff off my chest.

Some pre-watch thoughts and feelings (let's see how well they will have aged by the end of the episode):

Seriously, what is with whoever writes this show? I know it's impossible, but I feel like they've been toying with my emotions specifically all season. Like:

Ah, so you were a Rini shipper last season? Great, now we'll make them obnoxious and borderline toxic to the point where you actually want them to break up, but then their old chemistry will be back just for the breakup scene so that you can cry your eyes out over the one couple you couldn't stand - even though you can't seem to relate to a single song from Sour, we'll make you feel like you do for a hot second. At least it will remind you that you loved Ricky.

So you say Redlyn own your heart and soul? Great, we'll make you dread something going wrong with them for a week straight, and mess up your sleep schedule beyond repair over it. You're welcome!

We heard you said Rodfini give you life? Perfect, how about a big Seblos fight? And would you like a side of questioning your choice to stan Carlos with that? Because what is life without a little anxiety, a bit of doubt of your ability to read people, and a pinch of existential dread, right?

Ah, so you claimed not to ship Portwell romantically, is that right? Brilliant, we'll make you ship them and then we'll use that to torture you, too.

You've been excited about ABF and Asher Angel guest-starring ever since they were announced? Magnificent! We'll make you hate ABF's character to the point where you can't even look at him, and we'll make you call him names you thought yourself incapable of uttering. And as for Asher, you'll be left waiting for him until the last third of the season, and then you'll dread the possibility of hating his character, too. Do you love us yet?

Oof! Right then, I've got that out of my system. Time to dive in.

Miss Jenn playing around with the backgrounds is, like, 90% of the people who had online school this year, and honestly, I love that for her.

Wait, why is Nini first on this call? Are they going through with the Rose thing? Cos like, the song is nice and all (and, might I add, much more to my taste than nearly all of Sour, don't @ me), but if they use it, it will get them disqualified. They’ve been told that! Gosh, please let me be wrong about this.

We get it, Carlito, rich and fancy and over-the-top is kind of your thing, but have you stopped for a second to think about how others will feel about this? Especially Seb, whom you claim to care about. Seriously, though, I love Carlos and would not hesitate to die for him, but I’m getting the feeling that, unlike my other favourite (you know the one), he wouldn’t do the same for me. Oh well, he’ll figure it out. He’s just a kid. Give him time.

Wait, Milky White? Is that an Into the Woods reference I smell? Cool! If I had a cow, I’d totally name her Milky White (or Gertrude, but don’t ask me why). I just hope they don’t have to, like, take her to the market and exchange her for magic beans, if you catch my drift.

Ahhhhh, Caswell cousins content! We love to see it!

‘You guys are watching, like, old old movies’ WTH, Nini (or is it Nina)? Scary Movie is literally younger than me. But what do you know about it, you 21st-century baby! Ugh, I don’t know why I’m being so hostile today... must be the lack of sleep. Hope it doesn’t influence my reactions to the episode so dramatically as to make me forget how much I love this series. Because I do.

Yay! Big Red is here! I can finally smile. And did Ash just say they’re soulmates? Because yes they are! Ahhh my heart is going to explode.

‘Nini, have you heard from [Ricky]?’ Yikes, awkward... but of course, Big Red can be counted on to save the day here, too.

Ok, so that was a cool cold open. Time for some nice in-person scenes, though. I did not spend all of three semesters doing online school just to have the characters of my favourite series do the same.

Wow, Gina is really embracing that French accent thing! And I really don’t want to think about, erm, ‘Napoleon over here’ right now, but I really think the fact that she’s doing it better than him will be another piece of evidence towards my theory of fake-French!Antoine... ugh, I said his name. Oh well. Back to Gina. Too bad the French thing didn’t work out for her.

Ahhhh, Portwell with Ash in the background! And Ash is going to paint EJ’s nails! I feel like he’s going to end up loving that, despite what he says right now. But seriously, I just love how comfortable these two are with each other. Can you blame me now for shipping them as friends? Well, I mean, it’s obvious they will be more than friends, and somehow, despite the amatonormativity of it all, I’m here for it.

Wait, was that Asher? That was Asher, I’m 100% sure of it. And Gina said ‘a sign’ and then looked at him, even from the back... what am I supposed to think and feel here? I’m confused. Moving on.

Ahh, poor Ricky being a burrito... good thing that breakup scene last time reminded me that I love him, because the entirety of the season before that was very good at making me forget that.

Wait, did she say ‘the Bean’? As in, that Bean? The infamous Bean? LOL.

‘So the only time you two talk to each other is to gossip about me’ Boy, did I feel that. I once got my hands on my dad’s mobile and I... kind of went through his texts with mum. Yep, all about me and my brother. At this point I feel like they’re only together because of us. But this is getting too personal. I’m here about the episode, not to rant about my family. Moving on.

Yikes, looks like Nini’s got writer’s block all over again. Am I supposed to feel sorry for her? Because I kind of don’t. I mean, no hate towards her, none at all, but that entire scene just felt awkward and unnecessary. And not just because it’s her first time going live. That I can understand. What I don’t understand is why the writers can’t seem to do anything creative and interesting with Nini. Olivia is being wasted there. Idk, that’s just how I feel. Again, no hate.

Ahhhhh it’s Asher! And well, he’s not Jonah, but I kind of really like him as Jack. I wonder if that will last.

So is it just me, or is anyone else not quite sure how to feel about Ricky’s mum? I mean, their interactions seem kind of awkward and strained, but that’s how it’s supposed to be given their recent history, and yet something just doesn’t sit quite right with me.

‘You there, Muse? It’s me, Nini!’ Ah, so it’s Nini again? I didn’t get the memo. Gosh, this episode is kind of really underwhelming. The most exciting thing so far (but not nearly as exciting in practice as it was in theory) – Asher and Sofia’s on-screen reunion. The second most exciting thing? The thought of Ash painting EJ’s nails. Everything else? Kind of ‘whatever’. Is this what I tossed and turned about all night? Totally not worth it. This episode better get, like, 300% better right this instant. It’s just not worth all the frustration and excitement and dread so far.

Looks like my prayers from just now have been heard! That improv scene was hilarious! Guess it was lucky that Miss Jenn had them do improv before this moment. But I need to know more of Jack’s backstory now.

Ok, so that was awkward! So Kourtney is talking to Howie again, I guess. And I guess I know now what Carlos did that was all public and no subtle. Still, what’s wrong with posting photos from your holiday? Guess I don’t exactly know yet what Carlos did to piss the others off so much.

Great, now I’m tempted to google butterfly faces. Good thing I’m not eating anymore. *** Ughhhhh this was a mistake! Please don’t ever look a butterfly in the face if you want to stay sane. Don’t be like me.

Ahhh the Duke sweater! ‘Is that your boyfriend’s?’ Well, not quite yet, it’s not... *screams in Portwell*

Oh, now we’re talking! But seriously, Ricky? The ‘my friends think’ card? Why don’t you just say ‘I think’? It’s clearly something you’ve thought about a lot. I feel like I’m going to love this scene or cry over it or both.

Ooh, therapy. It’s not just... basically the entire fandom... who says it now. Please tell me that means Ricky will be going to therapy at some point. Says the girl who is currently firmly refusing to go to therapy in favour of hyperfixating on HSMTMTS and getting back into the good old practice of having imaginary friends... yeah, I’m one to talk.

My, my, my! Seb has really had it now. I mean, it was about time, but... not quite like this. My heart is starting to do some weird stuff, I can feel it. I might need to lie down.

Ok, so as much as I envy North High for getting to see so many shows on BWay – basically living out my dream – stalking East High on Instagram and being shady about them taking a well-deserved break... just goes beyond all limits. I mean, if you’re so into Broadway shows, you should know as well as I do what happened the last time a certain founding father did not take a break. Maybe you’re the ones in need of a break here.

Nini on the call with the Caswell cousins, though... ‘I’m obsessed with both of you’ – first relatable thing she’s said or done all season. And EJ playing with old toys is pure gold.

Oh, so Jack’s dad is a pilot. Makes sense, I guess. I’m kind of intrigued by this guy. Just as long as he doesn’t try to come between Portwell before they’ve had the chance to happen, you know...

Ashlyn might need to stop swooning over Nini’s songwriting or Big Red might get jealous... I mean, I would not have pinned him as the jealous type before 2x7, but ever since then... I guess insecure + dating a girl like Ash = the jealous type. And although that looks good on him, I’d bet anything it doesn’t feel particularly pleasant on his side. So... wait, why am I talking about Big Red? He hasn’t even got anything to do with the scene at hand. But then again, there’s been so little Big Red content in this episode that I seem to be trying to make up for it. Still. Stay focused.

Ooh, so Big Red did edit that video! Is there anything my boy can’t do? Ok, now I feel like he’s even more criminally underappreciated than he was before. But let’s look at the video. I’m curious to see the whole thing because that sneak peek from yesterday simply hasn’t been enough.

That was... really, really cool! I love how they took the ‘when they go low, we go high’ line from last time and run with it. Now if only they were putting as much effort into BATB... North High wouldn’t know what hit them.

Hmmmm... I guess Gina and Jack could be what I originally wanted Portwell to be... really cool friends. Unless it’s one of those ‘airport magic’ things. Oh well. It probably is. Was that all we’re seeing of Asher here? I did not wait 2/3 of the season for this. Though it was nice.

Ooh, Ricky’s solo song... why is there more Rini chemistry in this song than there was in all the season? Not counting the breakup scene, of course. Also, I feel like it’s just as much about him and his mum as it is about Nini. Some say music is the best therapy. I think they might be right. And no, I’m not crying. You are.

The granola bar, though... this episode might have been very underwhelming in the first half, but... it delivered in the Portwell front, and the music was *chef’s kiss*, so I’m willing to let it slide that the advertised Seblos ‘big fight’ was not touched upon nearly enough. Maybe next week...

Ok, now that we’re done watching the episode, let’s see how my feelings from the beginning have aged:

The Rini breakup: apparently, along with reminding me that I love Ricky, it has rendered me unable to look at Nini. What’s up with that? If this is some sort of tactic along the lines of ‘Olivia might be leaving the show so we’re making you hate her character so that you won’t miss her’, it’s not really working. Because I don’t want to hate Nini. Believe me, I don’t.

Redlyn: ok, so there’s nothing wrong with them whatsoever - we even got a ‘soulmates’, which I loved - but first they’re being swept under the rug, and then the antis come at us with that ‘their relationship is underdeveloped’ nonsense. Individually, though, I liked them in this episode (even if there was a significant shortage of Big Red), and Ashlyn collaborating with Nini again was cool, but... what I really wanted to see was her painting EJ’s nails. Did she even get the chance to actually do it? Maybe next week.

Seblos: I’m still failing to understand exactly what Seb thinks Carlos did wrong (please enlighten me if you did catch that, I’m kind of slow), but he (Seb) does have reasons to be mad at him (Carlos)... and at other people, too. Still, if you want to have a fight between two people in a relationship, you could do much better than whatever this episode was. Maybe next week. I notice I’m saying that a lot. Guess I’m putting a lot of hopes on 2x10. I just pray it doesn’t disappoint.

Portwell: boy, am I happy that my frustration on this front did not age well! What I mean is, apparently they’ve decided to bless us, not torture us for once. Even a rather disappointing episode like this one had to have some sort of silver lining. And Portwell is it.

Asher as Jack: well, luckily I didn’t hate him, but... it’s kind of the opposite problem. I loved him and now they’re taking him away from me. Guess I just can’t win here. Oh well. At least he didn’t have the screen time to get in between Portwell...

All in all: 2x10, my hopes and prayers are with you!

[chikoriita]

Single Father Seeking Sane Step-Mama Pt. 2

As the hour grew closer to tea time, Eloise strategically chose her seat in the drawing-room. Though not nearly as big as Bridgerton House, afternoon tea at Number Five drew plenty of visitors. With Colin recently returned to town and her mother’s birthday celebration coming up, Bridgertons of all ages flocked to tea. Hence, if Eloise wanted to make her own guests welcome, she needed to make ample space for them.

Amanda and Oliver would fit in with the gaggle of nieces and nephews that accompanied their mothers to tea. Between Daphne, Kate, and Sophie, at least one child of similar age would arrive. If not, Violet always had a marvelous spread. That is if Colin left any for the rest of the family.

No, it was their father Eloise worried about. Would he feel uncomfortable in the midst of all the Bridgertons? Frannie might not come, but Hyacinth was a force of nature in herself. Would he take them up on her spur of the moment offer? What if all her preparations were for naught?

Settled into the armchair by the window, Eloise kept a wary eye on the gate. She did not want to miss them.

“You are here quite early for tea, Eloise.” Daphne strolled in with her two eldest children in tow. “Usually Hyacinth has to bellow for you to “make haste.” Her elder sister gave her a sly smile as she settled on the sofa. Ambrose and Belinda found some sort of entertainment on the other side of the drawing-room.

Eloise made a face. Of course, she would remember something she did at seventeen years old. “You, dear sister, were about to be late for your own presentation. Hyacinth only has to shout if I am in the middle of writing something. They are completely different subjects.”

Daphne laughed. “So you say.”

“Oh good, you brought the older children today.” Eloise did a little clap of excitement.

Her sister furrowed her brow. “Yes, Caroline and Davina had an art lesson this afternoon. Why is it good?”

She leaned close. “The townhome next door was rented out for the Season. I encountered the children as they were moving in today, and invited them to tea.” Reclining once again, Eloise peeked outside to see if anyone else was arriving.

Daphne hummed. “I wonder who they are.”

“I’ve never met them before. The children gave the last name Crane. I have yet to meet their father.”

“Whose father?” Violet asked as two footmen trailed her with a cart full of pastries.

“Mama, does the name Crane ring a bell? I feel like I know someone with the surname, but I cannot place it,” Daphne pondered.

Violet shook her head. “No, dearest. I cannot either.”

Hyacinth bounded into the room with none of the delicacies of a proper debutante. “Are we discussing the new neighbors? Eloise should know all about them.” She smirked. “She’s the one who met the children today.”

“How did you-”

“I was in your room.”

“Mama!”

“Hyacinth,” her mother warned.

She shrugged. “Eloise has the best view of the street. If anyone wants to learn anything, it’s the best place to start.”

“Stay out of my room,” Eloise hissed. Hyacinth stuck her tongue out at her. Violet glared at them both.

Wickham arrived at the door. “A Sir Phillip Crane has arrived for Miss Bridgerton.” He gestured to the Crane family.

“Sir Phillip?” Daphne murmured as they all stood to greet the Cranes.

“I did not know either,” Eloise mumbled in return.

“Sir Phillip, what a pleasure to meet you. Welcome to our home,” Violet warmly said. Ever the gracious hostess, she did not miss a beat. “Thank you for accepting Eloise’s invitation. I am the Dowager Lady Bridgerton, but you may call me Violet.” She held out a welcoming hand.

“It is a pleasure, Lady Bridgerton.” He bowed over her hand. “May I introduce my children?”

Eloise would have glanced behind him to find the twins. However, she could not move past him. Meeting in person confirmed that her initial observation was true. He was large, and it suited him. Sir Phillip. A strong and sturdy name meant for someone such as him.

“Miss Eloise!” Amanda’s voice pulled her out of her reverie. “Are you glad we came?” The adoration in the little girl before her humbled Eloise more than she expected.

“I am,” she softly said. “Let me introduce you both to my niece and nephew.” She held her hands out. It surprised her how well their hands fit in her own.

~~

So these were the Bridgertons, Phillip thought. He felt awkward in a room full of such beautiful people. Lady Bridgerton made the introductions as Eloise took his children away. Besides herself and Eloise, the other two ladies were her daughters as well. “This is Hyacinth, my youngest, and my eldest daughter, Daphne, the Duchess of Hastings.”

“Your Grace.” He bowed once more. He may be rusty, but from what little he knew, a Duchess deserved at least that.

“Oh, we do not stand for such formality in the Bridgerton household. Please call me Daphne.” She steered him toward a long sofa. “We may still have stragglers. Let us chat.”

Phillip held back a gulp. “Are more guests expected?” Should they have postponed it for another day? “If so-”

“Oh no, Sir Phillip. My mother has an open door policy. With eight children, she stopped counting guests for tea ages ago.”

“Eight?”

Daphne laughed. “Is it possible that we have met the one person in all of London that does not know our reputations?”

Violet gave a sharp glance to her daughter. “We do not have a reputation.”

“Yes, we do, Mama. According to Lady Whistledown, you have four handsome sons and four beautiful daughters. All neatly and alphabetically organized,” Eloise returned to the conversation. She made her way toward the armchair she had before when Daphne tugged her into the remaining space on the sofa. Right in between the duchess and himself.

Alphabetically named children? “How delightful.”

The youngest daughter, Hyacinth, snickered. “Not according to Lady Whistledown. She said it was banal.”

With that comment, all of the Bridgerton ladies launched into a lively conversation. All Phillip could do was watch. He had vaguely heard of this Lady Whistledown, but he did not care much for the musings of a gossip columnist. No, he was far more interested in the young lady seated next to him.

Miss Eloise Bridgerton shared the same coloring as her sisters and mother, but on her everything seemed more. A rich brown hue in her hair, deep blue eyes, and a flush in her cheeks that matched her spirit. From everything he observed, Eloise Bridgerton was far beyond his league. All he sought was a quiet mother for his children. Someone who would not mind him spending more time with plants than the local society. Someone who did not resent him for surviving while his brother did not.

Daphne handed him a cup of tea. “Any sugar or cream?”

“No thank you.” He took a sip. It was a nice blend, and one he had not encountered before.

Hyacinth passed him a plate of pastries. “Get your share in before Colin returns. He is the reason we have two carts,” she said with a grin. “Where is your estate?”

“Hyacinth!” Both her sisters hissed.

It was a neatly tucked question. He rather admired the girl for it. “We reside at Romney Hall in Gloucestershire year-round. This will actually be my first Season in town.” And hopefully last, he prayed.

“Do you have any family in town?” Violet kindly asked.

He shook his head. “Not of my own, unfortunately. My late wife’s cousins do live near here.”

“We may know them. Who are they?”

Before he could answer, two more visitors arrived. One had the first familiar face here in London. He stood quickly to greet her. “Miss Featherington.”

Penelope Featherington had been wrapped in conversation with the gentleman beside her. If he guessed correctly, this was a Bridgerton brother. Lady Whistledown was correct, he admitted. The man was quite handsome.

At the sound of her name, she turned to Phillip and gasped. “Sir Phillip!”

“I am pleased to see you still recognize me after all these years,” he said politely. It was a very slight relation, but it was the only available in the city. It was pure luck that he encountered her in Lady Bridgerton’s drawing-room.

~~

Eloise glanced between him and Penelope, as did every other Bridgerton. How did Penelope know their new neighbor?

Daphne was the first to recover from her confusion. Recognition dawned on her face. “Sir Phillip Crane was married to Miss Thompson,” she whispered, clutching Eloise’s hand.

“Miss Thompson?” Eloise parroted. All the pieces clicked together. “That Miss Thompson?” She covertly gestured to Colin. It had been years since anyone mentioned that fiasco of 1813.

Her sister wore her worry on her face. Eloise watched her brother instead. Obviously, Sir Phillip had no idea who he was in regards to his late wife.

Penelope nervously smiled. “It has been some time since our last meeting. My condolences on Marina,” her voice cracked as she spoke her name aloud.

Violet’s eyes widened at the name while Hyacinth nearly fell out of her precarious seat. Colin showed no particular emotion at all.

To her surprise, Eloise saw Sir Phillip grimace. It was slight, but she was sure it was there. “Thank you, Miss Featherington. Might I introduce you to my children?”

As he went to retrieve Oliver and Amanda, she spied another odd happening. Colin whispered something into Penelope’s ear. Eloise narrowed her eyes. What was going on here today? Penelope spoke quietly to him, and he nodded.

“Colin!” Eloise called out to him. “Have a seat next to me.” Daphne took the hint and moved to a seat closer to Mama.

He complied, swiping two pastries on his way over. Even in this awkward situation, Colin had to think of his stomach.

“I’m sorry.”

Colin coughed at her words. He recovered quickly enough to ask, “Why? It’s not as if you brought him here. Why is he at tea anyway?” Her brother, to his credit, did not grumble or sound put out. He had near a decade to get over Marina Thompson and her actions. From the little Penelope had told her of that summer, Marina did what she thought she needed to do.

