#and bob's 'Chris is that you my dear' CUTE

[sacredthethreadgvf]

Limelight | Jake Kiszka x Reader | Part 1.

Word Count: 13.7k

Prologue

Chapter Warnings: Smoking the herb, Jakes kind of an asshole, kissing and making out. Slight mentions of poor mental health that could be triggering for some. Mentions of self pleasure (f).

A/N: Thank you for being patient with me while I put this story together for you meticulously. I cannot wait to continue to share this story with everyone and I truly hope you all enjoy the slow burn that is only part 1 of our dear series. Buckle up, we have quite the journey together. I have to give the biggest shout out to @joshym, my dear Elisabeth, this story would truly be nothing without your insight. Thank you for your undying support while I navigate this story and for helping me button it up to share with everyone. 

Dear readers, as always, if I have forgotten to add something to my warnings or if there is anything that is triggering, please mention it so I can add such to my warning label. 

Enough of me rambling, I hope you enjoy!

****

July 28th 

STARCATCHER

Houston, TX.

Your alarm blared wildly at 3 am on a Monday morning to your dismay. You had barely slept unfortunately due to the dread of getting on a plane and meeting your new boss in about 13+ hours. Normally, when you are contracted with a new artist there’s a meet and greet between you to see how you would mesh together, to understand what your new boss is looking for in their assistant, what was a big no and what was a necessity. You took this part of your job very seriously. 

When Brian informed you that the boys were already on the road and you could not meet in the safe haven of the office with Brian one seat away from you, your heart sank. 

You were going into this new job knowing nothing about your boss other than what you were able to research on your own.

Jake Kiszka. A young guitarist seemingly at the height of his career with his brothers and his friend.

Your flight to Houston had ultimately gone faster than you wanted it to. Your anxiety grows more and more as you watch the time tick by on your phone screen. You tried your best to distract yourself with music and reading but found that trying to force your brain to not think about something only made it mock you and remind you about it more. Once you landed, you were immediately meeting with the band's current assistant Rose, who was coming to pick you up from the airport with a “runner”. You were going to be thrown to the wolves quite literally tonight. There was a show and you were told to be ready to go to the best of your ability. 

Grabbing your bags off the carousel you walked to the doors in the busy airport, your lungs begging for fresh air after sitting in a stuffy plane for a few hours now. Stepping out you felt the Houston heat invade all your senses and looked to your left to see a short brown hair girl waving you down with a big smile in front of a white van. That must be Rose. 

As you approached closer you got a good look at her features. You could describe her as a cute “mousey” looking girl. Small nose, adorable little smile, and a short bob with bangs which she tried her best to tie up and away from her neck. 

“You must be Y/N!” She said, greeting you with a wider smile. 

“That would be me!” You smiled back at her. 

“Here let me help you with your bags.” You helped her pick up your very full suitcase and lay it in the van. You followed her into it shortly after you got your luggage situated. “Alright Chris, were ready to go!” She said, patting the headrest of the driver's seat. She turned to you and gave you a soft smile. 

“So, Y/N! Tell me about yourself. I already know a bit from what Nick told me about you after connecting with your agency but tell me more!” 

You softly giggled at the energy Rose was giving off. You knew you two would be fast friends. 

“There's not much to tell honestly!” You really hated questions like this. 

“Oh cmon, how did you get into the industry!” She sat a little closer to you as the van made a sharp turn. 

“Let's just say my love for music really attracted me to this career choice. I have zero musical talent but I do love being around it. So I figured I would settle for the fun life of knowing what goes on backstage and working with artists one on one.”

“Ah, you're chasing after the limelight huh?” Rose grinned at you.

“The limelight scares me.” You both laugh. 

After a few beats of silence and a quiet moment of watching the bustling city streets from your window Rose spoke up again. “You'll love the boys. They really are the most genuine down to earth men I have ever had the pleasure of working with. And you'll love Jake,” She winked at you once she had your attention. “He's a looker and a sweetheart.” 

You blushed a bit thinking back to your wine fueled night when you went down a spiral into Greta Van Fleet on the internet. 

“So,” Rose pulled out a little notebook. “Your main focus is Jake tonight, don't let any of the other boys try and con you into helping them out, they're probably going to ask you to do some ridiculous favors just to test you and get under your skin. Especially Joshua.” She rolled her eyes and smirked. 

“I thought you said they were all sweethearts.” You snorted. 

“They are, but they also all have an affinity for trouble. It seems to follow them everywhere.” She giggled. “I'll try to introduce you to Jake when we get to the venue and he can take it from there. I do apologize I cannot show you around much, we are a couple of hours away from the show now and my attention needs to be on Joshua as he can be quite the diva.” 

You raised your eyebrows at her and she rolled her eyes. “Don't ask.”

***

You had a brief moment to drop your bags off at one of the tour buses, which you watched immediately get placed into one of the compartment bins on the side. ‘There goes the promise of a shower and a comfy bed tonight’ You thought to yourself. You were running behind Rose attempting to keep up with her speed walking through the back doors of the venue into the noisy white brick halls, clearly on a mission. 

“Were later than expected,” Rose said, her tone alarming as she glanced at her phone. “Were already past soundcheck, gosh I hope it went okay.” She muttered to herself.

“Here I got you a pass so you don't get thrown out of the venue.” Her tone lightened a bit but you could still see a hint of anxiety in her eyes. “You could easily pass off as one of the boys’ fans and we cant have security throwing out a newbie on day one.” 

You took the little lithograph pass and hung the lanyard from your neck observing its intricate details in the picture. Rose had then given you her phone number and directed you to sit in a dressing room and wait to meet Jake, she apologized profusely that she had to go run off to tend to Josh and you waved her off, understanding that you were the one that was in the way today. 

Sitting on the little loveseat in the room you took your time to observe your surroundings. The typical food and drink set up in an artist's dressing room caught your eye. So he likes wine,  you noted that to yourself for future reference. You noted the neatly placed hairbrush, dyson air wrap, little make up bag. Your eyes finally settled on the silver suit hanging from the back of one of the doors in the room. You pulled your phone out of your little bag and sent a text to your roommate and parents letting them know you at least made it to the venue and you would catch up with them at a later time as you now had to prepare yourself for work mode. 

Your silent moment was interrupted as a tall gentleman who you recognized as the boys’ manager Nick, walked through the door followed by the young guitarist himself. They clearly were in the middle of cracking a joke back and forth as the sound of laughter filled up the once peaceful room. 

“Miss Y/N!” Nick waved towards you with a gesture. “Glad to see you made it here in one piece! Thank you for coming on such short notice, I understand this is moving quite quickly for you. Probably more than you're used to, no?” 

You stood from your spot and extended your hand to shake Nicks. “It's no problem at all. I am a fast learner.” 

“Love to hear that!” He stepped aside briefly and gestured towards the other man occupying the room. “And here is Jake!” 

Jake. Everything you didn't expect and more, although you shouldn't have been surprised. You had only seen photos of Jake on stage when you were doing your “homework”.  As you two got closer to one another, his bergamot cologne overpowered your senses but not in an unpleasant way. He was dressed casually. Almost too casually. A cut off shirt with another button down and jacket laid on top and a pair of way too baggy slacks hanging off of him and a pair of sunglasses hiding his eyes from your view. His hair having a slight wave to it hung from his head.

“Hello Y/N.” He smiled softly at you and extended his hand out for you to shake. You just met the man and yet you already loved the way your name sounded coming from his mouth. 

“Hi.” You heard your own voice squeak in your ears. Why am I like this? You internally rolled your eyes at yourself. 

“Well,” Nick said. “I will leave you both to it. Show time soon Jake. Be ready.” 

Jake nodded and saluted Nick as he walked out the door leaving you both alone. Timidly you watched as Jake waltzed around the dressing room comfortably, grabbing a corkscrew and picking up a bottle of wine from the selection displayed on a table in front of him. 

“You drink?” He asked as he began to pour himself a gracious cup of the red liquid. 

“Uh, yeah I do sometimes.” 

“Would you like a glass?” He reached across the table in front of him to grab another plastic cup and gestured to you. 

You waved him off immediately, “Oh no, no I'm okay thank you.” 

“Cmon, have a bit of wine with me. It's customary when I meet someone to break into a bottle.” His sunglasses still hide his full face from your view.

“Maybe another time,” You sat down on the couch in the room and pulled a notepad out from your back pocket with a pen. “What do you need me to do for you tonight?” 

Jake's eyebrows raised. “Suit yourself I guess.” He approached the vanity opposite where you were sitting and leaned back against it, one ankle crossing over the other. 

“I suppose since we don't have much time I will get myself ready tonight as usual.” You could almost hear the hint of distaste in his mouth.

You watched his Adam's apple bob as he took a big gulp of wine. “I'll just need help with side stage stuff.” His eyebrows furrowed. “Why are you writing that down?” 

While his tone had a hint of curiosity you easily picked up on the scoff that passed his lips. What a prick.. 

“Just want to make sure I dont forget anything important is all. That a problem?” You challenged. 

You watched as his eyebrows rose slightly over his sunglasses. “No.”

“So what is it that you need assistance with at the side stage this evening Mr.Kiszka.” 

He smirked slightly. “Just need to make sure my towels are swapped out every few songs, make sure I have water nearby, and make sure this,” He gestured across the room to the display of wine. “To stay pretty full at all times.” 

“Seems simple enough.” Your pen lifted off of the paper. “Anything else?” 

Jake shook his head no and smirked at you. “Wanna read that list back to me or what?” 

What a douche..

“I'm good thanks. Hey, you good here for a moment? I want to go grab something from my bag on the bus.”

He took another gulp of wine and you watched as his demeanor changed. “All good.” 

You felt like you couldn't get out of that room fast enough, your anxiety taking over. But for what? Why exactly were you feeling like this? Was it the fact that you felt like you couldn't handle the workload given to you? The very minimal workload at that. That couldn't be the case. You had done so much more before this job, juggling multiple members of bands before as a stagehand. Maybe it had something to do with the rather attractive guitarist that you were now working for. 

No no, stop thinking like that you just met him 

He definitely was not what you had expected to be in person. 

***

The countdown for show time came faster than you really wanted it to. You felt like you weren't even close to being prepared for what was ahead of you for the evening. Rose met back up with you again and pulled you along with her to the greenroom where the rest of the band had gathered to say a little prayer before walking to the stage. You picked up on a few things that were said, “May Josh's vocals shine bright, may Jake's guitar never fail, may Danny's drums not break, and let's pray that Sam's bass and mellotron carry us along for a journey.”

“Alright boys!” Rose said rather loudly next to you. “Time for stage!” 

You were not yet prepared for all eyes landing on you at once and for some reason it made you feel rather small all at once. 

“Boys, this is Y/N! Jake's new assistant. Be nice, we want to keep her around.” Rose gestured to you. You watched as chocolate eyes all were focused on you. 

“Hey Y/N!” Everyone but Jake said in unison. 

“This is Josh, Danny and Sam. You will have more time to chit chat and get to know them later on,” Rose said. “For right now, we are cutting it a bit too close for comfort so lets get a move on!” 

Following the boys, security and Rose through the hallway that led to the venue you could hear the screams of anticipation in the background mixed in with the sound of classical music. You could feel a hint of nervousness and tension fill the air as the boys got their cue to enter the stage. This venue was huge, bigger than the ones you were used to seeing. The sound of screams from loyal fans going up an octave once they saw the boys enter the stage which prompted the rest of the venue to follow suit. 

Nothing at all could have mentally prepared you for this moment, nor the events that followed.

***

Everything had gone terribly wrong. 

You had managed to miss every one of Jake's stage cues. To your defense though, you didn't even know what those cues even were or what he had wanted. To further your frustration and embarrassment, you even had a roadie get mad at you and take over grabbing Jake a fresh towel and placing it within reach for Jake. By the time Jake had come off the main stage to go to B Stage in the back of the venue, he was glaring at you. 

“Why don't you just go sit in the dressing room, you're clearly just in the way!” 

You wanted nothing more than to hide away but Rose had come up to you after watching the little incident between you and Jake and encouraged you to stay, just stand stage side on the main stage and let Jake breathe it out. Your heart had been beating wildly in your chest and you couldn't wait for the show to finish to have a moment to yourself.

Rounding the corner your mind felt like it was a mess, buzzing away at a rapid pace with anxious thoughts. Were you made out for this? Smaller bands it was a breeze helping out and working for them, but this felt bigger than you anticipated. Jake seemed to get more and more frustrated with you as the show went on until that moment before the encore. You're praying to the heavens that your face doesn't give away the fact that you were crying, thankful you had packed your mascara into your little purse you had. 

Backstage was buzzing with people. Everyone was currently packing up bins and rolling them to the buses, others shouting orders to one another and pointing in many different directions. The chaos was unnerving compared to earlier before the show. Walking down a long hallway you passed through a few curtains hung up for privacy between the dressing rooms when you heard him. 

“This might have been a mistake.” Jake softly spoke to someone. “She managed to ruin every single thing that I needed tonight.” 

Just let it go, you thought to yourself. It’s not worth getting upset over. He just had a long night.

You just tried to keep yourself busy, helping out in any way you could that didn’t leave you in everyone’s way.

But just as you had decided to pretend as though you were oblivious to his harsh words, it was what he said next that had you throwing that sentiment clear out of the window. 

“I mean, Jesus. You’d have to be some kind of an idiot to not be able to handle something so simple.”

Idiot?

That was most definitely not going to sit comfortably with you. At that point, it wasn’t about “letting it go,” it suddenly became necessary to defend yourself to your new boss who felt the need to say such horrid things about you on your first fucking night.

Your eyes burned with tears of frustration and exhaustion after your long day. You burst through the black curtain and marched up to Jake. 

“First of all, I just fucking got here and had no time to adjust to anything or learn anything about you or what you needed or where to find it.” Your arms crossed in front of your chest. “Second off we don't even know each other and you expect me to know you like the back of your hand? New flash Jake, I dont. So don't just blow me away and throw me to the curb because of one bad night and give me a damn chance.” Your chest was practically heaving by the time you were done speaking. Both Jake and the roadies eyes were wide as saucers staring at you. 

Jake's mouth opened a few times but no words came out. 

“How about instead of undermining me we sit down and actually talk about what you need from me and how I can actually do my job and in a week if I dont ‘have a grasp’ on anything and Im still fucking up? I'll leave you without a word and you won't have to hear from me again. Deal?” 

The roadie Jake was speaking to failed to cover up a laugh with a fake cough and you shot him a glare. He glanced briefly at Jake whose eyes were locked on you with an unreadable expression and then turned away and left you two alone. 

“Y/N, I-” Jake seemed to find his voice just as you started to walk away. 

“Save it.” You shot back at him over your shoulder and muttered under your breath. “Fucking prick.” 

Walking through the same black curtain you had burst through not moments ago you collided with someone who must've been standing close by. “Oh my god Im so sor-”

“That, that was fucking awesome.” Frontman Josh Kiszka himself was grinning wildly at you. 

