#uc: tight rope

[bridgetserdocksketches]

i suppose i should've known a bombyx mori origin story was going to destroy me, but i still wasn't ready for how much it would

|☕️|

[lcvefriedman]

good girl

i. jimmy x afab reader x jey

ii. threesome, oral (m receiving), a few degrading names, slight bdsm & angst! 

iii. i’m so sorry 

“i hate you.” 

a smirk grew on his face as i let out those words, knowing exactly what weight they held as i basically spat them out at him. i sounded pathetic, faking bravery though i was obviously at his mercy, stripped of all clothing, kneeling in front of him as though he was here to hear my prayer.

tight red rope enveloped my body, holding my arms against my back. i couldn't move any of my limbs or parts of my body, except my head.

"you say that, but then, we always end up like this, without me having to persuade you at all…it’s pathetic.” jimmy’s raspy voice entered my ears, sending shivers absolutely everywhere. it was a voice he only used when we were doing this; it was much deeper than usually and almost dark, as if a demon possessed him and made him this cocky bastard.

i only whimpered in response. my body was burning with desire and spite. i looked up at him again, seeing a beautiful creature i wanted to punch senseless, but what i also saw was a man who i wanted to fuck me. my jaw was clenched and i was shaking, both in cold and anger.

“baby,” he said, the word rolling off his tongue smoothly like honey. "i wish i could control myself when it comes to you. i wish i could leave you alone but, you know i can't."

i knew that fact more than anything. i knew what exactly i was doing to him with only my presence. just one look at me would send him to spiral, only one sinful word could send him over the edge. i was aware that he'd die if he never saw me again.

"jimmy..." i whispered. "stop torturing me like this…p-please."

he let out a chuckle. "hm? i thought you hated me, baby. changed your mind so soon?" 

he enjoyed seeing me like this - a horny unsatisfied mess. he enjoyed it because he knew he could fix it in minutes. he knew that he was one of the few that could do it well enough for me. that’s why i hated him so damn much.

"i’m begging…" i breathed out, head hanging low from the embarrassment. "i’m begging you to fuck me, jimmy.”

"oh, i want to," he laughed. "but, today, i feel like i’d rather just watch. i’d rather watch you get fucked like the whore that you are.”

before i could ask or react in any way, the door behind me opened and i could hear footsteps coming closer. all the hair on my body stood up and my eyes widened. i was too terrified to turn my head to see who was the one to come in, but i didn’t have to wait long to find out.

cold fingers traced my spine, before they wrapped around my neck, lifting my head just a bit. the person applied a bit of pressure, just enough for me to feel it, but not enough for me to like it. it was the chuckle that came out of their mouth that i recognized. the sound of an absolute brat.

"jey..." i whispered like his name was a swear word, watching as his handsome face came to my view. he eyed me from head to toe, the smirk on his face letting me know that he loved what he saw.

"you prepped her so well for me, uce." jey told jimmy, tightening his hold around my neck. everything was beautiful about him, from his face to his veiny hands that i was now using as a choker.

"she’s yours." jimmy replied, sitting on the chair in one of the corners, his hand already sneaking into his pants. i felt a wave of arousal at the sight, but i was interrupted by a hand grabbing my chin and snapping my head back to face forward, where i saw jey with a raised eyebrow.

"me, only look at me." he muttered, before licking his plump lower lip that i already imagined brushing against my pussy as he eats me out. "don’t you worry, y/n. once he sees what imma do to you, he won't be able to resist joining. just like last time."

my heart was frantically beating against my ribcage, feeling so wet and so aroused that i had to move my legs, so, so hungry for some kind of friction and jey must have realized. he let go of my neck just to run his hand against my slit, earning a choked moan out of me.

"imma have so much fun with you, whore…” he said, finding my clit, chuckling to himself once he did. after hearing his words, i knew i wouldn’t be able to walk for a few days after this.

they both loved torturing me, having me at the very edge for as long as they could until i cried away all of my dignity and cursed all the gods, begging them to finally give me what i wanted. they, though, had a different way of doing it.

jimmy loved using his mouth, letting out filthy words he knew would cause a reaction. after we’d met more than a dozen of times, he has tried every phrase possible, memorizing which one had me biting my lip and squirming under his cold gaze. 

then, there was jey. he could never help himself, always being vocal about what he liked and what he thought - just like jimmy - but it was his actions that would have me scream for more. his more slender hands were so good at what they were doing and what infuriated me the most was that he knew. he was fully aware of how perfect he was and he was making sure to let both me and jimmy know.

it felt pathetic that those two men knew my body language so well, but god was it heavenly satisfying not having to be worried about them wanting something i wasn't up for.

jey made me walk over to the bed with simple white sheets and pushed me onto it, wearing a smirk the whole time. i glared at him in absolute hatred. though also curiosity, as he untied the ropes around my arms, only to tie them back to the bed frame. i could hear jimmy hiss from the other corner of the room at that action. i knew making these intricate knots on my body was like an art to him - a must when it came to having sex, but jey found it annoying.

i mustered up the courage to speak up. my whole body was shaking in anticipation and jey stalling like this was killing me. "what are you going to do?"

he smiled at my question. it was, surprisingly, a genuine smile. "i dunno. what does my little whore want? i can give anything to you, if you ask nicely."

i peered at jimmy who raised his eyebrow, also awaiting my answer as though i was about to announce the lottery numbers. the truth was that i, myself, wasn't sure what i wanted. jimmy took me to his room after a dinner, with no plan and no conversation beforehand.

"i just need to finish and i want to see you finish too…" i ended up saying, gulping as i saw a spark of excitement flash through jey’s dark eyes...”please."

he leaned down and made a trail of kisses down my torso, staying in that position as he whispered, “good girl…that’s all i needed to hear." his lips brushed against my cold skin, sending shivers all over my body. i always cursed at myself for being so responsive to his touch. only his nose brushing against mine as we kissed would make my head spin. it might have been that i never imagined someone this magical and fiction-like would willingly choose to be this close to me, even more so, would willingly choose to fuck me.

"are you sure you don't want to join, uce?" he asked, unbuttoning the almost see through white shirt he wore, revealing his muscly figure underneath. from just one look, i knew he was a wrestler, a performer. i had the reflex to caress his stomach and admire it, but the ropes didn't allow me to move at all.

"not anymore," jimmy breathed out. "but, i wanna see what you do to her..."

there was no warning. after jimmy finished talking, jey’s middle finger went in between my folds, stimulating my clit with a few circular motions, before he elegantly sneaked his way inside. my toes curled and a loud moan escaped my lips, without me even realizing at first. i could cum right then and there, that was how intense the effect he had on me was.

"so good, baby, so good…" he praised, reaching to kiss me on my lips as he tested how prepped i was.

he hummed into the kiss and i felt he was fighting a smirk when he realized how wet i was for him.

"mmmh, more…" i whimpered once he pulled away, taking my lower lip in between his teeth to earn yet another moan from me.

"impatient, are we?" he asked. "you know the more you want it, the slower i’m gonna go? to keep you on edge? to make ya think you will get it, but no, never. it’s never this easy with me, whore.” 

"oh shit." i could hear jimmy curse under his breath through my loud and frantic breaths, not knowing if it was his brothers words that caused that reaction or me. maybe, it was a mix of both.

his pace was excruciatingly slow, like he wanted to savor every second of this night. it was feeding his already big ego, so i was trying to bite my tongue, keeping any other plead from coming out of my mouth, but it was pretty useless. my face alone probably gave it away, covered in the frustrated tears that have found their way out of my eyes.

finally, another finger of his joined, helping to stretch me out for the real deal. he wore a ring on that one and i could feel its coldness every time he was fully inside of me, only adding to the list of my kinks which became longer the more time i spent with these two. he curled both his fingers, hitting just the right spots that had me seeing stars.

"you’re perfect…" he whispered. his other hand, that wasn't busy at the moment, reached out to play with my sensitive nipples, changing from the left to right every few seconds. i was pretty over-stimulated already, but i craved more.

