#ok in getting the link I’m reminded how annoying the headline is —> HOW ANNOYING EVERYONE WOULD BE IF IT HAPPENED LOLLLLL YOU CAN KEEP IT!

[rosewatergrapefruit]

objectively true / she has never been wrong

[highladyluck]

Fortuona Athaem Devi Paendrag playlist

Direct link: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5KLghlM9nCF1WLKBNoLt5z?si=b1e1d244810e4ae9

26 songs, 1 hr 23 min. A character playlist for Tuon Athaem Kore Paendrag, aka the High Lady, aka the Daughter of the Nine Moons, aka “Precious” but only if you’re Mat Cauthon, aka Fortuona Athaem Devi Paendrag, aka the Empress of Seanchan.

She’s a fascinating mixture of good and evil, person and tool, sympathetic and unsympathetic by turns. I tried to capture that in this playlist, which is organized roughly chronologically by her personal timeline.

There are spoilers in the playlist and commentary for Winter's Heart through A Memory of Light, since this is meant to mirror the narrative.

Track List:

1.      Second Child, Restless Child – The Oh Hellos

2.      Game of Survival – Ruelle

3.      Sit Still, Look Pretty – Daya

4.      When I Rule The World – LIZ

5.      Bad Moon Rising – Creedence Clearwater Revival

6.      The Thief and the Moon – Shawn James

7.      Pomegranate Seeds – Julian Moon

8.      Zebra – The Magnetic Fields

9.      Jolene – Dolly Parton

10.   Maybe, This Time – OK Go

11.   Big Guns – Ruelle

12.   Fascinated – Ivy

13.   The Bullpen – Dessa

14.   Pretty Little Head – Eliza Rickman

15.   Greek God – Conan Gray

16.   Emperor’s New Clothes – Panic! At The Disco

17.   Rat Queen – The Mountain Goats

18.   Carmina Burana: O Fortuna – Carl Orff

19.   you should see me in a crown – Billie Eilish

20.   Muse with a Dagger – Taylor Castro

21.   Please Don’t Say You Love Me – Gabrielle Aplin

22.   Daisy – Ashnikko

23.   Mother’s Daughter – Miley Cyrus

24.   I Walk The Line – Halsey

25.   Glory and Gore – Lorde

26.   Trouble – Stripped – Halsey

Commentary and lyrics underneath the cut. Listen to it here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5KLghlM9nCF1WLKBNoLt5z?si=b1e1d244810e4ae9

1)      Second Child, Restless Child – The Oh Hellos

See, I was born the second child With a spirit running wild, running free

The Empress’s second child, the only one who goes across the ocean.

2)      Game of Survival – Ruelle

Are we the hunters? Or are we the prey?

"Keep this doll to remind you that I will always hear you if you say my name. If I am still alive, of course."

3)      Sit Still, Look Pretty – Daya

Oh, I don't know what you've been told But this girl right here's gonna rule the world Yeah, that's where I'm gonna be because I wanna be No, I don't wanna sit still, look pretty

Tuon wishes she looked more intimidating, and threw a full-blown temper tantrum when she was told who she’d have to marry.

4)      When I Rule The World – LIZ

When I rule the world, then I'm gonna make you sweat Dog collar 'round your neck, on your knees and scrub the deck

I promise I didn't forget about the sul'dam thing. This should be as jarring as her initial POV in Winter's Heart is.

5)      Bad Moon Rising – Creedence Clearwater Revival

I see the bad moon a-rising I see trouble on the way I see earthquakes and lightnin' I see bad times today

Such a good “Seanchan invade Ebou Dar” song! I definitely stole this from someone else’s Mat playlist, but I don’t think it’s on 8tracks anymore.

6)      The Thief and the Moon – Shawn James

Said the Thief to the Moon "I'll extinguish your light soon I'll put an end to all the light that you shed On this world in its darkened state"

I can imagine this as a Seanchan myth; covers Tuon's opinion on her prophecy & getting kidnapped.

7)      Pomegranate Seeds – Julian Moon

Kore, Kore, fauna and flora How did you get your throne? (Hey!) You made a deal You traded daffodils For a kingdom of ash and bone

Had to sneak in a reference to Tuon's middle name. Tuon's POV on her bargain with Mat.

8)      Zebra – The Magnetic Fields

so there's one thing I crave when my days become ho-hum and blah I want a zebra

Took this from my Mat/Tuon book playlist because it is truly the funniest song on there. It's a zebra in our hearts!

9)      Jolene – Dolly Parton

Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene I'm begging of you please don't take my man

This is very tongue-in-cheek, but at the same time, if you pay attention you can see that Tuon's particularly annoyed by/threatened by Joline Maza.

10)   Maybe, This Time – OK Go

So listen, I'm not trying to prove anything at all here But don't you think that maybe, this time, you were wrong?

Mat to Tuon after confiscating the a'dam from her.

11)   Big Guns – Ruelle

Every little move is fixed Like a game of chess The blood on your hands is thick And you're placing bets Can't hide in the den of lions

A really perfect song for Tuon's 'lion on the high plains' realization; I know technically Mat doesn't have cannon or grenades yet, but shhhh, the rapid-fire crossbows are more or less machine guns. Let me have this. Call it foreshadowing if you must.

12)   Fascinated – Ivy

Never turned out like we talked about Never could tell how to read your mind Never found out what you're all about In this lifetime, baby, you will be mine

Tuon's POV on the marriage ceremony.

13)   The Bullpen – Dessa

Forget the bull in the china shop There's a china doll in the bullpen

Returning to Ebou Dar to kick ass and take heads. This was the song that made me create this playlist, because of "china doll in the bullpen," which is such a great description of Tuon.

14)   Pretty Little Head – Eliza Rickman

Catch yourself a looker, let him go, go, go Wanna have your baby, but I'm so, so slow

Tuon misses Mat, but don’t you dare breathe a word about it. Besides, it’s just business.

15)   Greek God – Conan Gray

And since you always swear that you wanted me gone Then why don't you go get your gun? 'Cause you don't really hate me (You're a little baby) You don't wanna end me (You wanna befriend me)

The Tuon vs Rand confrontation (take two, where Tuon's actually there.) Rand has quite enough confidence, really, but most of the song really works.

16)   Emperor’s New Clothes – Panic! At The Disco

Welcome to the end of eras Ice has melted back to life Done my time and served my sentence Dress me up and watch me die

Declaring herself Empress after meeting with Rand.

17)   Rat Queen – The Mountain Goats

We who have never once tasted The stench of defeat Victory sweet as the dregs of the fast food dumpster Look how they jump when we show up Like they've just seen a monster

H/T to @anyboli, who first suggested this to me as a Tuon song. This is a good soundtrack to planning the raid on the White Tower…

18)   Carmina Burana: O Fortuna – Carl Orff

O Fortune, like the moon you are changeable[…]

I literally cannot imagine a Tuon playlist without this song. It’s White Tower raid time!

19)   you should see me in a crown – Billie Eilish

Count my cards, watch them fall Blood on a marble wall I like the way they all Scream

Yeah, this was inevitable too. I’m using it for that absolutely horrifying POV of hers where she's in the damane training room and decides it's time to plan a full-out attack on the White Tower.

20)   Muse with a Dagger – Taylor Castro

You're making fun of my people Pretend I don't hear you Cause I won't forgive myself For fueling or burning you

Tuon's thoughts on Mat in the garden. This didn't lean as as far into the dagger/knife imagery as I'd hoped for- remember, this is the blog that insists Athaem means Magic Dagger Curse- but it seemed so strangely apt for the two of them that I had to include it.

21)   Please Don’t Say You Love Me – Gabrielle Aplin

There's no need to worry when You see just where we're at Just please don't say you love me Cause I might not say it back

Her conversation with Mat in the garden.

22)   Daisy – Ashnikko

Respect a bitch, I'm a maverick Flexible, so elastic But don't you dare bend a bitch backwards

This is what you married, Mat. (The Mat POV version of this character sketch is probably Cake's Short Skirt Long Jacket.) I will not apologize for the number of #girlboss songs on this playlist.

