#in my memory it doesn't end we just stay there looking at each other forever.

[aliaology]

NOW THAT WE DONT TALK

summary: yn makes it to michigan with her friend sabrina, shockingly, reconnecting with old friends and also bumping into bad memories.

series masterlist

you felt weird, the stares of others pouring heavily onto your body. you didn’t like it, the feeling, whatsoever. the crowd parted as you walked into the house. the memories from this house flooded through your mind, from running to your room away from jack, to even skinny dipping with him in the lake.

you watched cole leap up and made his way to you, leaving a very uncomfortable jack and trevor behind. "bells! you made it" he grinned.

the shorter boy threw his arms around you in happiness. "hey coley, i told you i'd be here" you smiled, hugging him back.

"i know but it's just, unreal! i haven't seen you in forever!" he smiled.

you frowned. "im sorry cole, ive been really busy in toronto and it doesn't help that i feel so out of place in michigan now.." you trailed off.

"dont sweat it, bells. im just glad you're here" he smiled at you. "how long are you staying here for?" he asked.

"well— sab leaves tomorrow, im staying to get my dorm situated back at umich" you told. cole nodded.

"get lunch with me tomorrow then? i want to catch up" you just nodded before hearing your name get called. looking behind you, you see some of jack's teammates.

jack's teammates, john marino and nico hischier always liked you. hell, you still talked to them to ask how games went and just how they were.

"ill talk to you later coley" you grinned.

cole nodded and went back to trevor and jack. trevor held a sour look on his face while jack looked pissed. you grabbed sab’s arm and brought her with you to john and nico.

"hi johnny, hi nico" you smiled at them, giving them each hugs once you got to them. "its been awhile." you added.

"seriously, a long time. have you been in toronto the entire time?" john asked.

you nodded. "yeah, i moved in with my brother. im with him for just two more weeks until i move into my new apartment." you smiled.

"really? where you moving to?" nico asked.

"new york, actually." you grinned. "maybe ill drive over to nj and pop in."

nico grinned, "i'd be careful with that one, y/n. i cant lie, jacks been in a little bit of a twist since your song came out." he spoke.

john nodded. "more standoff-ish, but he had it coming.”

you heard sab snort from behind you, causing you to grin along. "sorry its just— one of my songs ends with ‘he had it coming’ and it reminded me of that.” sabrina spoke.

"its okay— how have you both been?” nico asked. you looked at sabrina with a hesitation glint in your eyes. she just sent you a nod.

“ive been— okay? uhm, just a lot going on currently. very stressed i dont know— i just cant wait to get back to umich.” you explained.

“and i have to go back to LA tomorrow so i have to soak my time up with my girl.” sabrina grinned, tossing an arm around your neck.

"uh oh— warning, trevor is on his way over.” john said, bringing his cup to his mouth to quiet his words before taking a sip of whatever alcoholic drink he had.

you tensed up slightly, not turning your head, you kept close to sabrina.

"what up guys, how you enjoying the party? cole's wondering." trevor faked a smile.

"oh, very fun if i do say so myself." sabrina sarcastically spoke.

you nudged her slightly, elbowing her in the side. she sent you a glare, basically stating ‘cut the shit.’

trevor sarcastically smiled. "well isn't that just peachy? anyone here finding someone to go home with tonight? i know it shouldn't be too hard for some of you."

you grab nico's drink, sipping it yourself. "maybe— i heard that dixie girl is single, might ask her to go home with me.” you shrugged.

the four guys went completely silent. you coughed, "anyone up for another drink? i think i need to get drunk tonight." and you walked away.

“oh my god” sabrina laughed, immediately going after you.

“fucking bitch”

trevor scoffed, walking away in anger. john and nico looked at each other, wide eyes. "holy shit."

lol hey... this sucked but hey! tags: @honethatty12 , @slaythehousebootsdown13 , @lovinbarzal , @outrunangelss , @absolutelyhugh3s , @hockeyboysarehot , @shadowsndaisies @lxnceclercs

#hockey #jack hughes #nhl imagine #nhl #nhl hockey #new jersey #quinn hughes #new jersey devils #jack hughes x reader #luke hughes #jack hughes x you #jack hughes x y/n #trevor zegras #mitch marner #auston matthews #toronto maple leafs #now that we don't talk

[kitorin]

dear stranger.

in which, itoshi rin is terrible at keeping promises.

contents. itoshi rin x reader, hurt no comfort (just not from rin himself), childhood friends, unrequited feelings (implied), reader is a year older than rin, a bit of isagi x reader at the end, all word vomit it's past 1 am cut me some slack

a/n. kinda short since my recent fics were so long and i need a break (i have more planned anyways)

For as long as you can remember, Itoshi Rin has always been there.

You were two peas in a pod; inseparable, possessing a bond that no one could ever replicate. You've known each other since birth, and your mothers had been best friends even before you were born.

All four seasons and all year long, you were together. Winter was composed of snow fights, snoozing inside of a kotatsu, with a cup of hot chocolate. Gasping while pointing at the gorgeous cherry blossoms blooming in the spring, eagerly trying to catch the petals dancing with the wind. Splashing and kicking up water at the beach with each other, enjoying refreshing watermelon as you both bask within the warmth of the sunlight. Admiring the crimsons, saffron and golds of Autumn, giggling at the satisfying crunch of leaves lying on the pavement.

Playdates or sleepovers, either way you were both over the moon. Screaming with joy and playing together all day, later scheming to stay up all night to whisper each other every secret (all while making sure Sae sleeps undisturbed), only to pass out an hour or two later.

He's the reason why your childhood was so warm, overflowing with happy memories, the mere thought of him engulfing with you warmth.

You didn't go to the same preschools and daycares, yet you were still each other's bestfriend, and it was going to stay that way forever, if you did start primary a bit earlier than him.

"Mama what do you mean Rin won't come to school?!" The weather perfectly suited your mood, rain hammering against the roof and windows. Five year old you pouted, refusing to believe what you and his mother just announced. In protest you slammed the table, standing up.

"y/n, calm down. Rin's still going to primary as well. Just not at your school." Your mum orders you to sit down, and you obey reluctantly, as she continues throwing ingredients into the hot pot.

"But why?" A disappointed whine leaves your lips. "I want to learn more with Rinnie."

"It's okay." Rin's mother pats your hair, moving it out of your face to prevent it getting into your food. "You'll still be best friends, your mother and I didn't go to the same one either. We even grew up in different towns."

"But I want Rin at my school." Your mum sighs at how stubborn you were being.

"y/n I'll still be your bestfriend, I always will no matter what."

"But what if you find someone else." Your voice begins breaking, and your mother panics as she senses a mental breakdown, noticing early tears beginning to accumulate on your lash line.

Rin holds out his pinky. "I promise! We'll be together until we grow-, no, for the rest of our lives."

You intertwine his pinky with yours, it's so warm and soft, and his dedication makes you grin. "Promise! You're not allowed to break it."

"I swear on my life! You're not allowed to either." Both of you break out into a giggle, which earns a proud 'awwww' from your mothers, with hints of relief subtlety thanking Rin for preventing a mental breakdown from you.

That lunch had to be one of your favourites, Rin and his puppy eyes were adorable, even if his 'promise' lacked honesty and truth.

"Rin." No answer.

"Riiiin." Still no answer.

"Itoshiiii?"

He finally responds. "What?"

"Get off your phone. Talk to me." You frown, wondering what was so interesting that he'd avoid talking to you entirely, despite coming over to your house. So far all he did was remain seated in your chair, eyes focused onto the screen.

"No. It's important. 't's for an upcoming game." He doesn't even look away from his phone.

"Is it stressful? Do you want to talk about i-?"

"Shush."

You don't bother pushing the conversation, if he'd choose it over you it must've been a significant match. You spend the rest of your time reading a book, occasionally glancing at Rin.

Nothing happened.

"So, how's Rin?" Your mother asks before you sleep, doing one last check before heading to her room.

"He's good, really busy with soccer."

"You've been saying that all year. Is soccer all you talk about? What about school? Are his grades alright? How's he adapting to middle school?"

You open your mouth to answer, only to come to a horrible conclusion. You don't know. Rin's the boy you've spent over a decade with, the one who knows everything about you and you know everything about him.

Yet you can't say anything about him, aside for his dedication to soccer, which is something anyone could tell about him.

"Oh yeah! He gets along really well with his teammates, he's doing well." Before your mum suspects anything, you hastily lie, something that's not unrealistic nor concerning enough for your mother to feel the need to check. You force a yawn, hoping your mum stops asking and goes to sleep soon.

Your strategies work, as she quickly wishes you good night, leaving your room. Now you're free to start worrying.

'You've been saying that all year' now that you're finally taking it into consideration, she's right.

Because there's quite literally nothing else to tell her.

You're trying to count, trying to count how many hangouts resulted in him being glued to his phone, only stopping when your parents announce dinner.

Suddenly your lip's quivering, and anxiety blurs your vision as you feel tears gathering in your eyes.

It's still unknown to you why it's taken you forever to notice, but it's like a truck driving into you; heavy and brutal. Now that you've thought about it, you haven't properly hung out in forever, all he does is do something soccer related.

You understand having a passion. Not his cold treatment towards you, the one that was supposed to be his bestfriend.

It's just temporary, a middle school team can't even compare or come close. Rin's current behaviour was merely an attempt to adjust to middle school life, give it a year or two then you'll go back to laughing all day and building sandcastles.

"Seriously? She did that?" Rin's mum almost yells, shocked at the events recounted by your mother.

"Shhhh. Rin's sleeping."

"Poor thing... must be tired from training all the time."

You walk into the conversation halfway, blanket in hand, making your way to Rin's resting figure on the bean bag.

Gosh, he looks stunning.

His defined jaw, long eyelashes adorning his face, his bangs which rested right above his eyes, everything about him looked perfect, even if he was sleep. Even his lips look kissable in this state. You ignore that thought and carry on with what you were doing.

You're gentle and careful, ensuring you don't move the bean bag and draping your blanket over him. There's concern clouding your heart, the other day only his mum came over, apparently he had stayed home to sleep all day. You prayed his sleep schedule was okay, as you went to join your mum.

"C'mon eat more." Rin's mum smiles, she completely contrasts Rin, warm and welcoming. "Thank you for always being so nice to him. You're only a year old yet you're so much more mature. He's really lucky to have you."

If only Rin thought that. If only this 'friendship' continued because of him, instead of the close friendship between your mothers.

Your attempts to figure out what happened were fruitless, almost instantly being dismissed.

If only soccer didn't take over his life, no, if only you had stuck together during your education.

You feel so foolish, the overwhelming guilt strangling you won't go away, not even both of your mothers believe you're still bestfriends, little do they know Rin doesn't see you that way anymore. You're now essentially just strangers now,

If only he kept that stupid pinky promise.

"So Rin was that kind of person." Yoichi hums, still staring at the picture that was hidden in your desk. It's the two of you during the peak of what was supposed to be an eternal friendship, where you had an arm tightly wrapped around him. Even over a decade later you see it as a way to rub salt into the wound.

"Yeah." It wasn't easy but you ended up explaining you and Rin to your boyfriend, Yoichi. Your teeth dig into your bottom lip, fighting the urge to cry. Merely talking about him replicates the pain of that night, when you realized how truly meaningless you are to him.

"Hey." He's quick to notice your discomfort, wrapping his arms around you, lovingly patting your back. "It's okay." He whispers in your ear.

"It's not your fault."

That's what made you lose it, a choked cry and tears now streaming down your cheeks.

All this time you've been questioning if you were ever worth loving, all because someone who claimed to stay by your side forever disappeared so easily.

"It's okay, everything's okay." He continues to repeat. "I'm right here, okay? Let it all out. I'm not going anywhere."

You cling onto him, like a child. It was almost embarrassing to behave this way, weeping over someone who's probably forgotten you by now.

"'m sorry- I shouldn't be upse-"

"No. Don't treat yourself like that." Yoichi refuses to listen to anything negative about you, and that includes anything self deprecating. He carries you to your bed, placing you down gently, and joining you. Yoichi peppers you with light kisses, warmth ghosting over your face.

And he's right. You had every right to be hurt to this day. He was your bestfriend, your other half, and Rin himself took that all away from you heartlessly. The least he could've done was at least express that he wanted nothing to do with you.

"I promise you, I'm going to destroy him during our next game. I don't care if we're on the same team, I'm scoring more goals than him no matter what. No one deserves to treat you like that." Yoichi goes for a deeper kiss this time, rough, calloused hands cupping your cheeks. "Don't even think about saying you weren't good enough for Rin. You're perfect." Even after pouring your heart out and bawling because of it, you can't help but smile.

