#kat duff

[laf-outloud]

philemonchambers This year has been one for the books for me. This has honestly been the most depressed I’ve ever been (true vulnerable moment). My show getting cancelled and other projects that I was in talks with either getting cancelled or not being able to do them really took a toll on my mental health. In my head I had lost so much I became jaded and it took me awhile to get over that and realize I gained a lot, I didn’t share my struggle because I didn’t know how….I now know WHY this year had to go the way it did. I gained a new appreciation for myself and giving myself true GRACE (which I said I wanted to learn for my 29th year). I made new connections and got to witness some amazing things that I wouldn’t have otherwise if I wasn’t home. I’m thankful for everything this year ended and everything it gave. Here’s to 2024 and all that it will bring 🫂✌🏽🥂#2023recap

All the best wishes to Philemon in the new year, because he truly deserves the best!

#philemon chambers #jared padalecki #gen padalecki #kat mcnmara #justin johnson cortez #katie findlay #greg hovanessian #molly hagan #coby bell #ashley reyes #matt barr #kylie duff #larry teng #walker: independence #walker

[gnrlove1987]

Guns N Roses backstage

#duffs poses lol #i think axl is mimicking the photographer kat #guns n roses #duff mckagan #axl rose #slash #gnr

[witchofthemidlands]

I finally finished Bad Sisters, I found it difficult to watch in places, I’ll be honest & I’m not sure I could have been able to watch it if we, as the audience didn’t know that JP was dead in the beginning, not because of anything wrong with the show but because I found his scenes so uncomfortable to watch. I genuinely think it is one of the best shows I have ever seen. The writing, the story as a whole, the characters, the acting & the music 🤩 everything about it was absolutely phenomenal. The villain was incredibly well written because not only did he make me feel nauseated every time he was on screen. HE WAS JUST A PRICK! There was no tragic backstory, no trying to explain away his behaviour with this reason or another, he was just a DESPICABLE MONSTER & we need more villains like that. The dark humour was so witty & so well executed, some moments i may have to gif because words would never do some of those scenes justice (the chaos of the boat scene, every time they're on the phone to grace wondering if they succeeded)

Bibi Garvey was my favourite, from start to finish I absolutely loved that woman. Her passion & determination to get the job done was everything. The only thing I wish is that there had been more of her with her wife, Nora & their son (I also think Nora should have helped with the plotting 😈). Eva Garvey coming in close second, her love for her sisters, how she would do anything for them & that scene with her & her sisters around the table when they find out what really happened absolutely broke my heart. Grace Garvey unexpectedly became one of my favourites by the end, especially in the last episode 😍 her journey was incredible, i cannot wait to see her in season 2 now that she is completely free of the trash between a racoons toes. I loved Becka Garvey as well, I saw a lot of myself in her but what she did near the end was the only thing I couldn’t really get past even though it was an accident & i do genuinely think poor Minna would have been killed by The Prick. Ursula, I liked her, I really did but for personal reasons I just found it difficult to like her as much as the others.

Honestly what I loved the most about it was that it was so clear that whilst they were planning a murder, it was completely justified, there was NEVER a moment where i thought, ‘oh, this is wrong’ oh no, I THINK THEY SHOULD HAVE DONE IT SOONER! I genuinely think they'd have gotten away with it & all because of how much of a loathsome prick he was which is why the insurance people INFURIATED ME (not matt in the end though because he clearly realised that the guy was an a grade PRICK & did the right thing) because when it came to the murder, the sisters were not bad to me, they were completely in the right 100% of the time because JPrick was disgusting, he was horrible, vile creature, an absolute abomination of a man, they created the most unbearable character I have ever seen in all my years of watching television & I feel so bad now for the rather harsh words I wrote about Claes Bang's acting in a certain bbc show (which i now feel like i should actually finish watching one day) for part of a writing project for my degree because CLEARLY I was wrong about him, he IS a good actor, he acted The Prick in a way that I had to look down at my phone nearly every time he was on screen because the character was that horrific & uncomfortable to watch in the way that he spoke & moved around the sisters, his wife, his daughter, his neighbour & well, everyone he interacted with & I think it’s because I have met people exactly like that character in real life & I have felt the same emotions the sisters portrayed when in the presence of someone like that.

ANYWAY! Bad Sisters is the best show I've watched all year & it deserves all the awards, all the hype & all the praise because it is a masterpiece. ALL THE STARS 🤩🤩🤩

#bibi garvey #eva garvey #grace garvey #becka garvey #ursula flynn #matt claffin #bad sisters #sarah greene #sharon horgan #anne marie duff #eve hewson #eva birthistle #claes bang #kat’s thoughts 🍄

[bonniehooper]

Endless List of My Favorite Movies

Raise Your Voice (2004)

#Raise Your Voice #Hilary Duff #Oliver James #Lauren C. Mayhew #Dana Davis #Johnny Lewis #Kat Dennings #Rebecca De Mornay #David Keith #Rita Wilson #Jason Ritter #John Corbett #James Avery #Endless List of My Favorite Movies #ELoMFM

[rogueninja]

nostalgia is wild i’m over here acting like a cinderella story is the movie of all time

#like the romance is mediocre but the bits are good and also hilary duff was at her peak #like they just don’t make teen movies like that anymore /boomer voice #the kat diaries

[mbw-writes]

Headcanon:

Dick Grayson loves Chickflicks/RomComs. He is the only one in the family that loves them (or atleast the only one who admits to it) and during movie nights when it's his turn they all act like they dread it, but deep down they all have their favorites.

Jason definitely resonates with Kat from 10 things I hate about you and listens to the soundtrack a lot(his favorite song is Bad Reputation).

Damian loves Miss Congeniallity and when he comes over to Dick's house after a bad day(because Dick’s his comfort brother), Dick will turn on Miss Congeniallity and let him eat whatever snacks he likes.

Cass loves Save the last Dance and has even learned the dance at the end.

Steph is a big fan of Legally Blonde and is all here for the blonde empowerment (Bernard and her watch it together sometimes because he's also a big fan of Chickflicks).

Tim didn't care for them until he started dating Bernard, now he knows every line of Mean Girls like the back of his hand (one Halloween Tim dressed as Aaron and Bernard dressed as Regina during the Halloween scene).

