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writingoddess1125 · 7 months

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saw ur request is finally open dlsksksks i hope modern au is your jam 🤞🏻

I would love to get your thought on buggy, shanks, and minawk reacting to reader accidentally sending them a nude pic 🤧

Oh I love you RN ❤️

Okay so did I go overboard? Absolutely Do I care? HELL NO!

You Accidently Send them a Nude Pic!

Buggy, Shanks, Mihawk

SPICY THEMES! ❤️‍🔥

You are gonna need some Ice cubes 🧊 after this one ;D

If you like please Support me on Ko-Fi

Buggy

"For fucks sake" You grumbled as you looked through google- You needed a specific pose for this commission, it was an expensive NSFW one and yet you could not find the right pose and for some reason couldn't figure it from memory-

"Fuck it time to go old school-" You grumbled, Peeling off your clothes and walking to the bedroom were your mirror was, Setting up you snapped a few pictures in the pose needed.

Looking at the few shots you couldn't help but pat yourself on the back. You looked good and got the pose perfectly- Dressing back you went back to your computer.

You kept your phone gallery opened to look at the photo, embarrassed you had to go to such lengths to do so- But money was money.

As you continued your sketch you saw a message ding and smiled- It was non other then Buggy, your close friend and truthfully your partner in crime.

Buggy Boo 🤡: U busy?

Me: Yeah I'm trying to find some references, but what's up?

Buggy Boo 🤡: NVM wanted to hang out

You smiled at this.

Me: You can still but at a price 😌

Buggy Boo 🤡: Price? 💰

Giggling you open up your text gallery. You scroll through the photos to find the McDonald's meme youd saved earlier and quickly sent it-

Me: Gotta Bring Me The Mickey D's 😩 💦

However you saw two images loading to be sent with the text. Raising a brow as you waited for it to load- However when it sent and showed you the second image you threw your device across the room.. there just below the McDonald's Meme was your nude reference photo.. You tried to panic unsend but saw he read it instantly.

Fuck FUCK FUCK!!!

Expecting a call or a WTF text of some sort but .

Silence- You didn't see him text back or anything. Fear eating you up inside as you thought the worse.. He's going to fucking hate you now- you two had just been really really good friends for years and maybe had a few drunken nights together however nothing like this!

In your panic you didn't realize how much time had passed before a knock snapped you from your thoughts.

You heard frantic knocks in your front door, surprised by the urgency of them and walked over- Opening the door your face flushed with what you saw. There was Buggy, with a shirt barely and clearly backwards, his hair down in thick waves looking wet and barely holding up his pants like he had gotten into clothes on the way to you however the 4 massive bag of McDonald's in his hand clued you in he had stopped at the restaurant right before.

"Buggy?-" You say shyly and face cherry red at seeing him in such a disheveled state- that and his boxers didn't exactly hiding him very well.

"I came over as fast as I could- I also got everything on the menu-" He said breathlessly holding up the bag and you glance to see his car parked sideways in your driveway, words seemed to leave you as you could practically see the desire in his gaze as he grinned widely.

He stepped forward and gently pushed you back into the house closing your door behind him as he quickly closed the space between you two, handing you the bag whicj you could barely hold onto.

"Gotta say, that was a welcomed surprised from you. I loved it~" He purred out, You squeaking in surprise at his words as his hands found their way to your hips.

"I have some modeling I'd like to see you do~ For art purposes of course" He said with a wink.

"Y-You actually liked those?" You manage out- Buggy laughed at this.

"Of course! It was sexy, flashy, surprising all at once. Not gonna lie if it wasn't for me needing to get the McDonald's I'd have came straight here and fucked you into the floor" He growled out in desire. You decided to not tell him you were joking about the McDonald's thing.

"In that case-" You sent the bag to the side and smiled as you felt him practically waiting for you to give the OK.

"Food can wait~"

Shanks

So bored- You thought as you laid on the couch of your boyfriends apartment. Shanks, The famed biker gang leader in your state. It was famous for his skills, the brutality of his gang and the unfortunate missing arm from a accident to save a child.

However for you he was just the love of your life- and also the one who had left 3 hours ago to do some sort of meet up with his gang which always ment leaving you behind-

Deciding to text him you open your phone to snapchat seeing he was still at the bar and sent a message.

Me: Red I'm Bored 😴

Red Head: I know Babe but I'll be home soon.

Me: It's been 3 hours 🙃

Red Head: Almost done here. I'll Bring you flowers if you're good.

You rolled your eyes- Flowers if your Good hm? You stewed for a moment before jumping up and marching to the bathroom. Maybe it was boredom or sexual frustration but you figured some teasing was in order- Deciding to take off your bottoms you poses in the mirror and snapped a quick picture. Smiling as you loaded it to send

Me: Good like this? {Image}

Prepared to hit send you stopped yourself and sgiggled... This was so stupid. Why would you do this? Rational thought clearing your heated mind and you tossed the phone on the couch to stop yourself.

"Just watch TV Jesus-" You said to yourself and plopped down. Turing in the TV but heard your phone rapidly ding, raising a brow you picked it back up and your face fell- It had sent dear God it had sent. It seemed when you tossed it the screen pressed sent by accdient.

Red Head: I'll be damned-

Red Head: Holy Shit did you just take this now?

Red Head: Baby?

Red Head: I'll be over in 10 minutes..

You saw Shanks text and you felt your face grow hot. This was not how you wanted it to happen but you weren't mad either-

In 8 minutes you heard a knock on the door and you quickly rushed over to open it. Assuming his hand was full-

He smiled at you, Holding the flowers in hand which had somehow survived his speedy ride to you.

"As promised flowers" He said with a grin and you stepped back so he could enter fully and took the flowers that were handed to you.

"Thank you" You say shyly but can't meet his gaze.

"You just love giving me a heart attack hm Love?" He purred out grabbing your chin gently to look up at him.

"I had to put away my phone so quickly cause I was at the bar with the gang" He said with a chuckle as you held the flowers close to your chest.

He leaned forward releasing your chin and began to kiss your check- His body pressing into you and you felt dizzy and warm.

"I-It was an accident" You Squeak out as Shanks layered kisses down your neck- His hand pulling you by your waist as he pulled you closer, your hand setting the flowers to whatever was closest to you as you felt warmth flutter through your body.

"Really?~ Didn't seem like one to me. As yoj said you were bored~" He said softly, you hadn't realized it but he had worked you two backwards till you felt the couch hit the back of your legs and you fell with a surprised yelp. Shanks smiling at this as he pulled away his leather jacket.

"Well let's make sure I don't leave you bored again~" He winked and lowered himself right after you.

Seems you were about to have the ride of your life~

Mihawk

You kicked off your heels with a sigh as you finally made it back to your home. Flopping on the couch with a groan- be a lawyer they said, You'll make a lot of money they said- BULLSHIT!

You were overworked, under paid and under laid- it was brutal honestly but you did like your work to some degree and you got to meet interesting people.

You hear a ding from your phone and sigh, already prepared for some client to email- But instead you were met with a text Ling saying your photos were ready.

Photos?... OH The Nude Boudoir Photos of yourself! Jumping up you quickly press the downloadable link and open it up quickly.

It had been a gift for yourself, when your confidence had been down and wanted something to make you feel beautiful and sexy. Opening up the downloaded folder you smiled, it was a bit weird to admire pictures of yourself but the photographer had done such a great job!

However you were cut off when another email rolled in- Sighing heavily as you saw it was non other then you poss and CEO of the firm Mihawk Dracule. The man was a sticklier about everything and he was just lucky he was hot or else you would have slammed a folder in his face by now-

Mihawk D: (Y/N) I need the file for Eros vs Tuller Case. Seems file did not send correctly.

You sigh, that wasn't hard and you'd already downloaded it on your phone. Attaching the document from you phone quickly you sent it-

So lucky!-

There it had been the last thing you...downloaded- wait... it hadn't been the last thing you downloaded.

Dread filled your chest as you slowly opened up your phone once again and clicked the downloaded tap- Seeing two downloaded files, slowly opening the file you sent Mihawk only to see your naked body...

You stared at your phone and screamed- Bloody. Murder

'NO NO NO NO-!!' You panicked as you literally through your phone across the livingroom.

"I'm so so fired I just sent my boss my naked photos!" You sobbed as you fell to the floor, your face as red as a tomato and you damn near cried. You hear another ding and crawl to your cracked device and took a look.

Mihawk D: Come to my office tommorow morning early. We have things to discuss.

You were dead- So very very dead... You cried that night and shot out your resume to several firms and waited for the next morning.

On cue you arrived to the firm brighf and early, having to psych yourself up before going in. You walked in to the building and up to the executive office- you half expected to see a box and a pink slip waiting for you- your head low as you stepped into your bosses office.

"Sir?.." You say softly, looking up you saw Mihawk sitting there looking through some papers- Your eyes focusing on what he was so interested in and you damn near had a heart attack. Seeing professional prints of your boudoir images on his desk and he was looking through them calmly, He glanced up at you finally seeing your wide eyes and flushed face he pointed you over to him calmly.

Slowly stepping forward you stood next to him behind the desk- Seeing the expensive professional prints of your intimate photos sprawled out.

"A-Am I fired?.." You finally asked, Your voice no better then a shaky whisper.

"No. I quite like these infact- I've had many people in my company who have tried to flirt, I was even curious when youd act.. But ive never seen one as bold as this" He said clearly amused, the humiliation burned in your chest- especially since he knew you had a crush on him.. but now you were curious why he didn't want to fire you.

He flicked back to one of the photos, one were you had worn something akin to a playbunny outfit made of lace. He tapped the imagine a bit playfully.

"I must say, This is by far my favorite out of the lot... I'd like to make a proposal to you" He said, craning his head to meet your eyes as a smirk played on his lips.

You felt your brain turn to mush.. first that he liked them and second that Mihawk Dracule was smiling- Had you died?!

"A date if you will, But I'd like to explore your skills in your modeling afterwards. Back at my home. If you're more comfortable with a written contract that is fine with me, but verbal is just as good" He stated calmly, Heat flushing your form at his words and you skittishly nodded.

"What would be the terms of this contract?" You ask shyly, Now more interested then you thought it would be. Mihawk reaching into his caot and pulled out a satin case, opening it to reveal a beautiful necklace, it was very classy looking and could truthfully be worn with anything- but you realized it was a infinity choker with a key lock in the back.

Warmth hitting your body once again asnyou realized what this represented.. A collar.

"Dates, a more personal relationship and some.. let's say recreations of these works?" He said calmly still holding his favorite one.

You thought for a moment, before running your fingers over the necklace and nodding softly.

"I agree to those terms" You say a bit playfully, Earning a smile from Mihawk. He stood up calmly and picked up the necklace, moving behind you as he carefully clasped it and locked it into place.

"Wonderful" He practically purred out and admired you for a moment. Head flooding your body once more at his golden gaze.

"I will pick you up tonight then, 8 sound good?" He asked, you agreeing and he patted your behind playfully.

"Good. Now Run along now Bunny, I still need the file for the Eros vs Tuller Case" He said amused, You nodding quickly.

"Yes Mr. Dracule" You say softly and as you stepped out a blush on your cheeks and a smile on your lips.

That went better then expected~

#x reader #one peice x reader #one piece #one peice live action #buggy one piece #buggy the clown x reader #one piece mihawk #buggy x reader #mihawk x reader #hawkeye mihawk #one piece shanks #shanks one piece #red haired shanks #shanks x reader #red haired shanks x reader

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mirai-e-jump · 12 days

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ViVi Magazine, June 2024 Issue ft. Murakami Erica, Watanabe Aoto & Ikeda Masashi (translations below)

Publication: 4/23/2024

The King-Ohger co stars are a friendly trio Murakami Erica x Watanabe Aoto x Ikeda Masashi

Enjoying genderless "share t-shirts"

If you incorporate a unisex t-shirt into your outfit, you can achieve an easy, high end fashionable look 💛. It's also nice to share and enjoy them together with your boyfriend or friends.

Q: Tell us about a recent TMI (too much info)

Ikeda: For me, my chapstick always ends up somewhere before it's used up. Where does it always go?!

Erica: I've been busy moving across the country due to my family's relocation! I decluttered more than 10 bags during the cleanup. I think luck is coming my way 💛

Watanabe: TMI……you mean like blood sugar level?! Ah, that's not it either (laughs). My allergies act up during the first week of pollen season, but after that I'm fine. There are other people like that, right?

Q: What do you want to do this Spring?

Erica: I want to relax in the shade of a tree when it becomes warmer. I want to buy some dangos and donuts and spend my time watching movies and dramas.

Watanabe: Cherry blossom viewing. It's so fleeting when the cherry blossoms fall……(he gently holds Ikeda's hand). I'd like to eat a handmade bento while taking in the scent of Spring…(he gazes at Ikeda).

Ikeda: I'd like to challenge myself to go camping. Things like outdoor BBQ's are just the best, aren't they? At night, with Aoto beside me, we'd talk while looking at the stars……

Watanabe: In the tent, Masashi and I would be curled up in the same blanket. It gets cold at night, so…..

Erica: Alright, that's enough of that!! (laughs). _

"Introduce each other to the ViVi readers!"

Ikeda: Erieri's (Erica) face is really too small! Her skull's a champion. She's the big sister among the King-Ohger members.

Watanabe: Yeah. She's an airhead, but very caring!

Erica: Eh~ Thank you 💛. Aoto feels like the kind older brother, while Masashi is the second oldest who says too much.

Watanabe: Masashi is by far the whitest! He's like a reflector, illuminating everywhere he goes (laughs).

"What do you think of today's t-shirts?"

Erica: I like the loose fit. The shoulders are dyed unevenly, giving it a cute vintage look! I think you can wear it with denim for a masculine look, or match it with a miniskirt!

Ikeda: My "remake t-shirt" has a zipper and alternate designs that give off the feeling of an incomplete main character. This is cute on its own, but the jacket wrapped around the waist gives it a more feminine look.

Watanabe: Heart motifs worn by men are pretty rare, right? Depending on your hair style, you can wear it as cool or cute!

"If you exchanged t-shirts, how would you wear them?"

Erica: If I were to wear Aoto's heart t-shirt, I'd wear it with a mini skirt, lace socks, and mary janes for a "naughty girly" look!

Ikeda: If I were to wear Erieri's t-shirt, I'd make use of colors and patterns to create a one tone look!

Watanabe: Then, I'll wear Masashi's remake t-shirt with a unique hat and shoes to give it alittle more character. I want to go to a theme park while looking good. _

(Bottom of page)

(Masashi) Pure white prince (Isn't he too fleeting? he's going to disappear). by Aoto

(Erica) Princess Erica, of divine skeletal structure, descends here. by Masashi

(Aoto) Isn't he a genuine model?! I'm now realizing his appeal! by Erica

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samheughanswife · 20 days

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Midhope/Lallybroch is not Dollywood

Interesting to see speculation that Sam’s recently incorporated company will be the linchpin toward a Sassenach Spirits distillery.

Lallybroch is the home of JAMMF and by extension the Sassenach of his heart, Claire. It’s unique to DG books and the OL series.

It’s fair to say SS and its best seller The Sassenach is niche in the crowded celebrity booze market.

Establishing Lallybroch as SS distillery will take millions of pounds and time. Time that stares down a ticking clock to the completion of series eight and the end of OL, JAMMF, Claire and their daughter and grandchildren.

The draw to get bus loads through to the OL theme distillery and make it profitable is Sam and only Sam. Will his broad JAMMF shoulders be able to shoulder the burden?

That requires faith, hope and the charity of a fandom that will just have watching the series on repeat and of course Cons in perpetuity.

Could the business model be that a Glasgow Con will be in the grounds of the Lallybroch distillery?

🤔

The legend that is Dolly Parton brings patrons to her theme park, and it struggles.

Can this small niche fandom deliver in the initial stages of operation financial stability to grow and be profitable.

Ambitious goals are to be applauded. It’s the entrepreneurs of the business world who take big risks who are both rewarded and crushed.

Let’s see what the weekend delivers. Sam will have a section of his fandom literally in the palm of his hands. They will buy everything he sells.

He has titillated that he has news and going to Lallybroch with what looks like plans, well he is the ring master.

This way ladies.

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fushipurro · 4 months

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In the Shadows of Love

Chapter 4 - Debut

<- Previous Chapter | Masterlist | Next Chapter ->

☆ Content: 18+ MDNI, depression, insecure/intrusive thoughts, angst, mentions of alcohol

☆ Word Count: 7.3k

The day you’ve been dreading has come at last.

The week leading up to now has been miserable to say the least, with one thing happening after another. Not only that, but your sleep has been suffering as well. A few times you struggled to keep your eyes open, and then other moments you powered through the day only to stare wide-eyed at the ceiling begging for sleep to come.

You can only hope the few hours of sleep you did manage to get will be enough for the day to come, and that the bags under your eyes aren’t too noticeable. It’s one thing to be a regular model, but another to handle the business side of it as well. But after today, you’ll have the respite your body craves.

When morning arrives, you take a nice long everything shower to prepare yourself for the day ahead. The rest of your looks are to be handled by professionals on site – makeup included. Hence why all you need to do is come dressed in the epitome of casualwear. You’ll be changing into a dozen outfits throughout the shoot, so no sense in wearing the fanciest your closet as to offer.

A message appears on your phone from the taxi service waiting on you outside. With your purse in hand, you kiss Tsumiki goodbye, and make your way out the building. It’s odd walking around at this time of day, where normally you’re sound asleep while others move to and fro with their lives.

You get to your ride without issue – aka, no neighborly conversations – and settle into the backseat of the car. From there, you keep your eyes to the world around you, silently screaming the longer it takes to get to your destination. At this point you just want to get it over and done with to get back to the sanctity of your home for some much-needed relaxation.

You pity the driver for having to put up with the incessant bouncing of your legs and the tapping of your fingers, but until the day is over, you won’t know peace.

It all feels so much more real once the site of the shoot comes into view. It’s a luscious garden park, packed to the brim with various scenery. You’re able to see the crew hard at work in setting up the area, and even more as the car comes to a stop for you to make your entrance, truly setting the day in motion.

For a while, you weren’t sure who you were even going to be working with today. A part of you hoped it might be Mei Mei, or one of the other female models to help you feel more at ease. Girls stick together, being the motto you cling to, hoping the other party would feel the same about you. You’re told however that you’ll be modeling with none other than the Satoru Gojo.

A legend in this field, a star above them all, like Polaris of the northern skies.

He’s a man with perfectly white hair – which seems like a recurring theme when you look at Mei Mei or her younger brother from the same company – and eyes that put the brilliance of sapphires to shame. The rest is all in his genes and the physique he’s sculpted over years of hard work and discipline.

You’ve been a long-time follower of his on social media, amazed by how effortless he makes modeling appear. His high energy, charismatic personality he shows off online is another appeal. A social butterfly, an extroverted type you sometimes wish you could be like.

By all means, that should make you feel better about working with him today, but you’d argue it makes it that much worse.

