#even if ashton had died . still a great choice

[lunarrolls]

let me make it so abundantly clear right now that taking the shard was a fucking amazing choice. obviously not from a logical standpoint, they were warned against doing that like eight billion times, but it was SUCH a good move narratively holy shit. i think ashton would have given it up to fearne if she wanted it, but she didn’t, and oh my god did they want it. they have been recklessly throwing themself into answers this entire time. they threw themself into a fucking volcano without any hesitation to get that shard. the fact that it made them feel anything at all? of COURSE they were going to grab it. he told evontra’vir that he was owed power. nobody else was going to give it to him, from his pov, so he took it himself. also it was fucking hilarious how bad of an idea it was. literally just the worst possible thing you could have done. but also it made total sense, i love it, taliesin jaffe what the actual fuck, i owe you my life, aabria iyengar i owe you my life more,

#cr #cr3 #cr spoilers #ashton greymoore #roll insight #literally the most insane possible narrative direction this could have gone #but it MAKES SENSE ashton does not internalize consequences because they do not stop long enough to do so #they made the choice to do this within the span of like six hours and consulted nobody about it except fearne #purposefully because they knew the others would stop them #anyways i know i’m gonna see so much discourse about this in the next week but holy fuck. LOVED that choice #even if ashton had died . still a great choice #a fucking insane choice. fucking UNHINGED choice. but i’m a fan of big risky in character moves #and it paid off this time. and i’m sooooo interested in where that will go

[darkdisrepair]

cr3e33 (THAT episode)

i hope so badly that the whole episode was a dream and there's some good evidence for it, too, which is so relieving. i love the theory that it is (i agree, that matt didn't seem nearly as upset as i would have thought for someone who may have killed 3+ members of the party)

even if it's not- there's a strange sort of poetic-ness to the fact that the two characters who died so far were exu characters, who in some ways have gotten more closure from their backstories than others.

yes, will is still dead. yes, orym just met the assassins who murdered him, and he feels like he failed keyleth and his people. but i'm sure there's a sort of sense of relief, too, that even though he may be dead, there are threads that can still find their way back to keyleth in the other members of his party.

and isn't it just a huge weight off your shoulders, to look the figures that haunt your memories in the eye, and say i know who you are now? even if nothing comes of that?

and fearne has met her parents. she knows the truth about morrie. yes, there are still so many things for her to know and do about ruidus and the fey realm, but that gaping hole has been at least a little repaired, and she's seen who her parents are.

though the fence might not be greener on the side where she knows birdie and ollie, she can now recognize the relationships she has in bell's hells and the chosen family she's found.

though i love both of them (fearne more than orym ngl), i think their stories, if they were to perma-die, have some sort of closure, even though it may be bittersweet and not the total closure they may have been hoping for.

laudna, imogen, ashton, and fcg are characters who fall into "the most tragic thing about sudden death is what went unfinished" trope. they all have so much to learn and so many unanswered questions about themselves that losing those threads forever would be so devastating because they haven't really been touched on yet.

and then there's chetney, who is... i don't even know. either way, i think he's been a great addition, but his woodworker standoffs have yet to make a whole lot of sense to have me mourn the loss of those plot points.

~

if this is a dream, though, imagine the trauma of imogen waking up from that? it would be so, so heartwrenchingly awful and lonely and i don't think anyone would really understand that she saw them die.

i mean, it's also horrible if this is real and they are actually dead. i think this is really her big moment of trauma in the campaign. to be backed into a corner and have your friends dying around you, because of you, and the only way to stop it is to go into a storm that you've been terrified of your whole life?

i'm so glad that there's an understanding between the cast and matt (and that they looked like they were having fun, even with all the character deaths) because, even though it's roleplay, what imogen was put through in this episode is so striking because it's so horrible, and awful because she had no choice and was forced into doing something that has already given her trauma.

but the story nuance of it all? the way it was done? beautiful. heartbreaking, and so, so good from matt. major kudos to him for building this moment so well.

#critical role #critical role spoilers #cr spoilers #campaign 3 #campaign 3 spoilers #orym of the air ashari #fearne calloway #imogen temult #imogen temult meta #cr meta #critical role meta

[samuraiko]

Are you still doing those vignette requests? Would love to see you write about a conversation between fearne and orym after ep 34 (also do you think fearne lied about the coin flip or no? Pretty popular theory going around right now)

After the events of C3E33 and C3E34, I wasn't quite up to re-opening vignette requests, but... this is an idea I'd been somewhat pondering in my head already, so I'll answer this particular Ask.

Re: the theory... I genuinely don't know. I imagine it'll come out in the wash later, one way or another.

"Living With One's Choices"

It was late afternoon, or so Orym guessed as he sat cross-legged on the floor, Imogen curled up around Laudna's body to his left, Fearne curled up against him on his right. Even in her sleep, Fearne had one hand on his knee, her fingers loosely clutching his pants leg in her grip as though afraid he'd disappear.

Orym glanced over at Imogen, who was weeping softly in her sleep, and he gently tucked an errant lock of her hair back behind her ear, and Imogen subsided into silence once more. On Laudna's other side was Ashton, one hand resting on Laudna even in sleep. FCG was powered down nearby, and Chetney was in a small ball at Laudna's feet.

He felt a faint tugging at his pants leg, and Orym turned back to see Fearne's eyes were open and gazing up at him, shining with tears.

"You need to sleep," he whispered to her, but she shook her head.

"Not just yet. I... I'm sorry, Orym."

"For what?"

Fearne sniffled and let go of him just long enough to wipe away her tears with the back of her hand.

"I was... I was selfish. I brought you back, because I was scared and... I was lonely and I... I was so afraid for you."

Orym looked down at her in concern. "Why?"

"When I was... well, dead... before Letters brought me back, I was in this awful place. It was green and dark and really icky, and all these eyes... and well, it was a little bit exciting, but I really didn't want to stay there. And when I woke up... and Grass said you were dead, too... I was so afraid that you were in a place like that and I couldn't just leave you there."

Then she began to cry in earnest. "But now I've left Laudna there, and I feel terrible."

"Shhh, Fearnie, shhh." He stretched out next to her and hugged her, rubbing her shoulders in slow circles. "It wasn't like that for me. Not in the slightest bit. I think it's different for everyone. So don't you worry about Laudna. For all we know, she's with her mom and dad again. And she told me... she told me a while back how she'd had a lot of great things happen to her since... well, since she died. And she had a lot of love in her. I don't think she'd blame you at all."

"What do you think she'd say?"

"I think... she'd tell you to take care of Imogen. And be there for her."

"I was going to do that anyway. And, well, I did promise her that we'd find a way to bring her back."

"Then that's what we'll do. Together."

Fearne was quiet for a little bit, then very softly, Orym heard, "What... was it like? For you?"

Fresh pain tore through Orym's heart like a jagged blade, but he swallowed hard. "I was... in Zephrah. And it was just as beautiful as I remember it. And..." He tried valiantly, but still the tears fell. "Will... was there. My beautiful Will. Waiting for me."

Tears welled up in Fearne's eyes once more. "Oh, no... no no no and I stole you away from him-"

"Shhh." Orym hugged her even tighter and pressed his forehead against Fearne's. "No. Don't you dare think that. I chose to come back. And Will understands why. There's still so much to do. So much to set right. And you need me." He pulled away just long enough to kiss Fearne's forehead and then rested his against hers once more.

"It's okay... I promise." A flash of a sad smile crossed his face, and without thinking about it, he imitated Laudna's cultured tones. "'Focus your brain forward. It's not worth being sad about what can't be changed.' That's what she said. So that's what we'll do."

"Are you sure?"

"I'm sure."

"Okay. You're the smart one." Fearne hugged him closer. "I'm so glad you're my friend, Orym. Thank you for coming back to me." Then she closed her eyes, and Orym heard her whisper, "And thank you, Will, for understanding. About the whole stealing thing. It's borrowing, really."

Despite himself, Orym chuckled. "Now get some sleep. We've all had a really long day." He sat up once more and settled himself comfortably in a cross-legged position, only to feel Fearne once again reach out and take his hand in hers.

Before long, he heard her breathing become slow and steady, leaving Orym alone in the stillness with his thoughts, remembering the warmth of Will's embrace, and feeling the warmth of Fearne's hand in his.

#critical role #campaign 3 #bells hells #orym of the air ashari #fearne calloway #cr spoilers #critical role spoilers

[sbrn10]

This observation has probably been made time and again, so it's really nothing new, but I feel like the feywild retreat has only brought into even starker relief how fucked up BH are by the fact that they've been stuck in panic emergency mode ever since three of them died (and one of them stayed dead) (which is not to say that Laudna's death is the cause of panic emergency mode but that it did coincide very unfortunately with them being made aware of the solstice clock ticking) and they genuinely have no way out of it.

Like, brief excursions notwithstanding (Chetney's trial in the jungle and also the backstory episode in Uthodern -- damn, Chetney got way more not-BBEG-related character time than anybody else lol), even when they have some relative downtime, almost everything they do is driven directly or indirectly by the fact that they're being relied on to save the world as they know it and they all feel incredibly not up to the task. They're stressed af. They all think they're going to die. Barring Chet and Fearne, they're kind of willing to die -- like they're not going to TRY to die, but they're up for it if necessary. Even when they're stuck waiting with nothing else to do like for three days on a ghost ship, they end up talking shop more than anything else (i.e., discussing whether Laudna should be texting Delilah -- and about half of them think yes). They're all watching each other make really questionable choices and rationalizing way hard because they feel like they need to (Orym and FCG to Laudna re: Delilah, Laudna to Imogen re: taking off the circlet, everyone watching Ashton jump into fucking lava ¯\_ (ツ)_/¯ etc.) (and yeah, Ashton blowing themselves up went a bit beyond the rationalization threshold, but honestly if the consequences had been a hair less radical...) and on the flip side, feeling almost a sense of distrust when some of them aren't ready to make really questionable choices.

(Okay, okay, side tangent: I know it's not great that everyone's been pushing Fearne on the shard? But also, Fearne has been so reluctant to share her fears to the extent that I'm like, they're not mindreaders ¯\_ (ツ)_/¯ . (Hilariously, Imogen is, but she hasn't been doing it to Fearne!) Even with Chetney, who was really good about communicating with Fearne in e78, Fearne says she's afraid of becoming a bad version of herself exactly one (1) time and then they actually spend almost all of that conversation discussing her feelings for Ashton and how she regrets that her feelings influenced her into making the wrong choice, not dark!Fearne, which is why that conversation also ends with Chetney being like, hey, I get that you feel bad about Ashton, and you said you were scared, but also I love being a werewolf and I think you can overcome being scared so you should still get it because you could be awesome. Because she hasn't elaborated! And on the one hand -- yes, in a perfect world, her feelings should be respected even if she doesn't fully explain them. But on the other, the world may be ending and she's turning down significant power that everyone put their neck on the line to get; they do kind of deserve an explanation for why. All I'm saying is, the way this Fearne shard thing has been playing out is more complicated than "nobody is listening to her.")

And the thing is, it doesn't matter whether Matt stops the clock now, because it's always there. They could be in the feywild for months with time frozen and they'd still have alarm sirens blaring in the back of their heads until the threat is actually resolved.

To be very clear, it's not that I hate it -- there's a part of me that does enjoy this campaign specifically for that sense of heightened distress. I think the vastly different overarching story structures of c1, c2, and c3 all directly inform the pacing and vibes of each campaign, and c3 is the SNAFU campaign through and through.

But as much as I would like for them to sit down and work through their emotional shit, there's also the side of me that's like... but... when would they do that. Especially now that we've seen they can't even turn off their trauma brains when they're in the feywild under the guise of timey wimey bs (which, to be clear, also makes sense given their situation).

And I'm just saying, it makes me sad for them! They're all so! fucked! up! Also I love them a lot and I can't stop thinking about them.

#musings: cr

[jobrookekarev]

Little Moon Chapter 5

Chapter: Five of ?

Words: 1616

Summary: Luna and Joe go to the library where they read a book about adoption and Joe tells her the story of how she adopted Luna.

Fandom: Grey’s Anatomy.

Characters: Jo Wilson, Luna Wilson/Ashton, Val Ashton.

Rating: General Audiences.

Additional Tags: Fluff, All the Fluff, Toddlers, Adoption, Libraries, Tiny Astronaut.

Read at AO3

Read at FFN

AN: As I'm getting back into the swing of things I'm hoping to start updating this at least once a month, especially with the new season!

……………………………………………………………………

One of Jo's favorite places to take Luna was the library. Unfortunately, her toddler didn't have as much of an attention span as usual. At two years old, Luna had caught up developmentally with most of her peers, except for the occasional delay, but that was to be expected. Yet ever since she started walking, Jo had a hard time keeping her still. The one thing that Luna would sit down for, was books, specifically books about space. 

Luna loved anything space related, including her pink tiny NASA suit that she insisted on wearing most days. So after a late night shift, only a few hours of sleep, and because she wanted a quiet day, Jo picked up her little pink astronaut, and they flew over to the library in the car/spaceship. Now they sat in between the shelves as Jo pulled out a couple of random books. 

“This one looks nice,” Jo said, pulling out a book, but then she read the description. 

It was an adoption story, and usually, Jo didn't get those out for Luna unless she had read them over first. When Jo had adopted Luna, she considered buying a book about adoption to help explain it all to her when she was older. 

Jo remembered the adoption and foster story books she read as a child. She could have never imagined her parents willingly choosing to put her in that situation, but they did. The foster home she was in wasn't better like all the books promised they were. They weren't the loving families that all the books painted them to be. Instead of a forever home, she dreamed of her birth parents showing up and whisking her away, loving her the way someone should have. 

Jo had sorted through millions of adoption story books. Unfortunately, most of them were religious. They often painted the birth mother as a woman who made the right choice to place the baby with their family, but Val didn't give Luna up willingly. She died and Jo never wanted to keep that fact from her daughter either. 

No adoption or foster care kids' story was without pain. Jo’s was the pain of her birth father's assault and her mother's abandonment. Luna's was of her mother's death and her father’s disinterest. She wanted Luna to know that she is loved, that she was always loved, and that Val loved her and that Jo fought for her because she loved her too.

“Maybe not. Let’s pick another.”

“No, Mama,” Luna said, grabbing a book from where she sat and Jo's lap. “Read, read.”

Jo sighed and took another look at the book as she flipped it over and read the description before opening it up. This book seemed alright, so Jo flipped back to the first page and started reading it.

“Mommy and Daddy, Tell Me Again About the Night I Was Born,” Jo began as she read the book to Luna. When she got to the page that had the baby laid out in actual size, Jo paused and smiled. “You were much smaller when you were born, you were this little.”

Jo showed Luna with her hands the size that she was, as Luna pointed to the baby on the page. “Big ‘aby.”

“Yeah, that is a big baby,” Jo said as Luna finally allowed her to turn the page, and she continued reading.

Once Jo finished the book, she put it in their stack to check out. After sorting through a few more books, the two of them walked out of the library with their collection. Jo held the bag of books and Luna held one book tightly against her chest. Despite living downtown, Jo often found herself hanging out in the Queen Anne neighborhood. It was safer and easier to hang out in, with more parks and things for the two of them to do. It also helped that she was close to Meredith and Link’s place. She put Luna in the stroller and started to walk the two blocks over to the park. 

As they walked, Jo couldn't help, but remember the adoption story in the book and Luna's own birth and adoption story. Through the advice of others and from her own experience as a foster child, Jo never wanted to lie to Luna about how she came to adopt her. Still, that didn't change the story of how Luna came to be in the world. 

She survived on her mom's liver and was born during a pandemic. Her mother loved her so much, but she never even got to hold her. Val died and she hadn’t gotten the chance to meet her daughter. Although Jo knew Luna before she was born and held her as soon and as much as she could, it didn't make things any easier. Jo had been telling Luna about Val. She made sure that Luna had a picture of Val in her nursery and that she knew her Mom’s name. 

“Hey, Luna,” Jo said, leaning forward to see over the canopy of the stroller. “Do you want to know about your birth story and about your Mama Val?”

“Mama story,” Luna repeated with a nod, and Jo smiled down at her.

“Okay, so the day I met your mommy Val was in the middle of a crazy year where everybody had to wear masks to cover their faces. Your mommy had come to the hospital where I work because her tummy didn't feel good. That's when we found out you were in her tummy and not only that, you weren't where you're supposed to be. See, most babies grow in their mommy's uterus, but you were growing on your mommy's liver!”

“Li-er” Luna said as she tried out the word.

“Yes, Liver, you are my little liver baby,” Jo said, leaning forward again and tickling Luna’s side as she giggled. “But you weren't supposed to be on your mommy's liver, so we had to go in and get you, and you were so tiny when you were born. You weren't quite ready to be born yet, so we took you to the NICU, and that's where you lived for the first five months of your life. And your mommy Val, she loved you so much, but she...” 

Jo faltered a little, she had always told Luna about her mom, but she had always brushed over the fact that Val had died. She turned the corner as they approached the park. She didn't want to introduce her daughter to death so soon, but she deserved to know what really happened, and Jo didn't want her thinking that Val walked out on her. 

Jo looked down at Luna, who looked back up at her with big blue eyes, Val’s eyes. She looked so much like Val. They had the same blue eyes and white blonde hair. The same pointed little chin, and the same little nose. As Jo got to the park, she picked a bench and parked the stroller next to it. 

She sat down so she could face Luna, taking her little hands and holding them. “Have I told you how little your hands were when you were born? They were the size of my fingertips and now look at how big they are.”

Luna smiled and laughed as she looked at their hands. “I big girl.” 

“Yes, you are a big girl, and you look so much like your mommy Val, so beautiful and strong like your mommy, and you are stubborn and smart like me,” Jo said as she took a deep breath and looked down at their hands. “Your mommy Val couldn't stay here. She had to go to the great beyond, like in that movie we watched, do you remember?”

Luna nodded as they had watched the movie Soul with Scout and Meredith’s kids a few days ago, and Jo figured that if Luna was going to understand death, it needed to be at least age appropriate and not scary. 

“Yeah, well just like in the movie, your mommy Val is in the great beyond, and that's why she's not here with us. That’s why I’m your mama, that’s why I went to the courthouse, and I asked them if I could keep you? And at first, they said no, but I wouldn't give up on you. I fought for you. I fought so hard because I love you so much, Luna, and I wanted to be your mama. Finally, I met with a special lawyer who helped me adopt you, and so we went back to the courts, and do you know what they said?”

Luna shook her head, but she smiled at Jo, a beautiful big smile that made the harshest of days become the happiest. 

“They said that I could keep you forever, and so that's what I did. You're my daughter forever,” Jo said, lifting Luna up out of the stroller and holding her into the air. “You're mine forever, my Little Moon, and I love you so much.”

“Love you, Mama,” Luna said, puckering her lips, and Jo smiled as she gave her a peck. 

“Alright, let's go play. You want to go on the swings?” Jo asked as Luna nodded and Jo carried her over to the swings. 

They spent the rest of the afternoon at the park, and Luna smiled and laughed, and ran around just being the carefree child she could be. Jo was happy to give her that because, despite her rough start, her daughter had a happy childhood. That was what she wanted for Luna and she knew that was what Val wanted for her too. The day Val died, Jo promised her that she would take care of her daughter. That she would give her a happy childhood and a happy life, and Jo kept her promise.

……………………………………………………………………

AN: My mother is adopted and when I was younger, I used to read the book “Mommy and Daddy Tell Me Again About the Night I Was Born” by Jamie Lee Curtis. It mirrored my mother's adoption story, and that's how I came to understand that she was adopted. It didn't say that adoptive parents were better and what the birth mother could have given. Sometimes, like in Jo’s story, there is no better. Her foster parents were terrible, but her birth mom was in the midst of her depression and couldn't bear the sight of her, and I doubt she would have been able to take care of Jo. There were just two bad situations and a child stuck between them. I'm really glad that Jo got the chance to adopt Luna and be better and do better for her daughter. That's part of why I love this series.

#jo wilson #luna ashton #val ashton #grey's anatomy #grey's anatomy fanfic #my work #my writing #my fanfiction #luna wilson

[newagesispage]

OCTOBER                           2021

 THE RIB PAGE

*****

We miss U Charlie Watts!!

*****

The Stones performed at a private party for Patriots owner Robert Kraft of all people. The test run looked like just that. Shark jumped. I am becoming disillusioned.

*****

SNL is back with Owen Wilson as first host of season 47. Kacey Musgraves is the musical guest. Episode 2 will have a ridic choice for host. Halsey will sing. I suppose $ is power with the Kardashians. I could think of about 10 million other people to host but more and more Lorne goes for the shiny object , what he THINKS people want instead of taking risk. Beck Bennett is out.

*****

Is everybody watching the Amber Ruffin Show?? I loved her before but now… I learn so much from her show. Sometimes it takes a comic to get to the real serious shit. For example: Have you heard of drowning towns? Towns like Oscarville, Kowaliga, York hill, Seneca Village, Prentiss and countless other black towns that were drowned out to make lakes for the local whites. Central Park was also made after a black community was erased from history. Development displacement? Alleyway dwelling authority? Even those rabid for history can find out new things everyday. Thanks Amber!!

