#so i was familiar with everyone & everyday there would be something new & funny to discuss with my bestie who lives far away now -_-

[derpinette]

i miss going to school because i always knew everybody's business but nobody knew mine due to being a huge loser. & it ruled

[ponymkup]

365 reasons why I love you:

1. You make my soul tingle.

2. We clicked instantly.

3. You felt so familiar to me, like an old friend that I haven’t met in a long while and we were just catching up with our lives.

4. We had a lot to catch up on.

5. We can talk about anything and everything. (Well, maybe except for exes and you respect my decision about not discussing about them too much since I dislike the topic)

6. Talking to you is fun, mind stimulating and entertaining.

7. I feel the need to reply to you quickly because I like talking to you.

8. We can talk for hours on end and it’s not boring.

9. You talk to me everyday.

10. You don’t leave me on read for days on end.

11. You always respond to me as quickly as possible.

12. I don’t dread our conversations because you’re not draining.

13. Getting to know you was (still is) a fun journey.

14. I like your perspectives on life, they are refreshing.

15. Your thoughts are interesting.

16. I love how your brain works.

17. Our silences are comfortable too.

18. I like resting beside you and doing nothing except holding each other and enjoying each other’s presence.

19. You are so amiable.

20. You send memes all the time.

21. And memes is your love language, that means you show me your love all the time.

22. Your endless supply of memes that makes me chuckle/smile.

23. The tiktok videos spam never fails to brighten up my day.

24. You respect my boundaries.

25. You listen to me well.

26. Whenever possible, you try to avoid actions/behaviours that would upset me.

27. You are so patient with me.

28. You answer all my questions even though I ask a lot.

29. You explain things well so that I can understand.

30. I like hearing your thought process and explanations.

31. You are honest.

32. I can ask you for your opinions and advice and you don’t sugarcoat your answers

33. You are forgiving.

34. You are understanding and always listen to my side of the story.

35. You accept me, flaws and all.

36. You chose me out of everyone else.

37. You ask questions about me.

38. You want to learn about my past.

39. The way you think silly, childish and bratty young Hyemin is cute and funny after you hear my embarrassing stories.

40. You want to hear updates about my day.

41. I love how you check in on me to make sure that I am feeling okay.

42. You like to make me happy.

43. And you do make me happy. It’s so easy to be happy with you around.

44. You give the best kisses.

45. Your hugs are heartwarming.

46. You spoil me often.

47. You buy things for me that I like, like make up, plushies and food.

48. You feed me even when I’m physically not around you by delivering food to me.

49. You miss me.

50. You’re not afraid to tell me you miss me.

51. You can be vulnerable with me.

52. You talk about your feelings with me.

53. You’re open to deep conversations.

54. You like talking about lighthearted things too.

55. You don’t put a wall between us.

56. Our conversations are the highlight of my days.

57. We can go through many topics in our conversations, from serious to silly, and that’s what I look forward to daily because I always wonder how our next conversation would go.

58. Wednesdays and weekends are (now were) the highlights of my week because I get to be with you.

59. Other days too, whenever I get to see you, it is a good day.

60. You like hanging out with me.

61. You’re so clingy just like me.

62. We are so similar in many ways.

63. I like how we understand each other deeply.

64. The deep understanding makes us love each other better.

65. You always want to be around me.

66. You are good company.

67. It’s always fun with you around.

68. Whenever I do something fun, I long for you to be with me.

69. I want to share many fun experiences with you.

70. I like making new memories with you.

71. You invite me to sleep over often.

72. Your sleepy face is really cute.

73. I like sleeping in your arms.

74. Sometimes you snore when you’re exhausted and it’s really cute.

75. Sleep is better with you by my side.

76. You are more effective than melatonin.

77. You tell me about your dreams.

78. You are warm.

79. You smell nice.

80. I want to be in your arms forever.

81. You react cutely when I play “Don’t Wake The Baby” whenever we sleep in.

82. I like waking up with you next to me.

83. Your deep sleepy voice makes me melt.

84. Morning sex with you is the best way to wake up.

85. Late night sex with you is the best way to sleep.

86. I like how comfy your PJs are.

87. I like how you don’t wear PJs to sleep sometimes.

88. You take showers with me.

89. I love feeling your hands on me when you scrub my body.

90. You let me watch you whenever you take showers.

91. You tell me if you had a good pooping session.

92. You ask me about my pooping sessions and make sure my digestive system is doing alright.

93. You take bubble baths with me.

94. We make love often.

95. You know how to satisfy me.

96. We are both perverts.

97. We have this game of touching each other inappropriately even in public. ㅋㅋ

98. You can turn me on so easily, with just a picture or even with your words.

99. You are so incredibly sexy.

100. You are so incredibly cute too.

101. You are such a tease.

102. I am weak for you.

103. You work out with me. 히히

104. You know how to make me feel good.

105. You send me dick pics even though taking them is risky.

106. You drew a smiley on your dick just for me.

107. You drew on your butt cheek just for me too.

108. Your scrotum mole.

109. Your beauty spots.

110. How we have matching cheek moles (on our faces).

111. How possessive you are.

112. And how you don’t mind that I am possessive too.

113. The way you remind me that I’m yours and only yours.

114. And how you assure me that you’re mine and only mine.

115. You give me the freedom to go out with my friends and do whatever I like.

116. The way you can quiet down the noise in my head when I’m overthinking.

117. You trust me.

118. I know I can trust you.

119. You are reliable.

120. Your broad shoulders that I like to rest on.

121. I can lean on you when times are rough.

122. You give the best massages when I need them.

123. You have lovely hands.

124. Your long fingers are magical too—

125. You cut your nails short.

126. You share your sensory spa sessions with me.

127. You share your weighted blanket with me.

128. You make me feel special.

129. You still give me butterflies after all this time.

130. You are responsible.

131. You are kind.

132. You are a good friend.

133. You’re family oriented.

134. You take good care of the people around you, especially your loved ones.

135. You are so caring.

136. You are so loving.

137. I know you’ll take good care of our little family.(It’s not that little actually, we have 8 pets but I love it)

138. You are a man of your word.

139. You are manly.

140. A manly man who loves stuffed toys is cute.

141. You share your stuffed toy collection with me.

142. You share many of your personal belongings with me, mainly your clothes.

143. You let me steal them even though there are some that you really like.

144. Your clothes are so comfy.

145. You take care of your babies well.

146. You are a good catdad.

147. You are a good dragondad too.

148. You love my babies like your own.

149. The way you talk to our babies. It’s adorable.

150. Your gentle scoldings when they are misbehaving.

151. How you comfort them if they seem sad.

152. The way you spoil them with treats and toys.

153. When you run around and play with them, making sure that they are entertained and happy.

154. How you only want the best for our babies.

155. You are a good pupdad to Choomie.

156. How you allow Choomie to join us on our long walks.

157. You holding both my hand and the leash. It’s a small gesture but it feels protective somehow.

158. When you carry Choomie back from walks.

159. You are so gentle and loving with babies.

160. You take care of your biggest baby (me) so well.

161. You are a good boyfriend.

162. You are a gentleman, you open doors for me.

163. You soothe my anxiety by giving me reassurance whenever I need it.

164. We can rely on each other for support and comfort.

165. It feels like we are team players in this game of life.

166. Spending the rest of my life with you is going to be so fun, I just know it and I can’t wait to see what life has in store for us.

167. You try your best for us.

168. You’re an animal lover.

169. Even though you’re scared of large animals, which I find endearing.

170. You hold my hand tight when we experience turbulence on the airplane.

171. Trips with you are so healing and fun, sometimes too fun that it leaves me with a gaping hole when we come back. ㅋㅋ

172. I like how we both get post vacation blues.

173. Traveling with you is a good break from reality and I can’t wait to see more of the world with you.

174. How you patiently wait for me to snap pictures before we indulge in our food.

175. You feed me often and make my tummy happy.

176. You are so brave.

177. You can be spontaneous at times.

178. You are open to new experiences.

179. You tell me about what’s going on in your life and include me in it.

180. You include me in your family gatherings.

181. You let me meet everyone in your family even your baby nieces.

182. I love how gentle and affectionate you are with your baby nieces.

183. Your shy grin. It makes me feel accomplished when I can make you shy.

184. And it usually happens when we talk about pegging.

185. I like pegging you.

186. Your moans whenever I get to peg you.

187. You are such a good boy.

188. How it is not easy to make you blush even though you make me blush so easily.

189. The way you admire the sea and the waves.

190. You look like a mermaid when you’re in water.

191. The way you are amazed by nature when we are surrounded by it.

192. Your little cute pouts. It makes me want to snog you so badly.

193. Whenever you snuggle up close to me when you’re still in dream land.

194. How you can pull of many different hair colours (I still want to see pink in real life and not just in pictures—)

195. Your smooth, shaved (ㅋㅋㅋㅋ) skin against mine.

196. You tell me that you want to shave your pubes into a heart shape for me.

197. Your gentle nuzzles.

198. I like it when you bury your face in my chest.

199. How you love my boobs unconditionally.

200. The way you care for your friends and go out of your way to make them happy or cared for.

201. How you never forgot me despite the one year absence.

202. You always remind me that I deserve good things.

203. You are my good thing.

204. Your knowledge about Avatar.

205. The way you spazz about Avatar-related news.

206. The way you patiently explain about anything Avatar-related so that I’m up to speed.

207. You bought for me Avatar-themed makeup.

208. How you trusted your gut, went against the naysayers and allowed us to happen.

209. How you tell me that I shouldn’t go through things alone and that we can be scared together.

210. You greeted me at the airport and gave me flowers when I came home from a business trip.

211. You didn’t care that there were people around, you kissed me in front of the arrival gates like you couldn’t help it.

212. Your obsession with Lego.

213. You surprised with me Lego flowers that you built all by yourself.

214. How we build Legos together.

215. The way you look so focused when building them.

216. How you get so excited about new Lego releases.

217. How you get excited over Avatar-related things too.

218. The way our hands fit together.

219. The way our bodies fit together.

220. You allow me to be in your purrsonal space.

221. How you like my cat puns.

222. How you speak in cat puns too. That’s really sexy.

223. You are so punny.

224. You are so funny too.

225. You make me laugh so easily.

226. You have a great sense of humour.

227. Your support. It makes all the hard work worth it.

228. You work hard too.

229. You’re so independent.

230. You are inspiring.

231. When you tell me that I inspire you everyday.

232. When you tell me that you are proud of me.

233. I am proud of you.

234. How respectful and polite you are to my mother.

235. You bought my mom a gift.

236. My mom loves you.

237. How you share YouTube channels that you are currently watch.

238. MrBallen marathons with you.

239. You ask me to be your plus one when you get invitations.

240. You want to introduce me to your friends.

241. How we share animal/cat videos often.

242. The way we are planning our future together.

243. When you tell me you can’t wait to marry me.

244. How we are both looking forward to our adventures.

245. The way you can read my thoughts.

246. When you know what I want to say when I start off with “Baby”.

247. When you say “I love you too” even before I said it myself.

248. The way you know me so well.

249. You are my best friend.

250. You feel like home, you make me feel safe and secure.

251. We are both learning to be better partners everyday.

252. How my oversized hoodies and shirts fit you.

253. The way they smell like you after you borrow them.

254. Your cute complaints after you find that I’ve been stealing your clothes again.

255. When you tell me those three words daily.

256. When you show me your love through your actions and supplement them with those words.

257. The fact that we found each other again.

258. You are like the first cup of coffee in the morning, you make my soul feel alive.

259. You are my soulmate.

260. You are my quackquack.

261. Your fascination with duckies.

262. Your fascination with frogs.

263. How you are my boyfrog to my girlfrog.

264. Our matching headers and display names.

265. You cook for me.

266. You are a good chef.

267. How you are obsessed with tomatoes/cherry tomatoes.

268. When we discuss about our future wedding/home.

269. The random proposals.

270. You saying yes to my random proposals.

271. When you tell me you want to spend forever with me.

272. When you tell me how excited to you are to be my husband and how you can’t wait for me to be your wife.

273. How you show me things that I’ve already seen. It shows that our algorithms have matched.

274. You know so many languages. What a sexy polyglot.

275. When you speak in a different tongue and I can barely understand what you are saying but it’s still sexy somehow.

276. I am so whipped for you.

277. Your buns are whippable—

278. You are so smart.

279. How good you are at games. You beat me in most things.

280. You introduced me to the chaos that is Plato.

281. We played Battleship and even though it seems like I’m winning sometimes, you always end up sinking all my ships first!!!

282. How you get so mad at me for throwing in the towel when you are clearly winning. ㅎㅎ

283. How we used to laugh while playing mini golf on Plato because we are so bad at it.

284. The way we end up not playing mini golf seriously and just try to knock each other’s balls into the water or away from the hole instead of aiming for it.

285. How you don’t get mad if I win you in Ocho… not too much at least.

286. You used your baby picture to guilt trip me so that I wouldn’t let you lose. ㅋㅋㅋ

287. Your baby pictures are cute.

288. Your dumbo-like ears.

289. Your yummy cheeks (face and non-face).

290. You introduced me to Zepeto.

291. You like having matching outfits in both Zepeto.

292. You give me gifts on Zepeto.

293. You’re not ashamed to wear matching items with me in real life.

294. When you teach me how to play certain games or new phrases in another language.

295. The way you teach.

296. You are a great teacher.

297. You are dedicated.

298. Your weekly uploads.

299. You have a lot of great ideas.

300. You teach Korean in an unconventional way and it motivates me to be creative with my makeup tutorials too.

301. You watch my makeup tutorials even though you don’t wear cosmetics.

302. You watch the show I was featured in even though it’s not something you’re interested in.

303. How hot yet cute you look in glasses.

304. Do not get me started on you in suits. You look like a present in suits and I can’t wait to unwrap you—

305. You look adorable in my oversized hoodies.

306. The way you let me feel my feelings and tell me not to apologise for them.

307. You let me be myself.

308. The songs you’ve played for me. Whenever I hear them, it makes me warm.

309. Your voice.

310. The way your pretty fingers dance on the keyboard.

311. You can play the piano.

312. You are very cool.

313. You constantly want to be better.

314. You have a black belt in Hapkido.

315. You would Hapkido anyone who tried to be funny with me.

316. You know Judo too.

317. How you want to be the best in everything that you do in life.

318. How you won’t settle for anything less.

319. You work hard in your hobbies too and it shows.

320. You don’t give up easily.

321. The way you remind me to take care of myself and take it easy when I’m busy.

322. When you send coffee or sweet things when I’m busy or having a rough day because you know I have a sweet tooth.

323. How you take care of me when I don’t feel well.

324. You taking over Choomie’s walks when I can’t do it myself.

325. How you stay next to me even when I’m sick and not fun at all.

326. The way you would think and consider things in every angle before coming to a decision.

327. You discuss with me and consult me before making decisions. It makes me feel included.

328. You are very thoughtful.

329. You look handsome everyday.

330. You look cute even with your bed head and puffy face.

331. You know just what to say in order to comfort me.

332. You hold my hand whenever I feel nervous and it calms me down.

333. You are a sweetheart.

334. The sounds you make while eating which is strange considering I don’t like eating ASMR.

335. The way you eat makes things look extra delicious, I swear.

336. The way you eat me—

337. You have a talented tongue.

338. You have great lips too.

339. I like kissing your lips, but my favourite is your plump lower lip.

340. I like kissing on other areas of your body too.

341. You are beautiful, inside and out.

342. I can be weird with you and you don’t judge me for it.

343. I love how you don’t mind taking 294729472 photos with me when we go on trips/dates.

344. We looks great together.

345. You live in my mind rent free.

346. You willingly give me kisses when I jokingly demand for them as payments for anything I do for you.

347. The bond we have was not broken by distance or time, it’s still there even after all this time.

348. I feel comfortable around you.

349. You are in touch with your feelings and you’re not afraid to show it.

350. Seeing your progress and accomplishments over the years makes me the proudest girlfrog ever.

351. You spend quality time with me.

352. You don’t complain even though I take long to get ready for our date nights.

353. The way you stare at me after I’m done dolling up and I’m ready to go out.

354. Your sexy stare which makes me shy.

355. How you look at me when I wear lingerie for you.

356. How you are obsessed with Mario and the way your face lights up when we went to Super Nintendo world.

357. You love Thai cuisine as much as I do.

358. You would sacrifice your life for me and your loved ones.

359. I love running my fingers through your fluffy hair, it calms me.

360. The way you are enigmatic and give me difficult hints that I can’t guess your surprises.

361. The way you lift me up from the ground when we hug because of our height difference.

362. You are in this for the long haul.

363. I feel you are the right one for me.

364. You want to have matching rings with me.

365. You are my dream come true.

[ddarker-dreams]

what they love about you / scarlet ribbons.

[Scarlet Ribbons description]

Bruno Bucciarati;

Bruno loves your optimism.

It isn’t an exaggeration to say that the world he’s lived in hardened his heart. He wants to do the right thing, but sometimes it simply isn’t an option. Parts of him have become jaded without him wanting that. He still has compassion, but he’s more realistic about it. Gone is a child with starry eyes and idealism, replaced by a man forced to grow up.

It hurts when you get a taste of the real world for the first time. He’s mature about giving you advice on how to cope with the business you’re involved in, having experienced it himself. When you processed your emotions and still had that glimmer of hope in your eyes, he was enamored.

Bruno starts wanting to protect that more positive side of you. He’s seen too many people with that quality — including himself to some degree — lose that zest for life. This leads him to humor you more than he would anyone else. Bruno has a big ol soft spot for you and it’s pretty obvious 🥺...

Giorno Giovanna;

Giorno loves your enthusiasm.

He’s already a person with a strong drive, so seeing your level of motivation to get stuff done felt refreshing. Giorno wasn’t entirely sure what to think of you at first. He figures that if Bucciarati trusted you, you must be a reliable person, even if not looking like it initially.

When in casual situations, he gets to learn your interests. Watching you passionately explain different topics is endearing. Giorno hasn’t had a lot of time to explore hobbies himself, but listening to you go over how your work and what makes them unique feels nice. Almost like a part of his life that he has missed out on in pursuit of his dream.

There are rare instances where Giorno can feel burnt out. The burdens of life are many, but you help relieve him of them. He’ll seek you out when he’s feeling this way, asking you questions that’ll get you talking the most. Anything to get that reinvigorating feeling that comes with speaking to you. The topic itself doesn’t matter, as long as the two of you are engaged in conversation over it.

Guido Mista; 

Mista loves your wit.

This guy needs to have intriguing conversation. It just pops up naturally, no matter who he is talking to, though it depends on whether or not they indulge him. You follow his sometimes crazy narratives and return them with a similar energy, making for lots of fun memories. Anytime Mista has a new concept on his mind that he wants to explore, he’s making a beeline to you.

Mista knows that he can text you the dumbest shit and loves it. Even when it’s an unholy hour in the morning, you’ll send one another garbage you find funny. He has a lot of inside jokes with you. Mista will randomly bring them up to you just to see you laugh. It feels like a godsend every time you smile!!

When it’s necessary, he’s down to discuss more serious things. While he might not look it, Mista has wisdom of his own, and can offer valuable insight. It’s normally on accident however. He’ll give a random idea to solve a problem you’re having, and be surprised if it actually helps lmao. He’s just !!! Wow I did it!

Pannacotta Fugo;

Fugo loves your contagious joy.

