#top 5 biggest fish

[delfiore]

—MY DEAREST FRIEND AND ENEMY. (3/5)

pairing: ona batlle x fem!reader

synopsis: without ona, you find other ways to fill the hole in your heart, as the consequences of your own actions come back to haunt you.

word count: 7.0k

a/n: holy shit is this one long. some more cameos for the plot who are all good bros to our dumbasses in love 👍

PART I, PART II, PART IV, PART V

2018, 5 years ago.

You always hated it when your hands shake after adrenaline rushes. It felt debilitating, like you weren’t able to make rational decisions because all you could think about was trying to hide your trembling hands.

When your coach called you into his office, you were still cradling your right hand, the other pressing an ice pack to the bruise starting to form on your right knuckles. The way he pointed with his head for you to follow him—doing so without a word—reaffirmed that you were definitely in trouble.

It was a warm day in May, and yet you had two training sessions to complete. You were drenched in sweat afterwards, your body warm and buzzing like a furnace. Definitely not a good day to be pissed off.

Coach Dennis sat in his chair behind his desk, his hands folded in front of him. His lips were curling and jutting out like they always did whenever he was concentrating or trying to look angry. It made him look like a fish.

A silence followed, and then he spoke. “Are you aware of what you did?”

You clenched your jaw to stop yourself from blurting out something sarcastic. “I punched a teammate, Coach.”

“You’re aware that that could get you released, don’t you, Y/N?” He asked. “NYCFC has zero tolerance for violence within the first team, much less the youth academy.”

You lowered your head. Your hands were shaking much less now.

“May I ask why you did it?” Coach pressed further when he didn’t receive an answer.

So you told him. There was a group of girls that had been picking on you for years now. You were never the biggest or strongest, so you used your techniques to weave the ball through defenders, to make you stand out, and it pissed them off.

“So you punched one of them.”

“They were cornering me.” You said simply, looking up at him for the first time since the meeting started.

The man sighed and covered his nose and mouth with his palms. You might have reduced his lifespan by a decade right then.

“Y/N, I know you. I know you will stand up for yourself, and I expect nothing less from you, but this kind of behavior will not and cannot fly here. That’s why I’m telling you this, because I know you’ll be special one day.”

“Those girls are bullies, Coach. They don’t deserve to be here. You should be punishing them!”

“They will get their punishment in due time, but you still punched a teammate,” he said firmly. “You did what you thought was right, but violence is never the answer. You can’t punch your way out of everything.”

“Are you kicking me out?” You asked, trying to remain stoic, yet you were fiddling with your fingers.

“No. I’m blocking your Dallas offer.”

FC Dallas had been one of the top scouts that have had their eyes on you, and you had been working extra hard to impress them. This was your chance to break into their first team, and it was gone.

“You can’t do that!”

“Yes, I can.” He pressed.

“Coach, please—”

“Thank you, Y/N.” He cut you off. “You may leave.”

Leaving Dennis’ office, and walking down the hallway, your eyes caught Sara—the girl you punched—sitting in the infirmary, her face tear-stained, red, and blotchy. She had always looked at you with disdain, but now there was a fear in her gaze as she caught yours from far away. When she did, you got a better look at the damage you’d done to her face. You suddenly felt that shame you should have felt back in the office.

“Yo, Y/N,” you heard someone call when you were outside. “I heard about what happened.”

“You’re gonna lecture me, Gio? ‘Cause Dennis already did.”

“No, man. I was gonna say how badass that was,” he grinned.

A slow grin spread on your face. You shook your head, as Gio put his arm around your shoulder and you walked to the cafeteria.

You met Giovanni Reyna a few years ago when you first joined the academy. In a training session where both the boys and girls participated, you were paired with him for finishing drills. With a hard tackle, he’d almost put you in the hospital. Ever since then, you had been stuck to the hip. He was the first friend you made and the longest friend you’d ever had.

You’d stay another year at NYCFC, honing your skills, and avoiding another run-in with your bullies until the transfer window was near. You were still waiting for FC Dallas to call back, as you had for a year now. It was the only place you wanted, and while you knew it was risky to do so, it was your gateway to Europe through their partnership with Bayern Munich.

“Sara is going to the Red Stars, did you hear?”

“Dylan’s going to Orlando Pride.”

“I heard Hope and Mary-Anne are going to Roma and Lyon!”

You had tried to block out the gossip in the cafeteria, but it made you doubt yourself. What did they have that you didn’t? Yes, you weren’t the tallest or strongest, but neither were Messi, Xavi, or Aguëro. But maybe that was just it; you were not Messi, Xavi, or Aguëro, and you would never be.

Gio was leaving too, there had never been any doubt about that; his dad was a U.S. legend, and it was only natural that he’d give the best to his son. Besides, Gio might have been the next best thing after Christian Pulisic skyrocketed to fame within the past few years. The boy’s move to Borussia Dortmund was almost imminent, and people had been whispering about it for weeks, but you were the one he told first.

“When do you leave?” You asked, picking at the food on your tray. Gio and you were sitting outside having lunch.

“Beginning of June,” he said.

“I’m happy for you,” you muttered, voice cracking quietly, but a small smile remained on your face.

“I’m sorry, Y/N.”

“Don’t be sorry. This is a good thing,” you smiled, nodding as you grabbed his hand over the table. “I’ll just miss you a ton.”

“Hey,” Gio searched for your eyes. “I have no doubt that you’ll be scouted soon. I know it. I know you have what it takes to be at the top, whether it’s in Europe, or here.”

Your best friend left less than a month later. You had wrapped your arms around him so tightly and hid your face in his neck, afraid you might bawl like a baby the last time you saw him on the training ground. But you didn’t cry then.

You did cry, though, when Coach Dennis called you into his office again a week later. This time, instead of expressing his disappointment in you, he hugged you tight, congratulated you, and let you read the email that Portland Thorns FC sent to request a transfer for you to their first team.

2023, present.

“You ever thought about what you’d be doing if you weren’t playing football?”

You had just drifted off a bit when the voice next to you spoke. Furrowing your eyebrows, you wondered how she wasn’t absolutely battered.

“Don’t know. Never had a plan B. Didn’t want to.”

“Right. But I feel like, I go to training, I kick the ball, people come and watch me, and then when I go home after, I don’t know who I am. It’s like . . . I’m nothing without the footballer.”

You didn’t expect your hookup to be opening up to you like this. You’d only just met her a few hours ago at a club. You had played against her a few times in the league but had never spoken to her face-to-face. Though not the best on the dance floor, she made an excellent dance partner in bed.

“Well, having a personality is overrated nowadays anyway.” You replied, closing your eyes again. “Nobody cares who you are until you fuck up on the pitch, so just don’t fuck up on the pitch.”

“Easy for you to say,” she huffed. “You have your starter place at City guaranteed.”

You ignored her and turned to the other side. A few minutes later, you heard the sheets shuffling, then the sound of a zipper. “This was fun,” she whispered before you heard your bedroom door opening and closing.

No barks, it meant Bratwurst was asleep, luckily for your ears. Most people you had been bringing home he had been barking at. You wanted to think it was him being protective over you, but he would bark at your teammates too when they would come over, except for one person.

Ever since you came back from the World Cup much earlier than you had anticipated, you liked to find company at clubs and parties. In your time of need, you’d found that you preferred sporadic ones, fewer complications, and headaches.

You were also invited to events; award shows, the British Grand Prix, and a few fashion shows. Those you never really bothered with, but they were chances for your stylist to go crazy with the outfits (which you never complained).

The only good thing to come out of those, however, was seeing Gio again at Paris Fashion Week. The moment you saw him, you gladly accepted it when he brought you into a tight hug, feeling like that 13-year-old again when you first met. You kept in touch over the years, but your schedules were always too different to ever meet up. But it was as if no time had passed, and the only thing that kept you both from talking till morning was that Gio needed rest for his rehabilitation training the next day.

“I’m going on a trip to Ibiza soon with a few friends. You should come,” he said.

“I don’t know, G. I wouldn’t want to impose.”

“You wouldn’t. I want you to come. There’s someone I want you to meet.”

“Just because you have a girlfriend now doesn't mean you’re allowed to set me up,” you smirked and shoved him.

“I’ve seen the stuff that came out about you, Y/N,” he sighed. “Is it true?”

“I’m not doing anything illegal if that’s what you’re asking.”

“That’s not what I meant. About you being seen at clubs day in and day out. What is this really about, Y/N?”

You know Gio wanted the best for you, even though sometimes he was too stubborn to admit it. You were too, but you loved him to bits. Maybe that’s why you two fit together so well.

“I let someone close to my heart, and it fucked me over.”

Gio nodded softly. “Well then. Just consider it a vacation. She’ll still be there though.”

“And you won’t make me go out with her?”

“As if I can make you do anything.”

Unless you were legally prohibited or physically unable to, you would never turn down a proper party. So there you were, on a yacht in Ibiza with your best friend and several other people in his entourage. Gio, that little shit, though having promised not to set you up, was elbowing you at a woman the moment she set foot on the yacht. Anyone with eyes would say that she was beautiful; curly hair, plump lips, and soulful eyes you could get lost in.

Maybe this wouldn’t be so bad. It didn’t hurt to try.

You went over to the bar where she stood and ordered a drink. Glancing behind your shoulder, you noticed Gio sending you a big thumbs-up.

“So, you are the one Gio keeps raving on about,” said the woman next to you. Her eyes were really pretty.

“I guess so. That’s me,” you let out a laugh, albeit shakily. “Am I everything you dreamed of and more?”

It was her turn to laugh. “He definitely mentioned your confidence, yes.”

“Well, then I’ll definitely keep you around for sure. But just so you know, I do other things besides kick a football around and look pretty doing it.”

“Oh? Like what?”

“I guess you’ll have to find out for yourself,” you smirked. “I’m Y/N,” you extended a hand.

“Leena,” she took your hand in a firm handshake and raised her drink to you.

You took a sip, and watched her behind the glass, only to notice that she was looking back at you as well. “So, how did you know Gio?”

“I worked with him on a couple of photoshoots. I’m a photographer,” leaning against the bar with her drink, she smiled and pushed a few strands of hair behind her ear. “He was really nervous, said he didn’t like getting his picture taken. Luckily, I used to work with kids and animals back home in Finland, so making a full-grown man laugh for his headshots wasn’t too hard.”

“You’re from Finland?”

“Mmhm. I go back and forth between London and Manchester now, though.”

“Interesting,” you nodded inconspicuously. “I play in Manchester. Nice city.”

Before you knew it, the sun had started to go down, and it was time to drive the yacht back to port. As you all made your way to the exit to disembark, you waited for Leena before offering your hand to help her down the ramp.

Your group was to head into town, and have some dinner before going to a local music festival to finish the night off. It was dark by the time you arrived at the venue, and you wasted no time in immersing yourself in the music. Gio and the others were long forgotten, and you found yourself enjoying your time with Leena much more than you had anticipated.

You told her about your job, and she asked about the World Cup. As much as you hated to talk about it, having declined several interviews and podcast appearances in which mentions of the tournament were inevitable, you told her everything she wanted to know.

She was so attentive and listened, even though you knew she didn’t follow the sport, and for that you were thankful. It has been a while since you talked to someone about how you felt and have them listen so wholeheartedly.

“Do you ever miss home?” You asked once the both of you had taken a break from dancing.

“Sometimes, but right now my wanderlust is bigger than my homesickness. I want to see everything the world has to offer.”

You swirled your martini on the standing table. “I’ve been away from home for so long, I don’t really know where home is anymore.”

“Well, I think home is where you make it.” She lay a hand on your bare arm, caressing it slowly. “If you’ve already made a home at this age, what else is there to do?”

Your eyes trailed along her arm up to her face. Your heart slowed, and the music seemed to have faded in the background. Despite the chaos of the festival, several drunk people dancing next to you, and your friends have already disappeared somewhere, you suddenly had an overwhelming urge to kiss Leena.

But it wasn’t her that you wanted to kiss, not really. You wanted to kiss her because it reminded you of familiar feelings, to have someone in your corner that you didn’t have to pretend to. But of course that was all based on a lie.

As she reached into your martini to pick up the olive pick and held it out for you, you bit down gently on the fruit and let her pull the pick away. You smiled bashfully.

“I’ll go get us some more drinks,” you cleared your throat. “Do you want some fries too?”

You needed to get out of there before you did something you regret and ruin a good thing, again.

The bartender was off once you’d given him your order. Whilst waiting for the drinks, you looked around for familiar faces and spotted Gio and a couple of his friends “dancing” to the music in one corner, clearly quite inebriated.

“Y/N.”

You turned around and wished that you didn’t. It was Ona, looking at you like you were some sort of alien.

“Ona,” you breathed.

“Hi. What are you doing here?”

“I’m here with friends.” Now would be a good time for those drinks, bartender.

She nodded. “How are you?”

“Fine,” you said too quickly. “Congratulations by the way, on winning.”

“Oh, thanks.”

“You guys deserved it. No matter who’s trying to take it away from you, you did, and you should celebrate it,” you meant it and tried to force a smile that adequately expressed your sentiments. Needless to say, it would be easier to be saying this to one of her teammates, anyone but her.

You remembered the night she broke your heart, the night when you left your heart by the sidewalk as you trekked all the way home on foot.

That was three months ago, and with all the distractions you’ve indulged yourself in, somehow it still ached.

The bartender handed you your drinks just then, and you were off.

“Y/N, wait.” You closed your eyes. “I’m sorry . . . for what I said, how I said it.”

“No, I think you made your point very clear, Ona. Have a good rest of your trip.”

“Y/N, I did feel something too! I did!”

Ona felt like biting her tongue at the look you gave her when you turned around, the two glasses of Negronis dangling in your fingers by your side. She had almost regretted it when your lips trembled, and your chest rose and fell as if an implosion was imminent.