“I invited them here,” she admitted. Eloise guiltily looked over to where Sir Phillip stood with the twins and Penelope. Amanda looked like a doll with her sun-kissed curls, and Oliver had a mischievous smile on his face. Some of her guilt melted away when she thought back to the solemn look on his face earlier. No, no matter the awkward situation, she was glad to see that the children had enjoyed themselves.

“Lady Bridgerton, I believe we have spent enough of your time,” Sir Phillip spoke. The twins’ angelic faces turned mutinous at his words.

“Nonsense, you are welcome here,” Violet warmly said.

“Nevertheless, we must take our leave.” He reached to take Amanda’s hand when she backed away.

“No! Can we please stay with Miss Eloise?” She rushed over to sit next to Eloise.

Oliver was not far behind his sister. “Miss Eloise wants us here.”

All eyes turned to look at her. Oh dear, what a situation. Sir Phillip pleaded with the exhausted look on his face. “Amanda, Oliver…” She sighed. “You have traveled a long way. It is a time to relax. Even Ambrose is tired.”

Daphne shot a glance at her son that had him yawning within seconds. It was pleasant to see her sister had not lost her maternal touch.

She took both of their hands. “I enjoyed seeing you both again.”

“You are welcome to come to tea any time you like, dears,” Violet added.

Penelope chimed in. “I must be going as well. Mama will be expecting me home soon.” Eloise resisted raising a brow at her friend. Portia Featherington never expected Penelope for anything. “I can escort you out, Sir Phillip.”

He nodded and held his arm out for her to take. Colin tensed beside her. What was going on with him?

“Come children.” Sir Phillip’s tone brooked no more rebellion. Reluctantly, the twins followed him. Before they fully exited, Amanda turned around and gave a small wave to Eloise. She could not help but smile back at the little girl and give her a little wave in return.

It was a few moments later that Eloise realized that all eyes were on her once again. Hyacinth’s were teasing, Daphne’s warm, and Violet’s motherly as always.

Only Colin seemed reserved. “That was an interesting encounter. Is he the latest in your line of suitors, El?”

“There is no line of suitors,” she shot back, crossing her arms. She loved Colin, but there were times she wanted to strangle him with his cravat.

“If there were, Sir Phillip would be right in front. He could barely take his eyes off Eloise,” Hyacinth added. Maybe she would get the cravat treatment as well.

“He is not my suitor! I barely know him.”

Violet patted her on the hand. “Dearest, they are simply teasing you. Do not take their words to heart.” She heaved a sigh. “Anyway, the ton is a small world. Who could have known of Sir Phillip’s connection?”

“I should have recognized him,” Daphne said.

“Why? When would you have met him?” Colin asked.

“I- um… I contacted the Army on Miss Thompson’s behalf after… everything. It was then Sir Phillip found her.”

“Was he the father of her child? Well, children?” Hyacinth could barely hold her curiosity.

“That’s enough Hyacinth,” Violet sharply said.

Daphne shook her head. “It was his older brother, Sir George. He died in the Peninsular Wars.” She looked at Eloise as she said this.

“It is their own personal matter. It does not involve us.” Violet folded her hands in her lap, signaling the end of this topic.

Her mother was wrong though. After the events of that day, it would involve the Bridgertons personally, whether they liked it or not.

And Eloise was caught in the middle, physically and possibly emotionally.

~~

Later that evening, Eloise sat at her desk and stared at the blank parchment in front of her. She was not sure of what she even wanted to say. All she knew was that she needed to say something.

Sir Phillip,

Thank you for your presence at our house…

---

As always, reply if you want to be tagged in future updates. 

Thank you to the amazing @thekatesheffield​ for the lovely banner!!!

[randomoranges]

tech this comes before relationship status: conjoint but also is it’s own thing based on my own thoughts and whatnot. i really like the idea of edward, somehow, being jello about isabella. sometimes i forget about her and recently i remembered her and then went - oh but okay she was totes there at ets birthday and ed was there!!! and then i just put these two random ideas together and here we are

Jello 20XX

 It’s a quiet evening at home, after a busy day out. They’re both lounging on the sofa in the living room, Étienne conveniently using his body as a pillow, when Étienne’s cell phone breaks the comfortable semi-quietude of the space. He lazily extends a hand towards the coffee table, where he’s last left his phone, and after some foraging, he retrieves the device and spares a look at it.

 Edward expects his boyfriend to let the thing go to voice mail, as he often does, but then Étienne sits up and answers the call, motioning to him that it won’t be long. Edward thinks little of it and offers to give him some space for the call, but Étienne lets him know he can stay so he does, far too comfortable to move.

 At first, Edward pays little mind to the conversation and does his best to tune it out, but it is rather difficult to do with Étienne sitting a mere few feet away from him.

 “Oh, you’re totally right – it has been ages!” Étienne says with a laugh and Edward starts his game of trying to narrow down who could be on the other end of the line.

 “Oh my God, I know! But, yeah, it would be so cool to hang soon now that we can again!” It must be a friend of sorts, clearly. Someone who doesn’t live in the greater Montreal area. Edward starts being invested in the conversation and steals glances at his boyfriend, trying to read the emotions off him to help him solve the mystery. Étienne looks comfortable and happy – edging on excited. This is a good call, obviously and he’s surprised by the unexpectedness of it.

 “Yeah? That could work, hang on, lemme check,” Étienne brings his phone away from his ear and taps away at it, most likely looking at the calendar. “Okay, so three weeks from now works. I’ll be home and I have nothing really planned. I might have to move a thing, but it’ll work.” He grins, pleased and laughs when his friend responds on the other line.

 In three weeks from now, they’ll both be back in their own homes, miles and miles and miles away from each other. He’ll return to his everyday life and Étienne will, apparently, have a guest to entertain. Étienne will wine and dine his friend, like he does with all his friend, and show them a great time. Étienne is good at that, Edward knows. He wonders what type of friend this is – who it is and whether or not he knows this person. He’s eliminated some names from his game, but Étienne knows far too many people for this to be easy.

 “Of course – well, obviously you’ll stay with me! There’s gotta be some perks after all. Plus, it’s been literal years. It’ll be good to catch up.”

 Emma is eliminated with this new information. She lives too close to Étienne for the two of them to spend more than two months without seeing one another. It would be a tragedy, in Étienne’s opinion and outright cruel, in Emma’s words.

 “Okay – yeah, it’s still there,” Étienne sits up again and folds his legs over and grins, bright and eager and excited, “Can’t wait! I’ll see you then! Yeah – me too! Okay – yeah you too! Bye!” He hangs up, then, and flops back with a grin that speaks of mischief and fun to be had in the future. He looks down to his phone, as if confirming this all happened, and then laughs when he receives a text, supposedly, from the person he’d just been speaking with.

 Edward watches from the corner of his eye as Étienne quickly responds to the message, puts his phone back where it originally was and then returns looking for his original position on Edward’s chest.

 “Good call?” He asks, finally, once Étienne is settled and he doesn’t seem to be willing to share any information.

 “Yes! Just found out Isa’s gonna be in town for a thing, in a few, and so she was wondering if we could hang.”

 “Oh.”

 Ah.

 Isabella.

 Right.

 Edward has – conveniently – forgotten about her.

 The conversation makes more sense now.

 “I have not seen her in ages so it’ll be really great to catch up! I mean – we’ve spoken and such, but like – it’s always different when you can spend time together.”

 He knows that much. He lives through that much. Edward knows. He makes a noise of commitment, but otherwise doesn’t add anything else.

 He’s – not exactly sure how he feels about Isabella.

 (Okay, he does, but he likes to believe that he’s beyond petty emotions like jealousy. Especially when he’s not even sure why he’s jealous.)

 (Well, he does, but – he’d be digressing.)

 Edward doesn’t exactly know the specific day and year that Étienne and Isabella became friends, but she seems to have appeared in his boyfriend’s life around the turn of the century. He forgets who was visiting where, but they ended up bonding over mutual interests and struck a friendship through it. After some time, their friendship had turned sexual and even though Étienne had told him time and again that Isabella was just a friend to him, albeit one with a few extra perks and benefits, Edward was – jealous.

 And it annoys him that he’s jealous. Notably, because at first, he had no right to be. He and Étienne had a falling out. He’d gone off and eventually figured himself out, before starting something with Calvin. It only made sense that Étienne would do the same. Regardless of what he called it. But, it seems as though Étienne is genuine when he says that he and Isabella are just friends. He likes her, yes, but as a friend. And Edward can tell that it’s the truth.

 The problem is that for years now, he’s been jealous of this woman he’s met once, briefly.

 It had started at Étienne’s big party, a few years back now, when they’d been slowly rebuilding their friendship. Edward had been invited, he’d finally decided to go, figuring it would be good and also because deep down, he wanted to go and for some absurd reason, he thought that Étienne wouldn’t be actually seeing someone that way. As if Étienne was supposed to forever remain single. Which made no sense. Étienne was allowed to do and see whomever he pleased. Just like he was. But, Étienne hadn’t mentioned anyone in their numerous chats and so Edward had assumed, until they’d all been at the party and she’d been there.

 Friggin Isabella.

 Étienne had introduced them and Étienne had made a joke saying it was a good thing Edward hadn’t asked to crash with him, since Isabella was staying at his and it had – stirred something ugly in the pit of Edward’s stomach. Which made no sense, at the time (and still now), because he was in a relationship. With Calvin. And he was totally over Étienne. Totally. That was done and over with. Book closed, chapter done, he’d moved on, merci, bonsoir – as they said.

 Yet, hearing those words, seeing Isabella stand close to Étienne – seeing them laugh and dance together. The way he leaned into her space, the kiss she stole from him, the thought of what they’d do together once they’d return to Étienne’s place...

 Oh, Edward had felt things.

 He ended up writing the whole thing off as just shock and surprise, really, but once back home and alone with his thoughts, he’d revisited them and had eventually admitted to the fact that yes, he’d been jealous and that maybe – just maybe, he still cared for Étienne in a more than just friends type of way.

 Luckily, for his own sanity, Étienne also felt the same and by some miracle, they’d managed to get their act back together and he was quite content with his life now. He had Calvin, he had Étienne, and his two boyfriends did not seem to totally mind the presence of the other. It was great. Better than great – it was goddamned near perfect.

 Étienne was free to do whatever the hell he wanted and even though Edward was perfectly aware of the fact that Étienne slept with other people and it did not bother him – for real, Isabella still, for some reason, got to him.

 And he didn’t fucking understand why.

 (Lies, he did know why. However, admitting to it felt really stupid.)

 Reason 1: Even though it had been literal years, there was still some stupid part of Edward’s dumb brain that still couldn’t fully wrap itself around the fact that Étienne would genuinely and truly want to be with him for so long. (He was actively working on that and it really did help that he currently had said boyfriend close by, draped over him, occasionally looking at him as though he’d personally hung the moon for him.)

 Reason 2: Somehow, his brain also liked to convince him that one day, Étienne would really miss being with a woman and leave him to be with one. Hence, Isabella was a worthy candidate for that role. (This made no sense. At all. Then again, fears were often irrational.)

 Reason 3: Edward didn’t mind Étienne sleeping with other human people, for he knew that Étienne would never get as close to them as he would with him. Étienne would not and could not fully open up to them, given the fact that he was semi-immortal and that they would eventually die. Therefore, Étienne could totally be himself with him. Isabella, however, was just like them and was more – sophisticated than he could ever even care to be and so, she had the extra advantage over him. Therefore, it could be possible for Étienne to develop a real bond with her and ultimately pick her over him.

 And obviously, Étienne was totally allowed to do that and he’d respect his boyfriend’s wishes, but Edward loved the bastard too much for his own good and did not want that to happen. (He’d get used to it, if Étienne loved them both and – oh God, oh mighty God – was this how Étienne and Calvin felt? At first? How they still felt? Maybe? It was horrible. He was horrible. What had he done to them?!)

 “Hey – you okay?”

 He blinks and realises that he’s been extremely quiet for an abnormally long time and very much lost in his own head. Étienne looks at him worried and Edward tries to school his face into something that may pass off as normal.

 “Yes. Absolutely. So she’s coming over. That’s great! I’m sure you’ll have tons of fun!” Even to his ears, he sounds off and he really hopes Étienne won’t notice.

 “Édouard.” His boyfriend says in his don’t mess with me tone.

 Étienne notices.

 Shit. Fuck. Câlice. Merde. Ugh.

 “Oh my – Oh my Lord – are you – holy shit, you’re jealous, aren’t you?!”

 His dumb stupid boyfriend looks too fucking pleased with this news. He shouldn’t look this pleased. He should be annoyed. Hell, he’s annoyed at himself. Étienne should humour him and be annoyed.

 “No.”

 Stellar answer, really. He should win an acting award, at this point.

 Étienne sits up and pulls him up so that he can properly look at his face and gloat – the fucker. “You are! You’re jealous of Isabella!” He laughs, amused and Edward doesn’t get it. He’s never understood Étienne, but this is a new level of incomprehension even for him. The man’s insane, he already knew that, but this – takes the cake.

 “Okay, sue me, I am – be normal about it.” He huffs and crosses his arms over his chest, wanting very much to disappear out of here. Forget about all of this and just – return to normal.

 “Aww, Eddy, it’s cute!”

 Edward gives him a look. Sometimes, (often), he’s not convinced Étienne has stopped the drugs. No sane person would react this way.

 “It’s not cute – it’s lame. You said I had nothing to worry about. I trust you. Yet, here I am, coming up with stupid scenarios.”

 “Oh?”

 Sometimes, Edward wonders why he can’t ever shut up. This is such a time. Obviously, Étienne wants to know his dumb scenarios. Étienne is always curious.

 “Just – it’s stupid. Forget it.”

 “Nah-ah.” He sits closer to him and pokes his chest until Edward, who tries valiantly to defend himself from his boyfriend’s incessant bothering, gives up and abdicates.

 “Like – I don’t know – something lame. Like you’ll just – leave me and go down south where it’s warm back at hers and have a torrid love affair and leave me to rot in my frozen waste land.” He raises his hands up in frustrated surrender, his cheeks warming up and Étienne, bless him, erupts in loud laughter.

 “Oh, you precious thing!” He wipes a tear from his eyes – imaginary or not, Edward cannot tell, and he’s vexed by Étienne’s gleeful pleasure of his misery, “I mean, don’t get me wrong, that’s exactly what we’re gonna do – but I have every intention of coming back to your – and I quote – frozen waste land so you can properly warm me up as well.” Étienne noisily pecks his cheek and it only makes him flush darker still. Étienne is being merciless in his teasing and he knows it was coming, but it’s still not fair.

 “You’re enjoying this, aren’t you?” He asks from the comfort of Étienne’s loose embrace around his shoulders.

 “You have no idea. But, if it makes you feel better, I would never string you on and if ever I did develop actual romantic feelings for her, I would let you know. And if ever I stop loving you – or if ever I want us to just be friends, I would let you know. I respect you too much to not give you that courtesy.”

 Edward sighs and leans his head on his boyfriend’s shoulder, “I know, I know and I appreciate that. And – I don’t want you to think that I don’t want you to do whatever it is you wanna do. Far from it. Which is why I feel stupid for even being jealous in the first way.”

 “Emotions are stupid and often times make no sense. If anything, it just means you care about me and our relationship. That’s the way I see it. We’re good, so don’t worry about it. And you can always talk to me about these things, yeah? Just like I can talk to you about my own insecurities and general fucked up thoughts.” Étienne kisses the top of his head and this time, at least, it’s not patronising or teasing.

 “Yeah, I know – thanks.”

 “No problem.”

 They fall back, silent, and Edward, finally, is convinced that this is all behind them. This will just be a distant memory and he’ll never ever have to remember this ever again.

 “But wow, can’t wait to tell Calvin you were jealous. He’s gonna get a kick out of this.” Étienne grins, while Edward groans. The bastard.

 “Oh my God, don’t.”

 “He’ll never let you live it down.” Étienne ads and pokes his sides again.

 “You’re not letting me live it down either!” Edward retaliates by pushing Étienne’s hand away and trying to get to his sides where he’s tickling.

 “Do not – Edward Murphy do not – don’t you dare!” Étienne shrieks, as he tries to get away from him, but Edward seizes this opportunity for some good revenge.

 “Watch out, Maisonneuve; you’re mine.” He manages to trap Étienne and he shows no mercy as he reaches for all of Étienne’s most ticklish spots, his boyfriend’s peals of laughter resonating in his ears. It remains to be seen as to who will get the last word between the two of them.

 FIN

[the-sympathetic-villain]

You Belong With Me - Chapter 21

AO3 | First | Previous | Next | Masterpost

Description: Much to his surprise, after being released from prison for a crime he didn’t commit, Logan has been appointed as a the prince’s new advisor.  

Word Count: 6246

Chapter Warnings: Some very light angst, Food (Let me know if I missed anything!)

Author’s note: Just an FYI, the AO3 link may be broken and the masterpost/previous posts may not link this chapter for a few days. I’m scheduling this ahead of time because I won’t have access to my computer and I will only have access to mobile when I post it.

In other news, this chapter marks 100K on this fic! And while it is still far from over, I’m super excited. This chapter is absolutely one of my favorites, so enjoy! :)

-

    A knock at the door pulled Logan gently from his sleep. He opened his eyes blinking slowly as he let his eyes adjust to the dim light of the room around him. His sore muscles resisted as he rolled over on the back propping himself up on his elbows trying to steady himself. Sleep weighed heavily down on his body and he swayed slightly as he desperately trying to resist gravity’s persistent pull.

    “Lo?”

    Logan’s head jerked up in surprise as he recognized the prince’s voice. A mild jolt of adrenaline shot through his body as  he watched the door cracked open. Quickly, he pushed himself upright, sucking in a breath as Roman’s head popped around the corner.

    “Good afternoon, Logan,” Logan felt redness in his cheeks as Roman tilted his head through the door with a cocky grin. “May I come in?”

    “Yes.” Logan straightened his posture, quickly pushing the hair from his eyes in a desperate attempt to appear presentable. “Please come in, Roman.”

    “I apologize for waking you, my sweet hero,“ Roman swayed through the doorway, approaching with a tray in his hand. “but your food has arrived.”

    “There is no need to apologize, Roman.” Logan smiled weakly as Roman approached the side of his bed with a bounce in his step. “I appreciate that you took the time to deliver it to me.”

    “It is my pleasure, Lo.”

    Logan’s face flushed as Roman leaned over him to rest the bed tray over Logan’s lap. Warm steam floated up from the warm plates and he took a deep breath, appreciating the way the humid air felt on his sore throat. He stared down at the tray for a moment, fiddling with the plate covers before Roman cleared his throat. Logan looked up at the sound surprised by the sight in front of him.

    Roman clenched his hand, softly touching it to his lips as he looked down to Logan. He smiled, dropping his hand from his chin as he slowly took a breath. An uncharacteristic nervousness flickered in his eyes as he extended the open palm of his hand out to Logan. “May I join you for a while, Logan?”

    Logan barely contained a smirk as he watched the prince wait nervously for his answer. “I’m under the impression that this is your bedroom, Roman. I don’t think I’m in a position to negotiate whether or not you have the right to stay.”

    Roman’s smile sobered at Logan’s statement and Logan watched as Roman’s demeanor suddenly changed and his voice dropped to a serious tone. “You are my guest here, Logan. I don’t want there to be any misinterpretation of the powers at play here. If you say no, I will respect that. The choice is entirely in your hands.”

    Logan smiled affectionately at the prince’s overly cautious concern. “I meant nothing by that Roman. Of course, I would be honored if you would stay.”

    Roman’s anxiety seemed to ease and he smiled warmly down at Logan as he crossed over to the other side of the bed. Only as Roman slid gracefully on top of the silken sheets did Logan realize that he did not bring food for himself. “Are you not eating?”

  “I ate earlier, Lo.” Roman turned to look at Logan. “I asked the cooks to delay your food for a while so you could rest for a few hours before eating.”

    Logan hesitated nervously, feeling self-conscious about eating in front of the prince. Roman attempted a reassuring smile, but his smile faltered when Logan continued to shift uncomfortably.

    “Patton also requested relatively bland food for you, in case you were still feeling nauseous.” Roman explained softly. “If that’s what you’re worried about.”

    Logan smiled at Patton’s foresight, warmed that his friend had been considerate enough to think of his needs. “That’s not really my concern. I simply feel a little self-conscious about being watched while I eat.”