Logic is the works that Fugo is most familiar with. So when you bounce in with a whirlwind of emotional sentiments, he was taken aback. It started to grow on him. You were capable of toning it down when necessary, seperating work and play, which he could appreciate.

It’s more difficult for him to blow up with anger when you’re around. When you’re just being yourself, it’s enough to diffuse the situation without getting violent. Even more so when you intentionally try to rope Fugo into actions/conversations that’ll take his mind off what’s upsetting him at the time. He doesn’t say it a lot, but he appreciates this about you.

You make him smile more than anyone else can! He’s more inclined to go along with shenanigans if he knows you’re involved with them somehow. The last thing Fugo wants is for you to think he’s a stick in the mud, he’s capable of toning down when the setting is right for it. You bring out the best in him and he’s addicted to it.

Narancia Ghirga;

Narancia loves your energy.

Finally!! Someone that doesn’t sigh when he’s excited, or belittles him for his interests. Narancia feels like you get him. The two of you mesh together well, like two peas in a pod. Whenever he sees something cool, he makes a mental note to talk to you about it! It makes him all giddy to think about talking to you again.

Whenever there’s a shared day off between you two, it’s normal for Narancia to pop up. He wants to show you the latest music that caught his eye. Don’t worry, he’ll also listen to the genres you like as well!! He’d 100% make a playlist of songs that remind him of you, but might be a little too embarrassed to show it. Maybe eventually...

It’s a rule that the two of you shouldn’t be left together unchecked for too long. He’ll end up convincing you to use your Stand for random purposes, for both of yours entertainment. Which isn’t bad by itself, but the ideas he has often come at the expense of the other members, namely Fugo.

Leone Abbacchio; 

Abbacchio loves your persistence.

As soon as he joined Bucciarati’s team, he made of point of being distant. To you and everyone else. Not out of any ill will, but he had a lot of emotions and trauma to work through. When you spoke to him he was polite enough to honor you with a brief response, but that was about it. So when you started speaking to him on a casual basis he didn’t know what to make of it.

Even when he tried to get you to leave him alone, it didn’t work. When you truly felt he needed the space — you’d give it — otherwise you’d be a thorn in his side. Asking about his day, if he got enough sleep, what he was planning to do this weekend. None of this pertained to Passione business, so he didn’t see the point.

Reflecting back on this time period had him realizing how much he’d look forward to seeing you everyday. Your bright smile put him at ease, and you coming over to talk to him became less of a hassle. This grace only extends to you, he still prefers to keep others at an arms length. But you... you managed to worm your way into his supposed bitter heart.

Trish Una;

Trish loves your empathy.

She latched onto you from the start. It was subtle at first, just her paying more attention when you spoke, and sitting closer to you when travelling. Trish had a lot on her mind at the time — and she tried to act indifferent towards everyone.

When you started speaking to her like a long time friend, the walls around her began to crumble. It wear clear to everyone else in the team who she favored speaking to the most. If there were no threats at the time, the two of you would sit close to one another and talk for hours. There was even one instance where she fell asleep on your shoulder inside the turtle. :’)

The casual interactions have meant a lot to her. It gave a sense of normalcy during a turbulent time in her life, she was able to escape her situation when talking to you, even if it was just for a bit. She likes talking about fashion with you the most. When the other members are hogging your attention for too long, she gets a sour look on her face.

[dadoroki]

Reminder [2]

Dabi x F!Reader x Hawks

Warnings: violence, fluff, swearing

Description: After many years, a familiar face decides to make an unexpected visit at your house before your date with Hawks.

[Part 1] [Part 2] [Part 3]

“Hey, you’re the kid that almost died right? I’m Keigo. But they want us to use our hero names so I’m Hawks. But call me Keigo when they’re not around. You’re actually really pretty.”

Boy, did this kid talk a lot. Everyday he’d come up to you, blabbering about some unimportant thing that you had no interest in. One day, something Keigo said had actually caught your attention. “Yo, so I heard there’s gonna be some new kid but he’s not gonna stay here. He’s only here for ‘extra’ training cause his dad teaches him...”

His voice began to trail away from existence as you were met in your own world. This was the first time you’d be meeting another kid who hopefully wasn’t the bland bunch around you, aside from Keigo of course. Curiosity started to fill your mind, excitement slowly rising as you counted down the days.

And here he was, standing right next to his famed father, Endevour. The boy was shy and avoided eye contact with you and the talkative kid beside you. You shamelessly gawked at the boy while Keigo jumped in joy, seeing his favourite hero infront of him.

You were too young, too naive to know what love was. But in that moment, that’s what you thought you felt. Your stomach was filled with butterflies. The boy was like a dream and you swore he looked like a prince in shining armor.

Your confidence rose, walking up to the boy and forcing him to look you in the eyes. Your little hands reached for his and held them tightly. “Hi! You must be Touya. I’m Y/N. You’re my boyfriend now.” Even at that age, you were a flirt. Maybe a little too bold but you still had much to learn.

Touya became flustered, his small cheeks blushing pink. He began to stutter but was interrupted by Keigo ripping your hands apart.

“Hey! You never said that to me!”

You were too distracted, admiring the new boy and that only made Keigo grow more jealous.

“Y/N, pay attention to me!”

“Y/N!”

Your focus went back to Hawks’s irked voice. These days, you couldn’t help but think back to when times were easier. Times where you didn’t have to care about your image, being able to live life freely.

“Yeah, sorry. What were you saying, Keigo?” You dried your hair, exiting the bathroom with nothing but a red robe tied around your body. You struggled to keep your phone between your cheek and shoulder as the man chattered his life away.

Hawks had dialed you to discuss your upcoming “date”. After initiating the hero plan against the villains, Hawks’s heroic face had been plastered on multiple cover pages of magazines, newspapers, and news outlets. The minute they came out published, Hawks had spammed you with multiple calls and messages to rub it in your face, reminding you of the public bet you lost. Unfortunately for you, you always kept your word.

“Yeah, I know.” You reassured the winged-hero, rolling your eyes in annoyance. You made your way to the kitchen, placing your phone and towel on the counter and snatching a bag of chips from the pantry. Sensing a presence within you, your movement came to a cautious halt. You didn’t spare a glance at the figure sitting on your living room couch, already knowing who it was. “Give me a second, Keigo.”

The good thing about Hawks was that he could always sense when something was off. He heard your sudden switch in tone and didn’t question you, muting himself but still listening to your line. You tossed your bag of chips back to it’s original place, walking around the kitchen island.

Reaching up the cupboard, you got two glasses and a half empty bottle of red wine, making your way to the shaded man. The room was dark with the dim lamp barely making him visible to the eye. “You know, it’s funny. I didn’t even recognize you.” You placed the two shiny glasses on the table and poured him and yourself a drink.

You sat on the opposite side and crossed your legs. When you first encountered Dabi, you didn’t really care much for him. But the more you examined his face, the more it felt familiar, even with the burns and staples. “How could I even forget you or those bright cyan eyes?” He didn’t say anything, keeping his eyes on nothing but you.

The lack of communication caused you to pout. Being greeted with open arms was what you expected but this was far from it. You took a sip of your red wine and twirled the glass in a circle, watching it spin like ocean waves. “Not gonna talk? Fine.”

You placed your glass next to his untouched one and repositioned yourself to lean closer to him. “So you side with the villains now, hm?”

Dabi concentrated on your words that were faint in a whisper, barely even audible.

“What would your father say about that, Touya?”

The mention of Endevour sparked the memory of a buried past and ignited a flame filled with hatred in him. He quickly pushed himself up, throwing an immense amount of flame at you. But you knew him too well. You were quick to sense his move and you forced upon a huge gust of wind, ricocheting the fire back to him.

From the other line, Hawks could hear the loud chaos. “Y/N, is everything ok? What’s happening?” He couldn’t figure out what you were saying earlier, as the whole conversation was mumbled.

Smoke was everywhere and you struggled to keep your eyes opened. “Yeah, I’m fine...” You coughed and rapidly blinked to keep the toxic gas from entering your eyes. A huge hole in your living room wall was newly formed with no Dabi to be found. So much for moving in. “But my house isn’t.”

You could say your date started early. Hawks had offered you a place in his house to stay while your’s was under construction. Being the gentleman he was, he offered you his room and that he’d sleep on the couch. But of course, he originally insisted on sleeping in the same bed. He would pester you from time to time, asking what happened and you never told him.

The day of your date, you walked the busy streets of Musutafu together. As expected, many fans surrounded you both and bombarded with questions. Hawks had held a conversation with you while impressively aiding civilians in need of help.

“You just love to show off, don’t you?”

“Can’t help it, babe. It’s my specialty and when we’re officially together, I’ll be sure to show you off too.”

A young boy rushed towards you, tugging on your black cape. “Storm! Storm! I’m a huge fan! Can I please get a picture?!” You crouched to match the same level as the kid. “Of course!”

His mother thanked you as you squeezed the boy in a tight hug, kissing his cute chubby cheek. He giggled in happiness and his mom snapped the picture. Hawks walked up to the kid, teasingly patting his head. “Woah now, kiddo. Don’t go stealing my lady now, ya’ hear?”

Hawks was immediately pulled away by you, as you thanked the fans and left in a hurry. “I can never do anything without you being jealous. Don’t you get enough attention?” He smiled and held the restaurant door open, waiting for you to get inside. “It only matters when the attention comes from you.”

The two of you were guided to your table with Hawks on his best behaviour, making sure to pull out the chair for you. They brought out the yakitori and you both conversated about just everything and honestly, you really enjoyed talking to him.

“Oh, if you aren’t gonna have anymore, can I have it?” Hawks asked, pointing at the last chicken skewers. You nodded and watched him gladly take it. “I just have no self-control when it comes to the things I want.” He took a bite and smirked at you. “You should know by now.”

Since when did Hawks become good at flirting? From the beginning, he knew damn well that he wanted you but it was a struggle. It was a struggle to even get you interested in him and now, he finally had the girl of his dreams on a date with him. Hawks was found attractive by many. He could have any girl in the world but none could compare to you.

“Oh, that reminds me. I almost forgot!” His eyes popped out in realization and he dug into his baggy pants, pulling out a small white box and handing it to you. You stared at the box and he began to grow impatient. “What are you waiting for? Open it.”

You removed the lid of the box, revealing a silver tiara-shaped ring. You were in awe and slid it on your ring finger. Hawks smiled in joy, happy that you loved the gift. The ring was beautiful and you couldn’t help but move your hand around, watching the ring sparkle in every direction you went. “Hawks, this is beautiful.”

He smirked and crossed his arms. “I know. That’s because I chose it.” You laughed and admired the shiny ring. It wasn’t a surprise that he chose a crown-shaped ring because he always saw you as a princess. “And don’t worry...” He continued. “One day, I’ll replace that promise ring with a wedding ring.”

You turned your head with eyes shut in embarrassment, as he laughed at your shocked reaction. He waited for you to speak but your eyes remained closed with your eyebrows furrowed. You felt something was off and just by your reaction, Hawks felt the same. He glanced outside to what seemed to be a normal day. “Y/N...”

“Here are your drinks-” The waitress came smiling and you quickly opened your eyes, returning to your surroundings. “Hawks!” You yelled and he quickly got the message. “Get back, Miss!” A dark flying creature smashed it’s way through the window but you were quick to jump out of the way. The woman screamed and Hawks held her in a protective hold. The creature stared at you with dark piercing eyes.

Seeing that you were it’s target, you matched it’s stare and brushed the fallen dust off your nose. “Hawks, evacuate everyone now!”

“But what about you?” He asked worried.

Your eyes began to glow pearl white as you gradually activated your quirk. “You’re forgetting that we’re heroes, Hawks. I’ll be fine.”

He was hesitant but nodded. You returned your gaze back to the strange creature. With all the collected power, you gave it a strong hook kick to the chest, supported by a huge amount of wind that sent it flying out from where it came from. “I can never seem to catch a fucking break, can I?”

You ran and jumped down from the high story building. Hawks was worried. Not about you losing the expensive ring. Dramatically speaking, it did almost cost him a quarter of his bank account. But he was more so worried about you. He knew very well that you were capable of handling this on your own but the thought of you getting seriously injured made him anxious.

You glided your way down to the falling High-End Nomu, sending and shooting electrical charges at it. The lightning strikes gave you enough time to build up wind power. You were close to ground so you used up all your stored power and sent it to your leg, giving the High-End Nomu a hard stomp to the face on your way down to the empty road.

You released your leg to see the High-End Nomu’s head now entirely crushed. You tried to catch your breath and looked around. Screams were coming from all directions. Civilians tried to escape the chaotic scene but were blocked by multiple Nomus. Your eyes glowed as you raised your hands to the sky that slowly turned into dark clouds. Violent lightning began to appear and striked the Nomus left to right, killing them and giving the citizens enough time to flee.

The distraction caused the High-End Nomu under you to regenerate quickly without you knowing and you felt a hard punch to your stomach, sending you flying up in the air. Your ribs were for sure injured by now, if not broken.

The pain was highly effective and you struggled to keep your balance in mid-air. You didn’t have the strength to gain wind momentum but thankfully, strong arms grasped you tightly. You looked up to see the same annoying arrogant smirk. “Looks like I caught you just in time.”

You groaned and held your ribs. This was not the time to joke around and you definitely weren’t in the mood. “Keigo, give me a boost.” He gazed down at you before getting ready. “Whatever you say, darling.”

Hawks threw you towards ground level, giving you the speed you needed. You shot lightning towards the High-End Nomu but with each strike, it was quick enough to dodge them. You snarled in dissatisfaction and with all the energy you had left, you attempted to give the creature another kick. It was too quick, grabbing you by the ankle and smashing you to the ground.

The harsh impact made you dizzy and gasping for air. The monster was about to finish you off with one last punch before being cremated by hot blue flames. You heavily breathed and held your ribs, rising up to gaze at the figure that you wished wasn’t there.

The streets were packed with dust and smoke but Dabi was able to see you clearly. “Well won’t you look at that. You’re still fighting.” Blood was dripping down from your forehead and lower left eye. Your hero attire was ripped in some parts. But even with the damage, you still remained flawless. He smirked and walked closer to you. “Just like the Y/N I remembered.”

You limped towards him with an angry expression. He had no right to come here, let alone ‘save’ you. He wasn’t the Touya you knew. This wasn’t Touya at all. You didn’t have enough power to use your quirk but you did have enough power to physically punch him.

Or not.

You fell midway but he caught you with a tight grip on your chin. The pain from your body was taking over and you were struggling to stay awake. Dabi looked down at you with pity, pulling you up. “Dying on me now, Y/N? But we barely got to talk.”

You stayed silent, blinking as much as you could to keep you from fainting. A tiny light was shining brightly and Dabi looked down to your hand, only to see a ring displayed on your ring finger. He grabbed your hand and examined it. “That little chicken bastard gave this to you?” You didn’t respond and faded off, pissing Dabi off even more. He snatched the item off your finger and tightened his grip on your chin. “What do you see in him that you don’t see in me? You remember your promise, don’t you?”

“Touya?”

The boy flinched at the sudden call of his name. Your soft voice echoed in the room and the sound of your footsteps gradually got closer. You sat infront of him with crossed legs and scooted closer to him. “Touya, what’s the matter?”

“It’s okay. Everything’s okay. Just go back to Keigo.”

“I don’t wanna see Keigo. I came to see you.”

Your eyes softened, analyzing all the scars and burns of the boy’s body. He hid them behind layers and layers of gauze and you never noticed how much pain he put himself through. You spent most of your time with Keigo and unintentionally pushed Touya away.

You pulled the boy closer in a hug, never wanting to let go. “I’m sorry, Touya. Keigo told me he was feeling left out so I wanted to spend time with him.” Touya was about to speak but closed his mouth, letting you continue.

“I promise to put you first before anything. I promise I’ll always protect you and stay by your side. I promise that one day when you ask me to be your girlfriend or wife, I’ll always say yes. We can be heroes and be together like we imagined.”

Touya was young and kids always had their own wild imaginations of the future. Always having their own crazy perception in life. It was a know fact that you and the boy had strong feelings for eachother. Even at that age, Touya knew he wanted to be with you. For you to become his girlfriend. To become his wife.

He also knew his ‘disappearance’ had to be done. He was sad that he had to keep that secret from you but it was only to keep you safe. It was what he had to do. It would be a while before he could see you again.

“You promise, Y/N?”

“Always.”

“How’d that turn out?” Dabi watched you with eyes full of pain and you did nothing but stare at the ground. Words couldn’t leave your mouth as the memories were too much to handle. Finally, you had the courage to look up to him. “I could never love you. Not like this.”

Those words struck Dabi like an arrow to the heart and he tried to mask the hurt from his face. He slowly pushed you away from him. He stared at you and internally fought with himself, trying to bring himself to hate you, to want to kill you but he couldn’t.

He sighed and his eyes softened, lightly stroking your scratched cheek. “Even if I tried, I could never hurt you. You know how much pain you bring to me?”

Red feathers pierced Dabi’s back, causing him to yell in pain. He released his grip on your chin and before you could fall, Hawks dived in and swooped you into his arms, flying upwards.

“Am I too late to the party?” He jokingly laughed until he realized your unconscious state. Full protective mode was now on and he gathered his feathers back, zooming as fast as he could to the nearest hospital. “Don’t you dare die on me, Y/N. Not now, not ever.”

Dabi plucked the last feather out of his back, furiously throwing it to the ground and getting ready to burn it before it quickly flew up to Hawks. The High-End Nomu fully regenerated and Dabi watched as the winged-hero had you wrapped around his arms. He pulled out the ring he stole from you and stared at it.

“I’m gonna kill you, Keigo Takami. Even if I die trying or in the process of it all. If it’s the last thing I do.”

[somestansomewhere]

Frank’s Dementia in 11a

Points to discuss:

Moments where Frank forgot.

Things he might be able to remember.

Other characters finding out.

Aftermath...

So to start of, I made a list of every instance in SEASON ELEVEN A, where Frank’s memory seemed a bit off, I’m not gonna analyze the whole series for this but I’m sure there’s more there. Now:

Moments Where Frank Forgot

11x01

1. Frank’s History of Chicago

While this does appear to imply just the opening monologue, there are actually several moments throughout the episode where Frank is talking about the Gallagher’s running Chicago to Alan. And while this seems like typical “Frank being drunk nonsense”, plus a spectacular opening to the season... I now see it in a different light especially after:

2. Frank’s Memory Elixir

Frank LITERALLY has a line asking for “memory elixir”, meaning booze, which Alan hands him. Ironic since he has ALCOHOLIC DEMENTIA. You can’t tell me that wasn’t intentional!

3. He Forgot Bars Were Closed

Now, I may be reaching here... BUT when Frank enters The Alibi for the first time this season (what a grand enterence btw) he says “I heard somewhere all bars were open again”. V responds by saying something along the lines of “three weeks ago maybe” and that the mayor shut them down again. Frank says “Well who the hell can keep track”. And okay, yeah maybe Frank genuinely didn’t know... but this is the bar he goes to EVERYDAY. Not to mention if they shut down less than THREE WEEKS AGO, Frank should know... idk this one might not count but I added it anyway. Kermit is unaware of bars being open/shut down in 11x03 so moving on:

11x02

4. The Alibi’s Secret Enterence

Okay, again REACHING! However, when Frank entered The Alibi through the Keg Zone door he forgot to use the “secret knock” and Kev had to remind him about it. Now in 11x01 he used the front door (and I’m not sure he knew to use the other door in that ep) but still at least he remembered to use the correct door in 11x02.