Your heart leapt out of your throat. “Jesus! Eavesdropping much?” You clenched a hand to your chest. 

Josh laughed and wrapped an arm around your shoulder and began to lead you down the hallway, far away from Jake. “No one other than myself or my other brothers really stand up to Jakey boy. You're really giving him a run for his money. I like you!” He flashed you a wide grin.

“Im s-so sorry,” You stuttered. “That was so unprofessional of me to say-”

“No! It was not unprofessional, dont worry about it.” Josh's arm dropped from your shoulder. “Trust me, he's been such a prick these last few weeks he really needed someone to stick it to him other than his own family.” 

You weren't listening to Josh and you were letting your anxiety get the best of you for the second time tonight. You could not lose another client due to a complication. As much as your boss stuck it out for you, you knew he was also not thrilled with your recent issues with the last band you worked with. 

You broke away from Josh and sat in a rouge chair in one of the hallways and held your head in your hands to shield the tears that were beginning to bubble up again in your throat. 

“Hey, Y/N right? That's your name?” Josh asked, placing a comforting hand on your shoulder. You nodded but refused to look up at him until he pulled your hands back from your face. “Give him some time. Like you suggested, just have the sit down with him and figure out what the hell he needs from you. But maybe save it for tomorrow? No offense, but you look like shit.” 

You huffed a laugh and wiped the rouge tear that slipped down your cheek. “Gee, thanks.” 

“Just trying to lighten the mood,” Josh's voice rang like a song and you felt him reach for your hands. “You seem like you've had quite the day my dear. Here, let me show you to the tour bus and your bunk! I'm assuming you will be riding with us since you're going to be hitched to Jake.” 

“Your assumptions are correct, unfortunately.” You gave him a soft smile to which he returned. 

“My twin definitely has quite the temper sometimes, let me tell you.” Josh sucked a breath between his teeth. “But I promise he's nice. Underneath all the mystery he likes to pretend he holds, he's easy going.” 

“You're twins?” You were surprised. 

“I'm five minutes older so I'm superior.” He threw you a wink.

“A superior pain in the ass.” Jake's voice rang out behind the two of you. Your breath caught in your throat again as you took a glance at the man who you had raised your voice at not nearly 15 minutes prior.

He had apparently showered in a short span of time and his hair was dripping onto his soft beige button up he was now sporting. His eyes were hidden by the same pair of sunglasses from earlier and you watched as he slung the backpack he was carrying over his shoulder. 

“Don't you have somewhere else to be?” Josh rolled his eyes. “Come now Y/N, were almost there.” 

“Don't go stealing my assistant now.” Jake shot back at his twin and Josh just shook his head. Clearly there was some twin telepathy that you were missing as you felt the tension between the two rise.

For a moment there was uncomfortable silence held between the three of you and you did not have the heart to speak up. That silence was quickly broken by the sound of diesel engines roaring in the distance and the footsteps of the twins as you walked in between them. Your arms crossed against your chest again, a sign of defensiveness and protection around the strangers you had just met only hours prior. You three walked through a wide entrance into a huge garage lined with at least 8 buses. Chaos was ahead as you watched workers and roadies buzz about getting things packed into different compartments and wheeled to their respective places. 

Jake's pace sped up and he weaseled his way around you and Josh who were now walking side by side. You watched as Jake got on one of the tour buses and disappeared deeper into it without another word to either of you or the workers around. 

Josh sighed next to you and grabbed your hand briefly and you both stopped walking. “Listen, if he gives you a lot of trouble, come find me. Or Sam. Or Danny. We will keep Jake in check. You seem like a really nice girl and already a great addition to the team. Don't let him get under your skin. He will come around.”

“But Josh, you barely know me. I feel like I messed up big tonight and-” 

Josh held a hand up to stop you from talking which you obeyed. “I don't believe that. Give yourself a chance. I can tell you have the vigor and the right attitude to do this job and I expect we will see great things from you. Plus we have all the time in the world to get to know each other” He winked at you and bumped you with his elbow. 

“Thank you Josh.” You smiled softly. 

“Anytime.” He held his arms open for a hug which you graciously accepted. “Now let's get you settled on the bus yeah?” 

***

July 29th. 

Denver, CO.

You awoke to the sound of multiple voices talking back and forth and the sound of shuffling feet and bags. The clear ring of Josh's laugh falling through the tight hallway of the tour bus bunks. You rubbed your eyes and reached for your phone out of the side pocket of the bunk. 

10:44 AM

Your moment of peace in your secluded bunk was disrupted by a small pull on the drapes of your bunk and you shielded your eyes from the bright light coming from the overhead lights. 

“Rise and shine sleepy head,” Rose smiled at you softly. “Duty awaits.” 

Rose was gracious enough to re-close the drapes to your bunk to shield you from the prying eyes of anyone walking past to exit the bus. You quickly gathered your water bottle phone and charger and pulled the curtains back, still feeling groggy and not processing your surroundings. You realized pretty quickly that having a moment to sit in peace and quiet was not an option as you made eye contact with Jake's reflective sunglasses lenses and Danny's smirk, the aisle of people sitting at a stand still similar to the aisle of a plane. 

“Well well, looks like someone got a good night's sleep.” Danny said, smiling at you and gesturing to your head. 

You felt your hair with your hands, a clear rat's nest on one side of your head and then noticed the feeling of drool on the side of your mouth. Your eyes widened, horrified and you pulled the curtain closed again to hide from the men standing eye level right next to you. An absolutely horrifying experience as you heard the two giggle and mutter something along the lines of ‘I remember when I used to crash in bus bunks like that.’ ‘I remember when I had my first real night's sleep.’

You wished at that moment that you could curl up and cease to exist. 

What a way to start a day. 

Voices and the sound of feet got further away in a few moments and you peeked your head out of the curtain and saw the coast was clear enough for you to finally crawl out of your tour bus coffin and seize the day ahead of you. 

After gathering your necessities and locating your bookbag tucked away in a random corner on a couch, you walked off the bus which was located in a back parking lot of a hotel and you were met with Rose once again awaiting your arrival. “Here, I grabbed your suitcase for you. I'm sorry, I should've told you to keep your book bag stocked last night, at least for small items like your hairbrush for the bus. That was my fault.” 

You grimaced as you were trying to work out the knots in your hair with your fingers. “It's no worries, I think I was too tired to properly function anyways yesterday to even consider it.”

“Get used to it kiddo,” She began walking towards the hotel. “You will have to learn how to thrive on no sleep with these hooligans. They will surely give you a run for your money.” 

“Were not all that terrible!” Danny had caught up with you and Rose.

“That might be the best joke I have heard all week!” Rose said.

Danny covered his heart with his hand. “I'm wounded Rose, I'm wounded real deep.”

Rose rolled her eyes and looked back at you as she approached the front doors of the hotel. “I already gathered everyone's room keys and checked the team in, something one day you and I will hopefully switch off on because it can be a lot of work.” You watched Danny grab a hotel key from Rose's hand, you weren't even sure where she pulled it from. 

“You will be rooming with me for most of this tour so we can assist each other with duties. Even though you primarily work with Jake it will be easier for me to help you with things from time to time to make sure we are all on the same page with the band.” 

You nodded at her in agreement and followed her into the hotel elevator. 

“I wanted to apologize for last night. I really did throw you to the wolves and that was my fault. I told Jake to come by our room in about an hour so we can sit down and discuss your duties in further detail so what happened last night doesn't happen again.” She threw you an apologetic look as you grimaced.

“I feel bad about last night.” The elevator dinged announcing your arrival onto your designated floor. 

“Seriously Y/N, don’t. Shit was all whacky and all over the place and you had no clue what to expect. I should've had you shadowing someone, I should've had you shadowing me for the night so you could see how the boys work. I blame myself for this one.”

You arrived at your room and Rose swiped the keycard for entry. The room was modest, two queen beds, tv, little desk and table in the corner and bathroom. The beds white linens looked rather inviting for a nap later on if you had the time to take it. Just as both of you were getting settled into the room, you for a shower and Rose unpacking a few of her personal items you heard her sigh rather loudly. 

You paused what you were doing, “What's up?” 

“Hmm? Oh nothing,” Her head softly shook. “Just Josh needing a multitude of things. I will be back shortly, I must go tend to the king of vocals.” 

You both laughed. “Enjoy your shower!” She said, and with that she was out the door and you were left alone in peace.

Your shower was not living up to your standards with the dang water pressure being practically nothing but the warmth of the water, the smell of your favorite soap, and the normalcy of your shower routine put a satisfied smile on your face. 

Hopping out, you wiped some of the steam that had collected on the mirror and stared at yourself. Thank goodness for showers giving you and your hair a fresh start. That rat's nest had been worse than you expected this morning on the side of your head, understandable why the boys smirked at you.

You heard a soft knock at the door, assuming it was Rose you didn't bother to put on any clothes and just clung the towel closer to your body. Unfortunately for you, when the door swung open you were met with the young guitarist whose eyes seemed to bug out of his head at the sight of you wrapped in a skimpy white towel. 

“Oh my god I am so sorry,” You panicked and pulled the towel tighter around yourself. “I thought you were Rose.” 

Jake cleared his throat and attempted to maintain eye contact with you. “It's, uh, its not a problem.” 

“Uh, come on in, I just need to grab some clothes really quick.” 

You stepped aside to let Jake into your room, heart in your throat out of embarrassment that your new boss has seen you in your current state. You quickly grabbed a tshirt and leggings from your bag while Jake made himself comfortable at a little table that was in the room, pulling out a notebook and setting it in front of himself. You locked yourself back in the bathroom and took a deep breath to ground yourself. 

You made your way out of the bathroom to find Jake now across the room looking out of the window at the view of Denver, Colorado and its bustling streets below. His damn outfit makes your head feel fuzzy. His half unbuttoned shirt half tucked in his pants.

“Hey.” You said softly. 

Jake turned around and you watched as his wandering eyes traveled across your now fully clothed body, briefly meeting yours as his lips curled in the smallest, barely there smirk. “Hello,” he uttered, the corner of his mouth still upturned.

“Listen, I want to apologize for raising my voice at you yesterday. I totally understand if you want to drop me as your assistant, that was highly unprofessional of me .” 

Jake waved you off quickly. “No, it was unprofessional of me to even be talking that way about you. If anything, I’m the one who should be sorry. You were right, I haven't even given you a chance.” He gave you a soft smile, his chestnut eyes glimmering as they peered into yours. “How about we start over. Forget about last night, yeah?” 

“I think I’d be okay with that.” You gave him a soft smile back, finding it hard not to at his contagious charm.

“Great,” he says, offering you a firm hand for a more professional greeting.“Hello I am Jake,” 

“Hi Jake, Im Y/N.” You took his hand in yours, fighting back a giggle as the blush began to rise on your cheeks. The goosebumps instantly began to prickle your skin at the feeling of his touch. You gasped softly at your own body's reaction and tried to cover it up. You were unsure if you were successful or not but Jake did not acknowledge it so you were hopeful. 

“Y/N, it is nice to meet you. I look forward to working together.” He gave you a wide toothy grin now which naturally, you should've guessed, was breathtaking. 

No wait, stop. Don't think like that. This is your boss, your job. Remain professional dammit..

Jake gestured to the table behind you, “Why don't we get started.” 

You nodded and grabbed your own notebook, pen and planner from your bookbag and joined Jake at the little table. 

“I'll go easy on you I swear.” He flashed you another dazzling smile, this time with an added wink and a sweet chuckle under his breath. Why God..why.. 

“Rose might have some more things for you, I know she's excited there will be someone else around to assist but you are first and foremost my assistant so you'll be handling my things primarily and then I may share you with the rest of the crew as needed. You okay with that?” 

You clicked your pen, “Of course!” 

“Fantastic.” He opened up his little notebook which had a little bullet point list written down. You glanced at it and were able to read out most of it but averted your eyes out of respect. You didn't want him to think you were nosey. At least not yet. 

“I know we already talked about most of this last night so it may be repetitive, my apologies for that. I'll keep things pretty simple for you and just reiterate some things,” Jake wiped the corner of his mouth. “Pre shows Im just looking for help with getting ready. Making sure my suits are ready to go, my boots that I need are clean of scuffs. Might need help with make up here and there,” He cleared his throat. “Just some eyeliner nothing fancy like Josh. Maybe some things with my hair but I'm not sure.” 

 “I can definitely help you explore some ideas.” You gave him a soft smile that he returned. 

“Rose usually handles the food and drinks and making sure the venues have everything we need, I'm not sure if she wants to keep it that way or not but we will have to ask her.” 

“Might be easier for her too but yes, we will discuss.” You said. 

Jake turned a page in his little book, “Okay now on stage stuff, I know you also got a brief idea of what that would be for me.” 

You grimaced slightly at the memory of Jakes harsh tone at last nights show telling you to ‘fuck off’ when you were so clearly in his way and not helping. At least now that you're sitting down, hopefully that won't happen again.

“Basically I just need those fresh towels ready, need my drinks to stay topped off like I mentioned, making sure the roadies follow the schedule for which guitar for which song, yada yada. Making sure I have guitar picks ready to go.” He paused to turn the page again and read down the list. “Then I guess just tending to my basic requests throughout the tour. I promise I'm really not that high on maintenance even if it didn't seem that way last night.” He gave you another soft smile. 

“This is all very doable for me. My only request is to keep an open communication with me and work with me, not against me if things go a little haywire while I get used to the flow of your tour.” 

Jake nodded. “Deal.” 

“So I guess Rose is not making this little meeting of ours.” You giggled softly and began packing up your notebook and pen.

“I'm not surprised,” Jake said, mirroring your actions. “Josh can be very demanding of attention you'll learn that pretty quickly.” 

You giggled. “I think I already have.” 

***

August 4th.

STARCATCHER

Seattle, WA. 

“Damn, you really have some dedicated fans.” You said, looking out the van window at the fans lined up on the street along the venue. 

Jake pushed his sunglasses up the bridge of his nose. “We really do, they're awesome.”  

You subconsciously twisted the rings on your fingers in your lap from the feeling of anxiety creeping up in your throat. Jake was the biggest artist that you have worked for so far. Even after your conversation with him the other day where he laid out everything he needed from you in detail once again, you still felt unsure about how tonight would go. 

You felt Jake's hand on your shoulder pulling you back to reality. “You okay over there? You're a million miles away.” 

You glanced over at him and smiled softly, “Yeah, yeah I'm fine. Just a little nervous I guess.” 

“No need to be Y/N, things will go smoothly! I promise not to be an asshole tonight.” You both shared a soft laugh.

Things did not in fact go smoothly…

When you and Jake had initially arrived at the venue you were met with a very frazzled looking Rose and others bustling around. 

“Rose, what the fuck is going on?” Jake had sat her down on the couch in one of the green rooms. Josh on the opposite end of the couch, threw his arm around her for comfort as tears streamed down her face. Across the room Sam and Danny stood unusually quiet and still. 

“One of the runners,” She blew her nose. “Dropped off your stage outfits at the dry cleaners too late and I don't know if we will even have your stage outfits ready to go, let alone everything else adding up. Were missing mic packs somewhere and-and..” She hiccuped. Across the room you saw Danny give Sam a slight nudge with his elbow. 