Does meeting your heroes ever go well for anyone?

Is it worth potentially ruining the image you’ve cultivated in your head from their online presence versus the actual knowledge you get from meeting them in public?

At the end of the day, who knows? You’re about to find out one way or another, so let’s hope he’s one of the good ones.

They chose a beautiful venue for the magazine, as the park is heavily adorned in trees showcasing the vibrant warm colors autumn has to offer. The main shooting area is set around a large fountain where you can make out all the crisp leaves floating like petals in the spring. Close to the park is a spot in town filled with more historic buildings, works of architectural genius you admire like it’s a game of The Sims. It makes the perfect location for the looks you’ll be showing off.

Your eyes eventually land on none other than your boss/agent/manager – whatever you want to call him, Kento Nanami.

He’s been there for you since day one, acting in whatever role he needs to be for you to succeed in the business. At his side are a few other men and women, nearly all familiar faces from the meetings you’ve had or profile pictures, courtesy of their email accounts.

You approach the group with your hands folded neatly in front of you, trying to discretely rub away the clammy texture of your palms. Handshakes are inevitable, so you might as well be prepared now.

The blond calls out your name as you step closer, “Glad you could make it, we’re almost ready to begin.” His face remains calm, appearing professional as ever, but there’s a hint of a smile surfacing at the edges of his lips.

One of the men in the group stretches his hand out for what you’ve been expecting, and you cautiously oblige. “It’s a pleasure to finally meet you in person,” he states with your name punctuating his words. “I’m Masamichi Yaga, Satoru’s manager. We’re looking forward to working with you today.”

You have to say, while he seemed overly serious and admittedly scary online, and even now in person with his rigid stature, it’s different up close. Seeing him here, shows you that – while serious, yes, there’s a friendly undertone to the man. A panda, one might compare him to. Still classified as a bear with the claws to show for it, but one you could hug and come out unscathed.

You manage to get your words across through shaky breaths, a semblance of your composure, “Thank you, the pleasure is all mine.”

“Satoru hasn’t arrived yet, but you should go and get started with the makeup artist,” Kento informs you. There’s a disgruntled tone in his voice at the mention of the model, and it reminds you of how he sounded during that meeting you were late for at the start of this all.

It’s not often you hear your boss annoyed with someone; another reason you feel lucky to work under him. He’s always fair to you and others, and never the type to berate his fellow employees. Overtime is few and far, one that he has little tolerance for.

“Right away, Mr. Nanami.” You bow to the group, taking your leave with an anxious strut. Once you’re far enough way, you let out the breath you’ve been holding, regaining yourself with a quick calming exercise.

Getting your hair and everything done happens to be one of your favorite parts of modeling. Your biggest task is merely to sit in a chair in silence, letting the artists work you from a blank canvas to a completed piece.

What could be better for someone socially inept?

This wasn’t the usual artist that does your work, so either they’re with the partner agency or some other sponsor judging by the matching brands in their setup. You’re tense as they work, eyes closed and all, with a sense of dread bubbling in your gut.

A pat on your shoulder startles you after some time, jolting you in your seat much to the artist’s dismay. “Hey there! You must be Nanamin’s protégé,” he chirps while bright blue eyes stare eagerly into yours, piercing what feels like straight to your soul.

“Protégé?” you question with a meek sounding tone.

He doesn’t satiate your curiosity on the matter, instead opting to introduce himself, “I’m Satoru, it’s nice to meet you.” The man smiles, taking a seat in the chair next to yours confidently.

“Likewise, looking forward to working with you,” you respond, your eyes unmoving from his direction.

His makeup artist comes over and begins their work, though there’s not much of anything that needs to be done, given how naturally blessed he is in the looks department. There’s not a single speck or blemish that tarnishes his skin, so the most he gets are a few highlights here and there and something to add a bit of a sparkle around his celestial bodies for eyes.

It wouldn’t surprise you if each had their own name depending on his level of vanity. Perhaps Sirius and Regulus would be most suited for him, in your opinion.

Then again, you can also name about four other blue-burning stars off the top of your head. But, since only two lie in front of you, you’ll just have to go with the ones that outshine the rest.

It haunts you that one of your first thoughts meeting him is one built on envy – annoyed that you feel the need to compare your appearance to him. There are a dozen reasons you chose to become a model, none of which involved the crippling self-loathing that comes when it starts to feel like a competition.

May the prettiest one win, some might say.

You wonder that if in another life, if you were born with all the features you desire and deem attractive, if you would be better off. Able to live life without fear of not being enough, never having to second guess yourself in the mirror you so wish to send your fist through on a daily basis.

Would you be happy then?

Would you finally be loved?

Suddenly, your vision meets cyan once more. Shit, how long have you been staring?

“You ever been on a magazine cover before?” he asks, oblivious to the turmoil you face in your head.

Of course not. “No, I haven’t. This is my first time.”

He makes a noncommittal hum in response, and you feel his gaze turning intrusive by the second. Not in a creepy way – no, more like he’s reading you, thinking hard about something unknown to you. “That’s surprising for a protégé of Nanamin… What do you normally do then?”

You aren’t sure whether to question his continuous use of that nickname for your boss or why he believes you to be some apprentice to him, but for now you choose to ignore it, answering, “Commercial modeling, but I do more marketing than anything, really.” Your tone makes it appear as though it’s unimpressive, and sometimes you do feel that way. “More ‘behind the scenes’ work.” You add, shrugging nonchalantly after.

“Wait till this magazine drops, you’ll be getting this many new calls,” he drawls with a show of his hands to emphasize his point.

Your eyes drift away with a subtle roll to them. Yeah, we’ll see about that.

Of the many reasons you became a model, fame and fortune were never the goal either. Sure, being popular enough to maintain a stable influx of opportunities is favorable, but you don’t desire runway status. Cheers to the ones that do want it, but that isn’t you.

Satoru doesn’t push more conversation after. In fact, about a minute later he’s up and out of the chair, all finished with the minimal detailing necessary to make his features pop.

Your artist continues their work for a while after, with a hair stylist now with you as well, and only then were you permitted to finally go and get changed in one of the areas provided for the models.

Of everything today has had to offer so far, the scariest bit has to be the clothing rack, by far. As expected of a high fashion company, what lies on the hangers are nothing short of expensive. One piece of fabric alone costs about as much as a few months’ worth of rent, if that.

You were fitted into the first of several outfits to come, terrified the whole way through if something were to potentially rip and have to come out of your own pocket as punishment. While that’s never happened, there’s a first time for everything. Please don’t be today.

On the way out of the room, you make it your forefront thought to avoid the mirror calling out to you like a siren lulling you to your demise. All it would take is one look to have you ensnared, or rather petrified.Turned to stone by your gaze alone, picking apart every little detail to ruin whatever façade you try and hold for the cameras that await.

Satoru is already at the fountain when you arrive, waving as you fall into his orbital pull. His signature sunglasses do little to hide the glimmer of light behind them, but the smile plastered across his face burns equally bright to compensate anyways.

“Don’t you look nice?” he muses, letting his shades fall further down the bridge of his nose while his head angles down. “That outfit suits you quite a bit.”

Under normal circumstances, a blush might try to form along your face. Maybe if it was Toji –but then we’d be getting off track. The main feeling that plagues you in this moment is that of being out of place; a rock amidst a pile of a perfectly cut diamonds.

Pluto, blending in amongst the other eight planets, yet still shunned if we’re keeping to celestial themes.

At best, you might compare to an opalite crystal. Pretty – yes, but ultimately glass at the end of the day. Your hues can be manipulated, carefully crafted to ascertain a certain degree of beauty. But all it takes is one wrong move to scratch or shatter you and then all that effort was for naught.

A pile of shards no more worthy than dust.

“Nanamin!” The man in front of you bellows out with joy, snapping you from your solemn reverie. He throws his arm over the blond’s shoulders in a casual manner, eliciting a groan from the latter. “It’s been too long! Why don’t you come around more often?”

“It’s been one week, Gojo.” His response is monotone, and his arms are kept folded in front of his chest as he tries to maintain an air of indifference.

“Aww, come on, don’t be like that.” Satoru visibly frowns, puffing out his cheeks.

Choosing to ignore more of his bantering, Kento’s attention turns to you while simultaneously addressing the other, “If you’re both ready, we can get started.”

The moment of truth.

You give him a thumbs up and a forced smile better described as a fine line. Kento shrugs himself off Satoru, stepping close enough to place a hand over your shoulder with a reassuring grip. “Try to relax, and do your best,” he nearly whispers with a fatherly tone melding within his words, “You’re more than ready for this.”

And with that, the photoshoot officially begins.

With a few calming breaths later and those words of assurance playing back in your head, your façade is up and at the ready the moment the cameras start flashing.

Pose after pose, you work in tangent with Satoru while the crew fires off their instructions for the perfect photos. His playfulness is still apparent ─ albeit reigned in. It’s now more in a way that comes across as him wanting to get a reaction out of you. Like he knows you have a proverbial mask on, playing it off as stoicism. Maybe those eyes see more than you realize.

Of course he’s not only good looking, but an exceptional model to match. He doesn’t need to try so hard to give the people what they want. Compliments are showered upon him, yet narcissism doesn’t appear to be a high point in his personality when it all-too-easily could.

Rather, he seems more uncaring to the simple words of praise. Finding more joy in doing whatever feels best in the moment with unrivaled confidence.

You don’t mean to sound bitter and cold. Jealousy just so happens to be an emotion so deeply rooted that if you try to pry it away, it would be no different than grasping a bed of thorns with the palms of your hands. A weed that you can never fully eradicate.

All you want is to feel happy ─ pretty, not so much wanted as a desire to be enough.

It’s easy to be affected by the words of others. For every bit of kindhearted justification you hear, it’s one step towards helping you be able to tell yourself the same things. To get to a point where you can finally feel satisfied with yourself. To never have to ask if you’re even worthy of being alive when you feel so lacking.

That’s why when the cameras come on, you envision exactly what it is you so desperately wish to be. A picture speaks a thousand words. If so, then you hope the ones from today tell the story you dream about in your head each night as you drift away to sleep.

Modeling for you was always about finding that confidence in yourself. To see yourself in the eyes of others, proving that by having this title in life, you can make it a reality that perhaps yes, you are pretty.

You can be anything and everything you want to be.

The action carries on throughout the day with intermittent breaks in between outfit changes and other touchups to your hair and makeup. You have your moments of conversation with the marketing team and crew, sometimes making more effort to discuss what needs to be done over actually utilizing the short bit of time to rest and recoup.

Contrary to what might be popular belief, as a model ─ you aren’t there to stand and look pretty for the cameras. You’re not there to stand for a total of five minutes and then go home rich. It’s dedication and hard work to present the perfect image of yourself for the rest of the world to see.

You may be there waging one-sided wars in your head the entire time, but you still put your all into what you do. Perfection is a journey with an impossible destination, but nevertheless, it’s still the path you’ll traverse.

At the end of the day when the skies morph into a lovely collage of orange and pink hues and the final few photos are taken, you return to the dressing room to shed the covers of imitated beauty. Before that happens, you make the mistake of letting the mirror pull you in, too exhausted to otherwise fight the Damocles sword that hangs right there waiting.

The reflection in the glass is indeed you, but at the same time it’s not. A stranger in your own skin. More likely what the cameras outside were capturing away. The performance you gave that stemmed from a number of fantasies for all the “what if?” life scenarios.

She’s beautiful, you think, admiring the glow of her skin from the sheen of sweat.

Like lipstick on a pig, another half of you cackles, burning holes in all your self-deemed imperfections.

The makeup’s not bad like you originally thought it might be, but it’s also not your usual preference, and greatly overdone. Almost like an attempt to paint you anew. A coverup to an already stained canvas.

Nothing you do is ever enough to vanquish the perpetual tempest that encircles your mind, trapping you beneath torrential thoughts of insecurities. Telling yourself in the mirror you’re pretty doesn’t do anything either, not when you can’t bring yourself to believe it. To you, that’s just one big lie and you can’t stand liars.

It’s even worse when the clothes come off and it’s now just you in your natural form. A cruel reminder to the lengths you have to go to feel redeemable. Even if you told yourself earlier that luxury isn’t you, it sure does a good job at making you feel like someone you’re not. Sometimes that’s a refreshing change.

You eventually finish changing back into the clothes you arrived in, exiting the room with your phone in hand. Your sanctuary awaits, and you’re more than ready to get back to the only place you find solace in. You’re quickly reminded that fate is a fickle thing, always weaving you in a web of red string when you hear the calling of your name. The sound draws your attention upwards to the ever-cheerful man skipping your way.

“Yo!” Satoru waves to you gleefully. “What do you think about going out to celebrate our first gig together over some drinks?” he inquires with expectant eyes that border on looks a puppy might give.

Confusion bubbles up, mixing with your avoidant nature to make a cocktail poisonous only to you if you allow it. Why would someone like him want to go out with someone like you?

“That’s okay, I’m sure you must be tired after today,” is what you respond with. Not a total lie, but it gives you a way out even if it means drinking from the tainted cup of emotions.

“Nonsense, I could keep going for hours!” he refutes with never faltering amusement. “Think about it!” he further begs, with the front of his hands pressed together. “I invited some others too, so it’ll be a whole group of fun!”

Why did I even agree to this…

You’ve been following slightly behind Satoru for several blocks on aching feet from a day of standing in heels. Trying to keep up with his long-legged strides proves difficult, but not impossible. The sunset skies have dimmed, now replaced by the neon lights of the downtown area. It has its beauty, but it can’t compare to the lights of the natural sky.

He stops abruptly in front of a brick building, almost causing you to crash into him. “We’re here!” he cheers, all while you’re immediately taken aback by the sign hanging above the doorway: Star Plasma.

Toji’s workplace.

Your neighbor’s been on your mind sporadically throughout the day. Between Kento’s words and that of Toji’s from the week prior, they’ve helped to keep you afloat in a river of self-loathing.

Inside the club, you’re met with various velvet-lined booths in every direction and a crowd of people filling the space. At the center lies a large, oval-shaped bar too swarmed with patrons to make out if Toji is among the ones working this very night.

The atmosphere and overall design of the place bear a resemblance to that of a strip club, although it lacks the trademark poles on stages deemed for entertainment. That section is occupied with instruments currently not in use. There are some other rooms in the back, but their designated uses remain unknown at this time.

“Over here!” Satoru calls out your name, reminding you of why you’re here to begin with.

He leads the way back to a booth where two others sit in waiting. One is man heavily adorned in ink from what you can make out. His long, silky black hair is half tied up in a bun that reveals the large piercings settled in his ears. The other is a woman with mid-length brown hair and familiar shades of purple beneath her eyes, evident of a lack of sleep you know all too well. She nestles a glass in her hand, its contents another mystery to you.

The two of them you recognize from posts on Satoru’s instagram, but anything more eludes you as their profiles are set to private.

Satoru scoots in next to the man and their lips greet each other. “Who’s your new friend?” The black-haired one questions, looking you over with a curious eye. You aren’t sure how to act, and thus are awkwardly standing at the edge of the booth.

“The model I was working with today,” Satoru introduces with a telling of your name. His hands raise to gesture to those at his side. “This is Suguru, my boyfriend, and our third wheel, Shoko!”

“Your third wheel wants another drink, Satoru,” she scoffs, flashing an empty glass in front of his face. “These are going on your tab for being late, by the way.”

“Yeah, yeah.” Satoru waves her off, placing his focus back on you. “What do you want to drink?”

“Oh, uh–“ Now you look even more awkward than before. “I’ve never had alcohol so I’m not sure…” Your voice lowers gradually by the end of your sentence.

The three look to you with equal levels of shock. “Leave it to me then!” He beams, pressing a fist to his chest. He slips out of the booth making his way to the bar.

You watch him leave before feeling a hand tugging at your wrist. “Come on, sit down!” Shoko beckons, urging you to sit at her side. You take her up on it, fidgeting with your hands underneath the table to ease the nerves. It’s been years at least since you last had a sit-down like this outside of work. How are you supposed to act?

“It’s nice to meet you,” Suguru breaks the ice with Shoko following in turn with the same greeting.

Your body involuntarily tenses up as you become aware to how their eyes are examining you. “Y-yeah, nice to meet you as well.”

“Satoru doesn’t typically invite coworkers out, have you two known each other for long?” the man interrogates, though his demeanor is rather friendly. If anything, there’s more of a protective hint to his words.

While shaking your head, you reply, “No, we just met earlier today.”

“Word of advice ─ run,” Shoko snickers, earning a disapproved glare from Suguru. “I’m kidding,” she follows up, drawing out her words playfully. “But seriously, don’t be afraid to tell him ‘no’ to anything you’re not comfortable with. He can be a lot to someone not used to him, but he means well.”

Now this is a perfect example of one of those girls you know you can rely on to have your back. You don’t have any issues with Satoru, but it still makes you happy to feel like someone’s looking out for you.

It wasn’t long after that Satoru returns, skillfully balancing several drinks in hand. Sake for Suguru, whiskey for Shoko, a very colorful ─ no doubt fruit flavored cocktail for himself given the smell, and lastly, a margarita for you. The group demands a small toast “To friendship!” Satoru remarks before your glasses all meet in the middle.

One by one, they each take sips from their respective cups while you’re more occupied with swirling the thin straw around your drink. The smell is…unique, more pungent than anything. If you close your eyes, it almost smells like lemonade which you can enjoy, until that first sip hits your tongue.

Then it’s just harsh and bitter instead of sour or sweet.

The three watch in earnest at your first step into the world of alcohol, remembering their own experiences while your face scrunches up in disgust. Shoko pats your back soothingly to help you through the coughing fit as it took everything in you to not gag and embarrass yourself.

“Don’t worry, you’ll get used to the taste the more you drink,” Satoru muses. But honestly, how does anyone like this stuff, let alone to come back for more? “I invited Nanamin too, but he turned me down by saying he’s busy like always,” he adds with an obvious pouty face.

Shoko sighs, “Did you forget how much of a workaholic he is?”

“Speak for yourself, but you still came!” he retorts with a simpering smile.

She then points an accusative finger at him. “I’m not turning down alcohol, especially when you’re footing the bill.”

“Oh, is that right?” he sarcastically replies, “Don’t act like you don’t love us, Sho.”

“Even if Heaven and Earth turned upside down–“

“Now, now,” Suguru intervenes like that of a scolding mother. “Let’s not frighten off our new friend here.”

The two mumble apologies even though you can’t help the joy that bubbles up. Being a third or fourth wheel can have its issues at times ─ namely if you’re being excluded from the group ─ but sitting back and watching them banter away is plenty enjoyable for you.

One comment they made however caught your attention. “You guys know Mr. Nanami?”

“Sure do!” Satoru chirps, more than happy you asked. “The four of us went to school together and after graduation, Nanamin and I ended up in the modeling business. It wasn’t until a few years ago he decided to take up a managing role. Not sure why, he was doing just fine.” He shrugs.

