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elisysd · 8 months

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An unexpected bonus chapter but I couldn’t resist when @smoooothoperator asked me if I wanted to write something with Lyanna and Charles at Lily and Lando’s wedding. I had so much fun! Go read her story Beautiful Stranger if you want to know more about Lily and Lando’s story!!! And if you want to read about their wedding, it’s here

Only bought this dress so you could take it off

Santorini had something truly magical in its air. It was a dreamy location, perfect for a holiday or better, a wedding. That’s what Lyanna thought as she was unpacking the suitcases while Charles was showing the surroundings to Julia that seemed to only want to sleep. They were here for Lando and his soon-to-be wife Lily's wedding. Lyanna had met Lily at a race and they had hit it off. They were not seeing each other a lot, both being busy with a baby for one, and an art gallery for the other. But still, it was always nice to be able to catch up whether it was during races when Lily was coming or in England when Lyanna was going there for business.

Lyanna had been surprised when Lando’s fiancée had asked her to be one of her bridesmaids but she had accepted quickly. She never really had the occasion to be one before and she was excited. When she finally finished unpacking everything she joined her husband and her daughter on the balcony.

“It’s still as beautiful as I remember.” she said sitting down next to Charles.

“Greece will always hold a special place in my heart.” he told her, kissing Julia’s hair.

“Really?”

“This is where we conceived our little bundle of joy, of course it’s special to me.”

“Hoping she will still be a bundle of joy when she will be with Kat and Max….” said Lyanna as she delicately touched her daughter’s cheek.

“She will be an angel, don't worry. By the way, you didn’t show me the dress.”

“And I won’t show you, you’ll have to wait.”

“That’s unfair. It’s just a bridesmaid dress, not your wedding one.”

Lyanna playfully rolled her eyes before standing up.

“Hold your horses, Leclerc.”

“I can’t help it. This city brings back a lot of memories.”

“I wonder what they are…” she said as he was standing up as well, carefully placing Julia on the balcony’s sofa and snaking his arms around Lyanna’s waist.

“I can show you, if you need a good reminder.”

He started to slowly kiss her neck as his hands found their way under her blouse.

“I have to meet Lily.”

“Cancel.”

“We have Julia.”

“I can call one of the boys to take her for the evening.” His kisses started to be a bit more urgent as he pressed her closer against his chest.

Finally after a lot of persuasion and promises of later, Charles let her go and stayed with Julia. Lyanna knew that despite pouting a little bit, he was happy to spend alone time with his daughter. She met Lily at the bar of the hotel. The soon-to-be Mrs Norris, greeted her with a hug and a smile on her face. She was glowing and Lynna couldn’t help but reminisce about her own wedding a few months before. She was so happy for her. In the span of a few months, Lily had become someone she was proud to call a friend.

“So, anxious, excited?” she asked as they were taking place on the terrace.

“A bit of both. But mostly excited. Thank you again for agreeing to be a bridesmaid. It means a lot to me.”

“Hey, you are my friend. What kind of friend would I be if I had refused?”she winked at her, joking.

“A terrible one. You wanted to tell me something?”

“Actually yes. You know that we just moved in, in our new house, and I was thinking of adding a few paintings here and there but truth be told, I don’t envision other pieces of art than yours. So what I wanted to ask is, would you accept to work on a few paintings for Charles and I? We would pay of course, you just have to tell us how much it would cost and we will pay. No negociations.”

“Lyanna… Oh, wow. I really didn’t expect that. I don’t know what to say…” she stuttered.

“You don’t have to say yes, I would understand if you would rather focus on other things. It’s just that I already bought one of your paintings at your exhibition, for the living room and we have the portrait you did of us at our wedding hanging on our bedroom wall. I wanted to have some kind of coherence in the decoration… so obviously your name came up really quickly when I talked about it to Charles.” she explained.

“It would be an honor, Lyanna.”

“So it’s a yes?”

“It’s a big yes!”

Lyanna couldn’t help but squealed and threw her arms around the Brit to hug her. They chatted for a while before it was late and they were both tired.

And finally the big day arrived. As Charles and Lyanna were both busy with bridesmaids and groomsmen duties, they had given Julia to Max and Kat, hoping that it would not cause any problem with Ethan. They didn’t want the kids to throw a tantrum and ruin the wedding. They would be ashamed. So they were silently praying, relying on the Greek divinities powers to prevent any kind of drama from happening.

When Charles saw his wife in her beautiful blue dress, he knew he was screwed. Blue was definitely a color she was not wearing often as she knew that Charles preferred to see her in red but, damn it, she was beautiful. He surprised himself to think that even when he thought he couldn’t fall in love with her more, she always found a way to prove him wrong . And this dress was definitely making him feel things. Maybe it was the greek air, maybe it was the wedding atmosphere but whatever it was he knew that he would not be able to keep his hands to himself. Even more so when he noticed the slit on the dress giving him a nice view on his wife’s leg.

Lyanna noticed the way her husband was looking at her and how he always managed to have a hand on her. She didn’t find it weird, Charles always had the tendency to be a bit clingy with her but today, it was worse than usual. They were chatting with Lando’s family around the table as they were eating, when she felt Charles’ hand on her thigh, drawing small patterns and trying to find a way under her dress.

“What are you doing?” she whispered as he was pouring himself a glass of wine, ignoring the warning undertone in his wife's voice.

“Nothing.” He finally found a way to let his hand slip under it and rested the palm of his hand against her naked skin.

“Charles…”

“I don’t know what you mean, love.”

“Oh you know exactly what I mean.”

“Charles, we can’t. Not here.”

“No one will notice, I promise you.”

She soon felt his fingers playing with the hem of the only piece of clothing she had under her dress. She could feel herself blushing as he kept his teasing going as if nothing was happening. He joked with Lando, as his fingers managed to slip past the clothing barrier and a proud smile played on his lips when he heard Lyanna gasping. He was having so much fun. He soon felt the hot breath of his wife against his ear, making him slightly shiver.

“And what about Julia.” she was trying to reason him as she could feel his fingers where she needed him the most making her loose the small amount of coherence she had left.

“She is with Carlos and Nora. Everything is fine.”

“Fine. You won. Meet me in the bathroom in five minutes.”

It was not a request. It was an order, and one Charles felt happy to oblige.

He didn’t wait for five minutes. And as soon as he opened the bathroom door, he felt two hands gripping him and strawberry tasting lips on his.It didn’t take long before his instincts to take over he pushed her against the sink before helping her jumping on it. He naturally found his place between her legs as she was urgently trying to get rid of his suit and started to unbutton his shirt.

“Slow down tiger.” he joked, playfully biting her lips, earning a moan from her. His favourite sound.

“You got me this worked up. Time to deal with the consequences!”

“Well I should do it more often, if it always comes to this.”

“Shut up and kiss me.” she whispered, looking him in the eyes.

“Happily.”

His kisses became more feverish and urgent as his hands started to have a mind on their own. He pulled up her dress as he was trying to unbuckle his belt with the help of Lyanna. He could feel her breath on him, and her hips buckling with his, trying to relieve the pressure she could feel building inside her. Charles could help himself but to mechanically move with her. He felt like a horny teenager and was not even ashamed to admit it. He was feeling way to tight in his pants and feeling the hand of his wife palming him through the material almost made him loose his mind.

“Fuck Charles, I need you.” she said while pepering every inch of his naked skin with kisses and light bites.

“I need you too, love.”

As he was about to pulled down his brief, the door slammed open, revealing a smiling and little tipsy Lily.

“Oh my God, I’m sorry!” she said immediately turning away.

It had the effect of snapping both Lyanna and Charles out of their transe as they immediately put on some order in their clothes and hair. They looked like two teenagers busted by their mother. Lily looked intently at them, arching an eybrow and crossing her arms against her chest.

“Well… if you guys announce a baby Leclerc number two in the upcoming months, I will know when it has been conceived… I can’t wait to tell Lando, about that.”

“Please Lily, don’t…” pleaded Charles.

“Don’t worry, I won’t. It’s tempting though. But if it does happen, I want to be at least the godmother! You guys own me that. Seriously, how old are you? Well…I wanted to pee, but I think I’m gonna avoid this bathroom. You guys can keep on doing whatever you were doing. Or doing each other. I don’t care.”

As she was about to close the door she turned to them one last time.

“That being said, we wanted to gift you a painting o you guys kissing. Lando took a pretty picture of you two during your baby shower. It was too sweet for us to not immortalised it. He was slightly making fun of you saying that you would never be anything else than the lovey-dovey couple. I’m glad that I’ll be able to prove him wrong! … Have fun! And don’t forget to lock the door!”

“Lily, you promised!” Screamed Charles while the door was closing.

They could hear her laughing and they both knew that they were screwed and would not hear the end of it, anytime soon.

Little did she know that her request wouldn’t be forgotten and that a few years later she would be, indeed, the godmother of a little boy.

============

Author’s note: I can’t wait to have your thoughts on this one!

Taglist: @zendayabelova @purplephantomwolf @ru-kru @dakotali @blueflorals @aundercover @ruleroftheuniverse @fangirlika @writerscurse @elijahmikaelsonbitch @leclerc13 @karmabyfernando @stargaryenx @pitlanebabe @boiohboii @reengard @shikshinkwon

#writing #fiction #charles leclerc #charles leclerc x reader #charles leclerc imagine #charles leclerc x female reader #cl16 x reader #charles leclerc imagines #cl16 #f1 fanfic #f1 fic

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mizutoyama · 20 days

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*smacks into your window screen*

•°☆TIS I, DR. SOUP!!!☆°•

Like dr pepper but better

Your character is sitting outside a little restaurant by the sea. They are telling their most intimate friend about their beloved. They're drinking something delicious. What are they saying? What are they drinking?

Astraea

Seated on the terrace of a modest maritime establishment in Aberdaron, Astraea was engaged in intimate conversation with her dearest friend, Natty, both ladies partaking of afternoon tea.

"How are things between you and Sallow?" asked Natty.

“In truth, it is rather complex,” replied Astraea, her gaze traversing the vast seascape before her as she added sugar to her tea. “His propensity for rash actions does give me pause. His boundaries, I fear, are undefined... Yet, his presence agitates my heart in a most peculiar manner. His mere sight manifests joy within me. Still, I am aware of the inherent risk of emotional distress. Not that Sebastian would consciously inflict such, but his impulsive nature might lead him onto a path of inadvertent harm...”

"It does sound complicated."

"Poppy told me that love triumphs over all adversity. Imelda, on the other hand, vowed to send a bludger his way should he cause me any distress," said Astraea, distractingly adding more sugar to her tea.

“Poppy has been residing in a realm of romance since Garreth commenced his courtship. As for Imelda, her affection for her broom is such that she might as well take it as her spouse,” retorted Natty.

Astraea responded with laughter before indulging in a sip of her tea, only to recoil almost immediately. “Good heavens, why is it so overly sweet?!”

Alice

Alice was sitting at a restaurant on the Promenade des Anglais in Nice, sipping lemonade under the hot Mediterranean sun. Across from her was Andre, her long-time friend who had joined her for a month-long stay at her French grandparents' house. He only had one thing in mind: find out how her blossoming relationship with Charlie Weasley, the dashing seeker of the Gryffindor Quidditch team (his words, not hers), was going.

"You have to tell me everything!" he exclaimed.

"There's not much to say... we literally started dating at the end of our fifth year."

"Yes, but that kiss at the end of the Quidditch match..."

Alice's face grew hot. The spontaneous act was a constant source of embarrassment as her friends kept bringing it up. "Could you stop mentioning that kiss? It just happened... I didn't intend my first kiss to be so public."

"Awwww, that was your first kiss."

"Andre," said Alice through gritted teeth. If looks could kill, Andre would be as dead as if the killing curse had been cast on him.

"Fine, fine. I'll stop talking about the kiss of the century. But how has it been going since?"

Alice shrugged. "Fine, I suppose. He's adorable when he talks about dragons, and his eyes light up," she sighed softly. "We didn't get much time together, though, especially not romantic time. We had to study for our O.W.L.s, and then it was the end of the school year and the train ride home. We had to patrol the train, so it wasn't super romantic."

"Wait, you actually patrolled the train? We were all convinced you two had found some empty compartment and snogged the entire time."

Alice choked on her lemonade. "No, we did not! Anyway, we weren't even paired up together for the patrol."

"Who were you with?"

"Simon. So wasn't so bad. Kept trying to find him a date for our first trip to Hogsmeade next year."

"This reminds me... Didn't I overhear you in a corridor teasing him about you dating Charlie and not him?"

"Hmmm? What are you...? Oh! No, not like... So, he was all gloomy after that Quidditch match. So I asked him what was going on. Obviously, Selwood tried to lie to me, saying he was fine, but I knew better. So I asked him, point blank, if he was jealous of my new relationship with Charlie." It was now Andre's turn to choke on his iced tea, but Alice ignored it and continued. "You should have seen his face. Colours completely drained from it, pale as a ghost. So I told him not to worry and that I would help him find a girlfriend so that he wouldn't feel left out and be in a relationship as well. That seemed to relieve him. And then I joked that maybe he was actually jealous that I was the one dating Charlie and that maybe, deep down, he had a thing for the great Charlie Weasley. That's probably what you overheard. He actually laughed but said Charlie wasn't his type. Though he still won't tell me what his type is."

Andre smiled knowingly as he sipped his drink. "Oh, Alice," was all he said.

"What?"

#soup fairy #I can't picture Astraea or Alice talk about their beloved in a lovey-dovey way #so that's the best you'll get #(for anyone wondering: Simon is a new OC of mine not some official HPHM character you missed)#hogwarts mystery #hphm #alice beaumont #charlie weasley #simon selwood #andre egwu #astraea morgen #natsai onai #hogwarts legacy #sebastian sallow

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the-chronicle-of-holy-days · 27 days

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Day 12

Liber Liberi vel Lapidis Lazuli

III

1. I was the priest of Ammon-Ra in the temple of Ammon-Ra at Thebai.

2. But Bacchus came singing with his troops of vine-clad girls, of girls in dark mantles; and Bacchus in the midst like a fawn!

