#unveil tour i am

[250318]

© florescence | do not edit and/or crop logo

#stray kids #lee know #p:fantaken #fs:florescence #unveil tour i am in moscow #unveil tour i am #e:clé 2 yellow wood #190804

[harunayuuka2060]

Twst Unveil Event Part 2

*In the Mirror Chamber*

*Yuurin, Jack, Ruggie, Malleus, Silver, Sebek, Rook, Epel, Floyd, and Jade are already there.*

Malleus: Seems that everyone is here.

Sebek: It's a pleasure for us to be in a trip with you, Waka-sama!

Malleus: Yes. Thanks to Yuurin who graciously invited me.

Yuurin: Don't mention it, Malleus-senpai.

Ruggie: Um, Rook? Is that a camera?

Rook: Oui!

Jack: Why?

Rook: To take photos of Monsieur Tranquille, of course!

Ruggie: ...

Ruggie: No, Rook. That's our job.

Jack: Yes. We need to update Leona-senpai every hour.

Epel: When did Leona-senpai become such a worrywart?

Floyd: Ne~ Ne~ Damselfish~ Are we going to have a sleepover~?

Yuurin: Yes. I believe so.

Floyd: You can share a bed with me and Jade~. You'll be our pillow~.

Silver: You can't.

Floyd: Eh~ Why not~?

Jade: Is there a problem, Silver?

Silver: Yuurin needs a good night's rest.

Jade: Ah, now that makes sense. *chuckles*

Floyd: Eh~? But I sleep like a baby lamb~.

Them except Yuurin: We all know that's a lie.

Yuurin: It's time for us to go.

Yuurin: We have arrived.

*The fresh breeze immediately welcomes them.*

Them: *sigh in contentment*

Jade: I like this place. *chuckles*

Silver: It feels like a good place to sleep in...

Sebek: Silver! Don't fall asleep!

Yuurin: I'm glad you find the place relaxing.

Yuurin: Though it's good while it lasts.

Jack: Hm? What do you mean by that, Yuurin?

Yuurin: Here she comes.

*The ground started shaking*

Epel: Eh— Are we having an earthquake?!

Yuurin: No.

"YUURIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

Them: Huh?

*A giant buff woman comes charging at them; or more likely towards Yuurin.*

Yuurin: Good morning, Philomela.

Them: That's... PHILOMELA?!!

Ruggie: Yuurin! Move aside!

Philomela: YUUURIN! *sweeps her off her feet and gives her a big, tight hug*

Philomela: Oh look at you!

Yuurin: How are you, Philomela?

Philomela: I am doing GREAT! *laughs*

Them: ...

Philomela: Oh. And these are your schoolmates, no?

Philomela: They look promising!

Them: *all of them smiles*

Yuurin: Philomela, can you put me down?

Philomela: Ah, yes, yes. Of course.

Floyd: Wow. She's as huge as a whale.

Epel: What the— Why would you say that?!

Philomela: A WHALE?!

Philomela: Did you hear that, Yuurin? He called me a whale!

Yuurin: Yes. I heard it loud and clear, Philomela.

Silver: She looks happy. Was that a compliment?

Yuurin: Yes. The best one at that.

The others: Oh...

Ruggie: *mutters* Wow. If it were in any other places...

Jack: *mutters too* You would have been slapped.

Philomela: Have a tour of the place while I assist the other schools.

Yuurin: ...

Yuurin: Didn't you say no one wanted to participate?

Philomela: Well, after making an announcement that Night Raven College will join, different schools have shown their interests.

Yuurin: ...

Yuurin: I see. In that case, we will see you later.

Philomela: *takes her leave*

Floyd: So~ What should we do now~?

Malleus: I want to hear the beliefs and culture of this place.

Yuurin: There are tons of them.

Rook: Can you give us an example?

Yuurin: Hmm...

Yuurin: If you happen to lock eyes with an animal and it starts to approach you, run.

Epel: Huh? But why?

Jack: Is it because it's attacking you?

Yuurin: No. It means a god has taken a liking on you.

Them: ...

Rook: And why is that a problem, Monsieur Tranquille?

Yuurin: Kingdom of Heroes have records of wars and long-time disputes just for this very reason.

Ruggie: Yikes.

Floyd: Oh...

Floyd: There's a bald eagle staring at Guppy right now.

Epel: ...

Malleus: You are being liked by a god.

Yuurin: Oh. A bald eagle.

Yuurin: That's not good.

Epel: *panic noises*

*Later, Yuurin has to convince Epel that it was only a myth to stop him from crying*

Leona: How is everything there?

Yuurin: Not a problem so far.

Leona: Good. That's all I have to say. I'll hang up now. *ends the call*

Ruggie and Jack: ...

Ruggie: In 3... 2... 1...

Ruggie: *Leona is calling him*

Ruggie: *answers*

Leona: No sleeping in the same bed.

Ruggie: Yes, boss. Copy. *then Leona hangs up*

Jack: Aren't we sharing beds already?

Ruggie: Shh. You're going to attract the strict brother energy, Jack.

#twisted wonderland #twst yuurin #twst jack #twst ruggie #twst floyd #twst jade #twst rook #twst epel #twst malleus #twst silver #twst sebek #twst oc philomela #twst leona #twst unveil event

[kpop]

K-Pop Spotlight: Stray Kids

A crime of passion has been committed, and Stray Kids is on the case—143, that is. Whodunnit, you ask? We caught up with the group ahead of the release of their latest mini-album, MAXIDENT, to chat about matters of the heart, their sold-out UNVEIL shows, and producing music on the road. And if you’ve ever wondered what a movie night with Stray Kids would be like, we’ve got you covered there, too. Check out our full interview below!

Tell us about your new mini-album MAXIDENT and your experiences writing and composing music while on tour. 

Bang Chan: Like the title of the album, Stray Kids have come across a case that they’ve never encountered before. A MAXIDENT has occurred with the birth of Stray Kids’ first love title song! Writing tracks and demos while on tour has always been fun. Different sceneries and environments definitely help out with the inspiration for new projects.

HAN: This new album showcases the growth of the more mature sides of Stray Kids. Being able to visit and experience so many different places while on tour has definitely brought us many inspirations for projects.

Each of you performed so many individual songs and covers (i.e., ‘Streetlight,’ ‘Smells Like Teen Spirit,’ ‘Youngblood’) throughout your tour—which were your favorites to perform? 

Lee Know: I had a lot of fun singing and dancing to J.Y. Park’s ‘Honey.’ 

Seungmin: My most memorable moment was when I sang Justin Bieber’s ‘Off My Face’! I was so happy that I was able to sing for fans with a live band. I also sang a lot of other Justin Bieber songs, and especially because these are songs I love, I was happy to sing. 

Give us your TMI! Share one out-of-the-ordinary thing you did this week that no one else knows. 

Changbin: I had an arm-wrestling fight with the members, and I was the final winner. As expected—I am powerful! 

I.N: I bought konjac black bean noodles!

Congratulations on your UNVEIL 11 shows at KSPO! What were your expectations going into the concerts, and how did they compare to the real thing? 

Hyunjin: It felt like a dream to perform at the KSPO Dome. I didn’t expect so many STAY to come, but thanks to the many STAY who came, I had so much fun performing. 

Felix: Not only was it a goal but also a gift from STAY, who came to watch our concert at the KSPO Dome. The KSPO Dome was filled with a lot of STAY, making it not only memorable but enjoyable to see fans. We were able to ride on new carts to see STAY on the second floor, which was also memorable.

I.N: I was looking forward to performing so much, but the actual concert exceeded my expectations. I had tons of fun. I felt so, so proud to see the happiness in STAY’s eyes; this made me vow to myself that I will make STAY even happier in the future. 

We’ve seen a lot of heart imagery during this comeback, from the music video to the album art. Can you tell us a little about that choice and what those hearts represent? 

Bang Chan: Having love is a concept that is a MAXIDENT to us; we thought using hearts in a hectic turn of events was essential. “Love” might be a word that has a lovely and warm image, but to make it suit the Stray Kids color, we mixed things around to match the mood that we were aiming for.

Changbin: The reason why we use heart imagery is that this album contains our first love-themed title track. Also, the heart monsters that appear in the music video will spark STAY’s curiosity!

A crime has been committed, and you’re on the case—which of your members are on the hunt, and who committed the crime? 

HAN: I think the suspect would be I.N because he is so lovable. The thoughtful ones of the group, Hyunjin, and Seungmin, will be the ones on the hunt.

Seungmin: The suspect is Lee Know, and I will be the one in charge of going after him and examining the site!!!!!

Lightning round! You’re hosting a movie night for STAYs. What’s your snack of choice, your favorite pajamas, and the movie you’re watching? 

Lee Know: I want to watch a scary movie together. Without a doubt, the snack will be popcorn—caramel flavored. I want to wear the pajamas that I always wear. 

Hyunjin: A sweet romance movie, popcorn and soda, and cute pajamas.

Felix: While watching The Avengers, I hope everyone wears pajamas with long sleeves and eat caramel butter popcorn!

Want more of Stray Kids? Check out their new mini-album MAXIDENT and music video for ‘Case 143’ here. 

#stray kids #stray kids kpop spotlight #kpop spotlight #maxident

[bowandcurtsey]

{1700 event}

It's been hella long I did smuttttt. Please forgive me if i'm a little rusty hehe, but I enjoyed writing this!

Character: Nishinoya Yuu x F! reader AU: royal AU TW: nsfw - losing virginity / unchecked works / arranged marriage / kinda fluffy

You sat in front of your huge vanity table, looking at yourself. You gave a sigh.

"What's wrong lady y/n? Why the sigh? Are you unwell?" your servant Lucille asked.

"I'm alright, it's just-"

"Just what, lady y/n?"

"Am I ugly? Or unlikable?"

"Why in the world would you think that, Lady y/n?!" Lucille was shocked, "you're one of the most well-mannered princess in this castle, everyone loves you."

"Except my own husband that is," you sighed, "he was forced wasn't he? To marry me."

You and Prince Noya were in an arranged marriage and were married for 3 months now, but Noya barely had time to even accompany you. He had to go for many expeditions and would be away for days and weeks, and on days he was in the castle, he would leave in wee hours of the morning and come home past midnight.

It was as though he wanted to avoid you. Then why? Why did he agree to this arranged marriage by your fathers?

You recalled about the day you married him. He looked so fine in his olive swallow tailed suit. He hair was slicked to the back, together with his signature gold tuff. He looked incredibly handsome that even you couldn't forgot his look till today, you felt so lucky walking down that aisle.

On top of that, Prince Noya is very well-known for his achievements to the country. He's one of the most hands on prince in the castle, going out on expeditions, tours, rounds around the country. He also attended events and meetings at other countries. All in all, he's an active prince.

But you didn't expect barely even being able to talk to him, even though you share the same bed as this man. The worst thing? You have not even consummate your marriage, because on the night of your wedding, he had to leave for an emergency negotiation. All you did was share a kiss when he unveiled you. Although he would kiss you goodnight and good morning daily, but that was it.

You sighed as Lucille finished your hair for the day. You decided to walk around the royal library to find a nice book to read.

"princess y/n," It was prince Yaku. He wasn't from the Nishinoya family but he was Yuu's cousin from his maternal side. Prince Yaku was also a hands on prince, and he is also well liked by many citizens and people around him.

"oh please cut the formalities Prince Yaku. What brings you here today?"

"doing some reading on my free day, you?"

"finding a nice book to pass time.."

"until Yuu comes back?" he teased and you blushed.

"How did that lucky bastard find a girl like you?" he patted your head, "always waiting for him to come home."

Someone cleared their throat and you both looked towards the direction of the noise. It was Prince Noya.

You smiled as you walked to his side, "you're home early,"

"What are you doing with my wife?" Noya spoke with a low growl, pulling you closer to him with one hand.

"Just chatting about a book~" Yaku smirked at his cousin, taking this cue to leave. He patted Noya on the shoulder as he brushed past him.

"Was he flirting with you?" Noya turned to look at you as soon as Yaku was out of his sight.

"No! We only just met moments before you came!" you quickly explained.

"okay, don't let other men touch you in the future." Noya said with a tinge of irritation in his voice.

You suddenly felt a surge of courage rising within you.

"why do you care actually?" you said sadly, "this is just a forced marriage for you, isn't it?"

Noya's eyes darted to you with surprise. He looked around, as if checking whether anyone heard what you said. He grabbed your wrist and pulled you back to your shared room.

"ow!" you cried out when he yanked you into the room.

Noya quickly let your hand go, guilt rising in him thinking that he might have hurt you. He quickly took your hand in his again, checking for any injuries.

"I'm fine," you pulled your hand away from his, not wanting to look him in the eye.

Noya suddenly took a step closer to you, causing you to lean against the wall behind. He wasn't very tall, so you could feel his breath against your ear, "what did you say earlier, in the library?"

"I-... I know I shouldn't let another men touch me, since I'm your legally wedded wife..." you quickly tried to own up to your mistakes.

"No. What did you say?" Noya repeated himself, this time more calm and quiet.

"t-this is just a f-forced marriage for you, isn't it?"

"why would you think that?" he looked you straight in the eye now, his expression deadpanned, not giving any of his thoughts away.

"b-because it was just arranged by our fathers. You didn't have a choice, do you?"

"I did. I've liked you for a long time now which was I agreed to it. Didn't you?"

"I- didn't disagree.." you were shock at his sudden confession.. You didn't know that Prince Noya had his eyes on you all these while??

"So that's a yes, so why was this forced?" he had two hand on either side of you, caging you against him and the wall. He didn't touch you, but being so close to him sent your heart racing. You could see his neck so clearly, his adam's apple bobbed a little as he spoke. His defined chest and biceps could be seen through his shirt.

You felt a wave of heat pooling between your legs as your thighs squeezed together involuntarily.

"I... Because..." you felt your cheeks getting warmer at your lewd thoughts

"because..?" he cocked his head to the side, getting a clearer view of your face.

"Because you seemed like you didn't want to be with me..."

Noya let out a sigh, "I'm sorry for neglecting you, my princess. I admit.. I had been really busy because of political issues."

"I know.. it's okay." you said disappointedly, wanted to turn away and end the conversation.

"but things are better now." he suddenly held onto your waist, "I'll have some time off. We'll be going for a honeymoon, you can decide on where you want to go." he smiled, giving you a peck on the cheek.

"o-okay..." you blushed even harder at the physical affection he's finally giving you.

"but first.." Noya's voice trailed away, "I think we should complete our marriage before anyone could steal you away...."

He hands were quick to move to the back of your dress, unzipping them quickly.

"so that you belong to me and only me." he peppered kisses to your shoulder and collarbone.

You could already feel your underwear getting soaked and you tried pressing your thighs together even harder. But the friction caused you to be more aroused. Your fists balled onto Noya's shirt, as you tried to suppress your moans. You didn't want to sound so needy during your very first time.

"What's wrong?" he sucked onto your skin, causing legions, "don't hide your voice. We're lawfully wedded so it's normal to do the deed. I want everyone to hear."

You hid your face into Noya's neck as you mewled. Noya gave a chuckle as he carried you out of your dress and onto your bed. He looked at your body as his lips parted slightly.

You hurriedly tried to cover yourself up in embarrassment but your arms were quickly pinned on either side.