23)   Mother’s Daughter – Miley Cyrus

Oh my gosh, she got the power Oh, look at her, she got the power So, so, so Don't fuck with my freedom I came up to get me some

The confrontation with Egwene. I see this as mostly Egwene's POV, with Tuon doing a sort of echo, the way she does in the original scene. They are fascinatingly alike here, and the way Egwene controls the scene and gets in Tuon's head- when that's Tuon's signature strategy- is amazing.

24)   I Walk The Line – Halsey

You've got a way to keep me on your side You give me cause for love that I can't hide For you I know I'd even try to turn the tide

Tuon admitting that her heart tells her to return to save Mat (and the armies of the Light).

25)   Glory and Gore – Lorde

Glory and gore go hand in hand That's why we're makin' headlines (Oh! Oh!) You could try and take us (Oh! Oh!) But victory's contagious

The Seanchan army comes back for the kill.

26)   Trouble – Stripped – Halsey

Don't forget me, don't forget me I wouldn't leave you if you'd let me Hmm, when you met me when you met me You told me you were gonna get me

Death threats are just their deranged way of flirting; if Tuon wanted Mat dead she wouldn't warn him, you know? And in that final scene with the fireworks Tuon's telling Mat that she wants him around, and he understands it as such.

[welllpthisishappening]

Welllp These Are Books: the February 2021 Edition

Most of my last month was spent on deadline and waiting for people to respond to my emails, which meant I did not have the time (or energy) to write much of anything, but had plenty of time to read, quite frankly, an absurd number of books. Some of which were very good, some of which were very cheesy, and some of which I have now told multiple people was quite possibly the worst book I have ever read. As always, though, what are my opinions if I am not sharing them with the internet? Ridiculous headlines, links, and those aforementioned opinions under the cut. As always, part two, feel free to send me any and all recommendations. It cannot possibly be worse than this one book. Seriously, you’ll understand in a second.

———

Quite Possibly the First Book I’ve Gone Out of My Way to Buy On Release Day Since Breaking Dawn, Which Says a lot About Me. As a Person.

A Court of Silver Flames by Sarah J. Maas

Nesta Archeron has always been prickly-proud, swift to anger, and slow to forgive. And ever since being forced into the Cauldron and becoming High Fae against her will, she's struggled to find a place for herself within the strange, deadly world she inhabits. Worse, she can't seem to move past the horrors of the war with Hybern and all she lost in it.

The one person who ignites her temper more than any other is Cassian, the battle-scarred warrior whose position in Rhysand and Feyre's Night Court keeps him constantly in Nesta's orbit. But her temper isn't the only thing Cassian ignites. The fire between them is undeniable, and only burns hotter as they are forced into close quarters with each other.

Meanwhile, the treacherous human queens who returned to the Continent during the last war have forged a dangerous new alliance, threatening the fragile peace that has settled over the realms. And the key to halting them might very well rely on Cassian and Nesta facing their haunting pasts.

Against the sweeping backdrop of a world seared by war and plagued with uncertainty, Nesta and Cassian battle monsters from within and without as they search for acceptance-and healing-in each other's arms.

I’m not kidding when I tell you that I was counting the days until this came out. I was kind of indifferent to Nesta after the original ACOTAR books, but intrigued enough that I was like, I need to read this, and then I did read this and now I care quite a lot about Nesta. And how in love with Cassian she is. And vice versa. Because, let’s be honest, dude is in l o v e. There were some parts of the story I was not super into — namely, Ferye having to die in childbirth. Like, you’re telling me Cassian could have his guts hanging out at one point and we don’t know how to do a c-section? Nah, that ain’t it. Also, pregnancy as a storyline is not always my favorite thing, but more on that in a second. Also, also, here’s a bunch more words about ACOSF.

A “Huh, So That Happened” Sort of Ending. Which Was Disappointing.

A Vow So Bold and Deadly by Brigid Kemmerer

Emberfall is crumbling fast, torn between those who believe Rhen is the rightful prince and those who are eager to begin a new era under Grey, the true heir. Grey has agreed to wait two months before attacking Emberfall, and in that time, Rhen has turned away from everyone--even Harper, as she desperately tries to help him find a path to peace.

Fight the battle, save the kingdom. Meanwhile, Lia Mara struggles to rule Syhl Shallow with a gentler hand than her mother. But after enjoying decades of peace once magic was driven out of their lands, some of her subjects are angry Lia Mara has an enchanted prince and a magical scraver by her side. As Grey's deadline draws nearer, Lia Mara questions if she can be the queen her country needs.

As the two kingdoms come closer to conflict, loyalties are tested, love is threatened, and an old enemy resurfaces who could destroy them all, in this stunning conclusion to bestselling author Brigid Kemmerer's Cursebreaker series.

I loved the first book in this series. Absolutely adored it. So much so that I pretty quickly got the second one and read it. Enjoyed that on its own, but like I said in that one ask, I’m fairly certain A Curse So Dark and Lonely could have very easily been a standalone story. Should have been a standalone story? There was just SO MUCH going on here, and not nearly enough of it was resolved. Plot points just hung by the end of the trilogy, I was not ever entirely convinced Rhen and Harper were actually in love, let alone liked each other, and I thought Rhen got the very short end of an exceptionally cracked stick by the time the whole story wrapped up. Really, I think this  tried to do too much in not enough time and there should probably be another book. Also Lia Mara getting pregnant was dumb. There I said it.

Free Books On Amazon Unlimited That Were Better Than Expected, But Also Read Like Fic

The Bargainer Series by Laura Thalassa

Everyone knows that if you need a favor, you go to the Bargainer to make it happen. He’s a man who can get you anything you want … at a price. And everyone knows that sooner or later he always collects.

Callypso Lillis is a siren with a very big problem, one that stretches up her arm and far into her past. For the last seven years she’s been collecting a bracelet of black beads up her wrist, magical IOUs for favors she’s received. Only death or repayment will fulfill the obligations. Only then will the beads disappear.

But for one of his clients, he’s never asked for repayment. Not until now. When Callie finds the fae king of the night in her room, a grin on his lips and a twinkle in his eye, she knows things are about to change. At first it’s just a chaste kiss—a single bead’s worth—and a promise for more.

For the Bargainer, it’s more than just a matter of rekindling an old romance. Something is happening in the Otherworld. Fae warriors are going missing one by one. Only the women are returned, each in a glass casket, a child clutched to their breast. And then there are the whispers among the slaves, whispers of an evil that’s been awoken.

If the Bargainer has any hope to save his people, he’ll need the help of the siren he spurned long ago. Only, his foe has a taste for exotic creatures, and Callie just happens to be one.

No one is going to be able to convince me this wasn’t ACOTAR fan fic. I don’t care about timing or dates, or whatever. The similarities just...did not stop. In all three books, even. There were three books in this series, by the way. Most of which I really enjoyed. I read them all in like four days of email waiting, so they must have been doing something right. Des was a good love interest and I really liked the flashbacks in the first book. Also Callie didn’t super annoy me. That being said, whoever edited this book. Oof. Some of the prose was so goddamn cringe, I literally lol’ed. Right out loud. Every now and then it was like we had to be reminded that Des was a BAD GUY ™ but it felt very Edward “I’m a killer, Bella” Cullen, and Callie’s internal monologue was occasionally hysterical. Not in a good way. Also Temper was the worst. She was so annoying. Every time she talked, I was like, oh, her again. The first book was the best one.

HITTING ALL MY ROM COM BOXES! BASEBALL! ROMANCE! PINING! ONLY VAGUELY UNCOMFORTABLE WHEN THEY HAD SEX IN THE PORT JEFF DUGOUT BECAUSE I’VE BEEN IN THE PORT JEFF DUGOUT.

Fix Her Up by Tessa Bailey

Georgette Castle’s family runs the best home renovation business in town, but she picked balloons instead of blueprints and they haven’t taken her seriously since. Frankly, she’s over it. Georgie loves planning children’s birthday parties and making people laugh, just not at her own expense. She’s determined to fix herself up into a Woman of the World... whatever that means.

Phase one: new framework for her business (a website from this decade, perhaps?)

Phase two: a gut-reno on her wardrobe (fyi, leggings are pants.)

Phase three: updates to her exterior (do people still wax?)