You took a large step towards her and exhaled. “You don’t get to do that. Not after I’ve tried to do everything to forget you. You can’t do that.”

Ona opened her mouth to say something, but she knew anything she said would only add to your fury.

“I hope you’re happy by the way.” You said mockingly. “Seeing that you got what you wanted. Winning the World Cup, moving back to Barcelona. Hope you’re happy. Bye, Ona.”

She watched unmovingly as you walked away from her, back to a table where a woman was waiting, and pulled her towards the crowd to dance. She found herself returning to her group, not being able to get the image of you swaying behind the woman with your arm around her neck out of her mind.

What kind of sick joke was the universe playing to make her see you right when she was supposed to be enjoying her days off? Maybe it was her punishment, having broken your heart then practically fleeing the country immediately after.

“Where’s the drink, Ona? You were supposed to get us some,” Lucy questioned her when she came back.

“Oh, sorry. I thought I saw someone.”

“Oi, is that Y/N? Y/N!”

“No, please don’t.” Ona grabbed Lucy’s arm, and quickly pulled it down.

Realizing Lucy didn’t know about it, she knew she was going to have to tell her one way or another. Surprisingly, Lucy didn’t laugh or tease her about it after hearing the entire story. They were back at their hotel, with another bottle of wine passed between them, and Ona told her new teammate everything.

“You were under our noses the whole time, and we didn’t even realize,” Lucy snickered with a shake of her head.

“Yeah,” the night had taken a toll on her, and Ona started to feel the effect of the alcohol as she lay staring at the ceiling. “Have I made a huge mistake? Letting myself be involved in all this.”

“Obviously, but the heart wants what it wants. Trust me,” the brunette took another sip from the bottle. “It is a hard situation, but she needs space, as much as you can give her so she can heal.”

“Sounds like you’ve been through it before,” Ona smirked and poked her with her elbows.

The older woman only laughed. “Something like that.”

As hard as it was to accept the truth, Ona had to move on. She didn’t have a lot of time to mope around, however, before she knew it, the season had already begun. Barcelona had always been a place to return to, and the team needed someone who had Barcelona in her DNA to complete the defense.

It was all going swimmingly, too much so even. The season started out slow, but they grabbed the wins when they needed them. Then it was time for the Champions League draw. Barcelona had been drawn into a group with RSC Anderlecht, AS Roma, and Manchester City.

Just her luck. She’d have to see you twice before the year ended. Barcelona would be going to Manchester first.

With her chance encounter with you in Ibiza still fresh on her mind, she joined the queue for warm-up, looking up every once in a while in case she spotted you. When she did, you were standing by the sideline talking animatedly to your other former teammate Keira. She tore her eyes away before you could notice her, and swallowed that uneasy feeling in the pit of her stomach.

“Longing for your American girl?” Mapi said with a smirk.

“Shut up,” Ona mumbled, jogging away to do stretches. “I knew Lucy would blab.”

“So Lucy knows? I was just making an educated guess from the way you keep making those sad puppy eyes at her.”

“At who?” Ingrid appeared from behind.

“Y/L/N,” Mapi raised her eyebrows at her girlfriend with a smirk, and Ingrid gasped excitedly.

“Oh my god, Y/N Y/L/N?! You guys would be so cute together!”

“Guys, come on. We have a match to play,” Ona groaned and begrudgingly jogged away. Just before she started her sprints though, she snuck one last glance at you, when you briefly looked back. As if having been burnt just by a look, you quickly said goodbye to Keira and went back to your half to continue warming up.

“Do you think they were already together?” Ingrid whispered at Mapi.

Mapi sighed, “Definitely.”

Ona started that match on the left, as Lucy also started and occupied her usual right side. You were playing on the right this time to allow Lauren Hemp to be on the left wing. It meant there would be none of her usual duels with you.

Ever since Lucy’s slip-up in the World Cup final, Ona knew she had been more cautious in defense and stayed back most of the time. It gave her the opportunity to set up passes deeper whilst also keeping you at bay, the tactic Ona herself used at United and one she knew you absolutely despised.

Sure enough, you stupidly went up against only one of the best fullbacks in the world. Your dribbling and speed were to your advantage, and Lucy—with all her experience and knowledge of your play—easily controlled you at the flanks. So you tried inverting inside, and Lucy followed you too, if not Irene did.

Man City was pressing high, giving the offense plenty of opportunities in the box, but Barcelona was better in defense. It was only when a precise lofted ball was sent past the back line, that Lucy was trailing after you. You went down just outside of the box. As everyone was getting ready for the free kick, you were still on the ground. Your ankle had been stomped on by Irene during the struggle.

Ona quickly jogged over and put her hand over your shoulder, “Y/N, are you okay?”

“Don’t put your hands on me,” you seethed, swatting her hand away, just as the physios came over and sprayed your ankle. Just moments later, you were able to stand up, but you never spared her another glance.

As much as it stung, she clenched her jaw to stop the tears and got ready for the free kick.

Barcelona ended up winning 2-0, a stellar start to their UWCL campaign. While Ona went to shake hands with several players from the opposition, she looked for you, seeing you walk towards the stands. You took pictures and signed for some people, even gave a little kid your shirt, but she saw the way you lit up when talking to someone in the crowd. Upon closer look, it was the woman you were with in Ibiza.

Your smile was blinding as Leena was led down the pitch towards you. “Hi,” you breathed. “I didn’t think you’d come.”

“Of course I did. You gave me tickets, remember?” She brought you in for a hug. “I’m sorry you lost, but it was very entertaining. I took lots of pictures.”

“Of me, I hope?” You smirked.

She rolled her eyes playfully. “Keep dreaming, Y/L/N.”

Smiling slightly, you brought her in for a side hug. “Thank you for coming,” you kissed Leena’s cheek. “Means a lot.”

Ona was watching the entire interaction, fuming on the inside. Lucy and Mapi knew to steer clear of her path once they returned to the dressing room by the glower on her usually affable face.

SportsPro Media: Y/N Y/L/N Seen ‘Smiling’ After Man City Lost to Barcelona in Women’s Champions League Group Stage “Fans have taken to social media to criticize the winger, 21, after she was seen smiling and conversing with fans at the stands after a 2-0 loss to reigning champions Barcelona. The criticism came after several of Y/L/N’s teammates on the USWNT were also condemned for their overt optimism after barely making it out of their group in the Women’s World Cup this summer. Among the critics was former USWNT international Carli Lloyd. Y/L/N was also seen getting more than friendly with her rumored girlfriend, whom the winger was spotted on holiday with in Ibiza alongside U.S. men’s team’s Gio Reyna after a shockingly early World Cup exit. […]”

When the second round of the group stage came around, you were much better prepared. Though you were playing away in Barcelona, Man City were preparing to win. You were definitely training to do so, so when the starting XI lineup was posted on the door in the dressing room, you were stunned when your name wasn’t on the list. You had been benched before—it was all part of the game—but only during less important games or for your own recovery, but never during an important game like this.

“Gareth, can I speak to you, please?” You said, gritting your teeth when the gaffer opened the door in his office.

“Of course,” he gestured for you to follow inside. “Take a seat.”

You remained standing. “Why am I not starting for the Barcelona game?”

“I’m doing what I think will be best for the team, Y/N.”

“By benching me? You need me!”

“Easy, Y/L/N. No one is above the club, and I don’t appreciate your tone,” Gareth’s tone was despicably calm, yet no less menacing.

You took a deep breath to compose yourself. “I want to know why, in an important game such as this one.”

“It seems . . . that you might have a personal reason as to why you want to start this game, but I have to rotate the squad and—”

“Wait, wait, wait. What do you mean? What personal reason?”

Gareth sighed. “I’ve been informed that you’ve had a personal relationship with one of Barcelona’s players that didn’t end too well.”

“So? What does that have to do with anything?” You all but yelled.

“I’m making a decision that I deem best for the club, and you and every other player will listen because I am in charge!” Gareth had never yelled, not like this. It made you flinch. “I will not have my players’ private life bleed into the performance of the team. Now, you can either support my decision or I will have you removed from the squad traveling to Barcelona, and replace you with someone else who will put the team above their own interest.”

Your mouth is sewn shut, just by the sheer shock at what the manager had just said. You stormed out of his office without another word, slamming the door open to mask what you were truly feeling inside. It wasn’t fury—you were beyond that—it has turned into fear of being replaced; fear of being left behind.

Man City drew that match, and it was just enough to send the team to the quarterfinals, having done it entirely without you. Gareth had made up a bullshit excuse to the press to make you stay home.

Your agent, Toni, was much more furious for you, saying what he did breach the contract you signed and that you should be taking action. In the five years they have been your agent, you have never had to endure that much legal talk over a club issue before. You’d be amused at their passionate rambling if you weren’t already nursing a headache.

“I think you should leave, Y/N,” they finally said after getting off the phone.

“What?” You furrowed your eyebrows. “But where would I even go? I don’t have any offers yet.”

“You will, once the news comes out that you’re looking to leave the club. You only have one year left on your contract anyway, plenty would seek to employ you.”

You had been through this before. The waiting after letting it be known that you wanted to leave was the worst, but you weren’t just a nobody anymore. You were Y/N Y/L/N, and you would have it your way one way or another.

“Alright, then.” You nodded firmly. “Let’s have a talk with Gareth. I’m not gonna scurry out of this club like a rat.”

Goal.com: Y/N Y/L/N Looking for Man City Exit After Tension With Boss Gareth Taylor “Sources within Man City are saying the American winger could be on her way out of Manchester this summer. The player has reportedly ‘fallen out of favor’ with City gaffer Gareth Taylor after ‘expressing her vexation over lack of playing time’. The 22-year-old was left out of the squad traveling to Barcelona for the 4th group stage match of the Women’s Champions League altogether and has since featured in significantly fewer matches for the Citizens. Several European clubs are reportedly keen to sign Y/L/N, but she could also be making a return to the NWSL for what could be a record signing in the women’s game yet. […]

Though you were scared, it was much easier to let go of a burden that you have been carrying around for so long.

Which was why you had agreed to come to a concert with Leena when she had asked you. You would let yourself have fun and connect with someone without being scared anymore because what Ona did to you had nothing with who you were, and you sure as hell weren’t going to pay the price for it.

Needless to say, you and Leena had a great time. You were been walking back to your car in the parking lot when you saw a flash. You sighed and walked Leena towards the passenger side.

“Get in the car. Don’t come out, okay?” You told her with a smile, which was quickly wiped off once you saw the photographers approaching.

“Y/N, are you leaving City? Where do you think you’re going next?”

“Did you have a fight with Gareth?”

“Y/N, are you going to Barcelona?”

You entered the car with an exasperated sigh. Your breathing became heavy as you attempted to start the car, and your hand started to tremble.

“Hey, it’s okay,” Leena spoke softly. “Don’t let them get to you.”

She placed a hand over yours and squeezed it softly. Finding her eyes, you nodded gratefully, and drove away, trying your very best not to run those imbeciles over.

You went back to her apartment where you both ordered some takeout. Over a movie, you talked about anything and everything.

It was like that with Leena. Somehow, she has made you feel okay with pouring your entire heart out in front of her, her caring eyes and encouraging silence taking away your doubts about looking like an emotional fool in front of her.

But the moment you saw her eyes dart back and forth between yours, then down to your lips and leaned in, you froze. You wanted this, only because it would be good for you, but you couldn’t do it.

“I’m sorry, Leena. I-I—” Jumping out of the couch, you stuttered like a broken record. Of course, she would have read it like that, you couldn’t blame her. You didn’t quite know what you wanted, but all you could think about was how different it was to kiss Leena than it was to kiss Ona.

“I’m sorry. I can’t do this, I’m sorry.”

She didn’t try to stop you. In fact, she didn’t say anything at all. She might as well have been just as shell-shocked as you were by your reaction. You bolted out of there as quickly as you can, like a coward.

Unsurprisingly, Leena hasn’t tried to contact you. You couldn’t blame her, you’d be pissed at yourself too. It seemed everyone was pissed at you these days.

Chloe approached you once in the weight room to ask if you were leaving. You could only offer her an apology, but she brought you in for a hug. You would miss her the most.

Meanwhile, Toni was working tirelessly on your next move, and all you could do was train and be the best footballer you could be while you waited. Even if Gareth didn’t deserve your effort, your teammates did, and you owed it to them to give it your all until the day you left the training ground for the last time.

There was only one destination you had in mind, but going there would mean having to confront your serial one-night stand that you were possibly in love with, who also didn’t share your feelings.

You couldn’t let that deter you from ascending the football hierarchy, though. You couldn’t, and you won’t. You would do it one way or another because it was where you deserved to be. You would show Gareth that he was wrong about you.

“I can’t believe you’re going to Lyon! That’s crazy, Y/N!” Gio said over the phone. He was the first person you told and was ecstatic when you did.

“They still haven’t sent anything official yet, but it’s looking like it, yeah.”

“Well, what happened to the Barcelona deal?”

“My agent was flipping out when I said no, but then this deal came two days later and now they’re flipping out again but for a good reason.”

“That’s awesome, dude! I’m happy for you!”

“I don’t know, I just—I feel like I’m not there yet or something. Lyon wants me, but they’re freakin’ Lyon!”

“Hey, I know all about imposter syndrome, alright? But you can’t let that keep you from playing at one of the best clubs in the world.”

“Don’t let Dortmund hear you say that,” you smirked.

“Eh, we know where we are. That’s why we sold Erling and Jude,” Gio spoke. “Point is, they want you. They clearly see how good of a player you are. So get your ass over to France and show them that!”

“Yeah,” you nodded. “You’re right.”

“Alright, gotta go. But hey, let’s go for a drink next time you’re in town. Hopefully, by then, you’re a Lyon player.”

