#text: marley rose

[angelhummel]

Glee + Reductress Headlines (106/?)

[chandlerjulyfm]

CJ: Marley! Help how do I act normal while tipsy... CJ: This old white professor keeps asking me questions and idk what to do

@marley-rose

[clarkhq]

📲 catrina & marley

catrina: i know you're probably super busy with taylor and everything but if you have a minute this week, let me know. catrina: it's not exactly a 911, but it's like a 910 type of emergency. @marlcyhq

[ivoirerose]

designated driver | charles leclerc

a reworking of an old fic of mine. no warnings except drunk idiots and mentions of sex. you have to pick up your drunk boyfriend from a night out.

Come pick your idiot up, he just started rapping Baby Got Back.

The text had come through from Carlos attached to a video of Charles singing along, trail of shot glasses surrounding him, and you couldn’t help but laugh as you watched the passionate way he belted every word.

You rolled off the couch, shoving your feet into your shoes and grabbing your keys off the counter, answering Carlos with a firm order to not let Charles have any more to drink.

You try stopping him, he’s a menace.

Well you couldn’t argue with that. You tapped in the address Carlos had sent you, pulling up outside of a bar, music blasting from the door as it opened, letting out a group of girls stumbling over their heels.

You texted to say you were outside, watching the door, and when they hadn’t emerged after ten minutes, you decided to go in and get your pack of drunks.

You spotted them almost as soon as you walked through the door, sitting in the corner. Charles had his arms around Pierre's shoulders, the pair now both singing along to Vanilla Ice while Carlos recorded them.

You shook your head as you made your way over to them.

“Am I interrupting something?”

Charles’ gaze shot to you immediately, smile lighting up his face.

“Baby!! Guys, look, it’s my baby. You’re here!” he stood up and stumbled over to you, hands on either side of your face, and you caught a strong whiff of tequila as he leaned close. “You. Are so. Pretty.”

“Thanks Charlie, you too,” you answered as you peeled him off you, raising your eyebrows at Carlos over his shoulder, the other boy just shrugging and gesturing to the glass-littered table.

“Aww, you think so?” Charles blushed, and you fluffed up his hair.

“The prettiest. And you know what pretty boys need? Their beauty sleep. What do you say we get you back, huh?” You asked as he turned to Pierre.

“She thinks I’m pretty,” Charles smugly told Pierre.

“You know who I think is pretty? Kika,” he mumbled. “Hey, I’m gonna call her.”

He went to take out his phone and you rushed over to grab it from him.

“No you’re not because Kika has a big job in the morning and if you wake her up just to tell her how shiny her hair is, she will kill you.”

“Boo! No fun,” he grumbled. “It is shiny though, isn’t it?”

“Super ahiny,” you gave in, pulling him from his seat to stand next to Charles. “Okay, Carlos, you get Pierre, I’ll get Charles.”

“Got it,” he answered, and as he stood up, he stumbled against the chair, crashing to the floor. You watched as he pulled himself up by the table edge. “Woah, Y/N, did you see the way the floor just rose up then?”

You sighed, rubbing your hand over your face.

“Okay, never mind, I’ll get all three of you.” You reached over to grab him, linking your arm through his, Pierre on your other side. “Charles, link with Pierre. No letting go, children, come on.”

You led them through the bar, saving them from a stumble every few steps. You got to the exit when Charles stopped you.

“Wait, wait, baby, this bouncer? Here? He didn’t believe I had the prettiest girlfriend in the world. Can you believe that?” He gestured to the guy manning the door. “And now, she’s here, see, isn’t she the prettiest?”

You blushed, apologising to the guy as you pushed your way through.

“Wait, but he said…”

“Charlie, you’re gonna be the death of me!” you opened the door for him, shoving him into the passenger seat before wrangling the other two boys into the back.

You climbed into your own seat, clicking the child lock before setting off.

“Hey, can we put the radio on?” Pierre called from the back, and Charles reached out before you could answer, cheering as the sound of Bob Marley came from your speakers.

You smiled as they all sang along, and before you knew it, you were pulling up outside their hotel.

“Can you guys get in okay?” You asked, ignoring Pierre’s offended scoff at your question as he pulled at the door handle before turning to you with a sad look. “It won’t open, Y/N.”

You smiled as you clicked the button to unlock the door, and they climbed out of the back of your car. You and Charles watched them wobble their way to the door and stumble in, giving big waves as they stepped inside.

“Idiots,” you mumbled.

“I agree,” Charles answered sleepily.

“I was including you in that.”

“Hey! I’m your idiot.” He defended, and you couldn’t help but nod at that. “Can we stop for fries?”

“Are you gonna order four portions and then eat two bites before falling asleep again?”

“No?”

“Charles.”

“Okay, no fries.”

You rolled your eyes, signalling to pull in the nearest drive-thru, ignoring your boyfriend’s elated cheer.

“One portion, Charles, One.”

“Deal. Give 'em.”

He stuffed four into his mouth at once, groaning at the taste.

“God I love you.”

“You talking to me or the fries?”

“Honestly, right now, I’m not even sure.”

You giggled and he turned to look at you, eyes drunk and hazy.

“I do love you. A lot. You’re so pretty. And nice. And smart. And funny. And great in bed.”

“Charlie!”

“It’s true!”

“God Carlos was right, you’re a menace.”

“Yeah but you love me.”

“Yeah. I do.”

…

“Speaking of great in bed?”

“Charles, no!”

[spencerscharacterbattle]

WELCOME TO THE SECOND SUPER AWESOME CHARACTER BATTLE, NOW WITH 128 CHARACTERS!!!!!

this bracket has 128 of my current favorite characters in media, whether they be obscure or well-known!