“Okay deep breaths Rose Bud, remember like we practiced the other day?” Josh said, pulling her closer to him. “We will get this figured out. Don't forget Y/N is here, maybe she can help out a bit.” 

“Yeah, Y/N can help out.” Jake spoke up, volunteering you. “I don't really have much on my list today and I don't need her until later.” 

Rose sniffled and looked up at you. “Would you be able to help?” 

All eyes were on you and the panic you felt in the van crept back up in your throat. “Yeah, uh yes I can see what I can do.” 

Rose jumped up off the couch and gave you a tight hug, “Oh thank the heavens!” 

Shortly after Rose had calmed down a bit, everyone dispersed for the most part. You followed closely behind Sam and Danny as they exited the green room. You picked up on their quiet whispers shared between each other as you turned the corner, your presence apparently going unnoticed. 

“Dude, you gotta go get those mic packs.” Danny whispered, bumping Sam with his elbow like he did in the green room. 

“I know, I know!” Sam responded, squeezing past a few dolly boxes. “I have to go dig them out from my case.” 

“Okay,” You spoke up. “So am I to assume that you two had something to do with the disappearance of those mic packs?” Both of the boys' heads turned quickly in your direction and their eyes grew wide. They had been caught. 

“I do not know what you are talking about Y/N.” Danny gave you a sly grin, turning around to face you. 

You rolled your eyes, “Of course not. You know, you two have some impeccable timing it seems.” 

“Well it's not like we knew everything would go to shit today!” Sam threw his hands up defensively. You couldn't contain your giggle as a smile broke across both of their faces. 

“You two are terrible and you're officially on my radar,” You pushed on both of their shoulders lightly. “Lets go get them. At least then maybe Rose will stop crying.” 

To your luck, the boys had not so sneakily hid the mic packs in plain sight in Sam's wardrobe case and you had them returned to Rose who swore up and down that you were a good luck charm. She had directed you to give them to Dale who was managing sound and tech for the shows. Walking through a little passageway you made your way into the arena where the beeping sounds of heavy machinery seemed to bounce off the ceilings. Techies and roadies alike were bustling around hanging lights, hooking up mechanicals and wires. The stage was being built and even chairs were already being set up on the floor. You had found Dale pretty quickly who seemed relieved to see the mic packs in your hands and thanked you before turning back to a few other workers and continuing directing them on where things will be going.

You took a moment before reentering the winding halls of Denver's Ball Arena to admire how big the venue was from where you stood on the floor. You couldn't begin to imagine playing to an arena packed full of people like this night after night. The empty seats reaching as high as the ceiling made your stomach churn at the thought of sitting up that high. You wondered how many people would pack in tonight to see the boys play their music. You then noticed a small movement out of the corner of your eye as you panned the rest of the arena in awe. 

Was that? No..

Your lips separated with a low gasp. Jake was running. He must've been doing laps around the arena. You stood frozen in your spot watching him closely as he rounded the corner of the venue furthest away from you. His hair was tied back in a low bun against his neck, he had abandoned his usual attire and was sporting a pair of running shorts (something you couldn't picture him wearing) and the skin of his bare torso so clearly glistening in the lighting from the sweat on his body. 

You hadn't realized how hard you had been staring until he rounded the corner and was running towards you. He smirked at you as you locked eyes and your heart leapt in your chest at the realization that you had been caught ogling him. You quickly turned on your heel before he got any closer and booked it down the hall. 

What the hell is wrong with me..snap out of it..

“See something you like?” You heard his voice ring out behind you. Cocky bastard.

You turned around and looked at Jake, it was even worse having him up close to you now. Subconsciously you waited until he caught up to you to continue walking down the hall. 

“Cat got your tongue or something?” He smirked at you as he wiped his sweaty face with a towel. His cologne became ever more powerful as it was radiating off of his hot skin. It was intoxicating. The scents of bergamot and vanilla create a sensual aroma that clouded your mind. Your mouth ran dry and you tried so hard not to steal glances at his sweaty chest. You probably looked like an idiot screaming at yourself mentally to respond to him. 

“What would you like for lunch Jake?” You cleared your throat finally. “Anything specific you like for your post run ritual?” 

“Mmm, a hot shower.”His tone caught you off guard.

Was he doing this on purpose? 

You took a chance and looked his way and you caught what you thought was the tail end of a wink sent towards you. Was he fucking flirting with me? No, no…no way. 

He let out a booming laugh, “I just usually have some sort of chicken wrap. Rose should have it already somewhere if you don't mind grabbing that for me.” He wiped the back of his neck and let his hair down as you two got closer to his designated dressing room. 

“Sure.” 

His fingers grazed your lower back as you cut the corner to the dressing room and your skin felt like it was on fire.

***

The rest of the day ended up running a lot more smoothly than the morning did. Rose was able to get the dry cleaners to expedite the cleaning of the stage outfits and they were back at the venue right as the boys finished their soundcheck and you and Rose hastily worked together to get Josh's jumpsuits laid out for the evening after hanging up suits in other dressing rooms. You had written down a small list in your phone of everything you needed for Jake to have a smooth show tonight. 

Towels by his guitar case. Check. 

One towel on the amp. Check.

Check with Tim to make sure Jakes guitars are all tuned and ready. Check. 

Snacks and drinks in the dressing room. Check. 

Wine bottles in guitar case. Check. 

Water. Big check. 

You felt really prepared for tonight and mentally ready for his cues on stage. Luckily for you, Jake said he had a handle on getting himself ready for tonight and you found him laughing along with something Danny and Sam had apparently said as you walked into the green room for final checks before the walk to the stage. 

“Alright boys!” Rose clapped her hands together. “Everyone has their wireless packs all charged and ready to go?” 

Everyone nodded collectively.

“Let's have a show!” 

***

August 10th

STARCATCHER

Los Angeles, CA.

The morning had gone smoothly thanks to your multiple alarms set to ring every 5 minutes no matter how many times you snoozed them. You were exhausted. Everyone was exhausted actually. The last week of what felt like back to back shows, sleeping in tour bus bunks and arriving at venues, the first thing at the crack of dawn was catching up to everyone. You wanted nothing more than to keep your head buried underneath the soft white linens of the hotel bed sheets with the AC blasting on full, but duty calls and you had to get your adult child to the venue sooner rather than later. Rose of course was up at the crack of dawn and out of the room already tending to the frontman of the band who unfortunately for her, was an early riser regardless of the time he went to bed the night before.

As you did your morning routine and applied some concealer underneath your eyes you were thanking the universe that you were heading home tomorrow. Just one more day, you thought. One more show after this and I can sleep in my own bed and shower in my own home. 

Getting yourself moving in the morning was not bad after you had a few sips of your favorite caffeinated drink, however, getting Jake moving in the morning was another thing. He had a tendency to sleep in until the last moment possible. Not to mention actually getting him ready and out of the hotel room on time was like trying to put a coat on a toddler, near to impossible without some sort of fight. Yet, to your surprise today, he was already up and waiting for you to meet him. He had even called a runner for you two already and was waiting with a breakfast sandwich ready to go. 

“When the hell did you get this?” You asked Jake as you buckled up in the white van. 

“Shortly after I woke up and decided I was hungry.” He smirked. 

You rolled your eyes and decided not to press any further. Thankfully, it seemed as if everything at the venue was in working order. You and Rose caught up on administrative things for the band throughout the day, made sure everyone had their plane tickets booked and ready to go for a quick and easy trip home to Nashville tomorrow. Naturally of course, just because the morning and afternoon had gone smoothly, this meant something had to go haywire before the show. 

Rose had finished Josh and Sams make up for the night. You had been giggling to yourself listening to Josh and Sam. You officially learned what a “Rhinestone Diary” was as the bands social media manager, Kaiya, helped put it together. While the Rhinestone Diary offered a moment of fun for a few, for others, tensions were high after so many shows. Lack of sleep and being cooped up together for a period of time was really taking a toll on everyone's emotions. 

You were typing away on your computer next to the main green room meant for the band to hang out when raised voices pulled you out of your focus. 

“Thats fucking stupid!” 

“Jake,” Josh raised his voice. “You cant just make changes like that last fucking minute because you dont want to play Frozen Light.” 

“Jake,” Rose spoke softly. “We already sent out the setlist to the sounds and light guys.” 

“Okay and?” He snapped. “It's not the first time we've made a last minute change.” Your typing paused and you closed the lid on your laptop. 

“Were not fucking playing Highway Tune!” Josh practically screamed. You had never heard Josh raise his voice that loud. You had heard stories of how bad fights between the Kiszkas could get before but nothing could have prepared you for witnessing it in real time. 

You had abandoned your laptop and you leaned up against the door frame just as Jake seemed to be exiting the room. 

“Fucking selfish prick you know that,” He turned around and looked at Josh. “You know this is just as much my band as it is yours, its called fucking compromise.” 

“It's not much of a compromise when we completely change something that I do not want!” Josh's arms crossed and Jake glared at Josh, you and Rose. 

Greaaat, now I'm caught in the crossfire.  

“What fucking ever.” Jake threw his hands up and brushed past you in the door frame. He began walking down the short hallway towards his dressing room before turning to you. “You coming?” 

Without a word you pushed off the door frame and walked over towards him. Your arms had been crossed against your chest in defense from the rising tensions between the boys. Following Jake closely you watched as he yanked his jacket off and set down on the chair in front of his mirror, he seemed defeated. 

Your arms uncrossed, “Anything I can do for you Jake?” 

“Uh, yeah, I could use some help with my eyeliner pencil,” He let out a breath. “Im shaking so damn bad I can't sharpen the thing.” 

You nodded your head and dug through the little makeup bag that was set aside for Jake specifically and located the little black eyeliner pencil that was more than halfway used. The sound of you sharpening the little pencil was the only noise that you heard in the room as you felt Jake observing you. 

Unfortunately for you, the soft tip of the pencil kept crumbling in the sharpener as you kept twisting it and twisting it. 

“Fuck.” You muttered and felt Jake's eyes glance up at you. “God dammit.” You muttered again as the tip broke for the third time.

“That's the only one I have, stop sharpening it!” Jake snapped at you.

“It's fine Jake we're going home in a day or so, we can get another one.” You kept sharpening the pencil. 

“Youre fucking wasting it!” He snapped at you again. This time, he had snatched the pencil and the sharpener out of your hand. “Just go fucking get my phone charger off the bus Y/N.”

“Huh?”

“Go fucking get my charger from the bus. Its not that fucking hard to follow directions.” 

You instantly recoiled at his raised voice and your head dropped, you felt like you haad fucked up again. When you took a chance to glance at Jake his back was turned to you and your shoulders slumped. You watched as he examined the pencil in his hands and then threw it forcefully into the garbage can across the room.Great, there I go again. It was a usual occurrence for you to blame yourself for others emotions even if you were not consciously aware of it. 

The walk to the tour bus gave you a breath of fresh air at least and allowed you to clear your mind. 

By the time you got back into the arena it was already showtime and the boys had been walked to the stage by security. You plugged Jake's phone in and set it on the vanity in the green room, briefly glancing at his notifications but not trying to pay any real attention to them as you saw a list of texts and a few other notifications. Not my business….

Grabbing a bottle of Cabernet off of a nearby table you began your descent to the stage just as you heard the opening lines of what you quickly learned as The Falling Sky and slowed your stride. You knew Jake was angry but you hated that the anger was directed towards you. He had no right to take his frustrations out on something that you didn't cause and you made a mental note to put him in his place another time. Right now, your focus and your job was on Jake putting on a good show for his fans. 

Walking up to the side of the stage you checked in with Brian, Jakes “right hand” roadie, that all of his guitars were ready along with additional strings and made a note to tell Rose that you needed more nylon strings for Jakes acoustic as he had already broke a few since the last few shows. Standing near the side stage you observed as the crowd went wild for any little movement the boys seemed to make. Josh's voice echoing like siren through the venue echoing off the same walls you had observed in other venues still made your heart stand still 

These boys had talent, talent beyond comprehension, and though you had only known them for a short while you were mesmerized by the craft they created for as young as they were. You found your eyes closely following Jake and while you tried to convince yourself it was because of your job, having to know what he needed at all times, deep down you knew it was because he was the most mesmerizing of them all..

Watching Jake play guitar was like a drug, something you didn't think you needed until it was right in front of you. The raw talent and animalistic way that he played the guitar, the way he made it sing, the way he made it moan and bend to his every need..

Your thoughts were cut short as Rose came up beside you and signaled to the break in the setlist in front of you. Almost simultaneously Jake looked back side stage and signaled to his amp where his cup of wine lay hidden. That was your cue. Staying out of sight you twisted the cap and graciously poured his cup half full. He gave you a half smile and a small thumbs up as a thanks but you returned his gesture with a frown because fuck his attitude earlier. Even if he was feeling better from the energy from the fans in the room doesn't mean that you had forgotten how he had snapped at you. 

You made your way back down the stairs side stage and stood by with your arms crossed thinking about how much you wanted this show to end so you could go lay in your hotel room bed and forget about today. You took a deep breath as you heard Jake's guitar wail again, You'll be in your own bed in a few days time, you'll be in the quiet of your apartment, just keep hanging on Y/N..

You watched in horror as Jake approached you, his red gibson swinging on his hips. He stepped down the back stairs with confidence and handed you the white rose he was carrying, “I'm sorry I was a dick to you tonight.” 

Oh. 

You stood frozen holding the long stem with the white flower delicately on top as Jake gave you a small smile and walked back up the stairs. This was definitely something you were not expecting. 

***

August 20th

HOME SWEET HOME…

Nashville, TN. 

It had been a little while since the day Jake presented you with his apology. You had accepted the rose willingly when he handed it to you, but you felt in utter shock over it. That evening after the show Jake had sat you down and told you he was really going to work on his attitude towards you, that it was unfair you were taking the brunt of it when his anger had been all towards his brothers. You had parted ways on good terms after coming home to Nashville and you were enjoying your quiet time away from the limelight, and the chaos. You had just sat down on your couch and cozied up for the night when your phone screen lit up next to you unexpectedly.

Jake Kiszka

Hey, you busy tomorrow? 

Oh. This is unexpected. 

You were snuggled up with a glass of your favorite beverage in hand and your roommate's cat, Beans, purring against your leg as you pet him softly. You had the tv on in the background but you were curled up with your favorite book at the moment, rereading it for the fourth time. Seeing Jake's name across your screen caused your heart to jump in your chest. You haven't heard from him in a few weeks, since the day you parted in the airport to head home when your roommate Addison came to pick you up. 

You 

Nothing planned, what's going on? 

You laid your head against the couch pillow and felt as Beans stretched his paws against you, you smiled in content at the small animal. Your phone vibrated again. 

