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artificial-transmutations · 11 days

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Going Green

"Microtransactions!"

Charles looked around the board members.

"Micro. Transactions. Have you ever heard of that? Anyone?"

Slowly, heads nodded.

"Oh, good! So, you *have* heard of them. Does anyone care to explain to me then why our games barely have any? In fact, I have yet to see *any* microtransaction revenue from our latest release."

"But Sir, 'Orcs and Morcs' is a single player game - and not for a mobile platform, too. It doesn't even have an online connection. It would be highly unusual."

Charles M. Anderson cut the engineer up with a gesture. He didn't even know the other man's name, which wasn't too unusual. Even though he was the CEO of GreenGames for six months now, he didn't bother to learn his subordinates names until they proved useful. And this unnamed engineer could be happy if he still had a job after this meeting.

"I don't care about your techno-babble. Microtransactions is where the money is, so I want them in our products. *All* our products. And make sure to make them mandatory for any progress, too."

Charles usually talked about "Releases" and "Products". To him, video games were just a product like any other. Of course *he* didn't play any of those silly games, games were for children and losers. He only cared for the numbers, the graphs and revenues.

"What about the backlash? I mean, I understand that you want to generate more revenue, but GreenGames is known for providing high quality games that *don't* try to rip their customers off."

"So?"

"So, this could be bad publicity for us. Really bad."

Charles looked around the table and noticed most of the other board members nodding.

"Listen up, everyone. I think there is some misunderstanding here. You think that I care about our customers. I really don't, as long as they continue to buy our products. There is no such thing as bad publicity. So, I don't tell you how to draw your silly ogres and you don't try to meddle in the business aspect of the company, okay?"

Even though the inflection suggested a question, it was perfectly clear that it was neither a question nor a request. Again, heads nodded and tried to avoid eye contact. Good. Respect was very important for a leader.

One woman spoke up. Charles suspected her to be some lead writer or something.

"It's orcs, Sir."

Charles blinked. "What are you trying to say?"

"You said ogres, but our games are about orcs. That is our thing, we make games about orcs."

"There is no difference between orcs, ogres, unicorns and all that whimsy stuff. Leave me alone with your fantasy crap."

"But there is another thing. You are responsible for the story of our products?"

The woman agreed with a careful: "Yes, Sir?"

Charles looked her straight in the eye. "It has come to my attention that there are certain woke elements in our products. As a story writer, I expect you to take care of that."

"What... do you mean by woke? And by taking care of that?"

Charles sighed. Why was everyone so incompetent?

"Apparently, there is same-sex smut in our products, some even have pronouns. That crap needs to disappear asap. It is 'go woke go broke', after all."

The writer woman looked at Charles incredulously. "But Sir! Same-Sex romances are a well-accepted part of the industry for *decades* now. And it's not like the player has to engage in that, too. It's just an option - an option we actually received much praise for in the past. And about the pronouns... It's just a setting that influences some dialogues on how the player character is referred to. Again, it is perfectly possible to play as a straight green cis male if that's what you want to do."

Charles shook his head, his voice now dangerously low. "One more word of that, miss, and you can start looking for a new job. 84% of our customer base is male, and male customers want to see boobs, that's a fact. I won't tolerate wasting company resources on pacifying some noisy minority and alienating our main audience."

"But sir!" the writer woman objected.

Charles' look silenced her.

"One more word and you're out. We'll find another writer. Someone who does the job and keeps their mouth shut. This meeting is over. I expect results end of next week."

Nobody dared to speak up when everybody left the meeting room, and Charles returned to his office. What a productive meeting.

Just as he turned to his computer to check today's KPIs, he noticed a new email.

From: Employee Council

To: Charles M. Anderson

Subject: Going Green

Body:

Dear Mr. Anderson,

we here at GreenGames would like to take the opportunity to point out some concerns about your leadership role.

We have noticed a disturbing development since your takeover and would like to remind you of the values we stand for at GreenGames. We like creating games, and we identify with the work we do. Our players are important to us, and we strife to be open and accessible for everyone. Just like the protagonists in our games, we have honor and use our strengths to better the world. You in particular should be the living embodiment of this ideal. Please take this chance to re-think your methods and decisions and "go green" for real.

Sincerely,

The Employee Council.

Charles was outraged. How dared those subordinates criticizing him? He reached for his phone, ready to phone his secretary to find out who this "Employee Council" was but was interrupted by a ripping sound.

The right arm of his expensive suit jacket had ripped at the shoulder, which was unusual. He would have to have a stern talk with the tailor. Charles stood up and took off his jacket - or at least, he tried to. It was like the piece of clothing was way too small all of a sudden. He finally managed to get out of it, but only with several more rips in the fabric. Charles loosened his tie. He was sweating like mad, and when he looked down on himself, he was in utter disarray. His shirt looked like it was several numbers too small and as he was watching, one button after the other flew off with an audible "pling", exposing his torso underneath.

But was it really his torso? Not only was it *bigger*, it also looked way *hairier*. Charles had never been a man with much body hair, but now, he looked down on a stomach that was showing visible abs covered with a dense treasure trail of dark hairs. They continued upwards where they met with a true forest of curly dark hair that covered the slabs of pecs that were still growing as Charles watched.

He had to loosen his tie again before taking it off entirely. All of his clothes felt constricting, so, he peeled himself out of his shirt, too. His expensive watch was interrupting his growth painfully, but Charles was too occupied to notice, let alone care. With a dull cracking noise, the leather strap broke, and the watch flew across the room, hitting the opposite wall.

As Charles continued to grow, the chair underneath him creaked, but, again, he had other things to worry about. His lower body was still covered by his dress pants and shoes, but that was getting tight, too. His shoes especially were getting painful, and it was a relief when the front broke, exposing large muscular feet and toes. His pants were filled to the brim with heavy, muscled legs now, but there was another region where the capacity had been reached. His groin formed an obscene bulge. That alone would have probably fit - barely - but it was accompanied by an unusual feeling. Charles didn't *mind* his extreme change. In fact, the hyper masculine body turned him on, even. He watched as a dick print became clearly visible outlined against his groin, as his cock grew hard. It pulsed, once, and Charles felt a spurt of precum soak into his boxer shorts. A wet patch became apparent as the liquid seeped through his pants - all from a single spurt. His dick pulsed again, and Charles' head began to swim. The air in the room was thick with sweat and testosterone by now, and Charles groaned from arousal. Man, what would he give for a nice firm manly ass right now, giving him a lap dance.

Wait, what? Manly ass?

But it was true! Every time, Charles tried to think about sexy girls, but all that came to mind were men. Burly, hairy men, twinkish shaved men, green-skinned ogre-man. No, not ogres, he corrected himself. Orcs.

As he thought this word, his dick pulsed again and made Charles almost cry out from arousal. He couldn't restrain himself anymore. He *ripped* apart his dress pants and lowered his boxer shorts that looked like a pair of briefs on his massive body now, releasing a gigantic stiff rod and a matching set of heavy balls - along with a whole cloud of manly, musky smell that made Charles even hornier than before.

He closed his gigantic hand around his shaft and moved it up and down, in a slow, barely constrained motion. He had almost come by that one stroke, so horny was his mind. Fascinatedly, he watched as his cock and balls took on a deep, green color. It looked almost like a cucumber, or the penis of the incredible hulk. Or... an orc. As he moved his strong hand up and down again, the green started to spread in all directions.

Yes! There was no doubt: He was becoming a big, strong, sexy orc! Charles let all restraints fall away and started pumping in earnest now. With each stroke, the green spread, until his entire torso was of a rich green color. His head felt a pressure as his facial structure reformed, and his ears grew long and pointy. His hair lost darkened and grew out into a wild mohawk-like hairstyle. At the same time, a black beard sprouted around his entire jaw, underlining his masculinity.

Meanwhile, the green had swept across his arms and legs, quickly eliminating any leftover pink spots. The green color looked incredibly hot under the coat of dense, manly hair, and Charles felt himself getting closer. He grunted with each stroke like an animal and where his muscular green body touched the furniture or his executive chair, it left a film of manly sweat. Finally, he felt a short bit of pain on his ears and nipples, as small metal piercings appeared there: Short studs in his ears and small rings in his nipples.

That sent him over the edge. With a final bellow, he came, mightily. His large green balls contracted and his massive cock spew cum everywhere: All over his stomach, his chest, his furniture, even his face!

Charr panted in the afterglow of his orgasm. He was the epitome of virility and although he had just cummed all over his office, his mind kept creeping back to sexy guys again. He would be able to go again, soon - but that had to wait a bit. He used the remains of his suit to clean up a bit (although it was still clearly visible and smellable what happened here), stuffed his mighty tool into the cum-stained underwear and reached for the phone.

"Please send the board to my office, I want to issue an honorable apology, and announce our new strategy." He rumbled with his new, low voice. After a moment of consideration, he added: "And please send someone to install our games on my PC."

He rubbed his hands. This would usher in a whole new era for GreenGames - with the greenest possible CEO.

I have the feeling that a lot of companies could benefit greatly from a bit of a greener leadership!

#male transformation #muscle transformation #straight to gay #orc #musk

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bugsinapocket · 2 months

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Hello there! I’d like to introduce you to my newest project:

My Little Hermit!

Two of my hyper-fixations decided to merge and create this cute little AU! Mostly based off of season 10 and the hermits personalities- I wanted to give a shot at creating pony designs for them.

More information and singular reference sheets below the cut!

First up we have Joel!

Joel is a Changeling; I’ve always seen him as a bug and I like to change his Shrek ears into antenna! Changelings are the bugs of the MLP universe, so I thought it it. I decided to make him reformed because of the colour palette. I’ve always seen Joel as somebody with a very vibrant and bright personality; and he tends to use eye-catching colours in many of his builds. Vibrant, bright, and eye-catching are all words I would associate with the reformed changeling colour palette! They use very vibrant colors, and I think it suits Joel quite a lot.

Next we have Skizz!

Skizz is a Pegasus pony for a few reasons! I’m trying to base the pony designs off of the content creators’ personalities and building /gaming styles- but I’m also taking the more popular fanon designs for these characters into account as well. Many people draw him as an angel; I assume to be a parallel to impulse who is typically drawn as some kind of imp. I also see Skizz as somebody who is incredibly sweet and is constantly trying to lift others up, and with a pair of wings, he could do that literally! So why not!

Then of course the lovely Gem!

Gem was a little harder to pinpoint, since I’ve only recently started watching her videos, but since I’m also trying to base these designs off of their season 10 aesthetics- I decided to make her a hippogriff! In the MLP universe, hippogriffs are creatures that can transform into sea ponies using a magical necklace (this is shown explicitly in the movie). Since her base for this season is based on dredge and fisher/pirate aesthetics, I decided to make her a hippogriff to give her that advantage when it comes to terraforming her underwater section of the base. I also think that her little fishing rivalry with Grian could be funny if she could literally transform into a fish.

And last but certainly not least; Impulse!

Impulse is a unicorn, partially to be parallel with Skizz- but also for his ability to create magic with Redstone. I considered making him an earth pony for his feeling of stability and competence, but it didn’t feel quite right. So unicorn he is! His cutie mark is his signature "i" symbol that's lit up like a redstone torch.

AND YES I MADE A LOGO. I HAD TO. I COULDNT NOT DO THIS.

I hope you enjoy!

#My little hermit au #joel smallishbeans #skizzleman #geminitay #impulsesv #smallishbeans #smallishbeans fanart #skizzleman fanart #geminitay fanart #impulsesv fanart #hermitcraft fanart #hermitcraft #hermitblr #hermitcraft season 10 #hermitcraft season 10 fanart #hermitcraft s10 fanart #my art #mlp au #hermitcraft au

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1104-am · 10 months

Text

karina | back to december

genre ; fluff , angst

pairings ; karina x gn!reader

note ; written in orange are flashbacks! i wrote this based on taylor swift’s back to december, so i highly recommend listening to it while reading! this one is quite long but i hope you guys love it <3

word count ; 8.9K

༶•┈┈୨♡୧┈┈•༶

you fidgeted with your silverware, stealing glances at the entrance with each passing moment. the air in the restaurant was filled with a mixture of nervousness and anticipation as you anxiously waited for karina to arrive.

the relationship between you and karina was a journey that unfolded over the course of three remarkable years. it began during the predebut days, two months before aespa's debut to be exact. when both of you were on the cusp of chasing your dreams. from the very start, there was an undeniable connection, a shared understanding that transcended words and brought you closer together.

it had been two long years since your breakup, and the emotions that surged within you were both overwhelming and unfamiliar. in all honesty, you didn't want to see her, as the memories you had share with her during the last moments you guys were together wasn't all rainbows and unicorns.

but the moment her contact name popped up on your notification bar asking to meet you at a restaurant nearby her company, you couldn't say no. especially after not seing her for two whole years.

as the door swung open, karina stepped into the restaurant, her eyes searching for you amidst the sea of diners. when your gazes finally met, a palpable tension enveloped the space between you. your eyes locked for a fleeting moment before karina hesitantly made her way toward the table where you sat, your seats facing each other.

your heart raced as karina approached, your mind filled with a whirlwind of memories and unanswered questions. you had rehearsed countless scenarios in your mind, but none of them could have prepared you for the overwhelming emotions that flooded your senses.

karina reached the table, her steps tentative, her expression a mix of uncertainty and curiosity. with a forced smile, you gestured for her to take a seat. you settled into your chairs, the silence between you heavy and awkward. the sounds of clinking cutlery and distant conversations seemed to intensify, magnifying the discomfort that hung in the air.

you couldn't help but be drawn to karina's beauty, both outwardly captivating and inwardly mysterious. her allure was a reminder of the intangible nature of desire, a bittersweet ache that left you yearning for a closeness that seemed forever out of reach. the way she had her hair up in a messy bun reminds you of the day the both of you met three years ago,

THE FIRST ENCOUNTER

the practice room hummed with the sounds of music echoing off the walls as you meticulously fine-tuned your guitar. lost in your own world, you were unaware of anyone else's presence until a soft voice interrupted your concentration.

you look up to find karina, the trainee that have been the talk of all trainees and even trainer. though you hear her name everyday, this is the first time you've met her. standing at the entrance, a hint of curiosity in her eyes. "oh sorry. are you scheduled to use the room after me?" you asked, stealing a glance at your wrist watch.

karina's face lit up with a gentle smile as she took a step closer. "no, i just wanted to see you," she replied, her voice filled with sincerity. "sorry, was that a little bit creepy?"

a flicker of surprise mixed with amusement washed over your face, and a chuckle escaped your lips. "creepy? not at all!" you paused for a moment, studying karina's expression. her eyes were glued on the object you had in your hand. "do you play guitar too?"

karina's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm as she shared her own love for the instrument she had been playing since she was little.

she shook her head, she lied. her eyes locked with yours, as if a silent connection had formed between you. "i've always wanted to," she whispered, taking a few steps closer towards you before plopping down in front of you. "would you mind showing me a few chords?"

a surge of excitement coursed through your veins as her request filled the air. her subtle invitation sparked a sense of anticipation within you, and you couldn't help but be drawn to her magnetic presence.