Phase four: put herself on the market (and stop crushing on Travis Ford!)

Travis Ford was major league baseball’s hottest rookie when an injury ended his career. Now he’s flipping houses to keep busy and trying to forget his glory days. But he can’t even cross the street without someone recapping his greatest hits. Or making a joke about his… bat. And then there's Georgie, his best friend’s sister, who is not a kid anymore. When she proposes a wild scheme—that they pretend to date, to shock her family and help him land a new job—he agrees. What’s the harm? It’s not like it’s real. But the girl Travis used to tease is now a funny, full-of-life woman and there’s nothing fake about how much he wants her...

Living her best life means facing the truth: Georgie hasn’t been on a date since, well, ever. Nobody’s asking the town clown out for a night of hot sex, that’s for sure. Maybe if people think she’s having a steamy love affair, they’ll acknowledge she’s not just the “little sister” who paints faces for a living. And who better to help demolish that image than the resident sports star and tabloid favorite.

Legit, I saw the description for this and I was like—did I write this? Kind of. (Shameless plug to read my own rom com, it also has baseball and pining) It didn’t matter, I loved it. Seriously, it hit all my rom com boxes: childhood friends, best friend’s sister, coming back home under duress, FAKE DATING and, let’s be honest, I am not immune to the use of “baby girl” as an endearment. Every time Travis called Georgie “baby girl” I was like, oh, ok, this is cool. It was cool! I only have two quips. One, that the fake dating didn’t last a little longer. The pacing of the story felt very quick, but that’s also this genre’s style. So I kind of get it. And two, that it happened in Port Jefferson, which is a town in Suffolk County that I have not only been to, but have spent significant time in. Meaning I could picture every single thing, knew exactly where they were and have used the exit on the Northern State Parkway that the final moments of the book took place at. The Port Jeff girls basketball team won a Long Island championship last weekend. In real life, not the book.

In Which Spinoffs Continue to be my Kryptonite. Especially Well-Written Ones

Mistletoe and Mr. Right by Sarah Morgenthaler

Lana Montgomery is everything the quirky small town of Moose Springs, Alaska can't stand: a rich socialite with dreams of changing things for the better. But Lana's determined to prove that she belongs...even if it means trading her stilettos for snow boots and tracking one of the town's hairiest Christmas mysteries: the Santa Moose, an antlered Grinch hell-bent on destroying every bit of holiday cheer (and tinsel) it can sink its teeth into.

And really...how hard could it be?

The last few years have been tough on Rick Harding, and it's not getting any easier now that his dream girl's back in town. When Lana accidentally tranquilizes him instead of the Santa Moose, it's clear she needs help, fast...and this could be his chance to finally catch her eye. It's an all-out Christmas war, but if they can nab that darn moose before it destroys the town, Rick and Lana might finally find a place where they both belong...together.

I mentioned The Tourist Attraction in my January list, and this is the second in the Moose Springs trio. And it’s so good! I wish people were all as nice to Lana as Rick was. It’s what she deserved! More small-town antics, more kissing, another moose. This one was just as cute as the original book, especially because it brought back original characters and Zoey and Graham were so goddamn adorable as a committed couple I genuinely feared for the state of my teeth.

Enjoy the View by Sarah Morgenthaler

Former Hollywood darling River Lane's acting career is tanking fast. Determined to start fresh behind the camera, she agrees to film a documentary about the picturesque small town of Moose Springs, Alaska. The assignment should have been easy, but the quirky locals want nothing to do with River. Well, too bad: River's going to make this film and prove herself, no matter what it takes.

Or what (literal) mountain she has to climb.

Easton Lockett may be a gentle giant, but he knows a thing or two about survival. If he can keep everyone in line, he should be able to get River and her crew up and down Mount Veil in one piece. Turns out that's a big if. The wildlife's wilder than usual, the camera crew's determined to wander off a cliff, and the gorgeous actress is fearless. Falling for River only makes Easton's job tougher, but there's only so long he can hold out against her brilliant smile. When bad weather strikes, putting everyone at risk, it'll take all of Easton's skill to get them back home safely...and convince River she should stay in his arms for good.

Wrapping up the Moose Springs trio, this one might have been my least favorite, but that’s not really saying much. Since I loved them all pretty equally. River and Easton’s banter was grade-A, top-notch, which is a one-way ticket to my reading-heart. Maybe part of the problem (I say problem like there really was one) was that most of the story took place on a mountain. I kind of wanted more small-town shenanigans, and updates on the condos and the state of the town and Graham being mayor. Still, this was very cute. I swooned multiple times. I’ll probably read anything Sarah Morgenthaler writes from here on out.

Seriously, What Is YA? Does Anyone Know?

The Beautiful by Renee Ahdieh

In 1872, New Orleans is a city ruled by the dead. But to   seventeen-year-old Celine Rousseau, New Orleans is a safe haven after   she's forced to flee her life as a dressmaker in Paris. Taken in by the sisters of the Ursuline convent in the middle of the carnival season,   Celine is quickly enraptured by the vibrant city, from its music to its fancy soirées and even its danger. She becomes embroiled in the city's glitzy underworld, known as La Cour des Lions, after catching the eye of  the group's enigmatic leader, Sébastien Saint Germain.

When the body of one of the girls from the convent is found in Sébastien's own lair--the second dead girl to turn up in recent weeks--Celine battles her attraction to Sébastien and suspicions about his guilt along with the shame of her own horrible secret.

After a third murder, New  Orleans becomes gripped by the terror of a serial killer on the  loose--one who has now set Celine in his sights. As the murderer stalks  her, Celine finally takes matters into her own hands, only to find  herself caught in the midst of an age-old feud between the darkest  creatures of the night, where the price of forbidden love is her life.

Like I said last month, I put a hold on pretty much everything Renee Ahdieh had written in my library. And this was just as good as the last series I read. Her world building is just—chef’s kiss, gorgeous. I dream of writing this airy, magical way, that makes you feel like you’re in New Orleans. That being said, I do not know what kid is reading this because apparently this is YA and I had to read every single word to figure out what was going on. Now, I know there are two more books in the series, but this one felt like a lot of set up and I spent most of it being like...will this make sense eventually? It did, but only during a very rushed climax of final few chapters. The sequel isn’t available on Kindle at the library, and I haven’t bought it yet. So, that’s probably kind of telling.

In Which You Cannot Always Depend On Old Favorites

No Judgments by Meg Cabot

When a massive hurricane severs all power and cell service to Little Bridge Island—as well as its connection to the mainland—twenty-five-year-old Bree Beckham isn’t worried . . . at first. She’s already escaped one storm—her emotionally abusive ex—so a hurricane seems like it will be a piece of cake.

But animal-loving Bree does become alarmed when she realizes how many islanders have been cut off from their beloved pets. Now it’s up to her to save as many of Little Bridge’s cats and dogs as she can . . . but to do so, she’s going to need help—help she has no choice but to accept from her boss’s sexy nephew, Drew Hartwell, the Mermaid Café’s most notorious heartbreaker.

But when Bree starts falling for Drew, just as Little Bridge’s power is restored and her penitent ex shows up, she has to ask herself if her island fling was only a result of the stormy weather, or if it could last during clear skies too.

I love Meg Cabot. That should be stated upfront and at the very beginning because for a very long time I have claimed that being Meg Cabot was my dream job. I’ve read pretty much every book Meg Cabot has ever written and was fairly certain I’d be into these once I did read them. Only I was...not. Not really. Everything in this book happened so quickly, I felt like I was the one in the hurricane. People were kissing and then they were having sex and there was a storm and pets and then—it was over? The pacing was all over the place, I had no idea why Drew and Bree liked each other, some guy kicked a dog at one point?? It was weird. Which leads us to—

No Offense by Meg Cabot

A broken engagement only gave Molly Montgomery additional incentive to follow her dream job from the Colorado Rockies to the Florida Keys. Now, as Little Bridge Island Public Library’s head of children’s services, Molly hopes the messiest thing in her life will be her sticky-note covered desk. But fate—in the form of a newborn left in the restroom—has other ideas. So does the sheriff who comes to investigate the “abandonment”.  When John Hartwell folds all six-feet-three of himself into a tiny chair and insists that whoever left the baby is a criminal, Molly begs to differ and asks what he’s doing about the Island’s real crime wave (if thefts of items from homes that have been left unlocked could be called that). Not the best of starts, but the man’s arrogance is almost as distracting as his blue eyes. Almost…

John would be pretty irritated if one of his deputies had a desk as disorderly as Molly’s. Good thing she doesn’t work for him, considering how attracted he is to her. Molly’s lilting librarian voice makes even the saltiest remarks go down sweeter, which is bad as long as she’s a witness but might be good once the case is solved—provided he hasn’t gotten on her last nerve by then. Recently divorced, John has been having trouble adjusting to single life as well as single parenthood. But something in Molly’s beautiful smile gives John hope that his old life on Little Bridge might suddenly hold new promise—if only they can get over their differences.