Barbara has seen every single one with Dick growing up and still goes over to his house or to the theatres just to watch new ones.

Duke Thomas has watched The Duff so many times he has his own monster voice.

Kate has just always loved them. She's pretty sure her first love was Cher from Clueless.

Even Bruce and Alfred have their own favorites.

Clueless is Bruce's comfort movie and after a bad day at work he unwinds by watching it secretly in his room.

Alfred enjoys watching La La land. He loves the singing and dancing since it reminds him of his days in the theatre(yes, Alfred has stared in many musicals). Sometimes he listens to the music while cooking.

Dick 'mother hen' Grayson knows all of this and purposely chooses certain movies based on if some one was having a bad week or if they had recently hit a milestone. Even though his favorite is and forever will be 13 going on 30 since it reminds him of him and Wally.

#timbern #birdflash #nightwing #bat family #batfam #batfam headcanons #nightwing headcanon #headcanon #dc #dc headcanon #red hood #jason todd #dickwally #dick grayson #bruce wayne #batman #duke thomas #barbara gordon #batgirl #stephanie brown #cassandra cain #damian wayne #robin #red robin #robin dc

[hubillusion]

I was tagged by @schumi-nadal, @rafasbiscuits and @shambolicchaos thank you for tagging me 😘 mwah mwah mwah

Rules: post 10 of your favorite comfort mfovies then tag 10 people.

The chariot of fire. It's my favorite movie ever and I can watch it again and again and again and I will always feel better afterward. Beautiful men, sport, a deep story and yet a simple plot, very human characters, it's incredibly well filmed and there is music from Gilbert and Sullivan. PERFECTION !!!!

Much Ado About Nothing. Shakespeare, Italy, Beatrice and Benedict, stupid jokes, charming idiots in love, cool villain, beautiful words... everything is good in this movie.

She is the man. Have I told you that I'm obsess with Shakespeare's comedies ? Also stupid jokes, also stupid story but god I LOVE IT !

Les vacances de Monsieur Hulot and Mon oncle. The films I watched as a child and the more I'm growing up the more I understand and love them. The humor from Tati is so special and is criticism of capitalism and modern society so interesting.

Love in the City. The first romantic comedy I ever watched and I have a particular sympathy for this one (and a big crush for what Hilary Duff is wearing in this movie). It's cheesy and with a lot of stereotypes but soooo enjoyable.

Azur and Azmar. I love every Michel Ocelot's animated tales because everything he does is always so beautiful, and witty and elegant but my mother used to read me Arabian tales when I was a child so this one echoed with what I used to dream off as a little girl. Everything is so gorgeous in this movie that it makes me so happy.

Ignace, Les rois du sport and La bourse ou la vie. Three old movies with the French comedian Fernandel and it's probably the worst movies ever but you know it's those bad movies that everyone knows by heart in your family and that are some sort inside joke.

Mama Mia ! Love the songs, love the atmosphere, love the actors... It's just a great feel good movie.

Ten things I hate about you. Another teen comedy, another Shakespeare inspired movie... well you know the music already. Plus I have a big crush on Kat.

Die schöne Lügnerin. Such a witty movie, very funny and nice and a gorgeous Romy Schneider ( ce qui ne gache rien hehehe).

I'm tagging @littleblueducktales , @little-miss-lover, @ruudlev, @drunkenromantic, @kingfisherprince, @game-set-canet, @fedalgaard, @tennis-shenanigans, @candlelitutopia (sorry if you have done it already, feel free to ignore).

#thank you so much for the tag #and sorry for being late #it was fun to things about all my comfort movies #but the choice was hard

[peepaaaawh]

– Yato, be a man!

– The last time I was a "man", I became a pet for a week or two.

The young man rolls his eyes. It's been a couple of weeks since that birthday incident. Of course, (shutting) helping a dear "friend" was worth it one hundred percent, but the consequences of the gift were unpredictable. But, surprisingly, can’t say that they are bad. Pissing Keira off and playing a pet cat was fun. Especially to have legal access to the Hufflepuff dorm.

Keira makes the MOST plaintive look imaginable, which collides with the indifference of the slytherin'. The staring contest continues for another minute. Ten minutes. This two are stubborn enough to not give up their positions, but in the end Aiden gives up, rolling his eyes.

– Okay, okay, I get it. What do you need? AGAIN.

With an emphasis on "again", he leans toward to her, easily colliding with their noses, making it clear that he will immediately reject her other stupid venture, and throw her out into the cold.

***

Already two pairs of eyes were looking at Jenniferl. She looked contented. Still calling Aiden "Kat" and hugging him like that teddy kitty. Aiden, looked with great displeasure at Keira, who was ACTIVELY trying not make eye contact with him.

– I mean. If I understood all correctly. You need me to. I-

He pointed at himself, still trying to make eye contact.

– -to makeuped her..?

– Well... yeah. Listen, Yato, it's not my fault that you draw "arrows" better than me! And you seem to be working with muggles. Surely you know what Ben will like more!

– Keira, you...

Before he could say anything, two plaintive looks had already turned to him. And in the end he finally gave up. Again.

– Why do you even know that? You're, like, a guy.

Sitting on the sofa in the Hufflepuff’s living room, the gryffindor girl watched as the irishman deftly worked with eyeshadows and eyeliner. Jennifer winced every time because of the young man’s cold hands, but he only hushed and each time asked to not move.

– Every vacation I work in Dublin with muggles. Duff can't always take me to his cafe, so I work part-time, where nobody asks me about documents. All last summer, except studying school program, I worked in a beauty parlour.

After making a meaningful "aah", Richardson nods, and Jenniferl giggles, making another funny face. His hands was definitely cold.

– It's so wonderful! Surely you know a lot. Will you teach me something?

– Yeah. It won't be any worse than Keira anyway.

Keira was about to say something, but Yato stopped her by pressing on her nose. Like a switch. But instead of anger, it turned out to be a forced sigh.

***

– Yato, you...

– Wow...

the girls looked at themselves in the mirror in amazement. Makeup was light, but at the same time rebellious and dark. Aiden, after he finished with Jenniferl, "attacked" Keira, and both were already standing in front of the mirror while he twisted the eyeliner like a magic wand.