Jake Kiszka 

I could use your help cleaning out and re packing my cases for tour in a few weeks. We always make it into a party too with food and drinks and music too so I promise I won't work you too hard :) 

You caught yourself smiling a bit. Even though this was going to be work related, the thought of seeing Jake again made your stomach fill with butterflies. Fuck no, stop smiling like that..this isnt right this is your boss for crying out loud…

Yet, you couldn't deny it anymore. You were so clearly lying to yourself.

You were crushing on Jake Kiszka whether you wanted to or not. You couldn't deny how your heart felt at the thought of him and to your demise, you couldn't help but think about him constantly since you ended the first part of the tour. Especially, it seems, at certain moments late at night when your vibrator had fully charged.

Okay, whatever, you were “down bad” according to Addison. You felt ashamed for feeling this way towards your boss but as long as you kept yourself professional around Jake what was the harm in a little crush..right?

****

August 21st

GVF, LLC OFFICE.

Nashville, TN.

You swore you didn't pick out this outfit because you were seeing Jake today. No definitely not the flowy powder blue sundress that was hanging in your closet begging to be worn. You had simply forgotten about it being in there and today was so hot, it was perfect weather for a dress, yeah. 

You swiped on a little bit of your favorite lip gloss and fluffed your hair when you caught eyes with your roommate in the reflection of the mirror and yelped. “What the hell is a matter with your Addison?! Don't you know how to knock?” You clenched your heart over your heaving chest trying your best to calm your erratic heart. 

Addison wore a proud smirk as she leaned against the door frame, steaming cup of coffee in hand. “Who are you getting all dolled up for? Is it your sweet Jaaake?” 

“Mind your business” You turned towards your reflection one more time. One last look to make sure everything was in place. “Don't you have something to do today? Somewhere to be?” 

Addison was barricading you in the bathroom. “Nope. Cmon, just admit that you have a crush on him already and I'll leave you be!” 

You pushed past her not wanting to acknowledge the feelings growing in your heart and naturally, she followed you as you walked into your room to grab your purse to head out the door. “Keep denying it to yourself and it'll get worse.” 

“Yeah well, there's nothing there to begin with, so I don't know what to tell you.” You slipped your favorite comfy shoes on near the front door of the apartment. 

“Mhm, suuure.” 

At that, you walked out of the door with a dramatic eye roll. 

***

The Kiszkas sure knew how to throw a party it seemed. 

What had started off as an innocent afternoon unpacking and repacking crates and boxes while listening to music, quickly turned into what Jake deemed “a shit fest” as soon as Sam had located a bottle of tequila hidden in one of his crates. 

“Woah!” He had announced to the room, waving the bottle around like a prize. “Lookie what I have here. Who wants shots?!” 

Rose stopped packing the box of Tide To-Go sticks in Josh's case. “Sam, were not even finished yet!” 

“Why should that stop us? We just struck gold!” 

You and Jake made eye contact as you were standing near his dolly box and you both smirked at one another. “Let's go Sammy boy!” He turned and yelled across the room. 

“Yes! Jakes in! Now who else?” 

One shot turned into, well, several in a short matter of time. You realize the energy had shifted from work to party mode once the music in the room had picked up in volume. To Rose's dismay, the tasks at hand had been long abandoned and swapped in for everyone mingling with each other. The glow of the afternoon sun had settled into darker hues of pink and orange as the sun began to set on the city of Nashville and you had a nice little buzz flowing through your veins. You felt yourself actually relax and let loose and have fun for once, without worrying about being too professional. You were growing quite comfortable around here. Around your little tour family.

You had been perched up against the pool table across the room watching the shenanigans of Jake and Sam fighting each other with plastic swords dramatically. Josh had taken it upon himself to be the ref and Jake had been on and off yelling about how Josh was terrible at his job. You smiled in content as you watched others scattered around the room, watching the childish display or talking amongst themselves. 

“What are you smirking at?” Danny approached you. 

“Oh, nothing, just uh, feeling happy for the first time in a little while. Grateful I'm here.” 

“We're very grateful to have you. Jakes is very grateful, I know.” Danny shot you a small wink over the rim of his cup. Oh?

You were in the middle of talking with Danny about one of your favorite albums to listen to on your self dictated “Vinyl Sundays'  in your apartment when you felt a nudge on your shoulder and heard a soft ‘hey’ in your ear. You turned around and were met with Jake, sunglasses on now of course even though the sun had just fully set and a playful smirk resting on his face. A hint of a British accent grazed past his lips when he spoke. “Cmere, wanna show you something.” 

Your heart skipped a beat, did you mess something up? No, you couldn't have, not with his body language. You smiled softly at Danny. “Excuse me, it seems my attention is needed elsewhere.” 

“Not a problem Y/N, it's been nice getting to know you. You'll have to bring me that vinyl so I can listen to it before the tour starts up again.” He smiled softly back at you. 

“I will make sure that I do!” 

You followed Jake through the hallways of their management office, both of you silent for a beat before Jake threw a smile over his shoulder at you. 

“What were you and Danny talking about?” 

“He was asking me about my vinyl collection actually.” You said proudly.

“Vinyl collection huh? Anything good?” He tipped his sunglasses down to throw you a quizzical look. 

“Quite a bit actually,” You nodded. “Between my parents collection and my own I would say I have a couple hundred lying around. I try to listen to a new album every Sunday even if it's an album I know or have listened to on a streaming service.” 

“Couple hundred?” You couldn't see it now that Jake's sunglasses found their rightful place once more on his nose, but his eyes practically bugged out of his head. You had caught him off guard and you didn't even know it.  “Thats, that's quite impressive actually.” 

You sighed, “I take pride in my collection but I really owe it to both of my parents, mostly my father, for having quite the exquisite rock and roll and folk collection.” 

Jake hummed and flashed you a gut wrenching smile. “I might have to come and listen with you sometime.” 

“I'd like that Jake.” 

“Which one were you talking to Danny about?” You turned yet another corner in what seemed to be a maze of hallways. 

“Oh, I was just going through another box in my parents basement the other day and found quite the gem. Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, I Love Rock ‘N’ Roll. One of my favorite songs is on there, Crimson and Clover.” 

Jake smiled to himself, “Crimson and Clover, hmm.”

“What..” You were fully ready to defend yourself. 

“Oh nothing, seems fitting. Seems very you, you remind me of a little clover. A little good luck clover. You've made my life so much easier on tour lately; it's like you're my little good luck charm. My little Clover.” Jake's fingers played with the stubble on his chin and you felt your cheeks grow warm with blood. “Ahh, and there's the Crimson to go along with it.” 

You couldn't hide the smile any longer. The tension was so thick you felt as though you could cut through it with a dull knife. 

“Jake?” You asked softly.

He turned towards you, eyes still hiding behind his RayBans. “Yeah?” 

“Where are you taking me?” You couldn't help the infectious smile that broke across your face yet again. He was simply electric. 

Jake stopped walking and you followed suit. “Ah fuck, Im sorry, I probably should’ve asked this before I pulled you away but do you smoke?” 

“What?” You weren't sure you heard him correctly.

“You know.” He pinched his pointer finger to his thumb and raised it to his lips, eyebrows lifting simultaneously in question. 

“Oh,” Your arms crossed against your chest. “Yeah uh, sometimes. Not often though.” 

“Hmm,” He hummed and reached into the front pocket of his button down shirt. “Well, there's this secret room here that I like to hide away in sometimes and take the edge off after a meeting with the hooligans. Figured I could show you and we could, you know.” He trailed off and his head tipped down towards the ground. 

“I'm down I think,” You smiled. “It's been awhile since I smoked though so I might not smoke all that much.” 

Jake grinned at you, “Fantastic. No worries, we don't have to smoke it all. Cmon were not far.” 

You followed Jake down yet another hallway towards a solid door with a bright exit sign hanging overhead. As he pushed through the door the August humidity engulfed you for a moment but it was short lived as Jake opened another side door from the outside of the white brick building and gestured to you to enter. You were surprised as you stepped into what looked like a, possibly still used, darkroom. Red lights were shining through the room, you could see bins on tables and clotheslines hung up along the walls. At the present moment though, no photos were hung up to dry.

“Woah.” You whispered as you heard Jake close the door behind you. “Is this?”

“A darkroom? Yeah,” He smiled at you softly, his sunglasses finally coming off of his face. “We like to come here and develop the film that we capture. Well, mostly Sam and Josh but I dabble with it sometimes as well.”

“This is really cool.” You said as you walked further into the room. “Kind of disappointed that there's no film developing right now, honestly.” 

You heard the click of a lighter behind you and the sound of Jake inhaling. “Yeah, we wouldn't be able to do this though if there was.” He blew the smoke out of his mouth and you watched it engulf his face for a moment in the red light. 

Damn these red lights, you thought. Jake somehow looked even sexier than he normally did in the low red lights. He looked like he was damned to steal your soul from you, like he was put on this earth to bewitch you into falling in love with him. He smirked as he blew out another big hit. “Are you just going to keep staring at me or would you like to take a hit of this?” 

Your eyes widened with fear and you felt your face flush hot. Okay, thank god for these red lights actually… 

You reached out to take the blunt from Jake and pulled it to your lips. You took in a generous hit, not aware of how much you had actually inhaled. But your lungs made sure to point that out to you pretty quickly though as a coughing fit began to wrack through your body. 

“Woah Y/N, take a breath if you can.” Jake came up beside you and began rubbing your back, pulling the blunt from your fingers and holding it away from your body. Thankfully, you had carried a small water bottle with you and you were able to stop coughing enough to finally take a few deep breaths. You felt the instant head buzz from the high settling into your body. It wasn't alarming or anxiety inducing, you felt calm. Like your worries had no longer room in your mind. 

“There we go.” Jake said softly, his strong hand still rubbing comforting circles along your back that definitely awoke a different type of feeling low in your stomach. “Ready for another?” 

“Hell no.” You choked out a laugh and his throaty laugh followed suit. His laugh was music to your ears. How could it be possible that a damn laugh could sound sexy?

“Fair enough Y/N.” 

You watched as he lifted the blunt to his soft looking lips that were glistening even in the red light. His eyes flicked to you again as the smoke began to leave his lungs and float through the air. Your eyes snapped to the ground out of embarrassment for being caught staring at him yet again. You hated how his lips tilted up in a little smirk as he realized, as well, that he had caught you again.

Clearing your throat you broke the silence, and the tension “What kind of film do you all usually produce here?” 

Another cloud of smoke engulfed the space around you, the red lights showing that the room had a slight haze to it now. “Mostly pictures from the tour. I know Sammy boy is more into this than anything, surprisingly. He constantly carries his camera around with him.” 

You hummed and pretended like the clotheslines with hooks were suddenly the most interesting thing in the room rather than the man who was dripping with sex appeal next to you. 

“Want one last hit before it's done?” Jake asked, gesturing to the now very small blunt. 

“Uh, I'm probably okay, I'd like to avoid another cough attack if possible.” You giggled softly as you waved him off.  

“Hm,” His lips pressed into a tight line for a moment. “You ever shotgun before?” 

“What?” Your eyes widened. 

“You ever did a shotgun with someone while smoking?” He tilted his head at you. 

“I uh, don't think so no.” You fidgeted with your fingers as nervousness crept up in your throat. 

You watched as he moved a little closer to you, closing the space and making your throat constrict. “‘S pretty easy, I take a hit and then blow it in your mouth. It makes it so the smoke isn't as harsh.” 

The spicy bergamot of his cologne rolling off of his skin began engulfing your senses and coaxing you into yet another intoxicating cloud of lust that was Jake. Now, of course, this sense was heightened with your current state of mind. 

“Wanna try?” He whispered as he moved even closer to you again. You watched as he stepped in front of you so you two were facing each other head on now.

You slowly nodded your head in fear that your voice would fail you if you tried to speak. You bit your lip in anticipation of what was going to happen next. Jake sucked in a soft breath between his lips and brought his hand up to your chin.

 “Don't do that,” He whispered. “Drives me crazy when you do.”

Your lips parted slightly as his calloused thumb swiped along your mouth, that very thumb catching the fullness of your bottom lip for just a moment as you released it from your teeth before he pulled away. 

Your mouth was undeniably dry as he smiled down at you and you felt the buttons of his shirt graze softly against your skin. The heat coming off of his body was noticeable and by God did you suddenly wish he would just press himself fully against you. 

“Okay, s’easy. Trust me yeah?” He brushed your hair away from one side of your face and your heart leapt out of your chest. You didn't have time to fully comprehend what was happening as you watched him bring the blunt to those perfectly soft looking lips and inhale a deep cloud of smoke. What happened next was simultaneously going too slow and too fast all at once. Your brain struggled to keep up with what was happening as his fingertips dipped into your hair and pulled you closer to him by the back of your neck. Holy shit.  

You finally felt Jake's body meld with yours as best it could, the feeling of being pressed between the man you desired most and a shitty little table was instantly the most intoxicating feeling you had experienced in a long time. You didn't feel like you could have prepared yourself for the set of events that unfolded shortly after. 

You felt that same thumb from earlier brush softly at the bottom of your ear as he tipped your head up towards him slightly. You wanted to close your eyes but your couldn't bring yourself to find the strength to do so. You watched as he leaned in and gasped softly as you felt his lip softly against yours. Your heart sank to your stomach at the feeling of finally being close to him in ways you only had wished for the last few weeks. You suddenly remembered what got you into this position in the first place as you felt Jakes nose nudge softly against yours. Your mouth parted slightly to accept the smoke tucked away in his lungs currently.At your acknowledgement that you were ready to accept what he was giving to you, you felt Jakes lips press a little harder against yours and you felt the hot smoke flood your mouth. You inhaled as best as you could but you also were frozen in place.

Instead of pulling away immediately as you exhaled the smoke from your own lungs, Jake took a chance and softly closed his lips against yours to which you softly reciprocated as well. This kiss was cautionary and you confirmed how both of you felt in the moment as Jake pulled slightly away, hand still tucked in your hair. You couldn't read his facial expression all too well but his eyes had a determined look. 

You made the first move to fully kiss him at this point. You tipped your head up and pressed a more determined kiss to his lips. Jake welcomed the kiss. His lips engulfing your own in a soft, pillowy dream of lust. You felt goosebumps spread across your body as you melted further into him, wrapping your arms around the back of his head and you pulled him impossibly closer to you. As your mouths moved back and forth a little less cautiously at this point you made a mental note for yourself how Jake's bottom lip was most prominent in the kiss. His mouth was warm, and so soft but rough against your own as the sexual tension built up in the room. You felt his hands rubbing down the sides of your body and settling on your hips giving them a soft squeeze as you two deepened the kiss further and your tongues touched for the first time. 

Inhibitions clearly out the window, you felt him lift you up onto the table behind you without breaking the heated make out that was now happening. As his tongue dipped further against yours, you couldn't help but moan softly. He seemed to appreciate your reaction as he squeezed your hips tighter and dragged you closer to the edge of the table, your clothed core making slight contact with the buckle of his belt. Nothing mattered anymore. Nothing mattered other than Jake and how he felt. Your fingers found their way into his soft hair and you pulled slightly releasing a moan he had been hiding away from you. It didn't feel like enough. More. You needed more….