3. God! how I ran out in my rage and scattered the chorus!

4. But in my temple stood Bacchus as the priest of Ammon-Ra.

5. Therefore I went wildly with the girls into Abyssinia; and there we abode and rejoiced.

6. Exceedingly; yea, in good sooth!

7. I will eat the ripe and the unripe fruit for the glory of Bacchus.

8. Terraces of ilex, and tiers of onyx and opal and sardonyx leading up to the cool green porch of malachite.

9. Within is a crystal shell, shaped like an oyster — O glory of Priapus! O beatitude of the Great Goddess!

10. Therein is a pearl.

11. O Pearl! thou hast come from the majesty of dread Ammon-Ra.

12. Then I the priest beheld a steady glitter in the heart of the pearl.

13. So bright we could not look! But behold! a blood-red rose upon a rood of glowing gold!

14. So I adored the God. Bacchus! thou art the lover of my God!

15. I who was priest of Ammon-Ra, who saw the Nile flow by for many moons, for many, many moons, am the young fawn of the grey land.

16. I will set up my dance in your conventicles, and my secret loves shall be sweet among you.

17. Thou shalt have a lover among the lords of the grey land.

18. This shall he bring unto thee, without which all is in vain; a man’s life spilt for thy love upon My Altars.

19. Amen.

20. Let it be soon, O God, my God! I ache for Thee, I wander very lonely among the mad folk, in the grey land of desolation.

21. Thou shalt set up the abominable lonely Thing of wickedness. Oh joy! to lay that corner-stone!

22. It shall stand erect upon the high mountain; only my God shall commune with it.

23. I will build it of a single ruby; it shall be seen from afar off.

24. Come! let us irritate the vessels of the earth: they shall distil strange wine.

25. It grows under my hand: it shall cover the whole heaven.

26. Thou art behind me: I scream with a mad joy.

27. Then said Ithuriel the strong; let Us also worship this invisible marvel!

28. So did they, and the archangels swept over the heaven.

29. Strange and mystic, like a yellow priest invoking mighty flights of great grey birds from the North, so do I stand and invoke Thee!

30. Let them obscure not the sun with their wings and their clamour!

31. Take away form and its following!

32. I am still.

33. Thou art like an osprey among the rice, I am the great red pelican in the sunset waters.

34. I am like a black eunuch; and Thou art the scimitar. I smite off the head of the light one, the breaker of bread and salt.

35. Yea! I smite — and the blood makes as it were a sunset on the lapis lazuli of the King’s Bedchamber.

36. I smite! The whole world is broken up into a mighty wind, and a voice cries aloud in a tongue that men cannot speak.

37. I know that awful sound of primal joy; let us follow on the wings of the gale even unto the holy house of Hathor; let us offer the five jewels of the cow upon her altar!

38. Again the inhuman voice!

39. I rear my Titan bulk into the teeth of the gale, and I smite and prevail, and swing me out over the sea.

40. There is a strange pale God, a god of pain and deadly wickedness.

41. My own soul bites into itself, like a scorpion ringed with fire.

42. That pallid God with face averted, that God of subtlety and laughter, that young Doric God, him will I serve.

43. For the end thereof is torment unspeakable.

44. Better the loneliness of the great grey sea!

45. But ill befall the folk of the grey land, my God!

46. Let me smother them with my roses!

47. Oh Thou delicious God, smile sinister!

48. I pluck Thee, O my God, like a purple plum upon a sunny tree. How Thou dost melt in my mouth, Thou consecrated sugar of the Stars!

49. The world is all grey before mine eyes; it is like an old worn wine-skin.

50. All the wine of it is on these lips.

51. Thou hast begotten me upon a marble Statue, O my God!

52. The body is icy cold with the coldness of a million moons; it is harder than the adamant of eternity. How shall I come forth into the light?

53. Thou art He, O God! O my darling! my child! my plaything! Thou art like a cluster of maidens, like a multitude of swans upon the lake.

54. I feel the essence of softness.

55. I am hard and strong and male; but come Thou! I shall be soft and weak and feminine.

56. Thou shalt crush me in the wine-press of Thy love. My blood shall stain Thy fiery feet with litanies of Love in Anguish.

57. There shall be a new flower in the fields, a new vintage in the vineyards.

58. The bees shall gather a new honey; the poets shall sing a new song.

59. I shall gain the Pain of the Goat for my prize; and the God that sitteth upon the shoulders of Time shall drowse.

60. Then shall all this which is written be accomplished: yea, it shall be accomplished

#thelema #thelemic holy season #argentum astrum #holy days #silver star #tarot #wheel of fortune

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fantasyinvader · 8 months

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Looking over Edge of Dawn again, with the full context of Houses it's really a song that show's Byleth's character. Yeah, it's sung from Edelgard's perspective, but just look at the progression.

Reach for my hand I'll soar away Into the dawn, oh, I wish I could stay Here in cherished halls In peaceful days I fear the edge of dawn Knowing time betrays

The song starts with Edelgard asking Byleth to reach out her, and if he (I'm going to use male pronouns because of Engage) does so she'll "soar away into the dawn." Considering Byleth's title at the end of Flower being Wings of the Hegemon, it makes the relationship between the two beneficial for Edelgard. That she'll be the one to profit off of it.

Faint lights pass through colored glass In this beloved place Silver shines, the world dines A smile on each face As joy surrounds, comfort abounds And I can feel I'm breaking free For just this moment lost in time I am finally me

Then it goes into how she wishes she could stay, "in cherished halls, in peaceful days." Edelgard does not wish to go forward. She's happy right now at the academy, which will be built upon in the next verse with how the Academy is a "beloved place," full of joy and comfort, where people are smiling and Edelgard can "break free" and be herself.

Yet still I hide Behind this mask that I have become My blackened heart Scorched by flames, a force I can't run from As I live out each peaceful day Deep in my soul, oh, I know I can't stay So I wish I could hide away Hold tight to what I love Keep cruel fate at bay

But these days end, Edelgard blaming time itself for betraying her. But playing Houses, we know the Academy phase ends when Edelgard attacks Garreg Mach, her "beloved place." Edelgard talks about hiding behind a mask, but despite her claiming to finally be herself she also acknowledges she is the mask. That she has a "blackened heart," and how she can't run away from this. She's going to start a war but make herself the real victim here. She was the one who ended the "peaceful day"s, but she's throwing a pity part for herself about how she wants to keep "cruel fate at bay."

As the rain falls on the path I chase your shadow I don't feel a single drop Or the ground below Then you turn to me and I Stop before I know And the lie upon my lips I let it go Cross my heart Making vows I know will be betrayed A sad girl's pleas Live only for a breath and then they fade Don't ever take back your kind hand Lest precious love slip away like time's sand Only we will know, all that was lost Scars that we can't erase Show us life's true cost

We have her chasing not Byleth, but his "shadow." Edelgard is depicted as being disconnected from the world through the lines "I don't feel a single drop or the ground below." But when Byleth stops, turns and smiles at Edelgard, Edelgard lets go of the lie she had on her lips. It's followed up with talk of making promises that Edelgard knows won't be honored, namely because she breaks them, before again making herself out to be a sad girl. Yet despite this, Edelgard begins demanding that Byleth doesn't take back his "kind hand," making their feelings for one another out to be love. Love that will be lost if Byleth leaves her.

Then it goes

The blue moonlight Cuts across our sight As pure and clear as a ringing bell Reaching for us in the night As the wind calms my thoughts I held strong on this terrace I feel at peace Carried away by the wind's song

It's the reunion scene from Silver Snow, where they meet again under the moonlight, where the surroundings are all in blue. Edelgard once again offers Byleth the opportunity to join her, but he'll either decline outright or hesitate. Either way, Edelgard takes it as a no, and we get a cutscene of her drawing reaching for her weapon and attacking Byleth. Byleth only draws the Sword of the Creator after she's begun the attack, so it's Edelgard once again starting the hostilities before declaring that their path will never cross again and the next time they meet one of them will die. Which is how it plays out in the Silver Snow route.

Open the door and walk away Never give in to the call of yesterday Memories that made those days sublime These ruined halls entomb Stolen time

Edelgard turns and leaves, no matter how much she wants to stay with Byleth. Her path won't allow it. She's given up the happiness of the academy days, those sublime days, for this. Her cherished place is now in ruins, the remaining time she could have had at the academy supposed stolen from her. Again, claims no responsibility before once again singing about how Byleth should reach for her hand.

The ironic thing is… none of the heroes stop reaching out to her. Byleth spends Snow wishing there could be a way to walk with Edelgard again, but refuses to join her in conquering Fodlan. Byleth wants Edelgard to see reality, but she'll instead die claiming it's Byleth's responsibility to end the fighting rather than surrendering (with the Japanese text having her tell Byleth to take revenge upon her, which I've interpreted as her making Byleth out to be the monster). Dimitri reaches out to her even after she's turned herself into a monster, but she instead tries to kill him with a dagger to the heart. Even Claude, someone who is revealed to not get along with her, talks about how he doesn't want to kill her yet Edelgard says for the world she seeks, she will kill him. Everyone reaches out to Edelgard, offering their hands, but she refuses because she won't get what she wants. The irony.

For Byleth though, the song also hints to their character in Snow. 'Tegridy. No matter how much she wants to make herself out as the one who is really suffering here, Byleth refuses to join her. Byleth has seen what she has done. Not time or cruel fate, what Edelgard has done, and stopped supporting her because of it. The idea that Edelgard makes this out to be a love story between them, as well as the idea she'll soar away with Byleth's support, indicates how self-serving Edelgard's narrative is, while Byleth instead chooses to fight his former student despite the hurt. Edelgard acts like she had no choice, Byleth made his own decision unless the player overrode it. The song makes Byleth out to be the more mature one, which he should be considering his age and teaching profession.

Byleth has 'tegridy while the song makes Edelgard out to be a weak person.

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hiatuswhore · 2 years

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𝒯𝒽𝑒 𝑀𝑜𝓊𝓉𝒽𝓎 𝒪𝓃𝑒 𝐼𝐼𝐼 — 𝐵𝓇𝒾𝒹𝑔𝑒𝓇𝓉𝑜𝓃

♕ A/N: I am so sorry for disappearing!! This has been sitting in my drafts for a while and I forgot about blinked and suddenly it was mid July. Feedback pleaseeee! Feedback motivates me to write.

♕ SUMMARY: Oh, the most scandalous season of the year has come to pass. After quite the successful year for the Bridgerton’s the eldest son plans to throw his hat in the ring. Concurrently the Sharma sisters do just the same. One a spinster, the other hopeful romantic, and the middle daughter? What can be said about such a force that is not said when she enters the room. Good luck to all who pursue her.

♕ WORD COUNT: 8.1K

♕ WARNINGS: None

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“LORD BEAUREGARD, (Y/N), ARE YOU MAKING YOUR EXIT? I shall join you both. It is a rather hot day,” Your mother says, smiling kindly. You do not fail to miss the pointed look in her eye. The word of you and the Duke leaving unchaperoned would spread across the ton like an uncontrollable wildfire. Arriving with a Bridgerton and leaving with a Royal would be the topic of the ton for weeks.

Back at the Danbury house, your mother excuses herself leaving you both under the eye of a maid. The moment she leaves your sight you drop your clasp hands and uniform posture earning a chuckle from William.

“I must inquire of your passionate vendetta against marriage,” William says, walking toward the stairs you both walk at an even pace. You grimace as the two of you enter the terrace and your eyes look off into the vast beauty of nature.

“If I am to share this with you, you musn’t tell a single soul. I will be putting my trust in you, a true test of our friendship. Do you accept this or shall I not disclose?” Despite the whimsical glint in your eyes, he could see the hesitation hiding within your features. William properly clasps his hands behind his back before nodding his head. His soft expression and full attention makes you believe in something you question regularly, good nature. “Well I assume it's not a secret of my mothers history with the ton. She and Kate have put all of their efforts into shaping Edwina and I to be desirable. Why must I sing and dance well to make a good wife? Am I interesting? Do I make you happy? Those are the true questions for marriage, not qualities to show off like a circus act. I—my grandparents, the Sheffields—I was ten when I found out. I wasn’t supposed to know. Edwina was changing and I was doing what I do best, not following directions. Kate and Mom were arguing about my grandparents and then I heard it. The Sheffields care not of our happiness and the only way to gain our dowry and their love is through marrying an Englishmen, especially one of nobility.”

“You aim to defy them by never marrying?” You both stop on the back porch soaking in the waning sun. The sun makes your skin glow and William cannot tear his eyes off of you. You close your eyes, taking in a deep breath, seconds pass before your eyes open again and a glare replaces the peaceful one.

“I aim to humiliate them. Their daughter married below her station and their granddaughter a spinster. Edwina deserves a happy life full of love, it suits her. I want to find my joy from something else. Once a spinster I will be free of the ton's expectations of me,” You explain, meeting William’s gaze his full attention did not falter.

“I do apologize if I speak in circumstances I do not fully comprehend but do you not rob your sister of her truth?” Your shoulders fall as you ponder the question. In the past you found yourself dancing with the option of telling Edwina the truth and curiosity brought wonder of what she would do.

“I’m not entirely certain. We fear she will wed out of duty rather than love. Our parents loved each other very much, she wants what has been modeled for us,” Your father clouds your thoughts as you grasp at a reality that no longer exists. The way he would dance with your mother some nights in the kitchen or how you would wake to fresh flowers on the kitchen table. While his love for his wife was great, his love for his daughters was far greater.

“What shall occur if you find the love that was shown in your childhood home?” A small chuckle leaves your lips as you lean on the white pillar of the back porch. William smiles, his eyebrows furrowing at the sudden amusement.

“A love like that? I can never imagine such love being found in this marriage market,” You turn toward the blue sky that now bleeds with pockets of orange. A hare scampers across the field adding to the soft hum of blissful silence. William watches you for many minutes, one would think he takes mental notes to later document. His adoration sits on full display for every living being in proximity to see. Newton joins the two of you for a short time and you are sure your mother instructed everyone to leave you and William to stargaze. You giggle at how Newton nuzzles into William’s side.

Newton licking your face stirs you from your rest. The morning sun earns a loud groan from your lips as you slip beneath your blanket. Newton wastes no time in stepping on your face as he closely inspects the thin blanket that separates you.