– We, like, wanted to amaze Ben. I'm not going to work any other way.

Of course, he will keep silent about how much for the sake of such skill he had to work and paint house elves over and over again, but, wow, the effect has been achieved, and he doesn't need more.

– Only here... do you have costume?

Keira grinned at his words and winked. A couple of minutes later she came running back with a set of clothes.

***

– Not bad. Very good even...

Jenniferl was standing in a black sweatshirt, a plaid short skirt, tight tights and high boots with a small heel. Aiden put round tinted glasses on her. Which is why Theman immediately got into a pose with the face of an impudent cat (>:3). This, of course, didn’t surprise the couple, but they shook hands in solidarity. They couldn’t do more.

– All what remains that only to see what will happen.

***

– Hi, Ben!

The last thing they saw before they left was the blonde falling dead with a red face in front of a petite cutie.

@raccoon-lair

@hphm-jeniferltheman

(i did it)

It's kinda a sequel to Jenniferl birthday so yeah! I was hella busy so. It's again very late.

#hphm #hogwarts mystery #hphm mc #jacobs sibling #aiden yato #harry potter hogwarts mystery

[pop-punklouis]

Raise Your Voice is an underrated masterpiece and should have won every Oscar category it qualified for tbh. Hilary Duff should have won best lead actress, Oliver James best lead actor, Kat Dennings best supporting actress, John Corbett best supporting actor, that cool song Kiwi created best original song, best picture, best sound mixing, best

keep talking i’m listening 👂🏼🤚🏼

#grey

[thesmokingguns]

Popcorn dresses up in a real costume to hand out candy. Slash would have a stuffed snake around his neck like a scarf (real snake might scare people). Axl for sure wears that skeleton looking jacket from the it's so easy music video while lounging handing out the candies. Duff drags out his tour clothes for a costume. Izzy would be handing out the candy before anyone could say trick or treat

Slash is probably the only one who likes Halloween. Like he hates everyone and yet he turns his garage into a haunted house for kids and if the little kids get scared he feels really bad so the next year he buys a bouncy house for them. Super wholesome and doesn't get mad when teenagers trick or treat because he knows he grew up too quickly.

Duff 10/10 smokes a joint with his girlfriend and they eat all the candy and hide in the bathtub with all the lights off sharing Kit Kats.

Steven forgets its Halloween because he's on a bender.

Izzy gives out bibles he collected from all the hotels he stays at and pamphlets to local clinics for birth control and condoms to parents.

Axl dresses up and uses this holiday to try to find a hot mom to date. He goes for the wholesome sort of nerdy look but moms appreciate it and he gets lots of MILF pussy throughout November.

[callumsmitchells]

Ohhhh what are your top 10 duff duffs?

be prepared to come inside my chaotic brain because some of these are ones that people won't remember, some that are iconic and some are special enough to have julia's themes

also this changes a fair bit

this is long I'm sorry I have many thoughts

"how come you don't know?" "know what?" "that den watts is still alive!" - dennis and sharon

no duff duff will ever beat this. you had the suspense for weeks that dennis knew something that the audience didn't. the way it was delivered mid argument is incredible. the anger on dennis' face and the shock and horror on sharon's. it is eastenders at its best and i will love this forever

2. christmas 2005 - snowball fight

this whole christmas period is iconic. kat and alfie getting back together in the snow !!!! sharon and dennis finding out they’re having a little baby which is all that dennis ever wanted and sharon thought she could never give to him !!!! its so nostalgic for me, this episode is my comfort christmas episode and the fact it ended with all the characters having this massive snowball fight was just perfect

3. "you can't tell me what to do you ain't my mother!" "yes i am!!!" - kat and Zoe

this sl is starting on classic ee and i'm so ready for the reveal. the fact that this story wasn't even meant to happen, the producer just really wanted jessie to be on the show so they created this character story...iconic. the fact that the storyline started at the start of them coming into the show and built over time and hints were dropped constantly until the reveal and even then people didn't understand the gravity of it...its perfect

4. bobby killed lucy

when i tell you we spoke about this sl EVERY DAY in school. everyone i knew had a different guess. i said bobby for about a month before the reveal and even i was shocked. the fact it made national press speaks for itself really, it truly is such an iconic duff duff

5. tiffany's death

this was harrowing, i can still hear bianca's scream. the fact that frank was the one who killed her was genius by the writers; the way it was filmed is so raw, i love it. that last shot of the light in her eyes...beautiful. also sidenote when bianca came back and she'd named tiff after her i remember crying lmao

6. sharongate

literally one of the best reveals of all time. one of the most iconic soap storylines, EVER. the fact that its a drunk confession that gets recorded, and the fact that grant has zero idea, the way that he smiles when sharon talks about him and then she starts talking about phil and his smile fades...impeccable

7. grant and courtney in the airport

full disclosure, i was obsessed with this as a child. "he said if you didn't want it i could spend it on shoes" gets quoted on the regular by myself because i love this duff duff so much. the fact it was a julia's theme as well and we didn't see grant for another 10 years after that so its v special to me

8. christian and syed julia's theme exit

the first gay julia's theme I believe? it was so special to me that they got that, and i loved that it was happy and they literally went off into the sunset together. it's one storyline that will always have a piece of my heart

9. nigel telling clare that her mum's dead

this is one i watched for the first time a couple of years ago and although i wasn't attached to any of the characters, i had a soft spot for nigel and this scene absolutely shattered me. the fact that its silent is perfect. you didn't need to hear what he said because clare's reaction spoke for itself

10. stuart and rainie's exit

yes it just happened tonight but if you'd told me that when stuart came into the show, i would be sobbing my heart out at him leaving, I would've laughed in your face. they are perfect for each other in their chaotic way and i love them for it

#kermitmitchell #ask

[laf-outloud]

ellehtee

Enjoy some serotonin, courtesy of Laura Terry and the wonderful show that brought all these people together, Walker: Independence!

#walker: independence #walker family #laura terry #larry teng #justin johnson cortez #rachel johnson #matt barr #kylie duff #kat mcnamara #philemon chambers #happy birthday matt!

[mellowxjane]

Oh damn you guys do be looking like Kat

@venus-kisses and I get that and Hilary Duff often lol.

I definitely can see the kat dennings resemblance easier than Hilary duff though.