HOW THE FORMAT WORKS!:

the first round will contain a battle between the four characters in each box. only two in each box will move forward (the highest and second-highest voted)

the second round will contain a battle between two winners of one square and two of another, and only two will move forward

the third round is exactly like the last round, except only one will move forward

the fourth round will contain a battle between one winner and another, and only one will move forward

the fifth round is exactly like the last round, with the winner moving forward to compete for the ultimate win

the sixth round is the final round and will decide who is the winner of Spencer’s Super Awesome Character Battle 2024!!

just like last year, each poll will be up for a week, so there’s plenty of time to vote for your faves!!

THE CHARACTER BRACKET IS BELOW!!!

(there is a text transcript under the “keep reading” as the text is very small, i apologize for that)

victoria chase (hot in cleveland) vs brock (unikitty) vs chococat (sanrio) vs bozz (the state)

hello kitty (sanrio) vs applejack (mlp) vs bumper allen (pitch perfect) vs kenneth (craig of the creek)

derpy (mlp) vs peggy (papa louie) vs aidan russell (rainbow high) vs rick (the state)

pizza steve (uncle grandpa) vs princess celestia (mlp) vs christine (the state) vs ernie (sesame street)

ariel (the little mermaid) vs starlight glimmer (mlp) vs louie (the state) vs gonzo (the muppets)

levon (the state) vs marley rose (glee) vs choo choo (jellystone) vs bert (sesame street)

rock (rock paper scissors) vs princess luna (mlp) vs deuce gorgon (monster high g3) vs violet wolf (great wolf pack)

octavius (night at the museum film version) vs lee ping (detentionaire) vs cavendish (milo murphy’s law) vs damien (total drama reboot)

purple m&m (the m&ms) vs cheese sandwich (mlp) vs bowie (total drama reboot) vs vince noir (the mighty boosh)

scooter (papa louie) vs glep (smiling friends) vs barry (craig of the creek) vs bridgette (total drama)

holly de’vious (rainbow high) vs wander (wander over yonder) vs octavius (night at the museum animated film) vs secret keeper (craig of the creek)

pepé (the muppets) vs frankie stein (monster high g3) vs hunter (sean saves the world) vs thacher (hailey’s on it)

allan (smiling friends) vs trixie lulamoon (mlp) vs delilah fields (rainbow high) vs naboo (the mighty boosh)

pekkle (sanrio) vs jedediah (night at the museum film) vs princess cadance (mlp) vs poppy rowan (rainbow high)

U*SA*HA*NA (sanrio) vs eva (total drama) vs yolanda (the muppets) vs emperor awesome (wander over yonder)

holger (detentionaire) vs moana (moana) vs noah (total drama) vs lightning mcqueen (cars)

sarah (yolo) vs cam (detentionaire) vs dracula (monster high g3) vs scissors (rock paper scissors)

pim (smiling friends) vs dakota (milo murphy’s law) vs sabrina st. cloud (rainbow high) vs melanie moretti (hot in cleveland)

rachel (yolo) vs commander peepers (wander over yonder) vs mark (craig of the creek) vs uma van hoose (rainbow high)

pinkie pie (mlp) vs omar (craig of the creek) vs biffy (detentionaire) vs margot de perla (rainbow high)

sean harrison (sean saves the world) vs cooper (trolls) vs orange m&m (the m&ms) vs ahkmenrah (night at the museum)

liz (sean saves the world) vs juke (the amazing world of gumball) vs gwen (the state) vs octavia (mlp)

pencil (rock paper scissors) vs amiria (papa louie) vs natasha zima (rainbow high) vs toralei stripe (monster high g3)

steve (the state) vs jedediah (night at the museum animated film) vs clawdeen wolf (monster high g3) vs abed nadir (community)

howard moon (the mighty boosh) vs raj (total drama reboot) vs troy (the state) vs scarlett (papa louie)

sylvia (wander over yonder) vs rizzo (the muppets) vs max thompson (sean saves the world) vs richmond (the it crowd)

gwimbly (smiling friends) vs wanda (the state) vs ghoulia yelps (monster high g1) vs brandy (detentionaire)

sheryl meyer (rainbow high) vs dj pon 3 (mlp) vs wayne (total drama reboot) vs top cat (jellystone)

emma (total drama reboot) vs joy scroggs (hot in cleveland) vs master frown (unikitty) vs david (craig of the creek)

milo murphy (milo murphy’s law) vs paper (rock paper scissors) vs charlie (smiling friends) vs frida kahlo (clone high)

bob moore (hot in cleveland) vs barry (the state) vs tow mater (cars) vs laurel de’vious (rainbow high)

felix unger (the odd couple 2015) vs liezel (papa louie) vs rainbow dash (mlp) vs sugar (glee)

[samevans-wmu]

Text || Sam & Stevie

Sam: Marley, huh? Sam: https://tenor.com/view/intrigued-annie-murphy-alexis-alexis-rose-schitts-creek-gif-5087208394393986611

[zachwilde]

📲 TEXTS: ZACH & MARLEY.

ZACH: hey marley ZACH: just wanted to reach out and ask again if you're doing okay after what that guy asked of you ZACH: and just if you're doing good overall @marley-rose

[marley-rose]

i've seen this episode & i still loved the show || marley & elijah 📝

TAGGING → marley rose & @elijahwilde

LOCATION → marley's apartment

TIME FRAME → honestly i don't even remember

NOTES → elijah apologizes, they make up, feelings and stuff. ya know.

Marley had asked Elijah to come over to her place, because she was keeping this on her "turf" so to speak. This was on her terms. She'd had somuch trust for him and it felt like it all got deleted in an instant, she knew that wasn't particularly fair, but rationality wasn't exactly her friend when her heart was involved, and God was it involved. She was so embarrassed that she remembered every detail of this and he had nothing. She didn't want to be doing this. She wished she was someone who could just stop speaking to someone and not care, but that wasn't her. It just never could be, especially not with him. She opened the door and invited him in, disarmed by the state of him. He didn't look like he was doing any better than she was. Good, she thought absently, and immediately felt guilty for it. "What is it that you couldn't tell me over text?" she asked, trying to keep her voice even, but the pitch was too high, unnatural, not a way that she was used to speaking to him at all.