Disbelief hits you like a high-tide wave. “He was a model?”

“You didn’t know?” Your question apparently astonishes him. He pulls his phone out, swiping through it a few times before passing it to you from across the table. “I’m surprised you didn’t know, what with you being his protégé and all.”

“I don’t know about protégé, but…” your voice trails off as you examine the pictures. Sure enough, these photos are indeed your boss, varying from tourism magazines to modeling business suits from highly reputable designers.

The notion that he was a model isn’t farfetched; it’s a thought that’s crossed your mind a dozen times given his handsome looks. Having the confirmation now with physical proof to back it up has your mouth held agape at the newfound information.

“He never mentioned any of this to me before,” you murmur.

“I’m not shocked,” Suguru chimes in. “Kento’s always been more reserved when it comes to himself.”

“Are you two in the industry as well?” You direct your question to Suguru and Shoko who look back with raised eyebrows that border on amusement.

Satoru decides to be the one to answer in place, “Nope! Suguru here is a tattoo artist, and Shoko’s a doctor.”

Suddenly, the plethora of tattoos make a whole lot more sense. That, and Shoko’s eyebags. Your eyes wander to the art you can see around the revealed sections of the upper half of his body. They range from subtle beauty to grotesque in nature, the majority being creatures straight out of folklore but more imaginative ─ the product of nightmares, more or less.

The trail of ink stops just short of his jawline, but that alone leads into how he styles himself with piercings. There are the obvious black pearls on the lobes, but he also has one right through his eyebrow. As he speaks, there’s even a glint of one on his tongue and who knows where else.

“Like what you see?” Suguru purrs and your eyes snap up to meet his golden-brown gaze. He tries to show off more from his arms, as much as his current clothes will allow, and your favorite might have to be the rainbow dragon stretching from his neck to somewhere beneath his shirt.

You retreat to your drink, only for the bitter taste to remind you of its existence. “Y-yeah, they look really nice,” you tell him with the hint of a blush.

Shoko takes to lightly smacking his shoulder, falling into the effects alcohol has to offer. “Looks like you finally found a fan of your twisted style, Suguru.”

“Hey, what about me?” Satoru frowns, wanting some of his own attention from you. “What did you think about today? Those clothes were great, huh? I might have to buy some for later.”

Your eyes can’t help but fall to your lap as the memory resurfaces of your earlier turmoil. You’ll admit that it went better than expected, and you’re glad it’s over with now, but as always, you’re left to deal with the aftermath of the storm.

“You looked amazing!” You exclaim, and you’re not at all lying. “Perfect for the magazine.” Him, not you.

“Right? I loved that outfit you had on–“

Satoru continues to talk but there’s a buzz that forms in your ears, separate from the music of the club that keeps you from understanding anything other than your own mind. It feels as though your stomach is being twisted into knots and the earlier tension hits you in full once again.

You still don’t understand why they wanted you so bad for this, and to pair you up with such a highly regarded model.

Your follower count is nothing close to his; you’re practically a nobody. It could have been done out of pity, those two are friends after all. Maybe it could’ve been a way to shame you, to prove to you that–

“Helloooo?”

“Huh? Sorry?”

“There you are, almost thought the alcohol finally started to get to you.” Satoru smirks, leaning back in his seat. “You alright?”

“Yeah, I’m just gonna go use the restroom.” You force a smile as you stand, picking a random direction to walk in. “I’ll be right back!”

Your back’s turned before they even have a chance to respond. It took a bit of searching, but eventually you found the bathroom, slipping your way inside. You can’t help but idle in front of the mirror, staring at yourself in the reflection. There are some stray hairs to tame and running makeup to fix, but all in all, you aren’t sure what else you have left to feel.

It's likely all the lack of sleep is finally catching up on you. Being overly exhausted never does any favors as the tired mind can be quite cruel, hence you teetering on the edge of breaking down in tears.

At least when you return home to Tsumiki you’ll feel better. Your sweet little girl that helps give you a reason to keep going despite it all. The earnings from this photoshoot will do nicely in affording some fresh new toys to pamper her with, and you find yourself growing impatient to see her.

You leave the bathroom with a more freshened mind and a goal in sight, but you’re stopped short of your return to the booth when your name is called in a familiar baritone tune. Its source ─ your one and only neighbor, perched over the counter, shining away at some crystal.

“Hi Toji,” you greet, coming up to the empty barstool in front of him. “I didn’t know you were working tonight.”

You also didn’t expect to see how polished he looks while on the job. Here, you find him in black dress pants, a white button down with the sleeves rolled up to his elbows, some silver hardware, and half his bangs smoothed back. If it weren’t for him being behind the counter all dolled, you’d peg him as a bouncer the way his muscles are straining.

“Should’ve told me you wanted to come by, I’d have offered a ride.”

“Oh, I’m actually with a group right now.” You look towards your booth where Satoru has his hands in the air, wildly gesturing for whatever they’re conversing about.

Toji follows your eyes with recognition. “Ah, that kid,” he teases, acting as if he’s not right there in age with all of you. “Had me make that unicorn jungle juice shit for him. How he’s not overdosing on sugar is beyond me.” He rolls his eyes before meeting yours once again.

His quick-witted tongue leaves you giggling, proving to be just what you needed to relax. “Yeah, he invited me here after we finished that photoshoot I mentioned before, and I couldn’t exactly say no, so…here I am.” You laugh again, but it’s a tad bit dry, given your state of exhaustion.

Looking at him now after the day you’ve had, you find it far too easy to get lost in his green gaze. While there’s no good star you could compare them to, the Earth around you is all you need. From luscious forests to precious metals, jades and emeralds might be the best metaphors. Malachite on the other hand offers a uniqueness suited for this one-of-a-kind man.

They scan you intently, bordering on the same look a Nikon camera offers. A shutter comes in the form of blinks, capturing you to store away in his memory for as long as he can.

“That was today, huh?” He pauses, green ripples softening as pools of black spread outwards. “How’d it go?”

Words are lost on you as you try and piece together what to tell him. A small sliver of you wants to be honest when he’s proven to be a good listener, but you also think he gets enough of that on the job.

“It was…good? Busy, mostly,” you reply, keeping it short and sweet. You can’t imagine how many drunkards come spilling their guts, expecting him to act as their therapist. You don’t want to bring any unnecessary stress to him when he’s trying to pay the bills like anyone else.

“Yeah?” Another patron interrupts before he can continue, forcing Toji to make his order, but not without some cursing spilling from under his breath. When he returns to you, he loses that tension, leaning his forearms against the counter. “You know, I almost didn’t recognize you at first when you were walkin’ by.”

“Because of all the makeup, I guess?” you huff, “Yeah, it’s bad–“

“It’s good,” he cuts you off mid-sentence and you feel your breath hitch. “Different than your usual, but not bad. Not like you need all that to begin with,” he continues without so much as missing a beat, leading you suck your lips inwards in a coy manner.

Toji looks satisfied as he flashes you a pearly white canine beneath his crooked grin. “I take it you’re celebrating then, what did that brat get for you?”

You chuckle at his feigned hostility towards Satoru, knowing full well he’s only kidding around. “I think he said it’s a margarita. I’m not sure though, it’s my first-time drinking.”

His reaction is a lot less surprised than the other three. “How do you like it?”

You snort, “Not great, if I’m being honest. I don’t know how anyone can stomach it.”

“Tell me about it,” he scoffs, raising a hand to gesture in disbelief before dropping it back to the counter with a small thud. “Can’t stand that shit.”

“Huh?” You stare at him, taken aback.

He raises an eyebrow at you in response. “What?”

“Nothing,” you breathe. “Just wondering why you’re a bartender if you hate alcohol that much.”

“Gotta pay the bills somehow, doll.” He winks, the smirk of his returning for a hot second. “If you want, I can make you somethin’ that’s easier to swallow?”

You’re hesitant, but ultimately willing to trust the man and give it a go. “Sure, I’d like that.”

Toji now has a goal in mind to impress you, making this worth your while so that maybe you’ll come back another night.

He reaches under the bar, pulling out an assortment of supplies, gauging what he knows of you to make the perfect drink. You can’t help but be mesmerized by how he mixes everything, verging on being a showoff about it too, but overall similar to how a hibachi grill might perform for patrons.

The difference is, this one is all for you, made special by him.

He empties the contents into a tall, narrow glass, topping it off with a tiny umbrella of your favorite color and a few extra slices of your favorite fruit along the rim. “Enjoy, sweetheart.” He winks again, sliding the liquid potion your way with deft fingers. His confidence is apparent, believing in his skills.

The suddenness of hearing “sweetheart” from the man no doubt has your face feeling warm, complimented by the color of the drink. There’s still some hesitation as you lift it to your mouth, but after one taste, you admit that it’s not so bad ─ better even, compared to the previous concoction. Any tinge of alcohol your palate detects is washed away thanks to the fruity aftertaste and whatever else he threw in.

“So?” he drawls, eager to hear what he already knows is sweet victory.

“It’s…good, I like it, actually,” you tell him with a smile, enjoying another sip after. “What do I owe you for it?”

“For you?” He leans closer, his grin widening. “On the house. Don’t worry about cost tonight.”

“Toji, you cannot keep doing this for me!” you argue, attempting to pull out your wallet when his hand stops you right in your tracks.

“Too bad,” his voice drops to a smooth, gravely tone. He’s fully aware of what he’s doing. “It’s my treat for your celebration,” he chuckles.

You pout. “You’re going to have to let me treat you sometime, you know.” At this rate, you’re going to have to start keeping a list for everything you wish to pay him back for since he won’t ever let you win.

As good of a feeling as it is to be pampered like this, you also don’t want to keep burdening him. It doesn’t matter if he’s the one always offering his kindness, you don’t want him to feel like he has to ─ that you’re not capable of doing this for yourself.

“Your presence is enough of a treat,” he reassures, “The kid would agree with me.”

In a way, that sounds like Toji actually enjoys spending time with you. In reality, that is exactly what he said, but the thought of someone like him and even his son wantingsomeone like you around is nearly impossible to fathom. Unless of course this is the alcohol already taking affect on your processing and hearing…

Your presence is a treat.

You are wanted.

…That’s what he said.

“Toji! Come here for a sec!” a younger employee at the other end of the bar calls out, earning a grunt from the one in front of you.

“Shit, guess fun time’s over,” he huffs. “If you need anythin’ else, you know where to find me, pretty girl.”

“Thanks, Toji.” You grin appreciatively. “I’ll see you around then.”

“Oh, hey,” he calls out your name as step off from your seat. “Tell me when you’re leavin’, okay? I’ll drive you home.”

You nod in return as you take your leave back to the booth. The trio keeps their eyes on you like ravenous hyenas as you settle back in.

“Soooo,” Satoru drawls with a cheshire grin growing wider by the second. “You wanna tell us what that was about?”

“What?” you question, oblivious to what he means.

“You and the bartender?” he snickers, “The two of you were lookin’ pretty friendly together.”

Shoko scoots closer, noticeably more relaxed and swaying. Her arm wraps around your shoulder, failing an attempt with whispering in your ear, “If you see an opportunity, take it! I can see the heart eyes from here.” Her eyebrows wiggle with a knowing look.

“I-It’s not like that!” you stammer. But is it really? Oh, who are you kidding. It’s becoming harder and harder to deny that you aren’t feeling something for your neighbor. “We live next-door to each other is all,” you mumble, feeling coy.

“Ooh, neighbors to lovers?” Satoru’s gaze inadvertently meets Toji’s from afar before drifting back to yours all full of smug. “Can’t blame you, he is a looker.”

“Satoru.” His teasing laugh turns into a fake yelp when the back of Suguru’s hand meets his chest to reprimand him.

“What, am I wrong? He’s not as good looking as you though, Sugu,” he purrs, lowering his head to the man, bringing a kiss to his cheeks.

“That’s better,” Suguru remarks, casually sipping on his sake.

“Alright, cool it, lover boys,” Shoko sighs, silencing them. She leans her head in your direction, trying to get a better look at the face you’re trying oh so hard to hide. She brushes a few hairs hiding your eyes and you see her own that hold the look of a hungry predator, itching to pounce and sink her teeth into something juicy. In this case ─ your love life. “Tell us everything.” She enunciates each syllable, growing impatient by the second.

“Well…”

☆ Notes: damn the updated version of this is way more fucking depressing LOL I couldn’t help myself but hey, I have PLANS

I guess now would be a good time for me to point out ages so reader would be really early 20s, sashisho + kento and all them mid 20s and then toji just a smidge older, but not too late in the 20s. I just don’t feel like putting established ages on anyone besides the kids since that matters for whatever grade they’re in (ignoring how 6 year old/1st grader megumi is already super independent and talkative)

Originally, I gave Suguru a scar tattoo on his forehead for obvious reasons (not that he is or ever was kenjaku in the OG), but in the restructured version I decided to retcon that bit. I like the idea I see people do instead with kenjaku as an evil twin, but idk if I’ll make that a plot point at this time.

as far as his other tattoos go, i like to imagine it's all styled after the cursed spirits he absorbs in an ukiyo-e style!

#jjk #toji fushiguro #jujutsu kaisen #jjk toji #jjk au #toji x female reader #toji fushiguro x reader #toji x reader #toji zenin #toji x you #gojo satoru #model!reader #geto suguru #shoko ieiri #nanami kento

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dollyyun · 2 months

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𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒈𝒊𝒓𝒍𝒔 | chap 01

SYPNOSIS: wherein Hwang Stella's life is tangled in a predicament involving her clandestine identity as a racer, her seemingly daily life as the official heir to the Hwang Empire, and seven guys with whom she has a complex history with.

PAIRING: enhypen members x fem oc

GENRE: 18+ (mdni), reverse harem, chaebols, semi-college & racing, eventual adulthood, non-idol au, eventual enha being f1 drivers, multiple pov (this fic is written in first pov).

WARNINGS: suggestive themes, expletives, mention of smoking.

WORD COUNT: 10k+

TAGLIST: @aishigrey @kgneptun

🍒 MASTERLIST 🍒

Ever since I was young, I was taught by my parents and formal tutors all the ways to be a top-notch Chaebol. Including the fact that I had to learn proper dining etiquette and how important it is that I always carry myself with such elegance and great dignity. Especially being a Hwang.

My parents used to emphasise heavily the fact that I was a Hwang, and being one meant there would be responsibilities that we needed to be accounted for. Responsibilities that are heavier than they seem.

In the contemporary society we reside in, the Hwang family is regarded highly by every other Chaebol, and our reputation is quite eminent throughout SoKor. In my family tree, it consists of CEOs, lawyers, doctors, and educators. My father is the most prominent CEO in the Hwang family. Many years ago, long before I was born, his late grandfather chose him as his heir. Thus, my father became the CEO of the dominant business chain.

You may think that I am speaking about my father proudly, as a daughter should, but you're wrong. Despite how everyone else perceives him, I see him as nothing more than a cold-blooded man who doesn't regard me as his daughter because of the way he has been treating me ever since I was young.

As much as I want to learn to love him, I can't. I despise him.

But the irony is that my father, Hwang Minhyuk, has made a firm decision to choose me as his heir, despite how blatantly he despises me as well.

Well, considering the fact that he disowned my older brother when I was fifteen while my older sister decided to move abroad to pursue her dream, I guess Minhyuk had no choice but to choose me as his heir.

I jolt in my seat as soon as I feel a sharp nudge at the side of my waist, eliciting a low groan from my lips. My eyes shift to glance at my mother, who is giving me a pointed stare before she proceeds to put up her facade and communicate with whoever the businesswoman is.

Woops, I must've hunched my back, and of course, it is unladylike, according to her.

As for my mother, Hwang Jihyun, I despise her less. She is the CEO of a renowned beauty product company. Despite reaching the age of fifty, she has fewer wrinkles and is still physically fit. Everywhere she goes, people are in awe of her beauty. I have to admit that my mother can easily pass as a model.

But I know for a fact that she is as rotten as my father. What a compatible pair!

While I straighten my back, my eyes skim around the massive conference room. The room is filled with Chaebols and their heirs. I spot familiar faces from the university. I mean, it is expected to see them here since we enrolled in the same notable university that welcomes Chaebols across Sokor. Even though the fees are absurdly high, we do have students who manage to enrol due to scholarships.

I return my gaze to my mother, who apparently decides to leave the table to join her other fellow associates. Noticing some eyes occasionally diverting glances my way, I suppress a sigh from leaving my lips. I despise putting up this facade of mine for too long. To make it worse, the event is far from over.

Just then, a notification sound comes from my phone. The instant I glance down at my phone as I unlock it, my lips automatically twitch, quirking a small smile while my heart beats in a familiar cadence.

J💞: I'm almost done. Meet me at the private parking lot.

For double confirmation, I take a quick glance at my mother, who is still preoccupied. Maintaining my composure, I begin to make my way out of the conference room.

Once I'm finally out of reach, a triumphant smirk makes its way to my lips. Even if there is a risk of getting caught and having to deal with the dreadful consequences, it'll all be worth it.

As soon as I enter the elevator and am about to press the button, my heart skips a beat when a hand firmly presses at the side, preventing the elevator from closing. When the person reveals himself, my eyes widen for a moment.

Before I have the chance to look away, his eyes meet mine. An unidentifiable emotion flickers in his gaze.

"Sorry." He mutters an apology as he steps in, but his eyes never leave mine. As much as I want to look away from his gaze, I feel as though I've been compelled.

Damn it. This always happens whenever I come face-to-face with him. I mean, we rarely cross each other's paths, but whenever we do, there is something about him that makes it harder for me to ignore his presence.

Silence envelopes the air around us as we stand next to each other. Though I keep a safe distance, my hand unknowingly curls into a fist.

Relax, Stel. I mean, it's not every day you get to be near your ex-crush.

Yup. I had a tiny crush on him during my first year of university. I think everyone has had a crush on him at some point in their lives.

"Stella."

My heart jumps out of surprise upon hearing him utter my name. He knows me.

Ugh, Stel, of course he knows you. Everyone knows you.

"Heeseung." I return, but in a tone that indicates disinterest, or so I tried to. Despite the fact that I'm resisting the urge to look at him, my eyes betray me as I glance at him.

With the physique of a model, a face card that never declines, and is decked out in a black tuxedo dashingly is Lee Heeseung. Though he's a year older, he's a senior like me. Word has it, he's a literal ace, excelling in everything he does. So it makes me wonder why he entered college a year late.

Heeseung meets my gaze once again. "Going for a smoke break as well?"

A frown creases on my lips. "No...." I reply slowly while bewilderment fills me, "How do you know that I─"

His pink lips upturn into a smirk while he slides his hand into his pants's pocket. "I've seen you, Stella. You ought to be careful since you have quite a reputation to maintain."

I open my mouth to make a retort, but the elevator opens. He inclines his head in what seems like an invitation. "Care to join me?"

A small part of me desires it too, but I know better than to involve myself with him. I give him a terse smile before I walk out of the elevator. "No, thanks. Like you said, I have a reputation to maintain."