    “I can go, if you like. Truly, I don’t want to make you uncomfortable.” Roman stood quickly, giving an awkward bow as he moved to leave.. “Truly, I apologize for the intrusion—”

    “Please stay, Roman.” Logan kept his expression carefully neutral as lifted the plate cover, trying to ease Roman’s anxiety while simultaneously hiding his own. Fortunately, his nervous energy eased as he lifted the plate cover and a warm rush of steam hit his face. He smiled, his mouth watering at the sight of the steaming food in front of him. He paused, turning to Roman with a curious smile, waiting for him to sit.

    Roman hesitated, lowering himself back on the edge of he bed. “You’re sure?”

    “I’m sure, Roman.” Logan picked up spoon, absently stirring the bowl of broth on the tray as Roman carefully joined him on the bed once more. “To what do I owe this honor, my prince?”

    “Logan, please.“

    Logan absentmindedly glanced over at Roman, surprised to see discomfort in his eyes.

    "There’s no need for you to use my title—”

    “Roman—” Logan cautiously rested a hand on the prince’s forearm. “—I’m sorry. I intended your honorific merely as a term of endearment. If that is something that causes you discomfort, I will cease doing so.”

    “I—” Roman’s protests trailed away as a subtle smile curled on his lips. He returned Logan’s soft gaze curiously. "A term of endearment?”

    A smile twitched at the corner of Logan’s lips. “I must admit there is a certain appeal to the phrase.”

    Roman watched Logan for a moment with an intense interest. “So long as you are not doing so out of a feeling of obligation of respect, I believe I can accept your use of the phrase.”

    Logan smirked, raising an eyebrow at him. “Are you saying I’m not obligated to respect you, princey?”

    Roman playfully rolled his eyes. “You’ve spent too much time with Virgil, Lo.”

    “Perhaps I have.” Logan smiled, gently squeezing Roman’s arm before pulling his hand back. Lazily, he blew on a spoonful of broth before sipping at it slowly. His stomach turned as he swallowed and he was suddenly grateful for Patton’s foresight. Anything more substantial would absolutely have been too much for him to handle. Roman was silent for several minutes as Logan forced himself to swallow a few more spoonfuls of the broth. As the long pause continued, he finally turned back to the quiet prince. “So, Roman. Are you going to tell me why you are here?”

    Roman seemed pulled from his daze, blinking absently at Logan as he swallowed another spoonful of the broth. “I wanted to talk to you, Logan.”

    “I assumed as much when you asked to stay,” Logan leaned his elbows on the tray, turning his head to watch Roman next to him. “but generally one would expect you to begin speaking at some point if a conversation is your intended result.”

    “You’re an awfully, snarky bastard once you get comfortable, Logan.” Roman could barely contain his smile as he gently rebuked Logan.

    “I’ve heard worse.” Logan smirked, taking a stab at the roasted vegetables on his plate.“Are you regretting your decision to allow me to become so audacious, my prince?”

    “Not in the slightest,” Roman exhaled slowly. “In fact, I daresay I’m enjoying your boldness.”

    Logan’s heart fluttered at the praise and he was suddenly grateful for the bandages covering most of the redness spreading over his face. He bit his lip, trying to remain collected as he absently poked at his food before turning to look at Roman. “So, what did you want to discuss, Roman?”

     “A lot has happened, Logan, and in all the chaos, I haven’t had a chance to talk to you.”

    Logan stared at his food, keeping his voice steady as he prompted Roman to continue. “What did you wish to know about?”

    “About what happened last night, Logan.” Roman’s face fell as Logan’s muscles tensed and his head turned away from Roman.

    Logan clenched his jaw. “Roman, I promise I would like nothing more than to provide you with information about last night, but given the circumstances—"

    “Wait, Logan.” Roman immediately backtracked. “Don’t misinterpret my intentions. I’m not here to pry for information about tonight’s events. All of that can wait until a more appropriate time. I only wish to know how you are doing through everything that happened.”

    Logan relaxed slightly, exhaling a breath he hadn’t realized he was holding. “How I’m doing?”

    “A lot has happened, Logan,” Roman moved down on the bed and turned so his body faced Logan. He slid closer until he looked across the tray at Logan. “You, in particular, have been through so much in the past day. I want to make sure you have what you need to continue to feel better.“

    Logan leaned his elbows down onto the bed tray, resting one of his hands on one of the warm plate covers as he stared are Roman. He smiled, barely containing himself until he burst out laughing.

    Roman raised an eyebrow and a subtle smile curled at the corner of his lips as he watched Logan lose control. His melodic laugh echoed in Roman’s ears as he melted. “And what are you laughing about, Lo?”

    “This whole situation is absurd, Roman. In my most wild imaginings, I never could have predicted that recent events would result in me lying in the crowned prince’s bed, much less having you personally bring me meals in bed and lying there look—” Logan nearly bit his tongue, cutting off this own words as heat burned on his cheeks. He cleared his throat. “—I mean, acting the way you do.”

    Roman raised an eyebrow knowingly and flashed a sly smile at him. “Are you not happy with your situation, Logan?”

    Logan bit the inside of his cheek, trying to control the grin stretching across his face. “Certainly, I am happy to be here, Roman. That doesn’t detract from the idea that the situation is still absurd.”

    Roman’s expression softened. “I know this has been a lot for you, Lo.”

    Logan gently covered his mouth with a closed fist as his stomach twisted. He leaned back against the pillows with a deep breath. “I’m adjusting, Roman.”

   “Logan, are you okay?” Roman leaned closer with concern.

   “I’m quite alright, Roman.” Logan waved away his concern. “I’m merely a little nauseous but nothing to be concerned over.”

   Roman leaned over, concerned. “Is that really all that’s bothering you? You’ve been through a lot tonight.”

    Logan swallowed back his nausea and turned his gaze from his food. After a while, he looked up at Roman with a curious expression. “Actually, may I ask you something, Roman?”

    “Of course.”

  Logan crossed his arms across his chest, trying to find the right words. “I understand that you decided to help me partially out of a desire to make recompense for my wrongful imprisonment, but—”

    After a moment of silence, Roman prompted him to continue. “But what?”

    Logan met his gaze for a moment. “I was wondering if there was any other reason that you decided to offer me this position.”

    Roman’s eyes narrowed in on Logan in confusion. “What other reason would I have, Logan?”

    Logan shrugged. “If I knew, Roman, I wouldn’t be asking.”

    “Okay, Logan.” Roman continued to stare at Logan carefully. “If that’s your question, I can answer with no issue. There was no ulterior motive to my decision. I simply wanted to ensure you were taken care of after what had happened to you.”

    “So, if it had been someone else, you would have done the same for them?” Logan glanced up at him, anxiously chewing on his lip as he awaited Roman’s response.

    Roman hesitated briefly. “Well, perhaps not exactly the same for anyone else.”

    Logan tensed, crossing his arms tighter across his chest.

    “Don’t get me wrong, Logan,” Roman held up a hand to reassure Logan. “I planned on offering you something, regardless of who you were, but I would not have offered one of the highest positions in the court to just anyone.”

    “So why did you offer it to me, Roman?”

    Roman hesitated. “I could tell you were intelligent and kind, Logan. The decision felt right.”

    Logan’s face was unreadable as he sat quietly, apparently lost in thought.

    “Why is that so hard to believe, Logan?”

    Logan sighed. “You didn’t know me.”

    “I didn’t. I made the decision based on my own intuition.” Roman paused. “I don’t know what to tell you, Lo. You’re special.”

    Logan’s breath caught in his throat.

      "Apparently, you’re unaware, Logan. You’re very special.”

    He closed his eyes and he could almost see that glowing yellow eyes burning into the back of his eyelids as his voice echoed in his head. Gritting his teeth, he hung his head as he muttered a few words almost to himself. “I seem to keep hearing that—”

     The amulet around his neck grew hot and he groaned as a single spark struck his neck. With a dissatisfied grunt, he slumped back into the pillow behind him.

     Roman nearly rushed forward in surprise at Logan’s pained expression, but as he made to move, realization seemed to strike him. He hesitated briefly before sliding forward. He lifted the tray off of Logan’s lap and turned to slowly lower it down onto the ground next to the bed before moving closer to Logan. Carefully, he reached up to gently unfold Logan’s arms from where they were curled tightly around his chest. Logan resisted at first, but he remained gently persistent. He unfolded Logan’s arms and slid his hands down to gently support Logan’s wrists. Logan’s soft gasp nearly brought tears to his eyes, but Roman could see that Logan’s defensiveness was breaking down. All the same, he was quiet for a long time before he managed to whisper his question to Logan.

    “Did Remus tell you were special, Logan?”

    Logan didn’t even look up at him. He ached to answer, but the heat of the necklace burning around his throat warned him that doing so would cost him greatly. So, he just stared absently down at his hands. Fortunately, Roman seemed to infer the answer on his own.

    “Right.” Roman whispered. He looked up to Logan’s face, frowning at the distant look in his eyes. He slowly set Logan’s hands in his lap and moved to sit next to Logan. He extended an arm over Logan’s back, inviting him to lean into his shoulder. “Come here, Lo.”

    Logan hesitated briefly, before a small, tired smile curled at the corner of his lips as he allowed Roman to pull him underneath his shoulder. Logan smiled as his head rested on Roman’s chest and he let out a sigh as he felt Roman’s breath in his hair.

    “Listen, Lo. I don��t have the answer you’re looking for.” Roman paused, leaning his forehead down on top of Logan’s head. “I don’t know why Remus decided to take an interest in you.”

    Releasing a breath, Logan sank into the warmth of Roman’s chest, feeling defeated. “I knew it was unlikely, but not having an answer is difficult all the same.”

    “I know this is a lot to ask of you after last night’s events,” Roman gently curled his arm tighter around Logan’s shoulder. “but I think for just one night you should let yourself forget everything that’s going on.”

    “I don’t think I can—" Even as he tried to protest, Logan’s voice trailed off and a faint smile curled on Logan’s face as Roman’s arm tightened around him. “—need to figure out his plan.“

    “We will figure everything out,” Roman whispered quietly. “but you deserve better than to worry your whole life away, Logan.”

    Cautiously, he settled in next to Roman, eyeing him nervously, watching for any sign of hesitation from Roman as he slowly curled in close and wrapping his free arm around Roman’s waist. Seeing none, he closed his eyes, tensely settling next to Roman. The amulet around his neck felt heavy with the weight of Roman’s words. “I can’t let him—”

    “Logan, Virgil and I have a plan for you tonight. You don’t have to do anything.” Roman hushed him softly. “Just let me give you one night of normalcy.”

    Gratitude at Roman’s concern welled in Logan’s throat as he buried his face into Roman’s chest. He let out a breathless whisper. “Roman—”

    “Let me make you happy, Logan.”

    Logan shivered at the feeling of Roman’s warm breath in his hair. He closed his eyes, grabbing a handful of Roman’s shirt. His muscles tensed against Roman’s body.

    Roman tensed. Concern flooded over him as he shifted down to look at Logan. “I’m sorry. Did I upset you?”

    “No,” Logan lifted his head, eyes glistening in the dim light. “Thank you, Roman.”

    Roman relaxed, smiling gently at Logan. Slowly, he reached a hand to Logan’s cheek. “For what, Logan?”

    Logan sniffled quietly, cheeks red with emotion. “Thank you for caring, Roman.”

    “It is truly my pleasure to do so, Lo.” Roman smiled, pulling Logan close as they sunk back into the pillows behind them. He nuzzled his head close to Logan’s with a wide grin. “Does this mean you’ll agree to join us tonight?”

    Logan chuckled quietly and nodded, shivering pleasantly at Roman’s closeness. He sighed comfortably as he curled in close to Roman’s chest, enjoying the heat radiating off his body. Breathing deeply, his chest raised and lowered against Roman’s as his body melted into the prince. After a few minutes, Roman looked down to see Logan’s eyes drooping.

    Roman leaned close to Logan’s ear and whispered. “We have a few hours before we’re going to go out. Would you like me to leave so you can rest until then?”

    “No,” Logan pleaded quietly. “Please stay with me, Ro.“

    Roman smiled sweetly, resting his head next to Logan. “Certainly, love.”

    “He really is a deep sleeper, isn’t he?”

    “You would be too, if you’d been through what he has tonight.”

    “I already want to sleep for the next three days, princey.”

    “Better wake up soon, Virge. We’ve still got a whole night ahead of us.”

    “Don’t worry, princey. I’ll wake up quick once we get out into the cold.”

    Logan stirred quietly, feeling Roman’s arms still draped loosely around him.

    “Well, damn. I think he might be back among the living.”

    Logan cracked open his eyes, settling his gaze on Virgil with a glare.

    “What do you say, L?” Virgil teased with a cocky smile. “Are you ready to rise from your deep slumber?”

    Logan continued to glare at him, knowing his attempt to feign irritation was significantly diminished by the blanket covering him nearly to his nose.

    “Better watch out, Virge, or you’re going to be the one needing protection from him.”

    Roman jostled him lightly and Logan couldn’t help the soft smile forming on his face. He stretched his arm lazily, rolling his eyes. “I think I will spare him my wrath just this once.”

    “Thank the gods.” Virgil snorted with a devilish smirk. “The almighty and powerful Logan has chosen to let me live.”

    “I reserve the right to reverse my decision.” Logan muttered with a tired smile as Patton giggled from the end of the bed.

    “Are you ready for an adventure, Lo?”

    Logan’s eyes turned up to gaze into Roman’s soft, brown eyes and he smiled. “I’m ready, princey.”

    “Good.” Roman smiled brightly down at him for a moment before turning to Virgil with a smirk. “Did you want to want to tell him what we’re doing, Virgil?”

    “You and Patton have had a rough, couple days, so we’re going to one of Patton’s favorite places in the whole castle.” Virgil smirked as Logan curiously sat up, watching Patton who was basically bouncing next to him.

    "A place high in the sky—” Roman continued.

    Virgil smirked. “A special place few people even know about—”

    “We’re going to the observatory!” Patton nearly yelled with excitement.

    “Well, there goes our dramatic tension, Pat.” Roman’s gentle scolding was undermined by his lack of attempt to hide his smile.

    “Sorry, Ro.” Patton barely contained his very unapologetic smile. “I got too excited.”

    Logan turned an absent look up at Roman as he spoke before turning back to Patton. “The observatory?”

    Roman smiled down at him. “At the top of this tower is a special observatory that is home to one of the kingdom’s best kept secrets.”

    “It’s a telescope, L.” Virgil smirked as Logan’s confused expression turned to him. “A big one. It runs nearly half the width of the tower and it’s just as tall.”

    “It’s one of a kind.” Roman whispered proudly. “Probably the only one in the world of its like.”

    “Really?” Logan looked between them curiously. Patton nodded enthusiastically, and Logan immediately sat up, burning with questions. “How—”

    “No questions until we get there, Lo.”

    “But—"

    “See it first,” Roman smiled at Logan’s pout. “After that, you can ask as many questions as your heart desires. Agreed?”

    Logan could barely contain his giddy smile behind his pout. “Very well, Roman. I will acquiesce to your terms, but only if you don’t make me wait.”

    “Good,” Roman started to move beside him. “Let’s get you a coat and then we can head out.”

    After he’d gotten dressed, Logan made his way to the door. Roman followed closely behind him and Logan could  almost feel Roman watching him for signs of weakness. He let out a quiet breath, both exasperated and touched by the prince’s slightly overbearing concern.

   “I feel fine, Roman. You don’t have to watch me so intently.” He flashed an appreciative smile at Roman’s abashed look. “I will inform you if my condition changes.”

   “You promise?”

   “I promise.”

    Logan smiled at his relieved expression, slowly to a stop in front of the exit. He turned forward to see Virgil blocking the door with one hand on the handle. “Listen, everyone needs to stay close. We’re not taking any risks tonight, okay?”

    Everyone solemnly nodded back at him. When Virgil seemed satisfied, he gave a nod to Roman while he slowly opened the door behind him.

    “Good. Princey, take the lead. I’ll follow behind.” He opened the door for Roman, allowing Patton and Logan to follow closely behind him before trailing out behind them, locking the door as he took up his position in the rear.

    Logan stayed only a few steps behind Roman as he led them through the narrow corridors up the top of the tower. He glanced around. Moonlight filtered into the narrow corridors through slit-like windows as they moved silently through the passageways.No torches hung in this part of the castle and Logan would guess that few of the it’s residents regularly ventured far up into the tower. A chilled breeze swept over the back of Logan’s neck and he shivered as Roman led them into the final corridor. He looked up to see the hallway unexpected open up to a large empty room. The room appeared to be empty. Unlike most of the castle, not a single tapestry decorated the room. It wasn’t until Logan squinted into the dark of the far side of the room that he even noticed a large set of stone stairs that rose up along the length of the wall, leading to a  heavy-looking trapdoor in the ceiling.

    Logan paused, taking in the strange room for a moment before Virgil dodged past them. With a quick hop, he climbed up to the top of the stairs. Logan heard the jangle of keys for a short moment before watching Virgil flipped open the trapdoor with a loud thud. Logan glanced at the others, who were patiently staring up at Virgil as he disappeared to the upper floor. A few silent moments passed before Virgil dipped his head back down, gesturing for them to follow him.

    “After you.” Roman smiled and gestured dramatically for Logan to lead the way. He smiled as Patton nodded excitedly, bouncing a few steps behind him as he rushed up the stairs.

    Logan gasped loudly as he walked into the room above. In the center of the room sat a massive, brass mechanical telescope. The massive contraption stood almost a full floor taller than the outer walls. it’s lens alone appeared to be taller than himself, although Logan was only guessing as it extended well over the edge of the tower walls pointed high in the sky. His jaw hung agape as he walked along the side of the machine, inspecting the intricate gears and cogs through glass panels lining the side of the telescope’s base.

    “Wow,” He whispered breathlessly as he turned his gaze from the mechanical wonder to the open sky exposed above them.  Not even a breeze disturbed the air as he stared straight through the open ceiling to the sky above. Despite being in the center of the bustling castle, he’d never seen the stars so clearly. Not a cloud hung in the sky as the thousands of tiny lights sparkled above them. Logan’s breath caught in his throat as he stared, unblinking, at the colorful wisps of the galaxy winding their way across the sky.

    He forced himself to tear his gaze away from the sky to look around the room. The outer walls were lined with star maps and bookshelves full of more scrolls and books than he could hope to read in a year. Logan shivered again, though he suspected this one had less to do with the cold.

    It’s perfect.

    Logan watched absently as Patton jaunted over to join Virgil. They chattered excitedly at a desk next to the telescope’s eyepiece. Only a moment passed before Virgil started pulling star maps off the shelves and rolling them out for Patton.  Logan smiled, listening to his excited squeals from across the room.

    “You like it?”

    Logan startled at the prince’s unexpected closeness, but he settled quickly, smiling as Roman stepped up behind him. “Yes, Roman. Very much so.”

    “Good.” Roman smiled coyly as he circled Logan to stand in front of him. “As my personal advisor, you’re entitled to use this space as you please. Once everything calms down a bit and I can guarantee your safety, you’ll be able to come here whenever you like.”

    “Really?” Logan looked at Roman in disbelief.

    “Really, Lo.” Roman chuckled softly. “If you like, I’ll even eventually you to one of our experts and they can show you how to work some of the more intricate pieces.”

    “I would enjoy that immensely.” Logan whispered as happy tears welled in his eyes. “Thank you, Roman. I couldn’t have asked for anything more.”

    “Don’t thank me, Lo. This is simply part of package you signed up for when you accepted your position,” Roman reassured him. “and it’s about time you got to take advantage of the perks of your new title.”

    Logan looked up at him shyly. “I honestly hadn’t considered there would be any benefits beyond financial compensation and living accommodations.“

    Roman leaned against the edge of a nearby table and looked up at the open sky. “Logan, there’s so much more than even this, especially for an inquisitive mind like yours. You’ll have access to knowledge and tools you wouldn’t have dreamed of before.”

    Logan looked away for a moment, lost in his thoughts. When he finally spoke, his voice was shaking and tears flowed down his face. “Roman—”

    “Lo?!” Roman sprang over to him, suddenly concerned. He leaned close, aching to pull Logan into an embrace but hesitating to touch him without express permission while he was upset. Roman’s hands hovered just above Logan’s waist without making contact as he whispered softly to him. “Are you okay?”

    There were tears in his eyes as he looked up at Roman but Roman relaxed as a smile spread across his face. “Yeah, Ro. I’m really good.”

     Roman startled back as Logan stepped toward him. He froze, uncertain of how to react until Logan hesitantly reached out his hands, wrapping his arms around Roman’s waist. Roman’s shock faded, replaced with an affectionate warmth as he gently embraced Logan back.

