#ohio impromptu

[starsinthesky5]

wanna get out of here? | joe burrow x reader

description: an impromptu getaway is exactly what you and joe needed

a/n: ahhh my second fic!! all the love on my first one gave me the motivation to go and write another one :) i hope you all like this one!

warnings: smut (hope it’s not too bad since it’s my first time writing it LOL), language

word count: 6 k

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Wednesday 

The sounds of hammering rain and thunder were all you could focus on as you were sitting on the couch, curled up in a blanket trying to finish an overly complex project for work. You had been trying to finish the final section for the past week but you simply could not get rid of the restless feeling that had engulfed you over the past few days. 

Joe, on the other hand, was sitting right next to you. He was staring at the TV which had on some random rerun episode of The Office. Normally, he’d be laughing along to the show no matter how many times he had seen the episode, but today he was quiet & agitated. He had been overwhelmed this past month with intense rehab for his wrist injury; on top of which he had his off-season workouts every day which had also been incredibly vigorous. He was mentally and physically burnt out and needed something to take his mind off of everything. He noticed that you also had been swamped with work which caused you to be on edge the whole week, preventing you two from having any real 1 on 1 time like you usually do, and he wasn’t having it. 

You were typing away on your computer, another idea that would probably lead to nothing, before you heard the TV turn off. 

You turned your head to Joe and saw his blank face. “Everything Okay?” you questioned while reaching for his hand. 

“Wanna get out of here?” he asked while interlocking your hands, still looking expressionless. 

“Joey there is literally a monsoon happening outside right now,” you deadpanned as you squeezed his hand. 

“Not out there. I mean do you wanna get out of Ohio?”.

“Who are you and what have you done with my fiancee,” you laughed. 

“What?” he asked, looking quizzical as if he had no idea why you said that.

“You, the same man that never leaves his house unless it’s business or football related. And sometimes due to a forced social activity, or occasionally to have fun, wants to leave Ohio? You’re practically a turtle that stays in its shell all day,” you say before going back to your work project. 

Joe is slightly taken aback by what you said. Deep down he knows you aren’t wrong, he doesn’t go out very often, which made what he said next even more necessary. 

“Let’s go to the Bahamas this weekend. I can call up Ted and get a jet here and we can leave Friday morning. I’m thinking we stay at a lowkey house on a private beach for maybe 4 days,” he says.

You think he’s just messing with you but when you look over at him, he looks serious. 

“Where is this coming from?” you say with worry in your voice. In the 5 years, you and Joe have been together, he’d never sprung an idea of a vacation on you by himself, it was always mutual. And you’d never left the States before either. You close your computer and turn to face him. 

“I’m just so fucking tired,” he says with a sigh. “These past few weeks have been really intense and I just need a break.” 

Your face drops as he continues. He’d been under so much pressure lately with OTA’s slowly approaching and training amping up; plus all the background noise. He’d start throwing in the next month or so and deep down he was nervous. He didn’t know how it was going to go and if all this rehab was even worth it if he was never going to be able to get back to where he was. 

“And you’ve been stressed out all week because of work and it feels like we haven’t had just ‘us’ time,” he adds. 

Joe was right. He’d be gone all day with either rehab or workouts and the only time you two would get together would be dinner. And by dinner, you’d be too exhausted to do anything but eat and rush off to bed. 

You spend a few moments contemplating his offer. It would be nice to get away for a few days and you both needed the change of environment badly. 

“Okay, let’s do it," you say with a smile as you pull him in for a hug. 

“But just so you know, since we’d be leaving in 2 days, I’m going to be an absolute nightmare when it comes to packing,” you say before planting a kiss on his cheek. 

“Oh, I'm well aware. You only get 2 days to stress about packing and not a whole week like usual,” he laughs. 

Thursday Evening 

You both spent the majority of the day planning your impromptu vacation. You found the perfect beach house on the other side of Nassau, away from the main part of the island. It was hidden by palm trees and had a private beach which made it easy to unwind without any prying eyes. You would spend the week there and pick out a few activities nearby to occupy your time. You also chose a few places to eat although you both decided to cook at home for the majority of your stay. 

Currently, you were sitting on your closet floor attempting to pack your suitcase but were majorly failing. Packing was never your strong suit, especially if you had to pack the day before a trip. The closet looked like a war zone, things were everywhere. 

“This is the wrong time to not be able to find anything,” you say to yourself while getting up once again to hunt for missing items. 

Joe walked into the closet and saw you frantically pacing back and forth looking for something. 

“Babe, are you Okay?” He asked while sitting down on the stool. 

“Have you seen my new white bikini? Or my sunglasses? Or my tank tops?” You asked, aggravated that you couldn’t find your stuff.

“I literally cannot find anything,” You added before giving Joe a look. He knew that look all too well, you were 1 misplaced item away from having a full breakdown. 

He got up from the stool and walked over to where you were, put his hands on your shoulders, and said “Y/N you could wear a potato sack and still look amazing. Stop stressing about it, this vacation is supposed to get rid of the stress. Not add onto it,”

You let out a deep breath and say “You’re right. It’s just us anyway. I’ll just pack some nice dresses and stuff whatever in the suitcase,” 

“The fewer clothes the better,” Joe smirks and says before leaning in and planting a kiss on your lips. 

“You’re insatiable,” you say against his lips. 

After you finish packing your suitcase, you get ready for bed since you have a fairly early flight. It took Joe about 15 minutes to pack his things, which came as no surprise since he is the biggest outfit repeater you know. You’re just about ready to doze off before you feel Joe’s hand creep up your leg and squeeze your thigh.

“Mmm Joe not right now,” you say half asleeply. “Go to bed,”

“Not that,” he states. “I can’t fall asleep,” he mumbles. 

You let out a sigh before turning to face him. No way you’re getting any sleep now. “What’s wrong,” you say as you move his messy curls out of his eyes. 

“I don’t know, I just can’t fall asleep,” he says. 

You knew Joe too well to know when something was bothering him. His confession earlier was only the tip of the iceberg. Something was bugging him and you needed him to talk to you.

“What’s going on in that brain of yours,” you say as you play with his curls. 

He stayed silent for a few heartbeats, not knowing if he should unload his heavy thoughts on you right before a vacation. But he knew that it was just you. You’d always listen to whatever he had to say, no matter the time or place. 

“Just everything.” He says, meeting your eyes. “Rehab has been going great and training has been too, and I should be happy about that but I just can’t get rid of that feeling,”

“What feeling?” You question.

“Feeling like I won’t be good enough. I know what people are saying; overpaid, overrated, no rings, injury-prone. And they aren’t wrong. I don’t have anything to back up why people think I’m a top 3 quarterback,” 

Your heart breaks as he continues to talk. The fact that Joe feels like he isn’t good enough is mind-boggling to you. He’s one of the best damn players you’ve ever seen and you wish you could do something to get rid of his doubts, but you knew that that was something he had to do on his own. 

“But you do have things to back it up. You had one of the greatest college football seasons ever. Winning the Natty and the Heisman was only the start of your legacy. You were drafted by an organization that was in desperate need of saving and you made an impact that not many could have done,” you say as you see a small smile on his face.

“You had a shitty rookie season with tearing basically everything in your knee, but you worked hard and came back better than ever fucking before. You went on and led the team to their first playoff win in 30 years and went to the fucking Super Bowl in your first full season,” you add.

“Yeah, you didn’t win. But you put the entire league on notice and showed them who the hell you are. And then you did it again next year even though you didn’t go all the way. This past year was rough and didn’t go the way anyone would have expected, but this is part of what makes you, you.” you say with a smile as he stares deeply into your eyes. 

“You thrive when there’s adversity. It makes you work harder for what you want and it always pays off one way or another. You always come out better and stronger. You are a great quarterback and are absolutely more than good enough. You’re going to have your moment soon, and I know it,” you conclude. 

Joe stares into your eyes for a few more heartbeats. You knew exactly what to say to bring him back down from whatever cloud he was stuck on and he was so thankful for you. 

“I love you,” he said as he pulled you onto his lap, pressing kisses all over your face. 

“I love you more, always,” you laugh as he kisses the hell out of you. 

You two spent the rest of the night in each other's embrace. You finally felt at peace once you heard Joe’s soft snores fill the room and finally got some sleep.

Friday

You both got up pretty early for your flight, taking a quick shower before packing the car and heading to the airport. After boarding the plane you both took off your shoes, pulled out your fav blanket, and got comfy. 

“Are you excited?” Joe beams.

“Excited is an understatement, Burrow,” you smirk. “Getting you out of Ohio might be my favorite part,”. 

“I’m so looking forward to getting some sun and swimming in that big pool,” he says, referring to the massive pool that’s a part of the house you rented.  

“It’s like you’re a whole new person,” you smile while leaning your head on his shoulder. He smiles and kisses your forehead before pulling out his laptop to turn on a movie. 

“Oooo what are we gonna watch?” you excitedly question. 

“I was thinking of either ‘Grown-Ups’ or ‘21 Jump Street’,” he responds.

“Hmm, let’s do Jump Street, it’s been a while since we watched that,” you say. 

You spent the rest of the flight watching movies, playing a few card games, and eventually taking a small nap before the plane landed. 

A few hours later

After the plane landed, you both drove to your house for the week and it was like something out of a fairytale. The house overlooked the beach and the crystal blue water. Lush green palm trees surrounding the house provided ample privacy, especially for the large open pool in the backyard. You two settled into the house before changing into your swimsuits for a nice afternoon dip in the pool. You did end up finding your new white bikini, which was perfect for the occasion. 

Joe walked out of the bathroom and saw you brushing your hair in the mirror. His eyes trailed down to your bare legs, up to your perfect ass, then to your toned stomach, and straight to your chest. You looked so sexy and he was in heaven. He walked up to you and hugged you from behind, his warmth causing you to melt into his arms. 

Your eyes met his in the mirror, “Like what you see, Burrow?” you teased. 

“Absolutely,” he chuckled as he swayed you two back and forth, pressing a kiss on the back of your shoulder while sliding his hand down to your ass. Joe was grinning like a love-struck fool as he watched you close your eyes and melt into his embrace. He was making you feel more relaxed than you’d ever been before and you both were loving it. 

You both ventured out to the pool and sat down on the pool chairs, hoping to get a quick tanning sesh in before a swim. A few minutes in, Joe found himself staring at the pool when he got an idea. 

“I’m gonna jump into the pool,” he casually said.

You quickly turned your head to him and said, “Are you crazy, the water will get everywhere,” You gasped.

“It’s just us though, nobody around to complain. Besides, I can’t do it in the pool at home since we spent way too much money on redoing the backyard. At least here there isn’t any vegetable garden at risk of being destroyed,” he smirked before quickly running back to the patio door and launching himself into the pool, not giving you a moment to lecture him. 

The water did in fact get everywhere but it was worth it when you saw Joe come up from the water. He shook his head back and forth to get the water out of his hair before he took his hand and attempted to slick it back. Your eyes navigated to his muscular chest which had stray water droplets sliding down his abdomen, back into the water. God, he looked so hot like this. 

“Like what you see, Burrow,” he teased as he noticed your expression. 

“Yes, in fact I do. Very much actually,” you say while getting off the chair. “And I’m not a ‘Burrow’ yet, still gotta wait a few months before that,” you say as you make your way into the pool. 

“Well, you’re practically already my wifey sooo,” he trails off before swimming over to the steps and helping you into the pool. 

You giggle at his words. He couldn’t wait to marry you and he never failed to make it known. 

You immediately latch onto him when you're in the pool. This was pretty normal for you both. You’d always use him as a floatie and make him do all the work while you just lay on him and relaxed. 

A few moments later you release yourself from his embrace, making him slightly confused at the sudden loss of contact. 

“Y/N come back,” he whines out.

“Someone’s clingy today,” you say while playfully rolling your eyes and swimming away from him. 

He stared at you for a few moments, a sad look on his face while you continued to swim around and away from him. You felt bad that you’d left him hanging but you were having too much fun teasing him. 

“Come and catch me shiesty,” you yelled. He hated it when you called him that. That nickname was only for football-related individuals to use and he thought it was a little cringe whenever you would use it. Not in a bad way, it’s just he preferred you calling him other names that football-related people can’t use. You knew how he felt about it but you also knew that this would for sure set him off. 

“Oh you’re done for,” he playfully growled before swimming after you. The pool was massive so you had just enough space to get away from him. 

You two were swimming circles around each other, occasionally splashing water into each other's faces in hopes of catching each other off guard. Your arms began to get tired of swimming around so you stopped by the ledge to take a breather while Joe was settled on the other side of the pool. 

Before you knew it, Joe had swum over to you and pulled you back into his arms. 

“Got you,” you whispered against your ear. 

“I guess you did,” you whispered back. 

“You look absolutely gorgeous by the way,” he said looking down into your eyes. “I love this bikini on you,” 

You blushed at his sweet comments. He never failed to tell you how pretty you looked. 

“Ya know, I look even better with it off,” you tease. 

Joe’s face dropped immediately when you said that. He’d been horny since he saw you in that bikini but had to compose himself since you both were looking forward to swimming in the pool. But now that you’d gotten your swim time in, nothing was stopping him. 

He slowly pressed you against the wall of the pool and kissed his way up your neck right up to your sweet spot. 

“Joe,” you moaned out. 

“What baby?” He asked, knowing exactly what you wanted.

“I need you,” you whined.

He looked at you momentarily before lifting you out of the pool and rushing you inside to the large bedroom. You let out a squeal as he pushed you back onto the bed. Joe climbed over you and situated his body in between your thighs, capturing your lips in a passionate kiss. You stayed kissing each other for a few minutes before you felt something hard poke at your stomach.

“Getting eager now aren’t we,” you tease. 

“Please, I’ve been waiting to get you in this bed since I saw you in this bikini,” he grinned. 

“Then I suggest you do something about it,” you replied.

Joe smiled and started to untie the strands of your bikini top before tossing it to the side. He kissed his way down to your perfect breasts, swirling his lips around your sensitive bud which caused you to let out a breathy moan.

“Joe,” you moaned out while shoving your hands in his hair. 

He spent a few moments sucking on your breasts before he continued his way down. He pressed a few sloppy kisses on your stomach before eventually making his way down to where you needed him the most. He slowly peeled off your bottoms which was driving you insane.

“Joe please,” you whined out.

“Patience is key, baby,” he teased. 

He threw your bottoms to the side as he made his way back up to your heat. “You’re so wet,” he says while ghosting his fingers over your folds.

“Joe I swear to god-,” You suddenly felt his warm tongue lapping at your folds which caused you to let out another moan, “Ohh Fuck”. 

He buried his warm tongue inside your core as he continued to eat you out like a starved man. He moved one of his hands up to cup your breast as the other was firmly on your thigh. Joe moved up and started to rhythmically suck on your clit which made you see stars; something which he made you see often. “Joey, fuck don’t stop,” you said breathlessly.

“You like that?” he chuckled against your core, sending vibrations throughout your body. Those 3 words always managed to get you more horny than you already were. "Yeah," you whispered.

He went back to lapping at your folds as he used his thumb to rub your clit. The combination of his mouth and fingers was sending you over the edge. You started to arch your back which caused you to lift your hips slightly but Joe pushed them back down as he continued to send you into a frenzy. You fisted your hands into his hair and started to pull on the loose curls which caused Joe to let out a soft moan against you. 

“Joe I’m so close,” you whispered as you pushed his head closer to your core. You felt a familiar warmth in your belly as you were moaning Joe’s name out (which was driving him insane). Joe thrusted one of his fingers into you, causing the imaginary rubber band in your lower belly to snap; feeling a familiar gush of liquid pool below you. You were overcome with a feeling of pure pleasure and satisfaction as he cleaned up your mess with his skillful mouth. He pressed delicate kisses on the insides of your thighs before moving back up and pushing his lips against yours again. 

“You’re so hot,” he said in between kisses. 

You felt a blush creep up on your face. “I’m flattered Mr. Burrow, but have you seen yourself”. 

“Shut up,” he chuckled before going back to kissing you. You stopped kissing him after a few moments and said “Joe, I need you inside me.”

“Your wish is my command babe,” he replied as he pulled down his swim trunks and threw them to the side. His cock was rock hard and the sight of it had you sizzling with anticipation. 

Your core was slick with your arousal which made it easy for him to push his dick into you. The tip slowly teasing your folds before he buries himself inside of you, causing you to let out a loud moan. You will never get tired of the feeling of him inside you. 

He started slowly thrusting into you which made you wrap your legs around him, wanting him deeper asap. 

“Joe, Fuck,” you moaned out. “Faster baby,”. 

He began snapping his hips against you, faster & harder than before. “God, you feel so good Y/N,” he moaned out. You brought him in for another kiss, this time quick, messy, and sloppy. He continued thrusting into you and you bucked your hips each time to match his movements. The sound of your arousal and skin-hitting skin filled the room as you two were caught up in the euphoria that was happening between you. 

Joe buried his face into your neck, sucking on your sweet spot, as your hands found themselves in his hair again. You were on Cloud 9 right now and it was all because of him.

“Joe, don’t stop. Shit, you feel too good,” you moaned. You felt him move deeper inside of you as he repeatedly hit your cervix. 

He continued to pound into you, making you feel like nothing else mattered but this moment. You both felt your arousal building up, begging to be released. 

“Fuck Y/N, I’m close,” he panted as he slowed down.

“Me too,” you whimpered. 

He picked up the pace of his thrusts once again, this time moving one of his hands down to your heat, toying with your clit. “Fuck,” you moaned out for what seemed like the hundredth time. “I’m gonna cum,” you whimpered. You felt your walls clench around him, signaling you were almost there. Joe felt you clench around him and pinched your clit which set off your orgasm. Your chest heaved up and down as you whimpered out his name while seeing stars again. He continued to thrust into you, chasing his pleasure. 

“Y/N,” Joe moaned out. You knew he was close by the way his thrusts started to become sporadic. 

“Come on baby,” you encouraged while pulling at his hair and kissing his neck. 

After a few rough thrusts, Joe let out a loud moan as you felt hot spurts of his cum fill you up. He collapsed on top of you as you both panted, needing a moment to recover after the workout you two just had. You moved one of your hands to his back, softly sliding it up and down to help him relax.

“I love you,” he softly said as he kissed your cheek, making you smile. 

“I love you more,” you whisper in his ear as he buries his face into your neck again. 

The next day 

The next morning was pretty chill for you both. You had breakfast at the local beachside cafe, stuffing your faces with delicious fresh fruit from the island before embarking on a pleasant morning walk on the beach. 

“This is nice,” Joe says as you both walk hand in hand alongside the water, a content look on his face.

You look up at him and smile, “Very nice,” you giggle. “Although, I don’t know how you’re not uncomfortable with walking on the beach in shoes,” you question while looking at your bare feet and then his shoes. 

“You never know when a crab might come up and pinch your toes,” he says with a straight face. 

“Righhhht,” you say while relishing the feeling of sand between your toes. 

“So, what should we do today? We pretty much have the whole day since we’re cooking at home tonight,” he says while squeezing your hand. 