*****

Bob Woodward and Robert Costa are finally giving us Peril !!!!!!  I’ve been waiting!!** I was in political nerd heaven on Sept. 24 when Yamiche hosted Robert, Bob and Weijia Jang on Washington Week. All of my favorite pundits all together at one table, my dream team!!

*****

Iman looked great at the Met Gala!! Other great looks belonged to AOC, Tessa Thompson, Maluma, Helen Lasichanb and Pharrell Williams. Gigi Hadid, Kiki Layne, Ashton Sanders, Hailee Steinfeld, Kehlani, Zoe Kravitz, Michaela Cole, Lili Reinhart, Kate Hudson and Shai Gilgeous- Alexander were great. Whoopi Goldberg seemed a bit off.

*****

Jason Isbell is back with his latest offering, Georgia Blue.

*****

I see a lot of Title Max type establishment are closing down. Are they a thing of the past? Let’s hope.

*****

Law and Order is coming back to NBC for season 21. Dick Wolf will own 2 entire nights of television. Some of the old cast is reported to be returning.

*****

Britney Spears Father was suspended as her conservator.

*****

Timothy Chalamet, Rowan Atkinson, Sally Hawkins and Olivia Coleman will star in Wonka.

*****

The 2022 Super Bowl halftime show will bring us Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Dr. Dre and Kendrick Lamar.

*****

People are doing test runs for school board positions to see if their political ideas will play well for the big leagues. If they don’t seem to work, at least they can sometimes change the rules in their own area.

*****

Joe Rogan got Covid.

*****

Lake Michigan beaches were closed down thanks to a US Steel plant chemical leak.

*****

Is this country the master of endless administrative work?  None of us should have been surprised at the red tape that the slowed down the end of the war in Afghanistan.** Uber donated 50k for rides and meals to the Afghans when they arrive.**And why do so many waste taxpayer $ on useless recounts and recalls when people need real help with food and healthcare? They must really hate humanity.

*****

R. Kelly was found guilty of 8 counts of sex trafficking and 1 count of racketeering.

*****

Every gun that is made, every warship launched, every rocket fired signifies, in the final sense, a theft from those who hunger and are not fed, those who are cold and are not clothed. – Dwight D. Eisenhower

*****

Texas has put a law into effect to allow most Texans to carry open without permit or training.

*****

Texas has banned abortion at about 6 weeks. Uber and Lyft will pay drivers legal fees if sued under Texas abortion law. Lyft donated $1mil to Planned Parenthood. ** Look for the ruling in the Mississippi law over Roe V. Wade in June 2022.**Hear us roar!** BTW.. Go Jen Psaki!!!!!!!

*****

They seriously banned plastic straws and abortion before assault rifles? – Eden Dranger

*****

Please stop banning abortions, the last thing the world needs is more Americans. –Sarah Beattie

*****

Women don’t inseminate themselves. Vasectomies are reversible. Should every man have one until he’s deemed financially and emotionally fit to be a Father? – Bradley Whitford

*****

90 year old William Shatner will go to space for Blue Origin.

*****

The Q Anon Shaman pled guilty to a felony for obstructing the Electoral College proceedings. I say 20 years and a $250K fine.** 600 others have been indicted.

*****

Days Alert: The Beyond Salem thing was ridic but it was so great to see some old characters.  Days is so great at visiting old family. Who can resist Shane, Austin and Carrie, Billie and the old Kristen? I do wish that Peacock would get their kinks out!! Back to the real Days: Are we smelling an Emmy for Susan Seaforth Hayes and Bill?? ** Good to have Abigail back. It is always fun to wonder which actress and or personality it will be. ** Deidre Hall got her star on the walk of fame.**And just in time for Halloween, the Devil is making a comeback. The end of the year in Salem is always the best!! It is so brave to give the 96 year old man the old switcheroo into the Dark Lord.  It was fun to see the grandkids discover Grandma Marlena’s story. Delicious!! Hail Satan!!** It is past time for Tate and Teresa to come back to town. Brady needs to be put in his place. And thanks for the Philip and Chloe flashbacks!!

*****

The breakdown of the vaccinated: 90% of Atheists, 86% Hispanic Catholic, 84% Agnostic, 79% White Catholic, 73% White mainline protestant, 70% Black mainline protestant, 57% white evangelical. 1 in 500 Americans have died of Covid.

*****

So Mike Lindell and Jim Baker have teamed up to sell children’s Bible pillows.** Piers Morgan has returned to the Murdoch organization by joining Fox. That sounds about right.

*****

Please stop saying the vaccine does not have severe side effects, I took my shots and now I’m alive and have to keep working. –Mohand Eishieky

*****

In theatres Oct. 22: The French Dispatch.** October also brings us a new season of Curb your enthusiasm and Oct. 17 will catch us up on Succession. Whew!!!

*****

So people under conservatorship are not free to marry who they want? What?

*****

46% of Americans believe in ghosts.

*****

Simone Biles, Mckayla Maroney and Aly Rasiman testified at  the Senate judiciary hearing about the FBI’s handling of accusations against Larry Nassar and it was eye opening!

*****

We wanted a no -nonsense Dem who pushes on and does not puss out.  I am a bit surprised to see we have it. There are so many pressing issues that I hope Biden works a bit more on Haiti though.

*****

The National Police Act was passed to celebrate cops. Still no police reform.

*****

John Mulaney and Olivia Munn are going to have a baby.

*****

The Emmy’s were a little different this year with more of a Golden Globe look.  Cedric the Entertainer hosted with Reggie Watts as DJ. Lots of minority noms but barely a win. It was a white people night. Ted Lasso had a great night. Mare of Eastown took home a few with Evan Peters, Julianne Nicholson and Kate Winslet. Now, Kate is great but how did Anya Taylor- Joy not walk away with that? Queens Gambit did win a couple and gave the longest speech with the seemingly arrogant director Scott Frank who opened up 2 page acceptance. Categories were tough but I was routing for Renee Elise Goldberry and Bowen Yang but perhaps next year. The people in England who had their own party for all the statues that the Crown won seemed to be having more fun! Hacks won for writing and directing and Jean Smart!! It was nice to see the Norm Macdonald love which was barely mentioned by Lorne but celebrated by John Oliver. Colbert ‘s election night special won as did JB Smoove. Hamilton won and Debbie Allen got the big one. I do not understand why real singers and or musicians have to be there for the in Memoriam. It takes me out of it a bit and concentrates the focus on them. Do they think that people will pay attention more? Do they want to keep the home audience or live audience from the bathroom?  My best dressed were Anya Taylor-Joy, Michaela Cole who won for I may destroy you, Jean Smart, Josh O’Connor, Kathryn Hahn, Billy Porter, MJ Rodriguez, Keenan Thonpson, Leslie Odom Jr., Catherine O’Hara, Trevor Noah, Eugene Levy, Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys, Bowen Yang,  Anthony Anderson, Leslie Grossman, Amber Ruffin, Allyson Felix, Renee Elise Goldberry, Samira Wiley and Rege- Jean Page. My worst were Sarah Paulson, Gillian Anderson,  Beanie Feldstein, Elizabeth Olsen and Aidy Bryant. To me the best part of the show was the enthusiasm of Conan and the way he injected himself into much of the evening .He was the show.  Go Conan!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

*****

Next year there must be some Emmys for Sarah Paulson and Cobie Smulders in Impeachment!!!!!

*****

Oh Boy!! The Eyes of Tammy Faye!!

*****

Looking forward to the Electric Life of Louis Wain with Benedict Cumberbatch and Claire Foy.

*****

Abba has a new album!!

*****

Shang Chi is the biggest Labor Day opening with a $71.4 mil opening.

*****

Sen. Amy Klobuchar has announced she has breast cancer.

*****

Is it the 70’s? A streaker ran past the studio of the Today show.

*****

Rascal Flatts Joe Don Rooney was arrested for DUI.** Nicholas Cage was thrown out of a prime rib pace in Vegas after being drunk and disorderly.

*****

Jennifer Eckhart has filed a lawsuit against former Fox news anchor Ed Henry for rape and retaliation after allegedly being handcuffed and beaten.

*****

Scarlett Johansson has settled her Disney lawsuit.

*****

Pete Buttigieg and Chasten had twins they named Penelope Rose and Joseph August.

*****

I noticed a commercial for Dancing with the Stars. Are we onto the E list because I have heard of hardly any of these people. ‘Stars’is really stretching it. And as I post this I see there are some covid issues there as well.

*****

Virgin River was renewed for 2 more seasons.

*****

Trevor Noah is right? Why do they stop giving lollipops to adults at the doctor?

*****

Jon Stewart is back on Apple tv with ‘The problem with Jon Stewart.

*****

Brooklyn 99 had about the best finale (other than Newhart) that I can recall. I had my fingers crossed that Chelsea would be back. Will they honor us like they did in the show and come back for a special about once a year? That would be fucking awesome!!

*****

Don’t expect compliments from an insecure person.- Mr. Pickles

*****

Thousands and thousands of people are in need. Haitian refugees and other immigrants have seen nothing like this what with assassination, a hurricane and earthquake. The Southern border is a mess.** Why does Fox news keep telling refugees the border is open as they sit back and laugh at Biden’s predicament.  Spreading false info to intentionally hurt poor, distressed people has no end for them.

*****

Do companies know how fucked up their employment websites are? It is true that some people do not want to work. It is true that people schedule interviews and don’t show up. It is also true that companies have made it so hard to apply that many can’t. I suppose it is easier for them but the poor who may really want to work have a hard time. Paper applications are almost completely gone. The old fashioned way of walking into low paying job sites and finding a connection with a manager rarely exist. Some places only accept texts or have long ridiculous psych tests that a working Mother may not have time for. A Father working many hours already, may not be able to go to the library to get online if they cannot afford a computer. Many websites tell you that there no positions available in your area while there is a huge sign in front of the establishment. Can’t find people to work.. Gee I wonder why?? And treat people with respect once you find them, how about that?

*****

Keep your head up in failure, and your head down in success. –Jerry Seinfeld

*****

Hey.. There was a van air B’n B biz going that got busted. Hey.. The poor need vaca’s too. It is wrong but If they are willing to sleep in a van, why not. I truly think that many do not understand how much people are struggling.

*****

Free coffee day came and went but only a few places really gave you free coffee without rules to govern the promo. Some places wanted to sell you something else and some made you belong to their club. Starbucks held that customers had to come inside for the free cup of Joe, handicapped or not.

*****

One would think the Republicans would run out of $ for recounts but they have deep pockets. Just think how much good they could do for the huddled masses with that scratch.

*****

Sad to lose Mick Brigden, protégé of Bill Graham who managed The Stones and worked with Frampton, Dylan and Santana.** And the comics were very vocal about the loss of Norm Macdonald. He was one of a kind and he will be missed!

*****

R.I.P. Ruth Marx, Lee Scratch Perry, Willard Scott, Jean-Paul Belmondo, Isadore Bleckman, George Wein, Michael K. William,George Holliday, Anthony Johnson,  Basil Hoffman, Al Harrington,Willie Garson, Mick Brigden, Tommy Kirk and Norm Macdonald.

[highfivecalum]

Dark In Your Heart {CEO!CH} 11

Previous Chapters: One Two Three Four Five Six Seven Eight Nine Ten 

◈◈◈

“Need anything before I leave?” Maddie asked Calum as she buttoned up her coat. They hadn’t spoken much since the night at the bar, with Calum all over another girl while Maddie sat there alone and watched the whole thing. She was hurt and it was understandable. Calum had fucked up, but he hated receiving the silent treatment from her. 

“Can we talk?” Maddie sighed at Calum’s hesitant words, knowing she wouldn’t be able to get out of it since she put it off for so long and nodded her head as she crossed her arms over her chest. “I’m sorry.”

Maddie cocked a challenging eyebrow. That was not good enough for her. “Sorry about what?”

“You know what I’m sorry for.” Calum sighed and leaned against his desk in front of her, his hands on either side of him, clutching the edge of the desk. 

“That’s not good enough, Calum.” Maddie tried to walk away, but Calum lightly grabbed her arm to stop her. He didn’t want to have the conversation just as much as she didn’t, but they both knew it had to be said and done. “Did you sleep with her?”

“Madeline-”

“It’s a yes or no answer, Calum.”

Licking his lips, Calum bowed his head and nodded it. “Yeah.” He looked her in the eyes and watched as her face fell. He didn’t have an excuse as to why he slept with the girl from the bar and there was no way in hell that he could lie to her about it. He respected her way too much to lie to her. “Yeah. I did.”

“Great.” With pursed lips, Maddie nodded her head and let out an incredulous laugh, though there was absolutely nothing funny about the situation she was in. “Okay. That’s just fucking great-”

“Cal! My man!” The doors to his office burst open and in walked Michael, Luke, and Ashton. Maddie was glad for their interruption since she did not want to talk to Calum or think about him sleeping with another girl just days after he slept with her and confessed his feelings. “Oh, shit.” Luke cursed, sensing the tension in the room. “We interrupting something?”

“Yes.”

“No.” Maddie spoke over Calum. “I was just leaving. Have a good night, gentlemen.”

“Madeline!” Calum yelled after her, but she was already power walking to the elevator and not looking back at him. Calum looked away from the doors, glaring at his best friends who stood there looking clueless. “Great timing, guys.”

◈◈◈

Meet for drinks?

Maddie nearly died of happiness after reading the text she got from Stevie. After everything with Calum, all Maddie wanted was to hang out with her best friend and down a few drinks. And to maybe vent the whole entire time.

“Shot of tequila, please.” Maddie ordered right as she sat down next to Stevie at the bar, not even bothering to greet her with a proper greeting. She was feeling too many emotions: anger, sadness, confusion. 

“Whoa, baby.” Stevie laughed into her drink. “What’s wrong? You okay?”

That question was the thing that set Maddie off and had her ranting, and downing drink after drink, all night until her words were slurred and she was tripping over her own heels. It wasn't until the guy who had been eyeing Maddie from across the bar approached them, that Maddie finally shut up about Calum. Although, Stevie didn’t mind Maddie ranting, she knew she needed to get it out, and to what better person than her best friend? 

“Can I buy you ladies a round of drinks?” He leaned against the bar, elbow propped up with a smirk on his face. His eyes never left Maddie’s, as she drunkenly smiled and nodded her head excitedly. 

Stevie spoke up before Maddie had the chance to. “No, we’re good. We don’t need-”

“We most certainly do need, Stevie!” Maddie cheered and clapped her hands together, swiveling around in her bar stool so she was facing him completely, her crossed legs just barely grazing the strangers knees. She didn’t bother asking for his name, she was too drunk and didn’t even care to ask. Her mind was still only on Calum. 

“What are we drinkin’ on, gorgeous?” 

As the night went on and Maddie got sufficiently more and more drunk, Stevie continued to try getting Maddie home, but ultimately failed. She knew that Maddie had to be at work early the next morning, and she would definitely not be feeling well once she woke up. Honestly, at the rate that Maddie was slamming down the free drinks she was receiving, she would probably wake up drunk.

Stevie could only think of one thing to do. Picking up Maddie’s phone that she carelessly left on the top of the bar, Stevie unlocked it with the code that she already knew, and scrolled through Maddie’s contacts to find the only person’s phone number that she knew Maddie would listen to. Or, at least, she hoped she would listen to.

“Madeline?” Calum’s gruff voice, laced with rasp and sleep, was heard through the phone and Stevie sighed in relief that he answered. It was nearing two in the morning, and she felt bad for waking him up, but she had no other choice, really.  

“Calum! Hi.” Stevie laughed breathlessly. She, too, was drunk, but not nearly as drunk as Maddie was. No, not even close. “It’s Stevie.”

“Uh, hey,” Calum rubbed his eyes and sat up in his bed, now fully awake, and slightly worried that Maddie, his- whatever she was, best friend was calling him off of her phone at two in the morning. The first thing he could do was worry. “What’s goin’ on? Is everything okay?”

“Not exactly, no. Sorry to bother you but,” Stevie looked over her shoulder at Maddie, who was clinging to the man who had been buying her drinks, and she scrunched her nose up when she saw his hand travel down her body and squeeze her ass. “Maddie is, like, super drunk and won’t let me take her home. I figured since you’re her boss and her… whatever else you are, you could-”

“Send me your location. I’m on my way.” Calum ended the call right after that, throwing on a random shirt and shoving his feet into a pair of sneakers before checking his pockets for everything he had and speeding to the bar that they were at. 

Calum swore to God his blood ran cold when he walked into the bar and saw Maddie; her arm around a guys shoulder, his around her waist, and their faces way too close together for his liking. He could feel nothing but jealousy and he hated it.

“Hey! Get your hands off of her.” Calum hollered, hand gripping the guys shoulder and yanking him away from Maddie. They both stumbled back, Maddie’s back hitting the chair behind her as she glared at Calum. Of course, he just had to show up and ruin the fun. 

“Yo, dude, chill.” He held his hands up in surrender and smirked cockily. “We were just havin’ some fun.”

“That’s my girlfriend you’re havin’ some fun with.”

“Girlfriend, who?” Maddie laughed drunkenly, although it held anything but humor in it, and at the sound of her voice, Calum completely forgot about the guy he was close to threatening and stalked over to her. He could tell instantly by how low her eyes were and how she was glaring at him that she was drunk. He had seen her drunk a few times, so he knew. “Most people don’t have sex with other women when they have girlfriends, Calum.”

“That’s enough, come on. We’re leaving.” Ignoring her harsh words, Calum took her hand in his and tugged her along with him, but before he could get them out of the bar, he spun around to see Stevie closing their tabs. He wasn’t going to just leave her there without a ride and he didn’t want her driving since she had been drinking, too. “Stevie, you need a ride home?”

“Please.” Stevie nodded her head and quickly pocketed their cards and followed Calum and Maddie out of the bar. Maddie was silent, too upset and annoyed with Calum to even yell at him for ruining the fun night she was having. 

Calum barely made it down the street and Maddie was already asleep in the car with her knees pulled up to her chest and her head resting against the cold window. Stevie sat in the back seat quietly giving Calum directions to her apartment and thanking him when he pulled up outside the building. “Thanks, Calum. Get her home safe, please.” 

“Of course.” Calum smiled and watched as Stevie leaned over the seat and kissed Maddie on her cheek, shoving her credit card in the outside pocket of her purse before exiting Calum’s car. He waited outside until she typed in the code to open the door and once she was inside safely, Calum sped away and drove the ten minutes to his own house.

Calum didn’t try to wake Maddie up once they arrived back to his house, instead decided to carry her out of the car and up the elevator. She didn’t budge as Calum stripped her of her work clothes and dressed her in one of his t-shirts and her own underwear. Calum knew that she was mad at him, so instead of sleeping next to her - no matter how badly he wanted to, he opted for the guest bedroom. But Calum barely slept that night, all he could think about was Maddie and praying that she would forgive him because he knew that he had fucked up. 

◈◈◈

Maddie swore her head was going to fucking explode. Opening her swollen eyes and forcing herself to sit up, Maddie looked around her surroundings and furrowed her eyebrows when she realized she wasn’t in her own room. Looking down at her outfit, Maddie sighed when she saw the familiar shirt she had on. She was in Calum’s bedroom, she knew that much, but she had no clue how the hell she had gotten there.

Clearly, tequila shots and the plethora of mixed drinks and beers the random man she met at the bar had bought her, were not a good idea. All she wanted to do was curl into a ball and sleep until the hangover was away. 

Stumbling down the last few steps of Calum’s metal spiral staircase, Maddie rubbed her eyes and padded into the kitchen where Calum was sitting at the island, a mug of coffee in front of him and the newspaper in one of his hands. He looked up at Maddie through his eyelashes and his lips turned up at the sight of her in his shirt, even though she looked like she had gotten hit by a truck, he still thought she was adorable.

“Mornin’, Maddie.” 

“Hi.” Maddie grumbled and slid into one of the bar stools across from Calum. She noticed a glass of water and three Advil in front of her and happily took the medicine and chugged the water. Resting her head on her crossed arms, Maddie let out a groan. She was nauseous and had the worst headache. She couldn’t remember the last time she was that hungover. “Don’t think I’m gonna be able to make it into work today, boss.”

Calum snorted, already knowing full well that Maddie would definitely not be attending work, and if she had even tried to, Calum wouldn’t let her. He couldn’t have her showing up looking like a wreck and reeking of booze all day. He figured she was still drunk from the night before. “No worries. I’ll have Claudia take over for you today.”

“Great.” Maddie yawned and squeezed her eyes shut, willing the migraine that was forming to go away. “I should go home.”

“What? No.” Calum shook his head. “Stay here today and sleep. I’m not takin’ you home and I’m not letting you get an Uber.” Maddie rolled her eyes at Calum’s commands, but was thankful that he was letting her stay in his house while he was at work all day. She was sure that if she got into a car she would throw up. Her motion sickness was a bitch, especially when she still had alcohol in her system. 

“Okay, well, I’ll be asleep.” Maddie slipped out of the stool and walked upstairs, still not believing that she had been there enough times to no longer get lost, and happily fell back into Calum’s bed. Closing her eyes, Maddie fell asleep right away.