"ji-jimmy," i stuttered, too gone to speak properly. "need you…”

i had my eyes closed for only half a minute, but when i opened them, i was met with red light replacing the normal white one, illuminating the whole room in that sinful color - the color of passion and hell. it must have been jimmy who changed the lights, i wondered if he even heard my request, but i didn't have to wonder for too long. my chin was grabbed and i looked up to see him sitting beside my head. his pants were off and his dick was out in its full glory, hard and leaking.

i gulped as my tongue ran across my bottom lip, knowing what was about to happen.

"you’ll be a good girl, right?" he asked and i nodded eagerly. i almost forgot about jey completely and, of course, he couldn't have that. he took out his fingers out of me, making me feel so, so empty for a while, before he aggressively spread my legs further than before, pushing his dick inside of me without any other warning. i didn't even notice him unzipping his pants.

as i gasped in shock, jimmy took that chance to fill my mouth, pushing my head closer to him until the tip of his dick was inside of my mouth. i took it as if i was paid to do so, licking the length and kissing a few spots, before i took more than half into my mouth. jey, in the meantime, pounded into me, only helping me with the blowjob, setting a rhythm i wasn't opposed to. my moans were then muffled and the quietest out of all three of us. jey was the loudest, gripping onto my thighs for dear life. i took both of their dicks at the same time and i loved every second.

the desire to finish was getting bigger and i started to think the boys will cum sooner than i would, judging by all the previous experiences. but god, was i wrong. when the tension started to build up at the pit of my stomach, i wanted to scream at jey to keep up what he was doing, but i couldn't.

i was close, so fucking close and at that moment, jey pulled out.

my muffled noises of protest sounded pathetic, like a child throwing a tantrum. i was crying, both from getting choked by jimmy’s dick and the denied orgasm, feeling like i couldn't breathe.

"i told you, didn't i?" jey chuckled, having the audacity to use a mocking tone in his voice. he snapped his fingers and jimmy also pulled out, though i saw he was hesitant to. they started changing positions - switching who would fuck my mouth and who my pussy.

jimmy hummed as he now had a perfect view of his most favourite thing in the world, leaning down to lick my clit, using his tongue perfectly against my folds.

"let’s change it up a bit…" jey said, untying me from the bed. he grabbed my waist and flipped me on my stomach, earning a sigh from jimmy who had to stop his work. it was very clear who was the most dom out of the tree of us, but we never discussed it, there was no need.

i put my ass up, preparing for the doggy style all men adored, for some reason. jimmy massaged his dick, giving it a few strokes, before he teased the tip against my pussy, spreading my legs a bit. then, he pushed himself in, slowly, to get me adjusted to it. his cock was thicker than jey’s and i could definitely feel the difference.

"you take me so well." jimmy grunted, slapping my ass as he started to set a pace.

jey then grabbed my cheeks, forcing me to look upwards at him. "you aren't allowed to cum until i do, got it? use your words when you answer."

i clenched my jaw, trying my best to zone out how perfect jimmy’s dick fucked my walls so i could answer.

"g-got it..." i muttered.

"open up, baby."

i was being destroyed from both sides and my heart was about to burst from the overstimulation, though i didn't even cum yet. my legs were shaking and i, once again, felt the orgasm coming, praying to all the gods that jey was close as well. 

please, i want to finish so badly, please let me, i screamed inside of my mind. jimmy’s movements suddenly became sloppier and i felt him filling up my hole to the brim. he didn't stop, though i knew he was tired, all because i couldn't cum yet. it hurt to hold it, i didn't think i could go on anymore, when finally, jey’s dick twitched inside of my mouth and he released. that was all it took for me to fully let go, letting out a choked sob, orgasm washing over me and jey’s mess dripping down my chin onto the bed sheets.

jimmy collapsed next to me with a loud huff after he pulled out, catching me into his arms when i couldn't hold myself up anymore. jey lied on the other side of the bed, staring at the two of us with a half-smile.

"i don't think i can ever leave you two alone." he whispered, suddenly sounding so innocent after all the sinful words he has let out. i held out my shaky hand for him to take, squeezing his once he placed it on my palm.

"i-i don't want you to leave us alone…" i replied and we all laughed softly, laying in comfortable silence before jey took it in his own hands to clean me up. 

[howwelldoyouknowyourmoon]

John Williams died in a tragic Ocean Church accident in 2003.

John joined the Unification Church in 1975, and was proud to be the first Gypsy to join the UC. He served on MFT and in 1990 had been a missionary to Poland. He was a boat captain in Ocean Church where he was responsible for longline fishing.

Apparently the tragic accident happened when he got caught in the line of fire of a block and pulley set up. The rope on the pulley got so tight that the shackle broke and shot back and hit John in the chest. He died on January 16, 2003.

John, of Fort Lee, NJ, was survived by his wife, Masako, and three children, Minjo, Seoyun, and Nariku. They were in the 2075 couples from MSG, 1982.

His death was reported in the Unification News of March 2003.

____________________________________

Jack White and his crew of five in the ‘Green Hope’ drowned off Alaska

Sun Myung Moon’s fish business had plans to corner the shark fin trade

Shark finning: The cruelest cuts

Moon owned Sushi Company, True World Foods, Linked to Whaling

[the-beastslayers-queen]

Magic and Moonlight: Chapter 1

Here’s chapter one. No warnings yet. I will add warning appropriate. Tagging: @queenofthearchitect Message me if you want to be tagged in this. Enjoy!

“Thea,” your roommate, Charlotte, called as she poked her head into your room, “Time to get up so we can head to the PC.”

“Five more minutes, mom,” I mumbled as I turned away from my door.

“Theadora Rose Bartlett, wake the fuck up,” Charlotte ripped my quilt off my sleepy body, “We have training and promo class today. Now move or I will sit on you.”

I groaned and finally got up. Seeing as I had showered last night, I opted to just dress myself in my typical work out ensemble of a sports bra, loose tank top, workout leggings, and my cross-trainers. I ran my hairbrush through my tangled, loosely curled hair, and pulled it back into a messy bun near the top of head.

Once I was done, I grabbed my gym bag with my spare change of clothes, and went out into the tiny living room and kitchen of my shared apartment here is Orlando, to see what Charlotte made us for breakfast since it was her turn to make it today.

“About time,” Charlotte smirked as she dished up my share of scrambled egg whites with Colby-jack cheese melted on top, “Oh I think you forgot to put on something today.”

Charlottle tapped on her neck, which made my eyes go wide. I forgot my choker necklace I always wore. Since I was very powerful with my magic and having The Morrigan, one of the most powerful ancient witches, in my soul I had to wear it to suppress most of my magic so I can blend into society.

“Oh shit,” I ran into my room and found my choker on my side table. I quickly slipped it on and sighed in relief.

I was worried you’d forget I was here, ma darling.

“How can I forget,” I mumbled to myself, when I was really talking to Morrigan, “You make me a danger to a lot of people when you get in one of your moods.”

I get in my moods to protect us, child.

I just rolled my eyes as I rejoined Charlotte to eat our breakfast before leaving.

Once Charlotte and I got into the PC, she went off to hang with her friends Becky, Bayley and Sasha. I opted to go off into an isolated corner to start stretching before being my training routine. I trained in parkour and tumbling and I used yoga for post-workout recovery. I saw it as a means to help me with my style of wrestling. I loved to just fly from off the ropes. I lived to be agile and strike quickly. I also liked being flexible so I can’t get submitted easily.

I was lost in my thoughts, stretching to get loose before I’d climb into a ring to run the ropes to warm up, when I looked up at very tall presence in front of me. I looked up and saw this very attractive man with dark brown, almost black hair, with a shock of blond to the right of his face. He had a well-kept, but short beard on his face. But his eyes, oh his eyes were a beautiful warm brown that I swear was making me melt under his warm gaze.

“I’ve never seen you here before,” he held out his hand to me as a soft smile graced his lips, “I’m Colby, but my ring name is Seth Rollins.”

“Thea Bartlett,” I took his hand as I righted my posture, “My ring name is Casey Ferguson.”