    “Thank you, Roman. I could repeat myself ad infinitum and I still don’t think it’d be adequate for expressing my gratitude for everything you’ve given me.”

    “You deserve all of this and more, Logan, but I’m glad you’re happy.” Roman held him tightly for a long time but eventually he pulled back from Logan with a smile. “Alright, enough of this. I want to focus on you. Please, you must have questions about how it all works.”

    Logan looked up at him nervously. “What happens if it rains?”

    Roman paused for a moment before his shocked expression turned to a smug smile. “You are standing in front of one of the greatest scientific creations in the world and the first question burning in your mind is about the machine’s maintenance?”

     “I can only assume that proper maintenance protocol is essential to the longevity of this marvelous machine.” Logan blushed. “I am concerned that it is exposed so openly to the elements.”

    “You don’t think we took the proper precautions on one of the kingdom’s most prized possessions?” Roman smirked at him.

    Logan’s face flushed a bright red. “N-no, I didn’t mean to imply—”

     “It’s okay, Lo. No need to worry.”  Roman chuckled, subtly enjoying Logan’s embarrassment. “That’s not the type of question I thought you would have, but it’s actually a question with an interesting answer.”

    Logan smiled, appreciatively. “Would you care to elaborate?”

    “Of course. I am here to entertain you above all else.” Roman smiled smugly as Logan flushed a bright red before turning to point up to the sky above them. “There is a thin, magical barrier forming a protective dome above us. It’s nothing spectacular but it keeps this room protected from the wind, rain, dirt and other things. It’s simple, but even the strongest storm would never breach the barrier.”

    “That’s brilliant.  So, there’s nothing visible to the naked eye that would obscure your line of sight.” Logan sucked in a breath, turning back to Roman. “How did I not know this was here?”

    “It’s a well-kept secret, for the most part.” Roman shrugged.

    “But how?” Logan pressed. “It’s massive and exposed. The structure must be visible from the ground, even if people don’t know what it is.”

    “Have you ever seen it?” Roman prompted.

    “No,” Logan turned to him, confused. “How is that possible?”

    “That’s because the magical barrier also cloaks the exterior. From the outside, this tower looks like any of the others.”

    “Amazing.” Logan exhaled.

    Roman smiled fondly and extended a hand to Logan. “I think Virgil’s been showing Patton how to set it all up. Shall we join them for the real fun?”

    Logan’s cheeks burned and he could only hope the chill in the air disguised his delight at Roman’s touch the prince took his hand and he allowed himself be led over to the telescope’s eyepiece.

    “Can you see anything, Pat?” Virgil asked as they approached

    “Yeah, but it’s pretty fuzzy, Virge.”

    “Figures. Let me see again. I’m good at locating whatever I’m looking for, but getting a clear image is always a challenge.” Virgil leaned in again and fiddled with the knobs. “It’s definitely the most frustrating part of the process.”

    “May I give it a shot?” Logan asked as Roman pulled him over.

    “Sure, L. Maybe your touch is lighter than mine.” Virgil smiled at him and shrugged. “Come here and I’ll show you how all of the dials work.”

    After a quick run through of the dials and knobs, Logan started to fiddle to adjust. He lost track of everything, feeling the massive telescope shift and change at the slightest turn of the small knobs. His friends were silent as they watched him work, fascinated by Logan’s intense focus.

    A minute later, Logan stepped back, seemingly satisfied. He offered it to Patton. “Is that better?”

    Patton stepped up and looked through the lens. “Oh, wow! That’s amazing, Logan!” He waved quickly to Virgil. “It’s so pretty. Come take a look, Virgil!”

    Virgil stepped forward and Logan swelled with pride as Virgil gasped. “Wow, L. I’ve messed with this thing for years and never gotten it to focus this clearly.”

    “Quick, Ro. Take a look and let’s find something else!” Patton cheered. Logan chuckled. It seemed to him that Patton was barely containing his urge to jump up and down excitedly.

     Roman took a quick look and they continued on their search through the sky. Patton and Virgil soon settled into a rhythm of finding new challenges for Logan, challenging him to see if there was anything he couldn’t find. They cycled through planet, stars and other parts of the cosmos for what must have been hours, but Logan didn’t care. He found himself happily wishing this night would never end.

    As the night drew on, Logan found himself peacefully leaning on the protective banister circling the telescope, waiting for Patton and Virgil to choose their next target. He felt a gentle touch on his skin, turning his head to see Roman leaning next to him. His arm brushed against Logan’s and he shivered.   Goosebumps raised on his skin as he realized how close the prince was to him. He nervously glanced over at Patton and Virgil standing behind them, absorbed in the maps of the stars. Logan turned to face Roman but shied away as he noticed that the prince was watching him. He knew his face was bright red, despite his many desperate attempts to hide his feelings.

    A second later, he watched as Roman reached a hand over to his, offering an open palm. Logan blinked for a second before slowly placing his hand into Roman’s. Roman turned Logan gently so he faced him and the prince’s hand slowly slipped into his, interlacing his fingers tightly with Logan’s. Logan’s skin tingled pleasantly as their hands interlocked perfectly and he looked up at Roman smiling down at him. His cheeks burned but Logan relaxed slightly, enjoying the feeling of Roman’s warmth next to him. He stared into the the prince’s soft, brown eyes with adoration for what felt like an eternity before he heard Patton call to him. Logan smiled as he reluctantly stepped away from Roman to rejoin Patton, letting his hand slip back to his side.

    Logan took a deep breath, letting his nervousness slip away in order to focus on the task at hand. He found focusing  to be significantly more challenging now because his hands were shaking, but after some arduous trial and error, he locked onto their final target, a small but bright planet near the horizon.

    He moved aside to let Patton take a look. “Wow, That’s amazing. It’s so pretty and bright!”

    “It’s one of my personal favorites, Pat. It’s a planet named Taranis and it’s actually possible to observe it with your bare eye.” Logan pointed to the horizon. “It’s just there. It’s the bright one near the horizon with the blueish hue.”

    “Wow, Lo.” Patton followed his hand, mystified. “How do you know that?”

    Logan smiled fondly, “Stories and secondhand information mostly. The lore and mythology surrounding that particular planet is quite fascinating.” Logan paused. “When I was a child, I noticed it’s unique coloration. Since then, I’ve clung on to any information about it that I could get my hands on. It’s visible all year round in different points in the sky, and in a strange way, that’s made it a source of comfort for me throughout my life.”

    “That’s really cool, Lo.” Patton yawned. “It’s cool that it’s always there. Almost like a friend, just watching over you.”

     Virgil leaned over and bumped his shoulder into Patton’s. “Is it time to call it a night, Pat?”

     Patton yawned again and nodded.

     “Come on, then.” Virgil grabbed Patton’s hand, pulling him up out of his chair. “You ready, princey?”

    “Whenever you are, Virge.”

    “Give me a minute to put everything away and we’ll head out.” Virgil turned to Patton. “Mind helping me clean up, Pat?”

    “Absolutely, kiddo.” Patton jumped up to follow him over to the shelves.

    Logan hesitated to follow, reluctant to allow the night end despite his fading energy. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Roman noticed his pause and stepped over to him. Sadness weighed heavy on his heart and he barely even managed to look up as Roman leaned in close to him.

    “You seem disappointed, Lo.”

    “I realize I am quickly exhausting my remaining energy,” Logan sighed, smiling sadly up at Roman as the reality of his situation came rushing back to him. “but I must admit, I find myself wishing tonight wasn’t ending.”

    Roman smiled sweetly. “I know that everything going on make this difficult to believe, but tonight doesn’t have to be a one-time occurrence. Tonight, may be over, Logan, but this door is open to you forever. This is your place now and you can have a thousand more nights just like this one, if you like.“

    After a pause, Logan smiled coyly at Roman. “Only one thousand?”

    Roman grinned back at him. “You have a lifetime to explore the stars, Logan.”

    Logan’s heart fluttered at Roman’s promises, and he turned to look up at the prince with an adoring smile. “I think I’d enjoy spending that time with you, Roman.”

-

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[rottenroyalebooks]

The Prank That Ended the War - MGG

Pairing: Matthew Gray Gubler X Fem!Reader

Requested: No, this came to me one night at 1am and I can't stop thinking about it.

Warnings: None

Summary: You and Matthew are co-stars in Criminal Minds and you play Spencer's love interest SSA Ellie Lauren. The two of you have been great friends since you started on the show and have been in an ongoing prank war. His last prank was filling your car with rubber ducks and you decided to end the prank war with one he couldn't possibly top; You were going to trick him into marrying you. The Fic takes place during an interview after the fact.