Elijah definitely wasn't doing better. After Emma had talked him off the ledge, he really thought he had some points he wanted to get across to Marley. Namely, that he was an idiot. He'd gotten too drunk, and honestly, it was a wonder that he'd been so uninhibited, apparently, because it would have taken that level of liquid courage for him to make any kind of move on Marley, let alone several. So he did walk into her apartment looking like a golden retriever with his tail between his legs and immediately winced at how strained and broken he sounded. "It's not that. I just--" He honestly wanted to evaporate on the spot at that point. He had to rip off the bandaid. He had to say something intelligent. "I just need to tell you how sorry I am in person, and how much I understand that you're mad at me, and... I didn't want to explain that over a text message where it could be interpreted as anything other than like, truly sincere. You're so important to me, Mars, and I'm sorry that I made you feel like you aren't. Like, honestly-- it took me that amount of alcohol to work up the nerve to kiss you, and you deserve more than that. Let alone... I mean, I'm furious I can't even remember any of it." He knew he was babbling, but he didn't care. "I understand if you're mad, or need time, or anything like that. I'm so sorry I hurt you."

Marley took a deep breath, she couldn't make eye contact right away, it was just too much. "I'm mostly just sad," Marley admitted. "And I guess mad, too, but mostly sad, which is actually worse, because that means I really care. I knew I did, but." She stopped short, "I was a little tipsy, but I made a clear choice. I don't make those choices lightly, not those kinds. I mean, there was that one time, but in general? I don't make those choices lightly. So the fact that I did all of that with you, it's not nothing, and it hurts that it kind of has to be nothing for you, because you don't even remember, so how could it be anything but nothing?"

"I... was not tipsy," Elijah swallowed, because it was hard for him to admit. "I was definitely less inhibited, but that doesn't mean it was a choice I wasn't interested in." He wasn't sure how to say any of it in a way that made sense. He knew that his goal had always been to keep Marley safe, and he'd done a pretty shit job of that. "But it wasn't nothing," Elijah shrugged, shoving his hands in his pockets. "I don't need to remember it to tell you it was something."

"You should know something really embarrassing up front, actually, before we go any further, I had to take plan B the next morning," Marley blurted, "We didn't use anything, and that's fucking embarrassing for me, on top of everything else. I've never taken that stuff before. I felt like I was like, a teenage girl crawling into a Walgreens whispering to the pharmacist like it was a speakeasy," she groaned. "So I'm mad about that, too, but not even at you. At me." She sighed heavily and paced the room, running her hands through her hair, "And, and I don't know how you can say that it was something, because you never even wanted me that way, not until you had drinks in you."

She had to take Plan B. Elijah felt like the biggest asshole in the entire world, and frankly, it wasn't a feeling he enjoyed. Marley was so important to him, for so many reasons, and this? This just felt like he had used her. Deep down, he knew he hadn't. He knew that the alcohol had just brought out the side of him that he'd been too afraid to ever show her, ever since they were kids and he basically fell in love for the first time. "That's not true," he swallowed, because he knew that if they were to go forward in the conversation, he had to tell her the real truth. "Look-- I'll send you money for the Plan B. It's my fault, obviously, you needed to take it. But I have wanted you that way. I'm just very controlling about it because if you look at my track record, I have a really bad habit of fucking stuff up."

Marley looked over at him for the first time since letting him in and her eyes were narrowed suspiciously, "What do you mean, you have wanted me? You've wanted to hook up with me?" she said, anxiety extremely present in her tone because she truly didn't know what he actually meant, "Like you would've wanted that to happen even if you'd only had a diet coke? You would have still wanted to do that? Exactly that?" She looked away from him again, then forced herself to look back, and the true anguish there...that was her friend, and he was in pain, "Or is it more than that?" No way it's more than that, get a grip, Marley.

Elijah could see she was starting to panic, and he too, was starting to lose his composure. If anything, it meant that she truly didn't understand how much she meant to him, and he didn't really know how to live with that. "Hey, no," He reached for her, but didn't want her to recoil under his touch, so he left the option up to her. "No, Marley. It's always been more than that. It's just... never really been our time, you know? I don't even know that it is, now. I hope you can forgive me for this, but I understand if you can't. I just needed you to know that and hear that from my voice."

Marley's stomach rolled, because of course, she'd always loved him. Maybe there had been an intermission while she was with Hunter, but when the light shone at the end of the tunnel of her heartbreak from that relationship, the only one she could see was Elijah. It's just never been our time. I don't even know that it is, now. Marley stopped pacing and stood in one spot, "It could've been our time any time you asked," she said, without even a second thought. The ache in her chest was familiar, and massive, and she didn't even know what she was feeling really, maybe fifty things at once, but the thing she most recognized was love, because she fucking loved him. She always had. He had to know that, didn't he know that?

"But I didn't, Marley," Elijah stared at her, his smile very sad. "I didn't because I'm not brave enough. We've had time, but it didn't... I didn't. And I paid the price for that in potentially losing you for good. I know that. But you deserve better and you always have. I mean-- look at this. Do you really want to be with a guy who gets so blackout drunk to find the courage to even kiss you that he can't remember it?"

"Don't insult me," Marley said, eyes narrowing again. "I know exactly who you are, and I still-" she swallowed hard, the tears coming, unable to shake them this time. God damnit. "I know exactly who you are and you're not a coward. A coward wouldn't come over here and say any of this to me, and you don't get to tell me what I do and don't deserve, because that's a cop-out. You're smart enough to know. You know that's a cop-out at best and at worst it strips me of agency. You're smart enough to know." she concluded, the hot tears running down her cheeks. "I have stood beside you for years, and have wanted you. All the while, I have wanted you. All the while, I have known you. I have known the real you. I have seen your ugly, and it's ugly, but I still. I still." she swallowed hard, "So do not tell me what I deserve. I know what I deserve," Marley said, her shoulders shaking with sobs. "If you didn't have the courage then, find it now."