"I'm your husband, so don't be shy. I've been imagining this for months now, princess. You have no idea how many times I've fucked my fist thinking of this."

He pulled your bra down, exposing your breasts. He ran his tongue over his bottom lip, like a predator looking at it's prey. He licked your nipple and you gasped at the sudden cooling sensation.

"fuck." he proceed to suck on them, his other hand fondling with your other breast.

You felt your sex twitching in heat and pain, begging for some attention or intrusion and you whined, clutching into Noya's free hand.

"What do you need princess? Tell me. Only me."

You slowly guided his hand to your crotch, brushing his fingers against your wet cloth. "It feels painful here, Yuu..."

"Fuck you drive me crazy." he hissed as he felt your damp underwear, "I've kept you waiting for too long haven't I?"

In one swift move he pulled your underwear off, parting your legs slightly.

"no... don't look there..."

Your hole was glistening in your arousal and you even had some on your thighs.

"ahh!" you screamed as Noya licked your pussy. He pulled onto his hair as your thighs clamped his head tightly. He sucked and licked as he savoured all your juices.

"you taste good, y/n." his tongue was already exploring further and further into you and you were a moaning mess. Your toes curled together as you felt insides coil up.

"yuu... ah~" you moaned lewdly, "i-it feels so hot b-below.."

Noya pulled your thigh over his shoulder so he could access further into your vagina and he had a thumb circle around your clit.

"Let it go baby, cum for me my good girl."

You felt something release and a wave of pleasure washed upon you as your felt your vagina wall pulsing against Noya's tongue. His fingers slowly let you down from your high and your whole body suddenly went limp.

Noya let your leg down gently as he knelt before you, licking your juices off his lips. "that was fucking sexy, princess. Felt good, huh?"

Your bottom lip grazed against your top row of teeth slightly as you nodded, still in your euphoria.

Noya chuckled as he unbuckled his belt, pulling out his member. Despite his small stature, he had a nice size and girth. Seeing his member made your pussy pool in arousal again.

"Easy princess," he slowly aligned his dick at your entrance, "I should try to get you more ready, but I'm at my limits here, baby. Tell me if it hurts, okay?"

He slowly pushed in as you cried out in pain. It was like your skin was tearing apart. Your hole was hot - like it was on fire. Your fingers dug into the flesh of his back.

Amidst the stinging feeling, you wanted more of him, to go deeper within you, it was painful yet pleasureful at the same time, it was a strange feeling.

Noya steadied your thighs so that he could have a better angle as he slowly pushed himself further in. "You're so tight baby, you're gripping on me so hard."

When he was all the way in, he paused and took a good look at you, "I'm in princess, you okay?"

You nodded, as you wrapped your arms around his neck, feeling as one with him. You felt the pain melting away to the pleasure.

He slowly started rocking against you, grinding his hips back and forth. You moaned in rapture, wrapping your legs around his frame, wanting more and more.

Noya smirked, adjusting your thighs higher and spreading them apart, trying to find your spot.

"Yuu! Ahh!" you screamed in pleasure as he hit a particular spot, causing your walls to tighten up again. Another heat was pooling into your abdomen similar to the earlier one.

"princess, I can't hold out much longer," he hissed as he sucked more legions onto your skin, "cum for me, will ya?"

He brought his thumb to your clit again, rubbing against them with the right force and angle. The pleasure build up and without warning, your climax spilled over and crashed over you like a tsunami. Your moans turned silent and all you could do was grip onto Noya's biceps as your entire body went rigid, twitching with your high.

Noya thrusted a few more times into you as he released with a low groan. He jerked a few more times against you, filling your insides to the brim with his cum.

He held you as you both tried to catch your breath. You felt his dick slowly go limp inside of you and he slowly pulled himself out, earning another whine from you.

He flopped beside you, pulling you flush against his chest, pressing kisses on your face. "I'm so blessed that you're mine and all mine."

#aine's 1700 event #nishinoya x reader #nishinoya yuu x reader #nishinoya imagine #nishinoya headcanons #nishinoya smut #haikyuu au #haikyuu fanfiction #haikyuu smut #haikyuu fic #haikyuu x reader #haikyuu x y/n #haikyuu x you

[fandom-chic]

Happy Little Family: Chapter 2

Summary: When Vought asks the unthinkable, you are forced to play house with certified psychopath Soldier Boy. Your life (and dignity) may be at stake, but something about him draws you in.

Pairing: Soldier Boy x Y/N

Chapter 1

You place a cardboard box filled with some of your greatest possessions on your new wood floor with an oomph. Soldier Boy said he would carry some of your boxes for you but in the name of feminism and hating his guts, you decided to carry your crap. Besides, there was an elevator, so what was there to complain about? You take your hand to your forehead and wipe off the light sheen of sweat forming on your brow as you hear footsteps enter the doorway. 

“Looking tired there,” Ben says, carrying a small box of things while Vought employees followed in a perfect line with his items. “Like you could use some help.”

You glare over in his direction, “I told you I am fine and do not need your, or should I say, Vought’s help getting my shit from point A to point B.” He chuckles as he places his box on the granite countertop of your kitchen.

“Whatever you say, sweetheart.” At that, he throws his arms up to feign defeat before heading back to grab another hilariously small box. One would think that with his absurd amount of strength, he would be able to carry more than a vase from the moving van. In your brief minute of silence, you take in the surroundings of your new home (or prison).

To say it was beautiful was an understatement. With windows instead of walls, brand new hardwood floors, and granite everything, you must admit that this might be the nicest apartment you have ever stepped into. You give yourself a mini tour, noting that the lone bedroom was already set up with no other place to make your room. Great. At least you got your own bathroom.

You sign before heading out the door to haul more boxes inside. After a few hours, the apartment somewhat resembled your old apartment. With pictures of your life scattered around and your favorite throw pillows littering the couch, it was indistinguishably yours. You think that with an apartment like this, maybe this situation will not be absolutely miserable. Your thoughts quickly come to a halt as you feel an arm wrap around your waist.

“Better than your shit apartment, right?” He says, pulling you in. You go rigid.

“Sure.” You say to change the subject. He can sense it.

“You’re treating this like you’re under house arrest.”

“Who says I’m not.” You look at him to see his nostrils enlarge and his lip twitch.

“Lighten the fuck up, doll. You act like you’re some martyr when you’re really walking away from this shit with millions of dollars.” He takes his arm off of you and points his finger into your chest. “And that money can leave in a second if I want it to, and so will your job.” You gulp and nod, evading his glare. He smirks and walks away. 

You feel your legs bring you to your couch, and you collapse. There was no way you were going into the bedroom with him. No fucking way. Curling up on your side, you feel a tear run down your cheek. You were helpless.

You feel like it all couldn’t get worse until you hear your phone ring. You walk to your landline and pick it up.

“Hello?”

“(Y/N)?” You did not recognize the voice.

“Yes, who is this?”

“Katie, I am your PR manager.” You sigh.

“Got it; what’s up, Katie?” You could almost feel her grin from this side of the phone.

“Tonight is the night to unveil the new power couple, Soldier Boy and (Y/N). Girl next door turned lover of the world’s most powerful hero.” 

“Tonight?” You stutter.

“Of course! I got you two reservations to Per Se in Columbus Circle for 7:00. Hottest restaurant in the city. Your dress was laid out on the bed by your movers today. Looking forward to the headlines tomorrow.” At that, the dial tone starts playing. You sigh and trudge to the bedroom. 

As you open the door, you cannot help but hear grunting. Your eyes are so transfixed on the elegance of your new bedroom that it takes you a minute to notice Ben on the bed, pleasuring himself, to say the least.

“Fuck, dude!” You scream and avert your gaze. 

“What, you want to join in?” He says. His voice reminds you of poison.

“Hell no! Do that shit somewhere else.” You demand as you finally hear the noises stop.

“This is my fucking bedroom; where else would you want me to do it?” He had a point there. It was his room.

“I-I… the bathroom! We have two of them.” You stutter, looking back at him to see him roll his eyes. 

“You’re high fucking maintenance. If I were you, I would chill the fuck out and enjoy the experience. I mean,” His gaze darkens, “Every woman in America wishes they were walking into this sight.”

You couldn’t deny that he had a point there. Although your despise for this man could be felt from miles away, you could not deny that this man was beautiful. His long locks cascaded onto his cheeks like they were styled in such a manner. His arms were so strong looking that he could break you in half without breaking a sweat. You could not help your eyes from traveling across his chest to his abs to a bit lower down. You feel your eyebrows raise and your fingers tingle as you imagine what it could be like to maybe one day- 

“Fine.” You get yourself out of your trance, “I’ll chill the fuck out. I’ll start that by letting you know we have a date tonight. Per Se. 7:00.” You walk over to the bed and take a seat next to him, your dress dangling off the edge. You face him, your noses almost touching. “And I’ll show you why every man in America will want to very soon fuck Soldier Boy’s new girlfriend.” At that, you swipe the dress and rush into the bathroom. Before shutting the door, you look back and notice a cheeky grin on his face. 

It took you not too long to get ready. The dress fits you nicely. It was a long slinky black dress with a slit up the side. Your makeup was simple but striking, and your hair had a slight curl. You had to admit, you looked pretty damn hot. You walk out and see it is 6:45.

“He is going to be late.” You mutter to yourself. Walking over to the fridge to see if there was anything alcoholic to consume. Seconds after that thought was finished, you see Ben enter the kitchen dressed as dapper as could be. You were not only stunned by the fact that he was on time but by how… normal he looked. Without the goofy super suit, he looked like a handsome stranger you would stumble upon on a night out. 

“You look great.” You feel yourself say. He smirks.

“You sound surprised.” 

“I’ve never seen you wear anything but that super suit, and well…” You blush, thinking back to your rendezvous this afternoon. You are surprised to hear him laugh.

“I do own more clothes than just the costume, you know?” Was he flirting? His eyes then flicker across you. You could see in his gaze his thoughts were not so different from yours. Especially when you noticed his eyes stop on your chest, lingering there for a minute longer than expected.

“We should get going.” You say. He looks at you and nods before you both exit. 

The restaurant was nicer than any you had ever stepped into. As you two stepped in, you could sense every head turn to look at your date. Mouths gaped, and eyes followed as the host led you to your table. The table was located right in the window. It seemed almost too obvious that this date was staged. As you two take a seat, Soldier Boy looks back and admires the fan's stares. 

“You’re loving this.” You say, he turns toward you.

“Who wouldn’t? I’m basically a God to these cocksuckers.” Of course, he responds like that. Unsure how to answer, your head goes into the menu. Everything looked amazing; however, thoughts of your future employment stuck in the back of your mind. You had to make this date look good.

“So… tell me about yourself.” You say awkwardly. He snorted sarcastically.

“Is that what you’re asking?” You shrug.

“This is the first date, and I don’t know you.” He looks surprised at that.

“Have you not seen my movie?” You shake your head. He rolls his eyes, ready to relay a monologue you’re sure he’s said many times, “I was a poor kid from Philly. I realized I had powers at a young age, and from there, I was a hero to Southern Philly. Fighting crime and making the streets a little safer. I was then picked up by Vought, fought Hitler, and became America’s favorite hero.” He chuckled to himself, and you could not help but stare in awe.

“Wow, that is quite a backstory.”

“Want to know a secret?” He raises his eyebrows as the waiter puts two salads in front of you both. “It’s all bullshit.”

“What?” You question.

“I was born filthy fucking rich to a Dad who hated my guts. Got whatever the fuck I wanted, and he gave zero shits about how much of an asshole I was. So I joined Mr. Vought’s experiment. He still didn’t care, and now I’m Soldier Boy.” He shoves a leaf in his mouth. “Does that answer your question?”

“I guess it does.” You twirl an onion on your fork. “Doesn’t surprise me, though.”

“Whatcha mean?” He asks.

“You’re too much of an asshole for that first story to be remotely true.” You could see his knuckles clench around his fork. You were nervous about his next move before you noticed a flash. You look out the voyeuristic window to see paparazzi surrounding the restaurant. Ben smiles and waves, and you give an awkward grin.

“Smile for the cameras, sweetheart. It’s your fucking job.” He whispers under his breath. His words force a smile across your face as you wave. At that, you feel Ben start to rise from his chair.

“Where are you going?”

“We’re leaving.” He says, grabbing his coat. “They got their pictures. We leave.” He drops a couple of hundred dollars on the table and starts to walk out. You follow behind him before you notice him grab your hand. You look down and notice his fingers lace with yours. Before you could ask questions, cameras were flashing in your face. You had seen this in the movies, but it was way more overwhelming in real life. You feel yourself instinctively grab Ben’s arm. Instead of pulling away, he pulls you in his arms and shields you from the flashes. Weirdly enough, you feel safe. You both speed walk to your car that is waiting patiently for you. As you both are about to enter the car, you feel an arm grab your arm and yank. You stumble away from Ben.

“Who the fuck do you think you are?” A man says to you. He was obviously with the media. “You are a nobody, and you’re with fucking Soldier Boy? Whose dick did you suck to get this gig?” You gawked at her in disbelief, and your legs froze.

“Hey, what the fuck is wrong with you?” Before you could acknowledge who was saying that, Ben steps in front of you, facing your defamer. 

“You’re with a fucking slut.” The man says, getting right back in Ben’s face. Before you regain your legs and begin to move toward the car, you hear a fist make contact with someone’s cheek. Your eyes widen, and the cameraman hits the ground. Before you can react, you are ushered into the car and driven away. The first few minutes are deadly silent.

“You didn’t have to do that.” You whisper.

“I did, though; that asshole grabbed you and threatened you. No one does that to any girl of mine.” He grumbles.

“I’m not even your girl.” He faces you.

“As far as the world is concerned, you are, and I have to protect what is mine.” You feel a blush rise on your cheeks. The silence remains for two more beats.

“Thank you.” You place a hand on top of his. 

“It’s what I do.” He says. You look away from him to let yourself smile.

Taglist: @globetrotter28 @bowlegsandbiceps @bxdbxtxh15

#soldier boy x reader #soldier boy x you #soldier boy #soldier boy imagine #the boys #the boys fanfiction #soldier boy x female reader #soldier boy drabble #jensen ackles #jensen ackles x reader #the boy imagines #the boys x reader #the boys x you #jensen ackles the boys #soldier boy imagines #soldier boy headcanons #soldier boy x y/n #jensen ackles imagine #jensen x reader #jensen ackles imagines

[sucha-seungminsimp]

Stray kids Dome Tour Unveil (Seoul) DAY 2 pt.3

I AM NOT YOUR STRONGEST SOLDIER SEUNGMIN 😭😭😭❤️❤️❤️

Credit to the owners (Twitter)

#skz stay #stray kids #kpop #kim seungmin #kpop pics #seungmin #stray kids wallpapers #skz wallpapers #kpop wallpaper #seungmin wallpaper #stray kids wallpaper #stray kids pics #stray kids seungmin #stray kids kim seungmin #stray kids bias #SKZ #skz seungmin #skz kim seungmin #skz bias #kim seungmin pics #seungmin pics #bias tag #ult bias #kpop bias #my bias #bias #stray kids rock star

[bellofthemeadow]

“I can’t stop thinking about you.”