◈◈◈

Hours and hours later, Maddie finally woke up and dragged herself out of bed. She still felt like shit and she knew that the only thing that would help her was a shower or a bath, and with how tired and drained she was from drinking so much, a bath was the only option. Stripping herself down, she settled herself in the huge jacuzzi bathtub that Calum had never even used before, and sighed in content. She was submerged in bubbles that smelled like vanilla and berries, and sunk down to her chin. 

With her eyes closed, she heard the echo of the front door slamming shut, but she didn’t budge. She knew that she and Calum had to have a talk, but that was honestly the last thing she wanted to do in that moment. “Maddie? You still here?” She chose to ignore him; she knew that he would find her once he entered his bedroom. 

Calum walked into his bedroom, seeing the bathroom door open and smelled the body wash that Maddie had used, and toed his shoes off and loosened his tie as he walked towards the bathroom. He was now only in his dress pants and his button up shirt, that was now unbuttoned, leaning against the doorframe. 

“Hey,” Calum mumbled and Maddie did nothing but raise her hand in a half assed wave. Calum wanted nothing more than to climb into the bathtub with her, so he did just that. Maddie only opened her eyes when she felt the water sloshing around. 

“What are you doing?” Maddie closed her eyes again. 

“Joining you.” Calum huffed once he was fully in the tub, the water stopping just below his shoulders, and pulled Maddie’s legs that were folded onto his lap. “I forgot how awful work is without you. Your smile makes everything better there.”

Maddie snorted at Calum’s cheesy words and rolled her eyes, finally opening them to look at him. He looked tired and stressed, just like he always did at the end of the day, but he was still gorgeous. And that pissed Maddie off to no end, that even when she was mad at him, all she wanted to do was be around him. “Sweet talking me isn’t going to get you out of trouble, Calum.”

“I know. I know it isn’t.” Calum sighed and rubbed up and down Maddie’s calf. “I’m sorry, Mads.”

“Sorry for what?” Maddie asked him, just like she had the previous day, and she decided right then and there that if he couldn’t tell her what he was sorry for, it just wasn’t going to work out. 

“For sleeping with another woman after I told you how I felt about you. After I told you I wanted to be with you.” Calum laughed sadly and shook his head at himself in disappointment. God, he was stupid. He had a perfect woman right in front of him, who felt the same way as he did, why did he have to go and fuck it all up. “I realized how much I care about you, how much you mean to me, and it freaked me the fuck out, so I tried to get them, get you, out of my head. I’m an idiot.”

“You got that right.” Maddie finally smiled, but it quickly faded when she thought about her previous relationship and how badly she had been hurt before. “I’ve been hurt and cheated on before, Calum, and I’m not going to go through that again. So, if you’re going to run away from your feelings and fuck another girl when you come to terms with how you feel about me, I can’t do this.”

“Hey,” Calum grasped Maddie’s thighs and pulled her into him, their chests almost pressed against each other, the closest they had been in days, and Calum felt good. That’s all he wanted, he realized. “I promise you, that’s not going to happen, okay?”

“Don’t make promises you can’t keep, Mr. Hood.” Maddie just barely smiled, the moment intense and full of feelings, but she felt she had to make the air around them lighter. And it worked, it seemed, from the feeling of Calum hardening against her leg. 

“I’m keepin’ this promise until I die.” Finally, Calum pressed his lips against hers, feeling himself melt into Maddie and her into him, and for the first time in days, he felt content. He knew that’s where he wanted to be: with Maddie. 

◈◈◈

Taglist: @novacanecalum @roselukes @kinglyhood @cantbehandled-ever @hereforlukescruff @astroashtonio @monsteramongmikey @gosh-im-short @emma070900 @youmaycallmemrshemmings @rexorangecouny @melanindarling  @cosmocalum @cakesunflower @asht0ns-world @singt0mecalum @lockthisheartinchains @ilikedukemorethancal @cheyenne-in-wonderland @babyurart @blahehblah @inlovehoodx @softboycal @hopelessxcynic @ashtoniwir @calumsmermaid @lukewarmwoda @meganmisc @neonweeknds @kenopsia-falcon @blue-sunset-oreo-lover @foolishcal @ayee-style @itsmeempar @outofmylimitcal @mariellelovescupcakes-blog @post-traumatic-mess @damselindistressanu @tapolesarebabyturtles @noswagswag @scarapoison @sugarcoatedcalum @notsooperfect @trustmeimawhalebiologist @klb967 @littlebear1353 @cal-king @manicpanicbaby @colormekaykay @geeksareunique @nostalgia-luke @badguycal @all-i-want-is2b-loved-by-you @cuddlemcalx @mpadge33 @bitchinbabylon @wilsondanvers @it-was-a-lie @panicforashton

#5sos #5 seconds of summer #5 seconds of summer imagine #calum hood 5 seconds of summer #5 seconds of summer imagines #5 seconds of summer blurb #calum hood #luke hemmings #ashton irwin #michael clifford #5sos calum #5sos calum hood #calum 5sos #calum hood 5sos #calum blurb #calum blurbs #calum hood blurb #calum hood blurbs #calum imagines #calum imagine #calum hood imagines #calum hood imagine #calum fic #calum fanfic #calum fanfiction #calum hood fic #calum hood fanfic #calum hood fanfiction #5sos fic #5sos fanfic

[insanityclause]

When coronavirus closed the theaters on March 12, there were still 16 shows left to open in the Broadway season. Audiences will get to see some of them later, others probably not — but what of the more than 20 plays, musicals and miscellaneous offerings that had already faced the press? It seemed unfair not to celebrate them, so on Friday, just after it was announced that the Tony Awards will not go on as usual this year, we sat down (in cyberspace) to devise a Tonys of our own. Naturally, we made our own rules.

BEN BRANTLEY Well, Jesse, even in a season that’s 16 plays short, there’s still a fat if imbalanced roster of intriguing shows. Have we ever before had such a preponderance of jukebox musicals that might qualify for Best Musical? The good news is that some enterprising minds managed to inventively retool the genre you once described as the “cockroach” of Broadway.

JESSE GREEN The cockroach has evolved! “Jagged Little Pill,” “Tina: The Tina Turner Musical,” “Girl From the North Country,” “Moulin Rouge!” and — since we’re playing by our own rules here — even “American Utopia,” the David Byrne show that was deemed ineligible for the real Tonys, are all jukeboxes, all worthy and all eligible for ours. Maybe not quite all worthy.

BRANTLEY Perhaps it’s appropriate then that the last show to open on Broadway was the most unorthodox of the “jukebox” shows. I use quotation marks here because that label seems too confining for “Girl From the North Country,” the Irish playwright and director Conor McPherson’s work that uses the songs of Bob Dylan to imagine life during the Great Depression in Duluth, Minn. The more I think about “Girl,” the more innovative and haunting it seems to me.

GREEN For me it took some time, and the show’s move from the Public Theater to Broadway, to appreciate how McPherson was deploying the music in this musical. The songs do not function the way songs normally do; they never address the situation at hand, and sometimes even contradict it. Yet in that gap, poetry grew.

BRANTLEY For me, “Girl” deals with the ineffable and unsayable through song in a way that makes it the most religious, or at least spiritual, show on Broadway. I have found this aspect of the show stays with me, as an oddly comforting reminder of the hunger for communion in this time of isolation. But moving on to matters closer to profane than sacred, what about another mold-breaker in a very different sense: “Moulin Rouge!,” based on the Baz Luhrmann movie about la vie bohème in gaslight-era Paris.

GREEN Here was a case where the gap between the story, such as it is, and the musical materials — found pop from Offenbach to Rihanna — did not produce poetry. For me it produced a headache.

BRANTLEY Ah, I had a swell time at “Moulin Rouge,” and I thought the far-reaching songbook became a kind of commentary on how such songs form the wallpaper of our minds. And then there was “Tina,” which was more business-as-usual bio-musical fare, although illuminated by a radiant, cliché-transcending performance by Adrienne Warren as Turner.

GREEN The creators of musicals really offered a sampler of ways to respond to the jukebox problem. “Jagged Little Pill,” built on the Alanis Morissette catalog, made the smart choice of abjuring biography and instead attaching her songs to a new plot (by Diablo Cody) that grew out of the same concerns and vocabulary. Or perhaps I should say “new plots,” because it is not shy with them. There are at least eight story lines.

BRANTLEY To be honest, this was the show that gave me a headache, because it was so insistently earnest in its topicality and, even when it was trying to be funny, humorless. So, of the new musicals (and we haven’t touched on “The Lightning Thief,” your personal favorite) what would you give the premature Tony to?

GREEN The one that wouldn’t be eligible: “American Utopia.” Joy and sadness bound to each other through David Byrne’s music and Annie-B Parson’s movement: What else do you want from a musical, even if it’s just a concert?

BRANTLEY I loved “American Utopia.” I think, though, I’d have to go with “Girl From the North Country,” but I wouldn’t have predicted that after seeing it in London two years ago. I find more in it every time I revisit it.

GREEN Despite all the Best Musical possibilities this truncated season, only one, “The Lightning Thief,” had a new score. Yet most of the offerings sounded new anyway, the result of terrific arrangements and orchestrations. I’m thinking especially of Justin Levine’s magpie-on-Ecstasy song collages for “Moulin Rouge!,” Tom Kitt’s theatricalization of post-grunge pop for “Jagged Little Pill” and Simon Hale’s excavation of the deeply layered Americana in Dylan’s catalog for “Girl.”

BRANTLEY Here, I’d have to say it’s a tie between “Girl” and “Moulin Rouge!,” each a remarkable accomplishment in a very different way. As for best revival, the undisputed winner is Ivo van Hove’s divisive revival of “West Side Story,” but that’s because it is, remarkably, the only musical revival so far.

Sign up to receive our daily Coronavirus Briefing, an informed guide with the latest developments and expert advice.Sign Up

GREEN I liked “West Side Story” better than you did, Ben, perhaps because I wasn’t reviewing it. I lapped up the new things it wanted to show me (while also hunting for the old things it wanted to hide from me) and didn’t worry about the elements that laid an egg. (“Gee, Officer Krupke.”) Its evocation of innocence and hopelessness felt more like real life now than I’ve experienced in previous revivals.

BRANTLEY I concede the point intellectually. But the acid test for me with theater — and musicals in particular — is how much it makes you feel. And to borrow a lyric from “A Chorus Line,” for the most part “I felt nothing.”

GREEN I admit it was odd that there were no obvious breakout performances in “West Side Story” — which brings us to our first lightning round. Who wins our Tonys for leading actor and actress in a musical?

BRANTLEY Best Actress: Adrienne Warren, for “Tina” (though Karen Olivo in “Moulin Rouge!” is pretty fab, too). Best Actor: Jay O. Sanders in, perversely, a non-singing role in “Girl From the North Country.” You?

GREEN Same. I think we are having a socially distanced mindmeld. Will that also be the case with the nine new plays and four revivals that opened before March 12? With one exception, the revivals were not as thrilling as the full slate promised to be.

BRANTLEY For me, the winner is Jamie Lloyd’s spartan, merciless revival of Harold Pinter’s “Betrayal,” which brought harsh clarity to the work’s emotional ambiguity.

GREEN And ambiguity to the play’s harsh formality — its semi-backward construction. It was certainly the best “Betrayal” I’ve seen, yet I hold out some love for the revival of “Frankie and Johnny in the Clair de Lune,” which in retrospect turned out to be a farewell to Terrence McNally, its author, who died last week. I felt that Michael Shannon and Audra McDonald did it, and him, justice.

BRANTLEY It was certainly a reminder of his shrewdness and compassion. I was perhaps a little too conscious of the Acting, with a capital A. But it was a welcome addition to the season. For Best Play, we have a far more varied field, no? I suspect we’ll agree on the winner here, the season’s great iconoclast.

GREEN Yes, “Slave Play,” by Jeremy O. Harris, wins on sheer disruptive energy, even before considering its intelligence as playwriting, its knockout production (directed by Robert O’Hara) and its fearsome challenge to renegotiate race in America.

BRANTLEY But for all its shock value, what made it a wonderful play — as opposed to just a bracing exploration of dangerous ground — was its heart. By the end, you felt so completely the pain of its characters, all trying to navigate the perhaps insuperable hurdles of interracial relationships.

GREEN I think “The Inheritance” wanted to be that kind of play, too: a story of intimate relationships yet also a gay manifesto with the multipart heft of “Angels in America.” It got the heft, anyway; ���Slave Play” ran 120 minutes; “The Inheritance,” 385.

BRANTLEY “The Inheritance” certainly gets points for ambition — and for the fluidity of Stephen Daldry’s production. And might I put in a word for the prickly comic abrasiveness of Tracy Letts’s “Linda Vista,” a lacerating anatomy of toxic masculinity disguised as brooding charm?

GREEN I liked what “Linda Vista” wanted to do but found it flabby. Perhaps straitened times demand slender plays. Certainly, the other new drama I greatly admired was whippetlike: Adam Rapp’s “The Sound Inside,” an existential mystery wrapped in a literary one, or vice versa. Among other things, it allowed Mary-Louise Parker, as a Yale writing instructor, to deliver a Tony-worthy performance. And now that “How I Learned to Drive,” the other play in which she was set to star this season, has been postponed, she doesn’t have to compete against herself. Is she our winner?

BRANTLEY I am going to declare a tie between her and Laura Linney, who gave a very subtle, and emotionally transparent, performance as the title character of “My Name Is Lucy Barton,” adapted by Rona Munro from Elizabeth Strout’s novel.

GREEN I buy that. But let’s not forget Joaquina Kalukango in “Slave Play,” Eileen Atkins in “The Height of the Storm,” Zawe Ashton in “Betrayal” and Jane Alexander in “Grand Horizons.” It was a very strong semi-season for Best Actress in a Leading Role.

BRANTLEY And for Best Actor?

GREEN The real Tonys decreed that Paul Alexander Nolan was eligible for his “supporting” role in “Slave Play,” but in my Tonys he’s a strong candidate for “leading.” Still, I’ll go with Tom Hiddleston, in “Betrayal.” Or at least he wins in my newly invented category of Best Use of the Lack of a Tissue. His facial leakage was Vesuvian.

BRANTLEY He was superb — and a reminder of the cathartic value of the tears of others in theater. Of course, there’s so much to cry about now in terms of opportunities lost this season. But I’m not writing an elegy for, or even a definitive summary of, this season yet. It will be fascinating to see how it reincarnates itself, won’t it?

#tom hiddleston #zawe ashton #betrayal #tonys #postponed

[ikenbar]

Mr. Love: Ike’s Choice Pt 6

Warnings: Ike being an angsty angst, Adorable fluff, cheesy lines, foreshadowing, aaaaaaaaaaaand cliffhangers :D

(Chapter One parts one, two, three, four, five, six, and seven here :))

((Please read the author’s note on part one if you’re new here :D)) 

A HEADS UP!! The first character introduced is not mine... the second one is though...

Chapter One:

Part Six:

The dining room was the loudest room in the house, but it wasn’t because of the noise inside of it. The walls were a nice pearly white, but you could barely see them from the amount of plant life Maria had sprouting all over the room. A large oak table sat in the middle of the room. The table was decorated with a gold table runner, various scented candles, and a centerpiece made of dried flowers. Seven matching dark oak chairs and one highchair surrounded it and, accompanying two of the chairs were Maria and the mystery guest. Maria was dressed nicely in a casual summer dress and high heels. She had her brunette hair tied up in a bun with a Hawaiian hibiscus planted in the middle of it, honoring her Hawaiian heritage. This look was a nice change from her usual rolled up jeans and white button-up tied to her waist.

The man sitting across from her was extremely handsome. From the way his legs were crossed to how he folded his hands together, he held himself in a manner that showed elegance and poise. He wore a black button-up shirt and dress pants that matched the hue. A pick tie was pulled lazily from his neck and the first button of his shirt was undone. His black hair was short with his bangs barely teasing his eyes. His skin was pale, showing that he spent most of his time indoors and his rectangular glasses told me most of that time was spent in front of a computer. His eyes were a beautiful violet and they were gentle as he listened to Maria talk about nothing in particular. From the way he held himself, to the smile he had resting on his face, I knew one thing was certain. 

He was hiding something.

The mystery guest looked up at me. His soft smile grew wider as he straightened his posture slightly and removed his glasses. “You must be Ike.” His voice matched the monotone one I had heard earlier. I gave him a slight nod as I walked further into the room. Maria looked back at me and beamed.

“Yes, she is!” She got out of her chair and forced me closer to the man as he stood from his chair politely, “Lucien, this is Ikamara but we call her Ike. Ike, this is Lucien.”

“It is a pleasure to meet you.” He held out his hand, which I took with a nod.

“Likewise.” I said, firmly shaking his hand. Maria smiled widely and bounced in place.

“I’ll let you two get acquainted while I help Bart in the kitchen.” her voice sounded like it had something blocking it. Likely a vat of giggles. I sighed, finally catching on to the reason why Lucien was here. Even though no one stayed long enough to ask for my number, Maria still tried really hard to set me up with a boyfriend. Whether it was some client she met at the pharmacy she worked at or the ticket booth salesman at the theater, it didn’t matter to her. As long as they were cute and wouldn’t mind a tough-skinned partner. They were always way in over their head though. She is sweet to see past my tough exterior, but men don’t have the time for that. Nor do I have the time to let them in. I’m fine with being single. I didn’t need some man coming in and throwing off my life completely. I had things under control and I wished my family would just let it be. They never did though.

As Maria left the room, Lucien smiled at me and offered Maria’s seat. I took it, suppressing an eye roll, and Lucien returned to his chair across from mine, the old chairs slightly squeaking under our weight.

“I’ve heard so much about you in the little time I’ve been here.” Lucien politely started some small talk.

"Oh? Like what?" I asked as I folded my arms across my chest.

"Well, Sam tells me you two play soccer together after school sometimes.” He paused as if he wanted me to touch on the topic. I didn’t. So he continued, “...and Maria says you’re a great cook, Ashton says you can play the piano very well, Bartholomew bragged nonstop about your work ethic, and Lola would giggle every time we mentioned your name so I could only assume she likes you as well.” Lucien chuckled slightly at his own joke, “Your family must really care about you having so many nice things to tell me about you.”

“Right, and I know exactly one thing about you.”

“And what’s that?” He chuckled, neglecting my rude response.

“Ashton tells me that you are a friend of Bart’s?”

“That’s right.”

“How is it that I have known them for so long and haven’t heard of you.”

“Because Bartholomew and I are only really connected through my father.”

“...and?” I pried.

“My father died when I was a child.” Lucien’s eyes drifted slightly and his once soft smile was now gone, “I didn’t have much reason to keep in contact with him after that.”

I gulped. “... I’m sorry for your loss.” I meekly said,  looking away from Lucien and regretting my rude responses. Way to go, Ike. I lectured to myself inside my head, Why are you so insensitive? 

Lucien caught onto the awkward silence in the room and spoke sweetly, “Thank you but it is in the past now. There is no need to be sorry.” Lucien brushed a stray hair away from my face as he lifted my chin to face him. He smiled at me reassuringly. I nodded slightly and quickly pulled his hand from my face. Lucien took no offense to this as he leaned back in his chair and continued, “After my father’s death, I didn’t have a way to keep in contact with Bartholomew. It wasn’t until a couple of years ago when I was watching the news and a story about a certain up and coming production company and their new hit show caught my attention. I noticed that the man I grew up with was the same man that owned the company. So, I moved to get in contact with him again. I was able to find his information on their website and got to catch up with him after all these years. I couldn’t visit right away because I was away from Loveland for my studies, but Bartholomew let me know I was welcome to dinner when I came back.” Lucien tilted his head slightly as his gentle smile grew, “Does that clear things up? Are you able to trust me now?”

“Who said I didn’t trust you?”

Lucien gestured to me, “From your slouched back and folded arms, you’re practically screaming it.” I looked down. My arms were folded tightly to my chest and I was sliding down my chair. My feet were slightly pointed to the door as if I were ready to run to it at any minute. Embarrassed, I cleared my throat and straightened myself in the chair as I unfolded my arms. Lucien chuckled as I did so, reveling in the fact that he caught me red-handed. I felt my face burn slightly.

“It’s not that I’m untrusting.” I lied, “I’m just overprotective.”

“I can understand why.” Lucien’s soft smile returned, “With a family like yours, I would be too.”

“And it is your family too!” A cheery voice came walking out of the kitchen. Bart carried a large pot out with him. The pot seemed a lot smaller than it really was as he held it in his large hands and against his even larger body. He wore a red lacy apron that was covered in sauce stains. But even the stains looked delicious. Bart was a phenomenal cook. It was a skill he wouldn’t admit he had but that didn’t mean he wouldn’t let us stop praising him for it. He didn’t cook often but, when he did, you could tell it was for a special occasion. I hoped that occasion was because Lucien was visiting and not because I had sealed a deal with Victor. Just the thought of disappointing Bart ruined my appetite.

 Bart had a large smile planted across his face as he looked at the two of us, “The food is nearly done! Evie, be a dear and set the table.” I nodded and stood up.