He held his hands up. “I’m not trying to!” And really, Marley was telling him everything she needed to know. At worst, he’d mistreated her and made her feel used. At best, he’d tried to tell her what he deserved. Neither one went over well, and he knew it was no one’s fault but his own that they were in their current situation. I have seen your ugly, and it’s ugly, but I still. No, this wasn’t how it should be. She was right in that there was too much of him that wasn’t ready. “I can’t let this be any kind of beginning, Mars. You crying and me feeling guilty. So can you give me a couple of days to stop feeling like an asshole? Can you forgive me for what I did?”

Marley was quiet for a few minutes, feeling embarrassed for practically begging for him in that moment. What a fucking idiot she had to be, really. She'd outdone herself, she took a deep breath and wiped at her red eyes, "I'll always forgive you," she said, her shoulders shrugging. "That's kind of the whole deal. I'd forgive you anything."

“I want you to really think about it,” Elijah said gently, as he pulled her into a hug. “Because you were— are— really mad at me. If we’re going to do something here, I don’t want it to come from something you think was a mistake on my end. Or induced by alcohol. Can you give me a clean slate?”

Marley tucked her face into his neck and squeezed him back, "I wish you remembered," she admitted. "Because it was a really good night. But." she pulled back to look at him, "It's okay that you don't, I know that if you could, you would, and that's not nothing." It was true, she knew that if anything, he was probably kicking himself trying to remember it. He'd never hurt her on purpose. "I'll tell you about it sometime," she said, sniffling but giving him a little smirk, "But until then, yeah, we can start again."

“I wish I did, too,” Elijah sighed, speaking so quietly he wondered if Marley could even hear him. He felt like such an absolute idiot and knew that wouldn’t change in the foreseeable future. He knew that Marley had no reason to forgive him, or to give him a second chance, but he really appreciate that she did. You could always show me, sometime, he wanted to say, but knew it wasn’t the right moment. “I don’t think you’ve ever been mad at me before. Personally, I hated it.”

"I hated it, too," she said, reaching out to hold onto his hand tentatively, "I don't wanna have to deal with that again. So. Don't try anything with me again unless you mean it?"

Elijah nodded, because it was fair for her to ask. But he did mean it, which was the tough part. He understood what the general consensus of the conversation was, though. Clearly, he wasn’t ready to pursue anything with her— or anyone, really— which meant that obviously, there was some element of time needed. For once, the boy who always had something to say didn’t know how to respond— because he did mean it, and couldn’t confirm to her that he didn’t. It probably would have been better for her. But also, that would mean that Elijah had to process that Marley was saying to him that she had feelings for him, too which never was going to land on him. “I mean, next time, you could just get a dartboard and put a picture of my face over it. Hell, I’d join you in throwing shit at it.”

Marley clocked his avoidance of confirmation, and put it in her back pocket for later when she would inevitably need some encouragement. She shook her head and smiled slightly. "You don't get it," she said with a sigh "Nothing could ever make me want to do that. I figured that out a long time ago. There is such a thing as unconditional..." she stopped herself, but then kept going, "unconditional love."

Unconditional love. No, that's not something Elijah deserved. That's not something he knew about, because he knew without hesitation that unconditional love was for people who didn't get sloppy drunk and sleep with their best friends. "I'll try to be worthy of it," Elijah finally replied, with a water sort of smile. "But if I'm ever not, and you change your mind, I'd get it."

"Hush with that," Marley said, touching his cheek, taking in his expression. It made her heart hurt, whatever was going on inside of him right now, it looked like turmoil, and she wished she could take it away, but she had her own turmoil, and she couldn't take it away for both of them. She sighed, "You are worthy because I decided you are, and I'm stubborn, I don't very often change my mind on things, or on people. I haven't changed my mind in all these years, so do with that what you will."

Elijah's mouth found a smile, and he nodded gently at her. "That's one of the seven million things I love about you, Mars Bar," he gently teased, even though there was no part of him that was actually joking. "You always see the best in people, even-- and especially when they can't see the best in themselves."

Marley shook her head, "In you, I only see the truth," she said simply, her face serious. She wasn't going to let him get away with downplaying himself or acting like he was anything other than amazing. Sure, she had been mad at him not too long ago, but it didn't mean she didn't love him as much then as she did right now.

Well, really, the truth was that Elijah had no idea what he was doing. He knew that he’d been careless and it had nearly cost him the person he loved most, and he knew that he couldn’t do that again. He kissed the top of her head and gave her a little squeeze, but then pulled away from her. “Can I buy you lunch? I think it’s the least I owe you. Honestly, sounds like I should start with a chef’s table dinner.”

Marley nodded, "Only if it's in-n-out and only if we get extra fries," she said, feeling like she could finally exhale. She reached out to hug him again, tucking her face into his neck and suppressing the urge to tell him she loved him. It was bad enough that she had practically begged for him. What she needed to do was just be normal and have lunch, and worry about the rest later.

[daisyishedwig]

Chapter 10 of A Place To Call Home is up!

A Place to Call Home (26938 words) by Daisyishedwig Chapters: 10/20 Fandom: Glee Rating: Explicit Warnings: Rape/Non-Con Relationships: Blaine Anderson/Sebastian Smythe, Blaine Anderson/Kurt Hummel/Sebastian Smythe, Blaine Anderson/Kurt Hummel, Blaine Anderson & Sam Evans, Jeff/Nick the Warbler (Glee), Unique Adams/Trent (Warbler) Characters: Blaine Anderson, Sebastian Smythe, Kurt Hummel, Sam Evans (Glee), Nick the Warbler (Glee), Jeff (Glee), Trent (Glee), Tina Cohen-Chang, Marley Rose, Unique Adams, Sebastian Smythe's Parents, Burt Hummel, Carole Hudson-Hummel, Eli.C (Glee) Additional Tags: Enemies to Friends to Lovers, Mutual Pining, Angst, Depression, Panic Attacks, Dubious Consent, Statutory Rape, Lack of Communication, Homelessness, Seblaine Roommates, Fix-It of Sorts, Polyamory, Blaine is kicked out, Hurt/Comfort, Blaine Anderson-centric, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder - PTSD, Blaine transfer to Dalton, Friends to Lovers, disowned Blaine Anderson, trigger warnings listed in the notes on specific chapters as well Series: Part 1 of A Place to Call Home Summary: In a matter of days Blaine's whole world falls apart and everything he does to try and stay afloat only seems to make matters worse. A call to Sebastian Smythe is his last resort, and maybe the one that actually starts to make things better.