"of course," you responded, your voice tinged with eagerness. "come, i'll show you the basics." you gestured her to scoot closer to you.

karina settled herself next to you, her eyes intently focused on your hands as they guided the strings. as you explained the chords and their placements, your fingers brushed against hers, a subtle touch that sent a delightful shiver down your spine.

"this, is c chord" you said, moving her fingers up and down the fret board, as she strums the strings downwards, scanning your face to see if she got the tune right everytime she strums.

you chuckled at her act, "you know you don't have to check my expression everytime you strum right?" her eyes turned into a crescent moon shape, "i just wanted to see how proud you are of me! honestly im doing well aren't i?"

as the lesson progressed, playful banter intertwined with musical instruction. laughter filled the room as you shared stories, both lighthearted and personal, creating a sense of camaraderie and familiarity.

there was a brief silence as karina practices her chords, you examined her face before you mustered the courage to ask, "why did you want to see me?"

her lips turned into a slight pout, eyebrows raised in wonder as she looked around the room before looking right into your eyes. her gaze held a mix of intrigue and honesty as she replied, "i've been hearing about you a lot, and i was curious about how you looked like. especially when people spoke highly of your talent"

"i'm flattered," you responded, a touch of vulnerability in your voice. "but you could just look at me once and go on with your day. what made you want to sit here and learn how to play the guitar from me?" a grin creeped on your face, "i see that you have quite thick calluses" you playfully teased

karina's face turned red the instant you called her out for faking her skills, she did not mind being called out, her smile widened, a playful glimmer in her eyes. "well, let's just say i wanted to see if the music and the musician were equally captivating," she replied, her voice carrying a subtle flirtation.

a sense of warmth filled your chest at her words, and a flicker of realization passed between you. a soft chuckle escaped your lips as you leaned in a little closer. "and have i met your expectations?" you asked, a mixture of curiosity and anticipation in your voice.

her laughter filled the room, a melodic sound that resonated with your heart. "oh y/n, you've exceeded them," she replied as a smile crept on her face.

karina struggled to find the right words, her mind a jumble of thoughts and emotions. she cleared her throat, attempting to break the suffocating silence. "it's been a while," she finally managed to say, her voice tinged with a mix of nostalgia and apprehension.

you nodded, your gaze fixed on the tablecloth, your fingers tracing invisible patterns. "yeah.. it has," you replied softly, your voice carrying a trace of sadness. the weight of your shared history loomed over you, reminding you of the love you once had and the pain that followed.

the air hung heavy with unspoken emotions, and it took all of karina's courage to break the suffocating silence. "i'm so glad you made time to see me," she whispered, her voice trembling slightly.

she mustered a hesitant smile, her eyes searching your face for a glimmer of warmth or familiarity. "how's life?" she asked softly, her voice carrying a mix of trepidation and genuine curiosity. "how's your family? i haven't seen them in a while."

a flicker of pain passed through your eyes as you replied, your voice laced with caution, "life goes on, i suppose. my family is doing well. they ask about you sometimes, but it's been a while since you've been a part of our lives."

karina's gaze dropped, her fingers nervously tracing the rim of her coffee cup. she could sense the walls you had erected, the barriers that kept her at arm's length as the memory of her visiting your house that one time crept into her mind.

WHISPERS OF INTRIGUE

8 months passed since your first encounter with the girl who changed your life. seasons changed, and the night air was filled with a sense of anticipation and joy as lunar new year approached. excitement buzzed through the house as the trainees packed their bags, ready to embark on journeys to their hometowns.

but in the midst of the bustling preparations, karina found herself in a predicament—her bus ticket had some unexpected issues, leaving her stranded and unable to celebrate the lunar new year with her own family.

"i did! i checked everything, i don't know why they said my ticket is invalid.. now what do i do?" tears welled up the brim of karina's eyes as she ends the call with her mom. you let out a sigh, feeling bad.

"you can come with me" you suggested, the tears that was threatening to fall, rolled down her cheeks as she looked up at you in anticipation. "can i?" her voice sparks with excitement, her tears aggressively wiped with her sleeves.

understanding her predicament, you extended an invitation for karina to join you at your house, not wanting her to spend the festive occasion alone. as you approached the front door, karina's nerves began to flutter like butterflies in her stomach. she couldn't help but wonder how she would be received by your family, unsure if she would be greeted warmly or if her presence would disrupt their traditions.

the door swung open, revealing your mother, who greeted karina with a very warm smile. "oh my, welcome jimin! we're delighted to have you join us. come in! come in!" her kind words instantly eased karina's worries, and she stepped into your home, feeling a sense of belonging wash over her.

inside, the house was adorned with festive decorations, and the aroma of delicious food wafted through the air. she scanned your house, looking at all the pictures framed on the wall. you and karina were the total opposite when it comes to family.

her family is wealthy, whilst yours is so-so. being the only child, your parents can't say no to you. and though them opposing your dreams of becoming an idol, they can't help but to just trust you fully and give you their full support.

your father, with a twinkle in his eye, pulled karina into a warm embrace. "we've heard so much about you, jimin. It's a pleasure to finally meet you. please make yourself at home." karina blushed, hearing what your father had just said as she wonders what did you tell your parents.

amidst the lively conversations and laughter, karina felt her nervousness gradually dissipate. the genuine warmth and acceptance radiating from your family enveloped her, making her feel like part of a loving community. she couldn't help but feel grateful for your thoughtfulness in inviting her over.

the dining table was adorned with a feast of flavors and colors, and the room buzzed with laughter and conversation. as everyone settled into their seats, karina found herself seated beside you, her presence a source of both comfort and excitement.

throughout the meal, karina couldn't resist the subtle temptation to flirt with you. her fingers would gently brush against yours, sending an electric jolt through your body. a mischievous sparkle danced in her eyes as she playfully kicked your legs under the table, a secret game shared only between the two of you.

the night wore on, as your parents slowly start to leave the table leaving space for you and karina to be together. suprised at how little you parents ate, karina spoke "your mom cooked so much, but she only ate a little? will she be fine" concern plastered on her face.

"old people are like that, well, my mom at least. she enjoys cooking but not eating. don't worry, we can share" you replied as karina took a bite of the samgyeopsal.

with a sly smile, karina leaned in closer, her voice a soft murmur that only you could hear. "you know," she whispered, her tone teasing, "if food tastes better when shared, then imagine how amazing it would be to share a kiss."

her words caught you off guard, causing your heart to race and your cheeks to flush. flustered, you stammered for a response, searching for words that could match her audacity. "oh my god shut up, just eat your food" you blushed.

as the conversation flowed, karina continued her flirty banter, peppering the air with playful remarks and witty comebacks. her words danced on the edge of seduction, a tantalizing invitation to a world of possibilities.

as the night wore on, the time came for everyone to retire to their rooms. due to the your house not having an extra empty room, there was an arrangement for karina to share a bed with you. the thought of such proximity brought a subtle blush to her cheeks, and she couldn't help but feel a mixture of excitement and awkwardness.

in the dimly lit bedroom, you hesitated for a moment before breaking the silence. "um, jimin-ah, i can sleep on the floor if you're more comfortable," you offered, your voice laced with a hint of shyness.

her gaze met yours, her heart skipping a beat. she shook her head gently, a soft smile gracing her lips. "no, it's okay. we can share the bed"

the words hung in the air, accompanied by a fleeting nostalgia that made your heart skip a beat. in the comfort of each other's presence, you settled into the bed, finding a delicate balance between closeness and respect for personal boundaries.

with tentative steps, you both climbed into bed, trying to find a comfortable position without encroaching on each other's personal space. the silence in the room felt deafening, amplifying the subtle tension that lingered between you.

karina shifted slightly, trying to find a suitable position. "oops, sorry," she muttered as her elbow brushed against yours, causing a ripple of awkwardness to wash over you.

"it's okay," you replied, your voice barely above a whisper. "we're just trying to fit in this limited space, after all."

"it won't be a problem if we cuddle" a soft giggle escaped karina's lips, breaking the tension ever so slightly. you let out a chuckle, staring at the wall as karina lay down flat on her back, the same position as you.

"go to sleep, jimin" you said, slightly above whisper as karina hummed. she closes her eyes and drifts off to sleep. the moon cast its soft, silver light into the room, creating a tranquil ambiance as you and karina peacefully slumbered.

as the night progressed, a gentle shift in karina's position stirred you from your dreams. with eyes still heavy with sleep, you felt a warm and delicate touch on your hand. startled, you turned to look and discovered karina, her eyes closed and a serene expression gracing her features. timidly, she had reached out and taken hold of your hand in her sleep.

a smile tugged at the corners of your lips as you intertwined your fingers with hers, allowing the connection to deepen. it was a silent acknowledgment of the bond you shared, even in the depths of slumber. you couldn't help but feel a surge of tenderness for karina. the way her hand fit perfectly in yours, the soft warmth it brought to your heart, and the trust she exhibited even in her unconscious state all spoke volumes.

with gentle caution, you leaned closer, planting a delicate kiss on the back of her hand. it was a silent gesture of appreciation and a reassurance that you were there, watching over her even as she wandered through the realms of dreams.

a waiter approached your table, offering menus and taking your drink orders. as he left, a brief moment of respite settled between you and karina, granting you a temporary reprieve from the awkwardness that engulfed you.

you found solace in the familiar surroundings, the comforting aroma of food wafting through the air. you mustered the courage to look at karina, studying her features for any sign of the person you used to know. her eyes held a hint of vulnerability, mirroring your own.

with a deep breath, you ventured further. "how have you been?" you asked, your voice trembling slightly. it was a simple question, yet it held the weight of years of separation and unanswered inquiries.

karina's lips quivered as she replied, "i've had my ups and downs, like everyone else, i suppose." her voice carried a trace of melancholy, betraying the complexity of her emotions.

you nodded, not knowing how to react. "how's the other girls? minjeong, aeri and ning?" your voice laced with curiosity. karina's eyes faltered ever so slightly, a subtle shadow crossing her features.

she hesitated for a moment before responding, her voice tinged with a touch of sadness. "they're doing well," she replied, her words carrying a hint of hurt at how you were quick to ask about her group mates, not really interested in how she was doing. she expected you to ask her questions about herself, but it died down earlier than what she had expected.

karina had always been a passionate and fiercely loyal individual, and with that came a tendency to feel jealousy more intensely than others. whenever you found yourself getting close to other members of her group, she couldn't help but feel a pang of envy deep within her heart. her jealousy wasn't born out of insecurity, but rather from a place of protectiveness and a desire to be the one who held a special place in your life.

ECHOES OF VULNERABILITY

on a warm summernight, with a warm smile on her face, karina introduced you to her friends aeri, minjeong, and ningning. it was awkward for you to be friends with them at first but as the conversation flowed, you discovered that you shared a special connection with aeri, as both of you had spent a significant part of your lives in japan and attended the same international school, albeit with a small age difference. making her your senior by two batch.

the discovery sparked an immediate bond, and you found yourselves spending more and more time together. the interaction you shared between aeri had made karina uncomfortable for a couple of days.

especially how the two of you effortlessly switching to speaking in korean then japanese, and english. relishing the familiarity of your shared language. this situation have been happening a couple of times in the short span of a week since you met aeri.

one day, as the five of you gathered in the practice room, the energy was palpable. karina sat quietly, observing the lively exchange between you and aeri. caught up in the moment, you didn't notice the subtle change in karina's expression. her smile faded, and a slight cloud of unease settled over her features.

she cant help but feel a growing sense of distance, as though a barrier had formed between her and the camaraderie you now shared with aeri.

her heart sank as she struggled to follow the conversation unfolding in a language she couldn't understand. it seemed as though a wall had been erected, separating her from the dynamic connection she once shared with you. her discomfort heightened, and a tinge of loneliness crept into her thoughts.

as aeri and the others left the practice room for some late night snack, the tense atmosphere lingered, and you found yourself growing increasingly frustrated with karina's persistent avoidance.

every attempt you made to engage her in conversation or seek her attention seemed to be met with indifference, and the tension between you began to escalate.

unable to contain your mounting frustration any longer, you finally snapped, your voice laced with anger and hurt. "jimin, i can't take this anymore, ever since i started getting close to your members, you've completely shut me out. what are you trying to do?"

karina's eyes flashed with a mix of anger and hurt, and her voice rose to match the intensity of the moment. "don't act like you're innocent in all of this! you've been pushing me away, getting closer to them and leaving me behind. it feels like i don't matter to you anymore!"

the room seemed to shrink as the heated exchange unfolded, both of you unleashing pent-up emotions that had been festering beneath the surface. the air crackled with tension as accusations and frustrations hung in the air.

"me? pushing you away? i haven't pushed you away, jimin. i've simply been forming connections with your members. it doesn't mean i care any less about you!" you retorted, your voice laced with exasperation.

karina's eyes welled up with tears, her voice trembling as she shot back, "but it feels like you do! it feels like i've become nothing more than a secondary option to you. i thought we were closer than this! it's just... i've been feeling left out, like i'm losing my place. i want to be a part of your world too, not just someone you push aside when others come around"

your anger began to give way to a pang of guilt as you took in karina's vulnerable state. the realization of how your actions had hurt her washed over you, and you softened your tone, desperately wanting to bridge the growing divide.

"hey, i'm sorry. i didn't mean to make you feel that way. i never intended to push you aside. you're important to me, and i never wanted you to doubt that," you said, your voice now filled with remorse.

karina's tearful eyes met yours, her voice wavering with a mix of sadness and frustration. "then show me, because right now, it doesn't feel that way. it feels like i'm losing you, like i'm just an afterthought in your life."

the weight of her words hit you, and you realized the gravity of the situation. this argument was a turning point, a crossroads that could either deepen the rift between you or pave the way for reconciliation.

as the tension between you and karina slowly dissipated, leaving behind an air of vulnerability and longing, you found yourself unable to bear seeing her in tears. with a surge of emotion and a desire to prove the depth of your feelings, you made a bold move.

closing the distance between you, you gently cupped karina's tear-stained face with your hands, your touch tender and comforting. her watery eyes met yours, filled with a mix of hope and uncertainty.

in that moment, words seemed inadequate to express the depths of your emotions, so instead, you let your actions speak. leaning in slowly, your heart pounding with both nervousness and determination, you pressed your lips against hers in a gentle, reassuring kiss.

time seemed to stand still as your lips met, conveying a depth of emotion that words could never capture. it was a tender, intimate moment filled with a mixture of comfort, passion, and the yearning to heal the wounds that had threatened to tear you apart.

as the kiss lingered, you poured your heart into it, hoping to convey the sincerity of your feelings. your lips moved in sync with karina's, a silent promise to be there for her, to mend what had been broken, and to prove that she was more than just an afterthought in your life.

gradually, the intensity of the kiss began to subside, but the connection between you remained, an unspoken understanding that you were both willing to fight for your relationship.

pulling back ever so slightly, you gazed into karina's eyes, their once teary appearance now softened and filled with a mix of surprise and longing. a tender smile played on your lips as you whispered, "jimin-ah, i care about you. more than anything in this world. i love you. i know the timing is stupid and everything but— i really do jimin"

karina, still caught in the embrace of the moment, nodded, her voice barely a whisper. "i love you too, y/n, i love you more than anyone"

leaning in, you pressed a gentle kiss against karina's forehead, a silent promise to be there for her through the highs and lows that lay ahead. together, you embarked on a new chapter, driven by the realization that love had the power to overcome obstacles and bring you closer than ever before.

sitting across from each other in the restaurant, the air between you and karina grew heavy with unresolved emotions. the flickering candle on the table seemed to cast shadows on the tension that hung in the air. as you observed a tear rolling down karina's cheek.