11x03

This is where it got noticeable.. strap in, here we go:

5. Taking Franny to School

He took her to the wrong school. This is the same person that knows the Southside perhaps better than his kids (lol), like the back of his hand! He not only took her to the wrong school but a middle/grade school. Franny is in elementary/preschool school. You can see in WHM’s face here that Frank was confused...

6. Uncle V and Aunt Kev

Maybe just a comedic slip up, but Frank calls Kev and V “Uncle V and Aunt Kev” as opposed to what they really are. Maybe he forgot? I’m reaching LOL.

7. Debbie Is Not Fiona

Frank talks about one of his favorite MEMORIES with Franny’s mom: Debbie, but “oh no, maybe that was Fiona”. Small moment, typical Frank but... nonetheless, poor memory. The writers are smart by mentioning Fiona in this scene... it’s “a Fiona mention”, we’re going to remember this, and that’s probably why they did it.

8. The Paper Store

Yeah, this was the first red flag for me and if I can recall, the moment EVERYONE knew something seemed off. Frank, walks out of the paper store with Franny and cannot remember where he is, or where they are headed. Once he is reminded of their “goals” for the day (by Franny, a five year old) he proceeds to head to the paper store... Franny once again let’s him know that they already went there and Frank notices the paper already in his (Franny’s) backpack. Ouch.

11x04

9. The Nation of Islam

Ooo this one hurt! After Frank suggests to visit The Nation of Islam in an attempt to get their help to get rid of the Milkoviches, him, Kev, and Liam do. We SEE them go there. It’s a whole scene, so later in the episode when Frank suggests to go ask them for help AGAIN as if it were a completely new idea, we as an audience know they already did that. As Kevin says they “JUST did that”. Frank forgot. Shit.

11x05

10. Mrs.McCurdy

Frank discusses with Kev about murdering Mrs.McCurdy, later he tries to murder her. We see it, we remember it becaue she grabbed Frank’s dick. It was funny, the scene evoked laughter, it forces the audience to remember it. Frank mindlessly walks into The Alibi and Kev asks Frank if he “did the thing”. Now at first Frank is confused. They were using “quotation talk” earlier so yeah I get it, but then when Kevin is more direct with Frank, Frank thinks Kev is implying that he had sex with Mrs.McCurdy... Frank is clearly confused. Only then does Kev point out that he meant MURDER. Frank takes a second, again if you watch he does not know what Kev is talking about, but then it hits him, and he remembers. Thus continuing the convo like nothing.

11x06

11. Monica

Now this one REALLY hurt. Frank’s first scene of the episode is a sex scene between him and Letty. She’s blonde, and Frank calls her Monica. He truly believes he is sleeping with Monica, only Monica is dead, she been since season seven. When Letty mentions that she isn’t Monica (thinking Frank calling her that was only a sex thing), we see WHM’s brilliant preformence once again. Frank doesn’t know what Letty means, he thinks she’s Monica. Then when he realizes she isn’t, he gets this lost dejected look on his face. He’s confused and knows that he keeps getting confused.

Frank says “I gotta get to work”. Letty asks him where he works and Frank is left bewildered.

12. Seven

Okay so remember Frank and Franny’s adventure in 11x03? Frank visits a dry cleaners to get some weed. They make a point of Franny saying that Frank will pay SEVEN for the weed. No offer is made and Frank must get it somewhere else. Throughout the episode Frank refterences SEVEN to Kev & V as the asking price to sell. We as an audience are forced to remember SEVEN. Also in 11x03, as Debbie frantically looks for Frank/Franny, she visits the dry cleaners where they were (retracing their steps). We as an audience have been there twice.

Now, in 11x06 Frank goes to pick up an order but like, we already saw him go there episodes ago. When the woman behind the counter literally tells him she has nothing for him and he argues with her, WE KNOW she is right. Once again, Frank forgot. I’m so sad. Not only that but Kev and V don’t have Frank going on runs anymore. Ian & Mickey are doing it... Frank is legit lost and forgot that he’s not doing that anymore, Kev tells him he’s not in 11x04.

Ms.G even says to Frank that she doesn’t need to write anything down to remember it because the “Mind’s a steel trap”. She doesn’t owe him... she can use her mind to remember where Frank cannot. The irony.

13. Pedestrian, Blue, Handlebar (abc)

a) Frank getting hit in the head results in him having a visit to the hospital where a nurse discovers that Frank has no clue how he got there and more specifically, how he got hit in the first place.

b) The saddest part, when asked his name he remembers FRANK. But has to look down at her sheet to know his last name is GALLAGHER. This is the man who walks around saying “It’s up to Frank Gallagher to save the neighborhood”. He forgot his last name.

c) The scene goes on, the nurse asks him to remember three words: pedestrian, blue, and handlebar. They discuss other things, then she asks him to tell her those words. It’s so abundantly clear that Frank just cannot. He doesn’t remember. He was told like 30sec ago and gets, for the first time ASHAMED. He’s the most shameless person ever (hence the title of the show) but now the tides have turned. He “doesn’t wanna play this game anymore”. Frank can recognize AGAIN that he is confused, only now he is forced to face it. The nurse noticed, she runs some tests and Frank learns that he has early stages of alcoholic dementia. This isn’t his liver, he can’t get a new one, this is his brain.

14. + 15. Letty & Terry

Just two bonuses, Frank wanders aimlessly into the Alibi again (like in 11x05) because it’s routine for him. Letty calls him over. Frank forgot they were supposed to meet there. :(

Frank and Terry on the porch: Maybe it’s just bad writing or they were trying to make a point but like a “Gallagher-Milkovich War” never happened??? We watched the show for 11 seasons... Also are the Milkoviches actually from Poland Frank? I’ll excuse that one cuz Ian mentioned it too, but I thought they wer Ukrainian. These seem like writing mistakes tho so oops.

Things He Might Be Able To Remember

Frank has his and Franny’s name tattooed on his body... he literally forgot his last name at the hospital. And if he forgets a bunch in 11b then that’ll be the payoff for the tattoo... he might not know why the tattoo is there or who the people are listed on his arm, or even what it means exactly, but he will know that Frank loves Franny.

Where he lives. Frank never threw out the paper with his diagnosis. He might remember his home, however the conflict comes in the fact that the Gallaghers might be selling it. He needs to be around people/places that are familiar to him. This could jeopardize his memory.

The Alibi is where Frank seems to just walk to or go to whenever he has no clue where he is or going but it’s subtle. I could see him getting lost and no one knowing where he is and Frank just being at the Alibi beacuse idk muscle memory? He’s on autopilot.

Early stages of ALCOHOLIC Dementia can improve. Like if maybe Frank were to tell someone and if he wasn’t removed from the Gallagher house, and oh I don’t know if Frank STOPPED DRINKING, he could remember. But I don’t think we’re heading in that direction, especially if the house is sold, and let’s face it... it looks that way.

Fiona? Will he forget her... this all feels reminiscent of 4x11.

Other Characters Finding Out

Franny, Kevin, and Liam, are the only people who have REALLY been subject to the possibility of noticing... but think about it. Franny is too young to notice anything, Kevin is not the brightest bulb, he doesn’t seem to realize it either, and Liam was exposed to it once, but at that time he was so scared about the Milkoviches that he didn’t notice it. Maybe if he saw it again, he would. Liam is smart enough.

I wonder if the Gallaghers will just find out the hard way (,like those stills from 11x08 are making me think,) or if anyone will begin to seriously pick up on it. I intially thought they would show Frank forgetting in front of each character until someone was able to notice but scratch that. They seem to be setting Lip up on the “alcoholic path” this season, (and I may go more into depth about that one another time, it’s another big post if I do get into it). But what will the Gallagher’s reactions/feelings be towards Frank’s diagnosis? Mickey and Ian had many Terry/Frank discussions in 11x06 literally setting up for it. It hurt when they all kept dismissing Frank because yup, they don’t know yet. They would have to help him in order to keep his memory maintained, but that’s the thing... Frank’s pride. He might deny their help even if they actually were to give it to him... Either way, I’m “looking forward” to see how this all unravels and how everyone finds out and what their reactions will be, which brings me to my final topic:

Aftermath...

So what happens? Will they sell the house, potentially causing Frank to forget? Will he not know his kids, his history? Will he die? Will Frank finally stop drinking... yeah I doubt that... So what WILL happen? Will the Gallaghers be left to take care of Frank? Will they even do that? Will he remember them?

What if in 1x01 Frank’s narration IS his memory? We see him talking about his kids to someone? It circles back? I don’t know, but either way I expect this whole thing to pull on our heartstrings. When the rest of the regulars find out... it’s gonna get real, and rough.

Interesting stuff coming up in 11b I’m sure. Let’s see how this plays out for our Protagonist and Patriarch: Frank Gallagher.

Omg, if you read through this, you are so cool and I really really appreciate you! Please send me an ask or write a note, I would love to get your take on the matter. 💙

Hope you enjoyed this analysis and I hope it didn’t go on too long.

[midnight-writ3r]

All night long

Baekhyun x Genderneutral reader

Genre: mild smut (barely tbh), romance, Mafia!AU

Inspired by: The new ACDC song ‘shot in the dark’

Summary: In his kingdom, Baekhyun plays without mercy.

You´re the only one who´s mercy he might be at.

A/N: I´ve really been gone for a whole lifetime, but I thought what could be better to come back with than a mildly suggestive Baekhyun one-shot XD Hope you enjoy yourself with my wild fantasies <3

-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-

Baekhyun has always had a peculiar sort of humour. You guess that it comes with being one of the most powerful men in the country. The death threats, danger, weapons and deception of his everyday routine must have changed Baekhyun's perspective into something not everyone understands.

That's why he likes you so much. Because, you do.

He likes the games you play with him, even to a point where he lets you get bored on purpose. Both of you have yet to find out how far you're willing to go, but so far, there is no end in sight.

You can hear the faint voices even from outside and briefly, you wonder whether Baekhyun and his right hand men aren't worried about anyone listening in. Then again, there are two grim looking guards on either side of the door and if you were anyone but yourself, they would have probably shot you from a mile away. Not so nice, but Baekhyun had explained to you many times why it was necessary.

"In my world, everything can be used against me, you know that? I don't trust anyone."

You had pouted at him, "what, you don't even trust me?"

"You least of all." he had said with a dirty grin.

Huffing, you tug at the collar of the satin robe you had pulled on. It shines in a rich, dark blue colour, flowing around your body like liquid. Baekhyun had gifted it to you a few days ago, but has yet to see it wrapped around you. A small smile plays with your lips. It feels good against your skin.

YOU feel good. Powerful. Ready to reduce the most poweful man you know to a puddle.

Game on.

Pushing the door open, you ignore the guard who tries to warn you from interrupting the conversation. Everyone at the long table turns to you. You see Taemin, Taeyong and Mark to his right, Jongin, Lucas and Ten to his left. He gathered them all tonight, but your eyes pin on the man at the far end of the table only.

Baekhyun's black hair is stricking against his pale skin, a high collar hiding the marks you know you had left on his collarbone. It bothers you, but the reason why he has to hide them is clear to you.

"Gentlemen." You greet.

None of them answers vocally, but they do it in their own ways. Some straighten up, some seem to be unsure where to leave their gaze, Taeyong even goes as far as to clear his throat.

Without mercy, you circle the table and run a hand through Mark's hair - familiar territory. He pulls in a sharp breath, intent on not leaning into the touch too obviously. When you find Baekhyun's gaze, you shiver with excitement. He's grinning, so obviously entertained by your efforts to get his attention.

"Y/N." he finally gives in, "We're in a discussion, darling. Weren't you going to wait in my room?"

"What, so I get bored enough to turn to stone?" You mutter, gentle finger tracing Taeyong's shoulders and nape, as you pass. Muscles pull taut under your touch and you grin. Every reaction you get will be another drop of oil, bursting flames in Baekhyun's ego, "Please, don't let me distract you."

As you say that, you snatch the glass of liquor Taemin has standing in front of him, relishing in the sweet taste. When you drop yourself on Baekhyun's lap, the man laughs, indulging you.

You know why. Why he lets you get away with all of this. It's because they are here. Everyone gets off on different things, Baekhyun just happens to enjoy showing off. Lucky for both of you, you loved being shown off even more.

His hand settles on your waist, adjusting you on his lap. As if nothing happened, he continues their conversation. Something about an export partner, unwilling to pay their share.

"I think we should take them aback, when their guard is down. He will pay if his life is on the line." Jongin offers.

You snicker. Baekhyun's eyes turn to you, "Something funny, sweetheart?"

"That's a stupid plan." You mutter, sounding as bored as you feel, "Men like that don't get to where they are if they're easily scared. You gotta attack more at the root. Corrupt his load or something, give him bad products. The people that buy from him pay a shit ton of money, so I can only imagine how displeased they will be to know he's selling them junk."

A short silence rolls in, but Baekhyun breaks it with a loud, barking laughter, "Listen to this little bird. Been here for little more than a month but got more brain in the business than any of you."

They look away, a little abashed, "I think that's quite enough for today. You can go now, we'll discuss the rest tomorrow." Baekhyun decides, hands tightening around your waist.

Lucas hesitates, "But boss-"

"I'm sorry, did I stutter?"

Shaking his head quickly, he joins the others and gets up from the table. You lean back into Baekhyun's chest, watching them leave. When you meet Mark's curious gaze, you wink and send him a smirk. With a flush to his ears, he hurries out of the room.

As soon as the door closes, you take a deep breath. Baekhyun's hands push a little at you, running down your back as you bend over the table edge. The satin rustles under his touch and you crane your neck to see his expression.

"You love when they look at you." he states, a little cruel note to his voice.

"So do you."

"I like when they know you're mine." his words send shivers up your spine, "When they realize that what they want so desperately is out of their reach, because it already belongs to me."

One of his hands trail back up, up, up, until his fingers are fisted tight in your hair. You gasp as he pulls, just a little, barely enough to sting, "You look fucking sinful, you know that, baby? When I saw you walk through that door, like you own the place... God I wanted to bend you over right away, in front of all of them."

"What stopped you?" You ask, laughing a little breathless, as you feel his free hand travel down between your legs.

"Hmm... The satisfaction. They don't deserve it. The only one who can see you fall apart, is me."

You hum, circling your hips against his. You can feel his hard-on even through his pants and it makes you even more eager in your movements. He rasps out a groan, taking a hold of your hips to press them down harder.

"Fuck, just like that, darling. Got me so hard already."

"Baek..." you sigh in return, "I want you."

You can practically hear the smirk in his voice, as he says: “Then you´ll have me little bird.

“You´ll have me all night long.”

-*- FIN -*-

[hollenka99]

Whenever and Wherever

This is ridiculously late because I didn’t have much time to work on it thanks to irl stuff so sorry about that but happy (belated) birthday @bupine. Have some bench trio.

1.

2.

The first time their paths cross, it's in the tailor shop run by Tommy's family. Tommy seems to be manning the counter while his brothers and father are supposedly in the back. The customer is clearly an enderman hybrid if his facial features are anything to go off of. He's just here to order a suit for a new job as a stenographer for the mayor apparently. Ranboo lingers longer than he likely expected to when he walked in as the three of them make conversation together. Before their latest acquaintance heads off, they decide to meet up again outside of work hours.

Talking to Ranboo comes easy. Before too long, you could tell Ranboo's work schedule based on where he was found lingering. At the tailor's shop? Well, it was likely one of his days off and he wanted to keep Tommy company for a while as the owner's son worked. At the bakery? That usually meant Ranboo was on his lunch break and hoped to sneak something sweet into his midday meal. He occasionally buys a few flowers for Tommy with the excuse of 'livening up his workspace' and offers Tubbo his attempts at baking. Whenever possible, the three of them either made time during lunch or in the evening to hang out together.

Then Ranboo seems to realise he gets off work around about the same time the bakery owned by Tubbo's family closes for the night. That mixed with the fact he really isn't the best with anything kitchen related... Listen, Tubbo was simply being a good friend by helping him out. Plus, who wouldn't want to take advantage of an excuse to spend more time with one of their best friends? It becomes a... thing, their evening practice sessions. Tommy once comments on it during a lunchtime meet-up, only to tease them but it kind of hits Tubbo how often Ranboo swings by so they can bake together.

It becomes blatantly clear everyone knows what's going on between the two of them when they hang around at the back of the tailor's one afternoon.

"If one of you doesn't ask the other out, I will break into your homes, steal your clothes and alter them so they're unwearable. Then I will make you pay to have them fixed."

"We... We uh, aren't-" Ranboo begins defending.

Tommy glances up from his sewing machine as he switches it off. "Fucking hell, just kiss or something, I don't know. But please stop forcing me to watch the two of you make eyes at each other whenever we hang out. We haven't been 16 for years. Sort yourselves out or whatever."

So they clumsily arrange a 'date' and let things go from there. It goes... well. A second attempt to make sure the first wasn't a fluke wouldn't hurt, nor would a third. It soon gets to the point where this new dynamic feels entirely natural. Tubbo's only worry is that Tommy might feel like a third wheel. Their mutual friend assures them he doesn't care about that. Besides, they know him, if he was actually bothered by it, he would have complained a ton by now.

Getting engaged isn't a big affair. In fact, it is a complete mess that occurs on Ranboo's sofa following a lull in conversation. He trips over his words, segues into various rambley detours and eventually manages to get to the point where he asks the all important question. Tubbo knew his answer the moment he realised where his boyfriend was headed with the conversation.

"So Tommy," Tubbo leans over the counter. The way he very blatantly holds Ranboo's hand only causes his attempt at acting nonchalant to come close to failing. "How much for a couple of wedding suits?"

"You're not getting a friend discount. In fact, I think I'll double the typical asking price purely because you are my friends."

"I hate you, you know that, right?"

"Hmm, might even make it triple."

"I will personally uninvite you."

Tommy and Tubbo maintain straight-faced eye contact for all of five seconds before the taller of the two breaks into a grin. Before the new fiancees can react, Tommy has his arms around both of them, drawing them in closer.

"How could neither of you tell me you were looking at rings? Absolute crime, that, if you ask me. Especially since I'm obviously the bestest man around. Disgraceful, the both of you. How can you sleep at night knowing you left me out of the loop? Gonna have to quadruple the price as punishment."

An elbow to the ribs leads to a slightly pained inhale before the three of them descend into snickers.

3.

Is it bad that he forgot land-dwellers need air?

Tubbo had been watched the two of them from afar. The one with sand-coloured hair makes himself round as he falls a significant distance towards the water. After a few repeats of this odd practice, he decides he will greet the human when he next appears in his domain. Tubbo grabs him by the arms with a friendly smile but it doesn't seem the human is so keen to befriend any merfolk. In the struggle, he gets a weird appendage to the face. Not one to be easily put off, Tubbo swims to the surface in time to see the boy communicating angrily with one whose hair colour resembled those of a beast he's been warned about. He thinks he'll dub them Sand and Orca for simplicity.