“Newton please!” You whine but his excitement does not cease. Pulling back you fail to glare at his sweet smile as he moves to lick your face. You sit up on your elbows to find both Edwina and Kate’s beds empty. Not a single servant or your mother in sight brings a growing smirk to your features. In the closet, you throw several gowns around until the tan riding pants come into view. Newton sits on your bed watching you with his tail wagging and tongue hanging.

Standing in the mirror you ignore the inevitable pointed stare of your mother. The white shirt and black boots appear so simple but your eyes light up at the sight.

“I fancy a walk, what do you think Newton?” You ask, earning a bark from the corgi; scratching the top of his head you head toward the door. He quickly jumps from the bed following you out. While your family and Lady Danbury chat in the tearoom, you slip out of the front. It takes several minutes to get Newton to stop wiggling so you can button his collar. You follow the dirt path leading away from the manor for several minutes. The sun beats down like a force to be reckoned with and you regret not bringing water along. When the two of you turn back you walk across the grass begrudgingly, “Fancy we’ll fall slain to the sun. Hell of a way to go Newton.”

Your dry chuckle does nothing to curb your discomfort but as the house draws closer you practically taste the water on your tongue. The front yard displays a sight that shoots amusement throughout your chest. Newton growls at the sight of the eldest Bridgerton standing next to a horse. You raise an eyebrow reeling in Newton’s leash as Anthony meets your gaze.

“Pray tell what nonsense, do you engage your time in now?” The question makes you audibly laugh as you eye the beautiful horse behind him. You tilt your head as he adjusts his jacket asking what was so amusing.

“You never fail to humor me, Lord Bridgerton. Rather than boring you with my feeble-minded lady-like activities pray tell why you stand here now gifting a horse…for Kate?” Your lip quivers as you struggle to fight the smirk that aches to make an appearance. Anthony’s eyebrows furrow at your words but he cannot respond as Kate comes charging out of Danbury house.

“How much clearer must I be?” Kate questions and Anthony announces the rather large gift for Edwina. Newton nuzzles into the side of your leg as you intently watch steam practically pour out from Kate’s ears. “Take your Trojan horse elsewhere.”

“I assure you, Miss Sharma, this is a very real horse. I’d not recommend trying to climb inside,” Anthony says. The chuckles that leave your lips are involuntary and you do not stifle them at the sight of Kate’s glare. Anthony glances at you, finding only amusement in your features.

“Sister, why don’t you take Newton inside? Lord Bridgerton truly this is all a game to you,” Kate says, earning an immediate response from Anthony stating the opposite. As Kate reveals the schemes at the races your eyebrows furrow as a smile dances on your lips.

“Color me impressed, a rather weakly plotted scheme but I appreciate all plots and ploys. Maybe there’s hope for you yet Lord Bridgerton,” You say but the sound of your name on Kate’s lips tells you she no longer wishes to tolerate your games. “Let’s go, Newton, we both know Lord Bridgerton won’t be removing his foot from his mouth any time soon.”

Anthony says nothing at the jab and you miss how he narrows his eyes at your back as a smile ghosts on his lips. You pass Edwina on your journey back inside, she greets you with her usual upbeat smile. While she notes your uncharacteristically cheery persona her confusion soon clears at the sight of Kate and Anthony bickering.

“Perfection. Just who I was looking for,” Your mother says, handing Newton off to one of the maids, Mary rushes you up the stairs. She sits you down and slowly brushes your hair.

“Mama, has something happened?” You ask. Mary shakes her head smiling down at you with a warm devotion. You keep a cautious eye on your mother as she turns your head to the mirror forcing you to look at yourself.

“Dearest I know we do not particularly see eye to eye on many things but there is one thing. You are beautiful. I know this may be confusing. I just fear I put all my energy into Edwina’s season that I may be neglecting you,” Mary reveals. You frown at her words.

“Mama you know I have no desire to marry but Edwina does. I understand that right now is a busy time for her and she needs us, especially you to help her through all this,” Placing your hand on your mothers you give it a light squeeze as you look up at her. She asks if you are certain but you promise her that things feel more than ordinary.

“Fine but humor me, love. Look at yourself in the mirror once more. I understand you wish to not marry but promise you will not actively evade your chance to be happy,” Staring at your reflection your self-esteem equates to a large glasshouse. The confidence you carry comes with a bright red fragile sticker on the front. You squeeze Mary’s hand again as you give her your word.

Your mother brushes your hair back into small pins which she covers with small flowers. As the guests pour in you stand with a cordial smile as your eyes scan the room for the Duke. When he does arrive you are taken back by the intricacy of his suit. He wears all black with a white undershirt that pops due to the consistency of black. His gold cufflinks glimmer under the light and his hair sits with near curls framing his face.

“Miss Sharma,” He greets properly and your mouth dries as you cannot take your eyes off of him. You fail to notice how your mother smiles at the sight of the interaction and she greets the Duke when you do not find the will to move or works to speak. He thanks Lady Danbury for having him and greets your sister accordingly.

“Are you still certain of your disdain to marry?” Lady Danbury taunts with a smirk on her lips as your sisters giggle. Your mother smiles as you scramble to remove the attention from yourself.

“Just because I do not wish to marry does not mean I cannot find a man to be visibly pleasing. Lord Beauregard looks rather handsome and I was taken aback is all. Shall we continue to greet our guests?” You turn forward and as if on queue more guests arrive.

Gathering in one of the many large rooms you sit with Edwina on the couch. Front and center to all of the talents it would be a lie to say you are not enjoying yourself. While you have yet to have another moment with William, you still mindlessly scan the room in search of his presence. You miss his return to the room with Kate as the men showcase many curiosities. Your favorite so far being Lord Darlington turning a flame into a flower.

“At least it is the men making fools of themselves this time,” Your sister says, revealing herself to be standing directly behind you.

“You say that as though men do not make fools of themselves regularly,” You say, standing next to your sister Eloise joins in on the laughter. She asks if the idea had been from either of you. “I cannot take credit for this brilliance.”

“I wish I could take credit, but no. Lady Danbury encouraged a poetry reading. The men, thanks to their spirit and competition concocted the rest of this farce on their own,” Kate explains and the three of you refocus your attention forward. Despite not paying much attention to Lord Bakers tap dancing you still politely clap with the others. You lean back on the couch, beginning to bore with the so-called talents before Lady Danbury announces Lord Beauregard will be doing a poetry reading, an original piece. As he stands in front of you it takes everything not to sit up at the edge of your seat.

“Hello, all. I am no poet, I just speak from the heart so please do try to not judge me too harshly. Save the advent of pitchforks for the end if my poetry proves to require such a reaction,” Light chuckles carry throughout the room as you watch him shift. You wonder if the others notice the slight tremble of his hands as he fiddles with a piece of paper. He glances up a final time meeting your gaze, you offer a light smile as you provide him your full attention. Taking a deep breath, he mutters an apology before looking down at his paper, “Shakespeare compares thee to a summer's day. I find thee more peculiar. Her uncanny nature intoxicating, the lack of her presence maddening. For that, I cannot compare thee to a summer day. A summer's day is incomparable to thee. I pray she grants respite and allows me at her side for as long as time permits. Dare I say it? I love her. So much so, I torture myself to allow her, her happiness.”

A chorus of awes fills the room and the intensity of the clapping only adds to the stir in your chest. You do not move. Not an inch as you stare at William as though he stands with a gun pointing in your direction. As if a threat has been made to your life. Edwina claps vigorously and she leans in whispering something you do not register in your ear. Lady Danbury announces an intermission to which you rise from the couch and rush into the corridor. Though you hear William call your name it only makes your hasty exit more eager. You round the corner toward the foyer with your eyes lingering over your shoulder. The speed at which you march forward and your heels come to a halt as you crash into another.

“My apologies,” You say, absently as your eyes stay over your shoulder. Anthony frowns as his hands hold your elbows and follows your gaze. When you meet his gaze you fail to drop the worry in your eyes. You practically cling to Anthony as press further into his hold in attempts to get away.

“It’s quite alright. Are you okay Miss Sharma?” Anthony asks. His eyebrows furrowed as he searches for what urgently evade. You look over your shoulder once more to find William lingering by the hall. He offers a weak smile and you thank your lucky stars as Lady Danbury announces the festivities shall continue.

“I should get back to my sister's side. Lord Bridgerton,” Your words jumble and you curtsy before turning around and passing William back into the main room. The two men say nothing as they follow you. On the couch, while you appear to place your full attention forward you actively fight every ache to look back. You are certain William stands within the room watching you. Anthony at the last minute asks for the room to grant him audience, much to Kate’s chagrin it’s happily accepted. You frown as he removes a paper from his pocket and begins reading.

“What is it truly to admire a woman? To look at her and feel inspiration. To delight in her beauty, so much that all your defenses crumble, that you would willingly take on any pain, any burden for her. To honor—“ He looks up meeting Edwina’s bright eyes and large smile. Though it appears the poem achieves all he hoped for, his eyes linger just inches to the right. You sit back on the couch, slouching with an eyebrow raised. He’s certain you can see right through him as your nose scrunches while you search for the source of his abrupt pause he speaks again, “To honor—“

His eyes find Kate’s to his right and she shares your expression. Her eyebrows pull inward as her jaw clenches and she keeps her hands properly clasped in front of her. Anthony turns toward the crowd, he finds his mother and Lady Danbury appearing unfazed. Despite their attempts, he can see the lining of disapproval in their eyes. Bringing his hands together he crumbles Benedict's poem before the entire room. He turns toward the fire, dropping the paper in.

“My apologies. I cannot do this. I cannot claim these words as my own. They are someone elses entirely. Truth be told, I’m not—I’m not a man of poetry. Words of flattery are beautiful and sweet but they are also hollow unless accompanied by action,” Anthony sighs as he brings his hand up and scratches the back of his ear. Not a single person in the room moves a single muscle and the crackling of the fireplace brings a soft hum to your ears. Anthony meets your gaze briefly, his words holding your mind hostage. No matter how hypnotizing the moment feels Anthony still breaks it and looks to the right of you, “Miss Edwina, I could stand here and pretend to be someone I am not. I could pretend to want the very same things as you, but I’d be lying. I may not be able to offer the display of passion that you truly deserve but I assure you that when it comes to action and duty. I shall never be found lacking and I hope that will speak louder than any pretty words ever can.”

The clapping that follows provides the perfect smokescreen to make your exit. As you once again reach the corridor you continue to the kitchen to find the staff scrambling. You grab an cookie before returning out into the hall. Kate stands a few feet back as William stands against the wall parallel to the kitchen. You frown at your sister's presence and William’s nervous eyes before it all clicks.

“No. Not now,” You say, rushing down the hall a sigh leaves you as William and Kate follow. Kate hangs back keeping the two of you in view but not close enough to be intrusive.

“Wait, wait, wait. (Y/n) talk to me?” William says, grabbing you gently he pulls you off to the side. He frowns as you avoid looking at him, “Have I done something to offend you?”

“No I—William I cannot do this,” You try to blink away the burning in your eyes. Kate keeps her gaze off the two of you as she silently listens in.

“Why don’t we get some air okay, yeah?” William says, nodding your head you allow him to escort you outside to the front of Danbury House. Kate lingers in the doorway as the two of you take a seat on the steps. The silence that follows eases the thick fog that clouds your nerves. You feel it when William’s gaze moves from the distance onto your rigid exterior.

“I would hate to sound presumptuous but would one be correct in her assumption that your poem was about me?” You ask, meeting his gaze your tired eyes reveal little of what goes on behind them. He nods his head as he reaches into his pocket revealing the paper. Your name’s written at the top of the paper and the poem sits neatly beneath. He reaches to the inside of his jacket pocket retrieving a small box.

“Do not make haste with your answer for I beseech you to truly consider all that I may offer. I know our time together has been short but please hear me (Y/n). I wish to make all your dreams a reality. All the words I spoke were nothing short of true. I ask not for your love but your companionship. If I cannot have you as my lover and wife then I will accept you as my friend and wife. You will have the luxury of the freedom you so desire and I, your presence and security of marriage. We can be happy. I can make you happy I am sure of it.”

You chew on your bottom lip as your mind scrambles to remove yourself from the situation. He holds the box out to you to which you accept it with cautious eyes. Upon opening the box the gold band and medium-sized diamond glimmers under the soft lighting. You say nothing as William describes his process of choosing the ring, his goal to reflect your personality.

“Are you calling me simple?” You ask, raising an eyebrow but William rolls his eyes nudging your side. He explains his understanding of your joy with simplicity but also chaos which comes with the news if you accept the proposal. All that you live wrapped into one gesture. The soft chuckle that leaves the two of you eases the suffocating tension but it does not change it. “Your offer is more than generous but in a way a lie William. You are a part of the royal family. Marrying you brings a royal wedding with responsibilities and expectations I can never meet.”

“We can face all of those obstacles together. You will have more freedom and resources than you can ever imagine,” William says, resting his arms on his knees as he looks at your indifferent expression. You point out the push there will be for providing heirs. “And that is a discussion that only includes myself, you, and a doctor. I understand this proposal consists of several different aspects that must be discussed. For now, all I ask is for you to take the prospect of marriage into consideration and know I will happily spend the rest of my life trying to bring you joy. That is only if you will allow me.”

You keep your eyes on Newton who sits in Kate’s lap across from you as you thank the heavens word of William’s proposal has not gotten out. Lady Whistledown focuses her attention solely on their invitation to Aubrey Hall, apparently known for its beauty and history of the Bridgertons.

“Perhaps, I’ll wear the pink silks at dinner tonight. Do you think Lord Bridgerton will like it?” Edwina asks, her gaze bouncing from you to Kate with an eagerness that makes you want to roll your eyes.

“Probably? We’ve all met Viscount Bridgerton, not a single original thought in his head. All duty, worry and reservations. You embody perfection Bon, not a chance he does not like it,” You say earning a light kick to your shin from Kate who reassures Edwina. Edwina merely nudges you with her usual smile on her lips. Despite your rather offensive words Edwina only smiles at your hostile wit, over the years it has been apparent you do no wrong in her eyes.