You ended the call and got up to go take a shower. Just before you went to the bathroom, though, your phone rang again.

Grinning, you picked up again, “Look, if you’re telling me you’re gonna set me up again, I swear to god, Gio.”

But you didn’t hear Gio’s voice or teasing laugh. Instead, there was a shaky sniffle on the other side.

You checked the caller ID, and it was an unknown number. From Barcelona.

“Hello?” You said, unsure.

“Hey, Y/N. I just . . . just needed to hear your voice.”

You sighed because you knew exactly who it was. You had etched the cadence and tone of her voice into your memories during the many nights you’ve spent together.

“It’s Ona, by the way.”

“I know,” you nodded. You didn’t quite know how else to carry on this conversation. “I heard Barcelona’s beautiful this time of year.”

“Yeah, it is,” she said, sniffling again. “You should see the beach at sunset. It’s great. I go and sit there almost every night.”

“Are you drunk, Ona?”

“No, no. Maybe a little bit. Just a little bit though. I had two glasses of wine. Or else I wouldn’t have the courage to be doing this. Just like I didn’t have the courage to tell you that I had feelings for you too. Have, I still do.”

You closed your eyes and shut off the water. Then she said it again, “I have feelings for you, Y/N. I think about you all the time. And I know you might be with someone now, but I just can’t . . .”

She started crying again. “I can’t go on without telling you anymore.”

“This is incredibly selfish, what you’re doing, Ona.” You were close to tears too, hearing how much this hurt her.

“I know. I’m sorry I fucked it all up. I’m sorry for hurting you. If I could take back everything I said, I would. I’m so, so sorry.”

You took a deep breath and sat back down on your bed. “I forgive you.”

“Really?”

“Yeah. I was selfish too,” you said quietly. “You should go to sleep. You have a Champions League final to play tomorrow.”

You ended the call before you or she could say anything else.

“Shit,” you mumbled and threw yourself back onto the bed. This was exactly why you had to say no to Barcelona, even though it was your dream to play for them. Alas, it started to feel like a mistake.

You dialed Toni. “Hey, um, please don’t kill me for asking this, but could you reach back out to Barcelona and tell them I’m very interested?”

“I knew you’d pull some shit like this so I’ve stalled them. They don’t know we’re negotiating with Lyon, and would probably be fine with setting up a call soon. It’d be a headache to handle Lyon, though.”

“That’s why you’re the best agent in the world, right?” You smiled sheepishly.

“We’ll see, Y/N. We’ve got some leverage for now, but it’s not guaranteed that Barça won’t say no.”

“Thank you, Toni!” You hung up the phone.

ESPN: Barcelona Completes Signing of Y/N Y/L/N from Manchester City on World Record Transfer Fee “Manchester City W.F.C. has agreed to sell USWNT winger Y/N Y/L/N to Barcelona on a £485,000 record fee. This transfer surpasses Keira Walsh’s own move to Barcelona from the Sky Blues in 2022 with a fee of around £400,000. The signing of the summer was finally completed after several clubs have been reported to enter the race. Olympique Lyon was also close to acquiring the 22-year-old’s signature, but the deal broke down in late June when the player repeatedly expressed her interest in joining the Catalan giants. A technically gifted forward, Y/L/N can play on either side as a winger, and occasionally as an attacking midfielder for the national team. Her impending arrival at La Blaugrana would provide a boost in attacking power to an already impressive Barcelona side. […]”

“Jesus, you look like someone murdered your mother or something. Liven up, please.” Mapi smacked her Ona on the shoulder.

“I’m just a little nervous to see her again,” the younger girl muttered, fiddling with her fingers.

She could hear voices outside the dressing room getting closer. At the sound of your voice, her ears trained. She remained facing her locker, trying to occupy herself until you came in. She really felt like throwing up.

You greeted Aitana first with a quick hug, Marta too, then Lucy brought you in for a spin and released you for Keira to go in for the hug.

You said hello to Mapi and Ingrid, both of whom hugged you tightly.

Then you were in front of her. She had expected you to not even look at her, after what she had said over the phone. But you smiled a genuine smile, the one you used to give her whenever the world was a little too hard to bear.

Ona remembered everything. From the sheer hatred and resentment to the lust and sleepless nights under the sheets, to the longing and heartache she endured away from you.

“Welcome,” she whispered quietly, afraid you might not reciprocate her greeting.

Instead, you pulled her into you and held her tightly.

a/n: i’ve decided to add some lore for our y/n, lmk if you like it, if you don’t like it, if you think it’s too long and you just wanna get straight to the smooching :)) there’s more to come but now the stakes 😌☝️ are higher now that we have some info on what makes y/n ticks. i’m going back to college this week so updates might come later but yeah pls let me know what you think!!

#ona batlle #ona batlle x reader #ona batlle imagines #ona batlle imagine #ona batlle angst #woso imagines #barcelona femeni #gio reyna x reader #woso #lucy bronze #mapi leon #ingrid engen

[evegoldenwoods]

"And Cori is crying these big studio ghibli tears"

A redraw of the haku/chihiro scene with cori and Perennial. The wings are referenced from howl's moving castle, and in general I plucked a lot of colours from the ghibli references as well, because colour is my biggest weak point.

Don't zoom in too close or you'll see how messy this really is, even with all the corners I cut it took so long sob sob sob. This is why visual media don't usually have one of the characters be a disembodied nervous system made of Russian sage (shoutouts to Austin for specifically emphasising that on the pod. Ha. Haha.)

I hope the head wings are somewhat visually distinct from the back wings, but they might not be.

I kind of want to upload the time lapse video for this one, but it's like 5 mins long and over 50mb so I'd have to put it on youtube or something I think. Which is a whole kettle of fish.

(the quote at the top might not be exact, the transcript isn't out yet and I didn't go back to listen and check)

#friends at the table #Palisade #palisade spoilers #coriolis sunset #Perennial

[buddhamethods]

10 BL Characters I Would Hit With My Car

(I don't have a licence and can't drive so this is just for fun OBVIOUSLY)

LISTEN, I love these characters. They are complex, they are human, they are flawed and yet you can't help but root for them. Or they are just giant assholes.

Regadless, I think they would all benefit from getting hit by a car as a little treat.

Feel free to tag yourselves and participate in a bit of lighthearted negativity and media complaining.

1) Ben From Never Let Me Go (2022)

Of course he would be on this list. Mainly because how are you, a closeted gay in a coming of age bl drama, sitting down in front of a piano next to a beautiful boy and not just completely eat his face in a passionate life altering kiss? I understand that was the whole point of the scene, but personally I would rise above the narrative that was trapping me.

2) Dan from Not Me (2021)

Being a cop, killing Sean's father and selling NFTs is bad enough on it's own, I agree. But Dan's biggest sin was taking the cigarette out of Yok's mouth and depriving us of seeing sad First Kanaphan smoking near a body of water-THE queer cinema experience.

As it turns out, you can be gay and homophobic at the same time.

3) Kenji from My Dear Gangster Oppa (2023)

So you have funky hair and kawnty fashion sense? Oh, you partake in fun bathtub threesomes? What, you're a little unhinged and psychotic? Perfect! THEN WHY THE HELL YOU SUCK AT BEING A VILLAIN SO HARD HUH???

Kenji you better put your helmet on, I'm turning on the engine.

4) Kanghan from Dangerous Romance (2023)

Rich people don't deserve rights in general so Kang was already on thin ice to begin with. But being a bully on top of that? UNDER THE HOOD OF THE CAR YOU GO!

Also he is so attention starved on account of his father being a negligent asshole that he will jump in front of my car willingly just to get a drop of love from dad and Sailom.

5) Yu Xi Gu from HIStory3: Make Our Days Count (2019)

(I'm so so incredibly sorry but I HAD to okay you don't underst- *gets shot immediately*)

6) Mork from Fish Upon The Sky (2021)

I looked at Pond for 0.1 second and fell so embarrasingly in love that for the entirety of FUTS I saw no flaws in Mork's character at all. All he did made sense and I was blissfuly having a great time! So I'm pummeling him to the ground for my own sake I CAN'T KEEP BEING THIS STUPID ABOUT HIM HE IS OBJECTIVELY CREEPY!

7) Vee from Love Mechanics (2022)

Was he in my "I want them carnally" list? Yes. Do I find him beautiful and incredible? Double yes. Am I smearing him on asphalt like a squished bug for causing Mark so much unnecessary pain and heartbreak? More likely than you think.

8) Jiwoo from To My Star/ To My Star 2 (2021-22)

MY BEAUTIFUL BOY!! A crumb of healthy communication is all I'm asking for!

Jiwoo was so emotionally bricked up for the majority of both seasons that it caused ME damage. So me hitting him with my car is both a revenge plot and an attempt to let loose some of those pent up feelings of his.

(But also I'm dead meat if Seojoon finds out it was me behind the wheel. He loves that boy too much.)

9) Zee from Twins (2023-24)

I'm volunteering to do this as public service to keep Sprite and First together without any twins switch drama. One gremlin down, one successful volleyball couple UP!!

10) Winner from Pit Babe (2023-24)

I want to do it as an experiment. I feel like he would make a funny sound under the wheels, like when you sqeeze clown's nose or step on a rubber duck. I would also like to see how this will affect his character. Will he become even more annoying? Will it fix him completely? ONLY ONE WAY TO FIND OUT!!

(This was so fun I love inflicting imaginary violence on fictional men. If you read this far into this incoherent insanity, consider yourself tagged!💖)

#tag game #never let me go #never let me go the series #pit babe #pit babe the series #dangerous romance #dangerous romance the series #to my star #to my star 2 #history 3: make our days count #twins the series #love mechanics #fish upon the sky #my dear gangster oppa #thai bl #kbl

[wellperfumedbead]

Okay but what if I wanted to ask you about vampire squids? I love autism ramblings about marine life.

:000

Okokok this is going to be very unstructured but sh

Ok so despite their name, they're not actually squid, infact they're probably closer to octopuses are in. And well, they were initially (and wrongly) classified as cirrate octopuses (like the flapjack octopus). And you can sorta see why really

So they're not squid, they're not octopuses but they are cephalopods, their own group of cephalopod of which they are the only known member. Their classification was rectified about the 1940s or 1950s. And this was in a German expedition whose purpose was to prove there was life below whatever number of metres, I can't remember how deep it was.

Anyway, they get about 30cm and live at depths around 600m-1200m (sorry idk how much that is in the imperial system). And they live in practically any the oceans in oxygen minimal zones/the oxygen minimal layer. In the OML there's very very little oxygen, like 5% oxygen or smth. That can be bc of circulation in the oceans and that water just isn't moved around as much (there's a name for those little pockets of ocean but I can't remember it). But they have blue blood that is copper based (?) and it binds oxygen really well. I don't know much about that bc I'm not much of a chemistry guy. But they also just use very little energy and have lots of surface area on their gills to absorb as much oxygen as they can.

They have remained largely unchanged for like 300 million years which is cool. In captivity they have been recorded to live for about 2 months but it's estimated they live for almost a decade in the wild.

Now they're called "the vampire squid from hell" (that's what their scientific name translates to) bc of their appearance. The red colour, the large red eyes (that are actually clear but appear blue or red in certain lighting) and the fleshy cirri (little spike things) that lines their webbing. When they are threatened they pull their webbing over their head and it makes them look scary and pointy but really the cirri is soft and squishy.

I'm gonna go back to the eyes for a second bc they are huge compared to the 'squids' body. Like pretty sure they're the biggest eyes compared to body size in any animal or smth. Really cool.

Oh and btw they do have suckers as well but only small ones on the furthest half of the arms from the body. Argh I want to talk about the arms but I want to finish talking about defence mechanisms first. ILL GET BACK TO THE ARMS!!

Ok so they have really weak muscles so their ass is not going anywhere fast, which is a problem when things are trying to eat you (things like sharks, larger cephalopods, fish, and even some diving whales). Their top speed is like 2 body lengths per second. So apart from the spines, they also have some bioluminesence up their sleeves. They have two large light organs on top of their head that kinda look like eyes and one on each end of their arm. So when they pull up their webbing around them and you look at them from the 'top' BAM suddenly you've got lots of scary eyes looking at you. Also they don't squirt ink but do squirt a sticky bioluminesent goo that either distracts the predator, or sticks to the predator so and even bigger predator comes along and eats them. I think this goo can stay glowing for about 10 minutes? I'm not sure. Im pretty sure that this is symbiotic bioluminescene tho, which is where the animal cultivates glowing bacteria to use rather that mixing all the chemicals for bioluminecense in their body themselves.

Ok ok ok arms and 'tentacles'. So they have 8 arms yeah but no tentacles. Instead they have two looonnngggg filaments that they store in little pockets in their body

You can see one there. These are like 8 times their body length and they connect directly to the 'squids' brain.

FOOD!! Unlike pretty much every other cephalopod ever, they are detrivores, which means they eat essentially garbage. Rotting organic matter known as marine snow and literal shit. They way they eat this is they catch the detritus with sticky cells on their filaments and use mucus to make it into something more easy to pass into their beak.

We don't know a whole lot about their breeding and stuff but the males pass a sperm packet to the female for storage so she can fertilise her eggs when she likes. When the babies hatch they are very teeny and don't have their webbing yet. The parents don't tend to their children at all and until they can feed themselves, they eat their egg sacs. They grow pretty slow bc there's not many nutrients and stuff available for them in the deep.

A cool thing about the babies is that when they hatch, they have one pair of swimming fins, then as they grow they develop a second pair, and then eventually they loose (its absorbed into their body, cant waste it) the first pair and just have their second pair. Sorta like we have adult and baby teeth

Another thing that sets them apart from other cephalopods is that they reproduce multiple (up to 20) times in their life, until they die. Other cephalopods usually die after the first time. This makes them iteraparous, while other cephalopods are semelparous.