A/N: If you guys like this and want me to write a version of this while the prank is going on please let me know! I will not complain in the least.

~~~

"Our next guest has recently been in the media for an over-the-top prank she pulled while filming the hit Criminal Drama show Criminal Minds. Here to talk all about it is the beautiful and fascinating Y/N L/N!" Drew's interduction brought me to the stage as the crowd cheered. I waved to the audience as I sat down in the seat across from Drew.

"Hello Drew!" I said with a giggle in my voice as I crossed my ankles.

"Hello Y/N. Thank you so much for being here. Let's cut to the chase here, recently a video of a very anticipated scene being filmed on your show was leaked onto YouTube of your character Ellie Lauren marrying Matthew Gray Gubler's character Dr. Spencer Reid; except it was a take of you guys getting married that ended with you celebrating the fact that you pulled off a prank on Gubler. For those who have not seen or heard about this viral video and rumors, would you like to explain what happened?" Drew was smirking and I nodded.

"I would love to explain. It's a long story so buckle up. When I first started on Criminal Minds I was extremely nervous, like I could barely remember my lines kind of nervous and Matthew noticed, so he decided to make me feel more comfortable by pulling a prank on me." I started to explain, moving my hair out of my face, "The prank was something small, he put my cellphone into jello, so I decided to prank him back with a simple whoopee cushion under his seat whilst filming. That was the beginning of the prank war." I smiled at the memory, remembering the red that flooded his cheeks when the cast and crew couldn't contain their laughter.

"For five years the pranks just kept escalating and our friendship grew stronger. I dyed the tips of his hair blue while he was asleep once. Asleep!" I said and Drew laughed.

"So what was the prank that made you do this?"

"He filled my car with Rubber ducks and I was running out of ideas. After years of back and forth pranking each other you'd be bound to use every prank in the book so I was trying to come up with the prank that would finally end the war while I was reading the script for Ellie and Spencer's wedding scene when it hit me," I paused as I let the audience think about the prank, "What if I tricked Matthew into marrying me in real life?"

The audience cheered and I nodded my head, "I know! At first I thought it was crazy, how could I pull this off? I wanted to see if I could get away with it. So I started planning,"

"How long was the planning process?" Drew interrupted and I sighed in an exasperated way.

"Oh goodness Drew, I only had a week to plan this prank! A week! I basically planned a wedding in a week, well technically the wedding part was planned out by the show I just needed to think of the technicalities; like how am I going to get him to sign the marriage licenses?" I shrugged my shoulders for effect.

"You see, Matthew tends to do this thing where he doesn't fully read documents before signing them. He doesn't really read them at all, but if I was the one who gave him the things he needed to sign in order for the marriage to be real he would become suspicious; so I asked Shemar Moore, who plays Derek Morgan on the show to help me."

"Did you fill him in on the plan?"

"Of course I did, Drew, he told me I was crazy but agreed to do it because he wanted to see the reaction. I was anxious as hell when he disappeared into Matthew's trailer and I paced through mine the whole time. He returned quickly with the biggest smile on his face and I knew that the hardest part of the prank was over. I sobbed," That earned a large laugh from the audience, "No it's true! I was so relieved that I started to full on sob in my trailer. I knew i needed to see this to the end. It had to be done. I did all the boring stuff with the papers and then came another tough spot."

"Who's going to be the one to officiate the wedding?" Drew was very invested in the story.

"Exactly! In the show, Spencer and Ellie begged David Rossi to officiate their wedding so he was going to be the one during the scene. I went to Joe and filled him in on my crazy plot. I then asked him if he would get ordained for this prank; I told him I would pay for anything he needed and I would owe him for life, but he agreed because he wanted to see if I would get caught. Soon I realized I had to fill in some other people on the prank when the time came for filming so I told the director, some of the crew, and the main cast. It was crazy and Matthew was totally completely unaware of this prank." I shook my head, I still can't believe that I managed to pull this off.

"Of course, I was friendly with his mother so I got the OK to invite her to be an extra in the scene so she could witness her son getting married. She told me I was a genius and would make sure she wouldn't get caught by him so I flew her out. It was fantastic." I laughed at myself.

"When the day came I was scared that he was going to be so mad that he would end the friendship, but I thought the plan was genius that I was willing to risk it. Everything was ready since the wedding was planned, there were rings, I had the dress and hair and makeup done, and I was so excited. I had told my parents about what I was doing and my dad actually plays Ellie's father in the show so he would be walking me down the aisle. He wasn't so pleased to learn that I was actually getting married for real."

Drew burst out laughing. "Should we play the video that was leaked?" He asked and i nodded.

"Be my guest." I said turning to the screen.

The scene started at the middle of the scene where we were saying the vows as Spencer and Ellie. It was clear that I was nervous and everyone was slightly panicky. I had just finished saying Ellie's vows and Joe began to speak, purposefully messing up the lines to reveal the prank to Matthew.

"It's with my greatest pleasure to announce the newlywed couple by the state of California; Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Gray Gubler! You may now kiss the bride!"

It didn't seem to register in his head as he pulled me in for the kiss, but then the director called "Cut!" And I almost passed out at the fact that I had somehow managed to actually pull this off. It wasn't until he stopped the kiss when Joe's lack of acting finally clicked into his head.

"Ha, ha. Very funny Joe." He said, but everyone of the main cast; AJ, Shemar, Thomas, Paget, Kristin, Joe, and I all burst out laughing out of shock.

"What!?! Why are you all laughing?" He was laughing too out of awkwardness.

"I actually did it holy shit! Okay, Matthew you're going to hate me, but I just pulled the most epic prank on you." I was still laughing, barely able to get the words out.

He was confused, "What?"

Shemar pulled the copies of the marriage license out of his pocket and handed it to him, "Read it and wheep."

Matthew opened the copies and his mouth dropped open, "Certificate of marriage!?! How did you get me to sign this!?!" He was shocked as it started to click in his head.

I finally had calmed down a bit by now, "You really need to start reading things people give to you to sign." I explained with a snort and he gaped at me.

"Wait, so we're legally married? Joe are you actually ordained?" He asked, shock filled his face as he nodded his head.

"Oh my god." His face turned bright red and he laughed, then he noticed his mother and almost passed out at that.

I turned to the camera, "May this be known as the day Y/N L/N won the prank war and now has full on bragging rights as I am now the legal wife of Matthew Gray Gubler. I can now die happy as my life is complete."

The video ended and the audience cheered loudly. I stood up, bowing down at the applause, "Thank you! Thank you, it really was some of my best work." I joked sitting back down.

Drew was clapping as well, "So what I got out of this was that you wanted the bragging rights?"

I nodded, "Oh but of course, at first it was just 'Hey, what if I tried?' But soon I became so invested in this prank that failure was not an option. I put so much effort into this that I could not fail." I laughed, "Besides, I get to say that I married him. Not many people would be able to say that." I joked and he chuckled.

"So, are you two planning on getting the marriage annulled?" He asked and i chuckled.

"We tried, the next day the two of us went to the courthouse to get a judge to agree, but apparently because of the way I did it we have to wait four months to get it annulled. I didn't think about that part." I admitted.

"Was he angry? About the prank?"

"Shockingly, no. He was very impressed that I managed to pull something this crazy off; hell I was impressed with myself. He even admitted that there wasn't anything he could do to top this prank and thus the prank war had ended. He's a bit annoyed that we have to wait to get it annulled, but not with me." I explained and he nodded.

"I have officially peaked in life, nothing will ever top that moment." I say pointing to the screen.

"You are quite the genius Miss. L/N. Do you have anything to add?" He asked and I hummed, looking at the camera that was on.

"Do not do that with your friends. Don't trick someone into marrying you as a prank, it's a pain in the ass to get undone and it could hurt some feelings. Matthew and I have been friends for years and set rules for the prank war, this prank was purely for shits and giggles. Don't do something that drastic with your friends." The audience clapped at my speech, "Don't prabk someone with a relationship period, it could really hurt someone's feelings and bring insecurities to light."

"I just have one more question for you, what if you and Matthew were to get into a relationship during these four months. Would you annull the marriage still or stay married?"

The blush on my face came as a shock to myself, would I want a relationship with Matthew?

"Honestly, Drew, Matt is such a great guy. He's funny, smart, attractive; I wouldn't be surprised if I fell in love with him. Who knows, all the romantic scenes might get to me," I joke, but the audience cooed, "If that were to happen, I'm not sure what his thoughts would be so I can't speak for him, but I would probably get the marriage annulled because if I were to marry him I wouldn't want the wedding to be a Spencer and Ellie wedding; I would want a Matthew and Y/N wedding which is a completely different experience."

"Oh I bet it would be. Thank you for being here tonight."

I smiled, "Thank you for having me! I love talking about the prank."

"Y/N L/N everyone!"

***

A/N: Part 2?

[adventuresinwonderlust]

Title: “Have you heard about that Min boy?”

Prequel to “Let this be a lesson to you.” And “Lesson learned.” This is basically their meeting. Its long, longer anyhow than I expected. Hope you all enjoy!

Pairing: dom! Yoongi x sub! brat! Reader ft. Namjoon

Warnings: smut, slight fluff (if you squint really hard), masturbation (m) (f), slight cum play, spanking, degradation, angst(eh?)

Rating: 18 and over

It was fourth of July weekend which meant it was time to pack up for the biggest party of the year. Namjoon’s July 4th Lake house bash. You had preemptively prepared by packing a few days ahead and only needed to convince your father to borrow his Audi Q3 SUV, you didn’t really need it, you could just use your BMW but you wanted the extra space and of course to show off. “Daddy, I need an answer today! I am leaving tonight, and I have to load my stuff.” You whined into the phone. “Y/n, do you expect me to leave work now and drive home so you can have my car?” Your father whispered into the phone. You knew he was probably in an important meeting, but you didn’t care so long as you got what you wanted in the end. “Have one of your assistants drive it home and take my car back to you. Please daddy, please!!” You whined and begged into the phone. You father sighed deeply into the phone, clearly frustrated. You created this monster, you thought to yourself. “Fine! I’ll have Julie bring it over to you and y/n, listen clearly, if it comes back damaged in any way you will not receive your monthly stipend for the next six months. Am I understood?” He warns. “Of course, Daddy.” You say sweetly, and with that you are loaded up by 2pm. You wave Julie off as she drives off in your car to head back to the office to deliver it to you father. You receive a text message from your best friend asking if she can ride with you to the party. “Sure thing.” You respond.

You are sure to hit the road by 4pm in order to grab your BFF and get to Namjoon’s by no later than 7pm. You need to ensure that you have the best room in the house, which is of course the east wing, it has its own balcony which gets the best sunlight and faces the Lake just in case you don’t feel like joining in on the festivities, but you want to be nosey. You have known Namjoon for the entire five years that he’s lived in the city. Your father had just recently hired his father into his company, and he wanted the two of you to mingle. It was clear that you would never be anything more than friends. Namjoon was too clean cut for you and you were way too bratty for Namjoon’s taste but still you were one of the first people he invited to the Lake house once his parents bought the place. “Get in girl! We are gonna be late!” You shout to your friend who hurls her bag in the bag seat and jumps up front with you. “I guess daddy let you borrow his ride huh?” She gives you a sly smile. “I needed the space.” You shrug and take off. “I hear this is going to be the biggest one yet! Fireworks, the whole nine.” Your friend comments. “Eh, I feel like it’s the same every year. What can you really do for the 4th that people don’t normally do?” You comment. “You’re so annoying. If you feel that way, then why do you go?” She questions. You laugh out loud. “If I don’t go then who would honestly be there?” Your friends mouth gapes open in shock. “You are too much! Well, I heard someone richer than you will be there.” She scoffs. You laugh again knowing she is just trying to push your buttons. “There is no one in this city that I don’t know, that doesn’t work for my father, who is richer than I am.” “Oh, really? Well, have you heard about that Min boy?” She asks. Your forehead crinkles at the name. “Sounds made up.” You snip. She laughs. “I don’t know but everyone who is anyone has been talking about him and I heard he is going to be at Namjoon’s party this weekend.” You shrug as if you don’t care but deep down your intrigued. It's been awhile since someone had piqued your interest. You couldn’t help but wonder what this Min boy had to offer or if he was worth listening to the rumor mill, he’d been tossed into.

When you arrive at the Lake house, all seems quiet as you approach the gate, and you are all too happy at the site. Namjoon hardly let’s people stay over, you really must be close with him to get a spot in the house, otherwise you’re stuck renting the cabins that surround the property. You pull up to the keypad just outside the gate and enter in this year's code. The gate hums open and you make your way up the driveway. “No car’s parked besides Joon’s, this is a good sign.” Your BFF notes, to which you nod in agreement. You both grab your things and head towards the house. Your BFF excitedly rings the bell and is greeted by Bear, the head of the lake house’s security. “I thought someone was in trouble with all that ringing you're doing.” He grumbles. “Sorry. Just excited.” She smiles, pushing past the giant of a man. “Is Joon here, Bear?” You ask. “Out back setting up some stuff.” He slams the door shut and shuffles off. Your BFF drops her things and decides she wants to head out back. “I am going to claim my room before anyone shows.” You state. She nods and heads out back while you make your way up the stairs. You make your way to your favorite room and shoot Joon a text to inform him that you will be staying there for the weekend. You drop your bag as soon as you enter the room and head out to the balcony to take in the sights. Namjoon and your BFF are deep in conversation as you take in the view. You release a deep sigh, feeling pleasantly at ease, until you turn back into the room and notice a black duffel bag by the bed. “What on earth?” You mutter under your breath. “You look beautiful in the sunlight.” A voice states from inside the room. You find an unexpectedly handsome blonde standing opposite the bed. He has his arms crossed as his head tilts to the side slightly, drinking you in. His dark jeans and hoodie call attention to his pale skin and defined jaw. “What are you doing in here?” You question, swallowing hard, trying not to show your sudden lust. He scoffs and you wonder if he sees right through you. “I’m staying in here this weekend.” He gives a sly smile. You immediately laugh. “Not happening, I always stay in this room when I’m here. So, you need to grab your stuff and go.” You snip. He drops his hands and crosses them behind his back now, standing straight up. His commanding presence sends a chill straight to your core. “Is that so,” He whispers, “Well, I would be more than happy to share it with you, on one condition of course.” His demeanor changes as he moves towards you. “I don’t do favors for nobodies.” You try your best to sound powerful, but it falls flat.

“That’s too bad baby. You look like a lot of fun. I’ll give you time to think on it, something tells me we are going to be seeing a lot more of each other.” He licks his lips at his last statement, and you are overcome with want as you feel your panties soak. He leans against the bedroom door and you snap out of it noticing that you are no longer in the bedroom but in the hall. “What the?” You say out loud. “Don't worry baby, there’s going to be a lot of things I impress you with.” He winks at you and slams the door shut. “Asshole!” You shout as you slam your fist against the door. You stomp downstairs and out back to meet Namjoon. “Joon! Joon!” You shout. He whips around as you approach fuming. “Who the fuck is in my room?” You cross your arms. He cringes. “Ah, yeah, I forgot to mention to you. My friend is here this weekend. He and his family just moved to the city and well I couldn’t not invite him. You can stay in my room, it's no big deal really.” He gives a comforting smile. “I want him out Joon. No exceptions!” You shout heading back inside to pour yourself a drink. “Ah, y/n, please, don’t make this difficult for me ok. He is my best friend and I want to show him a good time ok. It's just this one time and never again. Work with me and I'll make it worth your while.” He raises his eyebrows happily. “Uh no! I want that jack off out of my room or I swear I will cause a riot.” You warn. “I’ll take care of it y/n, for now let's just enjoy tonight.” Namjoon rubs your back but you are still fuming. “I better be happy by tonight Joon.” You whisper to him. He smiles and nods in response.

As night falls and guest show up you become wrapped up in conversation, drinks, and dancing. It seems everyone is abuzz with the news of this Min boy and needing to find out more information. “I heard he’s hot.” One person mentions. “I heard he’s loaded.” Another says. “I heard he’s a total jerk.” Someone else interjects. You shrug and decide to move onto the next group which consist of your BFF and Namjoon. “When do the fireworks start?” You ask. “About half hour, Bear and the team are setting everything up and making sure it's all clear.” Namjoon explains. “Joon was just telling me that you lost your room to that Min boy.” Your BFF drunkenly points out. You shoot a sharp look at Joon. “That is the Min boy everyone’s talking about?” You question. Namjoon nods. “Yeah, we’ve been friends a long time. I meant to introduce you two at the beginning of summer but he’s always busy doing something. I thought you guys would hit it off, but I guess I was wrong.” He laughs. “You think? He’s a total asshole.” You note. “Well that’s not a very nice thing to say about someone.” You hear from beside you as Namjoon’s friend greets you with a smile. “I suppose I wasn’t trying to be nice, now was I?” You snap. He chuckles in response and leans in close. “You know, if you keep talking to me this way, I'm going to have to take you over my knee. Would you like that you naughty little brat?” He whispers. He steps back and takes a drink offered up by Namjoon. You stand in shock feeling your face flush. He lifts the drink up in a salute like manner and gulps down looking at you while he does. Your heart begins to race. Be brave, he is a nobody, he wouldn’t dare touch you, you tell yourself. “I want you out of that room. Namjoon offered up his room, you can sleep in there.” You tell him. He licks the excess drink from his lips and nods. “Or, I can just stay where I am and watch you squirm.” He smiles wide. You move forward ready to thrash him, but he just stands tall, ready for you. “You know I could make your life a living hell if I wanted to.” You threaten. He moans softly. “God, I hope so.” He bites his lip causing you to step back. You swallow hard and turn away. “I knew you guys would hit it off.” Namjoon smiles wide at you both. You shake your head and stomp inside. “You want to fuck around.” You shout as you walk past the crowd and up the stairs.

You enter your favorite bedroom and grab his duffle bag from the floor. “What do you think you're doing?” You jump to find he’s followed you inside. “Watch and see.” You tease and unzip the bag. You wait to see if he’s going to make a move, but he doesn’t. You pull out a crisp white shirt from the bag as well as a pair of black slacks. “Careful baby, that’s Dior, I happen to really like that set.” He grumbles, brows tensing just a bit. You give a sly smile and rummage through his bag some more to find a John Varvatos cologne inside. You pop the top and smell it, humming in approval. He stares at you intensely, watching your every move. You give a huge grin as you pull off the nozzle. “Don't!” He protests way too late as you pour the cologne onto the items in his bag. “Oops, I’m such a klutz.” You say. He moves towards you and looks over the things you’ve ruined. “Guess you gotta get home and get this stuff cleaned up.” You say, dropping the empty bottle of cologne into the bag. He chuckles and nods, shoving the now destroyed items into the bag before throwing it all to the floor. “I warned you that I could make your life hell and I meant it.” You say plainly. He sniffs and rubs his nose, nodding to acknowledge you. “And I warned you that I would take you over my knee if needed but I think we are way past that don’t you?” Your body heats as he begins to loosen his belt. “Tell me brat, are you gonna be a good girl for me?” He asks. You moan softly as he takes you by your waist. He tightens his grip causing your nipples to harden and your pussy to moisten.

“Yes, sir.” He instructs. “Yes, sir.” You reply. He begins to trail soft kisses from your ear lobe down to your neck, suckling when he reaches your collar bone. You moan loudly at the feeling, having not had someone touch you in so long. “Fuck me.” You growl. He smiles into your neck. “Still don’t get it do you baby. That’s ok, I love a challenge. I’m in charge now. We do what I want and how I want it, got it?” He asks, pulling your hips into his massive erection. You nod quickly, anxious to feel him inside you. “Good. Now if you're a good girl, daddy will reward you. How does that sound?” He asks, nibbling on your jaw. “Good.” You pant. He yanks suddenly on your hair causing your head to snap back. “Good, what?” He whispers across your lips. “Good, sir.” You say breathlessly, pushing your hips further into his hardened length. He kisses your lips roughly and you gladly open your mouth for him, allowing him to slide his tongue against yours. He slowly swirls his tongue round yours, and you feel your cunt tense as you imagine what his assault would be on your sensitive bud. He releases you now and you softly whimper as he takes a full step back. “Ground rules now baby,” He pants, rubbing at his jailed member, “You don’t speak unless I give you permission to. You will always address me as Sir. If I go too far and I promise I will, you will say the word ‘yellow’ and I will stop completely. If you disobey me, whether that is here in the bedroom or in public, you will be punished. If you speak without permission, you will be punished. From here on out, you are mine and I am yours, if I find out another person has been with you...” He says. “I will be punished.” You cut him off. He nods to confirm. “I'll let this first one slide since we are just getting started. Now, take your clothes off.” He commands, lust filling his eyes.

You chuckle nervously, “What about you?” You question. His head tilts to the side. “Did I give you permission to speak?” He questions as your stomach drops, panic hitting you. “I’m sorry sir.” You attempt. He shakes his head at you. “Not yet you aren’t,” He smirks, tugging his belt from his jeans, “Pull down your shorts.” You bite your lip and comply, slowly unbuttoning and dropping your shorts to the ground. “What are you going to do to me?” You ask. He groans angrily and you realize your mistake. You cover your mouth with your hand quickly. He points to the bed. “On your belly brat, show me that gorgeous ass of yours.” You look over at the bed but don’t move. “You've already earned yourself two lashes, would you like to add two more?” He asks. You shake your head in response and he again points at the bed. “What do you say if it’s too much?” He pants as you rest on your belly, ass on full display. “Yellow, sir.” You say. “Good girl.” He responds as he licks his lips. You moan into the mattress, trying desperately to hold back the intense feelings of lust and need coursing through your body. “Do you understand why I am doing this?” He groans. “Yes, sir, because I disobeyed you and spoke without permission. I was a bad girl.” You explain seductively. His response is a heavy whack across your bare ass that echoes through the room and your needy body. You cry out in pure ecstasy. Your juices flowing past your folds and down to your thighs. The second whack is harder and causes you to grip the covers. He hums deep in chest as he watches you squirm. “So sexy.” He moans, rubbing your burning cheeks with his cool palm. You hitch your hips back into his hands trying desperately to get him to lower his touch to your aching bud.

“Stand up my greedy little brat.” He whispers. You do as your told. “Take off the rest of your clothes.” You quickly shed your shirt and bra, happily on display before him. He licks his lips as he looks over your exposed flesh. “So gorgeous,” He smirks and begins to unhook his pants, “Touch your cunt.” Your breathing quickens as you slide your hand down your torso and to your wanting sex. He watches you with lust in his eyes, his cheeks flushing slightly. “Rub that sweet clit for me.” He groans, releasing his veiny cock from its confines, his sweet nectar glistening from his swollen tip. You moan loudly as you watch him stroke his thick length in quick succession with your own pace. His breath quickens as he rubs his arousal up and down his cock. “Show me how wet you are.” He grunts. You painfully remove your fingers from your needy cunt and raise them up to show off. He moans aloud and bites his bottom lip, still stroking. “Suck those sweet juices off your fingers.” He commands and you slowly clean each finger one by one causing his head to roll back and a deep dark moan to fall from his lips. “Now, fuck yourself, I want to see my little brat cum.” You return your salivated fingers to your slick folds and begin to swirl around your clit once more. You moan loudly for him to show just how much you’re enjoying yourself. “Tell me when you’re about to cum.” He demands. You nod as you use your free hand to slide two fingers into yourself, curling them upward to rub against your g -spot. You cry out as you begin to feel your core tighten.

You begin to hitch your hips back and forth in an attempt to cause more friction as you watch him stroke his thick cock faster and faster, pulling lightly on his balls. Your mouth falls open and you can barely contain yourself as you feel your juices flow down your hand. Your breath becomes more and more ragged as your climax threatens with every swirl around your sweet bud. “I’m going to cum sir.” You cry out as your coil snaps and your cunt throbs around your fingers, your orgasm washing over you intensely. “On your knees brat.” He pants desperately while you come down from your high. You drop down to your knees and watch as he makes his way towards you. “Head up.” He states. You lift your chin high and gasp as he unloads his hot seed onto your exposed breasts. He moans loudly, grabbing you by your shoulder and digging his fingertips in as he rubs out every last drop. He steps back once done and swallows hard taking in the sight of you covered in his semen. “You’re so fucking hot baby.” He says. You smile and slowly raise your hands up, rubbing his warm cum around your full tits and erect nipples. He hums in approval. “I need to have you, all of you.” He says reaching out to help you up. “Then have me sir.” You whisper, standing. He chuckles. “Soon, we should handle a few personal things first. Getting tested and what not. We can go together.” You nod in agreement.