Country Singer!Joel Miller x Female Reader

This is my entry for the 1k event found on @pedrostories

Trope: Forced Proximity

Masterlist

Rating: M for Mature (18 + no minors allowed)

Word Count: 12.7K (T.T Sorry )

Story Summary: Amidst a raging storm, an unexpected meeting thrusts you into forced proximity with former country sensation, Joel Miller, in the midst of an isolated nowhere. As the evening unfolds, filled with tension and vulnerability, both of you unveil the depths of your grief and heartaches. Through this shared journey of sorrow, an unanticipated bond forms, and maybe some light at the end of the storm.

Warning: Mentioned of death, TLOU canonical character death, mentioned of attempted suicide, depression, mental health struggle, referenced to cheating, angst, hurt and comfort, allusion of alcoholism, self hatred, smut, sexual intercourse, P in V, oral (female receiving), no protection, one night stand, age gap (late 20s/early 30s Reader with mid 40s Joel(No Minors Allowed! Thank you)

Notes: Hey everyone, I am taking a short break from my regular story to enter the 1K event on @pedrostories. What was supposed to be a short one shot, became an almost 13k word Behemoth! Although this is intended as a standalone, I found myself really liking the universe and the characters. If any of you would be interested to see more of the universe, I would be super open to making a second and a third part  😀 🤞 😀   

Let me know what you all think and if you'd like to see more of it and if you enjoy the story. I always love to hear what you all think!

Again, thank you to everybody, I love you all so much xxx Sending you all the love and support wherever you are ❤️ 

(SMUT BETWEEN **** SKIP IF YOU DON'T LIKE IT****)

Joel Miller sat hunched next to the large stone hearth, He carved a solemn figure in the corner of his secluded cabin. Far into the woods and away from the rest of the world, he had called this place his home for the past decade. Clutched in his hands was a photograph —a young girl, her long curly hair and dusky complexion frozen in a smile that still reached into his very soul and threaten to rip it out everything he looked at it. That smile, oh, how he longed to see it again, it had been his only wish for so long. Even for just minute, a mere second; he would gladly give his soul to have his life lighted by the smile of his babygirl just one last time.

With a gentle touch, Joel traced the delicate outline of his daughter, the girl whose absence had dug a profound whole in his heart. One that could never be mended again. It was ten years today, Joel thought bitterly. But still, he clung to her memory fiercely, fearing the gradual fading that time brings to everything. He dreaded the thought of losing the vividness with which he saw her now, a fear that gripped him tighter as the years moved forward. The details that once were clear as the early morning dew now seemed to slip through his fingers like grains of sand. The echo of her laughter, the title of the last book she held in her hands, the subtle nuances that made her unique—he struggled to grasp them, and this realization filled him with fear and hatred. What kind of father forgot about his babygirl?

Was her sneeze loud as his own, or was it a delicate sound, more like a sweet whisper? The uncertainty gnawed at him, a relentless reminder of the gaps in his mind. Why couldn't he rememeber? What if a day came when he could no longer conjure the contours of her sweet face or the mischievous curve of her teasing smile? The thought was unbearable, the guilt consuming him more each days.

Joel’d never considered himself an exemplary father, he grappled with the weight of regret for being too engrossed in his career to give his daughter a normal childhood. The rhythm of their lives was not marked by little league games and playdates with neighbours; instead, it was deafining with the roar of tour buses and the pungent scent of roadies, accompanied by the loud cheering of fans all over the country. Sarah’s life had always been unorthodox and it had been his fault—home tutoring replaced high school classrooms, the lessons fitting in the gaps between Nashville and Austin, where he recorded albums to give entertainment to the world. Something that, looking back, seemed futile and completely stupid. He would give all of his money, awards and recognition away just to hold his Sarah one more time.

When she died, he was stripped bare, nothing left inside the whole where his heart had once been. And Joel found himself adrift, the passion for his craft evaporating. How could he make music without the sound of a heart that once beat in harmony with his daughter's laughter? The will to create, the desire that once fueled his artistry, had lost its pulse. The prospect of touring, once thrilling and freeing, now seemed like an empty road stretching into oblivion. What purpose did it serve if Sarah was no longer there to illuminate the stage of his life? The exhilaration of performance, the applause that once gave him purpose—these fragments of success had become hollow, devoid of meaning.

It was not all bleak though, amidst the darkness of his existence, there were moments where the good outweighed the bad. Nights brought dreams of Sarah, where her presence was vibrant and tangible. In those dreams, she would look at him with that familiar smile, and for a fleeting instant, the chasm between what was dead and alive seemed to bridged together. Joel would see her as clear as day, sitting together in their old house, the echoes of their conversations resonating through is sleeping form. It seemed like hours would melt away as Joel and Sarah would delve into discussions about music and school sharing stories that held a fragile thread between past and present. But in the end, dawn would inevitably break, and reality would reassert its grip. Joel would inevitably wake up, the cabin steeped in an unsettling silence, his heart laden with the guilt and grief of her absence. Those dreams were his sanctuary, a bittersweet realm where he could briefly hold onto the warmth of what once was. But he couldn't live in dreams, and now even those moments that seemed to make life bearable were starting to wade in their appeal; they appear more cruel than kind as every mornings killed him a little more.

A resounding clap of thunder reverberated through the confines of the cabin. In its wake, a brilliant flash of lightning pierced the darkness. Joel sighed heavily and the raindrops began their relentless descent upon the cabin's roof and walls. It seems like the world outside mirrored his internal turmoil, the tempestuous weather a reflection of the storm within. 3652 days had slipped by a relentless procession of time. 87,648 hours of unbearable absence. Each passing moment stretched into an eternity, a cruel reminder of how long he had been without his cherished little girl.

Immersed in this ceaseless torrent of sorrow, he existed in a realm of suspended animation. Every action felt like a monumental effort, and the concept of simply being felt like an insurmountable challenge. The world around him had dimmed, muted by the overwhelming weight of his emotions. In this somber existence, even the simple act of drawing breath carried the weight of an arduous task. The colors had faded from his world, leaving behind a landscape of gray and desolation, mirroring the emptiness within.

His hand reached out, fingers closing around the cool neck of the whiskey bottle resting on the low table before him. A pang of bitter guilt tightened within him—he could almost hear his little Sarah's admonishment, disapproving of the choice he was about to make. She always hated the strong smell of liquor that would linger on his old leather jacket when they would go on tour.  His eyes drifted toward the shotgun that rested next to the door, his heart seized tightly within his chest. Maybe tonight he would do it, he thought. Maybe tonight he would free himself from the pain and the guilt of an existence without Sarah.

In the stillness of the cabin, Joel's voice trembled with pain and longing as he whispered, "To you, babygirl, I miss you so much."

KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK

Loud knocks echoed through the quiet cabin, making Joel freeze in his tracks. Raindrops kept beating in a frenzied rhythm on the roof, their clamour joining forces with the unexpected raps. Joel couldn’t remember the last time someone had knocked on his door. With how remote cabin the cabin was, there was hardly any visitors, ever. Only his brother Tommy and his old manager Tess knew about this place. Tess used to drop by every now and then, hoping he'd start working on a new album (which would never happened). But now she knew better than that.

With slow and deliberate movements, Joel set the bottle onto the table's worn surface, his movement unhurried as if not to disturb the tension that now hung in the air. His gaze swept the room, his gaze landing again on the shotgun near the entrance. He grabbed it and made his way to the entrance. Hopefully, it wouldn’t be a zealous fan who had somehow found his address. He really wasn’t in the mood tonight to re-enact Misery.

He swung the door open, his irritation peaking, prepared to confront whoever was bothering him on this day above all others.

"I don't know if ya capable of reading,", his voice dripping like venom, seeping with annoyance, "but in case ya missed it, there's a 'Private Property' sign right on the..."

You sat on the large leather couch, trying to make yourself as small as possible while your body shivered involuntarily as the chill from your drenched clothes seemed to seep into your very bones. You didn't want to be here. The man who opened the door for you certainly didn't want you here. But the violent storm outside had other ideas. The dirt paths of the forest had turned muddy and slippery and the force of the wind and rain had completely obscured your vision, there was no way you could have made it back to your car in those conditions. So when you had spotted the cabin as you were looking for shelter, you had almost cried in happiness. Now you weren't so sure as anxiety gripped you. You replayed the moments after the door swung open, revealing a stern looking man who eyed you with a mixture of surprise and suspicion. The hint of a shotgun nearby had done nothing but intensify your fear. For a second you had wanted to bolt from the place, but you had no other choice. In the end the man had let you in, simply introducing himself as Joel.

Clutching your arms around yourself in a futile attempt to generate warmth, you look around yourself at the interior of the cabin. Surveying your surroundings, the rustic charm of the living room did little to alleviate your anxious mind. The ambiance should have felt cozy, even romantic in any other circumstances, with the warm wooden decor and the crackling fireplace. But under the weight of your current predicaments, thoughts of roasting marshmellows and teasing kisses were at the back of your mind.

You were alone, drenched to the bone, in the company of a man you knew nothing about. Shit that was exactly how people died in horror movies. I am totally going to get myself killed, you despair frantically. They’ll find my body dismembered in a bunch of little pieces all over the forest, your mind supplied unhelpfully.

You tried to calm  yourself as best as you could, taking deep breath in an attempt to settle your mind. Frustated, you pulled out your phone. The meager 8% battery life and lack of data coverage was a sobering reminder of the shit you were in. If anything were to go awry, if this Joel turned out to be less than accommodating, you'd be stranded with no means of communication.

You had shared your plans for the day with your friend Chrissy mentionning how you were going to take the Broken Bow trails to. But even then, you two had been texting sporadically since you left DC so you were fully expecting her not to worry until several days had passed. Not ideals if you were to disapear without a trace. So, if Joel shifted from hospitable to hostile, no one would be none the wiser. And you would become forest fertilizer.

At this point, you were hoping that Joel would be more the flower and wine type instead of rope and chainsaws. Speak of the devil, the man appeared in the doorway, his large frame illuminated by a flash of lightning. In his arms, he was holding what you believed to be clothes "Got these for ya," he stated curtly, his gaze holding yours for a fleeting moment before he gestured vaguely toward the stairs. "Shower’s up those stairs. Go change and I’ll get some coffee on the stove. It'll warm ya up"

Your initial instinct was to decline, you began to stammer, only to be met with Joel stern gaze "I ain’t letting ya freeze to death in my livin’ room," He stated firmly his tone a command that quashed any protests. His words were spoken clearly, and he wasn’t going to take no for an answer. "Now go," he added, his tone leaving no room for negotiation.

Under the weight of his stern order, nervousness bubbled within you, mingling with a touch of gratitude. The contrast between his gruff demeanour and the kind gesture of care left you momentarily speechless. All you could do was nod, your voice silenced by his unspoken authority.

With a whispered "thank you," you accepted the bundle of clothes from his hands, your fingers brushing against his in a fleeting spark of connection. Without further words, you turned and hastened toward the staircase, his gaze lingering on your retreating form for a moment before he turned his attention to the kitchen where the coffee was. The stairs creaked under your hurried ascent, each step carrying you further away from the enigmatic man who had offered you shelter in this storm.

Twenty minutes slipped past quickly, after the hell of a day you'd just had, you felt like you were in heaven. The sensation of being washed clean, wrapped in warmth, and clad in what you swear were the coziest clothes you’d ever felt on your skin. A pair of well-worn gray sweatpants and a faded band shirt clung to you like a reassuring hug. You sighed contendly before meeting your own gaze in the bathroom mirror.

Looking back at yourself, you started to contemplate that you would soon have to venture downstairs to thank Joel. At the thought, a flutter of nervousness twirled in your stomach. The bathroom, with its locked door, felt safe, shielding you from the uncertainties of the rest of the night. Staying here, was tempting, at least until morning. Even if Joel had been nice so far, you didn’t know the guy from Adam. But in the end, you knew that you couldn’t just hold the guy’s bathroom hostage. Plus, practical needs called—you had to charge your phone, and the promise of warm coffee was hard to resist. Pushing a damp strand of hair behind your ear, you started to quietly make your way downstair. Praying to every Gods you knew that Joel was the good samaritan he seemed to be.

Returning to the living room, your gaze settled on Joel, perched on the same leather couch where you had sat earlier before he directed you to the shower. On the floor nearby lay some old rags, sopping wet with the water that had seeped in along with your drenched clothes.

Joel sat with a tensed back; his focus consumed by something he held in his hands. Tentative steps carried you closer, each one a whisper of uncertainty. Yet, despite your movements, the man remained oblivious, lost in whatever held his attention.

You approached with trepidation, your heartbeat quickening in the otherwise silent room. Your eyes flicked to the object in his hands, curiosity mingling with your apprehension. Peering over his shoulder, your breath caught as your gaze locked onto the image, he was engrossed in. A young girl, staring back at you with a bright, innocent smile that seemed to transcend even the still image of the photograph.

The room seemed to hold its breath, a moment suspended between your gaze and the photograph. "She's really pretty," you ventured softly, your voice a hesitant thread. Joel's response was sharp, almost as if you had slapped him. "... she was," his words carried a weight that hung between you both, heavy with a bittersweet melancholy. As your heart clenched at his words, understanding washing over you like a cold shower.

An awkwardness settled in the air, thickening the silence. You felt the pulse of your heart, its rhythm echoing the sense of disquiet that now swirled around you. Meeting his gaze, you found yourself lost in the depths of his sad brown eyes.

Summoning your courage, you utter "Thank you again for saving my skin out there," your words wavered slightly, betraying your uneasy timidity. "I put my wet clothes on the rack in the bathroom to dry. Hopefully, they'll be alright by morning, and I'll be out of your hair as soon as possible." The words tumbled out in a rush.

Joel's gaze remained on you, as if he was studying you intently, trying to unravel something beneath the surface. His response was measured, his voice carrying a southern twang "... 'tis no problem," he conceded after a beat. "Coffee should be ready," he added.

You nodded and followed in the wake of Joel's towering form. Along one wall, your eyes landed on an acoustic guitar that with the dust covering it, seemed to have remained untouched for a while. Intrigued, you couldn't help but point at it as Joel poured the rich black liquid into your mug. "You play?"

The response was understated, but you could tell there was more to say to this story. "... used to."

You took the hint, choosing not to pry further. At the very least, Joel didn't strike you as the stuff of horror movies; in fact, there was something about him that felt invitingly genuine. A warm and gentle gruffness that seemed lost in this day and age. As he poured coffee into your mug, your gaze wandered over him, observing the details that your earlier unease had masked.

Joel, in his rugged masculinity, demanded attention by his very presence. His size and broadness were emphasized by the worn flannel he wore, his biceps and shoulders hinting at strength beneath. Shaggy brown hair carried threads of white, suggesting a long life lived. You guessed he must be in his mid-40s. As he extended the cup toward you, his face once again came into view, and you couldn't help but acknowledge the magnetic allure he commanded.

But there was a sadness etched into those handsome features, an undertone that tugged at your curious nature. Your earlier observation seemed validated by his demeanour—tired and burdened. His reaction to the photograph had been a cryptic puzzle piece that hinted at a story you could only begin to piece together. Silently, you returned to the living room, the space that now felt familiar in its strangeness. As you both settled back down on the couch, Joel offered a comfortable-looking blanket, a gesture that warmed you in more ways than one. "Here, it's cold."

His soft gaze met yours, accompanied by a tentative smile. You felt yourself burned under his gaze, a response to the genuine kindness he radiated. Accepting the blanket, you cocooned yourself within its folds, savouring the moment with this stranger with a larger heart than most of your old friends.