The shrill sound of an iPhone ringtone broke through the silence in the room making you both jump. 

“Dammit Josh,” Jake swore as he looked at the screen of his phone and lifted it up to his ear. “What!” His body was still pressed up against yours and his fingertips were dragging along the exposed skin on your hip. From this position you were in, he looked fucked out and by God he looked delicious. 

“I just ran out to my car to grab something dude,” Jake spoke angrily into his phone and rolled his eyes. “No im not in the fuckin, whatever man. Im coming back now anyways chill the fuck out.” 

You heard the three beeps of a call ending and Jake sighed and glanced at you, “Sorry Clover” 

His fingers grazed across your cheekbone. “Here, let me help you down.” 

You felt his hands squeeze your hips again and you felt like you were out of breath. The weight of what happened between you and Jake now settling slowly into your consciousness. Before you could think much further, his fingertips tipped your chin up and he softly pressed his lips to yours one more time. As he pulled away he smiled softly at you and you couldn't help but reciprocate. 

He was like a drug, and now that you've had a taste, you weren't sure you were going to be able to give it up. You pressed your fingertips softly to your tingling lips to hide your smile as Jake walked his way out the door, turning around to blow a kiss to you and wave his fingers. His sunglasses take their natural place sitting on his perfect nose once again. You followed shortly thereafter and giggled as you watched the remnants of the smoke pour out the door. 

“Cmon darlin,” Jake wrapped an arm around your shoulder. “Let's go have ourselves a party, yeah?”

You smiled and wrapped an arm around Jake's torso, “Lets!” You'll deal with whatever just happened tomorrow. Yeah, tomorrow is good.

Remember that harmless little crush you thought wouldn't get in the way of anything?

Yeah, well you might've been wrong but you definitely won't be telling anyone about it.

****

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.

.

.

.

taglist: @brujamagik @anythingforjtk @jakesguitarsolo @do-it-jakey-baby @vanfleeter @violetstarcatcher @myownparadise96@ignite-my-fire @nina-23-45

A/N: If you would like to be added to the taglist let me know :)

#jake kiszka #jake gvf #jake kiszka series

[van-dyne]

Chris Hemsworth phoned Robert Downey Jr during the Avengers: Endgame London Fan Event
Bonus: 

#marveledit #chemsedit #rdjgifsdaily #dailymarvelkings #Robert Downey Jr #chris hemsworth #paul rudd #scarlett johansson #marvelcastedit #marvel cast #a4 press #they are the softest friendship group #and bob's 'Chris is that you my dear' CUTE #my edits #my gifs #10k #rdjhemsworth

[talkaboutmovies]

Foo Fighters:Back and Forth (2011)

Still completely bummed about the death of Taylor Hawkins, the drummer for my favorite band, the Foo Fighters. I thought taking a look at this documentary from 2011 again might help me deal a little.

“Foo Fighters: Back and Forth” is ostensibly about the making of the Foo Fighter’s seventh album, “Wasting Light”. However, it also chronicles the sometimes tumultuous history of the band. It starts with Dave Grohl’s time in the Washington D.C. hardcore punk band, Scream. Interestingly, future Foo’s guitarist, Chris Shiflett actually opened for Scream as a member of another band, years earlier.

Of course, no documentary about the Foo Fighters is not going to have a little something about Nirvana.  Dave Grohl's time as Nirvana's drummer, as the band acheived major label superstardom with "Nevermind", is an important part of the Foo's story. That time, which culminated in Kurt Cobain's tragic suicide, left Dave Grohl temporarily adrift. The road back began with him in Ireland where he saw a hitchhiker with a Nirvana t-shirt on. Playing with Tom Petty on SNL, which DG discussed in his book, also got that creative itch to scratch. It was some demos which Grohl worked on without anyone knowing, that mostly led to his return to the arena. These songs would become the Foo Fighter's first, self-titled album. The Foo's made some lineup changes after the initial lineup of Grohl, ex-Nirvana and Germs guitarist Pat Smear, drummer William Goldsmith and Sunny Day Real Estate bassist Nate Mendel. Goldsmith left the band during the period of their breakthrough album "The Colour and the Shape". Goldsmith was interviewed and was very frank, as was Grohl. Grohl himself ended up doing the drumming on the album. Mendel talked about briefly leaving the band, then coming back almost immdiately. Franz Stahl, former guitarist of Scream, joined the band after Smear decided he wanted to leave the band. He memorably replaced Smear, mid-concert. Taylor Hawkins came to the band via Alanis Morissette's band. Hawkins was also very honest talking about becoming the drummer of a band with such a great drummer, who was playing guitar. The bond between he and Grohl was immediate. One particulary sad sequence is Grohl and Hawkins talking about Hawkins' 2001 drug overdose and two-week coma in a London hospital.  You could tell it was emotional for both even ten years after. The final part of the documentary about the making of "Wasting Light" is pretty illuminating. Butch Vig, who was behind the boards for "Nevermind", produces. A theme of Grohl's other documentary, "Sound City" touches on the loss of the "human" element in music. This is shown again in their decision to record the album on tape, rather than digitally. Nirvana bassist Krist Novoselic comes in to play bass on a track. Grohl has always been great about acknowledging musicians who've influenced him. He brings in indie rock legend Bob Mould, who Grohl cites as a seminal influence, to sing backup on the track, "Dear Rosemary".' All this is going on at Grohl's home studio. You really feel like you're getting an inside look at the process from a master. There's a cute sequence where his daughter Violet tries to get him to go swimming in their pool (they do).  "Foo Fighters: Back and Forth" is an honest, fun and insightful portrait of Dave Grohl and the Foo Fighters.

#Foo Fighters #Back and Forth #documentary #Foo Fighters:Back and Forth #Dave Grohl #Taylor Hawkins #Chris Shiflett #Nate Mendel #Pat Smear #Butch Vig #Bob Mould #Taylor Hawkins RIP

[takaraphoenix]

percy jackson for the ask game

Thanks for playing! ^^

Top 5 favourite characters: Percy Jackson, Nico di Angelo, Clarisse la Rue, Reyna Avila Ramírez-Arellano, Silena Beauregard

Other characters you like: Rachel Elizabeth Dare, Thalia Grace, Leo Valdez, Charles Beckendorf, Tyson

Least favourite characters: Hera, uuuhm I mean Drew I guess and Nancy?? I don’t know, I’ve gone through so many cycles with PJO, I’ve come around on most characters

Otps: again, let’s make that a Top Five? Nico/Percy, Jason/Percy, Octavian/Percy, Triton/Percy, Will/Pery

Notps: Percy/Annabeth, Leo/Calypso, Grover/Percy, Tyson/Percy, book Luke/Percy

Favourite friendships: Canon? Grover & Percy, Clarisse & Percy, Nico & Reyna

Favourite family: I meeean technically they are ALL family since all of the gods are siblings/cousins! ;D Okay, okay. Paul, Sally, Percy and Tyson! A very obvious pick

Favourite episodes: doesn’t have a TV show adaptation yet? xD

Favourite season/book/movie: The Battle of the Labyrinth

Favourite quotes: not really a quote-kinda-gal

Best musical moment: haven’t gotten to see the musical yet!

Moment that made you fangirl/boy the hardest: I mean obviously when black on white it was confirmed that Nico was in love with Percy? Like? You can imagine, yes? :D

When it really disappointed you: …so often *whispers softly, voice breaking* but to sum it up basically from The Mark of Athena through to the end. The above mentioned confession was honestly like the only highlight out of those three books...

Saddest moment: WHEN THEY KILLED OFF BECKENDORF AND THEN KILLED OFF SELINA. I CRIED THE WHOLE FUCKING DAY

Most well done character death: Luke’s death was shit, Ethan’s death was frustrating because it was a cheap cop out of an actual redemption arc I really hate the “chose the wrong side and now immediately dies in a Heroic Sacrifice”-trope (which plays into why Luke’s death was shit), Bianca’s death was ridiculous - the fact that out of ALL of the Huntresses they picked the one who had been a huntress for 0.2 DAYS was just pathetic and literally projectd “this 12 year old child with zero combat training is totally gonna die” all along and it pisses me off so much, while Silena and Beckendorf made me cry they were also frustrating because they were avoidable had people used their brains, Octavian’s death genuinely made me furious because it was played for cheap laughs... I guess Bob and Damansen by default then...?

Favourite guest star: uuuuuuuh I got nothing

Favourite cast member: Leven Rambin as Clarisse la Rue?? Holy shit blessed casting thank you

Character you wish was still alive: ...one? I only get one? *distressed Phoe-noises* Silena? Charles? Ethan? Urgh. How dare you make me pick only one...

One thing you hope really happens: ...I know there are people out there still reading the new books and I wouldn’t wish this for them because they clearly still enjoy it, but good gods do I wish Riordan would just finally stop and give Percy a rest. Like, not even stop writing - he could write new things. but stop dragging Percy Jackson personally into everything, be that visiting the Norse because hey it’s his gf’s cousin, or getting dragged into Apollo’s weird shit, seriously just... move on, please

Most shocking twist: quite truthfully that Ares was the traitorous god in The Lightning Thief and not Hades. I am so used to Hades being painted as The Bad Guy and the Evil Mastermind bullshit that it was genuinely so refreshing that no actually he’s just wronged because he wants his property back too and he’s not actually the bad guy??

When did you start watching/reading?: 2010, I guess, right after I saw the movie for the first time

Best animal/creature: BLACKJACK BLACKJACK BLACKJACK. No wait Mrs. O’Leary is also there! :O Both? Both!

Favourite location: THE UNDERWORLD

Trope you wish they would stop using: Everyone Needs To Be Paired Up! Seriously, obsessive shipping in canon is cringey but if you have a literal ship with seven crewmates and it turns out to be three couples and the seventh is first in a Love Triangle with one of the couples and THEN gets his own girlfriend, that’s... that’s genuinely pathetic, like I would raise a judgemental eyebrow at a fanfiction that ships everyone off this perfectly paired up, but a published actual work that is not the author’s very first publication? That’s embarrassing, man

One thing this show/book/film does better than others: portrayal of Greek gods and myths

Funniest moments: snarky Percy sassing gods :D

Couple you would like to see: This implies a non-canon couple I’d like to see become canon and just honestly, genuinely, none, good gods there is already too much romance as it is, dial it back

Actor/Actress you want to join the cast: honestly, the second movie took the two only fancasts that were dear to me and actually cast them. Anthony Head as Chiron and Nathan Fillion as Hermes. That was such perfect casting and were my only casting wishes, so like... I got nothing

Favourite outfit: Clarisse’s movie outfit?? It’s? So? Good??

Favourite item: I mean, Riptide is really practical?

Do you own anything related to this show/book/film?: A very dear friend of mine gave me the movie poster for the second movie and it is hanging on my ceiling :D But other than that, sadly enough this franchise is not exactly heavy on merch - which is ridiculous to me... the opportunities. Please make this into a cartoon and start producing ALL of the figures and toys. All of them. Seriously, the toy opportunity on this franchise is so huge??

What house/team/group/friendship group/family/race etc would you be in?: uuuuuuh honestly no god really fits me so I don’t know

Most boring plotline: Annabeth’s third book side-quest really bore me

Most laughably bad moment: When they had a prophecy about an “angel’s breath” and Annabeth Chase, daughter of ATHENA, stood right there, not figuring it out - but Piper did. That... That did Annabeth such a freaking disservice, seriously the disrespect from Riordan there. Why did you even make her a daughter of wisdom if you aren’t going to use her to be clever? That actively made me bang my head against the nearest wall because it was such an obvious part of the riddle like seeeriously

Best flashback/flashfoward if any: I loved learning more about Annabeth, Luke and Thalia’s past together

Most layered character: I mean Percy, but that’s also due to getting five books exclusively from his POV

Most one dimensional character: lol like the dozen or so characters who only exist as First Name Only? And yeah, I get it, you can’t flesh them all out more. But Jason Grace had a whole-ass life before he came to CHB and we got name-drops of his closest friends in The Lost Hero, but most of them remained a name only and Jason not only didn’t get to team up with them later on, to try and convince them to join his cause, he also never actively thought about them. I don’t know, but if I’d spend months away from all my friends, I would definitely spend some of my POV thinking about them...

Scariest moment: thiiis was not a scary series

Grossest moment: When Riordan tried to sell domestic violence as cute, aka Annabeth judo-flipping her boyfriend in punishment for getting abducted by a goddess :D”““ what the fuq

Best looking male: if we go by actors, I guess Chris Rodriguez? xD

Best looking female: oooh definitely Clarisse when we go with the movie faces *^*

Who you’re crushing on (if any): mmmh yeah no

Favourite cast moment: I do not know any xD”

Favourite transportation: shadow-travel! It’s so cool

Most beautiful scene (scenery/shot wise): them entering the underworld was pretty damn cool??

Unanswered question/continuity issue/plot error that bugs you: NICO’S AGE. CONSISTENCY. Stop posting things that contradict each other like just stop tweeting canons out if you don’t have a fixed list of what is canon. ALSO SALLY’S MOTHER IS NAMED LAURA, SHE WAS NAMED LAURA FOR YEARS BEFORE YOU FORGOT THAT YOU NAMED THAT CHARACTER LAURA AND NOW SALLY NAMED HER CANON DAUGHTER FUCKING ESTELLE AFTER HER MOTHER’S NEW NAME. Good gods. How do professional authors not have lists to crosscheck about vital information of their own characters, like their birthdates and their parents’ names.

Best promo: I don’t watch promos

At what point did you fall in love with this show/book: Honestly before I watched the movie already, when I read on wikipedia that a son of Hades was not just A Good Guy in this bookseries but also a main character :D

IN DEPTH FANDOM QUESTIONS

#Percy Jackson and the Olympians #PJOverse #In-Depth Fandom Ask Game #send me asks #Anonymous

[theyearoftheking]

Book 1: Carrie

I wish I could write you a melody so plain

That would save you, dear lady, from going insane

That would ease you and cool you and cease the pain

Of your useless and pointless knowledge...

-Bob Dylan

I first read Carrie seven years ago as part of the Rory Gilmore reading challenge (sense a trend yet?). Despite reading a handful of books in the challenge, I quickly gave up because the prospect of reading Finnegan’s Wake was just too much. Even as an English major, I just can’t stomach Joyce. But I digress, and promise to stick with this challenge until the bitter end. Besides, I have a blog. I’m obviously big time now.

Carrie was first published in 1974 and the overriding theme for me was relevance. What’s old is new again, human beings never really learn lessons and bullying is a tale as old as time. Let’s do a deep-ish dive, shall we?

The book opens with a pretty embarrassing scene set inside high school hell: the girl’s locker room. Carrie is showering after gym class, and gets her period for the first time, blood streaming down her legs. She’s scared as hell,and has no idea what’s happening, because she was raised by an evangelical crazy woman. Her classmates lose their shit, begin throwing menstrual products at her, and yelling, “plug it up!” 

So cringy. 