You're finally coming to terms with it, that the Rin who you'd play tag with along the graceful shores of Kamakura, was now a mere stranger to you, one that you'll hold dear to your heart.

tagging. @kiyumiya

© kitorin : do not repost, plagiarize, change, or translate

#ok i go sleep now #bye bye #blue lock #bllk x reader #bllk #blue lock x reader #itoshi rin #itoshi rin x reader #rin itoshi x reader #blue lock rin itoshi #bllk itoshi rin #angst #hurt no comfort #isagi yoichi blue lock #isagi yoichi #isagi x y/n #isagi x you #bllk isagi #isagi yoichi x reader #isagi x reader #isagi imagines

[matchajoon]

Someeeething comforting Jinnie like he is tired but can't sleep because he keeps overthinking a situation or fight with someone else and reader comforts him and sings him to sleep

Maybe even the morning after where he realises how he might be in love or something ❤️‍🩹

i’d hold you as the water rushes in (현진 x gn!reader)

pairing: hwang hyunjin x gn!reader. genre: angst, hurt/comfort, fluff. warnings/commentary: 1.7k. angst is apparently my new thing slay we love being traumatised. hyunjin being cyberbullied (i don't know the entire extent irl but I'm hoping that he can't see any of the stuff i've seen on tl). jinnie is a cry baby. we love a vulnerable baby in this house. reader is obviously pining but jinnie doesn't know that. mention of the other members but no direct interaction. never proof read - i got possessed writing so i can't explain shit. my writing is never a real portrayal of any of the members of skz. directory

It was two in the morning and Hyunjin could still see the cruel Bubble messages he was constantly spammed with behind his eyelids when he closed his eyes. It had been over two years of the consistent barrage of messages and although he was also flooded with support and love from Stays, sometimes it weighed too heavily on his mind.

The specific targeted hatred made nausea sour his stomach and although he could ignore the way these messages made him feel for the most part, it had been building and building in his mind for a while now.

Hyunjin wasn’t always good at compartmentalising and given the expectations surrounding Bubble and those interactions with Stays, it was difficult to separate the feeling surrounding the cruel messages from the kind. He knew obviously they were worlds apart, but the bad experience had soured the interaction as a whole for him.

Hyunjin had given up on sleeping so far, his mind far too busy despite the tiredness that kept him in his bed. Well, that wasn’t the only thing keeping him snuggled beneath the covers, despite his inability to succumb to sleep - you were currently burrowed into his side, your breath soft and slow against his neck.

You were Hyunjin’s best friend (obviously not inclusive of his members) but your relationship was very different from the one he had with the rest of the Kids. He wasn’t entirely sure if your relationship was the most platonic one but he wouldn’t change it for anything, the comfort and love the two of you shared was like no other and the way he missed you when he or you were away was something desperate. He found such comfort in your very presence, from the way you smiled at him, the way you smelled when you wrapped your arms around him and the way you laughed, you were imprinted on his memory forever more. The love Hyunjin had for you was deep and sometimes he wasn’t sure how platonic but all that mattered was that at the end of the day, you were in his arms and he was in yours.

He had attempted multiple times to express how you made him feel within his paintings, the colours, the strokes and the time he put into them varying but each time he just felt that he couldn’t quite get the feeling and the depth of it on the paper. You showered Hyunjin with compliments no matter what he did, he knew you would always support him in his endeavours but the fondness and pride in your eyes when you looked upon his paintings for you was unparalleled, whether you could see the emotions he was trying to convey or not.

“-Mmmm, Jinnie? Are you still awake?” Hyunjin jumped, pulled from his thoughts by your voice, thick with sleep but curious. He glanced down to look at you, guilt staining his features at the idea that he’d woken you. You must have been able to make out his expression, as he saw your brows pull together in the darkness and you reached for the nightlight, pulling slightly away from him as you did. The sheer panic that filled him at you pulling from his side made Hyunjin bite down on his tongue, his hands curling into fists and then the room was flooded with warm light.

You peered over at him, eyes wide and confused as you took in Hyunjin’s state. You were still soft with sleep, your eyes a little unfocused still and you seemed to be still taking everything in. You must have been able to make out the tears beginning to fill his eyes as your face pinched with worry, your mouth forming his name and that sad, upside down smile you did made the tears begin to drip down his cheeks.

“Oh Jinnie- honey- c’mere, come, come come.” You made grabby hands motions, your fingers tugging when they came in contact with his t-shirt and you drew him to you, warm and solid as he buried his face into your shoulder. The sob that shuddered through him was more violent than he’d anticipated, your fingers coming up to press against his spine as you shushed quietly in his ear.

“Shh, shh, shh- it's okay Jinnie baby- oh honey. I’m here. I’m here- I’m not going anywhere.” Your other hand came up, snaking through the hair at the back of his neck to run over his scalp, nails scratching gently as Hyunjin wept hot tears into your top.

“Oh, my Jinnie. We’re okay. You’re okay. Do I need to call someone?” You whispered, your fingers not stopping in their soothing but Hyunjin could feel you were a little tense against him, the worry in your voice beginning to take on a panicked note.

“No- no. Just need you. -’M sorry. I’m so sorry.” You shushed him again, very gently and he felt some of the tension leave you as you relaxed back, taking him with you as you settled back into the pillows. He moved his head, shifting his face to hide in your neck and you cupped his jaw briefly, fingers soft before you buried your face in his hair, arms tightening around him with a strength that almost surprised him.

“Mmm, my Jinnie is so strong. You are such a strong baby boy, so so strong and I’m so proud of you. Always, always. Everything you do is wonderful and you are so talented and you work so hard and I miss you more than anything or anyone when you’re not around. I want to protect you from everything but I know you need to do things yourself, but you shouldn’t have to. I wish I could take all the pain and the sadness and the cruelty away, more than anything my Jinnie.” The surge of warmth and love that filled Hyunjin was stifling and he shook with another sob as he processed your words, turning his face up to look at you, his eyes wet with tears and his mouth a swollen pout.

“I love you so much Jinnie. More than I can bear sometimes. Seeing you like this, I will never stop loving and protecting you, as much as I can and as best I can.” Hyunjin clutched at you, his knuckles white as he tried his best to crush the two of you together so you were just a single, perfect being.

“You’re so much more honey. So much more than anyone knows or thinks. I promise. You can sleep- I’m here and I’ll protect you from everything. I promise Jinnie, I promise.” He nodded into your skin, the tears in his eyes beginning to grow lighter and the exhaustion coupled with the heaving sobs was becoming too much. Your fingers had begun tracing against his spine and as he allowed sleep to begin to tug him under, he could hear you beginning to hum a familiar song. His song for Kkomi. His heart, or where he thought his heart was twisted in his chest and suddenly the exhaustion of it all was more than he could fight back.

“Love you more than anyone.” Hyunjin mumbled, turning his face back to hide in your neck and he felt you smile, your chin coming to rest on the top of his head.

“Night night Jinnie. I’ll be here when you wake up.” You whispered, fingers smoothing over the pinch of his brows with a quiet tut.

“Promise?” The pleading tone didn’t go unheard and you wanted desperately to pull him closer still, hold him so tightly the two of you shattered.

“Promise. Now sleep.” And finally, Hyunjin could shut his eyes. None of the messages blinked back at him when he did and lulled by you resuming humming ‘miss you,’ he curled into both your embrace and that of sleep.

The midday sun had won the war with the curtains, light splashing across Hyunjin’s face and he whined, scrunching his nose as he shifted to escape the sunlight. He didn’t get very far as he found himself practically laying on top of you as he wriggled and you let out a quiet grumble at being disturbed, although you shifted to allow him to wriggle into your arms.

Your features were highlighted in the sun and as he looked down at you, the urge to paint you immediately possessed him. You were beautiful always but especially now, bathed in morning sunlight and unaware of the world around you and he loved you, so much. The depth of that love scorched through him, making him sit up very straight as he came to the realisation quite suddenly that he loved you. Like, love love. Not just how he loved his members or his parents.

“I love you.” He said out loud, tasting the words and the intensity of the feelings bursting with his chest, a feeling like when he was dancing or painting but different, more pinpointed and at the end of it all, you. Always you.

“I love you too Jinnie.” Your voice pulled him from his thoughts, snapping his attention to your face. Your eyes were opened, blinking in the sunlight and there was a confused little pinch between your brows, one that Hyunjin wanted desperately to kiss away.

“No, I love you. Like I wanna get married and run away together and live in a cottage by the sea with honeysuckle on the outside and fields of flowers all around. And we can make bread and the members can visit sometimes and maybe we-” You cut him off with a kiss to his cheek, one that brings him back out of his own head again. “I’m not kissing you properly till we’ve both brushed our teeth but- for what it's worth- I love you the same. I have for longer than I’d like to admit.” You smiled up at him, your eyes bright and it was all Hyunjin can do to stop himself from leaning in to kiss you for real. He bolted towards the bathroom instead, startling you but once you hear his teeth brushing, you let out a laugh, hurrying after him to do the same, both of you shaking with laughter.

When Hyunjin finally kisses you, or do you kiss him, it's sunlight and mint toothpaste and dreams of honeysuckle and the unknown of the future that you’d move together towards.

#hwang hyunjin x reader #hyunjin x reader #hwang sam x reader #hhj x reader #skz x reader #stray kids x reader #stray kids fluff #stray kids hurt/comfort

[metallicaislife]

Brothers Best Friend pt 2

Requested by: @frogfrog557

Genre: Fluff

Word Count: 1,013

Warnings: Pregnant!Reader

Brothers Best Friend

When I started dating my brother's best friend all those years ago, I had no idea we’d be where we are now. Engaged, and a child on the way. Kirk was a little weary in the beginning, but he’s come around, I think it is mostly because he is excited to be an uncle. I jest, he and James have a good relationship, and it makes my heart happy. I always wanted to have a close family when I grew up. 

Metallica is currently in the middle of recording a new album, so I haven’t seen much of them as they’ve kept themselves mostly cooped up in the studio. I miss my man, my brother, and my friends. I decided I would order them lunch to be delivered, then show up to hopefully break up the rigorous schedule they’ve been holding themselves to so they don’t go crazy and end up at each other’s throats. 

I arrived around noon, the food was gone and they were back to recording. They were focusing really hard, but I wish I could have recorded James and Kirk duking it out trying to see who could get to me first. 

“That’s my sister!” Kirk said, trying to get past James. 

“Yeah, well she’s my fiance and carrying my baby!” James argued, sticking his butt out to keep Kirk from getting past. Over the years, those two have truly become brothers, this is my future forever.

Meanwhile both Lars and Jason snuck past. 

“Hey.” Lars grinned and gave me a hug, “Thanks for lunch by the way. It was great.” 

“Of course!” I smiled and then greeted Jason with a hug.

“How is the kiddo?” Jason asked. 

“Healthy, and active. Been keeping me up all night.” I replied. 

“The kid’s got drumming feet.” Lars grinned. 

“No!” Both Kirk and James shouted. They both jolted forward out of the sound room. 

“My kid has riff’s in their blood!” James said.

“I second that! Their uncle is a guitarist too, so it runs on both sides.” Kirk said. 

I rolled my eyes as James finally made it to me and wrapped his arms around me. 

“Hello, love.” He grinned down at me then kissed me. I kissed him back, wrapping my arms around him. He pulled back and kissed my forehead. 

“Can I hug my sister now?” Kirk huffed, folding his arms. I laughed and gave him a big hug. 

“You two are ridiculous.” I stated. 

“You love us anyways though right?” James asked, wrapping his arm around my shoulder. 

“Most of the time.” I teased. James held his heart pretending to be wounded. “How's the recording going? Are you guys almost done?” I asked as we sat around on the couches. 

“We’re getting close, baby.” James said as he rubbed my back. 

“James has been tight lipped about names, what are you thinking?” Kirk asked. 

“Well, we’re waiting until the baby is born, then we’ll name them.” I said. 

“Like what names are you considering though? Lars is high on the list right?” Lars asked. 

“You wish.” James laughed. 

“Sorry, not a contender.” I laughed, I looked down and clasped my fingers together, “We are thinking about incorporating Cliff’s middle name no matter what though.” I said. James grabbed my hand, giving it a comforting squeeze. “If he hadn’t caught us, I don’t think I’d have ever been brave enough to tell Kirk.” I smiled at the memory. 

“I love that.” Kirk said, “I wasn’t that bad was I?” He asked. 

“Literally every boyfriend I had before James you chased off.” I said looking at him. 

“I was just helping you out, if they’d have stayed you might not have fallen for James.” Kirk pointed out. 

“Naw, those two were meant for each other, I don’t think there is anything that could’ve stood in their way.” Jason piped up. I smiled at him and blushed. 

“Damn it, Jason, you made her cry.” Lars said. I felt my cheek and there were tears. 

“No, no it’s the hormones.” I said, wiping the tears. James chuckled and kissed my forehead. 

“Yeah, it doesn't take much to get her going these days.” James said and I elbowed him softly. 

“I’m fine, they are happy tears if anything.” I said. 

“Aw, I think she loves us.” Lars grinned, holding his hand over his heart.

“If you only think, you’ve got an ass whooping coming your way, you should know.” I said sharply pointing my finger at him. I was totally joking, but the fear in Lars' eyes was priceless. Kirk covered his mouth in an attempt to hide his laughter. James was shaking next to me. Jason covered his face. My demeanor broke and I began cracking up. Lars laughed awkwardly. “Do you really think I would, or could kick your ass Ulrich?” I asked. 

“What answer is going to make you the least likely to punch me in the throat?” He asked. I rolled my eyes.

“You know, that is a fair point, I’ve heard you threaten throat punches for years, but I don’t think I’ve actually seen you punch someone in the throat.” James piped up. 

“Don’t tempt her.” Kirk said, rubbing his throat. 

“Oh my god, she’s punched you in the throat?” Jason asked, Kirk nodded.