A comfortable silence enveloped the room, your shared presence settling into a serene rhythm as you both sip your coffee. Then, Joel's voice cut through the quiet, breaking the spell. "I put your phone on the charge. I hoped it's okay."

The unexpected statement jolted you slightly, and you responded quickly, "Yeah, it's alright. Thank you so much." Your gratitude was met with silence from Joel.

His hand reached for a bottle of whiskey positioned beside the photograph you had noticed earlier "You mind?" he inquired, and without words, you extended your mug, a silent affirmation that brought a warm laugh from Joel. The sound resonated in the room, carrying a hint of teasing as he added a splash of whiskey to your coffee before topping his own. You found yourself loving the way he sounded when he laughed.

Your lips curved into a wry smile as you voiced the irony that hovered between you. "I know I shouldn't, a girl all alone in a cabin with a strange man who gets drunk on whiskey, its literally the beginning of a horror movie." Your words carried a touch of dry self-awareness. "But at this point, I guess that if you wanted to cut me up and dump me in your backyard, you would've done it already."

Joel's response was immediate, his words laced with dry amusement. "Not really my style. Too messy."

You met his words with a dry look, "That's good to know," the exchange drew the first genuine smile from Joel.

"So, what's your story? Why're ya in the woods in the middle of the night?" Your reaction was a scoff, a playfulness smirk edging on your face.  

"I mean, it's 9 pm. Hardly the middle of the night." However, your attempt to downplay the situation was met with an unimpressed eyebrow raise from Joel. He kept on looking at you, as he sipped his spiced coffee, a silent challenge written in his eyes. You wiggled under his stare feeling bare and open, your most secret parts expose for Joel's eyes to explore.

One part of your brain insisted that you shut up, keep the conversation brief, feign a headache, and retire for the night. However, another part of your mind encouraged you to confide in him, to share the minutiae of pain and heartache that you had carefully concealed since leaving DC. It urged you to unseal the chest you had locked away and pour out its contents – the essence of your soul – at his feet.The thought crossed your mind that Joel likely didn't receive many visitors in this cabin in the middle of nowhere, if any at all.

Leaning into the quiet intimacy of the moment, you found yourself opening up to him, allowing the words to flow from you like the torrential rain falling outside. "Well, I was a project manager back in DC, worked that job for about four years after college," you began. Memories of your time in the office flitted through your mind, remembering the long hours that stretched long into the night and the thankless faces you would see everyday.

You continued, "There had been some layoffs happening, but my boss told me I'd be fine." Your voice carried a tinge of bitterness, a lingering taste of disappointment. "Turns out I wasn't fine. She called me into the office last month, told me to pack my things, and said security would escort me off the premises." The raw frustration in your words was still palpable, "Like I was a fucking criminal!"

The expletive slipped from your lips, your emotions laid bare, you met Joel's gaze but he simply shook his head as if he couldn’t believe what he was hearing. Like he was feeling the same emotions as you, like he was angry on your behalf. He then opened his mouth in a low whistle steeped in your shared indignation. "What a bitch," he declared emphatically.

A wry smile touched your lips as you continued, recounting the details of that shitty day that had changed everything for you.  "And that's not all," you added, "So, I'm hysterical, you know? I just lost my job and all." You took a deep breath, "I call my boyfriend, but no answer. I figure he's busy. It's the middle of the day, so I think nothing of it. So, I get to our apartment. I open the door, and there's clothes all over the place, like a goddam hurricane happened. And then, I hear that bastard going at it in the bedroom." A groan escaped you, still pained at what you had found that day.

Joel said nothing but extended the bottle to you, an unspoken gesture. You grabbed the bottle, the whiskey warmed your throat as you took a hearty sip, to settle your nerves and your heart.

All the while, Joel remained silent, his presence a steady anchor, "So yeah, he was screaming, she was screaming, and I was screaming," memory seemed distant, a scene from another life, like you were watching a movie "I was so angry. I could have throttled them." The bitterness was palpable in your words, "But in the end, the apartment was under his name, because I had moved into his place, and we hadn't renewed the lease yet."

So that was it, loss layered upon loss until even the space you had called home was stripped away. "So, he basically told me to pack up my shit and leave. Which mind you, I was more than happy to." you added.

 But then, you got quiet, That night, I found myself in a McDonald's drive-through, and it struck me that within a single day, I had lost my job, my boyfriend, and my apartment," your voice softened as you recollected everything that had gone wrong so quickly. "So, I made the choice to leave DC, to escape the city," you went on, "I suppose I was hoping to discover what direction I truly wanted my life to take."

"And now you're here," Joel supplied.

"And now I am here," you echoed.

Joel's hand reached out, his touch a silent comfort on your arm, skin raising under his touch as if he was setting it on fire. His voice was gentle as he spoke, his empathy evident. "'M sorry 'tis happened to ya sweetheart, it ain't right."

You felt yourself clench at the endearing word, a small timid smile tugged at your lips, "Yeah, that's life though," you replied, "Sometimes it hits you, and there's nothing you can do about it, My mom told me once that it's not about how many times you fall down, it's about how many times you can get back up. And even though all that's happened hurt like hell, I won't let that define who I am."

Joel's gaze bore into you, “You ‘ma seems like a smart woman.”

You smile a bit at his words, “She is, you'd like her. She isn’t the type to appear on people’s porches in the middle of the night.” You joke.

“Thought it was jus’ 9 pm?” Now you let out a loud guffaw, “Joel are you teasing me?” Your only answer was a sign of Joel’s hand motioning toward the bottle that you still held in your hands. You handed it over, watching as he took a hearty sip himself, copying your earlier movement.

"Her name was Sarah," Joel's voice was heavy as he uttered those simple words.

You watched him closely as he gestured towards the photograph with the smiling girl "She was my little girl," his voice trembled. "And I loved her more than anything in the world."

You let him continued at his pace, not wanting to spook the man "Raised her m'self, her mom didn't want nothin' to do with us," his words held a touch of resignation and a whole lot of bitterness. "She was the only light in my life." The pain in his voice was palpable.

His voice faltered, moved by the vulnerability he was showing you, you shifted closer, a gesture of comfort that mirrored the earlier touch he had offered you. Placing your hand on his knee, you offered a gentle squeeze, to reassure him of your presence and understanding.

Joel took a deep breath, "When she 'as just a baby, I was workin' construction, but it didn't pay much," he began, "So in the evenin', I would go to the bar and sing and play guitar. There I met Tess; she loved my sound and soon enough she became my agent. Next thing ya kno', Sarah and I 're in Nashville, and I'm recordin' music full time." you interjected raising your eyebrow with curiosity. "So, the guitar..."

He nodded, his expression softening as he continued. "Yeah, from when I was makin' music. Was a pretty big deal for a while."

"So, I would have heard of you?" you asked, your tone light earning a light scoff from Joel as he shook his head, a rueful smile gracing his lips. "Unless ya into country, I don’t think so."

You offered an apologetic smile, "Can’t say I’ve listened to much.”

His response was warm, reassuring. "It's okay." Joel continued, " Sarah and I did it for a while. The lifestyle. I would make music, tour, but she was always there with me. It was a lot of hours, and she was homeschooled so she could stay with me." His voice wavered, his gaze distant as he spoke, lost in the memories. "But we were happy. For a while anyway."

At his words, you tightened your grip on his knee, "One night, we had a big fight," Joel's voice carried a heavy ton. “Sarah, she was upset. Wanted a normal high school life, friends her age. But I was gearing up for a tour and we’d be on the road for at least six months. She wasn't having it. Said she'd rather stay with my brother, Tommy than go on another tour with me."

"I tried to make her feel better, promised her we’d have fun, that she could meet people her age at the hotels we’d be staying at" he continued, his voice filled with regret. "Told her this tour would be the last, that we'd settle down after that, somewhere quiet in the middle of nowhere.” His breath itched as he struggled to keep his voice steady, “And I promised I'd stop making music. But she didn't want to hear none of it." His voice quivered, "She told me she hated me." You winced at his words.

"I got angry and said things I shouldn't have," Joel's voice cracked, tears rolling down his cheeks. "Called her a brat." He sounded haunted by those words, like he wished he could take them back even after all those years.

His hands covered his face as he let his emotions and his tears flow freely for what seemed like the first time in a long while. Without thinking, you reached out, holding his hands to offer comfort and support as Joel continued, “So, I told one of my tech guys to take her back to the hotel, needed to get focused for the show. Next thing I know, I'm halfway through my set and I get a call. Sarah's in the hospital, the car got smashed by some drunk driver. I bailed the second I heard, but when I got to the hospital, she was already gone. My little girl died alone, and she thought I hated her. The last words I said to her was how much of a brat she was." Seeing him crumble before your eyes was heartbreaking. Tears flowed down his face as he clutched his head in his hands. Instinctively, you reached for him, gripping him firmly, pulling him close to you. Your arms wrapped around him tightly, holding him to convey that he wasn't alone, at least not tonight. "Let it out," your voice was a gentle murmur, encouraging him to release the pain and the sadness that had been locked inside for so long. "You're safe, Joel. It's alright, I'm here.”

And he did let go. Sobs racked his body as his emotions poured out like rain from the storm-clouds outside. You held onto him, providing a safe place for him to pour his grief into. Time seemed to blur as you clung to each other, your touch offering kindness in the face of his pain. Your fingers traced soothing patterns on his back, your whispered words a soothing lullaby, as you tried to ease his sorrow, even if just for this fleeting moment.

After what seemed like an eternity, Joel's sobs began to fade into quiet sniffles, and then, gradually, into the gentle rhythm of sleep. His exhausted body had finally surrendered to the emotional storm he had weathered. You held him tightly, letting him fall asleep in your arms, so he could rest.

Your gaze shifted to the photograph on the table, Sarah's smiling face looking back at you. With a soft tone, you whispered to the sleeping man before you, your words a tender balm to the wounds of his heart. "I might not have known her," your voice barely more than a breath, "but I can see the love between you two. In her eyes, in that smile." Your voice carried a quiet conviction as if you were reassuring both him and her. Leaning in, you placed a gentle kiss on his forehead. "Rest now, Joel. You're not alone."

Unbeknownst to you, as sleep began to claim him, Joel was in that liminal space between wakefulness and sleep. Your words, like a soothing melody, reached him in his half-conscious state. His heart ached at your kindness, the unexpected solace you had brought him. His emotions swirled, a mix of sadness and gratitude, as your presence provided a momentary respite from the perpetual pain. For the first time since Sarah’s death, Joel fell asleep warm and comforted.

The harsh sound of rain pounding on the cabin's roof roused you from your uneasy sleep. Your neck and back protested, bearing the marks of an uncomfortable night spent on the small couch you had shared with Joel. You shifted, trying to find relief from the awkward position you had contorted yourself into. The darkness of the cabin wrapped around you, the only sound apart from the rain was the rhythm of your own breath.

You felt Joel’s absence from beside you, his warmth now gone. He had managed to slip away without disturbing your slumber, a feat that puzzled you considering his imposing presence. The darkness outside the windows hinted at the early hours, perhaps around 2 or 3 in the morning. You peered around the room, but the limited light prevented you from seeing much beyond vague shapes and shadows. The night seemed to have its own weight, as if time itself held its breath in the midst of the storm.

"Are y’awake?" Joel's voice cut through the darkness, startling you into a sudden yelp.

"Sorry, didn't mean to startle ya," his voice held an apologetic note as he stepped into view, a flashlight casting a soft, warm glow around the room. "Lost power sometime in the night, didn't wanna wake ya. Seemed like you needed the rest." He settled at the far end of the couch, a few inches from your feet.

"Joel…" your voice was hushed, a mixture of emotions swirling within you.

"It was ten years last night," he continued, his voice carrying the weight of years of grief. "Ten years ssince my babygirl died." His words hung in the air, heavy and poignant.

"I've always felt so alone," his voice trembled, "like there was no way out, like I was as good as gone. For so long, I've told myself that I should've been the one to go instead of her." His words struck a deep chord, and tears welled in your eyes.

"Still think I should've, it ain't right for kids to die before their folks" he whispered angrily, the pain evident in his voice. "But Sarah… she was like an angel, always takin’ care of me. And on the night when I'm considerin’ takin’ that shotgun and finally goin’ to see her… you show up." His gaze met yours, his expression confused. You saw pain, sadness, anger but there was tenderness and hope etched deep wihtin in his eyes. Joel ran a hand through his hair frantically.

"It's like my Sarah is still lookin’ out for me," he continued, "Like she knew what I was plannin’, and she sent me another angel to be with me."

A warmth spread within you, blooming deep inside of you at his words. With a slow motion, you pushed the covers aside, the cold air prickling your skin as you cautiously maneuvered over the short expanse of the couch until you were close to Joel. The room was dimly illuminated by the soft golden glow of the flashlight, casting shadows that danced around you both.

In the velvety cocoon of the hushed darkness, an unspoken desire bloomed between you. You moved with a subtle grace, straddling his wide hips, your gazes locking in the dim, intimate light. The air seemed to crackle with a newfound tension as you whispered his name, a gentle invitation laden with longing.

Joel's hands moved instinctively to your hips, his touch both gentle and possessive, grounding you in him. "Yes, my angel?" his voice held a soft edge of anticipation, a promise hanging in the air.

****You leaned in, your lips finding his in a dance that transcended words. The kiss was a slow, intoxicating melding of souls, a harmony of sensations and emotions that seemed to surge through every nerve in your bodies. Joel's lips were warm and inviting, their touch conveying a mix of urgency and tenderness that ignited a spark within you.

Your fingers cradled the back of his head, tangling in the strands of his hair as you deepened the kiss. A low, throaty moan escaped him as he yielded to the sensation, his response igniting a fire of desire within you. The taste of his lips, the press of his body against yours, it all felt like a perfect symphony of your two body.

As the kiss broke, Joel's whispered words mingled with the soft hum of the storm outside. "Are you sure?" he asked a thread of concern woven into his tone.

A smile touched your lips, a mix of assurance and desire. "Never been surer in my life, cowboy."

His smile in response was like a sunrise, warmth and light flooding the room. Rising from the couch, he held you in his strong arms, your laughter echoing as he started to ascend the stairs with you in his embrace. The world outside was forgotten, eclipsed by this moment. Eclipsed by Joel holding you close.

As you reached what you assumed was Joel's bedroom, a surge of anticipation and desire compelled you to draw him into another fervent kiss. The soft laughter that escaped him was a melody that danced against your lips, and you responded with a mixture of eagerness and playfulness.

Joel's touch was both electrifying and gentle, he swatted your bottom teasingly, his voice a breathless whisper against your lips, "Patience, angel."

His words sent shivers down your spine, mingling with the electric tension that enveloped you both. The room seemed to shrink around you as desire flared, intertwining your fates in a web of longing and need. With a mixture of restraint and yearning, you allowed the dance between you to continue, each moment a step closer to surrendering to the consuming passion that had ignited between you.

With a gentleness that belied his strength, Joel guided you onto the large bed. Your senses were alight, every detail heightened as if the world had shifted into sharper focus. The bedding beneath you cradled your form, its softness embracing you like a lover's touch. The air around you carried a faint chill, a stark contrast to the heat that seemed to radiate from the space between you and Joel.