This isn’t a sequel SEQUEL, but another one of those “exists in the same universe,” or same town, as it were, and it was better than No Judgments. Molly and John actually had a few legitimate conversations before they started kissing. The conflict was still weird and sort of forced, this was not Meg’s usual banter (I fell like I can call her Meg at this point, y’know?) and, again, the ending just felt like it...happened. I don’t know guys, maybe I should just reread The Boy Is Back. Or that quasi Persephone-Hades series. It’s been awhile. On that one, at least. I read The Boy Is Back like six months ago.

ABSOLUTELY INFURIATING ROM COM THAT I CANNOT BELIEVE I FINISHED, SOMEONE GIVE ME A PRIZE FOR FINISHING THIS

Fight or Flight by Samantha Young

The universe is conspiring against Ava Breevort. As if flying back to   Phoenix to bury a childhood friend wasn't hell enough, a cloud of   volcanic ash traveling from overseas delayed her flight back home to   Boston. Her last ditch attempt to salvage the trip was thwarted by an   arrogant Scotsman, Caleb Scott, who steals a first class seat out from   under her. Then over the course of their journey home, their antagonism somehow lands them in bed for the steamiest layover Ava's ever had. And  that's all it was--until Caleb shows up on her doorstep. 

When pure chance pulls Ava back into Caleb's orbit, he proposes they enjoy their physical connection while he's stranded in Boston. Ava agrees, knowing her heart's in no danger since a) she barely likes Caleb and b) his existence in her life is temporary. Not long thereafter Ava realizes she's made a terrible error because as it turns out Caleb Scott isn't quite so unlikeable after all. When his stay in Boston becomes permanent, Ava must decide whether to fight her feelings for him or give into them. But even if she does decide to risk her heart on Caleb, there is no guarantee her stubborn Scot will want to risk his heart on her...

When I tell you guys that this was the worst book I have read in recent memory, I am not kidding. Might actually be the worst book I have ever read. Bar none. And that’s saying something because one time I had to read Ender’s Game in college and that, like, physically pained me. This was awful. Awful people. Awful plot. Awful resolution. AWFUL. Where to start? Well, I’m not going to apologize for spoilers, because God help us all, do not read this book. Ava has been through so many horrible things in her life it was like someone was trying to set a record. Bad parents, cheating ex-boyfriend, dead former best friend who was former because of the cheating ex-boyfriend. Naturally, this made her a control freak because—of course, or something. And Caleb! Oh my God, fucking Caleb Scott. The dickwad. I’ve never rooted for anyone to not get the girl more. When Ava “broke up” with him (they were never really together) I might have cheered. Shitty things does not give you an excuse to be a dick, and Caleb was a dick. Seriously, he started crying about how his ex-fiance KILLED THEIR BABY and I was like—this cannot possibly be a real book. It was! With lots of abortion opinions out of FUCKING nowhere, and weird possessive behavior from, like, every dude in it. Both Ava AND her best friend (not the dead one, a different one) got assaulted at one point. I kept reading solely because I was desperate to see how they rationalized Ava and Caleb getting back together at the end and they didn’t. He showed up on her flight when her boss came up with a fake work trip so he could sit next to her on the plane. What? WHAT?? It was so dumb. So bad. I can’t believe I read it. 

[ae0nx]

FRUITS BASKET ‘19 EPISODE 23 VS FRUITS BASKET ‘01 EPISODE 19

Ok! We’re finally here! We’re at the beginning of the storm! I’m so nervous... I didn’t know how to do these comparisons especially the storyline in the 2001 version not syncing up completely with the 2019 version. But I’m just gonna try and puzzle piece my way through it, ‘kay? :)

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Also, just some notes that I wanna state about the 2001 version so I don’t keep repeating myself for the next 2-3 weeks:

- I love love love the opening. It breaks my heart and heals it every time I hear it and the images of the characters by doorways/windows/alleyways looking outward and always to the side of the frame is a great artistic choice and metaphor. Also, the lyrics are just simply... everything. ‘Let’s stay together always...’

- Some of the colour choices in clothing (or even the hair) that the characters have are... interesting. I definitely find myself appreciating the newer version as you can tell they put more thought into it, even if I do think the power ranger assigned colours are kinda silly. But really? Kyo wearing pastels?! No way. ...But I kinda love it anyway. Outfit Appreciation: 2.5 stars.

- I adore the music box sounding background music. It really adds a lot of whimsy to the show and kinda reminds me that Fruits Basket in a lot of its elements takes inspiration from fairy tales. 

- The English dub voices obviously sound different and in comparison to the 2019 version, you can really tell how much they’ve all matured as VAs. ESPECIALLY Laura Bailey and Jerry Jewell.

- I also adore how ridiculous and mostly comedic the 2001 version is. Which makes the later turn in the anime so much more heartbreaking and tough to watch as it comes as such a shock compared to the tone of the rest of the anime. Unbalanced? Maybe so. But on a shallow kind of level without thinking too hard, I can enjoy it.

- I love 2001!Shigure. Again, it’s a shallow choice and I don’t deny he’s a lot more interesting and fleshed out in the manga/2019!anime. I just like 20-something year old, new-father-to-two-teens-but-he’s-not-like-a-FATHER-he’s-a-’cool-older-brother’ who likes to laze around the house in his kimono and ISN’T MENTALLY TRAUMATISING THEM. Well, without meaning to anyway... AND LOOK HOW CUTE HE IS.

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Right! Let’s get into it! 

This is me knowing the future trauma I’m going to have to go through with this anime.

But in all seriousness, the 2019 version really captured Tohru’s depression a lot better. Especially with the later scene where she breaks down in front of Kyo in the bedroom. A+ crying from Laura Bailey, I really felt it this time. As I said, the 2001 version seemed like it didn’t wanna deep dive too much so I’m glad we get a deeper in look to the complexities of Tohru this time.

It might be a translation ‘nothing’, but I find it interesting that Kyo felt like he jinxed her. Especially linked with his comments to Kagura later about how he feels ‘no one should want to hang around him’. I mean we’ll get into the reasoning for this most likely in the next two episodes but you can probably guess why... Poor kitty.

(Also side note: Do you think that’s why - out of everyone that has been bullied in this anime - Kyo seemed the least affected by school bullies? Is it cos of his experience within the Sohma family and his curse, that he almost expects that everyone he meets would treat him like that? It’s interesting because Hana had the same thought process towards her own bullying but she never fought back... But Kyo did. I might just conclude this thought as it just being in his nature to fight back, but we’ll see...)

Also, 2001 giving us Kyo freaking out in cat form about Tohru’s fever was pretty funny. Man, they really did do an overkill with the transformations back then...

2001 really was not good at showing the gradual progress of Kyo controlling his anger around Tohru as much as the 2019 version. Yes, in the 2019 ep, Kyo was still annoyed that Tohru wouldn’t just relax and concentrate on getting better but my God, Kyo is sooooo shout-y and yell-y in this version! And I don’t wike it lol.

However I shouldn’t shit on the moment too much. I do think 2001 wanted to show us that Kyo saw how receptive Tohru was to Shigure being calmer and nicer and it kind of influenced him to take more of a gentle approach to Tohru later. Kyo being influenced by Shigure is... questionable... but whatever, it’s got good intentions! (I still like the 2019 version better)

Momiji with the oversized work outfit! He’s so adorable I could cry.