Orca spots him watching their conversation and walks over, positioning himself close enough to include Tubbo in any discussions they may want to have with him but far enough that Tubbo couldn't physically reach either of the boys with his arms. Sand greatly disapproves of this supposed fraternising with the enemy. Orca keeps attempting to communicate but their languages are vastly different so all it amounts to are gestures. When they leave, Tubbo finds it funny how the one named after a deadly predator is the most willing to be friendly while the one whose namesake he loves lounging upon occasionally had a tendency to come off as hostile.

The pair of humans don't visit him everyday and even on the days they do, the position of the sun isn't always the same when they arrive. Nevertheless, they continue to come as often as they are able and Tubbo appreciates that. He can't replicate any of their human vocalisations and though they try, neither of the human boys are particularly great at whistling and chirping properly. The constant gesturing seems to be the only way for them to communicate but they somehow manage to become firm friends despite it all.

One thing Tubbo definitely understands is fish. He is perfectly capable of getting his own food and honestly prefers catching it live anyway but if they want to offer him a snack as a sign of friendship, he's hardly going to say no. There's always the option to share the food with his family later. He brings Sand his namesake as a way of thanking them. Even if he knew a good place to observe orcas so he could extend a similar gesture to his other friend, Orca apparently can't swim. At least, that's how Tubbo interpreted it when his friend once pointed to himself, motioned as if he was pulling himself forward in water and shook his head afterwards. So Sand is the only one who sometimes joins him in the shallower water. And Tubbo has learned from his mistakes now, he makes no attempts to keep Sand below the surface longer than the human boy can manage.

One day not long after they meet, Sand tries to tell him something he can sense is important. He gestures between himself and Orca, points to the sun and makes a wide circular motion with his finger, extends his arm so it rises above their heads then ends the message by pointing to the shore. It takes another round of reiterating before Tubbo begins to potentially understand. They will get big with the sun and be here? It sounds odd but he supposes he can't physically stop them from leaving.

The sea grows warmer and cooler then back again over and over. He visits their spot each time the temperature rises. They never come. Or maybe he just keeps missing them when they do show up. He's not sure. Either way, he gets older and grows into young adulthood as the years continue to pass. He hopes the same is happening to them. They did promise to return once they got bigger too, after all. Although, the thought he might have wildly misunderstood Sand's parting message isn't always easy to not dwell on.

His waiting finally pays off and he couldn't be more ecstatic. They've both grown weird shells on their backs that he feels would be ineffective at defending them, their feet are disproportionately longer and their faces are practically unrecognisable with protective shells around their eyes and mouths. They are much larger than the last time they all saw each other too. But it's them, it's really them! Not to mention them seem to have developed the ability to breathe underwater somehow. Unsure how to greet them properly after all this time, he rushes off to the seabed with a grin and presents them with a fish as well as a fistful of sand. They look between themselves before accepting the gifts gratefully.

As the sunlight wanes on the surface, the humans sit on their familiar secluded spot of a caved area while Tubbo lets the water lap around him. The human duo have suddenly lost their strange shells now, both on their backs and faces, as well as returned to having better proportioned feet. Orca offers his own reunion gift. If Tubbo were human, he might have made use of non-existent tear ducts to inadvertently express how moved he was by the object. Because oh wow, he was never able to communicate Orca's

4.

Tubbo knows what it is like to be displaced by war. He'd been born in a time of technical peacetime, though everyone knew this would change sooner rather than later with all the tension.

He's 9 when the war seems to decide it's time to directly come for him as the son of the president, more than the resource shortages or street violence ever could. An attempt to assassinate his father that he'd been too close to lands him in hospital. It's officially too dangerous for him to remain a symbol of how safe their country was. All those not old enough to potentially enlist get evacuated, Tubbo especially.

Snowchester is... alright. It's isolated and out of the way, which is probably for the best in the general scheme of things. But at his age, all he really cares about is making the most of the snow before the novelty wears off and questioning how long it will be before he can go home to his family again. The answer was less than a month and 'we don't know so you'll just have to sit tight. Okay?'. So he reluctantly settles into his new life. He makes an effort to get to know the handful of other kids from the village in the hopes of gaining at least one friend to help him through this, he wanders around the marketplace on Tuesdays to find the sweet highlight of his week and for the hell of it, he challenges himself to become a master snow sculptor. Tubbo also writes to home to let his family know how he's doing but it feels like it has to go through 50 hands just to reach them for the sake of maintaining his secrecy which really sucks. By the time he celebrates his first birthday without them there, he had given up on arguing about the risk of just ringing them.

Then when he's 11, men posing as sea merchants arrive on their frozen shores during the night. Before he's even fully woken up, he's on a horse in his goddamn pyjamas and clutching a pitiful bag filled with whatever he and foster father had managed to stuff into it in 2 seconds. He doesn't get to bid Snowchester a proper goodbye. They're already on a rowboat they'd kind of stolen after racing through the trees when reality finally begins dawning on him. The man who'd looked after him explains they were headed to a new place that would hopefully prove to be safer than his old home.

He's used to the cold of a tundra by now. This place is more landlocked than Snowchester but not everything can be on the coast. He guesses the isolation and lack of enemy reinforcements arriving directly at a village is a good way to decrease the risk of attack. He hates it here. Snowchester might have been a fair distance from other places but at least there had been a bunch of people around. This was literally one guy looking after two kids, now three, in the middle of actual nowhere.

Phil does his best to be accommodating, he will give him that. And the other boys he's living with aren't too bad half the time. But it's too much. He decides he'd rather keep to himself. Ranboo, like Phil, is a bit more patient with him than Tommy is. Ranboo is willing to play a chess game he has no chance of winning or solve the same jigsaw for the 5th time that week. Tommy, on the other hand, will talk at him or encourage him to go outside.

"If nothing dangerous happens, you have to... make me a hot chocolate. Yeah, that seems like a decent payment."

"Payment for what?"

"For getting you to stop sulking and enjoy the snow obviously."

He humours him but he makes sure his reluctance is unmistakeably evident. It turns out Tommy has excellent aim when it comes to throwing snowballs. When Tubbo complains about this, Tommy simply shrugs and reveals his brother is the commander of the army so what did he expect? It doesn't matter whether you're hunting for food or stopping the enemy from getting you first, precision and accuracy are important for survival. That's part of the wisdom Wilbur had bestowed upon him before going off to lead their side to victory anyway. Tommy then ends his speech by standing next to Tubbo in order to cram a previously concealed handful of snow down his back in a surprise attack. Tubbo swears he is going to work out how to dislodge half the roof's worth of snow on Tommy's head tomorrow for that. When they finally head back inside, Tommy lets him know he'd like his drink to include whipped cream and those tiny marshmallows if they still have some lying around.

In time, he learns Tommy had been sent far from home the same as he had. Logsted had been 'a tiny shithole with nothing on offer to do' that eventually fell prey to the same exploitable feature that Snowchester had. Phil had been an old contact of General Soot's so when the initial relocation efforts fell through, Tommy was sent to Phil. No big deal. Well... listen, Tommy can act like a prat at the best of times but he supposes it is nice knowing he's not the only one paranoid this will abruptly end terribly one night.

The days, weeks, months roll by swiftly. The three of them have snowball fights at least onc

5.

Technically, it's Tommy's fault they nearly die. He'd been so insistent on fighting the dragon like his father once had that Tubbo had lost the will to try dissuade him. To be fair, he was all for it. It was only that Tommy was eager to jump right into the challenge while Tubbo… would prefer to actually survive.

They agree it will be an 'in and out' affair. They'll sneak down to the nearby portal at night, kill the dragon and hop back to the Overworld before their absences are noticed. If their families are unaware, they will never get in trouble for this. It can be an epic tale to impress future acquaintances but one to keep to themselves within earshot of those who'd scold them for it.

So that's what they do. With diamond armour and arrows they 'borrowed', the pair of 15 year olds face the dragon. They've already assigned themselves roles with Tubbo being in charge of destroying the crystals and Tommy tackling the dragon as a distraction. The plan is to take on the beast together once Tubbo's initial objective is complete.

It goes to shit when Tubbo barely makes a water clutch after being pushed off a tower by the force of an exploding ender crystal. Tommy had tried to get closer to him to provide support but ended up getting caught in the dragon's toxic breath. And then one of them must have accidentally triggered hostile attention from the surrounding endermen. A perfect example of sod's law, everything that could go wrong seemingly does. They tire themselves out too much by trying to return to more neutral odds. It doesn't happen. The cherry on top was the dragon knocking Tubbo into a pillar with her wing.

He's definitely had enough of this bullshit by the time he lets the developing concussion steal his consciousness. Let them just respawn in the bed they'd set up right outside the stronghold's portal room so they can be done with this. He really doesn't want to lose a life, especially not to a stupid stunt like this. But by this point? Fuck it.

When he wakes, it is not on the ground. It seems to be in a building on some sort. Has someone taken him home to work through his injuries? Tommy couldn't have since the next time Tubbo sees him, he has a haphazardly constructed splint on his leg. They bicker about their disastrous exploits until Tommy grouchily alerts them to the presence of their host, a young looking enderman.

It passes them a written message and Tommy, being the son of someone who is pretty much a jack of all trades when it comes to learning about other cultures, has a go at reading it. It's nothing too elaborate, just a summary of what happened while Tubbo was unconscious. The End native had spotted their plight as Tommy continued to get bombarded by aggressive endermen and toxic fumes courtesy of the dragon. All it had done was bring them home and attempt to give them medical assistance. Now here they were. At the bottom is a word Tommy's never seen before.

"Dunno what the fuck a Ranboo is."

"Maybe it's his name, idiot. Look at where it is, it's a signature."

"Oh, yeah maybe. What kind of stupid name is Ranboo though?"

They can't go back without the dragon dying and neither of them are in a position to make a second attempt, especially at the start when they are still both recovering. With no way home, they resign themselves to their new reality of living permanently in the End. The least they can do, in Tubbo's opinion, is try their best to communicate with their host by learning enderspeak. That goes... very slowly. Even with Ranboo helping out and Tommy's head start, it's not the easiest thing for them to learn. The humans share some of their language with the enderman in return.

Either way, they start living in their new home as Ranboo's guests. Their diet becomes saturated with chorus fruit and the first time either of them accidentally teleports during a meal, it's a shock. Their new friend waits until Tommy's broken leg heals before occasionally showing them around the islands that make up this dimension. They visit an end city that happens to have a ship nearby at some point and Tubbo resists the urge to lightly smack Tommy at the back of the head for acting like he's not impressed. They may possibly never be able to go home but come on. there is a literal massive ship floating in the sky.

Phil comes for them as soon as it feels like they might finally be getting used to their new way of life. They get the scolding of a lifetime mixed in with Phil making his relief and worry painfully obvious. They introduce Phil to Ranboo and of course the guy is conversational in enderspeak. At one point, Tubbo catches Tommy making a jabbing motion towards his father with his thumb incredibly subtly before rolling his eyes. As deeply in trouble as they are, as much as they were settling into what they believed to be a more permanent life change, the promise of home fills Tubbo with anticipation. He can't wait for the four of them to return to the Overworld.

Because you're coming too,

+1.

He's never been so eager to go to an airport in his life. His mum half listens while concentrating on the road as he rambles about all the plans the three of them had started making for the upcoming two weeks. There were so many games on their list for them to try. And yes, he knows they won't be able to get around to them all but they'll be damned if don't make an effort to dent it. Oh and then also all the stuff that got picked on the spinning wheel from Ranboo's stream a while ago.

Tubbo is beside himself as they wait in the arrival meeting area. There's no word of delays so come on, get here already. Then there he is, wearing his signature sunglasses and mask in the midst of the emerging crowd. Once the pair are close enough to do so, Tubbo throws his arms around his friend. And god, he knew Ranboo was much taller but he doesn't feel he'll hear the end of this, especially not once Tommy shows up.

They've already established this in preparatory voice calls but as they head towards the car, Tubbo explains that Tommy isn't due until tomorrow. So maybe they could watch one of those Starkid shows tonight since Ranboo's internal sense of time will be screwed by the long journey and Tubbo's hardly the best at maintaining a circadian rhythm as it is. His parents and sisters will go to bed and that's when the party can really start. Ranboo suggests The Trail to Oregon purely because the scene where Slippery When Wet threatens to murder god lives rent free in his head. But it would ultimately be up to Tubbo when the time came tonight.

Just outside the car with Ranboo's luggage in the boot, he asks his mum to take a picture of the two of them. He dms it to the missing member of their trio with a smirk.

Tubbo: Bet you're so jealous right now

Tommy: No because he's going to hang out with me more after I get there

Tubbo: As if

Tubbo: Can't wait for this week

Tommy: Same

Tubbo: Ranboo says hi btw

Tommy: Wow cringe

Tommy: Can't go on call rn but I say hi too

Tubbo: Whos cringe now?

Tommy: Shut up

He and Ranboo spend the entire journey home chatting about everything and nothing. Oh, these next two weeks were going to be amazing. Tubbo can't wait.

Tubbo wakes slowly. He doesn't tend to be startled by Ranboo's lack of eyelids as often nowadays. They may not share a bed that frequently, separate homes and all that, but he's seen his husband crash on his sofa after an exhausting day enough times to gradually get used to it. Michael had managed to snuggle up between them at some point in the night too. The little zombie piglin boy is fast asleep as well. Tubbo readjusts his arm so it encompasses their adoptive son, drawing him closer slightly.

Distantly, he recalls he's planned to meet up with Tommy later and it makes him think. A husband who cares about him enough to make Tubbo one of people whose side he'd stand by if necessary, a son whom they both love and would defend with their lives and a best friend who still stuck by him despite how much they've changed in the several months since they first met. He'd like to think that regardless of the timeline or universe, he'd always have them or close enough copies.

Content with his situation, he lets his eyes slip close once more and drifts back to sleep.

[fyeahtashirokun]

[UPDATE] Tashiro-kun, Kimi tte Yatsu Wa Drama CD Cast Interview + Pictures!

We’re back with a fun new update; the cast interviews for the Tashiro-kun drama CD have been released by the BLCD CEL Twitter and the B-Boy P Tashiro-kun website! They said it’s to commemorate Ebihara’s birthday, which is 11/26 (today), so happy birthday to everyone’s favourite cute stubborn shrimp boy! o(≧▽≦)o 🦐🎂🧡 Keep reading for photos and the full interview! (machine-translated with me tweaking it as best as I could 🙌 )

First photo (from the left): Toshiki Masuda (Tashiro) and Yoshitsugu Matsuoka (Ebihara) | Second photo: Tomokazu Sugita (Bannai) and Yusuke Shirai (Sega) | Third Photo: Chiharu Sawashiro (Shikaku) and Koutarou Nishiyama (Maru)

Interview:

—Please tell us your impressions of the Tashiro-kun drama CD!

Yoshitsugu Matsuoka (Ebihara): The original manga was very interesting, and I was wondering how the CD would turn out, but the recording was also so much fun (laughs). For a moment, I felt like my younger self again. I felt like I fully brought out my real personality.

Toshiki Masuda (Tashiro): By the time I realized I had gotten attached to Ebihara-kun, played by Matsuoka-san, the recording was already over! There are some exciting scenes, but the mood of the funny playful scenes that start suddenly are comfortable. Maru and Shikaku are a must-see in both the manga and the drama CD! Also, Matsuoka-san and I were discussing the mystery of Bannai’s hairstyle. When I looked at the cover of the original comic and saw what was inside later...I was shocked! Overall, it was a memorable and fun recording that went by quite fast.

Yusuke Shirai (Sega): It’s very fun, with a lot of gag taste. I’m playing someone in a university setting, but I never went to university myself, so I was doing the recording while thinking, “this looks fun.” It was a bit regrettable that although the recording was with 4 people (me, Sugita-san, Nishiyama-san & Sawashiro-san,) due to COVID-19 and the studio’s safety precautions, I did my recording in a separate booth from everyone else. I could hear their voices but it was lonely since I couldn’t see them. It can’t be helped...(laughs). However, it was a lot of fun because the four of us could still talk to each other during this time.

Tomokazu Sugita (Bannai): It was a wonderful recording that made the best use of each of the actors’ strengths. Regarding the content, there were some character-specific biases, such as Comiket, the manga research club, and doujinshi. It was a task to bring my real intentions and feelings to the character of Bannai.

Kourarou Nishiyama (Maru): It was really fun. When I first saw the character Maru, I kept wondering what kind of voice I should make. He looked really cute, so I thought it would be nice if I did it with a slightly deformed atmosphere.

Chiharu Sawashiro (Shikaku): I enjoyed playing the character Shikaku. I don’t usually play these types of characters, so it was a good experience. I had a lot of fun!

—Please give us your impressions of the character you played.

Matsuoka: No, I understand, I understand!* (I believe here he means he understands Ebihara’s stance) but Tashiro-kun isn’t a bad guy, so why not be a little more careful with him? It feels a little childish like that. Again, I understand his feelings, but no need to get so mindlessly angry! He felt like a passionate person who was always worried. I thought it was cute for me as an actor.

Masuda: He has a slight communication disorder, but it’s fine because he can still speak to people politely. I’m not good at speaking myself, so I can understand how nervous he is. He also can’t help but get nervous in front of his favourite person. Even so, how is he such a rich guy?

Shirai: Sega is so handsome that everyone calls him “Handsome-kun,” but he’s found to have a pretty bad mouth, yet he’s a charming and funny character with a wide range of mood swings. When I read the manga, there was a part where Sega said a tsundere-like line to Bannai, and I thought, “Oh, yeah, Sega likes Bannai...”. Oh, it was just for a moment, but I found out later that wasn’t the case at all, and that he was instead attracted to Ebihara-kun...(laughs).

(*This next part was translated really weirdly, so I tried to make out the general idea as best as I could.)

Sugita: Bannai’s a leader, and so I was asked to give a play of leadership, but I was consciously putting together the performance so that it wouldn’t be heard as an advisor or teacher. On the contrary, I adjusted it while thinking that playing with calmness seems to be getting old (in an bad way.) It’s boring to think that’s something’s interesting just because it’s a gag, so I played Bannai with that in mind.

Nishiyama: As you can imagine from the name Maru* (means circle/round in Japanese) his appearance matches his name. He has a healing atmosphere, kinda like a mascot, and in a good way, I felt like he was a character I could stay at my own pace with. There was a scene where I had to sing an idol song, but when I consulted Chiharu-kun, I was able to sing it very happily. Thanks to this scene, I think that our good teamwork showed, including Maru, Shikaku and Bannai who made it exciting (laughs).

Sawashiro: Since he’s an introverted yet hardcore character, Shikaku’s heart is quite rosy, but I was conscious of not exposing it too much. In the song scene that Nishiyama mentioned earlier, I thought it would be great if I could jump over a little and make it an interesting scene, so I hope you’ll pay attention to it.

—Great! Give us your recommended points for listening in the CD.

Matsuoka: I would like you to thoroughly hear all the exchanges with Tashiro-kun! I think you’ll laugh a lot. If you listen to it with the manga in mind, I think you’ll get a synergistic effect (laughs).

Masuda: Somehow I love it, but I’m a little nervous. There are many nerve-wracking scenes, but it’s a work with a lot of playful points, so please pay attention to that as well! It’s very interesting to hear the important points and the atmosphere!