Suddenly, you both hear hooting and hollering from the backyard as the fireworks begin to crack one by one. “Come with me.” He says, grabbing you from behind and slowly leading you towards the balcony. You push your back against him, not wanting to go out unclothed. “Don’t worry, no one can see us.” He says, kissing your cheek. You stand at the balcony door wrapped in his arms and begin to realize how much you want to be completely undone by this man. “I don’t even know your first name.” You say as you both watch the fireworks show. “Yoongi. Min Yoongi.” He whispers into your ear. “Y/n.” You say. He scoffs. “My naughty little brat.”

[fatalezr]

Secret State - Part 6

"A new strategic partnership?"

Kate read the screen out loud over Rebecca's shoulder, startling her. She did not realise that her colleague was behind her.

"Sorry, just reading something" Rebecca replied, broken from her thoughts.

"All good," Kate said, "fancy some lunch?"

'Sure" Rebecca said, minimising the Financial Times website she had been looking at, "let me go to the loo first". She took her time walking to the toilet and thinking about the article. The Financial Times had a small article that caught her eye that morning about a senior member of the Cabinet proposing a new strategic alliance between Britain and Russia, to "further and build on the arrangements agreed in last week's energy summit". Details were sketchy but it looked like Russia was asking the UK to withdraw from NATO and sign a comprehensive trade deal that would make it replace the EU and USA as the most important of British allies. Rebecca couldn't quite believe it - was this the end game? Was this what all this was about?

The paper had shown the most senior members of the Government together, the rotund Prime Minister with a blonde mop of hair and a seemingly-clueless look on his face in the centre, flanked by the Chancellor, a tall Asian man, smartly dressed and his foreign secretary, a blonde woman on his right. On his left stood the Home Secretary, a few inches shorter than the Prime Minister and sporting slicked back greying hair with his arm around him, reminiscent of their much publicised childhood together at Eton. The PM had subsequently beaten the Home Secretary in a leadership contest many years later but the two had apparently repaired their relationship. To his left stood the International Trade Minister, a short Asian woman with an apparently fiery temper but who was getting credit for bringing the Russians to the table. Was one of these members involved? These were all questions she needed to ask George, but a break with Kate first would be welcomed.

There was something different about Kate today she noticed, and she saw her colleague had makeup on, including a dark red lipstick. "Is it date night?" she asked her.

"Bec, whenever I go out, it's always date night" Kate replied, winking at her.

Rebecca's interest was piqued. "So who's the lucky guy?"

"Who said it was a guy?" Kate said, before chuckling to herself, "someone new, I'll let you know how it goes".

Rebecca sighed and shook her head. They ate a sandwich and joked together and Rebecca started to relax, the upcoming evening's activities far from her mind. There was some awkwardness as Kate asked about Marcus. Rebecca smiled and said all was well but that the incident at London Bridge had naturally led to a lot of overtime being called on patrols to make sure it did not happen again.

"I found another unexplained body," Kate said, finishing her drink. "Another national security thing, outside that Passion nightclub in Vauxhall" Rebecca's ears pricked - this was another one of hers, the bodyguard of Colonel Umarov. "I asked the Superintendent if we can look into them but I think he's got a new case coming up for us".

"What's it going to be?" Rebecca enquired. She was intrigued to move on from the Mulvaney case and be launched into a new investigation.

"From what I've heard, maybe something to do with corruption," Kate said, "could be an interesting one. I reckon we're finding out about it later". DSI Sullivan had scheduled a meeting for 3pm that afternoon in the conference room with his Detectives - Rebecca suspected this would be the subject.

"They're not turning us into AC-12?" Rebecca joked.

"I doubt it will be that exciting - we leave all the intrigue and shooting to our personal investigations" Kate responded, winking back at her.

------

"As you can see, this is a delicate situation".

Detective Superintendent Sullivan was surveying the stunned looks on the faces of his detectives, Rebecca saw. They all looked lost in thought in their own ways. Kate had her face screwed up and was looking off to the side, Oli Afidi was stroking his newly-grown goatee and Tim Warren sat with his arms folded. Rebecca looked perturbed too, but she suspected in a slightly different way to the others.

"Any questions?" DSI Sullivan added.

DI Warren looked up. "Sir" he said, being respectful to his boss, "may I ask why this investigation is falling to us? Would it not normally be under the purview of the National Crime Agency or even dare I say, the Security Services?"

"It's a valid question" Sullivan responded, "my understanding is there is some concern about how impartial those agencies can be. We're seen as a more....neutral influence. None of us here was a political appointment, therefore we can investigate without prejudice".

Warren nodded and returned to his thoughts. Rebecca was lost in hers too. Sullivan had revealed that the Commissioner was asking them to look into the possibility of corruption within the most senior levels of government. It was a far cry from the criminal underworld they were used to investigating and all of them knew it could be a high-profile investigation with the possibility of great embarrassment if they made a wrong move. Sullivan said the request had come from the Commissioner - hadn't she gone to school with the Chancellor? And what evidence were they launching this based on? Sullivan had only said that serious allegations had been made but was unable to provide more detail. She decided to ask a question.

"Sir, are we expecting to find something? Couldn't this just be a big investigation into nothing at all?"

"I can't say, DC Davidson" Sullivan admitted, "but the Commissioner has asked us to investigate and look into government affairs and so that is what we shall do. We'll do a thorough look at financial records, business dealings and the like and if we find nothing, that's what we shall report".

Rebecca was satisfied by his answer - Sullivan was nothing but fair. However, the timing of it was suspicious given recent activities by the Russian state. She wondered if George knew of this all.

"DI Warren, DI Belmont, I'll let you start work on an investigative strategy" Sullivan said, "we'll reconvene on Friday to discuss".

They both acknowledged his request and he left the room. The team leaned back in their chairs for a few seconds until Tim Warren got up and straightened his suit jacket. "Right," he said, moving to a whiteboard and writing the names of the cabinet ministers across it, "let's begin, shall we..."

------

"Maybe I should leave the two of you in peace?"

Simon Selwick sounded a little unsure. He was not alone as he entered a dressing room in one of his private clubs in Soho that Rebecca was using to get changed. Rebecca checked that the satin robe she had been lent was covering her before looking at the guest who had entered with him.

"Good evening Miss Davidson" George said, "I hope I'm not intruding at an inopportune time".

Rebecca smiled. "It's all OK Simon" she assured the club owner, "I know him". Selwick bowed his head and shut the door while George hung up his coat on a chair and sat on it. Rebecca returned to look in the mirror and carefully styled her hair.

"You look beautiful," George told her.

"Just doing my job" Rebecca replied, trying to make light of the situation. In truth she felt nervous. Who knew what might unfold? She knew that she would be going with Arkady Romanov to Wembley and that at some point he was going to sneak away and she would have to follow him but the lack of detail to the plan made her uneasy. What if there was security? What if they found her spying? She tried to turn her mind away from it and on to other things. "Do you like football, George?"

He chuckled. "I'm a diehard fan of Hartlepool Town, Miss Davidson". He chuckled some more. "I must confess though, you're more likely to find me at the Henley Regatta than on the terraces".

Rebecca smiled. "We got put on a new investigation today" she told him.

"Really?" George sounded curious. "Do tell?"

"We're being asked to investigate the possibility of corruption within the Cabinet".

"You are?" George sounded surprised, "and why are you doing this?"

Rebecca shrugged. "Allegations were made, apparently. Direct orders from the Commissioner this time. You don't know anything about it?"

George frowned. "No, Miss Davidson. Unfortunately not. You say it was a direct order from the Commissioner?" Rebecca nodded and George stroked his chin, thinking hard.

"Did you see the story about the strategic partnership in the FT?" she asked him.

"Yes" he said, "most concerning. Dame Lucy's been trying to get a meeting with the PM but his private secretary doesn't want to take us. I sense they are worried we might go in and spoil the thing. Hear no evil, see no evil, of course".

"Do you think it's all connected?"

"That would be a sensible conclusion, but we must be careful Miss Davidson. I've no idea who might be involved. We must tread carefully at all times". He paused. "Are you going to be armed tonight?" Rebecca nodded. George bit his lip. "Tell me about the plan".

She ran him through the evening. Romanov would pick her up from Simon's club in 30 minutes and take her to Wembley to his own personal executive box. She would watch the game with him and if he moved off, make her excuses to join him. She could note anyone he met and report back at the end of the evening. She paused. How would the evening end? Would Romanov want her to go home with him, and if he did, how would she get her way out? She shrugged it off. She could find a way, she told herself. The main thing that worried her was having no phone with her, no means of communication to the outside world - it was one of Romanov's stipulations that Simon had told her about.

George listened politely. "OK" he said finally, "a good plan". He paused. "Rebecca....be careful, please". There was genuine concern in his voice that she did not recognise. She put down her eyeliner pencil and went over to him and hugged him. He embraced her back and Rebecca realised it was the first time they had ever done that. He broke off and smiled at her. "Remember, give England a cheer for us all, yes?"

"Of course," she said. He stood and put on his coat, giving her one final look before he left. Rebecca took off her robe and admired the new red bra, knickers, suspenders and some dark stockings. She put her gun, her suppressor and a spare magazine of ammunition into her suspenders before donning a black V-necked cocktail dress that fell to just above her knees. It sparkled in the lights from the mirror and gave a tantalising view of her neckline. She looked at the clock. Ten minutes to spare.

She passed the remaining time in silence, taking a final trip to the bathroom and then waiting patiently for the knock at the door from Simon Selwick. It arrived on time and he led her out of the club to a black Mercedes with blacked out windows. A driver opened the back door and she stepped in to see Arkady Romanov wearing a dark blue suit with a white shirt that was open all the way down to his chest. His hair was cut short and he had an untidy but short beard on his face. He smiled as he saw Rebecca, taking her hand to help her into the back seat and then kissing it.

He said some words in Russian to his driver and kept hold of Rebecca's hand as the car pulled away. Rebecca smiled back at him, pretending to enjoy the touch. He did not speak to her during the journey, preferring to spend most of his time looking out of the window and so Rebecca stayed silent too. It was not a quick journey from central London out to Wembley so she allowed herself a chance to let her mind wander and relax. She started to ease into the situation. The car was very comfortable and smooth, and she smiled as she saw the lights of the city all around her. She felt beautiful in her dress and could almost imagine she was on her way to a film premiere or fashion show rather than a football match.

"Is very pretty yes?" Romanov's deep voice cut through her dreams. He was pointing out the front window towards the Wembley arch that was now visible, lit up in brilliant white.

"Yes," Rebecca turned to him and smiled, "yes it is".

"Almost as pretty..as you" he said, finding the right words and she chuckled. She squeezed his hand a bit more and he smiled back at her. "We are close. Stay with me". He gave some more instructions in Russian to the driver. The car wound it's way closer to the stadium and Rebecca looked at the range of fans walking towards the ground, most wearing thick coats or hoodies but with an England jersey clearly visible over the top, some dressed in more neutral colours and even a couple of fans wearing full chain mail and dressed as St George. The car sped past them all and took a turn into an underground parking lot. They were flagged down by a couple of security guards but the driver spoke to them and the car was allowed to continue.

They parked and as they stepped out of the car Rebecca heard the sounds coming from the stadium that was almost on top of them. The music and announcements from the PA system echoed around the walls of the parking lot, as did the chanting of some fans who had arrived for the game. "Come" Romanov offered Rebecca his arm and she gladly accepted it, seeing the driver was staying with the car. Romanov walked her up a flight of stairs and she saw she was now right outside Wembley at a private entrance. She even thought she spied the English and Turkish team buses parked nearby. There was a flash to her side as a photographer took pictures and a young man with a notepad walked up behind the photographer.

"Mr Romanov!" he called, "Mr Romanov! Are you trying to sign Patelli? Is he heading to the Emirates?" He was evidently a journalist.

Romanov chuckled. "Come on England!" he said back to the journalist, raising his arm in a fist and ignoring the question. "Come on England!" he said, this time to Rebecca.

"Come on England!" she repeated and they both laughed. They continued past the journalist and into the stadium. The air outside was cold and Rebecca was grateful for the heat as they entered. They were in an atrium that was packed with smartly-dressed men and women. A waiter wearing white offered them both a glass of champagne and Romanov took two glasses, handing one to Rebecca. She held on to his arm as he walked through the crowd of people, stopping every now and again to shake the hand of someone he knew. Rebecca looked around the crowd - she recognised some people as famous heads of business, there were a couple of actors and a few former footballers in the room too. She kept a tight grip on Romanov as he stopped and said words with a few people in Russian before he laughed and slapped one on the back.

She looked up and saw Romanov nod discreetly to someone at the side of the room. She couldn't quite make out who it was but they were wearing a grey jacket and high-necked jumper underneath. The grey hair looked familiar and as the man moved around the room she caught another glimpse of his sharp face and recognised him - it was Colonel Umarov. Her mind raced. What was he doing here? Hadn't he gone back to Russia? If he was visiting again, it was certainly not on official business.

Romanov weaved through the crowd and to an area with some elevators. They took one up 3 floors and stepped out into a plush but thin corridor that looked more like it belonged in a theatre than a football stadium. The entrances to the executive boxes were every few yards along one side while on the other the windows were full length and glass, showing some of the skyline of London and the buildings around the stadium. Rebecca could hear the chanting from the terraces above and below them. There was movement all around, with guests entering their boxes, the sound of cheering and excitement within them and waitresses moving in and out of the boxes carrying trolleys with food that came from behind a set of double doors she presumed led to a kitchen.

Romanov's box was near the halfway line with a spectacular view of the pitch. There were seats outside for those who wanted to join the crowd but also black leather sofas and a small bar inside the box. As he entered, a group of men already within cheered. Rebecca recognised more faces - some of the young members of the Arsenal team were here, but there were also some older gentlemen she didn't realise who did not rush to greet him. Some of the players hugged him, others gave him a hand but Romanov spoke to them all, some in broken English. "Tony - look after self tonight" he told one boy. "Harry - score me many goal this weekend!" to another. He moved closer to two older men sitting in black suits and shirts and looking uncomfortable in their suits. He spoke softly in Russian to them. One shifted in his seat and as he did so, Rebecca spied a shoulder holster and gun underneath his suit. They were evidently security of some kind and with another older man with greying hair. Rebecca heard Romanov refer to him as Mikhail and the two shook hands warmly before he returned to Rebecca.

He led her to a sofa at the front of the box with a view of the pitch. "Stay here" he told her gently and he grabbed another glass of champagne to give to her. The stadium filled up as it got closer to kick off and the young boys from the box started to put on coats and head to the outside seats, presumably soaking up the atmosphere, most with dreams of playing there and winning trophies at the front of their mind. Romanov returned to her and sat next to her on the sofa, putting his arm around her shoulder. She leaned into his chest, trying to look and feel relaxed about the situation.

There was a large roar from the crowd as both England and Turkey's football teams stepped on to the pitch. Romanov applauded and shouted his approval and Rebecca sneaked a glance behind him to see the man named Mikhail and his security still in place, stony faced and unmoved by the match in front of them. Romanov hummed 'God save the Queen' but did not stand and so Rebecca did not either. She kept thinking about Umarov - it must surely be connected. It was no coincidence that he was here too. She thought about how she could follow Romanov when he excused himself to go to the meeting and wondered who else might be involved. Most likely the man called Mikhail at the back of the room, but what about others? Was Umarov in another box with more members?

The match began and she tried to appear attentive to the game. Romanov seemed invested - his love of football was genuine. He occasionally cried out when there was a chance and threw his arms up in disgust if he noticed a player missing an open pass to someone. He kept putting his arm around Rebecca and looking down at the cleavage she had created. The first half finished with the scores level at 0-0, both teams having largely cancelled one another out.

The younger men outside returned inside to continue laughing and drinking during the interval, some making polite conversation with Romanov as best as they could with them being unable to speak Russian and him not much English. Several gave glances towards Rebecca but she kept quiet and sat next to the man - it was clear to others that she was there with him and she sensed they knew that it meant she was off limits. Waiters came in serving canapes but Rebecca declined to eat - she knew that the meeting would have to take place in the second half and she had a knot in her stomach just thinking about it. She kept trying to glance at Mikhail and his security but they stuck to a fairly rigid position near the bar, the older gentleman occasionally sipping on a pint of beer.

Rebecca glanced at Romanov and saw him checking his watch. He seemed a little restless. She pulled on his arm and he turned to her. "Happy?" she asked him innocently.

"Very happy" he said, smiling back at her, "but must go - stay here".

"You don't want company?" Rebecca said. She subtly reached her free hand and rubbed it across the front of his crotch. She saw his face explode into some pleasure before he eased it away. He considered it for a few moments.

"Maybe walk with?" he suggested. Rebecca nodded. "OK. We walk" he said, standing and helping Rebecca up with him. She watched as he shot a glance in the direction of Mikhail. Romanov left the box with Rebecca as the teams re-emerged for the second half. He held her hand tightly and Rebecca sensed he had some nerves too. He led her back through the atrium area towards the double doors that led to a kitchen and as he did, Mikhail and his two security guards also emerged from the box.

"Arkady," she heard the older man say. His voice was gruff and damaged. Romanov did not hear him and pushed through the doors. It did lead to a stainless steel kitchen where staff in white uniforms were beginning to clean down for the evening. Romanov walked through to a set of doors at the other end. It led to a service corridor of some kind, decked in only concrete with stairs going up and down and a lift that could be used to bring supplies to the kitchen. "Arkady!" Mikhail's voice rang out again as Romanov and Rebecca reached the stairs. Mikhail began speaking in Russian but gesticulating at Rebecca and she guessed from his tone that he did not think it appropriate for her to be joining him.

Romanov replied in Russian, trying to calm Mikhail as they all climbed the stairs. They looped back around on themselves to lead to an upper floor with a couple of black doors on either side. Romanov turned to go through the one to the left but Mikhail put his hand on the door to stop it opening. He stuck his finger in Romanov's face and spoke sharply to him.

"Sorry - must go...alone" Romanov said, turning to her. "Downstair, wait. I come". He kissed her on the cheek before jerking upright to attention and saluting. Rebecca was taken aback but soon noticed why. From the other door emerged Colonel Umarov, flanked by an older man and older woman, all smartly dressed. Two younger male and one female wearing dark suits with white shirts were behind them, looking round and Rebecca noticed they had holsters with guns at the side of their trousers - evidently security for the individuals they were with. The female was particularly imposing at over 6 feet tall with short cropped blonde hair and a mean look in her eye. She kept a gloved hand on the butt of her gun at all times as if ready and expecting to pull it at any moment.

Umarov looked at the group in front of him and nodded. He stepped towards Romanov but then turned sharply to look at Rebecca. She felt herself cower as his bright blue eyes seemed to pierce her and look her up and down. He had an imposing presence and that long face seemed to constantly be in thought but showing no real emotion. Romanov offered him a handshake and some words and Umarov nodded some more. He carried on past the group and opened the door to the room. Rebecca chanced a glance inside and saw it led to a short corridor. Her mind whirred, wondering how to penetrate it. She tried to memorise every detail of Mikhail and the individuals with Umarov. He held the door open as the group filed in and Mikhail opened a purple curtain at the end of the corridor. Rebecca heard him say "Ah, hello sir, good evening" in his rough accent to a person inside. She frowned - why was he speaking in English? Who were they meeting?

She realised that Umarov was still staring at her and now it was his turn to frown. Rebecca wondered if he recognised her from the nightclub Passion. She was sure she looked different and he would only have glimpsed her face that night. She decided to go and started to walk down the stairs when she realised one of Mikhail's security men was walking with her. He had a round face and short hair in a military style. "Hello," she said, smiling at him.

"We go back down," the guard told her. Rebecca nodded. They walked back down the stairs through the kitchen and into the lobby that led to the boxes. Rebecca could hear more chanting from the stands - the game had evidently restarted. She didn't like the way the guard was staying so close to her, as if watching her every move. She spotted the toilets on her left.

"Bathroom?" she said. The guard looked displeased but nodded. Rebecca went into the ladies and shut herself into a cubicle. She needed time to think. She needed to get upstairs again and find a way to either get in the room or find out who was in it. She heard some noises outside the bathroom. There were shouts in Russian. She listened intently. She heard the voice of the guard who had escorted her and another male voice, who sounded like he had been running. Whilst they spoke quickly, Rebecca heard the running one say something that made her heart almost stop beating.

"MI5". It was unmistakable. How did they know?

"MI5?" the guard who had accompanied her said.

"Da" came the reply. Rebecca swore in her head. She was trapped in the bathroom. There was no way out other than the door she came in. She quickly raised her dress and grabbed her Walther P99 and suppressor from the red suspender belt she was wearing. She assembled it as quickly as possible, then took off her shoes, dropped low and crawled out of the cubicle she was in. She disappeared around a corner in the bathroom just as she heard the main door opening.

She heard two sets of footsteps as the guards came in. She chanced a look. They both had guns raised at the cubicle door, long suppressors attached to the end. "Come out - now" one shouted. There was a pause as nothing happened.

Pfft-pfft-pfft, pfft-pfft-pfft. She heard their guns softly fire at the door and a pinging sound as their empty casings hit the tiled floor. They were trying to kill her, she realised, either knowing she was a spy or not caring who she was. She steeled her nerves and swung round the corner from her hiding spot.

Both men were still looking at the cubicle door with it's holes, guns raised. She was behind them both and her gun found the back of the one who had accompanied her. Pfft-pfft. She fired twice into his back and immediately turned to the right to the new guard who had joined him. Pfft-pfft. Both men cried out and slumped to the floor. Rebecca did not hesitate and fired pfft, pfft, into both of their heads before they could react further. There was an "oooh" sound from the terraces and she suspected someone had just come close to scoring.

Rebecca listened intently at the bathroom door to see if anyone was around. She heard nothing and tucked her gun back into the front of her suspender belt, the suppressor warm against her skin. It looked bulky and out of place but she knew it was better than keeping it in her hand. There was an 'out of order' cleaning sign that she spied just inside the door and she left it outside of the bathroom as she exited to the atrium again. She hoped that no-one would need to find them there before she could reach George but Selwick had specifically told her that Romanov never wanted his girls to have a phone with them. She would need to find another way to get a signal to him.

She took a glance towards the lifts. She could probably escape now, she knew. She could get free of the stadium and away before anyone discovered the bodies in the ladies toilets but something made her stop. The mystery of the man that the Russian cabal was meeting was too great to resist. 'What would Kate do?' she asked herself and remembered how her colleague had intentionally got herself kidnapped by Mulvaney's gang earlier that summer. She looked above her and tried to imagine the layout above. The ceiling above her was high - much higher than she had climbed on the stairs. Above the kitchen it was presumably lower as the doors were in a solid wall. She walked into the kitchen. Staff were still cleaning it down. She noticed a food serving hatch to the right of her and followed the path of it up. It seemed to go up - maybe to the room they were meeting in?