"why are you tearing up?" you asked, your voice laced with a hint of coldness. your gaze fixed on her, waiting for an explanation.

karina's voice trembled as she tried to speak through her tears. "my bad. i just... i didn't know i missed you this much," she confessed, her vulnerability laid bare before you.

"you missed me.." you repeated, feeling the bitterness grow on you. you were by her side all the time, back then. it reminded you of the time where you would constantly text her about how you missed her, it was a bittersweet era of you relationship.

MAKE UPS

it's been exactly a week since the debut of aespa, and you had called karina asking her to come down to the park for a while. the both of you last met each other around three weeks ago, and though calls and text messages weren't left unnoticed, being in each other's embrace is the thing both of you wanted the most right now.

the sun was deep asleep, painting the sky with dark blue and sprinkles of stars in the sky. karina tied her hair up in a messy bun, getting ready to meet you.

as karina carefully tiptoed towards the door, hoping to leave her dorm unnoticed, she was suddenly greeted by an unexpected sight. standing in the living room were her fellow group members, aeri, minjeong, and ningning. caught off guard, she froze for a moment, trying to find the right words.

"where are you going, jimin unnie?" ningning inquired, her eyes curious and bright.

karina's mind raced as she searched for a plausible response. "uh... somewhere!" she blurted out, a hint of nervousness lacing her voice. she hoped her brief and evasive answer would satisfy their curiosity.

aeri tilted her head, a playful smile dancing on her lips. "somewhere? well, that's a mysterious answer. can we come too?"

karina's heart skipped a beat, her mind racing to come up with a convincing explanation. "oh, it's nothing special. just... um, running a small errand. i'll be back before you know it, byeee" she replied, trying to keep her tone light and nonchalant.

as karina bid her members a quick goodbye and slipped out the door, she couldn't help but feel a mixture of excitement and guilt. she knew she would have to explain herself eventually, but in that moment, she craved the intimacy and connection she would find with you. with determination in her steps, she made her way to the park, where destiny awaited.

as she arrived at the designated spot, her eyes met yours, and a rush of emotions enveloped her. the joy of seeing you, combined with the anticipation of her big day, welled up inside her. without a word, you stepped closer, and the moment your lips met, time seemed to stand still. it was a sweet, longing kiss that spoke volumes of your love and support for her journey.

karina's eyes glistened with tears as she pulled away from the kiss, her voice barely a whisper. "did you miss me as much as i missed you?"

you chuckled softly, feeling a mix of relief and excitement at her presence. "more than you can imagine," you replied, your tone filled with affection.

karina tilted her head, a mischievous glimmer in her eyes. "oh really? and here i thought i was the one missing you like crazy. looks like we're in the same boat."

you grinned, karina took a step closer to you. "well, maybe we should find a way to make up for all that lost time then."

her smile turned into a sly smirk as she leaned in, her voice teasing. "and, i have a few ideas in mind. but first, what do you have there?"

you held up the cake you had baked, a proud grin on your face. "it's a little something i made for you. thought it would be a sweet way to celebrate your early debut."

karina's eyes widened in surprise, and a tear welled up in the corner of her eye. "you made this for me? that's so.. incredibly sweet."

as she cupped your cheeks tenderly, her expression softened. however, her touch caused her to recoil slightly, her brows furrowing with concern. "wait a minute... you're burning up! and your eyes... you have bags under them. have you been taking care of yourself?"

you let out a sheepish laugh, realizing how much you had neglected your own well-being. "i guess i've been so caught up in everything that i forgot to take care of myself. but seeing you here, it's like a breath of fresh air."

karina's eyes softened as she gently wiped away a tear from her cheek. "you've always been the one taking care of me, making sure i'm alright. but remember, you deserve care and love too. let me take care of you, even just for a little while."

you were struck by her sincerity and the depth of her care. in that moment, you realized how fortunate you were to have her by your side. with a gentle smile, she leaned in, about to capture your lips into a tender kiss but you backed off a step.

"no, i'm sick.." you flashed a gentle smile making the latter pout. "well, what can i do to make it up to you?"

karina's voice was filled with sincerity as she asked, "what can i do to make it up to you?" her eyes searched yours, longing for a way to mend the rift between you.

in that moment, your mind drifted back to a few hours ago, the scene vivid in your memory. it was your birthday celebration, and everyone had gathered to commemorate the occasion. your label mates, friends, and even aeri, minjeong, and ningning were all present, their laughter and cheerful voices filling the room.

throuout the festivities, you couldn't help but steal glances at your phone, hoping for a message or a notification that would signal your girlfriend's arrival. each passing minute deepened the disappointment in your heart, but you held onto a glimmer of hope, praying that she would show up, even if it meant being fashionably late.

as the evening progressed, your excitement waned, replaced by a lingering sense of emptiness. the room was filled with joy and celebration, but a part of you longed for her presence, for that simple yet meaningful gesture of showing up for your special day.

as the birthday celebration continued, your friend sungchan couldn't help but voice his frustration at karina's absence. he leaned in close, a hint of irritation evident in his tone. "is she still not here?" he muttered, unable to contain his thoughts any longer. "geeze karina, are you out with someone or what? how can you forget such an important day?"

your patience wore thin, and a surge of protectiveness washed over you. you turned to sungchan, your voice sharp as you defended karina. "don't say that!" you snapped, the words laced with a mixture of frustration and protectiveness. "she's... busy. keep her name out of your mouth if you're just going to assume things!"

sungchan flinched at your sudden outburst, his eyes widening in surprise. he quickly realized his mistake and took a step back, his voice filled with remorse. "i'm sorry, i didn't mean to offend you," he stammered, his tone apologetic. "i'm really sorry."

you took a deep breath, the tension in your shoulders slowly easing. despite your hurt feelings, you understood that sungchan's intentions weren't ill, "just, leave me alone" you sighed.

the night went on, the hype of the celebration slowly dhing down as the last guest bid their farewell and the house gradually emptied, you found yourself sitting alone in the dining room. the atmosphere was heavy with a mix of sadness, emptiness, and underlying anger. the weight of the unfulfilled expectations and the hurt you had been carrying weighed heavily on your heart.

minutes turned into an eternity, and just when you thought you were destined to be alone in your turmoil, there was a sudden knock on the front door. startled, you rose from your seat and made your way to the entrance, uncertainty swirling within you. as you opened the door, there stood karina, her eyes reflecting a mixture of anxiety and remorse.

"hey," karina said softly, her voice tinged with hesitation. "can i come in?"

you stepped aside, allowing her to enter, and closed the door behind her. the room was filled with an uneasy tension as you faced each other, emotions simmering just beneath the surface. finally, you mustered the strength to speak, your voice laced with a hint of disappointment.

"do you have any idea what today is?" you asked, your words carefully measured. "it's my birthday. i had hoped you would remember." you scoffed

karina's eyes gloomed, her features contorting with guilt. "i know," she whispered, her voice trembling. "i completely forgot and made a promise with a friend. i'm so sorry."

anger surged within you, fueled by the pain of being forgotten on such a significant day. "this isn't the first time, jimin," you retorted, your voice tinged with bitterness. "you forgot my debut too. not a single message, not a single word of congratulations. it hurt, jimin. it still hurts."

karina's defenses went up, her face contorting with defensiveness. "i didn't mean to forget," she pleaded, her voice laced with desperation. "things have been so hectic with our comeback and schedules. i never intended to hurt you. i just... i didn't realize the impact it would have."

your anger mingled with frustration, tears brimming in your eyes. "i was busy on all of your important days too, but i still made time for you, jimin. but it's not just about today," you continued, your voice wavering. "it's about the lack of effort, the lack of consideration. i feel like i'm constantly pushed aside, like i'm not a priority."

karina's expression softened, her eyes filled with regret. "i never wanted you to feel that way," she whispered, her voice filled with genuine remorse. "i love you, and i never intended to make you feel unimportant. i'm sorry"

as the words hung heavy in the air, the tension escalated, pushing you both to the edge of your emotions. tears welled up in your eyes, mirroring the pain that had settled deep within your heart.

"we can't keep living like this, jimin," you choked out, your voice trembling with anguish. "i can't keep pretending that everything is okay when it's not. i need more than just empty apologies and promises. i need you to show me that I matter."

karina's own tears flowed freely, her voice breaking as she tried to defend herself. "i never wanted to make you feel this way," she sobbed, her words barely audible through her tears.

you scoffed as you struggled to hold back the flood of emotions. "actions speak louder than words, jimin," you whispered, your voice filled with raw vulnerability. "and right now, all i see are actions that scream indifference. it hurts. it hurts so much."

her voice wavered as she reached out to you, her fingers trembling. "no, y/n. please, don't cry," she pleaded, her voice laced with desperation. "i never wanted to make you cry. i love you, and i'm sorry for hurting you."

"what can i do to make it up for you?" her eyes searched yours, longing for a way to mend the rift between you.

"what can i do to make it up for you?" she asked, her voice tinged with a hint of desperation.

those words, so familiar, rang in your ears like a broken record. it was a phrase you had heard from her countless times before, yet actions to back them up were scarce. the frustration that had been building within you threatened to overflow.

a flicker of annoyance flashed across your face, and you couldn't help but let out a bitter smile. "you've asked me that so many times, jimin" karina's face fell, her eyes betraying a mix of guilt and hurt.

"you left me. you left me when we were deeply in love, what makes you think you can treat me right when there's wound in my heart?" you asked.

"do you remember? back in december, the night you left me?" you looked up to karina, she nodded her head weakly, pursing her lips together as a rush of guilt filled her heart as she played back what had happened that night.

"you made me suffer, ever since that night. and an easy 'how can i make it up for you' wont help, jimin. i'm sorry but please-" you run your fingers throughout your hair, holding back tears as the memories replayed.

BACK TO DECEMBER

the room was cloaked in an eerie silence as you sat on the edge of your bed, staring into the emptiness before you. days had turned into weeks, and karina's absence weighed heavily on your heart. four days had passed since she last contacted you, leaving you in a state of uncertainty and longing for any news about her well-being.

in the past, you were the one she confided in, the one who knew every detail of her life. but now, you found yourself relying on snippets of information from her fans, a distant and impersonal connection that paled in comparison to the intimacy you once shared. it was a bitter pill to swallow, realizing that you had become the last to know about the significant moments in her life.

meanwhile, the world had taken notice of aespa's success. their first full album had catapulted them to global fame, gaining recognition and accolades along the way. the news of their invitation to the grammys, the pinnacle of music achievement, reverberated through the industry. their talent and hard work had paid off, culminating in a well-deserved award for Best Pop Singer Group.

as the world celebrated aespa's triumph, you couldn't help but feel a sense of emptiness. while you were genuinely happy for their success, a part of you longed to share in those moments with karina. the void left by her absence grew deeper, magnified by the realization that she had experienced these monumental milestones without you by her side.

a few days later when karina had returned to korea, you decided to meet her. maybe, just maybe this time everything will fall back into place. maybe she was just very busy.

the winter night was bitterly cold, the frigid air biting at your exposed skin as you stood outside of karina's dorm, clutching a bouquet of roses. your heart pounded with a mixture of anticipation and apprehension, hoping that this small gesture would convey the depth of your love for her.

as the door to the dorm swung open, karina appeared, her face a mix of surprise and unease. her eyes fell upon the flowers in your hands, and a flicker of pain crossed her features. without a word, she reached out and pushed the bouquet away, the action feeling like a sharp blow to your chest.

your heart shattered into pieces as the flowers tumbled to the ground, their petals scattering across the cold pavement. the weight of her rejection settled upon you, a crushing realization that things were not as you had hoped.

the silence that followed was suffocating, the unspoken words hanging heavy in the air. you could see the conflict in karina's eyes, the struggle to find the right words, but the damage had already been done.

moments stretched into eternity as you tried to comprehend the sudden shift in your relationship. the love that once seemed unbreakable now felt fragile and fragile. your hands trembled at your sides, aching to reach out to her, to beg for understanding or a chance to make things right.

but the words never came, and the silence grew unbearable. a tear slipped down your cheek, mirroring the pain etched on karina's face. in that brief moment, you knew that something had changed irreparably, and the prospect of losing her felt like a heavy weight upon your soul.

it was in that heartbreaking instant, before the final words were spoken, that you realized the magnitude of the rift that had formed between you. the flowers lay forgotten on the ground, their beauty lost amidst the wreckage of your shattered hopes and dreams.

and as you looked into karina's eyes, searching for a glimmer of the love that once burned brightly between you, you knew that this painful chapter was coming to an end.

the winter night was bitterly cold, the frigid air biting at your exposed skin as you stood outside of karina's dorm. a heaviness settled upon your heart, knowing that this conversation could change everything. you braced yourself for the difficult words that were about to be spoken.

karina stepped out of the dorm, her expression guarded and distant. her eyes met yours, but they lacked the warmth and tenderness you had grown accustomed to. the weight of her decision hung in the air, an unspoken truth waiting to be unveiled.

taking a deep breath, karina spoke, her voice filled with a mix of determination and sadness. "y/n, we should stop seeing each other." she said, her words cutting through the cold night air.

your heart clenched at her declaration, a surge of denial rising within you. you couldn't fathom a life without her, and you couldn't accept that this was the end. though you are very aware about how she's ruining you "no," you replied, your voice trembling with desperation. "no, jimin. we can work through this. we can find a way to make it work."

karina's features hardened, her resolve unwavering. "it's not that simple," she retorted, her voice laced with frustration. "this isn't just about schedules or busy lives. there's something bigger at play here, something that we can't ignore."

you reached out a trembling hand, hoping to bridge the growing divide between you. "please, let's not make any rash decisions," you pleaded, your voice filled with a mix of longing and pain. "we can wait for a better time, a time when your schedule isn't so hectic. we can rebuild what we have."

karina's eyes met yours, but they held a coldness you had never seen before. "you don't understand," she snapped, her words sharp and cutting. "this isn't about schedules or a break. it's about us, about what we've become. and i can't continue like this."

your heart sank as her words pierced through you. the realization that she was determined to end the relationship without even a hint of remorse or apology crushed you. the person you loved seemed so far away, replaced by this version of karina that you didn't recognize.

tears welled up in your eyes as you took a step back, the pain too overwhelming to bear. "how can you say that?" you whispered, your voice cracking with emotion. "after everything we've been through, all the love we shared... for three years.. jimin how can you just push me away like this, without even a second thought?"