#asks

[joslincox]

#osmosis jones #osmosis jones 2011 #soundtrack #2011 #teen movie songs

[brunette-barbie4562]

Uncharted (Duff McKagan X OC)

Trigger Warnings: Mention of abortion

5

February 2018

On I-5 headed south to Redding, CA

CJ was first aware of a slight throb in her head as she awoke, and the events of the previous day came rushing back to her memory. She pulled her knees up to her chest and cracked open her eyes to see her bedside clock read 9:25 A.M. Her aunt and Michelle were already at work, and she had the house to herself. A painful hunger wracked her stomach and reminded her that she had slept through dinner last night. A small bundle of something sitting on her desk with a note resting on top caught her attention. Something Mindy has left her.

Her grogginess was broken when she remembered her hospital discharge paperwork had been on her desk. She sat up and noticed her dirty pants that had been crumpled on the floor were gone. Cold panic gripped her, and she flew out of bed over to her desk. She felt slightly relieved when she saw the discharge paperwork still tucked halfway under her laptop, undisturbed. She turned her attention to the handwritten note.

CJ,

Here are some things to help you feel better. Michelle & I will be back at the normal time this evening with some pizza 😊 If you wake up hungry, I made you something for breakfast. It’s on the table.

Love, Mindy

Underneath the note was a waterproof shower sleeve for her cast, a large bag of Kit Kats, a heating pad, and a large fluffy blanket. She smiled at Mindy’s thoughtfulness, but remember her pants were still missing. She left the bedroom and quickly walked down the hallway. She spied a tray of freshly baked cinnamon rolls on the table, but did not let that stop her from continuing to the laundry room. Sitting at the top of a basket full of dirty laundry were her pants. She quickly searched the pocket and pulled out the sonogram. Mindy still didn’t know, and she was going to keep it that way. She walked back to her bedroom and went back over to her desk. She pulled out her old paper shredder and turned it on. Without hesitation, she shredded her discharge paperwork.

CJ sunk down into her desk chair, looking at the sonogram. She took a deep breath and slid the sonogram into the machine, hearing it whir to life and shred the small slip of paper. A few tears escaped her eyes. She quickly wiped them away. Quick flashbacks of her childhood ran through her mind. Her mother in her face screaming at her, her arm being grabbed in a painfully tight grip, the scent of stale cigarettes and burning chemicals, the creeping sensation of roaches crawling on her body, and the final memory she had of her mother. The one she had re-lived many times. Her mother’s cold and uncaring face as she threw a blanket over CJ while she laid on a couch, struggling to breathe and choking on her own vomit, trying to reach a small hand out and say something to beg for her life.

CJ had begun to hyperventilate as she pulled herself out of her intrusive thoughts. She was too fearful of repeating the same cycle she had been raised in. What if a child drove her to become a monster? She’d be a terrible mother; she was sure of it.

If all of this wasn’t enough of a deterrent, she also couldn’t imagine the emotional turmoil of having a child that was a stark reminder of her relationship with Duff. He had made her feel so loved and safe during their time together, and then ripped the rug out from under her without giving her any answers as to why he had done so. Even worse, she now was not sure if he had intentionally lied to her about his vasectomy just to avoid using a condom. She likely would never get the answers to any of her questions. But she could take control.

CJ turned to face her desk and opened up her laptop. Feeling emotionally numb, but determined, she went to Google and searched for the nearest Planned Parenthood clinic.

May 2017

Conrad Dublin Hotel / Dublin, Ireland

Dinner had made CJ feel more comfortable and familiar with everyone. She had branched off from Duff and spent most of her time talking with Meegan, who told her more about the touring life. CJ had enjoyed Meegan’s company and was grateful to know she would be alongside Slash for the majority of the tour. She had also spent some time getting to know Melissa Reese, the keyboardist. Before the end of the night, she felt she had talked to most people. Before leaving, she made sure to discreetly take Axl aside and ask him what Duff’s typical coffee order was.

She surprised him the next morning by bringing him his favorite coffee, ready to work. CJ had answered a few emails and gotten the run down on the schedule of the next day, her first show. Duff had already packed most of the things he would need as an example of what she would need to pack for future shows. She had made a list of everything for future reference. Most of what was packed would be the same for every show. To her relief, the concert technicians handled all of the instruments and equipment.

By the evening, she was tired but agreed to attend dinner with Duff, Meegan, and Slash. Hungry after the busy day, CJ had cleaned her plate and was taking the last few bites of her butternut squash ravioli when she heard Slash’s low and soft-spoken voice directed towards Duff.

“Any plans for your girls to come watch? I’m trying to work on some dates for London and Cash to come. It would be cool to get everyone together.”

“I gotta figure it out,” said Duff, leaning back in the cushioned booth. She could sense his unease. “I gotta call Sue and work something out.”

CJ found herself dozing off in her seat after they had finished eating, the sound of Slash’s voice drifted away as she shut her eyes and leaned back against the seat of the deep cushioned booth. She was still just slightly aware of the sounds of the restaurant around her, but she could feel the impending sense of doom that always predated a nightmare. She had expected some nightmares, being in a new and unfamiliar place, but didn’t think it would happen so soon. She mentally fought to try and pull herself out of the feeling. She felt a nudge to her arm and heard Duff’s voice.

“You alright kiddo?” She opened her eyes to find Duff’s green ones staring back at her. Embarrassed, she could feel the heat in her face as she looked away and rubbed the sleep from her eyes.

“Just a little tired.” CJ thought about the schedule of the next day. She had a 10:00 A.M. wake up call and Duff had a phone interview at 12:00 P.M. with an online rock music news platform. Afterwards was lunch and then CJ would head to the stadium ahead of time to make sure all of Duff’s things were set up and in place. Duff would come a bit later to get ready for the soundcheck. “You don’t mind if I go up to bed?”

“No go on ahead and get some rest, it’ll be a long day tomorrow,” said Duff. CJ said goodnight to the three and head upstairs.

-

It was 12:45 on show day. CJ stood in the living room space of Duff’s hotel room, going down her list and checking over everything packed onto the hotel baggage cart. It was to be wheeled downstairs by a crew member and loaded into a van. She could hear Duff’s voice faintly from behind the closed door of the bedroom, doing his interview.