Chapter snippet below

Standing at the back of the line, he pulled out his phone to text Blaine but was interrupted by someone clearing their throat behind him. He turned to see Kurt and slowly pocketed his phone.

“Hummel,” he said with a strained smile. 

“Why are you here?” Kurt asked with eyes that were wary and dark.

“Supporting my friends,” Sebastian said with a shrug and Kurt scoffed.

“You really expect me to believe that’s all you are?”

“I mean, I know Sam likes to flirt a lot for a straight guy, but he is still straight.”

Kurt glared at him. “You know I’m not talking about Sam.”

“Then who are you talking about, Kurt?” Sebastian’s crooked smile was sardonic as his voice dripped with sarcasm.

“Next!” The student running the stand shouted, and Sebastian turned back.

“Umm, two waters and a juice box, a snickers, a pack of twizzlers, and one of those extra large rice krispie treats.” Sebastian paid and gathered the food in his arms, starting back towards the theater but Kurt was quick with his purchase and caught up to him before he could reach the doors. 

“I know you and Blaine are dating, “ he said, and Sebastian rolled his eyes as he turned.

“Oh you know, do you?”

[thenewgradianhq]

WEEK 009: January 23rd — January 29th

BIRTHDAYS THIS WEEK:

N/A: No birthdays this week!

EVENTS THIS WEEK:

No events this week!

TASKS THIS WEEK:

Please see below the cut for your pairings for this weeks random text pairings task — make sure to post your starter text before 6PM EST on Sunday 29th January!

Private messages containing your random anon match should have been sent and received! If you opted in but haven't received a DM from myself, please DM me ASAP!

TEXT PAIRINGS:

Auggie Abrams & Marley Rose [ @gradianauggie & @marleyxrcse ]

Emy Abrams & Damian Rose [ @emymontgomery & @gradiandamian ]

Lachlann Anderson & Hunter McClarington [ @gradianlachlann & @huntermcc ]

Ethan Berry & Theo Puckerman [ @ethanberry & @ghcstfm ]

Dany Clarington & Alfie Smythe [ @danyclxrtn & @alfiesmythe ]

Max Hudson & Elliot Rose [ @gradianmax & @elliejamesrose ]

Gabriel Hummel & Cole McCarthy [ @gradiangabriel & @coltonmcc ]

Levi McClarington & Felix Wilde [ @leviticxsmcc & @wildefelix ]

Enzo McIntosh & Milo McIntosh [ @mcintxshenzo & @mcintoshmilo ]

Evan McIntosh & Emiliano Rubén-Castillo [ @evanmcintosh & @emilixnocrc ]

Avi Puckerman & Alastair Wilde [ @avipuckerman & @gradianalastair ]

[theoneryderlynn]

Iris & Ryder || A Bonding Experience

Location: Lima, Ohio.

Date: Post Ry’s freshman year in college, roughly 7 years before. 

Notes: Ryder helps Iris to redecorate her chocolate shop shortly after he and Marley start dating. 

@iristhechocolatier​

Ryder 's eyes carefully examined the various shelves and goodies stacked in Iris' chocolate shop. He has met Marley's aunt just a few times, and on that day, he was about to help her redecorate while Millie needed Marley at her bakery. He picked a bag of truffles to see their flavor, his mind suddenly returning to last night's date. He and Marley had been going out for quite a while, and now during vacation, he knew they'd see each other more frequently. While they still had no label, he knew that the conversation was bound to happen soon enough, especially after last night when they couldn't stay away from each other. He was snapped out of his thoughts when he noticed Iris enter the shop, a soft smile on his face, "Hey, Mrs. Rose-Berry! Marls told me to come over, thought you could use some help with all of this."

Iris "Oh hey," Iris greeted him as she came out of her small office. The store was otherwise closed for the day to redecorate, a task that Iris had ignored for too long. "Yeah, Marley texted me late last night and told me I'd be seeing you. Sorry, didn't hear you come in." She looked around and frowned, "But I could really use an extra pair of hands, it looks like we have our work cut out. The rest of the team bailed on me. Clearly they had better things to do with their Fridays. Hang on, let me go and grab some supplies from my car. I've come prepared. There's a coffee machine in my office, help yourself, people filter in and out all the time. I'll be back in a sec."

Ryder gave Iris an awkward wave as she entered the room, a shy smile still on his face, "That's 'cause I was super quiet," He commented, he wanted to add that he was being quiet like a ninja but then realized that he would've looked like a fool. Ryder had to keep it cool; Iris was Marley's favorite aunt after all, "Oh yeah, it's not a problem. I'm happy to help. The exams are done, and I'm home for summer vacation, so I have plenty of free time." The brunette explained, nodding as Iris left the shop. He could use a cup of coffee. After a few minutes, Ryder found the office and started the coffee machine, "Cappuccino it is!"

Iris “And you’re celebrating your freedom by helping me decorate. I might as well hire you on the spot,” she said as she returned, carrying all the supplies she could manage and continuing their conversation. “I’ll have a Mocha if you’re still making coffee by the way. I’m just prepping stuff out here. Come tell me what you think of this color scheme.”

Ryder "Well, of course, not a problem. People say I'm pretty good at lifting stuff." Ryder responded. Smooth, bro, smooth. He'd do practically anything for Marley, so he agreed to help; it's not like he had better things to do at home, "Mocha it is!" The brunette pressed the right button and moved quickly to where Iris was standing, "I think it's pretty cool. Makes this..." He gesticulated awkwardly, "Look super bright".