But on the bright side, this didn’t happen during the age of social media. This would have made Snapchat, Insta, TikTok, or whatever social media thing the kids are into. But you could still see it happening in 2020. Hell is other people, particularly high school girls of a certain bitchy persuasion. 

After this humiliating moment, Carrie heads home to lick her wounds, and wonder why her mother, Margaret, never talked to her about menstruation. Her mother informs her, “And God made Eve from the rib of Adam...Get up, woman. Let us get in and pray. Let’s us pray to Jesus for our woman-weak, wicked, sinning souls...” 

At this moment, my blood ran cold. This statement should sound like the ramblings of a crazy person. But instead it reminded me of another matriarch...

Yeah. Michelle Duggar of 19 Kids and Counting, and Counting On fame. Michelle with her crazy eyes and crunchy perm, who believes women shouldn’t be cutting their hair, wearing pants, or bikinis, or any article of clothing that might entice men to think wicked thoughts; because apparently women do nothing but illicit sinful thoughts in men. It would be funny, if it wasn’t for the legions of fans and multiple babies she and her evangelical brood keep popping out on their living room couches with alarming frequency. We won’t even get into the whole, “covering up the fact her son molested several of her daughters and brushed it under the rug, because... Jesus”. 

Shudder. 

After Carrie’s locker room situation, the school administrators try to punish several of the girls responsible for the tampons/pads attack. One of the ringleaders, Chris Hargensen is a right little bitch, and sends daddy into the principal’s office to plead on her behalf so she won’t miss prom. He and the principal get chippy with each other, and Mr. Hargensen says, “I don’t intend... to sit here and listen to a tissue of half-truths or your standard schoolmaster lecture, Mr. Grayle. I know my daughter well enough...”

This whole interaction between Mr. Hargensen and Principal Grayle cracked me up. Millennials (of which I am not) get a bad wrap for not being held accountable for anything. They are stereotyped as special snowflakes who need participation trophies, and their parents make excuses for all their bad behaviors. 

Bro. 

Tale as old as time. Need I remind you this book was published in 1974? 

Ok, Boomer?

The story progresses with Sue Snell, one of the ringleaders of the Plug It Up debacle feeling guilty for her actions, and convincing her boyfriend, Tommy Ross to ask Carrie to prom. Tommy loves Sue, and agrees to do it. Carrie sews herself a crushed velvet prom dress, her mom repeatedly calls her a slut, and Carrie ends up looking beautiful. I imagine it much like Rachel Leigh Cook’s “startling” transformation in She’s All That. 

 Tommy and Carrie go to prom, and he realizes she’s actually kinda pretty, which makes her worthy of his respect. The crushed velvet dress gets all the compliments, and the night doesn’t start out as a total disaster. Well, bitchy Chris Hargensen isn’t having it. She convinces Billy Nolan, her greaser boyfriend, to pull off some kind of spectacular prank at prom to put Carrie in her place and remind her of her station. 

Billy and his crew of greasers go to a local farm, kill two pigs, and collect the blood. Later on at prom when Carrie and Tommy are announced king and queen, Chris pulls the cord rigged to the buckets of pig blood, and douses them both. Carrie loses her shit, and uses her telekinetic powers (did I forget to mention that’s a thing she has?) to blow up the school, kill her classmates and destroy the lovely town of Chamberlain, Maine. After prom, she walks home, where Michelle Duggar, Mama White is waiting with a knife, and stabs Carrie in the chest. Carrie uses her powers to slow Michelle Duggar Mama White’s heart down, until she’s dead. Then (with the knife still stuck in her chest), Carrie heads back into town to finish her reign of terror and kill Chris and Billy. Then she dies. 

And they all lived happily ever after. Well, Sue Snell kind of does, since she’s one of the only ones to make it out alive. No good deed goes unpunished, am I right? 

A few notable, funny moments... 

1. Early on in the novel, a reference is made to a letter Michelle Duggar Mama White wrote to a friend in Kenosha, Wisconsin. How did Steve decide on Kenosha? Such a strange city in Wisconsin to choose... Did he look at a map and randomly pick a city? Had he made a stop at the Mars Cheese Castle once and it left an impression? Did he throw a dart at a map of Wisconsin? Does he know Kenosha doesn’t have an especially high evangelical population? So many questions. As a Sconnie Cheesehead Homer, I’ll be keeping a Wisconsin Mentions tally throughout the challenge. 

2. At one point in the novel, a fictitious scientific article compares the genetic-recessive characteristics of telekinesis to hemophilia. Hemophilia is referred to as, “King’s Evil”, I couldn’t help with wonder if Steve threw this fact in here just to use the term, “King’s Evil”. Random observation 

I enjoyed re-reading Carrie, and still find it relevant and timely. And I think it speaks to King’s talent as a writer that he’s able to create a character like Carrie, who blows up a whole damn town and kills almost everyone, and you still feel sorry for her. She’s not quite a villain, but she’s not far off. 

In summation:

Total King Wisconsin Mentions: 1

Dark Tower References: 0

Book Grade: B+

Now, time for Salem’s Lot. It’s been on my to-be-read list for quite a while, and I’m looking forward to diving into it. Be patient, it’s 700 pages, compared to Carrie’s 290. 

I should mention, I’m reading all of these books in actual BOOK form, no e-books. I find when I use my Kindle, I get distracted by marathon games of Candy Crush, and lose focus. But with an actual book? No candy to be crushed, no FB messages to check, no cute dog pictures to upload. 

Speaking of dogs, Steve has Molly, The Thing of Evil. I have Biscuit Beast the Beagle. 

You can see her handiwork here on a bookmark a friend was nice enough to bring back from The Stanley.

 Beagles... to know them is to love them. 

Until next time- long days and pleasant nights, readers!

Rebecca

[niall-talk]

This Christmas (7)

I fell asleep much easier last night and woke up earlier this time. I made my way to the kitchen to find Maura setting at the table with a radio playing music that I would expect Niall would have picked.

“Morning dear, did I wake up,” she stood to move to the radio.

“Oh no not at all.” She turned the radio down. “I actually fell asleep not long after you and Chris went to bed.”

After I poured a glass of orange juice; I joined her back at the table. I wanted to ask her about Niall and Greg's relationship. I just didn't know how without coming across nosey.

“What is it dear?” She seemed to read my mind.

I looked up at the ceiling then to her. “Maura what happened between Niall and Greg? I mean Niall hardly talks about him or his family.”

She sat back in her chair and took a sip of her coffee. “The boys love each other. Its that brotherly love that nothing can break, but it can be stretched and bent. There were things said on-line and in person that shouldn't have. Feelings were hurt and also Niall tried to keep them out of the spotlight. After that group started to harass him. They started saying things about Theo. Niall tried to protect them and I think it was taken the wrong way. Why do you ask?”

“I don't think he has ever really talked about them to me before. I mean you and Bobby and the Devine boys I feel like I know everything about you all. But nothing about Greg and his family.” I paused for a moment, “I was a little worried about them seeing each other tonight.”

“Don't worry dear. It only waste time and causes wrinkles,” she patted my arm that rested on the table. “So how about some breakfast?” She got up from the table.

“Don't make a fuss over me Maura. I can fix a bowl of cereal or something.” I really didn't want to put her out.

“You are a guest in this house and I will fuss over you.” She got that mother tone with me that she did with Niall. I just hoped she didn't pinch my ear too.

“At least let me help.” I stood and followed her to the work area. She pulled out the gluten free flour mix and other ingredients. She put me to work of mixing up the pancake batter while she got the griddle warmed up and started on the sausage.

She asked me about my job and how I met Niall. “Basically I'm the one that puts the final plans on all events and make sure they go off without a hitch. I also babysit the members and iron out whatever complaints they have.”

“You poor thing. You needed this holiday then didn't you?” She patted on me like my grandma use to. “So that is where you and Niall met?”

“Yes ma'am. We were doing an event to draw new members in. Justin Rose just happened to be in for a charity event one of his sponsors was involved in. He is an honorary member and he brought Niall for a round of golf. I have worked with Justin on activities before and I met Niall that way. Even sold him on joining the club that day.”

“Yeah yeah,” I heard from the doorway. “Justin had already talked me into it.” He walked into the kitchen and kissed his mom's check. “Um pancakes.”

“Mornin baby. You sleep well?” She acted just like he was still that sixteen year old boy from before he left for the X-Factor. It was kind of heartwarming to see.

“Yeah till I was woke up by two busy bodies being chatty and bangin’ around in here,” he winked at me with that mischievous grin he has. We both gave him a good thump for the comment.

“Good girl Sammy. Don't let him get the best of ya. Someone has to keep him in check when I'm not around.” Maura approved of my actions; thank god.

Niall stood licking his wounds, “Thanks ma, and she don't. Just cause she works at the club with all those snobs she takes it out on me.”

“Hey I do not! Well not all the time. Just when you need it.” I winked at Maura and she gave me a mother approved nod of the head.

After breakfast was enjoyed and Niall helped clean up while I went to shower. Now that I was comfortable with Maura and Chris it was time to meet Bobby and Aoife. Suddenly my stomach and pancakes were not agreeing with me.

In Maura's car with Niall I asked what I should know about his dad and Aoife. He laughed so hard at me I thought we were would end up off the road. “Niall its not funny,” I swatted his arm with the back of my hand.

“Trust me Da already likes ya,” he settled down the laugh. I asked how when he had never met me. “Cause its my da. Bobby finds the good in everyone.”

“Is that where you get it from?” I turned my head to face him. He did that cute little shoulder shrug thing and kept his gaze out the windshield.

Once we pulled up at Bobby's house I looked around. It was nothing like Maura's. Niall asked what was wrong. I just told him taking in the difference between houses.

“Yeah offered ta buy the old man a house, but he wont let me. Irish male pride and all.” He ushered me up the walkway to Bobby's door and inside without a knock.

I followed behind and noticed the decent sized living room with Christmas tree and decorations. It was more lived in and warm and inviting. Reminded me of where I grew up with my brothers and sister.

“Da! We're here.” Niall yelled out to the house.

“Yeah I can hear that,” I heard the voice before I saw the person it belonged to. Bobby rounded the corner and joined us in the living room. He gave Niall a quick hug and asked how he was.

“Good, how are you holding up old man?” He picked at his dad. I stood back and watched the two Irishmen interact and it was almost like watching a mirror. They had so many of the same mannerisms.

Bobby saw me over Niall's shoulder and pushed Niall to the side. “And this lovely lady must be Sam?”

“Yes sir,” I felt my cheeks heat up at his compliment. He was handsome and if he was younger I would say Niall would have some competition with the ladies.

“Sir?” He looked around the room. “There is no sir here love. Just call me Bob or Bobby.” He pulled me in for a hug. Now I know where the “Horan” hug came from. That was the tightest and warmest hug I have ever had in my life.

He looked at Niall with a smirk, “Son, you never told us she was a beauty.” That caught both of us off guard.

Niall just groaned and rubbed his big hand over his face and up through his hair. I looked down at the floor before I felt an arm land around my shoulders. With a laugh Bobby told me that he didn't mean to embarrass me, but he knew a lovely person when he saw one.

“Da, stop flirting with my friend. I'm gonna tell Aoife.” Niall joked with his dad as he took my jacket from me.

We sat in the living room with the tv on low for background noise. “You keeping this one in check I hear,” he patted Niall on the shoulder.

“I try to, but its hard and I don't get paid enough.” I joked back. I couldn't help but laugh at the look I got from Niall on that.

“If my memory serves me right I had to make you check your attitude last.” He raised an eyebrow at me.

“Yeah well you did have a hand in on it didn't ya?” I asked him with my own raised eyebrow. “And I said I was sorry for it.”

Bobby asked what we were on about. Niall over exaggerated about the night I came to his house ready to rip his head off. “For the sake of our friendship she says.”

Bobby looked at me and I couldn't deny it. “Yes but I thought he had lied to me and went behind my back to my boss. Ended up it was Justin Rose.”

Bobby laughed and it bounced off the walls just like Niall's. “Looks like ya got a feisty one Nialler.”

When it was time for the match to start Niall warned Bobby that I was not a fan of the sport. Bobby shook his head, “Nobody is perfect.”

Bobby had Niall help him bring in the snacks and drinks so we wouldn't have to leave the room. “Now watch her da. She says she's not a fan, but she gets violent and yells at the telly when we watch it.”

“One time Niall. One time and that's only because I had a few drinks in me. You and Mully are ruthless with the peer pressure.” I shook my head at the memories of that night.

“That's alright love. You keep coming around and I'll have ya a Derby fan before ya know it.” He gave a nod to the tv so Niall would turn the volume up.

We made it over halfway before Maura called and asked Niall if we were going to come home and have dinner. She let him know that she had fixed his Sunday roast. I could almost see him start to drool thinking about it. He told her that we would head that way in another ten minutes.

It was obvious that Derby was not going to get the victory so Niall told his dad that we needed to head back to Maura's. “You still coming for Christmas dinner right?” Niall told him that he wouldn't miss it.

“Sam my dear,” he hugged me, “You are welcome to come back anytime with or without Nialler.”

“Thank you Bobby.” For some reason I felt all warm and happy when he told me that. All this family stuff was getting to me. I had not felt this welcomed by a family in years. These people had only known me for hours and they treated me better than my own.

#niall horan #anon request #this christmas

[meadow-dusk]

LONG LONG LONG

a music survey from livejournal days…

- TO TAKE THIS SURVEY, SIMPLY PUT YOUR MUSIC PLAYER ON SHUFFLE AND ANSWER THE QUESTIONS WITH THE TITLE OF THE SONG THAT COMES ON - [it’s better if you don’t cheat and don’t skip any songs.]