Given his long legs, he manages to catch up to me, following me in the same direction of where I intend to go.

"You know....." Heeseung's drawl brings my attention to him, "You smoking is not the only secret I know."

Uneasiness begins to gnaw in my tummy. I give him a look of wariness while I subconsciously fold my arms. "What do you mean?"

Instead of answering my question, he simply gives me a smile, which I'm in doubt of what his smile means. Before he decides to part ways, he offers me wink. "Great race last night. We should do it again."

Dumbfounded, I stand there like a fool as I watch him getting further. And then, realisation finally dawns on me. Colour drains from my face.

Oh fuck.

No one, and I mean no one, was supposed to find out about it. Especially not Lee Heeseung.

Shit, shit, shit! I was careless! I should've checked─

"Hey, gorgeous." His soft yet deep voice interrupts the previous consternation I had. His arm slowly finds its way around my waist, eliciting a soft gasp from me when he pulls me closer until our bodies touch.

"Jay," Shaky breaths leave my lips. "We can't. Not here. What if someone sees us?"

"It's fine. No one's here. Besides," He grabs my hand gently before bringing it up and placing a kiss on my knuckles. "I couldn't wait."

Butterflies begin to flutter in my tummy as we make our way to his Tesla car. Like the gentleman he always is, he assists me in the passenger seat before making his way to the driver's.

"As much as I couldn't wait," He starts the vehicle before placing his hands on the steering wheel. "I'd like to play safe."

I swallow down the bitterness, looking away from him. "Yeah. Wouldn't want the only Park heir to be found in a scandalous relationship with the Hwang heir."

I hear him heaving a low sigh. "You know that we're not in a relationship and you knew what you got yourself into when you agreed to be my─"

"I know, Jay." I interject, trying my best not to sound sour. He's right. I can't even blame him. I even promised myself that I wouldn't ever fall for anyone after what happened. In the end, I only have myself to blame for being stupid enough to fall in love with him when we're only friends with benefits.

I turn crestfallen. Who would ever want to love Hwang Stella?

I compose myself before Jay can even catch a glimpse of my true emotion. I clear my throat. "So, where are we going to fuck?"

"I'm kinda not in the mood to," He replies in a monotone as he begins to park near the curb. He steals a quick glance at me. "But I am in the mood to make out."

Fair enough. Besides, I'm wearing a dress so I can't risk showing signs of being indecent.

"Just don't leave any marks." I warn him as he assists me to move over to him, settling on top of him with my arm slowly making their way around his neck.

His eyes darken with lust and appreciation as they scan my appearance. I ignore the heat creeping up on my cheeks as he caresses my cheek with the back of his finger.

"You look truly exquisite tonight." Placing both of his hands on my waist, he leans forward to place a kiss on my lips.

My eyes roll to the back of my head, submitting myself to the pleasure as he kisses down my neck. "How long do you think this can last?" The question accidentally slips from my lips.

"I don't know," He nips playfully at my skin, drawing a gasp from me. "All I know is that I don't intend to let you slip from my fingers anytime soon."

But I know better than anyone that isn't true. In the end, everyone leaves.

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──

After my encounter with Heeseung yesterday, I could barely get any decent sleep. His discovery of me being involved in an activity that my family deems illicit caused such perturbation.

My engagement in the field has been maintained confidentially since I was sixteen, and I was consistently on guard whenever I wanted or was required to participate in any race. With my management expertise, I always meticulously planned my schedules, despite how busy I could get. Even my identity was so well veiled that neither the hosts nor the organisers learned who I was.

So the fact that Heeseung discovered my identity is unsettling. Yes, he's attractive and all that, but I don't trust him. What if he has an agenda and intends to use my identity in the field against me? What if he threatens to tell others? What if he informs my parents─

"Hey, Stella."

A familiar, deep, husky voice pulls me out of my troubled mind. When I look to the side, I instantly have to tilt my head up a little to meet his eyes. A weird sentiment squeezes my heart as I look at him. It has been more than quite a while since we last interacted.

His face remains stoic as ever, but I catch a glimpse of concern in those dark, piercing eyes of his. "Are you alright? You've been staring at the vending machine for a while, and you look a little pale."

I manage to catch the way his hand that is hidden in his pocket attempts to reach out to me, but he slowly lowers his hand and forms it into a fist before sliding back into his pocket. But I simply dismiss his mere action, as I'm too busy being caught up in my own little dilemma.

I brush a fallen lock of my hair out of my face before offering him a tight smile. "I'm fine, Ni-Ki. I'm sorry for holding up the line."

Decked out in a black sweater and denim jeans, dyed blond highlights and piercings on both ears, is Nishimura Riki. Our parents were business friends, so they often came over to our mansion and brought along Riki. Initially, we weren't friends, as Ni-Ki would always give me cold shoulders. But as I'm a year older than him, my mother would order me to look after him while the adults were busy.

After much persuasion and some teasing, he eventually opened up to me. But it's complicated because we weren't exactly friends. He felt more of an obligation to me since my mother never failed to remind me to look after him as a Noona should.

When my older brother was here, Ni-ki would always look forward to meeting him, as they had more in common than we do. But as soon as I turned fourteen, something must have happened between my parents and his, because they no longer came over like they often did. Thus, that explains the reason behind our cold distance.

So knowing that he would be the first one to break this unexplainable cold war between us comes as a total shock for me.

He shakes his head. "Don't worry. It's just me. Here, let me buy you a drink." He steps forward, a little close to me.

"It's okay, Ni-Ki. I don't want to trouble you─"

As always being stubborn, he insists as he proceeds to press the button before hearing thuds from the vending machine. He bends down to pick up two energy drinks and gives me one, which I have no choice but to accept.

As I busily unscrew the bottle cap, I can feel his gaze on my face. After a brief silence, he begins to speak up.

"Oh, and Stel?"

"Yeah?" I look up, and my eyes widen a little at the proximity between us.

"It's Riki for you," He takes me by surprise when he offers me a soft smile. "Or did you forget?"

"Stella Noona, promise me that you'll always call me Riki. It's reserved only for you."

Nostalgia whisks past me. Of course, not. How could I forget? I thought he was the one who had forgotten about it, considering how distant we were.

"Okay, Riki." I reply in a soft tone, smiling faintly.

"Good." He catches me off-guard once again as he pats my head gently, as though I'm a toddler. He offers me one last soft grin, taking a few steps back. "You'll be seeing me around more often from now on."

My hand reaches up to touch my head while my lips downturn into a frown as I watch him walk away until he blends in with other students in the busy hallway. Just because he's taller now, does that mean he gets to treat me like I'm a toddler?

Well, to be fair, I often did that gesture to him before, which irritated him. Who wouldn't be able to resist such cuteness?

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──

J💞: I have to cancel our plans for today. Something came up.

I don't bother to conceal the disappointment written all over my face. Aside from last night, he has been cancelling plans with me since last week. I mean, what did I expect? He's not my boyfriend, so I'm obviously not on his priority list.

Ugh, I hate the fact that I'm becoming clingy, and I also yearn for his validation. As a matter of fact, I will always crave validation in any way.

I rub my tired face as I make my way out of the university building. Even though it's only 6.30 p.m., it's already getting darker out here.

Just then, my ears perk up upon hearing familiar yet annoying giggles I'd recognise anywhere. Glancing up, I spot two familiar people just a few feet away from me.

Well, well, well, if it isn't my dearest sister and ex-boyfriend.

Did I ever mention that I have another sister? Well, there she is, giggling and smiling away like a lovesick fool with her arm clinging around his.

Hwang Rena.

Rena is only a year younger than me, but she often shows her superiority towards me due to the fact that she's my parents' most favourite daughter.

They look happy and carefree. As they stand next to his car, she stands in front of him while holding his hands. They gaze at each other almost lovingly—well, at least Rena is.

I should look away, but I can't because of his smile. I shouldn't be feeling this way because we were over, and I had convinced myself that I had already moved on from him, but why does my heart feel heavy?

The way he gazes at Rena, the way he smiles, and the way he tucks a hair behind her ear─he used to do all those things to me.

Whatever, Stella. You have Jay, though he's not your boyfriend.

But as I look away and walk towards my car, a tear manages to escape from the corner of my eye as it betrays me.

We used to have it all, but where did we go wrong?

Did you ever miss me? Did you ever love me sincerely?

"Damn you, Sim Jaeyun." I mutter under my breath as I unlock my car.

"Stella."

My body jolts in complete surprise. I put my hand where my heart is, as it beats wildly. With a scowl on my face, I turn around to face him.

He doesn't look pleased to see me either, so why is he even here?

"Don't get me wrong. I'm here because you've forgotten your wallet in the lecture hall."

I look down at his hand, noticing my black Dior wallet. Without a word, I snatch my wallet from his hand.

"A thank you would suffice." Sarcasm laces in his tone.

Acting upon my ego, I refuse. "Go away, Yang Jungwon."

"Stella─"

I groan loudly before looking back at him with such distaste. "I said to go away! You wanted a thanks? Yeah, thanks for returning my wallet to me, kind sir!"

"Stella, stop." He closes the distance between us and holds my shoulders that I haven't realised are shaking.

His cold eyes examine my face briefly before they soften, or so I imagine. I don't know. My vision is getting blurry each second.

"You're crying, Stella." He speaks in a softer tone. "What happened?"

"As if you care." Pathetically, I attempt to wipe the tears away from my cheeks. "Let go of me."

His hands on my shoulders stay firm. "I'm not letting go until you're calm."

Despite my still-burning hatred for Jungwon, I know for a fact that these tears are not because of him. Seeing Jaeyun and Rena together triggers something in me that I thought I had gotten rid of. It turns out, I had only buried those feelings and forced myself to move on from him.

Fortunately, there are no people in our vicinity. Alas, sobs begin to escape from my lips. I look down, embarrassed to face Jungwon and the fact that he is witnessing my vulnerability.

"I'm sorry about this, but allow me to comfort you." He mutters.

Before I know it, I am being enveloped by his strong arms as they gently embrace me into a hug that I never knew I needed to find comfort in.

As I weep into his shoulder, I desperately cling to him. I thought I was strong enough to withstand the sight of them, but it hurts so much.

"I'm sorry, Stel." Jungwon murmurs as he hugs me tighter. I feel him planting a soft peck on my crown. "I'm so sorry."

Upon hearing his apology, I don't know if he's apologising for the hug or that he's the reason behind our friendship's fallout.

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──

I've been stuck inside my car since I parked it in the garage for God knows how long, staring at nothingness with my head leaning against the window. After the mental breakdown I had in front of my ex-childhood best friend, I issued a curt apology to Jungwon and left the place in haste.

I have no idea what has been up with me for the past few days. I feel as though I've gotten weak when I should've been the strong one. I guess I have gotten weaker since the moment I involved myself with Jay.

Jay and I have known each other since we were seventeen, due to seeing each other at any mutual business event with our parents. Despite the fact that my parents and his have been known to be fierce business rivals, that didn't prevent Jay and me from being amiable.

In the beginning, we started off with a polite conversation, but as time passed, we often engaged in discussions about any topic, though it was crucial that we weren't seen as friendly by anyone, especially not our parents.

Jay and I went a little distant as soon as we entered university, with him pursuing a different major as well as mine. I vividly remember the time when we finally encountered each other at the library, which was six months ago. It was a week after Jaeyun and I broke up. The library was occupied with most students, and the only available seat was next to mine. And so, we began with the small talks, and eventually, it led us to a mutual agreement that we were friends with benefits.

I vowed to never fall in love, but with Jay, it was unexpected. I mean, sure, I did find him and his personality attractive, but I couldn't see myself being tied to him. And so, acknowledging that I've finally fallen for someone who is out of my league was hard for me to admit initially.

What's worse is that Jay is one of Jaeyun's best friends.

I release a tired groan as I bury my face in my palms. Out of all the people, why did my heart choose to fall for Jay?

"Maybe it's just a phase." I mumble to myself while I grab my stuff before exiting the car. "My feelings for him will eventually fade away."

As I absentmindedly make my way towards the entrance, I spot Rena in my peripheral vision. I silently curse in my head. I had hoped not to face her.

"Oh? Stella!" She greets me cheerily, but I recognise that she's being a two-faced bitch. I give her a side-eye.

When we were young, people often mistook us for twins, although our features didn't look exactly the same. I remember being incredibly excited to have a younger sibling. Rena and I got along great until she entered elementary school. Something had changed, including her behaviour towards me.

Whereas Rena is the goody-two shoes, the attractive sister, and the ideal daughter to my parents, I'm the opposite. Whereas she earns praise and compliments, I receive criticism. Whereas Rena is the good one, I'm the bad one.

But despite how everyone else perceives her, I'm the only person who recognises how much of a two-faced bitch with a rotten personality she truly is. But despite all that, everyone favours Hwang Rena. As much as I hate to admit it, I found myself striving to be like her at one point in my life.

Now, she stands the same height as me. Her dyed pink hair cascades down her shoulders until her waist. Her doe eyes often make anyone impossible to resist whenever she wants something. Cute button nose and naturally full pink lips. Plus, she dresses well, so I've got to give her credit for that.

It's no wonder Jaeyun fell for her.

Insecurity begins to crawl its way towards me as I turn crestfallen, but I maintain the icy, heartless facade I've been putting up.

What was I thinking? Have I truly forgotten who I really am?

The thought of me wanting to be exactly like Rena disgusts me. Who cares if she's the good one and I'm the bad one?

I'm Hwang Stella. The mean, cruel, heartless Hwang that almost everyone perceives of me. Fuck being good.

Just like someone once told me─ if I cannot be the best, then I'll become the worst.

Unlike Rena, I've managed to become the heir. That is what matters.

"Jakey sent me home. You know, as in Jake Sim?" Rena begins to ramble as she walks next to me, a little too close for my comfort. A small gasp leaves her lips as she stares at me with faux sympathy. "Of course, you know him! He's your ex-lover!"

Careful, Stella. She's trying to get a reaction out of you. Don't give her the satisfaction.

I choose to ignore her as I swipe my key card on the smart lock before entering. However, Rena still decides to pester me as we make our way up the stairs. "We're still getting to know each other, but what matters is that we're dating!" Her giggles are starting to get on my nerves. "You won't mind me dating your ex, right? I mean, we are sisters after all."

I halt my steps halfway on the way to my room. A muscle ticks in my jaw. You know what? Fuck this.

Trying my best to remain calm, I turn around to face her. The sight of the innocence she's feigning makes me want to puke.

"Honestly? I don't really care much what you chose to do, but going after my ex?" The sound of my tongue clicking echos throughout these walls. "Wrong move, Hwang Rena."

Finally, Rena reveals her true self. Her once doe-eyed stare morphs into such abhorrence while her lips upturn into a sneer.

"And what are you going to do about it? Nothing." Her icy tone matches mine. "Jake is mine, and I don't give a damn about your opinion. You're the one who chose to leave such a precious gem behind."

With swiftness, I manage to make her stumble backward as I push her before pinning her against the wall. My eyes glare heatedly into her widened ones.

"Listen here, you cunning bitch. Leave Jake alone. Did you really think I have no idea what you're doing?" A crazed laugh leaves my lips. Any of my actions are due to my thinking irrationally. "You've always been obsessed with wanting anything that was once mine. And now, you're going after Jake? The man who was with me for three years, and the man who I love?"

I immediately release my hands from holding her shoulders and take a step back. "You're not good enough for him. He deserves someone who isn't you."

No matter how much Jake hurt me by leaving me heartbroken, I still hope that someone else will treat and love him the way I always did. But not Rena.

Rena releases a scoff as she rolls her eyes. "You're being a greedy bitch, Stella. You said you loved Jake, but what about a certain someone whose surname is Park?"

My heart drops, as does the rage I have been feeling. Noticing my expression, a smirk rises on her lips.

"Oh, yes, Stella. I know what you and Jay have been up to." She hums delightfully. "How do I know this? I have some intel, of course. My, my. Sneaking around with him on campus? How scandalous!"

"What we do is nothing of your business." I curl my hand into a fist. "So what? We're just friends."

"Careful, Stella." Rena warns me before speaking to me in a whisper. "We wouldn't want our parents to be informed that the Hwang heir is having a scandalous affair with their rival's son, would we now?"

I give her one last icy glare. "I hope you die in a ditch, Hwang Rena."

Rena chuckles before giving me a mocking salute. "The feelings are mutual, Hwang Stella."

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──

Three days have passed, and I've successfully managed to get back on my feet. I've decided to direct my focal point on my assignments, including voluntary lessons on what is expected of an official heir and paperwork with a private tutor that my father hired.

I've been ignoring texts from Jay and avoiding him on campus. Not only Jay, but I've also been avoiding seeing any sightings of Jungwon or Jaeyun. Other than that, things have been going smoothly.

The sudden rowdiness pulls me out of my train of thoughts before I lift my gaze to scan around the familiar pub. It is getting more crowded than usual, but to be fair, it is a Saturday night.

I am seated in a secluded corner, like I always do, where I'm positive no one will bat an eye at me since the light is also dim. My black leather jacket and pants camouflage well in the dark. Perfect.

"Excuse me?"

Or maybe not so perfect.

I reluctantly glance up and see a woman who appears to be around my age standing near my table. The first thing I notice is how tall she is. I might've mistaken her for a model. She is dressed in all denim and a white crop top, which displays her belly piercing. She has blonde highlights on her raven hair. As I briefly scan her face, she looks awfully familiar, and yet I don't recognise her.

She offers me a sheepish smile. "The other seats are occupied. Do you mind if I take a seat here?"

It's the way she smiles. It reminds me of a certain someone.

"Sure." I curtly respond, folding my arms as I break eye contact. Whenever I come to participate in the race, my make-up application is way different compared to how I usually apply make-up on a daily basis. It is also thanks to these coloured contact lenses. So I hope she doesn't recognise who I am.

As she takes a seat next to me, I expect her to keep to herself. But I'm taken by surprise when she directs her full attention on me with seriousness written across her face.

"I know who you are."

Shit.

And then she breaks into a smile, while I can only give her an odd stare. "Silly me. I forgot to introduce myself." She extends her hand towards me. "I'm Aera. I go to the same university as you."

Despite feeling hesitant, I find myself shaking hands with her. Awkwardly, I say, "Nice meeting you?"

"Oh my gosh!" She gasps as she looks down at her hand. "No way did I shake hands with Hwang Stella!" She squeals silently.

"Uhh..." I am left speechless. What....?

With earnestness, she looks back at me with a grin. "I have a confession to make. I've been wanting to be friends with you."

Making friends and Hwang Stella never go well. After what happened with Jungwon and the fact that Rena was the reason why anytime I made friends, they would abandon me for her. So yeah, this is hard for me to grasp.

I guess she must've noticed the expression on my face. "I swear I have no bad intentions. I'm being sincere when I say I want to be friends with you." She says.

I hesitate, but something nudges me to accept this small friendship, even though I might get hurt again. I let out a low sigh.