Ok almost done I promise. A few more things:

-adults use their fins to swim while juveniles use propulsion

-the ICUN has not evaluated them

-they have very good balancing organs like the ones in our ears

-they can not change colour like other cephalopods bc their cromataphores are underdeveloped

THATS PRETTY MUCH ALL I KNOW SO FAR ABOUT THEM!! When I research, I like to try to exhaust every single reliable site with information about them and write it down so I dont think I missed anything too important when I first was researching them :)

Have some more pictures!!

#vampire squid #autism rambles #deep sea #marine biology #cephalopods #special interest

[thecreaturecodex]

Ipupiara

Image © Wizards of the Coast

[Sponsored by @some-trash-pigeon. The merrow is the Irish version of the mermaid, and like many folkloric mermaids, typically the men appear grotesque and the women gorgeous. The name has been in D&D since the 1e AD&D Monster Manual, and a similar version appears in Pathfinder. The AD&D/PF merrow is an aquatic ogre, which didn't get a unique stat block until Pathfinder. D&D 5e decided to revamp the merrow, and I gotta say, it's near the top of the list for "biggest art glow-up". And, since the folkloric merrow is a merman rather than a big aquatic guy, it's more accurate to boot.

So why the name "ipupiara"? Well, for one thing, "merrow" is taken in Pathfinder. For another, the ipupiara is a Brazilian mer-thing that is actually oversized, and even has whiskers! That name was suggested to me by monster researcher (and my girlfriend) @abominationimperatrix.]

Ipupiara CR 5 CE Monstrous Humanoid This creature has a humanoid torso and the head and tail of a monstrous fish. It has barbels hanging from its underslung jaw, and fins grow along its head, shoulders and arms. It is sinuous from the waist down, and wears shell jewelry and other trophies and trinkets.

The ipupiara are mutant merfolk, the descendants of merfolk who ventured into the Abyss and adapted to its hostile waters. They can be found on any Abyssal layer with aqueous environments, and their scaly hides are capable of withstanding extremes of heat and cold. Although they have no ability to traverse the planes on their own, they are often found on the Material Plane, where they are a menace to sailors and fishermen. The first ipupiara were worshippers of Dagon, and the majority of them still serve the Shadow in the Sea.

Ipupiara are bullies above all else and tend to target the smallest, weakest victims when they have a chance. They carry barbed harpoons, which they use to latch onto prey, before squeezing them to death in their muscular coils. Ipupiara string up the mutilated corpses of their victims as territorial warnings, typically missing their eyes, noses, fingers and toes. Ipupiara can survive in any temperature of water, but prefer to lair in three-dimensional substrates such as kelp forests, shipwrecks and sea caves.

An ipupiara is about fifteen feet long, half of which is tail.

Ipupiara      CR 5 XP 1,600 CE Large monstrous humanoid (aquatic, extraplanar) Init +4; Senses darkvision 60 ft., Perception +7

Defense AC 18, touch 9, flat-footed 18 (-1 size, +8 Dex) hp 45 (6d10+12) Fort +4, Ref +5, Will +7 DR 5/piercing; Resist cold 10, fire 10

Offense Speed 10 ft., swim 40 ft. Melee 2 claws +9 (1d4+4), bite +9 (1d8+4) or harpoon +9/+4 (2d6+6/x3 plus grab), bite +4 (1d8+2) Ranged harpoon +5 (1d8+6/x3 plus grab) Space 10 ft.; Reach 10 ft. Special Attacks constrict (2d4+6), gripping harpoon

Statistics Str 18, Dex 11, Con 15, Int 8, Wis 10, Cha 13 Base Atk +6; CMB +11; CMD 21 (cannot be tripped) Feats Exotic Weapon Proficiency (harpoon) (B), Improved Initiative, Intimidating Prowess, Iron Will Skills Intimidate +14, Perception +7, Survival +7, Swim +19 Languages Abyssal, Aquan SQ amphibious

Ecology Environment any aquatic (Abyss) Organization solitary, pair, gang (3-8) or mob (9-24) Treasure standard (2 harpoons, other treasure)

Special Abilities Gripping Harpoon (Ex) An ipupiara is skilled at using harpoons to grip prey. It can grapple with a harpoon on any successful hit, not just a critical hit.

#pathfinder 1e #d&d #ipupiara #merrow #merman #sponsored post #brazilian folklore

[gotham-ruaidh]

Little Bit Better Than I Used To Be

Catch up: Chapter 1 (Starry Eyes) || Chapter 2 (Save Our Souls) || Chapter 3 (Dancing On Glass)|| Chapter 4 (Merry-Go-Round)|| Backstage (1) || Backstage (2) || Chapter 5 (Danger)|| Backstage (3) || Chapter 6A (Love Walked In) || Chapter 6B (Without You) || Backstage (4) || Chapter 7 (Stick To Your Guns) || Chapter 8 (Time For Change) || Backstage (5) || Chapter 9 (Take Me To The Top) || Backstage (6) || Chapter 10 (Home Sweet Home) || Backstage (7) || Chapter 11a (Nightrain) || Chapter 11b (Nothing Else Matters) || Chapter 12a (Handle With Care) || Chapter 12b (I’m So Tired of Being Lonely) || Chapter 13a (Angel) || Chapter 13b (She’s My Addiction) || Chapter 13c (Patience) Chapter 14a (Where Do We Go Now?) || Chapter 14b (Where Do We Go Now?) || Chapter 14c (Where Do We Go Now?) || Chapter 15a (Dreams) || Chapter 15b: I Sing A Song of Love ||| Also posted at AO3

Chapter 15C: You Can Do This If You Try

Wilmington, North Carolina

Labor Day Weekend, 1988

Oh, take your time, don't live too fast Troubles will come and they will pass You'll find a woman, and you'll find love And don't forget, son, there is someone up above…

 - “Simple Man”, Lynyrd Skynyrd (1973) [click here to listen]

“I really appreciate you helping me with this.”

Jamie shrugged, and took a long drink from the thermos of Gillian’s sweet tea. “It’s the least I can do. You gave me and Claire a place to stay this weekend. Away from everything. That’s a true gift.”

Dougal set his toolbox on a stump. “Thought you could use a bit of peace and quiet, here in the back country.”

Jamie nodded, and pulled his t-shirt over his head. “I think I’d forgotten what trees look like. Or the inside of a building that wasn’t an arena or a hotel.” He draped the t-shirt over the unbroken part of the fence, and bent to pick up one of the boards he’d hauled across the field in Dougal’s battered wheelbarrow. “The last time we were at a house was for our wedding – and it was Joe’s house, and we didn’t even stay there overnight.”

“I’m sure you’re staying in top of the line hotels, in their biggest suites. My guest room must be too normal for you and your bride.”

Jamie smiled, just a bit sadly. “I don’t know what normal is anymore, Dougal.”

Dougal fished in his pocket for a nail. “I won’t even pretend to understand what your life is like right now.” Carefully, methodically he hammered the nail, fastening the board to the fence post. “But I have to tell you, I’m so impressed you’re still sober.”

“Why wouldn’t I be?”

Dougal rolled his eyes. “Oh, I can think of some reasons. Like, every single thing you were addicted to, is front and center of your life on the road. We talked about this a lot last year when you were with us at The Ridge. You’re back on the road – meaning, that all that shit is in front of you all the time again.”

Jamie nodded. “I remember. You said it wasn’t me you were worried about – it was everybody around me. That I was surrounded by people who enabled me.”

“Exactly.”

“Well – things are different now. I fired the bloodsucker that was my manager. I found Colum. I had some very honest conversations with him, and now all of those people and all the shit they used to put in front of me are out of my life. Plus, one very important new person is now in it.”

“And what does she make of everything?”

Jamie held up another board, and Dougal hammered it into place.

Giving him space.

“I thought I was ready to be back on the road,” Jamie added, after a while. “I really did. But I had no idea just how fucking hard it would be.”

He set the board against the fence post. Dougal began hammering another nail.

“And?”

“And…this time, I decided to just be open about it with everyone. It’s definitely gotten easier to talk about it – addiction, and sobriety, and recovery. And people do respect what I ask. They keep the substances and the groupies away from me. Obviously it’s still there – I just can’t see it.” He paused, thinking. “On the one hand I think they understand why I can’t be around that anymore, and they understand how terrible addiction is, and how fucking difficult sobriety is. But on the other hand – let’s be real, they know they have to listen to me and do what I ask. I’m the star of the show. I get what I want.”

Dougal took a nail out of his mouth, and hammered the other side of the board. “You didn’t answer my question.”

Jamie leaned against the fence post. “I think about it all the time. Drinking. Cocaine. Being in my dressing room with three girls at once.”

Dougal stood up straight, stretching. Squinting in the harsh midday sun.

“I don’t want to do any of that shit anymore, of course. But that doesn’t mean I don’t think about it.”

“And what exactly does that have to do with your wife?” Dougal asked patiently.

Jamie’s eyes were inscrutable behind his aviators.

“Because I flash back to the shit I used to do, and then I blink and she’s there with me, in the same rooms where I used to get really fucked up. And she holds my hand, and tells me she loves me, and then I tell her everything.” He jammed his hands into the back pockets of his jeans. “I can be straight with her, and she doesn’t care. She wants to know all of this shit about me, especially the shit I’m really not proud of. Because it helps her understand what I’m working on, and why I don’t want to be that guy anymore.” He cleared his throat. “Why I’m not that guy anymore.”

“What does she say when you bring up all the shit you used to do?”

Jamie pursed his lips. “I know it hurts her. The last thing I ever want to do is hurt her. But I’d hurt her more by not telling her the truth.” He ran his fingers through his hair – almost back to shoulder length. “And every time I tell her something, she tells me something. What it was like to go through high school without parents. Or one time when her miserable excuse for an ex-husband hit her and she fixed her own busted lip in the bathroom. How she’d do surgery while high. How she destroyed pretty much all of her friendships when the pills became the most important thing in her life.”

A blue jay settled on the fence, chirping.

“I didn’t want to tell her all the shit about me, and what I’d do when I was using. The man I was. I don’t want that to…to trigger her or anything, and compromise her sobriety. But because we share it, and we talk about it, it makes us accountable to each other to not fuck it up.”

“So as much as you depend on her for sobriety, she depends on you for hers.”

Jamie nodded. “We’re tied together in so many ways, it’s insane. We are addicts. We were at the top of our professions and we were miserable. We’re terrified that one day we’ll wake up and the other person will be gone. And…” he swallowed. “When we’re together, when we love, it’s…I can’t find the words, Dougal. We waited for intimacy until our wedding night. And I’m so fucking glad we did. Because if I knew what kind of magic we can create, there’s no way I would have ever agreed to go on tour and spend even a few hours every day away from her.”

Dougal leaned against the fence post. “You never think that this could all be too much for her? It’s a tremendous amount of pressure. And both of you being in recovery just complicates things.”

Jamie pursed his lips.

“It’s like I told you last night – she’s my high. Knowing she’s there. Touching her. Sleeping beside her. Loving her…all of that keeps me grounded and focused. I wrote a song about it, and it’s the fucking title track of the new album. She’s my addiction.”

“But is that asking too much of her?” Dougal pointed to the tattoo above Jamie’s heart. “You don’t want to develop too much of a dependency. She’s not a drug. I know that love is intense, Jamie – you know my story with Gillian. But neither of you should completely lose yourself.”

Jamie shifted uncomfortably. “If you’re asking if I have other ways to cope with the stress – I have my guitar, and I have my wife. And I have a few people like you, who I trust. Right now I don’t have much time for anything else.”

Dougal crossed his arms. “You need to make the time. If not for you, for her. Especially if you’ll be touring next year. Going all around the world, far from home – your stress levels will be off the charts.”

Jamie sighed. “They already are. I’ve been having panic attacks.”

Dougal sat next to Jamie on the fence. “Has that happened to you before?”

Jamie shook his head. “Not until this tour. And not every day. We’re in early September, and we’ve been on the road since May…maybe fifteen times since then.”

“Is there one particular thing that triggers it?”

“Not that we can tell. Thank God Claire’s a doctor – she’s helped me figure out when it’s starting, and she helps me get to a quiet place away from everyone.” He swiped his eyes beneath his sunglasses. “I usually end up not being able to breathe, and crying, and freaking the fuck out, and my wife is the only thing that physically holds me together. It’s fucking scary, Dougal, and it’s so not fair to her. It’s yet another thing that stresses her out. She has had so much shit in her life these last few years, I can’t fucking stand that she has to see me like that. Deal with yet another level of my bullshit.”

Dougal turned back towards the house. Watched Claire and Gillian on the porch, shaded from the sunshine, enjoying the rocking chairs. Watched William chase around their dog Bram, knowing it would exhaust them both before lunchtime.

“I’ll be straight with you, Jamie, because it’s what you deserve. Claire told Gillian about the panic attacks, and that you were considering bringing a therapist with you on tour next year.”

Jamie crossed his arms. The flames and flowers of his tattoos flexed.

“Gillian and I – let us help you find someone. Someone you can trust implicitly. With the panic attacks, and with your sobriety, and in managing all of the stress. Someone who can help Claire, too. Because the last thing you want, Jamie, is to be in some random city in some random country and it’s two AM after a show and Claire is somewhere else and some asshole backstage has left a baggie of cocaine on your chair and you have a panic attack. And you’re all alone, or with people who you don’t want to see you like that.”

Jamie scuffed his boots in the grass.

“More importantly, you don’t want Claire to start resenting you, for being the person to hold you together.”

Jamie, surprised, whirled to face Dougal. “I don’t think – ”

Dougal raised a hand. “I’m not saying she ever would. I’ve seen you two together. What you have…it can’t be described. But don’t you agree, that you don’t ever want to do anything to fuck that up?”