“Hmmm,” you wonder for a second. “We could go out on one of the boats?” you carefully question while looking up at your fiancee. 

Joe did not like going on boats. He hated the idea of being out on the open water with no way of getting back to shore other than using the boat. He always questioned what you would do if the boat broke down or even started sinking. You always told him the sinking part was highly unlikely, but you blamed yourself for that worry because you’ve made him watch Titanic with you one too many times. He also didn’t like how you couldn’t see what was in the water. But lucky for you, the water in the Bahamas was crystal clear. 

He stayed silent for a few moments, making you a little sad since you wanted to experience something new with him. 

“Let’s do it,” he says while flashing you a smile. 

You looked up at him, a little surprised. “Really?” you beam. 

“Yes, now let’s go before I change my mind,” he says before stopping to pick you up. He doesn’t give you a moment to respond because he throws you over his shoulders causing you to let out a squeal. He leads you both back to the house so you can get freshened up.

You both got changed into your swimsuits before walking over to the docks and renting a boat for the day. You weren’t sure how you managed to get Joe to go on the boat, but you certainly were not complaining. 

The driver had taken the boat not too far from shore, which kept Joe’s mind at ease. You swam in the water for a little bit and enjoyed a few drinks. 

“Mmm, this like the best Mai Tai I’ve ever had,” you say while taking another sip. Joe was currently in the water in front of you, while you were seated on the steps of the boat, legs partially in the water. 

“Come in the water,” Joe says while splashing some water onto you. 

“Mmm, I think I’m good up here,” you tease while placing your drink to the side.

Joe swam closer to you and said “Nope.”

You were confused at what he meant but then you felt his wet hand wrap around your wrist. 

“Joe, don’t even think about it,” you playfully growled, knowing exactly what he was about to do. He didn’t listen and pulled you into the water, causing a big splash. You came back up to the surface with a frown.

“Someone’s mad,” Joe laughs. You swim over to him while he is fully anticipating an ass-kicking but is pleasantly surprised when you wrap your arms around his neck and kiss his cheek.

You laugh and say, “If this is mad, let me be mad more often,”.

A few hours pass and you both are sitting on the boat in the net seating area that was right above the water. Joe had put on one of his many bucket hats and shades and was laid flat against the net, soaking in the golden sun. You were applying another layer of sunscreen before noticing his chest turning red. You knew he’d be a pain in the ass if he got sunburnt so you took the bottle and moved closer to him. 

You squeezed out a dab of sunscreen and started applying it to his chest. He flinched at the sudden contact before realizing it was just you. 

You felt him flinch and laughed, “Daydreaming, Burrow?”. 

“Maybe,” he smiles while taking off his shades. He looks down and sees you applying sunscreen on him, “Oh, thanks,” he says while meeting your eyes. 

You let out a playful sigh and say, “What would you do without me,”.

“For real,” he says. “I’d be walking around like a tomato,” he laughs. 

After applying the rest of the sunscreen, you lay back against the net and Joe lifts one of his arms, motioning for you to curl up next to him. He rests his hand on the small of your back while you tangle your legs with his. 

You lay there briefly, soaking up the perfect scene before breaking the silence. “Are you enjoying this? I know boats aren’t really your thing and I hope I didn’t force you into this,” you softly say. 

“Of course, I’m enjoying this. I will admit, I was a little nervy when getting on but you’re here with me so I’m fine. Besides, If the boat breaks down at least we’d be stranded together,” he jokes. 

“I guess that’s true. Better than being stranded with a bunch of randos too. I’m glad we could get a boat just for the two of us,” you reply. 

“Yup. This isn’t as bad as I thought. I can see everything below us too so no risk of a random shark popping out,” he deadpans.

“Like that would actually happen,” you say while softly hitting his chest.

“You never know,” he says while shaking your shoulder in an attempt to scare you.

You spent a few minutes messing around with each other before the driver came out to tell you that you were heading back to the island. You both got up and sat on the bench, your back pressed into Joe’s chest and stared out into the open waters, taking in the view before it was time to go back. You were mindlessly sliding your hand along Joe’s leg while he had his arms around your waist, gently squeezing your soft skin. Everything about this moment was peaceful. Joe felt at ease for the first time in a long time and he had his favorite person to thank for it. 

Once you got back to the house, you both took a nice shared shower before starting your dinner prep. Before arriving at the house yesterday, you had stopped at the local market to pick up some groceries. 

“So, what are we making tonight,” Joe asked as he sat down on one of the barstools. 

“I was thinking of shrimp-avocado tostadas and some of that wine we picked up yesterday?”

“Sounds delicious,” he said while rubbing his belly.

You let Joe fry the tortillas and make the avocado mixture while you cooked the shrimp and assembled the tostadas. While you were assembling the dish, Joe found a few candles in the cabinet and got an idea. He went outside to the backyard and set up the candles on one of the patio tables, setting the scene for a nice sunset dinner. He picked out a few flowers from the front of the house and put them in a vase to use as a centerpiece. He then poured the wine into 2 glasses, setting one on each side. 

You had finished plating the tostadas and didn’t see Joe anywhere. “Joe? Where are you,” you yelled out.

“Out here! Bring the plates outside,” he yelled back. 

You were a little confused but went along with it. You walked outside with your dinner and saw Joe setting the table and your heart melted. 

“Joe, this is so romantic,” you cooed while putting the plates on the table. 

He gave you a warm smile before pulling out one of the chairs for you to sit in. You sat down as he settled into the chair across from you. You both devoured the tostadas while making small talk about your plans for tomorrow. After you finished eating, Joe took the plates and set them inside; he suggested you both finish up your wine on the daybed since you would get a comfier view of the sky. 

Later that night, per your suggestion, you and Joe were sitting in the bathtub surrounded by bubbles and a few candles. You felt so relaxed even though you’d only been here for 2 days, and it was all because of Joe.

“I’m glad we finally get to have ‘us’ time,” Joe says while rubbing your thigh under the water. “I missed just being able to sit with you and do nothing. This past month felt so repetitive, I feel like we barely saw each other,” 

“Me too. We needed this,” you said as you pressed yourself into his chest a little more. Your back was to his chest and both your legs were tangled under the water. This was your favorite position; the warmth radiating off of his body felt like a big hug. 

“Thank you for doing this by the way,” you add.

“Doing what?” He questioned.

“This trip. I needed it more than I thought I did. Getting away from home and the change of environment was much needed. I think if I stayed in Ohio for another day I might have spontaneously exploded,” you joked, causing him to let out a soft chuckle. 

“Anytime,” he replied while kissing the nape of your neck.

“Do you feel better?” You asked. “I hope you were able to get your mind off of things. Your stuff was a lot heavier than mine,”

He lets out a content sigh and says, “Actually, yeah I do feel better. I think I just needed to get out of the chaos and get out of my head. This trip has helped me decompress and realize that not everything has to be so stuffy all the time,” Joe says. 

“Exactly,” you chirp as you lean your head back to place a kiss on his neck.

“I can’t do anything about what people are saying, they’ll always talk. But what I can do is work hard to get back to where I’m supposed to be. And I won’t be able to get there if I’m constantly pressuring myself,” he says. “Letting loose and having fun is a part of that journey. I need that balance,” he adds.

“And this is a great start,” you say while smiling up at Joe

“Yes it is,” Joe says while pressing another kiss to your forehead. 

You both had spent the rest of the night talking about the rest of your exciting activities planned for the final 2 days of the trip. You even talked about a few fun things you could do around Cincinnati when you get back home so that you could keep the work-life balance that you both so desperately needed. 

“This impromptu vacation might have been the best idea you’ve had so far,” you tell Joe as you both are about to fall asleep. 

“We should get away more often,” Joe grins.

--The End--

#joe burrow #joe burrow x reader #joe burrow fic #joeburrow #joe burrow imagine #nfl imagine

[warblercore]

it's been thirteen years since the warblers gap attack, the second worst thing to ever happen to the warblers since the spirit of st louis overshot the tarmac and plowed down seven warblers during an impromptu performance of welcome to ohio, lucky lindy

#happy valentines day gleeks!! #warblers

[plasticflwrs]

★ ⠀⠀ ! ⠀⠀ DISCOGRAPHY — Under the cut, you will find an IN DEPTH look into the career of South Korea's favorite idol band, Plastic Flowers. Beginning in 2016, they would rebrand after failing to make a profit in 2017 and find true success with TEETH in 2020, just a few months before their 16 month hiatus would begin. In 2022, they came back stronger than ever with I'M ALIVE and have consistently topped the music charts since. They are known for their promotional style which revolves around a spring and fall release each other, amounting to about 16 releases across singles, minis, their three full studio albums. Despite their constant stream of releases, the quality never suffers despite being completely self-produced since all five members are now involved in the writing process.

★ ⠀⠀ ! ⠀⠀ TRIGGER WARNINGS — Death of a parent, descriptive mention of eating disorders + treatment ( 2021 section ). If this piece is too triggering, please DM and I can give you a summary of what happens!

★ ⠀⠀ ! ⠀⠀ THE YEAR IS ... 2016 !

Compared to their underground counterparts, idol bands have been relatively successful in the past as seen with FNC's trio of FT Island, CNBLUE, and N.Flying along with JYP's newest venture, Day6. However, Plastic Flowers would fall under the radar due to the influx of third generation groups debuting between 2014 and 2016 with all three of the major companies debuting at least one new group during that time. Plastic Flowers would debut as four members with SALEM, DAL, JIHUN, and GWYN on May 15, 2016 with the lead single SCARED from their single album LET ME GO. While the two songs were praised by music critics, it failed to reach the general public. Along with their other single album, it would sell 46 copies total within the year and has never been reprinted. Original copies of the album are priced very high on second-hand selling websites and no "real fans" currently own a copy. LET ME GO and MENTALISM were even taken off of all major streaming platforms until fans demanded for it's return in 2022.

MV VIEWS: 1.2 million.

MUSIC SHOW NOMINATIONS. 0.

MUSIC SHOW WINS. 0

In their debut, Plastic Flowers explores themes of fear and insecurity through the song SCARED. The lyrics suggest hesitant to approach someone and an inability to express oneself freely, with most fans interpreting this to relate to Salem's original group THE BIG GLOOM, which she left the year prior. The phrase why are you scared? repeats throughout the song and highlights a sense of frustration with the fear and reluctance in their relationship, despite attempts to change. The narrator yearns for reassurance and validation, seeking comfort in the hope that their fears and uncertainties will fade away.

This line-up would release their second and final single album MENTALISM in November of 2016 with the title track MOUSE. This would be a continuation of their previous release, in terms of themes and inability to perform well on music charts. Though Mouse is beloved by fans now, it made no noise in 2016 and remains their worst performing single of all time, selling even worse than their debut single. Mentalism marked their first attempts at performing at small venues like bars and other restaurants, however, due to Oliver's age, they were often denied by the promotional teams. They would return to busking and posting covers in hopes of gaining more fans. At the end of 2016, it was announced by Superbloom Media would be placed on INDEFINITE HIATUS as they evaluated where to go forward. DAL and JIHUN would leave not long after, moving to larger companies and debuting in traditional idol groups instead.

MV VIEWS: 3.9 million.

MUSIC SHOW NOMINATIONS. 0.

MUSIC SHOW WINS. 0.

In 2024, MOUSE is often compared to their later b-side BRAND NEW CITY from their 2023 album OHIO IMPROMPTU. Both discuss the sense of dread from being in one's prime and dreading what comes later. Mouse is described as what happens after the narrator of Brand New City moves and realizes that they need to find a way to survive, that simply moving was not enough to change their feelings and create happiness. The narrator vows to "find love / and find a way to survive here", giving them a new sense of hope for the remaining time that they have and will move on from the silence.

★ ⠀⠀ ! ⠀⠀ THE YEAR IS ... 2017 !

In September 2017, Plastic Flowers would return with an almost completely new lineup composed of SALEM, JUNYEONG, MINGHUI, SERIN, and OLIVER. Oliver would drop his initial stage name, Gwyn, during this rebrand for an unknown reason, though he still uses it to produce for other groups. They would release ROCKSTAR from the album SOCIAL REJECTS to limited success. They would sell 99 copies of their third single album, doubling the previous records set by LET ME GO and MENTALISM. Superbloom Media would also shift their promotional style in favor of the more traditional idol route, getting them performances on Music Bank and The Show for three weeks.

MV VIEWS: 3.4 million.

MUSIC SHOW NOMINATIONS. 0.

MUSIC SHOW WINS. 0.

ROCKSTAR moves away from their traditional melancholic sound for more critiques of the social landscape. Rockstar explores themes of frustration and defiance in the face of judgement and control from others. They are seen as a suspect, watched closely, and labeled as a hopeless murder by those around them. Similar to their other tracks, this is believed to have been written after the conflict with The Big Gloom and is Salem's take on it. Those around the narrator continuously reject and oppose them, leading to a growing sense of resentment with the world around them. The chorus emphasizes the narrator's resolve to stay true to themselves because they believe they are doing nothing wrong. This song would be revisited in 2024 and a re-recording with new pianist Oh Deurim would be included in their third studio album RUTHLESS ROCKSTARS as a b-side.

With a small but mighty fanbase under their belt, Plastic Flowers would return in December 2017 with their first mini-album NORTH STAR, which had five songs including the title track FREEDOM. This release would double their catalogue and allow for slow growth across the next few years. THE BIG GLOOM, composed of the four original members, would also release their newest album over Soundcloud that same day, leading to tensions amongst new and old fans as the debate of what Salem should have done returned. Rather than alienating the old fans, they went back to their old sound to prove that nothing has changed and Plastic Flowers will only be a better version of her previous band. NORTH STAR was promoted similarly to their previous single album with performances on all major South Korean music shows and even an appearance on The After School Club to connect with international fans.

MV VIEWS: 6.7 million.

MUSIC SHOW NOMINATIONS. 0.

MUSIC SHOW WINS. 0

FREEDOM returns to their original sound with the themes of liberation and desire to break from societal constraints from ROCKSTAR still following them. Freedom opens with lyrics expressing uncertainty about what to sing about, overwhelmed by the abundance of refrain in the world and emphasizes their understanding of the path that they have chosen. The narrator proclaims that they have finally found their own way and the metaphor of cutting the moon and devouring the night suggests a rebellious mindset, choosing to defy expectations and live freely. Freedom encourages fans to let go of the norm and find their own path, breaking from societal expectations for their own happiness.

★ ⠀⠀ ! ⠀⠀ THE YEAR IS ... 2018 !

2018 would cement Superbloom's promotional style for Plastic Flowers as they release an album in the spring and fall, the seasons in which they have found the band to be most popular in. The first release of 2018 was HIGHER & HIGHER, their second mini-album with the lead single LET'S GET LOST. This release continued their momentum forward and there was nothing out of the ordinary during this era. They were slowly being included in more variety shows, as seen by their joint appearance with Day6 on Weekly Idol and their first invitations to a major award show with the Golden Disc Awards and Seoul Music Awards. They were not nominated or even performed, but their photos from the red carpet got people talking about the unknown group.

MV VIEWS: 5.7 million.

MUSIC SHOW NOMINATIONS. 0.

MUSIC SHOW WINS. 0

By now, Plastic Flowers had also shown what their lyrical concept would be as they created another song about escaping hardships of life and embarking on a journey of self-discovery. The narrator has a desire to let go of the past and leave behind anything that feels uncertain in LET'S GET LOST. The verses encourages themselves and their companions to leave behind their negative experiences as they "open the curtains" and lock the door behind them. Later lines capture the excitement of encountering new experiences and embracing the unknown, showing their growth away from the past that seemed to follow them and rising above.

LOVE ME? would be the last Plastic Flowers album fully written and produced solely by SALEM and Superbloom's in-house production team. All of the members were growing interested in producing their own music, especially the two youngest members—Serin and Oliver. They had submitted drafts to Superbloom for Love Me?, however they were not chosen. Interviews this era were a bit tense because of this and Salem wanting to keep her creative control over the group. Superbloom would also give Plastic Flowers their first reality show, FLOWER SHOWERS, which followed them around and tried to show fans the "real" members.

MV VIEWS: 6.3 million.

MUSIC SHOW NOMINATIONS. 0.

MUSIC SHOW WINS. 0

TWENTY-ONE revolves around the themes of heartbreak, disappointment, and the realization that a once-special relationship has come to an end. The lyrics depict the emotions of someone who believed their relationship was unique and meaningful, only to discover that their partner does not feel the same. This is famously thought to be about former bandmate YING SHUHANG, more commonly known by his stage name IRUM. Throughout high school and much of their career together, they dated and broke up around the same time Salem left to join Superbloom Media. Through this song, she is coming to terms with the relationship being over after asking "why don't you adore me?" over and over again. She uses the concept of sleep and going to be bed to bury the past and move on from the relationship, showing that she would be ready to move on once she wakes up.

★ ⠀⠀ ! ⠀⠀ THE YEAR IS ... 2019 !

Plastic Flowers would release HYPOCREEP in March 2019, right before OLIVER was set to appear on the new survival talent competition show SUPERBAND, produced by JTBC. Despite the sound change, Hypocreep was met with positive reaction from fans and is their first mini-album to sell over 1,000 copies in the first month. It is often seen as a turning point for the band as their releases following would follow a similar sound and is the first song to credit another band member besides Salem, that being OLIVER. This would be the first of a long partnership between the two that would eventually fizzle out during their 2022 hiatus. Hypocreep is also one of the most popular songs for other idols and bands to cover given the technical requirements of each instrument.

MV VIEWS: 7.4 million.

MUSIC SHOW NOMINATIONS. 0.

MUSIC SHOW WINS. 0

HYPOCREEP expresses frustration towards people who are hypocritical and fake, particularly those who are thirsty for drama and attention on the internet. The singer identifies as a "hypocreep," which is a term they use to describe themselves as a different breed of person who is hyper and freaky. The singer acknowledges that they may be seen as strange or abnormal to others, but they do not care because those same people secretly wish they could be like the singer.

While Hypocreep opened the door for other members writing, THE CHAIN would be the first time another member would sing on a Plastic Flowers track. The Chain is a duet between Salem and Oliver and would mark the beginning for a lead singer change. It was under the direction of Kim Yuchan, a first generation soloist, and he advised the change since Oliver was well liked by the general public after Superband. THE CHAIN still remains a fan favorite song and would give the band their first award show nomination on Show! Music Core, much to the band's surprise. Most of the members recall this era as the first time they actually felt loved by the audience and could see people singing along.

MV VIEWS: 10.2 million.

MUSIC SHOW NOMINATIONS. 1.

MUSIC SHOW WINS. 0

The main message of THE CHAIN is that relationships can be enduring, even if they have difficulties. The first verse describes the struggles of having a relationship and feeling powerless to their partner's actions. They discuss the idea that a love can endure even in these moments of darkness, as the lover is trying to tell the other that they would never break the chain that binds them together. There is a strong guitar and bass solo--played by SALEM and OLIVER--that represents the strong connection between them that won't be broken so easily. The end is a plea to stay together, to keep the chain together, and not run into the shadows away from each other.