“That was an accident.” I said. 

“Yeah, you accidentally formed a fist and aimed it at my throat.” Kirk said. 

“I can neither confirm nor deny those accusations, but all I’m saying is you shouldn’t have eaten my leftovers that I was dreaming about all day.” I said with a wave, “I think this conversation has gotten away from us.” I tried changing the subject. 

“We should probably get back to work.” James frowned, “Why don’t you stay though, chill on the couches. It always feels better when you’re around.” He said. 

“I’d love to.” I smiled and kissed him. 

The guys got back to work and I curled up for a nap on the couch. I’m glad even if it was just for a little bit, to give them a reprieve from work.

Thank you for reading! Feel free to request or chat :)

-Isa

#metallica x reader #metallica #metallica imagines #metallica scenarios #metallica fluff #james hetfield #james hetfield x reader #james hetfield fluff

[winterrrnight]

Arabella — one

PAIRING: soft!rafe cameron x fem!oc

WARNINGS: wounds, blood, abuse

EDITH SPEAKS: I haven't written full fics in SO LONG, because I always end up disbanding them sooner or later 🥲 I really hope this doesn't happen with this fic because I really like it's idea :(

anyways, I hope you all like this! This may not be the most interesting chapter but is essential to kick start the story! Likes and reblogs are highly appreciated, and I would love any sorts of feedback you may have! 🌟

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I run, run as if my life depends on it.

My light duffle bag bounces on my shoulders and my dress flails along with me as I run. I feel the pain in my head throbbing with each passing second, but I ignore it.

My breathing is heavy, I start to feel light headed, and my throat starts to close up from the dehydration.

Just there, only a few more minutes.

My knees start to ache and the pain spreads all the way down to my calves, but I know if I stop now, I will never have the energy to keep on going.

Once I spot the familiar lights of the train station, I'm filled with a ray of hope. I pick up speed despite the pain spreading throughout my legs and finally reach at one of the ticket counters. With the money I snagged from my mom without her knowing, I get myself a ticket; my way of getting out of this hellhole.

Dear mom, you'll never seen me again.

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The sunlight is almost blinding as I step outside of the train station. The salt air hits me like a bullet in the face, and I already find myself feeling hot. I remove the shirt I was wearing over my dress and tie it around my waist.

I remember the way to my dad's house like the back of my hand. The train station is right next to the seaside, so to get on the other side of the island I need to get on a boat. Taking the next ferry, I'm on my way to my dad's place.

He lives on the rich side of the island, which is Figure 8. When my mom and dad separated, I wanted to go with him. He's always taken such good care for me, always been there for me whenever I wanted to talk to someone. But my mom won my custody, so things were going totally opposite to what I wanted.

I only get to visit my dad once a year, and it's at Christmas. Each time I always wish to stay here forever and leave my mom. I absolutely love Kildare Island. I love it's beaches and it's oceans, but mostly, I love my dad.

This time, my mom overstepped her boundaries. I knew I couldn't stay there. So I ran away without thinking twice about it.

The ferry starts to come to it's stop and I look to see we are nearing the dock. As I get off the ferry, the people around stare at me, and for a second I'm confused, but then I remember the wound on my head. I reach my fingers up to the side of my head to feel the dried up blood. It will be taken care of at my dad's place now. 

I have to walk the last leg of my journey to my dad's place. His place is barely five minutes away from the dock, so it's a quick walk. I find myself in streets which I recognise very well, having played and ran on them as a child throughout my life.

Each time I came here for Christmas, I was always determined to have fun in a way I never have. And my dad was my best companion. He would take me wherever I wanted to go, always holding my hand by my side. My favourite time was always when we went to the beach. He would let me swim in the water for as long as I wanted, and he would be ready with all sorts of snacks before I came out of the water.

I catch myself smiling at his memories, totally zoned out while I'm walking. When I snap back from my haze, I see I have reached my dad's place.

It suddenly hits me, I have come here without any notice. What if he's busy? What if he's not here? What if. . . he doesn't want me here? I take in a deep breathe and remind myself that all is fine, before walking up to the door and ringing the bell.

I can almost hear my heartbeat thumping as I anxiously wait for my dad to open the door. The door suddenly swings opens and there is my dad standing, a look of shock on his face.

"Arabella?" He asks, his eyes wide.

"Hey dad," I mumble, starting to feel tears form in my eyes upon seeing him. Without any doubt, I rush to him and wrap my arms around him, my head resting on his chest as tears freely fall down my face. He hugs me back and rubs my back with his hand soothingly, my sobs starting to get violent.

"Sunshine, what happened?" He whispers. Sunshine. That's what he's always called me. When he was forced to leave us, I missed being called sunshine the most.

When I only give my tears as my reply, he hushes me, and closes the door behind me. With his one arm wrapped around my shoulders, he leads me to the kitchen.

But when I look around, I notice there are two people sitting in the living room. I suddenly stop crying, as I realise I'm probably embarassing my dad by suddenly appearing at his door and crying in his arms.

"I didn't know you had company, I'm sorry," I say, my voice slightly croaky.

"It's okay baby, you're more important than them," he says, whispering the last part. I softly giggle at that, and hug him again. "Please tell me what happened, and why were you bleeding?"

"We had an argument," I mumble. His eyes reflect understanding as he figures out who I'm talking about. "It got bad. She uh... she crashed one of her alcohol bottles on my head, and it cut me." I barely croak the last part out, and he brings his hand to his mouth.

"She did what?" He says, completely shocked. Me and my mom argue all the time, but it never got this far as it did yesterday.

"Yeah," i whisper, nodding my head as I feel my eyes getting teary again.

"Kai? Is everything okay?" Me and dad look at our side to see his guests in the kitchen looking at us. I notice it's an older man, around my dad's age, and a younger boy with him, who looks around my age. I make a brief eye contact with him, and his eyes trail to my wound. I drop my gaze to the floor.

"Uh... yes Ward," dad smiles. "This is my daughter, Arabella," he says, motioning to me.

"Nice to meet you Arabella," the older man - Ward, says. I nod with a little smile. "Are you okay? Do you need any help with that? Rafe here is pretty good at mending little wounds like that, his little sister Wheezie is very clumsy and falls down a lot," Ward chuckles at the end.

"Are you okay with him helping you? Or should I do it?" My dad asks me. Suddenly his phone starts to ring. He pulls it out of his pocket and sees who's calling him, but doesn't pick it up. He turns to look at me expectantly, waiting for an answer.

"You attend the call, I'm okay with him helping me," I give him a soft smile. He kisses my forehead, carefully avoiding my wound, and leaves the kitchen with Ward by his side to attend his phone call.

"The first aid kit is in his bathroom," I tell Rafe. He nods at me and we both make our way upstairs to dad's bedroom. Upon entering his bathroom, I seat myself on top of the sink, and Rafe gets the first aid kit from one of the cabinets.

So far I haven't heard him say anything. And it seems to continue this way as he silently starts to treat my wound, very carefully applying the antiseptic so that it doesn't hurt a lot, and layering the bandaid on it gently.

I notice his blue eyes slightly widened as he focuses to treat my wound. His eyes remind me of the deep, deep ocean, and the mysteries that float in it.

"Is it done?" I ask, when he moves back from me and looks at my head, as if he's inspecting his work. He nods as a reply and starts to keep everything back in the first aid box.

"Thank you," I say, as I get off the counter.

"Where did you get it from?" He suddenly says. His voice is deep, and almost melodious. I don't think I've ever heard a voice as pretty as his.

"It's uh, it's nothing," I say quietly. I wonder if he's going to put the same question again, urging me to give him an answer. But he doesn't say anything, and continues to keep everything back in first aid box. I take the box from him and keep it in its allotted place.

No other words are exchanged between the two of us as we make our way back to the living room, seeing our dads sitting next to each other on the couch and discussing something. Upon hearing our footsteps, they both look up at us and get up from the couch.

"Thank you for such a wonderful lunch Kai," Ward says, shaking Dad's hand. "Me and Rafe had a great time."

Dad smiles at his words and tells them they are welcome at our house anytime they want to. Now Ward looks at me, his gaze on my now bandaged wound.

"I hope we'll see you around Arabella," He says to me, with a smile. I smile back, but don't say anything, mostly because I'm not very sure on what to reply with. Rafe silently follows Ward and dad outside the house.

As dad bids them goodbye, he comes back inside and takes my hand in his. His other hand makes its way to my wound, and he gently touches it. "Did he bandage it okay?" He asks.

"Yes," I tell him.

"Come on, you must be pretty tired and hungry. I'll make you something to eat."

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TAGLIST: @runningfrom2am @ragingsammie @maybankslover @totalswag @madelynie @chenslucy @ietss @elle-mp3 @viawritesstuff @wallsdreams @tahliac11 @sadfury

#rafe cameron #rafe cameron x female oc #rafe cameron series #soft!rafe #soft!rafe x oc #soft!rafe cameron #rafe cameron oneshot #rafe cameron fanfic #rafe cameron fanfiction #rafe cameron fic #rafe cameron fluff #rafe cameron imagine #soft rafe cameron #rafe obx #rafe outer banks #outerbanks rafe #arabella #arabella by arctic monkeys #written by edith! 🪄

[tillthelandslide]

Insufferable Arsehole Part 9: The Best Thing That Ever Happened - Matty Healy Series

A/n: omg it's officially the end...

Of the first half of the series, sorry that was mean I know... This series is not over yet my loves don't you worry! I will be taking a short break after posting this chapter, during this time I will be working on my Ross Macdonald series and working on some blurbs, if you have any ideas please send them over to me :) I've got a few blurbs lined up to do with this series so if you want to see more of Lou and Matty let me know any ideas you have. I love you all - L

Warnings: probably spelling mistakes. Little hint of smut

Series Masterlist

Part 8

They were all feeling a little sad that it was the end of the first leg. They knew it wouldn't be too long until they'd see each other again, but they had all been having the best time with each other.

George was being extra cuddly today, holding Lou to his side at any opportunity he got, only letting her go when Ross or Adam wanted a turn. It was a wordless understanding between the whole band: Matty and Lou would still be together after the tour but everyone else would be without her. It was simple to say they had gotten used to having her there, they had become slightly dependent on her and knowing they'd soon be without her (for a short period of time) disheartened them.

"Going to miss you" George says before pressing a kiss to the top of her head. They had two more shows before they had to say goodbye.

Everyone was slightly hungover from the previous night out (save from Matty and Lou who hadn't drunk much).

"Me too G... Me too" she says before pulling him into her hold. They heard a mumble from behind them.

"Can I get in on that?" Ross' voice was about an octave lower than usual, tired and hungover himself.

They wordlessly opened their arms to the tall man. They stay like that for a while and somewhere, somehow, Adam squeezes his way in. Lou feels herself tearing up, being held by her boys. Matty walks in on the four of them, his heart swelling upon seeing them. He quickly snaps a picture, he knew this would be imprinted on his memory forever but somehow that wasn't enough, he needed evidence.

He thinks about joining them, but decides not too, leaving the room quietly, leaving them to have their own moment.

Mia, Rose and Cami come in some time after Matty leave, all three of them very hungover. Mia finds her sister on the sofa, clinging to her.

"I know you'll be coming back home soon, but I've really missed you" she says and Lou finds herself gripping her tightly.

"I've missed you too. Didn't quite realise how much until you were all here" Mia just hugs her at that, pressing a kiss to her cheek. Their hands find each other and they don't let go.

"So... Ross?" Lou can't help herself but ask and Mia chuckles before blushing.

"Nothing happened" she whispers, not wanting anyone to over hear "he was very respectful, we just danced... It was nice, I like him" she says and it makes Lou smile. She doesn't press any further than that.

"Can I have her back now?" George asks with a pout, standing above them. He looked like a child, hands fumbling against each other and a sad pout rested against his lips.

"You've had her all this time, let me have her a bit" Mia says and Lou chuckles. She shakes her head, patting the spot next to her, letting George know he can sit.

Lou holds both of them, her eyes find Matty's across the room who smiles across at her. She knew she'd miss everyone so much, but was so excited to spend time alone with the man.

"I love you" he mouths and she feels herself blush mouthing the same words back.

--------------------------------------------------------

Lou lays at Matty's side, the curly haired man dozing lightly but she was wide awake next to him, gently playing with his hair, dotting kisses around his face and mouth making him hum.

"God you're the best thing that has ever happened to me" she speaks, her voice barely a whisper but it wakes him. A huge grin spreading across his face, he pulls her body into his, squeezing her tightly, figuring it's the only way he can describe how he's feeling right now.

"I really love you" is all he can say, but it's enough. Her lips find his, their kiss is slow, a sleepy lazy, one but filled with passion and love nonetheless.

"Think we should do a robbers kiss..." Matty suggests, lips still pressed against hers. She hums against him, pulling him closer by his shoulders until he's hovering over her. She ignores his words for a few minutes, getting carried away by the feeling of him presses heavily where he tested in between her thighs and the way he's mouth moved like second nature against hers.

"Everyone's been asking for it" he says, not allowing himself to get quite as distracted as her until he's groaning as her hand wraps around his member, threading the head of him through her core, making the both of them groan.

"You just want an excuse to kiss me in front of thousands of people" she says, moaning when he pushes into her.