Jamie pursed his lips. “I promise her every day that I won’t.”

Dougal stepped closer to Jamie. Grabbed his sweaty shoulder. “Then let me help you. Please.”

Jamie slipped off his sunglasses to meet Dougal’s eye. “OK. Thank you.”

Dougal smiled. “Consider it our wedding present. Now come on – just a few more boards.”

#outlander #outlander fanfic #jamie and claire #little bit better than i used to be

[memoiich]

I demand your Maul headcanons <3

Im going to split this up in 2 parts

Part 1 : star wars

Maul is extremely talented at drawing. He leans more into it after Savage and him are travelling together.

His memory is top notch , hes the kinda dude that remembers what he ate 5 months ago at 4 in the morning ( if he has a lover i can see him using this to get them like niche ,one time mentioned gifts)

His sleep schedule is none existent. He tried a few times to fix it but since palpetine needs him 24/7 , he hasn’t yet . After Savage gets him back , he tries to help Maul and it goes pretty well . (Like 6 hours per night on average)

The biggest problem is nightmares. He has ALOT of nightmares. Some are from his childhood, he thinks he’s stuck in the gray room on Mustafar or he sees the fish in palpetine tanks dying. It gives him alot of stress and anxiety. Some nightmares are about Obi Wan, he isn’t scared of him but more of the fact that he didn’t win . He gave his entire childhood and didn’t win against someone that was raised by loving people that cared for his wellbeing.

He dreamed as a kid alot about Dathomir.

He is a mercifull killer , he normally doesn’t play with his prey . He tries to kill them as quick as possible ( look at the fish even qui gon ) this mentality gets ingrained into his mind after he got cocky with Obi Wan .

Maul is smaller then most zebrak males because he was malnourished as a child . Savage has asked about this before but Maul reflects by stating its for his fightstyle.

Maul horns are terribly kept. He never met another zebrak before he was like 24(?) so he literally never knew he had to take care of them . Savage is horrified by the state of his horns when he finds him . Later he helps him out with that and now they are alright.

ALSO his tattoos are fading and need a going over.

He feels extreemly guilty towards both his brothers for leaving them behind. He never knew Feral and he hates himself for that . He sometimes wants to know more about him but hes convinced Savage will be hurt so he hasnt .

He is extremely confused towards his mother Telzin . He feels a certain sense of gratitude towards her for bringing him back but he hates for what she did towards his brothers and for giving him away . ( I actually love the legends version where he has a human mother (Kycina ?) even more but clone wars made it work better so….)

Part 2 : modern au

To me it makes sense if him and his brothers had a tattoo parlor or like a piercing shop.

Or like a business salesman

He drives a red and black kawasaki ninja 400 .

Maul still has a lot of scars mainly on his abdomen . He got into a lot of streetfights as a kid/ teenager.

He loves to give gift . He generally doesn’t think that people will stick around for just him so he sees it as paying them for their service.

He has a pet reptile a Bibron’s Coral Snake . Because he finds them cool .( he ended up in the hospital one time because of her)

He hates obi wan because they have a work rivalry.( will rend to his lover about this )

Im going to keep it here for now . I have some more but this is long enough

#darth maul #star wars #maul #maul opress #writing #darth maul x reader #obi wan star wars #savage opress #feral opress #ask me anything #pookie #my babygirl #obi wan kenobi

[k-nonsense]

(Old ranking - go to my blog for updated rankings)

My rankings/reviews of all the k dramas I have seen so far (up to 26 now). My top 5 has been cracked by 2 shows! Netflix k-dramas are just killing it. I would recommend any show I gave a C grade or higher. I bolded the 5 new dramas I’ve added.

*= reserving the right to change ranking after season 2.

1) Hometown Cha Cha Cha: An absolute masterpiece. It’s a heartwarming fish out of water story about a big city girl who finds herself in the quirkiest little seaside town. I wanted to stay in Gongjin forever. Grade: A+(Netflix)

2)*Extraordinary Attorney Woo (S1): The most delightful show ever. Never have I ever rooted for a lead harder. She is the most endearing lead you will ever find. And the male lead is THE standard by which all men will forever be judged. Grade: A+(Netflix)

3)Business Proposal: Bumped this up again cause it’s the show I have the urge to rewatch the most. I can’t stop thinking about it. It’s got every trope you can think of and it does them all to perfection. Plus it’s hilarious. Grade: A (Netflix)

4)*Alchemy of Souls (S1): Episodes 1-19 were the perfect blend of fantasy, adventure, mystery, comedy, and romance. With so many characters who are so lovable. Episode 20 will destroy you. Counting the seconds till season 2. Grade: A (Netflix)

5)Her Private Life: Super funny and charming. The romantic leads have incredible chemistry. The premise is so good! Might be the one of the most rewatchable kdramas. Grade: A (Netflix)

6)Rookie Historian Goo Hae Ryung: Great strong female lead. Very good messages. Couldn’t stop watching. The most adorable prince I’ve ever seen 💜Cha Eunwoo💜 Grade: A (Netflix)

7)Sh**ting Stars: Probable the biggest turnaround of any show I’ve seen (The “Africa” part was so problematic). However it turned out to be one of the funniest and swooniest KDramas out there. There are 5 couples and you will cheer for all of them. Grade: A- (Viki)

8)Strong Woman Do Bong Soon: The main couple is absolutely everything! Just fast forward through pretty much every side plot (they are not important) and you’ll love it. Grade: A- (Viki)

9)So I Married the Anti-Fan: It’s campy, fluffy, goodness, with a fierce female lead and a K-pop star enemy/love interest. Fastest binge of my life. Grade: A- (Viki)

10)Start-Up: Exceptional acting, compelling storylines, intriguing plot twists, great cinematography, intense love triangle. It’s just all around high quality. Grade: B+ (Netflix)

11)Run On: Cute, fun, silly and pretty light. I especially loved the supporting cast. Strange storyline but it was a fun easy ride. Grade: B+ (Netflix)

12)Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-Joo: A bad-ass yet vulnerable female lead. The main couple just had a lot of fun together. Refreshing. Grade: B+ (Viki)

13)I Am Not A Robot: I was surprised I really liked this one. This goes in the zany premise category but it was surprisingly pretty grounded for how crazy the set up was. It’s funny, emotional, good story telling. Great character development. Grade: B+ (Viki)

14)Shopping King Louie: Adorable! Luis is too cute. I love it how he bops along like a penguin and his cute little screams at bugs. And Bok Sil is the warmest character, you just have to root for her. So many light fluffy feels for this show but it does drag a bit in the second half. Grade B (Viki)

15)Fight For My Way: Such lovable leads. Love the fierce female lead and adorable himbo male lead. It’s like a coming of age story but for 30 year olds. Storyline was ok. Second couple was skippable. Grade: B (Viki)

16)What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim: More PSJ is always a good thing. This drama did all the tropes in ways that didn’t always feel fresh, but it was very romantic and hilarious. A true classic. Grade: B (Viki)

17)Touch Your Heart: If you can just stick it out through the first few very shaky episodes, you will enjoy this adorable, fluffy, series. Grade: B- (Netflix)

18)Doom at Your Service: It was sometimes real sad yet ultimately a heart warming mystical story. Grade: B- (Viki)

19)True Beauty: Fun, cute, teen drama however, it’s a little too “antsy teen” for me. Cha Eunwoo though💜 Grade: C+ (Viki)

20)Suspicious Partner: Great story, great characters, attractive actors, beautiful romance, interesting plot, sometimes funny, sometimes suspenseful, but with 40 episodes, the plot was dragged so far out that it became hard to get through. Grade C+ (Viki)

21)Crash Landing On You: The first half is GREAT but the second half is way too melodramatic for my taste. It’s a very interesting storyline, the main couple has insane chemistry, and there are very lovable side characters. Grade: C+ (Netflix)

22)My Love From the Star: The main relationship is incredibly intense. I just wanted to find out what happened to them so I ended up fast forwarding through everything else. The age difference in the flashbacks creeped me out. Grade D+ (Viki)

23)My Secret Romance: The story of a total screw up female lead falling for a manipulative, gaslighting, hottie. It was problematic yet fun? So 🤷‍♀️ Grade: D+ (Netflix)

24)Our Beloved Summer: I LOVED V’s “Christmas Tree” OST however I struggled to keep watching. Boring storyline but great acting. Grade: D+ (Netflix)

25)Goblin: The age gap is too disturbing for me, like call the police disturbing. However, the Grim Reaper who is one of the most adorable characters I’ve ever seen. Grade: D- (Viki)

26)Extra-Ordinary You: I have never felt so betrayed by a second half of a series as I did in this one. All of the character development that it seemed to be leading to was replaced by a pretty sickening codependent relationship. Grade: D- (Viki).

Currently Watching: Today’s Webtoon (kinda blah), She Would Never Know (idk yet), Romance is a Bonus Book (loving it), 100 Days My Prince (so far so good).

Looking Forward To: Love In Contract, Alchemy season 2!

What are your thoughts on these shows? Do you agree or disagree with my rankings? Any k-romcom recommendations that are not on the list yet?

#Elle watches kdramas

[ohmystaxk]

Goodbye, My Dear Stranger (5)

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Pairing(s): (Jake Lockley x Reader, Steven Grant x Reader) (Marc Spector x Reader later on) [Pre-Moon Knight show]

Chapter Character(s): Steven Grant, Jake Lockley.

Content/Tags: Fluff, none-exclusive relationship talk, work besties being the biggest supporters, guilt, Jake being a mean bitch.

Word Count: 4.4k

Summary: After the events that transpired with Steven, you remembered you had a girl's night out.

Your body felt heavy as your eyes opened, you were greeted with the off-white ceiling of your room. It was already dark outside when you awakened. You grunted as you took notice of the time, perhaps it was too late into the night. It was then that you felt something squeezing your stomach tightly. You looked over your shoulder and met Steven’s face. He was fast asleep in your bed, his arm resting around your waist. 

You took a deep breath. You’d almost forgotten what had transpired a few hours ago. It was then you felt the need to move. You slowly pulled his arm away and shifted towards the edge of the bed. As you did that, he moved on his own, turning his body to face the other way. You stood up, looking through one of your drawers for something to wear and opted for a navy blue tank top and black sweatpants. 

You walked towards the kitchen, trying to find your phone. You spotted your bag near the entrance of the flat and leaned down to pick it up and fished out your phone. To your surprise, you were met with a few missed calls and messages from your friends. You quickly called back one of them. 

‘Where have you been? We’ve been trying to reach you.’ Rose answered within the first ring. Worry was heard coming from her voice, you nodded to yourself as you scratched your head.

‘Hey, sorry I left my phone in the kitchen, and I ended up falling asleep.’ You explained, turning on a nearby lamp.

‘Oh god, I thought something happened! Martha had to push back an hour so we are waiting. You still coming?’ Your eyes shifted towards your bedroom.

‘I would love to, yeah. But, I may currently have someone over, you know?’ 

‘Someone? You got friends over?’ You didn’t answer. There was a small silence on the other side of the line before you heard a gasp.

‘Wait, what!? Who is it? Wait! Is it the nerdy guy?’ You could hear the smile on her voice as you unconsciously looked in Steven’s direction.

‘Maybe.’ You whispered and then heard another gasp come from Rose’s end of the call.

‘Hold up, Museum boy is at your flat!?’ The voice belonged to Deanna, you felt heat creep up to your face, walking away from Steven, as if he would hear her from your phone.

‘Please tell me I’m not on speaker.’ You heard Deanna laugh.

‘Oh my god! You need to tell us how that happened. Are you two watching a movie or what? Are you on a date?’ You rolled your eyes while shaking your head.

‘Date is a close description, but not really.’ You said but Rose immediately interrupted.

‘Hold on a second. You said you were sleeping and that someone was over.’ Another moment of silence. Then two exaggerated giggles came from the other side. ‘You slept with him!?’

‘Shut up. It just happened.’ You sighed with a smile on your face, trying not to laugh at their shock. ‘What are you two even doing right now?’

‘Deanna wanted to get a drink or two before we picked you up, we are by the pub near your flat, Dukes.’

You heard Steven shift on the bed again, the ruffle of the bed sheets made you glance over your shoulder. From where you stood, you could see him lying on his back, his hair was ruffled and his mouth slightly open as he snored. He looked completely knocked out, and you stifled a laugh. 

‘Okay, I’ll see what I can do. See you in a bit.’ You hung up and walked back to your room as quietly as possible.

Lucky for you, you had already thought of an outfit to wear. You set it on your side of the bed and then walked around and stood by Steven’s side. He was still sound asleep. You gently shook his shoulder, whispering his name.

“Steven. Wake up.” He shifted again but would not wake. “Steven? Can you wake up please?”

You shook him a little harder this time. He opened his eyes, confusion apparent in his gaze as he tried to take in his surroundings. His eyes go wide once he looks at you, he leans on his side with his elbow. A small smile formed on your lips at his surprise.

“Bloody hell,” He says in a whisper. “It actually happened?” You frown.

“What do you mean?” Steven sits up, dragging the covers towards his lap after noticing his unclothed state.

“Did..? I mean, we did. Of course we did.” Steven runs a hand through his hair, the unruly curls becoming far more messy than they already were. His eyes looked around your room. “Why am I surprised? Should I be surprised?”

“You alright there?” He looks up at you. He seems embarrassed to say whatever is on his mind, “Is this about us sleeping together?” You tried again. His eyes widened slightly and, finally, a sigh of relief left him.

“I thought it was a dream.” He admits to you as his shoulders relax. His confession took you by surprise. “Is that weird?”

“I guess it depends. Why would it be weird?” Steven takes a deep breath, his legs spreading wider, granting you space. He shakes his head and a breathy laugh escapes him.