karina's gaze faltered for a brief moment, a flicker of pain crossing her face. but she quickly composed herself, her tone unyielding. "it's for the best," she replied, her voice devoid of the warmth and tenderness that once defined it. "we both deserve to find happiness, even if it means being apart."

the weight of her words settled upon you, a crushing blow to your heart. you felt your world crumbling around you, the hope of rebuilding what you once had slipping through your fingers. with a heavy sigh, you realized that karina's mind was made up, and there was nothing you could do to change it.

you were left with shattered dreams and a heart that still longed for the love that had slipped away, with no apology or promise of a future reconciliation.

the winter night hung heavy with an unspoken goodbye, the silence between you and karina echoing with the weight of shattered hearts. as you nodded in resignation, a hollow ache settled in the depths of her being. the tears that threatened to spill over blurred her vision, but she refused to let them fall.

in that fleeting moment, karina felt her heart shatter into a thousand pieces. the sound of her own heartbeat seemed to drown out the world around her as she watched you turn away, your retreating figure growing smaller with each step. she wanted to reach out, to hold onto you and tell you everything was a stupid prank, but she knew deep down that it would only be a selfish act.

the turmoil within her intensified, tearing at her soul as she fought against the overwhelming urge to chase after you. the desire to cling to the familiar, to salvage what was left of your connection, threatened to consume her. but she knew that it would only prolong the pain, and she couldn't bear to be the cause of your further suffering.

with a heavy heart, karina clenched her fists, her nails digging into her palms. as much as she wanted to call out to you, to beg you to stay, she knew that it was time to let go. it was a painful realization, accepting that sometimes love wasn't enough to sustain a relationship.

as you disappeared into the night, karina fought back the tears that threatened to spill over. the ache in her chest was a constant reminder of what she had lost, of the love that slipped through her fingers. but deep down, she knew that she had made the right choice, even if it meant sacrificing her own happiness.

with a final, bittersweet glance in your direction, karina turned away, her footsteps heavy with the weight of her decision. the emptiness that enveloped her seemed to grow with each passing moment, a reminder of the void left behind by your absence.

in the quiet solitude of that winter night, karina's heart yearned for one last glimpse of your face, one last chance to hold onto the love that had once been. but she knew that sometimes, love meant letting go, even when it tore her apart inside.

and as she slowly close the door, her hand faltered, her every fiber aching to turn open the door back again and run into your arms. but with a trembling resolve, she continued on, knowing that it was time to face the pain and the emptiness that awaited her.

the weight of nostalgia and longing permeated the air as karina's voice trembled with emotion. "do you remember the first time we met in that small practice room?" she whispered, her eyes welling up with tears. "you taught me how to play the guitar, it was a moment that changed my life."

a wistful smile danced on her lips as she continued, "and i remember the day i met your parents. they welcomed me with open arms, treating me like their own daughter. we laughed, we shared stories, and for a moment, i felt like i had found my place in the world."

a single tear trickled down her cheek, as she reached out, almost instinctively, as if trying to grasp onto those cherished memories. "i miss those times, when everything felt so simple and full of promise. i miss the warmth of your love, the way we used to be, before everything fell apart."

her voice cracked with raw emotion, and her hands trembled as she spoke. "i want to go back to those moments, to relive the love we once had. but i know it's selfish of me to ask for that. i know i can't simply erase the pain i caused, the time we lost."

tears streamed down your face as you listened, your heart torn between the love you still held and the painful reality that lay before you. the weight of her words sank deep into your soul, stirring a whirlwind of emotions.

"and, i am very sorry y/n" she whispered, her voice filled with a mix of sorrow and longing. her tears falling freely now, mingling with the memories of a love that seemed both distant and achingly close. "i'm sorry i made you cry every night, i'm sorry i neglected, i'm sorry i left you alone when you needed me the most. i'm sorry i approached you first, only to leave you in despair."

"i regret being popular," karina's voice quivered with a mix of anguish and regret. her eyes bore into yours, pleading for understanding. "the more recognition i gained, the busier i became. i thought success would bring happiness, but it only tore us apart."

her words hung heavy in the air, echoing with a sense of sorrow and longing. "i used to blame everything on my busy schedule, on the demands of my career. but deep down, i know it was my own choices that led us to this point. i let the allure of fame cloud my judgment, and now i'm left with the emptiness of what could have been."

her voice wavered as she continued, her remorse palpable. "i miss the simplicity of our love, the moments of quiet togetherness. i regret prioritizing everything else over the one thing that truly mattered – our relationship."

tears welled up in her eyes as she reached out, her hand trembling in the space between you. "please understand, it wasn't intentional. i didn't mean for things to turn out this way. i just... i lost sight of what truly mattered. and now i'm left with this void, this ache in my heart that refuses to fade."

you felt a mix of pain and compassion as you listened to her heartfelt confession. the weight of her regret seeped into your own heart, tugging at the remnants of love that still lingered within you.

you simply nodded, not muttering a word. your eyes shifted from her pretty face, to the sunset behind her. the sunset was the cue to the end of your meet up with karina.

as you gathered your belongings and prepared to leave, a heavy silence hung in the air, thick with unspoken emotions. karina watched you quietly, her eyes filled with a mix of sadness and longing. she could sense that this was the moment where the ties that bound you together would be severed, perhaps forever.

as you adjusted your cap and took a step forward, karina's hand reached out, gently grasping your wrist. her touch was soft, tender, as if she wanted to hold onto you just a little longer. "are there any chance we could meet and talk again?" she asked, her voice filled with a flicker of hope.

you met her gaze, the weight of your decision etched on your face. with a heavy heart, you shook your head slowly, a mix of regret and finality in your eyes. you wanted this to be the last time, the final chapter in a story that had once held so much promise.

"i don't think it's possible," you replied, your voice barely above a whisper. karina's grip on your wrist tightened briefly, as if she didn't want to let go. her eyes brimmed with unshed tears, and she nodded, understanding the weight of your words. it was a painful acceptance, a recognition that the love you once shared had transformed into something different, something that couldn't be easily repaired.

with a deep breath, you gently extricated your wrist from her grasp, taking a step back. the distance between you grew, a physical representation of the emotional chasm that now lay between your hearts. it was a farewell that held the weight of a thousand unspoken words, a bittersweet acknowledgment of what could no longer be.

as you walked away, each step filled with a mix of sadness and determination, you couldn't help but steal one last glance at karina. her expression was a reflection of your own pain, a longing for a different outcome, for a love that could withstand the test of time.

but as you turned your gaze forward, the sound of her whispered plea echoed in your mind, "are there any chance we could meet and talk again?" it was a question that hung in the air, unanswered and filled with hope, but you knew deep down that this was the final goodbye.

with a heavy heart and a silent prayer for both of your futures, you continued your journey, hoping that this painful separation would pave the way for healing and new beginnings.

#aespa #aespa imagine #aespa imagines #aespa oneshot #aespa x reader #kpop angst #aespa karina #karina imagines #karina x reader #taylor swift #kpopidol #aespa kpop #aespa icons #aespa moodboard #aespa angst

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justreadingfics · 1 year

Text

Date Night - A “Looking For a Hearbeat” One-Shot

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x Reader

Words: 2.8k

Summary: You and your boyfriend have just got back together after a long time. Your friends offer to watch your baby daughter so you two can have a date night.

Warnings: Smut, Fingering, Sex inside a Car, Fluff.

A/N: Hiiii, I’m still here. Sometimes. This little one-shot was based on these anon asks:

Well, I feel like they banged a lot! lol, it had been quite a while of pent up energy, so yeah, even if sex wasn't the main thing in their relationship, I feel like they had a lot to catch up on that area.

Awh, now I have this headcanon that from chapter 25 onwards, Bucky and Y/n are just constantly touching each other in some way, and that for weeks (maybe even months?) various team members would offer to babysit Summer for a few hours a day, so that Bucky and Y/n could... "catch up" in peace. 😁

Thank you, nonnies. I had a blast writing form them again. And thank you so so much @flordeamatista and @sn0wpiercer. You have no idea how much you two helped me.

Series Masterlist

Masterlist

“Vee-vee!”

“Ah… there’s my best girl!” Upon opening his front door Steve reaches for Summer with a big smile as the one-year-old makes grabby hands at him, calling her uncle Vee-vee and promptly leaving your arms to favor his.

Beside you, a chant of recommendations and warnings immediately starts spilling out of Bucky’s mouth, making you roll your eyes at your boyfriend, even though you’re paying attention to check if he’s forgetting something.

After your daughter’s frightening kidnapping a little while ago, you two took a while to feel safe enough to leave her side. But who better to take care of her than a bunch of Avengers like Captain America himself with the help of his new girlfriend, Sharon Carter. It’s no secret that they are willing to give their lives to protect her.

In fact, all of her aunts and uncles would. As soon you you and Bucky got back together, one of them would offer to watch her so you two could have some alone time. They always say it’s all they can do after everything you two have gone through, but you know better. What they really want is to spend time with your baby.

“If she gets sleepy, her unicorn is in the bag; under no circumstances you give her candies, especially after 7pm… Jesus Christ are you even listening Steve?” Bucky glares at his friend, who just kept blowing raspberries on Summer’s tummy all over Bucky’s speech, motivated by the baby’s howls of laughter.

“Ah, there’s my best girl,” Sharon grins, repeating her boyfriend’s welcoming while coming from the kitchen and reaches out for Summer. She greets you and Bucky before mimicking her boyfriend with the raspberry kisses on the delighted little girl.

Holding back a laugh, you nudge Bucky’s side, nodding for him to catch the baby eyes Steve was giving his girlfriend and Summer. Bucky just lets out a huff, still clearly pretty much annoyed by Steve’s lack of attention to his little lecture about how to take care of his daughter.

You roll your eyes at him again, before turning to Sharon, “Are you sure it’s ok? I mean, I know you two offered, but it’s Saturday night, are we ruining any plans of you have?” It was not too long ago that they began dating.

“Oh, please, of course not. We’ve been waiting the whole day to spend a few hours with this beautiful little lady.” She grins at Summer and Steve before turning to you again, “Also, this girl may also need a break from the lovey dovey energy between the two of you. We know we need.” She teases, winking at Steve.

“Alright then, fair enough.” You chuckle, “But please don’t hesitate in calling us for any reason, I mean, any reason at all.”

“Don’t you worry guys, if we need, we’ll do that. But we’ll be fine.” Steve answers, running his hand lovingly up and down Summer’s back as he smiles at Sharon.

“Come on, off you go, right Summer? Off you go.” Sharon grabs the baby’s little hand, wriggling it to shoo you two away.

You don’t argue. Bucky hand Summer’s bag to Steve before you both kiss your baby goodbye. The little girl clearly is fine with spending a few hours apart from her parents, pointing joyfully towards the mini-playground Steve set up for her in his living room.

You have your fingers interlaced with Bucky’s in the elevator heading down to the garage. You can feel the tenseness in his body, it’s always hard for him to part from Summer, even if he knows she would be alright and safe.

He can be such a nervous papa sometimes.

And grumpy.

“Steve, huh? Did you see the baby eyes he was giving Sharon? The dude is completely whipped,” you comment, trying to soothe the papa’s worries away with some easy conversation.

He huffs, keeping the tenseness on his muscles, “Did we tell Sharon about the candy rule? I know Steve will just give Summer anything she wants and then lie about it. Everyone keeps saying he’s shitty at lying, but I know better,” he lets out an unamused little laugh, “That jerk is a magnificent liar when he wants to.”

“Hey, hey,” you turn towards him, finding it hard to hold back a laugh at his little rant.

You can’t help but think he’s adorably sexy.

That big ass man, who’s been through so much and faced it all like a champ, being so nervous and broody about parting a few hours from his little baby.

Actually, it makes the enormous love you have for him grow even deeper inside your heart.

You pull him to you through your interlaced hands, rest your hand on his broad chest and prop a little kiss on his tightened jaw, and then another on the other side, smirking as you feel the tenseness melting under your hand and lips, “Summer will be fine, you know that, right? But…”

You drag your mouth to his neck and his arm circle your waist, pulling you closer, his breath speeding, “If you want, we can call it a night-”

With a tight hold on you, he shifts you two and your back meets the elevator’s wall. You feel his lips and body pressed against yours with the underlying desire that's always been there.

You curl your arms around his neck while his hands explore your body, reaching for as much skin as your short, but long sleeved dress allows him to. It ignites a fire inside you that has always and will always be his, only his.

You take in a deep and needed breath when his lips leave yours. His hands stay on you, one your ass, another cupping the back of your neck. Your mind is still in a bit of a daze when his forehead rests on yours.

“She’ll be alright”, you two say in unison. A smile curls your lips when he laughs.

After the elevator gets to the garage, you two walk to the car, never ceasing to touch each other in some way, hands and lips. When he opens the SUV’s door for you, he kisses your neck, nuzzling against it before letting you get in the front seat.

“Where are we going?” You ask as he gets in the car beside you, grabbing the wheel. You have arranged that date night last minute so there has been no time to choose a place or to make reservations beforehand. “I doubt we’ll find a table at this hour.”

He laughs quietly, while reaching over to place a kiss on your shoulder, like he can’t stay a minute without touching you. “Oh honey…” His hot breath fans against your skin, making your eyes flutter, “What is being friends with Tony Stark good for?” He keeps kissing you, reaching the sensitive skin of your neck. “All we have to do is drop his name and they’ll sit your pretty ass anywhere you want.”

Your chuckle dies out in a moan when his teeth find your earlobe, “Alright,” you whisper, your breath coming out fast as you feel the warmth of his tongue against your skin, “How about that Italian on the 87th? You really liked it there last time.”

“Hmm, sounds delicious,” he whispers, reaching his hand to grab your breast through your dress, with a not so gentle touch.

Your head falls back on the headrest, “And, hum, how about,” you take in a deep breath as he uses his teeth on your neck and his fingers on your nipples, making them harden even with the fabric of your dress and your bra as a barrier, “How about that new Japanese Wanda was talking about?”

“Yummy.” His hand slides down from your breast and your legs open, inviting him.

Biting your lower lip, you wait for it.

When his fingers find you bare down there, his body freezes and he leans back to look at you. His eyes widen but it’s just a second before he squints dangerously at you.

Desire all over his darkening blue eyes.

“Well, well, well,” he sinks a finger between your folds, and you bite your lips, “Look at that… my naughty girl.” He slides his finger up and down, spreading your wetness, “Thinking about all those fancy places to go wearing nothing underneath her pretty, pretty dress. What are you up to, sweetheart?”

“I knew, hah— kne I-.” You gasp as his middle finger presses against your clit, “I knew we would end up in a situation like this eventually.”

“Eventually, huh?” He chuckles, adoration adorns his face as his gaze drops on your lips, “What a naughty momma I have at home...” His sultry low voice caresses your ears, “Thinking about being fucked all day long…” He groans, “That’s all I’ve been thinking about too, baby, having you here like this.”