★ ⠀⠀ ! ⠀⠀ THE YEAR IS ... 2020 !

Fans of Plastic Flowers fall into two camps for their 2020 releases: either loving it or hating everything it stands for. Due to it's "inappropriate lyrics" FOR YOUR LOVE was banned by all the major South Korean music shows and would be promoted in a series of live concerts instead. They would instead promote READY TO FLY as their title track for this era, saving the performances of For Your Love for their smaller performances. Not long after the conclusion of For Your Love's promotions, Superbloom Media would confirm SALEM and OLIVER's relationhip, which had begun at the end of the year prior. This would be another reason why people did not like the song as it showed their relationship was taking away from making songs about important topics, not just each other.

MV VIEWS: 29.2 million.

MUSIC SHOW NOMINATIONS. Banned.

MUSIC SHOW WINS. Banned.

FOR YOUR LOVE talks about the desire to please and satisfy someone in a romantic relationship. The lyrics in the verses describe the singer's intent to be the first thing on the person's mind and engage in sexual activity with them. The chorus reinforces the theme of doing anything for the person they love. The bridge highlights the singer's willingness to give everything they have to their partner and the importance of communication in the relationship. The outro repeats the sentiment that the singer is willing to do anything for their partner's love. 

TEETH, and it's accompanying album LOVESICKNESS, continues with the themes from FOR YOUR LOVE. Unlike the previous song, it was actually allowed on music shows and was loved by their fanbase for the aesthetics that came with it. Due to the show going semi-viral on TWITTER thanks to a tweet by a poppy asking "what business Plastic Flowers had releasing" the song, LOVESICKNESS sold over 10,000 copies by the end of the year. This would also be the final time they were promote prior to their 16 month hiatus, making it special to their fans. Teeth would later become a sleeper hit by going viral once again and entering the top 10 on the Circle Chart after being used on an OST.

MV VIEWS: 229.6 million.

MUSIC SHOW NOMINATIONS. 3.

MUSIC SHOW WINS. 0

The major themes of TEETH relate to toxic and tumultuous relationships, with the lyrics depicting the ups and downs of being someone that can be both loving and hurtful. Written completely by OLIVER, many fans have begun to debate the real meaning of the song as it relates to his former relationship with Salem. In TEETH, the protagonist realizes that the person they are with is full of contradictions as they compare their lover to a pair of teeth. The lover's heart is described as having teeth, meaning that while they may talk sweetly, they can also hurt and bite. The relationship is very complicated, in which both parties are hurting each other but can't let go with the narrator realizing that they are losing themself by the end of the song and maybe even the relationship.

★ ⠀⠀ ! ⠀⠀ THE YEAR IS ... 2021 !

The GOODNIGHT era was spent dreading what would come next for Plastic Flowers. It was obvious that the members were losing steam as shown by their smaller performances and the constant cancellation of their performances at their bar, Cheeky's. The release of 403 only made that worse as they went back to the melancholic sound and promotions outside of music shows were cut short. In fear of losing the band, Poppies made sure that it sold well, achieving a record-breaking 14,000 copies in the first month alone and securing them more music show nominations. However, it seemed that nothing they were doing was enough as Plastic Flowers slowly slipped away from the public eye.

MV VIEWS: 122.9 million.

MUSIC SHOW NOMINATIONS. 3.

MUSIC SHOW WINS. 0

403 focuses on liberation and moving forward from a difficult past. In the verses, detachment and release from pain and regret is encouraged alongside the image of taking off one's shoes and lying on the floor as an escape. The narrator wants the listener to forget about the past and focus on the possibilities of the future, becoming an active participant in their life rather than remaining passive. There is a reoccurring theme of breaking free as shown through the lyrics "get up in the morning" and "get out of deception", indicating the need to rise above negative situations and leave them behind. It suggests that nothing valuable can be obtained by staying where they are currently and encourages them to let go and move on.

Despite GOODNIGHT selling well, Plastic Flowers were put on an unofficial hiatus two months after it's initial release. Superbloom would be intentionally vague about the details behind the scenes to keep everything under wraps, however, sasaengs exposed the truth. Not only were they on hiatus to "fight burnout", but Oliver had returned to his hometown of Boston after the death of his father and Jiyeon had been checked into an eating disorder treatment by their manager, Cheon Garam. During this time, Salem and Oliver would also BREAK UP, creating a new tension within the band. The band's social media—both company owned and personal—would go completely dormant from March 2021 to April 2022, leaving many to believe that the group would never return and would be lost just before they achieved stardom.

★ ⠀⠀ ! ⠀⠀ THE YEAR IS ... 2022 !

Just when most fans began to lose hope for Plastic Flowers to comeback, Superbloom did the unthinkable: dropping a new set of teasers for a full album called INTERNET BLUES. During this time, it was also revealed that MINGHUI had left the band and was replaced by Timefighter contestant OH DEURIM, who had failed to make it into the debut line-up by one place. According to Minghui, he left on good terms with the members but could no longer handle the idol life anymore. Despite how protective poppies are, they surprisingly welcomed Deurim with open arms and wanted to see what she could bring to the table. INTERNET BLUES would be released on May 5, 2022 with the title track I'M ALIVE, which secured them their FIRST WIN and first NOMINATION at a major award show after selling 100,000 copies.

MV VIEWS: 392.9 million.

MUSIC SHOW NOMINATIONS. 8.

MUSIC SHOW WINS. 2.

I'M ALIVE is an uplifting song that talks about the feeling of overcoming challenges and persevering through tough times. They promise that even in the midst of uncertainty and darkness, the singer declares that they will keep themselves alive. The chorus serves as a mantra of sorts as the singer repeatedly affirms that they are alive and won't give up. The idea of "highlight" suggests that even in the bleakest moments of life, one can find something beautiful to hold onto. The bridge encourages listeners to keep searching, keep breathing, and keep alive. It's a call to action to hold onto life and never give up. 

Plastic Flowers would return to their original promotional schedule with the release of PSYCHO, the title track for their first studio album, CALL ME CRAZY that November. The studio album was celebrated by all fans as it finally meant that Plastic Flowers were confirming that they were here to stay despite their earlier issues. The members looked so much more alive this era and they even held their first FAN SIGN, which went as well as expected. The members had fun with their fans, but hated the constant requests for cuteness or prying into their personal relationships. They would hold their own formal CONCERT, with over three thousand people in attendance.

MV VIEWS: 323.4 million.

MUSIC SHOW NOMINATIONS. 9.

MUSIC SHOW WINS. 3.

PSYCHO explores themes of obsession and dependency in a relationship. The lyrics depict a protagonist who is deeply infatuated with someone to the point of being obsessed, as represented by the repeated phrase "I can't stop thinking about you." The protagonist seeks answers and validation from a doctor, indicating a desperation for a solution to their intense emotions. They recognize their own exaggerated behavior, acknowledging that they may appear crazy or "psycho" to others. The chorus reinforces the protagonist's obsession, stating that they cannot live a day without thinking about this person. It conveys a sense of dependency and the idea that the protagonist's life revolves entirely around the object of their affection.

★ ⠀⠀ ! ⠀⠀ THE YEAR IS ... 2023 !

Coming into 2023, Poppies were promised many exciting things from the band. In March, Oliver's solo BURNOUT SYNDROME with the lead single STARTING LINE would be released to overwhelming success, cementing his popularity with the general public and showing everyone that he was here to stay. Though fans were happy for him, the same could not be said for his bandmates as SALEM and JUNYEONG began a smear campaign that lasted throughout the entire promotional period. Oliver would ignore any questions about the situation and chose to move on from it instead, celebrating his own achievements rather than focusing on those around him. In June, the band would come back as five to release LOVE AND WAR with the lead single of the same name, which became their best selling record at that point at just under 1 million copies.

MV VIEWS: 748.3 million.

MUSIC SHOW NOMINATIONS. 10.

MUSIC SHOW WINS. 7.

WAR tells the story of a broken relationship, in which the narrator realizes there isn't much to save if they cannot stop fighting. They are beginning to realize there isn't much to save and they have lost their love for each other, leading towards a state of emptiness or insignificance. The song's title WAR comes from the lyric "war of attrition without benefit", highlight that this war between the lovers is doing nothing to help with their current problems. The narrator wants to call a ceasefire, but it seems that their relationship's end if inevitable. Written by Oliver, many fans believe that this song was written about the end of his relationship with Salem, which has never been confirmed or denied by Oliver or Superbloom Media.

#long post #﹙ 🎸 ﹚ ✶ ׅ plastic flowers ノ discography #﹙ 🎸 ﹚ ✶ ׅ plastic flowers ノ development #kpop oc #idol oc #fictional idol community #kpop addition #oc kpop group #kpop fanfic #kpop au #bts addition #fictional idol oc #idolverse #oc boy group #oc girl group #oc coed group #idol au #fictional idol group #fake kpop oc #fake kpop girl group #fake kpop idol #stray kids addition

[trulybetty]

09 x rainbow - dieter bravo x ofc

prompt: rainbow pairing: dieter x bryony (ofc) word count: 444 warnings: fluff, allergies, flowers, dieter being dieter summary: going back to the first valentines dieter and bryony spent together and maybe an origin story for his love of hippos... maybe 😏

x. masterlist

Bryony sneezed again as Dieter scrambled to collect the rainbow assorted bouquet and try to find a spot far enough away that would stop Bryony from not only sneezing, but her eyes from streaming.

Dieter looked crestfallen as Bryony wiped at her watery eyes, thankful for waterproof mascara. “You didn't have this reaction when I brought you those daffodils.”

Bryony sneezed again, “I read once that they don't really give off that much pollen,” she sniffed, “so there's less chance of a reaction.”

Dieter slid close the door to the tiny balcony of his modest New York apartment. While his theatre work was consistent, the pay was not always on par with the demand his name sought off-Broadway. 

“All the more reason to bring you daffodils then, hey Daff?”

Bryony gave him a wide smile despite her watery eyes and sneezes, welcoming him back to the sofa where he lay across it, head in her lap.

“Shouldn't I be the one being tended to?” she asked, her fingers finding a home in his hair automatically.

Dieter sighed as her manicured nails scratched at his scalp, catching the curls at the nape of his neck he'd allowed to grow in for his latest production.

“Can't you see I'm bereft that you've flown thousands of miles to see me only for me to cause you such discomfort?” he replied, closing his eyes and sinking deeper into the comfort of her touch. “On Valentine's Day of all days too. I need consoling Daff.”

Bryony pushed away the knowledge that this was a fly-in visit, that she'd have to fly back to London in two days. Before Dieter, she'd never have indulged in something as impromptu as dropping everything to fly to New York for a four-day visit for some guy. But then again, Dieter was not any guy.

Bryony looked up and looked around the apartment, before settling on his newest addition to his art collection, “So explain to me again why you've got a painting of a hippo?” she asked, trying to suppress another sneeze.

Dieter's eyes fluttered open, and he turned to follow her gaze. “Bibi,” he said with a fond smile. “She's the hippo from the Cincinnati Zoo. Remember when I did that series of shows in Ohio at the beginning of the year for Lloyd?” Bryony nodded, “I visited the zoo, and ended up hanging out at the hippo enclosure. There was something about her. Just so... content in her hippo-ness. It struck a chord with me.”

Bryony couldn't help but chuckle at the sentimental look on his face. “Only you could find a kindred spirit in a hippo,” she teased, “Did you take an edible beforehand by chance?”

#x29 valentines #dieter bravo #dieter bravo fanfiction #dieter bravo fanfic #dieter x bryony #dieter bravo x ofc #pedro pascal characters #pedro pascal character fanfiction #pedro pascal character fanfic

[aarontaylorsjohnson]

We took our Carol trip!

December 10, 2023, my good friend Sarah and I piled in my small Kia and made the 1 hr 40 min trip from Indianapolis, IN to see Cincinnati and Chevoit, Ohio shooting locations from 2015's "Carol." It's the only winter movie that matters to me. Here are some of the key locations we visited.

Tagging: @belivet, @pacinos, @lesbin

Shillito Center and art deco exteriors in Cincinnati.

Shillito Center was a department store with art deco features including the beautiful clock pictured above. This was the exterior of Frankenberg's in the film. The Shillito's department store has closed but the beautiful building has been turned into luxury loft apartments!

The other buildings of note were the Bell Telephone Company's "Cincinnati Bell" building--my friend noticed that the decorative border on the building is comprised of a stone pattern of old rotary telephones! The exterior of the now-Hilton Cincinnati is another Carol shooting site, which doubled as New York City's Drake hotel.

This is the exquisite Hilton Cincinnati at Netherland Plaza. As you can see, the art deco influence is strong and the rooms are gorgeous and grand. We were hungry and wanted to have lunch but the only available menu was the Dickens breakfast buffet, priced at a formidable $89! So we enjoyed a drink and a bowl of peanuts at the bar. A quartet of professional singers in Victorian costumes sang Christmas Carols beautifully in the background. The bartender was dressed like they used to dress, in a beautiful tailored slacks, shirt, and vest uniform. He did not work at the Hilton in 2014-2015 but was delighted by our quest. The entryway to the hotel is known as the "Hall of Mirrors," inspired by Versailles.

This is the stone bathroom structure at Eden Park, which was the setting for the Christmas tree farm impromptu photography session. My friend watched Carol to prepare (she called it "fun homework") and I prepared by finding a tam o shanter hat at a thrift store. My parents had the scarf, blonde fur coat, faux fur hat, as part of their repository of items from doing over 25 years of community theater together. The rest of my clothing items are a regular part of my wardrobe. I vacillate between eras but I love 40s, 50s, and 60s best of all. I also think it's likely they filmed the scene of Therese and Richard on bicycle going through a park at Eden Park as well, but can't be totally sure.

Finally, Maury's Tiny Cove Restaurant in Chevoit, Cincinnati is the setting of the first lunch between Carol and Therese. The booth they used for shooting has been preserved and I reserved it ahead of time, although surrounding booths also have pictures from filming hanging over them. It's been long enough that the server didn't know much about the film but told us that a group of excited college students ate there once and requested the same meal Carol and Therese ordered in the movie. I had lasagna as we had not eaten much all day, and a Santa Cosmopolitan from their holiday menu. The food was wonderful and it was obvious a lot of people are regulars. We noted that there are glass windows over the booths now, unlike in the movie, probably added during the height of Covid.

Bonus, but a disappointment:

Carol & Rindy's beautiful house at Grandin Rd has been completely re-done and now looks nothing like in the movie:

And, "that's that"! A truly special and memorable experience.

Here is a link to a Google Drive with all of the unedited photos and videos we took if you want to see anything in original quality/detail. We shot video of the photography scene but it was mostly goofy and unusable haha.

We talked about the movie some and Sarah asked me which character was the best fit for my personality. Hands down, Abby. I was wide-eyed Therese once, never glam enough for Carol, but Abby will tell you the truth and not blush from it. My hero!

#caroledit #carol 2015 #cate blanchett #rooney mara #todd haynes #period drama #historical costuming

[midwestmade29]

So...about last night 😍 Made an impromptu trip to Ohio to see Collision! Still over the moon and so very thankful I was able to go. Had a nice view from my hotel room (15 floors up!) and only had a 5 minute walk to the arena. I didn't get tons of pics from the night, I was just trying to take it all in and enjoy it. I was in the 7th row! Other than the main event, my other favorite match was Samoa Joe vs Willie Mack 🖤

So close…and yet so far away 😂

#aew #all elite wrestling #christian cage #jay reso #aew collision #bryan danielson #samoa joe #captain charisma #tnt champion #Christian4peeps #instant classic #adam copeland

[klaineccfanficlibrary]

Hello! I'd like to submit a BINGO card ✔.

I don't have a fix for number 1

2. Turn into a Pose - little_escapist

3. Somebody Like You - JButler

4. A "Safe" Choice - izwordsoup

5. Love Me At Once - redheadgleek

6. But, Oh, Those Summer Nights - quizasvivamos

7. Blaine Anderson vs. Valentine's Day - RockItMan

8. Accidental Audition - CoffeeAddict80

9. Pound of Flesh - quizasvivamos

Thank you for your list!! Now all can be found in bookmarks on A03. Reminder here: 2023 Klaine bingo ~Jen

2. Page turner: Turn into a Pose by @little-escapist

Singer-songwriter Blaine Anderson wants to come out of the closet. When his publicist sets him up with movie-star Kurt Hummel, he’s ready for anything, but the last thing that Kurt wants is a relationship with anyone, let alone Blaine. He hates his publicist for setting him up, hates the idea of lying to the world, and hates letting the world invade his personal life. But maybe Blaine Anderson is exactly what Kurt Hummel needs.

3. Fanfic you need tissues for: Somebody Like You by JButler

The last thing newly married Kurt Hummel-Anderson expected to find during his post-wedding clean was a message from his husband’s late spouse.

4. Fanfic where one has an unusual occupation: A "Safe" Choice by izwordsoup @special-bc-ur-part-of-it

A self-indulgent one-shot inspired by a weekly event at my work place in which an armored service technician from the cash-handling company comes to check the safe every Wednesday, and there are a couple technicians that everyone at work agrees are attractive.

5. Free choice, fic you want to highlight: Love Me At Once by @redheadgleek

As the second son, Prince Blaine Andreason never really had any expectations for what his life would be, beyond horseback riding and reading in the garden. And then his brother is cursed by an evil fairy to sleep for a hundred years and he sets off on a secret rescue mission. He never expected to meet Kurt, the blacksmith's son, who could alter the course of his life forever. That is, if he can manage to stay alive.

6. Summer story: But, Oh, Those Summer Nights by @quizasvivamos

Kurt is back in Ohio for the summer following his first year at NYADA and works in his dad’s tire shop in order to pay for necessities when he heads back to the city. However, Burt is still short-handed, so he hires a new guy, who catches Kurt’s attention, earning his initial skepticism and then his admiration.

7. Written for a challenge: Blaine Anderson vs. Valentine's Day by @rockitmans

Blaine drunk posts on his Instagram asking for a date for Valentine's Day. He gets one.

8. Fanfic that made you laugh out loud: Accidental Audition by CoffeeAddict80 @caramelcoffeeaddict

Blaine Anderson applies for a promotion at his office job, but the application gets intercepted by a vindictive coworker that is also vying for the position. The coworker hatches a scheme to humiliate Blaine by hacking the secretary’s email and sending Blaine to an off-site studio for his “interview”, where he meets up-and-coming playwright, Kurt Hummel, while unknowingly auditioning for the movie adaptation of Kurt’s hit Broadway musical.

9. Genre/trope you wouldn't normally read: Pound of Flesh - by @quizasvivamos

It’s Halloween at Dalton Academy, and as the night’s festivities are winding down, six boys sit around a Ouija board for some seemingly harmless fun. Their impromptu séance unknowingly summons something to the bed of a drunk, horny, virgin Blaine. Is it a teenage dream? Or a nightmare?

#2023 klaine bingo #klaine fanfiction #klaine fanfic #glee fanfiction

[insomniamamma]

Good morning, m'dear!!

For spring asks

Changes - what signals the changing of the seasons to you?

Ocean - what’s your favorite sea creature?