Iris “It’s also nice to have some company,” Iris smiled, taking the coffee cup from him and thanking him. “It’s about time I redecorated, I haven’t since before we opened and I used to live upstairs. I’ve just been putting it off. I would’ve asked Breeze and Gabe if they wanted to help but duty calls and Gabe’s spending the weekend with his uncles but Marley told me you’d be a good guy for the job. It sounds like Millie’s busy at the bakery” She started covering the shelves with sheets to protect them from the lilac paint splatters. “Great, bright’s exactly what I was going for. See, she was right.”

Ryder "You used to live upstairs?" Ryder repeated before taking a big sip of his coffee, "Wow, that's dedication." He mused, not sure whether this was an appropriate comment. He wondered if Iris realized he was quite nervous, "She did?" He repeated as Iris mentioned Marley. Ryder quickly grabbed a few sheets, following Iris' movements, hopefully he wasn't asking too many questions, "It's supposed to be a hectic day, but that's a good thing, right? I'm not surprised - Miss Rose's goodies are legendary".

Iris nodded “Marley was very complimentary but you know her, she sees the best in everyone.” She went on to tell him about how she lived here before moving in with her wife, it was less than spacious and the storefront was empty at the time. With Millie’s help she dreamed up the idea of the chocolate shop. “No one can resist my sister’s baking, believe me I’ve tried and failed. Speaking of, there are some samples out back, I think if we’re gonna make any progress today we’re gonna need a sugar boost and a good playlist. Any requests?” she asked.

Ryder "Yeah, you're right." Ryder agreed with a small smile when they mentioned Marley, "She has her way with people." The brunette commented shyly. He listened to Iris story, slightly surprised that she was so easygoing. It felt like they were friends already, "Uh, I don't think I can say 'no' to chocolate." Ryder mumbled although he didn't want to sound too greedy, "As for the playlist, I'm good with anything. I'm just here to help"

Iris smiled an almost identical smile at Ryder's comment about her niece, knowing exactly what he meant by it. As her best friend he knew her well. "Funny how you met again in college. At least that's what she told me." She laughed, "I like you, Ryder, chocolate coming right up. You're in charge of the playlist and then we'll get painting."

Ryder "Yeah, I honestly didn't expect to see her there. I thought she'd do big things, you know, music-wise, but I also understand why she wants a degree. We all want some kind of alternatives for the future." Ryder shrugged, suddenly hoping that Iris might bring the peanut butter cupcakes Marley had once told him about, "The playlist?" He repeated nervously, "Uh, what kind of music do you like?"

Iris knew college could seem like an intimidating place at first so it must've been nice for Ryder to find a familiar face whilst there. "I think that was probably Millie's doing," Iris commented, "We're a supportive family but knowing my sister, she would've encouraged her to stick with school whilst trying to make it in music. Does Marley make you give her your honest opinion about her songs too?" She thought she might know the answer to that question. "Oh anything really, I think there's a store that one of us setup but I don't know how good it really is, put it on shuffle. I'll be right back with the chocolate."

Iris A moment later, Iris reappeared with a plate of samples and set it on the counter away from the paint. "Here you go, help yourself," she said again. "We've got Hazelnut and Caramel bites, Irish Cream truffles, white chocolate and raspberry squares and those peanut butter cups I hear you like so much. Luckily for you there were some left. Those are popular." Marley had mentioned that if Ryder was going to be helping today then Iris would need to have some of those prepared. "So you take one half of this wall and I'll do the other?" Iris suggested, flicking the paintbrush now in her hand over the wall in front of them to help explain. "I think we'll just do one wall today and then we'll at least have made a start. You might want these gloves," she handed them to him. "We don't really need to rush today so take a break whenever. Once this is done we just need to move things around and restock the shelves."

Ryder nodded understandingly. His parents couldn't imagine him skipping college; however they were adamant about a "more ambitious" options. Ryder was a decent student, but his grades were not enough to get him into an Ivy League school, "Maybe. Well, it's a matter of time. Sooner or later, she'll release her music. She does! I do think most of them are amazing." The brunette responded with a slight shrug of his shoulders. When Iris brought the chocolate, he perked up, "Oh man, this is so good." Ryder commented, suddenly realizing that he was speaking with his mouth full. He blushed in embarrassment, "Sorry." He mumbled, taking another bite of the peanut butter cups. Iris definitely thought he was acting like an idiot. Great start, dude, great start. As soon as Iris told him what to do, he took a pair of gloves and started redecorating, "No worries, ma'am. Let's do this!"

Iris "That's what I keep telling her too!" Iris enthusiastically agreed with Ryder. She wished her niece would believe in herself and her talent the way everyone else around her did. "Don't eat them all at once," she advised, watching him eagerly tuck in to the last of the peanut butter cups, "you'll make yourself ill. Oh and please, call me Iris. Anything else is too formal. Alright, let's get to work."

Ryder "Yeah, I do too. She's super talented, and the world deserves to see her work." Ryder replied, he's supported Marley's talent for so long that he was convinced she was meant for great things, "Uh, I am sorry. I'll try. No more. Sorry. I'm sorry." He rambled; well this was going way worse than he thought. He was so nervous that he was probably acting like an idiot, "Oh, okay, Iris. I just didn't know if I could..." He gesticulated awkwardly, "Anyway, back to work."

Iris nodded in agreement. She was glad Marley had a supportive friend in Ryder, it made Iris wonder if there really was more to their rekindled friendship despite Marley telling her and her mom that they were "just friends", not that there was anything wrong with it being platonic. Millie had always had a soft spot for Ryder since they met when he was at high school and now Iris could see why. "Oh no, no I'm glad you're enjoying it! I just don't want you being sick on my conscience." He was rambling but Iris see why he needed to feel nervous. "It's more than okay. I'm not Millie, you're not meeting Marley's mom. I'm chill, I'm the cool aunt," she teased.