His mouth seeks yours and he kisses you, bringing a moan out of you as he captures your lower lip between his teeth and speeds up the pace of his fingers in your pussy.

The tightness in your core gets stronger, following the rhythm of his relentless moves. You gasp and you grab his arm by impulse, while, using your other hand, you hook your fingers on his dog tags, pulling him closer to you. He takes that as a hint to drag his teeth and tongue against your jaw and neck.

The air inside the car is hot and you can feel droplets of sweat gathering on your forehead. His name falls out of your lips as your hips grind against his hand and the seat. The coils of desire twist you from inside when his teeth meet your earlobe.

A particularly elaborated curl of his finger strokes your clit, your body freezes before your legs lock his hand between them, and you sob at the strong rush of pleasure that runs down from your core to your whole skin.

“Fuck, you’re so beautiful when you come,” Bucky whispers against your ear, gliding his finger lazily up and down your pussy as fervent pleasure washes over you.

Breathless, you tilt your head to kiss him, your tongue twirling around his as the hand you had on his arm reaches to palm his evident erection through his pants, “Baby,” you break the sloppy kiss, resting your hot forehead on his, his breath coming out fast as you keep rubbing your hand on him, “I need you inside me.”

It all happens in a split of a second.

All of sudden your seat is dragged and reclined further back. In a hurry, you start bunching up your dress up your waist as Bucky jumps to your side and between your legs.

With no patience left in you, you help him with his belt and push down his pants just enough to give you space to pull his cock out. You take him in your hand, hard and pulsing.

He seems just as desperate to be inside you as he places his hand over yours to guide himself to your pussy, which is soaked enough to allow him to enter you with ease, despite his ever challenging size.

You both cry out at the sensation of the longed connection and your heels meet the windshield behind him as he starts moving. His hands reach over to hold the backseat behind you to support himself.

It’s an odd position in a not so comfortable place, but you both are too lost in the need to feel each other to care, so you make it work.

Your fingers tangle in his hair as he dips his head in the crook of your neck and curl an arm under your it, pulling you impossibly closer, cheek to cheek. He thrusts into you hard and deep and fast, blurring your surroundings.

All you feel is him, his weight on you, his cock filling you up, his deep moans mingling with yours.

You move a hand to sink it beneath his Henley, relishing at the hard and toned muscles under your touch.

He’s so fucking beautiful.

And yours.

The reminder makes you curl your panting lips in a smile.

He whimpers when you bring your legs to wrap the small of his back in a tight hold, like you’re trying to melt into him, into the deep sensations he brings to your body as he sinks in and out of you, your wetness allowing him to move with wanton speed.

You’re so close again, his hip bones rubbing against your clit adds to the feeling of his perfect pulsing cock inside you, hitting that sweet spot he’s familiar with. He cups your breast harshly, the wetness and warmth of his tongue on your neck makes your pussy flutter and your upper body jerks under his weight when a blinding pleasure washes over you for the second time.

He leans back to watch as your eyes squeeze shut and your mouth opens in a silent cry, “Yeah, that’s it, baby, come all over this cock,” he encourages before dropping his lips on your neck again, the rhythm of his hips falters and his moans come out in that raspy and maddening sexy sound of his voice.

Your mind is clouded up, dizzy and wonderfully light.

Your arms are firm around him, holding him as he desperately picks up his pace, seeking his own pleasure until his hips stutter once again. He lets out a long groan, his hips thrusting deep inside you before his whole body tenses. Your breath hitches and your lips curl in a delighted smile as you feel the spurts of his desire in you.

Keeping your bodies connected, you two relish into the aftermath of loving each other. Having his heart hammer against yours is a sensation you will never tire of. .

“Are we pushing for another kid already?” You’re the first one to speak, your fingers running down his locks. You feel him smile against the crook of your neck.

“Wouldn’t mind another girl,” he murmurs, prepping a sweet kiss on your skin, making you shrug your shoulder and chuckle.

Of course he would want another girl, just so she turns into as much as a daddy’s girl as Summer.

Maybe one day… Now you rely on your monthly shots to keep Summer as an only child.

At least for a while.

He leans back to look at you, the tips of his hair fall around his incredibly handsome face, and your hands run down his chest, resting there. His adoring smile makes the corners of his eyes wrinkle and it’s a mirror of yours.

Your heart hurts the most delicious pain.

You love this man so much and the most wonderful sensation in the world is to be sure he loves you too, and that you’re both right for each other, no matter what happened before and what may come ahead.

“So, where do you wanna go?” His eyes follow the path of his finger as he gently slides it over the traces of your face, “You know I’ll go anywhere with you.” His blue gaze stares deeply into yours.

You take in a deep breath. Maybe it’s the sensation of him still inside you, maybe it’s the look on his face or the touch of his fingers. But you now know exactly where you wanna go.

“You know what I’m really craving right now?” You ask.

“What?” He asks absentmindedly before pecking your lips.

“Giordano’s.” You giggle when you spot the gleam that flashes in his eyes at the name of the place you order pizza from almost every Saturday night. “Do you want to, maybe, huh, go upstairs…” You skim your hands over his pecks, “Order a big ass pie and, while we wait, we can think about what we’ll want for dessert before picking Summer up at Steve’s?” You wiggle your eyebrows at him.