But it was his gaze that held you captive, his eyes locking onto yours with an intensity that set your heart racing. In his gaze, you saw a constellation of emotions, desire mingling with a hint of vulnerability, each flicker a testament to the depth of connection you shared. Time seemed to slow, the storm outside merely a distant echo as you were immersed in this moment, this charged space where nothing else mattered except the unspoken language of longing that passed between you. The room felt small, a universe confined to the expanse of the bed where you lay,

 And the dance began—a sensual rhythm that both of you instinctively understood. Joel's hands, firm and determined, reached for the fabric of your shirt, his fingers curling around the material before he tugged it away from your body. The garment was discarded to the side of the room, forgotten. A smirk graced his lips, his eyes alight with a mixture of desire and amusement.

"That was an old shirt from my '01 tour in California," he confessed playfully. "Seeing you wear something of mine stirs up all sorts of feelings, angel."

A breathless laugh escaped you, a mix of nerves and excitement intertwining in the sound. Joel's mouth descended with practiced skill, capturing your right nipple in a delicate play of sensations. His lips and tongue orchestrated a dance, alternating between gentle kisses and teasing tugs, coaxing your body to respond. Your nipple responded to his attentions, standing taut against the flicker of his tongue. His warm breath brushed against your skin, sending a shiver of anticipation coursing through you, a stark contrast to the cool air that surrounded you.

The torturous symphony of sensations migrated to your other nipple, the alternating rhythm of pleasure and tease sending shockwaves of need radiating from your core. Unable to contain your yearning, you whispered a plea, your voice a hushed prayer. "Please, Joel..."

His response was a gentle murmur, a tantalizing question. "Tell me what you want, angel."

A rush of arousal and aching need surged through you, and you implored him with a breathless urgency, your words carrying a plea for more. "More, please..."

Amusement danced in his eyes as he pushed you further, his own desire and anticipation evident in the way he held you, in the way he looked at you. "You're gonna have to be more precise than that, angel," he coaxed, his voice a seductive melody that echoed between you.

You suddenly grabbed Joel’s head and directed him towards your aching core, “Touch me here please Joel, I can't.”

“Whatever my angel desires.” And he bends his head down wrenching a scream of delight from your lips as he started lapping at your core with enthusiastic desire. You had never felt anything like this before, previous lovers have always been less than enthusiastic at performing this particular act, but it seemed like Joel reveled in making you squirm and he was trying his best to elicit as many breathless moans from you. And you were more than happy to oblige him. He started alternating between lapping at your clit teasingly and rubbing his fingers alongside your slit, all the while murmuring cooing words into your core “my beautiful angels, you are so good to me.”

With a surge of boldness, your hand darted out to grasp Joel's head, your fingers threading through his hair as you guided him to the source of your aching desire. A plea tumbled from your lips, raw and unrestrained, "Touch me here, please, Joel. I can't wait any longer."

A playful smirk danced across his lips, his eyes gleaming with the thrill of fulfilling your desires. "Whatever my angel desires," he responded, his voice a seductive promise. Bending his head with deliberate intent, he set forth on a way that was sure to send you in  a primal surge of ecstasy.

A passionate cry of delight erupted from your lips as Joel's skilled tongue found its mark, dancing across your sensitive core with an enthusiasm that set your senses ablaze. This was an experience like no other, a stark departure from previous lovers where enthusiasm had been scarce. With Joel, it was different—he revelled in your pleasure, his fervent devotion evident in every movement.

His lips and tongue worked in tandem, alternating between tender lapping and teasingly rhythmic motions that sent electric jolts of pleasure coursing through you. His fingers joined in the sensual symphony, tracing delicate patterns alongside your slick folds, igniting fires of sensation wherever they ventured.

Amidst the heady sensations, Joel's voice reached your ears, a sweet and enticing serenade that whispered cooing words directly to your core. "My beautiful angel, you are so good to me," he murmured, his words like molten honey, dripping with adoration and lust.

Your moans and gasps crescendoed into a symphony of pleasure, each sounds a testament to the waves of ecstasy coursing through your body. As if guided by the melody of your desire, Joel responded with a calculated touch, slipping a finger inside you. A powerful scream of pleasure erupted from your lips, the sensation of his digit plunging deep within you electrifying your senses and igniting a fierce yearning.

"Oh my God, Joel, please!" Your words tumbled out in a jumble of incoherence, driven by an insatiable need that clouded your thoughts. The urgency in your voice spoke volumes, even if the words themselves were fragmented. You needed more, you craved more, but your mind was too consumed by the sensations to formulate coherent sentences.

Joel pressed on with his skilled ministrations. He gauged your need, asking, "You want more? You think you can take one more?" Your head bobbed in a fervent affirmation, your eyes filled with a mixture of longing and anticipation. Without hesitation, he introduced a second finger, and your body reacted with a surge of pleasure mixed with a hint of discomfort—a delicious sensation that heightened your desire.

Closing your eyes to savor the pleasure coursing through you, you felt Joel's fingers expertly moving within you. The sensation of them crossing and spreading you wide sent intoxicating shivers down your spine, a tantalizing preview of what was to come. His mouth remained devoted to your neglected clit, lavishing it with attentions that drove you wild.

"I've got to prepare you real good, angel," Joel breathed, his voice husky with need. "You've got to be spread wide to take all of me. I ain't like one of those DC boys you’re used to." His words, a potent mix of promise and possession, sent a thrill through you. "Yes, yes, yes, Joel," you pleaded, your voice aching with desire. "Spread me, make me ready for you."

A knowing smirk curved Joel's lips as he introduced a third finger, a hint of pain deliciously mingling with the intense pleasure, intensifying the sensations that rocked your body. "So good, angel," he moaned breathlessly. “Joel, I’m gonna…” “Yes, come for me, angel. Please come for me right now!" His encouragement was all it took, and you shattered into euphoria like never before. Explosions of white dusted your vision as you felt yourself gush around Joel’s fingers, which continued their relentless rhythm inside you. Your body tensed and then went limp, as if weightless.

When you opened your eyes again, Joel's gaze met yours. He was lapping at his fingers with an obscenely indulgent expression, making your body tingle with renewed desire. "You taste delicious, like the sweetest honey," he purred. A groan of need escaped your lips as you reached for him, your hands eager to explore. "Please, Joel."

"Do you want me, Angel? Do you want me to take care of you?" he asked, his voice a seductive blend of desire and tenderness. You nodded, and as Joel started to take off his shirt he suddenly stopped in his track “Fuck, I don’t have condoms.” He brought his hands to his face in a movement of frustration.

 A soft smile graced your lips as you moved closer to him, your face now level with his taunt stomach. With gentle reverence, you pressed a soft kiss against his skin, just above his waistband.

"If you trust me, Joel," you began softly, “I got tested after I found out Bryan was cheating, and everything came back clear." Your words hung between the two of you as Joel realized what you were offering.

Joel's reaction was swift and intense. His hand gripped your jaw firmly, his eyes ablaze with a mixture of protectiveness and possessiveness. "Don’t say that piece of shit's name when you're in my bed, angel," he growled, his voice laced with a raw edge. The shiver that ran down your spine was both a thrill and a reminder of his complex emotions.

"Come here," Joel commanded his voice a blend of authority and strength. Eager to comply, you shifted closer to him, a fire of anticipation burning in your veins. Slowly, Joel started to guide you back down onto the bed, his hands moving with a purpose that matched the intensity of his desire.

"I want to look at your face when you come on my cock," he murmured, his words sending a shiver of longing down your spine. Anticipation pooled in the pit of your stomach as you locked eyes with him, feeling the weight of his gaze on you.

With deliberate movements, Joel began to undo his jeans, freeing his long and thick cock from its confines. The sight of him left you audibly gulping, a mixture of want and anticipation coursing through your veins. You couldn't help but wonder about the sensations, the weight, the pleasure that his size would bring.

"Can I put it in my mouth?" you asked, your eagerness apparent in your voice. Joel chuckled, his laughter a low and intimate sound that sent another wave of desire crashing over you. "Not tonight, angel," he responded, his tone both playful and commanding. "Tonight, I want to come in your pretty little pussy."

Joel's hands and lips explored your body with a relentless hunger, each touch igniting sparks of pleasure that coursed through your veins. Lost in the dance of passion, you found yourself swept away in a symphony of sensations, the symphony building to a crescendo of ecstasy that left you breathless and yearning for more.

In one swift, delicious motion, you felt Joel's firm length slip inside you. The sensation was both intense and electrifying, and you couldn't help but close your eyes and let out a loud moan of pleasure as he stretched you open in the most pleasurable way.

"Oh shit, angel, you're so damn tight," Joel groaned, his voice laced with desire and amazement at the sensation. You couldn't hold back your response, your own voice a mixture of bliss and disbelief. "Oh my god, Joel, that's because you're so fucking big!"

With deliberate slowness, Joel began to move his hips, creating a rhythm that was both torturously slow and exquisitely pleasurable. His gaze remained fixed on your face, his eyes locking onto yours with a passionate intensity that sent shivers down your spine. The intimacy of the moment, the raw connection between your bodies, fueled the flames of desire that burned between you.

"Please, Joel, you have to move faster, please, I'm begging you," you implored.

A smirk tugged at the corner of Joel's lips as he teased, "If I go faster, you're gonna make this old man come way too quick, angel."

"I don't care," you gasped, your need overpowering any sense of patience, "you have to move, please!"

"As you wish," Joel responded with a sly grin, and in the blink of an eye, the slow and deliberate rhythm transformed into a furious, unrelenting pace. His hips met yours fiercely, each movement driving you to the edge of your senses. Your heart raced, pounding in your chest like a wild drumbeat, and for this moment, nothing else mattered except the intense connection between you and Joel. The world outside faded away as you were consumed by the sensations of pleasure and desire, lost in the intoxicating dance of your bodies moving as one.

The tight coil of tension within you wound tighter and tighter with each fervent movement, aching to be released. The desperate need for release surged through your veins until you couldn't hold it any longer.

"OH MY GOD, JOEL, I'M GONNA COME AGAIN!" you cried out, your voice a mixture of ecstasy and urgency.

"Fuck, me too, angel, I'm gonna cum," Joel groaned, his voice heavy with need. "Please, you have to come with me, please, Angel!"

"Oohh my goddd, I'm cum..." Your sentence was left unfinished as the intense wave of pleasure crashed over you, shattering the tight coil and setting your senses on fire. Simultaneously, Joel's hips stuttered against yours, and you felt the warmth of his release inside you.

"Fuckkk," Joel whispered against your throat, his breath hot and ragged, as both of you rode out the waves of bliss, your sweaty bodies entwined and sated.

"That was..." you began, your voice trailing off as you searched for words to capture the intensity of what you had just shared.

"It sure was," Joel finished, his voice carrying a mixture of satisfaction and amusement. ****

You let out a hearty laugh, the tension of the moment dissolving into light giggles, as Joel momentarily left the room. While you lay there, still basking in the aftermath of your pleasure, he returned with a warm towel and a glass of water. He handed you the glass, and then, with gentle care, he began to clean you up. Your body was still sensitive from the climax, and you instinctively squirmed under his touch, but Joel held you in place.

"None of that, angel," he chided softly, his eyes warm and reassuring. "Gotta make sure you're all cleaned up. Lemme take care of ya."

His words and the softness of his touch melted away any remaining tension, and you found yourself yielding to his gentle care. You let go, allowing him to attend to you in this tender and intimate way. Once he was finished, he guided you back onto the bed and gathered you into his broad arms. A smile played on his lips as he pressed a gentle kiss against the nape of your neck. You closed your eyes, feeling a sense of serenity wash over you.

"Sleep now, my angel," he whispered, his voice a soothing murmur in your ear. "We'll talk in the morning."

With his strong arms wrapped around you, you nestled into his embrace, finding comfort and warmth in his presence. Your eyes closed naturally, the weight of the day's events and the embrace of his body lulling you into a peaceful slumber.

The morning greeted you with the cheerful chirping of birds, their song gently coaxing you awake. Blinking your eyes open, you realized Joel's form wasn't beside you in the bed. You reached for his discarded shirt on the floor, wrapping it around yourself before quietly slipping out of the room. As you stood before the bathroom mirror, your reflection showed the aftermath of a passionate night: tousled hair, eyes still bearing traces of desire, and lips that bore the marks of fervent kisses. A satisfied smile tugged at your lips as you grabbed the toothpaste, relishing the refreshing feeling as you brushed your teeth.

After tidying up a bit, you descended the stairs, your senses greeted by the delicious scent of cooking. Following the aroma, you entered the cozy kitchen where a rustic-looking pan held sizzling bacon and eggs. The scene was comforting, but there was no sign of Joel. As you scanned the room, the soft strains of a melody drifted in from outside, drawing your attention.

Curious, you made your way toward the source of the music, stepping outside to find Joel sitting on the porch swing. He held the acoustic guitar you had spied last night on the wall, his fingers moving deftly across the strings to produce a gentle tune that seemed to blend harmoniously with the morning breeze. You leaned against the railing beside him, listening intently to the music.

Joel paused his melody and turned his gaze toward you, his lips curling into a soft smile. "That was beautiful," you offered gently, "What were you playing?"

Joel's smile widened as he motioned for you to join him. "You inspired me last night," he confessed. "I had these melodies in my head, and I just had to play them." Your lips curved into a smile as you leaned in for a kiss. "That's unexpectedly romantic," you teased, causing Joel to chuckle. "Romantic, huh? Never been accused of that before," he playfully responded. "Are you hungry?" he asked. "Starving," you replied, a rumble of hunger confirming your words.

Joel's laughter filled the air as he gently set the guitar aside and guided you back indoors. He motioned for you to take a seat at the spacious wooden table, his warm smile inviting. He playfully swatted your hands away as you attempted to help, his touch grounding and reassuring. "Let me serve you, angel," Joel whispered softly as he settled you into a chair.

As Joel expertly portioned out the eggs onto your plate, you admired the beautiful table before you. "This table is stunning," you remarked, inspecting the grain of the hard oaken wood "I've always dreamed of having a big wooden table. Somewhere to have all my family and friends and have big dinners." Joel's smile held a touch of nostalgia. "Yeah, me too. That's why I built it."

"Wait, you built this?" you exclaimed, surprised. "Is there anything you can't do?" His laughter was infectious, and he shook his head playfully. “Just eat ya eggs." You smile happily in response before digging in.

A comfortable silence settled between the two of you as you happily munched on your meal. "This is really good, thank you, Joel," you said with genuine gratitude. Joel's smile was warm, yet his gaze seemed to drift elsewhere, lost in thought. You observed him from the corner of your eye, curious about what was going on in his mind.

After a moment, Joel pushed his half-eaten plate of eggs aside and made his way over to you. Without a word, he grasped the back of your chair and turned it toward him, causing you to let out a surprised "Joel!" as you were suddenly lifted from the chair. He settled down, pulling you onto his lap, holding you close.

You chuckled softly, noting, "Breakfast's gonna get cold..." But Joel's response was immediate, his voice a whisper against your collarbone, "I don't care. Need to be close to ya, angel." You felt yourself melting into his embrace, content and cherished.