“You need not worry about the Viscount's favor, Miss Edwina. It is an exceedingly good sign he has invited us to spend a few days with the family and their close family friends the Beauregards, before the rest of the ton arrives for the real party,” Lady Danbury says, looking in your direction with a pointed look. This time you do not hold back the roll of your eyes as you divert your attention to outside the carriage. The vast green of nature and vibrant blue of the sky wipe away all discontent you feel in conversation.

“Perhaps by then we can announce two engagements,” Your mother says, keeping your gaze outside of the carriage you pretend to not hear her.

“(Y/n) wouldn’t that just be lovely! We would still be so close, I the Viscountess and you someday a Princess! Do away with whatever is stopping you and imagine the happy lives we would live!” Edwina exclaims, taking your hand she brings it close to her chest as a big smile paints her features. The weak smile you present pairs with a deep hug.

“The Duke of Wales is quite a catch, Miss Sharma. Not only because of his title but I have known him since he was a babe. Nothing short of a gentleman and a man of true honor and dignity,” Lady Danbury says, but as it becomes clear you carry no intention of speaking your mother chimes in.

“That is just wonderful. I have seen how he looks at you dear. He is quite taken with you and I see how you smile with him,” Lady Mary points out and you fight every urge to huff and stomp your feet. Can man and woman not merely enjoy each other's company platonically? You lean back in your seat redirecting your attention to outside once more. Every interaction between yourself and William clouds your thoughts as you weigh the possibilities heavily. It plagues you the rest of the ride ignoring how they discuss the Bridgertons.

You cannot help the drop of your jaw at the sight of the estate as you draw closer. The large amount of land only fills you with excitement at the prospect of exploring. At the stop of the carriage you watch as many faces pour out of the front. Most of them you recognize but you struggle to identify the younger of the bunch. Lady Danbury steps out first greeting her godson with more excitement than you have ever seen her exude. You step out after your mother and Lady Violet greets you with a large smile. Stepping off to the side a smile ghosts on your lips at the seemingly endless fields. Fully enthralled you miss how William approaches your side, even flinching as he speaks.

“My apologies, my intentions were not to startle you, rather bask in the beauty of Aubrey Hall,” William says, offering a smile you cannot find the words to speak. His words from the night prior coming to the forefront of your mind. “I must assure you that there is no need to act differently around me. No matter your decision, you will always be a dear friend to me.”

“What pray tell did I ever do to deserve such a wonderful person in my life? Why would you ever want to marry such a hostile wench as some would say,” You both chuckle falling into that same easy going environment. William nudges your side as he says you speak too highly of him. You raise an eyebrow at the statement but before you can speak another voice diverts both of your attentions from behind.

“Careful William you may discover, dare I say, a personality behind her sharp tongue and cold eyes,” Anthony teases, standing at your left side William now stands across from you. Both Anthony and William chuckle as you roll your eyes at the weak jest.

“Lord Bridgerton, envy looks good on no one,” You point out crossing your arms you raise an eyebrow as a smirk threatens your lips. Anthony’s jaw clenches but the dry chuckle that leaves his lips tell a different tale.

“Is that so, Miss Sharma,” Anthony says, mirroring your crossed arms. The way the two of you move slightly closer brings a frown to William’s face. He says nothing as he silently observes how the two of you verbally push each other further and further. It’s not just the way the two of you stand or even what leaves your mouths but rather the locked eyes. Almost as if the two of you have forgotten William stands with you both.

“William, how dare you never tell me Anthony knew how to be anything beyond boorish?” Despite asking a question you do not move your gaze from Anthony as a mocking laugh leaves his lips.

“I am the boorish one?” His words drip in disbelief as he misses how his best friend shifts uncomfortably. In attempt to remind you both of his presence, he clears his throat but it does nothing as Kate appears at his side with Newton and a redhead at Anthonys. Anthony smiles down at Newton who immediately growls before moving to your ankles. You giggle as Kate points out Newton’s keen sense of one's character.

“I can assure you all by the end of this excursions he will have a much better perception of I,” Anthony says but his gaze stays with you a few seconds longer than necessary before he turns to his sister you have yet to be introduced to. Daphne looks from her brother looking cautiously between you and Kate. A hesitance dances in her eyes as she smiles warmly and settles on Kate.

“You must be Miss Edwina,” She says. You let out a hearty laugh as William clears his throat trying to subtly shake his head. Anthony whips his head toward his sister letting out a sharp no. You watch as she turns to you and you cannot find the strength to stop giggling, “My apologies Miss Sharma. I am Daphne, I guess I should have known you were Miss Edwina, it’s rather seldom that Anthony makes any other face other than one of annoyance.”

“My apologies Miss Daphne you are once again wrong. I can list numerous things I would rather endure than the courting of your brother,” You speak with a matter-of-fact tone before shrugging your shoulders at Anthony. Though her face descends into confusion it fades as Daphne lets out a chuckle, she tilts her head listening attentively. Kate covers her laugh as you hold out your hand to Daphne, “(Y/n) Sharma. I have met your siblings, they are wonderful.”

“No, it is my apologies to both of you. I must say I believe we shall have a fun game of Pall Mall with you all,” Daphne smiles and William asks to escort you inside to which Daphne grabs your arm with a playful look in her eye she says, “The first very interesting women to join us for Pall Mall will not be hogged by the likes of you Beauregard.”

She escorts you inside without another word to the others. You chuckle at how she smiles to herself with pride. She wastes no time in asking about your family and your sisters. You speak honestly about each of them, no fluffing them up in hopes it will secure Edwina a match. The only negatives you list of Edwina consist only of sisterly squabbles. Her unflinching joyful energy and optimistic nature. In actuality they are not negatives but you still say some days it drives you up the wall. “You have a toughness to your nature. I do not think I can list anyone I know like that beyond Lady Danbury.”

“Do not flatter me Miss Bridgerton. I am no different than other women of the ton besides my questionable manners,” You shrug making Daphne’s eyebrows furrow at the gesture but her lips curve up into a smile.

“No wonder Eloise adores you,” Reaching the backyard you can hear the others close behind. A small gasp leaves your lips at the view from the back porch. Your chest knots as you yearn for your fathers presence. He would love this. Violet enters the back porch last with an older woman behind her.

“Well, now, you must be weary from your travels,” Violet says. Tearing your eyes from the view you take a deep breath in to stop how rapidly your abrupt emotions rattle your nerves. William frowns as he meets your gaze, you blow a playful kiss in his direction and a smile takes his lips. You pretend not to notice his lingering eyes, you are sure he can see right through you. “Mrs. Wilson. Please show our guests to their rooms so they might get refreshed.”

You join walking back inside with Edwina and your mother. They both wear appreciative smiles, mirroring each other perfectly. You smile with them but you are certain it sticks out like a sore thumb in comparison.

“And ready for battle,” Eloise says and you turn furrowing your eyebrows with a sneaky grin.

“A battle you say?” Earning grins from both Eloise and Daphne you swiftly bury the intense emotion. No longer at the center of your attention but in a dark corner within your mind.

“I wish to know as well,” Kate says with an open smile, you feel giddy at the sight of competitive Kate. This time more vulnerable than others as you can typically convince her to join one of your schemes. You know it always ends with her lecturing you but it does not make it any less fun.

“Oh please girls, do not mind Eloise, she’s always so spirited in the country,” Violet says as she heards the three of you toward the door. You fail to turn down the amusement in your face. Eloise and Kate fall side by side walking back inside together.

“Then we have that in common,” Kate says smiling at Eloise who grins in delight. You follow behind the two of them until she goes off in her home and you follow Kate toward the rooms. After settling you sit with your leg bouncing, eagerly waiting for this game they all loudly anticipate. When the time comes to meet outside you wear a warm grin. Each of you divide up wickets to place outside. You and your sisters join Daphne around the backyard with a guard lingering by and you cannot help but find his presence odd—rather unnecessary.

“This will teach Colin. Last time, he put a wicket behind the goat barn,” Daphne says, stabbing her wicket into the ground, you walk a few feet over and stab yours into the ground in the middle of the field.

“What exactly are the rules of this game?” Kate asks. The three of you follow Daphne like a flock of baby ducks. Daphne explains Pall-Mall’s less about the rules and more about anticipation.

“Of course there is the goal of hitting your ball through each wicket. The first player to send their ball through the last wicket wins. Simple enough, though, if you are feeling devilish you can use your turn to knock an opponent’s ball as far away from their next wicket as you would like.”

“Why waste a turn if the point is to get one’s own ball through the wicket?” Edwina ask as both you and Kate grin as excitement rises for the game. Kate speaks as soon Edwina stops, “To infuriate your opponent, I gather?”

“Are you truly victorious by merely just winning, or getting a rise out of your opponents?” You bounce off your sisters with the three of you appearing in sync. Daphne’s eyebrows raise and curve up as her jaw gapes for a second. She quickly recovers, smiling at the three of you with a strong welcoming energy.

“How you seek to play the game is your choice alone. No matter what method you decide to go about it is not considered cheating other than using anything other than the mallets. Whether you choose to focus on the wickets or not, you never know what others plan to do. Know your game and your enemy,” Daphne says and Kate perks up, voicing her excitement to play the game. She walks you over by the trees to place another wicket as she explains Benedict’s a good shot but he does not enjoy conflict. “Colin is crafty. He will strike when he think you are least suspecting it so always be suspecting it. Eloise concentrates entirely on defeating her older brothers. The hope is that she gets so absorbed by them that she forgets about you. Keep in mind who will not forget about you, he will not forget about anyone. William’s like a hunter in this game you never know who he will deceive and sometimes he will just go for the wickets. He enjoys our terror when suddenly he’s sending our ball off into the horizon. I, of course, am a complete enigma who will divulge none of my secrets and well, then there is Anthony.”

“Let me guess. A most ruthless, cutthroat player,” Kate says but before anyone can react you speak between laughter, “No way he has the capacity to see past his own hubris to be successful in this game.”

“So you have both met my brother I see,” Daphne smiles as she and Kate join in on your laughter. Edwina’s smile falters at the three of you which makes Daphne's smile fall to worry, “That is not to say he has no honor. He’s usually the most genteel sportsman. Except as far as this field is concerned.”

“I’m sure the Viscount is an excellent player. We will pass a very pleasant afternoon,” Edwina says. Both yourself and Kate bite back a laugh as you offer her a supportive nod. The guards carry out a large wooden case consisting of the mallets. You all linger around it as you watch them argue over who picks first.

“Last year, we promised to let the youngest pick first,” Eloise exclaims and you grin as Anthony speaks with heavy conviction. They appear to debate so ferociously but over minuscule things without actual anger. “We pick based on alphabetical order! That is the precedent.”

“Guests go first, do Bridgertons have no decorum? It should be me every year!” William exclaims taking offense in ways you have never seen. Benedict calls him out on it being several years since William was ever a guest in any of their homes.

“Every year he uses the guest excuse as if he has not grown up here with us,” Colin rolls his eyes as they chuckle while William huffs in defeat.

Kate smiles with you as Edwina leans back to the two of you close. She appears confused as the playful tension, “It’s meant to be a game, is it not?”

“Everyone please now! The only fair thing to do is to let our invited guests choose their mallets and strike first,” Daphne says and you smile as all eyes fall on the three of you. Anthony invites Edwina to choose first and you gag as he compliments her mallet choice. You step forward eyeing each mallet until you settle on a gray one with carefully painted spots on them. Chuckles shoot through the Bridgertons and William.

“It appears you have chosen my mallet Miss Sharma,” Benedict says, forcing a smile onto his lips you could convince one that it was genuine. You spin the mallet in your palm, feeling out the weight as you offer a sardonic smile.

“That’s rather odd. It appears the mallet’s in my hands thus I have chosen my mallet,” You roll your eyes as Edwina patronizes you with her eyes but the others laugh. Colin reassures your sisters that your attitude may prove to be beneficial in such a game. As Kate steps forward you watch as the Bridgertons watch with heavy anticipation.

It does not come as a shock when Kate's hands lift the all-black mallet from the wooden case. The shared look of shock and uncertainty that surrounds you all does make your eyebrows furrow.

“The Mallet of Death,” Eloise says, looking to her elder brother much like the rest of the Bridgertons. Daphne turns to her brother with a mocking smile: William fails to bite back his laughter as Anthony glares daggers in his direction. Benedict joins William's amusement and it becomes clear Kate has chosen Anthony’s mallet.

“Is this yours?” Kate says with a grin as Anthony brings the knuckle of his pointer finger to his teeth.

“Not all. You are welcome to it,” Kate catches your grin at the sight of his forced kindness. William catches your eye sending a wink in your direction to which you chuckle.

“You threatened to beat me last time I touched—“ Colin chimes as Eloise gapes at the sight of Anthony. No matter what Colin plans to share, Anthony cuts it short with a pointed stare and sharp tone, “You exaggerate!”

“Says the one who nearly broke my arm one year over it,” William says crossing his arms over his chest as Eloise agrees.

“Are you the superstitious sort? I know some men cannot perform without their familiar tools. Like a child with a blanket,” Kate says and your jaw drops as you look at your older sister with wide eyes. The urge to laugh strong you bite on your lower lip at the sight of Edwinas uncomfortable expression. Though you show restraint it fools no one as you blink away the faint tears that threaten your eyes.

“I can play well with any mallet,” Anthony says but you do not miss your opportunity as it presents itself.

“Yet you appear stifled in the absence of your beloved mallet. Performance issues are quite common and nothing to be ashamed of,” Your mocking tone and grin earns shameless laughter around you. Both yourself and Kate blending seamlessly with the Bridgertons.

“Always a charmer Miss Sharma,” Anthony says with a smile which you return without pause. You miss how his gaze does not immediately leave you but William and Daphne silently take it in. Neither says a word when they meet each other's gaze and the moment ends as fast as it begins. Eloise seizes the moment as many of her siblings appear distracted. She acquires her mallet while Benedict takes William’s. William moves a second faster than Colin, taking his mallet in the process. Colin holds one of the extra mallets in his hand leaving with Anthony with the pink one.

“How befitting, Viscount Bridgerton.” Your tone sickenly sweet as you playfully swing your mallet. Anthony takes a half step forward narrowing his eyes at your nonchalant expression.