What is your name?: Moby Dick • Led Zep

How is your life going?: Get on the Right Thing • Paul McCartney

What is your nickname?: The Day the World Gets ‘Round • George Harrison

What is your theme song?: Little Games • The Yardbirds

What is your best friend’s theme song?: Wait • The Beatles

How is your life going to turn out?: Communication Breakdown • Led Zeppelin

Will you get married?: Four Sticks • Led Zeppelin

Will you have kids?: For What It’s Worth • Haley Reinhart

What will your job be?: Rattled • Traveling Wilburys

Did you/will you finish school?: Good Times, Bad Times • Led Zeppelin

Who is your best friend?: Behind that Locked Door • George Harrison

Who is or will be your significant other?: Think Pink! • Beyond Pink

Who do you like?: We’re All in This Together • High School Musical Cast

How will you die?: Stairway to Heaven • Led Zeppelin (YAAAAAS)

How do you feel right now?: Sentimental Journey • Ringo Starr

What is your favorite song?: Matilda Mother • Pink Floyd

How could you describe your parents?: Pilate and Christ • Jesus Christ Superstar (you can’t make this stuff up yall)

Your best friend[s]?: Postcards from Paradise • Ringo Starr

Your teachers?: She’s Not There • The Zombies

Your significant other [or crush…]?: Riding on a Bus • The Beatles (an interview)

Yourself?: Brian Bathtubes • The Beatles (taking requests)

What is your best feature?: The Riddle • Five for Fighting

What will you be/should you be, profession-wise?: Desire • U2

How could you describe this survey?: I Told You So • Randy Travis

What makes you angry?: Moanin’ • Chris Farlowe ft. Jimmy Page and a random sitarist (this song is so interesting)

What makes you sad?: Everything I Know • Mandy Gonzalez 

What makes you happy?: One • Bee Gees

What makes you dance?: I Still • Backstreet Boys

What is your favorite color?: Sundown • Gordon Lightfoot

How would you describe yourself?: Heart Attack • One Direction

Who is your worst enemy?: Little Soldier Boy • The Yardbirds

Who do you hate?: No Me Diga • In the Heights

Who do you love?: I Started a Joke • Bee Gees

Who do you lust after?: What Do You Want? • The Yardbirds Finish the Sentence I wish: Rainy Day Women #12 and 35 • Bob Dylan I want to: We’re on the Road Again • Ringo Starr I want to kill:. Money • The Beatles I want to eat: Spring Musical Medley • HSM3 yall with Kryan duet to open My head: Sometimes I’ll Be There • Naked Brothers Band (accurate) I am: Movin On • Rascal Flatts My best feature is: The Sad Bells of Rhymney • Fifth Avenue My eyes are: Safest Place to Hide • Backstreet Boys My hair is: Who Can See It • George Harrison My face is: Baby Come on Home • Led Zeppelin You should: Not This Time • 3Lw

Random Words of advice: And Here We Are Again • The Beatles  How do others see me?: Rhythm of Love • Plain White T’s How do I see myself?: Knowing Me, Knowing You • ABBA *** For this first section, put down the first ten songs that play, and then rate them on a scale of 1 - 5 (5 being the best) in the next column. 1. I Have a Dream •  Abba 2/5 2. Sounds of Silence • Simon and Garfunkel 5/5 3. In The Flesh • Pink Floyd 4/5  4. Ya-Ya •  John Lennon (ft. Julian on drums) 4/5  5. Magic Bus • The Who Live at the Isle of Wright 4/5 6. Stomp • Steps 2/5 7. KICK DA DUST UP • Luke Bryan 4/5 8. Your Mother Should Know • The Beatles 5/5 9. Photograph • Ringo (2017) 3/5 he sounds great but it isn’t exciting also who’s the chick I didnt sign up for this 10. Piggies • The Beatles 5/5 good one George Now for a little fortune telling… 1. Who am I?: Tug of War • Paul McCartney 2. Why am I here?: Bet On It • Zac Efron (skittles and steak) 3. What’s my theme song?: American Beauty/American Psycho • Fall Out Boy 4. How’s tomorrow gonna be?: Behind Blue Eyes • The Who 5. What does ______ really think of me?: Let’s Go to Vegas • Faith Hill 6. What’s this school year going to be about?: Man on Fire • Andy Gibb 7. Is something bad going to happen in the near future?: Little Bitty • Alan Jackson 8. What’s the government going to do next?: Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band/The End • Paul McCartney Live at Citi Field 9. What’s my best friend doing right now?: Inutil • Carlos Gomez 10. What does my iPod/MP3 think about me?: American Girl • Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers Last section! These next questions are all about music 1. I absolutely LOVE this song!: The Look of Love • ABC Comments: This was in Start the Commotion and there was a clip art of eyes as the O’s in look 2. I have no clue why this song is still on my music player: Steppin’ Out • John Mayall and the Bluesbreakers Comments: It’s saved because I occasionally really try to get into Clapton 3. This song has AMAZING lyrics: Love Will Find a Way • Pablo Cruise Comments: I remembered his initials but not his name

4. The band that does this song is one of my favorites: Most Peculiar Man • Simon and Garfunkel Comments: I would not say favorites but I give them their due 5. My dad loves this song: Songs About Rain • Gary Allan Comments: he bought the CD and took it on road trips so probs 6. My mom can’t stand this song: The Hook (All My Love) • Led Zeppelin Comments: she probably can stand it more than me 7. I have a sibling who enjoys listening to songs by this band: When You See a Chance • Steve Winwood Comments: fair to say that cause once she asked me what the name of Valerie was 8. One of my best friends hates the band that does this song: Like Nobody’s Around • Big Time Rush Comments: NO FRIEND OF MINE! 9. I got this song off a mix CD: Got My Mind Set On You • George Harrison Comments: I learned how to do the mashed potato to this song 10. This song is on a movie soundtrack: The Freedom Song • Jason Mraz Comments: could definitely be but don’t hold this one down

11. Share a memory involving this song in comments: Friday On My Mind • The Easybeats Comments: running to it - how was there this much good music at one time 12. I’ve played this song on repeat before: You’re My Number One • S Club 7 Comments: Try this ALBUM back when we used to play S Club and have choreography 13. This song is on the band’s Greatest Hit’s CD: Ramblin’ Man • Allman Brothers Band Comments: if it isn’t they screwed up 14. I love dancing to this song!: If You Wanna Do a Dance • The Spinners Comments: seems like that was the idea 15. This song gets me every time I hear it: Bathroom Sound (Out on the Tiles early take) • Led Zeppelin Comments: I prefer the final version with vocals and silly quips but this version does just as well for Bonzo Appreciation Time 16. This song is great to listen to when you’re angry: Farmer Refuted (Instrumental) • Hamilton  Comments: OH MY GOD tear this dude apart 17. I love the music video for this song: I’m Just a Singer (In a Rock and Roll Band) • Moody Blues Comments: if there is one it’s probably psychedelic so I’d dig it I bet 18. I’ve seen the band that performs this song live: The Boxer • Simon and Garfunkel Comments: I have not.  This song is beautiful.  19. Is this song better to listen to at night, in the morning, or in the afternoon?: Let’s Get Rocked • Def Leppard Comments: morning, running. 20. I haven’t listened to this song in so long!: That’s the Way (Live Paris 1971) • Led Zeppelin Comments: not true it came on on the way to the gym barely a few weeks ago *** What were the first words to Abe Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address?: What ya gonna do when it’s cold outside? (Keep It Hid • Robert Plant) What did Martin Luther King have a dream about, anyways?: You’ve got a cute way of talking, you got the better of me! (You Make Me Feel Like Dancin’ • Leo Sayer)  Tomorrow’s newspapers will all have the major headline of: Out in the Rain Looking for Sunshine (Permanent Stain • Backstreet Boys) If someone offered you some free drugs, how would you respond?: Lord almighty, feel my temperature risin’...(Burning Love • Elvis) What kind of higher power do you believe in?: You need coolin, baby I’ ain’t foolin (Whole Lotta Love • Led Zeppelin) What do people really notice about you?: There’s a girl I know who makes me feel so good (Valleri • The Monkees) What do you notice first in the preferred sex of your choice?: Hey fellas, have ya heard the news you know that Annie’s back in town (Heartbreaker • Led Zeppelin) What do you look for in reading books?: They say that Richard Cory owns one half of this whole town, with political connections to spread his wealth around (Richard Cory • Wings) What’s a must-have quality in a friend for you?: Meeting people along my way, seemingly I’ve known one day (Happenings Ten Years Time Ago • The Yardbirds) What scares the shit out of you?: Gat Kirwani • George Harrison (this has no words it’s just a sitar jam) How do you laugh?: Anna, you come and ask me, girl, to set you free girl? (Anna (Go To Him) • The Beatles)  Why do you do these surveys?: When the night returns just like a friend, when the evening comes to set me free  (If You Know What I Mean • Neil Diamond) Do you have anything you’d like to confess?: I can see you in the window waiting for my call (Untouchable • Big Time Rush) How do you feel about the person you cannot stand the most?: If ever you’ve got rain in your heart, someone has hurt you and torn you apart, am I unwise to open up your eyes to love me (Run To Me • Bee Gees)  The best date ever, in your book, would consist of…: Dear Theodosia, what to say to you?(Dear Theodosia • Leslie Odom Jr. & Lin-Manuel Miranda) If you sent a random Hallmark card to a friend, you would write to them: Are we growing up or just going down? It's just a matter of time until we're all found out. (Sophomore Slump or Comeback of the Year • Fallout Boy) If you had the chance to speak to (a) God, what would you say?: Every time I see her, she don’t even look my way (Just My Style • Gary Lewis and the Playboys) Finish the sentence: “When the going gets tough…”: My friend came to me with sadness in his eyes and told me that he wanted help before his country dies (Bangla Desh • George Harrison)  How do you deal with your stress?: I can almost remember their funny faces (Jet • Paul McCartney) What is your biggest burden in life?: Somebody’s knocking at the door, somebody’s ringing the bell (Let Em In • Wings) What’s the coolest thing about your best friend?: Hands, put your empty hands in mine (Stand By You • Rachel Platten) Why do you love the one you do?: Sweet, wonderful you.  You make me happy with the things you do (You Make Loving Fun • Fleetwood Mac) If a friend broke their arm and got a cast, what would you write on it?: Gonna build myself a castle high up in the clouds (Dance the Night Away • Cream)  You see a stick and wet cement. What do you write?:  It feels so right now hold me tight (Hold Me Tight • The Beatles) A guy just stole your (purse, car, etc)! What do you yell at him?: Welcome to the camp, I guess you all know why you’re here (We’re Not Gonna Take It • The Who) You pass a crack addict on the corner one day. Solemnly he tells you: Well now we’re respected in society, we don’t worry bout the things that we used to be, we’re talkin heroin with the president (Respectable • The Rolling Stones) What will your baby’s first words be?:  He knows about you in every way, he's memorized every part of your face (Does He Know • One Direction) You are at your wit’s end, and decide to write a suicide note. It begins: The pound is sinking, the peso’s falling, the lira’s reeling and feeling quite appalling (The Pound is Sinking • Paul McCartney) Why can’t there be peace in the world?: Let’s talk about one, bay-bay, ya gotta hear me out (Get Another Boyfriend • Backstreet Boys)

How do you think people see you?: I walked in the band just started, the singer couldn't carry a tune in a bucket (Ten Rounds with Jose Cuervo • Tracy Byrd) Inside, though, what kind of person are you really?: well the rain was a-fallin’ and the ground turned to mud, I was watchin’ all the people running from the flood (Deliver Your Children • Wings) If you wanted to comfort a friend, you’d say: Anytime, any day you can hear the people say that love is blind, well I don’t know but I say love is kind (Listen to What the Man Said • Wings) When you want to cheer someone up, you say: *I just make series of nonsense sounds* (Pow R. Toc H. • Pink Floyd) You’re unbelievably depressed because your friend just told you…: people say we’ve got it made, don’t they know we’re so afraid? (Isolation • John Lennon)

When you are incredibly bored, you start thinking about…?: I drive all alone, at night, I drive all alone, don’t know what I’m headed for. (Dead End Friends • Them Crooked Vultures) You’re a classy person, so instead of cursing when you’re mad, you yell…?: I met a gin-soaked, bar-room queen in Memphis (Honky Tonk Women • The Rolling Stones)   you’re writing a love letter, but what are you going to begin it with?: The theater’s so obsessed with drama so depressed, it’s hard to sell a ticket on broadway! (Keep It Gay • The Producers)  If you were to write a letter to the President of the USA, it would say…?: It’s a boy, Mrs. Walker, it’s a boy (It’s a Boy • The Who) What would someone have to tell you to make you really angry?: No no no no, don’t phunk with mah haaahrt (Don’t Phunk with My Heart • Black-Eyed Peas) …To make you really depressed?:  Cars and girls are easy to come by in this day and age, laughing joking drinking smoking til I spend my wage (Over Under Sideways Down • The Yardbirds) ...To make you sexually aroused?: Catch a star if you can, wish for something special (Are You Ready for Love • The Spinners) Your first thoughts waking up were…: Life is just a bowl of All-Bran, you wake up every morning and it’s there (Happydaystoytown • The Small Faces)  Your last words before falling asleep will be…: the sun is shining in the sky, there ain’t a cloud in sight (Mr. Blue Sky • Electric Light Orchestra)

#music survey #wow that only took me half a month #kari

[leisurelypanda]

Life is Good chapter 8

So I realized that i posted chapter 9 without posting this one first. So here’s chapter 8.

http://archiveofourown.org/works/11676360/chapters/26476851

The day finally came that all young children of the United States look forward to for the entire month of October: Halloween. Craig and Andrew went to work early a couple days in advance so they could leave early that day, pick the kids up from school, cook an early dinner and help them get their costumes ready for trick-or-treating. The entire neighborhood was decked out in Halloween decorations. Even Robert had some Jack-o’-lanterns on the steps leading up to his house and glowing ghosts hanging in his windows.

For Andrew, it had been years since Amanda had gone trick-or-treating, though that hadn’t stopped her from stealing candy from the people who just left their candy out on the front step. He didn’t mind. In his book, if you didn’t want to participate in the fun of Halloween, you shouldn’t leave candy out for anyone to take. He was excited to go out with Craig and his girls and experience the fun and spooky wonder of the holiday.

 Right now though, he was trying to get Hazel to stay still so he could apply some green face paint for her Frankenstein’s monster costume. Ever since the night Damien first watched them, Hazel and Briar had been in a horror book phase. They had borrowed all the Goosebumps books from the local and school libraries.

 “Hazel, if you want to be Frankenstein’s monster you have to stop squirming every time I put on the face paint,” he said.

 “You’re not even painting my face,” she cried. “My hands aren’t my face!”

 “Just be grateful we aren’t in Florida,” he said. “We’d have to apply more to account for the sweat. And you’d be wearing short sleeves instead of long ones, so we’d need even more.”

 “Florida sounds terrible,” she said. “I’m glad we live in Maine.”

 Andrew chuckled and got another dollop of green face paint to apply to her other hand. “Me too, kiddo. Me too.”

 Craig popped in, apparently finished with Briar’s costume. He was dressed as Thor (the Chris Hemsworth version, anyway), complete with the long, red cape, a blond wig, and a plastic hammer. Andrew was trying to behave, but it was difficult when he firmly believed in taking every available opportunity to admire his bro’s muscles. He had nice muscles.

 “You two ready to go?” he asked.

 “Yeah, just gotta get this stuff off my hands and I’ll be ready,” Andrew said.

 “What are you going as, dad?” Hazel asked.

 Craig gestured at his suit. “I’m Thor, the superhero,” he said.

 Hazel shook her head. “Not you, dad. The other one.”

 Andrew and Craig exchanged a glance. “I guess I’m the other one,” he said, smiling.

 Craig chuckled and rubbed his neck. “Yeah, we’re gonna have to find a different name for you,” he replied. “How do you feel about ‘Pops’ or ‘Papa’?”

 Andrew thought for a moment. “Well, Amanda has called me ‘Pops’ for years now, it seems special between us,” he mused. “I think I’d like to be called ‘Papa.’”

 Craig turned to his daughter. “Here that? From now on, I’m Dad and he’s Papa.”

 Hazel nodded. “Okay, but can Papa get dressed? I’m ready to get candy,” she whined.

 Craig laughed and picked up his daughter and carried out of the room. “Don’t sass your Papa, now,” he said.