"Absolutely" he says, making her chuckle, the sound quickly being replaced by a moan.

"Okay" she agrees, mouth meeting his in a mess of teeth and tongue.

Despite how many times this happened, they would never get used to it, surprised every time with how passionate it was, how intense and freeing it was.

Matty knew her body like the back of hand at this point, she was his and he loved it.

He swore he'd spend every waking moment worshiping her if it was possible, but for now he'd settle on being buried in her, intent on making her see stars, aware of how much he loved her.

"You feel so good love" he moans, head snapping backwards as his hips moved forward.

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Matty is standing below the stage as Lou leans down from her place on the stage, their lips press together as they laugh, George snaps a picture from behind them.

"That's not how you're going to do it right?" He asks and all three of them laugh, Lou jumps down from the stage to meet them and each of them wrap an arm around her.

"Na just practicing" Lou says and George rolls his eyes.

"As if you need to practice" he says and Matty and Lou share a look before they're all laughing.

"People are going to go crazy you know that right?" George asks, a clear smirk resting on his face. The trio share a knowing look, knowing that this kiss would cause mayhem in the area later that day. Lou smiles, eyes flicking between two of her favorite men.

"come here" she says, pulling both of them towards her and sharing a hug with the both of them.

"I fucking love you guys" she says, smiling widely as she's smushed between them. They were her home.

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She felt nervous when 'Robbers' started playing, she knew the crowd would go mental when they finally shared their kiss. Matty keeps looking at her, making her smile widely. At one point he nods at her, checking she still wanted to go through with it, she of course nods back and then he's walking towards her.

He stops singing, the boys filling in the vocals whilst he places one hand on the top of her head, smoothing a hand down the back of her hair. The crowd instantly screams, knowing what's coming.

"There's no one like you" he says before he's leaning down, she reaches up and their lips meet, the crowds screams somehow get louder and they smile against each other's mouths. He pulls away and continues singing although his voice is nearly drowned out by the crowd making Lou laugh loudly.

The band finish the song and Matty speaks.

"Jesus that was wild, didn't expect that" he says and everyone laughs. Matty and Lou share a look, both smiling widely at each other. She sighs a truly content sigh as her eyes wonder over his features. She knew she'd never truly be able to describe how she felt for the man, she knew however she described it, wouldn't suffice. But looking at him in that moment, she knew that no one had ever loved another as deeply as she loved him. She knew that no matter where she was, what she was doing, she'd choose him; always.

"My beautiful, amazing, talented girlfriend Lou everyone" Matty says as he walks back over to her, wrapping her up in a tight hug, making the audience coo.

"I love you sweetheart, you my everything" he murmurs into her hair as he pressed a kiss there.

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They all sit together, only getting up when Jamie informs them that it's time to go to the airport. They all bundle into the cars, silently sitting whilst it moves to their location.

They all seemed to be at a loss for words, no words shared the whole journey, not even as they walked through the airport. Eventually they all halted in the middle of it, looking around at everyone for a second as if they didn't want to start saying their goodbyes.

But, as if someone had flicked a switch in their brains, everyone was saying goodbye to each other.

John was the first she went too, giving him a tight hug "look after yourself Waughy, you absolute legend. Thank you for everything" he grants her a peck to her cheek with a "you're the legend" and a "make sure he looks after you" before she's moving onto the next person.

Jamie pulls her tightly to him, nearly taking her off the ground as he does, "don't be a stranger" he says simply. "Never" she utters back "let me know when you're doing your solo tour yeah?" She jokes, because that man had pipes and it was only time.

Polly is next and the two girls all but cry into each other "fuck Matty, go on holiday with me" she jokes and the two kiss, just a friendly peck "I love you seriously... I'll miss you Pol" Lou says. She hugs Gabi tightly next with a "goodbye cool kid".

Carly is next and Lou sighs deeply as their arms wrap around each other, the hug they share is one of two people who had become best friends, two people who found each other and immediately clicked. Lou knew she'd miss worrying about her and the baby (however unnecessary)

"Look after that bubba for me" Lou says and Carly starts crying in her arms.

"It's a boy" she whispers and Lou gasps as she pulls back, eyes finding Carly's to make sure she's serious.

"He's going to be the most loved little man ever. I'll miss you both" she says and Carly nods, not able to say anything else, hugging once more before she moves to the next people.

Cami and Rose say goodbye at the same time, a group hug with little words shared, it wasn't needed. "See ya when you're back. Have the best time. We'll miss you' is all they say before they push her along, the way they saw it, she had more important people to be saying goodbye too, they were selfless like that.

Adam was next, having just been wrapped up in a hug from Ross.

"Hann" she says as he hugs her tightly "thank you for everything mate. I'll miss you" the whole thing was a bit ridiculous, it wouldn't be long until they were with each other, but every single one of them was distraught that they'd be without each other: they were each other's home.

"I love you" he says simply, a rare occurrence for the man and she smiles into him before she's leaving his arms. She moves to the next person, heart sinking when she sees the bearded man, someone she'd miss dearly, probably more than the others, as harsh as it was to say.

"Don't you dare" he points at her, knowing if she'd cry he would too "it's not going too be long rockstar" she goes to speak but he shuts her up with a tight hug.

"Don't miss me too much MacDonald" he laughs at that. He squeezes her and they share a long hug before he's ushering her onto the person next to him.

The next person she didn't need to say goodbye too, that's how her and Mia worked. They both knew if they said goodbye they wouldn't leave so they simply didn't, just blowing each other a kiss before she moved along the line of people, arriving at her best friend.

"Fuck man" George says, his hand running across his buzz cut, lifting his glasses "I don't think I can do this" he says and he sighs, all the air seemingly leaving his body.

"Don't be silly you big baby, come here" his in her arms then, picking her up from the ground making her laugh.

"I'll miss ya pumpkin" his words have tears springing to her eyes, threatening to fall

"It won't be long at all" and that was the truth, it wasn't literally two weeks but after spending a whole leg of a tour together, it was going to be hard. She knew she was trying to convince herself of her words as much as she was trying to convince George.

"Okay leave. Before I make you come home with me" he says and she laughs, pulling back to look at him.

"Have the best time okay?" George says and she nods, the tears that were threatening to fall, coating her cheeks now. George simply runs his fingers along her cheek, wiping them away and smiling down at her, booping her nose to make her giggle. She nods up at him, hugging one last time before she leaves him.

She finally arrives at Jamie who gives her a quick hug before going into manager mode "okay so you've got everything you need yes? Not going to call me from wherever he's taking you telling me your missing an organ or something?" He says making Lou laugh loudly, pulling him back into a hug.

"yes Jamie"

"Okay... Good. Have a good time" he says before pointing at Matty "you. Behave. Text me. Call me whenever alright? Treat her good" he says seriously, and they hug.

"Can't promise to behave too much" he says making him laugh.

Everyone leaves then, and Matty hooks his arm over Lou's shoulder.

"You okay baby?" He asks, seeing her tear coated cheeks.

She nods "going to miss them is all" she says, and he smiles down at her.

"I know... Me too... But you've got me yeah?" He says, thing to reassure her and the way her heart swells and picks up it's pace shows her that it works.

"Yeah I've got you" she smiles widely, leaning up to place a kiss to his lips.

"Ready love?" He asks, she nods, not knowing where they were going but knowing she'd go to the end of earth of that man.

"To Rome" he says and her face lights up, pulling him into her.

"Rome!" She exclaims excitedly, he laughs, smiling down at her. He can't help but press his mouth to hers.

"I fucking love you"

"I love you too. Let's go to Rome baby!!!" She's all but jumping then. They begin walking, his arm hooked over her shoulders.

"Can't wait to fuck you in Rome" then they're laughing loudly. They didn't know what was in store for them, but they knew they were in love, finally with their person, the person who was meant for them. They were happy. They both knew, after everything they had been through, the hardships in their lives, the heartbreak and disappointment, they were finally where they were supposed to be, with who they were supposed to be with.

#the 1975 fanfic #matty healy #the 1975 #matty healy x reader #matty healy smut #ross macdonald #george daniel #adam hann #matty healy x oc #matty healy fanfic #matty healy fan fic #insufferable arsehole matty healy series #matty the 1975 #matty healy fanfiction #matty healy fic #matty healy fluff #matty healy imagine

[crowleyholmes]

Can you tell me about your Sherlock Holmes interest? You blogging about it has intrigued me!! Do you have a favourite adaptation you'd recommend? What do you love about the dynamic? I'm very interested to hear your thoughts!

(totally all good if you don't feel like answering, no stress 🩵 your posts just made me super interested but I wouldn't know where to start with engaging in such a huge volume of media)

Ohhhhhh what an ask to wake up to. I hope you know what you've done. You've just given me permission to unleash my full insanity on you. (I love you I love you I love you I lo- bless you)

I'm gonna be so honest I didn't even know where to start until I decided to just tackle your questions one by one so HERE I GO

(Under the cut so everybody who doesn't care can just scroll right by <3)

“Tell me about your SH interest”

Alright, I'll just out and admit it, it all started with BBC Sherlock – I'm sure I'm not alone with this. I absolutely fell in love with this show, then got so thoroughly disappointed by the last season I thought okay, this can't be right. I refuse. So started to read the original ACD Holmes stories and feLL EVEN MORE IN LOVE. The next christmas my brother (bless him) got me this absolutely Stunning collection of (almost) all the Holmes stories:

And I dove headfirst into them. Couldn't get my nose out of them. Started teaching myself to play the violin because Holmes plays it and I loved him so much, that's how obsessed I was.

For a while my irl best friend and I read the stories together, 1 or 2 per day, and we'd send each other voice messages discussing what happened and what we THOUGHT the solution was and then we'd read on to the end and discuss again and it was soooo fun. We stopped eventually and I read the rest by myself but those evenings are such fond memories for me I just had to include them here too <3

Okay but before this gets too personal, let's move on to the actual questions you asked!

“Do you have a favorite adaptation?”

DO I EVER.

OHHHHH DO I.

YES I DO.

I'm sure every adaptation out there is brilliant in one way or another but, for me, THE Sherlock Holmes will forever be Jeremy Brett in the 1984 Granada TV series. Unfortunately they had to recast his Watson, but fortunately both Watsons are WONDERFUL and no matter how many times I rewatch I can never decide who I love more. Both David Burke and Edward Harwicke are absolutely brilliant.

There are. Several things that set Granada Holmes apart from other adaptations, to me. Let me attempt to list a few of them without getting too carried away.

I have to start with Jeremy Brett because he's just so wonderful. Also, when I read the Holmes stories, the character my brain conjured looked almost exactly like Brett, even before I'd ever seen him. Perfect casting. I mean just look at this legend.

Also, the way he cared about this character – he came up with an entire backstory for Holmes, and it influenced his acting choices and there are some moment where it clearly shines through and it's so heartbreaking. There is a moment in one episode where Watson is talking about another character who was very lonely growing up (while giving Holmes a meaningful look), and Holmes doesn't get any direct verbal response to it but you can see on Jeremy's face that Holmes relates and it still hurts to think about, and YEAH IT HURTS ME TOO.

In the books, Holmes often goes days without eating when he's on a case, because food is a distraction to him – Well, during filming, when everbody else would go have lunch, Jeremy would often stay on set and study the scripts to perfect and refine every nuance of the way he played it. Once again, perfect Holmes.

Also, in Granada Holmes, Holmes is allowed to be silly. So often, Holmes is portrayed as this cold, loveless logic-machine, but that is not who he is!! In Granada, he gets to laugh and have fun and hum and twirl and jump over furniture and just. Be human. Watson brings out that side of him, and Brett portrays that so beautifully.

It was also extremely important to Brett that the TV show remain as faithful as possible to the books - and I've heard that, more than once, he made the writers change the script because he didn't agree with their take on Holmes. (And judging from the way he plays him: he was most likely correct.)

But you know what they changed? The ONE thing that's in the book that they very intentionally changed, that they very VERY purposefully left out? Watson's marriage.

In Granada Holmes, Watson never marries. He's always with Holmes.

Now, you could argue that they simply didn't want to bother with casting a Mary who would never show up anyway, or write it in there just to have it in there when they could be focussing on the fun cases instead. But. And this may be conjecture on my part, but nevertheless. Jeremy Brett was openly bisexual, so I don't think it's absurd to assume that when he read the books, he saw the same thing so many of us see. Which is that these two characters are in love. They weren't allowed to be, by the times they lived in, or even by their author (though there are theories around that which I will not get into now), but nevertheless, the love is very much there.

Another thing this adaptation does in regard to Watson (which I feel many others fail to do) is that it lets Watson be both Holmes' best friend and ALSO his equal. Of course, most of the time Holmes is doing the deducing and Watson is doing the watching and adoring and cheering on, but sometimes, every now and then, Watson gets to do some clever deducing and Holmes watches him and whenever that happens Brett's Holmes gets such heart-eyes it's unbearable to watch. (allow me to link to just this one example) So often in Holmes adaptations Watson gets belittled and made fun of and is under-appreciated, but in Granada, the opposite is true. Holmes states himself, more than once, that he needs Watson, that he would be lost without him, and Brett himself has emphasized this in interviews as well, said that Holmes would likely have died of an overdose years ago if he didn't have his Watson. Watson loves and adores Holmes, but the same is true the other way around. And it comes through So Beautifully in this show.