"Sure. We can be friends." I say plainly.

"Awesome." Her grin never falters. "I'm here to watch my brother and his friends race. What about you?"

I force out a chuckle, and it comes off as awkward. "The same as you, I guess."

"Are you really?" She wiggles her eyebrows suggestively. "Or are you here to watch your secret lover, who turns out to be a racer? It's okay! You can tell me anything! I'm good at keeping secrets. Plus, I'm into gossip."

Geez, this girl sure loves to ramble.

"Aera?" A manly voice calls out for her before we shift our attention to someone familiar who is approaching our table.

With haste, I put on my Gentle Monster's sunglasses, hoping that he wouldn't notice my face. Thankfully, his eyes are fixated on Aera.

"Sunoo!" Aera greets him cheerily before lunging towards him in a hug. "What are you doing here? I thought you'd be at your usual stations for the race."

Kim Sunoo, a senior just like me. We haven't exactly interacted, but he does follow me on all of my social media and even likes my Instagram posts. I also saw him at some business functions with his parents, but other than that, he's just a stranger. I know I shouldn't judge someone whom I haven't met, but from what I heard, he has this charm that is hard to resist and is a sly fox. He's also known as the king of schemes, considering the dramas and gossips I've heard about him.

I take a glance at him while he idly chatters with Aera. He is handsome and cute, even. His fox-like eyes are what captured my attention first. His full pink lips turn into a sweet smile. Though he appears cheery, there is an air of gentleness around him.

"Oh! Before I forget─" Aera tilts her body and catches my eyes, but she pauses for a brief moment while I look away as soon as Sunoo shifts his attention to me. "This is my friend, Sera."

My eyebrows jump up in response, as I never expected her to lie about my identity to Sunoo. My heart feels at ease, and I silently thank Aera.

I'm uncertain what Sunoo's reaction is, but he stays silent for a moment before resuming to speak to Aera. Fortunately, he clearly has no interest in me, given how blatantly he ignores my presence.

Seeing how preoccupied Aera is with Sunoo as they chatter idly once again, I take the opportunity to leave the table in a swift manner and proceed to make my way out of the pub.

Ugh, why is it so annoyingly crowded─

"Watch where you're going." A pissed-off, manly voice says to me as I bump into his shoulder. Yet, it is a voice I recognise all too well.

"Wait a damn minute." I hear him mutter, and before I have the chance to escape from him, he grab my arm a little too firmly to my liking. "Well, well, well, if it isn't the witch herself."

I roll my eyes upon hearing the insult I have heard since we were young. When my gaze lands on his face, I narrow my eyes at the way he smirks at me with his fang displayed.

"Let go of me, Park." I try my utmost to remain calm despite the urge to strangle him.

He ignores me and instead yanks me towards him as I let out a yelp. "Fancy seeing you here. Or not."

I attempt to yank my arm from his grasp, but he only grips it firmly in return. "But it is rather strange to meet you here out of all the places. Care to tell me why?"

"How about minding your own fucking business?" I retort.

"Language, princess." He tuts, placing his index finger against my lips before slowly lowering it as it brushes gently on my bottom lip. "What would your parents think of their precious daughter having such a foul mouth?"

The temptation to bite off his finger is strong. But before I can do that, I'm being interrupted by another familiar voice that causes me to internally groan.

"Sunghoon."

I steal a glance at Heeseung, who is standing next to us. With our current position, Heeseung's eyes dart between us before settling his gaze on Sunghoon instead. Heeseung appears to be nonchalant, though I notice dissatisfaction in those eyes of his.

"Leave the poor girl alone." Heeseung says in a monotone.

Park Sunghoon, also known as my rival slash enemy since kindergarten, Lucky for me, we went to the same schools throughout our lives and were classmates. At first, it started off as a friendly rivalry, but as the years passed, we've developed a mutual animosity towards one another. Be it academically or not, we've always been incredibly competitive against each other.

Never mind his good looks, which are evidently strong. He will always be that annoying kid who became petty just because I was at the top of our cohort.

Sunghoon makes a tsk sound before releasing me roughly. "You're ruining my fun, Heeseung. Besides, wouldn't you want to know why the infamous Hwang Stella is here out of all places as well?"

"And why couldn't I be here, Park?" I glare into his eyes, which mirror the same sentiment I abhor for him. "What's it to you? Does my presence here affect you that much?"

"As a matter of fact, yes." He replies venomously, taking a threatening step towards me, but I remain strong on my ground.

His eyes pierce into mine with the familiar animosity, which I can't help but lift a smirk. "Just seeing your face is enough to ruin my night. So I suggest you get the fuck out of here."

I fold my arms across my chest and tilt my chin up in defiance. "Oh, yeah? And what are you going to do about it if I don't?"

A warning glints in his eye. "Don't try me, princess."

I don't even realise the close proximity between us until Heeseung pulls Sunghoon away from me. "That's enough. We're wasting time here."

"I agree," I respond to Heeseung, but my eyes are still trained on Sunghoon's. "And I've wasted my breath on someone like you. Please do not ever show me your face again."

"As if I want to." Sunghoon sneers at me. "Why don't you go back and sit tight in your comfy mansion, princess?"

In response, I offer him the sweetest smile I can muster as I slowly walk away from them. "Why don't you suck my dick?"

Before I turn around, I manage to catch a glimpse of Heeseung smiling lightly, as he seems to be amused by my comeback.

Forget about Park Sunghoon or even Lee Heeseung. I have a race to win yet again.

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──

Racing is something I've always been passionate about since I was sixteen. In the beginning, it started out as a hobby or an activity for me to de-stress due to the social pressure and having enough of the toxicity in Hwang's household. But eventually, it turned into something that I often sought solace in.

I know, it's weird. Other people sought solace in things like reading books, listening to music, et cetera, instead of racing.

I guess it also has something to do with the fact that by racing, it's how I can still feel the connection I once had with someone whom I've regarded as my father figure. My father's older brother.

Sentimentality hits me hard, prompting me to clutch the grips of my motorcycle firmly. I don't know what happened to him, but his disappearance from my life five years ago is still a mystery that I know I need to solve. I will find him, no matter what it takes.

I blink away the tears that are collecting in the rims of my eyes before focusing on the track ahead. I can't afford to lose focus. I hate losing, and losing is never an option for me.

Especially when my opponent is the one and only Park Sunghoon.

I steal a quick glance at him. He is adorned in red and black leather, with a black helmet worn over his head. I hate to admit it, but I've seen him in races, and his skills are almost impressive. Almost.

Fortunately for me, he fails to recognise who I really am, thanks to my last minute of changing my leather jacket, now revealing the skin of my waist as I'm also wearing a crop-top shirt and my racing boots. Since the racing arena we're currently at is a new venue to me, most of the people here don't recognise that I'm the infamous ace. So I must've gotten too much attention because of that.

Why infamous? Well, most of the racers look down upon women who race. And so, they've never expected a mere lady like me to win in all of my previous participations. They hate it when women win.

"Hey!" Sunghoon calls for my attention, to which I roll my eyes before looking at him. He offers me a salute. "If I win, you have to give me your number!"

I hold myself back from laughing. Oh, the mortification he would feel if he knew who I was.

At once, the sign board changes, and thus, we speed off in a blur with our engines blaring loudly. The loud cheers from the spectators fall to death in my ears as I vigorously utilise my skills to overtake Sunghoon.

He's fast, but I manage to overtake him. Just when I thought that would last, Sunghoon proves me wrong when he catches up to him. Now we're even.

But thanks to my highly competitive ass, I refuse to lose to him. The surroundings around me pass by like a blur as I accelerate until I have successfully managed to leave Sunghoon behind in the dust.

Finally, I cross over the finish line. I won.

As I decelerate, I hear some cheers, which brings a small smile to my face. While there are also some boos and unpleasant words thrown at me, I simply dismiss them. What matters is that tonight is another victory.

"Hey! Wait!" I hear Sunghoon calling out for me before he catches me, prompting me to pull the brake.

I only watch him behind the visor of my helmet in silence as he removes his helmet. He holds it in one hand while the other ruffles his tousled raven hair. He lifts his gaze to look at me briefly.

"As much as I hate losing, you did amazing." His compliment throws me off, as does the way he appears to be shy towards me as he rubs his nape while looking away from me momentarily. I raise my eyebrow when I notice how red his ears are.

"I'd like to see you around again." He says with a small smile.

I am completely baffled by this new behaviour of his. Park Sunghoon has never smiled at me like that. All he ever does is smirk evilly at me or make sarcastic grins.

I don't even know what to say. If I speak, he will definitely recognise me instantly. But thankfully, I am saved when the rest of his friends start to call for him as they approach us. Including Aera....and Riki???

A frown tugs at my lips. Judging by his outfit, he is most certainly a racer as well. Since when does he do racing?

Nonetheless, I grasp the opportunity to speed off with the intention of heading back to my secret hideout, where I store my racing car and bike, including some outfits. I can't risk storing all of the stuff anywhere in my mansion.

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──

Instead of heading home straight, I decide to go for a nightly drive with my everyday car, aka, my gorgeous sleek black Tesla, which I've parked earlier in the garage of my secret hideout. Even if I'm not around in the mansion, my parents never care enough about whether I'm there or not. I am only needed whenever they need me, or rather, use me to their advantage.

After I pull up my car in the empty parking lot, I start to make my way towards the familiar skate park. I sit down on the edge of the skating ramp with my legs dangling in the air. When the wind gently breezes past me, so does the nostalgia. I remember when my uncle used to bring my older brother and me here, where I was taught how to ride a skateboard.

But it is also where Jaeyun brought me for our first date.

"Careful, love!" Jaeyun called out for me with concern, lacing his tone while I went ahead, riding his skateboard without any caution. "You might fall if you go any faster."

Since it's been quite a while since I've ever ridden a skateboard, Jaeyun taught me the basics, but it was as if I were a natural at it.

Changing course, I've decided to head towards him. As I was nearing him, a big, gleeful smile was etched on my face while my arms were opened wide. "Jaeyun! Catch me!"

Before Jaeyun could blink, I lunged towards him, and he easily caught me in his arms. He spun me around while laughter left my lips.

With Jaeyun, it was easy for me to be myself. With Jaeyun, he brought out the side of me that no one had seen except my loved ones. Being with Jaeyun, I never had to worry about the facade I'd put up in front of everyone else.

"One of these days, you're going to give me a heart attack." Jaeyun joked as he stopped spinning me, but I was still in his embrace.

With a few chuckles emitting from me, I look into his loving gaze. My cheeks turned rosy the longer his handsome gaze stayed on my face.

"What?" I muttered shyly, lowering my gaze, but he had other plans as he lifted my chin up with his finger.

"Nothing. It's just that you're so adorably precious," Jaeyun chuckles softly, and the sight of his grin melted my heart. "And that you're mine."

"Of course!" I mirrored his grin while I wrapped my arms around his neck. "I'm Jaeyunie's. Always."

"That's right." Jaeyun brought his face closer to mine before bumping his nose against mine playfully. "I will always love you, Stella. Never forget that."

Feeling a little overwhelmed by his display of affection and the love that was transparent through his gaze, I leaned forward to connect our lips. My tummy was filled with the familiar warmth, and the butterflies erupted.

"Forevermore, Jaeyun."

Just like that, one of the memories I still cherish vanishes as I snap back to reality. A shaky breath leaves my lips before I feel a slight dampness on my cheek. Of course, I've shed a tear. How pathetic.

My ears perk up as soon as I hear footsteps approaching from behind, which prompts me to wipe the wetness on my cheek.

"It's dangerous for a lady like you to still linger around in the night." He muses before taking a seat next to me.

I don't bother to look at him, but at the same time, I feel a strange relief that someone is accompanying me.

"I thought you'd be heading back home after the event ended." He takes out a box of cigarettes before taking one stick and lighting it up.

Finally, I take a look at him. "What are you doing here, Heeseung? Did you follow me all the way here?"

Heeseung inhales the substance before blowing out a puff of smoke. His eyes meet mine. "It's only a coincidence to see you here. Besides, you looked pretty lonely."

To my surprise, I find myself chuckling. "It's not as if I haven't gotten used to being alone."

"Yeah, well, I'm here now. You can consider me a friend." Heeseung offers me a gentle smile, a smile that mesmerises me.

Heeseung looks different than how I usually see him. There is something benign about him. Oddly enough, I don't feel threatened by his presence. Instead, I feel at ease.

"I know I probably gave you a bad impression the other night we met, so I'm sorry for that." Heeseung takes another puff.

I watch him as he does so. "Smoking is bad for your health, you know?"

A smirk appears on his lips. "Says the girl who smokes as well."

Guilty. "Actually, I've been trying to quit."

Heeseung hums as he looks ahead. "So why do you smoke, Hwang Stella?"

I look down at my hands on my thighs. "I guess I was too heartbroken, so I chose to find something to put my mind at ease. Hence, the smoking addiction."

"Ahh, you and Jake."

My eyes widen as I look at him in surprise, but in return, he arches an eyebrow at me. "Don't look so surprised now, sweetheart. Both of you were quite famous on campus as a couple."

I remain silent while he seems to be carefully examining my face. I catch the way his eyes soften. "Plus, you looked happier when you were with him."

A sad smile touches my lips. "I was."

Heeseung inhales the last of the substances before putting them out. He returns his gaze to me. "He did love you, you know?"

"Yeah," I whisper, and a familiar lump of sadness is stuck in my throat. "But he never loved me enough."

Heeseung heaves a sigh, bringing his hand to run through his dark, dishevelled hair. "I don't know what happened between the two of you, but I can confidently say that he's stupid enough to let go of you."

I furrow my eyebrows at him as I frown. "But he's your best friend?"

Heeseung chuckles dryly. "Was. But never mind about that."

As much as I would like to pry, I choose to play safe. Jake and Heeseung were inseparable. Heck, I even mistook them for brothers when I first saw them.

I let out a sigh before carefully standing back up. "I've got to go. But thanks for accompanying me for a short while, I guess?"

Heeseung stands as well, but something flickers in his gaze as he looks at me. "Just call or text me if you need someone to accompany you. I assure you that I'm good at it."

It's tempting, but I don't want to be involved with him. It's bad enough that I'm already involved with Jay. Plus, it is wise to never get involved in anything with the seven of them.

He seems to notice my wariness, and so he offers me another smile. "If you don't do that, it's fine. But can we be friends?"

"I'm not sure if you're clueless or what, but you do realise that my parents and yours are not exactly on a decent term?"

"I don't give a fuck about what my parents think." Heeseung replies calmly. "Besides, they can't do anything about it. If I have something I want, I will get it."

Shivers run down my spine upon hearing his last statement and his dark gaze. The longer he looks at me, the more I feel as though I'm prey to him.

"Friends, then." I say curtly. "But don't expect me to be all friendly with you on campus."

His lips quirk into a smirk. "Sure, sweetheart."

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──

Once, I was told by someone that I looked a little too calm for someone who was an international relations major. While some students crack under the insane pressure and others change majors, I manage to remain steadfast and consistently give my utmost effort on every assignment and test given.

So they wonder. How does Hwang Stella make it look so easy? The answer is short and simple.

I don't.

I go fucking insane too, just like every other student. It is downright mental to be an international relations major.

Nevertheless, it's what I'm meant to do, despite the fact that my parents dictated my choice in all of my academic matters. I admit that I do despise them, but I always end up trying my best to please them.

Besides, it's not that I have that much of a choice to fail. Based on my past experiences, I have had to face the consequences. Some consequences did leave scars on my skin. They serve as a reminder the next time I choose to deviate from their mandates.

Most of the time, they are pleased with my actions, but their treatment towards me remains unchanged. While Rena doesn't excel academically the way I do, my parents love and treasure her more. It's blatantly clear that whatever Rena does, their love for her remains unchanged.

I do admit that I did yearn to earn their affection when I was young, but eventually I gave up. If I couldn't win over my parents' hearts, then I would just have to impress and please them enough to make me the heir instead of Rena.

But deep in my tainted heart, I know that this path isn't what I truly want. As a matter of fact, I wasn't supposed to be the heir. It was always meant for my older brother.

I shake my head lightly while my lips press thinly together. It's fine. I'm doing this for my older brother, and if things end up well, I'll bring him back and pass down the position to him.

Noticing that I've been distracted by my troubled mind, I decide to shift my attention to my laptop screen, which displays my unfinished essay. But it appears my reaction is delayed than usual before I jolt lightly in surprise when a familiar face greets me as she sits in front of me.

"Aera, you startled me." I give her a frown as I lower my laptop screen. She looks lovely in a baby blue knitted cardigan that hugs her figure loosely, and her hair is pulled back into a messy bun.

Aera smiles sheepishly. "I'd be feeling sorry if you weren't spacing out for too long to notice that I've been sitting here for the past five minutes."

"Five minutes isn't that long." I retort. "What are you doing here? Don't you have classes to go to?"

She shakes her head. "I've finished my last lecture of the day and decided to loiter around campus until I saw you sitting here alone." Her lips form into a pout while she stares at me with doe eyes. "I thought you'd be happy to see me since we're friends now!"

I relax my shoulders that I didn't realise were tensed. Right, I've forgotten that I have actual friends now. Truth be told, I thought Aera was merely joking about it.

Feeling a little bad, I give her an apologetic look. "I'm sorry for being cold. It's just that." I pause, glancing down. "Having female friends is new to me, and I haven't had an actual friend who is sincere enough."

A warm hand places itself on top of mine before I look back up. She gives me a smile of assurance as she squeezes my hand lightly. "There's nothing to be embarrassed about, Stella, and you don't have to apologise for being cold! Besides, I have every intention to win your heart and show you how beautiful it is to have genuine friends!"

Much to my surprise, a few chuckles leave my lips, and I find myself totally amused by Aera. I don't miss the way her eyes seem to light up.

"I have successfully made you chuckle and smile! That's a start!"

And so, I find myself continuing the conversation with her, including our proper introductions. It turns out that Aera is majoring in marketing under business. She's a senior as well, and she is a stickler for breaking rules. Apparently, she has an older brother who goes to the same university.

"Speaking of him, do you know how exasperating it is for people who wanted to be my friend just so they could get to my brother?" Aera rolls her eyes, the distaste is evident on her face. "It's the reason why I couldn't find any genuine friends who didn't want to date my brother."

Now that I think about it, I may or may not have a hunch on who her brother is. The similarity of their eyes is conspicuous.

"Anyway, enough about him." Aera then looks at me eagerly. "Say, do you want to go to the mall with me? That is, if you don't have anything planned."

I do have plans that involve sleeping early because I feel lethargy these days. But with the way she looks at me, I begrudgingly cave in.

"Lucky for you, I'm available." I say as I begin to pack my stuff into my bag.

"Oh? Hey, Sunoo!" Aera suddenly greets him as she abruptly stands, while I continue packing. But the names that leave her lips cause me to freeze for a moment. "Jungwon! Ni-Ki! I haven't seen you two in a while!"