You closed your eyes, savoring the sensation of being enveloped by Joel's arms. Inhaling his masculine scent deeply, you wanted to imprint it in your memory, wanting to hold onto every detail of this moment. You never wanted to forget the way he made you feel. As Joel's hand gently traced patterns on your back, his lips pressed soft, feathery kisses along your neck, causing a contented sigh to escape your lips.

In that instant, you realized that in just one day, Joel had managed to make you feel safer and happier than your four-year relationship with Bryan ever did. "Joel," you timidly began, your voice a fragile thread. "Hmmm, what is it, angel?" Joel's response was gentle, encouraging you to continue. "About what you told me last night… About Sarah…" His sigh against your neck was heavy, and you gathered your courage for what you wanted to say next. "I just wanted to say that I'm sorry for what happened to her. It wasn't fair."

"Angel…" You guided Joel's face up from its hiding place in your bosom, holding it between your hands to meet his eyes. "Sarah loved you, Joel. And she knew you loved her. She wouldn't want to see her father suffer alone like this."

Joel's eyes bore into yours, a mix of frustration and protectiveness. "Angel, please stop." But you couldn't hold back; not after last night, not after seeing him this morning with the guitar, not after he pried open and emptied the chest of feelings that you had buried deep in your heart. "Joel, I don't want to argue. I know we've only just met, but I can see the kind of person you are. And I might not know a lot about you, but I know that you don't deserve to keep punishing yourself. You deserve to be happy."

Your fingers brushed against his face tenderly as your eyes glistened with tears, your plea carrying all the sincerity you could muster. However, Joel only gently lifted you from his lap and set you down on the chair. He turned to walk away from the kitchen, but before leaving the doorway, he paused. "Finish your eggs, and when you're done, it might be best if you leave." His words were heavy and definitive.

The atmosphere grew icy as your eyes welled up with tears. "Better for you, you mean," you muttered bitterly, pushing the plate of eggs aside and standing up. "I'll get out of your way right now, Joel. I'm sorry for overstaying my welcome." Without waiting for a response, you swiftly moved past him, your heart aching as the tears streamed down your face, not wanting him to see how vulnerable you felt. How much his words had hurt you deep within your bones. Not even your ex-boyfriend cheating had hurt as much as Joel’s words.

Hastily, you ascended the stairs, feeling a mixture of confusion, hurt, and urgency. Joel's shirt clung to your skin as you moved, a reminder of the passionate night you had shared. With hurried hands, you peeled the shirt off, folding it and placing it on the bed with a mix of sadness and longing. Slipping into your clothes, you realised how they were dry and carried a faint, comforting clean scent. It dawned on you that Joel must have taken the time to wash and dry them while you were still asleep. The small act of care spoke volumes, tugging at your heartstrings even harder as your emotions threatened to overwhelm you.

A soft sob escaped your lips as you quickly pulled on your leggings and t-shirt. The pain within you intensified, a heavy weight on your chest that made it hard to breathe. Your fingers trembled as you fumbled to button up your shirt, your mind racing with a mix of regret and confusion. Every touch, every moment, seemed to replay in your mind like a whirlwind of emotions that you couldn't make sense of. Your breath came in ragged gasps, and the room felt stifling as you imagined Joel's hands, his lips, all over you.

Each second that passed felt like an eternity, the need to escape growing more urgent by the second. You couldn't bear the idea of staying in this place any longer, not when your heart and mind were in such turmoil. Your head spun as you gathered your belongings, your thoughts a jumble of conflicting feelings. With shaky hands, you grabbed your bag and moved toward the bedroom door, your heart racing and your vision blurred by unshed tears. It was as if the walls themselves were closing in on you, suffocating you with memories and emotions that you couldn't yet fully process.

You quickly made your way down the stairs and you quickly reached the entrance of the cabin, your hand gripped the doorknob, the exit just a twist away. But then, like a lifeline thrown to your drowning form, Joel's voice cut through the tension-laden air. "Wait," he implored. For a moment, you could have pulled the door open and walked away, sparing yourself the pain that seemed inevitable. But something in his voice, something in the way he had said it, made you hesitate, your fingers tensing on the handle.

"Please wait," Joel's voice, gentle and soft, reached your ears, halting your movement. His words were like a fragile confession, tinged with regret and vulnerability. "I'm sorry, I shouldn't have said that. It's just... it still hurts so much, and I can’t do anything about it. I don't even know if I wanna do anythin' 'bout it! If I stop hurtin, it ain't fair to her, it's like 'm forgettin' her. My babygirl. I can't... I can't be the man you need me to be. You're young, and you'll find something much better than a washed-up singer, a father that’s always gonna be haunted by the ghost of his daughter. I'm carrying too much baggage, And I ain’t  worth the pain I know I’ll cause ya angel.” Frozen in place, you listened to his words, his admission of hurt and fear, his belief in his own unworthiness all washed over you, leaving you empty and oh so sad for the man in front of you.

With your back still turned toward him, your grip on the doorknob loosened. You could feel your heart aching for him. You closed your eyes, attempting to blink away the tears that threatened to fall, your breathing ragged and unsteady.

You took a steadying breath, turning slightly toward him, though you couldn't bring yourself to meet his gaze. In a voice that was stronger than you felt, you spoke your truth "Joel, it's not about what baggage you have or don’t have. It's everything that’s happened since yesterday, how we make each other feel. And last night... it meant something to me. I don't need you to be something you're not. I just want you to be who you are, because that person is worth something to me."

You swallowed hard, your throat tight with emotion. "I can't pretend to understand everything you've been through, Joel. But I can see the person you are, the one who's been through pain but is still standing here. You deserve happiness too, Joel. You're not defined by your past, and you're not just a has-been singer or whatever it is you impose on yourself. You're Joel, and you're worth more than you realize."

A tear escaped your closed eyes, tracing a path down your cheek. With a determined step forward, you pulled the door open, your voice steady despite the vulnerability you felt. "Take care of yourself, Joel," you whispered. With that, you stepped out onto the threshold, the cool breeze against your skin offering a stark contrast to the warmth of the cabin. The door clicked shut behind you, a gentle sound that marked the end of a moment that had touched your heart so deeply. And as you walked away, you didn't look back, hoping that Joel's own journey would guide him to a place of healing and acceptance.

Three months had drifted by since the night when Joel's presence swept into your life, like a gentle breeze altering the course of a quiet stream. The echo of his words still lingered in your mind, painting the canvas of your memories with vivid strokes of vulnerability and tenderness. As you slid into the cocoon of your car that night, the world outside felt different, as if reality itself had taken on a new hue.

Driving away from the cabin nestled in the heart of the woods, you found your plans melting away, leaving behind a blank slate that you were now eager to fill with Joel's presence. But you knew he had his own journey to embark upon – a journey toward reconciliation with his past, a voyage of healing that no one else could undertake for him. You couldn't help but hope, perhaps even naively, that the currents of life would someday guide him back to you. It was an uncertain prospect, but then again, your whole life had become a cascade of the unexpected.

After first leaving behind the familiar landscape of DC, and wandering the country for some time, you found yourself meandering down unfamiliar roads that led you to the vibrant city of Austin. Amid the soulful melodies and friendly faces, you decided to step into a music store, compelled by the yearning to connect with Joel on some level, even if he wasn’t physically there with you.

Inside, the air was stuffy as if the shop had been forgotten by the residents of Austin. Rows of albums beckoned to you, as you look around for the country section. Descriptions were exchanged with a middle-aged cashier, who turned out to be a rather passionate fan of Joel and who guided you to the shelves where most of Joel Miller's discography was. For you, it was like hearing the life of the man you think you might very well love. As you left the store, the weight of those albums in your arms was more than just a collection; it was a tangible piece of the bond you shared with a stranger who had become so much more.

With Joel's music filling the airwaves of your trusty Honda Civic, you embarked on the next leg of your journey, leaving Austin behind and setting your sights on the vibrant landscape of Los Angeles. The roads stretched out before you, winding through varied terrains like the unwritten chapters of a story waiting to unfold. Each curve and bend felt like a step toward a new beginning, guided by the soulful tunes that had become the backdrop of your life.

As you navigated LA's bustling streets, you couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. The sprawling landscapes seemed to mirror the vast possibilities that awaited you in this city of dreams. The skyline glittered with promise, like a tapestry woven from the aspirations of countless dreamers who had walked these streets before you. With each passing mile, you allowed yourself to be swept away by the energy of the city, ready to embrace whatever adventures lay ahead.

Amidst the hustle and bustle, you found your place in a small yet energetic communication company. It was a far cry from the monotonous work you had left behind in DC. Here, you were tasked with crafting communication campaigns for non-profit organizations across California. The challenges were real and the work was hard, but the rewards were immeasurable. Your days were now filled with purpose and creativity, and you felt a genuine connection to the causes you were championing. It was as if you had finally found the missing piece that had been absent from your previous life. Like you had found your drive back.

2 months into the job, your coworker Amanda's loud shrilly voice pulled your attention away from your work, her words cutting through the office buzz. "Hey, you're the one who's into Country music, right?" She grinned, her eyes twinkling with curiosity. You chuckled softly, not exactly an expert on the genre but you supposed you did listen to more Country then you used to these days.

"Yep, that's me," you replied, offering a small nod.

Amanda leaned in a little closer, her voice lowered as if sharing a secret, "I've noticed you play Joel Miller's older albums. Is he your favourite or something?"

You smiled softly, realizing your tradition hadn't gone unnoticed. "Yeah, I have a soft spot for his music," you admitted with a shrug.

Her grin turned into a mischievous smile, "Well, guess what? He just dropped a new song. Have you heard?"

Your heart skipped a beat. "A new song?!" you echoed, genuine surprise lacing your words, heartbeat treatening to send you into a heart attack.

Amanda pulled out her phone, her fingers dancing across the screen before she handed it to you. The screen was illuminated by what you deciphered as some tweets and posts, all buzzing with excitement about Joel's latest EP release. Your eyes widened as you scrolled through the tweets, feeling a mixture of excitement washed over you.

With a grin, you glance at Amanda, appreciating her tip, before returning to your workstation. Settling in, you tried your best to steady your breath as you open the article on TMZ and locate the link that directs you to Joel Miller's freshly released track on his SoundCloud. Your cursor hovers over the link, anticipation rising making you feel buzzed. Clicking the link, you're instantly engulfed in a cascade of harmonies. The initial notes carried on the wings of a soft guitar, weave a delicate tapestry of sound that threads its way through your senses. It's like stepping into a forgotten memory, the strums of the guitar bringing you back inside the cabin and into Joel’s arms.

And then, Joel's voice joins the strumming of the guitar. A tender baritone, it carries the weight of longing and sadness, each note reverberating with the depth of his life. The rawness of it tugs at your heartstrings, and you can’t help the tears forming in your eyes. With each note, it's as though Joel is speaking directly to you, his presence palpable despite the distance. You close your eyes, allowing the music to sweep you away, the gentle strumming and resonant vocals painting a vivid scene in your mind;

I can’t stop thinking about you

I can't escape your memory's grasp,

My angel, you're etched within my soul so fast.

I yearn to become the man you envision,

Unveiling depths within, a heartfelt mission.

For you, for you alone,

This version of me, yet to be known.

As the soothing timbre of Joel's voice envelops you, he navigates the tapestry of emotions with his lyrics. His soft voice carries the weight of promises and aspirations, mingling with the bittersweet tinge of guilt and the fervent pull of desire. It's a symphony of feelings entwined in each note, a raw portrayal of the battles raging within him. He sings of uncertainty, a man grappling with the enigma of his own identity. Yet, amidst the chaos, there's a constant, an unwavering North Star – the presence of his angel. The lyrics paint a portrait of yearning and unspoken desires, his admission that even amid the turmoil, your memory is an anchor he can't escape. His voice, like a gentle hand, guides you through the labyrinth of his feelings, allowing you to glimpse the depths of his soul. And as the final note fades, it's as if his heart has been laid bare, an intimate portrait of a man searching for solace and finding it in the memory of his angel – you.

Tears gather in your eyes as the song reaches its poignant conclusion. Joel's heartfelt words resonate with the depths of your emotions, and the floodgates of your own feelings burst open. Each note, each lyric, is a testament to his pain, his struggles, and the love that has bloomed during the short encounter you had.

As the music fades, your tears flow freely, a river for the man who has touched your heart so profoundly. You could feel your coworkers casting puzzled glances your way, but in this moment, their opinions mean nothing. You wept for the unfairness of his life, you wept for the loss of his little Sarah, and you wept for the years he's spent punishing himself. You weep because you love Joel Miller. Your heart aches for the man who entered your life on that stormy night and left a mark deep within your soul. Etching his name into the very essence of your being.

Your mom had always said, "The future holds its secrets close" and now you couldn't help but agree. A year ago, you would have never imagined that you would find yourself in LA, away from old friends and family. Yet you couldn't remember a time when you had been more content. Except maybe when you had been in Joel's arms in the warmth of his cabin. But now, as you restart the song Joel had written and as you lose yourself in the warm timber of his voice, you feel happy. Joel's baritone promising that he would love his angel as best as the damaged man he was could love. As you let yourself be carried by the softness of his voice, you know that whatever happens, you'll never part ways with Joel again. You know that wherever he is, he will find you, and you’ll be able to take him in your arms and hold him close to you.

You smile; after all, Joel had just delcared his love for you to the world, his declaration intended for all to hear. And as Joel's voice serenaded you with vows of love and protection, soothing you to your core, you made a promise of your own to Sarah. You promised her that you would care for her father, that you'd stand by him and that you would love him until their eventual reunion, following what you hope would be a beautiful life richly lived.

#pedrostories1k #pedro pascal fanfiction #pedro boys #pedro pascal characters #pedro pascal fandom #joel miller x you #joel tlou #joel x reader #joel the last of us #joel miller x reader #joel miller #the last of us smut #the last of us fanfiction #the last of us #smut #angst #tw death #tw mention of death #mentioned of attempted suicide #hurt/comfort #no protection #tlou series #tlou smut #tlou fanfiction #tw sex mention #tw self destructive behavior #tw self sabotage #tw selfhate #tw age gap #tw age difference

[celticcrossanon]

Hello CC! 

I read about the thing of Meghan retaining Diana’s pieces without permission. Unless Harry gave them to her as in he had them as his share I don’t see her having unwatched access to D’s collection.

She has worn very few items and the only known ones are the aquamarine ring, the cartier watch and the tennis bracelet (this one imo not that much associated with Diana). If Harry had major pieces and, most importantly, gave Meghan the possibility to wear them, she would have already worn them. My assumption is that the private collection of Diana that was divided between the brothers doesn’t have any recognizable jewelry that would immediately scream Diana. I mean the sapphire and emerald chokers, her sapphire pieces and also the pearl lovers knot tiara are synonymous of Diana. There are other pieces like the aquamarine earrings and bracelet or the big pearl choker with ruby details or the amethyst demiparure that are famous and recognizable not by everyone but by the majority. 

I do wonder if any of these last pieces are in Harry’s possession but didn’t want to share them with her. Could this be an interesting idea for a reading? Is Harry voluntarly keeping Meghan from wearing some recognizable pieces of his mother? Maybe he wants his daughter to be the first to wear them after his mom. 

I also suspect that the aquamarine ring was actually in William’s share (private collection), but as a sort of present for the wedding he lent it to Meghan to wear it on the wedding reception night. It could be he allowed her to keep it for the australian tour or she didn’t give it back at all thinking it was Harry’s right to have a Diana iconic ring too after William and Kate had the sapphire one. 