Shirai: I think the axis of this work is the exchange between and Ebihara and Tashiro, or more specifically the change in Ebihara’s emotions, who initially aggressively refused Tashiro-kun, then comes to accept him. Amongst them, Sega’s meddling is one of the factors that affects the relationship between those two, so I hope you enjoy that part as well. When I first saw the cast list, I thought, “Wow, all the roles are so fitting!” Sugita-san fit Bannai very nicely, Kotarou has a round voice like Maru, and Chiharu has a square voice like Shikaku, so I really thought everyone would fit nicely (laugh). It’s a work where you can enjoy every other character alongside the main two, so I hope you’ll enjoy it as a whole.

Sugita: Asking the for voice actor’s favourite listening spot would kinda feel like negligent promotion. I think it’s more appropriate to have the original creator give their opinion on which lines you’d want to hear most. If the voice actor decides, there are people who will take it to heart and pay attention to only that, and as a result there’s a bias. When you say “this part,” everyone will think “only this part,” since it creates this persuasive power. On the contrary, if the listeners themselves send their own impressions with opinions like “this is the best part to listen to” to the creator, it’ll go through more clearly, so please send them.

Nishiyama: I think that the harmonious and fun atmosphere of this work will be very healing in this tense situation, so I hope everyone will enjoy the mood.

Sawashiro: Even if you see the the mellow atmosphere of the Manken,* (Manga research club) it will be soothing, so I hope you enjoy the loose feeling.

—“I’m a [blank] otaku!” Please tell us what kind of otaku you are and why!

Matsuoka: I’m a car otaku. Mainly for car contents. I’ve been collecting a lot of car magazines since I was a junior high student, so I’m kinda obsessed when it comes to cars. But I don’t have a driver’s license.

Masuda: Body otaku. I want to have fun and lose weight, so I tend to gather information to enjoy everyday. Before I noticed, I began to gain trivia-like knowledge about the body, so I think I’m more familiar with it.

Shirai: I wonder if I’m a green otaku. I really like the color green. Especially for clothes. I search up the color green on the net. If I find my favourite green coloured place in the city, I’ll be fascinated by it. I feel like this obsession is getting stronger year after year, and I’m afraid that the whole house will turn green at this rate. However, I think it’s better to be particular about what you like, so I’d like to continue to be a green otaku.

Sugita: I don’t really like the word “otaku.” I try not to label myself based on what I like or love. It’s different when it comes to “look at yourself playing a game,” and “look at yourself when you’re talking about your favourite idol.” When there’s differences, the essence of what you want will change, so I don’t like using these words too much.

Nishiyama: Soybeans are what I always consume in my daily life. I really like beans, so I eat natto, tofu, soy milk, and isoflavones. That’s why I choose soy milk over milk (laughs). I feel like I’m made of bean ingredients...I’ve just noticed that that’s another connection to Maru* (laughs). (I think he means because beans are round, like Maru.)

Sawashiro: I’m not an otaku, but I like natto and kimchi. Ever since I was a student, I’ve been eating natto and kimchi with everything my mother makes at home. Then, my mother told me “you don’t care about my seasoning...” with a sad face (laughs).

—Please give a message to your fans.

Matsuoka: The cast members also gathered with unique people (laughs). I hope you can enjoy this romantic comedy to your heart’s content by laughing and laughing again when feeling sad! Thank you!

Masuda: I expressed the humor I felt reading the original with my voice as much as possible. I hope you can enjoy the occasional thrilling development of people who are so unique with the drama CD!

Shirai: I don’t want to force you guys. Rather than aiming for perfection, I was conscious of finishing it first. If the doujinshi drawn by Bannai wasn’t something he wants to draw from the bottom of his heart, he wouldn’t be so happy. As the years go by, these memories become more and more interesting when I look back. I feel something close to the CD and I want to cherish it. If you listen to this CD after 10 or 20 years, it should be absolutely interesting, so about 30 years later, it’ll be like “Tashiro-kun, Kimi Tte Yatsu Wa UPRISING,” so let’s meet then.

Nishiyama: I had a lot of fun doing it. It’s really easy for BL beginners to get into, and I think it’s a very healing work. To be honest, I’m full of feelings for this series, where I really wanna do the continuation, see it and listen to it. I hope everyone enjoys it a lot and tells us what they think. Thank you.

Sawashiro: It’s the story of a college student, and I’m really young. I think you can really understand that we are absorbed in what we want to do and that all the characters have something glittering inside. I hope you can feel youthful while listening to this. Thank you.

—Thank you to the whole cast! The drama CD “Tashiro-kun, Kimi Tte Yatsu Wa.” will be released on January 20th, 2021! The second volume of the manga will also be released on the same day. Please look forward to it ♪

I hope you guys enjoyed this interview! Again, I tried translating it the best I could with the help of Google, so I hope you guys were able to get the gist of it. I’ll also be posting the audition videos in a bit (untranslated, unfortunately) so stay tuned for that! Are you guys as excited as I am for the CD? All the voices sound so great so far, it’s gonna be great (≧∀≦)

[fy-yongsun]

[TRANS] 200425 Solar ‘SPIT IT OUT’ Interview ②

- You first solo single ‘SPIT IT OUT’ was released on the 23rd. What is something you want to show through this solo promotion? SOLAR : The general public knows a lot about and likes Mmamoo, but there weren’t a lot of chances for me to let people know about the artist Solar. Of course, I’ve done various activities, but it’s my first time releasing a new song, so I made an effort to show who I am. The title is ‘SPIT IT OUT’, and it has the meaning that I, who always likes attempting new things, will spit out all my passion. It has my ambition that I will show all my fun and happy appearances, so please listen to it carefully.

- You’re the last member to debut solo. Is there a reason behind it being so late? SOLAR : In recent years, Mammoo released albums really witout resting, so things were hectic with group activities. Normally, I release remake songs and did a ‘Solar’s Emotion’ project, but I couldn’t even do that because of busy group activities. In the midst of that, I started Youtube, ‘Solarsido’, and spent my time busily, so my solo debut was delayed.

- How would you rate your satisfaction regarding this album? SOLAR : I’m really satisfied. A lot of people helped preparing this single, and I worked hard as well, so I think the results came out well. Of course, I don’t know how the general public will think, but, personally, I’m satisfied.

- Before releasing your single, you revealed a teaser where you attempted bald head makeup. You also garnered lots of attention with other various teasers. SOLAR : It was my first time doing it, and I was surprised because there was more attention given to it than I was expecting (laughs) While preparing my solo single, as the concept is to show who I am, I thought of it to express my natural self, I wanted to show a raw side, so I thought about it and came up with the shaved/bald head. People around me all worried, but I told them I really wanted to try it. Honestly, I was surprised when I first saw myself in that makeup, but it was ok seeing the photos. Before revealing the teaser, I was a bit nervous (laughs), and it was unexpected seeing people give reactions that it looked innocent/pure. I felt strange but good.

- You’re currently running ‘Solarsido’ on Youtube. You’ve been uploading content diligently for 1 year. SOLAR : It’s really fun. I don’t really do anything aside from my activites as a singer, but I’ve gotten my own form of entertainment doing ‘Solarsido’. My greatest interest lately is ‘Solarsido’ (laughs) Because I have to create content, I’m thinking about it everyday. I also have idea discussions at my company.

- What do you think is the charm of Mamamoo that made you receive so much love ? SOLAR : First, we’re really good at our job. (laughs) Fans really like our great performances on stage, and I think that’s the fundamental reason. Also, all the members are funny, and our [humor] code matches. I think lots of fans also like this. I think they like us because we come off as familiar.

- Is there something you hope from your members? SOLAR : I hope everyone takes care of their health well... Really, I hope they do. Also, I would like for my members to be happy and well.

- What is Mamamoo and Solar’s dream? SOLAR : Our fans told us to do a dinner show. I do have the hope that it would be nice to really do that once we get older. Personally, I like attempting new things, so I want to find a new area of challenges. Getting on stage, and creating ‘Solarsido’ content right now is what I like and am happy.

- What kind of group do you hope Mamamoo is being remembered as? SOLAR : I would like for us to become a group that poeple look forward to, and always anticipate.

© source / translation by ch0sshi / part 1

[smolbeanieee]

Once Upon a Time | One

strangers to lovers au

pairing: Younghyun x fem!oc

genre: fluff, angst

masterlist

10 minutes into the lecture, the door swiftly open—revealing the male catching his own breath as if he run for his dear life for the Art and History class today.

“You're late Younghyun-ssi” said Professor Lee, stopping his lecture as he saw Younghyun steps into the classroom.

“I'm so sorry, I woke late this morning”

“Fine, I cut you some slack since new semester just begin but you need to be punctual next time.  Now go find your seat”

“Yes sir” Younghyun replied softly as he makes his way to find his own seat amidst the almost occupied classroom. 

Along his way, Younghyun's attention divert to a chic looking girl who looking uninterested in the lecture as she looking out of the window—her hair falls perfectly on her shoulder as her lips release a soft sighs.

‘She looks familiar’ Younghyun thought as he sat one table apart behind her.

The class continued for another half an hour with Professor Lee explaining the whole assessment for the subject and whatever things that seems unbothered to to the students in the class until the lecturer announced the highlight of the assessment.

“Your field study will be in pairs and I will decide the pair. Raise your hand when your name called” Upon hearing the news, the students groans in disbelief.

“Yoon Dahee?” Professor Lee called.

“Me” The girl Younghyun been eyeing raises her hand-gaining Younghyun’s attention as he took a quick glances over her silhouette.

“Your partner is Kang Younghyun” Professor Lee said as he continue calling out for others pair.

Dahee softly curse under her breath—the last things she would do is getting involved with the bassist. 

Upon hearing her name, Younghyun gets more curious.

After the class, Dahee walk out from the class—leaving everyone in the classroom.  Younghyun's eyes notice her absence and quickly search for her in the hallway and catch her up.

“Hey, hey” said Younghyun as he abruptly stop infront of Dahee as she stop her track in process and arches her eyebrow in confusion

“About the project...the pair things..?” Younghyun trailed over his words

“Yeah about that,,,we should change partner.  I'll talk to our lecturer soon so you don't have to worr-” Dahee's word were cut short when he decides to interrupt.

“Wait,,what? I didn't meant that” Younghyun chuckles upon hearing her words—making Dahee gives him confused look

“Then what do you want?” Dahee bluntly asked,,already feeling stupid in front of the bassist

“Shouldn’t we discuss about the project? I know the due date is the end of the semester but the faster we work on it, isn't the better?” He said as Dahee trying to process his words in her tiny brain. 

Younghyun is right.  The faster they complete the project, the better.  Dahee didn't want to invest most of her time with Younghyun anyway—that's the last thing would she do on the earth. It's took Dahee few moments before nodding her head in agreement

“Great! We should go to the cafe nearby.  They served the best coff-”

“We'll just discuss at the library” said Dahee emotionless as she leaves Younghyun behind clueless which she didn't even care to wait up for him.

While at the back, Younghyun shakes his head in disbelief—watching her walked away and lost in the sea of people.

“Ha,,this girl” he mumbles, taking light steps following her to the library.

After finished discussing about when and where should they go for the field study for Art and History subject—Dahee packed her things up, ready to leave the library as Younghyun spoke “Have we met before?” asked him

His question makes Dahee stopped in a moment, biting her lower lips anxiously

“N-no.  It's my first time meeting you”

“But why do I feel I have met you before this?” Younghyun mumbles as he tilting his head in confusion—his mind squeezing really hard all information that he may have about Dahee but nothing comes up “Anyway, do you wanna grab something to eat? The bakery down ther-”

Dahee stopped him from talking.  Hearing Younghyun asking her spending time with him totally annoyed her because she trying not to have any relation or attachment to him—especially to his band but this boy doesn't how to stop.

“Younghyun-ssi, I really appreciate it but I'm sorry, I have to go now.” Dahee spat, packing up her leftover notes and books on the table.

“Okay, maybe next time.  I'll see you around?” asked him as he watch Dahee slung her bag over her shoulder, ready to leave the table

“Who knows” replied Dahee as she turns her heels from the male and walked her way out from the library—leaving Younghyun behind as he became more curious about herself.

‘I swear I have seen her some where else’ thought Younghyun

—————

“I'm doomed” said Dahee, throwing herself on the comfy bed, ignoring how the male will nag at her on how she shouldn't mess with his bed

“What? Did someone died from your intense glare today?” the male teased, without looking at her as if he already knew Dahee would come to his house almost everyday even though her house is just four level higher than him.

“Funny” said Dahee, making Taeyong lets out chuckles from his lips.

Lee Taeyong, her friend since she was in junior high school. He was there when she is at the lowest, when all the horrible things happened, Taeyong was there—he knew all her secret, her flaws, her allergies and maybe, her morning routine too.  Dahee is so thankful having Taeyong by her side—something she won't trade for anything.

“Aww come on, everybody could tell how cold ice princess you are” Taeyong jokingly said as he continues paint his newly shoes with the colorful markers and highlighter spread across his table

Dahee groans in response, staring right at the ceiling before she continues her words.  “I'm in the same class with Younghyun” Dahee said, trailing her words as if trying to looks up for more suitable words to put up for the situation  “He said he knew me”

“Really? Did he mention about your brot-”

Dahee quickly stop him “No he didn't.  He just generally mentioned that he saw me before this” totally ignoring and not bothered hearing Taeyong finish his sentences.

Taeyong sensed the tension from Dahee as he let out a soft sighs, turning around in his chair towards the bed “Then, what's the problem? He just your classmate for the subject, right? Not he’s going to stuck with you in every class” He asked, arching his eyesbrow as if asking for explanation.

“It's just...he's my partner for my final project and that means I have spend more time with him. You know I don't want to associate myself the bassist, especially with the band.  I tried so hard all these years keeping my distance from them. You know it.” Dahee softly sighs, frowning her face to the male

“Hey listen here.  You said he didn't mention anyone. So maybe it's just his gut telling you resemble someone, who knows—like there is lot of people out there looking alike with each other.  Don't worry much about the project.  Spending too much time with him won't bring harm anyway unless you got feelings for him” Taeyong said as he lets out hearty giggles as if teasing her

“Taeyong!” Dahee shouts as she throws pillows towards him but he skillfully catch them in his hands.

“No really, trust me—every things will be fine.  Younghyun won't know anything about your past unless he told him about your family background but I believe he won't because he is not much a talker, right?” Taeyong said as she nods in response, lips forming pout as she softly mumbles a yes to him, adjusting herself on the bed as she getting ready to leave his house after having a little rant or more to tantrum just now

As Taeyong sense the awkward atmosphere in his room, he changes the the topic before she leaves.

“Oh right, just to let you know, your dad is retiring soon so he might want you back to the company” Taeyong said as he made his way to his table, cleaning up the mess he made before without looking back at Dahee who stopped her track in front of the door.

Taeyong has been working with Dahee's dad since he graduated high school and immediately become his right man and one the major share holders in the company because their parents knew each other—his bonus point.  All this while, Taeyong has became her informal informant about her family, even she told him she don't want to hear any of that but he insist.

Ever since Dahee distance herself from her dad—Taeyong has become their middle person as she didn't told her dad about her whereabouts since the incident.  Taeyong kept his promise not to told even her dad keep on bugging him about that which Dahee thankful for Taeyong for keeping his promise. 

Upon hearing the news, Dahee scoffed “So, what's does that involves with me?” she asked, turning her attention to Taeyong who been giving her judging looks as if he didn't believed his ears just now

“Last time I checked, my surname isn't Yoon, it's Lee”

“Taeyong, I told you many times I don't want to involved with his business anymore. Can't you just be the chairman instead? He fully trusted you all this time when you’re working with him.  I don’t see any problem with you become the chairman.” she sternly explained herself in annoyance.

“Are you crazy? Your dad still has his heirs so why should I take the position?” Taeyong complaint while Dahee just runs her fingers softly through her hair, licking her lips as her puffs with sighs

“I have university to attend so yeah you know the answer,,,see you later!” Dahee said as she sprint her way out to the door, leaving the male speechless

“I'll take that as a maybe!” Taeyong shouts before he heard the front door being closed loudly, making he chuckles in disbelief “Yoon Dahee, until when you wanna be like this?  Why you being so hard to yourself.  This isn't you, you know it.” Taeyong mumbles, reminiscing her old self. 

Before the incident happened.

Back to loud apartment—that consists of 5 loud men.

“I'm home!”  Younghyun shouts, taking off his shoes as he shuts the front door and makes his way to the living room just to find the maknaes fights over the television while the oldest strumming his guitars calmly on the couch.

“Oh, you're back” Jae greets as he scoots over, giving space to Younghyun—letting his head falls on the couch, relaxing his mind from the exhaustion, dropping his bag on the floor.

“Did something happened at the university?” asked Jae without looking at Younghyun next to him

“Nothing special, I'm just tired adjusting the class schedule and ours”

“Hang in there.  It's your last semester before you graduate anyway”  Jae said as if trying to encourage him.

Younghyun mumbles a soft thanks before letting his mind drifts in dreamland while waiting for Sungjin to set up the dinner before something come up in his mind.

“Ah right! Do we have any busking or club performance by the end of this month or early next month?” asked Younghyun as he jolted from his seat, eyeing Jae but he just shrugged his shoulders

His question catch Wonpil's attention as he furrowed his eyebrows—thinking hard as ever “As I remember,,,we don't have any performance coming up soon.  Am I right Sungjin hyung?” asked Wonpil, throwing the question to the leader as he peek his head from the kitchen.

“Yeah right! We just gonna do busking performance once in a month since you have started your class.” explained Sungjin, placing the bowl rice for each of the boys on the table before disappear into the kitchen again

“Hyung, why you suddenly asked? Is there something ...?” Wonpil trails his words, waiting for Younghyun to respond

“Ah nothing.  I need to go for field study or something like that for my subject because the professor being the pain in the ass and also the date isn't fixed yet,,,yeah that's why I'm just asking” explained Younghyun as the boys nodded in response as he getting his bag from the floor, making his way to his bedroom but the leader's words stopped his track.

“Guys, let's eat! Dinner's ready!”

Upon hearing that, all the boys swarms the dining table, ready to fulfill their empty stomach.

 previous | next

[purplewhiteandgold]

You’re the guy from the fragrance ad

(Based off of this post by @buginettez)

When the commercial break started, Alya excused herself to the bathroom, while Marinette and Nino chatted until the show came back on.

Until the familiar music started playing.

Marinette and Nino's heads snap to the TV, and, seeing the model slowly jogging over the rooftops, shout in unison, "ALYA THE AD IS ON."

The bathroom door crashes open as she comes stumbling out, rushing into the living room right as the voiceover starts. With exaggerated awe on her face, she mimics the audio.

"Radiant."

Nino sprawls across the carpet with the look of someone with not a single worry. "Carefree."

Marinette swoons dramatically over the side of the couch. "Dreamy."

In unison, and with massive grins on their faces, they sigh, "Adrien."

And then proceed to burst out laughing.

"That'll never get old," Nino snickers, wiping his eyes.

"Do you think," Marinette giggles a little. "Do you think the poor guy knows how much of a meme he is?"

"He has to, I can't imagine being that disconnected from society to not know," Alya chokes out, trying to contain her laughter.

Nino turns back to the TV, where another ad is running. "I wonder if we're the only ones who do crap like this whenever we see the commercial or billboards for the perfume."

Marinette snorts. "I mean, most of Paris is rabid for him, but I can almost guarantee that some other people see this as somewhat of a joke as well."

"Oh, I don't know, Marinette," Alya grins deviously. "Who's to say you're not also one of the people rabid for him? He looks like he could be your type."