Rain - what’s your favorite type of spring weather?

Vernacular - what language do you wish you could speak or want to learn?

💚

Thanks for asking, Hazel-rah!!!!

Changes - what signals the changing of the seasons to you? -- oh, this is kind of tricky because seasons in Ohio are a bit of a shitshow. For spring, I'd say that first day I find myself outside and pleasantly warmed by the sun. For summer? The lightning bugs. My large dumb glowy friends. And the smell of fireworks. For Autumn? There's a smell. Cold air and fallen leaves. It's sweet and sharp and I can't really describe it. Winter? The inevitable baked dust smell of the heat kicking on, and the visceral urge to make a huge batch of chili.

Ocean - what’s your favorite sea creature? -- Whales. Hands down. I have had to good fortune to see humpback whales, orcas and belugas. I saw humpbacks on a whale watching trip to Provincetown. I went on a halibut fishing charter trip in Alaska and the halibut were not biting so it turned into an impromptu whale watching trip and we followed a pod of orcas and it was incredible. The belugas might be the strangest thing. My folks lived in Alaska for a time. They picked me and my (soon to be) hubby up at the airport and we saw a bunch of cars pulled over. We were in the Turnagain Arm and there was a huge pod of Belugas rolling and breaching and I remember feeling so blessed, like i am in this place where you can pull over to the side of the road and see WHALES wtf?

Rain - what’s your favorite type of spring weather? -- Thunderstorms. Hands down. I love a good storm. I love that feeling in the air before everything let's go.

Vernacular - what language do you wish you could speak or want to learn? -- I would like to learn gaeilge. I have some Irish and Scotish ancestry and i wish i was more connected to that part of my self.

Love you so much Hazel 💚 Thanks for thinking of me.

Spring asks

#hazel-rah #my beloved #if i ever meet you IRL #i will squeeze you so hard #that is a threat and a promise #ask games

[citrine444]

NOAH FONTAINE picked up his key from the front desk THREE MONTHS ago. The TWENTY-SEVEN year old uses HE/HIM pronouns and is a DJ AT CATCH ME IF YOU CAN from CLEVELAND, OHIO. According to his apartment application, people have told him he looks a lot like MAXENCE DANET FAUVEL and the character they identify with most is JAKE PERALTA FROM BROOKLYN99. (SOPHIE, 24, SHE/HER, GMT - 8)

Basics

full name: noah fontaine hometown: cleveland, ohio sexuality: yes age/ birthday/ zodiac: 27 / march 20th / pisces height: 6’0 languages spoken: english, high school-level french traits: fun-loving, immature, free spirit, frivolous, hardworking

Background

noah fontaine, originally born noah richard brown, came into the world on march 20th, to parents michael brown and camille fontaine brown. his upbringing was colored by fond memories of a bustling household with three older sisters, where he, the youngest, often found himself vying for attention. whether he was forcing his family to sit through impromptu one-man-shows or wreaking havoc on his sisters, noah always found a way to make his presence known amidst the chaos. as he transitioned into high school, noah's enthusiasm for traditional education waned, reflecting in his less-than-stellar grades and uncertain outlook on the future. instead, he found his place in the world of youtube. daily uploads became his creative outlet, ranging from movie and song reviews to vlogs featuring his friends. despite his efforts, success seemed elusive, leaving him questioning his path. however, noah's journey took an unexpected turn. learning his father had an affair shattered the stability he once knew, causing him to distance himself from his paternal ties. he decided he no longer wanted anything to do with his dad. he adopted his mother's maiden name, severing the last link to his father before pouring himself into his career as a distraction.  noah's breakthrough arrived with his viral one-man rap inspired by the movie  "frozen" went viral in 2013. he reshaped his youtube content to showcase his brand of humor, resonating particularly with a younger audience he labeled “fontainiacs”. hungry for new inspiration, noah's gaze turned to chile, where a wave of fellow creators had migrated. without hesitation, he packed his bags, ready to immerse himself in the city for his next big adventure.

Personality

a "himbo" and a "yes man," lacking that filter that cautions against impulsive actions. forever in pursuit of thrill and recognition, he embodies a carefree spirit. immaturity and recklessness define his approach to finances, yet he displays unwavering dedication to his career. though not renowned for his intellect, he compensates with an unmatched work ethic, ensuring that his career remains his top priority.

Head Canons

- he's gay, but he has a special connection to classical music, there are many things that are interesting about him - prefers the company of women because of his family dynamic - unapologetic swiftie - doesn't hate anyone except his dad and jake gyllenhaal - knows a lot about pop culture, who is dating who, etc - can’t have a single conversation without bringing up mr. beast (his idol) - swears he was at jake paul’s wedding (you can’t prove that he wasn’t)  - was supposed to be in the video - first adult purchase was a supreme bag -PR teams worst nightmare, doesn’t known when to stop talking, probably definitely cannot read the room

Wanted Connections

- content creators to collab with!! - fake relationship - perhaps he decides to pursue a relationship because it would be good for views and respects the creator, then if the vibes are right maybe they fall for each other - friends - i will never say no to a grumpy sunshine or sunshine sunshine friendship - enemies - give him ur worst ! needs someone to write a diss track about - ex flings/situationships - mans is a lover boy but there was probably someone he dated or was seeing before he started pouring himself into his career and they left things weird

#noahfontainethread #noahfontaineintro #valpohqintro

[vicvinegarandhughhoney]

Carry Me Home- Prompt: Bridal Carry, Jack Griffin

Requested by @chipadip

Jack doesn't like chaperoning field trips, but unfortunately this was one he couldn't claw his way out of. Perhaps he would have tried harder if he'd known it would end with Helen Henry Demarcus carrying him through the forest.

READ BELOW, OR ON AO3 HERE

By now, Jack really ought to know that things don’t go his way- not even, apparently, a simple fucking field trip. 

When Durbin first broached the idea during an impromptu staff meeting in the break room, Jack hadn’t even thought he would be coming on the damn thing. After all, he’s a part time teacher who, let’s be honest, doesn’t even do that. He spends his lessons napping or planning revenge missions against those who’ve wronged him instead of educating his students, and he’s almost certain everybody in the entire school knows that. Why would anybody consider asking him to supervise on a trip outside school grounds when he can’t even be bothered to supervise on school grounds?

But of course, he’d been added to a goddamn email chain about the trip which Dave- avid nature lover, and the reason the trip’s even happening in the first place- started using as a free space to display photos of squirrels and memes of cats hanging from trees captioned ‘hang in there!” (all of which were liked by Helen) to the point that Jack had to switch his phone to ‘do not disturb’ mode in order to escape the constant stream of notifications. Of course, this naturally meant that his inevitable insistences that really, he wasn’t interested in chaperoning an outing to Wildwood Preserve were buried beneath pages upon pages of junk emails, and consequently ignored. He didn’t have a chance at escaping it. 

As they pull up to the parking lot of the preserve, Jack suppresses a sigh at the way Dave immediately stands up to deliver a speech about the trip. He clearly thinks himself the Bear Grylls of Toledo, Ohio. 

Lynette shoots Jack an amused glance from across the coach, and he smirks back. Clearly, she’s thinking the same. 

Dave’s authoritarian regime continues way past this, though, and no sooner has Jack stepped off the coach than he’s being ushered towards ‘his group’. Well, not exactly. ‘His and Helen’s group’. Jack’s not sure exactly what he’s done to be punished like this, but before he can attempt to protest his placement with the most insufferable woman in all of Toledo, Dave is shooing the group- also including Sarika and Marcus as extra punishment- towards the woods and telling the students to document all of the plant life they see. 

Fantastic. As if this trip couldn’t get any more boring. 

Jack decides the best thing to do is just bite the bullet, shoving his hands in his pockets and giving Lynette a pleading look as he trails behind the group, Helen nattering incessantly in his ear. 

“Y’know, it’s been yonks since I came out here- well, not came out here, I did that during my sixth grade dance recital. Did I tell you about that one? Ah, I probably have but I’ll tell y’again anyway. It was a cold and dark evening on the 28th May 1975...”

Jack inhales. It’s going to be a long, long day. 

By the time Jack emerges from his haze of daydreaming, it’s already been a couple of hours. He’s leaning against a tree, arms crossed against his chest, watching lazily as the students around him pick about in the undergrowth for plants to take pictures of and wondering all the while how this can really constitute education. Sure, Whitlock wasn’t exactly high brow when he was in attendance, but at least he never had trips dedicated solely to yard work. 

His phone pings. 

Chair thief: U bored yet? Bcos I sure am

He grins. 

Bored out of my mind. The only thing I’m glad about is that Helen’s decided to start haranguing the kids instead of me. 

As if to check, he glances upwards, and is unsurprised to find her stood beside a crouched Sarika. He’s too far away to make out exactly what she’s saying, but judging by the ‘kill me now’ expression on Sarika’s face, it isn’t exactly titillating conversation. 

When he looks down, another message pops up. 

Chair thief: Does that count as child abuse? I think maybe you should step in, Jack. 

And risk transferring her talk onto me? No way, Lyns. 

He presses send with a satisfied smirk that quickly fades away as soon as a red error message appears below the text. Undelivered. 

Oh, for fu-

Sighing through gritted teeth, he holds his phone aloft, waiting for the signal to repair itself. It doesn’t, of course. All it accomplishes is making him look like an idiot. Okay, you wanna play this game, phone? Fine. 

He starts to wander from the clearing, still keeping his eyes fixed on the screen. Any minute now and it’ll send. Any minute now. Any... minute...

A little wheel jumps up on screen, and Jack’s so triumphant he doesn’t notice the log in front of him, his foot slamming against it the second the message finally sends. He howls out in pain, yanking his leg upwards, only to teeter right over the log anyway, landing in a crumpled mess in the leaves on the other side. 

His cheeks blaze with embarrassment, but he manages to sit up, glancing around to see if he’s caught the attention of anybody. At first, it appears he escaped without consequence. But then...

“Oh, Jack, there you are! I heard ya screaming like a tomcat in a bag! You okay?”

He half-groans as Helen emerges from the trees, waddling towards him at high speed.

“I’m fine, Helen. I just-“

When he splays his fingers against the ground and tries to pull himself up, though, he’s met with an immediate wave of pain from his ankle. 

“Oh, Christ. Fuck, that hurts.”

He looks down and is just a little nauseated at the sight of a bruise beginning to form on the joint. The swelling that’s starting to encase it. He hazards another small movement, grimacing and squeezing his eyes shut as it elicits the same shooting pain up his leg. He’s definitely rolled his ankle. 

“Ooh. That looks nasty.”

His eyes spring open to find Helen crouched at his side, and just as his lips move to tell her not to touch it, she’s pressing a finger right against his ankle so hard he has to bite his lip not to scream. Even so, he’s pretty sure a small whimper escapes. And... ooh, he really isn’t feeling so great all of a sudden. He’s a little dizzy. Lightheaded. 

“C’mon, you gotta get back to the coach- Ralph made sure we were bringing a first aid kit, because you just know how prepared he is. I mean, one time we were out for this teacher training day, and I slipped on a banana peel, right like in the movies, and Ralph-“

“Helen.” Jack grits out, eyes blazing with frustration. 

“Right. Yes. Onto the task at hand. Can ya walk?”

He nods fiercely, but the moment he attempts to stand again, that same flaring pain sends him sitting back down again, blinking through spots in his vision. Reluctantly, he shakes his head. 

“N-no. Don’t think I can.”

Helen smiles. A worrying sign, by all accounts. “Well, that’s just fine! Let me give you a hand.”

Jack sighs, almost ready to thank her, but instead of simply offering him some help getting up, she reaches her left arm below his knees and her right at his back, and lifts him off the ground. 

“WOAH! Christ, Helen, I don’t need-“

Cheeks rouging (something he’s not entirely frustrated about considering how faint he was feeling a second ago) and stomach lurching, Jack yelps as she takes a step forward, his arms leaping around her neck to keep himself from falling. Oh no. No no no no no no no. This is not happening. 

Except it is, and soon Helen is emerging into the clearing where all of his students are picking at dead leaves, immediately announcing Jack’s injury to all of them while they stand and watch, flabbergasted. Sarika has the nerve to smirk, folding her arms as he clings on to Helen like a stupid fucking spider monkey, the blazing heat he can feel in his face informing him that he definitely looks as embarrassed as he feels. 

“Alright, out the way, gotta get Mr Griffin back to the coach!”

His students part like the goddamn red sea, and he wishes he were crossing an ocean so he could slip free from Helen’s grasp to drown instead. Aware that if he lets himself fall, he’ll be in for a world of pain, though, he instead opts just to squeeze his eyes shut and wait for safety.

He knows the moment he’s close to the coach when he hears the astonished laughter of someone familiar. 

“Oh my God.”

“Shut up.” He murmurs to Lynette, mortification reaching an extreme. 

“What happened?” she chuckles. 

Helen helpfully (or not so helpfully) answers for him. 

“Oh, he just tripped over a twig- it’s fine.”

Jack opens his eyes to level a glare at her, even as his arms remain hooked around her neck. “Wasn’t- wasn’t a goddamn t-twig, Helen. It was a l-log.”

“Pfft. Twig, log. Same thing.”

Lynette grins. “It was definitely a twig.”

Dave, walking out from a different patch of the woods, frowns when he sees the commotion. 

“Oh, gee, did someone hurt themselves out in the wilderness? Let me go fetch the first aid kit.”

Jack swallows. No. No. Anyone but him, please. 

Lynette, thankfully, rolls her eyes and addresses Dave. “It’s alright. I’ve got this one. Besides, you’ve got to keep an eye on the whole trip, right?”

Dave hums thoughtfully. “Yeah. I s’pose you’re right... Just... just walkie me if you need to.” He gestures to a device strapped to his belt, because of course he’s keeping his on there like he’s a cop, while Jack’s is shoved somewhere in his pocket where it’s been buzzing annoyingly for the past few hours. 

“’Course. Will do.”

Helen sighs. “Right, then. Let’s get you back on the coach, and I’ll let the lovely Miss Hofstadter do the rest.”

Jack barely contains his smile when at last he’s placed down on one of the seats, and Helen disappears, leaving only him and...

“Hiya, Lyns.” He murmurs, leaning back. His cheeks are still flushed, but not from embarrassment this time. 

Sliding into the seat next to him, Lynette places the first aid kit on her lap. Her eyes twinkle playfukly when they meet his. 

“You really were bored, huh? Gave yourself a life-threatening twig injury just to get away and see me?”

He sweeps a quick glance outside to make sure they’re quite alone- they are- then turns back to her, leaning in until his breaths are ghosting her cheek. 

“Life-threatening log injury, actually.” He purrs.

 

“Oh, right...  My mistake...”

And when he closes the gap, his lips meeting hers, Jack doesn’t care anymore that he’s in excruciating pain. That he’s probably going to walk with a House-level limp until his ankle heals properly. That the stories of Helen carrying him through the forest are undoubtedly going to circulate like wildfire.

All he cares about is her. 

#bad things happen bingo #ap bio #ap bio nbc #jacklynette #jack griffin

[spaceorphan18]

Scenes from December (14/24)

Klaine Advent : Day Fourteen : Dispose

***

December, 2035

“You guys are the worst.” 

Kurt grinned at his teenage daughter’s discomfort as he placed the Mickey Mouse ears on his head.  Blaine had on an identical pair, and he really did not care that they were in their forties - you were never too old for Mickey Mouse ears.  Katie, however, flushed a deep red because somehow a pair of plastic ears was somehow the most humiliating thing that could have ever happened to her -- here in Florida, where exactly zero people knew who she was.  

“You hear that, Kurt?” Blaine asked as he perused the overpriced Disney gift shop.  He found a pair of cheesy, hot pink and white polka-dotted Minnie Mouse sunglasses and put them on.  “Apparently, saving up our hard earned money to take our family to the most magical place on Earth makes us the worst parents ever.”

“Well, I’m having a nice time,” Tracy said in their defense.  She smiled grandly as she spun a rack of art work around.  

“Don’t let them fool you,” Katie said, leaning in to her.  “This trip was entirely for them.  We’re just not legal yet, and have to be subjected to all of their indulgent whims.”

“Oohh - someone’s been brushing up on their ACT words,” Kurt said, with some heavy sarcasm.  She had been complaining nearly the entire week they had been there.  Was he this bad at fifteen? Oh, how his dad will probably laugh when he calls after their vacation.   “And if you’re not happy - we can send you back to stay with Grandpa Burt in Ohio.  I hear it’s snowing.  I’m sure he’ll let you shovel the driveway.”  

“Do you hear how easily they’d dispose of us,” Katie continued.  “Their own daughters.”  

“No, only you,” Tracy shot back.  “They apparently still like me.” 

Kurt bit his lip, trying not to laugh at Tracy’s sting.  

“We like both of you,” Blaine said - always the diplomat.  “No one is getting sent back to Ohio to shovel snow.”

“Yet,” Kurt couldn’t help but mutter.   

Blaine shot him a look over the glasses.  “Look, it’s been a fun vacation.  Why don’t we just try to enjoy what we can while we’re here.”  

“That’s easy for you to say,” Katie shot at him.  “Because you seem to get off to amusement parks and crowds and embarrassing public serenades.” 

Blaine looked almost aghast that she’d speak to him that way.  Kurt wasn’t as surprised - she did take after him when it came to her weaponizing her words.  

“Hey - I think singing in public is romantic,” Tracy cut in.  Sweet, little Tracy - truly of Blaine’s spirit.  

“You know, your father does look rather attractive right now,” Kurt said.  Really, Blaine looked comically ridiculous with the ears and the sunglasses, but he was still rather fond of his husband. And maybe made him a bad parent, but he did get a slight kick out of getting under Katie’s skin.  “Maybe we’ll go out into the courtyard - right outside Cinderella’s castle and sing an impromptu duet.” 

“Oh god, no.” 

Kurt continued, “we could even grab a Disney Prince and make it a threesome.”

“Don’t you mean trio?” asked a confused Tracy.

“No, now they’re just being purposely and publicly gross for my utter humiliation,” Katie said, her entire face scrunched in revolution.    

Blaine grinned at him, shaking his head.  

“What do you think, Blaine?  Sleeping Beauty’s Prince Phillip maybe?” Kurt suggested, with an eyebrow raised.  

Blaine considered.  “Prince Eric.” 

“Eh, he’s a bit dense.” 

“Ooh, Aladdin.” 

“Or Hercules - he could be really fancy with the choreography and throw you over his shoulder.” 

“Or the Beast! There’s nothing wrong with a guy with a little extra hair.”

“Okay, stop,” a mortified Katie shouted. “Forever stop this conversation.  Why do you guys continue to say things I can never unhear?  Why can’t you guys be normal and boring like the rest of my friends’ parents? I just cannot believe I actually came from the two of you.” 

“Well, technically - only one of them,” Tracy cut in.  “Since neither of them have a uterus, it would have been rather hard for them to both contribute to your genetic make-up.” Katie’s mouth dropped, and for once she was shocked into complete silence.  “What? We talked about genetics in science this year.” 