I just wish Catherine was more inclined to wear Diana’s pieces so many mysteries could be solved. I think she pulls out those pieces when ready to do so, so I’m looking forward to see what other piece she will unveil next. My bet is on the Saudi sapphire demiparure (big stud sapphire earrings and matching single sapphire pendant with the matching bracelets). Maybe for a diplomatic reception or a state banquet. I hope Charles will dust one of the sapphire tiaras in the royal collection to give to Catherine. My other dream would be seeing Catherine with the Greville emerald tiara. We know she has emeralds to go with it 😁

*

Hi Nonny,

You make some good points. A lot of the jewellery that Princess Diana wore was the property of the crown, so of course it went back to the crown when she left the BRF or when she died (I don’t know if she was allowed to keep any pieces from the crown after the divorce; I suspect not but you never know). These pieces include the Cambridge Lover’s Knot tiara, and I suspect that it frustrates Meghan that this tiara is on permanent loan to Princess Catherine, so she never had a chance to wear it during her brief sojourn in the BRF.

I would love to know how the private jewellery of Princess Diana was divided. As you said, Meghan has worn very few of her iconic pieces, with the most noticeable one being that big aquamarine ring. I agree with you that if Meghan had access to the iconic pieces of Princess Diana’s jewellery, she would have worn them by now.

I will add that tarot reading to my list. :)

I see two rumours going around on this topic: one is that Meghan has absconded with pieces of Princess Diana’s jewellery and refuses to return them, the other that Meghan has absconded with Jewellery that belongs to the crown, and refuses to return them (this latter rumour has identified the missing jewellery as the pieces Meghan wore to her reception, apparently per a royal dresser who has now retired). I don’t know if either, both, or none of these rumours are true.

I wish we could know what pieces of Princess Diana’s private jewellery were given to Princess Catherine as well. We will find out one day, I am sure.

#submission

[thislovintime]

Peter Tork and The Peter Tork Project, early 1980s; photos by Michael Ventura/Alamy.

“Eventually, Tork moved to New York City, working odd jobs and performing ‘sporadically.’ In the early ‘80s, after he quit drinking, he started a couple of bands, Peter Tork and the New Monks, and the heavy-metal-leaning Peter Tork Project. But Tork says that heavy drinking had ‘left me with mediocre skills. Until I started working on my skills again, it didn’t matter.’” - Los Angeles Times, October 20, 1992

“In June of 1982, Peter Tork was in my face again. It was at a gritty, downscale, but packed-to-the-gills club in Boston called Bunratty’s. (Long gone.) Tork, then 40, was on a tour he described as the ‘I Have to Laugh to Keep from Crying Tour.’ It was billed as Peter Tork and the New Monks – Tork plus four crack musicians providing a hard-rock ride down memory lane. We talked a bit between sets. Me: ‘What it’s like going through life and to always be viewed as a former Monkee?’ Tork: ‘Compared to what?’ I paused for a moment and thought to myself, ‘Exactly! When this is the life you’ve known, what can you compare it to?’ (This was one of the best answers I’d ever had to one of my queries.) I re-used this anecdote when I talked to Ringo years later – switching up Monkees for Beatles in his case – and he chuckled. ‘Yeah,’ he said. ‘What can you compare it to? This is where I am and this is what I am.’ So, why were we Bostonians packed shoulder-to-shoulder in the post-punk heyday to hear ‘60s pop done live and loud? ‘A lot of people come out and they want to remember the old songs,’ Tork said. ‘They want to drift back to when they were fetuses or however old they were then.’ [...] ‘When I arrive at the gates of St. Peter,’ Tork quipped, ‘he’s going to say First one to go . . . okay, we’ll let you in.’ One Peter to another. ‘When I quit the Monkees,’ Tork continued, ‘the first thing I wanted to do was divorce myself from the whole thing entirely.’ Tork formed a ‘straight- ahead pop rock’ band, Peter Tork and/or Release, but it failed to go anywhere. In late 1971 and early 1972 Tork spent three months in jail for possession of hashish. Tork, who was a folk musician prior to Monkee-dom, resurfaced in 1977 to play an acoustic gig at CBGB’s, at the time New York’s prime punk club. In a sense, punk was responsible for bringing Tork back to work. The Sex Pistols did a vicious sloppy cover of ‘Steppin’ Stone,’ and other punk new wave bands have embraced the Monkees on two levels: 1) damn good pop tunes and, 2) potential kitsch value. Tork, who was married and living in Venice, Calif., was on a tour playing small U.S. clubs. (Dolenz and Jones, incidentally, had also formed Monkees facsimiles at that time and were rumored still to be big stars in Japan.) Tork has been around the area all week – he was playing an even dive-ier club in nearby Somerville the next night – unveiling a repertoire that consisted of some Monkees tunes, some non-Monkees originals, and some early rock ‘n’ roll covers. He wasn’t exactly playing the Monkees’ songs by the (Boyce & Hart) book. I’d venture to say this was almost hard rock/heavy metal Monkees music. ‘The [Monkees] records are a little thin by contemporary standards,’ Tork said. ‘People who are just into rock ‘n’ roll and had a lot of contempt for the Monkees phenomenon as a whole aren’t going to come in the first place. People who are on the borderline – they liked the Monkees and they like rock ‘n’ roll today – are going to come. If I play it like it was off the records, they’re going to say ‘Well, it was nice to see him but so what?’ If I play ’em right and they want to dance, I’ve got good musicians whacking away and they’re going to come back.” Tork’s musicians – Phil Simon and Nelson Bogart, guitars; Vince Barranco, drums; and Paul Ill, bass – have played variously with Little Feat, Dave Brubeck, Joe Beck and Carolyne Mas. [...] Although not signed to a label, Tork said producer Jimmy Miller (Rolling Stones, Traffic) was ready to record an album with them. (Jimmy Miller, who lived in our region, was had made maybe the greatest Stones album ever in Exile on Main St., but was drug-damaged goods by that point, sad to say.) ‘My goals right now are to make a living entertaining,’ Tork said. ‘Put away something for my old age, cookouts on the weekend, no big thing. You never know what’s going to happen. One of these days I might make a mark on my own.’”- Rock and Roll Globe, February 2022

#Peter Tork #1982 #1980s #Tork quotes #80s Tork #The Monkees #Monkees #Peter Tork and/or Release #Release #<3 #long read #Peter deserved better #<333 #The Peter Tork Project #The New Monkes #love his mind #1992 #Los Angeles Times #Rock and Roll Globe #can you queue it

[momo-de-avis]

How about CURSED portuguese history facts?

Holy shit I don't know who sent me this but it accidentally got burried under mounds of under asks and I think it's been sitting in my inbox for a year

I feel fully armed for a few cursed facts now given my job lmfao

Here we go

1. The Ginjinha of Lisbon (OF LISBON, not Óbidos) was initially created as a cough medicine. Recomended dose? 6 glasses a day. Ginjinha has around 23% of alcohol. Yeah that sure straightened you up really well (if you look at the posters they have on both doors, the door to the left actually says the recomended dose)

2. During World War II, Lisbon received thousands of jewish refugees. Despite the war, the fact remained that these people came from, compared to our backwards provincial country, progressive places. Do you know what the most shocking thing for lisboners were? Jewish women (who, again, were pretty progressive in comparison) were seen... At cafés. Hordes of men would actually gather around these women who were dead ass just having lunch at a café because portuguese women did not go to cafés alone, as it was considered indicent and a place jsut for men. This was between 1932-1945. There’s a super interesting account of a rare case of a Jewish family that actually stayed here, and the lady describes how she went out for lunch with her mother. Suddenly, the daughter says to her mother “I think we’re starting a revolution” and she turns and sees a row of men just fucking staring at them with their jaws on the floor (source: Lisboa Judaica the book, forgot the name of the author, but it’s Francisco something).

3. Praça do Municipio is where City Hall is located. It’s a late neo-classical building that, when it was unveiled, caused a huge scandal. If you look up at the building's pediment, you will see a bas-relief with several human figures. At the centre, there is a man with his whole dick out. Which, hey, that’s standard in classical imagery, the whole nudity standing for perfection if you follow the Roman canon of art and etc. But ah, my friend, this is Portugal in the 19th century, and my God, were we a backwards country, so this is exactly what generated a HUGE scandal. You see, the problem was WOMEN. They could not possibly see this dick. So, women were forced to cover their eyes when they crossed that square. It became such a scandalous thing, one guy actually set up stand selling fans and veils for women so they could cover their eyes and cross the square without having to look at this dude's genitals. Mind you, they're hard to spot. Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro did a caricature of the event. I can't find it online but I saw it in the book I am about to give you as a source: Lisboa Desconhecida e Insólita, by Anísio Franco.

4. John VI used to hide chicken legs inside his pockets out of fear of being poisoned. He died of poison.

5. Legend says when the statue of José I was unveiled, the one in Praça do Comércio, the queen allegedly said "he looks so ugly". Allegedly, that is why he is wearing a helmet. Yes, the sculptor did nothing about the ugliness, just sort of tried to disguise it. Reminding you that this is a legend. As far as I am aware, the statue was always made with the helmet, but I honestly prefer this version, so that’s the one I tell on my tours lmfao

6. In the 16th century, Manuel I loved collecting animals he knew nothing about, and then gift them to the Pope. We know about the rhinoceros already, which ended up being painted by Dürer, but did you know he also got an elephant? One day, though, he decided it would be a great ideal to have the rhinoceros and the elephant fight each other. He set up an arena in Praça do Comércio. People went buckwild for this. It was like WWE for them. And when the two animals confronted each other.... Nothing happened. Turns out elephants are not really made to fight and the two animals didn't really give a shit about each other. However, elephants are easily spooked, and with a sudden movement from the rhinoceros, that's what happened. The elephant took off from the arena and ran across the entire city back to his caretaker.... And miraculously, did not stomp a single person. The Rhinoceros was declared a winner but only because the elephant quit. People were a little disappointed at this, and ironically enough, it’s the elephant that’s reminded (he had a name but I forgot). Source: another ANísio Franco book, called something like Passeios por Lisboa, I forgot I’m sorry.

7. When the French invaded our country, they found John II's tomb... And beheaded him. No real reason, I guess. The body was put back together and properly buried again by some nuns who kind of felt bad about it.

8. This one is not funny at all. But I'll say this: don't ever look into the Braganza's involvement in slavery if you want to preserve your sanity. It's some of the most horrid shit you'll come across.

EDIT: a while ago I mentioned this in another context, and someone asked for a source. I remember now I said I needed to look it up but, as ever, I forgot. With all my due apologies, here it is: https://expresso.pt/sociedade/2015-12-08-O-segredo-dos-escravos-reprodutores

9. The Marquis of Pombal once stole the waters of Sintra, leaving the people with ONE public fountain in butt fuck nowhere. I've talked about this one on here before but it shows how fucking insane the man was.

10. The expression "ficar a ver navios", which means "to stand by watching the ships pass", is used when someone is waiting for something that will not happen (like, if someone is stood up on a date, you say they stayed there watching the ships pass). It actually comes from the expulsion of the jews in 1497. Manuel I promised jewish people who wished to leave ships to board and go to North Africa. However, he also knew, because he was a fucking idiot but not entirely stupid, that if he expelled the jews, the country's economy would basically collapse, because jewish people held a GREAT number of businesses in not just Lisbon, but major metropolitan centres. So, this was a lie. The ships he promised never came. For months, jewish people went to the Santa Catarina hill every day to look out for ships that would let them board and leave the country. The ships never came, thus, they were "watching the ships pass", but none of them stopping.

Okay this is all I can think of A YEAR LATER LOL

[cappuccinopoweredsprite]

Hey, hi and hello, it's @brick-enthusiast coming at you from the sideblog again!

As part of a friendly agreement with @things-about-cars-in-posts, I am here to introduce another race car.

You know Peugeot? In recent years, the French brand is probably best known for fighting tooth and nail to shake a reputation of dullness. However, you've probably heard - or perhaps you remember - that Peugeot used to be a whole lot more cool.

Well, this story takes place a little bit after that. Less than a year after the last story I told, in fact, in 1995. And the similarities between the two don't end there.

The car in question is the then-new Peugeot 806.

By all means a run-of-the-mill, boring people carrier, unveiled in 1994.

PSA Group had co-developed it with Fiat, so it was also sold as a Citroen, a Lancia and a Fiat.

(As you may remember from a recent post by @things-about-cars-in-posts!)

Anyway! Peugeot wanted to do something to promote their version of the so-called Eurovan. Someone, half-jokingly, suggested to take it to the racetrack.

That someone was Pascal Witmauer, the man in charge of Peugeot's advertising in Belgium, as well as marketing for the Belgian Procar racing series. Peugeot's "promotional event" was set to be 1995's running of the Spa 24 Hours.

A 24-hour endurance race, yes.

A 24-hour endurance race that was happening at the end of July. It was May.

The project was handed over to Kronos Racing, a Belgian racing team that would go on to build successful Peugeots and Citroens for the circuit as well as dirt. And well, they did complete it.

As much as a parts-bin-special it might have been, the Peugeot 806 Procar was a serious racing machine. Its interior was stripped of anything non-essential, the 8 factory seats were replaced by a single carbon bucket and a roll cage.

The engine and drivetrain were a mix of parts from the 306 Maxi rally car and the outgoing 405 Mi16 circuit racer, while the then-new 406 Supertourisme donated a 6-speed sequential gearbox.

The van's speed certainly didn't lag behind. It qualified 12th overall and third(!) in its class. Not to mention that it certainly stood out in a field full of contemporary BMW 3-series and French hot hatchbacks.

By the start of the race, the big white box was already the crowd favorite. Pascal Witmeur (who also happened to be one of the 806's three drivers) recounts:

“Every time we passed by Raidillon¹, people were applauding. The public liked it, because apart from being atypical, it was often on two wheels!"

¹ a corner on the Spa-Francorchamps track

Unfortunately, mechanical issues didn't take long to show up. The team ran into brake problems an hour into the race. The engine itself gave out before the 10-hour mark, leading to a DNF for the Peugeot.

Not that it mattered to the public though. The touring van single-handedly improved the image of all MPV's² - not just the French-Italian quadruplets. Peugeot of Belgium had 5000 posters printed - all of which were given away signed by Witmeur.

"For a few hours, I was more more famous than Johnny Hallyday³!"

he laughs, admitting it was likely that many workers from Peugeot's local Sevel Nord⁴ factory came to see the race.

² multi-purpose vehicles in case you don't know, European for "minivans"

³ iconic French singer, composer and actor, regarded as "the French Elvis Presley"

⁴ that's where the 806 was assembled. Note the logo on the side of the race car's front bumper!

The very same Peugeot 806 Procar is still around to this day. After the race, it was reportedly kept by one Jean-Pierre Montron - founder of Kronos Racing - until his passing. It went up for sale in 2020 (wherein it had a bunch of articles I could use as sources written about it) and again in late 2022, when it failed to sell at auction.

Thank you for reading <3

image links: [one through four] [five]

#car things #long post #post i made #rambles

[250318]

© talkinbout | do not edit and/or crop logo

#stray kids #hyunjin #happy hyunjin day! #p:fantaken #fs:talkinbout #190519 #e:clé 1 miroh #unveil tour i am #unveil tour i am in houston

[ayuvogue]

New DVD/Blu-ray Boxset: UNRELEASED LIVE BOX Out March 13!