Marinette smacks her leg, accustomed to hearing this every time they see the ad. "Yeah, sure, we'd be a great couple, especially since we don't even know each other."

She didn't feel the need to mention that there was another boy, clad in black leather, who was also her type and she did know, who held her heart. But as far as her friends knew, Ladybug was the one in a relationship with Chat Noir, not Marinette. But explaining that would bring a whole new round of questions and identity complications that she just didn't need.

The conversation might have continued, but they were interrupted by the show returning from commercial, and the topic wasn't brought up again.

~~~~~

Chat Noir was thrilled.

Who could blame him? After dating for a while, and after much discussion, he and Ladybug had finally agreed to reveal their identities to each other. He'd only been waiting for this since he met her.

No big deal, right?

Before they met that night, Adrien stood in front of his bathroom mirror, giving himself a pep talk.

"You got this, Agreste. This doesn't need to be that dramatic. Chances are, you probably don't even know her, so nothing will change except you can date her in your everyday life. You've got this. You've got this. You've-"

"Could you give it a rest, kid! Let me eat my cheese in peace."

He turned to glare at Plagg. "Aren't you always complaining about never seeing Ladybug's kwami? You do realize that if we start hanging out without being transformed, you can spend time with her, right?"

Plagg scoffed. "Yeah, but that doesn't mean I should have to endure your lovesick rambling."

Adrien rolled his eyes before catching a glimpse at the clock. "We better go soon. Ladybug will be waiting for us."

With a few words and a cry of indignation from Plagg, he was out the window and off into the night.

~~~~~

They sit across from each other, legs crossed beneath them and hands clasped between them.

Chat stares at Ladybug's face, taking in every detail. In just a few moments, he'll be able to see the girl underneath the mask, the identity of the girl he fell in love with so long ago.

She squeezes his hands. "You ready, kitty?"

He nods, and in an unspoken agreement, they both close their eyes. In the back of his mind, he notes how in sync they are, in the heat of battle down to little things like this. How he can't wait to be like this all the time.

A few muttered words, and he can feel her hands in his, soft and gentle.

"On three, then?"

He smiles. "One."

"Two."

"Three." Together they open their eyes, and take their first look at each other's unmasked forms.

The first thought that crosses his mind is She's gorgeous. Her blue eyes are the same, yet completely different when not framed by her red mask. Her black hair is still styled the same, but contrasts differently against her dark blazer than her red suit. He watches as she observes his unmasked face, waiting for her reaction.

She gasps slightly, and then-

...she starts laughing?

"Wh-what's so funny?"

"You, you're-" she dissolves into a fit of giggles, pointing at his face. After a few moments, she blurts out "You'retheguyfromthefragrancead!" before falling onto her back, clutching her stomach as she continues laughing.

"Uh, yes? Why is that so funny?"

"Because me, Alya, and Nino, we-" she wheezes, trying to compose herself, before dramatically sighing, "the fragrance" and collapsing again in another fit.