The wide grin he gives you before running his tongue over his lips tells you exactly what he’ll want for dessert.

~~~

The End.

(Hope you guys liked it! Feedback is appreciated and longed for!

#bucky barnes x reader #bucky x reader #bucky smut #bucky barnes fic #reader insert #looking for a heartbeat

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tigerwolfproductions · 1 year

Photo

You’re challenged by Bookworm Becky!

Superheroine Wordgirl wants to battle!

My “as close as I can get to Pokemon” style is back! ... and just as confused as before.

Ah, the official Pokemon style. It changes with every generation, has confusing shading techniques in some gens, and I just kinda had to go with “the best I could manage” again XP (pretty proud of Bob’s tail flame though! That was tricky to do).

Moving on from my artist woes, it’s Becky and Bob Botsford and their secret identities of Wordgirl and Captain Huggyface! Been on a Wordgirl kick recently and since it came directly after a Pokemon kick, well, my brain inevitably crossed the two over. My brain also decided that it was enough of a masochist to want to take another crack at Pokemon style(ish), so here we are! I think the lineart has improved for the most part for human characters; I definitely felt more confident making Becky/Wordgirl! I actually based her off Shauna from XY... Not sure what urged me to do so, but I guess it worked so I ain’t complaining, haha.

Posing was actually tricky. I was originally going to put Becky in a bit more of a cutesy pose, but actually decided against it. She’s Becky Botsford, mild mannered ten year old. I figured, why not make the contrast between her and the Wordgirl pose all the more apparent? Ya know, put all her energy into the bold super-identity! So that I did, though I will say hands pointing at the screen is not a fav of mine to do at the moment, lol

As for Bob, I honestly didn’t really think of many difference there’d be between him and a regular Monferno, but I did add a couple of extra hair tufts to the back of his head. They’re there to represent the front hair tufts he has in the show :3 And of course he’s gotta be eating something, so I looked around and found a berry that would work for him. Not that he’d discriminate against most other berries, but I wanted one that made sense in some way, so a Shuca berry it was! They halve the damage from a super-effective ground-type attack, and have a “spicy-sweet-smooth” flavor chart and with Monferno being a fire type, I figured that spicy part worked out.

Speaking of, it actually took a moment of my time to brainstorm through what Pokemon to make Bob. It had to be a monkey, but what kind? First, there was the point of what type to make him, so I watched a few Wordgirl episodes and happened across a fight between him and Leslie and basically slapped my forehead because a doi- Fighting type for his ability to do Karate! So with that narrowed down, I tried to go through my memories for what monkey Pokemon were fighting types. Passiman came first, but they’re a bit too big for Bob to be. The Mankey line doesn’t quite fit in with his body type or nature, so I had to forgo that too. Then I remembered the fire-fighting starter monkey that made an obvious fit: Monferno! Which also works out because of course a ten year old would have a starter Pokemon as a main partner, and Monferno also shares the blue and red that Captain Huggyface’s uniform has.

Becky/Wordgirl wasn’t too hard to redesign outside of doing it in (the as close as I can get to) Pokemon style. The hardest part of Becky was the skirt thanks to shading, but I think I managed something decent. Second place actually goes to her book bag though. That main button was harder to nail down than I thought it’d be... As for the charms, I thought they could be a cute nod to two main things about her- the secret identity and her love of unicorns, which I figured would translate into a love of Ponyta/Rapidash in the Pokemon universe. Especially the Galarian forms, haha.

On the Wordgirl side, there was a bit more I decided to add. Most of it was dedicated to making her uniform feel a little bit more Pokemon-y, so I added some extra details to the boots and gloves then added pouches to her belt. The goggles were technically a part of that too, but also just because I like the idea of her one day adding them to her uniform (maybe one too many times of getting random goop in her eyes would make her consider it lol). I definitely like the results- I think it makes her look a bit like she’s wearing some sort of space hero outfit :D

As for what exactly this AU would entail, I’d like to think it wouldn’t change much from the main show. Becky lives in a city somewhere in Unova, living her daily life as a regular trainer that goes to a quaint little school with her partner Pokemon, Bob the Monferno (that’s totally normal to have as a starter in Unova; please ignore the part where she should have a Unovian starter). But in her secret double life, she takes on the odd supervillains in her city as Wordgirl, alien superheroine with a perfect vocabulary! But I do imagine Captain Huggyface would get to do more with his moveset of Ember, Close Combat, Mach Punch, and Focus Energy, (Becky unfortunately slacks a little on Pokemon training) as well as an appetite that rivals a Snorlax.

... Wow I rambled about my process. Well, thanks to anyone who read through it all; y’all have a nice day/evening!

#artists on tumblr #art #digital art #wordgirl #wordgirl fanart #pokemon #pokemon fanart #monferno #pokemon monferno #crossover #cartoon #a tigerwolf production

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thereareeyesinsidethetrees · 6 months

Text

finished my rewatch of gravity falls today so here's some random thoughts i wrote down over the course of the last few episodes (sure most of this has been mentioned already but eh. no harm in repeating things):

-could you imagine how differently things would've gone if any of the pines members knew about ford's nightmare (especially stan)

-ford visibly shaking from how hard he's digging his fingers into the floor (referring to the security droid grabbing him)

-ford almost dies three times before bill actually captures him

-'i haven’t been able to find grunkle stan anywhere' was stan not at the shack at that time or did you just not consider checking his house

-a full limerick for 'man from kentucky' wasn’t allowed, but onscreen death is??

-shapeshifter wink + mabeland fake wendy wink

-why is the unicorn half petrified? what caused the gnome to be mostly petrified, but not quite? how was woodpecker guy able to keep his petrified woodpecker? so many questions about these guys. what occurred here

-first time ford gets turned to "gold", he appears cracked. the second time, he’s free of cracks. implication: either the stone/"gold" people get turned into cracks over time or bill roughed ford up a bit even before the torture

-bill disassembles ford and reassembles him on the other side of the room. interesting to consider for. y'know. torture

-speaking of bill, WHY DO YOU HAVE EIGHT EYELASHES NOW. YOU'RE SUPPOSED TO HAVE SEVEN

-love fiddleford so much. and also zanthar. and craz and xyler. and soos. and-

-manly dan hugs wendy more gently than soos does

-'(strangely genuine) good to see you too bro >:(' i'm sorry stan did seeing your brother trapped in a horrifying gold-ish statue change your tune a bit

-i agree with the circle actually. the fuck are you doing, stan.

-i feel like the stan twins were strangled in different ways. it seems like ford was literally being strangled and bill was doing something directly to stan's lungs, based on the way they reacted to it. or i'm looking way too much into the animation who knows

-the way stan kneels on the ground :((((

-actually every scene with post-deal stan in it

-ford ultimate depression

-waddles was waiting for them :(((((((((

-stan lies in different ways depending on what he remembers (referring to him lying about the destroyed house being a nice place to be polite)

-'someone get waddles off of me!!' ford: :0 :D

-this also implies that ford learned waddles name at some point

-was wondering why pacifica seemed to have a bit of a character regression. then realized that she had to live with her abusive parents after the party. they uh. they need to be obliterated (heck you can even tell there's a sort of distance between them based on the fact that pacifica's parents wait for her to come to them, as opposed to the corduroys running to wendy immediately. it's not even a durland + blubs situation, they are fully aware of their surroundings at this point)

-pacifica's still trying her best though!!

-ford sings happy birthday with everyone else :)))

-ford's hair grows out really quickly

-'heh' resulting in an immediate :0 until ford keeps talking, at which point stan smiles again

-stan did you think that laugh was intended to be a 'that's ridiculous stan why would you ever think that' type deal and not a 'wow i love talking to you this is great' type thing

-'SHUT UP FOREVER'

-'CAN IT SOOS' in sync (hey ford you learned his name!)

-stan's 'don’t test me >:(' implication vs ford's 'i have killed and i will do it again' implication

-ford comforting hand on shoulder. stan looking shocked until he sees ford smiling at him. grgaggasgg

-fucking love these two

-stan writes in print in all caps (this might mean nothing to you but trust me there is a reason i'm pointing it out)

-ford doing the hand thing in the credits

-'ford hates mabel' DID YOU MISS THE FUCKING TURKEY

that's it that's all of the thoughts

it can go in the tag cause. why not, y'know?

#gravity falls

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e-dubbc11 · 1 month

Text

Dog Day Afternoon

Photos are not mine. They are courtesy of Pinterest/Google.

Pairing: Brock Rumlow x F! Reader

Warnings: Couple of swear words, fluffy bunnies and unicorns

Word Count: 3.8K-ish

Summary: STRIKE team commander at SHIELD, Brock Rumlow finishes a mission and brings something home with him that he wasn’t expecting

A/N: Based off of a conversation I had with my lovely Lily @munsonownsmyass I sent her Frank Grillo’s Insta story of him in his hot tub with his dog, Rumlow, next to him outside of the hot tub. He said that the dog never lets him have any alone time. So Lily said she would love a Brock Rumlow fic where he adopts a puppy. I’m also sorry I haven’t been around lately. Life throws curveballs sometimes 💔

As always, thank you for reading! I appreciate it so much and comments, reblogs are welcome and encouraged. Don’t be shy to tell me your favorite part. 💕💕 💕

“Is that all of them?” Rumlow asked.

Commander of the STRIKE team at SHIELD, Brock Rumlow and his team finished rescuing the hostages that were being held by pirates. One by one, they were removed from the ship and placed back into SHIELD custody.

“I think so.” Rollins said. “You want me to sweep the ship one more time?” He asked.

Brock pondered for a minute before replying, “I’ll come with ya…cover more ground that way.”

After checking the entire ship for hostages they may have missed, Brock and Jack met back in the control room. As they continued to talk, Brock thought he heard a whimper. Turning his head to the side, he held up a hand at Jack to get him to stop talking.

“What is it, Rumlow?” Asked Jack.

Brock pressed his lips together and listened again. “You hear that?” He asked.

Rollins listened intently as he heard the whimper that Rumlow heard. “Where’s that coming from?” Asked Jack.

Brock lowered his weapon and took out his flashlight. He shined his light under the control board and huddled in the corner, Brock saw two little sad eyes staring back out at him as it continued to whimper.

He crawled underneath and emerged a few seconds later with a dark graphite colored puppy. The pup was still whimpering and shaking; the poor thing was terrified.

Confused, Jack asked, “What was that doing under there?”

Brock replied, “I dunno…but other dogs were found in the cargo area. Maybe this one escaped and found it’s way up here.”

Jack started to walk toward the main deck of the ship.

“Well put it down, we gotta get outta here.” Said Jack.

Brock started to put the puppy on the floor but stopped. He looked into the scared eyes of the little dog and as soon as it’s legs touched the floor, Brock scooped it back into his arms again and headed for the main deck.

Jack cracked a slight smile. “Rumlow…what are you doin’? Leave it.”

“I can’t just leave her, Rollins.” Said Brock, nervously. “And don’t look at me like that, let’s just go.”

Jack just shook his head and followed Brock to the helicarrier, where the pup finally stopped shaking, curled up in Brock’s lap and fell fast asleep before they even left the scene.

**********

SHIELD Headquarters

Brock had his bag slung over his shoulder as he walked along the busy hallway toward the briefing room. Jack saw him walk into the room and immediately walked away from the other team member he was talking to so he could talk to Brock.

“Don’t start with me, Rollins. It’s too early in the mornin’ for you to be botherin’ me.” Brock said, his gravelly voice had a slight touch of anger behind it.

Jack’s hands raised in surrender and replied, “Alright, alright. I was just gonna ask if you took care of that dog.”

Brock glared at Jack. “Of course I took care of it.”

What Brock didn’t tell Jack was that he brought the pup back to his place and later today after work, he was going to stop by the pet store to pick up necessities for her because he couldn’t keep feeding her table scraps and locked in the bathroom with newspaper all over the floor for very long.

He hated to admit it but he took one look into her eyes and realized there was no way that he could bring her to a shelter now, not after this so after work he drove straight for the pet shop. As soon as he stepped inside, Brock was immediately overwhelmed by everything he saw.

Aisle after aisle of food, toys, grooming supplies, collars and leashes…he didn’t know where to start but lucky for him there was someone there that recognized the look of a new and overwhelmed pet owner.

“Excuse me, sir? Can I help you with something?” You asked softly so as not to scare him. You did sneak up behind him when you noticed he looked a little lost.

The man looked rough around the edges but still quite handsome. He had dark brown hair, light tanned skin and his narrowed eyes were the color of amber.

You spoke again.

“I’m sorry, I hope I didn’t scare you. You just looked a little lost, thought maybe I could help. I’m y/n, this is my shop, and if I don’t have what you’re lookin’ for, I can definitely order it for you. Are you shopping for a dog, cat, or another animal?” You asked.

His eyes were hyper focused on you the minute he turned around.

“Nah, you didn’t scare me sweetheart. You’ve got a nice shop here and I am shopping for a dog…well, a puppy. And I’m Brock, by the way.” He said as he held out his hand for you to shake.

Your eyes widened as soon as the word “puppy” escaped his lips and your mouth split into an excited smile as you shook his hand.

“Really?!! A boy or a girl puppy?!” You asked, clapping your hands together.

Brock let a shy smile stretch across his lips. “Girl…she’s a rescue. Found her a few nights ago and since it was a full moon, I’ve been calling her Luna.” Said Brock.

You almost had to clutch your chest because the look he had on his face as he talked was so sweet.

Snapping yourself back to reality, you managed to ask him, “What kind of dog is she?”

Brock shrugged and started to pull his phone from his back pocket.

“I dunno…but I do have a picture of her.” He said.

Brock leaned in close, you could feel the heat radiating off of his body, and warmth flushed across your cheeks. You watched as his thick fingers unlocked his phone and navigated to his photo gallery before pulling up one of the sweetest faces you’ve ever seen.

“OMGoodness, look at that face!!” You exclaimed. “Well, she looks like a Cane Corso. If you just found her, I’m guessing you haven’t taken her to the vet yet?”

Brock shook his head vigorously. “Nah, I’ve had to work so I haven’t been able to do that yet.”

You explained to him that he may want to bring her to the vet soon just to make sure she’s ok and you gave him the card of the veterinary hospital you bring your dog, Charlie, to.

“…They’re a husband and wife, really nice and fairly priced. Actually…lemme call them.” You said.

Brock started to protest.

“Oh, that’s ok…you don’t have to—“

“It’s no trouble.” You said, holding the phone to your ear. “Hi Jessica, it’s y/n. I’m good, how are you? Great! Listen…I have a guy here who has a new puppy and she needs to be seen…uh huh…Oh Dr. Alice can see her tomorrow? Awesome!” You said. “Oh the owner’s name is Brock…what’s your last name?” You asked, pulling the phone away from your mouth.

“Oh…it’s Rumlow.” Replied Brock.

“Yeah…Brock Rumlow. And the puppy is Luna. Thank you so so much, Jessica! Bye!” You said.

After the call ended, you flashed a smile at Brock and asked, “You weren’t busy around 4:30 tomorrow, right?”

Slowly shaking his head, Brock narrowed his eyes and repliedwith a sly smile, “Nope, I guess I’m not.”

Excitedly, you clapped your hands together again and said, “Well, let’s go Mr. Rumlow! We have a lot of stuff to pick out for little Luna, which I will warn you…she won’t be little for much longer. She’s gonna grow into those paws, ya know.”

You made him push the cart and took him from aisle to aisle to pick out food, toys, and a collar, among other things. He needed everything including a bed, food dishes, and a crate. That cart was full by the time you were done.

“Do I really need all this stuff, y/n?” Asked Brock.

“Well…you do plan on keeping her, right?” You asked.

Brock paused before answering.

“Yeah…I plan on keeping her.” He said.

You shrugged and pressed your lips into a straight line.

“Then you need all this stuff.” You replied.

Brock spent a small fortune on everything he needed for Luna but he was thankful for all of your help and knowledge. After loading everything into his truck, he said it was a good thing he didn’t bring the bike which made you crack a slight smile.

“So don’t forget, Luna’s appointment is at 4:30 tomorrow afternoon and the address is on that business card I gave you so don’t lose it. Actually, give me your phone…” You demanded.

He handed his phone over to you and you dialed your number so he had it in case he lost the card.

“Just in case. I’ll see ya around Brock Rumlow and if you need anything else for Luna, you know where to find me!” You said.

You watched him drive away until his truck turned the corner and he was out of sight. Brock’s little pup was just as cute as could be but you couldn’t stop thinking about her owner. The rasp to his voice, muscles visible under his tight black t-shirt, and every time he looked at you with those whiskey colored eyes, you felt a flutter in your stomach that was familiar but you haven’t felt in a long time.

You hoped that he would come back because you definitely have a crush on Brock Rumlow.

The Next Day

The day was moving along, the shop was busy from the minute you opened until around 2:30 when it started to slow down a little. A steady stream of customers came in and when you glanced at the clock, it read 3:30.

Luna’s appointment was in an hour.

What were you doing? Daydreaming about a man you spent an hour with picking out stuff for his new puppy? But he was so handsome and sexy…thinking about him was helping the time go by faster.

Around 5:30, the bell on the door rang. You were in the back trying to clean up the bath stations. For people who didn’t want to wash their dogs at home, you had an area in the back of the store that they could come and wash their dog for a fair price. They didn’t have to buy shampoo or anything but you would make money on people not wanting to wash their dog at home. It was a win-win.

Drying your hands on your apron, you walked toward the front of the store and you saw Brock standing in the middle of the open floor, holding one end of a leash and at the other end was little Luna. She started to wag her tail as soon as she saw you.

You felt a dip in your stomach as soon as you saw Brock. He was wearing a plain white t-shirt and dark jeans and you hoped he didn’t notice you blushing so you crouched down to the floor to pet Luna.

“It’s nice to see you again too, y/n.” Brock said sarcastically.

You had scooped up Luna in your arms and she was licking the tip of your nose.

“Oh you are even cuter than your picture…yes you are! I’m sorry, Brock. I’m gonna go for the puppy every time, just to warn you.” You said with a wink. “How did it go at the vet’s office?”

Brock went through Luna’s entire appointment. They weighed her, estimated that she was around three months old, and gave her all of her necessary shots. He even told you that you were right about the type of dog she is.

“Well…I do know my dogs!” You said. “But she’s ok?”

He nodded. “Yeah, she’s fine. I just figured since I was in the neighborhood, I’d stop by so you could meet her.” Said Brock.

Still holding Luna, you looked at her as she licked your nose again and said, “Well, I’m glad you did because she is just the cutest thing. I can see why you couldn’t just leave her when you found her.”

“Just don’t go around tellin’ everyone I’m soft for cute faces.” He said with a wink.

Warmth spread across your chest and the tops of your cheeks. Brock was making you blush again and you needed to distract him before he noticed.