“Because, never in a million years would I have thought I’d have a chance with you. I haven’t even taken you on an actual date.” You stepped closer to him as you let out a laugh. Your hands find themselves on his hair, brushing it away from his face.

“That date will have to wait, Museum boy.” Steven’s gaze lingers on you, head tilted up with his big sleepy eyes shining. The way you flash your teeth at him seems to become a focus as you notice his eyes travel from your eyes to your lips.

His bed-look fascinated you, the relaxed shoulders, his quick-wit, the closeness the two of you were sharing as you stood between his legs, him looking up at you from below. The sudden realization caused heat to creep up your face. You felt your stomach flip, and you became giddy. “What?” Your voice came out softer than you intended.

“I was wrong.” He said softly, but you couldn’t help but frown. “You don’t look beautiful, love. You are.” He said so breathlessly and with a gentle smile. You smile brightly and start to pull back, when you feel a tug on your thigh. Steven had grabbed ahold of your sweatpants while you were close.

“Thank you, Steven.” You bent down and placed a kiss on his forehead. “But I’m afraid I have to ruin this moment.” You stepped back and Steven frowned.

“What is it?” There was a small shake on his voice.

“Nothing to worry about. I just forgot to mention that I was going out today, turns out my friends are waiting for me.” You cringe a little but hoped Steven would understand. 

Steven takes a second to process your words, his eyes suddenly growing in size as he understands and nods awkwardly. He stands up. 

“Yeah, of course. Sorry about that, love.” You back away to give him space to move. “I didn’t mean to fall asleep, sorry.”

“It’s totally okay, no need to apologize. I overslept too, nothing to worry about.” You walk to your side of the bed where you laid your clothes. “I’ll get in the shower. Also, I’ll send you a quick text, that way you can save my number.”

You look back at Steven, he already had his boxers on, his Star of David necklace dangling as he bent down to pick up his pants. He stopped to look at you, there was something in his gaze, you could not tell what. 

“Yeah, I would appreciate knowing you made it safely.” His smile is almost a thin line. Steven then drops his eyes back to the task at hand and continues dressing himself.

“Is something wrong?” You ask.

Was it rude to kick him out? Maybe. It wasn’t like you could have him staying in your flat while you were gone. You had to remind yourself that, as lovely as he was, you didn’t know him.

“What?” He zipped his pants up, a nervous laugh escaped him. “No, no. Sorry if it looks that way. I simply forgot I needed to feed Gus.” He continues avoiding your gaze. 

Of course you are not convinced, but you nod anyway. 

“Tell the little guy I said hi, okay?” You joked, trying to lighten the mood but Steven merely nodded.

You slowly walk off, looking over your shoulder to see him in the dim light. You were an adult, and adults did this a lot; but it was your first time doing something like that. You would figure it out…

You had crossed the street; you were halfway there, and you could see the pub. People were standing outside with drinks, chatting and laughing amongst themselves, it was probably packed inside. You kept on walking, soon enough you made your way inside the pub, you looked around until you were able to spot your friends. The two women talked amongst themselves as they shared a drink. You took a deep breath before approaching them.

The first one to see you was Rose, a smile appearing on her lips as she stood to greet you. You smiled back.

“Good Lord, you look radiant.” Rose comments, surprised.

“What?” You laugh nervously at her words, but Deanna joins her.

“Fuck’s sake you’re glowing, what happened?”

“I just had the best sleep of my life.” You tried to deflect as you watched Rose move to another chair and leave you to sit between the two of them.

“And the best shagging too by the looks of it.” Rose mumbled as she took a sip from her drink. You gasped at her words. “Come on, congrats! Celebrate and drink a little!”

“Rose, please!” You whisper but Rose laughs instead.

“It’s always the nerdy ones.” Deanna nods to herself.

“Can you keep it down?” You ask, your eyes darting around the room.

“Alright, but how in the hell did it happen?” Rose put down her drink and turned her body to face you. “Did you, like, call him over or what?”

“I went to the Museum.” You clarified, Rose raised an eyebrow expectantly. “We talked, went to eat, talked more, went to my place, and it just happened.” You saw a smirk appear on Rose’s face, you blushed as she gave you a side hug.

“That’s my girl!”

“What a Casanova,” Deanna joked as she smiled at you. “Not only Jake, but Steven too. I wish I had that charm on me.”

“Isn’t your boyfriend at home right now?” You remind her. Deanna laughed.

“Of course! I meant if I was single. My man makes me really happy.” She smirked and you rolled your eyes.

“Wait, did you say Jake? Who’s Jake?” Rose asks and you have no other option but to fill her in on the last few weeks’ events.

You talked about the night you met Jake, then how you met Steven after, and then seeing Jake again and kissing him.

“So, Jake and Steven are twins, but didn’t grow up together. And Steven doesn’t know about Jake?” Rose seems lost. Hearing it from another person made you understand her confusion. “Isn’t that just the plot to Parent Trap?”

“That’s exactly what I thought!” Deanna says excitedly. You sighed with a nod.

“Well, I would say that if you like Steven, you could go out with him. Jake seems to not care enough about you, sorry love.” Rose put in her two cents. Although you shared her opinion, you wanted to think it all the way through. 

You already were looking for a partner long before Jake came into the coffee shop that night. But having two men suddenly sweep you off your feet felt more fictitious than you were comfortable with. Was entertaining the idea worth the risk of being found out by one, or even both, of them?

“Hey,” Rose spoke again, she looked concerned.  “You don’t have to decide right now. Don’t start stressing over it.” She waited for you to respond, but you laughed it off and nodded silently.

“I know that.” You smiled at her, and Rose took a sip from her drink. 

Deanna looked at her phone and sighed. She shook her head, pretending to be disappointed.

“Looks like Martha ain’t coming.” The two of you looked at Deanna, the woman faced her phone screen towards you.

“Her boyfriend came all the way from his hometown to surprise her.” 

You read the text and Rose laughed.

“About damn time. I don’t know how people can be in a long-distance relationship.”

“Well, we can’t blame her. At least she texted to let us know.” Deanna's comment reminded you of your promise to text Steven.

“Hold on.” You pulled out  your phone and looked through Deanna’s text messages until you found his number. You saved it and started your text.

You: Hey Steven, I finally got your number saved!

Deanna tried taking a peek at your text, but looked the other way once she realized you had caught her.

Steven🏛️: Hello! Glad to see you did, now I have your number too. Gus says hi!

The text was followed by a picture of a one-finned goldfish in his tank. The picture made you giggle, you observed the little guy with a smile on your face.

You: He is one adorable little guy, it seems he’s got plenty of space in there.

Steven🏛️: Sure does! I worry sometimes, though. He’s been by himself since I got him… maybe one day he’ll get a friend.

You frowned, reading the text two more times. For some reason that saddened you.

You: Well, I bet he’ll be really happy once he does.

“You gonna text all night?” Rose interrupted you. “Come on, let’s get you a drink.”

Your body felt heavy, still you laughed at something Deanna said. The two of you held on to each other as you headed out of the pub. Rose laughed and patted your back, trying to stabilize Deanna, who was in a far worse condition than you. 

“Remind me not to let her drink this much again.” Rose says as she gets her car key out of her purse. You chuckle and nod.

“Don’t worry, I will.” You reply as Deanna kisses your cheek. “We don’t want her falling on her ass.”

“I’m here, you cunt.” She mumbles and you laugh harder. “Call Stevie boy, you are starting to get too serious again, let him hit it again baby!” You rolled your eyes in embarrassment.

“Good lord, Rose, get her in your car now!” You yell out while she gets the passenger door open.

“Don’t you see I’m trying?” She returns to your side. The two of you walked her to the other side of the car and made sure Deanna got in safely.

Rose buckled her in and closed the door. She turned to face  you when she saw you step away from the car.

“You’re not getting in?” She asks and you shake your head.

“It’s not far, I’ll be just fine.” Rose frowns at your response.

“I don’t mind dropping you off, you know?”

“Thanks Rose. But walking might do me good and sober me up.” You explain and Rose sighs and then nods.

“If you say so,” She comes closer and hugs you. “You text me the second you get home, ya hear me?”

“Of course.” You hug her back. “Now, drive safely, text me as well, alright?”

“Will do, good night.” You let go and step back on the sidewalk, remaining there until Rose drove off.

You begin walking towards your apartment. It was very cold outside and you were glad to have brought a jacket, despite it not doing much for your exposed legs.

It wasn’t too late into the night, there were still people out in the street, especially on the way towards your apartment. You stopped at a traffic light, waiting for your turn to cross. From the corner of your eye, you noticed a car come to a stop next to you. You ignored it. Your heartbeat picked up when you heard the sound of the window rolling down, sweat started forming on the palm of your hand.

You heard your name be called and your fear mixed with confusion. You turned towards your left, facing the vehicle next to you. A white limousine.

“Jake?” You ask when you spot him peeking out from the window. His expression was as confused as your own.

“What are you doing out so late?” You wanted to roll your eyes and argue it was, in fact, not that late. “Where are you going?” He asked before you could do just that.

“To my apartment.” You replied as you hugged your body.

“Hop in. You’ll freeze out there.”

“What?” The word left your mouth without much thought. Jake rolled his eyes at you.

“Come on. I’ll drop you off.” You looked back at the traffic light, you had time to run to his car.

You took a deep breath and nodded to yourself. “Perfect timing, I guess.” You whispered and ran towards his car, until making it to the passenger seat.

The second you closed the door, the traffic light changed color and he began driving. Jake moved around the temperature knob and soon the car started warming up. He then placed something on your lap, you looked down to see it was his jacket. You had yet to actually face him .

“Why were you walking by yourself this late?” Jake asks and you turn to look at him, he is looking straight ahead. You feel your stomach turn, the image of Steven in your bed appears in your head.

“I went out with my friends.” You look away. “Are you working tonight?” You try to change the subject. Jake chuckles.

“Yeah, I wasn’t supposed to, someone didn’t show up, so I just filled in.” He explains, but there was an edge to his tone.

“How often do you work?” You are still avoiding looking at him and busy yourself with bringing his jacket closer to you for warmth.

“As often as I am needed. Sometimes I have to take over someone's shift. I guess you can say I work overtime.”

“That explains it.” You mumble but Jake seems to hear.

“Explain what?” When you turn to face him, he is already looking at you with a frown on his face.

“You show up and then disappear on me for days.” You explain, turning away.

“Are you mad I didn’t go say hi?” You can hear the smile in his voice. You shake your head.

“Of course not, I barely know you, Jake. Why would I?”

“You barely know me but I already drove you home once, then you kissed me, and now I am driving you home again. I don’t know about you, but I think we are getting pretty far in now.” He says and you face him again. He stares at you with mirth in his eyes and you feel your stomach flip.

“Don’t get any funny ideas, Lockley.” The man laughs and raises one hand in the air.

“Wouldn’t dream of it sweetheart.” You roll your eyes with a smile. “But you know, I’m a bit upset.”

You frowned, the playfulness on Jake’s voice seemed to dissipate as he said that and you felt your body start to sweat. ‘There’s no way he would know, would he?’ You thought to yourself as you watched his features drop, giving you that same deadpan expression from when you first met him.

“Why would you be upset?” You pushed.

“Because I missed you.” The sudden confession caught you off guard. “I went to the shop, you know. Ready to order that good coffee of yours, thinking that maybe I could offer you another ride when I saw the sign and I thought to myself, ‘How fucking stupid am I to not have asked you for your number? ’.”

“You hadn’t noticed that before?” You asked with a smile on your face that you couldn’t manage to hide. Jake laughed at that.

“I see you’ve got a bark in you. Now I am getting to know ya’.” The road flashes by as he drives,“But seriously, what’s got you this riled up?” You rolled your eyes and shook your head, trying to dismiss his question.

“Nothing.” It had only been a matter of time before he took notice, and yet, it was not your intention that he start asking.

You’d hoped you could sleep the thoughts away and get some time to think of what to do about your current predicament. And now you had Jake here, just when you were starting to push the thought of him away for good. 

“Something is bothering you.” He insists. You tried to brush it off, but Jake continues. “You have barely looked at me the whole ride.” 

You bring the jacket even closer to your body. You can still hear Steven’s voice calling your name, the image of the way he looked at you on the elevator plaguing your thoughts.

“It’s really nothing, Jake.” You say, your hand unconsciously clawing at the fabric. Your heart beats heavily as the memories of hours ago start seeping through the front of your mind.

“If I did something to piss ya’ off, you need to let me know, sweetheart.” You can still feel Steven’s hands on you, his mouth on your neck, and you swear you can smell his perfume on your hair. “I don’t want ya’ to feel uncomfortable with me.” His accent became more apparent, the words rolling heavily off his tongue as he started to sound more serious.

“It’s not about you, I swear.” You say hoping to clear the misunderstanding. But Jake is not having it.

“What? It’s not you, it’s me? Sweetheart, I’m smarter than that. Give me some credit.” You sighed at that, closed your eyes, and waited a few seconds. Then, you opened your mouth.

“I slept with Steven, Jake.” You confess and he goes silent. Your heart is beating so hard and you think that even Jake can hear it, you feel cold as you turn to look at him.

He has his eyes fixed on the street. Jake sighs as he clicks his tongue and shakes his head with a chuckle. You frown, preparing yourself to throw yourself out of the car.

“I’m sure you did.” His reply confused you. Jake kept on driving, tapping his fingers to the beat of the old song playing quietly on the radio. 

“Do you-” You paused and blinked a couple of times. “Do you think I’m joking?”

“I mean, if you don’t want to see me, you can just say so.” Jake stops the car and you fear he’ll drop you off at some random street. When you look up, you see you are in front of your apartment complex. 