"Why is this so funny to you?!"

~~~~~

"Alya!"

She turns to see Marinette running toward her. "You've been quiet all weekend, girl! I know something's happened, so spill."

Marinette grins. "So you know I've started dating this guy recently, right?"

"You mean the guy you refuse to tell us anything about?"

"Yeah. Well, the reason behind that was that his father wouldn't let him go to school, but I wanted your first impression of him to be when you met him."

"Wait. Are you saying that he's coming?"

Marinette beams. "I'm saying that he's in our class."

"You convinced his father to let him come?"

"It wasn't easy, but he eventually agreed." She nudges Alya's shoulder. "I'll wait for him out here, go find Nino and fill him in, I want both of you to meet him together. And I expect you both to be civil with him! He'll need friends after being homeschooled so long."

"Hey, if he's good enough for you, I have no doubt he'll be a great friend." Leaving Marinette at the front steps, she walks into the school to class.

Nino was eager to hear about Marinette's mystery guy, and after a few minutes, they were both intently watching the door, waiting for him to show up.

The minutes ticked by as the beginning of class drew closer. Alya and Nino eyed each other in concern.

"Maybe she's showing him around?" Nino questions slowly.

Alya nods slightly. "That does seem like something Marinette would do. I'm just hoping that his father didn't change his mind about letting him come to school." She snorts. "Although, if he's anything like Marinette, he's bound to be late."

Just before the bell, the door bangs open, and in rushes Marinette, dragging a boy behind her. "Sorry, sorry!" She turns to Ms. Bustier, panting slightly. "I was trying to show Adrien around since it's his first day, but I got a bit carried away and lost track of time."

Alya's mind was buzzing, and she didn't hear the teacher's response. Did she say Adrien?

She turns to the boy standing beside Marinette, still clutching her hand and looking around at the rest of the class. His hair is a golden blond, his eyes emerald green, and Alya can almost imagine the pure white clothes as he bounds across rooftops-

"- you introduce yourself, Adrien?" Ms. Bustier offers, pulling Alya out of her thoughts.

The boy looks a bit stunned, but quickly recovers. "Okay then." He turns to the class and puts on an award-winning smile. "Hello everyone, my name is Adrien Agreste, and I-"

He's cut off by raucous laughter as Alya and Nino, unable to contain themselves, burst out into giggles, mingled with dramatic sighs of "the fragrance" followed by even more laughter. Adrien looks terribly confused.

"Why do people keep reacting that way?!"

[appleasing]

In Defense of Zoom

I recently attended a virtual closing of It’s A Woman’s World, an exhibition at The Women’s Art Gallery, owned by the Cincinnati YWCA. The gallery had an exhibition set to open on March 13, 2020, consisting of selections by local and regional Cincinnati artists from the collection of Sara Vance Waddell. 

Due to the world circumstances that we are all familiar with, the exhibition never opened. In order to circumvent the exhibition from never being seen, Sara Vance and the curator, Ena Nearon, teamed up to host the virtual closing. The event on Facebook was called “The Closing That Never Opened”. 

On Friday, I joined a Zoom call with around fifteen people, consisting of the curators, the artists, and various patrons. First the curator and the collector spoke about the theme of the exhibition, then each of the present artists were able to discuss their work. Images of work were screen-shared so patrons could visualize the exhibition. 

It was a lovely way to spend an evening, relaxing in my room getting to know artists and hearing them discuss their work. The true charm coming from the inherent strangeness of these virtual events. They’re awkward, and suffer under the brute hand of art historians who can’t differentiate a tweet from a remote controller. They show mistakes, and they show a human side to people who are typically well-organized and composed. 

The question really becomes, “Is this strangeness a bad thing?” And honestly, no, it's a step in a positive direction.

I have written before about how online exhibitions and events increase accessibility. Artists and organizers are constantly pining for this, with an obsession with getting the “everyday person” into galleries. 

I was able to attend this event sitting in bed while drinking a six pack. I did not have to walk or drive to a destination to see the exhibition. I did not have to socialize with anyone directly, or even get dressed. All I needed was a computer, and if I didn’t have one, I could’ve used my phone. 

There are people who have interest in art that struggle to go out and see exhibitions, for anything from physical to mental health concerns. There are people who cannot enter buildings due to limited wheelchair or elevator access. There are those who are exhausted after a day of work who don’t have the time or energy to see an exhibition. There are those who feel anxiety walking into unfamiliar galleries alone, or those who have depression and may be unable to leave the house. 

It’s hard to make time to see art, especially with smaller galleries. However, this form of exhibition viewing eliminates that. As long as you have internet access, you are able to see an exhibition while sitting in your home. I am aware it is not a solution for everyone, but it’s infinitely more accessible than the limitation of in-person exhibitions. 

On a side note, during the summer it can be very hard for me to leave the house due to personal health issues. If this exhibition was not virtual, I simply wouldn’t have gone to see the work. I was able to attend from the comfort of my room, without anyone having to see me, which increased my attendance likelihood exponentially. 

What is also palpable from these Zoom sessions is a sense of openness that I am unaccustomed to seeing from the art world. Opening and closing events tend to feel formal and well-planned, with art patrons that all seem overly accustomed to taking up space in a gallery. There is a haphazardness to technology that has brought out humanity in places where it is usually void. 

Video-chatting at all is awkward in its nature, and it has been tickling to see my peers figure this out on the fly. Since it’s something usually done from home between friends, it denotes intimacy rather than professionalism. I listened to three of the artists from the exhibition discuss their work from the comfort of their own living room. It did not feel like artists talking to their patrons, but rather like chatting with a pal about something they made. It was close and cozy, and broke down a lot of barriers that are in place at a traditional event.

This personal aspect shifts focus to the art. Gallery openings tend to be over glorified parties and networking events, not necessarily a time to admire art. It’s a party, a place to drink free wine, not a place to admire the labor of the participating artists. 

I cannot tell you how beautiful it is to see fifteen art patrons on a screen, three of them frozen due to connection issues. One of them is screaming, asking how Zoom works while the moderator scrambles to figure out how to mute their microphone. It’s awkward, it’s funny, and it puts everyone on an equal playing field. There are no special screens or podiums for organizers or artists, it is just fifteen people sitting in this strange unexplored virtual space that forces art historians to learn about computers. It makes these spaces feel more human and inviting, with all of us along for the ride to figuring out how to navigate the new normal. 

In my opinion, we should consider this format long after galleries re-open.

Of course not everything has to be online after the pandemic ends. It will be exciting to see art patrons all in one place again. I don’t hate art openings, I love a good party, and I am so excited to get back to that. 

However, if the cries from the art world about making spaces more accessible are true, then it would be a mistake to go back to form. The art world is inherently exclusionary, with art being a luxury little have ability to purchase let alone appreciate. We do not have to exclusively have online events, but there needs to be a balance. Galleries have the ability to stream artist talks for free, share images of their exhibitions online for the world to view, and stop upkeep stale and unnecessary barriers. 

To not think of the everyday person when the world reopens is to admit that galleries were never interested in making these changes. We are at the most interconnected time in all of human history, and the fact that these inclusive options are only being explored now, when it affects the able-bodied, is ridiculous.

[strawarmada]

The Go-Ware Set and it's Awesomeness (A story about a chance meeting, old school sales, and buffalo sauce tofu)

It's 11:30 am on a Friday in the middle of August, 2019. There's a familiar, yet unwelcome grumbling in the center of my belly. I'm halfway through my shift at Whole Foods as a Grocery Team Member. This is about the time my hunger starts to rebel against my work ethic and makes a viable stand against my ignoring of its presence. I make my way over to the hot bar to scope out what the offerings of tofu smothered in random sauces are on the menu today. OH HOT DAMN!!! Buffalo Sauce Tofu is glowing in bright glorious orange steam filled deliciousness, beckoning me to indulge. And believe you me, I will.

This is my "real" job. I'm also the Founder of Straw Armada, a Eco-Conscious straw company that donates $.50 of every straw (or item) back to organizations that are helping to clean the oceans of plastic pollution and debris. I'm 40 and homie needs benefits!!

Working at a Whole Foods is an ideal workplace for someone who is Eco-conscious. They have a variety of options for your waste. A can for recycling, a can for compost, and a can for waste that is neither (items that unfortunately go to the dump). Every day after picking up my smothered mystery sauce tofu, I cringed as I approached the condiment station having to grab a plastic utensil. Albeit, these utensils are recycled. I will also throw them into the recyclable waste bin when I'm done.  But something about contributing to the use an item that will get 15 minutes of life out of me and immediately be discarded into an existence of meaninglessness is a cause of such shame and guilt for me. As it should be.

The amount of plastic items that are used in this way in just America alone is absolutely staggering. I mean staggering!! 40 BILLION. That's the number annually in our country that gets used and a very small portion of that gets recycled.

With this fact in mind, I immediately began to search for an alternative for this online. Was there anything I could carry with me to work each day in my messenger bag? I could essentially bring some metal utensils from home with me. Then I'd have to wrap them in something so they didn't get dirty (lord knows what's lingering in the bottom of my bag). How could I bring reusable utensils with me easily and keep them clean and separate? That's when I stumbled across an ad.

It took me all of 2 seconds to be suckered in by what I saw in the photo connected to this ad.

I could see there was a set of 5 Bamboo items all neatly organized into a beige case I could roll up and snap closed.  It consisted of a fork (for stabbing tofu), a spoon (for collecting tofu sauce), a knife (no explanation needed), Chopsticks (F*CKING CHOPSTICKS MAN!), a Bamboo straw and even a straw cleaner. NEED!!!

I purchased this set for what felt like a bit steep of a price ($16.99) and waited patiently for its arrival by mail. Being in the E commerce industry, I knew to expect a few weeks for delivery. In the meantime, I brought a fork wrapped in a dish rag. This was no way to live I might add. On a Monday afternoon, my shipment arrived and it was like Eco Christmas!!

I was honestly just excited to go to work the next day to unveil these puppies. There's a very evident stigma with the BYO crowd. People look at you funny. Think you're a germaphobe, or a just a wack job. I think the general public needs a severe desensitization to reusable items. Cups have made the transition nicely. It's now the time for straws and utensils to become commonplace.  

With great pride and excitement, I unrolled my set for it's first official debut. It was everything I dreamed it would be. Now I completely understand if you think I'm being overly dramatic about this experience. I am. As an environmentally empathic human, these simple lifestyle hacks that help to relieve my footprint shame are difficult to quantify. These are the moments my friends.

Within minutes, and as expected, i was approached by a woman who was, almost uncomfortably, staring at my new bamboo friends with a intent to either

a) steal them, or,

b) take a bite out my lunch

Her first words were "Gimme your utensils bro!"

No seriously she said "Where can I get those?"

I told her I found them online. I mentioned how I worked there and everyday at lunch, I needed reusable utensils so I didn't need to use plastic. She went on to tell me she was interested in the movement of banning single use plastics and wasn't really sure what things she could do to help. Just to do her part. As I usually say when discussing this with people, I stated "Just don't do nothing. Change something about your life that cuts back on the footprint you leave." Of course shamelessly, I mentioned "My name is Nikko and I own an Eco-friendly straw company that donates back to ocean clean up." I recommended she go to StrawArmada.com to pick up a straw and help me to help our cause. She said "I'm Anya. It's too bad you don't offer these utensils too because I would absolutely buy them from you if I could." It was like a lightning bolt!! I had to find out where to buy these and how I could offer them on my site.

I spent that evening searching for a supplier for these items with not only a price point that would allow me to offer them reasonably priced, but also of the quality I expected from my own purchases. After some research, I had selected my supplier and worked out a fair deal and I immediately updated my site with our newest item.

MONTHLY FEATURED ECO-ITEM: The Go-Ware Set. Priced at $10.99, with Free Shipping.

E commerce is a tough business. It takes relentlessness and determination to even get people to your page, much less purchase items. I entered this business with a goal to offer affordable Eco-friendly items that reduce waste and to give a portion of those sales back to help clean the oceans of all this crap we throw away that pollutes our world and endangers our wildlife and ourselves. I owe it to our mother to be an earth child she benefits from creating, not to her detriment. I'm a visitor on her stage and I don't want to be a cancer. I want to be a help.

At approximately 9 pm the following evening, I heard that certain ding from my phone that brings me immense amounts of joy. That sound that lets me know some other kind soul has just donated $.50 more cents to my cause. As usual I checked the order to prepare it for fulfillment. And there in the customer column is the name Anya. It's a unique name and I knew it had to be the same Anya that approached me looking like she was about to steal my stuff. There was a order for 5 of these sets. 5!!!!

I always write a personal email to each and every new customer that makes a purchase from my page. I honestly appreciate every sale in a way that's hard to explain. The work and the effort I've put into this company is emotionally tangible for me and I am paid back, not with profits, but with acceptance by the online shoppers community.

I received a response within minutes of my email. It was her.

In short, the email consisted of her appreciation for the advice and passion I exuded about the topic. She said she bought a set for everyone in her family and wished me success in my venture.

I wanted to share this story because it provided me a unique sense of purpose and meaning. The individual connection with a customer that was made and hopefully the impact our introduction will carry on rippling through time. This is why I started this. To feel this way. Straw Armada is not yet profitable in economic terms. In emotional currency, I am being paid more than I deserve.

Thank you Anya.....

Nikko Raptoulis - Founder of Straw Armada

[comicteaparty]

November 11th-November 17th, 2019 CTP Archive

The archive for the Comic Tea Party week long chat that occurred from November 11th , 2019 to November 17th , 2019.  The chat focused on Closer to Home by Jess Peck.

Featured Comment:

Chat:

RebelVampire

COMIC TEA PARTY- WEEK LONG BOOK CLUB START!

Hello and welcome everyone to Comic Tea Party’s Week Long Book Club~! This week we’ll be focusing on Closer to Home by Jess Peck~! (https://closertohomecomic.com/)

You are free to read and comment about the comic all week at your own pace, so stop on by whenever it suits your schedule! Remember, though, that while we allow constructive criticism, our focus is to have fun and appreciate the comic. Below you will find four questions to get you started on the discussion. However, a new question will be posted and pinned everyday (between 12:01AM and 6AM PDT), so keep checking back for more! You have until November 17th to tell us all your wonderful thoughts! With that established, let’s get going on the reading and the chatting!

QUESTION 1. What has been your favorite scene in the comic so far? What specifically did you like about it?

QUESTION 2. What has been your favorite aspect of the world-building or the alien species shown so far? In what ways can you relate to the differing cultures, and in what ways do you find yourself confused like the rest of the humans in the story?

Capitania do Azar

1. I honestly can't pinpoint a specific scene, don't hold this against me! But I love the general feeling of the comic. The characters are going through some very specific, emotional things, and I really enjoy the way that those are always handled with a certain softness that I think it's very... refreshing!! That being said, I loved the overdramaticness of The Heist

2 I am confused all the time and I love it. It's always nice to find weirdly alien aliens!! I also appreciate that even tho aliens are familiar with some human things, they're very unfamiliar with others, serving for further confusion. Give me all the confused aliens.

RebelVampire

QUESTION 3. At the moment, who is your favorite character? What about that character earns them this favor?

QUESTION 4. Which character’s reaction to the extinction of humanity really impacted you? In what ways do you think the characters will still continue to deal with this emotionally? Also, what do you think would happen if they found more humans?

Capitania do Azar

3. Samira best girl and Tachs best ∆oid. Samira takes responsibility and is in charge and that's a trait I always like to see, while Tachs is a jolly presence, always questioning everything and being super supportive to everyone. And xi's fashion af.

Capitania do Azar

4. I don't think we've heard the last of that, especially since it seems that it was mostly an intelectual experience, but not an emotional one. Like, the characters KNOW humanity's gone, but they don't actually experience it so I think it'll probably come back to them in the future. That being said, I am very emotional on all things Nike related

RebelVampire

QUESTION 5. What has been your favorite illustration in the comic so far? What specifically about it do you like?

QUESTION 6. Who do you think caused the genocide for humanity, even to the point of hunting down remnants that had escaped? For what purpose, and how does this tie into all the people hunting for humans still?

Capitania do Azar

5. Really digging the vibes here: https://closertohomecomic.com/post/169303849473/first-smackjeeves-about-topwebcomics

6. I don't really have any theories about the genocide, but it's super intriguing that it happened so early after the first contact with alien species.... with such a short ttimespan, I don't think it could have been anything mankind did. Unless we did it to ourselves, but that doesn't sound like the case (I could be wrong). I suppose humans are just valuable because of their rarity now!!

RebelVampire

1) My favorite scene is probably the impromtu museum heist. I kind of liked seeing the newbies embrace that pirate lifestyle. Yet I kind of like this feeling of being lost that kind of hangs around the background. Like to me that scene was a real sign that things are truly starting to sink in for them that Earth is gone, humans are gone, there's no hope. I think I'd actually equate this to the bargaining stage of the 5 stages of grief. To me it feels this action is born from them trying to find meaning again. So for me this scene is both fun but has the right amount of tragic undertone still there. 2) My favorite aspect of the world building has actually been the language translators. I like the logic behind how they work, since it really fits how language works in general. And I like that they aren't perfect so, inevitably, there are things they can't really translate all that well. It really creates an interesting balance between being able to understand while also possessing opportunities for differences. Which is something I kind of like about this comic in general. There's a lot of cultural differences, yet everything is actually explained in a way that's easy to relate. Like a lot of the emotional things alien and human alike go through are universal, so whether things are different or not doesn't matter. It's still easy to attach yourself to what the characters are going through.

RebelVampire

3) Definitely Tachs. I like how kind of disconnected from humans Tachs is in terms of cultural upbringing. But at the same time, I like that Tachs is probably the most (ironic phrasing) down to earth of the entire crew. If I had to trust someone with my life, I definitely would pick Tachs, cause Tachs I trust enough to not get me killed. 4) Honestly, for me the character that impacted me the most is Nike. Not cause Nike has been dramatic, but because she's just been really accepting despite having left a wife and two daughters on Earth. And like, I can't begin to imagine the sort of inner strength it takes to internalize it as much as she seems to have done and still move on with life. I think for the newbie humans who just found out, I think they're basically gonna go through a whirlwind of the five stages of grief. Cause I still don't feel like they are ready to accept every implication with the fact that all humans are gone. Which to be fair, I don't think any human could really take that heavy of an idea into their head all at once. For everyone, though, I think there's gonna be a lot of soul searching about what their purpose is, or if they can live without purpose, and a bunch of existential dread questions that are hard to think about. As for if they found more humans, probably not much to besides bring them into the family. However, depending on how many they found, it might lead to potentially false hope that the genocide was fake news.

5) I really like this space shot of the ship https://closertohomecomic.com/post/138665523507/first-smackjeeves-topwebcomics-last-shhh It really expresses not only the majesty of space, but the sheer scale of the ship. Which that last one is not something I see in a lot of comics, since there's rarely any shots of how the characters are to scale with other parts like this. So it's nice to get a real feel for just how large the interior is. 6) I'm not sure who caused the genocide, though I kind of feel like Vee knows more than he's letting on. I feel like the two most viable options are either a) someone stands to make a big profit by genociding humans or b) somehow humans are basically the ultimate threat to the universe. Which I lean towards b right now as this would explain why they're still being hunted. Although, I am willing to give a C) option that the genocide was caused by someone looking for someone specific, and the only way to be sure they killed that someone specific was to kill all humans.

RebelVampire

QUESTION 7. Which characters do you enjoy seeing interact the most? What about their dynamic interests you?

QUESTION 8. Why do you think Vee was in a stasis pod when he was discovered, and how do you think he managed to escape the genocide since he apparently saw it? Do you think Vee will overcome whatever it is he witnessed?

RebelVampire

QUESTION 9. What sorts of art or story details have you noticed in the way the comic is crafted that you think deserves attention?

QUESTION 10. Given the themes of this comic around identity, what about the characters do you think will change as the story goes on? In other words, what will they discover about themselves given the rules of society have changed?

soyamilk🌙

1. I haven't read far yet, but the scene with Nike and her family really tugged at my heart. Both the loving family but then a heart that seeks the stars... and then missing that family. Owie my heart. And I think I pretty much like all the flashbacks to Mothers Days on Earth I've seen so far. It really hits that contrast with the new space life hard. 2. It's definitely cool seeing how aliens will interact with humans, and how the aspect of communication is handled! There was quite some thought put into how the actual translation would work, and what kind of technology might have been developed for it. And just like on Earth even when you don't need to speak across language or culture you already have a lot of things that could be misunderstood. I like seeing how even across the universe people/aliens who are all different are getting along better than when they were in their own groups that are supposed to be like them. 3. So far, Samira is my favorite, and the worm doc (sorry I forgot his name > <). I love Samira's boldness, she really stands out. She's a go getter, but I'm glad that she has the rest of the cast to balance out those rash plans. And the doctor is cute! Plus his flat humor is funny hehe. Science!! I think all the characters are slowly growing on me, I didn't really have a great impression of anybody at the beginning.

5. My favorite illustration has been this page. https://closertohomecomic.com/post/133065092214/first-smackjeeves-topwebcomics-last It just has great balance and so much emotion. It's subtle, but I really like it. Plus while I enjoy the pacing and the humor of other parts of the comic, this is really nice and lets that feeling just settle in. I also like the scene with Adam on the rooftop (in the past. Obviously I enjoy those past segments haha. So sentimental. 7. I like this moment here. https://closertohomecomic.com/post/162861036256/first-smackjeeves-about-topwebcomics But I honestly can't say yet, I think some interactions are really surprising me. Have to read some more!

RebelVampire

7) At the moment, I like seeing Tachs and Vee interact the most. Something about their relationship really clicks with me. I like how they have shared interests, but are also still vastly different from one another. And I like the weird mix of caring dialogue along with the banter. It just overall warms my heart for reasons I don't quite understand. 8) I feel like Vee was put there on purpose. Like, I like Vee, but I am also suspicious of Vee's part in the genocide. And I kind of feel like Vee in particular might be a target, though for what reason I don't know. And while I get the genocide was traumatizing, I feel there's more to the reason Vee avoids the topic. As for overcoming what he saw, I'm not sure that is something you can get over. If Vee isn't guilty of anything, I feel like Vee is legit in the best emotional place possible after witnessing the genocide of your entire race. Like what a trooper O_O

RebelVampire

9) I've enjoyed a lot of the little cultural clash cause alien details considered in the story. Like the language translation issues, the sexuality issues being culturally specific, etc. Like, it is really hard to consider what an alien culture would be like. Since we've never met an alien, it's hard to say what culture aspects would be universal vs. which ones would be extremely specific to earth. So I love seeing when those things are explored, because it really is a topic we need to consider should we ever actually meet aliens. 10) I feel like, overall, the characters are going to discover how to be happy and just go after it. Like take Nike wearing clothes that surprises all the others for a moment till Nike explains "everyone is dead who cares." I feel that is the exact kind of thing were going to see a lot of. The characters will embrace new things, and slowly learn that society is kind of dumb sometimes and tells us not to do a lot of things because its seen as weird. But that society's choice to view them as weird is arbitrary and gets in the way of happiness. And I think slowly the characters will explore and embrace more wild and fun aspects of themselves, cause there is no society to pressure them anymore to conform.

RebelVampire

QUESTION 11. What do you think are this particular comic’s strengths? What do you think makes this comic unique? Please elaborate.

QUESTION 12. What do you think Sam’s backstory is? How and why did she wind up in space? Given the sorts of activities Sam is involved in, where do you think life will ultimately lead her? Also, do you think we’ve seen the last of her old captain?

RebelVampire

QUESTION 13. What are you most looking forward to in the comic? Also, do you have any final thoughts to share overall?

QUESTION 14. In the larger picture, what do you think will become of Kay, Latoya, and Nike? Will they stay with Sam or eventually find a place to settle down? Also, will they manage to remain friends as their future adventures challenge them?

RebelVampire

11) I think this comic's strengths are definitely its world-building. There's a lot of effort put into the small details of what an alien culture would be like and the sort of road blocks that would be hit for humans because of it. That takes a lot of though and preplanning, but it really helps make a super fleshed out setting that feels unique and really pulls you into a separate world. 12) I feel like Samira probably came from a broken home given the info we know. And so when she found out aliens were real, it was no question she should skip out on her home planet. I imagine she kind of just felt in general there was nothing for her, so it'd be easier to get a fresh start somewhere else in the universe. I think Samira is...kind of heading down a dark path at the moment, probably one that mirrors her old captain. Cause I feel the old captain wasn't that bad...but do enough bad stuff, and your morals really start to corrupt. And while I'm sure Samira think she's above it, no one really is. As for the old captain, I do feel she'll make an appearance again, maybe even as a human hunter or something.

13) I am looking forward to exploring some of the other characters we haven't explored that much, like Fuzz who I don't think nearly has had enough screen time. But overall, I think that's a lot more troubling and interesting cultural aspects to explore here. 14) I feel like eventually the three of them will split ways in some regard. Kay I feel is most likely to stay with Samira, cause I feel like Samira's lifestyle suits Kay the most. However, I kind of feel that, when you get down to it, Latoya would rather pursue science stuff and Nike would still explore but do so in a different way than crime. I do feel like they'll all manage to remain friends. Least of all just cause when you're the last humans, I feel it's hard to hate at that point. That's a lot of pressure to be the last of your kind with only a few people who can understand the same things you're going through.

anneapocalypse

(Picking a few favorite questions!) 2. One of my favorite pieces of worldbuilding so far has been learning about the tiers of alien species, and the kind of sinister underlying implications of that. 3. It's very hard to pick a favorite character but so far I would have to say Kay. They're just so spunky, and I love that even in that initial horror and grief of learning that humanity was functionally extinct, they were the first to stop and really take in the wonder of their situation. They're in space, among the stars, meeting aliens. It's all they ever wanted. 4. To me the most powerful reaction was Nike's, when Latoya tells her she looks cute in her new style, and Nike says (in sign language), "Everyone is dead. Wear what you want." There's so much in that statement--not just the grief she's still feeling for her family and her species and her old home, but also the pressure she must have felt back on Earth to dress and generally conform to a certain set of expectations. In the midst of this terrible loss, she finds a little bit of freedom and she seizes hold of that, as a way to express herself and to cope with the loss.

7. I love Latoya's subtle protectiveness of Nike. I can tell she really cares about her. And currently I'm very interested in Kay's relationship with Charli and where that might go!