Ryder smiled shyly as Iris tried to make him feel comfortable. It wasn't the first time he was hanging out with Marley's family, but it was the first one after they started being 'more than friends.' He wanted her closest ones to like him, he knew how important Iris was to Marley, "Oh yeah, I understand. No worries, my stomach is pretty solid." The brunette joked, grinning when Iris mentioned being the cool aunt, "Got it. Sometimes I do my best to seem 'cool,' and things go the other way around." He replied honestly while starting to work his way with the paintbrush. Somehow his mind went back to last night's date; thinking of Marley helped him to relax. He moved away from the wall and admired his work. Quite a good job, man.

Iris Honestly, Ryder, I'm the same way. I mean, you should've seen me on my first date with my wife, I was so nervous and embarrassed myself, but turns out she thought it was cute so it worked out. Nice job with the painting by the way," she noted, "it's looking good." Ryder was taking his time to carefully cover the space rather than rush it and be out of here asap which she appreciated. Both of them were concentrating on the task at hand in-between small talk. Now was the ideal time for Iris to get to know Ryder since he seemed to be someone important in her niece's life. This was the first time there'd been any 1-on-1 interaction with them and all she really knew about him were the things Marley had shared with her, like how he likes peanut butter cups. "So, how're you enjoying summer break?" She asked, "Got any plans?"

Ryder "Really?" Ryder asked, he appreciated how honest Iris was, "I'm sure it was just a part of your charm." He commented with a smile, placing his hands on his hips as Iris complimented his work, "Thanks! Looking good, right?! I think people will love it." Ryder turned his head to glance at Iris as they spoke, "Summer break has been long overdue." He shrugged, "No specific plans. Gonna hang out here and there with some friends, I guess".

Iris "Let's just say I'm surprised I got a second date," she admitted, chuckling to herself at the memory. The shop was looking better already thanks to Ryder's help. It would've taken her forever to do this by herself. "I bet, I know how stressed out Marley gets before the end of the year. It's nice to unwind and not have to think about it for a while after that. You're studying business, right? I studied business too for a bit. How's that going?"

Ryder plopped on the floor to get to the lower parts of the walls, "It was probably meant to be." He commented with a grin, feeling slightly more comfortable around Iris. When she asked about business school, Ryder took a moment to reply. His first year was quite difficult, but she was doing his best to manage, "It's alright. I wouldn't say I've planned my life; it's just a start. The classes have been okay so far."

Iris "Well here's the thing, it feels like you should have it all planned out and together by now but you don't. I certainly didn't think I'd own this place or be working on finding locations for more stores. You'll figure it out eventually. One day you might even have your own business."

Ryder "Yeah, I guess you're right. Thanks. It's just..." Ryder hesitated, he and Iris weren't that close, so he wasn't sure if it was appropriate to be as honest with her, "The world tries to convince us that we're supposed to have a bright future, and sometimes I'm not sure if I'm doing the right thing. I think everyone feels this way now and then." He shrugged, hoping that Iris wouldn't consider him a loser that wasn't good enough for her niece.

Iris: "How'd you mean?" She asked, hoping she wasn't prying where she shouldn't be.

Ryder shuffled on the floor to face Iris, "Well, it's nothing. Some people just expect us to become successful right after college." He explained, his dad still on his mind; they had been arguing about it for years, "Anyway, it doesn't matter." The brunette shook his head, "We'll see what happens. I wanna enjoy my college time. It's supposed to be really cool."

Iris Iris listened, she got the feeling there was more to it than he was saying but it wasn't her place to pry, the two had yet to get to know each other better. She sort of understood though, in her own way. She felt a little lost once she graduated high school, not sure what she wanted to do but went to college because it felt like the thing to do at the time. When she finished college it felt like walking into the unknown and suddenly more adult. Now she looks back at it and wonders what all the stress was for. "Yeah, forget about college for now. You're on summer break, enjoy it!"

Ryder "Lookin' good," Ryder murmured as he glanced at the walls; they were doing a fantastic job. He nodded when Iris spoke, knowing he had an entire summer with Marley ahead. It was a chance for them to get to know each other better and to develop their relationship, "That's the plan." He grinned, "I'm gonna make the most of it."

Iris "Good for you!" She encouraged. She stood back away from the wall to admire their work so far, "Yup and I think we'll be done with the painting soon. Then I could use that muscle of yours to help move some things around, if you're up for it."

Ryder "Seems like a completely different place. Looks amazing." Ryder agreed, they were almost done with the walls. The color seemed refreshing and brought new energy to the shop, "Yup. Marley says I'm good at lifting stuffs."

Iris didn't redecorate very often, mainly because it was a big job so whenever she did she wanted to feel fresh and make the place look as good as new again. "You know, considering it's just us today I think we've done a good job. Nice work team," she complimented their efforts. "All it needs now is to dry and then maybe some wall art."

Ryder "Cool teamwork," Ryder complimented their efforts with a slight smile. He looked around, admiring the new look of the shop, the color suit the place, "Or stickers." He added, knowing that he wasn't very good at painting, "People will love it."

Iris "If studying business turns out not to be for you, you could try interior design. "Wanna take a break and help me look up some ideas online?" Iris asked.

Ryder chuckled at the idea, he couldn't imagine himself studying design. Indeed he was creative, but his drawing skills could use some improvement, "I'm not sure if that's the best idea, but I'm always happy to help." He added. Okay, so maybe this was going better than he'd expected.

Iris "No? Well you could've fooled me. I'm serious about that job though, if you're ever looking for one during breaks. I've seen how you work now and I could use someone like you on the team if I plan to stick around a while, which I hope to. That is if my sister doesn't steal you first. Plus, Marley's here a lot, more time for the two of you to spend together."

Ryder "Thank you," Ryder responded shyly, he wasn't expecting such compliments. Iris was so friendly. When she mentioned Marley, Ryder suddenly raised his head and looked towards the woman, "Erm...yeah." He replied, "I mean, we already spend a bit of time together." The brunette explained, "In college, I mean. College time...together."