“No, that’s not-”

“So, you slept with him. Are you dating him now?” You stare at him, dumbfounded.

“No. I’m not.”

“Then what is it that bothers you about that?” He asks with a frown on his face. Jake turned the car off and you heard the doors unlock soon after. You sit up straight, turning your body to face him.

“That I slept with your brother.” You stressed. Jake's frown deepened.

“Yeah, but you said you aren’t dating him. And, last time I checked, that doesn’t stop you from talking to me.” Jake turns to look right at you, there is not a single sign that tells you he is upset.

“Do you not care that I slept with him?” You raise your voice in concern.

“Do you want me to?”

“I, I don’t know.” You look away, your hands gripping the fabric of the jacket.

“If you are worried I’ll get mad about you sleeping with Steven, I won’t. If anything, I’m surprised. I mean, Stevie?”

Jake laughs, but not in a joking, light-hearted way. He laughs like he was just told the funniest joke on earth, the way he had spit out Steven’s name made you cringe. It was humiliating to hear Jake laugh the way he did.

For a man who was trying to connect with his long-lost brother, he was being too cruel. You hunched on your seat, looking at your lap as you fiddled with your fingers, like a child who was being picked on. You were not expecting that. If you were honest, you had no idea what to expect, but it certainly was not this.

“What’s wrong?” His voice caught you off guard. You looked up and met his gaze. “Why are you frowning?” You hadn’t noticed you’d been showing your conflict through your face. 

“You’re being a dick, Jake.” You point out but he shakes his head.

“Come on, let’s be real here. What are the odds of a guy like Steven getting a chance with someone like you?” You blinked.

‘Because, never in a million years would I have thought I’d have a chance with you.’ Those had been Steven’s words when he realized what had happened. It was true, until a few weeks ago, you wouldn’t normally approach someone like Steven. Actually, you wouldn’t approach anyone at all, much less make the first move, but you had found him charming with all of his quirks. He was obviously attractive, despite his constant disheveled state.

Nonetheless, Steven was nice, good-looking, and very attentive. And you liked that. A lot.

“You probably made his day, hell, his year. Fuck, I think you are the dick one for getting his hopes up.”

“What makes you think you have a chance?” The grin on his face dropped at that. He scoffed, then laughed again. “Maybe you are right, I kissed you after all. But I fucked him. I think he already got his chance.”

This time Jake looked completely taken aback, confusion written all over his face. You grabbed your bag and opened it, reaching inside to pull out a pen and a tiny notebook. You quickly started writing on it.

“Sweetheart.” You ripped the note and placed it on the dashboard. It had your phone number written on it. You then put everything back in the bag and removed Jake’s jacket from your lap.

“Maybe I was wrong about you, I hope you think things through, then we can talk. Good night, Jake.” You open the car door and step out.

“No seas así, podemos hablar.” Jake says and you roll your eyes. (“Don’t be like that, we can talk.”)

“No. I’m tired.”

Add yourself in the taglist!

Taglist: @22carolina08 @wandasupremacy @jesusbussy420 @ninebluehearts @whitearmsredhands @silversweetpea @siimiasoi @stuckybarton @jbearre85 @virgin-mojitos @theking-arthur @btsluvr1 @belladri @amasdaydream @bt21tatakeyakey @l0ki3000 @kittytiddywinks @yuukiyoko @laaundromat @fanfichotel @insomniacfigure @philiasoul @magicwithaknife @spidey-3 @chaimantis @username21mk @yoshidoes-stuff @deadbirdcz @the-rabbit-king

#jake lockley #steven grant #marc spector #jake lockely x reader #steven grant x reader #marc spector x reader #moon knight #moon knight fanfic #marvel #fanfic

[leotheponderer]

So...I've been tagged by @agirlandherquill who was tagged by @katwritesshit to participate in a tag game from @halfbakedspuds, so here goes!

Rules: Answer as many (or as few) of the questions about your WIP as you can.

1. What was the first part of your WIP that you created?

The Prologue, featuring Kato(Death, Psychopomp, Thanatos), Halcyon(Sleep, Hypnos) and Basile(World, Hades, Persephone) dubbed The Old World Trio because they're the only beings from the Old World who still exist in the New World. The first location I visualised was the Border, which is where souls go before being taken to the Underworld.

The Border.

2. If your story was a TV show, what would the intro song be?

[The Main Character by Will Wood] I love this song and it fits Kato's personality very well, especially during the Prologue. I can imagine Kato, Halcyon and Basile singing this together with Kato playing the Piano.

Abstract Kato playing the piano.

3. Who are your favourite character(s) and why?

My favourite has to be Kato, since they're the first character I ever created so I have lots of fond memories of going about developing their character. Halcyon came later as Kato's twin, and I grew to love their dynamic as siblings who then formed a found family with Basile. Halcyon would call Kato out on their bullshit and keep them in check while Basile is the reliable rock of the group.

Abstract Kato on the top and Abstract Halcyon on the bottom.

4. What other pieces of media could share a fan base with your WIP?

Some Rise of the TMNT fans may notice some similarities between Leo and Donnie's dynamic (the disaster twins) and Kato with Halcyon. I did base some of their personalities on the duo, Kato being Leo and Halcyon being Donnie, so that's not a surprise. There's also a found family dynamic (and FANTASY :D), so I think fans of Avatar: The Last Airbender and Ninjago could like the Prologue too!

5. What has been your biggest struggle while writing your WIP?

Coming up with names! I really struggled with naming everyone, especially Kato because I wanted the best for them and also because Thanatos and Death in general is hard to work with. I still do not have a name for my story, though I'm working on it. Plot and writing is also hard, so is visualising. (In summary, everything.)

My earliest digital drawing. Abstract Kato increasing their collection.

6. Are there any animals in your story?

Plenty! I have not touched the main world yet, but I do know the New World is teeming with life. The Underworld and the Border on the other hand, have its very own bioluminescent inhabitants like the Glow Fishes, the massive Blue Dragon and the Soul Butterflies. Now that I think about it, the Underworld really resembles the spirit world from Avatar.

Some animal concepts.

7. How do your characters get around?

Probably on foot, though I have though about using their powers, like shadow travel from Nico di Angelo. Some of them have physical wings like Volaria and Felix (bird people), while others like Kato and Halcyon in the Prologue have more spiritual ones. Maybe they have animal companions, summons or just teleport through plantlife (Basile).

Abstract Felix flying in a marathon.

8. What part of your WIP are you working on right now?

I'm mostly working on the Prologue, with small bits of the First Interlude and the Main Story. I haven't started on the Epilogue yet, only the things I want to see happen like Halcyon and Basile going on a journey together.

9. What aspects of your WIP do you think will draw people in?

Realistically speaking, art tends to get the most attention on Tumblr. In order to do that I'll need to work harder on drawing to show my story through visuals, and not just words. I'll have to doodle my way into people's hearts!

A place in the Old World.

Whew, that was a long one. I don't really know many people who have WIP stories since I'm pretty new to Tumblr, so I hope they don't mind me tagging them: @hansenesque @drawnecromancy @the-arcade-doctor @devgel7889

Anyone who wants to play this game can join in on the fun too!

Note: There are nine questions in total, listed here.

1. What was the first part of your WIP that you created?

2. If your story was a TV show, what would the intro song be?

3. Who are your favourite character(s) and why?

4. What other pieces of media could share a fan base with your WIP?

5. What has been your biggest struggle while writing your WIP?

6. Are there any animals in your story?

7. How do your characters get around?

8. What part of your WIP are you working on right now?

9. What aspects of your WIP do you think will draw people in?

#character design #writeblr #oc #original character #worldbuilding in progress #digital art #original world #tag game #concept art #artists on tumblr #writers on tumblr #illustration #art #abstract art #original story #art tag #long reads #lore #worldbuilding #writing #first time participating in a tag game! thanks for tagging me because if not i would never know about these things #i really need to come up with a name for this story soon for sorting purposes

[sdwolfpup]

Rules: Pick any ten of your fics, scroll roughly to the midpoint, pick a line (or three) and share it. Then tag ten people.

Tagged by @mattatouile. I sorted by longest to shortest because I thought that would be most fun, and only picked from completed fics so lets see what we've got.

Heart Full of Gasoline (Jaime/Brienne, Game of Thrones/ASOIAF) - He saluted her with his prosthetic hand and she saw his face go soft and yearning even as he turned away. She was certain it was a mirror of her own as she watched him walk onto the ferry back to King's Landing, carrying her dreams and her heart with him.

Baby I Will (Jaime/Brienne, Game of Thrones/ASOIAF) - In the reflection of the mirror behind the bar, their faces are visible over the unevenly arranged bottles. Brienne's hair is a mess, her eyes hazy with lust. Her lips are so kiss-swollen it’s obscene. Jaime is wild and unfettered behind her, already losing control with every driving movement. One hand is clenched at her shoulder, the other gripping her hip hard enough to bruise. She hopes it does; she wants to press her fingers to her body later and feel the memory of him.

2 Hot 2 Horny (Jaime/Brienne, Game of Thrones/ASOIAF) - “You wanted a real answer,” he said, and he hesitantly met her eyes, not sure what he'd find there. He should've known she'd simply look concerned, an empathy that made him weak, and at the same time gave him the strength to say, “That's mine, I suppose: my biggest fear is being myself.”

There Will Come A Time (Thom Rainier/female Adaar, Dragon Age: Inquisition) - “What did he say to you?” she asked him quietly. The fire popped and crackled, casting light over the dark shadows on his face. Smoke wafted past them. After a long minute, hands curled tightly around his carving, Thom said: “that I was who I knew myself to be.”

I miss it when your heart's not around (please slow down) (Warren/Murphy, Z Nation) - She needed all her focus on the talkers and the anti-talkers this week. And after that there would be some other crisis, some other special apocalypse problem that she would have to focus on next. There would be no time for the confusing turmoil Murphy's desire – or her own – caused her. No time to figure out why the emptiness inside always disappeared when she was with him.

Working 9 to 5 (for service and devotion) (Jaime/Brienne, GoT/ASOIAF) - “Let's take a look at manufacturing numbers,” Kevan says. Jaime dips his hand below the waistband of her pants and she gasps when his fingers brush the top of her underwear. “This isn't very relaxing,” she says, checking - again - that they're muted. Jaime leans into her, until his lips are brushing her cheek as he whispers, “You'll be relaxed at the end of it.”

I need your sway (Jaime/Brienne, Jaime/Brienne/Cersei, GoT) - “It's good to see you,” he said in that same gentle voice that knocked at her heart, trying to find its way in.

Go On (Jaime/Brienne, GoT/ASOIAF) - My cell: My brother has a fish question. Do you have a minute? Brienne WTF: You run into a surprising amount of fish questions. My cell: Good thing I know a fish expert now. That's what my life was missing. Jaime winced when he re-read it. Why did everything look so much more dramatic in text?

I need your heart (Cersei/Margaery Tyrell, Jaime/Brienne, GoT) - Olenna tsked. “Still such a dreamy child. You think Cersei Lannister cares about romance? That woman knows what it takes to make a life. You work hard, you marry a decent enough oaf if you can, you bring up your children to carry on the name and money, and you taste the sweet success of outliving your husband.” Olenna cackled gleefully and Margaery sighed.

To be in your arms again (Jaime/Brienne, GoT) - Jaime heard the door open and close. “What's wrong with him?” Tyrion asked. “He's a fucking coward,” Bronn said blandly. “I am not,” Jaime protested, lifting his head to glare at the other men. But he was, he knew he was. How could he face her? What would he do if he couldn't convince her not to hate him? “Oh gods I am,” he muttered, covering his face with his hand.

I have no idea who to tag here so please do this, I'm enjoying reading these.

#tag meme #my fic #jaime x brienne #blackwall x inquisitor #warren x murphy #z nation #dragon age inquisition #game of thrones #asoiaf

[gamerbearmira]

hi ( sorry I finally found the ask lol) I love your work and I have a few questions for the giant siren au.

1.what are the giant sirens opinions on humans. Do they lure humans to eat them or like steal their stuff. Maybe that’s how they got the things they wear like chains head bands and tops.

2.what were each one of the families first experience with humans

3.are they’re ages the same as humans or do they live a lot longer in order to develope such growth.

4.what are the sirens biggest rivals? Still humans?

Not a question but I’d like to see or read more about the encanto sea community and other sirens

hehe that’s it for now love your work, def should be a story. I also saw the latest chap with Abuela and the guppies so amazing and wholesome, they’re like Abuelas remedies. Thx again for this story I’m very glad I found it. have a good day /night

WHAT'S UO AND WELCOME❓❗ Glad you could find it. Anyway of course I have answers. Ya girls been into world building lately, lucky for you.

Sirens, at least with the Encanto Island community, do not like humans. It is a well-known and stated fact among the people that humans are dangerous creatures and are out for them.

Guppies are told to never go near ships, it's hammered into their heads. Of course, if a swarm of guppies gets ahold of the ship, the humans should probably stay away from them. They are very smart, and very cunning, and will feign innocence. As for grown sirens, yes, they will lure humans, but nine times out of ten, it's away from the islands. Despite it being covered in thick fog, they still don't let anyone through. And yeah, the chains, flags, anchors, even glass are used by the sirens. They will take them, especially since it's such a rare thing to find.

Alma is very against humans. Her first 'real' experience interacting with them was when Pedro was killed. So.