- I’m kinda bummed that the 2019 version didn’t include the ‘Kyo stealing leeks from Yuki’s garden’ moment. It’s a hilarious moment (especially with Yuki’s reaction) and it is just PEAK ‘it’s not stealing if you’re taking it from family’ energy that I adoreeee and stand by lol

Really, 2001!Kyo... are you five years old?

‘ 🎵And at most... I’m sleeping all these demons away...’

‘ 🎵But your ghost... the ghost of you it keeps me awake’

Kyo seeing ghosts of Tohru is both unintentionally funny and dramatic in both versions to me, I’m sorry. I’m really just a child.

Where do I start? Kyo being ever so dramatic with the goggles and the face mask... Shigure with the all-knowing troll look. 2001 really gave us some gems and I think we all tend to forget that.

Plus...

I. LOVE. THIS. BROTHER. DYNAMIC. (I know it isn’t accurate don’t ruin the fanfic going on in my head)

- Tohru being depressed that she wasted Yuki’s time and didn’t fulfill her mother’s wishes makes me wish she was more so just concerned about herself and how she’s gonna pass for herself? But it is very much in her character to do so, so I guess I’ll let it slide. And I guess Kyo said what I said in well... his own unique way of giving advice.

- But when it came to the actual soup porridge scene, I lean more towards the 2019 version. There’s so much said in Kyo’s body language and Tohru’s own inner thoughts. She’s really falling in love with him and she doesn’t even know it!!! 

THAT PEEK FROM HIS ELBOW?! COME ON!!! STOP IT. MY HEART. these dumb fuckin kids...

I loveee the 2019 porridge moment so much more, but this moment right here just ELEVATED the whole moment. It says so muchhhh without saying much at alllll and ohhhh this poor boyyyy...!!!!! It really took a fluffy moment and just stabbed me in the heart and I guess I respect you for that? Thanks...?

I’m so glad the 2019 version is feeding us in stupid made up songs. *chef’s kiss* haha

- I’m really glad that Kisa calls Hatori ‘uncle’ in 2019 and not ‘grandpa’ like she did in 2001. Cos as someone in their mid-twenties that shit was straight up offensive lol

The Momiji and Kyo moments are always so heartwarming in this version. My faves. <3

- Also I dunno why but I really liked Hatori, The Doctor Who Smokes in the 2001 anime. It didn’t make sense but quite honestly if anyone in this anime chose to smoke to let off some steam, it should be him. (Not an advocate for smoking)

---- Right! No more 2001 comparisons cos the episode that is equivalent to this part of the episode is also riddled spoilers for the next 2019 episode so... just normal review from here. ---

Why is it that Yuki’s insults against Kyo always hurt so much more?! They are both terrible to each other but for some reason, I always feel it more when Yuki verbally backhands Kyo. Maybe it’s the way Eric Vale practically venomously spits out these words or maybe it’s cos Yuki kinda has more privilege than Kyo so it feels like he’s kicking a literal homeless cat.

- Also, my poor boy! Definitely felt myself sympathising a lot more this time around to how weak he was feeling.

Lol I felt that exasperated breath. At least this time, Kyo doesn’t call Tohru’s umbrella ‘a sissy girly pink umbrella’. A minor improvement? (So, I might of watched a bit of the 2001 version of episode 24...)

...Need I say anything? <3

- HEADLINE: Shigure ships Yuki/Tohru and Kyo/Kagura? What is he up to...

- Kyo shouting at Kagura in the middle of the supermarket was a shitty move but Kagura mooshing his head in response was great... what a terrible but very entertaining couple lol

- Kagura’s ‘If I told you, you’d cry...’ is giving me all the heart pain. How many times can I say that I’m not ready...

I’ve seen people in the tag compare this moment to his porridge moment with Tohru and while I agree, it does seem like Kyo just naturally wanted to help Tohru compared to Kyo feeling obligated to hold hands with Kagura. But errrrm.... I just think Kyo is a good kid haha. And while I do think he CLEARLY holds Tohru in a very treasured and locked away place in his heart, he just doesn’t like it when girls cry around him and will do anything to stop it. I also think he does care about Kagura, and that he’s more so annoyed that Kagura doesn’t seem to get that he won’t love her in the way she loves him (and well... her being a tsundere lol). But I could be wrong! I’m a walking manga amnesiac as always...

*HIGH PITCHED SCREAMING*

Talk about FINALLY. They really named the episode that and made us wait until the LAST SECOND OF THE EPISODE TO GIVE US THE WORDS: ‘You look well...’

What a tease.

And we’re not even gonna get into the preview for the next episode and how three words made me tear up minutes before I had to go to a party on Friday night.

Wow. This might be the longest review so far. I don’t doubt that next week’s will be longer lol. The reason why I wanted to do the 2001 comparisons will probably make more sense next week and I will also say my thoughts on the 2001 version of the events with the umbrella and Kagura and Kyo’s date next week before I go into the review.

Jeez, this took two hours to write. WHY DO I DO THIS?!

[theys-a-joke]

Paper-Crossed Lovers

Heyo guys! Here’s another request I completed, though it’s long overdue, I got this request, what, three weeks ago? And im finally done with it. I’m super sorry about that. Quick shout out to my most favoritest mother @lovethyfanperson for helping me out with dialects. 

Request: hi! could you please write something about race? maybe similar to katherine and jack, except the reader isn't the daughter of pulitzer or something. just kinda rich. and she helps race with food, clothes, shelter, and stuff. thanks!

So here it is, this was 18 pages long, enjoy. (Plus the ao3 link for those who want it!) 

Everyday you made sure to walk for a bit outside, whatever the weather. Your family had a tendency to keep you inside for the majority of the day, and you just needed that breath of fresh air. And it wasn’t like they kept you inside for malicious purposes, they just wanted to make sure that you were safe and being courted by someone. They were good people, really, but they were also rich people. So whenever you did go out, you would always need to take the proper precautions and make sure you represented the family well and did everything else your mother and father told every time before you went out.

“Mother, father! I’m going out again.” You shouted as you raced down the stairs. You had finished your studies and were eager to get away from your books.

“Again? That’s the third time today, is everything alright (Y/N) dear?” Your mother said from the parlor. She was sat drinking tea and talking to the mother of another suitor.

“Yes mother dearest, everything is fine. I finished my reading and I needed to get out of my room.” You looked outside, clouds were starting to form, you should probably bring an umbrella. “Well, if you’re going out, could you get the evening paper? I didn’t manage to get one this morning. Here’s some money.” She set her tea down and walked over to her purse and pulled out some coins and handed them to you.

“Thank you mother, I’ll see you when I get back.” You gave her a hug and kiss and walked to the door. You grabbed an umbrella before walking out as well.

You had walked around for quite some time, past all the shops and restaurants. You took in the sounds and sights of New York, what a time to be alive. You were lost in thought when you heard some vague yelling.

“Pape! Evenin’ pape! Animals escape the zoo and go on a rampage!” You walked up to the boy yelling the headline. He seemed to have a cigar in his mouth, and how he was still able to clearly yell the headline was beyond you.

“Now, that can’t be true.” You said as you approached him. “What can’t?”

“The headline.” “And why’s that?” He took the cigar out of his mouth and crossed his arms defensively. “Well you would’ve seen them if they were on the streets.” “Fair point.” He paused, and looked you up and down. “Look, youse interested in buyin a pape or what?”

“I would be, if you told me the actual headline.” “It’s ‘bout the trolley strike.”

“Sweet lord, again? Well, a deal’s a deal,” You stick out your hand for the paper, to which he gives you, “and here’s some change.” You began to walk away when he spoke up again, and you turned your head to face him. “Uh, miss, this is way too much for a pape.” “Keep it, part for the paper and part for telling me the actual headline, and it’s not like my family needs it anyway.” You shrug your shoulders and were about continue walking back when you felt raindrops on your nose.

“Ah christ.” You heard the boy behind you mumble.

“Oh, do you need to borrow my umbrella?”

“Uh, I couldn’t ask that miss, ya need to get back to your own house.”

“No, I insist, we can both use my umbrella, look it’s big enough.” You opened your umbrella and walked over to the nameless newsboy.

“See?” You said with a smile.