“Mark my words Miss Sharma. Your taunts will prove fruitless,” You only offer a smile as you bump his shoulder to join Daphne. The field begins light, much laughter and clapping as the Mamas, Lady Danbury, and the Prince watch on. Kate takes the opportunity to knock your ball from reach of the wicket.

“Didi! Do well to remember we sleep beneath the same roof,” You say as the others laugh and Kate shrugs. “Bon, do well to remember we share the same competitive nature.”

The two of you carry on this fashion for several turns. Both of you knock each other out of route when the opportunity arises. Edwina says little to nothing for much of it. You almost forget her presence as the environment swallows you whole. It’s painfully clear the Bridgertons adore your own and Kate's presence. The game of Pall-mall solidifies both of your abilities to be around the family for more than simple visits. Without prior knowledge one would assume you were long time friends with each and everyone of the Bridgerton siblings.

“Out of practice my brother,” Benedict says as Anthony misses his wicket. Kate smiles mockingly before shooting her own straight through from a similar distance. She jumps and spins happily as the rest of you clap and it’s once again your turn for the same wicket from a further distance.

“Rather easy shot is it not?” You question to know one in particular but it lands with Anthony as soon as it leaves your lips. He opens his mouth to counter your sly remark but as you hit your ball through the wicket claps silence him. You look up and tilt your head at the sight of his gaping mouth, “Were you to say something?”

“Good shot,” Anthony says, clapping slowly as you offer a false curtsy. William stands with a blank expression as he lines up his shot. He misses his wicket entirely and when you make a sly jab he only offers a cordial smile. As all of you move to the next turn you walk over and join his side.

“You’ve gone quiet. Does something trouble you?” You ask but William does not turn to meet your gaze. He mutters quickly about a headache before abandoning the conversation entirely. Anthony makes a show of his turn only to miss, which Kate follows by hitting her ball through the wicket perfectly. Once again your turn you line up your mallet as if you plan to hit toward the wicket. In the last second you turn ever slightly aiming directly at Colins. A chorus of gasps fill your ears as you all watch Colins ball soar far from the wicket.

“Now what could I ever have done Miss Sharma to deserve such treatment?” Colin chuckles but his question receives a shrug in response as the others laugh.

“I fear Miss Sharma may have been born for this game. I hold nor a single inkling of whom she may target,” Benedict says and you shrug a second time before saying that everyone’s fair game. William goes and though he has an opportunity to knock Edwina’s ball but he focuses on the wicket. He goes straight through with ease but rather than join the banter he quietly steps aside.

“Miss Edwina, I believe you are next. I did not wish to leave my ball in your path. So I left an open space so you can send yours,” Anthony joins your sister's side pointing to the open space left accessible to her.

“Is your best friend always this vomit inducing?” Nudging William’s side you chuckle to find he does not partake in your amusement. You frown as once again William blatantly ignores you. “One minute you’re asking me to be your wife and the next you won’t meet my eye. Have I upset you?”

“You could never upset me, (Y/n). I—there are things I fear may not only be in my head,” He finally meets your gaze and your mind can only think of his poem. So the pain he spoke of, now on full display. While his face does not tell a story his eyes tell it all.

“William, you speak in riddles. What is the meaning of this all?” You ask, the cheers and sighs of the others drowning away in the background. William sighs heavily and you can see he internally battles with his next move.

“I—“ Anthony makes you flinch as his voice rips you from the intensity of the conversation. He says it's your turn with the unneeded addition of challenging your courage.

“Scared? Do you project your own fear onto me?” You ask tilting your head as you mimic Anthony’s sardonic smile. Willams jaw clenches as he grips his mallet tightly with his eyes on Anthony. Your mind forgets the conversation momentarily as you line up your shot.

“Miss Sharma you are rather hilarious. What would I fear? Your sharp tongue are merely hollow words on this battlefield,” Anthony says. Your eyes on the wicket it’s a clean shot and would put you ahead of Kate, Anthony, and Colin. Though you have this opportunity Anthony continues taunting in your ear like a bird on your shoulder. Before swinging your mallet you turn your aim directly onto Anthony’s ball. You swing hard before watching his ball fly off and land by Kate’s.

“You were saying, Lord Bridgerton?” Not getting a response in the next moves both Kate and Anthony’s ball are hit into the forest. You consider dropping out not only to check on Edwina as she retires from the game early but also to confront William on his peculiar attitude. Both use the excuse of refreshments to leave the game and you are certain they are untrue. Now the only few left standing are yourself, Colin, Benedict, Eloise, and Daphne. You smile while Colin, Benedict, and Eloise bicker endlessly over the game.

“I don’t wish to overstep in affairs that are not my own but William is very fond of you. I’ve known him all my life and I have never seen him like this about anyone. You will find that no man is more devoted and caring than he,” She says, nodding your head, you offer her not a slither of your thoughts.

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musingsofaperpetualdaydreamer · 7 days

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The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology first listen 🎧🪻✨

More than 15 years later wow it still feels so magical to listen to a brand new album. The joy, the excitement, the nervousness. I mark chapters of my life with her albums, they always seem to arrive with perfect timing. Is it fate or delusion? Probably the later, obviously she has no idea who I am. Idk it feels nice to delude myself now and again that we’re all journeying through this time together in some connectedness (is that a word?). It feels sort of nostalgic in some ways, from being just a child to now an adult, it’s like Sesame Street that grows up with you. Not a great analogy but what I mean to say is it holds a special place to me.

This album, this anthology feels much like we’ve been handed her diary, filled with sticky notes bound together, it’s so raw but so expertly crafted, messy feelings but the penmanship is exquisite. From her debut album, it’s always been poetry. She transports you to her world. What a journey, what a joy, what a gift.

I like to capture my first thoughts of each song in my silly chicken scratching written notes. Most of it makes no sense. It feels like a nice silly tradition and it’s fun to look back on. So here goes:

Fortnight

- It’s giving moody 1989??? Excuse me miss?!!! Ohhh she knows. Preach bye time to cry

The tortured poets department

- Ooooh we’re in an 80s dreamscape. Yes yes yes. Who’s gonna love you but me? A fluffy dreamland Patty smith? Insert wait I understood the reference meme. Ooooh it’s lovely. I am sad

My boy only breaks his favourite toys

- excuse me?? I’m shattered byyyyyeee. I’ll tell you that he runs because he loves me?? You should’ve see him when he first saw me? Once I fix me he’s gonna miss me??? Ladies and gents welcome to afternoon tea on the menu SCALDING hot queen’s special. Maybe I’m a crumpled up paper on the floor. Maybe I am no more.

Down Bad

- well damn she’s said the quiet parts out loud again. Oh smokes time to dissapear into this galaxy smoky cloud of night. One of us. One of us. One of us.

So long London

- literally standing by the river in the rain. May as well cry my damn eyes out . Darn it blondie. Poetic destruction. Crying my eyes out by the water like I’m in made in Chelsea. Darn.

But daddy I love him

- a folklore ode? Little house on the prairie Princess revolution. Serve it up serve it up I’m ready to be stuffed like a winter pig. A grown up love story. It’s ridiculous and maybe wise eyes know too well it’s chockablock of red flags but darn I’m a cheesin’ this is so cute.

Fresh out the slammer

- oh it’s like August but dark. August dark afternoon blistering hot and the storm is about to come.

Florida!!! Ft Florence and the machine

-ExXUSE MEEEEEEEeE?????!?!!?teee heee heee heeee. Your home’s really only a town you’re a guest in??? Sorry can’t speak my jaw has shattered. Pls pls. Palm tree pls.

Guilty as sin?

- A false God dreamy haze confessional? With sprinkle of Gold Rush??? I am a melted.

Who’s afraid of little old me?

- The who’s who of who’s that is poised for the attack? But my bare hands paved their path, you don’t get to tell me what’s sad? - I AM CHOKED. Silenced mute. Ohhhh miss blondie is on BUSINESS. TELL THEM SWEETIE. Oh my heart 💔

I can fix him (No really I can).

- Oooh moody blues preaching with generous dash of delusion? Ah yes my routine favourite beverage. I am drinking this up like air. Drunk on false hope? One of us. One of us. One of us.

Loml

- You Holy Ghost you told me I’m the love of your life. Oh no I’m crying again. Back to crumpled paper rocking back and forth on the floor in a ball it is. It’s so pretty yet, shattering. Devastating. I wish I could unrecall how we almost had it all. Dancing phantoms on the terrace, are they second hand embarrassed that I can’t get out of bed ‘cause something counterfit is dead? Yep that’ll do it.

I can do it with a broken heart?

- Oh damn. Honey nooooo. Oh myyyy. Oh I’m in this picture and I don’t like it. It’s so artfully done, so upbeat and Poppy yet so hauntingly sad. Yes that’s the point but it’s sooo well done. Oh sweetie. I can’t stop laughing it’s not funny, it’s just you too pumpkin. I wanna hug her and tell her it’ll be fine. Ok ok.

The smallest man who ever lived

- Oh I’m speechless. And I don’t even want you back, I just want to know, if rusting my sparkling summer was the goal. The bridge? Excuse me while I sink to the bottom of the darkest ocean.

The alchemy

- Oooh it’s so cute and dreamy. I’m beaming you can hear her smile when she sings.

Clara bow

- Oooh it’s the lucky one grown up. The bridge is a masterpiece. It’s hell on earth to be heavenly, thems the breaks it don’t come gently. She knows she’s a star, The never ending cyclical wheel of stardom, even the shiniest, ends with a new star born in its shadow.

The black dog

- Oh No no no I Am 1 billion percent destroyed. Byeeeee

Imgonnagetyouback

- Oooh blondie is on the prowl and what can I do but bop like the well stuffed clown I am. Insert meme of cat bopping their head.

The albatross

- Banjo? Haunting country cautionary tale? - scathing review of one’s reputation, worst traits but underneath it all is just vulnerability. Caged for ‘monstrosity’ but being so vulnerable and just wanting to be freed loved. The ‘monster’ trying to protect the one they love from the things that will come for them too? Do they even realise it? Do they care? Wow it’s poetically beautiful.

Chloe or Sam or Sophia or Marcus

- Oh it’s sad. If you wanna break my cold cold heart, just say I loved you the way that you were? Oh myyy. Replaying old moments, looking for clues wondering if it can all have a new ending? Wow.

How did it end?

- Wow the invasiveness of empathy of the innate curiosity of wanting to know, so you can something comforting, learn from it but you forget how it can be the worst part, having to offer up a ‘post mortem’ to all when you’ve barely even processed its ended yourself. The cyclical nature of it happening every time like it’s just a formal process we’ve come to accept even though it haunts us all. Ironically as we listen to this. Wow so beautifully done.

So high school

- I wanna find you in a crowd just to hide from you, and in a blink of a crinkling eye, I’m sinking, our fingers entertwined. Awww the sort of bubblegum silly feels you roll your eyes but you have the biggest smile on your face. It’s soo cute. You know how to call, I know Aristotle.

I hate it here

- Oooooh tell me something awful like you’re a poet trapped inside the body of a finance guy. One of us. One of us.

ThanK you aIMee

- Oh my goodness it’s grown up mean but she made it out. It’s so sad but I’m beaming. I say that’s my baby and I’m proud. Andrea? Oh thank you next. Not the kid. I’m cackling.

I look in people’s windows

- Oh it’s haunted death by a thousand cuts glimmering of desperate false hope. It’s lovely.

The prophecy

- Oh. Damn yep that’ll do it. Right in the ticker. Damn. It feels very much like am I doomed to always be the one before the one? Wow. Just yeah.

Cassandra

- I don’t know why but this makes think of safe and sound. Like the woman that was there when everything burned around them. She’s telling her side. Everyone’s there to watch you burn, screaming your guilt but silent when they’re wrong? If that ain’t the truth miss. Oh wow. Shes beautifully captured such a dark chapter.

Peter

- Oh wow it’s beautiful. It’s like post cardigan and she’s all grown up. 'Cause love's never lost when perspective is earned. But the woman who sits by the window has turned out the light. Oh wow it’s wow.

The Bolter

- Oh we must stop meeting like this but it always ends with a town car speeding. Wowowow. It feels like the time she fell through the ice, then came out alive. Oh my a BEAUTY.

Robin

- Oh it’s so pretty. It’s like never grow up, safe and sound and seven swirled together. Wow. It’s like she’s talking to her child but then also herself in the past and present, like from an older perspective? Ohhh it’s beautiful. Why does this make me think of coraline’s real mother watching her sleep? I wanna cry.

The manuscript

- Wow god it’s beautiful. Another time travel song. You keep revisiting past in your mind and you gain perspective and then you realise you aren’t that version of you that lived it anymore. You can feel it still, not as deeply perhaps but you’re disconnected from thinking the way you did at that time or after. Is sobering and haunting. The healing. Wow wow wow.

@taylorswift thank you my love 💕

#taylor swift #the tortured poets department #ts ttpd #the tortured poets department the anthology #first listen #musings #hope you guys are doing well

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waiting-on-a-dream · 5 months

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𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐧 𝐬𝐨𝐧, 𝐛𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟𝐟 𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐝 (𝐊𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐢 𝐈𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐫𝐨'𝐬 𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝟑 𝐯𝐨𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐝𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐚)

Haruto: How are you, Ichi-kun?

Ichiro: Could be better, but I'm okay.

Haruto: First of all, tell me about your victim. I understand that he's your little brother?

Ichiro: Yes. My mom had him a year after she got remarried.

Haruto: Why do you think he cries so much?

Ichiro: Isn't that what babies do?

Haruto: Doesn't he stop when you pay attention to him?

Ichiro: I guess...

Haruto: If his crying bothers you so much, why don't you pay attention to him more?

Ichiro: ...

Haruto: Ichi-kun?

Ichiro: I can't- I can't look at him.

Haruto: Why not? Doesn't he laugh when you look at him?

Ichiro: I can't.

Haruto: The other prisoners have reported that they've seen you smiling in your room.

Ichiro: HE LOOKS LIKE ME!

Haruto: You both are related. What's wrong with that?

Ichiro: She doesn't love me... She doesn't love me...

Haruto: ...Okay. Next question, what could have driven you to kill a baby? One that's your sibling no less.

Ichiro: *Starts sniffling*

Haruto: Come on, this is really important.

Ichiro: He would have been better off dead.

Haruto: What makes you say that?