Have this gif, just because I like it:

.... I have not managed to keep this short, have I. Sorry.

Shall we move on?

“What do you love about the dynamic?”

I think I already party answered this in the last paragraph about why I love Granada Holmes so much, but. Let me elaborate again. Why shouldn't I? You asked, and you shall receive answers, and I could talk about this all day anyway.

I love that Holmes is very clearly and loudly Different, and not always in an easily-digestible way, but Watson doesn't mind. Not one bit. In fact, he loves him for it.

Holmes can be rude at times, because he forgets about societal conventions – Watson reminds him to be polite, but always with gentleness and kindness and amusement even.

Holmes can be an obnoxious show-off. He loves to talk about how he collected his Clues and got to his Conclusion, he loves to be clever and to be the most intelligent person in the room, he loves to be admired and praised. And Watson loves to listen to him, and loves to praise him. I kid you not, there is a passage where Watson praises Holmes for his cleverness and Watson says. Actually, let me find the passage for you, I need you to see this.

“My companion flushed up with pleasure at my words, and the earnest way in which I uttered them. I had already observed that he was as sensitive to flattery on the score of his art as any girl could be of her beauty.”

Watson knows how much it means to Holmes to be appreciated, verbally, out loud. And he does it, again and again, because it makes them both so happy.

I love how good they are for each other. Holmes provides the adventure, the excitement of the cases, and Watson is his constant, he provides the stability, the calm, routine, he's the home Holmes can come back to after his wild escapades (on the rare occasion that he does go off alone).

I love how protective they are of each other. Most often we see Watson's side of this, there are so many instances where Holmes is threatened by another character, most often a suspect in a case, and the MOMENT they even LOOK at Holmes wrong, Watson will stand up and hover protectively, glare at them, step between them, put his hand on his revolver, or actively throw hands. In most instances, Holmes doesn't need his protection. He's perfectly capable of protecting himself. Still, even knowing that, Watson is more than willing to step between Holmes and whatever perceived danger presents itself, take the punch for him, and make the other party pay.

HOWEVER. There are a few moments, here and there throughout the books, where we see Holmes' side of this. Moments where he knows an investigation will be dangerous, and he apologizes to Watson for involving him in this. (Watson never minds at all). Sometimes he tells him that he understands if Watson would rather not stick around for (insert xyz dangerous thing). (Watson always stays). One time he actively argues with Watson that he has to leave because it is too dangerous and he can't have it on his conscience if something happens to Watson. (Watson does not leave).

In one case, he lets a murderer go free because the crime was done in revenge for a murdered loved one, and Holmes muses that he likely would have done the same, if someone he loved was killed. A few cases later Holmes tells someone that “if [they] had killed Watson, [they] would not have got out of this room alive.”

I love the TRUST between them. So often, Holmes jumps into actions that seem so insane and dangerous, and all Watson can do is follow him and trust that Holmes has a plan. And sometimes (I'm thinking of a specific case here that tore my heart out) Holmes' entire plan hinges on Watson's actions, and specifically Watson's love for him, but Holmes can't TELL him because Watson is a lousy actor, so Holmes just has to trust that Watson will do exactly what needs to be done. “Don't forget, Watson. You won't fail me. You never did fail me.”

And, finally, not really a question but “I wouldn't know where to start.”

I think, personally, I would recommend starting with the first collection of short stories, which is “The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes”.

I found the novels a bit harder to get through because of the way they're structured, but that's down to personal preference I'm sure.

If you want to get a feel for the characters before you dive into the books, I can absolutely recommend simply watching the first few episodes of the Granada series. I believe they're all online? Yeah, I found them [here]!

Scandan in Bohemia was never my favorite case (for many reasons, most of which being the way every adaption seems to love to force a love story between Holmes and Irene Adler – thankfully Granada doesn't do this, but it's still simply not my favorite case), but episode 2 and 3, The Dancing Men and The Naval Treaty are two of my ABSOLUTE favorites in the whole series.

So go ahead and treat yourself!!

And if you decide to read the short stories, don't forget that most collections do not include “The Casebook of Sherlock Holmes” - but that one contains one of the most infamous moments in the entire series which fans just go absolutely insane over, so make sure to read that too.

And now I've accidentally written 3 A4 pages.

Whoops. I'm sorry. I hope this is what you wanted.

#PHEW OKAY #that was long #oh my god but i had so much fun writing all this #thank you bless you i am kissing you on the mouth for asking me about this because it made me so so so happy to get to talk about it!!!!! #<333 #sherlock holmes #sh #granada holmes #asks

[archiveikemen]

"Black Wedding" Story Event: Chapter 2

Jude's Route

I do not own any of the Ikemen Series content being uploaded on this blog, everything belongs to CYBIRD. Please support them by playing their games and buying stories. Not 100% accurate, expect mistakes.

read this before interacting with my posts

The cultist led us to the room we would be staying in throughout our stay.

Kate: W-What was that just now…

I asked Jude in a low voice so that the cultist couldn't hear me.

Jude: What? That was the best method.

Jude: You should be grateful we didn't have to waste our time acting all lovey dovey.

Kate: That’s… true. … Thank you.

Jude: You’re welcome. Good luck with being a masochistic pervert.

(Ggh…)

Jude mocked my reluctant expression of gratitude and turned to look coldly out of the window.

Jude: This whole vows of love thing sickens me. I’ll have this mission ended as soon as possible.

Following Jude’s line of sight, I looked at the sunny courtyard outside the window.

It appeared that there were a few couples staying in the premises as well, and they were all smiling at each other.

(... They look so blissful.)

Kate: All of them are here because they love each other so much that they want their love to last for an eternity.

Kate: If couples are really being murdered… I will never forgive the culprit.

Jude: Hah, amazing sense of justice you’ve got there.

Jude: I can’t believe you sympathise with those people who think love and vows can be made to last forever by the power of some guy.

Kate: I don’t believe that love will magically last an eternity just by holding a ceremony, making promises to a superior being, and reciting vows to the people around us.

Kate: But… I think that’s why people make promises to each other.

Kate: Whenever they feel like they might break the promise, as long as they still have the memory of them making that promise together, they’ll gain the courage to keep going and not give up.

Jude: Hah… how beautiful.

Jude: Those who break promises, break them. And those who don’t break promises, they’ll never be able to break them even if they die.

Jude: That’s the way things are.

Just then, there was a knock on our door, and two laymen showed up.

Cultist: I’ll show the two of you around the interior of the establishment. This way.

…

The cultist demanded that Jude and I follow him into the hallway, and so we did.

Kate: Wah!?

My leg got caught onto something, causing me to fall instantly.

Kate: Ouch… it hurts…

(I think my leg got stuck on something.)

When I looked back, all I saw was the cultist standing there, looking surprised.

Jude: Do you like the floor that much? Get up.

Kate: Wha…

Cultist: Your girlfriend fell, and yet you didn't try to catch her or at least be concerned about her…

Cultist: Are you two not truly in love, as we expected…?

Jude: She loves pain. Right?

(Ugh…!)

Jude: I like that frustrated look on your face. Can I see more?

(It’s quite unfair that he’s the only one who doesn't have to put up an act, no…?)

His grin widened when I looked up at him, so I surrendered and got back onto my feet.

(I wonder what was it that my leg caught onto… no way.)

(Did one of the cultist trip me on purpose?)

I glanced at Jude.

Jude: …

Eyes resembling a pair of amethysts stared coldly at the cultist behind me.

It confirmed that Jude was thinking the same thing I was.

(If they're doing this to ascertain that we “love” each other…)

(They’ll definitely do it again.)

…

Kate: Cold!

My hunch was correct.

We were eating alone while the cultist was away.

The waiter’s hand “slipped” and I had water dumped onto my head.

Waiter: Oh, my apologies, Miss Kate. Please, have a towel.

Kate: … Thanks.

(Ugh… my wet shirt clinging to my body is making me uncomfortable.)

Jude: Hah, nice figure you’ve got.

Mister Jude “I enjoy exposing her uncouth side to the public” Jazza laughed, clearly enjoying himself.

(Both this organisation and Jude… they're the worst of the worst.)

Right when I was brimming with resentment towards him—

Jude: …

Another waiter who was serving Jude tripped, and the water in the glass he was carrying fell onto Jude.

(What the…)

The only sounds that could be heard in the pin drop silence were the glass rolling on the floor and the water dripping from Jude’s hair.

(You need to have guts of steel to splash water onto Jude like that…)

Waiter: Goodness gracious! I'm so sorry!

I held my breath as I watched to see if Jude would lose his temper at the waiter’s very obviously forced apology.

However, unlike what I had expected, Jude gave the waiter a magnanimous smile.

Jude: … It's fine. Moreover, it’s not as if you did it on purpose, right?

Jude: Having something slip out of their hands by accident is a mistake everyone makes.

Waiter: T-Thank you…?

The waiter backed away, perhaps getting uneasy because of how calm Jude was.

Jude: … What’s your name?

Waiter: Uh.

Jude: Your name. Tell me. … Nevermind.

Jude: My hands might slip the next time we meet… forgive me when the time comes, yeah?

Wait: … I-I’m truly sorry!!

The waiter gave an apology that sounded more like a shirek and scrambled out of the room.

(... Poor guy.)

I clenched my fist over my heart as I watched him leave.

(Even so…)

Kate: … In what way is this supposed to ascertain our love?

When I was puzzled by the inexplicable situation we were in, Jude snickered.

Jude: They were expecting something erotic to happen.

Kate: What…

I stared at the man sitting next to me, startled.

Jude: All that talk about love and some other beautiful things, but at the end of the day people are merely hypocritical beings that follow what their body wants.

The sight of Jude cussing with his hair dripping wet made my heart race in an instant.

(...? What am I thinking—)

Jude: What’s with that stupidly honest and lewd face?

Kate: That's not… it’s because of the weird things you said…

It was true that my heart leapt for an instant and my eyes shifted about.

When I looked away, Jude closed up the distance between us.

Jude: Feeling frustrated because you’re horny?

Kate: …

I shuddered when I felt his breath against my ear.

Jude: … Are you really the type of woman to get turned on when being cursed at?

Kate: No…

Jude: You denied it, and yet you’re turning red.

The shame, chaos, and something else he made me feel with his mocking sent a shiver down my spine.

Jude: Hah… you’ve got the potential.

Cultist: … Ahem!

Kate: …!?

I suddenly heard someone clear their throat, and turned to see the cultist standing in the doorway.

Cultist: Um—... you are allowed to move on to the final check. This way.

Kate: Huh?

Jude: Thanks a lot.

(You’re saying that even our bickering got us some approval?)

(By any chance, is this what Jude was trying to incite…?)

I gingerly looked at him and sure enough, he had a haughty sneer on his face.

Jude: Isn’t this a good thing? Worth showing your sultry visage for.

Kate: I did NOT show anything…!

…

Cultist: The final check is to pick a dress.

(Wow…)

The room was filled with colourful dresses, I was spoiled for choice.

(Woah, every one of them looks amazing…)

A jet black wedding dress caught my eye.

It stood out amongst the white dresses…

(Considering that Jude is my groom… I think this black dress would be the most fitting.)

My heart suddenly started pounding ridiculously loudly the moment I imagined myself in that dress and standing by Jude’s side.

(W-What…?)

My heart was pounding so loudly but even I didn't know why.

(Maybe I’m just nervous… something dangerous might happen during the wedding ceremony. Yes, I’m sure of that.)

I found it absurd that I was getting nervous upon imagining myself having a wedding ceremony with Jude, even though it was only for a mission.

Cultist: The bride will take the card with the number that represents her chosen dress. The card must not be shown to anyone.

Kate: … I understand.

From the basket held out to me by the cultist, I took the card labelled “13” that represented the black dress.

Cultist: And now, the groom shall guess which one the bride chose.

(Huh.)

Cultist: You are not allowed to peek at the card, nor exchange signals.

Cultist: If you truly know the bride well, you will know what the bride would want.

(That’s not possible.)

A drop of cold sweat trickled down my spine.

(I doubt Jude knows what kind of dress I’d like…!)

Jude: This one.

Kate: Huh…?

Without hesitating, Jude pointed at the black dress.

Cultist: Bride, please show the card you selected.

I showed the card with the number “13” written on it.

Kate: How… how did you know?

Jude: It’s the power of love.

Jude said with a smile that looked more like he was making fun of love.

(He figured it out by observing my eyes and facial expression… I’m sure that's what happened.)

I rationalised in my mind and calmed the strange feeling I was having.

Jude: So? What’s the result of the final check?

Cultist: … You passed. You have been granted permission to vow your eternal love in the presence of the Founder.

Cultist: Will you hold the ceremony tomorrow? Or—

Jude: Tonight.

Jude: We’ll hold the ceremony tonight.

Jude: She doesn't have the patience to wait till tomorrow morning.