The birthday news keeps coming! The official site has now unveiled a boxset that will include four concerts previously un-released on DVD or Blu-ray.

The boxset will be a mu-mo and TeamAyu (app) exclusive and have a custom nameplate for each purchase. You will need to either ship to Tenso.com to ship overseas, or request the purchase from mu-mo to a proxy service like CDJapan (note, for 2020's BEST LIVE BOX A, CDJapan used the name associated with the account for the nameplate unless clearly specified otherwise)

「TA LIMITED LIVE TOUR 2016」 01. We are the QUEENS 02. 1 LOVE 03. Real me 04. Shake it♥︎ 05. STEP you 06. teddy bear 07. Voyage 08. SEASONS 09. Key ～eternal tie ver.～ 10. Tell All 11. progress 12. The Show Must Go On 13. TODAY 14. evolution 15. Boys & Girls 16. NOW & 4EVA 17. RED LINE ～for TA～ 18. Ivy

「ayumi hamasaki  COUNTDOWN LIVE 2016-2017 A『Just the beginning -20-』」

01. kanariya 02. Last angel 03. Fly high 04. UNITE! 05. BAND INTRODUCTION 06. poker face ～ ANGEL’S SONG ～ Depend on you ～ Beautiful Fighters ～ STEP you 07. Flying Medley 08. M 09. appears 10. No way to say 11. Because of You 12. NEVER EVER 13. talking' 2 myself 14. Mirrorcle World 15. Voyage 16. The Show Must Go On ～ Feel the love ～ You & Me ～ HONEY ～ everywhere nowhere ～ WE WISH ～ independent ～ Trauma ～ ＋ ～ Humming 7/4 ～ evolution ～ SURREAL ～ Boys & Girls 17. Who...

「ayumi hamasaki ARENA TOUR 2018 ～POWER of MUSIC 20th Anniversary～」

01. forgiveness 02. evolution 03. SHOWTIME 04. A Song for ×× 05. Mad World 06. ever free 07. Catcher In The Light 08. SEASONS 09. TO BE 10. how beautiful you are 11. BRILLANTE 12. Diary 13. Bold & Delicious 14. Born To Be... 15. NEXT LEVEL 16. The way I am 17. SURREAL 18. Boys & Girls 19. A Song is born

「ayumi hamasaki COUNTDOWN LIVE 2018-2019  -TROUBLE-」

01. WARNING 02. W 03. Lady Dynamite 04. 1 LOVE 05. No way to say 06. Together When... 07. SHOWTIME 08. Movin' on without you 09. Lelio 10. XOXO 11. SHOWTIME 12. We are the QUEENS 13. Survivor 14. Startin' 15. UNITE! 16. evolution 17. talkin' 2 myself 18. Love song 19. NOW & 4EVA 20. Days 21. ANother song feat. URATA NAOYA 22. Dream ON 23. Boys & Girls 24. The Show Must Go On 25. MY ALL

#ayumi hamasaki #hamasaki ayumi #浜崎あゆみ #jpop #ayu news #unreleased live box

[littlemuoi]

WESSEXES' TOUR A TRIUMPH: PEI, Halifax, Montreal, St John's on Edward and Sophie's Itinerary by Scott Burke (2001)

Summer brought a Royal homecoming in the persons of Their Royal Highnesses The Earl and Countess of Wessex. A very happy Prince Edward Island tour was Sophie's first visit to the Canada, after which Edward and she proceeded to undertake further duties in Halifax and Montreal.

Touching down at Charlottetown Airport just after 3 pm on July 14, Their Royal Highnesses made their way to Province House where they were officially welcomed by the Lieutenant Governor, the Premier and the Solicitor General who was representing the Prime Minister. Crowds stood for some hours in the sun as they awaited the Royal couple, aware that it was Sophie's first official visit outside the British Isles. But HRH delighted those she met during the walkabout following the arrival ceremonies, seeming natural and relaxed in blue suit and matching accessories as she worked the crowds. I was delighted to be able to present her with a bouquet of flowers which HRH seemed happy to receive. As she signed the Golden Book, this keen Royal-watcher noticed that she shares a trait with her nephew Prince William: both are left-handed! But the ease and informality of the Royals were to prove typical of the entire trip: made possible by the down-to-earth nature of Edward, the charming and kind personality of his elegant wife and their joint fondness for a little light-hearted humour.

In his welcoming remarks, Premier Pat Binns observed that "The Crown remains a symbol of freedom and justice, and of our hopes for peace and dignity for all citizens. In reaffirming our support for the Monarchy, we are reaffirming our support for ideals, values and aspirations that it represents." After reorganizing his notes which wind had blown off the podium, Prince Edward replied with a very informal thank you. "Over the years," HRH observed, "Canada and Canadians have always been extremely kind to me, and I've always enjoyed the time I spent here. I am sure you will all extend the same hospitality to my bride. I am told you are not supposed to use the term after a year of marriage, but I can't really believe that it has been more than a year since I took that plunge. Time flies when you are enjoying yourself." After a brief tour of the Confederation Chamber, the couple returned to the Delta Prince Edward, their home during the stay, another name sake for the Prince. That evening, they attended a performance at the Fathers of Confederation Centre for the Arts, hosted by the Premier.

Saturday brought a full day of engagements for the Wessexes as they toured across the Province. Their first stop was the Rodd Brudenell River Resort. Emerging from their helicopter, the couple unveiled a plaque for the property's redevelopment. The ceremony complete, resort guests and some members of the public enjoyed a BBQ on the law with the Royals, which was followed by a brief tour via golf cart, the Prince at the wheel. I had a brief chance to speak to Edward ­ but felt nervous enough in doing so that when HRH asked me if I played golf I confusedly answered "yes" even though I had never tried the game!

The afternoon brought Edward and Sophie to a concert at St Mary's Church, Indian River. This was followed by a taste of PEI's most celebrated produce in the form of french fries at Irving-owned Cavendish Farms in Kensington. The Countess mischieviously confessed to feeling a little peckish and asked if she could have a chocolate milkshake to accompany the potatoes. At this point Edward stepped in and jokingly poked fun at her, warning her not to spoil her dinner! Later the Royals made a brief visit to Gateway Village. This lies at the entry of the Confederation Bridge which links the Island to New Brunswick.

Saturday evening brought the State Dinner for 604 invitees, hosted by the Canadian Government. The gala evening allowed the Countess to wear for the first time the tiara given her as a wedding present from The Queen. Solicitor General and Island MP Lawrence MacAulay who sat with Sophie at one of the round tables in the hotel ballroom stated that he was impressed with her thoughtfulness: "Quite simply she's a lady who wants to make things happen," he observed.

No rest came to Edward and Sophie on Sunday, as their busy day started with Matins at St Peter's Cathedral and a visit to historic All Souls Chapel. A large crowd gathered outside and joined the congregation in singing the Royal Anthem prior to a brief walkabout. Their Royal Highnesses then walked to Fanningbank where His Honour hosted a private luncheon in his home, members of the RCMP Musical Ride flanking the driveway. Around 2 pm they left to visit Confederation Birthplace Commemorative Park on the Charlottetown waterfront where TRH unveiled a small plaque and planted a rose bush, as well as visiting Lobster pound.

As the Royals walked through Confederation Park, they stopped to watch some child gymnasts, at which point Sophie said that she had also tried gymnastics while at school. They also encountered some interpretive guides costumed as Fathers of Confederation and speaking in English accents. The Prince asked a woman in the crowd if she spoke English; on receiving her positive answer he told here "Good, because those people over there need some serious help," to the laughter of the crowd. Martial arts and magic were also on offer in the Park, the Countess observing "I'm glad I didn't volunteer for that" in reaction to a rather distasteful trick involving the appearance of an undergarment from a spectator's cleavage!

Later on Sunday came the event which provided the original inspiration for the Wessexes' tour, the opening of the 39th Annual Canadian Branch Conference of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. In his remarks after viewing some cultural performances, The Earl spoke about the Commonwealth and its parliamentary traditions: "It took us in Britain centuries to develop the Westminster style... is it really feasible to ask others to achieve the same in a matter of decades? It seems to work for us ­ just! But does that mean it works for everyone, and are we falling into the same trap as, say, the early religious missionaries? I don't pretend to have the answer, but sometimes I feel democracy is an evolutionary concept, a bit like growing up."

To conclude the PEI portion of their Canadian homecoming, the Earl and Countess visited the Prince Edward Battery where HRH climbed onto a large crane in order to lift cannon as symbol of the forthcoming restoration project. Later they attended a Fanningbank reception for the CPA delegates As the Royal couple departed for Montreal, I felt delighted to have had the opportunity of meeting TRH, and of hearing The Countess several times repeat how she hopes to return and see other parts of Canada.

Monday, July 17th brought a full day of activities for the Wessexes in Montreal: the Earl presented Gold Awards at a Reception for recipients of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, Young Canadians Challenge held at The Queen Elizabeth Hotel. Lunchtime found the Royals aboard Shipshaw where they attended a fund-raising lunch for the Award's Charter for Business. And evening brought yet another event to support the Charter, a Dinner at the Headquarters of Power Corporation, controlled by the Desmarais family.

The final day of the Earl and Countess' Canadian sojourn involved two provinces. The morning found them at another Gold Standard ceremony for the Duke of Edinburgh's Award. This event took place at Pier 21 in Halifax after the Wessexes had been received by the Lieutenant Governor. Her Honour subsequently hosted a Luncheon at Government House in support of the Business Charter. By evening the Royals had flown into St John's, where the tour's final Gold ceremony took place at Pius X Church. It was followed by a BBQ at Gonzaga High School, where TRH mingled with the young participants in the Challenge. By the time of their midnight flight to London, both Edward and Sophie must have reflected on the whirlwind nature of the latter part of their homecoming ­ and of the great welcome and positive media "spin" which greeted them everywhere they went

#brf #royal anecdote #soph #ed #prince edward #duke of edinburgh #duchess of edinburgh #royal otp

[theheelerbooklifereads]

Book Tour: The Blood That Binds Us by Erin Mainord Review

🙋‍♀️ 𝘘𝘖𝘛𝘋: 𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳 𝘰𝘳 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥?

✨𝓢𝓱𝓮 𝓲𝓼 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝔀𝓲𝓮𝓵𝓭𝓮𝓻 𝓸𝓯 𝓫𝓵𝓸𝓸𝓭 𝓶𝓪𝓰𝓲𝓬, 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓼𝓱𝓮 𝓶𝓪𝔂 𝓮𝓷𝓭 𝓽𝓱𝓮𝓶 𝓪𝓵𝓵.✨

I know I am making a later than normal post and that is because I was trying to get further into The Blood That Binds Us by Erin Mainord so I can share my thoughts with you all.

I am around 40ish percent in the book and was hoping to be further in it now that it is almost 9:30 pm my time. I got allergy shots today (I skipped two weeks due to being sick and having an asthma flare up) and then I only got 4 hours of sleep so that combination made me come home and crash. Then, the reason on me slacking on reading has been because I have been on and off sick and me just struggling with focus from my lovely ADHD.

Anyway, I am really enjoying The Blood That Binds Us. Wren is a fun, sassy heroine of the story who lets Sin know how it is. The banter is really fun. It did take me a tad bit to get into since it was a lot of world building going on in the first few chapters but once I got past that small portion of the book, it became very fast paced and engaging. I am looking forward to seeing how everything plays out.

The Blood That Binds Us is noted to be comparable to The Plated Prisoner Series by Raven Kennedy, From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout, and The Crowns of Nyaxia by Carissa Broadbent. I can definitely say I totally get The Plated Prisoner vives when reading this book so it is a definite yes to if you like The Plated Prisoner series then you will most likely enjoy this book.

I’m really loving the enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity, and the one bed trope in this book since they are some of my favorite tropes.

You can find the link to order The Blood That Binds Us by @erinmainordauthor in my LinkTree that is located in my bio. Also, I want to thank Erin and @BookOfMatchesMedia for the opportunity to read and review this book.

Blurb

“Monster…”

Wren has never stolen a life, but that doesn’t stop her from believing her darkness makes her a walking nightmare. Harboring a power so lethal, unpredictable, and entirely forbidden by kingdom law, Wren’s spent her whole life hiding what she is—who she is. A bloodwitch.

Meanwhile, a war is looming, and Wren’s feral magic may be the only thing that can stop the uprising from destroying the kingdom, her home, and everyone that stands in their way. After her sister is captured by the rebellion, Wren must seek help from the kingdom’s ruler who would sooner imprison her than offer aid. Except… Singard needs her, and when she volunteers the use of her power in exchange for his help finding her sister, an unlikely alliance is born.

Forced into a reluctant compromise with the “white-haired witch,” Sin finds himself protecting Wren for his kingdom’s survival, but their star-crossed relationship quickly spirals into one straddling the precipice of hate and passion. As secrets are unveiled and loyalties are tested, neither are sure who they can trust.

When hostilities deepen and war draws near, Wren is determined to rein in her wild magic and bind it to her will. With the lives of everyone she loves at stake, Wren must look within and decide if she is the monster she fears, or if there is light to be found in the darkest parts of herself.

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#bookstagram #bookworm #booklr #books #bookish #must read books #book review #bibliophile #booklover #book #book blog #book recommendations #books and libraries #bookblr #book reccs #books and literature #booksbooksbooks #booktok #romance books #romantasy #romance fantasy #fantasy #fantasy romance #fantasy books #kindle books #book tropes #book tumblr

[twh-news]

TL;DR: Finally BBC has announced the airing of the recording of The Play What I Wrote on a Sunday evening slot. Date TBA.

BBC announces autumn season of Sunday night performances

Stage shows will be brought to the scheme as part of the autumn season

The BBC has unveiled a season of Sunday night performances and more to be broadcast and released on BBC iPlayer.

Sophie Fiennes will direct a screen version of Ralph Fiennes' Four Quartets, which ran in the West End and on tour last year. The piece sees Fiennes performing T S Elliot's seminal piece live from memory.

The channel will broadcast the RSC and Birmingham Rep adaptation of Tartuffe, which is running at the venue next month, as well as Shakespeare's Globe's production of Twelfth Night with Michelle Terry playing Viola, as well as The Play What I Wrote with Tom Hiddleston.

The series will also see continued episodes of BBC Young Musician, BBC Young Jazz Musician, as well as two productions from award-winning dance company Ballet Black.

The BBC will partner with The Space to create a new production especially for Carlos Acosta's Birmingham Royal Ballet – a new version of Don Quixote.

A new series announced is titled "The Read" – a series of creative performance readings of iconic British novels, directed by exciting emerging talent.

Suzy Klein, head of Arts and Classical Music TV at the BBC said: "We are immensely proud of the Sunday Night Performance programme since its inception in March of this year, and audiences have enjoyed some of very best that Britain's cultural powerhouses have to offer.

"I am delighted to continue to champion and support the performing arts across the UK, and showcase great performances across theatre, classical music, jazz, dance and spoken word, every Sunday night throughout the year. As people across the country face tough choices around their finances, we want to bring them the best of British performance from around the UK - giving audiences the best seat in the house, for free."

Dates for all performances are to be confirmed.

#the play what i wrote #tom hiddleston #BBC