“Well, she is right,” Blaine said, thinking about it.  “Though we did mix the sperm together so the genetics would be a surprise.” 

Katie let out a low groan as she buried her head in her hands.  Kurt, trying not to die of laughter, put a somewhat sympathetic arm around her shoulders.  “Don’t worry, kiddo,” he said, unintentionally channeling his dad.  “It’ll probably get a lot worse before it gets better.  But at some point, you’ll learn to appreciate us.”

#klaine advent 2022 #s.o. writes things #glee fic #klaine fic

[plasticflwrs]

★ ⠀⠀ ! ⠀⠀SUPERBLOOM MEDIA CONFIRMS APRIL COMEBACK FOR PLASTIC FLOWERS... published on february 21, 2024.

Amidst rumors circulating around their contract, Superbloom Media made the bold decision to announce a new album for Plastic Flowers — TOWER OF BABEL — alongside a snippet of their newest single.

Many fans have begun to raise concerns about the idols as this will be their THIRD studio album release in less than a year. Superbloom is known for their quick turn around dates for Plastic Flowers, but this seems to take the cake. Many worry that they will experience burn out and this will be detrimental to their new contracts with the company if they are not given time to rest between comebacks.

In a statement from their representative, the company said:

Hello, this is Superbloom Media. Plastic Flowers will be releasing their fourth studio album — Tower of Babel — on April 8, 2024. Many fans and netizens have expressed their concern for the members health and we have taken precaution with the members and their management team. They were given the entire month of January* to rest and regroup after the Ohio Impromptu promotional period and have stated that they are excited and ready for their next release. Please continue to support Plastic Flowers with their newest release.

Editors Note: We're not sure why they lied about this because Oliver Song was busy with STARZIE promotions the entire month.

Despite outcry, all five members posted their excitement for the album ( at varying levels of excitement ) on their Instagram accounts:

what do you think about the news?

#﹙ 🎸 ﹚ ✶ ׅ plastic flowers ノ the news #kpop oc #idol oc #fictional idol community #kpop addition #oc kpop group #kpop fanfic #kpop au #bts addition #fictional idol oc #idolverse #oc boy group #oc girl group #oc coed group #idol au #fictional idol group #fake kpop oc #fake kpop girl group #fake kpop idol #stray kids addition

[daltonblaine]

imagine you're a gay 16yo going to high school in homophobic ohio and some guy meets you for the first time when you're wearing an ugly ass head-to-toe gray outfit while impromptu-performing billy joel's "uptown girl" on the campus of an all-boys private boarding school and he says you "look like sex on a stick and sing like a dream" before telling you he needs to go to lacrosse practice. Me personally i wouldn't let that slide

#cheers to seblaine i can never take you seriously but i'm obsessed #WHAT WERE THESE HIGH SCHOOL SOPHOMORE/JUNIOR BOYS SAYING TO EACH OTHER 😭😭😭😭 #i laughed out loud when sebastian said that line #shh sapphire

[a-reidtastic-day]

TOGETHER, WE PART.

pairing(s): spencer reid/reader word count: 1,268 tags & warnings: pov spencer reid, established relationship, domestic fluff, mention of nightmares, cooking/food, bau!reader (another unit), british!reader (optional), no pronouns, no y/n interativefics: n/a a/n: if you’re wondering why they’re in different bau units… that’s because in real life, there are 5 behavioral analysis units, each with their own specialties. and if you’re wondering why the reader’s speech was sort of british, it’s because i'm re-watching the show elementary and i adopt personalities and speech styles like i breathe air.

The phone rang out in its familiar tune. At this point, he was certain that his brain immediately pictured a crime scene, any one of them, whenever he heard it. It didn’t make waking up any less difficult, though. 

“Reid,” his voice was hoarse from sleep. He hasn’t seen the time yet, but he could only imagine that he was only capable of less than a handful of hours. 

“Rise and shine, boy wonder. The team’s heading out to Memphis, Ohio in T-minus forty minutes. Briefing on the jet.”

Mumbling out his confirmation, he forced himself to sit up and throw his legs over the edge of the bed. It took him a hot second to realize that the other side of the bed was empty. From a quick feel of the sheets, you’d been awake for some time already. 

Fearing the worst, he rushed out of the bedroom, only to be attacked by the smell of turkey ham and eggs. It was an odd thing to smell at any other time, but considering the fact that it was indeed early morning, he supposed the weirder issue was you cooking before sunrise. 

“Sweetheart?” He inquired as he rubbed his eyes properly. 

“In the kitchen, honey!”

“Yeah, I got that.” He stepped into their humble kitchen, being less than happy about the bright lights, but relieved to see you. “Were you cooking for yourself or?” 

As soon as he looked at the counter, he noticed the pretty two-tiered lunch box you got a bit ago. They were really good for travel; maintaining the temperature of the food for hours. Not only that, there were two matching tumblers with their respective initials. 

“Wait, were you called in, too?”

“Oh no, I wasn’t.” You turned around just to kiss him on the cheek. Apparently you were awake long enough to not only prepare an entire breakfast, but shower as well. “This was just for our regularly scheduled breakfast—as much as that’s possible—but I heard your phone go off and pulled out the lunch box.”

The pleasant ding! of the coffee maker captured his attention. It was then, as if by magic, that you had filled the tumblers with the beautifully-made coffee and placed the food in the respective containers. Spencer watched in silent awe as you put the final touches on this impromptu lunch box. You even managed to find the time to cut up kiwis and apples, and sprinkled in some blueberries while you were at it. 

As soon as he heard the soft click of the containers closing, you looked at him with a pleasant smile. Not that all your smiles weren’t pleasant, but this one felt particularly nice in his less than rested state.

“Toast, bagel or English muffin?”

Spencer had to physically shake himself out of a trance before he could mutter ‘English muffin,’ to which you immediately cut in half and placed in the toaster oven. 

“Well don’t just stand there. Get your clothes on, silly.” 

Wide-eyed and wonderous, he cracked a smile. “I am rarely ever called that, you know.”

You poured out a mug of coffee with copious amounts of sugar, drank some of it then offered it to him. 

“Oh dear, I am quite aware. Yet here you are, standing in the kitchen in your birthday suit at four in the morning.” Your eyes were filled with mirth. “Would you classify that as anything but silly?” 

Like the dumbass he was, he looked down to find that he was indeed naked and soaking up all the heat the kitchen had acquired in the last ten minutes. “I’ll be right back.”

The very moment he returned fully dressed with his go-bag in hand, you had just gotten off the phone.

“It turns out, I’m being called away as well.” 

“Is it in Memphis?” He asked without even trying to hide his hopeful expression.

“I’m afraid not, dear. I’ll be all the way in the Lone Star state.” You reached for him for a tight hug and a kiss; one that he was eager to deepen before you pulled away. “Hopefully, it won’t be too long.” You patted him on the chest before giving him his messenger bag—now littered with enamel pins you had gotten for him—the lunch box and the tumbler. 

“What about you? You haven’t eaten yet.”

“I toasted myself a bagel. I’ll be alright.” 

“No. Sweetheart, take this instead. You need to eat.”

“Honey, I made that for you and you will eat it. Now, let’s get going or we’ll be late and we will never hear the end of it from either one of our units.” You cheerily bit into what looked like an everything bagel while slinging your own go-bag over your shoulder.

Upon arrival, both of your units were waiting for you to board. Most everyone was clearly exhausted and only just got their hands on some coffee. Spencer was just lucky to have someone make him some this morning. 

“What a coincidence,” Derek called out to you with a smirk. “Are we heading to the same place?” 

“Hello, Morgan.” You smiled pleasantly, and it was very obvious that you were more awake than anyone here combined. “No, unfortunately, we are traveling further south.”

“Florida?”

“Hey,” one of your teammates, Clarke, called out to you with a brief pat on the shoulder. “We gotta go now. You’ll probably see your partner again in two days tops if Kinsley’s hunch is right.” 

“It always is!” Kinsley called out from further away.

“Might I remind you of our case in New York last month?!” Clarke rebutted.

You took a deep breath and turned towards Spencer. “Insufferable, that lot.”

“Yeah, I don’t know how you deal with them.”

You laughed softly before standing on your tippy toes to meet his lips more leveled. It was one of your cutest gestures, which made him love your height difference even more. 

“Hey, lovebirds!” Emily popped her head out of the aircraft door. “If you haven’t noticed, we’re boarding, too!” 

Spencer pressed one last kiss to your lips then rushed to board. 

“Your partner saw you off and packed you a lunch box, too? I’m jealous.” Derek noted with a teasing smile. 

“It was already in the works when I woke up.” He took more sips from his coffee when JJ handed him a copy of the case file. “There wasn’t enough for the two of us, though.”

That little tidbit didn’t seem to fit if it was really for their breakfast together that morning. It finally hit him then that he never asked you why you were awake so early. You didn't receive a call to come in until after the food was all cooked and packed. 

Spencer quickly pulled his phone out to text you.

SENT: Were you going to tell me about your nightmare?

RECEIVED: I assure you, it was nothing to concern yourself with.

SENT: Please, sweetheart. I promise it isn’t a burden.

RECEIVED: I know. The same goes for you, honey. 

Chatter filled the cabin easily. Derek and Emily were already throwing out theories and David was telling Aaron that they had to check with the previous victim’s family as well. JJ and Penelope were clarifying names and locations. Spencer? He was far more preoccupied with you.

RECEIVED: We can talk about it when we get home. 

SENT: Thank you. And I love you.

RECEIVED: I love you, too, my angel.

“Reid, what do you think?” JJ turned to ask him and immediately, several eyes rested upon him. 

Spencer quickly read through the first page, slightly embarrassed but overall relieved. 

#spencer reid x you #spencer reid x reader #spencer reid x gn!reader #spencer reid imagine #spencer reid scenario #spencer reid oneshot #spencer reid one shot #spencer reid fanfiction #spencer reid drabble #spencer reid #criminal minds #criminal minds x you #criminal minds x reader #criminal minds fanfiction

[thnxforknowingme]

Courting Royalty

Pairing: Klaine Rating: T Word Count: 12.7k

Summary: During Kurt’s senior year, his friend Rachel gets some surprising news: she’s the princess of a tiny European country, and she has a twin brother to share the throne with. The summer after graduation, Kurt visits his newly-royal friend in the country she’s heir to before they head to New York for college. Staying in a castle and rubbing shoulders with European nobility is pretty overwhelming, but the most remarkable part is meeting Rachel’s brother Blaine, the new prince who Kurt instantly begins crushing on. This summer is either going to be a fairy tale come true, or result in multiple diplomatic catastrophes. Inspired by Meg Cabot’s Princess Diaries series and the movie adaptations.

Written for the Klaine 3-2-1 Prompt Bang. Art by @quizasvivamos (more beneath the cut!)

EntertainmentWatch.Com > News > Royals

SURPRISE ROYALS ON AMERICAN SOIL Fairy Tale Comes True For Two Ohio Teens By Yvette Wicks | November 22, 2011

In a shocking turn of events, news sources were tipped off today that two unassuming teenagers living in Ohio are not only twins separated at birth, but direct descendants of the royal family of Genovia.

The Principality of Genovia is a little-known microstate on the Mediterranean coast, bordered entirely by France. It has limited influence on the global stage, but is notable for its lack of income taxes, high levels of literacy and education, and gorgeous natural scenery. The nation is home to just under forty thousand people, and established its sovereignty in the wake of the Napoleonic wars. It has been ruled by the Renaldo family ever since its founding.

The current monarch, Queen Cybille, seemed to be the last living Renaldo after the tragic death of her son and only heir last year. Prince Oliver Renaldo was 43 years old and apparently childless when he died from injuries resulting from a boat crash off the Genovian coast.

However, our source revealed that while the country mourned the loss of their prince, Genovian intelligence agencies began an in-depth investigation to locate any previously-unknown relatives of the royal family. Genovia’s founding charter decrees that in the absence of a Renaldo monarch, the territory will be forfeited to France. In order to maintain the country’s independence, Genovian officials were desperate to find a viable heir.

Their detective work apparently paid off in unexpected ways - it was revealed that the late prince had a brief relationship with an American woman in the 1990s, who shortly after returned to her home in Ohio and gave birth to twins. Both children were given up for adoption, and as of yet  there is no evidence that the prince ever knew he had fathered two children.

Rachel Berry of Lima, OH and Blaine Anderson of Westerville, OH have been identified as the mysterious royal twins. These two average American teenagers have grown up completely unaware that they might one day rule a small nation on another continent. Neither of the royals or their adopted families could be reached for comment, but Miss Berry’s social media posts reveal her to be a dedicated and multi-talented performer, while Mr. Anderson has been identified as the central singer in this semi-viral video of an impromptu vocal performance at Westerville’s North Hills Mall.

For more updates on all things royal news, subscribe to the Entertainment Watch newsletter!

***

When Rachel had told Kurt that she was secretly a European princess, he was 100% certain that it was a scam.

Like, one of those email scams where some nondescript foreign prince allegedly has millions of dollars that are mysteriously tied up and if you only give them your credit card number, you’ll be handsomely rewarded. This seemed a lot more elaborate than that, when Rachel explained it in excited, hushed tones during lunch period one day, but it still had to be a scam.

Kurt had made his opinion on this abundantly clear, because there was no way Rachel Berry was royalty.

And yet, here he was, stepping out of a town car in front of an honest-to-god castle. And there Rachel was, waiting for him in front of the castle, wearing an outfit that he actually approved of for once.

“Kurt!” Rachel exclaimed as soon as he stepped out of the car (after the driver opened the door for him). “You made it! I’m so glad you’re here!”

She pulled him into a tight embrace, and while he appreciated the hug from his friend who he hadn’t seen in months, he was still pretty preoccupied by the literal castle he could see over her shoulder.

“Hi, Rachel,” he said weakly.

She pulled back, squeezing his arms and beaming up at him. “Come on, let me give you a tour. Antoine will bring your things up to your room.”

Kurt had just enough time to glance over his shoulder and see a well-groomed man retrieving his luggage from the town car’s trunk before Rachel was tugging at his arm, leading him up the stairs and through the ornate doorway into a manicured courtyard.

Kurt had barely even heard of Genovia before the whole secret-royalty thing came out. He’d had to learn its name at some point for a test in World History, but he probably couldn’t have located it on a map a year prior. When Rachel told him about it he started doing some research, motivated to get to the bottom of things both by his disbelief in Rachel and his childhood obsession with Princess Diana. But then the information was somehow leaked to the press, and Rachel’s photo was plastered in newsstands across the country. McKinley had been briefly invaded by hordes of news vans and reporters, trying to talk to anyone who knew anything about Rachel, before Coach Sylvester had chased them off with a fire hose. 

Amid the ensuing media storm, and the results of a DNA test, Kurt had been forced to admit that for once Rachel Berry was not simply entertaining delusions of grandeur - she genuinely was a princess. After winter break she had moved to the European principality she was heiress to, finishing out her high school education with a prestigious private tutor. 

Seeing her now, Rachel seemed very much at home in the castle. She told Kurt about the history depicted in certain tapestries and paintings, and greeted the servants they passed by name. Kurt was impressed by how quickly she had acclimated to these circumstances, and wondered how she felt about leaving for NYADA at the end of the summer. 

They ended the tour in Rachel’s room, which included a fireplace, an elaborate vanity, and an extensive walk-in closet that Kurt definitely wanted to examine more closely later. Rachel sat down on a plush armchair near one of the windows and sighed happily. “This summer is going to be so great,” she said. “It’s been nice here, but I’ve missed some things from home. I’ve missed you.”

Kurt smiled at her, then stepped closer to the window to look down over the landscaped gardens outside. “I’ve missed you too,” he said. “And I can’t imagine a better place to take a vacation.”

There was a knock at the door, and Rachel got up to open it. Before she’d even made her way across the room, a voice was calling from the hall. “Rachel, are you there? I talked to Eleanor about installing the karaoke machine. She still has reservations, but I think we can convince her.”

Just as the voice was finishing his sentence, Rachel opened the door to reveal a boy who looked their age, with dark slicked-back hair, statuesque features, and bright golden eyes.

“Oh,” the boy said, his eyes flicking from Rachel to Kurt. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt.”

“No apology necessary,” Rachel said, stepping back to open the door further. “This is my friend Kurt, he just got in. Kurt, this is my brother, Blaine.”

Blaine. Of course, Kurt knew of Blaine, had read about him in the news articles and heard from Rachel what it was like to meet her long-lost brother and start navigating royalty together once they both moved to Genovia. He’d been curious to finally meet Blaine when he arrived for his six-week trip to visit Rachel.

After Rachel’s introduction, Blaine smiled widely, his face excited and earnest. “Kurt! I’m pleased to meet you.”

“The pleasure’s mine,” Kurt replied, trying desperately not to sound as wrecked as he felt.

Blaine was the most gorgeous guy Kurt had ever seen. And he was a prince. And Rachel’s brother.

It was going to be a long summer.

.

The next day, Kurt struggled through jetlag as he followed Rachel around the castle and grounds. In the morning he was introduced to the formidable Queen Cybille, who was appropriately regal, greeting him kindly but still maintaining an intimidating level of decorum. She welcomed him to Genovia, asked a few questions about him and his summer plans, and instructed him to let Rachel know if anything during his stay wasn’t to his liking. Then she dismissed them, as she was scheduled to meet with the prime minister shortly.

Kurt’s mouth had been dry with nerves the whole time, but Rachel insisted that he’d done an excellent job of meeting the queen. “She’s old-fashioned, but not too strict,” she insisted as they walked down the hall. “She’s been remarkably patient with me and Blaine as we learn the ropes.”

“Is it weird that she’s…your grandmother?” Kurt asked.

Rachel shrugged. “I guess so. The queen has been very kind to us, and I’ve enjoyed getting to know her, but she certainly doesn’t feel like family.”

Kurt nodded. “And what about Blaine?”

“Well, I’ve never had a sibling before, so I don’t really know what it’s supposed to feel like,” Rachel said. “But we’ve become good friends. And duet partners, god Kurt, you have to hear him sing.”

Of course, Kurt thought, he sings, too. As if he wasn’t already perfect.

Not fifteen minutes later, they ran into Blaine on their way to the gardens. He happily accepted Rachel’s invitation to join them, helping to show Kurt around and enjoy the nice weather. Spending more time with Blaine did nothing to temper the immediate crush that Kurt had formed. Blaine was friendly and thoughtful, charming and considerate. He showed Kurt where the most beautiful flowers were, which trees held the most delectable fruits. He laughed at Rachel’s antics, but also showed genuine affection for her - maybe they didn’t feel like family just yet, but Kurt could see how much they cared about each other.

They set up a game of croquet on a large, vibrantly green lawn. Kurt was watching Rachel line up a shot with her mallet when he heard Blaine’s voice over his shoulder.

“I’m glad you’re here. Rachel has talked about you, a lot. It’s nice to finally meet you.”

Kurt turned to look at him, trying not to be too dazzled by the way the sun sparkled off Blaine’s eyes. “You as well,” he replied. “Honestly, I’m surprised Rachel has talked about anyone back in Lima. She seems to have taken to royalty like a fish to water.”