#ikemen villains #cybird ikemen #ikemen series #cybird otome #otome #ikevil story event #niki translates

[hanmi-xo]

Our Ballad | (SVT Joshua x You)

M A I N | O N E S H O T S | S M U T | S C E N A R I O S

-------------------------------

Status: Complete Post Status: Nov. 13, 2023 Pairing: SVT Joshua x You Genre: Angst, Romance, SMAU, One Shot Word Count: 900 Themes: Moving On, Unrequited Love

Note: This is a work of fanfiction. Please respect the real Hong Jisoo/ Joshua Hong Thank you for reading~

Synopsis:

Sometimes a spark doesn't always lead to a flame. He was a song that she never finished listening to. Even seeing him on his special day was difficult to breathe.

You were the reason for our beginning, but you were also the reason for our end. If loving you was going to leave a scar, then I wouldn't have let you in.

I remember how it all happened. The memory of us was like a song I couldn't stop playing.

You reached out towards me. You were everything I thought I wanted, but I wasn't what you needed. It's strange the more I think about it.

Were you the one that chased me or was I the one that followed after you? What happened before? Do you remember?

Do you remember what lead us together? Do you remember the clouds that filled the sky before the rain pour?

We were only in high school, but it felt like I knew you forever ago.

You held your hand out to me after I fell to the ground. I remember that look you had. The way your eyes widened with wonder and concern while your curled lips turned to a gasp.

It was embarrassing but I remember it.

You stuck by my side since then. Maybe it was because of our classes that destined us together, or maybe it was the fact that we couldn't ignore each other. All I remember was the way you'd pass notes to me in class and we would often get into trouble.

You'd goof around with me during detention and even when we had disciplinary exercises.

You could never stay up against the wall like I could and I could never hold that many books on my hands like you did. You were the memory that stayed with me, but your notes is what left your trail.

It was the highlight of my day whenever I would go home and find your random note in my backpack.

You always did let your presence be known with your signature smile with a musical note at the end of each one. You loved the reactions I would give you, and I would always love your attention.

You were a melody I couldn't stop humming. A song that I always wanted to sing but could never be sung.

You were my first love and you were my best friend.

You were always kind to me. You were always sweet. You did everything you can to make me happy.

But even so, it didn't mean you loved me.

Or rather, you didn't love me the way I wanted you to.

When I met you outside of school to watch a movie, you seemed nervous. I asked you to come along in hopes I would see a different side of you that day, but I saw more than I wanted.

And I heard a pitch change in the melody.

When you walked me home, that's when I heard the truth.

"I'm sorry. I never meant to lead you on..."

Your words were slow yet sharp. It was like I was impaled by a knife into my chest or being eaten alive by a monster. I shouldn't have expected more, but I did.

You stopped the tune that I wanted to listen to. What I thought was a ballad was just the blues.

I shouldn't have thought someone like you would love someone like me.

I was bitter when we went separate ways. Even more bitter knowing I won't find anyone like you. But I wasn't bitter enough to hate you. Nor was I bitter enough to take my own life.

But you did.

You weren't there for my birthday.

You weren't there for our graduation.

And you weren't there when you said you'd see me one last time before you'd go.

You never said where. You never said when.

All I remember was your message that you left. You wrote it as if you were going away and you'd see me far from now.

I remember the way your words were written like a poem. It was playful yet dejected. I wish you told me what was going on with you. I wish you told me what happened outside of school.

Outside of our safe haven.

But all I have is your message. All I have is this poem that just reminds me of your absence.

It's not fair. It's not fair that you could leave me like that while I was stuck in the darkness hoping you'd come back.

I have so many questions, but I know you won't answer them.

How could you when you're already gone?

Your mom was there you know? Your mom was there at your funeral. You looked just like her, but she didn't have that melody.

She was cold.

You never talked about her or about your father. He wasn't there. Did he know or did she not tell him?

Or did you not want him to be there?

I wish you told me your story.

I wish you told me all your flaws so I knew the process of your tune. The melody and notes I always listened and hummed to were cut short.

You ended it too soon.

And I know I'll never hear it again.

• • •

End | Thank you for reading <3

Extra:

#seventeen joshua #svt joshua #svt ff #joshua ff #hong jisoo #joshua hong #svt smau #seventeen smau #moving on #joshua sad #joshua angst #joshua x you #joshua x reader

[user-omi]

—something is deeply wrong with these mfers.

hilliam; cw: murder, stabbing, child murder, typical fnaf shenanigans, out of context roleplay replies. this can honestly be read platonically or romantically.

word count: 663

(1)

It's strange, this all started out normally—just curiosity making its rounds. But it never did go away, it stayed, festered in his hidden desires until one thought was left: just once.

Just once he had to try it, just to see how it felt, how it would go. Would he be able to get away with it? What would their blood taste like? What would their last expressions be? Would they refuse to look at him or—

The first kill is always the messiest, you're an amateur who's hungry for experience. But William Afton strived for perfection, and besides, it wasn't like he was in this alone. Looking back it really felt like a dream come true, his friend—best friend; childhood friend—has always been there for him.

Henry in some ways was a fool, thinking he could have both; his life and their life. But in the end he had to choose, and it seemed as if he chose himself. Far gone was his previous life, William made the choice for him.

As William bled out the voice of Henry rang out in his head, there's so much emotion in his voice yet it all muddied together to rid William of any understanding. He couldn't help to find this funny, he always thought—dreamt—of killing Henry. Seeing his blood paint the floor a beautiful red, how would Henry look? How would he feel?

Similar were his thoughts with Charlotte, it's why he had to do it, you understand, don't you? Curiosity had a hold on him at first, but now—now—he doesn't think he can live without it.

"What I... remember of... her? Charlotte? Or perhaps... your wife?" William chuckled, thinking of all the expressions Charlotte made during her death. "Your wife... would've been... next and then... and then you."

(2)

William grinned, it was vicious and victorious. Even as his body was falling apart, even as Henry had him pushed against the desk; even as his best friend drove the knife into him.

"Don't you see? Dear Henry, you think... you think you're getting rid of me?" A dark chuckle echoed around the room, but their eyes never left each other. There's a certain type of love that felt like hatred in your bones, perhaps this is what described them; perhaps there was no love at all. "I'll always come back, whenever thoughts... thoughts of your daughter, of sweet little Charlotte, come to you—I'll be tied to them. You can't think of Charlotte without me."

There's a heavy feeling in the air, the words of William ringing true. Every thought Henry will have, every action moving forward William will be there for. Dead as he may be the ghost of his memories will forever haunt Henry.

"Don't you... don't you see? Dear Henry, if you really didn't want her dead... you simply had to stop me the first time it happened. But you didn't... and here we are." Red splattered across Henry's face, not unlike what countless children's faces looked like the day they died. There's something so exciting, so... enticing about blood on Henry's face—it suits him.

Now Henry was going on a path much like his own, finding his own sins, and bathing in them. Allowing them to cleanse your body, tuck inside every crevice of your very being until you're nothing but the sin you've created. William's only regret is that he won't be able to watch it with his own eyes, but at least he knows one thing.

"Don't you see, dear Henry? I've won."

(3)

Counterroute for dialogue:

"Oh? Did you want me to say I regretted it? That within the depth of my very being I feel ashamed? Is that what you wanted to hear?" William chuckled, distorted and slurred from the blood trying to choke him. "I wonder, what would you have done if I said I regretted it? Would you have tried to work things out? Feel hesitant killing me... or feel even better about killing me?"

#helliam #fnaf #five nights at freddy's #fnaf william afton #fnaf afton #fnaf au #william afton #henry emily #fnaf henry emily #william x henry #william afton x henry emily #henry x william

[pharawee]

I honestly expected the Chains of Heart finale to go the usual route and have Din and Ken reunite at the very end.

Maybe they will. They hinted at it by mentioning the 7th day of the 7th month (so I was kind of right with them meeting one year later on 7th July - it's an open ending but I'll take it).

But maybe this was never what the series was about in the first place.

This is what the CoH ig posted tonight:

"Love and separation are the truth of life. No one will stay together forever. Live happily and love the best before it's too late."

Ouch. 🥲

But yeah, Din and Ken loved each other for seven years, but then Din chose duty over love (a duty that wasn't even his to begin with) and they both paid the price.

And then, when he and Ken miraculously survived, he did it again. And again. And again. Right up until the very end when he shot the man who - did what exactly? Shot him first two years ago? Because the way I see it police had things well under control. They didn't need a rookie forest ranger then and they sure as hell didn't need an unhinged vigilante killing key witnesses left and right now.

Sure, Inspector Don probably appreciated the intel (guess he wasn't that much of a good guy after all - he was just pragmatic) but he could have done without it. I guarantee you that if Din had chosen to walk away on that day two years ago, Chief Ingpha would have been arrested sooner or later (would it have stuck? who knows. but that's beside the point).

And remember this bit?

I always thought Din was just being playful here (with fate immediately accepting the challenge lmao) but now I think part of him was always like this. Part of him always chose to "let go of his loved one's hand."

The tragedy of it all is that none of it was even necessary. That he put his family and Ken in danger. That he caused them grief. That he chose to surround himself with people who enabled him and deliberately excluded everyone else. Injustice didn't make him that way. He made himself that way.

And I wonder if he even realises that he's smiling when he takes his revenge.

And I wonder if he realises that he's risking his sister's life by duelling Ingpha with her right in the middle (when family is the reason for his revenge in the first place). By that point he's so consumed with wanting Ingpha dead that he doesn't even check on her as soon as it's safe to do so.

Not even Ken is able to stop him until it's too late.

And it's the shame of Ken seeing him for who he's become that snaps him out of it. Because by choosing to pursue his revenge he's effectively destroyed himself and any chance of a future together (something that even Ingpha didn't manage to do).

So in the end I wonder if Ken not recognising Din was ever about his appearance at all. Because by that point he'd already turned himself into a human ship of Theseus (only more monstrous - because remember he'd already killed several people in cold blood), ridding himself of everything that made Din... well, Din.

And how do you recognise, how do you love someone who's become a stranger?

That being said, I love this show despite its very messy script and overly confusing scene/character hopping. I appreciate what they were trying to do and how ambitious they were with their action sequences and cinematography. Plus, the costumes and make-up were ON. POINT.

I'm not even a little sad we didn't get a happy ending (although I like to believe they'll meet again on 7th July). The whole "I am the architect of my own destruction" trope is a favourite of mine and Boom's (and Haii's) acting made it work beautifully. My heart is so full for Din and Ken. If only they had access to therapy and grief counselling. 🥲

A few other things:

I wonder if Din's mum really recognised him or if her tears were for a memory. I like how it's kept ambiguous.

Doctor Chayeon having the nerve to look shocked when he's part of the reason why things turned out this way. And all because the real Peter Lue's death would have probably cost him his career. Obviously that's far more important than any kind of ethical dilemma (where's even the dilemma? Maybe just don't 3D-print someone a new face so they can commit crime).

Hin and Phayu might as well not have been in this ep at all. We were robbed. 😭 But I actually like how Ken was barely in this ep either - if only to show how distant he had become from Din.

Not Sai still buying into Din's bullshit even one year later. I know I said that I wanted Ken and Din to meet again but damn.

That scene when Din took off his gloves was seriously such a strong moment for me. Maybe I'm overthinking things but for him to wear gloves throughout (almost) the whole show and then taking them off at precisely this moment? And little his smile? That was so good.

I like to think Chief Ingpha died wondering wtf was even going on.

I also like to think that whatever evidence Din had gathered on that recording device didn't even matter because between the organ harvesting and the illegal logging, what more do you need to arrest him?

And I'm really curious if the novel has the same ending. I doubt it but I'll let you know as soon as I find out.

#jane watches stuff #don't mind me i'm just trying to put things into words #and failing miserably lmao #chains of heart #chains of heart the series

[bonnieprincegnarly]

Everybody was talking about the quad thing in the last episode of Riverdale like that's the wildest thing about it.

Betty freaking time travels. Jughead is like an angel or something. Reggie dropped the Brando schtick and reverted to dumb dumb status again.

But that's not even the point. The finale is just heartbreaking. The finale is about real life finally catching up with The Archies. It's not about serial killers, or Gargoyle Kings, or Stephen King's The Stand Jr. And yeah there's the live action Gainax ending a la Lost, and Angel Jughead and Betty's Excellent Adventure, but mostly it's just a hit parade of emotional gut punches. It's just scene after scene of life absolutely bodying the expectations of America's favorite teenagers.

And I feel it. I'm there too. In my 20s I saw everyone drift away after high school. I've since seen the deaths of people I thought I'd know my entire life. And some people I talked to every day for years, stopped responding and never spoke to me again.

And it's heartbreaking in Riverdale because these kids finally get everything sorted out and just drift away like you or I would. Archie starts to tell Betty what many of the viewers are probably thinking, that the whole story started with the two of them and will just as likely end with the two of them starting a family and living together for years. And then Betty explains that she already knows the future and they don't get together at all. Archie moves to California and marries someone else who we never learn the name of, has a family, dies, and gets buried in Riverdale next to his Dad. Archie doesn't become a rockstar or a famous writer. He becomes a construction worker who writes on the side for funzies. Archie and Betty and Veronica and Jughead live miles apart, they die years apart. They never really see each other all together ever again after high school. That's us. With a few exceptions that's you and me.

There's a part toward the end of the finale where Betty asks Angel Jughead what happens after we die. Jughead uses Pop as an example and says that he imagines Pop doing what he loved for the rest of eternity in The Sweet Hereafter. Betty tells Angel Jughead that she never wants to leave Riverdale then. She wants to stay forever young with all her friends and hope about a bright future. Angel Jughead looks serious and then contradicts his comment about Pop. Angel Jughead says what Betty wants is impossible. "You say hello. You walk beside someone for a little while... and then you say goodbye. That's life." That is life.