Ichiro: He would have grown up like me. Our mom...didn't love him.

Haruto: ...

Ichiro: My father was too engrossed in his work. His father was cheating. Our parents' marriage wasn't meant to last. Our mother only had us because that was her idea of a perfect family.

Haruto: Ah... So you didn't kill him out of jealousy?

Ichiro: I guess I was jealous at first... Then it all fell apart when he started staying out late.

Haruto: Your stepfather?

Ichiro: Yeah.

Haruto: Speaking of him, how was your relationship?

Ichiro: I tried talking to him a few times, but he didn't seem interested. I don't think he likes kids.

Haruto: So that's how it is... I've got your crime all wrong then. You killed your brother to spare him from the fate you suffered, right?

Ichiro: Well, yes. No, there was more to it... Its not so simple...

Haruto: It never is.

Ichiro: Our mom was busy arguing with his father when I set him down in his crib. It looked like he was just sleeping. They didn't notice until hours later.

Haruto: How did they react?

Ichiro: I had already slipped out of the house by then.

Haruto: Even so, you have to ask yourself: Did I have the right to kill him? He may have looked like you, he may have grown up to live a life like you, but he is his own person. Was it right for you to kill him because of your own intentions?

Ichiro: I don't know...

Haruto: I'll ask you again. Why won't you pay attention to him?

Ichiro: Because-!

Haruto: Why? Why?!

Ichiro: Because he'll smile at me like I didn't drown him to death!

Haruto: Did you love him?

Ichiro: I don't know... *Sobs* I don't know what love is!

Haruto: Do you love him?

Ichiro: I can't look at him. I can't-

[Bell rings, mechanical sounds in the back.]

Haruto: *Sigh* Good work, Ichi-kun. I think I've got everything I need.

Ichiro: *Still crying*

Haruto: Now, prisoner 001, sing your sins.

Ichiro: Oh, did I scare you? Its okay, don't cry~

Haruto: Eh?

[MV description - Picture perfect]

(Ichiro speaking) I read somewhere that being submerged in warm water is the closest feeling to being inside your mother's womb.

The MV starts with Ichiro floating in a vast expanse of blue and bubbles. He's buck naked, curled into a fetal position. A close up of his face. He slowly opens his eyes.

"Ah, have you finally found it? A perfect family.

A house, a husband, a cute little baby."

As the second line starts, three pictures are shown in rapid succession. A shot of a terrace house, Ichiro's step father, his facial features drawn on this time and green eyes glowing eerily, and a baby lying in a hospital cot. Ichiro stands in front of the cot, staring down at the newborn baby, all flushed red. The camera cuts to the frame of the cot again, with Ichiro gone this time.

"So, you've finally done it. Everything you've ever wanted.

Your joy blinds you to the future. Love blinds you to the truth."

Ichiro's mom sits by her bed, biting at her nails. Her phone lies on her nightstand, revealing 7 missed calls to her husband from 10:02 pm onwards until midnight. The baby in the nearby crib starts crying, taking over the audio of the song. She stands up, going over to the crib. Her hands hover over the delicate neck of the baby, hesitant. She picks up the baby, gently patting him on the back until he calms.

"A time loop that never ends, I've seen it all before.

The shadows on my bedroom wall dance under the moonlight."

A montage of Ichiro's mom and stepdad getting married, doting over the baby, Ichiro's mom waiting for someone by the dining table. The front door opens and Ichiro's stepdad walks in. Ichiro's mom throws her mug of unfinished tea at him. A flash of brown hair and blue eyes overtake his appearance for a split second. Their wedding photo. The facial features of Ichiro's stepdad replaced with brown hair and blue eyes again. The facial features of Ichiro's mom only appear once throughout the entire MV and that's in the photo. Her eyes are brown. The baby, a few months older, opens his eyes. They're green.

"Its scary to try new things. I'd rather stick with what I know.

Perhaps adults stop learning once they grow up."

Ichiro kneels by a small plastic bathtub, holding up his brother's head as he rinses his soapy hair. The baby giggles, grabbing at his hand.

"WHY DID I HAVE YOUR BABY THEN?!" A scream pierces the audio.

Ichiro drops the showerhead into the tub, allowing it to fill up the tub some more. He stares ahead with a dazed expression.

"That's right, what's the point of this anyway?

If I'm going to live a life of suffering, I'd rather not live at all."

The audio of the song begins to scramble, becoming distorted along with sounds of a baby crying and Ichiro's mother's previous scream. Ichiro's father's apologetic face. A mug shattering against the wall, orange instead of pink like the one before. The blue eyes of Ichiro's father in the wedding photo. The baby opening his green eyes. Ichiro's mother patting his head. Her hands hovering over the baby's neck. Her hands hovering over a crying younger Ichiro's neck. She pulls him into a hug instead. The baby's head being held under the water.

The song returns to normal, picking back up with its chaotic guitar riffs as if nothing had happened.

"Am I right, or am I weak?

Am I you, or are you me?

So I'll stay in my mother's womb, never to come out."

A replay of the opening scene, played backward.

┊ ⇄ ◁◁ II ▷▷ ↻ ┊

#prisoner 001: kanai ichiro #prison guard: suzuki haruto #milgram #milgram oc #milgram project #ocgram

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keenregine · 10 months

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Just to keep the boat sailing.. Oh wow seven months ago, how can I ever top that amount of time. Seven months?! Geez. Anyways, let's just do this and move along. It has been almost a year since I moved from the hospital accommodation to the other house, can't say current because after eight months of staying there, I moved. . again. We'll get to that later. For now, we will just call the first house 'Audax', nothing special there, it's just the street name. I was together with three of my other cohort, it was a four bedroom, two tier house. I'm trying to search what type of house it is Google is not on my side today. But it looks very similar to a terraced house, only less fancy, less decorated, laced with pale bricks without those Victorian era chimneys, very industrial looking. The rent was at a decent price of, . . I'd rather not say, but it includes all the bills and internet. Good deal if you ask me, especially after the number of rejections we've been through. I chose the double bedroom on the second floor with shared bathroom, two person each floor. We don't have a designated receiving area because we converted that into a bedroom. The kitchen also became our common area, big enough for the four of us to fit in. There's also a beautiful garden at the back with a small shed or cottage whatever, great for hanging out or just to hide away. I'm not a fan of Taylor Swift, but I'd like to say that maybe, just maybe 'It's me, Hi! I'm the problem, it's me.' See what I did there, just to put a spin on my boring old narrative. Before moving in, an issue came about between me and my other cohort who immediately became my friend arriving here in UK. I will not go into further details since I won't forget that moment anyway. To summarize, we stopped talking from the first day we moved until this today. And I believe, it will not be fixed in the nearest future because we don't live in the same house anymore. We made it so easy avoiding each other while in the same roof, imagine how much easier it is now that were completely apart. In the recent years, I always found myself caught in these situations (for different reasons). It dawned on me that maybe I'm the problem. Well, life has to go on. First ever Christmas in the UK, yay 'twas great. Also, my first snow experience ever. I don't mean to sound pretentious or anything (which I think I am, but not on this matter) the snow didn't really excite me or maybe because I'm sick during these times and had to work taking out all the fun feeling within me. Lol. Felt like it was just snowflakes falling from the sky, the aftermath aesthetics though really hit hard. The best thing out of all the tragedy was Alex had a month-long vacation here with me, I'm just so glad that he took care of me, cook proper food for us, maintained my sanity and sustain my diva and baby like attitude. But ofcourse, I took him to all the major attractions that London has to offer which was loadsss by the way. And I realized how big this city is, there are over thirty-two boroughs and from each borough is a center, like an 'unofficially' declared center. Now, before I go any further and leave the most exciting 'parts' of my journey, after being in the UK for several months (I'm pertaining to myself), I managed to get a Schengen visa. Yay! it's way more convenient to travel to Europe (geographically) now that I'm here. Like, whenever I have long rest days, I could quickly go and fly across the channel. No drama, no bullshit. Went for his birthday on October, went again for my birthday on November. What a joy! The Spanish consul was generous enough to give me six months valid visa, which is already expired at this time. Getting an appointment is seriously like finding a lost treasure at sea, ridiculously difficult. The first time here in the UK (I feel the strong need to clear this, may I remind you about the time where I cried in the Spanish embassy in Saudi? yeah, that. good times) was fairly easy but with moderate effort, I was just lucky to get it at first try. Back in Saudi, everything was done for me by an agent, all I need to do was to pay and attend. But now, I need to do everything myself which is okay, but dude the appointment these days as I've said was close to none. I go online almost everyday at different times, trying to see if I could catch the fish. For a few weeks I was not very lucky, so I decided to take the convenient way, the 'what-would-Regine-do' way. I caved and paid for an appointment, ONLY for the appointment, getting the whole package would cost nearly £400-600. A great idea for business, seem like a scam because people aren't actually supposed to pay for an appointment alone. But since I don't want the hassle anymore, I end up here and believe me, I tried my best.

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lem-cup-rev · 2 years

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1.16 | Enchanting Grom Fright

The Owl House (2020)

🪶🪶🪶🪶🪶

-Spoilers-

AAAAAAAH

THANK YOU MS TERRACE, 100 STARS

Man, I thought the last one was good; this just, like, filled me with joy. The unique joy of being someone who really likes cartoons.

I don’t even know how to put it, it’s just, like, all the strengths of The Owl House, no notes. Omg, the Lumity dance?? I am insane for stuff that’s dancing and combat at the same time. It was so pretty and sweet and great. The shipteasing is soooooo much fun. The way neither of them know it’s mutual but they just have all these moments where they understand each other and are focused on each other a little more than friends would be…

I think it took a little while in the show for Amity’s character to really interest me, but omg it is such a payoff the way her tenderness keeps showing through her armor. Thinking of her worrying about asking her cute little crush to the prom is making me melt. The photo at the end where Luz pulls her into frame and she has her little blush??

This episode had me thinking about how Luz looks through Amity’s eyes. She’s such a floppy, impulsive goofball compared to the latter’s composure. The idea that that’s what makes Amity think Oh God, I can’t NOT date her… It’s so sweet and funny. Also, I didn’t remember Luz actually calls herself a bad boy in this episode, like I did a few posts ago. 😆

I loved Amity reacting to Hooty (read: beating the shit out of him), it was so characterful and off-the-wall. I loved butch Eda. I loved Eda’s worry over Luz. She referred to her as her kid for one of the first times. PLEASE let her get to coparent Luz forever and ever… Omg, and I loved Luz’s goofy hybrid outfit, Amity’s elegant dress, Willow’s Tinker Bell ensemble… and the otter with a dark side! I feel like I remember Luz actually wearing the otter suit, that must happen later??

I loved Gus’s MCing. It was almost surprising to see him with that much personality and presence. I think he always has some funny lines but he’s not always as strong as in these last couple episodes.

I think Luz’s worries about her mom really didn’t stand out to me as much as the Amity and Grom drama itself, but it was definitely a strong thread. I loved her message at the end. That line, “Someday I’ll tell you all of this,” with the shot out the window, totally made me all nostalgic about all the crazy magical stuff that’s happened. And omg… the Vee teaser is so eerie but so cute. She wants to be taken care of so bad. 🥺 (If you don’t know the spoiler I’m referring to… don’t worry about it.)

Next time: Not your average underdog story.

#review #spoilers #episode #5⭐️#the owl house

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somethingswell · 9 months

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Lít yvir landið (Look out over the land) - Faroese to English

(poem by Mikkjal Dánialsson, 1954 // translated by me)

Come up to the mountaintop, look out over the Faroes! So exquisite an image! Our spirit rises up here. Here a thousand languages chorus of cliffs and stones and crests. Sing out, my joyful soul, chant alongside the birds!

Oh memorable cliffs, adorned with green terrace! That power was not feeble which built them in earlier times. Still noble, strong, and wild all looks, out over sea, so eerily still by night, lively and rich by day.

Here the puffin builds its nest and the fulmar and gull and dove; near shore sit red-legged guillemot; here the common guillemot walk closely about the scree, and the razorbill flies high to the uppermost cliff face.

The noble fells smile in the sunshine, all so weather-worn with flowers among moss, so dense like saw teeth – fifteen mountains in all – north from Velba toward Skeið and Ambadal.

In flowery adornment now all the hillsides glimmer; over slopes and bridges passes the warm summer breeze; it tames the falls, enriches basins and gullies, strengthens the wild horse, nourishes the lamb and colt.

Hear murmurs, whispers, chatter from small river falls and the pealing ka-ka of blue fisher gulls, and black gulls' answering cry. On the crystal clear pond a duck is elated with its red-cheeked young.

And down below the farm the bright green field with crops all around many stories are remembered of labor and drudging work, many an exhausting hour. Yes, we must thank those who cleared the ground here.

Low houses dense by the cobble, in pleasant arrangement, so tarred and brown with green turf roofs, and the church close by so classical to behold, just as it shines a light on peace in every village and town.

And down below, the boathouse stands with pitched boats; where children fish like the best, where flocks of ducks sway. A young cod so red rushes into the weeds, and the black gull flies down to snatch the cod's meat.

There is no foam on the cape, all the pools are resting; through reefs and skerries glides a piece of driftwood. So tranquill rows a boat in toward the beach, and over a calm fjord the sun is clear and pleasant.

From the peaks to the sand smiling and pleasant, you, Faroe Islands, fill every breast with summer joy. God give us wisdom, God give us strength to work to worship you, to work to your gain.

Original

Kom upp á fjallatind, lít yvir Føroyalandið! So undurføgur mynd! Her lyftist upp vár andi. Her runga túsund mál um rók og reyn og røð. Gev ljóð, mín glaða sál, um kapp við fuglin kvøð!

O minnilig bjørg, væl skrýdd við grønum skorum! Tann kraft var ikki kørg, sum bygdi tey í forðum. Tó stórbært, prútt og vilt alt lítur yvir sjó, á nátt so trølsligt stilt, á degi lív og ljóð.

Her byggir lundin lond og havhestur og ryta og dúgvan; dygst við strond reyðføttir teistar sita; her lomvigan so tøtt fer ruggandi um rók, og álkan bringubrøtt sær ytstu upsu tók.