Iris was so subtle. She wasn't going to start playing matchmaker but even after getting to know a little bit about Ryder in this short amount of time she could tell he was a decent guy and Marley, who hadn't always been lucky in love, which Ryder knew, could use someone like that in her life in a closer than friends kind of way. She'd let them figure it out on their own but wouldn't be surprised if at some point down the line they got together. She didn't want to make him feel awkward or embarrassed or uncomfortable so quickly changed the subject - "So you're studying business, just finished your freshman year, what else don't I know about you, Ryder?"

Ryder knew he was avoiding eye contact with Iris, he and Marley weren't official, so he wasn't sure what he was supposed to say, "About me?", The brunette repeated the question, still focused on his work, "I don't know..." Ryder shrugged. He liked to think he was a pretty simple guy, "I like chocolate. And sports. I play football. I also like Star Wars and Marvel." Hopefully, he didn't sound like a total geek, that wouldn't make him look so good.

Iris "Well if chocolate you like then you've come to the right place," Iris replied, chuckling. She listened intently as he described more about himself. Iris and Ryder actually shared a few similarities in personality so it was obvious they'd become friends if he stuck around. "Oh, another Star Wars fan. Nice," she interrupted with enthusiasm, "Where do you stand on the viewing order debate?" She asked, "In order of release or chronological? You know I've tried with Marvel, I really have. My wife's son is really into them but I just don't get the lore and everything. Breeze is the opposite, she can understand a Marvel movie but not Star Wars. I think I only started liking it because my dad made me watch them with him. If I had a lightsaber it'd be purple-" she had to stop herself from excitedly talking Ryder's ear off and looked slightly embarrassed, "Sorry, nerd alert!"

Ryder "I mean, I do work out, I just like chocolate too. It's simple." Ryder babbled, hoping he was making any sense, "Well, I like the prequels so I say, the prequels, the original trilogy next. It all makes perfect sense." He grinned when Iris spoke about the sabers and how she was into the nerdy stuff, he felt like they could really get along, "No worries. Mine's green. I like purple too. It's my second favorite." He commented, "Your family sounds awesome. Marley might've mentioned how cool they are." He told Iris, he'd heard how incredible Iris and Breeze were, so he felt like bringing it up.

Iris "See, I think that must be where I go wrong, I like chocolate too much but don't go to the gym to work it off probably as much as I should. Guilty!" Iris laughed with a shrug. It wasn't really her thing. "I'm with you on that one. I don't know why there's such a huge debate, that to me is the obvious order. Although I haven't watched them in a while, maybe we'll have to get together for a movie marathon sometime." She smiled at the mention of her family, she had a lot of room in her heart for them and would happily talk about them to anyone who brought it up. "They are," she said softly. "Of course I'm biased but we make a good trip. I've a feeling you and my stepson will be fast friends actually, he's kind of a dork too."

Ryder "You don't have to." Ryder quickly added, hoping that he didn't offend Iris. She looked healthy, so everything was alright, "I just like to lift stuffs...working out takes my mind off some things." He explained casually, his eyes focused on their work. Ryder had just finished sorting some decorations, "I'd like to meet him. Maybe, you know...one day." He mused, if things go well with Marley, maybe he'd see her family more often.

Iris smiled shyly, suddenly feeling a tad self-conscious even though Ryder meant it as a compliment. She sort of understood where he was coming from, she knew going to the gym helped Breeze release her pent up frustration. "My wife keeps saying it could be something we could do together but it's going to take a lot more convincing. She gets really in the zone and when she works out," she told him. "Yeah, who knows, maybe someday. He stops by here sometimes after school looking for a snack but I always tell him 1) they aren't free and 2) not to eat too much before dinner, but you know, kids will be kids. I think he has a sweet tooth like me."

Iris looked around at their efforts so far. "I know I keep saying it but it's looking so much better in here already and I love it."

Ryder nodded, he understood where Breeze was coming from. Working out had a similar effect on him, "Think of it as a bonding exercise," He joked, hoping that he wasn't crossing the line with his comment. Gabe seemed like a fun kid; if he and Marley work out, maybe one day Ryder could meet him, "Yeah, he gotta pay for the sweet stuffs like everyone else." The brunette joked, still focused on his work. The shop was looking great, it was amazing how little things could change the overall feeling of the place, "Looks fantastic. I'm glad you like it." Hopefully he has he just scored some extra points in Iris eyes.

Iris "Are you sure you haven't been secretly plotting with her to get me to go? I mean that would be almost impossible given that you've only really met her like twice but that sounds exactly like something she'd say." Iris would like it if Ryder and her stepson could one day meet too, if today had taught her anything it seemed like someone with a good head on his shoulders. Plus, Gabe could use more friends and male influences as he grew up. "That's what I tell him. We'll have to make it happen one day, Ryder. What'd you say?" She nodded, taking a final look at their progress. There was still a little bit to do but they'd made a dent in it today. "It really does. Thanks for your help by the way. You could've literally been doing anything else today so it's appreciated. It may not look or feel like much but it's so much better and easier doing all this with someone else. I think that's enough for today. Anymore and we'll be here overnight!"

[angelhummel]

Glee + Reductress Headlines (88/?)

[bellsrose]

TEXT 📱 BELLAMY & MARLEY

BELLAMY: marls. please. for the sake of our family and me absolutely about to burst my blood pressure or something...

BELLAMY: please don't poke the bear. even if it's just calling her mean. she's done her damage and I don't know like

BELLAMY: I just... I don't like it, y'know? And she already went after Travis!

[clarkhq]

📲 catrina & marley

catrina: hi honey bunny, how are you doing this week? @marlcyhq

[xellcrxss]

TEXT 📲 MARLEY & XEL

ELLIS: I absolutely, did not just find a secondary birthday gift I bought you and forgot about. Not even a little.

ELLIS: 🤣

[dorseyrose]

✉ Dorsey ⇆ Mom

Dorsey: Hey, Mom. You said you had a question for me?