“I guess so miss.” It was his turn to shrug, and then the two of you began walking. He told you the directions to take him to where he was going, and you chatted here and there about previous headlines.

“Here we are miss, this is where I get off, er, go in. Thanks for walkin me here.”

“No problem, and the names (Y/N) (L/N) not miss.”

“Well it’s been awful nice talkin to ya (Y/N), I’m Race.”

“It’s nice to meet you too Race, I’ll have to buy a paper from you more often.” You smirked and walked away from Race and the lodging house. This was going to be interesting.

A FEW WEEKS LATER

“Mother! Father! I’m going out to get the paper!” You had grabbed some money off of a shelf in your room, plus a little bundle you had created for Race.

“Alright dear! Just make sure your back in time for supper, Mr. and Mrs. Heiser and their family are coming over!” Your mother said from her own room. You groaned internally on your walk to Race. You knew this would never end. They just wanted you to have a nice and comfortable life, with a nice and rich man. It annoyed you that it was still happening, yet you knew why. You were brought out of your slump when you heard Race calling your name.  

“(Y/N)! Ay (Y/N)!”

“Hello Race! Tell me, what’s today’s headline?”

“Bat child found in a cave on the outskirts a New York.” He said smugly.

“And the real headline?” You asked. You and Race had fallen into this pattern of you asking for a paper and him telling you the headline he was selling it under, and then the actual headline. It was refreshing, you never really got to joke with your family, so you cherished your time with Race.

“Annodda article ‘bout Pulitzer’s hate for Roosevelt.” “Do you think he’ll ever move on?” You asked, while handing Race some money in exchange for a paper. “Over Roosevelt? Never.” He was being dramatic, making you laugh.

“Speaking of not moving on, I brought you something!” You handed Race the little bundle you had brought with you.

“You’re still on about this? Ise told ya, I don’t need ‘em.” “Well, if you don’t want them, you can give them to some of the other newsboys, and if you do, make sure to give them my regards.” You said with a shrug and a smile, knowing it would get him to take it.

“This happens every week Race, is there anything else I can say to get you to take the things I bring you?”

“Maybe youse could stop bringin’ em?” “Only until I run out of things to bring you!” You say brightly.

“Plus, I’ve seen you wearing the things I bring you, so to say you don’t like them would be false.”

“You got me there doll. They are pretty nice, say, where is you gettin’ these clothes anyway?”

“I, uh, I got it from my brother. He’s been gone a while, he died in the war a while back.”

“Oh, I’m sorry ‘bout that doll. Guess it must be difficult seein his clothes on me eh?” “Not really, it kinda makes me happy seeing them be worn again, is that weird?”

“Not really, now I never had much a family, but I would guess that seein somethin that has meanin to you everyday makes it easier to get used too. Just like how quick you got used to me.” He nudged you on that last part, and you sighed.

“You know, I think you might be right Race, you just might be right.” The two walked for a bit more, you thinking about what Race had said, and Race enjoying the view of area.

“I should probably be getting home soon.” You said, pulling Race out of his own head and thoughts.

“Yeah, the settin sun, while a lovely picture, bears a horrible reminder that we gotta part ways. Hey, hows about I walk you home?”

“I’m not sure if that’d be a good idea, my parents planned dinner with another family they’re trying to marry me off to.” You grumbled.

“Ah, the burden of bein rich.” “Hey now, I’ve got a difficult life, trying to maintain my image and all.”

“Yeah, come talk to me when you don’t know if you’ll be able to buy dinner.” You stop after he says this.

“Wait, are you serious?” You say in shock. “What, ya think I can get dinner every night like you? Nah, I gotta make sure I got enough money to buy papes for the next day, and sometimes I just can’t afford it.” His speech is nonchalant.

“Race, I, I’m sorry. I didn’t know.”

“It’s alright, though I gotta say, with youse bringin’ me money an’ clothes an’ such, life’s been easier.”

“I’m glad I can help. But if you or any of the others need anything, really, please tell me.”

“Good to know sweetheart. Now hows about we get youse home eh?”

“Oh, right, that, yes. Alright.” The pair of you meander back to your house, the silence solemn. When you had finally gotten back to your house, you turned to Race.

“I was serious back there, if you or any of the other guys need something, please feel free to ask me for it. I want to help you guys.” “Thank ya’ sweetheart, now I gotta be gettin back.” He turned to leave but before he could you enveloped him in your arms. He was surprised to say, but he enjoyed the feeling nonetheless.

“Have a safe trip back, ok?” Your voice was muffled by his shirt.

“Doll, when have youse known me not to be safe?”

“I mean it.” You said firmly.

“What, you care ‘bout me or somethin’?” He turned around in your arms and looked into your eyes.

“Of course I do, you think I’ve been doing all of this because I don’t care?”

“Doll, I didn’t mean it like that, I know you care. An’ I cares about youse too. I just, I don’t know how to show youse yet.” He was the one hugging you this time, his hands rubbing your back.

“I’ll see ya around, yeah doll?”

“Yeah Race.” His hands slid down your arms, ending at your hands. He brought them up to his lips and kissed them.

“Till next time.” He turned and left, leaving you on the steps to your house. You smiled and opened the door. You saw your parents in the parlor talking with the Heisers, you managed to hear what you determined to be the end of a conversation.

“. . . just went out to buy a paper, and probably got distracted.” You heard your mother's voice. You walked towards the parlor and leaned against the frame.

“Are you talking about me?”

“There she is! Yes, we were just talking about you, how nice of you to finally join us.” You could hear the joking tone of her voice and laughed.

“As you said, I got distracted. Lost track of time. Though I finished all my work before hand so you don’t need to worry about that.” You left your spot against the frame to go hug your mother. She hugged you back and pulled you into the seat next to her.

“These are the Heisers, Elizabeth and her mother Cordelia.” “It’s a pleasure to make both of your acquaintances.”

“The pleasure is ours.” Cordelia said.

“Where’s father?” You asked your mother.

“Outside with Charles and James.”

“Smoking cigars no doubt.” You commented.

“Of course, what else does your father do?” “He acts as if we’re never going to run out of money.” You were exasperated with his constant consumption of cigars. At least Race always seemed like he had the same one. But it worried you still. What if that killed him off early?  

“It doesn’t quite seem like it though, does it dear?” Cordelia joked. She seemed nice enough, though you knew these types. Everyone one of them were always there just for the money. They didn’t quite care about what you wanted, that’s how it always was. That’s what drew you in most about Race, that he didn’t care about your money or your social standing. He liked you for you, and as cliche as it sounded, you enjoyed it. While in your daze, the conversation had carried on about more trivial things. You were brought back by the sound of a door opening and the closing shortly after.

“Ah, George dear,” Your mother to get your father’s attention, “why don’t you bring Charles and James over here to meet (Y/N).”

“Ah yes, at long last, the great and wonderful (Y/N) is finally home.” “Oh, my ever charming and darling father, how are you?” You got up to hug your father, ever the hardy man, a bit hard headed too. Yet you loved him despite it.

“I’m doing quite well, I had a chat with these fine gentlemen and they are some of the funniest people I have met in all my years. Behind you, of course, my dear. And how are you doing?”

“I had quite an eventful day, I went for another walk through the city. Stopped by the bakery, the flower shop, chatted with shop owners, the usual.”

“Did you at least buy a paper?” Your father asked, jokingly.

“As a matter of fact, I did.” You took out the paper and handed it to your father.

“I also had a very nice chat with the newsboy selling the paper. They all seem to be quite interesting young men.” You mentioned it offhandedly, hoping that no one would really critique what you had said.

“Chatting? With a newsboy? I didn’t know they knew basic english.” The son said. He was either James or Charles, which one you didn’t really care.

“They have to, how else would they sell papers!” Elizabeth said, chuckling.

“(Y/N), why would you be talking to one of them, you’re just supposed to buy a paper from them.” Your mother scolded.

“They provide a new perspective and can be quite thoughtful.”

“Sure they can.” The boy scoffed. Good lord he was annoying.

“At least they’ll listen to what I have to say and aren’t judgemental like someone I barely know and really don’t have the desire to get to know.”

“Well I’d never!” Cordelia exclaimed.

“Mrs. (L/N) please contain your daughter! It’s not right for a girl to be making such accusations!” The father said.