Tey hábærsligu fjøll í sólarljómar brosa, so veðurbard flest øll við blomstrum millum mosa, so tætt sum tenn í sag – væl fimti fjøll í tall – alt norð frá Velbastað mót Skeið og Ambadal.

Í blomsturvovnum skrúð nú líðir allar glógva; um brekkur og um brú fer summarlotið flógva; tað spekir mangan foss, tað fríðkar lægd og gil, tað stimbrar brasin ross, tað frøir lomb og fyl.

Hoyr tutl og tesk og sjóð frá áarfossum smáum og klingandi kó-kó frá fiskimásum bláum, og skurin svarar pli. Á spegilsblonku tjørn ein toppont fegnast við tey kjálkareyðu børn.

Og niðan fyri garð hin bjarti grøni bøur við veltum víða hvar man goyma mangar søgur um tusk og tógvið slit, um manga sveitta stund. Ja, takka mugu vit teim, sum her ruddu grund.

Lág hús so tøtt um tún í hugnaligum lagi, so tjørubrædd og brún og takt við grønum flagi, og kirkjan dygst har við so ellismild at sjá, rætt sum hon lýsti frið um bygd og bø og vág.

Og niðanfyri neyst við bræddum bátum standa; har veiða børn sum best, har æðuflokkar danda. Ein berggylta so reyð sær inn í taran rann, tá likkan niður fleyg og livrabroddar fann.

Nú hvítir ei við nes, nú hvíla allar íður; fram millum flúr og fles ein rekastubbi glíður. So stillisliga rør ein bátur inn mót lógv, og yvir slættan fjørð sær sólin blonk og flógv.

Av tindum út um sand so brosandi og fegið tú fyllir, Føroyaland, hvønn barm við summargleði. Gud geri okkum vís, Gud gevi okkum magn at virka tær til prís, at nøra um títt gagn.

#translation #fo

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theretirementstory · 2 years

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Bonjour et bienvenue, it’s a new month and I am well aware that autumn has arrived, unfortunately it’s been rather soggy so my plans for the garden are on hold (not until next year I hope!)

I managed to visit “La foiré bulles et gastronomie” last Sunday. I didn’t even partake of a glass of champagne at the Sapeur Pompier stall, because as I arrived in the vicinity my friend “Le chef de police municipale” was standing there with her colleague and she has already told her colleagues that the terrace at the front of my house is where I drink my cocktails 😂, so I didn’t want her to I think that I take my liquid refreshments “anytime, anywhere!” 😂😂

I visited the doctor for my prescription for the usual blood tests. Unfortunately, something I mentioned set alarm bells with the doctor, so I got a spray for under the tongue, have had additional blood tests, an x-ray, am going for a CT scan this week and an ECG next week. I was thinking I was going to “peg out” there and then when I went to book an appointment for my blood tests, and was told I needed to have the ones for my heart straight away! I then went to book for the x-ray and at 12.25 was told it would be done at 13:00! I didn’t even have time to go home for some lunch. Then the doctor phoned on Wednesday and said the x-rays and blood tests were OK but she still wanted me to go for CT scan, she said it isn’t quick for an appointment. I phoned on Thursday and got booked in for next Friday 🤔 is that not quick? Oh well, have the tests and see what they say. No use worrying, if there is something in there that shouldn’t be in, it’s too late now!

Pauline of Tours (previously Paris) messaged to say she may be coming to town this weekend. That was earlier in the week and I haven’t heard anything since. I guess she maybe hasn’t had time to do the journey.

I finally heard from my Finnish friend Liisa, she is away this weekend but as her youngest son is now at school, we may be able to meet up one morning. That will be lovely, it’s so nice to have these young friends.

I had a video call with my gorgeous grandchildren. They are lovely, but so noisy! My grandson likes to scream not for any reason other than he can. They are just so funny, it’s hard to have a conversation with my son without one popping up in front of the screen and the other one shouting or screaming….. the joys of parenthood!

“The Paralegal” is collecting some lovely items for the “big move”. No date as yet but he doesn’t think it will be much longer. He celebrated his birthday this week too and had a good day.

I was at the knitting group, five ladies arrived, two pregnant ladies with just weeks to go 🙃. We had a lovely time chatting but I had to leave quickly as I had to take a call.

Yesterday, a visit to the bar was called for, I haven’t been for some time and I wanted to get the lowdown on the changes that are taking place in the town, the cinema closure which produced a “manifestation” outside of the Town Hall, the champagne bar closed until a new tenant can be found to run it. I mentioned to Christophe that it must be difficult running a cafe/bar after Covid when people maybe realised they didn’t need to go out. Some bars are trying to attract business by hosting bands but that is not so easy as these places are quite small. I don’t know if it is the time of year but the town seems to have lost a little of it’s earlier lustre.

I made stew in the slow cooker yesterday plus some carrot and lentil soup. Today I would like to make a quiche and another large pot of stew. Talk of food is making my tummy rumble, so I had better go and make myself something, obviously my porridge and banana haven’t kept me fuller for longer!

Wow the sun has put in an appearance, I am going to bring some washing down, who knows I may get it done and hung out (pigs might fly). Sorry folks, sun was short lived!

Bon dimanche!

#barsuraube #livingthedream #champagne #photography #baking #crafts #autumninaube

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iceprincessviviane · 3 years

Text

Smell of the sea

Pairing: Yandere!c!Foolish x Fem!SeaNymph!Reader

Type: Romantic (Foolish is yandere), oneshot.

Warnings: Yandere, swearing, injury, threats, possessiveness, silly jokes created by me.

Summary: Foolish is hosting you in his summer house. You spent there almost a month having a great time, but you want to have some space.

My first yandere fic.

She was sitting at comfortable couch in big terrace and admiring view. Sun was kissing her skin and wind blowing away the hot. Specific smell of salt has reached her nose. Sky was light blue without any clouds and silence filled scream of gulls.

Foolish's summer home was like paradise on Smp. Great weather, sea nearbay, peacefuly area and god's companion were making this place like heaven. Y/N reached out for an apple. In front of couch was standing small table with bowl full of a lot of fresh fruits; everything was here.

"Good morning my goddess." After hearing that, she felt a gentle kiss pressed to top of her head. Foolish took a deep breath and sat on couch with wide smile.

He was wearing ancient, light green robe with open torso, his skin was shinning in the sun. In common days like this, he prefered to be in human form, shifting into shark one with grey skin and fines only, when they wanted to swim together. She has never seen him in full divine form, only when he decided to change height.

"Good morning Foolish." She replied and blushed immediately.

"You are awake early today." He said moving his eyes on her.

"Yes... I just couldn't sleep." Y/N sighted slighty.

"What happend?" His was worrying about her after hearing the news.

"Nothing excatly." She shrugged.

Foolish sent her soft smile and grabbed her hand gently. He pressed another kiss, but on her fingers. At the very beginning true god was really careful towards her, treat her like godess, treasure. Y/N started to notice that this week. Of course she met some of the others Smp members, but he was the sweetest. She was a little shy, but after spending with him a lot of time, Y/N get used to his behaviour.

"If you wish, you can go back to the sleep. I don't mind." Foolish said softly locking his green, emerald eyes on her figure.

"I wouldn't fall asleep... I might go into a walk."

"Do you want me to accompany you?" He asked carefuly.

Y/N nodded and smiled to him. They both stood up and Foolish offered her arm, she grabbed it gently, than they left the terrace. Summer home, but in fact Temple of Undying was unbelivable big. It had living parts, sacral places, big outside field, a lot of aesthetic pools filled with fishes, turtles and water lilies. There were also small places filled with grass, trees and flowers. After everything Summer Home was in the desert, reaching the sea. Of course they had Nether portal, very big one outside, but they had visitors hardly ever. Even Foolish admited, that before her hosting, he didn't have a lot of guests, usually spending time alone.

During a walk they remained silence, enjoying each other presence, walking through the buildings and squares. Blooming trees filled whole place with pleasure, flower smell. Y/N relaxed and again felt somnolence coming. Foolish noticed that and lead her to private chambers.

"Get a little bit sleep, I really don't mind." He smiled gently.

"You have right, I shloud probably be awake in afternoon, maybe earlier." She agreed and sighed. Foolish nodded to her, when she entered her chambers.

He walked away, getting lost in his own thoughts. Usually they didn't have plans about spending day or schedule. Most time they were resting, talking or swimming. Y/N liked to listen his stories or plans about new adding new buildings to the Temple.

}*{

Unfortunately, Y/N woke up only for supper and she had a little talk with Foolish, but then she went again to sleep, couldn't tell why this happend. After a quick bath, she crawled on her bed, almost immediately falling deep asleep.

Truly god didn't need a lot of resting or sleep, so Foolish was mostly awake and full of energy during nights. Today was like always. He wandered around, but finally ended up at Y/N chamber's door. Hesitation appeard on his face, he was worried that, because of previous sleeping, she could have light one now. After a few minutes he decided and quietly opened door. His steps were noiseless. Chamber was very big, with main part, bedroom, bathroom, terrace and wardrobe. Today the moon was shinning brightly, showing cleary whole area. Y/N was peacefuly sleeping in big, canopy bed. Silk counerpane was gently covering her figure. Foolish liked to watch her lot. Even when she was thinking, she was alone, he probably was watching her carefuly from distance, especially when she was wandering around in Temple. He just couldn't take his eyes off when Y/N was gracefully walking by the isles, watching trees and flowers completly diffrent than plants in the sea. But when she was sleeping, she looked so innocent and sweet, that he could stare for ages. He stayed in shadows for some minutes, but then got closer and sat at the end of the bed. Gentle smell of the sea salt hit his nose. He took deep, quiet breath, he loved it. There was some time when they cuddle or hugged themselfes, but for him it was always not enough. After all this time spent together, he started to think how keep Y/N around and safe. Although, she didn't mention any plans for leaving, he got cold shiver in his spine each time he thought of parting.

Night has passed and Y/N woke up before noon. She actually felt better and rested. After making a morning routine and eat light breakfast, she started to search Foolish, well Temple was so big, so Y/N gave up in third pool. In this area, water was surrounded by trees and grass. She took off her sandals and enter the shallowest part of the pool, warm water reached her cubes. Pleased smile crawled at her lips, she closed her eyes and enjoy the silence.

Of course he was watching from the distance, partly covered by big, sandstone column. Today was really hot, he was temped to stay in the water whole day. He was wearing the light robe again, with open torso. Foolish hoped that today he will be able to swim with Y/N or spend time in library, where was pretty cold.

Y/N heard silent footsteps and looked around. Foolish was coming, she sent him soft smile, at least he found her.

"Feeling better today my dear?" He asked and came closer.

"Yes, I think, I needed this long sleep."

Foolish also took his sandals and stepped into a water, it was cold, but in the same time nice.

"I am glad then. I don't want to see any sadness on your beautiful face." His smile widened, then he hugged her tightly and put hands on her waist.

She lean head on his chest, he was warm and smell like sand or desert. Y/N could say, that there she felt safe and with Foolish she felt cherished and somehow... loved? She fast chased away that thought and focused on peace and silent of this moment.

"We can go swimming if you want." His whisper hit softly her ear.

Y/N giggled slighty, moved herself that she could looked at him. "Actually... I thought about maybe visit other members of Smp?"

Foolish looked at her with surprise and cold shiver went down at his spine.

"Oh... I didn't expect that... you want to visit someone specifically?" His tone was a little bit unsure.

"I thought about Philza maybe, we didn't see him a lot? But if you don't want to go, I can go alone, it doesn't take a lot of time." She said and smiled innocently.

Shark god looked deep into her eyes, couldn't decide. For some reasons he didn't want to see Philza today and prefer to stay in summer home with Y/N, but in another side, he just didn't want to let her go alone.

"Well I have to do some stuff here too." He said slowly.

"So I will be in the home before supper." She clapped her hands in joy. Foolish slighty nodded and smiled. Maybe a little trip will be good for her? And he will set up some things...

}*{

Y/N always liked Philza's company, he visited desert several times and she always enjoy his pressence and stories, which he was telling. Similar to other old beings he lived enough long to see and exeperience a lot. This time wasn't diffrent Y/N was invited inside and he got her cup of tea. They sat in the kitchen and talked about common things. Technoblade was on the adventure with Ranboo, so they had peaceful time full of laughs and giggles.

Foolish thought it would be easy, but since Y/N left for visiting Philza he was very distracted. Uninvited thoughts filled his head and strange feeling in his stomach. He tried to build, read and walk, nothing helped. Knowing Phil they would sit and talk but... what if there will be somethin else? Or what if Y/N won't come back? Shark god sighed, being worry about her and being worry that she won't come back have been mixed together. This was one of his biggest fear. Since she have stepped in his life, he didn't wnat to be alone anymore. After a hour more struggling he gave up.

Phil was about to escorted Y/N, till she will reach the desert, but in the end of his yard stood Foolish in more appropriate clothing than ancient robes. He sent them soft smile. Sun was getting down, throwing longer shadows. Phil nodded to him.

"Hi mate."

"Foolish what a surprise!" Y/N said and smiled back to him.

"Well I think, that I needed also longer walk." He said and gave her hand. She grabbed it gently and blushed slighty. Phil glanced at them and smirked.

"Thank you for the visit, I hope we will meet again sooner."

"I think next time you can actually visit us." Y/N said and looked at Foolish.

"Yes, of course. Technoblade and Ranboo ale welcomed too of course." Shark god nodded and smiled proudly.

"See you then, I wish you safe trip back."

They both waved to him and left property value. Foolish squeezed her hand gently and smiled to her, his worries disappered immediately.

"How was the visit?"

"Phil like Phil was telling me stories and gave me couple cups of tea. Technoblade and Ranboo were on adventure, so we were alone."

"Wanna eat something in home or go immediately sleep?" He asked softly.

"Honestly I want to eat something, also I like suppers with you, because we are always talking." She admitted with unsure tone.

"I am glad to hear that." Foolish looked directly into her eyes. "And I am glad that you are back. I am so used to your pressence..."

She reciprocated glance and blushed a little bit more. They spent rest way back in silence. Maybe words wasn't needed there?

}*{

They both sat at the long table in terrace, stars showed up in the sky, moon again was shinning brightly. A lot of dishes were on the table, Foolish held glass full of ambrosia, when Y/N was eating some fruits. They changed clothes, because even at night, there still were hot.