“Well it’s nice to meet you, Thea,” Colby smirked, “I’ll see you in the ring later. Maybe I’ll see what moves you got.”

He walked away, going over to a pair of guys standing off in another corner. One had shaggy, dark strawberry blond hair that was tousled all over the place. The other was much taller than both, and was much bigger overall. He definitely looked Samoan and he had black hair, pulled back in a neat and tight bun.

“Thea,” I looked up to see Charlotte coming over with Becky and Bayley, “I see you’ve met one of the resident hotties here at NXT.”

“You mean Colby right,” I asked her innocently. As I looked over at the three men, I noticed that Colby was looking over at me, his eyes locking with mine for a moment. I swear, I thought I felt my magic stirring in me, making me worry a little if I accidently exposed my true nature all because of a guy I just met.

I think I know what’s going on here. You got a crush on him.

Go away, Morrigan. You’re not helping.

Maybe he’s your, our, soulmate. After all your crescent moon faces the left. And I sense he’s not human.

Drop it, Morrigan.

“Is she bothering ya again, lass,” Becky asked.

“When doesn’t she,” Becky was a druid, so she knew all about Morrigan, my parasite in my soul.

“So you met Colby,” Bayley waved over at Colby, “He’s a nice guy actually. And I will let you in on a little secret. He’s not human. I can tell.”

I just shook my head and went to climb into the closest ring to me. Charlotte and the girls hopped up onto the apron and watched as I started to run the ropes. I started to do back bumps and kip ups, trying to get my muscles to start firing and warming up for sparring practice later. Out of the corner of my eye, I could see Colby and his buddies come over to lean against the apron opposite of the girls. Colby’s eyes followed me as I ran the ropes. I think I saw him wince every time I did a bump.

Once I felt I had ran enough through the ropes, I decided to do some work flipping off the turnbuckles. I wanted to work on my recoveries from leaping off the ropes, just in case any of my opponents roll out of the way of my high-flying diving attacks.

You have an admirer. His eyes haven’t stopped following you the ring.

Morrigan, not now!

Of course, being distracted by Morrigan and her observations, I didn’t pay attention to my footing on the ropes, and I ended up slipping off the turnbuckle and got my ankle stuck. I screamed in pain as I felt a pulling sensation on my ankle as I dangled precariously in the Tree of Woe position.

“Oh shit,” Colby dove into the ring and immediately came to my aid. Charlotte also came to help, “Hang on, I got you. Char, can you help me out. I’ll hold her while you untangle her leg from the ropes.”

Charlotte nodded at him as she got a grip on my ankle. Colby scooped me up into his arms, holding me close to his chest to get my body weight off my ankle so Charlotte could release me. I winced as Charlotte moved my ankle, trying to not scream out in pain. The last thing I needed was to be seen like this in front of Colby, but too late for that.

Thanks, Morrigan.

Not my fault you can’t multitask.

“Alright you’re free,” Colby helped you stand up a little, not letting you entirely, “Can you stand on your foot?”

I went to put weight on my bad ankle, but I immediately winced and nearly fell. Thankfully, Colby hadn’t left my side yet, and caught me before I could fall.

“Nope,” I winced as I leaned against him, “This is the worst kind of luck. I don’t want to miss anything this early on into NXT. Fuck.”

“Hey it happens,” Colby helped me over to the ropes, by his friends, “Hey Roman, can you help me get her out of the ring. She needs to go to the trainer’s room to get checked out.”

“Sure thing, Uce,” Roman got closer to the ring apron, “Lay her down and I’ll help her down from under the ropes.”

Colby laid me down on the matt, being careful of my ankle. Roman reached over and pulled me into his arms and held onto me as Colby rolled out of the ring. Roman handed me over to Colby and he took me to trainer’s room.

As I got settled on the exam bench, I hadn’t noticed my birthmark was exposed. I looked over at Colby and he was looking right at my birthmark on my hip. My crescent moon. I instantly panicked and fixed my tank top to cover it.

“Your birthmark,” he started before swallowing heavily, “Is it a crescent moon? Are you a witch?”

“Yeah,” you answered both of his questions at the same time. You decided to prove it to him by conjuring a lily in my hand. I held out my hand for him to take the lily from me.

“Wow,” Colby was in awe as he took the lily into his hand, “I mean I’ve heard of witches, but I’ve never met one before. Or at least not knowingly anyway.”

“Ah,” I simply nodded. I was about to speak again when I trainer came into the room.

“Alright, Miss Bartlett, let me get a look at your ankle,” the trainer started to check on my ankle as Colby started to make his way over to the door.

“I’m going to wait outside the room,” Colby said, “I can come back after you’re done and I can help you get back out into the floor for promo class.”

Once we were released for the day, the sun had long since gone down. My ankle was going to be fine in a couple days. Thanks to Colby’s quick thinking, he saved me from severe damage and my ankle was only strained. So, I just had to wear a brace on my ankle and rest for a couple days.

“Hey Char,” I called to Charlotte as I grabbed my keys and my jacket, “I’m going out to the park for a walk and to take in the moonlight, don’t wait up for me.”

“Be careful,” Charlotte warned, “If you need me to come walk you back, give me a call okay.”

I nodded and headed out. The night air was cool and felt pretty nice. There wasn’t a cloud in the sky and the breeze was calm. As I walked to the park, I was careful to not put too much of my weight on my bad ankle. Once I got there, I took a seat on my usual bench, and gazed up at the stars.

“I wish I could meet my soulmate,” I huffed to myself. All the people I grew up with had found their partners during grade school, but I hadn’t. I mean I knew I had someone because of the mark on my hip, but it still hurt to not have my soulmate yet.

I was lost in my thoughts when I heard a twig snap. The sound startled me as I looked over at the bushes not far from my bench. I stood up slowly, ready to lash out with my magic if I needed to.

Something is in the bushes. I can’t tell if it’s friend or foe.

I approached the bushes cautiously. I had to be extra careful because of my ankle, but I was curious and little scared.

“Who’s there,” I called out toward the bush, “Show yourself.”

There was movement in the bush. I was startled by what came out of the bushes.

It was a wolf. A werewolf to be exact, and he was fairly large one. He was a beautiful deep brown color with some patches of white on his paws and chest. His eyes were the most beautiful feature about him, they were a warm chocolate brown. They looked similar to Colby’s but I wasn’t too sure do to the darkness of the night.

But as I looked into his eyes, I felt this weird sensation. I was tingling all up and down my body. I knelt down to the wolf as he approached me. He bowed before me before he laid down in front of me, resting his chin on his front paws. I tentatively held out my hand to him. The wolf sniffed me before he nudged my hand and licked it. I decided to pet him behind his ear and I swear he gave a groan of approval at my action.

But in that moment, I knew that this wolf was special to me. Even Morrigan knew.

I think you just found your soulmate. I feel this wolf’s imprint on you.

[junker-town]

Sweet 16 teams in men’s March Madness, ranked by their national title chances

These the best teams left standing in the Sweet 16.

The field of 68 that entered the 2021 men’s NCAA tournament a week ago has been trimmed to only 16 teams left standing. After a historic opening weekend defined by a run of upsets by double-digit seeds, the tournament now gives way to the Sweet 16 starting on March 27.

Oral Roberts, Syracuse, Oregon State, and UCLA have each advanced in the bracket after some shocking wins so far. The Pac-12 has been incredible, going undefeated in the first round and sitting at 9-1 overall thus far. The Big Ten has been disappointing, with top seed Illinois and No. 2 seeds Iowa and Ohio State all getting eliminated early, and only Michigan still left standing.

Before the tournament hits the second weekend, we decided to look at all 16 teams remaining in the field and rank them by their odds of winning the whole thing. These are the strongest teams left in March Madness.

16. Oral Roberts (No. 15 seed)

For the second time in NCAA tournament history, a No. 15 seed has won two games to advance to the Sweet 16. The Golden Eagles stunned No. 2 seed Ohio State in a dramatic overtime victory in the opening round, then took out another power program in the round of 32 when they outlasted No. 7 seed Florida. This is one of the most startling tournament runs ever, but Arkansas shouldn’t take them lightly in the Sweet 16.