There's a big scene in Mike Flanagan's Netflix series Midnight Mass where Riley and Erin are talking about faith. Riley talks about his atheism and disbelief in an afterlife. He goes on to describe the process of brain death and how time seemingly expands forever onward in the perception of those whose brains are shutting down. One long dream before the beginning of an endless sleep. This is what The Archies too are left with; that diner that lives in their memories as a timeless rendezvous for the best version of everyone they ever loved; one long dream before the vast expanse of infinite sleep.

#riverdale #archie andrews #jughead jones #veronica lodge #betty cooper

[lutawolf]

Never Let Me Go, Episode 9-10

Yup, that's right. I waited for episode 10 to come out before watching 9. I don't feel bad about it, either. Cause damn, I saw all the gifs, and I was not here for it.

Ahhh. The way Palm says, "Don’t underestimate my love. I don’t know if Mr. Nueng and I will be together in the future. But right now, The feelings and memories that I share with him, They will always remain with me." This is so important to me. We discount young people's feelings too often. Age is important and should always be taken into consideration, but individuals should be looked at individually. Palm has had to shoulder a lot of responsibility for a very long time. He is the type to make a decision and stick to it. He's solid and steady. "To be honest, I don’t know what the future holds for us. But my feelings will remain unchanged."

Nueng is the opposite. Just look at how he is when Palm is stressed. He was desperately looking for love. He doesn't think things completely through. Carries a much more immature look at life. It would almost seem that they aren't a good match. Oh, but they are. A flighty person can be stabilized by someone like Palm, they'll become the wild geese that mate forever because they just need someone to latch their feelings to. And Palm needs someone like Nueng to lighten the weight that he willingly carries. Hence, the next scene where he makes him smile. Palm, for all his shyness, adores it.

I love that Nueng can read Palm so well. That's something a good Dom should absolutely be able to do. No joke, Nueng just Dominated in a way that a lot of females will dominate their male submissives. It's a playful, but I will get my way, type of way. It's a soft Dom move.

"Why did you get a tattoo of my name?" "I want you to stay with me forever." In my belief system, there are kindred spirits and soulmates. Kindred spirits are those friends that journey through lifetimes with you. We get matching tattoos or tattoos with those people in mind, in order to make sure that we meet in each life. I actually have plans on getting a coconuts tattoo. A soulmate tattoo makes sure you and your soulmate are together forever, like the red thread. That's what this feels like. A soulmate tattoo. The shoulder kiss is everything!

Oh yeah, he is binding them as soulmates. No getting away for you Nueng. Palm being so fucking romantic. Where do I find me a romantic like Palm???

So now they are going back. For Palm's dad. The skin to skin contact for both their comfort. Nueng talks in circles around his fears, but Palm understands him.

"I’m glad that you come to live with me. I’m glad that I have the chance to be your mom, even for only a couple of weeks. Your dad raised you well. I’m sorry that I have never taken care of you." She's not a horrible person. Just not the best. It sucks that she died, but I'm really glad Nueng got that closer.

Oh, shit. There is so much to unpack in this one scene. One is in pain and is absolutely not used to someone being there when he is breaking. So he lashes out. He's a wounded and went away to lick his wounds and doesn't want to be seen. Then he realizes who he has lashed out to. This is his other half, and he immediately regrets, but Nueng does come from a loving family. This is not something you would do if you love another person. The push away in his head is full rejection.

For him, it's like Palm is saying it's his fault. Lots and lots of layers here. Guilt, rejection, and fear that the one he loves will die just like his dad and Palm's mom. "When we are together, something bad always happens. You and I, we shouldn’t be together." "Don’t ever come to see me again. Otherwise, you may end up dead."

That last part. You can see it click in Palm's head what is really bothering Nueng. Now, just because a sub is subby sub doesn't mean they won't fight for what they want. They like being told what to do, but a Dom is their everything, they will absolutely fight for them. Again, I would lean towards Nueng being a switch or soft Dom, but Palm is for sure a subby sub.

If I didn't know from all the spoilers, I would know from how Nueng is acting that he plans on leaving. He has a fake attitude but sad smile whenever Palm isn't looking. Nueng can read Palm, but Palm hasn't learned to read Nueng.

Song from the dance scene. One kisses to say goodbye, and the other kisses because he's never had someone be there. "What would your life be like if you didn’t meet me?" "I guess I would be working on a boat somewhere. I would spend my day catching fish." In Nueng's head, that sounds perfect, so he can't believe Palm when he says, "My life would be very boring. I think it’s a good thing that I met you." That's why he says. "But I imagine your life differently. I think your life would be happier. You might be taking an exam to get into a university. You might be an athlete." and he goes on, because in his head, Palm is with him out of duty. He's putting himself in a place to get hurt out of duty, and Nueng can't handle that.

"But everything that you said, I can do that with you." Nueng's face is breaking me.

Ep 10

"Before you lose everything." "But I still have you."

Both of them trying to protect the other one. Same goal, but they can't achieve it in the same way. Nueng has matured so much in such a short time. "Don’t choose me to be the goal of your life. I still want to see you follow your dream." Um… Who gets in a bath tub with boxers, and just how big is that tub? Ahh... It was a flashback.

Nueng pouring his heart out to his mom is killing me. I'm not crying. Your crying! Ahhh fuck! Now I'm really crying. His jersey. Really. I'm not fucking okay. Now sentimental and romantic flashbacks. Just leave me in a puddle here because of melted into tears.

The river told me lies! OMG, this song kills me.

And Nueng has hardened. He already had his innocents stripped with his dad, but everything that has happened since. It's changed him. Too many people have hurt him and he needs that wall to survive. He's seen what real friendship and love is, and if people want to get next to him, they are going to have to prove capable of that level. I'm the same damn way, so I respect this.

That boy didn't learn shit Nueng.

These flashbacks are killing me! "You plan on having fun without me. Then I won't teach you." Yup, Nueng is a soft Dom. They are so fucking cute.

I like these bodyguards. Yes I do. They are like, do I look like I give a fuck that this is the music room. What Nueng said might be harsh, but it's fucking fair. Just because I don't want you to eat at my table doesn't mean that I want you to starve. It just means that you've done enough to me that I don't want you at my table. Now I'm a big believer in not forgiving people but just moving on. I'll forgive those that have made it through the wall, but I don't feel the need to forgive someone who betrays me. I don't hate them because hating isn't worth it. It only hurts you, and the people you hate don't care.

Yeah, did you really think that he would leave you? As long as you love him, he'll be there. "But you are my life."

"Is this how you treat people? The time that we shared together. The things that we did together. Do they mean nothing to you?" "They mean a lot to me. Believe me. It was the best time of my life. So I want to treasure it. I want you to stay alive and be happy."

"I won’t let you run away from me again. From now on, if we are going to fight, We will fight together. If we are going to die, We will die together." Those are some solid vows. And look at the soft Dom forcing a promise from the subby sub. "You can wear your boyfriend’s clothes." Fuck, I'm not surviving this show.

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh, all these vows are going to kill me!!! And the way he pulls him to him. Damn.

The next episode is gonna be another tough one. Ugh. But this one. This one was so good. Hope you guys enjoyed! 💜💜💜

#never let me go series #never let me go #palm and nueng #luta talks never let me go #Youtube

[idontknowmyownmind]

WS and OG!Cale sibling AU

Older WS and Younger OG!Cale

3 to 5 years age gaps

When WS is cursed, Cale also affected

But they are immune to each other's curse

So, while everyone they love eventually died snd leaving them, they still have each other

The reincarnation circle (I'm not sure how it work so most part is just another AU) between them are different

WS, rather than reborn he, is possessing someone's body randomly

While Cale, also rather than reborn he, is regressing into three years old body of his but still with his memories intact

They love each other and try their best to maintaining their live as best as it can be

But unfortunately, Despair influence on WS get stronger over time

And then we have TBOAH timeline

How Cale become Henituse you ask?

After WS became worse, Cale started to think that maybe the only way to protect and stop his brother is not by staying by his side

So in his next regression, he leave and found by Jour and Deruth

In this AU, Jour is unable to have children

And for the first time in millennia, Cale discover the love of a mother

All this time, it's only him and his brother. But even so, as of late he feels more alone than ever despite his brother is 'present'

While WS feels both heartbroken and betrayed for as his only family, the only person he love and wish to never leave is leaving him all alone

When WS kill Cale, he does't know that the one he kills is his brother

WS thought he would not feels anything but upon seeing his brother lifeless eyes and last smile to him, he feels his heart broken into pieces and it'e hurt like no others

What both WS and Cale doesn't know is, to stop their seemingly repetitive circle of reincarnation is to have them kill each other

They will not immediately die when the other die, but the one left behind will become weaker by days and died by the end of the week

And TCF timeline happens

In this timeline, WS's memories of Cale is sealed and only released after Despair is sealed again

I just imagine WS rage upon realizing that the Cale in front of him is not his brother, he rage for he doesn't where his brother is

"WHO ARE YOU!? WHERE IS HE, WHERE IS CALE!?!! WHAT THE DID YOU DO TO HIM, WHAT DID YOU DO TO MY BROTHER?!?"

To say that KRS is shocks is understatement. There is never a mention of this fact in the novel. The Cale he met also never mention anything about this

But then, when he think about it again, Cale body languages, choose of words and expression struck him as odd when they talk before

One of the deal conditions is for GoD to sent Cale back to his original world when it's time for KRS to defeats WS

So, Cale, in KRS's original body, suddenly appears there a moment before CH stab WS's heart

So CH end up stabbed both of them in the hearts

WS is angry to this foreign person suddenly appeared and hinder him for taking out the impostor in his brother's body

But somehow he know, he know that this stranger with foreign face is his brother

Maybe with the way he smile at him. Maybe with the way his eyes when he look at him. But, more importantly, maybe with the way he called him Hyung

WS feels his anger become nonexistence and he just slumps into his brother arms

They ignore everything around them, even the sword that stucked them together, and just embrace each other in their last moment

And for the first time in like forever, WS let himself rest and ne vulnerable

They embrace each other and welcome death with a peaceful smile on their face

#og!cale henituse #trash of the counts family #kim rok soo #white star #AU

[jerzwriter]

Once upon a time...

Book:                   Open Heart

Pairing:                Tobias Carrick x F!MC (Casey MacTavish)

Rating:                 Teen

Category:            One-Shot AU / Angst

Summary:           Some loves aren’t meant to be forever, but that doesn't mean they weren’t wonderful.

Words:                 2700

A/N:                     Based on this ask for MC falling in love with LI, but it never rose to that level for LI.  They said to pick the pairing, so I’m doing one for each of my three.  This is number two for Tobias & Casey.  Ethan & Kaycee’s can be found here, and Eli & Zoe’s is coming soon.   Hey, we need some angst. 😊 I edited quickly - please be kind :) And this is an AU. I'd never do this to my babies for "real." lol

@choices-november2022 - Day 12 - Let it Go @choicesflashfics “Look at me and tell me I’m wrong.”

A car horn honked obnoxiously behind her. 

“Sorry!” she apologized, even as she shook her head. How long had the light been green? Ten seconds? Patience was a lost art. Besides, didn’t they realize what she was going through? Understand how nervous she was?

She left work an hour early to accommodate him, and her stomach was in knots. The drive was so familiar that, after they broke up, she would find herself halfway there before remembering… she didn’t live there anymore. Each time it happened, the result would be the same. Her car pulled over on the side of the road as she waited for the tears to pass. We think heartbreak lessens once you’ve survived it before, but that isn’t true. She wondered how long it would take before she stopped doing this. Or, if muscle memory prevailed, when would it stop hurting if she did?

But today was no mistake. She was heading there on purpose, at his invitation. Sure, it was because he found a box of things she had left behind when she moved out six months before. But he had found other things before, and he made arrangements to get them to her. But this time was different. This time he asked her to pass by. 

Eight times. That’s how many times they had seen each other since the split. Only one of them by design. Five days after they called it quits, they agreed to meet. The absence of each other was still too raw, their bodies literally ached. So they agreed to meet. To talk. To cry. To cling to each other one last time, but not to rectify. In the end, they decided they had made the right choice, as hard as it was to accept. But not a day had passed that Casey didn’t second guess her choice. Surely if she had tried just a little harder… waited a little longer….

Since that night, there were nods across the room at Donahue’s, which would lead to one of them inevitably leaving. There were uncomfortable moments at Bryce’s birthday party, where they did their best to stay out of each other’s way. Recently, they were at the same conference; they were cordial. Polite. How does one become a stranger to someone they once loved so much? But therein lay the problem. She did, and he didn’t.

They had been together for three years. He never asked her to move in, yet he always asked her to stay. After some time, they joked that she might as well change her address, so she did. They shared laughs, late-night talks, and a passion that seemed to know no end. They redecorated the living room, took vacations together, and cared for each other when they were sick. Everyone knew them as a couple, and they were happy… until that night.

“I’m not saying that I don’t love you, Casey. I do, it’s just….”

“Please,” she cried, “please don’t tell me, just not in that way after all this time.”