"Excuse me" she said to a young woman her own age, "could you tell me where this hatch leads?"

"Oh this" the woman said. She had a thick Cockney accent. "We 'ardly ever use tha', think it goes to some private room that never got finished".

Rebecca nodded. "Does it still work?"

"Don' see why not?" the woman answered, "why you asking?"

"Would you mind sending me up?" The young woman looked at Rebecca like she was crazy. "I'm meant to be giving a surprise entrance," she said. She hitched up her dress a little to show the top of her stockings and leave the woman in no doubt about what kind of surprise she would deliver.

The young woman looked round. A chef in the kitchen nodded. "C'est bon" he said. "We keep ze customer 'appy". Rebecca took care to make sure her dress covered her gun as she got into the hatch. It was a tight squeeze, and she was almost having to curl up in a ball.

"'Ere goes then" said the young woman. She shut the serving hatch and Rebecca was plunged into darkness. She tried to stay calm and breathe. She was not claustrophobic but the tiny space and darkness created a horrible sensation around her. There was a jolt and she felt the hatch move upwards, rattling a little but supporting her weight up. 'This was a really stupid idea' she thought as the hatch clanked. Where would she even find herself?

After what seemed an age but was probably 30 seconds at most the hatch shuddered to a stop. Rebecca breathed deep and listened. She could hear no noise. Her hands eased the hatch open and she welcomed the light and fresher air in with her. She looked out of the hatch. She was in a small empty room for a kitchen that appeared to not be finished, with nothing except some silver work surfaces around her. She slowly maneuvered her way out, her bare feet finding the tiled floor cold. She crept to the door and listened - there was no noise. She eased it open as quietly as possible - the corridor was empty. There were faint sounds from behind the curtain and she tiptoed towards them on the now-carpeted floor, hardly daring to make any noise. She retrieved her gun from her suspenders and gripped it for security. She checked behind herself regularly, certain that security would be on the other side of the door.

As she edged to the door, the voices became louder. She recognised Mikhail's gruff voice. "I'm not sure I can be ready with contracts" he said in English, albeit a thick accented English.

"What's holding them up?" a posh male English voice responded. Rebecca paused - she'd heard that voice before. Where was it from?

"Council - local council" Mikhail said. He sat nearer to her position, Rebecca could tell.

"Leave that to me, I can pull a couple of strings" the English voice responded. "My timeline is set in motion. I've got the support in the party. Just give the word to accelerate and we can do this Igor, let's not delay".

There was a pause before the quiet voice of Colonel Umarov answered. "And your security services?" he said quietly.

"Not an issue" the English voice answered.

"Not even the spy tonight?"

There was a murmuring in the room. "Spy?" Romanov’s voice was recognisable.

“The woman you brought Arkady” Colonel Umarov said coldly and Rebecca felt a pit in her stomach. “Do not worry, I have dealt with this but it raises concerns, Mr Home Secretary”. The penny dropped for Rebecca as to where she knew the voice. The Home Secretary was a regular fixture in parliament and on the television and here he was, behind the curtain, plotting with the Russians.

“I assure you Colonel” the Home Secretary replied calmly, “there is no investigation by MI5 on records currently and if there is a rogue element, it will be stamped out immediately. Gentlemen, my lady” he said, raising his voice, “I will be the future Prime Minister of this country and when I am we shall forge a new European alliance together and rewrite the rules of democracy. Proceed with your plans, Igor. I’ll play my part”.

It sounded like he was leaving and so Rebecca darted quickly and yet softly on the floor back to the abandoned kitchen she had arrived in. She half-closed the door and waited. Sure enough, the slicked back grey hair of the Home Secretary walked past, humming a tune. Rebecca felt a fury and an anger - she gripped her gun tightly and wanted to finish him there and then just as she had to Assistant Commissioner Locke but she stopped herself. Killing an Assistant Commissioner had been one thing, killing the third most powerful member of the government was something else entirely. She thought of a better target - Umarov. It was clear he was orchestrating the plan. Without him it would fail. She could chop the head off the snake, just as her and Kate had done when they killed Kieran Mulvaney.

There were voices from down the corridor in Russian and Rebecca slinked back into the abandoned kitchen. Slowly the members of the cabal filed past the door, with Umarov the last to pass. Rebecca took a deep breath - this was her chance. She eased the door open and stepped into the corridor, gun raised.

“Hey!” A cry came from behind Rebecca and she instinctively fell to her knees and turned around as pfft-pfft, two suppressed shots were fired above her head from a guard emerging from behind the curtain. She turned and fired wildly in his direction pfft-pfft-pfft-pfft. She saw the shots stagger him and he dropped his gun. She took careful aim down the barrel and fired -pfft- into his neck. Rebecca wheeled around but only saw Umarov and the others running, some shouting.

She picked herself off the floor and tried to aim but the door was slammed shut. She raced to it and opened. Pfft-pfft. She fired more in hope than expectation but Umarov was already running up the stairs and her shots missed his back. She started after him but heard footsteps coming the other way and a guard in a suit burst through the door opposite her own. Pfft-pfft-pfft. Her shots downed him but there was another guard behind him. Rebecca aimed and pulled the trigger -click-. The gun magazine was empty.

“Oh fuck” she said and dived for the staircase to her right just as three bullets were sent in her direction. She fell down the first two concrete stairs but used the momentum to push herself up and she ran down them as fast as her bare feet could move, leaping down the stairs. She rounded the corner to the floor where the original kitchen was but kept turning and heading down. Escape was the only thing on her mind. The pain in her feet from the impact of her running was being numbed by the adrenaline. She was literally running for her life. ‘Keep going’ she thought as she rounded on the next floor down. ‘There will be a door at the bottom - keep going!’. She prayed there was a fire escape.

She rounded the next floor down, not stopping as Russian voices shouted from above her, their heavy footsteps falling on the concrete stairs too. The shouts of the crowd watching the game grew louder. There was a stir, then a huge eruption and a cheer that seemed to shake the foundations they were running down. Rebecca was deaf to it. She spotted a ‘1’ written on the wall of the next floor she rounded on. ‘One more!’ she told herself, forcing herself around the corner to the final set of concrete stairs. As it turned, she saw a sign indicating a fire exit. ‘You can do it’ she told herself, wondering if the crowd's shouts and exhilaration was for her own efforts. She leapt the final two steps and looked for the fire exit.

Crack! As she turned Rebecca saw a flash of black and then felt a searing pain. She crashed to the concrete floor, her head throbbing. She looked up to see the blonde security guard from earlier standing over her, gun in hand. She had evidently hidden round the corner and smashed Rebecca with the butt as she arrived. She tried to stand, to do anything to get away but the woman kicked her hard in the stomach. “Aaah!” Rebecca felt herself cry in pain and the air was knocked from her diaphragm. She tried to crawl but her hands could not support her. She looked up at the woman, who pointed her gun at Rebecca, and saw there was no escape.

Rebecca sat up and slowly raised her hands. She got on to her knees and felt fearful. “Ok, ok, I surrender” she said to the woman. The two men who had been chasing her arrived at the bottom of the stairs, panting and cursing. They raised their suppressed weapons at Rebecca. “I surrender” she repeated, keeping her hands high.

The female security guard chuckled. Rebecca watched as she reached into her jacket pocket and brought out a long and menacing suppressor that she screwed on to her own gun. “No surrender” she said to Rebecca calmly.

Rebecca looked to the guards around her and accepted her fate. She was going to die. Images flashed before her. George, Kate, her parents, her brother and her niece, Marcus. She felt a wave of sadness as she thought of them and tried to reassure herself. ‘I’ll see them again’ she told herself, ‘not for a long while though’. The female in front of her had finished attaching her suppressor and aimed it at her. Rebecca summoned all the courage she could. She would not slouch. She rested her hands on her head and kept a good posture. She would die well, she decided. She shut her eyes and waited for the end.

Pfft-pfft.

[notebooknebula]

Chris Prefontaine - Scale and Automate Real Estate Investing

https://www.jayconner.com/chris-prefontaine-scale-and-automate-real-estate-investing/

After many years of coaching and constantly doing deals himself independently, Chris Prefontaine founded Smart Real Estate Coach in 2014, bringing in his son Nick, daughter Kayla, and son-in-law Zachary as the company began to grow.

The family team coaches investors on how to properly scale and automate their businesses throughout North America — all without using their own cash, credit, or taking out bank loans to buy property. His team buys and sells homes in his own market every month.

Join our new Private Money Academy with a free 30 day trial, 

https://www.jayconner.com/trial

—————————————————————————————————

Jay Conner (00:01): Well, hello there! And welcome to another episode of Real Estate Investing with Jay Conner. I’m Jay Conner, The Private Money Authority and your host. And let me give you a special welcome, particularly if this is your first time to tuning in. Here on the show at Real Estate Investing with Jay Conner, we talk about all things that relate to real estate investing from single family houses to commercial deals, to self storage, to land, to anything that you can imagine. Even note investing. Anything that you can imagine that relates to real estate investing. This show is for you, whether you are a seasoned real estate investor, or a brand new real estate investor.

Jay Conner (00:51): Here’s why. First of all, we talk about private money a lot on this show. How to get funding for your deals, regardless of your experience or your credit or your verification of income. You know, whether you’re seasoned or you’re brand new, everybody is always looking for new funding for your deals. As a matter of fact, on today’s show, my special guest, we will be talking about creative ways to get funding for your deals regardless as to whether you have private money lined up or not. In addition to that, people are always looking for ways to find really, really hot deals. We talk about that on the show here, we talk about how to automate your business, how to sell properties very quickly in order to reduce your carrying costs.

Jay Conner (01:36): But before I introduce to you my guest today, I want to give a special gift to you. You see, I mentioned a moment ago, I’m known as the private money authority. So if you are seasoned or brand new and you want more funding for your deals, I’ve got a free gift for you. And that is, I just recently launched my brand new membership, which is titled The Private Money Academy. It’s a monthly membership where I am live at least two times a month for the entire Academy where we do a hot seat. We analyze your business, help put a plan together to expand your business and scale it and grow it very quickly. I answer Q and A every time live twice a month for Academy members. We’ve got a closed Facebook group where you can ask questions at any time. It’s a very, very expensive and live forum. And we also have brand new training content for the Academy members every month. Well, I’ve got a brand new offer here. Brand new, and it’s free. You can have free access to the Academy for four weeks, and I’m going to give you the URL right now. To where you can go take advantage of this free gift after we finished the show and that’s www.JayConner.com/Trial That’s JayConner.com/Trial

Jay Conner (03:05): So you may be tuning in on YouTube, or you may be on Facebook, or you may be listening to iTunes or Google play or one of our platforms. And so no matter where you’re tuning in from, we need your help. Please subscribe, rate and review. If you’re watching on YouTube, be sure and subscribe and hit that little bell. So you can be notified every time that we go live with a new guest and new training. And speaking of guest and training today is no exception to the past where I’ve got a fantastic expert guests to join me. And so I’m so excited to have him on before I bring him out of the green room and bring him on here, live on the show. Let me tell you just a little bit about my friend.

Jay Conner (03:50): First of all, he is a three time best selling author. One of his books, Real Estate On Your Terms, we’ll be talking about that. Secondly, the new rules of real estate investing and also he is co-author with Moneeka Sawyer’s, Real Estate Investing For Women. He’s also the founder and CEO of SmartRealEstateCoach.com. And he’s the host of the Smart Real Estate Coach Podcast. In addition to that, he’s been in real estate for almost 30 years now. His experience ranges from constructing new homes back in the 1990s and owning a Realty executive franchise to running his own investments, commercial and residential. Well today he runs his own buying and selling businesses where this family thing, which purchases about two to five properties every month. So this guy is still in the trenches today and knows exactly what’s going on. He’s an expert in the realm of terms, he’s also an expert on how to take your business from part time to full time. And he has this very, very special strategy and formula that he employs and also educates his students on which is called, The Three Pay Days. With that, I’m excited to have on and introduce to you my special guest today, Mr. Chris Prefontaine. Chris, welcome to the show!

Chris Prefontaine (05:16): Hey Jay! Good to be back, buddy. Good to see you as always.

Jay Conner (05:19): Good to see you too. And I’ll tell you folks, one special reason I love having Chris here on the show is because Chris and I have got the same exact core values and ethics when it comes to doing business. It’s all about putting the other person first. Whether you’re talking to a buyer or you’re talking to a seller, or you’re talking to a private lender, Chris believes exactly the same thing that I do. And that is, put other people first and you don’t have to worry about yourself. Just sort of like Zig Ziglar said. So Chris, I had you on the show. I guess it’s been coming up on a year ago. I lost track of time, but since that time we’ve had this crazy thing called COVID-19 come along. Corona virus. So first of all, if you would Chris share with the audience how have you been dealing with the Corona COVID-19. How’s it affected your business? And what have you done to adapt? And as your business increased, decreased or stayed the same?

Chris Prefontaine (06:25): Yeah. Thanks, Jay! It’s interesting because when this happened, so I’m going to go back to March when it started to happen. I said to my son, Nick and my son, Zach, I said, okay, I’m hoping what we built post-crash was built to what our expectations were, which was to weather all storms. It really was built to do that. And so our business has tripled and the amount of properties we’re doing as has all the students, so super happy with it, super pleased with it. It’s still, as you know, nobody knows the answer, right? The billionaires don’t know the economists don’t know. So the jury is still out, but so far, we’re just, we’re not getting by with driving. And I love to see that for the students, cause it’s almost like they had an, it’s not even, not official. It’s just a massive pump up in business.

Chris Prefontaine (07:07): I think a lot of that’s because the banks are making it very difficult for your conventional buyers, which makes it difficult for the sellers. I see that, especially in the higher end, you know, the jumbo loans over and over and over again. So I love, and I think you do too, dealing with those buyers that are truly great buyers. They just need a little bit of time. So that’s the kind of path we took since April. What do we change? Only thing we change as a team is virtual meetings every morning, cause we’re virtual, except for one day a week now. And then the, from the, from the standpoint of sellers, we started about a year and a half, probably about the time I was on your show or early, we started pivoting to virtual. Anyway, it just, now that’s overwhelmingly accepted by the sellers, whereas before it was a bit of a sell to let them know how we’re going to do things virtually. So I I’ll end that question or that answer with my son-in-law said to me the other night, we’re at dinner privately. The family. And he said, I gotta tell you, I think COVID coincidentally is one of the best things that ever happened to our company in our portfolio. So probably a little bit different answer than most people give. But that’s been, it’s been a disguised blessing for us so far.

Jay Conner (08:17): Well, when you say your son said, dad, coincidentally, I think this is a, been a blessing for us. You may or may not have heard of my definition of coincidence, but my definition of coincidence is God’s way of staying anonymous.

Chris Prefontaine (08:35): I love it!

Jay Conner (08:36): Well, your story, Chris, and your results and your experience since COVID-19 is exactly the same as mine. My business has tripled both my coaching business and my buying and selling house business. Year to date since January, of course, you know, COVID came in strong in March. I have bought and sold more houses this year than any year since I went full time back in 2003. My coaching business has skyrocketed. And I think another reason for that is because what you just said, virtual. And I really cannot tell you, I wish I could tell you. Well, I can give you part of the reason, part of the reason our real estate investing business at sky rocket is because I was, and you were prepared for the increase in business.

Jay Conner (09:34): For the all cash deals, we have plenty of private money on the shelf ready to take advantage of serving all those people and et cetera. But the, but the demand itself, I must say, I can’t, I cannot give you a definitive answer, but I’m thankful for it on both the buying and selling side. And we were prepared to take care of it. Now, your popular business model that you talk about, your strategy is a strategy that’s called the three pay day strategy. And we talked about it. Last time you were on the show, but we got a whole lot more additional new viewers and audience members since then. So from scratch, how about explaining your three day strategy or three payday strategy and what that means?

Chris Prefontaine (10:22): Yeah, so the three payday is this is on the exit. So we buy them on lease purchase or owner financing sometimes subject to, but all of our exits, almost all of our exits are going to be rent to own. And when we do that, we create the three paydays. That I know you’re familiar with, but the first payday is a nonrefundable down payment. And the second pay day is the difference between what I’m paying the underlying mortgage on that’s in the seller’s name or the seller directly, if it’s owner financing and what I’m collecting from my buyer, my buyer who needs time to get financing. That’s payday two. Payday three is the, is pretty cool because not only the cash out the mark-up and the price that we were able to achieve, but it’s also all of the principal pay down. When you start looking at principal, pay down on some of these deals, of course, the longer the term, the better, right? But when you’re talking about on financing deals, Jay, we only do on a financing deals when we buy, when they’re free and clear property. So we’re doing always principal only pay downs. And so over the course of three, four, five, seven, 10, my building 20 years, you got some massive principal pay down. So I love the three paydays. I also love the longer terms, especially during Covid.

Jay Conner (11:29): So let’s just make sure our audience understood what you just said. So you said the majority of these deals that you’re doing, the three payday strategy and those three paydays again are on the selling side when you’re selling the home they are, you’re getting the nonrefundable option fee or down payment. You’re getting positive cash flow between what you got coming in, what you got going out per month. And the third one, what’d you say the third one was?

Chris Prefontaine (12:02): Principal Pay down. And if there’s any mark-up from what we purchased to what we’re selling.

Jay Conner (12:07): Yeah. It’s just so that principal pay down means you, and then this is what I want everybody to not miss. You’re buying homes from sellers and the way you’re funding those deals, the way this third pay they have is you’re buying those houses with the seller, being your lender. The seller is your bank. The seller is taking a note back and selling to you as seller financing, or you bought it subject to the existing note. Is that right?

Chris Prefontaine (12:39): That’s correct. When they’re free and clear the seller financing, we prefer so that we can structure whatever we want for principal pay down. And the third way buying them would be lease purchase. So more of a sandwich, sandwich lease.

Jay Conner (12:51): Gotcha. So, what are the reasons, what are the benefits, why have you decided to exit with the rent to own strategy versus putting it in the MLS and cashing out?

Chris Prefontaine (13:06): Yeah, mainly it’s the three paydays Jay, but I’ll tell you a pre COVID, but certainly more so now to our earlier comments, both of us. The amount of buyers, the buyer pool for people that can’t walk in a bank today and get financing. And then especially when you get to jumbo and above is crazy. We had a guy, give you a direct example. I think it’s always easier to understand. $1.3 million house. One of our students had a buyer saw that same home had an under agreement. COVID hit, he has a 760 credit, but he didn’t have enough down at the bank. Wanted to see some ungodly amount, like two and a half year reserves, 25% down. He had like 10% down. So he, he thought he lost that house. My student picked it up. We did together. We partnered on it and this guy came out again for the same house and did a rent to own on it because we’re going to give him the two year ramp. He needs to save more money than satisfy the bank. Well, those are everywhere right now. Like the buyer pool is enormous. Prior to COVID I use the percentage of like 60% to 80% of the buyers couldn’t get financing. If you took a snapshot in time, I don’t know what the number is today, but it’s bigger. And so they need our help. And that’s the cool thing about a very healthy relationship. So to what you said earlier, if we put their interests for us, it’s a win-win. Big win-win right now, helping these people.

Jay Conner (14:24): So I’m going to ask you a question that you could actually take three days live seminar to answer. We don’t have three days. So let me just ask you to let your consciousness just flow and just answer it the best that you can from the 30,000 foot view. Here’s the question. When you and your students are talking to a potential seller, of course, all these sellers were talking about where you buy creatively on terms are off market. Clearly you’re not buying these properties in the multiple listing service they’re off market. When you are beginning a conversation and establishing rapport and getting information on the property, we know that the seller of that property in most cases, either has not considered or even thought about the possibility of selling their property on terms. They are thinking somebody just going to buy this house. So my three day seminar question is, what is your talk off? How do you convince someone to agree to sell their house on terms? Before you answer this question, Chris, I want you to explain to everybody and unpack what does it actually mean. The sell on terms. Let’s get that clear you, after you clear up black and white, easy peasy, really, what does it mean to sell on terms? How do you convince somebody to do that when they never consider doing that? And when the conversation started with them, they’re anticipating, you know, getting a check and getting all their money.

Chris Prefontaine (16:22): Yeah, absolutely. So terms to us, cause it does mean different things to different people, as you and I said off air. Terms to us is simply lease purchase, owner financing and or subject to because we combined some of these strategies. That’s what terms is to us. Those are the three areas we live in. The conversation, this, the question you asked with the convincing is by far the biggest thing we get in live trainings. So it’s not convincing. So just to clarify that, so it’s like the same reason you would go to an autobody or an attorney or an accountant because you have something you’re trying to either fix, improve or accomplish, because not always negative, especially with debt free properties, it’s not negative. They just wanted the most. So that’s, so first and foremost, I have a simple question at the beginning of the conversation. Jay, if you were to get your price, I haven’t seen your home yet, but if you were to get your price, are you open to doing that on a lease purchase or owner financing?

Chris Prefontaine (17:15): Now most say, well, I just want to sell it out. Right? And my answer is I get it. 99% of the sales I deal will say that. Of course I would want to sell tomorrow of a full price cash, and have no issues. Right. But the reality is this. Mr. Seller, you have a significant part of the buyer pool right now that can’t do that. They can’t, they can’t do, they can’t buy your home because of financing. Now that has made, it’s made even easier for me to explain with Covid. It’s even, it’s even worse for them. So that’s the conversation. And then back to the convincing, there is no convincing if they can, A. Wait for their cash, if they have any in the house, any equity left. And B. I can solve whatever issue they have. Give you some off the top of my head.

Chris Prefontaine (17:57): I’m moving to Texas. My family is already there. I want to be there for the holiday. I have two homes. I can’t keep them both during COVID. I owe about what it’s worth. I can’t afford a realtor. If there’s any motivation for selling, that makes sense for me to solve. I can solve it. As long as one of two things are in the mix. One, I need my cash right away. Two. I’m a year behind and has no equity in my house. Like those are the two things that I just can’t do anything with typically. But every other scenario, if they can wait, we can solve it with a lease purchase or owner financing or subject to. So is that, was that a condensed enough or too condensed?

Jay Conner (18:34): Yeah. Yeah. You took three days and put it in three minutes. Which is what I wanted you to do. So what would you say is a realistic percentage of people that you’re talking to. And this is putting aside those that you can’t help. Like, you know, those scenarios, you just, I mean, you know, they’re a year behind and they have no equity. You know, those do have equity. Those that, you know, the math would work if they get it and they can wait, what percentage of those people that you talk to actually end up being, you know, agreeable to selling on terms in some kind of structure?

Chris Prefontaine (19:17): Yeah. About a third. But let me clarify where the third came from. The third have already been weeded out by virtual assistants who spoke to them and they said, yeah, I’m somewhat open. Have someone call me. You know, they weren’t shutting it down totally. They could wait for their equity. So out of those that we get about a third are open to terms. Now I can’t tell you in accurate metric from April 1 to now segregated. I can just tell you ongoing. We’re about a third. So it’s a significant amount. Look, here’s a stat. This is a cool thing. I, some of us, our company and some of our students are niching down just to do owner financing, just at target free and clear properties. Well, if you look at this different stats, but if you look at the stats about a third of the property, the United States are debt free or close to it.