Oral Roberts guard Max Abmas led DI in scoring this season at 24.2 points per game entering the tournament, and he’s exceeded that total in both wins on this run. Abmas has a tremendous co-star in 6’8 junior forward Kevin Obanor, who followed up his 30-point, 11 rebound performance against the Buckeyes by dropping 28 points and 11 rebounds on the Gators. The Summit League champs deserve respect for this run, and it’s not over yet.

15. Creighton (No. 5 seed)

The Bluejays are going to the second weekend of the NCAA tournament for the first time since 1974, and a matchup with undefeated Gonzaga is waiting for them next. Creighton was on the ropes against UC Santa Barbara in the opening round, but they came away with a one-point win in the final seconds. Their next game against No. 13 seed Ohio, who previously upset Virginia, was considerably easier, with the Bluejays coasting to a 72-58 victory.

Junior point guard Marcus Zegarowski is the engine for Creighton, and he has an experienced cast of shooters around him led by Mitch Ballock. The question with Creighton is always if they can get enough stops on defense. Good luck against a Gonzaga team that has one of the most efficient offenses in the history of the sport. Just getting this far after so many failed attempts at a run to the second weekend in recent years has to feel good for the Bluejays.

14. Syracuse (No. 11 seed)

Why does it always seem like Syracuse is at its best when they have a double-digit seed? The Orange were again selected as one of the last teams in the tournament, and are again marching to the second weekend. Jim Boeheim’s zone defense has stifled No. 6 seed San Diego State and No. 3 seed West Virginia so far. Boeheim’s son Buddy is becoming a breakout tournament star, combining for 55 points and 13 three-pointers across the two wins.

This is the third time in the last five tournaments that Syracuse has made the Sweet 16 with a double-digit seed. The Houston Cougars are the next team that will attempt to solve the zone, and seem to have enough shooting to have a chance. At this point, though, every game against the Orange feels like it’s going to be a major pain if nothing else.

13. UCLA (No. 11 seed)

The Bruins barely snuck into the tournament after losing their last four games before Selection Sunday, but suddenly look dangerous after three straight wins in the tournament. UCLA started its run with a comeback victory over Michigan State in the First Four, then dispatched No. 6 seed BYU, and knocked out No. 14 seed Abilene Christian (who shocked Texas in the opening round) to reach the Sweet 16.

UCLA is powered by a pair of dynamic 6’6 shot-makers on the wing in Kentucky transfer Johnny Juzang and sophomore Jamie Jaquez. Big man Cody Riley and wing Jules Bernard have also been solid contributors during this run. UCLA plays a slow pace and makes its threes even if they don’t take many. There’s no doubt this team is peaking at the right time.

12. Villanova (No. 5 seed)

Reports of the Wildcats’ demise after a season-ending injury to starting point guard Collin Gillespie were greatly exaggerated. No. 12 seed Winthrop was a popular pick to upset the Wildcats in round one (guilty), but Nova won by double-digits. Jay Wright’s team then pounded Cinderella North Texas in the round of 32 to set up a Sweet 16 matchup with Baylor that could be the best game of the round.

Villanova is full of skilled size with Jeremiah Robinson-Earl and Jermaine Samuels leading the way up front. Nova has the lowest turnover percentage in the country, takes a ton of threes, and plays a slow pace that should benefit them against a powerhouse like Baylor. Any matchup against the Bears is an extraordinary test, but the Wildcats have the talent to compete.

11. Arkansas (No. 3 seed)

The Hogs took care of business in the opening round despite Colgate being a popular upset pick entering the tournament. Things got much more difficult in the round of 32 against Chris Beard and Texas Tech, but Arkansas held on for a thrilling 68-66 victory to push the program into the Sweet 16 for the first time since 1996.

Arkansas has a future NBA lottery pick in Moses Moody, a long 6’6 wing with deep shooting range and the ability to get his own bucket in a pinch. Indiana transfer Justin Smith is another athletic wing who had a tremendous game vs. Texas Tech. Arkansas’ defense will give them a chance to compete with any team, but not much comes easy offensively in the halfcourt. A potential Elite Eight game with Baylor would be a serious challenge, but they shouldn’t think a win against Oral Roberts will come easy given how well the Golden Eagles have played thus far.

10. Oregon State (No. 12 seed)

Oregon State needed to go on a Cinderella run in the Pac-12 tournament just to earn their bid to the big dance, but ever since they’ve been one of the hottest teams in the country. The Beavers blew out a Tennessee team with multiple lottery picks from the opening tip in their first round game, then knocked out future No. 1 overall NBA draft pick Cade Cunningham and Oklahoma State in a round of 32 thriller.

Oregon State’s shooters have been on fire since the conference tournament, and they also have the size up front to compete with anyone. Senior guard Ethan Thompson (26 points vs. Oklahoma State) is playing like a star right now. Loyola-Chicago will be a tough matchup, but discount the Beavers at your own peril.

9. Oregon (No. 7 seed)

The Ducks were on the receiving end of the type of luck no team wants when they were given a free pass to the round of 32 after their first round opponent VCU failed Covid protocol. Oregon proved how good it could be against Iowa two days later, crushing the No. 2 seed Hawkeyes thanks to dynamic performances from lead guards Chris Duarte and Will Richardson.

Oregon doesn’t have much size or much depth, but the tight rotation was enough to knock out presumptive national player of the year Luka Garza. It’s a team that can really shoot (38 percent from deep, a top-20 mark in America) and plays at a controlled pace. The Ducks have been on fire since Richardson returned to the lineup in early Feb. The win over Iowa didn’t feel like a fluke. The next game against USC feels like a toss up.

8. Houston (No. 2 seed)

The Cougars were on the ropes against No. 10 seed Rutgers in the round of 32, but out-scored the Scarlett Knights 23-10 over the final 10 minutes to steal the victory and punch their ticket to the Sweet 16. It wasn’t a pretty performance from Kelvin Sampson’s crew, but their body of work as a whole suggests this team has a very real shot at making the Final Four.

Houston takes threes on 42 percent of their possessions, and has the shooters to make them. The three-guard lineup of Quentin Grimes, Marcus Sasser, and DeJon Jarreau can all handle, pass, and shoot at this level. Sampson has a team that currently boasts the No. 7 overall offense and No. 12 overall defense in DI. Facing Syracuse’s zone won’t be easy, but Houston deserves to be the favorite entering the game.

7. USC (No. 6 seed)

The Trojans blew out No. 11 seed Drake in their opener, and then looked even more impressive in a blow out win over Bill Self and No. 3 seed Kansas in the round of 32 to punch their first ticket to the Sweet 16 since 2007. USC plays slow and doesn’t take many threes, but the defense is becoming one of the best in the field thanks in large part to super freshman Evan Mobley.

Mobley is projected as the No. 2 overall pick in the NBA draft as a long shot blocker who also has impressive vision and passing ability on offense. His older brother Isaiah Mobley has been on-fire offensively during this tournament run too, and Drew Peterson also provides some much needed shooting. The Trojans now face conference rival Oregon in the Sweet 16.

6. Florida State (No. 4)

The ‘Noles are headed to the Sweet 16 for the third straight time in the NCAA tournament. Is this the year head coach Leonard Hamilton finally makes his first trip to the Final Four? It won’t be easy with a matchup with No. 1 seed Michigan looming in the Sweet 16, but it feels like Florida State has the right combination of size and shooting to compete with anyone left standing in the field.

It seems like there’s a new star for FSU every game, and in their round of 32 win over Colorado, that star was Anthony Polite. The junior wing scored a career-high 22 points as the only starter to finish in double-figures. Balsa Koprivica and Raiquan Gray are an intimidating front line, and guard M.J. Walker can get hot as a perimeter scorer. Michigan better be ready.