When she was certain everything was on the cart, she decided to sit down and check emails one more time for the day. His laptop sat open on the coffee table, and she quickly logged in. As she went to look at emails, a video call came through. A picture of a pretty blonde young woman flashed up on the screen with the name ‘Grace.’ Duff’s daughter. She was frozen, unsure if she should answer. She decided to let it ring. She was so curious about the family dynamic. She wasn’t sure if Duff was still married and what his relationships with his daughters were like. There appeared to be some sort of strain based on his reactions last night at dinner. She heard the bedroom door open, and Duff came out, his interview complete.

“How’d it go?”

“Good.”

“Lunch should be here soon. You also got a call from Grace, I didn’t answer.” He stiffened and said,

“How long ago?”

“Just a few minutes ago.”

“I gotta call her back,” he said with slight urgency coming over and taking a seat next to her. CJ decided to give them space to talk.

“I’m going to get this stuff rolled downstairs and change into clothes for tonight. Do you need anything else?”

“Are you not going to eat?”

“I figured I’d grab a sandwich from the café on the way out.”

“Are you sure?”

“Ya it’ll be enough. I’ll see you at the venue.” She could feel his concerned gaze on her as she turned to the hotel cart and he said,

“Are you good? You feel ready?” She turned and smiled at him and said,

“Isn’t it my job to ask you that?”

“I want you to feel comfortable.”

“I am,” she said, “Don’t worry.” The sound of another incoming video call from Grace caught his attention and he quickly picked up.

“Hey sweetie, sorry I missed your call, I had an interview.” CJ turned back to the cart, unlocking the wheels, and rolling it out the door.

-

CJ dropped the cart off downstairs with a crew member who would load it to be brought to the venue and headed back upstairs to change. She had attended a few small local concerts while in college, but never a big rock n’ roll concert. She was unsure how to dress for such an occasion. She had brought a lot of business casual, thinking that would be the norm. She had quickly learned that that was not the typical attire for this job. She’d have to do some shopping when she had the chance and buy more “rock n’ roll” appropriate clothing. CJ laid out some clothing on the bed, weighing her options. She didn’t want to over- or under-dress. In the end, she settled on a pair of black spandex faux leather pants, a tight long-sleeved pink V-neck top, and a pair of simple black close-toed heels. She accessorized it with a simple one banded black choker necklace and put her hair up in a high ponytail. She fixed up her makeup and took one last look in the mirror before grabbing her purse and heading out the door.

Although she had told Duff she’d grab a sandwich on the way out, she did not. The reality of tonight being her first show set in as she rode down the elevator and her nervousness set in again, taking away her appetite. If she could get through tonight smoothly, she’d prove that she was able to do this job. As she walked past the café, she noticed a cluster of women lounging on some of the couches in the lobby, dressed in Guns N’ Roses attire, chatting excitedly. She could feel their eyes on her as she walked over to a Guns N’ Roses security guard who was standing around waiting to help shuffle equipment and people back and forth. She showed him her identification badge and said,

“I’m Duff’s assistant, could someone take me to the stadium?” He looked at her badge and waved for her to follow him to a black Escalade parked out front. He opened the back door for her, and she slid into the back seat.

-

CJ had a moment to lay her head back and watch the buildings of the city slowly turn into green hills and farmland. It was about a 30-minute drive before a beautiful four-story gray stone castle came into view. It looked like something out of a Disney movie with its turrets and battlements. She heard her chauffeur speak up,

“Welcome to Slane Castle, ma’am.” At the bottom of a rolling field alongside the castle was a large concert stage, barriers, a few areas of seating, and several outbuildings and trailers. CJ watched the castle pass by as they drove towards the stage. They pulled in behind the stage and up to a backstage door. Her chauffeur got out and opened the door for her and she stepped out. CJ suddenly wished that she had been accompanied by somebody as the car pulled away, leaving her alone and facing the door. She checked her phone to see that it was 3:00. The band was due to arrive for sound check at 5:00. She had two hours to get everything ready.

Taking a deep breath, CJ pulled open the door and walked inside. There was a long gray brick hallway with doors on each side, illuminated by ceiling lights. Each door was labelled, and she found Duff’s towards the end. Before going inside, she decided to look down the rest of the corridor, where it took a sharp left. This opened into a small lounge area with an array of furniture and tables. At the other end of the room, there was a set of stairs leading up to the stage.

CJ went back to the hallway and to Duff’s room. It was similar to the lounge room, but cozier. There were couches, a coffee table, a water bubbler, a large mirror with a vanity, a television, a small attached bathroom, a fridge full of different snacks, water, and energy drinks, and several tables where Duff’s trunks full of equipment and instruments sat. Several were half opened and she figured the techs had already begun to set up on stage.

Also in the room was a cart full of the things she had packed that morning, ready for her to begin breaking down and setting up. She went to the fridge to grab herself a water and took a closer look at the trunks. They were decorated with pictures of Duff’s beautiful daughters at different ages, baby pictures, toddler pictures, a high school graduation picture, and pictures of the three of them together. She smiled at the obvious adoration he had for them. The blonde who appeared to be the older of the two looked so much like him.

CJ jumped when the door to the room opened, and a concert technician walked in. He seemed surprised to see her there. She smiled and held up her badge.

“Don’t worry, I’m Duff’s assistant, not a crazy groupie.” He chuckled and said,

“You had me worried there for a moment.” She smiled and said,

“I came over to start unpacking some of this stuff for him.”

“Awesome, I’ll be out of your way in a second, just came back down to grab some things.” He moved to one of the trunks and began digging around inside in search of something. CJ stole a glance at the tech. He looked slightly older than her, roughly 6 feet with short brown hair and a cute boyish face. He looked familiar from the staff dinner they had. She was sure she had been briefly introduced to him at some point but could not remember his name.

The man pulled a few different cords out of the trunk and walked back out of the room. She re-focused on her task and began unpacking the cart. There was a bag with towels and the shirts, hats, and other clothing items Duff would need for quick wardrobe changes. She grabbed that along with some water bottles and protein bars and headed up to the stage.