Just great. Half of the squad is here. They'll probably ignore my existence, which I hope.

Aera side-hugs Sunoo before looking at the rest of them with a beaming smile. "Where are you guys headed off to?"

"We were planning to go to the mall," Sunoo replies.

Aera gasps. "Stella and I were planning to go as well! Why don't we all hang out? I'm sure it's going to be fun!"

On second thought, I should make myself unavailable because there is no way I'd want to hang out with Jungwon.

"I don't think I can join you guys." As I speak up, all eyes focus on me, but I lock eyes with Aera. "Something came up last minute."

Disappointment is written across Aera's face. "Can't you just cancel it? Please?"

"But..." I pause, and my hand curls into a fist. It's getting harder to resist her doe-eyes.

Aera turns to look at Sunoo. "Stella can follow us, right?"

Sunoo shifts his attention from Aera to me. Feeling his gaze, I accidentally lock eyes with him. But something feels unsettling with the way he gazes at me, as if he's unravelling a lie. I catch a glimpse of emotion in his eyes. Recognition.

Sunoo breaks into a grin, though it seems like a smirk, as if he has a hidden agenda. "Of course. Any friends of Aera are welcome to the circle."

Aera returns her gaze to me, looking at me expectantly with those damn eyes again.

I let out a sigh of dismay. "Fine. Just for you." Aera claps her hands in return.

"So how are you guys going to get there? I'll be riding my bike," Riki says. "I could've given any of you girls a ride if I had an extra helmet."

"Aera will be riding with me since I have an extra helmet." Sunoo offers, to which Aera smiles thankfully.

"I don't have a ride." I say ineptly. "My vehicles needed some servicing."

"You can ride with Jungwon." Sunoo tells me. "He brought his car."

I internally groan, already dreading to be in Jungwon's vicinity. I steal a glance at Jungwon, noticing how stoic his face remains, completely different from the demeanour he had shown me last week.

Just as I thought this day couldn't get any worse.

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──

I thought I would appreciate the silence, but instead, I feel uncomfortable. No word is exchanged between us from the moment we entered his car. Just this frigidity that feels suffocating and the sound of music coming from the radio.

I attempt to shift uncomfortably in my seat in discreet once more, but it seems that my action doesn't go unnoticed by him as he turns his head to look at him after putting the car to stop since the traffic light has turned red.

His eyebrows furrow in what looks like annoyance. "What is it?"

I refuse to look at him, my eyes stay fixated on the road ahead. "Nothing."

I hear him scoff. "It's not nothing if you've been squirming in your seat."

"Just focus on the road, Jungwon." I grumble under my breath. "I don't want us risking to be in any accidents."

I don't miss the offence he takes to heart as he narrows his eyes at me. "You don't trust my driving skills?"

"I don't trust you." At least not anymore.

Jungwon's clutch on the steering wheel tightens, his knuckles turning the faint shade of pink. A muscle ticks in his jaw. "You act as if I'm your enemy when I'm not."

This time, I muster the courage to look at him in the eyes, glaring at him. "You're no friend either. Now pay attention on the road."

I receive silence in return. At the same time, the traffic light turns green.

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──

The whole time whilst we hang out, I always stick to Aera. At some point, I subconsciously cling my arm around hers. Riki and I did exchange some words, but mostly, he's with Jungwon whereas Sunoo often talk to Aera. I'm surprised when he included me in the conversation too.

Aera told me that she's been best friends with Sunoo since high school, but with the way I see them, I would've mistaken them as a couple with how comfortable they are with skin-ship.

Given how evidently spent we are, I suppose it's time for us to call it a day, considering we went to different stores and even playing in the arcade for an hour.

As Jungwon, Sunoo, and Aera walk ahead, I am left walking next to Riki. I look down to see a soft toy duck in my hands before I look up at Riki.

"Here, take it." I tell him with my hand extend towards him. "Technically, it's yours since you won it."

Riki glances down at the toy before returning his gaze to me. He shakes his head. "It's yours. I won it in your honour."

Heat creeps on my cheeks. "Are you sure?"

Riki offers me a boyish grin, no longer putting up the cold exterior I often saw. "Positive."

He takes me by surprise as he pats my head gently. "I hope the duck reminds you of me. Keep it safe, yeah?"

I can't help but smile. "Okay."

"I guess it's time we part ways, gang!" Aera announces, turning around to look at us as does Sunoo and Jungwon. "Today was great! We should hang out again!"

Let's pretend I didn't hear the last statement.

"I forgot to ask, but since when did you and Ni-Ki know each other?" Sunoo questions me, looking genuinely curious.

Riki and I glance at each other before I speak up, "I used to watch over him as he often came over since our parents were friends."

Riki nods his head. "What she said."

"Wait! Riki, didn't you tell me before that you were into older girls?" Aera blurts out straightforwardly, and I manage to catch the way Riki's ears turn pink. Aera smirks. "Was it because of Stella?"

Riki clears his throat in an awkward manner while refusing to look at anyone. "So....about the party─"

"Right!" Aera being Aera, getting easily distracted, she snaps her fingers before looking at me. "There's this party on Friday night. Since now you're part of the elites, you're invited to a party at Sunghoon's."

"You should come." Sunoo adds. "As they say, the more the merrier."

Riki nods in agreement, but Jungwon is the only one who appears to be against it with the way he frowns at me. But I disregard him.

"Sure. Consider my attendance to be confirmed at the party."

We exchange a few words before we finally part ways, leaving only me and Jungwon.

"I'll book an Uber." I inform him curtly.

Jungwon sighs annoyingly. "Don't be stubborn, Stella. I'll give you a ride home."

"No."

"Come on, Stella."

"No."

"No?"

"Yes."

"That's more like it." In a blink of an eye, his hand latches around my wrist before pulling me with him towards the parking lot.

I look at him in bewilderment before attempting to yank my hand away from his strong grasp. "What?! Yang Jungwon, let go of me this instant!"

Jungwon ignores me as we reach his car. He opens the passenger door for me, to which I begrudgingly enter.

"You're a jerk, Jungwon." I mutter as he busily starts the ignition.

"Yeah. A jerk who is willing to give you a ride home because it's already late." Jungwon replies calmly as he steers the wheel.

I fold my arms across my chest, the frown on my face never leave. "I hate you."

There is a brief silence before he says, "I know."

NEXT CHAP

#enhypen #enhypen wattpad #enhypen fanfiction #enhypen x main oc #reverse harem #poly #heeseung #jay #jake #sunghoon #sunoo #jungwon #ni-ki

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cityof2morrow · 6 months

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Bella Brand: Bella Park 003 - Health & Hygiene

Published: 11-7-2023 | Updated: N/A SUMMARY “Inspired by the wealth of Bella Goth lore from the Sims/SimCity franchises (aka the “simsverse”), the Bella Brand Series includes more than a dozen sets and 230+ new business-themed items. Lore suggests that the wealth/influence of the Gilman, Crumplebottom, Bachelor, and Goth families increases considerably under Mortimer and Bella Goth, especially the latter. So, this series imagines what a prestigious Bella-based brand might look like…” Three health and hygiene products designed for youth and young adults— the B-O Begone Deodorant, Instant Bodywash, and Body Balm can be used from any surface/inventory for a boost in hygiene and comfort. DETAILS Requires ALL EPs/SPs. You need Mesh Set 001 (Simmons, 2023) and the Display Counter (BellasSecret_Counter_Somedaythesun)from the TS2 Maxis Match Lingerie Store Set (SomedayTheSun, 2023) – these items are required for all textures to display in-game. The counter uses recolors from the Bosenklavier Model B grand piano (Bon Voyage EP). Find recolors for the counter interior in the Bella Brand: Retail Floor Set (Simmons, 2023). Recolors may include swatches for items in other Bella Brand sets such as signs, packages, cosmetics, etc. Objects in Sims 2 are limited to two recolorable parts, so not all items are recolorable in the same way. Find additional recolors for Bella Brand sets on this site under #ts2recolors, #co2recolors, and #co2bellabrand.

ITEMS Bella Park B-O-Begone Deodorant (105 poly) Bella Park Instant Bodywash (773 poly) Bella Park Body Balm (288 poly) DOWNLOAD (choose one) from SFS | from MEGA Functional Cosmetic/Hygiene Products Items can be used from any surface or a sim’s inventory and will boost hygiene/comfort. After several uses (12 by default), the product will need to be replaced. When using cosmetics from a sim’s inventory, wait until the sims finishes using the first item BEFORE selecting the second one. Otherwise, the second object will be removed from the inventory. Both the object and plug-in files are needed for each item to work properly in-game. Number of uses and motive gain are tuneable in simPE (BCONS: 0x00 = number of uses, 0x002 = hygiene, 0x03 = comfort).

CREDITS No copyright infringement intended. All trademarks belong to their respective owners. CCA = Creative Commons Attribution. Thanks: @catherinetcjd, @gayars, @gummilutt, @haziewhims, @kashmiresims (Rach’), @somedaythesun, whoward, Easy Shine Removal Kit (PF Forest, 2023), Reducing GUIDs/OBJs Tutorial (HugeLunatic, 2022), Sketchfab and Blender Communities. Sources: SEE CREDITS (ALT).

#sims2cc #ts2cc #ts2downloads #co2bellabrand

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ddmmyuta · 1 year

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in my (self)defense…

yuta x afab reader

warnings: smutty, fluff, angst, themes of sexual assault (not y/n or yuta), fear of men (if that is even a warning idk 😕), y/n is a lingerie model…

Let’s say your experience with men haven’t been that great leading up till now. You’ve always felt uncomfortable around men, the way they looked at you, the way they spoke to you and what they did make you repulsive towards any male human you saw. You were tired of your fear and anxiety around men, and that’s what brings you to this point of your life… standing in a self defense class with many other women who feel the same way.

You mingled with the other ladies, sharing your experiences and what was the final straw that brought you here. ‘My boyfriend… well ex boyfriend, used to physically assault me and our child’ one of the ladies said, making you feel humbled that you never had such gut-wrenching experiences. Despite all the girls having bad experiences of their own, you knew that your fear and anger was valid and you deserved to feel just as hurt as the other ladies.

Just as you were about to ask where the instructor was, he waltzed in with a beautiful smile on his face. ‘Hi ladies, how are you all today?’ he chimed, sparkles in his eyes. All the girl’s attention went straight to him, them all happily greeting him in return. ‘My name is Yuta, and I’ll be your instructor for today… and hopefully the rest of the course’ he says, everyone laughing at his statement. All the ladies were so focused on his words but you just completely spaced out… he was so charismatic. ‘Okay, before we start I think we should all introduce ourselves, get to know each other a bit better’ he says signaling at the girl standing next to start. ‘Hi my name is Angel, nice to meet you all…’ she kept on speaking but you just couldn’t stop focusing on the man in front of you. ‘Why is he so sweet and handsome and gentle and…???’ you thought to yourself.

To your surprise, you really enjoyed the class. Even though the class hasn’t ended, every moment was fun and enjoyable. ‘Uhm, y/n you’re doing that wrong’ Yuta said, looking you in the eyes he walked over to where you were in the room. ‘May I?’ he asked before putting his hands on your waist to show you how to move properly. Your waist felt tingly, almost as if you were feeling butterflies in your stomach. That’s because you were, you were feeling a shit ton of butterflies in your stomach cause the most beautiful man you’ve ever seen that smells like cherry and musk was holding your waist with his beautiful man hands. Once you got the move right, your face was so hot from blushing that you could literally cook an egg on it. ‘Well done’ he said, with his beautiful voice.

The class finally came to and end, but just before you could say goodbye and leave, Yuta stopped you. ‘Y/n, can I talk to you real quick?’ he asked, gesturing to a open chair close to his. ‘What’s wrong?’ you asked, looking at the floor because if you looked into his eyes you’d probably melt into a pile of bones and blood. ‘Nothing, you did nothing wrong. I just wanted to know why you were so quiet during class, did I do something to make you uncomfortable?’ he asked, trying to look into your eyes, but you wouldn’t budge. ‘No, you were great. I’m just still getting used to everything…’ you said, finally lifting your head up to look him in the eyes. You weren’t quiet because of the “new environment”, you were just phased out by the man sitting in front of you. ‘Okay, as long as you are alright then I’m happy!’ he said, smiling at you. ‘I should probably go, I don’t want to keep you busy.’ you said, standing up and making your way to the exit. ‘Bye…’ you said halfway through the door, leaving Yuta now time to greet you as well. ‘Goodbye y/n, I guess…’ he says, but by that time you were in the parking lot, that’s how speedy you were.

A week went by and you were getting ready to attend your second self-defense class. Yuta was as charming as ever, greeting everyone and helping everyone. It was his job, but it still made your heart flutter at how considerate he is towards all the ladies, always asking if he may help them. The end of class approached and as the ladies were grabbing their things, Yuta came up to you and grabbed your hand before you could even pick up your bag. ‘Can I talk yo you?’ he asked, holding your hand gently. ‘Sure…’ you say, uncertain of what he wants to discuss or do. All the ladies have left by now and it was just the two of you sitting on the floor. ‘What’s wrong? Sorry if I did anything wrong…’ you said, looking at the floor again. ‘Why do you keep apologizing and asking “what’s wrong?” y/n? You aren’t doing anything wrong, don’t feel obligated to apologize for every little mistake you make. You kept apologizing for breathing during the class!’ he said sternly, trying to figure out what’s bothering you. He wasn’t harsh but his words made you tear up. He saw one tear drop on the floor and he immediately panicked. ‘I didn’t mean to make you cry. I’m sorry, I’m only trying to help!’ he said lifting your face with his hand, making you stare with your swollen red eyes right into his beautiful un-swollen eyes. You signed out, gaining the courage to explain your self. ‘I’ve always felt like I’m doing something wrong, I always feel that whenever someone is slightly angry it’s my fault…’ you said and before you could even finish speaking, he held you close in a tight hug. ‘It’s okay, let it all out. You’re pretty when you cry.’ he said, making you laugh. You felt safe for the first time in years… all in this one hug. ‘I have nothing left to do today, wanna go grab dinner with me?’ he asked, releasing from the hug. ‘That would be nice… I like Italian food by the way.’ you say, Yuta laughing at your statement.

You made it to the Italian restaurant (yes girl whoop-whoop), sitting down at a nice table outside since the weather was nice. ‘I probably look like shit now after I cried…’ you said, placing your bags on a chair next to you. ‘No, you look beautiful as always…’ Yuta says, smiling at you. ‘If you don’t mind me asking, why did you decide to become a self-defense instructor?’ you asked, looking at his pretty hands that were fidgeting with his rings. ‘I grew up with my mom and two sisters who had a huge impact on my life. It made me upset knowing they are vulnerable and less safe compared to me since they were women in a world with messed up men. So they inspired me to help other women gain strength and confidence around men, that’s why I do what I do… for them?’ he said, looking into your now less swollen eyes. ‘That’s cool…’ you said, sipping some of the water the waiter brought in the meantime. ‘What do you do for a living?’ he asked, putting the ring he fidgeted with back on his finger. ‘I work in the fashion industry, mainly underwear and stuff like lingerie. I work in the marketing area…’ you say confidently. ‘Oh so, you organize the shoots or…’ he asks, not sure what you meant with “marketing”. ‘No, I model the lingerie!’ you say, chuffed. ‘Seriously, that’s pretty cool.’ he says, sipping some of the water the waiter I mentioned earlier brought you guys. ‘Are you ready to order?’ he asked, looking at your eyes, he kinda felt some butterflies too.

Another week went by and you were once again getting ready for self-defense class (insert epic rock music riff). As you were going through your messages, you saw Yuta canceled the class. ‘Oh, maybe he has something else on…’ you thought to yourself. Just as you were about to get into lazy mode Yuta called. ‘Hi y/n, I was wondering if you’d like to come to class usual time?’ he asked, making you confused as fuck! ‘But I thought the class was canceled…?’ you asked but he didn’t say much, just a ‘can you come or not?’. Of course you accepted and met him at the studio usual time. As you walked in, you greeted Yuta who was rolling up Yoga mats (if you saw that correctly) and you placed your bag on the floor. ‘Hi y/n, thanks for coming!’ he said, gesturing towards the floor that you two can sit. ‘I wanted to discuss something with you…’ he said, your anxiety flaring up after his statement. ‘I… I was just wondering… did you feel weird after our dinner last week?’ he asked looking at the floor. This was the first time he seemed anxious towards you. ‘What do you mean by that… I don’t have any stomach problems…’ you replied. ‘No I meant, do you feel tension?’ he asked looking at your eyes then your lips. ‘What do you define as tension?’ you ask, testing the waters, making sure you don’t make a fool of yourself if you spontaneously kiss him. ‘This feeling right now. The feeling that I want to hold you close, call you mine and kiss you’ he declared, making you shocked yet eased for feeling the exact same way. Before you could even say another word, your lips met each other’s.

You sat on his lap as his hands roamed your back, kissing deeper, and deeper every second. ‘Before I hurt you, do you want to go further?’ he asked looking at your beautiful body situated on top of him. ‘What stupid question is that?’ you said earning a grin from his face as he continued to kiss your neck. Your hands slid up his shirt and he finally pulled it off revealing his torso which made you melt. His belly ring, his tattoos… he was so sexy before but this made him ten times more sexy as if that was even possible. His hands went under your top, releasing your body from the garment as well, his eyes admiring your shoulders, waist, hips. He then flipped you onto the floor, him hovering above you as he pulled down your pants, leaving you only in your underwear. ‘For someone who models underwear, I’ve never wanted to take it off so badly…’ he says, licking his lips before undoing your bra and pulling of your underpants. He kissed along your body, until he met your sex. He started liking your clit, earning moans from you. You never felt this good! And to top it off he interlaced your hands together for more stability (what a gentleman). ‘Aah, Yuta…Please…’ you moan, hoping really badly no one walks in on you two. ‘You taste so good princess, can’t wait for you to cum’ he says, looking up at you and scrunched nose. ‘I’m gonna…’ you breathlessly say, Yuta only speeding up his movements. ‘I know baby, cum on my tongue for me’ and as he says those final words you collapse. Your pupils dilate and your body is shaking with cum dripping out of you. ‘How cute…’ he says, licking up some of your release.

Just as you catch your breath, he removes his pants and throws them to the side, lining his cock up with your entrance. ‘You want to cum around my cock don’t you princess?’ he says, smirk printed on his face. ‘Yes, please…’ is all you could mutter out, and before you could prepare yourself for what was about to happen, he pushes into you gently. It felt so good, just the initial feeling could make you reach your high all again. Yuta thrusted into you at a fast and hard pace, every movement making you feel his dick hit the spot. ‘Fuck, you feel so good…’ he says, looking you in the eyes. You couldn’t do anything beside moan and whimper at the feeling, your second orgasm approaching faster than it should. ‘Yuta, I’m gonna cum…’ you moan uncohesively, hoping he’d hear you. ‘Yes baby, cum all over me…’ he says, hitting you even harder if that was possible. Your back arches even more and your hands grip onto his arms which had been holding you tightly this entire time as you cum for the second time. You feel him cumming inside you, his breath getting heavier. As he pulls out, he sees your cum dripping out of your cunt, his eyes focused on your body and it’s breathing.