 I can get used to this, Andrew thought. But maybe after we’re done trick-or-treating. He started getting dressed in his Hawkeye costume. Andrew decided that if his bro’s twins were going to be matching, then he could go along with whatever theme Craig decided to go as. Thankfully, there were no shortages of Marvel Cinematic Universe costumes to be found on the Internet and the one he got in the mail last week fit.

 Life is good, he thought.

 The neighborhood was packed with trick-or-treaters. Andrew had a funny feeling that it was due in part to the fact that Damien’s house looked like something from the Addams family, and so perpetually observing Halloween. As they made their way around the neighborhood, Mary was drinking wine and actually looked to be enjoying herself. She actually smiled as she asked the kids who they were and put whole Snickers bars in their Jack-o’-lantern buckets. Andrew was a bit surprised that the candy wasn’t wrapped in Bible verses, but he was still getting used to a youth pastor who wasn’t a Bible thumper, though he made a mental note to come back around after they were done. Anyone who gave out whole candy bars was worth a return trip.

 Hugo was having fun jumping out and scaring kids in a luchador outfit, complete with a mask and everything after Ernest gave them candy. Though he spared Craig’s kids. Andrew grinned at his trivia partner.

 “Having fun getting revenge?” he asked.

 Hugo laughed. “Serves some of the little rascals right,” he declared. “And my son is having a blast, too. He hasn’t blown up one trash can or lit one dumpster on fire… yet.”

 Craig laughed. “Good luck, dude, and try not to have too much fun!”

 Hugo pulled his mask back down over his face and walked back in the house to take his place for the next victi—kids, rather. Kids. Not victims. “I think I’ll manage somehow,” he called after them.

 Next up was Brian, who had a bob for apples station in the front yard and was dressed as a police officer. And wrapped candy apples for the kids who couldn’t quite manage to get one. Andrew resisted the urge to talk about past Halloween accomplishments that may or may not have actually occurred. But as soon as he saw the bob for apples station he looked at Craig. He didn’t even have to say anything.

 “Bro, I’ve got this,” he boasted. “Hold River.” He unstrapped River from his chest (there was something really domestically hot about Craig dressed as Thor with River on his chest like always). She was dressed as a, what had Amanda called the costume she sent? A… Pikachu? Yeah that was it. It was cute, whatever it was. They made sure to get a picture for Amanda. She cooed as she played with Arnold.

 He approached the metal bin and set his wig down beside him. He braced himself on the edge of the bin, took a deep breath, and plunged his head beneath the surface. A moment later he emerged with a golden apple in his mouth and the bystanders cheered. Brian held out a towel for him to dry his hair off on and shouted. “Folks we have a winner!” His prize, apparently, was a huge, two by four Hershey’s chocolate bar, which Craig looked at in amazement, and a little bit of horror. Andrew, Briar, and Hazel cheered wildly at the beautiful sight of the magnificent chocolate bar.

 Craig walked back over to his family only to be attacked by his twins hugging his legs. “You did it, daddy! You did it!” they chorused.

 “Bro,” he said as they walked away with their treasure. “how are we gonna eat all this chocolate?”

 Andrew laughed, “Oh you of little faith.”

 They walked back to the house and dropped off the chocolate bar (which was heavier than it looked) and continued with their trick or treating. Next up was Mat, who was playing spooky music on the front lawn and handing out packs of chocolate covered espresso beans. A treat for the kids, a trick for the parents all in one. Pablo and some other teens were dancing to Thriller in the yard. Pablo broke formation long enough to wave at Andrew before getting back to it.

 Robert had his candy out on his front porch. Hell yeah, extras, Andrew thought. “Kids, make sure to grab extra candy from this one.”

 Craig frowned. “Uuh, bro… I don’t think that’s a good idea.”

 “Relax bro,” he replied. “What’s the worst that could happen?”

 At that very moment a huge hairy creature jumped out of the bushes near the candy. Briar and Hazel screamed. Andrew might have too, he wasn’t sure. The three of them hid behind Craig (and River). Craig grinned and pointed his hammer at the monster. “Hey dude,” he said in his best Thor voice, “not cool.”

 The beast laughed and removed his head. It was Robert. Of course it was.

 “Good job, Papa,” Hazel said.

 “What’d I do?” Andrew demanded.

“Mr. Small always scares people who try to take extra candy,” Briar said glaring pointedly at Andrew.

 “It’s true,” Robert said. “Gotta make sure the youngsters toe the line, follow the rules.”

 “You hate rules,” Andrew retorted safely from behind Craig.

 “Yeah, gotta stick it to the establishment,” Robert replied. “But I don’t want kids ending up like me.”

 “Fair enough.”

 Robert walked over to them and knelt down in front of the girls and held up a couple candy bars. “Here, sorry for scaring you. You’re good kids.” he said. He put his mask back on and got back in the bushes.

 “What do you say to Mr. Small, girls?” Craig asked.

 “Thank you!”

 He turned to his boyfriend and smirked. “He got you good, didn’t he?”

 Andrew huffed. “I have no idea what you’re talking about. It was all part of the act.”

 “Uh-huh. Sure, bro,” Craig said. “Don’t worry, I’ll protect you. Brotect you!”

 “My hero.”

 Last up was Damien, who was sitting out on his front porch with a crystal ball and a deck of tarot cards. The house was, more or less, unchanged but there were ghostly decorations and a large bowl of candy. As they approached the Victorian house, the house that might have given some kids the creeps, the twins ran up fearlessly.

 “Trick-or-treat!” they cried.

 “Oh dear! Dr. Frankenstein and his monster!” Damien replied in mock fright, “Please don’t hurt this humble fortuneteller!” He held out the bowl of candy to appease the monsters in front of him.

 “Thank you!” they chorused.

 “Mr. Bloodmarch,” Briar said, “are we near the end of the story?”

 “Almost,” he replied, gazing into his crystal ball. “I see that we shall soon arrive at the long awaited conclusion of our thrilling tale of the modern Prometheus. Prepare yourselves.” The twins gasped, smiles spreading over their faces with the prospect of hearing how the story would end.

 “I guess that means that we’ll be going on a date, soon,” Andrew smiled. “Not that I mind.”

 Craig leaned in. “Who says we have to go out?” he asked. “We could always stay in. With some wine, some chocolate. Just you and me, bro. And the bed.”

 Andrew moaned quietly. “Bro, never mind, that sounds wonderful.”

 The rest of the night passed more or less uneventfully. They left the neighborhood and went trick-or-treating in the area around their neighborhood. Eventually Andrew and Craig ended up carrying the buckets that finally became too heavy for the twins. They finally ended up heading back to the house when Briar was tired and Andrew picked her up and set her on his shoulders. When they got back they deposited Briar in the twins’ bedroom and got Hazel into the shower so she could wash off the green body paint on her face and hands.

 Andrew and Craig inspected the girls’ candy and deeming it all safe, put it on the top shelf of the pantry so they wouldn’t be able to eat the whole thing at once. They went to the living room and turned the tv on. The Addams Family was playing, a perfect, not scary Halloween movie. Andrew thought about the evening he had with his family, how they were calling him Papa now, the family they formed in the past few months. It was so good. He couldn’t remember being so happy since his husband had died. He took Craig’s hand and leaned back against his chest. They stayed that way until they both drifted off to sleep.

#craig cahn x dadsona #craig cahn #river cahn #briar cahn #hazel cahn #brian harding #damien bloodmarch #robert small #mary christiansen #hugo vega #mat sella #ernest hemmingway vega #halloween #Life is Good #fanfic

[cinderssmokeandashes]

NY Pops Concert Write Up

Because of some dear souls asking, here is my write-up of the NY Pops concert featuring Will Chase, Jessie Mueller, Christopher Jackson, and Adrienne Warren.  My thoughts and summary are under the cut if you feel so inclined to read! :)

So, I’ll start this with the huge caveat that I love Jessie Mueller (in case that wasn’t evident from my blog haha) and basically think she can do no wrong, so anything I say will be biased in that regard.

The concert was structured in 2 acts, with each performer singing 2 songs during each act and all 4 of them coming together to sing a song together at the end of each act.  

Act I started with Christopher Jackson singing Let’s Stay Together (Al Green) and I Love You More Than You’ll Ever Know (Al Kooper).  He was very personable and made a bit of small talk between his two songs, joking that when they asked him what he wanted to sing at Carnegie Hall he had to pick this.  Later, he came and closed out the solo performances with The Times They Are a-Changin’ (Bob Dylan) and A Change is Gonna Come (Sam Cooke).  They felt like very relevant songs for our current political and social climate.  His voice was very similar to how he sounded in Hamilton.  I think he has a really nice voice, so I could listen to him sing all day, and I especially loved I Love You More Than You’ll Ever Know.  It was soft and croony, but I think he had some timing or lyric issues.  I really enjoyed the songs, but I thought some of the songs that he chose could have used a more honeyed voice, even though he did a really good job.  Anyway, I always enjoy hearing him sing so it was a treat.

Next, JESSIE came out and sang Jolene (I cried) and Goodbye Yellow Brick Road (I sobbed).  She came out barefoot for Jolene, which I just love so much.  She introduced Yellow Brick Road by saying that it was arranged by someone who had become very dear to her at this point in her life (Sara Bareilles), and launched into it.  She talked far less than Christopher Jackson did, but I thought her performances were incredible.  I wonder if she was fighting a cold or something because she sounded a tiny bit off and her songs were lower than she could sing (like she could hit the high notes in Jolene if she wanted to).  Regardless, her performance was incredible and hearing her sing these songs was not something I knew I needed in my life until it happened.  She then opened Act II by singing Beautiful and Both Sides Now.  Obviously, I was excited to hear her sing Beautiful since I haven’t heard her sing it live since her Beautiful days, and she didn’t disappoint.  Her vocals were incredible and she was moving up on stage like she was very happy to be singing it.  I had been waiting the whole night to hear her sing Both Sides Now so holy shit!  That’s one of my favorite songs, and to hear it performed by one of my favorite singers was nothing short of perfection.  She took it a little slower than I’ve heard in the past, but she imbued it with so much emotion that I cried after the first few lines.  (I’m a sucker for Jessie + emotional songs, don’t judge!)  I will say that overall she seemed a tad uncomfortable on the stage, but I think she’s always slightly awkward when she performs so I don’t know what it was.  Maybe part of it was that she closed her eyes a lot?  But anyway, she was incredible, obviously the highlight of the show for me, and on a purely superficial note I liked her Act I dress (strapless) better than her Act II one (halter).

Will Chase followed Jessie and sang Ring of Fire (June Carter) and Bridge Over Troubled Water (Paul Simon), which he introduced as being for his children, one of whom was in the audience.  Honestly, Bridge Over Troubled Water was my favorite song of his that he sang because it was very well technically executed and you could tell it meant a lot to him.  He was a very strong voice, so it was interesting to hear him sing a gentler song.  He sang 3rd in Act II and sang Fortunate Son (John Fogerty) and Imagine (John Lennon), Imagine being because he played John Lennon in the musical.  Imagine was also really well sung, and a favorite song of mine, so I thoroughly enjoyed it...but again, I thought it could have used a softer voice.

Finally, Adrienne Warren closed out the solo performances for Act I by singing If I Ain’t Got You (Alicia Keys) and Fire and Rain (James Taylor).  I thought her voice really worked for I Ain’t Got You, and the audience had fun with the more contemporary song.  She also talked up the crowd and mentioned how her dad was sitting out there and how Fire and Rain was what she was first taught to sing by him so she was singing this for him now (if I remember correctly).  Anyway, her voice is amazing and she really slayed her songs in Act II, Hello (Adele) and Think (Aretha Franklin).  I thought her Hello was a little slow for my taste but she sang it excellently and hit all the big notes very impressively.  Now I’m sad I missed her in Shuffle Along!  

The 4 closed out Act 1 by singing Sir Duke (Stevie Wonder), and I honestly don’t remember much about it because I was still thinking about Jessie singing Goodbye Yellow Brick Road--hahaha I know--and I don’t really know the song.  I remember it being really fun and the audience clapping along, though.  They closed out Act II by singing Ain’t No Mountain High Enough, which I LOVED.  They all took turns singing solo lines (Chris --> Jessie --> Will --> Adrienne), which I thought was really cute and they were all having fun singing with each other up on stage.  Finally, they did a surprise “encore” (they never really left the stage) of You’ve Got a Friend in Me, which was really sweet.  Again, it was a little slow for my liking but it was really fun to see everyone sing the song, especially Jessie since she sang it in Beautiful.  She also had a really cute moment where she mouthed “one more” at the audience and held up one finger when the music started to play. Overall, it was a really fun and enjoyable 2 hours, and I thought the performers had really on-point song selections.  If I could, I would go again!!  Sorry for my heavy Jessie bias and the obvious fact that I paid the most attention to her lol.  Anything you want to hear about that I didn’t talk about?

#NY Pops #jessie mueller #adrienne warren #christopher jackson #will chase

[strange-spaghetti]

re: @pipersky​

Aaaah yes, they definitely were sensible, intelligent people and you kinda get the feeling by listening to the music and it’s nice when you get to know them a little and they are just like you’ve always imagined them to be. Like I’ve always thought of Chris as some sort of a Romantic character in my mind. Watching him play and listening to the music is enough to know that. But you’re right, it’s fantastic to get to know them and understand how who they were reflected on their music, and I always think about this list of things Chris adored as part of a group interview that I first read on the booklet of a cd version of Dear Mr. Fantasy, bought when I first got into Traffic - the list is so genuinely pretty, with things like “summer afternoons, Wuthering Heights, Bob Dylan, any instrument” and other very pretty things like flowers etc. So much gentleness. The interview is after Traffic completely ended and it’s with Stuart Carr with whom he was collaborating - some of it ended up on Evening Blue luckily. It’s super interesting! I’ll send it to you, let me know what you prefer (email, etc), I’m currently on a little holiday so I don’t have my laptopt but I’ll be home this weekend 💕

Oh, Chris had the most beautiful interests! He had such a romantic spirit. Even the littlest of things about him are so sweet, like the ghosts or birdwatching, map-reading; his knowledge of old English landscapes, & herbalism. & I think it’s so cute he had that bag full of oddities & cassettes. Such a sweetheart. If only he had stayed out of the city & away from bad habits. I guess his gentle-nature made it hard for him to step back & separate himself from hurtful influence. I was really sad reading how for When The Eagle Flies he was getting better, & ya know, only for it to be the end of Traffic. But even without Traffic, Chris would have done well as a solo artist if he had kept himself clean. I mean Vulcan! he had it, man. He had a lot of wonderful ideas, but of course they stay only ideas if drugs & drink are the coping mechanism of misfortune & blues.💔 Definitely when remembering Chris Wood, him in ‘67-’70 is favorable since he was with the perfect people to let his inspirations & ideas flourish.   His song with Stuart Carr is very pretty. Gosh, that’s ‘80s then... a bit bittersweet. But endearing. Hm, so yeah, whenever you’re free to do so, e-mail will work. I’ll message you an address. Hope your holiday is a pleasant one. :)

#pipersky