The stage looked out onto the large empty field that would soon be filled with thousands of people. It was overcast, but not uncomfortably warm or cold. CJ was not surprised to see several people setting up the stage and instruments. There was a large backdrop that allowed people to walk behind the stage to get to the other side. She had been instructed that Duff was always on the right side, or rather the left when facing the stage from the crowd. She spotted the same tech from the room working on setting up a large speaker on Duff’s side. Nobody turned to look her way as she walked over to where a small nook had been made between some of the equipment and a table. She set her things down and unzipped the bag, unsure if she was able to use the table to set things out on.

The tech from before had walked back over and must have seen the confused look on her face. 

“You can use that table if you want. We shouldn’t need it for anything.” CJ smiled gratefully at him and said,

“Thanks! It’s my first time doing this so I’m still figuring it out.”

“I didn’t think I recognized you from the last leg of the tour.”

“My aunt has known Axl for a long time and set me up with this job. I’ve done some work as an assistant before, but nothing like this.”

“Well, welcome,” he said with a handsome smile. “You’ll love it! You’ll get to see so many different places and meet people. It also looks great on a resume. I started working for them in 2016 when they got back together.” CJ turned to fully face him, her curiosity piqued. He held his hand out and said, “I’m Tate.” She shook it and said,

“CJ,” she leaned back against the table, “so how’d you get into this business?”

“I’ve always loved music. I had my own little band for a bit after high school. We weren’t destined for greatness or anything, it was mostly for fun. To make extra cash I helped other bands with their equipment during gigs. I decided to try and make it full time and got a position on tour with a bigger band. I slowly worked my way up and got this position, which has been a dream. Not many people can say they worked directly for Guns N’ Roses.” CJ smiled and said,

“I’m hoping to stay on for at least the rest of this year, while I decide if I’m going to go back to school or not.” Tate opened his mouth to speak but was cut off by someone calling his name from the other end of the stage. He turned quickly and then looked back at her.

“I better go help finish up,” He paused awkwardly for a moment. “If you don’t mind me asking, what is your number? I know how it can be to get on tour and not know anyone. There also are not many other people around under the age of 35. If you want someone to hang out with on off days, I’m around.” She smiled and pulled her phone out of her pocket.

“Sure, that would be cool.” She let him quickly type his number into her contacts.

“I’ll see you around then,” he said, backing away slowly. She smiled and nodded before he turned and headed towards the other end of the stage.

-

By the time 4:30 rolled around, the stage was mostly complete. An impressive variety of guitars lined the sides of the stage, ranging in shape, size, material, and color. CJ had never picked up a guitar in her life but was mesmerized by how chic and expensive they all looked. She didn’t dare touch one and stood back, afraid to accidentally bump into them.

“You like them?” She turned to see Duff standing at the top of the stage staircase, having just arrived at the venue. She smiled at him, glad to have him back in proximity.

“They’re so beautiful, but I have no idea how to use them.” He laughed and said,

“I’m not a great teacher, but at some point, Slash or I can show you some things.” The thought intimidated her.

“Thanks, but I wouldn’t want to break one.”

“You wouldn’t,” he said, “you’d get the hang of it quick.” CJ’s attention was suddenly pulled away from the guitars when a wooziness overcame her. She realized she was very hungry, having not eaten anything since breakfast. Duff must have seen her expression change.

“You good? You look a little pale.”

“I think I’m just hungry.” She steadied herself by grabbing onto a large stage riser.

“Did you not grab a sandwich?”

“No,” she hesitantly admitted. He made a sound of exasperation and asked,

“Why not?” She gave him a small smile, slightly embarrassed.

“I just loose my appetite when I stress.” His expression softened and he said,

“Well, go get yourself something to eat downstairs. I think some sandwiches were just dropped off. Can’t have you passing out on me during the show kiddo.” She nodded gratefully and said,

“You don’t need anything before I go?”

“I need you to go downstairs and get something to eat.” She laughed and said,

“Ok, ok, I’m going.”

-

CJ spent sound check eating her late lunch or early dinner in the large lounge room. All band members took part in sound check, other than Axl, who was in his private room preparing for the performance. When she was done eating, she stood at the bottom of the stage stairs, recognizing some of the music they were rehearsing. Meegan arrived towards the end of the sound check. CJ joined her on the couch and said,

“They sound good.”

“Just wait for the show,” said Meegan, “It’ll blow you away.” The sound of footsteps coming down the stairs prompted her to turn from her spot on the couch. She smiled when Duff came into view from behind Slash. He took a seat on the couch beside her, leaning back into the cushions in relaxation. Slash had sat down next to Meegan and began to pluck idly at the strings of a guitar he had brought back down with him.

“It’s good to be back here, I think it was ’92 the last time,” said Duff.  Slash smiled, his eyes hidden by his sunglasses, not looking up from his guitar.

“I don’t remember the year dude; I’m surprised you do. I do remember the Irish whiskey and Guiness barrels.” Duff smirked at his comment, keeping any responses to himself. Axl appeared in the doorway, surfacing for a break from his preparation. He saw her sitting on the couch and smiled.

“You ready kid?”

“I am,” said CJ, “Everything is ready to go.” Duff sat up and put in arm around her shoulder, playfully pulling her to him.

“She’s been perfect.” CJ felt her face redden at the sudden attention.

“I knew it would be a great fit,” said Axl, “Not that you’re very hard to please.”

“That’s what she said,” said Slash quietly. CJ cracked up at the comment. Ignoring their innuendos, Meegan turned to her and asked,

“Is this your first concert?”

“No,” said CJ, “I went to a couple small ones in college, nothing this big though.”

“Well, you’ll have one of the best seats in the house from the side stage,” said Axl.

-

Standing on the side of the stage had not intimidated CJ until she walked out and was met with the sight and sounds of thousands of people standing where the open and empty grass field had once been. She and some of the other stage staff had walked out ahead of the band to get in place and were met with some cheering from the crowd. She walked back to the little nook where she had left everything earlier. A chair had been set up for her to sit and watch during songs.

CJ looked out into the crowd and recognized some faces from the hotel lobby. Down between the rail and the stage were in-house security guards and Guns N’ Roses security, as well as a couple of photographers. Vanessa was already looking coldly in her direction when CJ met her gaze. There was a flash of annoyance in Vanessa’s eyes and CJ uncomfortably looked away, turning back to the table where she had set up everything earlier. She wasn’t sure if she was imagining it, but Vanessa did not seem to like her.