12. I suspect Sam maybe didn't have the happiest childhood on Earth. You know that saying in RPGs, "Happy, well-adjusted people don't become adventurers"? I doubt a happy, well-adjusted kid leaves her family and everyone she knows behind forever, even for something as cool as going to space. She didn't say, "I want to go!" she said, "You have to take me with you!"

And I definitely don't think we've seen the last of Schzaar.

13. I am looking forward to many things, but especially learning more character backstories.

14. I predict that the main three will remain friends for life, but if there's any splitting up I would put Latoya and Nike as more likely to settle down somewhere, whereas Kay would want to continue traveling the stars.

RebelVampire

COMIC TEA PARTY- WEEK LONG BOOK CLUB END!

Thank you everyone so much for reading and chatting about Closer to Home this week! Please also give a special thank you to Jess Peck for volunteering the comic and creating it! If you liked Closer to Home, make sure to continue to support it via some of the links below!

Read and Comment: https://closertohomecomic.com/

Jess’ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/jestershark

Jess’ Twitter: https://twitter.com/jesspretend

[king-of-brooklyn]

Homecoming - A Sprace Fic, Part 2

( Here it is, pt. 2. This is a bit longer than the first part, but i hope you all like it!)

No one from Manhattan sees Race for two weeks. Rumors spread, and soon every newsie in New York knows that Race isn’t Manhattan anymore. They all know that now, he’s in Brooklyn.

The Brooklyn newsies, all familiar with and friends with Race, gladly take him in. Few could know Race and not like him, with his easy smiles and personable demeanor. He’s also a damned good newsie, and if he cleans them all out in poker, well, that can be forgiven.

Race bunks with Spot, sharing the small private room and single bed. The newsies chock this up to the close bond between best friends and the need for warmth in the winter, most no strangers to sharing a bed themselves. And if a few with especially good intuition notice anything between the two boys, they keep quiet. It is Spot Conlon after all.

———————————————————

The first day of the third week, a Tuesday, Race wakes up before dawn to try and get a head start on the day. He dresses quickly, debating whether or not to wake the still sleeping boy behind him or let him be for a few more minutes. Halfway through buttoning his coat, he is startled by arms twining around his waist, and a warm figure pressing into his back.

He turns and smiles at Spot, still getting used to waking up with him everyday. It is something he never thought would happen, that he can hardly believe is true.

He wouldn’t trade it for the world.

The dark haired boy, still bleary eyed and yawning, lazily kisses Race before separating and pulling his own clothes on as well.

Once dressed, the two boys sneak out of the house, grabbing a few mouthfuls of breakfast on the way out. As the sun begins to peek over the horizon, they buy their papes and make their way down to Sheepshead. In this respect, nothing has changed. Spot and Race have always sold together in Sheepshead, always arriving early on a certain day when the races are supposed to be especially good.

Race wears red, Brooklyn’s color, though he has kept his Manhattan clothes in a box in Spot’s room. He still thinks of it by this name, though it is rapidly becoming known as their room. The thought makes his insides feel warm.

Spot’s voice breaks the comfortable silence. “Whatcha thinkin’ ‘bout, Racer?”

Race turns, practically beaming. He knows he shouldn’t feel this giddy, knows he should be more upset about leaving Manhattan, but he can’t bring himself to care. Jack’s words hurt, and so did leaving his friends. He misses the familiarity of the Manhattan lodging house, the easy camaraderie that could only come from years of living with the other boys. But here, in Brooklyn, he has friends too, boys he’s known for years despite not living with them. Here he has nightly poker games, Sheepshead and the races only a few blocks away, a lodging house that had been his second home, and is now his only home. Here he has Spot.

So when he answers his partner, his voice is bright and clear, untainted by sadness. “Thinkin’ ‘bout you, Spotty.” Not one to be unnecessarily sentimental, the blonde-headed boy smirks. “‘Bout how I’m gonna whip you an’ the rest a the boys at poker ta’night.”

Spot rolls his eyes, smiling. “Better hope you can back that mouth a yours up.”

“Oh don’t worry ‘bout me. My mouth works jus’ fine, thank ya very much.”

The other boy raises an eyebrow. “That so?” He allows his eyes to flit quickly over Race’s figure, the slight innuendo clear in his gaze.

“You tell me,” Race responds cockily, before turning on his heel to shout out the headline. “Extra, extra, read all about it! Dodgers slaughtered by Yanks, four to none!”

An audience is generated, payment is exchanged, and by the time the boys make it to Sheepshead, his bag is five papes lighter.

They split up, hawking their papes from either side of the racetrack. Race has always made it into a competition, both boys striving to sell their last newspaper before the other one can. For once, Spot succeeds, dropping onto a bench with his bag empty just minutes before Race. It’s not that Spot’s bad at selling papes, Race thinks. He’s the self anointed King of Brooklyn after all. Race just has more of a way with his customers, acting charming and funny and giving good tips on the races.

The day trots on, time told only by the number of laps the horses run endlessly around the dusty tracks. Each boy watches the races with wide eyes and chattering tongues, taking bets on the outcomes, telling old jokes, and regaling each other with stories. Finally, they gather their things and make the trek back to the Brooklyn lodging house.

Race quickly becomes caught up in an animated discussion with Spot about whether or not one of their regulars, Mr. Maltser, actually bets to win or just to impress a certain lady, not even noticing when the dark haired boy comes to a halt beside him.

He continues to walk, twirling his cigar between his fingers and loudly refuting the idea that anyone could gamble willingly if they know they will lose.

By the time he realizes Spot is no longer with him, he has noticed another, far more pressing issue. Jack Kelly stands not twenty feet from him in front of the lodging house, flanked by five other Manhattan newsies.

Fisher, Spot’s second in command, stands in the doorway, scowling. His eyes shift over the group, sizing them up and displaying his distaste for the out of place bunch.

As soon as he sees the two newcomers, Fish’s face lights up with barely concealed relief, but also worry. Jack shouldn’t be here, no one from Manhattan should, but six against one isn’t a fair fight.

In the time it takes Race to gather all this information, Spot has closed the distance between them, throwing an arm carelessly across his shoulders in a show of solidarity. Race sees the way this makes Jack’s face tighten, noticing how his eyes dart to the place their skin connects, but chooses to ignore the pinched look on his previous leader’s face.

He can feel the tension Spot is holding within him and feels exactly the same way, as if he’s about to witness a car crash, or maybe about to get hit.

Despite this, Spot makes the first move. Of course he does. His turf, his rules, his Race.

Plastering a smirk onto his face, he speaks to the leader of the six boys. “Heya, Jacky. Youse here for a chat? ‘Cause I gots some things ta take care a, an’ youse weren’t exactly invited in.”

The challenge is his voice is clear. He doesn’t want Jack here, and if he doesn’t leave soon, the borough leader will make him leave.

Jack acts unfazed by Spot’s statement, though Race can see the boys around him stir restlessly. He feels a slight pang for his friends, before quickly brushing it aside. He knows they’re here to take him home, and Race doesn’t want to go home. He wants Jack to apologize, but even that won’t change his mind.

Jack glances at the boys around him before stepping forward. “I’m here to talk to Race.” He pauses for a moment, then adds, “Alone.”

Race’s breath hitches slightly as he feels Spot stiffen, his friend’s chest contracting before he pushes a heavy breath out. “I think that’s up ta Racer, don’t you, Jacky?”

The vocalization of his nickname, which only Spot is allowed to use, surprises Race. His lover is purposefully staking his claim in front of Jack, although he and Spot are the only ones who know the true intimate nature of their relationship. Most of the time Race doesn’t mind the secrecy, and since he and Spot have always been best friends, he doesn’t mind everyone else viewing them that way.

Race blinks, refocusing his attention on the situation at hand. He swallows thickly, nodding. “Yeah. Yeah, okay.” He can feel Spot’s hand squeezing his shoulder, doing what? Warning him? Supporting him? He ducks out from under it, taking one step toward Jack before he feels a hand on his arm, stopping him.

When he turns he is only inches away from Spot. Looking into the shorter boy’s eyes, Race can see apprehension and fear reflected back at him, but all his partner says is, “Don’t do anything you don’t want to do, Racer,” before releasing him.

Race gives Spot a slight smirk before flipping around to face Jack. He motions toward the nearest alley, waiting for Jack to pass him and then following. He almost looks back over his shoulder at Spot, but resists the urge. The Brooklyn borough leader will have to trust Race to do what he thinks is right, and Race has to worry about Jack, not Spot right now.

Alone in the alley together, Jack stands ramrod straight even as Race slumps against the brick, shoving his cigar between his teeth. After a moment of careful silence, Jack clears his throat.

“Racetrack, I-“ He breaks off and sighs. “Look. I was wrong to throw you out. An’ I’m sorry. I just... Spot? You chose Spot ova’ me? I needed youse to back me up in front of everyone, and you chose Brooklyn’s leader. I couldn’t....”

Jack breaks off again, rubbing his temples and looking pained.

“Dammit Race, what was I supposed to do? What am I supposed to do? I’m not mad at ya anymore, but I can’t... everyone knows about this! Everyone knows you took Brooklyn over ‘hattan. How am I supposed ta handle this?”

Race bites down on his cigar, contemplating Jack’s words. This is not how he expected the confrontation to go. In all honesty, he had no idea how it would play out, but this is not it.

Race flicks his eyes up, meeting Jack’s gaze. Measuring his words, he takes one more moment to consider: is this what he wants? He decides it is.

“I’m sorry too.” His quiet apology causes Jack to nod. The time for apologies is over, now Race has to make up his mind.

“There is no solution. Not really.” At Jack’s look of surprise, Race continues. “I mean, there’s no solution where I go back to Manhattan, back to the way things were before.” He holds up a hand to silence Jack’s noise of protest. “No, listen. You’re right. I challenged you in front a everyone. I chose Spot ova you, my borough leader. And I’m sorry. Maybe it was the wrong decision, but I thought it was the right one. Now I’s here in Brooklyn. You and I both know I’s can’t go back to Manhattan.”

Jack reluctantly nods in agreement, but Race keeps talking before he can say anything else.

“I can’t go back to ‘hattan, and honest Jack, I’s not sure I wants to.” Seeing a slightly hurt look slide across the Manhattan leader’s face, he scrambles to finish his thought. “Not that I’s don’t want ta see you guys! You’re my family, alla’ youse. But I got a family here, too, in Brooklyn. An’ I’ve been slowly movin’ toward Brooklyn for so long, Jack. Coming here now, it jus’ feels right. Manhattan was my home, an’ a damn good one too. But now I think I belongs in Brooklyn.”

Jack is quiet, letting Race’s words sink in to the silence between them. They both knew there was no easy solution to the problem, but Race doesn’t want to see how the Manhattan newsies react to this. They really are his family, and he doesn’t want to see them hurt.

Finally, Jack sighs. “You’re right. And it’s your decision.”

He spits into his palm, holding the hand out for Race to shake. Race does the same, and the two boys hold it for just a moment before Jack pulls him into a rough hug. No more words are exchanged, but both boys understand what the other is trying to say.

Jack finally breaks the silence. “Well, we should be getting back. I’ll tell tha’ boys what youse said- or did you wants to tell ‘em yourself?”

Race thinks about it for only a moment before declining, knowing that his friends would want more information, would protest and cajole him and finally just accept it and say their goodbyes, but that

he doesn’t have the energy to deal with that right now.

He shakes his head. “No, you tell ‘em. Once youse all get back to tha’ lodging house, tell all tha’ boys. I’ll drop by tomorrow ta see ‘em. Make sure you tell ‘em I’m still gonna visit though. I’s not gone for good.”

Jack nods. “Yeah, don’ worry. I’ll tell ‘em.”

Together, they leave the alleyway, Jack in front of Race. He watches as Jack goes over to the Manhattan boys, talking to them in a low voice. So distracted is he by this scene, he fails to notice footsteps approaching until Spot is right behind him, touch light on his shoulder.

He starts, then relaxes. Without turning his head, he sighs. “Hey.” The word is quiet, simple, conveying his exhaustion.

Spot fidgets, feet shuffling back and forth before finally pulling Race around to face him. Race can see the fear and worry bright in his eyes now, clouding over his normally stoic facade.

“Well? What’d ya decide Racer?” He knows Spot is trying to be brave, trying to act like he doesn’t care what Race chose, even though they both know he does.

Race smiles, and with that, everything he saw in Spot before dissipates. His tone is light and teasing, but his words hold so much meaning within them.

“You really thought I would choose anything other than home?”

For a split second, Spot’s face falls, thinking of how Manhattan is Race’s home, but he’s wrong.

Race continues, leaning in close to whisper in his partner’s ear. “You’re my home, Spotty.”

The boy’s cheeks flush, though he holds his composure out in the open. Still, Race sees his face flood with relief, and he lightly squeezes his hand before releasing it.

A shout from Jack causes them both to turn around. “Alright Conlon, we’ll be goin’ now.” He focuses on Race, nodding his head. “Take care, Race, an’ we’ll see ya tomorrow.”

Race nods back, avoiding the stares of his other friends, who look confused and a little hurt. They’ll understand once Jack explains to them, and Race will visit often enough that they won’t forget him.

He stands with Spot watching them leave, waiting until they disappear into the crowd before he turns to the shorter boy. A look passes between them, and Spot slings an arm around his shoulders.

“Alright Racer. Let’s go home.”

Race smiles, leaning into Spot, content in the knowledge of what is his. “Yeah. Let’s go home.”

[marooncuts]

Just Business (M)

Yoongi x Reader

Idol au, angst, Smut, dom!yoongi

P1- P2- Part 3- P.4

Words: 3,405

Description: Your new job consists of twist and turns that lead you down a road of chaos and confusion, with your new boss in the middle of it all.

The morning was cold, the hotel sheets were barely keeping you warm as your wake up. You were supposed to be leaving for the airport in less than an hour, hardly anytime for a decent shower.

You throw on a sweatshirt and some jeans, your hair was still damp. The door to Yoongi’s room had a note.

Went out. Meet you on the plane.

The room he stayed in was clean, he even made the bed. Where had he gone? There was a side of him that was hauntingly suspicious. Excluding the illegal money, he would wander off like this even at the job. For hours he’d be gone, without security, without telling anyone where he was. The rumors don’t help. Rumors range from him needing a break to seeing an escort all way the up to Yoongi being a serial killer.

Though everyone was curious no one would ever ask. They were either too afraid, or too invested in their jobs.

You head out and make your way to the airport.

“There you are, take a seat. We need to talk business.” Yoongi, in a hoodie and jeans again, sat in the familiar spot of the private plane. He was reading on his phone, not really acknowledging you physically.

As you sit down he got into details immediately. “We’re meeting with the rest of the group today. I should warn you. Namjoon, our leader, he’s friendly but I advise you to tread lightly this time. The maknae line is... well, cheerful to say the least. They’re all dangerous but, the Hyung line is different.”

He sipped on his cup of coffee that was on the table between you. There was a sense of calculation, every word was carefully chosen. Nothing he told you had enough density but he let you know that, like you had to know, that this was indeed serious and maybe even deadly.

“It’s a swimming party situation. I know it may not be a fun topic we’re discussing but business is never to be discussed with anticipation.”

The words coming out his mouth start to fade away. Last night you slept with the man in front of you. He was aggressive and cold, but afterwards you saw a glimpse of vulnerability. A small wisp of a sensitive man.

Yoongi was never cold all of the time, in fact you were suprised by the rumors after your first week. But it’s so easy for him to switch and turn that side on. Seeing him not even acknowledge you made you realize that’s he’s probably done this before with many other assistants or aids or employees.

“What?” Yoongi looked up from his phone. “What does Taehyung do? Why does an idol on hiatus need bodyguards with earpieces? And that mansion, how could he ever afford that?” You question him, searching his face for any immediate change in expression.

“Taehyung just likes to hang with a lot of the big boys that’s all. And in order to do that you have to look like one.” His eyebrows were raised, a response to you trying to catch him off guard. As if you two were playing a cat and mouse game.

“Whatever you really want to say, just say it.” He looked at you, expressionless. You couldn’t tell what he was thinking and this scared you. But you knew it wouldn’t sit right if you just ignored the moment you shared with him last night.

“Do you do this with everyone?” The coffee cup in his hand was put back on the table, signifying that he knew what you were about to say. As if he knew the entire time that it was on your mind. “Do what?” Eyes burning into you, he looks at you with a dead on stare. Blazing into your eyes with a blank expression.

“Do you sleep with all your employees? Do you fuck the coffee runner? Or what about that girl from last week who you said had an interesting look?” Something inside of you was ablaze. He made you fill up with burning anger when he dismissed you and treated you like nothing happened. Like he didn’t drag you into illegal dealings. Like he didn’t sleep with you at all. His composure was off putting.

“Y/N, I don’t make you do anything you don’t want to. You can go home anytime.” You cross your arms in response. He knew. He knew you couldn’t walk away from this. He knew you enjoyed the craziness of it all. He knew you enjoyed him and every mystery that comes with him. He knew you’d never walk away. “And no, I don’t sleep with my employees.”

The plane arrived in London and your were rushed to the hotel. There was barely enough time to change into a bathing suit and cover-up. Your white bathing suit was skimpy, but your dress that covered it up was flowing with bright yellow. Yoongi, in shorts and sunglasses looked funny, to say the least.

When you arrived at the luxurious house, you were taken a back. This was nothing compared to Taehyungs mansion. But similar with the swarm of bodyguards that communicated through headsets. A familiar walk to a secluded room was in place. The two of you sat in a room, the library, and waited for the others.

“Remember, be cautious. They’re polite but they never forget things.” Yoongi stood up slowly to greet the men that entered.

The first man, was tall. His stature was intimidating to say the least. When he smiled his dimples showed, giving his blank expression a subtle softness. “Namjoon” He said as he flashed a small smirk at you before sitting down. “Y/N” You responded quickly.

Next to him was a shorter man. Opposite from the other man, he seemed to smile constantly. But the smile seemed more from nervousness, though he was perky from the moment he walked in. Yoongi seemed more comfortable with him. At least, from your perspective. “Yoongi!” He was so cheerful and his smile never stopped as he embraced your boss.

“Jung Hoseok” Yoongi gesturing to Hoseok as you all sit down. Namjoon started the conversation immediately. “Tae called me yesterday panicking. I heard the plan. It’s good. I’m in as long as everyone pulls their weight. If not, I’m pulling out.”

The last man that entered was very still. He gave off an almost royal nuance from the others. He seemed graceful and gentle. He offered a smile to you as he sat next to you. “Kim Seokjin, Yoongi’s aid?” He whispered. “Yes.” You whispered back.

“You’re late.” Namjoon spoke with a monotonous voice. “I’m here.” Seokjin responded. It was clear that whatever happened, it was with this side of the group. Everyone was friendly but something was in the air. They were friendly enough to each other not to cause problems but they spoke only because it was necessary for the moment.

“Listen. I don’t have to be here. If the company falls sure, ill lose money, but you guys know how much I invested how much we really make. It wouldn’t be a dent to me.” With a quiet voice, Namjoon spoke. He was the leader of this small family for sure. Whatever he said they stood still, you didn’t know if it was fear or just his natural place in the group.

“Listen, I warned everyone. We’re in trouble not just us. Your men, Hoseoks men, Jin’s men, Tae’s men. It’s not just about you and your stock. The guys that fight everyday who have no home and no family but go out and do their job for us will suffer.” Yoongi was passionate sitting next to you. His eyes were dark. His voice was shaky.

“Yoongi, calm down.” Hoseok pleaded looking at Yoongi. He was fired up and ready to argue. And Hoseok couldn’t stop him.

“No I have to say this. We dug a fucking grave for ourselves. We all know what we’re up against and what we’ve been preparing for over the past months. This is on YOU Joon. Not me. You lead us and we follow. I obeyed even when I knew you were wrong. For the group, for our guys. So I don’t give a shit if you don’t care. But you made this bed, now clean it the fuck up.” Yoongi was enraged. His eyes were beady, anger and passion were fuming from him.

Jin, was surprisingly calm as if this he saw this coming. He sat quietly and observed. Namjoon then turned towards Hoseok and gave him an order. “Take him outside and cool him down. I can’t speak to hotheads without pulling a trigger.”

Yoongi and Hoseok immediately left the room. It was strange to see how upset he was yet he still obeyed Namjoon. His actions were almost automatic when he heard his demand.

Seokjin and Namjoon say across from you. Silence filled the air for what seemed like forever. You looked around the room to pass the time, you even scrolled through your twitter before the leader spoke.

“What is it that you're really here for?” You looked up surprised for a moment that Namjoon spoke to you. Even through all of this you were still star stuck. “I’m here on the job.” Your voice was meek and shaky. Remembering that Yoongi had warned you to be cautious of what you said around him and from how that conversation went, this went deeper than just extra money.

“I know you don’t know what’s going on. I spoke with Taehyung.” He replied. “To be honest it’s thrilling.” Your response was quick enough for Namjoon to seem pleased as he smirked at your comment. “Word of advice.” To your surprise, Seokjin spoke.

“You’ll never be satisfied with what he says. No matter how much he tells you, there’s more he’ll omit. You can’t figure him out.” His words came out strongly as if he has said this more than once. It was almost like a warning. Then Namjoon stood up from the table to grab a nearby pen and a piece of paper. Once he sat back down he scribbled out a number and address.

He slide the paper to you. “Whenever you’re tired of tiptoeing around Yoongi, call this number and meet me at this address when I give you a time and day.” You stared down at the paper, not knowing what to say. “I should warn you, nothing about it is pretty. And when he finds out, if he does find out that you spoke with me privately, whatever relationship that you think you have with him will be gone. So make your decision carefully.”

Without anytime to respond, Yoongi and Hoseok made their way into the room and back to their seats. You put the paper in you purse and the conversation proceeded.

“I will put up my part. I don’t care what you guys have to do but if your portion isn’t there we’ll have a fucking warrant out for our assets and bank statement.” Seokjin gave his word. Setting the tone for the rest of the meeting.

“I can handle my part but, we’re going to suffer the consequences later. We know some of us can’t afford to give up this money.” Hoseok seemed to bring an elephant in the room that you didn’t know about. All of them including Namjoon tensed up.

“He’s trying. You know that. It’s not his fault.” Yoongi spoke softly, almost somberly. “He’s done so well and now he has to give it all up again. I don’t know how these next few months will go for him. Tae offered to cover his portion.” Hoseok responded.

“No, he’s a man. He has to figure things out on his own. Tell Taehyung to fall back. He can make it up some other way.” It was quiet for a moment. They were all in such a daze. Clearly, whatever happened they replaying it in their minds. Until Namjoon finally broke the trance.

“Tuesday you’ll have the money wired.” He stood up and the others followed. “We’re meeting again Wednesday. Address will be sent.” Yoongi added as they headed towards the door. “Why would we meet again?” Hoseok asked. “We’re all meeting. Everyone.” Yoongi held onto the door handle while everyone paused. How long had it been since they’ve all been in the same room together?

“See you Wednesday then. ” Seokjin calmly said as he gestured for Yoongi to open the door.

“Are you fucking serious. I knew you guys were strained but THIS.” You rambled off in the back of the vehicle next to Yoongi. His hand was rubbing his forehead while he looked out the window. You were talking nonstop.

“I mean of course you’re not going to share details but whatever happened between you guys must have been detrimental. I mean Namjoon tensed up at one sentence. You were furious with him by the way. But you’re an amazing follower I’ll give you that.” You were interrupted by a grumbling Yoongi.

“Namjoon and I are as close as brothers. We all are. There are just circumstances that we can’t get past. Please just let me rest.” The car ride was dreadful. Questions circled your mind. You took out the paper from Namjoon at least ten times.

This wasn’t just a normal criminal act. There was so much going on and you knew Yoongi would never tell you. But speaking to Namjoon would break all trust between you, though from yesterday there seems to be none. It was very telling how they all reacted with one another.

Namjoon was definitely the head of this family. When he spoke they listened, he doesn’t ask he demands. But he’s not a cold man, in fact there’s a slight calmness too him. A certainty when he speaks. Seokjin seems to understand him even when he’s not talking. Seokjin was an observer in the meeting. The words he spoke though, were always important. It seemed as if he was just there to listen.

Hoseok was watching Yoongi most of the time. He almost seemed worried. He isn’t one of needing protection but Hoseok was definitely trying to protect him. Namjoon even sent him to calm Yoongi down. After every sentence during his rage fit he looked to Hoseok like it was validation. Like he understood him.

It was all so complex and it was giving you a migraine. You immediately grabbed your phone and texted the number. You couldn’t keep being in the dark.

After you were settled in your hotel room you received a text. Yoongi went out alone for the night. Again.

Unknown: Tonight. 11:30. Don’t contact this number again.

The building you arrived at was a warehouse. There were boxes stacked everywhere and in the middle of the spacious building was a set up of some kind. There were chairs, even a couch and tv. You could see Namjoon sitting on the couch scrolling through his phone. His attire was different now as was yours. He wore a plain hoodie with jeans.

You made your way to the chair next to the couch and he quickly acknowledged you. “That was quick.” He laughed. “He’d never tell me anything” you tell him. “He’s trying to protect you. I can tell. We can start this off with the obvious elephant.” He sat up and put his elbows on his knees, moving himself towards you.

“Were a gang, obviously if you haven’t noticed by now. But we like to think of ourselves as an organization. Guns, drugs, money, murder. It wasn’t like that at first. Taehyung got into a bit of mess with some con artists and in the process of us trying to clean it up we realized we could use our influence and our money to make things happen in here. So that’s what we did.” The more he talked the more questions you had.

“Ok so could you explain why you have false reports and what is it that you pay for.” You first question but you made sure to be careful of what you asked.

“From the start of our organization we had to gain power by taking out our competition. Whether it was infiltration or murder. This was going on for years. We took out all of them except for one. We were in a tough spot. We have the highest sales of everything illegal in this city except for guns. That’s was their business, but with the advantage of fire arms we couldn’t afford a lose in a shootout. So we made a deal. We buy their guns for our men and sell so we don’t have a war between us.” He grabbed a drink on the table in front of him and sat back on the couch.

“Yoongi didn’t like it. He wanted to fight and have full control. He’s greedy and impatient.  Even though our plan is to attack eventually, he still didn’t like it. Mainly because they’re draining our funds. We have more men than we can think of, supplying them with guns and only having the lower percentage of sales on them isn’t cutting it.” He was calm but you realize why Yoongi warned you. Namjoon was powerful and dangerous.

“The fight between Yoongi and I was intense. I almost fucking shot him. He’s hotheaded sometimes, but he’s a thinker. I’ve always respected him for that. That’s why he gets slack for being so opinionated.”

“Who is the member that’s in trouble after this?” You glare at Namjoon. You didn’t want to show weakness. You wanted him to know how strong headed you were.

“Jungkook. He’s smart and calculated. But he got into it with the rival gang. On top of this payment we have make he has extra on top. After the incident we had to come behind him and make a deal. He pays them for what he caused, he almost got us all killed. That’s all I’ll say on the matter.” He continued to speak, and it seems like he’d been waiting the entire time to tell you.

“Yoongi’s had employees like you before. None of them went well. I’m sure you’re aware. Why haven’t you asked yet?” His eyebrow rose. His question was more of a command judging by the change in his tone.

“I know where I stand with him. I know what I’m capable of. I don’t need to know about others.” His dimples peaked through when he smiled at your response. “He likes you because you’re tough I can tell. You probably test his boundaries. I’ll tell you. The last woman that worked for him fell in love. She was just like you, smart, funny, she knew about the organization but she was in too deep. When business and pleasure collided he had to make a decision.” You were still at the end of your seat.

“She had to go. She didn’t realize who his loyalty belonged too.” You were shocked. Your hands were shaking so you put them underneath your thighs. You needed clarification for what you think he’s saying. “He killed her?”

“No, someone else did. He’d never do that, he’s not that cold.” A man walked through the door and the conversation stopped. “I’ll see you Wednesday, Y/N.”

You made your way back to the hotel. Yoongi’s door had a do not disturb sign, he was back from his night. You didn’t know what to feel. You weren’t scared but you were shocked. Min Yoongi was in a fucking gang.

This was bigger than just false reports. After they front this money they’d have no choice but to move in on their plan. There’s no way that they could afford to buy those guns anymore, not with the little profit they make off of them.

You wanted to help. You wanted to tell Yoongi that you were in it, you knew too much already.

You knew you couldn’t get to close. You didn’t want to end up dead. But you were already starting to feel something for him.

You had three days before you’d be in the same room with a group that hadn’t seen each other for months. Not only that but none of them know how much you really know. Maybe you are afraid. Maybe this was your ticket out.

But you loved it. And you wanted to see what happens next.