“Evie?” Lucien asked standing as well.

“Yes! Evie!” Bart chimed as he placed the pot on the table, “We wanted Ike to know that this house would be a different experience from her other foster homes and start a new life with us! Evelyn is her middle name, so we started calling her Evie! It’s like another way of calling her ‘dear’ or ‘sweetheart.’” 

“I see…” Lucien seemed to be lost in thought.

“Only they can call me Evie.” I caught on to his train of thought before it spiraled out of control. I turned and looked Lucien dead in the eye, “You try calling me that and I will sew your lips shut.” Lucien tried smiling at me but, after seeing how serious I was, he frowned and nodded.

“Ike it is.” He said just as seriously.

“Isn’t she a hoot!” Bart laughed joyfully, “I’m glad to see you two hitting it off!” I rolled my eyes and disappeared into the kitchen to avoid any more contact with Lucien.

 I walked to the cupboard where the plates were stored but stopped when I saw Maria was already holding them, smiling widely at me.

“So?!” She badgered, “What do you think??”

“I think you aren’t getting my hints.” I took the plates from her, but she held her grip. I looked at her with an annoyance dripping from my every pore.

“Come on!” Maria begged, “Give him a chance! Lucien is different! You guys had a conversation and he is still willing to stay for dinner!”

“The night is still young!” I said hopefully as I gave the plates a good tug, taking the plates from her and turned back to the door. Maria took my shoulder.

“Ike.” She spoke softly, “You can’t stay closed off forever.” I loosened my expression for a moment. ...Was I being too hard? Even though I was rude, he was still nice to me and still wanted to stay. Maybe…

 I quickly shook my head and moved my shoulder from Maria’s hand. It didn’t matter if he had stayed. He would see how bad I am as a partner and leave me behind just like everyone else did. And I’d be ok with it. We’d do this whole shindig over again with a whole new person and he would leave as well. It always happens.

The doorbell rang. “I’ll get it!” Maria’s voice was cheery again as she jogged out of the kitchen. I sighed as I watched her leave. Maybe I should have canceled and stayed home or gone to St. Richards for a drink. I started making plans to sneak out but they were interrupted when I heard someone say my name in the dining room.

“Ike mentioned that you wanted her to have a different experience here then her other foster homes,” Lucien’s voice resembled one of a therapist’s, “If you don’t mind me asking, why is that?” There was a slight pause in the room as Bart thought of what to say. I used this pause to quickly start to move back to the dining room and stop the conversation from continuing.

“Ike had been through plenty of foster homes before ours.” My feet stuck to the ground when I heard Bart’s voice. It was a tone he rarely used. Very serious but with a soft undertone. It was the tone used when he talked to me about how his company was going under. And the tone he used when he first called me Evie. 

I stayed by the kitchen door, unable to move, as Bart continued, “Some of which left her with scars, mental and physical, to remind her of them. I mean, when she first came to us, she wouldn’t even speak. We wanted her to know we would give her nothing but love. The kind of love every fifteen-year-old deserved.”

“She was only fifteen…” Lucien’s voice was soft, “What... did they do to her?” I regained feeling in my feet and briskly walked out of the kitchen. 

“What kind of silverware do you want, Bart?” I asked uselessly, making the two men jump at my sudden appearance in the dining room. Their conversation ceased at once. I couldn’t have Bart answer him. It wasn’t because I didn’t want him to but because I knew he couldn’t. Bart and Maria were extremely empathetic people. When I explained to them what happened in those homes, they wept like children. They apologized over and over for something they had no control over. They were even afraid to touch me for days after I told them because they were afraid they would hurt me in some way. Whenever the conversation was brought up about my scars after that, they would start getting overly emotional and shut down. I hated seeing them like that. I hated the look they always had on their face. The look of unjustified sympathy.

“Uh, forks!” Bart said, trying and failing to bring back his normal joyful tone, “Can’t have spaghetti without forks!” I nodded and started placing down the plates. A slender hand appeared on top of mine, stopping my actions. I looked up and saw Lucien smiling at me.

“Allow me.” He said moving the stack closer to him, “You can get the utensils.” I tensed. That was an obvious attempt to get rid of me so they would continue their conversation. I wouldn’t let that happen. Before I could decline his offer, a loud laugh came from the dining room doorway.

“Wow, did mom bring home yet another guy for Ikie?”

I looked over and saw my elder foster brother, Christopher, smirking at Lucien and I from the dining room. Chris had been assigned to this foster home the same time as I did. The foster care center thought it would be a better idea to have someone there that was my age to help me out of my shell. He had only stayed a couple of months until his mother got back home from her business trip, and he had to leave. He had created such a strong bond with Maria, Bart, and the kids while he was there so he came to visit almost daily. Despite being assigned to be his foster sister, our relationship wasn’t nearly as strong as his relationships with the others. That was my fault though. I should have worked harder to better the bond between us. I just couldn’t bring myself to do it. His love was way better spent on the little kids then on me.

“Chris!!” Sam raced in from the family room and right into Chris’ arms. Chris gladly accepted him and raised him up and into the air.

“Hey buddy!” He laughed, giving him a nudge, “How’s my favorite brother?”

“I heard that!” Ashton called from the living room. Almost everyone in the dining room burst into laughter. I took that moment to slide the plates away from Lucien and finish setting the table. Ashton popped his head in and glared at Sam, “You still have to watch Lola.”

“Danggit.” Sam cursed and jumped from Chris’ arms and ran back into the family room.

“Swear jar, mister!” Maria returned to the dining room and besides Chris.

“Wonder where he learned that one.” Chris playfully glared at me.

“Hey now,” I threw my finger at him, “My mouth is way dirtier than that and you know it.” The room laughed again as Chris approached me. I held out my hand for a handshake but he pulled me into a hug. I sighed and gave him a few awkward pats on the back.

“How was work?” Chris asked cheerfully as he pulled away from me.

“Long.” I sighed as flashbacks of that day’s events came to mind, “How was yours?”

Chris worked at a kid's TV show company with his best friend from college. They were both history majors who wanted to do more to interest people in the history of Loveland. So they started working on their own TV show shortly after Bart and I started making ours. His show was dedicated to the history of Loveland and the events that led to the happenings of today. The show was animated to lure the attention of kids but still had an alluring story to capture the interest of adults as well. Their show was slow to take off but I really saw some potential with it. I thought it was a really good way to get people to teach people the events of the past as to not recreate them, and I wanted Chris to know that I supported him. In fact, I was one of the first to invest in their company. Though I had to pay him anonymously. He would have never accepted my money if I had offered it outright to him. He was too modest for that. Or too prideful. Either way, he wasn’t going to take my money so I made it an offer he couldn’t refuse. 

“Same.” Chris sighed, “It’s hard to find someone who would be willing to fund such a small and underappreciated show. And before you offer,” Chris held a hand up to my mouth, which I had opened in protest, “I don’t need your money. I want to work for it.” I sighed and nodded, suppressing a smile.

“What, Sam and Ike get a hug and I don’t?!” Bart pulled Chris into a big hug, one Chris was happy to return. “Welcome home son!”

“Thanks, Pops!” Chris grunted from inside Bart’s tight grip. Bart dropped him and pushed him over to Lucien. “I would like to introduce one of my good friends, Lucien!” Chris put out his hand and Lucien accepted it.

“Hi! I’m Chris.” He said enthusiastically, shaking his hand.

“Lucien.” Lucien was a very patient man. Or very good at hiding his emotions. Either way it was commendable, “I’ve heard a lot about you. Your father is very proud of what you have accomplished in your show.” Chris looked taken aback. He chuckled nervously as his ears reddened. I arched my eyebrow. Lucien seemed to know how to make anyone flustered. I looked up at him and saw he was already looking at me. I tensed and quickly avoided his eyes. He wasn’t going to get me blushing next! I wouldn’t let him!… danggit.

“Your face is red, Ike.” Lucien asked, pulling my attention back to him, “Are you feeling well?” He raised a hand and held the back of it to my face. His hand cooled my burning cheeks. I quickly stepped away from him. 

“I’m fine.” I quickly said, straightening my flannel, “It’s just hot in here.” Lucien was quick to respond.

“I believe the fault of that falls entirely on you.”

Everyone’s mouths dropped as they turned to look at me. The flames on my cheeks intensified. Lucien’s stare was calm as he relished in the moment. This man…

I quickly regained my composure as I cleared my throat. “Well then I’ll leave to make things a little more comfortable for you guys.” I pushed past the crowd of testosterone to get to the kitchen, despite their playful pleads for me to stay. I walked into the kitchen and leaned on the counter. If Lucien thinks he can just get away with something like that-

“I’m sorry Lulu.” Chris’s voice carried from the dining room, “Ikie has been that way for years. I’m afraid nothing has changed.” My hands tightened on the counter. There they go again. Apologizing for something I did. For something I wasn’t sorry about. Like what I felt was useless as long as their image came first. I was twenty-three years old. I wasn’t some child they could cover for. They had done this for years. I knew there was no chance they would stop.

“Don’t worry.” Lucien laughed, “It’ll take a lot more than that to scare me away. Trust me.” I scoffed and rolled my eyes. If that’s what Lucien thinks then that night was going to be a long night.

(Next)

[softforcal]

okay okay okay. I’m obsessed with your writing (and you, what who said that) but that gryffindor Ash x slytherin reader had me thinking about slytherin Cal and Gryffindor reader cause like the broody hot intimidating slytherin everyone wants ends up getting together with Gryffindor’s Quidditch seeker and captain the princess who embodies the house his housemates loathe? yeah clearly i’m deep in my feelings and your blurbs are totally not making it worse at all ♥️

SLYTHERIN CAL X GRYFFINDOR READER

(I love you)

-okay so Broody hot intimidating Slytherin Cal who i will also make team captain and seeker because yes please

-and classic Gryffindor Quidditch seeker and captain princess

-so the two of you don’t outwardly hate each other

-Ashton is team Captain for Hufflepuff and he’s super into the Ravenclaw team captain so he suggests that the four house team captains do bonding activities to ‘keep everyone friendly’

-(he just trying to get in Ravenclaw girls pants, but Calum agrees because he’ll do what he can to help Ashton get it, you’re just a minor nuisance to deal with)

-so the four of you meet for butterbeer and Ashton and the Ravenclaw girl straight up ignore you and Calum

-Calum is just chilling, not really saying much and you are getting bored as fuck

-so you just kind of look at the gorgeous Slytherin

-he’s as brooding and quiet as everyone says he is

-and being a courageous Gryffindor (who gets bored easily) you’re not just about to sit and be bored so you throw out something that you know he’ll respond to

-”so i don’t see what the big deal is about you.”

-”what do you mean?” he asks, taking a sip of his drink as he looks up at you.

-you shrug, “girls are always throwing themselves at you and i guess you’re attractive but so are a lot of people.”

-he laughs slightly, “name one guy who you think is as ‘attractive’ as i am.”

-”Luke Hemmings.” you state, “Michael Clifford-”

-”that’s two.” he cuts you off, “didn’t ask for a list.”

-and so begins the bickering

-he’s kind of hurt that you think he’s just a pretty face but you’re right, he doesn’t talk much, and when he does, its usually to say something cocky and arrogant

-he’s surprised at the way you’re talking to him, most people don’t have the balls to just outwardly attack him and he realizes you’re a true Gryffindor

-you continue bickering all the way back up to the school and finally Calum snaps

-”if you want to see what the hype is about, maybe you should let me take you on a date and prove to you that i’ve earned my reputation.” Calum suggests

-you narrow your eyes at him. if you say no, you’re backing down from a challenge, but if you say yes, you’re agreeing to go on a date with the most classic Slytherin ever, and your house will have a FIT

-but you refuse to back down, “fine.”

-”i’ll pick you up tomorrow after dinner.”

-before you can argue he’s gone

-Cal and Ash walk away and Ashton’s like “are you serious?” and Cal’s just like “she questioned me.” as if that makes the whole thing chill

-he’s pretty open about it and by the next morning every Slytherin knows that he’s planning on taking you out and knocking your socks off

-girls are jealous as fuck and by lunch everyone, even the Gryffindors, have heard about the whole deal

-Slytherins are confident that Cal is going to make you fall in love with him and Gryffindors are confident that you’ll have the snake wrapped around your finger

-everyone holds their breath as Calum swaggers over to your table after dinner, he ignores all of the Gryffindors who are watching him. complete confidence.

-”lets go.” he says. you roll your eyes, “wow, so charming, how will i ever escape the bounds of lust i have for you.”

-he grins and the two of you leave the Great Hall but you have no idea where you’re going because he’s walking further into the school

-finally he stops and stares at a wall and you’re about to question his sanity when a door appears.

-he opens the door for you and you state “what a gentleman” sarcastically as you enter.

-but your eyes widen when you realize what the Room of Requirement looks like inside.

-its like a game room/arcade. the sort of thing you’d see at a carnival. all sorts of two player games. the race car driver ones,  basketball, skee ball, dart boards, everything you could possibly want.

-you turn to look at Calum who’s grinning because he knows he’s surprised you, “the room loves me.”

-”so this is the secret to how you woo girls.” you tease, “arcade games and skee ball.”

-”nah, this date is specially for you.” “oh yeah, why’s that?” “because you, like me, are a team captain and its obvious that you enjoy kicking my ass at a game so i figured, the way into your heart is by some friendly competition.”

-the two of you approach the dart board and he hands you three darts, “do you want to go first or should I?”

-ya’ll competitive

-its not just you and Cal playing against each other, its you defending your houses

-super competition, lots of bickering

-being pretty even at most things which is super frustrating

-before you know it, you’ve tried practically everything and hours have passed

-you look around “we’ve tried everything.”

-”guess the dates over.” he sighs, “so what do you think? still think Hemmings and Clifford are better than me?”

-”well-” you begin which earns a playful shove from him which you return even harder

-”stop that!” you laugh. “you stop.” he insists as you both continue to push at each other

-finally he grabs your hands and secures them at your sides as he keeps you caged against his chest and thats when the laughter dies out

-you’re looking up at him and he’s looking down at you

-you can feel his breath on your face

-he wets his lips and you laugh, “now who has the upper hand Hood!?”

-he rolls his eyes, letting go of you because FUCK you definitely just caught him about to kiss you

-the two of you leave the room of requirement and he walks you all the way back to your common room. “do you think you’ve been good enough to earn a kiss?” you tease

-this fuck knows you’re going to be an ass about it but he also knows you totally actually want him to kiss you.

-so this Slytherin FUCK just grabs you and pulls you to his chest and presses his lips against yours. you kiss back roughly immediately

-he was not expecting you to return his aggression with aggression and that brief moment of surprise lets you push him against the wall and he grins against your lips but quickly turns the tables by flipping it so you’re against the wall and he’s holding you there with his body

-you make out until you nip at his lip and he pulls away, lips moving to your neck as he states “like it rough.” as your fingers tangle in his hair and tug slightly

-you shove at his chest and he immediately pulls away, eying you. he knows you liked the kiss and he knows he made the right choice but he still is a good guy at heart who backs off when pushed

-”i’ll see you tomorrow.” you state before you slip away into your common room

-Cal stands there stunned for a few moments

-who really won that date?

-you’re both terrified now because neither of you knows if the other is just playing around to prove themselves

-you’re both freaked out

-like really bad

-because neither of you can sleep after that kiss

-Ashton straight up being like “Cal you fucked up big time.”

-and you confide in the Ravenclaw Captain because you really don’t want to go out with her and Ash again, its practically a double date and you are NOT ready for that shit

-so Ashton and his Ravenclaw meet up and are like “they’re both so scared, its hilarious. but we should probably tell them right?”

-so Ash tells Cal that you like him and Cal gets super cocky and is like “i knew it!” and then Ashton tells him that the Ravenclaw has told you Calum likes you back and all of Calum’s ego flies out the window because SHE DID WHAT?

-so you both know you’re into each other

-which is… like… thank god, sigh of relief

-at dinner the day after your date, everyone is waiting to know what the fuck happened on your date because only Ashton and the Ravenclaw girl have any details

-you and Calum ignore the shit out of each other and everyone is super disappointed

-you’re almost back at your common room after when Cal grabs you, “meet me in the room of requirement in fifteen minutes.” he instructs before just leaving

-and its like, who does this arrogant fuck think he is

-you go anyways

-walking into the room and its literally just a bed and Calum immediately is like, “look i can’t control what the room thinks we need.”

-unlike last time where he took charge you straight up barrel towards this fuck who is sitting on the edge of the bed and push him down into it, straddling him

-he’s down for you to have control for a bit but when you start grinding down against him he’s like enough is enough

-tearing each others clothes off

-its just raw sexual energy

-but you’re both just way too aggressive and finally he has to pin you down and just be like “look, i control this time, you control next time, deal?”

-you agree

-umf all the good kinky Slytherin sex with choking and biting and straight up GROWLING because yes he’s in control but you are still a lil bit aggressive

-the two of you are so fucking competitive

-you bet your ass its easy as fuck to rile him up

-like he wants to make you cum until you can’t fucking see straight

-so even after he cums, he continues with you until you’re a mess

-collapsing next to each other afterwards and neither of you is down to cuddle because ya’ll aren’t soft fucks, you are a Slytherin and a Gryffindor

-”what’s your recharge time?” “like ten… fifteen minutes?”

-you dom the shit out of him next

-going two or three rounds at least

-lots of aggression

-finally, after the third or forth round, you collapse on top of him and he just holds you like that… so it’s like cuddling… sort of

-yeah you both are super into each other but you try to hide it in public

-sneaking off to bone every chance you get

-still having hella competition at Quidditch games

-hiding marks on each other

-getting pissed off anytime he teases with a mark too high on your neck, always getting him back, its a vicious marking cycle

-until finally you reach a day where he’s like “just do it. mark my neck. i don’t care anymore.”

-cuz he’s tired of hiding the fact that you two have this wild, crazy, sex filled relationship but he definitely feels for you

-he’s tired of seeing Gryffindor guys flirt with you

-being surprised when he offers his neck for marking because you know what this means

-”Careful Cal, or i might think you’re asking me to be your girlfriend.” you tease

-he presses you against the wall, “and so what if i am?”

-”ask me properly and find out, or do you not have the balls… captain?”

-”be my girlfriend.”

-”okay.”

-making out then and there in the hallway and people totally see you two going at it and people are shook

-”next thing i know you’re going to get all sappy and try to hold my hand.” you tease when he pulls away

-he straight up grabs your hand immediately after and smirks at you, “don’t tell me you don’t enjoy this Princess.”

-true fam

-neither of you will admit to loving the sappy shit at first

-and neither of you want to appear to be soft

-but everyone knows you adore each other

-you bicker all the time but it usually ends in giggles or making out

-and you two bicker but if anyone tries to fight either of you, the two of you will fuck them up

-people are not allowed to question your relationship

-like… you two are together and no one is going to stop you

-okay so this is my new fav pairing? wtf

#slytherin!calum hood #slytherin calum hood #calum hood #calum hood smut #calum hood x reader #hc #softforcal #5sos #5sos hc #5 seconds of summer #hogwarts!au #hogwarts!5sos #hogwarts!calum hood #hogwarts calum hood #hogwarts 5sos #hogwarts 5 seconds of summer #au #calum 5sos #calum 5 seconds of summer #calum 5sos smut #smut #gryffindor reader

[choicesatnight]

Quick

Title:  Quick

Pairing: James Ashton x Vivian (MC)

Rating: NSFW and stuff...

Word count:  1,466 words

My disclaimer:  This character is owned by PB, I just enjoy some elaboration. I really love James Ashton and I love Choices fanfics, especially nasty ass stuff but there isn’t much featuring my original bae, James Ashton from The Freshman series

So, I decided to put my amateur ass talent to work and write with James being the *star of the story*

A/N:  Use of Daddy

 “James…oh…. please…”

“hmmm?” his lips parting hers, allowing his tongue to swim in the ocean that has formed in anticipation  

“Never stop.” He isn't nearly finished with her, inserting two fingers to add to the sensation she feels.

“I want…your dick" she moans, and he uses his fingers to hold her lips open while strumming her clit like a guitar.

“Oh fuck…oh fuck…Daddy, I'm gonna…” he quickly puts his tongue on her clit, flicking than sucking, enjoying how wet she's become. Her legs start to shake as she feels every movement of his tongue.

He's never been so thorough before, his tongue licking every inch of her pussy, inside and out. Her moans are short and urgent, as though she's out of breath. He sucks on her clit again and while he tastes her completion, he flows down his shaft.

“Oh. My. Goodness. How did you get better at eating my pussy?”

“I became your husband. “

“Even you came!”

“I'm excited about how delicious my wife's pussy taste"

“Let's go to bed, my nasty hubby"

“Okay, let me clean my dick off"

“Babe...”

“Yes?”

Vivian gets on her knees in front of him and swallows his dick, feeling it go stiff in her mouth

“Yesss baby"

She immediately starts slurping, remembering the noise drives James wild. She loves the feel of his hard dick (anywhere) in her, giving her the juicy mouth for the kind of wet, messy blow job he loves to get.