Blaine smiled. “There is something naturally commanding about her. I don’t know how I would have survived the past few months without her. It’s so overwhelming, it’s nice to have someone else to go through it with.”

Kurt tilted his head, trying to subtly examine Blaine. While he certainly looked handsome enough to be a prince, Kurt knew that he, too, had been adopted and raised in Ohio. “How are you liking it?” Kurt asked. “I mean, this certainly must be an upgrade from anywhere in Ohio.”

Blaine laughed, looking down at the croquet mallet he was holding. “I mean, you’re right, I can’t complain. It’s weird, but it’s all - very nice. There’s so much to learn that I’d never really considered before. And I have to learn French on top of everything else.”

Genovia’s official language was French, although Kurt had noticed that all of the castle’s inhabitants seemed to speak English as well. “And how are your French classes?” Kurt asked, in French.

Blaine glanced up at him in surprise, then smiled. “They’re good,” he said slowly. “And I can practice with the employees in the castle, too.”

“It can be difficult and strange,” Kurt went on, “but I think it can be a much more beautiful language than English.”

Blaine blinked, seemingly flustered. “What was that?” he asked in English.

“I said I think French is more beautiful than English, in a lot of ways.”

“Oh,” Blaine said, shaking his head slightly. “Um, yes, I - when it’s spoken well, it can be very beautiful. You seem rather adept at it, maybe you could help me practice.”

Kurt felt something flutter in his chest. “I’d love to.”

“Kurt,” Rachel called, walking across the lawn towards them. “Are you going to take your turn or just stand there?”

Kurt felt his cheeks warm. “Sorry,” he said.

Rachel reached them and paused with a smile. “Eleanor just stopped by and told me that we’re having a formal dinner Friday night,” she said. “Apparently some foreign dignitaries are visiting. And guess who else will be there - the head of the Genovian Arts Council! I really want to be introduced to her. Once I’m allowed to have some actual responsibilities as a princess, I’m hoping that I can get involved with the royal theater and opera house.”

“That’s great,” Blaine said earnestly. “I’m sure she’ll be excited to meet you, too.”

Kurt stepped away from them to find where his croquet ball was stationed on the grass, his skin still buzzing pleasantly from his exchange with Blaine.

.

Over the ensuing week, Kurt was introduced to all things Genovian. They took several trips into the nearby capital city, Pyris, where they went to museums and galleries and historical monuments. Rachel brought Kurt to her favorite gelateria, and introduced him to Genovia’s traditional pear-flavored confections. They went shopping, trying on clothes and accessories and fragrances, being waited on by diligent sales associates. 

Sometimes it was just Kurt and Rachel on these trips - and the bodyguards that accompanied Rachel any time she left the palace grounds - but Blaine tagged along sometimes, too. His easy manners, wide-eyed enthusiasm, and impeccable pop culture opinions only served to endear him to Kurt even more.

Dinner that Friday was, indeed, quite a formal affair. All their previous meals had been eaten in a moderately-sized and well-appointed dining area just off the kitchen. Tonight, however, they were in a lavish banquet room, with mirrored walls and twinkling chandeliers and lacquered wooden floors.

Rachel, whether by luck or negotiation or subterfuge, had ended up close to the head of the table, sitting next to the Arts Council leader that she’d been hoping to schmooze with. Kurt was much farther down, seated between Blaine and a diplomat from Switzerland.

Kurt had always considered himself well-mannered and had made an effort to be acquainted with etiquette, but even he knew he was out of his depth as he stared at the unconscionable number of silver utensils surrounding his place setting.

“Don’t worry,” Blaine said, and Kurt turned to see that the prince had leaned in close so that their words wouldn’t be overheard. “I was totally overwhelmed at first, too. I’ll tell you what to do if you need it.”

Relief flooded Kurt’s body. “Thank you,” he said.

Blaine bumped their shoulders together lightly. “Of course. My first piece of advice: pace yourself with the food. There’ll be at least five courses, and you’ll want to have room for dessert.”

Kurt felt warmth spread from where Blaine had brushed against him, and the already-nervous butterflies in his stomach began to flap more erratically.

They all stood when the queen entered, looking elegant in a dark blue gown. She welcomed all of the guests, then bid them to take their seats for dinner to begin.

The man on Kurt’s left side was plainly uninterested in conversing with an American teenager, and instead spoke in rapid French to the more notable diners around them. This meant that Blaine was Kurt’s only conversation option, which he didn’t mind at all.

The first course was steamed oysters, and Blaine explained to Kurt that Genovian food is largely influenced by French cuisine, with an emphasis on seafood, considering their location on the coast.

“I’m sure I’ll love everything,” Kurt said, setting aside the tiny oyster fork that Blaine had pointed out to him. “I started watching Julia Child when I was four years old.”

Blaine tilted his head, seemingly impressed. “Do you like to cook?”

“I do,” Kurt replied. “I always have. Lately I’ve been trying to teach my dad a few things, so he doesn’t live solely off of frozen food and takeout once I go to college.”

Blaine opened his mouth as if to say something, but was interrupted by the parliament member sitting on his other side, asking him about his recent studies in diplomacy.

Kurt took a sip of the white wine that he’d been served. He’d only tried drinking alcohol once before, his sophomore year, and had a pretty terrible time. But everyone here was drinking wine, and it calmed his nerves to have something to distract him, something to do with his hands.

The next course was a carrot soup, followed by a poached sea bass with roasted vegetables. Everything tasted delicious, and Kurt found that he even grew to like the taste of the wine the more he drank. Blaine was friendly and attentive, and they talked more about their favorite meals, about who cooked in their houses back in Ohio, about Blaine’s transition to new foods and traditions in Genovia. Conversation came so easily with Blaine, and Kurt felt the anxious knots in his chest loosen as dinner went on. The fact that the servers kept refilling his wine glass didn’t hurt, either.

After the salad course, they finished with dessert: a small, round cake soaked in hot rum syrup, garnished with a dollop of vanilla cream. Kurt took a bite and nearly moaned - it was perfectly moist and unspeakably delicious. 

“Amazing, right?” Blaine asked.

“Incredible,” Kurt replied, turning to smile at Blaine.

Blaine’s eyes seemed to flicker down towards Kurt’s lips. “Oh, you have -” Blaine tapped the side of his own mouth.

Kurt lifted his left hand to cover his mouth and swiped his tongue over his lips, tasting the hint of vanilla and rum there.

“Better?” Kurt asked, revealing his mouth.

“Yeah,” Blaine said, but he still seemed to be looking at Kurt’s lips, and god his eyes were just so gorgeous -

Kurt thoughtlessly set his hand back down, fully absorbed in Blaine’s gaze, but he felt it hit something unexpected. He glanced down in alarm just as gravity pulled his fist all the way down, catching the edge of his plate on the way to the tabletop.

The plate tilted sideways, catapulting the rest of his cake into the air. He watched in horror as the cake hit the wine glass of the diplomat seated next to him, knocking it over and pouring the liquid onto the tablecloth. The woman on the diplomat’s other side saw this and recoiled from the encroaching spill, inadvertently knocking into the prime minister, which caused him to drop the fork he’d been lifting towards his mouth. The fork fell onto his plate, landing in his vanilla cream and sending tiny dots of it spattering in all directions - including onto the queen herself.

Amid all the chaos, Kurt thought he’d seen a flash of movement on his right side, but he hadn’t had time to process it. Once the mortifying chain reaction had ended, the table was entirely silent, and everyone’s eyes followed the trail of mishaps, their head collectively turning towards him - 

“I’m so sorry!” said a voice to Kurt’s right - Blaine’s voice. “Pardon, je suis désolé, I’m so clumsy! I knocked over my glass and startled Kurt -”

Kurt turned his head to see that, yes, indeed, Blaine’s glass was horizontal on the table, his remaining wine seeping into the tablecloth. But that wasn’t right - Blaine’s glass had been upright when Kurt had sent his dessert flying.

“Well,” said Queen Cybille, using her napkin to delicately dab away at the cream that had landed on her cheek. “Certainly we are all capable of making mistakes, though perhaps we should work on containing your gesticulations, Prince Blaine.” Somehow, in only a moment, she had become perfectly regal again, as though nothing even remotely uncouth had occurred. “I trust no one was injured in this calamity?”

There was some grumbling from the diners who had spilled food or drink, but no one spoke up. The queen smiled serenely. “Let us all retire to the grand hall for digestifs, then, and leave this mess behind.”

Kurt moved woodenly as he copied the other guests, standing up behind his chair and watching the queen lead the way out of the dining room. Everyone trailed behind her, but Rachel paused on her way out.

“What was that?” she asked softly, looking at Blaine.

The prince shrugged. “I can get very passionate when discussing which actor played the best James Bond,” he said simply. “Guess I got carried away and gestured too broadly.”

When Rachel turned away, Kurt continued to stare at Blaine. They were the only ones left in the room, besides the servers who had started collecting dishes off the table.

“What did you…” Kurt began, unsure what he was even trying to ask.

Blaine winked at him. “I didn’t want you to be embarrassed. It was sort of my fault, anyway. And people here feel the need to be nice to the new prince. I might as well take advantage of it.”

“Thank you,” Kurt told him. “God, you didn’t have to -”

“I’m glad I did,” Blaine insisted. “Come on, you didn’t get to finish your dessert, and they usually serve these delicious cookies with the post-dinner cocktails.”

With that, Blaine headed for the door, and Kurt was more than happy to follow him.

.

Rachel flicked the lights on in her closet as she and Kurt stood in the doorway, illuminating the seemingly countless racks of clothing.

“Some of them are by Genovian designers,” Rachel said, stepping inside. “The queen says it’s good to, you know, support our own artisans. There’s a lot of French and Italian stuff, too.”

Kurt marveled at how much couture Rachel had received as a princess, immediately stepping forward to comb through the dresses. “This is insane, Rachel.”

“I know,” she replied, plunking down into one of the velvet-upholstered seats in the closet. “They’re beautiful, but I don’t know heads or tails about it. I figured you could have a real appreciation for them.”

Appreciate them he did. As he reverently examined different pieces, he asked, “So how did your conversation go at dinner last night? You were sitting so far away from me, but it seemed like you were speaking to the Arts Council director a lot.”

“Yes, it went wonderfully!” Rachel said, with a delighted clap of her hands. “There’s a new opera opening this Thursday, and she said she’d love for the royal family to be in attendance. She even said I could see backstage beforehand! And you’re coming too, of course.”

“Oh my god!” Kurt exclaimed. “Nice work! God, just think that when we’re in New York this can be our lives all the time - getting rush tickets to shows or winning lotteries.”

Rachel looked down, toying with the end of her hair. “Yeah,” she said lightly. “Anyway, you should help me figure out what to wear to the performance.”

Kurt was never one to say no to a makeover, so he gladly rifled through the many options in Rachel’s closet, using the built-in changing room to have her try on different outfits and accessories. When Kurt pulled a long-sleeved, green velvet dress off of the rack, Rachel said, “Oh, I met the guy who made that one! Laurent Favero. He came and took my measurements because he’s designing my gown for the Foundation Day Ball.”

The ball would be taking place about halfway through Kurt’s time in Genovia.The annual event didn’t actually take place on the anniversary of Genovia’s founding as a principality, but kicked off a week-long celebration. On the actual Foundation Day there would be a ceremony at the palace, serving as the official introduction of Rachel and Blaine to Genovia, after their six months of living in the country and learning the responsibilities of royalty.

“Are you nervous?” Kurt asked as he put the velvet dress back - it was far too heavy for the summer.

Rachel shrugged. “A little. But mostly I’m excited.”

It was hard not to get caught up in the excitement, as they talked about the opera and the ball, about grand events and renowned guests, and Kurt couldn’t believe that by some trick of fate he’d ended up here.

.

“No, I don’t think this is gonna work,” Kurt said, staring up at the huge animal in front of him.

“We can get a stepstool,” Blaine suggested.

“It’s not the height that’s the issue,” Kurt replied. “It’s everything else.”

When Rachel had insisted that they all go on horseback to see the royal orchard, Kurt had been eager for the prospect of wearing riding boots and the associated accessories. Now that he was standing outside the stables, faced with a massive, warmblooded creature that had very sizable teeth and alarmingly defined muscles, though, he wasn’t so sure about it.

“But Kurt,” Rachel whined, already seated upon her own steed. “Getting to the orchard by horse is faster and so much prettier than taking a car.”

The horse that Kurt was supposed to ride made a snorting sound, and Kurt flinched backward. “Maybe you should go without me, then.”

“I know,” Blaine said, sliding off of his horse and hitting the dirt with a muted thud. “You can ride with me.”

Kurt turned to face him, a little hesitant to let the horse out of his line of sight. “What?”

Blaine patted the side of his horse. “Alfonso is super gentle and relaxed, and there’s room for two in the saddle. You can ride behind me, you’ll be perfectly safe.”

“Well…” Kurt said, examining Blaine’s horse. It did seem rather placid, and Blaine had appeared very much in control when he’d taken the horse for a few laps around the corral. “Okay, we can try that.”

The stable attendant that had been helping them took Kurt’s horse away, and Kurt hoisted himself onto Alfonso instead. Blaine followed suit, careful not to kick Kurt as he threw his leg over the saddle. Then, all the sudden, Kurt was right against Blaine, and he felt his cheeks heat.

“Just hold on to my waist,” Blaine instructed. “We won’t go too fast.”

Kurt gingerly wrapped his arms around Blaine’s ribs, but as soon as Blaine nudged the horse forward Kurt tightened his grip. His fear of falling off superseded any embarrassment about touching Blaine.

The ride through the palace grounds was indeed very beautiful. They rode past gardens and greenhouses, through rolling fields with the occasional grazing livestock. Kurt’s knees brushed against the backs of Blaine’s thighs, and he was so close that he could smell Blaine - his hair product and deodorant and the hint of sweat. Once he got used to the jostle of the horse as it cantered along, he grew comfortable in his position. He felt the urge to press his face into the back of Blaine’s neck, to feel that strip of exposed skin - but he refrained, glancing to the side to focus on the breathtaking landscape instead of the boy in front of him.

The orchards were lovely - acres of orderly fruit trees, providing shade from the bright sunlight. Rachel and Blaine guided the horses to a particular section where the trees were heavy with fruit, and they all dismounted. Kurt stumbled slightly upon hitting the ground, his muscles unused to the particular strain of balancing on top of a moving animal - but Blaine caught him by the arm, helping to steady him.

Rachel unzipped her saddlebag and pulled out a blanket for them to sit on, along with the lunch they’d packed, and they wandered through the trees to pick fresh apricots and plums to supplement their meal. They talked and laughed as they ate - Kurt and Rachel told stories about McKinley and the New Directions, and Blaine shared anecdotes about his own school choir, which seemed absurd and overdramatic in its own ways.

Eventually Rachel wandered away to get some photos of the trees. Kurt reclined back on the blanket, looking up at the way the dappled afternoon light shone against Blaine’s face. He looked like…well, he looked like Prince Charming.

“Do you miss performing?” Kurt asked him.

Blaine blinked, bringing Kurt’s attention to his long eyelashes, then looked down at Kurt. “Yeah, I guess so. Rachel and I find plenty of opportunities to make music, though.” He tilted his head thoughtfully. “What I miss most, really, is my friends. Although we would have been parting ways now, anyway, graduating and going off to college.”

Although Kurt knew, logically, that as Rachel’s twin Blaine would have been in the same grade as them, he’d never thought about how that also meant Blaine was college-going age. “Are you going to go to school somewhere?” Kurt asked. “Are there any universities in Genovia? Or are you going back to the States?”

Blaine glanced away, picking up a discarded plum stem and worrying it between his fingers. “That is an excellent question.” After a moment he sighed, meeting Kurt’s eyes again. “I got into NYU’s music program, actually.”

“NYU?” Kurt exclaimed, propping himself up on his elbow. “Blaine, that’s amazing! You’ll be in New York just like me and Rachel!”

Blaine shrugged, not reflecting any of Kurt’s enthusiasm. “Maybe. I applied early decision last fall, before any of this…royalty stuff was discovered.”

Kurt felt his chest seize up, crestfallen. “And that - changes your decision?”

Blaine took a deep breath before answering. “It makes the decision more complicated,” he said. “I get the very strong impression that the Genovian royal court would prefer for me to stay here.”

“But Rachel’s going to New York,” Kurt argued. “Why would they pressure you to stay and not her?”

Blaine tossed the plum stem aside. “I don’t know. Residual sexism? I am legally older than her by a few minutes, so if it really came down to it I’d inherit the throne before her.”

Kurt was momentarily hit with incredulity that this was his life, and he was actually discussing how the line of succession of a European nation-state would affect someone he knew personally. He shook his head. “They can’t make you do anything,” he insisted. “If you want to go to New York, you should go.”

Blaine’s lips curled into a smile - it was small, but still made Kurt feel warm and a little unsteady. “Thanks,” Blaine said, holding his gaze. “And now I know that if I do end up in New York, I’ll get to hang out with you more.”

Kurt stared back at Blaine, feeling utterly speechless as he tried to parse that compliment. Luckily, Rachel returned to them just then and asked Blaine to take a photo of her among the blossoms, saving Kurt from having to think up an appropriate response.

.

The Genovian Opera House was small but lavish, all velvet and polished wood, in hues of red and black and gold. Rachel, Blaine, and Kurt were given an in-depth backstage tour when they arrived, guided by the Arts Council director. Seeing the racks of costumes and tables of props and orchestra pit sparked a sort of excited buzzing in Kurt’s chest - it reminded him of all the performances he’d taken part in throughout high school, the adrenaline and anxiety and thrill of being just about to go on stage and create magic in front of an audience. He couldn’t wait for this to be his whole life.

Afterwards they were escorted to the Royal Box, where they reunited with Queen Cybille and several other noble families in attendance.

“Oh, there you are,” the queen said to Blaine and Rachel, gesturing them forward. “Let us make introductions. This is Lord and Lady Saint James, and their son Jesse.” The elegant, dark-haired couple greeted them politely. Their son gave a cordial “Hello, Your Highness,” to Blaine, but then paused as he met Rachel’s eyes. “It’s a pleasure to finally meet you, Princess Rachel,” he said, taking Rachel’s hand and pressing a kiss to her knuckles. “You are just as dazzling in person as in photographs.”

Rachel smiled demurely, and Kurt tried not to gag.

The queen left Rachel behind with Jesse and guided Blaine to the other guests in the box - Lord Motta and his daughter Sugar. Sugar gave them a bouncing curtsy and exclaimed, “Oh my god!  You’re the cute, compact new prince everyone is talking about! You’ll have to come to my villa sometime, I can show you what being a royal is really about.”

Blaine responded politely and vaguely, not committing to any particular social engagements, and Kurt tried not to fidget impatiently. What was this, anyway, some kind of elaborate matchmaking party?

As Kurt glanced over his shoulder to see Jesse and Rachel in close conversation, while the queen looked on serenely, he realized that it probably was. This was what royals did, wasn’t it? Set up arranged marriages to continue their noble lineage?