“Please, I don��t even know either of your names, you have no right to be talking about what I should and shouldn’t be!” You shouted at him. You were completely done with this conversation and stormed off. You headed towards the door and heard your mother shout at you.

“(Y/N) (L/N) you come back here right now!”

“I’ll be back later! When the ever so lovely Heiser's have left!” You slammed the door closed. You were unable to deal with these people. No discussion had ever gotten that heated. Though you hadn’t brought up the newsboys in any discussion ever. At least until now. Though had you brought them up earlier, you were sure more conversations would end like this one. You didn’t even know where you were going until you looked up. You had brought yourself to the lodging house. Maybe that’s why things had gotten so personal. Maybe you felt like it wasn’t just the newsboys you were defending, but a certain one in particular. How would you even get up there to meet him. You walked around the building, looking for options, checking your surroundings to make sure you were still safe. You saw a balcony with clothes that looked all too familiar. You managed to climb the fire escape connected to building and stopped once you had reached the balcony with the clothes. And when you looked through the window, sure enough, there was they guy you had given the clothes to. You knocked on his window, causing him to jump.

“(Y/N)? What is youse doin here? Shouldn’t you be at home?” He opened the window and helped you in. You were glad to see he didn’t have his cigar in his mouth.

“Yes, well, you see, I had a disagreement with my family and had to leave.”

“Youse sure it was just a disagreement?” “That doesn’t matter, what does matter is that now that I’m here, I want to meet some of your friends.” You got up off of his bed and dusted off your clothes. The want to look presentable still heavily ingrained into you.

“Well alright then. Come one, I’ll give ya the grand tour.” He took hold of your hand and lead you through a doorway that opened into a hallway. He told you about each of the rooms and where everything was until you came into a main room. There were a couple guys in there playing a card game, though they lifted their heads as you entered.

“Well hey now, whos the goirl Race?” “And how long you been hidin her?” Out of the two boys who had spoken, one had red hair and the other was quite short.

“Albert, Romeo, Specs, Jojo, Elmer, this is (Y/N), a friend o’ mine.” He wasn’t quite sure what to call you, as he wasn’t quite sure of the relationship the two of you had, so he thought friend would be the best for now.  

“Well, it is an absolute pleasure to meet you sweetheart. The name’s Romeo.” He came up and bowed in front of you, and to be extra dramatic, he kissed your hand.

“The pleasure is all mine.” You returned his dramatic gesture with an over the top curtsy causing him to laugh. Though, you didn’t spend to long laughing due to the arm that slid around your shoulder.     

“Don’t pay him no mind doll, he does this with everyone, and I mean everyone, even me.”

“And who might you be exactly?” “Well you, can call me Albert.” “We all call ya Albert ya nitwit!” Shouted one of the boys from the table.

“Then I’m glad to be included?” You said, hesitantly. You weren’t sure if they were really including you or not.

“Any friend of Race’s is a friend of ours doll.” Another boy said from the table. Gosh, you were really going to have to get to know their names.

“That’s good to know, and I’m sorry for barging in on all of you like this. I needed to get away from my family for a bit.” “It’s alright girlie, bein able to see youse is a good enough apology.” Race said, sighing.

“I’ll make sure to return the favor someday.” “Ahh, no need. With everything youse been givin me lately it seems Ise owe you.” “Wait, Race, this goirl is the one that’s been givin you all the clothes and food and such?” Said somehow another boy from the table.

“Yeah, this is her. Ain’t she a gem?” He gave you a squeeze and you smiled.

“You sure youse ain’t gone soft Race?”

“I sure have, and lemme tell you, I love it.”

“Aww Race, are you saying you love me too?” “Maybe I am sweetheart.” This caused you to blush, you weren’t really sure what was going on between you and Race. You just went along with it, at first, out of fun, but later on you had developed feelings for him, and in fear of losing the relationship you had with Race, a relationship where he didn’t care about your money or your family status, he cared about you and your friendship. But now, he was saying he loved you. Sure you knew he cared about you, but love? Maybe he meant it platonically, like he loved you as a friend. But maybe he loved you romantically, and if he did, now would be the best time to tell him.

“Hey, (Y/N), sweetheart, you all right?”

“Good job Race, ya broke ‘er.” “Nah, she’s just thinkin, ain’tcha (Y/N)?”

“Race? I don’t think sh-” “I love you too Race.” You stated suddenly.

“What was that doll?” He seemed shocked at your sudden outburst after your silence. “You said you loved me and I said I love you too.” You said simply.

“Well I’ll be, looks like Race finally got himself a goirl!” This came from a new guy, who had just walked in. The confusion on your face was evident as Race introduced him promptly.

“(Y/N), this is Jack, the head of us newsies.” “Oh, it’s nice to meet you! I heard some pretty nice things about you.”

“Well the pleasure is all mine doll. And I would hope that Race speaks good of me.” He winked at you and you smiled, a ladies man just like Race said.

“He does, he speaks pretty highly of all of you, and actually, now that I’m here, this would be the best time to learn names.” “You know the Albert, Romeo, and Jack, so the one in the specs is Specs, the guy that looks like a cunning fox is Jojo, and Elmer’s the one at the end of the table not paying anyone any mind.” Each of the boys waved when Race had told you the names. “It’s nice to properly meet you all! I’m (Y/N) if you didn’t know already.” “Oh sweetheart, Race talks about you all the time, we have a pretty good idea of who you are.” Albert said as he walked back to the table.

“So you talk about me huh?” You questioned jokingly. “And with that I think we’ve had enough socializin so (Y/N) and I are gonna go get some sleep.” Race steered you buy your shoulders back to his room. As he did you heard Jack yell from back where the other boys were playing cards.

“Make sure ya keep ya hands to yaself Race!”

“Shaddup Jack!” Race yelled back.

“I apologize for them, they are usually like this and I didn’t warn ya.” Race said as you approached his room. He sat on his bed and put his head in his hands. “It’s fine Race, really.” You sat down next to him and rubbed his back. “They all seem like pretty nice guys. Just like you told me.”

“Yea, just, your comin from something with your own family and I don’t wanna add on to your stress, ya know? I wanna help.” “And you are helping! You let me in and let me stay and let me meet your family! Plus, you let me be open about my feelings. . .” You trailed off at the end of your sentence and reached for Race’s hand. You laced your fingers with his and began playing with them.

“Yeah, about that, Ise gotta know, did ya really mean it?”

“Of course I did, why would I ever lie about that? Why would I ever lie to you?”

“I know I know, but it just seems so, impossible? That someone like you could end up with someone like me.” “Race, take a look at the situation right now, does this seem impossible?” You wave your laced fingers in front of his face with a faint laugh.

“But what about your family?” “To hell with my family! If they don’t like you it doesn’t matter. I like you, love you, even.”

“You really willing to leave your family for me?” “I would, in a heartbeat. I would’ve sooner too had I known about your feelings earlier.”

“Now I wish I had told you earlier.” He leaned his head against your shoulder and exhaled heavily.

“Hows about we get some sleep huh? This has been pretty excitin and I need my beauty sleep.” “You’re already pretty enough Race.” Your voice was muffled by his hair.

“Aww, thanks doll. But I’m still tired.” He, to the best of his ability, flopped down onto the bed, his hand still in yours, effectively pulling you down with him. After you had fallen he had wrapped his arms around you.

“Goodnight (Y/N).” He whispered.

“It really has been, hasn’t it.” You whispered back.

THE NEXT DAY

Race had gotten up as usual, ready to sell papes, but when he tried to get up, there was a weight on his arms preventing that. Then he remembered how you had came in the window last night and everything after and opted to go back to sleep, deciding that after all the things you had given him, he really didn’t need to work for a few days. Though, out of habit, he couldn’t go back to sleep. So instead he just watched you. He watched your breathing and the sunlight being cast on your face and really looked at you. You were beautiful. And you were his. And he was yours. He wouldn’t have it any other way. After a while, he decided to wake you up, it would probably be better to get you back to your place sooner rather than later.

“Hey, (Y/N).” He said softly, trying to nudge you awake. He tried again, though a little more forcefully, and that seemed to get you up.

“Hmm?”