“While you’re here, do you need anything else for little Luna?” You asked, scratching behind her ears.

“I think I’m good, doll.” Said Brock.

The pet name made you blush again.

“Ok, well don’t be a stranger. Stop in whenever you need something or if you have any questions.” You said with a warm smile.

Brock waved as you watched him and Luna walk out the door. Well, you had hoped that he would come back but now you wanted to see him again.

You’ve had plenty of good looking male customers come in and none of them had made you blush like Brock had. What was it about Brock that had you so smitten with him? You knew it couldn’t JUST be the dog.

He was mysterious and acted tough but he was sweet too. You felt comfortable around him and he had a slight smile on his face when you were playing with Luna; you had a feeling that he wasn’t as grumpy as he seemed.

**********

Over the next few weeks, Brock would stop into the shop and sometimes it would be more than once a week. He would either buy Luna a new toy or a new bone to chew on and he picked up some orange cleaner recently because she would still have an accident every once in awhile but he said she was getting used to crate training.

Sometimes he’d come in to ask you things he could have easily found out for himself but maybe it was just because he liked talking to you. You couldn’t be sure though, but you were very sure you enjoyed talking to him.

The texts started coming in not too long after meeting Luna for the first time. One of them was a picture of her outside of the shower and the picture was taken from inside the shower…by Brock. You clenched your thighs together at the thought of him taking a shower.

He captioned the picture…

“She won’t give me any alone time.Always has to be by my side.”

You smiled at the picture he sent and replied,

“Awwww, she loves you.”

And you also replied with a picture of Charlie, sleeping in between your legs with the caption…

“If he could crawl inside me to sleep, he totally would.”

He replied with a laughing emoji.

You could always tell when Brock came to the shop right from work because of how he was dressed. He wore all black tactical clothing and you definitely enjoyed the view of him in that tight black t-shirt.

You asked a few times but Brock never told you what he did for work; he always jokingly said it was “classified” so you didn’t push too hard about it.

“What can I do for you today, Mr. Rumlow? Luna didn’t eat another remote control, did she?” You asked, chuckling a little.

Brock pressed his lips into a straight line and narrowed his eyes at you. “Very funny, y/n and no she didn’t eat another remote control. She has been really good the past couple of weeks, I think she’s getting used to being left alone and knows I’m eventually coming back.”

“Well that’s good. So did you need something?” You asked.

“Yeah I wanted to take her to socialize and play with other dogs. Figured you might know a place I can go.” Said Brock.

The two of you had been dancing around each other for weeks, being flirtatious through texts and in person when he would stop by but he hadn’t made a move so you decided to take matters into your own hands.

“Actually, I was gonna take Charlie to the dog park tomorrow afternoon, if you and Luna would like to come.” You said, watching your corgi chase after the clumsy Luna.

Brock watched as the two dogs played with each other, running circles around the two of you and playfully barking at each other.

“They seem to get along, huh.” He said with a smirk. “Yeah, the dog park sounds great.”

You told him where it was and agreed to meet there tomorrow. It wasn’t exactly the date you had in mind but you would use any excuse to see Brock outside of the shop. It would be the first time seeing him NOT wearing your work apron covered in wet dog hair.

As he called for Luna, the door to the shop opened and a tall man with a couple of scars on his face walked in and called out to Brock.

“You kept it, didn’t you! I fuckin’ knew it!” The man said, pointing at Brock.

You bit back a smile. “A friend of yours?” You asked.

Brock rolled his eyes at the man walking toward him then turned to you and replied, “Yeah…we work together…you followed me here, Rollins?!”

“Where is it?” Asked Jack, looking around.

“SHE is playing with Charlie somewhere around here.” Replied Brock. “I’m sorry, y/n. Lemme just…I’ll be right back.”

Before Jack could reach the counter, Brock cut him off. You managed to make out part of their conversation.

“What the fuck are you doin’ here, Jack?!” Brock asked.

A sly smile played across Jack’s lips as he looked at you then back to Brock.

“Well, I wanted to know why you kept blowin’ off after work drinks with the team but now I know why. You keepin’ her from us too? She’s hot. That apron is really doin’ it for me.” Said Jack.

Brock pointed at Jack.

“Will you keep your voice down! She’ll hear you.” He said, angrily.

“Alright, alright you don’t have to get all bent about it. I’m just sayin’ you should make a move or else I’m gonna. Maybe I should get a dog.” Said Jack, raising his eyebrows.

“Will you get outta here!” Brock said, glaring at Jack.

Brock introduced you to Jack before he left and confirmed your “date” for late tomorrow afternoon. You had butterflies in your stomach for the rest of the day and couldn’t wait to see him tomorrow.

From what you gathered from his conversation with Jack, it sounded like maybe Brock had a crush on you too.

Scratching Charlie’s ears, you said “We both have dates tomorrow, Charlie. You better be a good boy or else Luna isn’t gonna want to play with you anymore.”

Charlie licked your hand and cuddled up in his bed that was behind the counter. Apparently, chasing Luna around the store, took a lot out of him. He needed his rest if he was going to try and keep up with a puppy tomorrow.

**********

The dog park was no place for nice clothes. There were pups everywhere, kicking up dirt, putting their paws on you, and trying to trip you up as they ran in circles around you. But you still wanted to look good so you put on a black t-shirt, jeans and black sneakers.

You were also thankful it hadn’t rained lately so you wouldn’t have to walk through mud or worry about Charlie rolling in it, although he always needed a bath when you brought him home from the park anyway.

As you opened the fence gate, you scanned the park for Brock and Luna. It usually wasn’t very busy at this time, more than likely because it was prime time for cooking dinner. You found Brock sitting on a picnic table bench and throwing a ball for Luna to fetch and bring back.

He had a genuine smile on his face as he continued to play with her and he looked incredibly sexy in his gray t-shirt, jeans, and aviator sunglasses.

Charlie saw Luna, and as fast as his little legs could take him, took off running toward her. Biting down on your lower lip, you glanced quickly at Brock, and immediately felt your ears start to get hot.

You walked over to the picnic table and gave him a warm smile as he removed his sunglasses to look at you. His eyes were a warm gold color in the sunlight.

“Hey there…come here often?” You joked.

Brock cracked a little smile. “Are you full of jokes every Saturday, y/n?”

“Oh you know it! I leave my shop in good hands so I can have weekends off.” You replied.

“Ah, so you’re free on weekends.” Brock stated with a sly smile.

You heard what Brock had said but got distracted by Charlie rolling in something about 20 feet away.

“CHARLIE!! NO!! STOP THAT!!” You shouted at him as you turned to Brock and said, “I swear they always find the grossest things to roll in. He probably found a dead frog or something just as disgusting. Has she done anything like that to you yet? It is so foul!”

He started to laugh.

“I gotta tell ya, doll…you really do make me laugh and that ain’t easy to do.” Brock said softly, leaning in close enough to share the same air.

His compliment made you blush and he didn’t take his eyes off of you. The warmth from the late afternoon sun touched the high points of your face as you gently brushed your thumb against the bristles of his days old stubble and your lips ghosted over his before you said in barely more than a whisper, “Well I’d like to do it more often…if that’s ok.”

And you gently pressed your lips to his. Tension gripped your body and you became lightheaded with fear as you slowly pulled away, wondering if he felt the same way. A trace of a smile stretched across his lips as he leaned in to kiss you this time.

“I’d like that, sweetheart. I think we should be watching the dogs though, shouldn’t we?” Asked Brock.

“Then stop kissing me.” You replied with a sly smile.

“Oh I don’t wanna do that.” Brock husked against your lips. “But I do wanna take you out…without the dogs.”

Batting your eyelashes and jokingly clutching your chest, you asked, “Without the dogs? Well whatever will we do without them?”

Biting down on his lower lip, Brock eyed you from head to toe and brought his gaze back up to meet yours. The lump in your throat was hard to swallow and you felt like your heart was going to burst out of your chest.

He kissed you on the cheek before whispering into your ear, “Oh I’m sure we’ll come up with something.”

Tag List: @munsonownsmyass @k-marzolf @gijos @nutmeg17 @nekoannie-chan

Others that might enjoy: @itwasthereaminuteago @fluffyprettykitty @redstarsandnightmares @randomlittleimp

If I tagged you and you didn’t want to be, just let me know and I’ll never do it again. As always, thank you again for reading!

#brock rumlow x reader #brock rumlow x female reader #brock rumlow imagine #brock rumlow fanfiction

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teeth-cable · 10 months

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You everr realize that Vivziepop is completely bullshitting when it comes to ethnic casting because of Millie?

Like we are definitely getting imp human disguises for merch reasons so its definitely going to come up.

But like if Millie is black then her family should be played by black VAs but all of them are white VAs. Like I don't think Millie is adopted since she looks like a younger version of her mother.

The best course would then be making Millie white and no we can't use Erica being the original VA as evidence because that was always meant to be a temp casting.

But then this creates an issue in Helluva Boss having no fucking diversity like Vivziepop doesn't have to answer to corporate demands to make the ENTIRE CAST white. She can choose to add diversity.

If she makes Millie black that's also showcasing a huge issue in Helluva's lack of diversity in its main group of characters and Millie could come off as a token. Then you have the fact Morgana and Ed would come under fire for taking POC roles as well as Spindle allowing it unless Vivziepop retcons Millie as adopted or half siblings with Sallie.

Like Into The Spiderverse had half its human cast be POC and it answered to corporate demands. Then Across The Spiderverse without spoiling anything has a MAJORITY of the cast be POC.

Now you can argue Spiderverse is based off existing material unlike Helluva but those existing materials had put effort into adding POC in the first place. And guess what Spiderverse had consulted actual minorities when it came to development of the project.

Vivziepop is latina but she's white passing so she needs to consult people who don't pass to get a better understanding overall on things. Like I'm disconnected from my own culture but just because I'm part of it doesn't mean I have a full picture of it.

Vivziepop also isn't black, asian or indigenous so if she's telling stories that features them she needs to do research and consult people.

She actually consulted Morgana about Sallie May being trans thankfully but... I never hear any talk about other people she talks to which shows poor ass attempts. Like Morgana's insight is valid but she does not speak for all trans people and yes you aren't going to please everybody with representation but just consulting a SINGLE PERSON is insane. We also know Viv according to leaked screenshots has or had some form of transphobia so she absolutely needs to consult more people if she's trying to change and do better especially if she's writing about a trans character.

Like Morgana being a white transwoman will not have the same experience as a black transwoman for example. Like I know that from actively trying to learn about trans people.

Like there's a youtuber UnicornofWar who made a video about how the show RWBY is terrible at handling its racism allegory. Now Unicorn is white but actively went out of their way to consult multiple POC for the video and did a shit ton of research. Now I will say Unicorn in the past has said ignorant things about stuff like white washing (thinking its ok because of art style color pallets back then) in earlier videos but currently denounces that viewpoint (note: Unicorn as far as Im aware has never said anything with vile. I have to clarify so I don't misrepresent their person and people don't assume Unicorn like said a slur) and actually apologizes for their ignorance.

Has Vivziepop ever denounced her old views or behavior? Has she apologized for being ignorant in certain things? Is making a serious effort to change? Has Vivziepop researched throughly and listened to POC insights or concerns?

As far as I'm aware she hasn't.

I have noticed Viv's weird choices for Millie as a black character. I hate to say this but Millie is supposed to be token rep which to me is weird because nobody was pressuring Viv to add rep to her shows. I will say this even in a universe where Viv hired black VAs to voice Millie's family and did do properly research and consulted black people, Millie would still be considered token rep because she is the only the only main character in the show to not have an self-centered EP and has the least amount of screentime.

It makes me wonder if the reason why the IMPs don't have a canon human form yet is because Viv doesn't want to draw POC characters. She has shown she knows the importance of these disguises and they sell well on merch but the only characters who have canon human forms are Stolas and Loona, two white characters who arguably don't even need them. Blitzo is voiced by Brandon Roger who is a mixed Filipino (It's also canon Blitzo looks like Brandon Roger and Blitzo and Brandon Roger are intertwined together so it doesn't make sense for Blitzo to be white), Millie being a black woman, and Moxxie, despite what you might believe is a mixed Latino.

The POC rep we already have isn't good either. In Spring Broken, Verosika and her gang, who the majority are POCs, gets arrested and Verosika makes a joke about sucking police dicks to get out of jail. Having a POC character make a rape joke about police corruption unironically is not funny. Moxxie's mom is obviously supposed to be Latina, falls into the trope of nice POC women who get brutally abused and killed by their white husbands. This actually could have work and wouldn't be as tokenizing if 1. we got to learn about Moxxie's mom as a person and 2. her death wasn't solely use to be angst bait for a male character.

The Spiderverse crew actively puts effort and consulted with POC about characters from their culture. During the early stage of writing for Pavitr Prabhakar, the writing team struggled writing his character and called his VA, Karan Soni to help them write and consult on the character. Thanks to Karan Soni's contribution for Pavitr Prabhakar, he is beloved by desi people alike. Viv doesn't do that and probably will never. She has shown time and time again, she doesn't respect religions, using their symbols as an aesthetic and for monetary gain. Viv's designs for black and other POC characters are terrible, them alway never having POC features and looking racial ambiguous as hell and she ignored the criticism from black and POC people for these POC characters.

#꧁rambles꧂#helluva boss criticism #helluva critical #helluva boss critical #➥asks

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popculturebuffet · 2 months

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Here Comes Garfield: The Fantastic Funnies (A Comission For Emma Fici)

Hello all you happy people! And welcome one and all to Here Comes Garfield, my look at all things garfield. For the rest of the year this feature will mostly be a look at the 11 garfield specials, minus babes and bullets which I covered previously, as well as his appearence in Cartoon All Stars to the Rescue for last 420.

So for those just joining us: I'm a lifelong comic strip nerd, ever since my dear Aunt Paula gave me her spare copy of the Indespensible Calvin and Hobbes in the 3rd grade. From there I slowly glommed on to other strips over the years: From FoxTrot, to Doonesbury, to Get Fuzzy to Zits to Cul De Sac, to recent faviorites like Pheobe and Her Unicorn, Crabgrass, the Steenz version of Heart and the City, and Breaking Cat News, which i'm wrapping a huge retrospective of soon, and whose place this retrospective is taking on my friend Emma's Patreon slot.

I love talking about this fine art, fitting your best work in just 4 panels, all the wonderful characters many simply don't know exist, all the weird shit that happens.. it's good stuff. So naturally I also gained a love for specials based on them. And while I loved the Peanuts ones and will climb THAT massive mountain someday, as a tween.. my faviorites were Garfield's and it's how I fell in love with the fat cat, the cool cat the nobody's cool cat.

While younger me did like garfield as a strip, especially that one arc where Garfield gets caught in a window blind and it conttinues to suck in an escalating number of people

Truly the "Snoopy's Awkward Nephew" of Garifield comics. Pure art. But while I liked it, it was watching the specials on the DVD garfield as himself that sucked me into the character. The DVD"s were released around the time of the first movie and releases of Garfiled and Friends to cash in and they certainly got my money. 12 specials, all ranging from excellent to watchable, and all wil lbe covered this year.

However before I can tell you that story, I have to tell you this story: See while Here Comes Garfield was Garfield's first SPECIAL.. it wasn't his first apperance in animation. Two years before that Garfield lept onto screens and into the inky depths of animation with a short but scene stealing apperance in the 1980 special the Fantastic Funnies, an apperance I honestly didn't even know existed till recently, but is such a weird and important piece of garfield history I had to cover it and Emma was on board to comission it.

So what exactly IS the fantastic funnies you may ask. Well i'll tell you.. you may ask. The Fantastic Funnies was a sequel to the earlier special The Fabulous Funnies, a celebration of comic strips interviewing various creators and including a live action on animated bit with Rob Reiner. I haven't seen it but if there's enough intrest I might cover it. The special was a hit for NBC, with CBS regretting having passed over the idea when animation maestro and peantus producer Lee Mendelson suggested it. After they remembered he'd pitched it and they'd been stupid at all of course, as is the executive way. They called dibs on the next time.

The next time was 12 years and an animated series that didn't do so good later, and CBS was front and center for the Fantastic Funnies, taking the concept but spiffing it up: this time the interviews were, with two exceptions, each accompanied by an animated short, there was an animated bit to start it off, and we also got a few musical numbers and live performances from the broadway cast of annie.. well two of the broadway cast of annie bu tthat's still more of the broadway cast of annie than has been on this blog so touche Fabulous Funnies, touche. It's the most 70's thing to come out of 1980 and i'll be covering the whole thing under the cut.

Fantastic Funnies is hosted by Loni Anderson, who at the time was on CBS' hit WKRP in Cincinatti.. and what i've seen of it is excellent. She hasn't really done anything else i've seen, but she seems nice enough.

This makes it awkward as hosting wise she feels shoved into the special. The script she's given feels awkward, with her only genuine enthuasim coming from Barney Google. I honestly wish I could be as jazzed about Barney Google and his go go gooogly eyes as Loni Anderson apparently was in 1980. I AM that jazzed about Snoopy's awkard teenage nephew

But it's not the same alas.

I can't even blame her as anderson was already frustrated with her pay for the series she did do and would demand more from the network leading to a brief exit from WKRP. I can't be too hard on her for not giving a fuck about an extra gig they saddled her with she didn't ask for with a script written by a block of wood on several pounds of qualudes. She did her best under the circumstances.

The circumstances also include getting animated as a cartoon, lucky, and getting to introduce a panel of various comic strip all stars of the time.

Okay so going row by row, with the strips self titled unless otherwise stated.

Front Row: Charlie Brown and Lucy (Peanuts), Nipper (Wee Pals), Dennis the Menace (US Comic), Nancy and Sluggo and Little Orphan Annie. Second Row: Blondie and Dagwood, Dick Tracey, Barney Google (Snuffy Smith), Alley Oop and Prince Valiant

Third Row: Pogo, Tumbleweeds, miss Peach, B.C., Beetle Bailey

Back row: Michael Doonesbury (Doonesbury), Broom Hilda, Drabble, Cathy and Hagar the Horrible