A loud voice boomed over the speaker, announcing the band. CJ watched as Duff, Slash, and Axl emerged from backstage, playing the beginning of “It’s So Easy.” An amazing array of colors and images flashed on the backdrop as the concert began, but CJ kept her eyes on Duff as he walked to front of the stage, playing his bass. The crowd screamed with excitement, appearing to move like an ocean as they threw their hands up and cheered. CJ took a seat in her chair, feeling excited as the beat of the song reverberated through her body. She had heard it so many times before, but it was very different live. CJ’s excitement increased ten-fold as Duff circled around towards the back of the stage and looked at her as he walked by. He winked at her with a smile, and she felt her face redden as she smiled back. Directly across from her on the other side of the stage, sat Meegan and Beta. Meegan saw her watching and waved, CJ waved back, feeling as if she was in some out of body experience.

The song came to an end, and they moved right into playing ‘Mr. Brownstone.’ The crowd sang along with Axl, who stood up center stage on a stage riser, captivating everyone’s attention. CJ took out her phone and recorded a quick video before sending it to Mindy. She had also been instructed to get some pictures and video footage to post on Duff’s Instagram and focused on snapping a few pictures of him as he faced the audience.

When Mr. Brownstone ended, CJ stood up from her seat as Duff walked over, handing the bass tech his guitar before shrugging off his leather jacket.

“So, what do you think?”

“Amazing,” she said, feeling slightly breathless as he leaned in closely to talk to her over the sound of the crowd. CJ took his jacket from him as he turned to go back out on stage to play ‘Chinese Democracy.’

-

About halfway through was Duff’s cover of ‘New Rose.’ CJ had been unaware that he sung beyond backing vocals. While Axl’s voice was undoubtedly legendary, Duff’s voice captured her attention on a deeper level, resonating within her. When the song was over, Duff came back over for another change and CJ pulled herself out of the daze his voice had put her in. She leaned in close to him so her voice could be heard.

“I didn’t know you sang too.” He laughed and said,

“Sometimes I do.” CJ remembered her job and went over to the table, grabbing the next shirt he’d be wearing. When she turned back around Duff had already pulled off the old shirt and tossed it over. She paused, taking in the sight of his bare muscled chest. She knew he was fit but was not prepared to see him half naked. Not wanting him to notice her ogling him, she snapped out of it and handed over the new shirt. He quickly pulled it on and was gone again, back towards the stage.

-

The show flew by, with Duff changing shirts one more time and coming back every so often for his jacket. It had been 3 hours of non-stop music. By the end, it felt like she had been sitting there for only an hour or so, but it was evident that was not the case for Duff and the others. He nearly threw himself down onto the couch backstage when they walked into the lounge. He was covered in sweat and appeared slightly out of breath. He took a swig of his water before leaning his head back and closing his eyes briefly. Concerned, CJ took a seat next to him.

“Are you ok? Do you need me to get you anything?” He smiled at her tiredly.

“I’m fine kiddo, it’s like this after every show.” The others showed signs of exhaustion as well as they sat down to take a moment. Despite their god-like stage presence, it was a stark reminder of the fact that they were human and no longer in their 20’s.

“If you’re sure you’re ok, I’m going to get your stuff packed up.”

“Ya go on,” he said gesturing to the stairs, “Then we can head back to the hotel.” CJ got up and went back up the stairs to the stage. The crowd was slowly moving away, leaving behind a field littered with trash. She began to stuff all of Duff’s things back into the duffle bag.

“Hey, how’d you enjoy your first show?” CJ turned to see Vanessa standing there, her large camera still hanging around her neck. Feeling like now would be a good time to try to smooth over her uncertainties with Vanessa, CJ smiled and said,

“It was great! I can’t wait for the next. Did you have a good time too?”

“I do enjoy watching Duff,” said Vanessa with a smirk. “If you need any tips or advice on what he likes or prefers, feel free to ask. I know him very well.” Vanessa did not wait for CJ to reply and walked away. CJ was perplexed at what she meant. Duff had not mentioned Vanessa at all, other than to introduce them to each other at dinner. While the interaction on stage had appeared to be good-natured, CJ still felt like something was off.

-

After pulling out from the castle and past the crowds of cheering fans, the car ride back to the hotel was quiet and felt quicker than the ride there had been. CJ was surprised that they had pulled up to the front door of the hotel, where a few fans were already lingering and waiting. They got out and she walked briskly behind Duff, who waved at the fans, but did not stop to sign anything. He walked over to the elevator and punched at the button. Once in the elevator, Duff let out a breath and said,

“I usually stop and talk to people, but not after a show.” She nodded thoughtfully and asked

“Is it hard?

“Talking to people?”

“Everything,” said CJ, “Fans, being on the road all the time, performing every other night.”

“Sometimes,” said Duff, “It’s easier than it used to be, now that I’m healthier and have my girls. Things aren’t tumultuous in the band like they used to be.” The elevator doors opened, ending the conversation.

They stroud into Duff’s dark hotel room. CJ switched on the light and placed Duff’s duffle bag down on the couch. He was pulling what looked like large cloth ice packs from the freezer. He unfolded them and she realized they were meant to wrap around his legs.

“Are you sure your legs are ok?” He chuckled at her over-concern and said,

“Yes, I do this after every show, it helps with any pain or swelling. Gone are the days I can just come off stage without being sore.” CJ smiled and said,

“Well, you guys did a great job tonight, is there anything else you need?” He shook his head and said,

“We have a 10:00 A.M. wake up and have to be on our way to the airport at 11:30. You can pack your things before coming over here in the morning, don’t do it now. Go back and rest.” She nodded and said,

“See you in the morning.”

“Goodnight kiddo, great job tonight.”