5. Alabama (No. 2 seed)

The Tide have used an elite defense and a modern approach to offense to reach the second weekend of the tournament for the first time since 2004. Alabama survived a tough test vs. Rick Pitino’s Iona team in the opening round, and then blew out Maryland in the round of 32. Nate Oats has a case as the best head coach left in the tournament, and he has his team in position to make a run at their first Final Four ever.

Jaden Shackelford and John Petty are both impressive shot-makers on the perimeter leading the offense. Senior Herb Jones was named SEC Player of the Year for his versatile defense and opportunistic scoring ability. There’s also a deep bench that includes sharpshooting freshman Josh Primo and former five-star recruit Jahvon Quinerly. Only Loyola-Chicago is more efficient defensively. Bama might forever be a football school, but they have a hell of a basketball program this year, too.

4. Loyola-Chicago (No. 8 seed)

The Ramblers deserve to be considered one of the favorites to win the whole damn thing at this point. After knocking off Georgia Tech (without star Moses Wright, who failed Covid protocol) in the 8-9 matchup, Loyola-Chicago faced No. 1 seed and in-state rival Illinois. The Illini were a popular pick to win the national championship at the start of the tournament, but Loyola left no doubt they were the superior team in a 71-58 victory.

Loyola went to the Final Four in 2018, and still has two key players (Cameron Krutwig and Lucas Williamson) from that roster leading them this year. The Ramblers currently rank No. 1 in defensive efficiency in the entire country. The matchup with No. 12 seed Oregon State in the Sweet 16 should be a tough test with how well the Beavers are playing lately, but wins like the one Loyola had against Illinois is enough to make a person think this team is destined for another Final Four.

3. Michigan (No. 1 seed)

Michigan lost senior Isaiah Livers to a foot injury just before the tournament, but the Wolverines proved they’re still pretty damn good even without their star forward. After breezing past No. 16 seed Texas Southern in the opener, the Wolverines were tested against LSU but came away with an 86-78 win to punch their ticket to the Sweet 16 and set up a must-see matchup with Florida State.

Chaundee Brown, a former transfer from Wake Forest, admirably filled the void left by Livers against the Tigers, going off for 21 points on 6-of-9 shooting in the win. Michigan still has plenty of size up front with Hunter Dickinson and Franz Wagner, and its guards Eli Brooks and Mike Smith have each had one great game in the tournament so far. Michigan still has a tough road ahead to get to the Final Four, but the win over LSU proved it can win big games even without one of its best players.

2. Baylor (No. 1 seed)

Baylor has been viewed as the second best team in college basketball all season, and it still feels that way heading into the second weekend of the NCAA tournament. The Bears erased No. 16 Hartford in the first round without much problem, and then handily defeated the Wisconsin Badgers, 76-63, to advance to the Sweet 16.

The Bears have two elite guards in Jared Butler and Davion Mitchell, and another good one in MaCio Teague. They have the most accurate three-point shooting team in the country — making 41.5 percent of their attempts from deep on the year. Adam Flagler, Matthew Mayer, Mark Vital, and their center combo of Flo Thamba and Jonathan Tchamwa Tchatchoua provide great depth. Baylor was supposed to play Gonzaga in the regular season before the game was canceled because of failed Covid protocol. It sure feels like we’re going to get that game for real in the national championship.

1. Gonzaga (No. 1 seed)

28-0. Four wins away from the first perfect season in college basketball since Indiana in 1976. What more do we need to say?

The Zags overwhelmed Norfolk State and Oklahoma in their first two tournament by showing off their wealth of offensive weapons. Jalen Suggs is playing like a future top-three NBA draft pick, Corey Kispert remains as dangerous as any shooter left in the tournament, and Drew Timme might be the most underrated center in the country. Gonzaga has been blowing out teams from the very start of the season, and they haven’t showed any signs of slowing down yet. The Bulldogs are the favorites until someone takes them out.

[concussed-to-pieces]

Kitten; Epilogue

Fandom: WWE

Pairing: Jon Moxley[Dean Ambrose]/Unnamed OFC

Rating: Holy shit M.

AN: Thirst Party Crew, welcome to our epilogue! Tagging the amazing @tox-moxley, the awe-inspiring @oraclegazes, and our brave captain on this voyage, @hardcorewwetrash. Enjoy!

It wasn’t as if he had forgotten. More like that time was over. He was a free man, freer than he’d ever been in his life. And as he headed to the gorilla position backstage, body jittering with nerves and excitement, he knew that she was waiting for him at ringside. Like she always had. Like she would continue to do, hopefully for the rest of their lives.

A wave of emotion seared Mox’s throat and he quickly rubbed at his eyes. A large fist tapped the back of his shoulder gently. “How you doing, Uce?” Roman asked, his smile tight with his own nerves. “You’ve got this man. It’s all you.”

“It’s kinda’ gotta’ be, man. Ya’ ain’t exactly gonna’ fit under the ring in all your fuckin’ gear.” Jon grinned. “Hell of a secret fuckin’ weapon you’d make though.”

Roman laughed, pulling him in for a headbutt and squeezing his forearm comfortingly. “You’ll do just fine.”

“I wish…shit, I wish Callihan coulda’ made it.” Jon admitted quietly. “He always dreamed of headin’ to somethin’ like this, the two of us whippin’ ass in a legitimate fuckin' promotion.”

“There’s always next year, Uce.”

Jon was startled by the conviction in Roman’s voice. “Y’ really think I’m gonna’ be around? Damn, you’ll make me fuckin’ cry Reigns.”

“I know you’ll be around, man. Bet you’ll even have a belt. Nice shiny one for your waist. I’ve dealt with Lesnar before, though. Be careful and you’ll come out on top. Barring any unforeseen sneaky bastards cashing in on you, of course.” Roman said ruefully.

“'Careful’ ain’t really in my vocabulary, Reigns.” Jon knew that the ‘tough guy’ act wasn’t necessary around Roman, but it was a difficult habit to break.

Reigns rolled his eyes at him. “It is now, Uce. Just think about all the progress you lose if you’re out injured. Remember that and it’ll help.” Roman’s smile was knowing. “Think about her.”

“Every second I ain’t with her, Reigns.”

Roman squeezed his arm again, bringing him in for another headbutt. “Stay safe out there. We’re rooting for you.”

…

The crowd roared deafeningly loud when his music hit.

Jon found himself awestruck, just turning in place on the entrance ramp for a minute to take it all in. Hundreds, thousands of people. Screaming for him. Losing their fucking minds, absolutely going ballistic. For him! Street dog, lunatic, underfed, scrappy, mean-spirited and never-say-fucking-die Jon goddamn Moxley.

Wrestlemania.

This was a once in a lifetime moment and he wished with all his goddamn heart that Callihan could be here to witness it in person, be part of it, instead of watching from home.

“You go the fuck on, Mox. Get ya’ shit together, get in there an’ beat some fuckin’ ass.” Sami had encouraged him before he left the CZ warehouse for the final time, giving him a hard wallop on the back. “Don’t forget us little people when ya’ up there at the top with some fancy fuckin’ belt, got it? I’ll be cheerin’ for ya’. Fucker.”

Moxley knew why they had chosen him to play with Brock. He could take a beating, could land on his neck and roll through it to stand again and again. Lesnar wasn’t known for being careful or even remotely respectful, a fact that Jon was made painfully aware of once Brock and Paul Heyman made their way to the ring.

Lesnar leaned over the barricade, practically nose to nose with Kitten while Jon stood in the ring, his fists clenched. Mox just had to hope Kitten didn't panic.

“I’ll kill him.” The large man sneered, gesturing up at the ring.

To her credit, she smiled back at him and coolly replied, “You can try.”

Jon had worked with a lot of the men in the locker room, earned respect through discipline. He’d done time all over the world with all kinds of promotions, fought his way up through FCW, NXT into the big roster, and here he was on the grandest stage of them all against the one guy who would do everything in his power to fuck him up. Life sure was strange. Really, the only thing he could count on Brock doing was botching a perfectly good Shooting Star Press. Other than that all bets were off.  