Kurt turned back to glare more intensely at Sugar, but fortunately the house lights flickered, breaking up any further conversation.

They were ushered to their seats, with Kurt between Blaine and Rachel - and, annoyingly, each of their prospective suitors on their other sides. Determined to wrest Blaine’s attention away from Sugar, Kurt leaned on their shared armrest and asked, “What was it you were saying about Oscar Wilde when we were backstage?”

Just as Blaine turned to him, though, the lights dimmed. Blaine shot him an apologetic smile as the audience quieted and focused on the stage.

Kurt slumped back against his seat. As soon as the overture began, though, he felt a sort of - thrumming intensity, between himself and Blaine. He couldn’t explain it, but as the music swelled and rose around them, he felt as though the air between them was energized, poised, anticipatory. Was it just the dark room and the emotional songs playing out on stage that was drawing him to Blaine like a magnet? Did Blaine feel it too?

The opera they were seeing was being performed in Italian, so Kurt had little hope of understanding the details of the story. And with all his attention on his proximity to Blaine, he could barely even track the movements of the colorfully-costumed dancers in front of them.

There was a song that was particularly heart-wrenching, though, a moment of the most concentrated emotional potency, when Kurt couldn’t take his eyes off the woman singing her heart out. As her voice wove around them, Kurt detected some movement, a disturbance in the staticky field between him and Blaine. And then warm fingers were sliding against his own, where his hand lay on the armrest, Blaine lacing their hands together.

Kurt turned his head and saw Blaine looking back at him. The theater was so dim, but he could make out Blaine’s eyes, the soft features of his face. They held their gaze, and Kurt didn’t know what was happening but he knew it was something, that their hands felt so right together and their eyes were meant to meet and their faces were so close -

A cymbal in the orchestra crashed deafeningly and Kurt flinched, pulling away. Blaine’s hand slipped out of his, and the moment was broken. Kurt massaged his own palm, still feeling the echo of Blaine’s skin warm against his own.

Kurt forced himself to stare at the stage, his heart beating as though he’d just run a marathon.

When the opera was finished they all applauded. As soon as the lights came up Sugar was pulling Blaine out of his seat, chattering on about having to show him her father’s car. Kurt watched them go, and so he saw when Blaine looked back - just for a moment - and met Kurt’s eyes with an unreadable expression.

.

For the next week, Blaine staunchly avoided Kurt. They still saw each other plenty - they ate meals and played games together, went on outings around the palace grounds or into Pyris - but always with Rachel or other visitors along. Blaine was friendly to Kurt, still talking to him in group conversations and laughing at his jokes, but he deftly avoided any chance of just the two of them being alone.

Kurt’s frustration grew with each day, until he couldn’t help being short and brusque with Blaine, not meeting his eyes and refusing to engage in conversation with him. It hurt to be so thoroughly brushed off after the closeness that they’d been building since Kurt arrived. That moment at the opera had meant something, Kurt was sure of it, and he hated that Blaine seemed to be acting like it had never happened.

One evening Rachel walked Kurt back to his room, and once they’d reached the doorway she asked, “Are you mad at Blaine or something?”

He was definitely mad at something. “No,” he told her.

She narrowed her eyes. “Are you sure? Because you’ve been acting really weird around him.”

Kurt sighed, shifting the door partially closed so it served as a barrier between them. “He started ignoring me first, why don’t you ask your brother about it?”

“Kurt -” Rachel called out, but he shut the door firmly, cutting off any further discussion.

With Blaine giving him the cold shoulder, Kurt distracted himself by preparing for the Foundation Day Ball. He had bought some formalwear on the crown’s dime when they’d gone shopping in Pyris, but he wanted to tailor it to his measurements and add some personal touches. The house staff had very helpfully provided him with a sewing machine, and he spent hours designing and tweaking and altering until his suit was exactly how he wanted it: stylish but unique, elegant while still standing out.

The evening of the ball arrived, and the castle buzzed with activity. Once Kurt was dressed he went to Rachel’s room, where half a dozen stylists whirled around the princess. The designer of her dress, a man so extremely tall and thin he resembled a toothpick, guided several assistants through arranging Rachel’s dress, making sure the fabric would flow just right. Another stylist did her hair and makeup, while the queen’s assistant delivered instructions on which pieces of jewelry Rachel should wear.

Once Rachel’s appearance was universally approved, they were escorted to the ballroom. Kurt and Rachel parted ways so that Kurt could enter through the main doors, while the royals waited to be announced and admired as they descended the grand staircase that occupied the far end of the room.

The ballroom was already crowded with guests decked out in finery. Kurt didn’t think he’d ever seen so many precious jewels in one place. His past few weeks in Genovia had made him somewhat accustomed to being in esteemed company, but this event was in a realm of its own, having attracted notable guests from all over Western Europe. He accepted a glass of sparkling cider from a waiter, then stood at the edge of the ballroom, internally passing judgment on everyone’s outfits as he waited for Rachel to arrive.

The room quieted when the herald at the far doors tapped his staff authoritatively. As the ornate doors began to open, he called out, “Her Royal Highness, Princess Rachel Barbra Berry Renaldo.”

Rachel entered, looking elegant and - well, royal. The cream-and-gold dress suited her perfectly, and she gave a slight, regal smile to the observing crowd. Her princess lessons, combined with her natural stage presence, had prepared her excellently for the occasion.

As she neared the foot of the staircase, the herald’s voice boomed again: “His Royal Highness, Prince Blaine Devon Anderson Renaldo.”

When Blaine entered, Kurt felt like all the air was sucked out of his lungs.

The cut of his suit emphasized his broad shoulders and trim waist, the sleek black fabric a contrast to his light skin. Silver sparkled in his cufflinks, and knotted at his neck was a silky silver bow tie. He was handsome and debonair and perfect.

Kurt vaguely heard the herald introduce the queen, felt the crowd ripple around him, but he couldn’t take his eyes off of Blaine while he descended the stairs. And just as Blaine reached Rachel and swept his eyes around the room, his gaze met Kurt’s.

They stared at each other, and it felt like the world had stopped spinning.

As soon as the queen joined them, though, Blaine and Rachel were surrounded by guests and admirers, nobles and business magnates and friends of the crown. Kurt recognized some faces from previous dinners and social events he’d attended - he noticed with irritation that Sugar Motta was there, hovering around them.

The small orchestra arranged in one corner began to play a waltz, and Blaine and Rachel initiated the dancing. They spent the first several measures alone as they stepped elegantly about the dancefloor together, before a gesture from the queen encouraged other pairs to join in. Kurt got intermittent glances at the royal twins, his view often blocked by other dancers. He couldn’t push down the wave of envy that rose in his stomach.

After the first dance, the prince and princess were separated, paired off with new partners. Kurt watched Rachel struggle through a song with a much older, rather uncoordinated aristocrat, then glide along with a younger man who she seemed content to make polite conversation with. For her fourth dance she found herself in the arms of Jesse Saint James, and appeared very glad to be there.

Kurt focused on Rachel and sipped his drink, trying to enjoy the music and ambiance, but he couldn’t avoid the occasional glimpse of Blaine - always dancing, always with a girl. One after another after another, a friendly smile always on his face.

“And what is a young one like you doing hiding in a corner?” asked a voice to Kurt’s left, slightly accented as many Genovians were when speaking English.

Kurt turned to see Laurent Favero, the designer of Rachel’s dress, holding a cocktail and looking down at Kurt with a raised eyebrow.

“I don’t feel like dancing,” Kurt replied. This was a lie - he would have happily danced with Rachel, if she wasn’t having various noble men shoved at her between every song. And more than anything he’d have liked to dance with Blaine, but Blaine’s behavior over the past week had made it abundantly clear that that would never be an option.

Favero continued to stare at him, looking increasingly confused. “What is this you are wearing?” he asked. “I noticed in the princess’s rooms, it is very unusual.”

“Oh,” Kurt said, glancing down at himself. His suit jacket evoked a century-old style, shorter in the front with tails behind, and he’d accented it with gold brocade and buttons. He’d also lined the inside with a silky deep blue fabric - which didn’t necessarily have any historical basis, but he knew he looked good in it, and it matched the blue ascot tie fastened at the base of his neck. “Well, I bought the suit in Pyris, and then made some alterations.”

“You did this?” the man asked, gesturing broadly to Kurt’s torso.

“Yes,” Kurt said. “I was inspired by formal wear from the belle epoch, as well as Continental court dress.”

Favero seemed to appraise him, then reached into an inner pocket of his suit jacket and pulled out a white business card. “How long are you in Genovia?”

“A few more weeks,” Kurt replied, taking the offered card.

He clicked his tongue. “A shame. You have a good eye and a creative mind. You ever decide you want to stay here, call me about an apprenticeship, eh?”

Kurt stared at him, incredulous. “Uh, yes, monsieur. Thank you so much.” 

The designer hummed in acknowledgement, and then drifted off into the crowd. Kurt stood stunned for a moment, and as he turned away from Favero’s retreating figure, his eyes once again alighted on Blaine - who was just then giving a polite bow to Miss Motta before placing his hand on her waist.

Kurt spun around and headed for the other side of the room, towards a barely-ajar glass door that led outside. He desperately needed some fresh air.

It was dark outside when he stepped onto the balcony, ensconced lights along the wall throwing off a yellowish glow, the sky a multitude of stars. Kurt set his empty glass on a decorative table and went to lean over the railing, looking at the flower gardens below and letting the gentle breeze cool him off.

He hadn’t really known what visiting Genovia would be like, before he arrived, but he certainly couldn’t have anticipated any of this. He was glad to see Rachel, after so long away from his friend, and he couldn’t deny how lucky he was to have experienced so many incredible things through his association with the royal family.

And then there was Blaine, who he liked so very much, and who had seemed, at first, to like him back. Kurt didn’t care whether he was a prince or not - he’d loved discovering who Blaine was in small, private moments, underneath the absurdity of his current situation. With every interaction he’d learned more about how kind and talented and passionate and generous Blaine was.

But it seemed now that even a friendship with Blaine was out of reach, let alone anything else.

“Kurt?”

Kurt turned around to see Blaine standing behind him, bracketed by the light spilling out from the ballroom. “Oh, hi.”

Blaine tilted his head. “Mind if I join you?”

Kurt shrugged. “It’s your castle.”

Blaine exhaled and stepped forward, leaning against the railing next to Kurt. They didn’t speak for a moment, surrounded by the muted noise of music and conversation and the chirping of crickets.

“I’m really sorry,” Blaine said softly. “I know I’ve been distant, the past few days. You didn’t do anything wrong, Kurt, I just - I needed some time to think.”

Kurt turned towards him, feeling his foolish heart warm with hope. “To think about what?”

Blaine spread his hands out against the railing. “You know when I told you that making a choice, about NYU and Genovia, was complicated?” He turned to look at Kurt, his expression rueful. “Well, meeting you…has added a new complication.”

Kurt scoffed. “Wow, I’m flattered.”

“Kurt, no,” Blaine said earnestly, reaching out and gripping Kurt’s hand. Kurt gasped at the sudden contact, the same spark of feeling he’d experienced at the opera. “What I mean is - you’re incredible, and I love being around you, and I want -” he cut himself off with a frustrated groan. “Look, I know what the crown wants from me, even if they haven’t actually said it in so many words. They want me to stay in Genovia and learn to be a good figurehead, to get married to some noble woman and have kids so the throne has more heirs and Genovia stays independent. And I’ve known from the start that I can’t actually do that, but - I thought I had more time to figure it out. I thought I could take things slow and get more settled before I stopped hiding the truth. But then you showed up.” Blaine gave him a helpless smile. “And you’re you, and you’re amazing, and I just - I don’t want to be with any of those girls, Kurt. I want to be with you.”

Kurt blinked, overwhelmed by the intensity of Blaine’s gaze and the rapid beating of his heart. “Really?” he asked.

Blaine nodded, and he used their joined hands to tug Kurt away from the railing. Inside, the orchestra had just started a new song, lilting and melodic. Blaine opened his other arm. “May I have this dance?”

Kurt let out an unexpected laugh, surprised and delighted. “You may.”

So he stepped into Blaine’s embrace, holding onto his shoulder and feeling Blaine’s hand settle on his waist. Blaine was warm against him, and so close that Kurt could hear the nervous flutter of his breath as they began to dance.

They moved artfully around the balcony, Kurt following Blaine’s lead. They worked together perfectly - every time one of them stumbled or misstepped, the other would adjust to accommodate it, continuing on uninterrupted.

“You look amazing, by the way,” Blaine said softly. “Rachel told me that you made your own suit. Is there anything you can’t do?”

Kurt grinned. “You clean up rather well yourself, Your Highness.”

Blaine scoffed at the title. “I have to be a prince with everyone else. Can’t I just be myself with you?”

“Of course,” Kurt insisted. “Always, Blaine.”

The music faded away, and they stilled. “I love hearing you say my name,” Blaine whispered, but they were so close Kurt could hear every word.

“Blaine,” Kurt said again, and then Blaine was leaning imperceptibly forward and pressing their lips together.

It was somehow like every fairy tale coming true - this kiss could have broken a centuries-old curse, waking a comatose sleeper or turning a frog into a prince. It was the simplest of physical gestures, just Blaine’s lips moving against his own, but it filled Kurt with so much feeling he thought he might burst.

When it ended, Blaine blinked, seeming dazed, and Kurt was glad to know that he wasn’t the only one who felt like he’d been put under a spell.

“Come back inside,” Blaine entreated softly. “I know Rachel will want to dance with you, and - it’ll be so much more fun if you’re in there with us.”

Kurt was loath to step out of Blaine’s embrace. “Are you sure we can’t stay here and keep kissing?” he asked.

Blaine laughed, a blush playing on his cheeks. “Not now. But definitely more soon, right?”

Kurt nodded resolutely. “Yes,” he said. With that promise of more to come, he found the strength to pull away from Blaine and walk back into the ballroom.

.

The following days were busy with Foundation Day events and celebrations, but Kurt and Blaine managed to spend nearly every free moment together. They stayed up late talking and watching movies, they wandered the castle grounds, and one evening Kurt commandeered a corner of the kitchen to walk Blaine through baking some of his favorite pastries.

They were walking back towards Kurt’s room when they turned a corner and found themselves face-to-face with Rachel.

“Oh, hi!” she exclaimed. She glanced between the two boys and then said, “Have you two made up? It seems like you’re spending a lot of time together.”

Blaine raised an eyebrow at Kurt, barely concealing a smile.

“Yes, Rachel,” Kurt said. “We’ve made up.”

“Thank goodness!” she said, leaping forward to pull them into an ungainly group hug. “I don’t think I could stand it if my best friend and my brother didn’t like each other.”

“We like each other plenty,” Blaine said, catching Kurt’s eye.

“I’m glad,” Rachel said, disentangling herself from them. As she stepped back, Kurt noticed that she was wearing a jacket, and seemed to have lipgloss on.

“What are you up to?” he asked her.

“Oh, just going for a walk,” she said breezily.

Blaine narrowed his eyes. “It’s pretty late for that.”

“I’ll be quick,” Rachel insisted, already pushing past them. “I just want some fresh air and relaxation after all the socializing lately. I’ll see you two in the morning, okay!”

With that, she disappeared around the corner.

“That was odd,” Blaine commented.

“It’s Rachel,” Kurt said, by way of explanation. “If she’s up to something, we’ll find out about it eventually.” He glanced down the corridor to make sure they were alone, then took Blaine’s hand. “You wanna watch something before we go to sleep?”

Blaine grinned. “I’d love to.”

So they retreated to Kurt’s guest room, set up a laptop to play Roman Holiday, and ate some of the cookies they’d baked, still warm from the oven. And when they kissed goodnight, they both tasted of chocolate chips.

.

The annual Foundation Day Charity Auction was a lively event, bringing notable Genovians and friends of the state to an outdoor luncheon at one of the palace’s gardens, in order to donate and bid on items, with the proceeds going towards various non-profits in the region.

Kurt was seated at a table with the royal family, along with several other nobles. When they arrived the queen directed them to particular table settings. While Kurt was thankfully next to Rachel, he scowled as Queen Cybille separated him and Blaine, instead seating the prince next to the daughter of a duchess.

Throughout the whole event, the queen seemed to be pushing the two of them together - making comments like “oh, Blaine, tell Harmony about your riding lessons!” and “Harmony’s an impressive performer herself, perhaps you two could sing together sometime,” and “the desserts today are very rich, it might be best if the two of you shared one.”

Kurt could feel his blood pressure increasing with every comment, and even Rachel seemed mildly annoyed by it.

The auction itself was a success, and when Kurt wasn’t fixating on the obvious setup happening across the table, he thoroughly enjoyed the food. In the slight chaos of the event’s conclusion, with guests leaving their tables to mingle and schmooze, Kurt managed to pull Blaine aside, stepping behind a topiary bush to stay out of sight.

“I know, I’m sorry -” Blaine was already saying.

“It’s okay,” Kurt cut him off. “I know it wasn’t your fault. But Blaine…what are you going to do? You’re being presented to the country in two days. Have you made a decision about New York? Are you going to tell anyone?”

Blaine closed his eyes for a moment. “I know, you’re right. I - I want to tell the truth, Kurt. I don’t want to hide the way I feel about you. And I want to go to New York. I just - I have to muster the courage to speak up. But I will.”

Kurt took Blaine’s hand and held it tightly, trying to reassure him. “Okay. I just want you to do what’s best for you, whatever that decision is. Let me know if I can help.” It seemed like an ineffective offer, but it was all he could say. He’d seen the harassment and surveillance that Rachel had endured when her royal status had been revealed. He didn’t want Blaine to go through any more of that kind of strife - but he also didn’t want Blaine to feel that he had to hide his identity or sacrifice his own wishes for the sake of propriety.

Blaine nodded gratefully. “You’re the best. How did I get so lucky?”

Kurt smiled. “I don’t know, I had a prince fall for me, I think I might be the lucky one.”

Blaine squeezed Kurt’s hand and then let go. “We’d better get back out there.”

Kurt nodded, and they returned to the crowd, putting on polite smiles to mask any uncertainty or worry.

.

Kurt was woken up the next morning by a firm, even knocking at his door. He blearily stumbled out of bed and opened the door, revealing a member of the house staff.

“Sorry, Monsieur Hummel,” she said, “your presence is requested in the throne room.”

Kurt blinked. “Um, okay. Merci.”

He rapidly got dressed, wondering what on earth was going on. 

Kurt had seen the throne room on his initial tour with Rachel, but hadn’t had reason to return since. It was a cavernous chamber, with a tiled marble floor and decorative columns along the walls. The space was lit with several ornate chandeliers, and in the center of the ceiling was a Renaissance-style fresco. At the far end of the room, a huge Genovian flag hung from the wall behind the throne, and smaller flags of the different Genovian regions lined the sides of the room.

There were already numerous people there when he arrived. The queen sat on the gilded throne, her posture perfect, but she didn’t look overly solemn. Her assistant was poised next to her, and several other officials and castle employees that Kurt recognized were standing around the room. Just in the front of the throne stood Rachel, with Blaine several feet away off to her side.