Taking him in her throat each in and out repetition he closes his eyes, lost in the comfort that her mouth provides. Lost in the joy he feels from having his dick in her mouth. She starts to lick his balls and the underside of his shaft jacking him off while she does it. The bead of pre-cum glistening the head of his dick does not deter her from sucking on it, his most sensitive part, until she's deep throating him again. With the gentle glide of her nails down his chest to his waist as he rests in her mouth, he reaches his limit, grabbing her hair and she finally releases his dick from her mouth.

“There. You're clean now.”

He gently pulls her up from her knees to kiss her

“You're amazing. I’ma fuck you so hard, guarantee a baby will find their way to the womb"

She laughs, “Let's wait on that, Logan is still an infant. Newborn! We should call to check on him. I’m sure my parents are spoiling him, but we have to make sure they remember to alternate weeks with your parents while we're on trial.”

“So, no more nasty time? We're having parent talk now? Okay. We'll call in the morning before we leave for court. “

“Great!” she kisses his lips, throws on her nightgown and gets in the bed “I love my baby daddy!”

He searches for some PJ pants to put on and gets in bed after finding them “I love my wife.”

 **

THE PEOPLE V. BLACK MAMBA DAY 2

PROSECUTION

 “Your honor we'd like to present video evidence A" the prosecutor inserts a small disc to play on the television showing James walking into the café with Comfort and Vivian's seemingly empty car is parked across the street. It cuts off to show James with other women, each time Vivian's car is there. 

“People of the jury, this video shows the defendant in the vicinity of the café every time Mr. Ashton visited.”

The jury murmurs and some seem to be taking notes.

“Prosecution calls Comfort Greene to the stand.”

James' eyes go wide, he never even considered Comfort would testify against Vivian although it makes perfect sense. Comfort has always labeled Vivian as guilty.

Comfort walks to the stand, clearly dressed in hope of gaining James attention, while maintaining the professionalism that is expected in court.  James only feels annoyed that someone he knows dares to testify against his wife.

After being sworn in, the prosecutor asks

“Ms. Greene, how do you know Mr. Ashton?”

“He’s my ex-boyfriend.”

“And how long were you two together?”

“We dated a while before we became a couple. We dated for about three months. We were a couple for two.”

“During your relationship, did the defendant interfere at any time?”

“She was the reason he wouldn't commit to me and eventually the reason we broke up. She and James have a child together so that also kept her in our lives.”

“And you say you have evidence of her bad behavior?” Comfort hands the judge a picture, “After James left me for her, she did this.” The picture shows Vivian with her middle finger up hanging out the passenger side of her husband's ride.

“Your honor., I object. How do we know when this picture was taken?”

“Ms. Green, can you address that?”

“Yes, your honor. The picture is time-stamped in the lower right-hand corner and I have multiple copies on my phone with the date as well. It will match the day he came over.”

“Objection overruled"

“Thank you, Ms. Greene. No further questions” the prosecutor takes a seat, allowing the judge to speak to the defense lawyer.

“Does the defense wish to question the witness?”

“Yes, your honor” Michael walks to the stand

“Ms. Greene, did my client ever get involved in your relationship?”

“Objection your honor, asked and answered.” the prosecutor argues

“Sustained. Find another way to ask your question, Mr. Board.”

“Were you two friends?”

“No.”

“Enemies?”

“James never conducted an official meeting between us except the day Reyna died.”

“It is safe to say that you two don't know each other?”

“Umm. Yeah.” Comfort thinks for a moment but ultimately agrees.

“And yet you're convinced of her guilt.”

Comfort is silent as the jury scribbles and mumbles more.

“No further questions. You are dismissed, Ms. Greene.”

With barely a second of “empty air", the prosecutor calls attention to himself, 

“People of the jury, the defendant had an empty vial in the purse she used the day she and the victim went to the coffee shop which she scoped her supposed lover entertaining multiple women at. This was a revenge murder. Reyna Mercado was a friend to Mr. Ashton and she mistakenly thought she had a friend in the defendant as well. Don't let her murder be in vain. The prosecution rests.”

“We will reconvene tomorrow to hear the arguments of the defense. Court is adjourned.” The judge hits the gavel, and all begin to speak to one another. James and Vivian walk hand in hand alongside Michael.

Once outside the courtroom, Vivian is hardly able to control the fear flowing from her voice in urgency.

“They're building a case against me. Did you see that evidence? and James former failed replacement testified against me!”

“of all the things you've called her, replacement is the worst. She could never replace you.”

Vivian grabs James' cheeks, “That’s why I said FAILED replacement, honey.” She lets him but continues “They're making me look like a vengeful murderess. As though I'd harm anyone who poses a threat to my relationship.”

“To our marriage “James corrects her

“Why are you focused on the details? For goodness sake, they know we've only been married a few days. You said I'd be okay with you by my side. What happened!?”

Feelings just a little hurt, he ignores that and replies “I'm still here and you're still okay. Why are you so worried? There still isn't enough evidence for a conviction. Baby, you're innocent. That will prevail. I know it will. Michael? You're the lawyer. Tell her some legal stuff.”

James steps aside to reveal Michael cowering behind him. Michael stands straight, straightening his fie and blazer. He places a hand on Vivian's shoulder, “Mrs. Ashton, the only thing that prosecution did was paint a hazy image of you.” He clears his throat before continuing, “We have better witnesses. Better evidence, and better information in general to paint a much clearer image. We have what it takes to prove your innocence. Honestly, between you and me. I could get a guilty man off. I’m the best. Don't worry.” Vivian looks at Michael and visibly calms down.

“Okay, but can we talk about why you were hiding behind my husband? My lawyer needs to know how to handle confrontation. “

“I do. I just don't like it.

“Okaaaay… “Vivian walks over to James, placing a peck on his neck before grabbing his hand to hold.

Michael addresses them both “We're up tomorrow. You guys ready!?”

Catching Vivian and James ending a kiss only after hearing his question

“What? Yeah, of course “James speaks, unable to hide his smile

“I'm going to head to my office and let you lovebirds be. Call me if you need me.”

Teeny Tiny Tag List:

@zigortega4life

@littlecrookedheart 

#JamesAshton #TheFreshmanSeries #Choices #NS*W #FreakyFics

[calpalirwin]

According to Plan

A/N: I dunno anymore guys. Chapter 7 coming at ya!

And away and away we go!

~~~

Chapter 7

Madison

~~~

His lips were soft, but the kiss was fierce. One of his hands wove its way into my hair, while the other wrap around my waist, pulling me in. I sighed, and felt myself melt into him. God, he felt so safe.

We broke away after a few moments. Wow, I signed, breathing heavily while my heart pounded fast in my chest.

“Wow, indeed.”

Yeah, I like that. Do that more.

“I will then,” he smiled. “Good night,” he said before jogging to his truck.

I watched from the porch as he drove off before going into the house. “Some kiss, huh?” Mike’s asked when he found me still sitting on the porch after getting back from taking Crystal home.

I felt my face flush red.

Mike laughed. “I’m going to bed. I apparently have church in the morning. You wanna come with? Or do you want to to swing by and pick you up after?”

I’ll go to church with you.

“Okay. It starts at 10, so be ready.”

It was my turn to laugh. You’re the one who needs to be ready.

Mike shook his head and laughed. Then, he went inside and upstairs to his room.

I made sure all the doors were locked and the lights were off before heading to my own room.

The next morning my alarm went off at 6:30 like it did every day, the alarm flashing brightly in my otherwise pitch black room. Ten minutes later I was out on my morning run. At eight, I was in the shower, after eating my typical breakfast of toast and oatmeal. I was reading when Mike poked his head in from the bathroom that connected our rooms around 9:30. “Hey, I wanna leave in like… is that what you’re wearing?” His hair was still damp from his shower, and he had a toothbrush in his mouth.

I looked at myself in the mirror. I was wearing my usual outfit: shorts, a tank top with a thin flannel over it, and my sneakers. This is what I own. It was mostly true. I only had jeans, shorts, tank tops, and flannels. It was what I liked to wear.

“Yeah, but it’s church. Put on one of your dresses.”

Which one? I signed as I opened my closet, revealing the three dresses I owned: the one for funerals, the one for nice events that weren’t funerals, and the dress the girls had helped me pick out for my date with Ashton.

“That one,” he pointed at my not-for-funerals dress. “And wear the shoes that go with it. The sandal things.”

I sighed and took the dress off its hanger. I laid it on my bed before retrieving the sandals that I bought to wear with it. I quickly changed into the new outfit.

“Much better,” Mike said, poking his head in again. He took one last look at himself in the mirror. “Okay, ready?”

I nodded and followed him downstairs.

“Where are you two going all dressed up?” Dad asked.

“Church,” we told them.

Our parents exchanged a weird look. “Well, have fun, I guess?” Mom said slowly.

In his car, Mike blasted his music, 1.) because he liked it that loud and 2.) I could feel my seat vibrate so I could hear it in my own way.

We didn’t talk as Mike drove his way to the church. For a southern town where going to church was the norm, we were surprised that there was only one church. When we pulled into the parking lot, it made more sense: there wasn’t a single space available. “Shit, I’ll have to park across the street,” Mike muttered as he maneuvered his way out of the parking lot and into a spot across the street.

Inside the church, people milled around, waiting for the service to start. “Looks like we’ll sit here in the back.”

I nodded and followed him into the pew. A man stood up to the podium at the front of the church and everybody went to their seats. I saw a glimpse of Ashton with his family near the front. 

I peacefully watched the preacher’s lips as he gave his hour long sermon, always curious about how it was meant to be heard.

“C’mon, let’s get outside before it gets too crowded,” Mike said, once the service was over.

We made our way outside and stood under a tree near the front. It was already uncomfortably hot outside, even in the shade and with a small breeze blowing by every now and again. I sat down in the grass and pulled out a book from my bag. Mike waved his hand in front of me and shook his head. “No, they’re all coming out, see?” he pointed. “Crys!” he shouted, waving his hands.

Crystal, at the front of the church, turned in Mike’s direction and smiled. She grabbed the hand of an older man in a suit and dragged him our way. “Daddy,” her lips moved fast as she smiled as she got close, “this is Mike, and his twin sister Madison.”

“Nice to meet you, sir. Great service,” Mike croaked out, shaking the man’s hand.

“So you’re the boy from Hollywood,” Reverend Leigh said, looking Mike up and down.

I rolled my eyes. Why did everybody keep saying we were from Hollywood? We were from California, yes, but California was a big state. Hollywood was actually pretty far from where we had lived in the central part of the state.

“Hey, y’all made it!” Riley said, coming up to us, Calum in tow.

I smiled and waved hello.

“Ry and I were gonna go grab some lunch with Lu and Si, did you guys want to join us?” Calum asked us.

“Ash will be there, too,” Riley said, looking directly at me so I could read her lips.

“Sounds great!” Crystal said. She then had a small conversation with her father who gave Mike once more look over before walking away.

“Yeah, sounds good. What do you think, Mads?” Mike asked me.

Sure, I nodded. I looked around for Ashton, and spotted him a few feet away, talking with his family. 

His eye caught mine and he waved and smiled that damning smile of his. He said something to his family and then jogged over. “Hey!” he said, hugging me and kissing my cheek. Damn, you look good, he signed so no one else could know what he was saying. Well, Mike could, but he had the courtesy to pretend not to notice.

My face flushed red. I was really starting to like this dating thing.

“Alright, so the diner down by the pier?” Calum was saying, “Luke and Sierra already left to save the booth”

“If they’re already there, then why are you acting like we have a choice in where we’re going?” Riley teased.

Calum shook his head, laughing. “So, who’s driving and who needs a ride?” he asked, dangling his car keys.

“I brought my truck, cuz I figured we’d be going to eat after,” Ashton said.

“Same,” Calum agreed.

“I drove here with Mads,” Mike mentioned.

“I came with my parents,” Riley said, looking over at the parking lot, “and they’ve already left.”

“Well you can ride with me, I guess,” Calum told her.

“You guess?” Riley asked, putting her hands on her hips.

“I came with my parents, too. Mike, can I ride with you?” Crystal asked.

“Yeah, I need someone to tell me where to go anyway. C’mon, I’m parked over there. You coming, Mads?”

I pointed at Ashton.

“Alright, I’m parked over here,” Ashton said, grabbing my hand in his. We walked hand in hand to where his truck was parked. “Is this dress also new?”

Not really. I got it for Mike’s soccer banquet back in March.

“It looks really good.”

Thanks. I went to open the passenger door, but he stopped me and opened it for me. I can open a door, y’know.

“I know. I’m being a gentleman, though.”

I shrugged and got into the truck. He closed my door before coming around to get into the driver’s seat. Just like yesterday, I pressed my hand against his speakers as he turned on his truck. I closed my eyes and breathed in the moment: the sun beating down on us, the air whooshing through the rolled down windows, the music pulsing through the stereo and against my palm, his fingers probably drumming on the steering wheel. When I opened my eyes he was smiling at me. I never wanted to forget how I felt in that moment- young, free, and falling fast for a boy I barely knew- like any other seventeen year old girl.

We enjoyed lunch at the diner, the seven of them chatting and me signing, teaching them as I did so, before we all went home to change out of our church clothes and into something more suitable for a soccer game. About an hour later, the eight of us meet up on the soccer field, along with several other boys from the soccer team.

I sat in the stands with the girls, snapping pictures of everything with my camera. “Damn, you’re a good shot,” Riley said, peering over my shoulder as I flipped through the pictures. 

“I like that one,” Sierra commented, as I stopped at a picture of Ashton on the sidelines, pushing his hair back, a huge grin on his sweaty face.

Me too. My heart was pounding fast in my chest. It was a really good picture of him.

The game slowly died down as the boys either got tired, or claimed to have other last day of summer plans, eventually leaving just Ashton, Calum, Luke, and Mike.

“Hey, do you finally wanna watch that movie?” Ashton asked once he made his way to where I was, his hair and face wet with sweat.

Sure. My house or yours?

“What kind of movies you got?”

More than you. Which was true. While his collection was good, it was small.

He tilted his head back to laugh. “Your house it is, then.”

Well, this is it, I gestured once we got to my house and up to my room.

“It’s so organized,” he commented, looking around.

Thanks. My movies are on that shelf right there.

He scanned the shelf before he selected on one. “Sweet, my favorite!”

I looked at the DVD in his hand: The Lion King. It happened to be my favorite as well. Same. I took the movie and put it in the player. I’m gonna go make us popcorn. Did you want anything to drink?

“Sure, I’ll go with you.”

5 minutes later we were on my couch, with a bowl of popcorn and our drinks- me, a water, him, a soda. I grabbed the remote and hit play.

Throughout the movie, he would occasionally look at me and smile. Every time he did, my heart pounded a little faster. When our hands touched in the bowl of popcorn, I swore even I could hear my heart beating. Instead of moving his hand away, he grabbed mine, his bigger hand covering my smaller one, and squeezed. Then, he flashed that smile of his. Damn, I loved that smile.

When the credits rolled and the menu screen popped up, I turned off the television. The popcorn bowl was long empty, with just a few unpopped kernels at the bottom. Ashton got up off the couch and stretched before looking at his watch. “Now what?”

Videogames?

“Sure,” he smiled.

We made our way down to the basement, stopping at Mike’s room to see if he cared to join us. He waved us off, his lips still locked with Crystal’s.

In the basement, I quickly set up the game and made myself comfortable on the couch. Ready?

“Yep,” Ashton said, settling in next to me.

We played game after game, in comfortable silence, occasionally glancing at each other to share a smile or quick kiss, or reaching out to squeeze each others hands. It felt nice having him next to me and I realized that I could easily do this every day of my life if I was lucky enough.

After one of our games, Ashton glanced at his phone to check the time. His eyes went wide as he slid his phone back in his pocket. “I should probably get going. I’d rather not get grounded for being late again.”

You were late yesterday?

“Only by like 2 minutes. It was okay, but I probably shouldn’t do it twice. Especially the night before school. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

Okay. G’night.

He leaned forward and kissed me gently on the lips. “Night, Mads,” he murmured softly as he pulled away.

My face flushed red. I really liked kissing him. I really liked him. My lips were still tingling long after he left. They were still tingling when my phone vibrated and flashed.

I had a great time with you.

Me too. Did you make it home in time?

Yeah, I got here in plenty of time.

That’s good. I don’t want to get you in trouble.

I wouldn’t mind.

You say that now…

And I mean it. Kissing you is worth being a few minutes late.

Well good. I was worried that I was bad at kissing.

Nah, I like kissing you. A lot.

I like kissing you too. My lips are still tingly.

Oh, are they now?

Ha-ha. Night, Ash.

Night, Mads.

I smiled at my phone for a bit before getting ready for bed. Even as I tried to sleep, my mind raced with thoughts of him. I was so preoccupied by Ashton that I even forgot to be nervous about tomorrow.

The next morning, I did my typical routine and was ready by 8:30. Both of our parents rushed out the door and off to work when I was coming downstairs. “Bye, have a good day!” they hollered as they left in a hurry. “Bye,” Mike called back to them as he came down the stairs, his backpack slung over one shoulder. “Ready?” he asked me, reaching into his pocket for his truck keys.

Yep.

“Cool, let’s go.”

The drive to school was a short one. Every drive in this town was short. “Alright, got your schedule?” Mike asked as he pulled into a spot.

Already memorized.

“Locker combo?”

That too.

“Cool, I’m gonna go fin- oh, there she is. Crys! Wait up!” he shouted as he climbed out of the truck. “I’ll see you at lunch, Mads, okay? Text if you need me.” And he was off, already basking in the glory of his senior year.

I grabbed my bag and got out of the truck. I locked my door and slammed it shut with my hip. I took a deep breath and whirled to take in the place that would shape the rest of my year here- for better and for worse. 

I took another deep breath and made my way across the lot, up the stairs, and into the school to find my locker. I quickly undid the lock and slid my locker open. I opened my bag and pulled out my six folders and two notebooks. I placed the three folders I wouldn’t need until after lunch, along with the notebook for them in my locker. Then, I carefully pulled out my camera and placed it inside my locker as well. I double-checked to make sure everything I needed was still in my bag and everything I didn’t was in my locker before slamming my locker shut and spinning the lock.

I looked at my watch to check the time just as it vibrated its reminder for me to go to class. I made my way carefully through the mass of students who rushed to their lockers, or to chat with their friends, as I went to homeroom. The freshmen were easily distinguishable as they walked in groups and wandered around looking lost. Nobody seemed to be in a hurry to get to class. I felt a tap on my shoulder and turned to find Ashton. “There you are!” he signed as he spoke, before he picked me up and swung me in a small circle. He set me on my feet and kissed me quickly on the lips. “I’ve been looking for you,” he grinned.

My head spun at his sudden burst of boyfriend-ness. I was at my locker, I signed once my world had stopped spinning.

“Oh. Where are you headed?”

Room 7.

“Sweet, me too. C’mon, I’ll walk with you.” He grabbed my hand and led me through the hallways to room 7. “So, I know we have almost all the same classes, but what’s your schedule look like?”

I pulled out my schedule from my pocket and handed it to him.

He glanced at it then smiled, handing it back to me. “Nice! We’re together every class except 6th period.”

That’s nice. I don’t usually have friends in my classes. Much less a boyfriend.

“Didn’t you have any classes with Mike?”

Yeah, but it’s not the same.

He shrugged, stopping in front of a classroom. “C’mon, let’s find a seat. Where do you like to sit?”

I looked around the room before I took the first seat of the first row by the door. Here I put my bag down and took a seat.

He grinned and sat in the desk next to me. “Perfect,” he said, still smiling as he took his own seat.

A minute before class started, Ashton glanced at the door expectantly.

There’s still a minute left, right?

He nodded, then “There’s a warning bell at the nine minute mark, though.”

Sure enough, the classroom that had been empty, began to fill up as students filed in and found seats. “C-Swizzle!” Ashton said, as Calum crossed into the room.

 Calum looked our way, nodded, then made his way over. “What’s up?” he greeted as he slid into the empty seat behind Ashton. “Little close, huh?” he gestured with his head.

I need to be in the front to read the teacher’s lips.

Calum nodded understandingly.

Ashton clapped him on the shoulder. “Where’s everyone else?”

“Across the hall in room 8. Luke didn’t want his mommy twice in a day.”

Ashton laughed at the joke that I didn’t understand just yet.

My watch vibrated to signal class starting and the teacher shut the door, much to the protest of a few late arrivals. The lady shrugged, “Come back with a late slip, you know the rules.” She then turned his attention to the rest of the class. “Alright class, I’m Mrs. Hemmings, hope you all had a great summer. Now, as a reminder, I have 2 rules: 1.) Be in this class before that second bell rings otherwise you’ll have to deal with the office. 2.) No disruptions- some people, like our athletes, need to hear the announcements- so whatever work you need to do, keep the level at a whisper. Any questions?” When we all shook our heads no, she started to talk again, “Alright, let’s take-”

My mind made the connection between Luke’s last name, our homeroom teacher, and Calum’s joke. I laughed to myself before I looked at Ashton and tapped his shoulder, questioning why our teacher had stopped talking.

Announcements.

Oh.