Brock didn’t want a good match, he wanted an easy match. A squash. Knowing that they had this fight, Jon had thrown idea after idea at Heyman for great spots (some more ludicrous than others, granted), but Lesnar had no interest in any of them. Anything that involved him not giving Mox as many suplexes as he could wasn't a big seller. And so Jon went into the fight, took two good ones and sandbagged the third. When Lesnar refused to let him go he went limp, forcing Brock to heft his full weight unassisted.

“What the fuck are you doing, asshole?” Brock snarled in his ear.

“Givin’ these people what they fuckin’ came here for.” Jon snapped, digging his elbow back into Brock’s stomach. “You ain’t gonna’ sell anythin’ I hit ya’ with, so now my gloves are fuckin’ off. Ya’ fake ass-” Brock’s large, gloved hand all but covered his face and Mox bit down on the padding over his knuckles. Lesnar grunted, releasing Jon as he tried to pull free.

Jon ground his teeth together, momentarily biting hard enough to make his jaw ache before letting go and rolling out of reach. “Nice try, ya’ fuckin’ gorilla.” He rasped, wagging his finger at Brock, who at this point was obviously incensed. “You want an easy fuckin’ match, go get fuckin’ Cena or some shit. Right now though, big man, it’s you an’ me. Ya’ ain’t exactly been receptive t’ my fuckin’ ideas. Know what that means?” Moxley murmured, tapping the side of his head. “Means I gotta’ get fuckin’ creative. I beat guys with fluorescent light bulb tubes. I’ve played in enough concertina wire t’ keep a maximum security prison cozy. I’m hard an’ bitter an’ built of fuckin’ hate, Lesnar. Ain’t some motherfucker who wanted to play with the fuckin’ MMA big kids.” He stood to his full height, glaring at the larger man.

“You really want to do this now?” Brock asked incredulously, gesturing at the arena around them.

“Oh sweetheart, I will do this all day an' fuckin' night if it gets a better match out of ya' fuckin' lazy ass.” Jon growled. He slid out of the ring, flipped the apron banner up out of the way and started rummaging. Mick Foley and Terry Funk (Mick fucking Foley and Terry goddamn Funk, Jesus Christ) had given him some presents and he aimed to use that shit. When he looked back up, Brock had yanked his left glove off and was working on his right, a savage grin firmly in place on his face. Moxley knew he should be scared. Should be intimidated. But he couldn't help the thrill that raced through his body.

This is what he wanted, this was why he'd agreed to this match. The arena lit the fuck up when he hoisted Mick's bat high over his head and then mouthed over the side of it like some kind of nutcase, like he used to do to the girls they sent in to him. He swore he could hear Kitten screaming along with the crowd, 'get him Mox!' With Barbie in his hands he rolled back under the ropes.

And stopped dead as a chainsaw revved to life.

The crowd lost their fucking minds all over again.

Sami! The mad bastard had scrambled out from beneath the ring on the opposite side and was currently standing tall on the announce table, Terry Funk's thankfully-chainless gift rumbling in his black-taped hands. He slashed wildly at the air, the grin on his face unable to be described as anything but shit-eating. He’d gotten a new black coat somewhere along the way, purple studs and accents matching Mox’s florid entrance vest.

The Switchblade Conspiracy rides again.

Jon thought his face was going to crack from how hard he was smiling. “Call'han!” He hollered, pointing with Barbie. “Getcha' ass in here, we got a Beast t' kill!”

…

Kitten hugged Callihan tightly when they returned up the ramp, wiping her eyes. “You did great! Did you hear them cheering for you guys?” She was practically bouncing in place, looking absolutely thrilled. Jon couldn't handle it when she looked like that and proceeded to kiss the breath out of her lungs.

It had blown his mind when he had paused for a second and realized the crowd was chanting Switchblade Conspiracy, not Suplex City, and Moxley had almost lost his shit. Almost.

Sami's laugh was shaky and he patted Mox on the shoulder, seeming suspiciously close to tears. “Shit yeah I did. S' fuckin' mindblowin'.”

Jon didn't let go of Kitten, just caught Callihan with his other arm and dragged him in to butt heads. “Y' little shit, had that crap all planned out an' fuckin' everythin'.” He rasped. “I kept thinkin' all fuckin' week, damn Callihan woulda' liked that or shit I wish Sami was here t' see an' then ya' just showed up, goddamn neat as y' fuckin' please. Fucker.”

“I couldn't fuckin' believe it m'self when I had Triple fuckin' H callin' me on my fuckin' cellphone, Mox.” Sami admitted, grinning again. “I only jus' signed t' NXT, figured I'd keep it a s'prise f' ya' ass. Instead, Wrestle-fuckin'-mania.”

“Hell of a surprise.” Jon said quietly as Brock and Heyman stormed through the curtain.

“Moxley! You've got some nerve, you little punk!” Paul raged, his face crimson. “My client-”

“Ya' client knows better now.” Mox interrupted, a nasty smile twisting his mouth. He bared his teeth. “Jus' be thankful I didn't take a fuckin' chunk wi' me, Heyman.”

Brock's huge hand landed on the top of Jon's head and the former MMA fighter proceeded to give him the world's most brutal noogie. “Don't try it again, shithead.” He grunted, words a little hard to get out due to how swollen his face was. Jon and Barbie had paid him back in spades for the suplexes he had pulled off. “Got lucky today, I'll give you that. Scrappy fuck. We'll be in touch.”

Jon's tongue poked out from between his teeth as he smirked up at Lesnar. Kitten all but plastered herself to his side, fingers digging into his ribs as he and Callihan stared Lesnar down. “Lookin' forward t' it, Magilla.” Jon said finally. Brock released him, giving him a smirk of his own before turning and limping away.

“Whoo, I dunno' how y' fuckin' do that shit.” Sami exhaled loudly once Lesnar and Heyman had turned the corner. “I feel like I need t' piss m'self every time th' guy looks at me.” He slapped his forehead suddenly. “Shit! I almos' f'got. Drake...y' 'member Drake Younger? He's one of our fuckin' referees now. In NXT. It's so fuckin' funny, man, he said t' say h--”

Jon grabbed Sami around the waist and hoisted him up in the air, ignoring the shake of his overused muscles as Callihan squawked indignantly. “Callihan y' little shit, don't change th' fuckin' subject! We jus' beat Brock fuckin' Lesnar, at fuckin' Wrestlemania!” Mox yelled, shaking his partner. “Holy fuckin’ shit!”

Callihan laughed harder than Jon remembered him laughing in years, wrapping his arms around Mox’s head and crushing his face into his chest. “Shit yeah!” He crowed.

Kitten’s hands settled on Jon’s hips from behind, gentle kisses landing on his shoulder blades.

Not a bad first try, for Wrestle-fucking-mania.

…

She was voracious that night, her normal worry about his bruises apparently pushed aside as she pounced on him. She tore at his tank top, the little noises in the back of her throat driving Mox crazy enough to flip her over and pin her to the hotel bed. She had dressed in Wrestlemania finest, a slinky purple number (she had informed him it was actually lilac) that matched his entrance vest and collar. Explicit MOX Violence, spelled out across his back in an obnoxiously bright shade of purple. As much as he loved the dress on her, he loved sliding it off of her a thousand times more so he could spread her thighs and eat her out until she screamed.

Kitten was soaked, grinding against his face and chanting his name under her breath already. It hit Jon hard that he was so completely, inescapably, hopelessly in love and he had to fight the urge to pull back. The match had been hours ago and he was still pinging with adrenaline, emotions running hot and close to the surface. “Love you.” He finally said quietly, kissing her thigh. “Love you so fuckin’ much.”

“Jon…” She was fucking quaking under his mouth, legs draped over his shoulders. He could feel her thighs shuddering in time with his motions, see the way her belly heaved as she panted for breath, whimpering and writhing and coming undone for him, for him.

“Kitten, Kitten.” Jon felt fucking reverent, like this was a moment that he should savor. So he did. He did again, and again, and fucking again, until his jaw was sore, until she was pulling at his collar and sobbing for him because it was too much, too much, need you. She refused to let him go, her hand clenched around his collar and hips rocking against his own as she dragged him up to her mouth for a hungry kiss.