“No. I do love you, you know that. It’s just that….”

“That what?”

“I’m not in love with you, and I don’t know if I ever will be.”

It wasn’t her. It was him, he assured her, and it was amazing how little that helped. He never promised forever, and they never made plans too far ahead. They were happy, but they were coasting. Perhaps they could have coasted forever, but she knew how she felt… and she wanted it all. So they talked. Now, six months later, she wondered if she should have just let things be. 

He called her three days ago.

“Hey, it’s me. Tobias.”

“You don’t have to say who it is… I do remember your voice.”

“That’s good to know. So, I found a box of your winter clothes in the basement, and I was wondering if….”

“I’ll ask Bryce to get them. He can bring them to me.”

“Well, I can do that,” he stalled. “But I was wondering if you could come over and pick them up.”

“At our… your place?”

“If you’re not comfortable….”

“No,” she replied quickly. Disgusted with herself at the hope she felt rising without permission in her chest. “It’s fine. I can come over. When?”

And here she was, parking her car in the same spot that had become “hers.”  Walking down the path to the door to which she no longer had a key. But, damn, the place still felt like home. 

“He was asking about you,” Bryce said over lunch.

Casey’s eyes shot up to him, disbelief on her face. “Who?”

“Who are we talking about? Tobias. Are you guys talking again?”

“I mean, we were never not talking. We just… you know… did the post-break-up thing. Better to stay apart. What did he ask?”

“How you were. If you were seeing anyone.”

“What did you say?” She asked far too anxiously.

“I told him you were doing OK, and not that I knew of. Casey, do you want him back?”

She stared down at her salad, poking at a tomato that had done nothing to deserve such abuse. “I’m starting to realize I never wanted him to go in the first place.”

“Then you should tell him.”

“Why? To get hurt again?”

“No,” Bryce smiled. “Just to know that you did. One way or the other. No regrets.”

So she rang the bell to her former home and nervously waited for him to answer.

“Hey,” he smiled brightly, as natural as nothing had ever happened.

She almost turned around and ran to her car. Those blue eyes, that bright smile, the stubble on his chin that used to tickle her when they kissed. She knew every curve of his face, every expression in his eyes. She would give anything to rewind the clock and just let things be. At the time, she thought she wanted more, but now she knew she just wanted to be his. 

“Hello,” he chuckled, waving his hand in front of her face. 

“Oh, I’m sorry,” she grinned, “I just….”

“Why don’t you come in.”

He caught how her face fell when she saw the living room look different than when she left., and he acted quickly to comfort her. The last thing he wanted to do was cause her any more pain.

“I, uh… I moved things around a bit after you… left. It was just hard to have….”

“… the memories…”

“Yeah,” he sighed. “I know why we split, Case. But it didn’t make it any easier. Everywhere I looked… you were there. I had to make some changes.”

“Did it help?” she asked with desperation. “Moving things around, did it help you?”

“A little,” he shrugged. “But really, the only thing that works is time.”

“Yeah, I guess,” she shrugged, knowing that time had done nothing for her.

“Would you like something to drink? Water, some wine, I have that crappy Moscato you used to like so much.”

“Now, why are you keeping in stock if I’m not here,” she smirked.

“It’s a remnant,” he laughed. “Would you like some? I’m sure as hell not going to drink it.”

“Yeah,” she smiled, anything to calm her nerves. “I’d like that.”

They sat at the kitchen table and made small talk. The new restaurant in Cambridge that he just had to check out. The book he read recently that he knew she would love. The longer they talked, the easier the conversation became, and she decided Bryce was right. She had to tell him how she felt. Maybe he felt the same way, perhaps he did not. But there was only one way to know. He had loved her. Wasn’t that enough? It sure felt like it would be now. She was about to say his name when…

“Hey, I’ve got to go to the bathroom, but why don’t you sit on the couch. I’ll join you in a few.”

“Sure,” she smiled.

She brought her wine glass to the sink, just like she would have if this were still home, and she felt her blood go cold when she saw two wine glasses already there. It’s no big deal. She tried to reassure herself. He has friends and was also known to leave his dishes until the next day. She told herself she wasn’t looking for lipstick on the rim but knew she was. Nothing was there, but even if there were, he wasn’t hers anymore. But maybe after tonight, he would be. 

Pushing the thoughts out of her head, she made her way to the living room and got comfortable on the couch that was no longer facing the window. She chuckled as she thought, “I’m so moving this back.”

Then Tobias entered the room, carrying the box containing her clothes in his arms. He placed it on the floor next to the couch, then sat down to join her. 

"I was glad you agreed to come over,” he smiled nervously. “I wanted to talk to you.”

“You did,” she smiled. “Because I wanted to talk to you, too.”

“You did,” he stammered. “What do you want to talk about?”

“No. You, first,” she smiled, praying it was the same thing. How much better would it be if he said it first. “I insist.”

“Well, OK. I will feel better once I get this off my chest. Casey, I’m going to be moving back to DC. That’s kind of how I came across your box. I started packing the basement, and there it was.”

He couldn’t miss the shock on Casey’s face, which wasn’t what he hoped to see. 

“D... DC? You’re moving back… to DC?”

“Yeah. I got a phenomenal offer from George Washington. I’ll be an attending at the hospital, but it’s also an academic role. Research funding budget and all. It’s a great opportunity to do research and, you know… nothing is holding me to Boston anymore, so…..”

“Oh,” Casey whispered, having given up on attempting a brave face. “That’s uh, that’s great news, and I… uh… that’s the last thing I suspected.”

“Yeah, well, I didn’t want you to hear it from anybody else. You deserved to hear it from me, so…” looking in her direction, he could see how distressed she was becoming. “Are you OK?”

“No,” she began to cry. “I’m not. If you’re going to DC,  I’ll probably never see you again.”

“Honestly, that’s one of the reasons I’m going. Maybe it’s for the best. It’s never easy for either of us when we bump into each other. I mean, that’s not why I’m taking the job, but maybe it’s an added bonus. You know?”

“No,” She insisted. “No, I don’t know. You see, I hoped to talk to you tonight too, and I was going to say….” Her words trailed as she dropped her head into her hands, lifting it again with determination. “What if I went with you?”

“What?”

“To DC. I mean, not right away, but I’m sure I could in time… if you wanted me to?”

“Casey, what are you saying? We're not together anymore, why would you come with….”

“Because I love you, Tobias,” she sniffled. “I love you so much, and I regret ever starting that conversation that led to us being here today. When I came here tonight, I was planning on asking you if we could try again, and I didn’t think you were going to….”  

Catching a glimpse of the sadness and pity in his eyes as he looked her way, she turned around and faced the wall. Her body trembled softly as she tried to conceal her tears.

“Cassey,” he whispered, placing a hand gently on her shoulder. “We split for a reason, baby, and the reasons have not changed.”  

She turned around to face him, putting her hands on his shoulders; she looked pleadingly into his eyes.

“So, you’re not in love with me, and that’s OK. Because you loved me, right? That should have been good enough, don’t you think?”

His heart sank as she let out a deep sob, her head falling into his shoulder as it had a thousand times before. It felt so warm, so familiar, so much like home… but so wrong at the same time. There was a reason they ended things, and no matter the pain, that hadn’t changed. 

She pulled her head back, eyes now red and filled with tears; it broke his heart to see her this way.

“Do you still?” She cried. “Do you still love me, Tobias?”

“Casey,” he gasped, voice full of emotion. “I will always love you. But nothing has changed. In love is just something I don’t know that I’ll ever feel. Being able to say it’s forever, it’s just not in me. But it is in you, and you deserve someone who can give that back to you.”

“If I had never said anything, we’d still be together! We were happy, and we’d still be together, and I’d probably be moving to DC with you, so why not? If I had kept my damn mouth shut, we’d still be together. We’d still be happy!”

“Would we be? Because in time, you would have resented me, and then I would be upset because you were asking for something I couldn’t give. In time, we probably would have been at each other's throats and, as much as I hate to admit it… it’s better it happened this way. I wouldn’t want to be one of those couples that put things off for so long that they hated each other when they finally faced the inevitable.”

“But I miss you,” she croaked as her hand reached to caress his cheek. “And I want to be with you. Can’t we… just try. I don’t have to move to DC. Let’s just try long-distance and see where it goes, Tobias. Please?”

“No, Casey. I don’t want… I can’t go through losing you again.”

“But what if you don’t lose me this time?”

“I would. You know it, too. Look at me and tell me I’m wrong.”

Collapsing onto the couch in tears, he slid in next to her. Gently caressing her hair as she wept into his lap. Tears began to run down his cheeks as well, and it was tempting… so tempting to give in. To say they could try. To hold her and kiss her and make love to her until the tears subsided. But he had to be strong. 

Love comes to us in many ways, for a reason, a season, perhaps even for a lifetime, but not every love is meant to be. They wanted different things, and their time together had come to an end. In time, they would both heal. They’d each find what they always wanted, but that wasn't going to happen tonight.

A short time after, Casey was cried out and ready to leave. He walked her to her car and shared a tearful goodbye before returning to the bed they once shared together. Three weeks later, they said goodbye once more. Then he climbed in a U-haul truck, leaving her watching until he was no longer in sight. 

They never spoke after that day. But several years later, he returned to Boston to visit friends. They were at Fenway, catching a game, when he heard that laugh that once filled his life with so much joy… it was unmistakable. He turned around and saw her, several rows away, looking every bit as beautiful as she had. 

Without giving it a moment’s thought, he stood and began walking her way. He had to say hello, until… the gentleman wrapped his arms around her waist and her head flung back as he kissed her neck. She was radiant, and he didn’t think she could shine any brighter. Then the little girl at her heels tugged at her jacket sleeve, and Casey lifted her up, holding her snug on her hip as the young family embraced. 

He'd be lying if he said it didn’t sting. That for a brief moment, he didn’t wonder what life would be like if he were in that man’s place. If the little girl had his eyes instead of her father’s, but that wasn’t the way it was supposed to be.

“Hey, T!” His friend’s voice bellowed. “Are you going to get the beer or what?”

“I’m on it,” Tobias nodded, ensuring he headed the opposite way. 

As he walked, something strange happened. The pain in his chest began to subside, and he could feel a smile working on his face. Love can be for a reason, a season, or a lifetime. Once upon a time, he was blessed to have loved and been loved by her, and he’d carry that with him until the end. But Casey had found her lifetime. They each had followed their path and were now exactly where they were meant to be.

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

#open heart fanfic #chocies fanfic #tobias carrick #tobias x casey #choices fic writers creations #cfwc fics of the week #playchoices fanfic #open heart choices #tobias carrick x mc

[invisibleraven]

Stay, rulie

Julie scans the room, making sure she has all her things, even the dresses Reggie bought her after he insisted she keep them. They might end up pawned so that she and Flynn can make rent next month, but until then they'll hang in her closet reminding her of this week.

She leaves the necklace though-it was only a rental, just like her. Even if the memory of wearing it and only it as Reggie took her apart in the massive bed will forever live in her head.

She's wearing one of her new outfits, still playing a part she supposes, but the past few days haven't felt like it. With Reggie she allowed herself to be vulnerable-real-something she hadn't been since she left home at fifteen after her mother died. Remembers how he cradled her in the bath when she told him that, how he related the tale of hiw awful, abusive father back to her.

That was the night they made love. She doesn't care that he was paying her a small fortune for it, it was too genuine to be anything but.

"I'm going now," she says quietly to the suite. Reggie looks up at her from his spot on the couch, still in his pyjamas, looking more of a mess than that first night she found him trying to change a tire near her corner.

"Do you have to?" he asks.

"Week's over," she replies. "You're leaving here soon too. Back to your million dollar deals and jets."

"I don't have to," he says as she reaches the door. "I could... Stay Julie please."

"I don't want to be your whore," she whispers back.

"No," he says, shaking his head and coming near her, his eyes shining. "Don't stay because I'm paying you to. Stay because I'm asking you to."

"What are you asking me?"

"You changed my whole life this week Julie," Reggie replies, taking her hands in his. "Turned my world around. How could I ever give that up?"

"But what would I do?" Julie demanded. "I can't stay to be your arm piece, your kept woman."

"You could go back to school, get that teaching degree you wanted. Or take up landscapes, hell you could jet around the world and find religion, as long as you came back to me," Reggie pleads.

"I don't need you to save me," Julie answers.

"No, and I'm not offering to. Just asking you to be with me, so you can keep saving me."

"From what?"

"From a lifetime without you in it," Reggie whispers earnestly. Julie pulls him in for a kiss then, a sweeping, desperate thing that has them clinging to each other like a lifeline.

"Okay," she says later, curled up in his lap, sharing a croissant and a mug of coffee between them. "I'll stay."

"Good," Reggie replies with a smile. "But we do still have to get out of this room, check out's in an hour."

Julie playfully smacks him on the chest but he catches her hand and kisses it before rushing off to dress and gather his bags. Julie has no clue where they'll go for there-maybe her tiny studio that she shares with Flynn, maybe his penthouse in whatever city he calls home. All Julie knows is that wherever Reggie is, that's where she wants to call home.

Pretty good for a week's wages all in all. She just never thought that it would lead to her happily ever after.

#filled prompts #ficlet #rulie #julie and the phantoms