Mrs. Hemmings clipboard, sat in her chair and stared at the intercom, waiting patiently. After a while, she grabbed the clipboard off his desk. “Alright, back to attendance. Anderson, Ben?”

Ashton and Calum exchanged a look and groaned as the boy raised his hand for attendance. “It’s gonna be a long year…” they muttered as they scanned the classroom for other people they might know.

“Clifford, Madison?”

I raised my hand and cleared my throat as loudly as I could.

“Clifford… I’ve never had you before, have I?” Mrs. Hemmings asked, looking puzzled.

I shook my head and Ashton spoke up for me, “Nope, she’s new, Mrs. H.”

“Thank you, Mr. Irwin. But, in the future, I’m sure Miss Clifford can speak for herself.”

“Yeah, shut it, Irwin!” a boy- Ben- spoke from across the room. Even I could sense the hostility as his mouth moved.

“How about you piss off?” Ashton spat back.

Ben stood up from his seat, his chair scraping across the linoleum.

“Settle down! Honestly, you’d think a summer would have cooled you both down,” Mrs. Hemmings said sternly.

As Ashton continued to glare at Ben as Ben sat back down, Calum took it upon himself to act as my advocate. “Mrs. H, Madison… she’s…”

A flicker of recognition flashed across Mrs. Hemmings face. “Oh, right. My apologies, Miss Clifford. Let me know whatever accommodations you need.”

I nodded and sunk low in my chair. Ten minutes and I already wanted to disappear.

“You okay, Mads?” Ashton asked, reaching his hand out to grab mine.

I looked up and smiled painfully at him. Me? Oh yeah, I’m fine.

“I’ve told you you’re a bad liar, right?”

Why was that boy so angry?

“Oh, that,” Ashton waved his hand dismissively. “It’s nothing.”

“Now, who’s the liar?” Calum joked.

“Shut up,” he told Calum, giving him a shove.

I looked at them and raised an eyebrow. Okay, since Ash is being stubborn. Cal, what happened?

“I’m not stubborn,” Ashton told me. “Anderson and I just don’t like each other.”

“That’s putting it mildly.” Calum rolled his eyes.

I shook my head and pulled out a book, looking at their mouths for movement from the corner of my eye.

Ashton sighed and ran a hand through his hair.

“Look, maybe it’s time to put it in the past?” Calum suggested. “You and Claire have been over with for a long time. You’re with Madison now. It’s a new school year. Let it go, man.”

I closed my book and looked Ashton dead in the eye. Wait, this is about that Claire girl again? Are you sure you’re over her?

“Ben’s one of the reasons I broke up with Claire,” he explained.

Oh.

“It’s nothing though. We’ve never gotten along.”

Oh.

“It’s true,” Calum put in. “And Claire, well, she didn’t exactly help make the two of them best buds.”

Oh.

“You okay?” Ashton asked.

Yeah. You have a past. Obviously not all of it is good. My past isn’t exactly glamorous either.

He smiled at me. “You’re great, you know that?”

You smile a lot, was the retort.

“He does,” Calum agreed. “But, after a glum summer, it’s nice to see him smiling again.”

It is a nice smile, I agreed.

My watch vibrated, signally the end of class and cutting off our conversation. “Mads and I are off to Econ. Where are you headed?” Ashton asked Calum, slinging his bag over his shoulder.

“I have Government with Riley. I think Mike and Crystal have Econ though.”

“Sweet, we can all walk together.” He tapped my shoulder, Ready, Mads?

I looked up from securing my bag. Yeah, I’m ready.

“Cool.” He threw his arm around my shoulder and the three of us walked out of the room. In the hallway, Crystal and Mike, along with Luke and Sierra were mid-makeout, while Riley leaned against the wall rolling her eyes. “There you are!” she said, slapping Crystal on the back.

Crystal pulled back from Mike, “I’m a little busy, Ry,” she muttered before Mike pulled her back, both giggling. “Bother Lu and Si, they’re doing the same thing.”

Riley gave them another eye roll. “Getting caught making out with the new kid won’t make you any cooler.”

It was Mike’s turn to break away. “Being cool is for suckers.”

I laughed, Easy for you to say, Mr. Popular. Can we go now? I reached up to grab Ashton’s hand that was still around me. I felt him shiver next to me, before he rubbed his thumb over my hand.

After a few more stolen kisses and eye rolls later, we made our way to our first class. We bid farewell to Calum, Luke, Sierra, and Riley as they went next door to Government, and the rest of us went into Econ. I took the same seat in the front corner and Ashton followed, taking the seat next to me. Mike took the seat behind Ashton and Crystal took the seat behind me.

I busied myself with getting my desk ready with my folder, notebook, and pencil case. I was so preoccupied it took me a moment to notice the sneakers stopped in front of Ashton’s desk. “Hey, Ash,” Claire was saying when I looked up to read her lips. “How was your summer?”

“Don’t you have someone else to bother?” Crystal asked with a level of snark that made Mike laugh.

“Nobody was talking to you, Crys. Hi, I’m Claire.” I could tell she was flirting by the way her face took on a pleasant look and she flipped her hair; it made me sick to my stomach.

“Mike,” Mike nodded, looking her up and down.

“Oh, hell no. Sweetie, you better back away from my man.” Crystal glared as she got up out of her seat. “Run along, homewrecker.”

“Oh, like you didn’t swoop in on Ash the second he was free?” Claire shot back.

“Unlike you, I can handle being single without attaching myself to the nearest set of lips. And just because Ash won’t hit a girl, doesn’t mean I won’t kick your ass, sweetheart. I may be a preacher’s daughter, but I ain’t no saint.”

Claire made a tight lip smile before walking off.

Mike looked at Crystal with a look of shock and awe. “Damn, woman… That was sexy as hell, but relax.”

Crystal sat down with a huff. “I’d hate to call another girl a bitch, but… well, Claire is one. The way she bounced around between Ash and Ben the last three years never making up her mind was just a bitch move.”

My eyes lit up and I turned to Ashton. You dated her for three years?! No wonder you react the way you do.

“I told you that I dated her for a while,” Ashton shrugged.

Yeah, but you didn’t mention the “three years” part.

“Three-ish.”

“Yeah, you know, except for all those times you caught her making out with Ben Anderson,” Crystal grinned at us.

Hmm… that makes a lot more sense now. If I was Ashton, I would be hostile towards Ben and Claire, too. It sounds like they did quite a number on him.

Ashton’s hand went through his hair, stopping at his neck. “Yeah, it was a mess.”

I reached over to squeeze his hand reassuringly before I pulled out my book to read until class started. Occasionally I would look over at Ashton who was looking around bored or doodling in his notebook.

The next 2 classes followed a similar structure, where the eight of us would walk to our classes before going our separate ways. I would take my seat and Ashton took the seat next to me. I’d busy myself with getting ready for class. I’d look up to see the look of relief that fell on Ashton’s face when the bell rang with no Ben or Claire in the room. The teacher would drone on while I jotted down whatever I thought I would need, while Ashton doodled or stared into space. Then the bell would ring, while my watch buzzed and the routine would start all over again.

“Finally! Man, I’m starving,” Ashton said when the bell for lunch rang after a particularly boring English class. It was the only class we had alone.

I laughed, Good thing it’s lunchtime then. I laughed again.

He threw an arm around me as we made our way to the cafeteria. “So, your watch buzzes to let you know the bell rang?” he asked, gesturing at my watch.

I nodded.

“Cool. Did you need to stop by your locker?”

Not right now. I gotta find Mike, though.

We found the rest of the group in the cafeteria at the table that seemed familiar to everyone but Mike and me. “Hey, Mads, here’s your money,” Mike said, digging a few crumpled dollars out of his pocket.

Can you keep it in your wallet next time? I don’t like it all crumpled up. I tried my best to smooth the dollars out against my shorts.

“I’ll try to remember,” he said, gripping my shoulder as he got up to go get lunch.

“Where’s Cal and Luke?” Ashton asked Riley and Sierra.

“Getting our lunch. We’re holding down the fort today,” they told him.

He nodded. “C’mon, let’s go eat,” he told me, steering us in the direction of the line.

We got our lunch, paid, and made our way back to the table. As I set my tray down, Mike looked at it- a grilled cheese sandwich, fries, an apple, and a bottle of water. “Way to spice it up, Mads,” he muttered sarcastically.

Ha-ha, very clever. I signed before flipping him the finger.

“Do you always eat the same thing for lunch?” Ashton asked.

More or less. Some cafeteria food is risky. Grilled cheeses are pretty safe.

He laughed. “Better safe than sorry huh?”

Exactly.

“And does Mike always hold your money for lunch?”

I nodded. I can’t feel my phone too well if it goes off when I have money in my pocket.

“Why don’t you just carry the money in your wallet in your bag?”

I shrugged. Habit at this point.

“No, not habit,” Mike explained. “People used to take the money from her bag. Easy target, right?”

I rolled my eyes at the memories of middle school kids all grinning at me weirdly while some kid patted my back and thanked me for my generosity as they slipped my lunch money in their pocket. Jerks.

“For real? Wow, that sucks.” Ashton reached out to squeeze my hand and smiled at me.

We ate our lunches, having conversations about our classes and what we were gonna do after school. Since the boys wouldn’t have soccer practice after school until after winter break, they were looking forward to enjoying their afternoons. The girls, not wanting to watch them play videogames, were going to hit the mall for the end of summer sales. When they asked me if I wanted to go, I shook my head. No, thanks.

“You can come play videogames with us,” Ashton offered. The boys shot him a glance that suggested they weren’t all that excited about that plan.

I shook my head again. That’s okay. I’m gonna get started on some of the homework we have. In truth, I wanted to spend the afternoon by myself. I had been spending so much time with them that I was actually missing being alone.

“Oh, well maybe I’ll stop by and we can study for a bit after dinner.”

My face scrunched up. Man he was persistent. I looked at my watch, then got up from the table. I got to stop by my locker before class.

I hurried to my locker, feeling really embarrassed that I couldn’t just say I wanted to be alone. I flung my locker open, suddenly feeling angry that I couldn’t bring myself to just admit to wanting to be alone. I switched out my folders and notebooks before carefully setting my camera in my bag, slowing my movements to get as much time away as I could to recenter myself. I whirled around, ready to go back to the table and hoping everyone had moved on.

I stopped mid-whirl and jumped at the sight of Ashton. How long had he been standing there? Did Mike send you to check on me? I signed, with anger that wasn’t meant for him, but I couldn’t get rid of either.

“No.”

Good. The anger melted. Now, can you leave me alone, please? 

“If you tell me why you left,” he told me.

I sighed. I do want to spend time with you. I like spending time with you. And with our friends. But, I haven’t really had time to myself, so I wanted to spend the afternoon alone. But, I didn’t want to hurt your feelings, or embarrass you in front of everyone. Or worse, make you mad. As hard as it is for me to guess your mood because I can’t hear it, I know not being able to hear my tone is hard for you, too. It’s not a rude thing. I just… I like to be alone sometimes. And I’m not used to having to ask for alone time. If that makes sense...

He pulled me towards him, “You could’ve just told me that instead of running off and worrying us.”

I pulled back a little so he could see my hands. You wouldn’t have been upset?

“Maybe a little, but who cares?”

Me. I care. I pulled back a little more so I could look at him and those hazel eyes with their flecks of gold and green that I never wanted to see angry at me. I care a lot.

He laughed with his eyes. “Well, I don’t. Look, you don’t have to be scared to tell me what you need. I’ll take a little embarrassment and bruised ego if it means you’re happy.”

You’re sweet. I reached up on my tiptoes to kiss him.

#according to plan #chapter 7 #ashton irwin #5sos #galcal irwin

[roselukes]

2800 Miles - Ch 8 - l.h.

Previously

Summary: Luke knows what he wants, but he also knows he can’t have it

Tag List: @sassy-asht0n @happycrimiscalum @rosesarered516 @hoe4hemmo @heartbreakashton94 @climatehood @calumspeachy @dukehoods @holidayhood @wrappedaroundcal @mistletoemichael @plainwhiteluke @irwinkitten @hereforlukescruff @astroashtonio @catchinqcalum @irwinvalentines @hollyjollyhood @biggestslutforcalum @calumhampton @angelmikeyy @hotmessmichael @curlyhairedpopstars @meloncal @lukeschestnuts @thecashtonexpress @calsjackets @boytoynamedcalum @alyssarester @ssophisticated-simplicityy @calistajs @merryashmas

Disclaimer: plot was inspired by the app Choices’ story The Royal Romance

It had been a week since Gwen received the chilling note. She hadn’t spent any alone time with Luke, and he sure had noticed a change in her behavior. Gwen boarded the jet with Michael and Calum and Ashton. “Do you know who sent the note yet?” Ashton asked.

“No, we haven’t asked around.” Michael sighed. “My guess is Alyssa, but she wouldn’t risk something like this.”

“She’s the only one that would want me gone.” Gwen reasoned.

“I wouldn’t be so sure about that.” Calum suggested. “I’ve heard talking around the courts. Ruby is looking like a very promising opponent. I’ve heard that the queen is giving her special treatment and special training.”

“Why would she do that?” Gwen asked.

“Because, Miranda is the reason Ruby was engaged to Jack. Since that fell through, Ruby’s image has been damaged. She’s back with a vengeance and she’s going to use Miranda to her advantage.” Ashton explained. “That being said: Ruby, Alyssa, and Miranda could all be against you.”

“This is ridiculous. Why do they care so much? Isn’t this whole thing just the lead up to his choosing of who he wants to marry?”

“Ultimately, it’s his decision. But, Miranda has the power to tell him to choose someone else.” Michael sighed.

“Maybe he’ll run away like Jack did.” Gwen crossed her arms and looked out the window. A few hours later, the jet landed in Switzerland, not far from Alyssa’s home.

“Gwen, we need to go over some things.” Michael said as the two of them got into the towncar.

“Like what?” Gwen asked.

“Well, we’re in Alyssa’s territory now. She’s got the power here, and she’ll be able to keep Luke by her side as long as she wants. She’s going to play some cards that we don’t even know she has. She will be playing against you, and there’s nothing we can do about it.” Michael sighed. “You need to make sure you’re on your best behavior. If she says anything to you, you ignore it. I want you to try and spend time with Luke here, but not all alone. People need to see that he’s still choosing you, even in her territory.”

“Yeah, whatever.” Gwen rolled her eyes, looking out the window. Shortly after, Michael and Gwen arrived at Alyssa’s home. “My God, it’s beautiful here.”

“I know, it’s a wonder anyone so vicious could have grown up in a place so beautiful.” Michael nodded.

“Well, it makes sense. She’s so cold because she lives in an ice castle.” Gwen crossed her arms. Michael laughed and got out of the car.

“Come on, we need to get you settled in.” Michael grabbed their bags and lead her inside. “I hope you packed some warm clothes.”

“I was told I’d be in Australia, I don’t need warm clothes there.” Gwen pouted.

“I’ll take you to town and get you some clothes.” Michael chuckled and walked up to her room.

“Michael, can I ask you something?” Gwen asked, closing the door behind them.

“What is it?” Michael furrowed his eyebrows.

“Luke told me that your family is at risk for bankruptcy and that you may lose your estate. Is that true?” Michael sighed softly and nodded.

“Yeah, it’s true. Since we don’t have daughters to marry off, it’s up to me to bring income in with a bride. There aren’t any women that want to marry a Clifford. Not after my parents’ messy marriage.”

“Messy marriage?”

“My parents have almost gotten a divorce, like, four times. It’s just a Clifford thing to have an unstable relationship with their spouse. Everyone’s scared to be with a Clifford because they don’t think the relationship will last.” Michael sighed.

“I have a friend from back home I can set you up with. She’s not royalty, but she’s beautiful enough to be.”

“Let’s focus on getting you the prince’s hand, then we’ll let you play matchmaker.” Michael laughed and walked back to the car with her.

“You’ll love her.” Gwen giggled and got in the car. The driver took them into town and the two of them shopped around, finding everything Gwen might need for a week in the Alps. The two of them went back to Alyssa’s palace and brought the shopping bags to her room.

“Okay, everyone’s going to go ice skating today. Do you know how to skate?”

“I grew up in New York, we have intense winters. Of course, I know how to skate.” Gwen giggled and changed into something warmer. She grabbed the skates they had just bought and followed Michael down to the ice. The other suitors arrived shortly after.

“Thank you for coming, Gwen. I look forward to making you miserable during your stay in my estate.” Alyssa smirked at her and skated onto the ice.

“Ignore her.” Michael warned.

“I know.” Gwen crossed her arms, glaring at the back of Alyssa’s head. She watched as Alyssa skated over to Luke, immediately linking her arm with his. “How am I supposed to spend any time with Luke here when Alyssa’s gonna be hogging him the whole time?” Gwen rolled her eyes.

“I’ll find a way to get you to him. Just leave it to me.” Michael chuckled and skated over to Alyssa. “Lady Alyssa, are you aware that the pipes leading to the palace ballroom have frozen? One of the maids just informed me and I thought you should know.”

“Those fucking pipes, I swear to God. Luke, honey, don’t go anywhere. I will be right back.” Alyssa kissed his cheek and skated off. Michael smirked at Luke before skating back to Gwen.

“Michael, she’s gonna find out you lied and she’s gonna blame me.” Gwen whined.

“Hush your mouth.” Michael laughed. “Now, go get your prince.” He gave her a push and sent her flying across the ice, straight into Luke’s arms.

“Well, hello there, Guinevere.” Luke chuckled, helping her regain her balance.

“Your Highness.” Gwen giggled, looking up at him. “Fancy seeing you here.”

“Yeah, it’s almost like we’re required to be.” Luke laughed, wrapping an arm around her waist.

“It’d be nicer if we were here without Alyssa, though.” Gwen sighed.

“Gwen, please.” Luke shook his head. “We can’t do this again.”

“I just know that she’s going to make me miserable here.”

“Did you know her parents died when she was 5 years old?” Luke looked down at her. “They both had diseases that no one knew existed until they died. No one found them for over a week. Alyssa was here all along for a whole week at only 5 years old, with no one to take care of her.”

“Really?” Gwen looked up at him, shocked.

“Really. Her maids found her when they returned to work and they sent her to live with us until she was 18.” Luke sighed. “When she turned 13, that’s when she really turned into a bitch.”

“Teenage years are hard, especially without parents. But, at least she knew what family was like.” Gwen sighed and skated around with Luke.

“Yeah, well, Alyssa started acting like a spoiled brat. And, she was one. My parents gave her everything, to make sure she was happy with us, you know? If things didn’t go her way, she would throw a tantrum. She used to tell the boys I was in the hedge gardens so they’d spend all day looking for me, when really, I was inside playing with her. She would get so incredible angry when I chose to hang out with the boys instead of her.”

“See? She’s a bitch. Her parents dying has nothing to do with that. You don’t see me bullying every person I don’t like, just because I suffered trauma.” Gwen rolled her eyes and skated so she was in front of Luke. “You cannot excuse her behavior like this. It only encourages her.”

“I know, Gwen. But, you also know that I can’t stand up to her.”

“I know..” Gwen sighed. “I know.” After skating, the suitors all went inside for some hot chocolate before dinner.

“Gwen! I feel like I haven’t seen you in ages.” Hattie smiled as she walked over to Gwen.

“Hattie, we saw each other yesterday.” Gwen laughed, sipping her hot chocolate.

“I know, but it feels longer.” Hattie giggled. “We’ve hardly talked since the regatta.”

“I’ve been busy.” Gwen smiled. “I spent some time in town working at a small bakery for some extra money.”

“You got a job?” Kira butted in.

“Yeah, I like being able to work for money rather than be born into it.” Gwen shrugged.

“You’re the first suitor to ever have the guts to get a job while in the courts.” Paige gasped.

“I think we all know Gwen is not a typical suitor. She shouldn’t even be considered a suitor anymore.” Alyssa smirked. “Gwen, I’d be more than happy to let you work for Luke and I when we are married. You can nanny the children, or join the maid’s brigade.”

“As if.” Gwen rolled her eyes.

“Come, ladies. It’s time for dinner.” Alyssa smirked, walking into the ballroom. “You’ll find your name on place cards at your designated tables. The ushers will take you to where you are to be sat.” The suitors broke off to find their seats.

“Where are you sat?” Hattie asked.

“Table 18. You?”

“Table 4.” Hattie said. “You’re going to be all the way at the back of the ballroom.”

“Alyssa is really pushing her luck here.” Gwen crossed her arms.

“I’m sure it’ll be fine.” Hattie smiled and squeezed her hand before going to her own table. Gwen sighed and walked to the back of the ballroom, taking a seat where her name card was placed.

“Looks like Alyssa put the cool kids in the back.” Ashton chuckled, sitting next to Gwen.

“More like she banished us.” Gwen rolled her eyes.

“It’s gonna be fine, we’re gonna have a great time.” Calum smiled.

“You’re both too optimistic about this.” Gwen huffed.

“We have to pretend to be, or else Luke will yell at us.” Ashton rolled his eyes. “He’s always been too keen on pleasing Alyssa.”

“I can’t even count how many times he bailed on us to hang out with her. Even after she left his palace.” Calum scoffed. “I don’t think he wants to admit it, but he has feelings for her.”