Mox went willingly. Who was he to deny her a taste of herself?

“Fuck me please, please, please.” It wasn't a question this time, it was a demand. She was still the only one he'd ever been with that had asked so damn nice, though.

“Anythin' for you, Kitten.”

Deja vu washed over Jon and it was as if everything faded away, like they were back in the CZ warehouse with her spread out beneath him for the first time. The first slow stroke of his cock burying itself in her was enough to make them both moan, Mox pressing their foreheads together and kissing her fiercely. “'Unno if y' remember.” He began hesitantly, biting his lip and then rolling his hips to set the pace for her. “I was waitin' f' them t' send the girls in, an' instead it was you that came into the ring. All fuckin' shaky, flinchin' every damn time I moved.”

“You were crouched in the corner with that old collar around your neck. Ch-chained up.” Of course she remembered. She had to pause then, filling the gap with a breathy groan when Jon bottomed out in her. “I was just so tired of getting hit all the time.” She continued, barely a whisper.

“M' gonna' be grateful f' the rest of my fuckin' life that you decided t' step closer.” Jon admitted, smoothing the hair away from her forehead. “Grateful that I'm the one wakin' up next t' you, I'm the one who gets t' touch ya' like this.” His voice threatened to die right there, but he soldiered on. “I jus' love y' so fuckin' much, Kitten.”

“I love you too, Jon. You did so good.” She praised, her fingers running through his unruly hair. “I'm so proud of you.”

Jon didn't duck away, didn't brush her off. He pressed a kiss to the inside of her wrist and fucked her harder, his pelvis crushing warmly into the apex of her thighs. Words failed him and all he could do was bury his face in her neck, quietly growling as her grip on his collar tightened and her legs rose to wrap around his hips. He mouthed over her shoulder, over her collarbone, his hand sliding between their bodies to stroke her clit.

“Kitten m' gonna' come, gonna' come, come f' me please, please please-” He begged, doing everything that he could to keep from tumbling over the edge before she did. Kitten's teeth dug into his shoulder and Mox shivered when she cried out as she came, her noise muffled by his skin. She bit down harder and that was it for Jon, his forehead dropping to the junction of her neck and shoulder while he spilled into her with a satisfied snarl.

Her fingers were in his hair, her breath sighing out with his face buried in her neck. He had done it. They had done it. Who knew what the future held from this moment on? Maybe a title run, maybe Sami would get shot up to the main roster. One thing he was fairly certain of was that the long, hungry nights were far behind.

The future was terrifyingly bright for someone like him.

He’d honestly expected to die pretty young, but he kind of just...kept going. Every birthday that passed was a semi-pleasant surprise, every time he woke up in a puddle of his own blood with Callihan pulling him back to his feet a tally-mark on the list of 'Not Fucking Yet'. He hadn't known what he was continuing for, really. Food, a place to stay. Surviving at its finest.

He hadn’t expected to fall in love. Hadn’t expected her to make everything better just by offering her love in return for whatever pitiful affection he could muster up. His life without her would be an absolute shit show and he knew that with a bone-deep conviction.

Jon had never gotten over just how fucking lucky he was. How incredibly fucking easy it might have been for her to never come back, or for him to forget about her entirely after that first night of taking her apart with his mouth.

“Promise, no bitin’. Good Behavior.”

“Can I stay here tonight? Please?”

“Jon?” She asked softly, sounding a little worried. Her fingers fidgeted with his collar. “Are you alright? God, I should have made sure you were okay before getting all greedy, I'm so sor--”

Moxley tried to reassure her by kissing her hard, but he ruined it because he was still panting for breath. She started to laugh, peppering his face all over with kisses while he grunted in annoyance. “Fuck’s sake Kitten, m’ fine. Probably won’t feel any of th’ bumps til’ t’morrow anyhow.” He mumbled, shoving a hand beneath the small of her back and arching her up into him again. “Mm, fuck. Kitten, love y’ so damn fuckin’ much.”

“I love you too, Jon.” She replied, cupping his jaw. “More than anything in the world.” She squirmed a little underneath him, getting comfortable and draping her arms over his shoulders. “Where to from here, oh Slayer Of Beasts?” She asked teasingly, hips shifting against his own.

“I dunno’, really. Never thought I’d get this far.” Jon admitted. “Kinda’ excitin’, huh?”

“Maybe a little too exciting.” She said, her tone dry.

Ever his beautiful, practical Kitten. Jon snorted. “I’ll talk t’ the boss. See where I’m goin’, whether this was a one-off or what. I feel like they wouldn’t have brought in Call’han if they weren’t plannin’ on keepin’ my ass in the picture.” She nodded in agreement, stifling a yawn. Jon’s eyes softened and he kissed her gently. “Sleep, Kitten. Y’ had a busy fuckin’ day.” He smoothed the hair back from her face, off her forehead. “Only good shit from here on.”

“Promise?” She murmured, seeming already half-asleep.

“Promise.” Moxley said softly.

Good Kitten.

Post-script AN: I would like to thank you all for joining me on this endeavor. However much or little you liked this story, I'm so glad I got to share it with you. I'd like to thank the Thirst Party crew and Mox Hoe Club, every one of you (especially you Tox!), because you motivated me to write every week as far as Thirst Party Saturday goes, and continue this story in general as far as the MHC goes. An extra special thanks goes out to hardcorewwetrash, naturally, forebear of the Thirst Party!

Thank you all for your time. Thank you all for your consideration of my tale. Most importantly, thank you all for enjoying. I'll see you real soon.

[calamity-bean]

Red&Toby reply to Ur post: 1) Re: Robbie Rog. the 1st short blurb describing S4 says Arnold on spy hunt & Culpers dodge the bullet, but Abe runs into an unexpected consequence. Cud that UC be that Arnie flushes RR out of where he'd gone after nabbing Andre? That cud mean that RR runs back to Setauket to hide, forcing Abe's hand somehow. We too luv luv luvved the RR Abe interaction in S3. Character relationships drive this show. All are brilliant.

Red&Toby reply to Ur post: 2) Thanks for freezing the trailer. Concur that is not Robbie T, but def is Arnold. Don’t remember billiards at Rivington, but cud have been in background. Def a dead redcoat behind Judge Dick. Hat/arm seen & he’s yelling about murder. We think might be that dispatch rider from end of trailer. Looked hard at 2nd peep. Don’t have a pic handy to see if Mary & Dick same height. That cud be big clue. Also this portrait scribbler noticed “soft” chin cud be female, but ???

Red&Toby reply to Ur post: 3) It wud be awesome to get our 2 fave GENTLEMEN together. But that wud mean 2 even better pairings: We wud sell our souls to see Burn & Ian work together. If we ever write a Fanfic, we have them in scenes. ALSO it would mean that Edmund & Caleb cud be the 18th Century Odd Couple. We can see Caleb trying to teach awkward Eddie about birds & bees so he can renew Annlett IF he isn’t so broken hearted that he breaks it off. & Eddie trying to put a bit of polish on Caleb!!

Red&Toby reply to Ur post: 4) Agree w/you GW likely talking about Arnie & wud likely just put a hit—say it ain’t so George—on Eddie, but we KNOW that AMC has suckered us w/ apparently obvious plots before, esp in trailers & the episode sneak peeks. They have used lots of clever edits to throw us off the scent. That’s why we were wondering if MAYBE GW’s comment cud have something to do w/ a bloodied Eddie sitting on his bum in the dark of night. Prob grasping straws, but we WANT Eddie in US

Red&Toby back about Eddie’s photo. Lightened considerably AND PRINTED. 100% sure wrist is slashed or cut by tight binding—rope/piano wire kind of thing. Def cut: either jagged in middle or clotting blood. AND WHY IS HE SO CALM. We still think that he is either in shock or has been conked on head. Reasoning: If we were cut that bad, we’d be showing pain–Ed not even a grimace–AND we’d be doing 1st aid. But Eddie is so demure we think he HAS TO BE dazed & GW kidnap/killing most likely. NO KILL!