#duff gnr #duff mckagan #80s music #80s rock #axl gnr #axl rose #guns n roses #saul hudson #izzy gnr #slash gnr

[leanstooneside]

Billie Jean King Crab

KATHERINE HEIGL'S HAIR (MOTORCYCLE PASSENGER INJURED IN COLLISION WITH TWO- OR THREE-WHEELED MOTOR VEHICLE IN TRAFFIC ACCIDENT)

SIMON DOONAN'S FOOT (ANGIODYSPLASIA OF COLON)

KAT DELUNA'S NOSE (ACUTE APPENDICITIS WITH LOCALIZED PERITONITIS)

KATE BECKINSALE'S MOUTH (OTHER SPECIFIED DISORDERS OF LEFT EXTERNAL EAR)

JENNY MCCARTHY'S CHEEK (MIXED PEDICULOSIS AND PHTHIRIASIS)

CATE BLANCHETT'S TOE (VARICOSE VEINS OF LEFT LOWER EXTREMITY WITH INFLAMMATION)

MATTHEW BELLAMY'S BOTTOM (PHYSICAL RESTRAINT STATUS)

LISA BONET'S CALF (UNSPECIFIED CORNEAL DEPOSIT, UNSPECIFIED EYE)

EMMA ROBERTS'S EYEBROW (INHALANT USE, UNSPECIFIED WITH INHALANT-INDUCED PSYCHOTIC DISORDER WITH HALLUCINATIONS)

AMANDA SEYFRIED'S HAIR (SUPERFICIAL INJURY OF ANKLE, FOOT AND TOES)

KALEY CUOCO'S HIP (RHEUMATOID BURSITIS, WRIST)

BETTY WHITE'S BOTTOM (TOXIC EFFECT OF VENOM OF BLACK WIDOW SPIDER)

RONNIE ORTIZ-MAGRO'S EAR (HEREDITARY LYMPHEDEMA)

JESSICA CHASTAIN'S FOOT (TRAUMATIC AMPUTATION OF SHOULDER AND UPPER ARM)

CORY MONTEITH'S HAIR (INTERVERTEBRAL DISC DISORDERS WITH MYELOPATHY, THORACOLUMBAR REGION)

DANIELLE STAUB'S FINGER (MILITARY OPERATIONS INVOLVING UNARMED HAND TO HAND COMBAT, CIVILIAN)

TAYLOR SWIFT'S BACK (TRAUMATIC AMPUTATION OF SHOULDER AND UPPER ARM)

MAHENDRA SINGH DHONI'S HAIR (TRAUMATIC AMPUTATION OF SHOULDER AND UPPER ARM)

NICK CARTER'S FIST (ANGIODYSPLASIA OF COLON)

ETHAN HAWKE'S FOREHEAD (ANAPLASTIC LARGE CELL LYMPHOMA, ALK-NEGATIVE, UNSPECIFIED SITE)

GARY OLDMAN'S EYEBROW (OSTEOPHYTE, LEFT HAND)

ANNA FARIS'S SHOULDER (OTHER SPOTTED FEVERS)

ANNETTE BENING'S NOSE (TOTAL PERFORATIONS OF TYMPANIC MEMBRANE, RIGHT EAR)

COLIN FIRTH'S TOOTH (ENDOMETRIOSIS OF PELVIC PERITONEUM)

ADAM DURITZ'S BACK (PRIMARY CYST OF PARS PLANA, UNSPECIFIED EYE)

NATASHA BEDINGFIELD'S FOREARM (TORUS FRACTURE OF UPPER END OF HUMERUS)

SARAH MICHELLE GELLAR'S ELBOW (URTICARIA DUE TO COLD AND HEAT)

BROOKE SHIELDS'S EAR (OSSEOUS AND SUBLUXATION STENOSIS OF INTERVERTEBRAL FORAMINA OF ABDOMEN AND OTHER REGIONS)

MATT BOMER'S TOOTH (OTHER UNILATERAL SECONDARY OSTEOARTHRITIS OF HIP)

SHILOH JOLIE-PITT'S FIST (INFLAMMATORY POLYNEUROPATHY, UNSPECIFIED)

HILARY DUFF'S UPPER ARM (PHYSICAL RESTRAINT STATUS)

MADONNA'S BREAST (PARALYTIC LAGOPHTHALMOS UNSPECIFIED EYE, UNSPECIFIED EYELID)

KENDRA WILKINSON'S TOE (UNSPECIFIED VIRAL HEPATITIS C WITHOUT HEPATIC COMA)

SANDRA OH'S WAIST (ENDOMETRIOSIS OF PELVIC PERITONEUM)

BLAKE LIVELY'S BACK (STRIATONIGRAL DEGENERATION)

KATRINA BOWDEN'S LEG (OTHER INJURY OF UNSPECIFIED PART OF SMALL INTESTINE)

CHLOE MORETZ'S WAIST (LATE SYPHILITIC OCULOPATHY)

MATT LANTER'S HIP (CORROSION OF SECOND DEGREE OF UNSPECIFIED SHOULDER)

KATE WINSLET'S LIP (OTOSCLEROSIS INVOLVING OVAL WINDOW, OBLITERATIVE, BILATERAL)

ROSIE O'DONNELL'S WAIST (MAJOR LACERATION OF LEFT KIDNEY)

SARAH PALIN'S FINGER (JUVENILE ARTHRITIS, UNSPECIFIED, LEFT HAND)

SHAILENE WOODLEY'S WAIST (EXPOSURE OF IMPLANTED MESH AND OTHER PROSTHETIC MATERIALS INTO SURROUNDING ORGAN OR TISSUE)

KELLY OSBOURNE'S HIP (LYMPHOCYTOSIS (SYMPTOMATIC))

ROSARIO DAWSON'S UPPER ARM (RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS WITHOUT RHEUMATOID FACTOR, WRIST)

KELSEY GRAMMER'S FOREARM (UNSPECIFIED FRACTURE OF FOURTH METACARPAL BONE, LEFT HAND)

JULIETTE LEWIS'S THIGH (OSTEONECROSIS IN DISEASES CLASSIFIED ELSEWHERE, RIGHT THIGH)

MENA SUVARI'S ANKLE (EXPOSURE TO SMOKE IN UNCONTROLLED FIRE IN BUILDING OR STRUCTURE)

GABOUREY SIDIBE'S EYEBROW (SUBACUTE OSTEOMYELITIS, RIGHT TIBIA AND FIBULA)

ROBERT PATTINSON'S NOSE (MILITARY OPERATIONS INVOLVING FLAMETHROWER, CIVILIAN)

KRISTIN CAVALLARI'S FOREHEAD (SECONDARY LACRIMAL GLAND ATROPHY)