He lays next to you on the cold floor, pulling you into his arms. ‘Are you okay?’ he asks, holding you tightly as you are still rattled from what just happened. ‘Yeah, I’m fine thanks.’ you say, hugging him tightly. You’ve never felt this safe around a man… ever! Maybe this was a sign…

Fast forward 6 months, you’re standing in a studio, getting ready for a lingerie photoshoot. The self-defense classes have come to an end, you stopped apologizing for nonsense and you and Yuta were dating… like yes the man you felt the most safe around. As you were about to get ready into your outfit for the shoot, Yuta came in with a big pizza. ‘Since you like Italian food…’ he says placing the food down on the makeup table. You gave him a tight hug and thanked him for bringing the food, but you unfortunately had to go shoot. ‘Thanks, but I have to go shoot now, I can’t be all bloated from food right now…’ you say and before you could finish your sentence, Yuta stuffs your face with one slice of pizza. ‘Cheese makes your boobs grow and as a underwear model you need pretty boobs…’ he says, as if it’s facts. ‘Where did you learn that?’ you ask. ‘Intuition!’ he declares before stuffing his face with pizza. ‘Besides, aren’t my boobs pretty enough as is?’ you say, sarcastically. ‘Yes they are, but the camera takes away some definition you know…’ he says. You punched him at his stupid words, and that’s when you realized ‘hhmmm, men aren’t that bad… well some of them’

#nct 127 #nct smut #nct127 #nct smau #nct yuta nakamoto #yuta nct #nakamoto yuta smut #yuta x reader #yuta smut #yuta nakamoto scenarios #nct yuta x reader #nct yuta fic #nakamoto yuta #nct yuta #yuta nakamoto #nct

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treason-and-plot · 1 year

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“Don’t tell Raj anything,” says Kaleb. “You shouldn’t go stirring up trouble between them, Mia. It’s none of your business.”

“It kind of is my business,” says Mia.

“How?” says Kaleb.

“Well, this is totally secret squirrel, but Raj thinks that a theme park development that Warren’s involved in might not be completely legit,” says Mia. ”He’s trying to find evidence of corruption to stop it from going ahead. So if Cookie’s consorting with the enemy then he needs to know about it, right?”

“Just stay out of it,” says Kaleb. “All of these people are shifty, if you ask me. Raj as well.”

“Raj isn’t shifty ,” says Mia.

“He’s been to jail,” says Kaleb. “That doesn’t exactly make him a model citizen.”

Mia hasn’t told Kaleb about her trip to Paris to smuggle money for Raj. And there will be another trip before the end of the year, Raj told her recently. It makes her feel guilty sometimes that she can’t share certain things about her life with Kaleb, whom she has grown to like very much in the month or so they have been seeing each other, but she has to admit too that being a modern-day smuggler makes her feel daring and glamourous. And of course the fact she is helping Raj and making herself indispensable to him is a further inducement.

“He’s done his time,” says Mia. “And he’s done more for Isla Paradiso than anyone else, ever. Why are you being so judgmental?”

“I’m not,” says Kaleb. “I’m merely pointing out that it’s probably not a good idea for you to get involved in his affairs. And it’s never a good idea to spread malicious gossip about people. I don’t like that, Mia.”

“Now you’re making me feel judged,” says Mia. “I don’t think I want to have lunch with you any more.”

Kaleb gives her a long look before shrugging his shoulders.

“Fine,” he says, and turns around and walks towards the carpark. Mia watches him till he is out of sight, a vein in her temple pulsing with annoyance, then walks up the steps to the Booking Office and pushes open the door.

#mia #Kaleb #5 years later #sims 3 #ts3

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chaifootsteps · 8 months

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"I first met Tokitae (also known as Toki, Lolita and Sk’aliCh’elh-tenaut), a female orca who had been captured off the coast of Washington, in 1987. I was a biology graduate student at my first professional conference, and the scientific society hosting this event held the opening reception at the Seaquarium.

Toki was 20 feet long and 7,000 pounds, and should have been in the Salish Sea traveling 40 miles a day and diving 500 feet deep with her mother and siblings. Yet there we were, a few hundred marine mammal scientists who mostly did field research, watching this magnificent being perform silly tricks in a bathtub.

That’s not really an exaggeration in Toki’s case. Toki’s tank was the smallest enclosure in the world for her species. It was only 35 feet at its widest point and 80 feet long. It was 20 feet at its deepest; if Toki hung vertically in the water, her tail flukes touched bottom. Captured in 1970 when she was 4 or 5 years old, she lived in this tiny space for 53 years.

The federal Animal Welfare Act (AWA), administered by the US Department of Agriculture, has a ludicrous requirement for tank width — only twice the length of an average adult orca (or 48 feet). But Toki’s tank didn’t even meet that weak standard. For years, the USDA offered various excuses for not taking steps to revoke the exhibitor’s license. None of them made sense, as the tank was plainly not to code. Activists repeatedly tried to sue the USDA for failing to enforce the law, without success.

Toki’s was a strange, lonely life. Despite many campaigns to repatriate her to her family (the L pod in Puget Sound), years passed. The stadium around her slowly and literally crumbled.

The ‘Blackfish’ Effect,” named after the 2013 documentary that eventually reached tens of millions of people globally, has shifted the captive cetacean paradigm in the past decade. Businesses have severed ties with marine theme parks, and policymakers have passed laws ending the commercial display of orcas and other cetacean species. SeaWorld, the company that built its brand on Shamu, is phasing out orca display — no longer capturing, breeding or trading them.

And still Toki languished in the South Florida heat. The Seaquarium’s two owners during Toki’s first 52 years there were adamant that she would never leave the park and disdainfully dismissed talk of returning her to her family.

In March 2022, however, Toki’s outlook finally seemed brighter. The Seaquarium was sold to a company whose business model relied primarily on swim-with-dolphin encounters. An orca didn’t fit that model, and these owners were willing to let her go. Efforts could finally begin in earnest to return her home. The Lummi Tribe, who gave her the name Sk’aliCh’elh-tenaut and considered her a relative, had prepared detailed plans for a seaside sanctuary in the Salish Sea.

Then, last month, Toki died. The hope felt by so many that she would finally go home disappeared in an instant.

Captivity robs orcas of a true life in the deep open sea. It robs them of family, of purpose, of change and challenge. Captivity is tremendous monotony for these socially complex, wide-ranging, intelligent animals. We should not perpetuate that.

Zoos and aquariums long ago relegated dancing bears and tricycle-riding chimps to circuses, but still claim that cetacean shows — loud extravaganzas featuring leaping orcas and cavorting dolphins — are educational (they are not). The industry could and should invest in seaside sanctuaries — it’s a win-win choice, as the industry would be heroes and the animals’ welfare would improve.

Let Toki’s miserable, isolated life and sad death mean something for her fellow captives. These amazing beings should not have to die to finally be free."

Dr. Naomi Rose is senior scientist (marine mammal biology) for the Animal Welfare Institute in Washington, D.C.

#orcas #orca #tokitae #animal welfare #actual blog post #I'm still having a tough time with this one.

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gyumibear · 17 days

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🧪 accidentally in love! — profiles: jungwon’s “friends”

synopsis — after a failed chemistry prank, one after class "detention" starts a romance between beloved student body president yang jungwon and l/n y/n, campus celebrity & serial prankster. but with graduation a few months away, will their love stay strong or leave them as jaded strangers?

“ mates, pals even ”

kim sunoo — 2003. music major! stayed back an extra year because he's afraid of the workforce. born to be rich, forced to work hard. roommates and best friends with jungwon and riki. potential scammer??? "twinss!" - sunghoon

yang jungwon — 2004. neuroscience and biochemistry double major! why he set himself up like that while also being student body president? nobody knows! roommates with riki and sunoo. one-sided beef w wonbin??? "wack." - wonbin

nishimura riki —2005. dance major! rivals with soul for best dancer on campus. always down to hinder someone's happiness! #real hater. best friends and roommates with riki and sunoo. "he doesn't wash his own socks." - jungwon

“ we heart the workforce ”

sim jaeyun — 2002. struggling model. he's making his way though, don't worry! friends with a lot of people, it's like he knows everyone. for that reason, he's basically everyone's favorite, but especially jungwon's. "big fan." - jungwon

park sunghoon — 2002. biochemist! how did he pull it off? he doesn't remember. busiest man alive, but still has time to thirst trap. might ALSO go to jail for scams in the near future, but who cares! "deserved tbh..." - sunoo

lee heeseung — 2001. waiter at a musical-themed restaurant. sings his heart out for tips and he'll get them ALL. riki's favorite. gives good advice! as the oldest, he's always in the youngests' business. "omg get a real job!" - riki

park jongseong — 2002. med school student! spoils everyone with his paychecks bc money isn't real. likes his privacy, but always available for his friends... sunoo's favorite. "look at my doctor, bro i'm cooked!" - riki

← playlist | masterlist | yn's camera crew →

note — still not feeling this formatting y'all 💔 curse you 10 image limit!!

accidentally in love taglist: open! send a reply or ask to be added! if bold, you could not be tagged! — @sol3chu @haechology @20crowsinahoodie @yongbokified @sirenla

#k-labels #kflixnet #kbookshelf #kpop smau #jungwon smau #jungwon x reader #enhypen smau #enhypen x reader #jungwon social media au #yang jungwon x reader #yang jungwon smau #jungwon fic

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gothicprep · 9 months

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analysts spend a lot of time thinking about disney and what it & bob iger are up to, given that the company has its fingers in so many pies. there's the theatrical business, which just had a soft summer after indiana jones, the little mermaid, and elemental all underperformed. there's the streaming business, which is stagnating in the us and shedding users in low-revenue markets like india, so it's hard to say how that's going. there's the theme parks and the cruises, which are making more money but attracting less visitors, which is troubling for them (as well as the disney adult types who have loved the parks for decades and are eating the expense). then there's linear tv – sports and gambling deals specifically – which is a weird asset. everyone agrees that it's in near-terminal decline, but everyone also agrees that it generates tons of cash and you can't really offload it without upsetting up your balance sheets.

all of this gets to a broader problem underlying the disney products right now, and it's a problem that's shared with a lot of the industry right now. let's be blunt – there's a real problem on the creative side. the two biggest properties disney owns are star wars and marvel, which are both in a very clear rut. interest is declining and audiences are tuning out. the live action remakes are doing okay, but where does the next generation of remakes come from when they aren't making new animated classics? this is where the company has a real problem. it's lack of originality. encanto was probably the only thing to really move the needle for them since frozen came out a decade ago. one original hit every ten years is not a sustainable model.

pete docter has taken over at pixar and the movies they're currently making sort of reflect his cerebral, abstract interests. this doesn't necessarily make for bad movies, but not ones that are positioned to be total, world-conquering hits in the same way toy story or the incredibles were. kathleen kennedy's tenure at lucasfilm clearly has not worked, at least on the feature film side. the mandalorian has been a hit, but they're really overdone it with the "you have to watch this show to see this important thing happen". we watched andor and we liked it a lot, but i'm about as hardcore a star wars fan as you can get, and i haven't touched the book of boba fett and i probably won't with ahsoka either. i think kevin feige's reign at marvel was considered to be a guarantee of quality for a while, but the homogeneity has really hurt them there, especially with the decline of the visual effects.

i think it's hard to look at the disney creative and say that there's any part of it that's working great and that's kind of depressing! most of us were kids of the disney golden age, to an extent. we were kid moviegoers at the time when pixar kept knocking it out of the park! so to be alive at a time where disney just seems to be befuddled by making mass entertainment is very strange.

#i love watching movies with my friends #new tag for my movie biz rambles

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chaotic-archaeologist · 11 months

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Out of curiosity, do you have any suggestions about anything or any place in Gettysburg that you think one have to do if one only have a short trip?

Gosh, yes, I have Opinions(TM). Here I'll do my best to put together a guide for a casual tourist who has limited time.

Let's start with the visitor center. There are pros and cons—I think the interpretation is decent, and it's clearly been updated within the last 5ish years. It's more middle of the road than I personally would like it to be, but it's a National Park so they're limited in what they can say. The museum does a good job talking about the experiences of civilians (including free Black people) before, during, and after the battle. They also have some new signs up around the town to talk about Black experiences.

Cons of the visitor center: I do not like the museum design. It's very text heavy, and I found myself getting fatigued trying to pay attention to everything. There was not enough seating, although I remember the the space being maneuverable for a wheelchair user. It's very dark and needs more lighting. They also have a lot of audio/video elements, and the sound design isn't good, so it bleeds into other areas of the space with several sounds overlapping.

Gettysburg Visitor Center Museum: take a quick walk through and pay attention to what interests you. Skip the cyclorama and the intro video. There are scheduled ranger talks that could be good but I haven't been to them.

Guided bus tour: save your money and skip it. I went because I was interested in how they would tell the story of the battle, but it's not necessary to get a good feeling of the action or to get information. The National Parks Service has a free app with narrated driving tours. Do that instead. Here's a map from the NPS.

Downtown Gettysburg: Very strange. Highly touristy, and almost every business has a battle-themed name. There are some cute local restaurants, but I wouldn't spend too much time there.

Sights to See: if you have a limited amount of time, here are the places I would most recommend visiting.

The National Cemetery. This is where Lincoln gave his Gettysburg address, which kicks off memorialization at Gettysburg and is part of what leads Gettysburg to become the center of Civil War memory making (this is stop 16 on the driving tour).

Eternal Light Peace Memorial. Not so much for the memorial itself, because it stands for the 'forgive and forget' model of remembering the Civil War, which neglects the experience of Black people during the war and Reconstruction. The park has put up signs discussing why this is problematic, and it does a good job discussing the issue. It also has a good view (stop 2 on the driving tour).

Devil's Den. It's iconic. It's a beautiful natural formation. There's something about that cluster of boulders that captures the imagination. It's a little out of the way from some of the other locations, but go if you can.

Little Round Top. LTR is currently closed for maintenence, but it should be open in 2024. It's a great place to get a view of the whole battlefield, and it's the site of Joshua Chamberlain's iconic bayonet charge (featured in Gettysburg the movie). Here's a NPS ranger giving a virtual tour. Here's a view from LRT, which also happens to be my computer background...

Other Resources: Gettysburg ranger programs Information about the 160th anniversary Historic and modern image gallery

youtube

Gettysburg is beautiful, but the tourism industry has definitely left its mark. So much effort has gone into creating a very curated experience for visitors, but don't be afraid to do your own thing. Visit sites out of order. Go with what speaks to you. Remember to be respectful.

-Reid

#he speaks #gettysburg #american civil war

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hazbinbossbrainrot · 1 year

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Few controversial issues I would like to bring up:

Loo Loo Land:

I'd say he WAS, but once Blitz entered the picture his lust for him made him fall off the rails. Now he's at the point where he invites Blitz to Loo Loo Land to flirt with him despite him coming up with this trip to make Octavia happy - the same Octavia who feels that the whole affair is tearing her home apart.

It is CLEARLY stated, factually, in Stolas’s bio that he had unknowingly — the similar to treating Blitz like a plaything later on — pushed his daughter away, due to flirting with his monthly ONS (one night stand). And yet the minute Stolas realised his mistake he dropped the act of NEEDING a bodyguard and leaves LLL with Octavia in his arms acknowledging that she WAS too old for the theme park.

👏🏻 HE 👏🏻 ACKNOWLEDGED 👏🏻 IT! And y’all — no one in particular just getting way too excited now, ignore the block letters lol 😂) — are saying Stolas is a muthafuckin bad parent for not realising this? The mistake he had now realised he made?

Okay, so he was also a little uncomfortable with Octavia’s passion for taxidermy, dead stuffed animals, but at least he supports her of it regardless (THAT is a definition of 'good dad' okay, yeah, Stolas won’t always get it right, I mean what parent knows everything?

But it doesn’t mean Stolas doesn’t CARE about Octavia. Not like Stella, from what I’ve seen canonically, between 2x01 (child neglect) and 2x02 — I’ll discuss that later furthermore — which wasn’t shown anything positive, like the latter had, or negative at the thought of her daughter nicking her father’s grimoire and going to the human world

(Most likely if it had been brought up Stella would’ve verbally abused Stolas rather than lecturing their daughter who actually needed it)

Also, for the fact that try as he might Stolas never really had a paternalistic role model. Since his own father — King Paimon — was either too busy for him or would forget his childrens' name etc

I’d be lying if I said I really wanted the case, ideally, where Stolas invited Blitz to come to Loo Loo Land for them a hang out — but NOT on a father/daughter day that was majority of the problem — or perhaps to get some paternal advice from him on HOW to act like a proper dad or even wanted to slowly introduce his daughter to the guy he was sleeping with (still not a great idea but you do you boo 😂) and his potential partner once he had divorced Stella

But that didn’t happen which I’m kinda of disappointed about because that DOES correlate with why Blitz was feeling like a “plaything” — not then, because he didn’t have any feelings, but later on in 1x06 onwards — and it also had increased Octavia’s abandonment issues / separation anxiety

So it really didn’t gain any favours from anyone, besides Stolas, because he could hang out with the two people he loves the most in the same place.

Reference:

Seeing Stars (2x02):

After Octavia runs off, Stolas COMPLETELY FORGETS ABOUT HER once he and Blitz are alone and he simps for his acting

In my opinion, I feel like 👏🏻 Stolas 👏🏻 did 👏🏻 not 👏🏻 forget 👏🏻 about 👏🏻 Octavia 👏🏻(Hell! She was his main priority — not as a “precautionary heir” but as his muthafuckin DAUGHTER — to the point of NOT calling Blitz “Blitzy". In fact the former spent MORE time worrying about her safety in the human world

Okay, yes, Stolas did flirt with Blitz ONCE to help him through stage fright — who was hyperventilating and looked to be on the verge of a panic attack) — and had reassured him:

“Blitz, if your performance on stage is half as good as it is in bed, you'll leave them…. breathless.” Stolas subsiding Blitz’s fears, whilst making his interests clear

I don’t particularly call this “simping” it was ONE MINUTE (not even that) of it, as opposed to S1 where that was definitely over the top “simping” entirely because Stolas, factually, had put Blitz on a pedestal above everyone else (yes, even, briefly, his own daughter), but to be fair, he didn’t know how to flirt in a more, what we call, “appropriate” way, because it’s not like he had any experience with his sexuality because he was thrown into marriage from the get-go so, of course, he had gotten so excited that Blitz — his crush since they were kids — came back into his life, but, also was partially worried about him leaving again, so it was almost a codependency thing

But! We are NOT talking a talking about his “season personality” back to the topic at hand; (S2) Stolas certainly wasn’t going to just leave Blitz there filled with anxiety. Okay, yes, after the latter was sure he gotten through to him and hurriedly pushed him into the room, affectionately called him “darling”, and wished him luck.