The triplets were sheltered from humans as guppies, and didn't even really see them until they got older. They had gotten to help scavenge a shipwreck, and a survivor kimda sorta tried to attack them, not even out of malice, it was out of fear. Felíx, when he was first out of his shell, accidentally capsized a boat, and did his best to fix it. Keywords, 'did his best'. Agustin was on the land of the island, and he tried to talk to them, but due to his size ended up scaring them off. Isabela and Dolores ties in with Luisa, they were with a school and they were kind of on like. A field trip with the caretakers of the Grotto and ended up getting to see a fishing ship. Isabela and Dolores didn't like the humans. Luisa didn't see how they were dangerous. Camilo and Mirabel's ties in as well. This was the first guppy incident that implemented the rule of guppy schools not being able to out ratio the caretakers (the ratio is 1 caretaker for every 15 guppies. This was latter changed after the second incident.). They, and the other guppies within the school, raided a ship for all the food they had. This also implemented the feeding schedule for them lmao. Antonio's encounter was similar to Camilo and Mirabel's, just not nearly as severe.

So. They age about the same as humans until they grow out their shells. So like, maybe between 5-9.

They don't stop aging, just age slower. Alma is probably older than you might think. Same with other elders. It's not entirely known how they age, but they stop aging like humans after they leave the shell. They develop similarly I wanna say, especially as guppies considering they're most human-like. Grown sirens biology is like humans, but there are differences.

Yes. It's still humans. It will likely stay humans too.

To humans, giant sirens are considered sea beasts. They think they're meant to be hunted and out down. Hence why sirens live on giant inhabited islands in pods/communities. Their biggest ally are jellyfish. Giant sirens and jellyfish go way back. So poisonous and defensive jellyfish will defend against humans, by instinct. Most the guppy grotto and most shells have some kind of jellyfish near them, typically box jellyfish and moon jellyfish, both for different purposes of course.

And I can most definitely supply more content❗❗ feel free to ask for specific stuff, but here's some stuff I currently have <33

Some drawings RAHHHHH 🦅🦅 First one is the caretakers and their shifts lmao <33 Ignacio and Maria were specifically set to night shift because. They can glow in the dark/provide self sustaining light.

Second is basically what the island would look like. It's far bigger than pictured, and the community itself stretches far beneath the ocean and across the ocean floor. Part of it goes to a trench below the island, for deep sea sirens like Ignacio.

This one is really just a joke but. It guppies are not fed they will eat inanimate objects. Things that aren't meant to be eaten. Whoever's watchin them gotta pull it out of their mouths, because they won't listen if you ask them to spit it out.

Second one is. Just sleeping, because growing out of their shells is surprisingly very tiring, and takes a few weeks.

Dies

No but. The harpoon is freaking huge. Bigger than pretty much any ship

I'll see about writing more once school ends❗❗❗ hope I answered your questions <33

EDIT I FORGOT TO TAG 💀 @cookydray2

#my asks #my asks are open #encanto #encanto au #au #giant siren au #encanto mermaid au #kinda #encanto mirabel #encanto antonio #encanto camilo #encanto julieta #encanto Pepa #encanto pedro

[lgenvs3000w23]

NATURE & SHIPWRECKS (unit #5 - freestyle)

Hello friends, 

We are back again this week with the most exciting prompt yet: no prompt! I am taking this opportunity to talk about my biggest childhood interest… SHIPWRECKS!

You might be wondering how this relates to nature at all but deep-sea shipwrecks are biodiversity hubs. I have always been interested in shipwrecks because I am both terrified and in awe of them. My main fascination is with how such an inorganic and visually man-made object is completely emersed by aquatic life and fits so well in an ecosystem it was never intended to be in. 

STOCKTREK IMAGES. (n.d.). A sunken ship lays on its side near Grand Bahama Island, Bahamas. How do we find shipwrecks—and who owns them? National Geographic. Retrieved from https://www.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/how-do-we-find-shipwrecks-and-who-owns-them. 

Shipwrecks are considered “islands of biodiversity” because they offer a structure for an incredibly wide variety of species to inhabit, which creates pockets of very high biodiversity, acting as artificial reefs (Hamdan et al., 2021). Imagine a sandy sea floor with not much going on besides some small rocks and vegetation, now put a huge stationary shipwreck there, and eventually, many species will call this new isolated habitat their new home. Many shipwrecks are dripping with so many species that you cannot even see bare metal anymore.

It is clear from photos that there are lots of different fish, vegetation, and corals that inhabit old shipwrecks, but we are missing a very important aspect of shipwreck ecosystems: the micro-organism colonies! In our defense, we can't see them but they make up a huge portion of biodiversity. Microorganisms establish and preserve shipwrecks as artificial reefs, allowing other species to thrive in/on shipwrecks. It is amazing how much power the tiny species hold and how influential they are to full ecosystems. (Hamdan et al., 2021)

Murat. (n.d.). Bream Fish around the shipwreck. How do we find shipwrecks—and who owns them? Adobe Stock Images. Retrieved from https://www.bristolaquarium.co.uk/animal-stories/animals-that-find-a-home-in-sunken-ships/

I have never had the opportunity to visit a shipwreck other than kayaking over top of a boiler. I love watching videos of people diving to explore shipwrecks, although I can't imagine ever doing it myself. I am incredibly curious to hear if anyone has done this? I would absolutely love to hear your experiences! We (Ontario locals) live in the perfect place to go shipwreck diving because the Great Lakes have cold water and low salinity which are fanatics conditions for the preservation of shipwrecks. The Great Lakes are regarded as one of the best shipwreck diving spots in the world. (Harrington, 2019) 

I have always found shipwrecks interesting because of the duality that the vessel wasn't strong enough to complete its voyage but it is strong enough to be preserved underwater for (possibly) hundreds of years, sometimes in near-perfect condition. However, the shipwrecks of the Great Lakes are in trouble!! Invasive species of the Great Lakes like zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) and quagga mussels (Dreissena rostriformis bugensis) are threatening our beautifully preserved nuggets of history. These filter feeders can cause damage through heavy weight and even corrosion of some metals, if enough pile up. Additionally, they release carbon dioxide which can severely alter water quality and the conditions that help preserve shipwrecks. It is insane that these huge structures that can last up to thousands of years can be threatened by something as small and seemingly passive as mussels. (Harrington, 2019)

Thanks for reading, hopefully you see shipwrecks from a slightly different perspective! Who knew shipwrecks were so intertwined with nature (I did because I am a nerd who loves shipwrecks)! 

References 

Hamdan, L. J., Hampel, J. J., Moseley, R. D., Mugge, R. L., Ray, A., Salerno, J. L., & Damour, M. (2021, April 22). Deep-sea shipwrecks represent island-like ecosystems for marine microbiomes. OUP Academic. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41396-021-00978-y 

Harrington, M. (2019, November 20). Aquatic invasive species threaten shipwreck preservation in the Great Lakes: Wisconsin sea grant. Wisconsin Sea Grant | University of Wisconsin. https://www.seagrant.wisc.edu/blog/aquatic-invasive-species-threaten-shipwreck-preservation-in-the-great-lakes/

[theclearblue]

Hey

Top 5 One Piece ships?

(l'm talking about the ships they use to sail, not the relationships)

Empa this question is way harder than relation ships, there are so many cool ones 😭😭😭 But I'll do what's been asked of me 🫡

5. Going Merry

In terms of sentimentality this ship is #1 in my heart!!! She's literally a crew member and I cried when she died 😭😭😭 But I also think it's so neat. The Ram head, the orange trees, it also has such a cozy vibe I love it.

4. Law's Polar Tang

Look at this bad boy, the only submarine in One Piece!! Shaped like a fish, can submerge deep underwater, got Death printed on the side, I love this hunk of metal (she recently died too though...rip...)

3. Whitebeard's Moby Dick

Obsessed with this stupid ship...it's named Moby Dick and it's the biggest ship and it's a fucking whale....look at how absolutely dorky that whale looks omg I love this ship so much

2. Boa Hancock's Kuja

Sickest design ever omg, and the fact it's pulled by two sea monsters like it's a carriage lmao absolutely amazing. The reds the jolly Roger the black wood...Boa is a woman with taste that is a fact!!

1. Big Mom's Chanter

Whimsical. Enchanting. Menacing. Horrific. This ship as it all. First of all it looking like it's built out of sweets is just so cool, and how bright and colorful it is juxtaposing how insanely big this ship is as it looks down on everyone (Sunny isn't a small ship!!). Thing that really pushes it into #1 thought is that the ship head sings musical numbers lmao. Stunning work of art I love this thing.

#one piece #asks

[jungle-angel]

Even More Summer Prompts

Guys I’m really itching for some writing prompts/scenarios/blurbs or anything really. I’m dying to write alot but I feel like I’m stuck in a rut, writing the same thing over and over again. Send in requests, come talk, literally anything!!! (lol). Taking requests for Top Gun Maverick, Outer Range, Bad Times At The El Royale, Salem’s Lot, Catch 22 (Hulu) and Press Play. 

1. “It’s too hot to sleep, you wanna go to Wal Mart instead?” 

2. “Shit, the air conditioner broke again” 

3. “Wanna go skinny dipping?” 

4. Watching a thunderstorm roll in on the front porch

5. Inspecting for ticks

6. “You look like you need a cool bath” 

7. Lemonade or iced tea on the front porch

8. Laying in the hammock and feeling the warm sun on theirs and their s.o’s faces

9. Helping their s.o to recover from a sunburn

10. “I’ve got sand in places I’ve never even heard of” 

11. Collecting seashells and driftwood at the beach

12. Fourth of July fireworks

13. Swimming at the lake or the beach

14. “I ate so much at the cookout, I think I’m gonna explode” 

15. Summer at the rodeo

16. Hawaiian shirts

17. Who’s the grill-master? 

18. Summer garden

19. Waking up on a summer morning

20. “You wanna hang out? It’s nice and cool in here” 

21. Summer bonfires

22. Drive-in movie night 

23. Summer fishing trip

24. Ice cream for dinner (sorry I’m craving this really bad)

25. What’s on their summer playlist

26. “We don’t have enough beer.....wanna run?” 

27. Canoe trip

28. Hanging the freshly washed clothes on the clothesline 

29. Their s.o being all sweaty and getting a bath outside

30. What’s on their summer playlist?

31. Sex in the field of wildflowers (Smut)

32. Summer picnic by the lake

33. Making a flower or shell crown for their s.o

34. Pick your own corn from the cornfield

35. Summer farmers’ market

36. Heat wave

37. “Oh God, this rope swing is so old” 

38. “This is the biggest slip n slide I’ve ever seen” 

39. Baseball games

40. Day at the amusement park

41. “How do these smores come out so perfect?” 

42. Stargazing with their s.o

43. Swimming near and under a waterfall

44. Chasing down the ice cream truck

45. Summer camping trip

46. Seeing a rainbow after a thunderstorm

47. Summer road trip

48. Homemade bug repellent

49. Cooking outside during a heatwave

50. Making sure that their s.o is drinking enough water on a hot day

#top gun maverick #outer range #bad times at the el royale #catch 22 hulu #salem's lot #press play #bradley rooster bradshaw #natasha phoenix trace #robert bob floyd #mickey fanboy garcia #jake hangman seresin #javy coyote machado #reuben payback fitch #pete maverick mitchell #rhett abbott #miles miller #ben mears #major major #harrison knott

[blogtowndotcom]

Come as you are.

Making my way from Seattle to what I guess is known as the grays Harbor (The Coast) We passed through Aberdeen. I gotta be honest this place doesn't leave much of an impression. There IS a Walmart AND a Safeway so you can get groceries if you live here, major plus. But once the novelty of big box marts goes away you will find a gray rundown town.

I didn't pay much attention to this place when I passed through here for the first time. It was just one more place I had to get through to get to my camping space.

I knew the biggest and best fact about this place. Which is, it's the birth place of Kurt Cobain. I mean if you look at this town for about as long as 5 seconds, the a thought along the lines of, "of course this is where Kurt Cobain lead singer of the hit band Nirvana is from. The welcome to Aberdeen sign has the words "Come As You Are" Written on the bottom. Which is a reference to the hit song "Come As You Are" by the very famous band Nirvana who of course is from Aberdeen Washington.

Come Wearing Business Casual

I've lived in the Seattle area going on 4 years and let me tell you Seattle does take a lot of credit for Kurt and Nirvana. I think it's really easy to see Seattle as a grimy liberal fever dream because of it's horrific homelessness and general lawlessness. However, what Seattle truly is the house that Amazon built. Amazon and many other large companies moved in and kicked all the nonconformists out. Creating a city of shinny futurist buildings and packed the streets with suits and tech bros of every verity. Really easy to see that the rest were left behind and were subsequently priced out or forced out. I don't think Kurt Cobain writer of the chart topping album "Nevermind" would approve...

As a Friend, As a Known Enemy.

Cobain said the meaning of "Come As You Are" is purposely confusing. The lyrics purposely contradict each other. The great contradiction of Aberdeen is living here and also making a living. There is a dark shadow over this town both literarily and figuratively. It seems your only options for making a true living is either working in lumber yards or on a fishing boat both careers that ironically need to be done outside of Aberdeen. "The choice is yours don't be late." If you don't want to do this back breaking work you pretty much only have food service or retail. The latter is disappearing all across the country and of course this place is no exception.

What am I trying to say with this post? I'm not sure honestly. I don't know what it's like living in Aberdeen. I didn't ask anyone about their feeling regarding the town. I truly have no idea what's it's like to be a resident here. What I can say is that this small town like every other town is a window in to seeing what is truly happening in the US right now. We seem to be moving so fast that anyone or any place that can't keep up will be left behind. It's scary to think that maybe even I could turn into an Aberdeen one day and there isn't a soul on earth that could save me.

I hope people enjoy living here. I hope people can live out there dreams in this community. I hope kids grow up here and experience events that will shape their lives forever. I will be taking a closer look at this town the next time I'm in the area maybe even have a few conversations.

If you live in Aberdeen and found your way to this post please let me know what it's like. Is there anything about the town that people passing throw would miss? What made you decide on living here in the first place? What made you stay?

Anyway I give Aberdeen a resounding 10-10 !

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