Kurt caught Blaine’s eye as he entered, and Blaine shrugged at him, looking somewhat alarmed.

“Well, Rachel,” the queen said, pulling the attention of everyone in the room. “I believe everyone is now assembled. Pray tell, what inspired this impromptu gathering?”

This was Rachel’s doing? Kurt stared at her quizzically as she glanced around the room, then faced the queen directly as she began to speak.

“Thank you, Your Majesty. I have an announcement to make. As you all know, Blaine and I will be presented to the country tomorrow morning. I know this is largely ceremonial, but I also feel it’s important that we establish how things will move forward from that introduction, and the particular responsibilities and commitments that we’ll take on as heirs to the throne.” She squared her shoulders. “I’ve decided to defer my acceptance to NYADA and remain in Genovia for at least the coming year.”

Kurt gasped, unable to help himself. The room around him murmured, but he couldn’t pay attention to anyone else’s reaction. Rachel wasn’t coming to New York? She’d decided to abandon her dream school - not to mention leave Kurt to move to the city on his own?

The queen nodded slowly as she took in this information. “We thank you for telling us, that is quite a significant decision. We’ll be happy to have your presence for longer than anticipated.”

“I appreciate that,” Rachel said, “but I’m not done. I strongly believe that Blaine should return to America to pursue his education.”

Kurt immediately glanced at Blaine, whose eyes had widened at Rachel’s words.

“I was not aware that Blaine had made a definitive choice on that topic,” the queen said.

“I’m simply providing my opinion,” Rachel stated, “but I think this arrangement will be satisfactory for everyone.” Through his incredulity, Kurt managed to roll his eyes - of course Rachel would charge forward with something like this assuming she had all the right answers. “I’ve loved spending the past several months in Genovia, and I’m excited at the prospect of taking on any necessary duties of an heir to the throne. I can fulfill any need that Blaine would otherwise have been expected to. Meanwhile, he deserves the freedom to do what he really wants, and be who he really is, without being restrained by the crown.”

At the phrase be who he really is, Kurt glanced at Blaine’s shocked face. She knew, somehow. And he thought he and Blaine had been discreet.

The room was quiet in the wake of Rachel’s speech. After a moment, the queen spoke. “Thank you for sharing your thoughts, Rachel. The crown appreciates your forthrightness.” She looked around the room and addressed the rest of her audience. “There is still much to be done for the ceremony tomorrow, and I trust you are all busy. You are dismissed. Blaine, if you would stay back, please?”

Kurt saw Blaine swallow and nod. Everyone else in the room walked towards the doors. Kurt was rooted in his spot, staring at Blaine, confused and worried and hopeful. He moved only when Rachel reached him, grabbing his wrist and pulling him out of the room.

“What the hell was that?” Kurt asked her as they stepped into the hallway.

“I know,” she whispered at him, tugging him further away from the other people exiting the room. “I overheard you two in the garden yesterday. I know about you two, and I know that Blaine would rather go to New York.”

Kurt pulled his hand out of her grasp as they turned a corner, still unsure how mad at her he was. “And what about you? How could you give up NYADA? We were supposed to take on New York together, get to Broadway together!”

“I know,” Rachel said, and she at least had the courtesy to be a little apologetic. “But Kurt - I really like it here. And I want to learn to be an actual ruler, to use my power to help people. Plus, I could help develop Genovia’s theater scene! Since the crown funds a lot of the arts, I’d have so much influence and such a big budget. If those credentials won’t help me break into Broadway, I don’t know what will!”

Kurt scoffed. “Rachel -”

“I’ve been thinking about this for a while,” she interrupted. “Ever since the start of summer. I just didn’t know how to tell you. But hearing you and Blaine talking yesterday - it gave me the push I needed to speak up about it. And maybe help out Blaine, at the same time.”

Kurt looked at his friend, and all of his anger melted away. “I didn’t know this trip would be the last time I saw you for…who knows how long.”

She smiled softly. “I know. But I have access to a private jet now. I can definitely come visit New York.”

Kurt laughed. “Of course, how could I forget?” He glanced down the hallway, towards the entrance to the throne room, and his nervousness returned. “What do you think is happening in there?”

“I don’t know,” Rachel replied simply. “Do you want to wait for Blaine in his room?”

Once they reached Blaine’s quarters, Rachel sat on the windowsill as Kurt paced nervously across the floor. He’d spent a lot of time within these walls over the past week - talking, watching movies, cuddling and kissing on Blaine’s bed. It had felt safe and warm, their own little world. He hoped that it wasn’t all about to be ruined somehow.

The door swung open, and Blaine stepped in. He blinked when he saw the two of them staring back at him.

“Is everything okay?” Kurt asked, as Rachel simultaneously said, “What did she say to you?”

“It’s okay,” Blaine assured them. “It’s okay.”

Kurt stepped forward to pull Blaine into a hug. Behind him, Rachel demanded, “Well what did she say?”

Blaine led Kurt to his bed and perched on the mattress, facing Rachel. “We just talked, and…I told her the truth, about everything. And she apologized. She said if she’d known, she would have done things differently. She still says it’s best for one of us to stay in Genovia, but if you’re really willing to, Rachel - then I can go to NYU.”

Rachel stepped forward and sat on Blaine’s other side, taking his hand. “I’m not just willing, Blaine. I want to be here. And I want you to be happy.” She leaned forward so she could meet Kurt’s eye. “Both of you.”

“I’m actually going to New York,” Blaine said, a little disbelieving.

Kurt nudged their shoulders together. “We’re both going to New York,” he pointed out, feeling giddiness bubble in his chest.

Rachel hugged Blaine, then stood. “I’ll leave you two alone. I have a lot of preparation to do before tomorrow anyway.” She bounced out of the room, already humming to herself happily.

“How are you feeling?” Kurt asked.

“I - don’t know,” Blaine said. “I’m feeling a lot. But mostly just - good. Very, very good.”

Kurt gave him a coy smile. “So, if we’re both going to be in New York…that means that we don’t have to say goodbye, when I leave Genovia.”

Blaine grinned back. “No, no goodbyes. Just a brief ‘see you later.’ A temporary ‘au revoir.’”

Kurt took a breath, steeling himself. “And once we’re in New York, we can…keep doing this? Being together?”

Blaine turned to Kurt, taking both of his hands. “I want to be with you. And I’m not going to hide you, Kurt. Even if there’s no big, official announcement, I’m not going to pretend to be someone I’m not. But…it probably won’t be easy. I’m unfortunately sort of a public figure now. I might not be the most fun person to date. I don’t want you thrust into the spotlight if you don’t want that.”

Kurt shook his head. “I’ve been hoping for a spotlight for years, might as well get used to it. And I’m not going to hide who I am, either. Or how I feel about you.”

Blaine leaned his forehead against Kurt’s. “I’m going to have a security detail, like all the time.”

“Like all the time?” Kurt teased.

“Practically all the time,” Blaine replied.

Kurt shifted their faces so that their lips brushed when he spoke. “We’ll find some time for ourselves.”

And then they were kissing, and this was real, and it was only the start of something wonderful.

.

Kurt thought that he’d gotten used to pomp and spectacle over the past several weeks, but the crowning ceremony blew everything else out of the water.

It was Foundation Day, marking one hundred and ninety-seven years of Genovia’s sovereignty. Kurt was in the throne room, seated with the rest of the audience - comprised of the 300 most-important Genovians, all nobles or parliament members or other extremely distinguished people, all in their absolute finest dress. They faced the thrones - three of them, one for each of the three living Renaldos. A cardinal in a very tall hat was there to direct the proceedings, with the prime minister participating as well. Off to the side was a musical ensemble, there to provide accompaniment throughout the event. Cameras and microphones were set up throughout the room, to broadcast the ceremony to every home in Genovia. 

If it wasn’t for the television equipment, Kurt might believe that he’d been transported a couple centuries into the past. At the front of the room, the three royals appeared as if they themselves had been present on the day of Genovia’s founding. Blaine wore a white, double-breasted coat with gold buttons and epaulets. A sash of deep green - the principal color of Genovia’s flag - cut across his chest. Rachel’s dress was a matching green with gold accents, while the queen sat in the center with a gown of a deep, regal maroon.

The ceremony was brief but precise, and performed entirely in French, so Kurt got only a basic idea of what was being said. The cardinal placed a gold, gem-studded crown on Blaine’s head, and then one on Rachel’s. Once they were both crowned, Rachel stood and approached the microphone in the center of the room.

“It is a great honor to be here, and to receive this crown,” she said solemnly. “I may seem unfamiliar to you all now, but I promise that in no time, Princess Rachel Berry Renaldo will be a familiar and well-loved name.” She paused between each sentence, so that an interpreter could repeat her words in French. “My whole life, I have been searching for…something special. A place that would allow me to be my best self, and to share what I have to offer with the world. I have found many of outlets for that, but little did I know that my true destiny was waiting for me on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean.

“I never knew Prince Oliver, but I have been lucky enough to read, hear, and see the things he accomplished, and to try understanding the person he was. I know I have very big shoes to fill by stepping into this royal family. But my fathers, who adopted me, raised me to be hard-working and passionate. I am determined to use my skills to serve Genovia, to keep this country independent, maintain the things that make it special, and continually strive for an even better future.

“I have loved every minute that I’ve spent in Genovia. Even when things have been challenging or overwhelming, I have always been certain that they were worth it. Every new place I’ve seen, and every new person I’ve met here, has reinforced the fact that being here is the right thing for me.

“My brother Blaine and I both had plans to return to the United States to pursue higher education. I have decided instead to remain in Genovia, continuing my training in diplomacy and leadership and taking on new responsibilities in order to further integrate myself into Genovian culture. Blaine will be in constant contact with myself and the crown, and will make frequent visits to continue fulfilling his role as prince. We are both humbled and grateful to receive these titles, and to serve the Genovian people. Thank you.”

The room erupted into applause, and Rachel bowed her head slightly before returning to her throne.

Blaine’s public comments were much shorter, emphasizing the points Rachel already made, expressing commitment and appreciation. Once he finished speaking, everyone stood as the band played the Genovian national anthem, and the whole room sang along.

After the cameras stopped rolling and the ceremony was complete, there was a banquet set up in the ballroom for all the attendees. Kurt was seated at a table with several other teenagers and young adults, all related to Genovian nobility in some way. He was disappointed that he couldn’t be with Blaine and Rachel, but pleasantly surprised when Sugar Motta not only recognized him, but immediately began peppering him with friendly questions about life in America. 

Blaine appeared at his side once the meal was over and mingling was appropriate. As they sat there talking, Blaine nodded his head towards a corner of the room. Kurt glanced in that direction and saw Rachel, standing extremely close to a familiar figure: Jesse Saint James. As Kurt watched them, Rachel laughed loudly and pushed a strand of hair behind her ear.

“So that’s why she really wanted to stay in Genovia,” Kurt quipped.

Blaine laughed. “Maybe just a contributing factor. I bet that’s where she was sneaking off to the other night.”

Kurt couldn’t find it in himself to be annoyed with Rachel for her secret crush - his happiness left no room for other emotions. The future felt promising and bright, and the present moment was pretty incredible: sitting in the ballroom of a European castle, full of delicious food and surrounded by remarkable people, with Blaine smiling at his side. If a somewhat pompous son of a lord could give Rachel a modicum of the joy Kurt currently felt, he wasn’t going to begrudge her that.

Blaine stood and held his hand out. “Come on, let’s go say hi to them.”

Without hesitation, Kurt took Blaine’s hand.

.

“Are you sure you don’t want to come into the water?” Blaine asked.

Kurt glanced up at his boyfriend’s face, haloed by the bright sunshine above them. “I’m sure. But go ahead, have fun.”

Blaine sent him once last hopeful look before turning and walking away. Kurt lifted his sunglasses slightly to get a clearer view of Blaine as he headed towards the water, admiring the shift of muscles in his bare back.

“Do you need a refill?” Kurt heard Sugar’s voice from beside him. He turned to see her, lounging on the chair next to his, wearing only a bikini, a sarong, and a massive pair of sunglasses. Like Kurt, her body was fully shaded by an umbrella, and she had a short table next to her chair holding an ice-filled glass.

“Not yet,” Kurt said, gesturing to the half-full mocktail on his own table.

“I’m gonna get one,” Sugar said, lifting herself up to wave over the attendant currently manning the bar on the Motta’s back patio.

It was Kurt’s last weekend in Genovia, and they’d all been invited to spend a few days at the Motta property on the Genovian coast. They’d spent plenty of time on the private beach, but also using the Motta’s in-house movie theater and bowling alley, playing on the tennis courts, and getting spa treatments. 

Kurt had been a little hesitant about the trip, but it had turned out delightfully. The first time Sugar noticed him and Blaine cuddling while they’d been having a movie marathon, she’d exclaimed about how adorable they were together. Kurt had discovered that the effusiveness she’d shown Blaine in their previous interactions was just part of Sugar’s personality, not an indication of any romantic interest. While she could still be a bit overwhelming at times, Kurt had been able to enjoy himself much more once it was clear that she wasn’t crushing on his boyfriend.

Also invited on the trip was Jesse, at Rachel’s request. As soon as Kurt confronted her after the crowning ceremony, she’d admitted to her feelings for Jesse. They weren’t dating, per se, but there was something between them, and he’d been a constant figure at the palace over the last few weeks. He got on Kurt’s nerves more often than not, but he could see how Jesse and Rachel were suited for each other. He watched them now, both waist-deep in the ocean, splashing each other and laughing. Ever since the crowning, Rachel had seemed happier and more sure of herself. Kurt was glad that she’d found her place here, even if it meant he wouldn’t be able to share New York with her.

The bartender appeared with a new drink for Sugar. They sat there in amicable silence, paging through magazines and listening to the tide roll in. Kurt tried to enjoy the moment, to savor this experience of luxury and relaxation, but he couldn’t prevent his mind from wandering to the future. In 72 hours, he’d be flying back to Ohio, leaving behind the strange and magical world of Genovia. He knew that he’d be reuniting with Blaine in New York in a matter of weeks, but he also knew that this would still be the end of something. 

Once they were in New York, everything would be different. They’d have to worry about dodging paparazzi and avoiding random fans or critics of European royalty. Plus, any time he and Blaine wanted to go out for a date they’d be supervised by a member of the Genovian Secret Service, which seemed like it would put a damper on the romance. It wasn’t enough that he’d have to balance school and finding a job and making new friends and being a good boyfriend - he’d also have to avoid causing any international diplomatic scandals. He wondered whether the Daily Mail would start making up rumors about their relationship, and whether that kind of publicity would hinder his Broadway career. And what if the paparazzi ever snapped a picture of him on a rare bad hair day?

His thoughts were interrupted when something crashed into his lounge chair, and he looked up from his magazine to see Blaine climbing onto the chair, pushing Kurt’s legs out of the way to take a seat. Kurt rolled his eyes, but adjusted to make room for his boyfriend.

“All done with the ocean?” Kurt asked. Blaine’s whole body was damp, droplets of water clinging to his bare skin. His hair was curling with the water and briney air, and his arms were lined with goosebumps. He was grinning widely, looking disheveled and joyful. He didn’t appear particularly princely, but he looked like Blaine - the compassionate, goofy, brave boy that Kurt had fallen head over heels for.

“Yeah,” Blaine replied, leaning in closer. “It was boring without you, anyway.”

“You boys are too cute!” Sugar squealed. Kurt ignored her outburst as he pressed his lips against Blaines’, tasting the salt from the sea, feeling the warmth of Blaine’s skin.

They may still have had a long road ahead of them, but if this summer had taught Kurt anything, it was that sometimes things really did end happily ever after.

***

royalsofeurope_fashion

❤ 🗨 16,433 likes

royalsofeurope_fashion October 3, 2012 SPOTTED: Prince Blaine of Genovia, walking in Greenwich Village with unidentified friend #princeblaine #princeofgenovia #genovianmonarchy #royalfamily #royalfashion #streetfashion

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heartalso FRIEND??? they are HOLDING HANDS sis stormar wtf lol purple.princess wait is prince blaine gay? called it tbh     beyondthisillusion I mean yeah in that Gap video he is CLEARLY singing to a guy amareo 👀 kayceemarie14 god prince blaine is so dreamy i’m highkey jealous lefthandletter My friend goes to NYU and says she sees Blaine around campus all the time…apparently he always has a bodyguard with him but he’s super friendly micdropmichaela aww good for them sofi221b Get it, boys!! kurthummel @bdarenaldo at least they got my good side bdarenaldo ☑ all your sides are good <3     - View more replies

#my fic #fic: courting royalty #one shot #just a super fucking long one #klaine fic #klaine fanfiction #klaine321promptbang2022

[petrock42clone]

This is Siren Sparky, my first and at this point only Punch-Out!! OC.

Legal name: Skylor Scarlett

Gender identity: transfem (She/Her)

Age: 19

Height: 6'1

Weight: 156

Record: 36-1 (25 KO)

Circuit: Underground

Rank: Champion (not really though 'cause the Underground Circuit is unofficial)

Nationality: Cleveland Ohio

Hobbies: Playing electric guitar, Writing fanfics to cause chaos, Playing video games

Background: Ever since a building fire cost her arm at the age of 13, Sparky has been on the run with no place to call home. Well there actually was one place she could consider home when she was 17, and that home was the WVBA. Or more specifically their women's division. But the key word is "was" because the women's league quietly shut down in an efforts to save money.

When the women's league was shut down, each record associated with it were meant to be disposed of and discarded. However, Sparky's folder fell through the cracks and she managed to stay as one of the WVBA's ringside girls. No one suspecteda thing... Until the events of Punch-Out Wii happened.

Once the events of Mac's last stand were said and done, the ranks of all the boxers were sort of all over the place. And with a bunch of other boxers joining (the ones from the SNES game that never made it to Wii), an impromptu bonus season is held to fix the ranks.

Among the boxers who already established names for themselves, one showed up from what felt like thin air. Nothing was known about them, their face covered by the grey hoodie they always wore. But whoever they were, they were climbing the ranks and fast. Then they were at the end of the season, against the once undefeated champion Mr. Sandman.

It's not entirely known what happened next, but the unknown boxer's hood must have been knocked off revealing that she was Siren Sparky. In what felt like a moment of pure adrenaline, Sparky jumped up from the ground that she knocked down to and sent an electric punch flying towards her opponent, KOing them instantly.

The media that came afterwards was a wild fire. Any news site that you could think of was reporting about the sudden return of a well known member of the women's league. But the news quickly turned to controversy when Sparky made a post online mentioning how she would not become the new champion of the WVBA due to the head honcho of the WVBA, Mr. Dream stepping. Somewhere in the controversy, Sparky mentioned how she wasn't leaving the WVBA, but that it would be a year before she would be seen again.

Rumor has it that behind the main WVBA building in the Bronx, an underground group of the well known cheaters and misfits of the WVBA resides in an abandoned building. Let's just say their leader can leave an "electric" impact on you if you wrong anyone in their crew.

#punch out!! #punch out #punch out oc #punch out au #dont ask why the art is like that #i just drew it in ibis paint on my phone