* But what I’m saying is at least Stolas 👏🏻 isn’t 👏🏻 MEAN 👏🏻 or 👏🏻 SELFISH 👏🏻 about the whole thing because it’s not in his nature (unless it comes to Stella lol; a guy can ONLY be patient and kind for so long)

While Octavia is alone and lost on Earth.

(Part 1)

That wasn’t the case though, so, in my opinion, statement is inaccurate. Okay, yes, Octavia WAS alone and lost to begin with alone — that’s the whole storyline of this episode — but like every falling action to almost resolution — Loona, eventually, tracked her down and gave her sisterly talk about their dads

youtube

“Sometimes... sometimes it's not as simple as that. This kind of shit gets messy, and everybody's got issues, especially dads. And sometimes they fuck up -- well, all the time. But, that doesn't mean they don't care." Loona to Octavia talking about their dads

"Looking for you. I mean... try to cut your dad some slack. He may not always get it right, but... he's trying. That's more important than you think." Loona talking about Stolas.

(If Stolas’s first priority was HONESTLY Blitz as y’all claim… why would the former turn the human world upside down just to find Octavia? To me if he was prioritising he’d say “I could care less what happened to my daughter. She can look after herself, as long as I’m with you it’s fine” but he didn’t because that would most likely come from S1 undeveloped version of Stolas

(Okay I was exaggerating maybe not even S1 would he say that. That’s more of a Stella comment but y’all get what I’m saying…)

Point is… there’s a HUGE character development between S1 and S2 Stolas, the latter, is TRYING to do the right thing and get HIS life sorted, the way he wants it by; Divorcing Stella. To respect Blitz — calling him by his preferred name — and hopes to become his partner, later in life, once everything is resolved between them.

I think what really bugs me is that people just remember negatively — especially if they’re anti-Stolas, which just makes it “easier” for them to hate him — that he’s snobbish, sexually deprived, cringey, and just really no better than the Goetia family — like the Stella’s and Paimon’s of this world — and their indifference towards commoners

I feel like everyone is just remembering the pilot — the WORST version of himself — rather that the one that is actually currently being progressive and doing his absolute BEST to have the fulfil his life that he wants and actually deserves, despite having an abusive (ex) wife — who stomped it every time Stolas got a chance to be happy — AND to deal with his feelings for Blitz, who had rejected him, because of his ongoing issues

— She also could've been kidnapped by D.H.O.R.K.S for all anyone knew

(Part 2)

As for the D.H.O.R.K.S thing? You’re right. That COULD have happened, yet it didn’t, so I’m not entirely sure where that came from. I WOULD have been be very surprised if Viv brought them back, since they hadn’t been seen since 1x06. And yet, I feel like, if she had gone down that path…

A. That would have been pointless because she hasn’t brought the agents back since S1; inconsistency in my opinion, since they were painted as “important” villains of the story or at least that’s what I got

B. I think that would have been more exciting rather than “oh no my dad is busy so I’ll just run away AGAIN!” which is something I feel like is a repeat of Loo Loo Land and the upcoming 2x12 episode

Now that I honestly think about…

It’s most likely that Stolas WAS vaguely referring to the D.H.O.R.K.S agents — when he voiced how worried he was about Octavia being in danger to Blitz — or it was just in general, which is more understandable as both his daughter and his ONLY precautionary heir.

“Blitz, we don't have time for this. Via could be anywhere. She COULD be in danger.” Stolas to Blitz worried for Octavia’s safety in the human world

Truth Seekers (1x06):

Stolas and Blitz’s relationship is based on Stockholm syndrome (and it’s practically the same as Valentino and Angel’s or at least has the same ambience of it)

Stolitz being “Stockholm Syndrome” relationship

1. That would actually require Stolas (NOT the agents who had) to have physically, as himself, kidnap Blitz and get him to fall in love because of the manipulative attention and sweet nothings that is being given

And before y’all @me no “darling” DOES NOT count because that’s just an English thing regardless for friends, family, or lovers

As or the “Stolas gives the grimoire to Blitz in order for him to continue his business” thing sounds awfully more like a prostitution thing rather than Stockholm

(Which someone has oh-so kindly made me realise that “prostitution” CAN lead to Stockholm syndrome 🤦🏼‍♀️)

I genuinely think that Blitz DOES want love from Stolas — as stated by Moxxie when he said that he craved intimacy yet fears it — but he’s not allowing HIMSELF to even though Stolas had given him all the signals of “I want you to” but struggles with communication and understanding that some people might actually love him (friends & family)

I think he’s also scared he’s going to let Stolas down or hurt (a little late for that I know) him the same as Verosika etc and subconsciously doesn’t want want to do that, so, instead, he puts him at an arms length for “protection” on both their parts and lashes out so he can become “unlovable” because it’s the only way he knows from being in a dysfunctional family)

Especially for the FACT that Blitz knew he let Verosika down with their relationship and you can definitely, maybe, see it in his eyes during his trip when she comes up to him saying that he treated her like shit and what a horrible boyfriend he had been etc (no matter how much I loathe her I’m not gonna diss the logic of this)

Also at the beginning of his Blitz’s drug trip we can see that Verosika, Fizzarolli and Striker were were all in the dark spot, most likely representing toxicity and negativity

+ Moxxie (who was half between dark and light)

BUT Stolas was in the light… which most likely represented a healthy relationship and positivity

If he was REALLY that bad (as bad as Valentino) WHY wasn’t Stolas in the darkness with everyone else?

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(2) Angel Dust & Valentino VS Stolas & Blitz:

Stolitz’s relationship and “ambience” is NOTHING like Valentino and Angel’s for one Stolas is NOT a rapist and he does NOT force himself onto Blitz whenever he wants to. I don’t care what y’all say about 2x01 that was completely CONSENSUAL but Stolas’s shyness was apparently mistaken for “I don’t want to do this”, so, of course, it came off as being SA’d

* If that was the case I’m pretty 💯 sure that if Stolitz, respectively, had sexually assaulted one another, both would be dead (well if Blitz has Angel-tipped bullets that is 😂)

The ONLY thing that is similar each other is the fact that a trippy version of Stolas — not the REAL one who’s way too affectionate to do that sort of thing; unless he had been put in a dominant (🥵) role — had pulled Blitz towards him, the same way Valentino had done to Angel Dust

👏🏻 THAT 👏🏻 IS 👏🏻 IT!

Interpretation:

Reality:

Not to mention there were two different facial expressions on their faces:

Hallucinogenic Stolas’s was sympathetic (if not a little mocking — and, so out of character, if it was the real one — when asking “are you afraid to love people, Blitzy?” but that was only because it was from Blitz’s interpretation of how he views him currently, thinking he viewed him nothing more than a “plaything” so, of course, he thought it was condescending), patient, and loving (three of them POSITIVE and one of them was negative, which wasn’t even all that bad because it was internal on the sufferer’s part

Which makes sense why Blitz accused Stolas — the real one — of treating him like it was anything more wanting to FUCK him (even though that was the kinda the deal)

Now, I understand that — as Loona said — “we all have our own issues”. Well, Blitz has them all the time because he was grown up with dysfunction from the get go and was probably told (and most likely shown) that he was unlovable as a child by his dad and that he’d always be a “fuck-up” and would damage other heathy relationships whether it’s friends, family, or even poetlovers.

Whilst Valentino’s intentions was to be sick, cruel, and that he didn’t CARE if he had hurt Angel verbally, sexually or physically

Stockholm syndrome? Yeah, right. Prostitution is more like it, which isn’t AS bad (in fact that’s the probably the LEAST thing you can do in Hell at least they — Stolitz — can and will be together. But not if it’s Stockholm. Period.

#stolas is a GOOD dad but that doesn’t mean he always gets it right 🥹#I’m not just saying this because I’m biased for stolas / stolitz #stolitz is NOT the same as angel and valentino’s relationship!!!#stolitz is not a stockholm syndrome #constantly updated #counterargument #helluva boss #slaying facts 🥰#2x02 #1x02 #i was bored #1x06 #anti stolas #anti stolitz

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hexbimbo · 8 days

Text

Rating DBD Survivors Designs.

I’ll be rating on a scale of 1-10. I’ll be judging on practicality, uniqueness, and lore accuracy.

Killers coming soon!

————————————————————————

🔥 Survivors |

Dwight Fair

8/10

Tie means business ☝️

I really like how in the Pinhead trailer, you can see the details of his arm hair! Like, it’s crazy that they included that.

Quick question: I don’t understand why he’s wearing a formal office shirt and slacks when he went missing in the woods. Unless the work group immediately went from his place of work to the woods to drink I suppose it would make sense.

Meg Thomas

5/10

Too much red in her design.

Probably bright(er) colors so motorist could see her if she was running in the dark but does fuck all in the fog. Makes sense for a runner.

I liked her hair when it was more orange than a dark red. I think it balanced out a bit more.

Claudette Morel

6/10

Dull colors make for good camouflage and I love her hair.

Her design is very recognizable and basic for marketing 👍

However, nothing about her design tells me that she’s a healer or botanist. Of course, you could argue the bandages on her arms show her medic nature but I could name a dozen characters that have bandages on their arms that aren’t necessarily medics. I would include some gloves tucked into her pocket or include some planet themed pins.

Jake Park

8/10

Has really silky hair for a homeless person.

Clothes are muted in color, look very practical, and matches with his lore.

I’d imagine he’d be sweating balls during the summer tho 😖

Nea Karlson

6/10

Good base design. Blends in with the environment, fits her personality.

The tank top makes sense for her design but she looks so cold :(

I think she’s suppose be 18-19 but the lore doesn’t really match it?? Somehow, she’s way too old and way too young.

Laurie Stroade

2/10

Wtf Behavior

Her hair looks like a helmet.

Outfit is somehow on both sides of the color spectrum for blue.

Do better.

Ace Visconti

10/10

I love his design! Always smiling, colorful (but not too eye catching), and unique for mid age characters.

So many details in his design ( His fast paced breathing when he’s hurt and the missing kidney scar on the character model.) His finger guns ❤️❤️❤️

My one nit pick: His lore mentions a lucky gators tooth that’s SO important to him, he fights a world class fighter to win it back. It would be nice to see it one his person as a necklace or maybe a charm?

William “Bill” Overbeck

7/10

Feng Min

1/10

She looks like race car mechanic….huh? She’s a competitive E-Sports player? How was I suppose to know that???

I feel like every killer can see that ugly ass polo shirt a mile away.

Fr though there’s a reason everyone buys her cosmetics.

David King

7/10

Asshole vibes

Got the “Manchester 3000” cut

Not too bad just kinda bland compared to other designs.

Quentin Smith

6/10

I think the beanie is more iconic and recognizable

No one knows who Quentin is. I think Nancy would’ve been better.

Fan art makes him look cooler than his in game model is.

David Tapp

9/10

For horror movie characters, a swat/police design I think is pretty cool! Most just go for a straight up uniform or what ever Jill type characters wear.

Not a fan of the SAW franchise so I don’t know a lot but I think Detective in police raid gear fits the overall aesthetic.

Kate Denson

8/10

Outfit is good but I think she’d be cold all the time.

Love the blond, bouncy curly hair!

I don’t know why she’s missing points tbh.

Adam Francis

4/10

It’s given Japanese school teacher. Trench coats, I think, are very in style over there.

I think it’s a little contradictory that he has a lighter when he doesn’t seem like he would smoke. ( He seem very involved in his students lives. I imagine he’d wouldn’t smoke for their health.)

It’s kinda uninteresting and a little bland. Maybe add some flair with a pocket protector, glasses tucked into his collar, or maybe a handkerchief.

Jeff Johansen

9/10

I love his design! We love plus size inclusivity (especially in men!)

Love the little pops of red and green on his shirt

Very practical, lore accurate. When I look at him, I want to know his backstory.

Jane Romero

9/10

Again with the size inclusivity ❤️

Gives Oprah vibes and the top bun in on fleek.

Notes of silver in her outfit give a VIP vibe. Her pose shows her confidence and I can tell she’s a kind person.

Ashley. J Williams.

6/10

Giving Gen X’ers the confidence they need.

Killers can hear that button down across the map.

I love the belt buckle and shoulder straps. This man is taking ass and kicking names!

Nancy Wheeler.

3/10

80’s were a hard time for fashion 😬. Home girl was trying her best.

I don’t think her in game model really looks like the irl version. (I get copy right laws but still-)

Her face kinda looks like a stuffed monkey toy.

Steve Harrington.

7/10

If the hair wasn’t so recognizable, I don’t think anyone would know that it’s him.

Outfit seems standard, practical, and isn’t too flashy.

Now, im not a stranger things Stan, but his outfit is pretty ass and not really “Oh, that’s Steve from stranger things.” . Scoops Ahoy? A slay.

Yui Kimura

Wow! 9/10

A good example on how to make a strong female character. I think most designers see female characters like this:

Strong Female Character:

Strong = Masc = unable to be feminine, ever.

See the problem?

I love how Yui still embraces femininity through the color pink and incorporates it in with her gang! Fucking sick!

Her outfit looks easy to move in, tells you what she does, and shows what a baddie she is! Also, the pink is subtle enough I don’t think it’s immediate “Hey! I’m over here!”

Zarina Kassir

6/10

Too much brown in her outfit but I it get.

Outfit looks very practical but looks default for a journalist. I think every female character has had that outfit, ever.

I can look at her design and tell she’s for people. (Which is good.)

Cheryl Mason

7/10

Iconic.

Very pretty and unique! I like the redness in her facial features.

Doesn’t seem very practical for running or staying warmth. Home girl needs some more layers. ( Also kinda giving second hand overstimulation)

Felix Richter

8/10

Wunderkind 💯💯💯. Blond hair, very German. Def looks like a well traveled European.

While the suit isn’t practical, I’ve seen the dark color help Felix mains a lot in hiding.

Looks like a wine Dad.

Élodie Rakato

4/10

I think an occult investor shouldn’t be wearing a loose crop top if she’s always running around and getting into dangerous situations ( pre-fog I mean).

I do get “appraiser” vibes and believe the darkness of the jeans offsets the orange of her shirt.

Not sure if anyone feels the same way but Felix and Élodie just match yknow? For some reason, I just knew they had a history when I looked at them. Maybe because they parallel each other through color. Felix tends to wear sharper, cooler colors while Élodie wears rounder, warmer colors. Idk if this makes sense.

Yun-Jin Lee

7/10

Least evil music producer.

Outfit fits her personality but I’d get so uncomfy wearing it. Like the fur and the ruffles and short jacket sleeves 🤢

She’s got it on.

Jill Valentine

4/10

I can a thousand over action girls who have this outfit.

I guess ~lore~ wise (correct me if I’m wrong) she wouldn’t be wearing her stars uniform because she was technically off duty.

Hair is the saving grace. If it was a pony tail, she’d be a Lara Croft rip off.

Leon S. Kennedy

8/10

Hair is amazing.

Successfully spruces up a typical police outfit to make it more fitting for a zombie apocalypse.

Honestly fine as is but maybe the in game model could have had the missing sleeve he has at the end of RE2?

Mikaela Reid

7/10

I like how her red hair contrasts to her black clothing.

Again with cold 😬

I think she’d be an active poster in r/Witchesvspatriarchy with tips and tricks.

Jonah Vasquez

6/10

Unique and practically for Chile weather.

Purple kinda gives him away on any lighter map. (Graveyard, The Square, Farm)

Latino Guy Fieri

Yoichi Asakawa

1/10

Wtf

The rubber jacket is an invitation to get tunneled.

It’s just ugly as fuck.

Haddie Kaur

7/10

Hear me out for a sec: the missing points aren’t because she’s ugly.

Honestly, a majority of points I’ve given are BECAUSE she’s not traditionally beautiful. How can you expect every video game character you come across to be a drop dead gorgeous model when most irl people aren’t? (And she’s not even that unattractive.)

Her outfit is trash tho. Burn it.

Ada Wong

2/10

Another case of “sexy Asian women in a tight red dress” ☹️

Why does an undercover spy need to wear a small dress, heels, nylons, and a choker if a majority of what she does includes physical activity.

I like her RE 6 outfit. Fits her personality/ style without compromising her job (change dem heel tho.)

Rebecca Chambers

5/10

Again with the choker.

I don’t think police are usually aloud to wear jewelry like that. Also, she hasn’t had a uniform change since the train.

Very practical and tells me she’s a medic. (Take notes Claud)

Vittorio Toscano

7/10

Didn’t know they had fades in the 1300’s

Blue tattoos contrasts nicely to his red tunic.

Idk. I felt like Behavior tried hard to make a sexy gray fox character.

I mean it worked better than skillmerchant-

Thalita Lyra

5/10

I think a rainbow puked on her.

Very pretty! Makes sense cuz she’s a model.

Her model had the THICCNESS

Renato Lyra

5/10

Again, I don’t really think it fits the games overall aesthetic. I think the characters I rated a bit higher tend to be colorful through muted/ duller shades.)

I like his finger tapping idle.

Looks like a kite.

Gabriel Soma

4/10

Very bright and flashy for the games overall aesthetic. Hiding doesn’t really work unless you’re on a brightly colored map.

~Lore~ wise, orange was probably used to locate crew members quickly while exploring foreign planets. Def gives future vibes.

Can’t tell if I like that his hair and beard colors are different. Definitely unique tho.

Nic Cage

10/10

Devs did a good job with the character model! Any person could look at it and go “Yup. That’s Nic Cage.”

Outfit looks like what a movie star wears casually. Looks practical and not too matching. (Looking at you Alan.)

I’m not even that big a Cage fan but was hyped they got such a big name to star in the game. Congrats Behavior!

Ellen Ripley

9/10.

Outfit is a slay. Very practical and seems easy to work in. Waist is snatched.

Also unique! Has notes of 80s fashion trends. Even her later movie looks differ and challenge female design rules! ( Her shaved head was amazing! )

-1 point for long, thick hair that could catch on machinery or branches. Iconic? Yes. OSHA violation? Yes.

Alan Wake

4/10 (I don’t know the story that well, feel free to judge.)

Seems like a mix of Nic and Jeff.

A suit doesn’t seem very practical for running around.

Honestly, I hate the horror trope of “Tortured man looking for wife” (James Sunderland, Ethan Winters, Alan Wake.) It’s really boring and don’t all their outfits look the same? The suit definitely gives him a best seller vibe tho.

Sable Ward

7/10 (Low key scared if I give her less than 7 the Goths will crucify me)

If her outfit was music, it’d be a rager. I think her hair is a little too bright for hiding and the sheer lace top certainly can’t keep her warm if she’s away from the fire.

Who said she can’t wear converse with her dress 🗣️🗣️

Outside of her voice lines and mug of coco, nothing about her outfit tells me she’s a cozy podcaster. I’d maybe add some headphones, a book, or a piece of wearable merch that indicates it.

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