Chris Prefontaine (20:02): That’s a lot of properties! You don’t need to talk to many of those. These street paydays, those free and clear properties. If you get four year terms, you’re talking about six figure deals right across the board. If you get a house that’s 200 grand or higher and you get four years of more, and the principal payments, you’re talking six figures, three paydays, you don’t need to do, you know, 50 of those a year. You can go out and try and do that, but you don’t need to do that for most people. So super, super, super lucrative for both parties. If, if that’s the criteria. So probably a longer answer to your good question.

Jay Conner (20:36): That’s good. Would you say most of these sellers, you’re able to negotiate, that you do negotiate terms, they are willing to take payments or whatever. Would you say most of those are principal only payments or do some people you have to pay interest?

Chris Prefontaine (20:55): Okay, good question. So in the mix of what we do about 20% of the properties we take on our contract offering clear, and yes, we do those with principal only payments. Now there’s been a hybrid or two. I’ll give you two real examples. We did our office building and the owner is very sophisticated investor owns probably not the largest landowner, but one of the largest on Island here where we live. And so he sold me the building and he said, I want five and a half percent interest. This is a year and a half, two years ago. I said, well, you should pay principal. So here’s what we did. We both loved it from when I closed on it in November of 18, all my payments. And there were teared up payments were principal all the way until about September of 19. So as long as the shorter that is, I took that principle five 50 and had it paid down to four 90 without a penny of interest, then he advertised it at 5%. And he got his way. And I got my way. There was no way I would’ve got a 60 grand pay down in principal by doing a conventional mortgage. He knew that. And I knew that. So we both got our way. That’s one example.

Chris Prefontaine (22:01): The other way we do things is let’s say I’m three years into a four year on a financing term. This was an exact deal. And every holiday season, I send them a note or an email. And I say, look, I know you got three years left or two years left, as we click along. If I was to prepay 6,000 was in this case, it was 6,200 prepay. So take it for another day, like prepay some principal when you extend it a year. So I get another year principal pay down that’s of course, if my buyer’s not ready to cash out, it works even better. We did that two years in a row at a particular property. The third year, last Christmas, they called us and said, will you do that thing again? And I said, well, instead of that, why don’t we do this? If you guys don’t need the cash, why don’t we change your note? That’s going to be coming up next year. Why don’t we change that to an interest rate of 4.2? And why don’t we put that out 15 years for balloon? So a four year deal on a financing principal only became a five, then became a six, then became a 21 year deal. So that’s why I said earlier, you can mix and match some of these strategies depending on what the motivation is of the seller. In this case, they didn’t need the money and their account and loved it, that they were going to stack it in some interest. So we do sometimes that was another long answer, but I hope that helps.

Jay Conner (23:12): Oh, it did help because what you just explained was a real life example of the deal after the deal, after deal, after the deal.

Chris Prefontaine (23:21): Exactly.

Jay Conner (23:23): So that’s a great example of, I mean, you know, when I first heard years ago that sellers of homes of houses, of single family houses, would be willing to take a note out 15 years, I thought to myself who in the world would wait 15 years? I mean, they might be dead by then, who would wait 15 years to get their money? And I, and the light bulb finally came on to me years ago. Well, the same answer is to the site to a different question. Who in the world would be willing to sell their property and agree to leave the mortgage in their name and trust me to make the payments? The answer is the same. And the answer is, I can’t make a decision and have the same motivation as somebody else for the seller. They do things for their own reasons. I do things for my reasons and I need, and we need to let them make their choice. Right? One of the biggest mistakes I made when I started in real estate investing was making decisions for other people or deciding in my mind what I thought they would do, or they would not do. And I don’t have a clue what somebody else is going to do until I give them the choice. So my lands! Give them the choice! Right?

Chris Prefontaine (24:44): Yeah. To your last point there about making the decisions pre COVID too many of our students and us, when we first started, we’d say, if they asked us how long a term we may have come out with a term back then, like four years. Now, simply by changing how we answer that we’re getting five, seven, 10, and 20, just as easy as we were getting three to five in the simple question, when they say, how long is, if you got your number, I don’t know if you’ve got your number, what’s the longest you could see yourself going in terms? And I am pleasantly surprised. I won’t say shocked at how many sellers are programmed to say things like, well, I wouldn’t go up 30, like a regular mortgage, but I might go up 20 or might go upto 10, like automatically they do. And so it took us four or five years to figure that one out, but all the students, new students now. So you think we would have had to pick it out first. New students, as soon as we told them that technique thought that was normal. And they’re getting those longterm,

Jay Conner (25:38): Chris, you’re the expert on terms. I’m the expert on private money. But I got a question for you and your students to play with, and I want to hear how it goes. So the question that you just said was, well, what’s the longest you could go? I would love to play with this question. And that question would be, well when they say, well, you know, how long have I got to go? I might ask them, well, how many years would you like to continue receiving monthly income?

Chris Prefontaine (26:15): I love it! in to the point!

Jay Conner (26:15): Well, I don’t, whatever. I don’t want to ever stop getting monthly income.

Chris Prefontaine (26:20): No, I love that one. Thank you for the share.

Jay Conner (26:23): So anyway, it just came. It may be a stupid idea, but I don’t know sometimes what I think stupid works and vice versa. So, so the next question. You talk about operating. In the midst of this current chaos, you talk about operating in the perfect triangle. What does that mean? What is the perfect triangle that you talk about?

Chris Prefontaine (26:50): Yeah. I thought of this right when Covid hit and literally I moved home to the home office here. And that was, we’ve got a really cool community, like really a family environment in the office and amongst our community. So I said this, if we can all attach ourselves to one side of triangle, a cause, just a cause. Like a major mission, like right now, because of the chaos, sellers and buyers are some of them afraid, but all of them need a guide. They’re like screaming for help. And in some cases, literally don’t know, should I sell, can I sell? Does this work? So find a cause that can, then the second piece of the triangle actually affect lives, like affect them, generationally affect them. That’s what we’re doing.

Chris Prefontaine (27:32): We’re going to affect generationally. These people that thought they couldn’t buy or sell. And that’s going to forever be in their family. And then third. And in affecting our lives as well. And then third piece of the triangle is to get paid, to do it. So find a cause. Go out and affect lives positively, including your own. And then get paid to do it. I don’t think that triangle has ever been so prevalent because of the chaos right now, because of the need for a guide and someone to like take them by the hand. There was a major survey done, Jay, I’m going to forget the name. One of my mentors told me about it. They do a trust survey every year. It’s not cause of COVID. They happen to do it right around covid. But the number one thing with sellers and buyers was this trust factor. Like they just want a guy that they can trust and that perfect triangle is where we could camp out.

Jay Conner (28:18): So beautiful way to describe win-win-win. Final question, Chris. For this show. And that is given your experience. We’ve had COVID come along both you and I lived through 2008, 2009. I mean, you’ve been doing this real estate investing thing for 30 years, yourself and your family. What’s the best advice you can give today on how to prepare to handle the next recession. When’s the next recession? Well, if we, any of us knew that we could retire today.

Chris Prefontaine (28:56): You wouldn’t be yet.

Jay Conner (28:58): Is there going to be another recession? Of course. Is it going to be another stock market crash? Of course. You know, it’s cycle cycle, cycle cycle. So what do we need to do to prepare?

Chris Prefontaine (29:11): Sure. I mean, I could go a couple different directions here, personal and business, but let’s go business first. I will personally tell you my opinion, never, ever, ever sign personally on a bank piece of paper, pledging your assets. That’s my opinion, except for maybe an exception of your own home. I could see that working, but you could still buy that on terms as my family members have. So that’s number one. Don’t sign personally. Number two. So then you’re not worrying about if,if,if,if,if. That they’re going to come knocking if the market drops. Okay. Number two. Hang out with someone that weather the storms, Jay, you said you and I have gone through ’08. I went through ’08. I went through 9/11, like you did. I went through my son’s accident where he was put in a coma and that was an overnight shot. You know, all these things beat us up, but they also weathered us because unfortunately success without the, those trials and tribulations, their rotten teacher, they really are.

Chris Prefontaine (30:01): So if you’re going to do anything in real estate, just hang out with someone that weathered a few storms, that’s the way to do it. Just don’t deviate. There’s no reason to reinvent the wheel. And then lastly, on a personal note, pre ’08, I know I would have no problem, no problem whatsoever. Having a personal residence that had there was leverage 70, 80, 90% of it. I would have no problem doing it until you said, Oh, that’s normal. I have good rate. And I’m in real estate. I will tell you if you can live on 50% or less of your income and never have to be in that debt or leveraged position, you will also sleep better. So if you could tell all of these are based on my way, crashing, not needing to sleep at night. When I put my head in the pillow, I want to know that everything’s fine. And so that’s a smidgeling of what I would tell people to do.

Jay Conner (30:48): Awesome advice, Chris. Awesome advice. So Chris, I know that the audience wants to stay connected with you. So how can folks further the conversation and stay connected and get plugged into Chris Prefontaine?

Chris Prefontaine (31:03): Sure. Thanks, Jay! They can go to SmartRealEstateCoach.com There’s if they don’t mind listening to me babble for another 45 or so minutes, there’s a free webinar there. It’s content rich. It’s not going to teach how to make a million dollars. It’s going to expose you to some more information on what is possible for you. And then if you want, we can actually, I’ll probably get a, I’ll get a spanking for this one, but I’ll offer a free strategy call for anyone that wants to talk, especially with Covid here. Just go to SmartRealEstateCoach.com/Action. That’s all. They’ll just ask you if you’ve done deals. If you haven’t done deals, no wrong answer. Allows myself or my son, Zach, to help you out with a free strategy call. No ties, no hooks. We’ll get on 15 minutes. We’ll make it well worth your time.

Jay Conner (31:46): That’s awesome. Well, thank you so much, Chris and parting comments.

Chris Prefontaine (31:53): I said some of them in the interview, cause you, your questions were just spot on. I don’t care what niche you’re looking at. You and I have both advocates of exposing all niches. We both do that on our podcast. I love that. So, find an issue and get behind. I’m not so naive to think it’s mine. I’m sure Jay feels the same way. Find one you can get behind. Secondly, find someone in there that has weathered a few storms. And third don’t deviate for three years. Like just don’t. Don’t get the shiny object syndrome. You’ll have a great experience with that simple formula.

Jay Conner (32:19): I love it! Chris, thank you so much for joining me on the show!

Chris Prefontaine (32:22): Thanks for having me, buddy. Good to see you.

Jay Conner (32:24): Absolutely. And, thank you! My audience for tuning in to another episode of Real Estate Investing with Jay Conner. And I’m so glad you were here. Be sure to tune in for the next show. Here’s to taking your real estate investing business to the next level. I’m Jay Conner, The Private Money Authority. And we’ll see you then. Bye for now.

[kuratoki]

Distance 05

There wasn’t a day Jeno didn’t regret not making things official with you sooner. What he also didn’t expect was his soon to be ex best friend to act on his feelings towards you either. Now a whole continent away with a ten hour time difference, will the two of you survive the distance and all the obstacles that come with?

Distance Masterlist

Genre: Fluff, Angst

Pairing: Ballerina OC x Dancer Jeno

Words: 2704

Warnings: Swearing

~Updates Ever/other day at 8AM PST~

Tag List: @mikachu-28​ @peachykrystal​ @jenoleeaesthetic​

A few days later, you found yourself looking out the window of a plane as it descended upon Korea once again. Looking back, Renjun and Mia were completely right and the few days the two of you spent at Mia’s cottage was very much needed.

You were able to breath, actually do work and work on the memorial piece for Xander which was going to be showcased at the end of training camp and also on opening night of Swan Lake which was going to be mainly for family and friends. The two of you were also able to explore the surrounding area, without your phones or any electronics at all and to be honest, it was exactly what you needed.

Feeling someone ruffle your hair, you looked up to see that Renjun had woken up and was currently looking at you with a tired smile. 

“Are we landing yet?” he asked and you nodded, stretching slightly, “Good, Soonyoung should be there to pick us up and we’ll head straight to SMAA.” 

“What are we doing there again exactly?” you asked, you knew that you were going to be judging auditions for the junior competition team that Soonyoung and Jeno were both going to be tag teaming once the performance team was done with Swan Lake. But you actually had no idea what it had to do with SMAA.

“Since a lot of the existing students, ie. you, me, Chenle, Jeno and Jisung are going to be participating with the Selects, we decided to hold auditions there as our last top. We’ll make the announcement to all the junior dance classes, then everyone has a week to prepare before we come back and hold auditions.” Renjun explained and you nodded slowly in understanding. 

“Interesting…” you said humming, “Does anyone else know that we’ll be present?” 

“Of course not.” Renjun said with a smile, “We’re here on official Selects business. Plus I haven’t turned my phone on since I last contacted Mia, letting her know that we were on the plane. How did you even forget we had this trip when you were already packing for it?” 

“I guess it slipped my mind with all the stress.” you said with a sigh and leaned on his shoulder, “Is it bad to admit that I’m afraid to see Jeno?” 

“Yes and no.” Renjun said linking his arm through yours, “But remember, no matter what happens. I got you. You got me.” 

“You got me. I got you.” you whispered back, closing your eyes briefly before opening them again and let out a sigh.

Within a few hours, Soonyoung had picked the two of you up and the three of you went for breakfast before stopping by your place (thankfully no one was at home) so you could freshen up. Renjun had requested that you wear the white dress and pink ballet flats that Mia had packed for you since there was a chance you’d be dancing today. Keeping your makeup to a minimal, you took a deep breath. Why were you even nervous? You should be more excited. 

Meanwhile at SMAA, classes were just beginning their session. Tzuyu was once again trying to talk to Jeno during class and after various conversations with Jaemin and Hana, he was giving her the straight cold shoulder which only caused her to push more. 

“Jeno, will you be having lunch with us today?” she asked sweetly, “I made you something since I noticed you haven’t been eating lately.” she said holding his arm.

Jeno shrugged her off before going to slide between Hana and Jaemin who had seen the whole interaction while Xiaojun and YangYang just rolled their eyes. This was typical Tzuyu behavior and Xiaojun in particular was annoyed by it.

Jeno looked up to the classroom door and thought he briefly caught the sight of two blonde heads but shook it off quickly. He was positive he was seeing things plus he hadn’t heard anything from Soonyoung so he was sure that said person wouldn’t be here today. 

“Have you heard anything from Y/N lately?” Jaemin asked and Jeno shook his head with a slight frown, “You said that she and Renjun were taking some time away from everything and everyone right?” 

“Yea, she said she’d call me when Renjun gave her her phone back but I guess they extended their trip.” Jeno said and Hana’s gasp caught his attention.

“Or maybe not.” she said, motioning to the door where three people stood, waiting to be let in by their instructor and both Jeno and Jaemins jaw dropped to the floor.

The three of you had already seen them, in reality, you actually saw this one girl whom you assumed was the infamous Chou Tzuyu, making a move on Jeno. It took a lot for you and Renjun to hold back your laughter when you saw Jeno not so discreetly scooch away from the girl to embed himself between the two love birds. Soonyoung was the first one to approach the instructor in the hallway, to let him know who you were.

“Everyone, I’d like you to turn your attention to the front of the room. We are really lucky to have some guest speakers today with some exciting news.” he started and motioned for the three of you to enter, you right in between the boys, “Some of you may or may not know who they are so I will let them introduce themselves. Lady, gentlemen, the floor is yours.”

The three of you looked at each other awkwardly, motioning for anyone to start. 

“You’re the leader.” you muttered to Soonyoung, “Do it.”

“How am I the leader? As of last week, we’re technically in the same position.” Soonyoung muttered back and you both heard Renjun let out a semi-frustrated sigh causing the two of you to inwardly smirk.

“You two are idiots. Move.” he said shoving you both slightly out of the way, which you happily did. “Good morning everyone, my name is Huang Renjun, I am the co-organizer of the Selects Performance Team and will also be playing Prince Seigfried in our production of Swan Lake which will be happening this year. I’m also technically a student with this academy but will be returning next year. With me, I have my lovely partner Y/L/N Y/N and Kwon Soonyoung. Who will have the honor of introducing themselves.” he started and motioned to you and Soonyoung to take the floor.

“As you guys heard E.T- I mean Renjun, my name is Y/L/N Y/N, some of you may know me as the transfer kid from earlier this semester. I’m one of the co-organizers of the Selects Performance Team and will also be playing Odette later this year with my lovely partner.” you said and nudged Soonyoung who quickly gave his introduction.

Once he was done, the two of you looked at Renjun who was looking back at you with nervous eyes, “So...Soonyoung? Care to explain why we’re here?”

“No, I think you got it. Just like how we practiced.” Soonyoung said with a grin, leaning back against the mirror.

“You’re doing great sweety.” you whispered giving him a large thumbs up and large cheesy grin, “Remember, I’m only here for emotional support.” 

Jeno, Jaemin and Hana had to hold in their laughter at the obvious discomfort of Renjun and the teasing from you and Soonyoung. Xiaojun, YangYang and Tzuyu were all frozen in shock. So this was the infamous Renjun and Y/N. YangYang and Xiaojun both thought that you were really pretty while Tzuyu only scoffed. You were nothing special to her.

Renjun let out a huff before turning around once more, a big smile on his face. “So as many of you may or may not have heard, we’re actually here because we’d like to let you know that due to student involvement within our organization; for the first time, we will be holding auditions for our Junior Competition Team. The team will be coached by Soonyoung over here and your former National Champion who has recently joined the ranks of the Selects Leadership Team, Jeno Lee.” he motioned to Jeno with a smirk as everyone stared at him in shock. This included Hana and Jaemin who had no idea.

Jeno did not expect this, so this was what Soonyoung was talking about. How he had to wait to be approached for his secret to be revealed. He could only stare at you when you started to speak and was surprised at how calm you were.

“Auditions will be held next week for two days. We’ll be holding auditions for two separate junior teams. For you ballet people out there, we will be holding ensemble auditions for Swan Lake and for everyone else, the Junior Competition Team will be looking for a total of fifteen members. Mind you, that’s fifteen members within three different schools. If you’re interested, please take a handout with all the information from your instructor after class.” you said and was surprised at how confident your voice was. 

“You will be judged by not only me, but Y/N and Renjun as well. Also, our special guest judge, Jeno Lee.” Soonyoung said with a bright smile. “If you have any questions, we’ll be here throughout the day.”

“Those of you who have third period advanced contemporary, prepare to hear this speech again.” Renjun said jokingly, “Thank you for your time.” 

“Also as a special treat. We would like to cordially invite you to our opening night at the O2 Theatre in London. This trip will be organized by your instructor so those who are interested, he will have the details shortly.” you said with a smile and bowed along with the other two as applause broke around you.

“Does anyone have any questions for the three of them?” the instructor asked and one person in the back raised their hand.

“Do you think you guys could show us what you’re expecting at the Performance Team auditions?” 

The three of you looked at each other while Soonyoung motioned to you and Renjun, “The floor is yours.” 

You turned to Renjun who was already looking at you and you raised your eyebrows as if having a silent conversation. 

“I got you.” he said, holding out his hand with a bow.

“You got me.” you said taking his hand, “Anything in particular?” 

“Memorial piece.” he said, handing Soonyoung his phone, “First track on my playlist.” 

Soon, a soft melody started playing on the speakers and all the students in the classroom could only watch as you and Renjun fell into your routine. 

Jeno recognized it instantly as the piece he had seen you and Renjun making all those weeks ago when you found out about Xanders passing. The white dress and your ballet flats along with Renjuns matching attire made it look like a professional performance. The song was about someone passing, you were obviously the main character since you took control of most of the dance but Renjun complimented you perfectly. With every lift, twirl and movement, it was almost perfect and he just watched in awe. This was the level that the Selects were expecting, this was the standard they wanted and you were the prime example. It was no wonder you were offered such a high position at a young age. What shocked him most was when Renjun lifted you over his head while doing a spin at the same time before placing you back on the floor and doing so once more but this time, he had you in a bridal carry. Your foreheads touched briefly before he put you back on the ground as you crumpled to the floor once more as the song ended. It wasn’t till then that he realized that he was holding his breath. 

“Shit…” he heard YangYang say from behind him.

“Wow.” Xiaojun whispered, “She’s really talented.” 

Applause erupted around the room minus a few as you and Renjun bowed/curtsied. 

“Wow, that was….” the instructor started and wiped a tear from his eye, “It was so beautiful yet emotional at the same time. I really felt the emotions coming from the both of you, especially you Y/N.”

“We’re dedicating our whole production to the son of the owner of the Selects Dance Academy.” you said wiping a stray tear, “We unfortunately lost him too soon and he was a close friend and mentor to us all.” 

“Well, thank you for that.” The instructor said with a bright smile, “Is there anything else you guys needed?”

“I..actually need to pull Jeno out of class for a meeting with the Headmaster. Y/N and Renjun I’m sure will be able to find something to do.” Soonyoung said with a smile. 

“Of course.” The Instructor said, “Thank you for coming and congratulations Jeno.”

“Thank you.” he said, quickly and almost excitedly getting up and grabbing his bag.

Once the four of you were outside the classroom, Jeno didn’t care. He didn’t care if the door was open or if anyone saw. He engulfed you in his arms and spun you around, gaining a giggle from you and laughter from the other two. The two of you had yet to talk since Renjun decided to take you away to the cottage but you were glad that things weren’t awkward between you. You didn’t realize how much you missed him until he had you in his arms and it took a lot not to let the tears that were stinging your eyes to release. 

“I missed you so much.” he muttered into your hair as he clung to you.

“Missed you more you big puppy.” you muttered, letting him literally squeeze the life out of you.

“Hate to break up the moment but the faster we have this meeting with the Headmaster the faster we can get our day going.”Soonyoung said, pulling at Jeno’s arm.

“Just say you’re jealous and be done with it.” Jeno joked, finally letting you go but kept an arm around your waist, “Where are you guys going to go?”  he asked looking between you and Renjun.

“Probably the NCT Practice room. A few of them should have spares so it’ll be nice to see everyones reaction.” Renjun said with a smile, “Let us know how the meeting goes and we’ll decide what to do after.” 

“Sounds great.” Soonyoung said, “Let go of the girl Jeno, we gotta go.” 

“B-but.” he started but Renjun gracefully pulled you out of the blondes arms.

“She’s mine now.” he snickered, wrapping his arms around your waist possessively, “The faster you get the meeting done the faster we can actually get out of here.” 

“Before you go…” you started looking between the three, “Was I the only one who didn’t get the blonde memo?” 

That got you questioning looks until the three of them looked at each other and burst out laughing. Soonyoung and Jeno were basically bleach blondes while Renjun had a tinge of purple to his but it was true, they were all blonde.

From inside the classroom, various eyes were watching you from the open door. Jaemin and Hana smiled at each other, they were glad to see the old Jeno slowly emerge. The shine he lost when you left was back. Xiaojun and YangYang watched in astonishment, they had no idea that Jeno was capable of smiling that large or acting the way he was but by the looks from Hana and Jaemin, this was his norm. 

Tzuyu however was fuming. Who did you think you were? Putting your hands all over Jeno like that and how did you manage to even get him to smile the way he was? Jeno was supposed to be hers, not yours. She’s been trying so hard to get him to talk to her, going as far as to make him snacks, lunch or anything to get his attention but he always rejected her. You would think that after so many times, Tzuyu would have given up. No, this only motivated her more and she wasn’t going to let someone like you get in her way.