“If he has feelings for her, he can say goodbye to this pussy.”

“Oh, my God. You and Luke fucked?” Michael whisper yelled at Gwen.

“On the yacht.” Gwen sipped her water.

“The tea at this table is scorching.” Calum laughed. “Tell us what happened.”

“It wasn’t anything special, really. We just talked and then we started kissing and things just went further.” Gwen shrugged.

“I can’t believe this.” Michael shook his head.

“I mean, it was fantastic sex. And, I’d be 100 percent down to do it again.”

“Jesus, Gwen. Lower your voice.” Michael looked at her. “If Alyssa heard you, or literally anyone heard you, you’d be in so much trouble. And, so would Luke.”

“That’s true. The prince of Northern Australia was executed for sleeping with a commoner in his courts.” Ashton nodded.

“Whatever, it probably won’t happen again. Not after getting that note.”

“Have you told Luke about the note?” Calum asked.

“He can’t know about it. If he knew someone was after Gwen, he’d go ballistic. He’d shut everything down.” Michael shook his head.

“Yeah, are you insane? Don’t you know what happened to Li-” Michael gave Ashton a stern look. “Oh, right.” Ashton nodded.

“I get it.” Calum nodded.

“What is it?” Gwen asked.

“It’s nothing, don’t worry about it.” Michael waved her off. “Anyways, where’s our food? Everyone else has been served already.”

“Some people have dessert already.” Calum said, looking around.

“Excuse me, where’s our food?” Gwen asked the server.

“We’ve served every plate Lady Alyssa gave us.” The server answered.

“Clearly you haven’t, since we don’t have food.” Calum crossed his arms.

“Hey, it’s not the server’s fault when things go wrong like this.” Gwen defended. “Can you check with Lady Alyssa please?” Gwen asked him. He nodded and walked up to Alyssa, who just waved him off.

“Gwen, you don’t have to defend the help.” Calum said, looking at her.

“Don’t you get it? I am the help. I don’t belong in this kind of lifestyle, I know too much about being poor.”

“That could help you when you’re queen.” Ashton reasoned. “The people need a queen that understands them and the things they’ve been through. You’re the only one in the courts that can bring that to the people.”

“He’s right, the people would love to have a queen who knows their struggles and has seen them firsthand.” Michael agreed. The server from earlier came back to their table.

“I’m very sorry, but Lady Alyssa isn’t listening to us. This is all we have left.” He set down plates in front of them.

“I’m sure it’ll be just fine, thank you very much.” Gwen smiled at him. He smiled softly back at her and walked back to his station.

“This is completely frozen.” Michael complained, spitting his food back onto his plate.

“Mine’s stale.” Ashton gagged.

“Guess we’re going hungry tonight.” Gwen sighed, pushing her plate away. Once everyone else had finished eating, Alyssa and Luke started off the dancing. Gwen and the other suitors made their way to the dance floor, each hoping to get a dance with the prince. Gwen knew she wouldn’t get a dance with Luke, but it was okay with her. As long as Luke knew she was there for him, and that he was there for her, everything would be just fine.

“Gwen, I need to talk to you.” Luke said, coming up to her. “I can’t dance with you, but I need you to meet me at my room at midnight. Got it?” He whispered.

“Got it.” Gwen nodded, smiling softly.

“Luke, I’m waiting.” Alyssa put her hands on her hips and looked at Luke.

“I’m coming.” He sighed, turning away from Gwen slowly. Gwen chewed on her lip as she watched Luke walk back to Alyssa. Time couldn’t move any slower, it seemed. All Gwen wanted was to spend some alone time with Luke. When midnight finally came, Gwen knocked on Luke’s door.

“It’s me.” She said quietly. Luke opened the door and smiled at her.

“You made it.” He pulled her close and closed the door behind them.

“Of course, I did. You thought I wouldn’t?”

“I knew you would. You can’t resist me.” Luke chuckled and kissed her gently. She smiled and kissed back, wrapping her arms around his neck. “I’ve been thinking about you all day.”

“Really? I heard something interesting today from one of your friends.” Gwen whispered.

“What did you hear?” Luke asked, rubbing her back gently.

“That you have feelings for Alyssa.”

“I do not have feelings for her. We were friends once, so it’s hard to stop thinking of her as a friend. But, she’s nothing more than a friend. I promise.” Luke brought his hand to her cheek and rubbed gently. “Now, come on. Let’s enjoy our time together while we have it.”

“And just how will we do that?” Gwen asked, looking up at him.

“My room has a hot tub.” Luke smirked, tapping her nose.

“I don’t have a bikini or anything.”

“You don’t need one. It’s called skinny dipping for a reason.” Luke laughed and pulled her out to the hot tub.

“It’s cold out here.” Gwen pouted as she pulled her t-shirt off.

“You’ll get warmer in the water.” Luke laughed and pulled his shirt off. Gwen huffed and pushed her leggings and thong off. She dropped her bra behind her before getting in the water. Luke chuckled and pushed his sweats and boxers down before getting in with her. “Isn’t this nice?”

“It’s steamy.” Gwen giggled. “But, yes. It is nice.”

“Did you enjoy your night?” Luke asked, wrapping his arm around her shoulders.

“Not in the slightest. Me and the boys didn’t get to eat at all because Alyssa told her servers not to serve us. I tried to get one of the servers to give us something and he gave us frozen and stale food.”

“She did what?” Luke widened his eyes. “There are rules she needs to follow here, too. The suitors are required to be at tables 1 through 5. Those always get served first.”

“She kept saying that I’m not considered a suitor because I’m a commoner.” Gwen sighed and leaned into Luke.

“I’m sorry, baby.” Luke sighed. “I’m gonna talk to her about it. She needs to know that she has rules to follow.”

“It’s not a big deal, I’ll just sneak off with the boys to get a real meal. I have to pretend to like her, remember?” Gwen sighed.

“Once the social season is over, you’ll have full authority to do whatever you want. You could easily banish her.”

“Maybe I will. We’ll see how she treats me when I become queen.” Gwen giggled and looked up at Luke.

“I can’t wait to make you queen.” Luke grinned, kissing her deeply. She kissed back and straddled him. “You have no idea what it does to me to see you in leggings.” Luke groaned softly and kissed her neck. She bit her lip and tilted her head back.

“Tell me more.” Gwen giggled.

“Your ass looks so perky and round.” Luke chuckled and sucked on her neck, eliciting a moan from her. He kissed back up to her lips after leaving a relatively large hickey on her neck. “Oops.” Luke grinned, rubbing the hickey with his thumb.

“Luke, how am I supposed to cover up a hickey here? I didn’t bring any makeup for that, I only have enough for my face.”

“Wear a scarf.” Luke chuckled. “It looks so good on you, though.”

“Luke, I’m serious.” Gwen pouted.

“I know, just shh.” Luke kissed her again. She wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed back, slowly rolling her hips down against his. He groaned lowly and gripped her hips. “You drive me so crazy.”

“What are you gonna do about it?” Gwen teased, tangling her fingers in his hair.

“This.” Luke smirked, thrusting up into her. She moaned loudly and tugged on his hair.

“Holy, fuck.” Gwen gasped, bouncing on his cock. He groaned and held her hips as she bounced. Luke moaned and threw his head back in pleasure.

“God, your pussy feels so good.” Luke groaned, thrusting up. Gwen moaned out his name and bounced faster.

“Shit, Lu.” Gwen whimpered softly and bounced. Luke groaned and brought his thumb down to her clit, rubbing quickly. “Oh, my God.” Gwen gasped, clenching around him.

“Oh, fuck.” Luke choked out. “Do that again.” Gwen moaned and clenched around him again. Luke groaned lowly and rubbed her clit faster. Gwen moaned loudly as she came around him, her thighs shaking from the pleasure. His name continuously fell from her lips as he continued thrusting into her. Luke moaned out her name as he released into her.

“Shit.” Gwen giggled breathlessly. “I told the boys this wouldn’t happen again.”

“They know about the yacht?” Luke chuckled, holding her close to him.

“I told them at dinner.” Gwen laid her head on his shoulder, closing her eyes.

“No one else can know. We’d both get in trouble.”

“I know, Luke. Trust me. The boys told me all about it.” She yawned, snuggling closer to him.

“I wish we could just be together. This whole thing would be so much easier.”

“Why can’t we? Why do we still have to go through all this?”

“Because, it’s tradition. It’s just what we do.”

“Sometimes, traditions need to change.”

#5sos #5 seconds of summer #luke hemmings #5sos smut #5sos imagine #5sos fic #5sos fanfic #fanfic #fanfiction #imagines #imagine #my writing #5sos writing #calum hood #michael clifford #ashton irwin

[darley1101]

Keeping It Real With Damien and Ava (Perfect Match)

A/N Over the last couple of days I have had requests for the OTP questionaire. I started to write them the way they are usually written: us writers answering the questions for the characters. And then I remembered how much fun I had writing Jenny's blog in my 'Birthday Surprise' one shot for #LoveHacks. The idea of treating each OTP pairing as an interview with Jenny for her blog came to me and it wouldn't go away. I am certain that someone, somewhere, has done something similar so credit for the idea goes to them. Regardless, I hope you enjoy! If not, I will revert back to the traditional manner in which these are done. XOXO -D-

Book(s) Perfect Match; #Love Hacks

Characters: Damien Nazario, Ava Park, Jenny Collins, with mention of other characters

Rating: Mature readers only as there is reference to sexual activity

Warning: This story does contain mention of sexual activity

tagging: @blackcatkita @boneandfur @josieschoices @endlessly-searching-for-you @flynnomalleys @lizeboredom @writtenbycandy @clarissafics @damienazariostan @mfackenthal @tmarie82 @flowerpowell @mrsnazario1223 @kingliamthirst @debramcg1106 @jadedpixiescribbles @penguininapinktuxedo @confessionsofabrokegirl @theroyalweisme @kinkykingliam 

Keeping It Real with Damien and Ava by Jenny Collins

On a daily basis we are bombarded with articles and interviews featuring famous couples who are trying to show the world how normal they are. Don't get me wrong, I think its great that Matt Rodriquez will go through the In and Out drive through to get his fiancee Ashton Jones a large order of french fries with extra ketchup; or that NFL quarterback Chris Powell and his wife Aria's idea of a perfect date is miniature golf. I love knowing that these larger than life people aren't so different from the rest of us; except, you know, their million dollar homes and eight figure bank accounts. Do you know what I love more? Exposing how awesome normal, every day couples can be, because lets face it the average couple isn't going to have the same issues Matt Rodriquez and Chris Powell have with their significant others. That's why I am starting my 'Keeping It Real' series. I want to show case how its not just famous couples that lead interesting lives, but regular couples as well. In the interest of being fair, I will be asking each couple the same questions.

When you know as many awesome couples as I do, figuring out who to interview first can be a bit tricky. As luck would have it, fate stepped in and made the choice form of my hubby Mark making a business trip to New York and inviting me to tag along. While in the Big Apple, I caught up with our friend Ben's sister Ava and her live in boyfriend Damien. We met at this fantastic little cafe near Central Park and over coffee, cronuts, and Damien's leeriness to invite strangers into his relationship (he's a legit private detective guys!) we delved right in to what makes Damien and Ava, the couple, tick! I hope you enjoy getting to know them as much as I did.

First, I just want to thank you guys for doing this!

Ava: Of course! There's nothing I love more than telling world how much I love this big lug! (she elbowed Damien in the side before hugging his arm and pressing a kiss to his cheek)

Damien: And there's not much I wouldn't do for Ava. (He's still a bit tense and leery at this point but willing to give it a try since Ava is so gun ho)

So, inquiring minds want to know how you met. (Its me. I'm the inquiring mind!)

Damien: (this adorable smirk comes over his face) It's kinda funny. I was out having a drink when I seen this little John Lennon wannabe hipster trying to kiss this girl who kept leaning back (he laughs at the memory) and I couldn't just stand there and do nothing.

Ava: (She starts giggling so hard its almost impossible to understand what she's saying) It was awful! My cousin Nadia set me up with him. The whole night he kept asking about how much I made because he needed a woman who could support him and his art. I had no idea how I was going to get out of kissing him when he kept coming at me with his lips like this (she purses her lips into an exaggerated fish pout and starts making kissy noises) Out of no where this guy (she jerks her head towards Damien) shows up and says 'That's my future wife you're trying to kiss!

Me: And you've been together ever since? (they look at each other and start laughing)

Ava: I wish! No, actually I just thanked him and we parted ways. It wasn't until a week later when my cousin Nadia was being stalked by some perverted cartoonist that we connected. And then it was just as friends. (She looks sad for a minute and Damien puts an arm around her)

Damien: We became such good friends that both of us were afraid to say we cared about the other as more than a friend. (He cuddles her closer and I swear my heart just about melted) It wasn't until I thought I might lose her for good that I made my move.

Ava: Excuse me! (She shot him a pointed look) I believe I was the one to make the first move!

Damien: (Laughing and throwing his hands up) Okay, okay, Ava was the one who actually made all the moves that resulted in us getting together.

You guys are too cute! I'm almost afraid to ask this though...who hogs the covers?

(They look at each other and then both answer)

Damien: Ava!

Ava: Me! (she laughs and gestures towards her body. She's super tiny, with very little body fat) I mean look at me. I literally blow away when the wind gets too strong. It's embarrassing, not to mention annoying. (She lets out a sigh and starts toying with the end of her long fishtail braid) I can never get warm enough in the winter. It's awful.

Damien: You should see her. She'll come to bed wearing this ugly thick socks, leggings, and this hideous sweatshirt that goes to her knees. (He gives her a bemused look) One of these days I'm going to burn it.

Ava: (gasps) You better not!

Damien: Don't worry, I will keep you warmer than that ratty old thing ever could. (He cuddles her again and I swear to God Mark you better be taking notes! I need cuddles like this in my life!)

I just want the record to show I don't support burning Ava's sweatshirt. (I say this while laughing) Next question. Hopefully this one doesn't result in threats: who texts or calls the most to check in throughout the day?

Damien: I think its about equal. (He seems a little hesitant while saying this)

Ava: (She raises one of her brows) Are you sure about that? (She then looks at me, smiling) He's not wrong, but it sort of depends on what's going on. If I'm working on an article and I know I have a deadline approaching, I tend to loose myself in my writing. (She smiles at me again) I'm sure you know how that is!

Me: (nodding) Absolutely!

Damien: Alright. Fine. I tend to text or call Ava more. I used to be a cop and am currently a private investiagtor, so I've seen some scary shit. (He shoots me an apologetic look) Is it okay to say that? Or is your blog one of those PG ones?

Me: (laughing) My last blog was about how to achieve orgasm while pregnant. I don't think a little curse word like shit is going to offend my readers. (The look on his face when I tell him about my last blog is priceless. His tan skin turns this adorable red color)

Damien: (he's shifting around now, like he's a little nervous.) Uh right. Well, like I said, I tend to do most of the random check in's...

Ava: But not always. Sometimes I'm the one with the free time and I blow up his phone.

Damien: Which is not cool when I'm trying to stake out a potential cheater.

Ava: (shrugs) What can I say? I'm needy. But (she grins at him and squeezes him around the waist) you know I love you!

You guys are literally the cutest! Speaking of cute...lets talk gifts! Whose the most creative when it comes to gift?

Ava: (she blushes a little) We both really suck at buying gifts.

Damien: Its true. My last gift to her was an iron because she said she was tired of paying extra at the laundry. (I can't help but wince. Guys, irons are not romantic gifts)

Ava: And my last gift to him was a years supply of notebooks and pens. (She has the decency to look at her cronut)

Boy, you guys weren't kidding when you said you both sucked at giving gifts! (The both nod at me, laughing)

(Ava enjoying her tea after we left the cafe)

We take a slight break while Damien goes to answer a phone call from a client and I take my pregnant butt to the bathroom. When I return, Ava had ordered us some boba tea and these little spinach quiches that are almost too cute to eat. She gives me a sheepish look and admits she's basically a bottomless pit and needed more to eat than the cronut she'd devoured during the first part of our interview. We decide to go ahead with a few easy questions while Damien soothes a client. She tells me about him being an early riser and her sleeping like the dead until noon. We laugh over Damien being a sap during movies about animals, especially if the animal lead dies.

Ava: He cried like a baby during A Dog's Life and Marley and Me. (She peeks over her shoulder to be sure he's still on the phone) And you should see him at the end of Old Yeller.

Things are going so well, I decided to just go for the big guns!

So...Ava...between us girls who suggests new things in bed?

Ava: (her cheeks flush a little) That's a tough one because we're both open to trying to things. If I read an article or Damien hears or sees something during a stake out. (She's really blushing at this point) Lets just say we both like keeping things interesting.

Damien: Sorry for that. (He sits down and I catch him up. He's a little embarrassed that Ava outed him for getting misty eyed during animal flicks but gets her back) Did she tell you about her handcuff kink?

Ava: (At this point she's the same color of red as the crop top she's wearing.) Damien!

Any chance you like to give her a massage or two while she's cuffed? (I'm such a bad girl! I even winked. Who wouldn't after an announcement like that!)

Damien: Not the sort we're going to talk about here. (He actually winked back at me! He's definitely lightened up and gotten into the spirit of things) Besides, Ava's the one whose good at massages. She'll surprise me at work with Gray Papaya hot dogs and a shoulder massage.

Me: That's sweet! (Note to self, I need to surprise Mark with hot dogs and shoulder massages at work. Well, maybe not the hot dogs because San Fran doesn't do a dog the way New York does)

Ava: He's always so tense! I can't help it!

Does that sweetness cross into nursing him while he's sick? Or...

Ava: (Covers her face with her hands) I'm the worse when it comes to being sick.

Damien: Let her contract a simple cold and she acts like its the Ebola virus and she's on the verge of death.

Ava: (She drops her hands and scowls at him) I'm not that bad! (He looks at me and mouths that yes, she is that bad. God, these two are cracking me up!)

Lets talk jealousy.

Ava: (She looks at Damien, an amused look on her pretty face) Yes, Damien lets talk jealousy!

Damien: (This time he's the one blushing!) It was an honest mistake!

Ava: (She looks at me, trying not to laugh.) You know my brother Ben? (I nod as Ben is a dear friend) Well he showed up unexpectedly one day and naturally I was super excited-

Damien: Come on, Ava, do we really need to tell people about this?

Ava: You tackled my brother to the ground for hugging me because you thought he was some guy trying to cop a feel! (I have to cover my mouth so Damien doesn't see me laughing)

Damien: I didn't realize he was your brother! All I seen was some schmuck with his hands on my girlfriend! (he looks at me) next question please?

Sure (I am openly laughing now) how about something fun. Like who has the most embarrassing taste in music.

Ava: (She's adopted this stoic look and keeps clearing her throat)

Damien: Five words. (He shoots Ava a sly look) New Kids On The Block. (Ava groans and buries her face in her hands as Damien starts making oh, oh oh, noises.) You got the right stuff...(he elbows Ava) baby...

Ava: Please stop.

Damien: I love the way you (he's cut off by Ava placing her hand over his mouth)

Ava: Okay, fine, so I might have a few New Kids On The Block songs on my play list but you...(she jabs Damien in the chest with her finger) you like to listen to the Pussycat Dolls!

Me: Hey, I listen to PCD! (It's true. I have at least five of their songs, plus I seen them in concert)

Damien: There. You see. Nothing wrong with a little PCD. (We fist bump at this point and I feel like I've officially made a new friend for life.)

I'm almost afraid to ask if either of you collect anything unusual.

Ava: Do robots count? (They share a laugh and a look that has me thinking there is more to this story than meets the eyes.)

Damien: Ava has trolls.

Ava: (if looks could kill, I'm pretty sure I would be performing CPR on Damien right now) You leave my trolls out of this. (She looks at me.) Yes, I have trolls. My grandma collected them and when she passed away we each got to pick our favorites. I don't collect them though. They're around for sentimental reasons.

So...real talk...who takes the longest to get ready?

Damien: Believe it or not, I do.

Ava: I can take a shower, do my hair and make up, get dressed, and he's still perfecting his hair style.

Damien: Hey, it takes work for hair to look this good! (Let the record show that Damien really does have fantastic hair!

Does that mean he's the more organized and tidy of you two?

Ava: Ha! (She bursts out laughing so loud other guests in the cafe turn to stare.) Damien's idea of organized is keeping his fast food wrapper pile to the left of his desk.

Damien: You'd think, given my job, that I would be more organized. (He frowns slightly) Okay, let me rephrase that. When it comes to cases, I'm very organized. Personal space...not so much.

With the 4th of July having just passed, I need to ask: whose the most excited about holidays?

Ava: Neither of us? (She shrugs) Don't get me wrong, we love Christmas and Thanksgiving as much as the next person but we don't really go all out. I think that's mostly because my cousin Nadia never does anything halfway and we sort of just know she's going to go all out...so we just enjoy her efforts.

Damien: Yeah. I would have to agree with that.