"Maybe in next week we can visit Tommy and Tubbo? Then we shloud definitely meet Kinoko Kingdom, since you have helped them with buildings and of course guest Phil, Technoblade and Ranboo as we promised!" Y/N said with excitement in her voice.

Foolish again felt this starange feeling in the stomach but hid it with soft smile. Since when she wanted to do so much visits and meetings?

"Of course my dear... " He agree little unsure.

"You know... I just think we shloud more meet with Smp members." She stated while was looking at him.

"So I now am not enough?" He asked playfuly, ignoring cold shiver at his spine.

"Well, it's not the case... I am just missing others company a little bit, but I very enjoy your pressence Foolish. Here... is like paradise, you know?" Y/N said and looked down, trying to hide her blushing cheeks.

Demi god smirked and took a small sip. "I am glad, that I am 'enough'. You brought a lot of joy and happiness into this place."

He looked directly at her and took another sip. She looked lovely with red cheeks and shy smile on her lips. Foolish got completly lost in her beauty, that she spotted, that he was looking at her.

"You are staring at me."

"I am not staring my goddess. I am admiring, that is diffrence."

Y/N shook her head with disbelief and tried to focus on her dish, but it was difficult under Foolish'es burning gaze. After eating, they stood under railing, looking at peacefuly ocean. Sounds of small waved crashin the coast was very calm. She slowly put her head on his shoulder, when was watching the horizon. He smiled softly and put hand on her's hip gently.

"Comfortably?" His whisper hit her ear and eyes caught her's. Y/N nodded in response.

"Good." Foolish said with satisfied tone. He waited couple of minutes, then took his chance and tickled her unexpected.

Y/N literally just jumped away from him, then crossed arms. "What was that?!" She asked with betrayed tone.

"I'm sorry, I just couldn't resist." He smirked and get closer, but Y/N kept moving away at his each step. Finally her back touched the railing, Foolish put his hand on it.

"Nowhere to run?"

"Unfortunately..." Y/N whispered slowly.

He leaned in and grabbed by second hand her chin. Their eyes met again, she smiled innocently.

"There is no escape from me my sweetheart."

After this words he pressed their lips together in slow kiss, Y/N put her arms around his neck, Foolish'es hand from railing embraced her waist. There was silence, they get lost in the kiss, clearly waited for this for so long. When they pulled away, their breaths were sharp and heavy.

"I would never want to escape." She whispered softly, causing him to smile.

}*{

After a few days full of love affection, kisses, cuddles and words Foolish wanted to give Y/N special gift. It spent some time to prepare it. This day he woke up first and set up breakfast, wanted to enjoy this moment fully. When everything was ready he put casket on the table and sat, waiting for her impatiently. His robe was decorated by gold and stones, white silk was shinning slighty in sun.

Finally Y/N went through the door, today they ate on big hall full of windows, sunlight was going through them. She was wearing blue like sky dress type robe, her hair was falling softly at her back. Foolish smiled to her and stood up. They hug each other gently.

"How was your sleep love?" He asked softly.

"Pretty good and yours?"

"I was dreaming about you." Foolish admited and kissed her forehead. She giggled and blushed slighty.

"Sweet talker." Y/N said and sat at the table. He followed her steps, then they started to eat. Silence was filled by sounds of cutlery and glasses. Again he was staring at her while drinking ambrosia.

"I have something for you." Foolish finally said and pick up casket.

Y/N rose her left eyebrow with curiosity. What it could be? She appreciated all gifts which he go her, but didn't want to bother with some stupid whims.

"It's sweet of you, but you know that you don't need to spoil me so much? I already live here for free, have everything and don't need to worry about anything." She admitted slowly.

"I want to spoil you a little my goddess. Just a little." He stood up and moved closer to her, then opened the box. Inside were a set of golden jewelry with gems such as: emeralds, rubies, sapphires and diamonds. There were two pair of bracelets, necklace and tiara.

Y/N made big eyes. "I can't take it... it's too much..." She said quietly.

"I will be so happy when you will wear it. I promise." Foolish said softly, taking them out the box.

She sighed, but nodded to him, allowed to help her with it. They took off old one and put new one. "How do I look?" Y/N asked watching her new jewelry.

"Now like mine goddess." Foolish said with satisfied tone and their eyes met. He kissed her cheek and she giggled softly.

"Thank you..." She looked down shyly. "Did you make it?"

"Oh yes... I had some spare gems and you know how I love gold. I just wanted... you know. Give you something. You're making me happy."

"It's beautiful, I love each part of it and I love you." Y/N whispered.

"I love you too my love." Foolish responeded and kissed her lovingly.

}*{

Unfortunately Y/N couldn't visit rest of Smp members this days, because she started to feel bad. She assumed, that she stayed too long on the sun and didn't drink enough. Foolish agreed with that and added, that maybe more swimming or baths could help. Of course she shloudn't go to cold tundra, her state could get worse and that was the last thing they wanted. Y/N spent almost whole days in her chamber or library, because there were cold and quiet.

Foolish closed carefuly door, his love just went to sleep, although early time. Afternoon just passed, but she was too sleepy and drain out of energy already. He didn't say a word, just took her and put her in the bed. Shark god went into his personal chambers and looked at alchemical area. There were still remains of his newest project, he smiled a little, couldn't belive that this could actually work so well.

At the beginning he belived that Y/N is his destiny. She was perfect, she could be a goddess and he wanted to make her one, his goddess actually. It would take time, yes, but it will be worth. They were perfect match, Sea Nymph and Shark God, what a pair and she even fell in love with him... day of their first kiss was the happiest day of his immortal life.

But thing was that Foolish enjoyed their time spent together, alone in the temple, but Y/N was sociable person, she loved meetings, visits, trips and parties. Of course he liked rest of the Smp members... but Y/N was a person, he desired the most. What if someone will involve her in war or conflict? He couldn't let that happen. This land saw enough blood od innocents and fights. Y/N needed to be safe.

Foolish looked at empty alchemist bootles. It took almost a week to saturate gold potion of weakness. Dose was harmless, just caused person which wad wearing the jewelry feel weak and sleepy. That shloud be enough, to make Y/N stay in the temple with him. Of course he couldn't make it last forever, buy for now it have to be enough. Maybe after some time she will lost interest in meetings or visits and understand that Foolish is the only person, she needs. If not... well he knew how to saturate gold with potions effects. And there were two pairs of bracalets and tiara left.

#c!Foolish x reader #c!Foolish x you #dsmp fandom #dream smp #Foolish #yandere dream smp x you #yandere dream smp x reader #yandere!c!Foolish x reader #yandere!c!Foolish x you

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thedeathdeelers · 3 years

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in your starlight (AO3)

“I had a dream about you once,” he said quietly into the dark room, the sleeping girl in his arms stirring awake.

“Mmfmm,” was the only reply he got.

“Yes, very much, mhm.” His lips twitched, eyes twinkling with the amusement and affection he felt for the girl.

A weak hand lightly swatted at his chest, then remained there, fingers curling into and bunching up his t-shirt. He smiled, entirely content with the way she was clutching onto him.

It was quiet again for a while, lying on Julie’s bed with her warm body draped haphazardly over his, the sound of her gentle breaths coming in and out extremely calming to Luke. If he really strained his ears, he could even hear her heartbeat - which was admittedly his favourite sound in the world.

“I thought ghosts didn’t sleep,” came the muffled answer a few minutes later, her face soundly pressed into his chest.

“Mm, you’re right. Ghosts don’t sleep.”

“Then how did you dream of me?” He’s not sure how, but Luke could just feel her brows furrowing as her sleep muddled brain tried to work through his words. He chuckled, the vibrations lulling Julie into a deeper sense of contentment.

“I dreamt of you back when I was still alive, back in the 90s.”

“That’s not possible. I wasn’t even alive back then.” She giggled, going quiet for a second. “Old man.” She continued laughing at her own joke, shaking slightly with the mirth escaping her body.

Luke couldn’t help but feel his chest warm up, his smile stretching even further across his face at the joy radiating off of Julie.

“Ha ha, you’re so funny, Julie-bean.” He pulled her closer against him once, her giggles intensifying before his arms slackened once again, still wrapped loosely around her. He waited for her giggles to subside, before continuing. “I’m not really sure how it’s possible, but I know for a fact that you were the girl in my dream.”

“Oh? How so?” She turned her head facing him, her face no longer pressed against his chest.

He shrugged, not seeming too worried about the improbability of his statement. “I just do.” Luke lifted an arm off her waist, reaching over to move a few curls blocking Julie’s face from his gaze. “Remember that night the other week, when we spent it lying on your terrace, stargazing?”

“The night we finally figured out our ‘interesting little relationship’.”

He hummed in reply, the arm still wrapped around her tightening its hold on the girl with his heart.

“Yeah.” Even in the dark he could still see the incredible depths to her eyes, staring back at him. He could even convince himself that he sometimes got glimpses of her soul, a pure shining light guiding him out of the darkness.

“I had a dream the summer before we- well, the summer before the Orpheum. It’s the only dream I’ve ever managed to vaguely remember. In it I remember lying down on a blanket, next to this beautiful girl as we stargazed on that same roof terrace. Back then I was confused, it felt like it was Bobby’s house, but at the same time I knew it wasn’t.”

He paused for a few seconds, remembering the feelings that washed over him in his dream. His hand, still wrapped in her curls, let go so he could trace the soft curve of her cheek, his eyes intent on hers.

“Turns out I was right - it was Bobby’s house, but also wasn’t. It was Bobby’s house 26 years into the future.”

She sat up a little, shifting and coming to rest on her elbow so she could look at him better, still careful not to move away from their embrace.

“Wait, hold on - What do you mean? As in you had a dream about the future? The future where you are a ghost?”

He shrugged again, a soft smile on his lips as his eyes roamed her face.

“Yeah, that’s exactly what I mean. I was somehow lucky enough to get a sneak peek at what was waiting for me.” His hand lightly trailed her jaw line before coming to rest against her cheek.

“Death? Living life in limbo as a ghost?” Her voice quiet, a sad tinge to it. Her head tilted, snuggling her cheek against his palm.

“No. You.”

“But...”

“No, none of the rest matters. I have you, and that’s the only thing that matters to me.”

Julie lifted the hand that rested against his chest, placing it over the hand that still held her face. “But how are you so sure?”

“When you, dream you, future you, turned around to look at me, your eyes - I don’t know if I can explain it but I- it really felt like I finally found my way home.”

Luke shook his head slightly, still in awe of the feelings Julie pulled out of him.

“It’s hard to explain but yeah. Everything about that dream felt natural, and everything I did or say was just guided by instinct.”

“But that doesn’t mean it was me. Just a dream girl your mind conjured up for you.” She flopped back down, her cheek coming to rest on his shoulder. His hand followed suit, still cradling her other cheek.

“I mean sure, but I’ve only ever had one dream girl, and that’s you. Plus I’d like to think I’d recognise those eyes and that smile anywhere, even before knowing who you were.” Luke paused for a second, eyeing Julie’s skeptical look, before trying again.

“Alright, you know how I’ve told you that you make me a better writer?”

“We make each other better,” she mumbled into his shirt.

“Yes, sure. But I really meant it - these last few months, writing with you has made me feel like I’m invincible. Every song I try to tackle I somehow manage to finish, because you’re there with just the right word, or the perfect melody.” He stopped to make sure she was still following, her gaze unwavering.

“I remember waking up from that dream, being the most inspired I’d ever been in my entire life. It was like I couldn’t write fast enough, the words and the chords and the melodies just...flowing out of me.”

“That doesn’t mean anything...”

“It would if you’d let me finish.” He stuck his tongue out at her, and she returned the favour barely a second later.

“As I was saying before I was rudely interrupted, I couldn’t stop writing. And the minute I took a break and just pictured your eyes staring at me in the dark, another wave of inspiration would hit and I’d be scribbling away like my life depended on it. By the end of it I had like 4 pages full to the brim with ideas, which lead to the first song on the EP.”

It was quiet for a while, Julie seemingly processing his words, while Luke was happy just to watch her, his own personal muse. His hand shifted, letting go of her cheek so that his fingers could trace down her jawline.

He broke the silence, wanting to make sure she fully understood what he was saying.

“You’ve been my inspiration from the very beginning Jules. Way before you were even born.” He bopped her on the nose, for good measure.

“You wrote a song about me?” Her voice was small, almost shy. He laughed.

“I’ve written many songs about you. But yeah, In Your Starlight was one of the 5 songs included in Sunset Curve’s first official EP. I know Alex said I wasn’t a romantic, and I’m not, or at least wasn’t - but that song’s the closest thing I’ve ever gotten to writing a love song.”

“I’d like to hear it.” A yawn made its way out, her hand quickly smacking itself against her mouth.

“We’ve got all the time in the world, Jules. But I think for now it’s time for the human to go to sleep.”

“But I don’t wanna go to sleep,” came her automatic reply. And although Julie was very obviously tired, she still managed to inject a little whine into her voice, ending her sentence with an adorable little pout.

Luke had to try very hard to restrain himself from kissing away her pout, knowing full well that she needed her sleep, first and foremost. He could pepper her face with kisses as much as he wanted to the moment it was time for her to wake up. For now though, he had to make sure she got enough sleep.

So he did the one thing he knew was a sure way to nudge her into unconsciousness: he slowly started rubbing circles on her back, sometimes switching and drawing little stars with his finger, constantly keeping up with the repetitive movements.

Not even five minutes later, the girl of his dreams was asleep, her hands back to gripping onto the front of his shirt, her head snuggled onto his chest.

He may not understand the way of the universe, but he knew one thing for certain: he had somehow managed to dream up his dream girl, and have her waiting for him on the other side.

——

you were like a shooting star,

blazing across my darkened sky,

i closed my eyes and made a wish,

now here you are in front of me,

please let me stay close by your side,

forever basking in your starlight

——

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#jatp #juke #jatp fics #julie and the phantoms #otp: you’re music to me #luke patterson #julie molina #julie x luke #luke x julie #my fics #shoutout to ophelia & snædís for their feedback #and major shoutout to t for helping me with the lyrics 🥰♥️#thedeathdeelers fics

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