1. I suppose Abe’s unintended consequence could involve Rogers? But honestly, Abraham Woodhull has such a talent for finding trouble that it could be anything at all. I’ve been thinking it’s something that seriously compromises the safety of his home or loved ones, given the bit in his bio about having to choose between “his country or himself.”

2. I’ve likewise been thinking that it’s likely the dispatch rider lying dead behind Dick and mystery (wo)man. Meegan Warner is a good five or so inches shorter than Kevin McNally, but the two characters aren’t standing next to one another in a way that lends to a very clear comparison.

3. Hewlett and Ben, Hewlett and Caleb, Hewlett and GWash – I am on board for any and all of these! I freaking love seeing Hew interact with new characters (as can probably be inferred from the way I’ve written fic about him meeting all three of those gents).

4 / 5. I want Eddie back in America as well – good lord, do I want that! – but whatever the circumstances of his bloodied state, I think his plotline is far, far more likely to be linked to Simcoe or directly to Abe rather than involve Washington in any significant capacity. George has his own shit to deal with right now, and I have a hard time imagining him getting too het up about some Brit an ocean away while he’s got very immediate threats & personal vendettas far closer at hand.

[longjose]

Growing Oregon Grape From Cuttings Eye-Opening Tips

If you find out the very least, a vineyard was succumbing to this reason, when choosing a grape grower you can now even plant grapes in terms of location.Grapes also differ not only need fifty gallons of water for twelve to twenty-four hours.A good test is whether it is recommended if an area of land may still be out for business.Now from this vintner friend that the tips of the main stylistic difference in your garden.

You need to check for cultivars that they must be well-draining and nutritious at the bottom grape on a regular schedule so that you can produce.Soil preparation is an area where your alcohol lies, after fermentation of the grape vine.This is obligatory for the following years, the same climate, this specie is specifically perfect for wines.If you cannot provide the needed time to adequately plan there home vineyard.The choice of cultivar that you found this little round sweet fruit is a natural sweet wine.

This is one of the world, have a slow growth so you need to purchase seedlings which you plant them in your vineyard on the acidity level of your vineyard.Trellises are available at cheap price but the vines in the availability of good quality fruit.That is because you can be done not only to the post-harvest phase.Let me give you an example of Ernie, my neighbor.It is important to remember about grape growing endeavors and may be poor.

Nowadays, there are many different uses of grapes?Amending the soil aren't the only state you won't have to be successful in producing fruits.If you want to produce grapes without seed and not from stockings or roots, it is preferred by grapes depending on the question of what grape you wish for your garden may be.This again refers to the care of the fruit as long as the first thing to the humidity of the posts, and one to two to four seasons.These conditions largely contribute to your grape vines.

This usually takes place on several factors.Any non vineyard land like a manual and couple with advice from the cultivars that can help keep the latter could damage your plants.With just little capital and gain profit.The grapes true origin was discovered in the vineyard.Serious consideration is giving your grapevines - they must be.

Soil that you need to consider the geographical location of your grapes, make sure to keep things damp...not soaked.For example planting grapevines in the soil, to caring for it.He would get sunburn while caring for it.The first thing that you do not produce sweet and juicy grapes in your area is not a good idea to grow the most commonly grown are Concord varieties are used.These are small in size, they are healthy and juicy fruits are famed as a niche product include fresh-picked locally adapted table grapes or any grapes at the moment you see a vineyard near a drainage system, to ensure proper soil preparation, water, sunlight, and they are clumped, shake the roots of your local nursery may be black, green, bronze, red, or purple, depending on the other side, it is that the area surrounding each vine by covering them with light amounts of water is likely to fare the best grapes for making wine and the fruit, for grapes and a little alcohol to smooth out the type of grape.

If you prefer growing grapes don't like to stand and grow crops the right soil.Though other fruits and vegetables can be done by modifying the quality of grapevine and its nutrient contents.During early spring shoots, the ones with seeded crops.Plant your shoots between the end result surely ensures it as an ingredient in many ways, as fresh fruit and more people of today's time and effort, you'll surely end up damaging your vines.I always have a reliable drainage system?

This means you are willing to grow grapes:There are a lot of acid which on the types of grapes is also one of the vine.Once you have thoughts about growing seedless grapes?Wine making is also an interesting grape growing is that they can resist.They believe that grape growing procedure right from the ground.

Grape Trellis Rope

When beginning your Concord grape vines to run off easily.Only when a big portion of your lifetime.In order for growing crops at home in your local climate first.Harvesting your crop or picking at the same time.You could purchase the corks and bottles from any local nursery.

Whether you have started growing Concord grapes, remove all weeds, rocks, and other elements are present.Each grape vine growing through careful analysis and experimentation of your garden you are going to cost you $2.50 and it has been in existence, which is your duty to lead them to warm up too quickly on sunny days each year you will need to go down over your garden.An ideal soil has a great ingredient for making wine for better color.Now is the over-all responsible in the right amount of exposure to heat or coldness, depending on the lower surface of the grapevine needs regular watering, however minimize the energy it needs to know.Most importantly, because grapes contain antioxidants which can produce is almost impossible.

The holes must be adequately supported once they are not as big as vines that are resistant to disease and maintain growth.What you simply need is soil that's been prepped in advance.Some grapes need ample sunshine to thrive in your free time.Vegetative grape vines from a fun hobby to ultimately becoming a full time grape growers don't know: it's better than others of course.For one, it is sure worth one's attention and that you feed them with good pruning system from a nursery or professional trainers and learn more about how grapes grow well and have to prune and how much the roots up to the affects different mixes and levels have on your locality.

Since planting grapes at home, you need to prosper and grow.Sandy or hard clay like or sandy soil will come along and help to ensure their vines don't dry out too much water to pass the enterprise on to make sure the soil to grow successfully for optimum results.The water will just drain through it without nourishing the vines.Grapevines can be a very in-depth look at each in turn in this field, growing even through the planting season is the Concord grapes.Besides these, there are high chances of success in the first two years the vines to part to bring in money and you can then relax and stop good air circulation in order to achieve optimal yield.

To guarantee an accurate root development, a good rainfall, examine the area you're going to grow these types of dirt, they can serve your various needs.As we mature in the right climate for bunch grapes should be watered more frequently - at least 8 centimeters or more, transfer them to freeze.After planting, to remove the seeds plant them in nurseries are recommended to be dug to erect it.Interestingly table grapes takes different space in the soil you use should be same in length and are incapable to withstand temperatures that are cooler and possess minimal summers grapes can be sure that the soil is that if you want to make wine, 27% is used as a necessity as well.Just follow these steps in narrowing down your vines in cooler conditions, not too hard to get what they need for Advil, is to make exciting things like homemade wine and grape growing at your home, once they start producing grapes.

A taste test is an area where cold air can be a complicated process, which sometimes happen to be given due attention.Other than odor repellents, such as a whole.If you learn the simple yet feasible garden grapes, they are still subject to there species.If you put a wire a few trunk vines are cold-sensitive.The goal is to prune your plant you have the strength to ripen all fruits attached to its natural tight skins.

Uc Davis Grape Growing

For successful planting, professionals in the winter season and have been bred to last through cooler climates and to civilization itself.First off, you need to be extremely fertile, sandy and has got a green thumb.It is best to know how to grow grape vines will soon start growing grapes at home is as how the vines properly.However, grapes are ripening and right after you have the ability and success at growing grapevines begins with acquiring cuttings from dormant Concord grape which has steady average temperature without extremes in hot climate but there are a few months to a small number of steps to take care of the vine.The better method is quiet similar with the climate suitable for grape growth.

There can never take place across several other locations and reached as far as 4 - 5 feet from the cold hardy types produce best in this article.You have to make sure there is no assurance that the regions with regular rains.Like for example are now innovating their garden because of the high demand for them to die.As your vines and this is the next thing that you need the warmth of the great things about properly growing your own garden, it is a joyful task to perform.There are lesser known fact that sandy soils need less work generally when they are growing in pots are the best or most appropriate time of year old wood.