And in their own section because dogs apparently don't get bleacher seats at Walden, where I assume this is taking place as the only college out of these strips, we also get the dogs and one very special cat in their own section.

So Snoopy, Daisy (Blondie), Fred Basset and Garfield who are all about to throw down when Lonnie announces they have to get back to the human world for the show. But before that a song they all prepared, and it was at this point in the special I had to ask myself the tough question:

I still don't know. But yes the song is like living in a living nightmare and I don't care for it. It's thankfully short and Broomhilda takes them all to the real world. But that's a story for another day

Sadly not that day.

For now the special settles int' it's formula: Lonnie introduces a cartoonist, they talk about how their strip came to be, we get an animated segment about it. The only exceptions to the last part are Wee Pals, which instead has it's creator voice over one of his strips directly and Prince Valliant, who gets jack shit.

It was at this point I also realized a bit of an issue. While I mentioned my love of comic strips.. most of the ones I adore come from the late 70's onward, with Doonesbury and Peanuts being the big exceptions. I don't have anything against strips from before that time, I've read what I could of Pogo and want to read more and Krazy Kat is still well loved for a reason. I've also recently gained an appreceation of popeye thanks to Randy Millholand's take on the franchise.

The thing is I started devouring every comic strip I coudl in the 2000's. It was a great time for that as every strip got at least ONE collection, so even if you didn't read the newspapers, you could get a sample of a wide range of strips in book form. Boondocks even got a hilarious title out of it for it's first book.

So I got to sample a wide range of strips, many of which I still read today: Get Fuzzy, Zits Pooch Cafe, For Better or For Worse, Baldo, La Cucaracha, Cul De Sac, Lio, Luann, Rudy Park, Adam@Home. Many strips I first found in collection and binged later. Sadly this went down in the 2010's but thankfully the kids comics boom has meant many newer strips have gotten collections. It's why I have collections for heart of the city and crabgrass on my shelf.

But as you may of noticed... most of those either started in the 2000's or in the 90's. Most of the kings features based strips simply didn't get collections and thus I didnt' notice them.. and by the time I could i'd mostly heard of them by reputation as dinosaurs that would go on till the heat death of the universe via various legacy artists who wouldn't really change a thing.

And I do GET why: a lot of these legacy strips.. are ran by family members who want to honor the legacy and may simply not feel comfortable altering the strip too much. I'm not asking that dagwood suddenly become a t-rex... i'd love that, but I get i'm not everyone's target audience. Not every strip can be Pooch Cafe and go entirley off the rails AND still be every bit the strip it always was AND be good

It's hard. So I do have some sympathy. It's not limitless: while I get not doing so say in the 2000's when handing your strip off to another cartoonist, let alone your DAD'S strip wasn't a thing unless they were going to stay the course, in the 2020's and late 2010's we've had a bunch of great reboots and soft reboots of legacy strips: Randy Millholand of Something Positive fame did such a fantastic job on popeye sundays he got a weekly slot with olive and popeye, giving other creators the chance to do their own olive oyl strip basically alongside his. Mark Tatulli got tired of doing heart of the city (Lio both continues and slaps hard) and rather than phone it in or end it, handed it over to the talented Steenz, whose work on the strip is both something entirley diffrent but something entirely fresh and fun with some tight continuity. Olivia James made people care about Nancy for the first time in decades and has a nice dry wit. And while Henry Barjas keeps the soapy stylings of gil thorpe and hasn't changed as much as his contemporaries he still isn't afraid to shake things up having Gil go through a divorce, get two new assitant coaches, a third assitant coach who was once his arch nemisis and making the teen cast far more diverse including trans and non binary characters, being one of the few creators to do so in comic stripery.

While I don't want you going after these old men, and please for the love of god DO NOT GO AFTER THESE MEN. I do not want that. I may gripe, but these seem like decent guys just ones who won't evolve and have no reason to. I'm just outlining why maybe i'd rather read strips that keep growing with age or have fresh new voices rather than "Dagwood still hasn't left the 1950's and when theyt ry to it's embarassing for everyone involved. "

I.. didn't mean for this to turn into a screed on legacy comics that never really changed but it makes it all the more special tha ta lot of these creation stories for these comics still fascinated me.

The big standout was Wee Pals, a strip I hadn't heard of as it ended in 2002. Wee Pals was created by Morrie Turner, a cartoonist and protege of Charles Schultz who bemoaned the lack of black characters in the newspapers. Charles told him why not make one, and Wee Pals came about, with Turner diversifying the cast to drum up intrest creating one of the more diverse casts in earlier comic strips as a result. Nowadays it's a tad quaint, but I can't fault the man for trying to make comic strips less white and i'm glad I know this pioneer exist. I'm also mildly annoyed his strip wasn't animated, as it was one of the funneist present, with our heroes talking about one's pet chameleon.

There were other intresting stories too: Cathy Guthwise based Cathy on her own life, just changing Cathy's job from cartoonist to "whatervers funnier". Broom Hilda, a strip about a wtich, was something his creator tried pitching as an add character first. IT's small stuff but it always fascinates me how a strip comes about.

The only outright hilarous one is Johnny Hart, who kept trying to sell a caveman character, his friends asked him to put up or shut up so in his words "He drank 4 beers and the caveman slowly came into focus." He just.. outright got hammered to fuck because that was a normal thing in 1980 and created a classic comic strip out of it that later became obessed with jesus. Amazing.

The interviews are neat and while I may not like these strips I respect their creators.. and the creator of Hagar for putting on a viking helmet. Good stuff.

As for the animated segmets.. their eh. Like I said most of these strips are pretty gag a day and it seems like the shorts just flat out animated a strip. Which can work as it does for the raeson we're all here, garfield will come soon I promise, but for the most part it just dosen't land for me

In two cases they just flat out take bits from pre existing specails: For Doonesbury they take a bit of Joanie at the daycare.

For those less drenched in the deep and complex lore of doonesbury as the werido who has a ton of print books and bought digitals of strips he already had and books he already bought years ago just to have a copy on kindle: Joanie Caucuss was once a house wife, who got tired of it and her husband clinton and hitched the first ride she could away from his sexist ass. That ride happened to be with strip lead Mike and his best friend and revolutinary Mark on a motorcycle trip to find america. They took her back with them, she joined them at their commune, and soon got a job in daycare while trying to become a law student, which is the status quo the special used. Soon after she'd become a law student, head to berkley, find the love of her life and a long LONG list of other stuff up to present day where she works as a campaign manager on occasion during her alleged retirement.

It's not a bad bhit, but I get the sense they wanted to pick the least political thing they could.. yet weirdly DIDN'T go with the musical number or the dinner the group have. Or you know just accept doonesbury is political and include frank discussions of the 60's in this special.

For Peanuts, they just include an animated bit of snoopy singing suppertime from your a good man charlie brown. It's new animation far as I can tell, as the bit wasn't in any of the specials and they woudlnt' adapt the musical till the mid 80s. It's fine I just question why they didn't recycle anything from the specials.

Finally Cathy is from it's special, but fits, with her "wanting to have it all". A very cathy joke and frankly had I not found out she has three specails, i would not have been able to tell.

As for the other material either recycled from the fabulous funnies or made for this special, i'm going in no paticular order.

Beetle Bailey: Beetle runs away from sarge to try and get out of doing the obstacle course

Hagar the horrible has a trite bit about his wife telling him to take out the garbage VIKINGS DON'T DO THAT. YOU SO SILLY HAGAR.

Dennis the Menace keeps drawing out bed time because kids do that, even immortal children who aren't all that menacing.

By now your starting to get what a mountain it was to climb this special: short interview, unfunny skit, short interview unfunny skit, rinse repeat, toss away my sanity. I TRY to be positive on this blog, try not to be a dickhead.. but this special is so damn boring half the time. The interviews are kinda neat but the animated bits are just.. so lame.

So as a break let's talk what else the special did to fill time. Loni Anderson sang the radio themes to Popeye and Little Orphan Annie. IN the former's case.. that's all you gets. No adventure, no high seas just her singing the popeye theme. We dont' even get a musical number from the popeye movie because it hadn't happene dyet. I want to hear bluto say i'm mean over and ove rand over again. I"m that desperate.

Annie DOES get the cast of the broadway show, a huge hit then and forever, to do two numbers, both iconic and both well performed: The first is I dont' Need Anything But YOu, the cute duet between Annie and Warbucks, and then of course Tommorow best sung by bill the cat.

But the kid they use here does pretty good herself. They have it sung at the only playground in budget for some reason, but they did their best.

We also get a truly batshit bumber about peopl eneeding their funnies, from reading them as they go down the fire pole to IN A MOVING CAR. Yes even serial murderers need their funnies as they mow down pedestrians. It's nature's way. I do relate to tha tboost you get from reading them every day, I do so and I have to use three diffrent sites: one for andrews mcmeel, one for king features, and one for the webbcomic kevin and kell. So I get it. Three's also a closing number I ran away form.

The final non torture bit is Johnny Fever from WKRP. Due to a news strike he's tasked iwth reading the comics and drmatically reads flash gordon. Howard Hessman is hilarous as always, the bit is fucking great, and it woke me up after several strip adaptions put me to sleep. good stuff.

Back to my cycle of torment, and we have a Blondie cartoon and one of the few animated bits in the specail that was intresting. And unintetionally hilarous as Blondie gets dagwood THIS haircrime done to him.

What makes it funny is that not only is this haircut too much even for the 70's, but Blondie LOVES it, as do the kids.. despite all three of them having never updated their styles. Granted Blondie's hair game is timeless, so I get her point but it's just a .. weird plot to pick for blondie.

Naturallyt his being blondie instead of forcusing on the problem of "his wife wants him to try a hair cut that makes him not feel himself" it's in part him worried tha this friends and co workers will laugh. I mean they will, it's as if Luke Skywalkers hair started to eat into his brain, but that shoudln't be your takeaway and him washing it out while Blondie's alseep solves nothing and isn't funny. "Haha he can't be honest with his wife and she's going to later cite this incident to thier marriage counclier". Granted I would ENTIRELY read Dagwood's hair causing a divorce between them, but i'm not sure that's an arc Blondie readers want. I do wnat reprints of golden age blondie as it apparently involved Dagwood having to get disinherited to marry blondie, getting drunk, and other soap opera stuff more intresting than Dagwood trying to single white female mark hamill. Huh now THAT'S a Disney + series i'd watch. get on it disney

The other really fun one is Marmaduke. This one's just kidna fucked up. Marmaduke want sto go sleep in the same bed with the kids, which can somehow fit all three and is adorable so I don't get why not, but the dad tries to make him go outside because that was the thing with dogs. It hasn't aged terribly with charlie brown because snoopy clearly likes having his own pad and the inside is larger than most mansions, let alone the brown house

And when the whole thing burned down in one of the more sobering strips in the series run

Charlie Brown dutifully helped him plan his new house

Honestly I could talk about Snoopy's house burning down all day but it's not what you came for. You came to hear me tell you how it relates to Marmaduke. My point is Marmaduke just has a regular ass Dog House, and just wants to sleep in bed. I get this was normal at the time, it used to be the norm that dogs woudln't sleep in bed.. but my Dog YOshi curls up on my mom' sbed every night and maddie, my other dog , only dosen't when she's not on her own bed restfully asleep as she is as I type this. what i'm saying is maybe just maybe forcing dogs to live outside at night was cruel jackassery and maybe letting the big old dog curl up at the foot of the bed or, if he prefers tucked in while old man bastard can sleep outside and think about his life choices. Also i'm shocked this wasn't the plot of either marmaduke movie. It's so perfect. One man's journey to be a better dog owner .. or Marmaduke repeadely hitting him in the nuts with a tennis ball machine and other various objects. I"m not picky. Also i'm not touching either of those films unless someone pays me the 15 dollars it'd take to comissoin it. I'll review plenty of garbage on my own time, but I have limits. Pete Davidson is very much a hard and fast one. Owen Wilson is fine though. We love owen in this house.. but even he can' save cgi marmaduke and we all know that.

Pogo also takes a bit from the then upcoming film I go Pogo.. a guy I don't know tries to take two passing critters for a ride using the old shell game.. only to have put something under every one. i'ts a nice joke and it works well, and the gorgeous claymation. Given it's both election based and based on a comic i'd like to know better, me reviewing that .. would still be 15 if anyone wants it but far less of my own personal hell. But i'm more likely to do that one on my own. Fun fact: pogo's election storyline's inspired bloom counties, which I will be covering this year or at the very least the 1984 one.

BC has some bit with a turtle. It sure does exist

Broom Hilda asks who the fairest in the land is and her mirror calls her second. She responds by breaking it. This bit.. was actually funny. I'm not sure Broom Hilda would be for me as it's main gag seems to be "Gee isn't a woman chasing men against their will funny" which

Same other way around or with non binary folks. But I did like this and her horning in on mike's close up

She looks like she's about to hit on him but adorably so and he looks just.. so done with it as he always is. I mean.. I can't have turned out worse than Mike's actual first marriage. his second is pretty ballin though.

Mama has her Son say that life is a song.. onlyf or her to sing about him neglecting him. Get it because guilt tripping is funny! This is apparently most of what Mama is.

Finally before our main event we have tumbleweeds with sexual harassment as some lady refuses to let tumbleweeds go. And that's not me being lazy that's his actual name. Though to it's creator's credit he retired rather than let it become "a zombie strip", so good on him.

Okay now for what you all came to see

Also garfield

Garfield's first aniamted special was MOSTLY worth the pilgramage here. While ti's only a few strips repeated, it's fascinating for just how diffrent it is from Here comes Garfield a few years later.

For starters the Fantastic Funnies used an early design for our faviorite cat, not the iconic entirely weird by this point earliest garfield but one more in between, not quite upright yet, but not nearly as realistic as day 1 garfield.

To the classic peanuts team of Mendelson and Mendez's credit they did a wondreful job, likely why they were chosen to produce the specials till the companies backing peanuts asked them to stop helping out rival specails, and this version of garfield heavily resembles what he was like in the strip this frame is based on

It's also telling how fast Jim Davis was evolving the special that by the time it aired Garfield had already changed his look up a bit, if still not fully to his more classic 80s look.

It's not a HUGE change, just a little thinner, with the bigger change being in how he sit's/stands

It's just a testament to how slowly but surely the character evolved in apperance over his first decade or so and part of what makes this intreresting: while the specials help chart this evolution, and helped cause it as Jim needed to draw Garfield with SKinnier legs for the opening dance number of here comes garfield, it's nice to have this bit of his evolution frozen in amber.

The voices behind the characters are intresting: to my shock Thom Huge ALWASY voiced john and basically only stopped doing it when he retired. Thom did voices for commericals and was an old frat brother of Jim Davis who Davis asked for help with this special. While the producers would recast huge for Here Comes Garfield, he sent them a tape and became THE voice of john in the same way Lorenzo Music became THE voice of garfield.

WHile that's weird enough... what makes this special stand out besides the earlier designs... is Garfield's Voice. It's not Lorenzo Music, who would DEFINE the character in my eyes and is THE garfield, no question, though Frank Welker and Bill Murray are admirable.. but Radio DJ and voice guy Scott Beach.

Beach is take is intresting as both Murray and Welker clearly take from Music, while Beach largely does his own thing. Instead of the dry, sarcastic bored tone Lorenzo perfected, Beach has that but it sounds more like Jean Shepard'ss narration in a christmas story. Shepard isn't bad but his voice for Garfield is less relaxed, mor ebooming and confident. It dosen't COMPLETELY fit and makes the short feel a tad weird.. but it's also hard to judge the voice as, like I said EVERY voice after took cues from Music. he left the perfect blueprint. The fact Chris Pratt isn't that dry, sarcastic , laid back voice the character has been defined by hasn't helped his case voicing the character at the time of this review. Beach does a good job, but he just didn't quite fit and it's hard to compare a 2 minute performance with dozens of hours worth of material from Music. Beach did a decent job, but he just wasn't the right guy for the part, simple as that. his voice just didn't fit Garfield's give no fuck nature that well.

Finally we have the specific strips adapted. nd the garfield wiki was a huge help here. Seriously fan wikis can have a bad rap but many are done by dedicated people who save me a LOT of work and do a lot of through research> Kudos guys, thanks for your help. So the wiki has each strip adapted. Excluding the "I have feet? " one we have

Not bad choices: they get all the garfiled bases: he dosen't like catching mice, likes food and Jon weight shames him a lot. Simple, quick and well done.

Overall the garfield shorts for this special are excellent. It's a short bit but it gets the character down and it's easy to see why, despite being the new kid on the block at only two years old at the time, garfield's the one who go ta specail out of the deal.

Now does he make the specail worth watching?

I mean if you like comic strip history like me, you'll get something out of it. There's a bit on the inductees into the hall of fame, but even then it's a long slog of interviews that are fairly short and shorts that are both short and tedious. The good bit here or there cannot save this.

Other than Garfield .. there really isn't much to write home about for the casual viewer or if your a fan of Peanuts and Doonesbury like I am, as both bits can be found elswhere. It's easier to either fast forward to the bit with a comic you like or find the garfield bits in their own little video, of which there are plenty. I'm glad I reviewed the special.. but it just hasn't aged well and probably wasn't that fun to begin with. Even as much as I ranted about how much I didn't know the strips.. i'ts still presented so dryly even if it had strips I liked more in it, it'd still be a bit of a slog. There's just not enough genuinely good stuff or loveable nonsense to keep this afloat. Skip the special but DO check out the early garfield stuff. It's brilliant.

Next Time: The first proper special as Garfield must save Odie from the pound.. after he grooves to Lou Rawls a bit. As is nature's way. Thanks for reading.

#garfield #peanuts #doonesbury #comic strips #comics #wkrp in cincinnati #doonebury #charles schulz #charlie brown #lucy van pelt #snoopy #hagar the horrible #blondie #wee pals #marmaduke #broom hilda #cathy

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