Aw that's kind of a bummer. (But it explains why Ben doesn't really do much during the holidays other than show up for dinner) Cheer me up. You guys are clearly very cuddly with each other. (They're cuddled up again and I'm telling you Mark, they've built up expectations that you must live up to!) Whose the big spoon and whose the little spoon?

Ava: We do enjoy our cuddles. (She lays her head on his shoulder, their fingers twining together. I'm seriously jelly right now) During the summer, I'm the big spoon. Damien doesn't like to be hot, so he tends to throw off the covers, which leaves me freezing, so I have to cling to his back in an effort to stay warm.

Damien: So she claims. (He chuckles, his eyes twinkling) What about all those nights I've kept you warm by wrapping you up in my arms, huh?

Ava: You interrupted me before I could get to that! (She looks at me and rolls her eyes.) Men! I swear. (She rolls her eyes again) Before the big baby has a melt down...he's the big spoon in the winter. My own personal space heater. (She presses a quick kiss to his lips) There. Happy now?

Damien: I'm getting there....

You guys are both very competitive aren't you?

Ava: I'm really not. If I play a game a game, I play for fun. To me, its not about winning, it's about fun. It's why I was never any good at spots.

Me: What about you Damien? Are you in it to win it or just having fun?

Damien: I hate losing, that's all I'm going to say.

Does that carry over into arguments? (They both stare at me in surprise before laughing)

Ava: Not really. We bicker a lot. Sort of like we've done here, today, but we don't really have arguments.

Damien: More like disagreements that get heated...and occasionally the police show up.

Ava: One time! (she looks mortified that he brought up the police being called. Meanwhile. I'm thrilled that he's comfortable enough to do so) And I know it was your neighbor Mrs. Godowlski. (She looks at me) He made mad so I dropped a water balloon on his head from the window and the old biddy called the police saying I was throwing things at him.

Yikes! Sounds like your neighbor is a real winner there Damien. (He shrugs but there's a smirk on his lips) Anyways, Ben was telling me  you guys have the cutest little dog. Whose idea was it to get a pet?

(Tell me that Buddy is not the cutest dog ever?!)

Ava: I don't think we really decided to get a pet so much as Buddy happened and it was love at first sight.

Damien: He was this little stray who hid under the bench outside my office building. One night Ava, was able to get him to come to her and he's been with us ever since.

That is awesome. Rescues make the best pets.

(They both agree with me and take another break. This time so Ava can respond to the twenty texts her cousin Nadia has sent. Hm. That could be a good blog, right? How many texts is too many texts...and how to stop yourself from sending them.) Damien and I briefly chat off the record about why I'm doing this and he even goes so far as to say he thinks its a cool idea. Thanks, Damien, I think its a cool idea too. I ask him how he keeps things romantic and he melts my heart by saying every night he stops by a local flower cart and picks up a single sunflower. “Some days my job is really dark. I spend a lot of time breaking up marriages...” I have to stop him here and remind him that he doesn't break up the marriages, the actions of the cheating partners do. “Okay, you're right. My point is, Ava's smile can take the worse day and make it better. Sunflowers make her smile.” He just gives this little shrug, as though he has not clue how freaking sweet that is.

(I managed to talk Damien into one silly picture)

Ava: And I'm back. (She drops into her seat next to Damien and grins apologetically) Sorry, if I hadn't answered she would have started calling and none of us want that!

Its cool. (I consult my notes to see where we had left off) So...what traditions do you have?

Ava: You mean like couple traditions? (I told her that yes, that was exactly what I mean) Well, Damien likes to bring me sunflowers every day...does that count?

Me: Most definitely!

Damien: We have a joint Pinterest and once a week, I will pin a meal I want her to cook.

Me: Ava's a good cook?

Damien: Oh yeah. (Ava blushes but doesn't refute what he's saying. I kind of want to invite myself over for dinner right now) I burn water.

Any tv shows you guys like to watch while eating those Pinterest inspired meals?

Ava: Oh! Yes! (She squirms around, all excited) We both love watching this show called The Social Season. Its kind of like a telenovela. (She squirms again, her cheeks flushed) Its about this girl named Eliza and....oh gosh Jenny you just have to watch it! (She squeals when I tell her that I do watch it. How could I not? It's just that good!)

Damien: It is pretty good. (He looks embarrassed to admit that he watches a trashy romance series but I tell him he has nothing to be ashamed of. I tell him that Mark likes this drama known as Consequences of Secrets, which seems to put him at ease.)

Are these meals and shows watched alone or do you invite over other couples?

Damien: We spent a lot of time with Ava's cousin Nadia and her...boyfriend...Steve, as well as our friends Sloane and Hayden.

Ava: Yeah, we try to get together at least once every two weeks for dinner and games.

Damien: Drinking games

Ava: Not always! Sometimes we play monopoly.

Damien: While drinking.

We spend a few more minutes chatting and make plans for dinner later that evening. They want to introduce Mark and I to Ava's co-worker Lucy and her soon to be husband Flynn, as well as Flynn's sister Kate and her boyfriend Grant. Of course I jump at the opportunity. Who knows...maybe my next blog will be about one of them!

A/N Do you guys enjoy this method of answering the OTP or do you want me to go back to regular style? Let me know in a comment or reblog! Want to know more about Ava and Damien's favorite “shows” check out the fics: The Social Season and The Consequences of Secrets. Also, I  currentl have requests for Flynn x Lucy, Jamison x Adam (AME) and Becca x Zig but anyone would like to see other couples ‘interviewed’ like this let me know!

#otp answers #choices perfect match #choices lovehacks #choices damien nazario #choices damien x mc #long post

[sorenmarie87]

In The Middle Of The Ride characters

I forgot I had this but if you want to get to know some of my original babies - Here you go. 

Name: Ryuichi A. Madison Age: 18 Height: 5’1’’ Parents: Mom (Elizabeth)- DJ Dad (Jack)- Animator Eye Color: Light Green Hair Color: D. Brown (Dyes it red)

Background: Before Ryuichi was born her mother (Elizabeth) was in college to become a prize-winning pianist but followed Jack to England. (She changed her major to become a DJ), overseas she became famous while Jack worked at his animation.  Before having Ryuichi, Jack and Elizabeth were married on September 7th 1986.  On July 31st 1987, Ryuichi was born and she meets Will for the time when he’s in the hospital visiting his father.  When she was 3, they moved back to America (Jack had been offered a job working on his newest cartoon and they had requests for Elizabeth in nightclubs).

Name: Madeline (Maddie) Parker Age:  18 Height: 5’6’’ Parents: Mom- Chef   Dad- Teacher (Geometry teacher) Eye Color: Hazel Hair Color:  Red Loves: Writing, singing and dancing

Background: Moved from Louisiana and meet Cordy and Ryu in the 4th grade.  She was born on a floating boat casino on May 8th, 1987.  Maddie loves to write music and singing occasionally. She has an older sister named Isabelle and an older brother named Martin (Marty) She also has a younger sister, Leora, and another younger brother named Daniel.

Name: Cordelia (Cordy) Turner Age: 18 Height: 5’8’’ Parents: Lives w/ mom- College professor Eye Color: blue Hair Color: black hair Born on August 3rd, 1987

Background:  Her parents separated when she was four years old and no one has seen her father since then.  Cordy’s mom teaches at the elementary school for the fourth grade.  Her, Maddie and Ryuichi have tried starting a band (hasn’t performed yet).  Maddie writes, Ryuichi plays the guitar and Cordelia sings (although she tries very hard to get Ryuichi to sing)

Name: Lucille (Lucy) Taylor Age:  18 Height: 5’10’’ Parents: Mom (Leilani)- lawyer Dad (Luke)- Animator   Eye Color: D. Brown Hair Color:  D. Brown

Born on April 1st, 1986

Lucy is the type of person who acts and talks tough, but is really a great person to be around.  Lucy is very protective of her family (Lucas and Ryuichi def.)  Lucas and Lucy are only a few hours apart, but Lucas is the older sibling.  (Fraternal twins) Has some anger issues, and when her dad finds out she's dating someone named Lindsey, he assumes that his daughter is a lesbian... but she isn't.

Name: Alice Wonderly Age:  17 Height: 5’3’’ Parents:  Mom- Nurse Eye Color:  Blue Hair Color:  Blonde Born on October 13th, 1988

Background: Alice was born in the country.  She was born on Oct. 13, 1988.  Was friends with Ryuichi and Erin when they were in elementary/middle school.

(She's the kind of person that if there's someone her friend doesn't like, she doesn't like that person either.  Goes with the crowd basically.  Although she considers Ryuichi a very good friend.)

Very kind and considerate, she is very protective of her friends & family.  Alice is an only child and lives at home with her mom.  Others consider her bad luck, but she is very lucky actually.

Very quiet

Name: Erin Ophelia Mackenzie Age: 17 Height: 5’5’’ Parents: Mom - Lawyer Dad - Doctor Eye Color:  amber with flecks of honey Hair Color: red (short) Born on September 15th, 1987

Background: Erin was actually Ryuichi's first best friend.  They met for the first time in the 2nd grade.  Her birthday is on Sept. 15, 1987.  Over time, she drifted from her friends and became very interested in other things (I.E. sports and whatever else) She stopped talking to Ryuichi because a major argument they had.  To get back at Ryu (because Erin always has to get her way) she has to bully her in some way.

-Interested in Will only because she finds Ryuichi's reaction amusing

Name: Hilda Roberts "Quatre" Age: 23 Height: 5’6’’ Eye color: Aqua blue Hair color: Blonde

Background:  Lindsey’s older sister who married the owner of a clothing shop.  She met her husband Wolfram in college while she was studying theatrics; she’s good at improv, which explains the toaster.  She was working with the fashion students on a production her class was putting on; they were introduced and instantly were attracted.  Anita and Pilot like Hilda, mainly because they feared their son was gay, but are happy with his choice.

Name: Charlie White Age: 22 Height: 5'7'' Parents: mom- works at a library, dad- works at an advertising agency Hair Color: Brown w/ red highlights eye color: Blue

Background: Charlie was born on Dec. 31, 1985 in a small town.  She has one younger sister named Remy who is 12.  Her parents are married, and she hopes for the same kind of relationship.  Met and started dating Dominic in his freshman year (her junior year) So she has gotten used to him dressing in girl's clothes from time to time.

Works at a coffee shop on her college campus and still lives in town.  Is unsure if she should go see Dominic or not.  (Her feelings for him never changed.) Working on a degree in early childhood.

Name: Will Sparrow Age: 18 Height: 6’2’’ Parents: lives with grandparents Eye Color:  Blue Hair Color: Black -Born on February 12th, 1986

Background: Will was born on Feb. 12, 1986 in a small province of England.  He is the middle child out of three younger sisters (Yasmin-3, Aiden-11, Rhiannon-15) and two older brothers (Caden-21, Benjamin-28)  When he was three years old his father was in the hospital for an extended amount of time.  The night he met Ryuichi's mom, he was on his way home from visiting his dad.  His grandparents offered to take care of him until his dad got better.  He used to play and visit with Ryuichi until the day she moved to America (He never forgot the promise they made when they were little...)  His grandparents moved to America a few months later, and Will's mom sent him to live with them.  He was home tutored until 15, then he was sent to a high school near them and for his junior year, they moved him to LHS.  His other siblings still live in London with his parents.

Name: Jamie Starr Age: 18 Height: 5’11’’ Parents: None. Lives with older sister and her husband. Eye Color:  Brown Hair Color:  Brown

Background: He was born March 30th 1988 in New York City. His parents died in a car accident three years ago. Jamie's sister took him in after the accident. They just recently moved to the area where Jamie met Ryuichi and her friends. Jamie's sister and her husband own a popular coffee shop/bakery in town. Jamie loves to write. He also loves sweets.

Name: Mark Renart Age: 24 Height: 6’2 Eye Color: Green Hair Color:  Blonde

Background: He is the newest addition to Lasiter High School. He teaches honors and AP English for the juniors and seniors. He lives in an apartment near the school. Mark usually isn't into dating anyone younger, but clearly he makes an exception for one of the students...

Name: Lindsey Houst Age: 18 Height: 6’4’’ Parents: Mom & Dad own a restaurant Eye Color: Brown Hair Color: Sandy Blonde -Born on November 29th, 1986

-Moved from Australia when he was 10 and his parents own a restaurant called “Sheila's”

Name: Lucas Taylor Age:  18 Height: 6’1’’ Parents: Lives at home occasionally stays with Elizabeth & Jack Eye Color: D. Brown Hair Color:  D. Brown -Born on April 1st, 1986 -He is Ryuichi’s cousin and Lucy’s brother.

Name: Gavin Smith Age: 18 Height:  5’11’ Parents: Mom - writer Dad-owns his own business Eye Color:  Hazel Hair Color: Brown

Background: Born on March 11th, 1986 but no one actually knows how his eyes got to be orange, but a lot of people don’t believe he wears contacts.  Gavin’s family moved from place to place before settling into his home in the city.  His older sister is named Samira, his younger brothers are Samuel, Brody, and Tommy, and his younger sister is Joanne.  He went to middle school with Cordy, Maddie, and Ryuichi.

Name: Dominic Hayden Howard Age: 18 Height: 6’0’’ Parents: Lives with his sister (Penny) and her girlfriend (Cassidy) -parents are in Ireland Ashton- Penny's son Eye Color: Green Hair Color:  Red -Born on January 3rd, 1986

Background: Dominic’s parents first met when they were on a trip to Ireland and moved to the U.S. after Penny was born.  He was born on Jan. 3, 1986.   Transferred from different schools due to bullying and harassment issues from other students, and has only been in an all-boys school once. The last school he was in was where he met Charlie.  After 2 yrs of dating, Charlie broke up with him and he moved again.  He spent a year trying to make other friends but it didn't succeed.   On his first day of school at Lasiter High, many people were shocked to find he was a boy, and not a girl. Lives with his sister Penny, her girlfriend Cassidy and their son Ashton.  They take vacations with their mom and dad but this year he declined.  

Name: Sebestyen Erikson Age: 28 Height: 6’ Parents: both therapists Eye color: Left- blue, right- green Hair color: faded Green

Background:  With both of his parents being therapists, Sebestyen’s childhood was very messed up.  His family originated from Germany where his parents met at school.  They moved from various areas of Europe before moving to America.  Although he was teased in school, he refused to go to any psychiatrists or therapist, so he resorted to storytelling so he could tell half-truths to everyone around him.  Knows Hilda, Penny and Cassidy from middle school but hasn’t seen them in forever.  Works at the high school as a janitor and as a greeter for stores when it’s Christmas time.  Sebestyen is easy to get along with; he just needs some getting used to.

Name: Wolfram Roberts Age: 29 Height: 6’2” Parents: Anita and Pilot Roberts Eye color: Unknown, he where’s contacts with a different color every day. (NOTE: Not even Quatre knows!) Hair color: Platinum Blonde

Background:  He is married to Hilda, Lindsey’s sister.  He owns a clothing shop and sells his own clothing from his own line of clothes rightfully called “Ambiguous”.  The gang frequently refers to him as Lindsey’s “Ambiguously gay brother in-law”.  His parents Anita and Pilot are rich business owners, along with Wolfram’s brother Zeb and his sisters Manon and Mem, or otherwise considered by Wolfram seeing as he is the youngest, “The Triplets”.  It is thought that the multitude of tea parties and dress up games Manon and Mem forced him into caused the resulted Ambiguously gay Wolfram.

#In The Middle of The Ride #characters

[unseenthewriter]

CHAPTER 7: TRUTH

Chapter 7: 1070 Words

Total: 11012 Words

There was a knock on the front door to Hardy's house. I sighed. "Look Ashton it's great to see you but now really isn't the time." I said.

"It's never a good time to see you Finn." He said following me back into my room. 

I sat back down on the floor looking at my scattered files. "Your timing sucks." I muttered picking up a recent photo of my Dad in Italy.

"Yo, what is all this?" Ash asked.

I sighed standing back up and leaning against the wall. "Turns out my Dad is alive and well." 

"He's what?!" Ash exclaimed.

"Alive, unfortunately, I didn't stutter did I?" I said.

"You know normally I'd say this is fantastic but I know that look." He said.

"Which look?" I asked looking at the photo again.

Ash pushed my hand down and got in my face. "Everything sucks major ass look." He said locking eyes with me.

I had almost forgotten the way he smelled. Reminders of a happier time. All things considered.

The door opened and we quickly separated. "Sir I didn't realize you were home." I stumbled over my words.

Hardy raised an eyebrow. "Ash I presume. We'll talk later, Murray." He said and left us.

I threw my hands up. "Great this is just great." I said.

"What's wrong Finn?" Ash asked as I grabbed my coat.

I tried to ignore him but Ash grabbed my arm once I was outside. "What's wrong." He repeated.

"I don't need my boss walking in on us." I said.

"Okay, okay, hold up. One that's your boss?" Ash asked.

I nodded.

"Two doesn't he know about us?" Ash continued.

"No Ash! No one knows I'm Gay yet. I mean Hardy knows I'm trans but I kinda had to tell him I mean he knew Dad and-" I rambled.

Ash cut me off with a kiss. "We'll figure this out alright?" He said after.

"Y-yeah I uh-" I said but couldn't find any words.

"Still flustered by my kisses? Well, that's good to hear." He joked.

I could feel my face turning very very red. I couldn't manage to say anything.

Ash tilted his head. "More flustered than usual I see. Let's take a walk then hm? Show me around Broadchurch yeah?" Ash said and held my hand.

"S-sure."

~~~

I was sitting in Hardy's office. "So Ash is?" He asked.

"Long-distance boyfriend. We met at MIT." I said softly.

He nodded. “Has Quinn tried contacting you again?”

“He’s tried to yes. I’m not in the mood to talk to him.” I said.

“We need to talk to him.” Hardy said.

I sighed. “I know. I almost wish he was still dead.”

~~~

I decided to bring Ash to the shack to see if he could look over the secret room. He’s gotten distracted by all the stuff in the main area though. “Oh my gosh look at you as a toddler!” He exclaimed.

“Ash please the stuff I need you to look at is down here” I huffed while standing over the trapdoor.

“You should grow your hair out again, it looks nice.” Ash commented.

“No.” I said while climbing down the ladder again.

“Woah.” Ash said.

“Yeah, I know. You got the laptop to run a virtual machine? I need the Computer Forensics to be valid.” I said.

He nodded pulling a laptop out of his bag. “Dude this is crazy.” He said.

“Find anything about why he has all these cameras?” I asked.

“No, but you might have some better luck. I mean you know your father better than me.” Ash said, handing me the laptop.

“I’m not so sure how well I know him anymore.” I sighed. I noticed all the references to flowers almost immediately. “That can’t be…”

“What is it?” Ash asked, peering at the laptop.

“My Mom’s code names were always related to flowers. Like Rose, Lily or Daisy.” I replied.

“Could she be alive too?” Ash asked.

“No way. I saw her die.” I said.

"You held your Dad as he died and somehow he's still alive." Ash countered.

I just glared at him.

“So why is your Dad mentioning you Mom all the time?” Ash asked.

“No idea. I guess it’s time to talk to him.” I said looking at Ash.

~~~

I stared at the waves on the beach while Alec and I waited for my Dad to show up. Ash wanted to be with me but I convinced Miller to distract him. He can be a little unpredictable when it comes to supporting me…

“He’s late.” Hardy said.

“I’d be willing to bet he’s scoping us out first.” I said. Hardy raised an eyebrow. “He got pretty paranoid after my Mom died.” 

A few minutes later Dad walked up to us. “Never expected you to come out to Broadchurch Alec.” He said. “Nice job on that case with that boy a few years back.”

“Dad, what up with the computer at the shack.” I asked.

“Oh, that old thing? It’s a long story son. I don’t think you really need to-” He started.

“Look I’m done with all the hiding. I saw all the references to Mom.” I said.

Dad sighed. “Look there's a lot of things I’m not proud of.”

“I don’t care.” I said.

A look of guilt flashed through my Dad’s eyes. “The fire wasn’t an accident.”

I blinked. “No- That can’t be-” I stumbled.

“It was a hit. By the CIA no less.” He said.

I took a few steps back. “But she- I was there!” I said.

“You weren't supposed to be there. Max promised.” Dad said.

“Max did it?!” I exclaimed.

“We both did.” He finished.

“No- no this can’t-” I said. This can’t be happening. Dad killed Mom? No. 

“Finn.” Alec said bringing me back to the present.

“How could you do that to her?! She didn’t do anything!” I exclaimed, grabbing my Dad.

“Finn I didn’t have a choice.” He said.

“NO! You always have a choice! You could’ve quit. You- you!” I yelled at him.

Hardy pulled me off of Dad. “DS Murray let him go.”

“You’re a DS now?” Dad asked after fixing his tie.

“Yeah, I got promoted after you ‘died’.” I scoffed. “A pity promotion. I never should’ve joined law enforcement. I’ve earned nothing. No, my pedigree has gotten me everything.” I jerked my arm away from Hardy’s grasp. “I’m done with this.”

AN: I’m not even sure how long ago I wrote this... Definitely over a year ago oops. I should’ve mentioned this a LONG TIME AGO but this fic is plot twist central so if you’re not into that maybe check out something else lol.

#familyflaws #writing