“Youse gotta get up (Y/N) and get back to your place.” “Why? It’s so warm here.” You snuggled up  closer to Race, and he sighed.

“Your parents is probably worried an’ waitin for ya.”

“I thought we were going to forget about my parents.” “Naw, we can’t do that. Theys still your family, and they gotta know youse is alright.” “Carry me home?” You looked up at him with your eyes wide and pouting.

“You gotta get up though.” As soon as he said that you finally found it in yourself to get out of Race’s bed.

“Your turn.” You said to him, making him laugh.

“Hold on, I gotta prepare for carryin you, it’s one thing to carry papes, anodda to carry a person.” You rolled your eyes and waited for him to get up. Once he did, he motioned for you to come stand behind him. You jumped onto his back and he caught your legs. He straightened up and proceeded to walk down the hallways and stairs until you were outside.

“Now sweetheart, I’m not exactly sure where ya live, so youse gotta give me some directions.” When he didn’t receive a response, he looked at your head which was on his shoulder, and you had fallen back asleep.

“For crying out loud.” He mumbled to himself. He shifted you on his back for a bit, and nearly dropped you. That seemed to get you to wake up.

“Ahhh! Race! What in the name of the lord? Why would you do that?” After he had brought you back up, you secured your arms and legs around him much tighter than before.

“You had fallen asleep, and I don’t know where you live exactly.” “Alright, just, don’t do that again, okay? You scared me.” “I’m sorry doll, I promise it’ll never happen again.” “Ok, I forgive you. Anyways, my house is down about three blocks from here, then you take a right and go another block, then you’re there.” “You live that close?”

“How do you think I got to the lodging house so quickly? And remember the first time we met? I walked you here and then walked home because it was so close.” “Ohhhhh.”

“Now shush, I’m trying to sleep.”

“Hey now, is that any way to treat the guy who is ever so graciously carrying you home?” He shifted you behind him again, and out of fear your grip tightened.

“That is not funny Race.” “It’s kinda funny.”

“You are impossible.” “But you still love me.” “I wouldn’t if you drop me.” “Don’t worry doll, if you do fall, which you won’t, I’ll be there to catch you and pick you up.” “Oh my hero.” By the time Race had brought you home, the sun had risen a bit more, making his blonde hair a beautiful shade of gold.

“Alright doll, time to hop off the ol Racetrack rail track.” He let go of your legs but this time you didn’t fall. You turned to face him to say goodbye.

“Thank you for taking me home Race, it was quite kind of you to do that.” “Oh anything for my goirl, right? Plus, now we’ve both walked eachother home. We’re even.” “On that field at least.” You chuckled.

“It’s kinda bittersweet, ain’t it? I’m takin you back to the people keepin us apart.”

“Hey, they aren’t keeping us apart, I’ll come visit you, and until then, you can have this to remember me.” You kissed his cheek sweetly, and he seemed to melt.

“And once we’re old enough, we can spend our lives together, alright? Nothing will keep us apart then.”

“Yeah, a nice house with just you an’ me.” He said dreamily as he pulled you closer towards him.

“Here’s something from me to hold you over till that happens.” He took your chin in his hand and brought his lips to yours. His kiss was much more passionate than the one you gave him. He put his forehead against yours and brought his hands to your face.

“I love you (Y/N) (L/N).”

“I love you, Racetrack I don’t know your last name.” He smiled at that.

“Higgins, it’s Higgins.”

“Well then I love you Racetrack Higgins. And I always will. But for now, I have to go. It’s been absolutely lovely.” You brought your hands up to his and intertwined your fingers. You gently pulled his hands away from your face and gave them a squeeze. Then you let go and left Race standing there bewildered at how he had ever managed to meet you.

You were able to sneak upstairs into your bedroom, and after all the excitement of the morning, you couldn’t fall asleep again. You didn’t have any work to do so you choose to take some time to read. That’s how your mother had found you after she woke up and came into your room.  

“Oh (Y/N)! Your home!” She gasped. She ran to your bed and enveloped you in a hug.

“Oh I was so worried about you after you stormed off I had no clue where you went and your father! Oh he was so scared you would get hurt out there! I’m just so glad your home dear.”

“You act as if I’ve been gone for weeks mother.” “Oh but that’s what it felt like dear!” “Well I’m back now and mother I must tell you I met this boy a wh-” “You met a boy! What was he like? Has he been like any of the suitors?” “Please, if he were like the suitors I would hardly give him the time of day.” “What problem do you have with them? There all fine, upstanding young men.” “They’re all arrogant, entitled, greedy, bratty children. They have no respect for anyone and are completely fine in expressing that. The boy I met may be a bit arrogant, but he’s got none of the other traits.” “Well who is he?”

“He’s a newsboy.” “A newsboy, really? Your father might not enjoy that fact.” “You know who would? Edward.” “(Y/N) please this is hardly the time to bring him up.” “You know it’s true. You know the respect he had for the working class. You know he wanted to support and protect us if there ever came a time for it.” “So he did, and you know what he got for it? Death.”

“The war wasn’t his fault!” “But he didn’t have to go and fight in it!” Your raised voices had brought your father to your room.

“What’s going on here? (Y/N)? Oh thank the stars you’re back! Did you mother tell you I was worried? Of course she did she’s your mother. But, truly, what is going on here?” “I’m in love with a newsboy. There. It’s been said. And I was having a disagreement with mother about how Edward would approve of it.” “There is something enticing about working, isn’t there.” “George! Don’t encourage her!”

“What? She clearly hasn’t liked any of the suitors so why can’t she choose her own lover?”

“Well, that’s a fair point, but still George shouldn’t we-” “Mary, I really don’t think there’s any way to change her mind. You saw how she took the disrespect of the newsboys last night.” “Yet I worry still. I just want you to have a nice life is all dear.”

“I know mother, and just because I’m in love with a newsboy, who does happen to have a name, Race, doesn’t mean I won’t live a nice life. I don’t want to leave this family for good!”

“Alright dear, if you truly love him, who I am to stop you.”

“Oh thank you mother, thank you father.”

Though the day had started out bright, it became gray soon after. You didn’t mind, the rain was calming to you and a nice thing to read to. Your little bubble was broken when you heard knocking on the door downstairs.

“I’ll get it!” You rushed downstairs as quick as you could, you didn’t want to leave whoever was the door wait out in the rain for long. You opened the door to see quite a familiar face.

“Race? What are you doing here?”

“Ise was in the neighborhood, and got caught in the rain.” “Oh my god, well come in! Don’t just stand there!” You ushered him in and lead him to the parlor. You went to grab a towel for him and took out some soup for him. When you came back he seemed smaller and kind of uncomfortable as he looked around. You handed him the towel and offered him a seat.

“Here, dry yourself off and have a seat, I’ve got some soup I’m about to put on to keep you from getting sick.” “Wow, thanks, youse uh, didn’t need to do all this ya, know. Ise wasn’t out in the rain for more than 5 minutes.” “Race, your shivering. I’m getting you that soup.” You got up to go back into the kitchen to make the soup. It was simple enough and ready quickly, you let it cool only a bit before bringing it to Race.

“Here, eat.”

“Alright boss, I’m eatin.” He ate the soup and stopped shivering.

“So, what brings you out here?” You sat next to him as he ate. “Ise was doing what you do, takin a walk.”

“And you just so happened to end up here?” “I did, as a matter o fact.”

“I guess rainy days are our special days, huh?” “How do ya mean?” “We met on a rainy day, and today, another rainy day, was our first kiss and now here you are.” “I guess youse is right.” “When am I wrong?” You smiled and leaned into him. He brought his slightly damp arm around you, pulling you closer to him.

“You’re so warm doll, like a heated blanket, care to warm me up?” “Sure.” You pushed Race down on the sofa and climbed on top of him, splaying yourself over him to warm him up.

“Hey, how many times do I gotta thank you for everything you do? Cuz I’m thankin youse again.”

“I’m not sure Race, all I know is that I’m never going to stop helping you, so maybe that means you’ll never stop thanking me.” “I can see the headline now, ‘man thanks himself to death’.” “And do tell, what’s the actual headline?”

“Annoda stinkin article on Roosevelt.”