#Hunchback of notre dame cross over
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The TWST Therapy Rabbit AU continues!
Part 1 see here
Introducing two new buns: Toffee and Snowball
Toffee is a sweet, sweet baby sunshine boy who makes sure all the students of Royal Sword Academy stay nice and mentally healthy, never hesitating to lift their spirits if they ever feel weary or have an off day (this includes all y'all's RSA OCs, he welcomes you all - looking at you @nuitthegoddess). He is often gifted little hats and outfits from Neige and other crafty boys from RSA. The boys of NRC find him terrifyingly cute as if imbued with some unholy power they probably aren't wrong.
Snowball is a very well-to-do lil' man who makes sure the boys of Noble Bell College stay on the straight and narrow, awarding good students the opportunity to feed him treats and give him pats and cuddles (depending on his mood). He is found cleaning his face often as he likes to stay very tidy. Fun fact: he is named after Claude Frollo's terrifying black horse from the original Hunchback of Notre Dame film I shit u not that is the horse's name look it up lol Also due to recent events cough cough, Rollo has been spending more therapy sessions with Snowball to avoid any other...outbursts cough. Snowball appreciates Rollo's overall disciplined nature but finds his ability to cover himself in flames very unnerving. He too is not sure about that Malleus Draconia fellow.
In regards to Inky of NRC, Toffee adores her and always aims to treat her as his BFF any time their paths cross. Snowball is a bit stand-offish but that is not unusual for him. The two rabbits, at the very least, have an understanding of what the other has to deal with frequently.
Inky is cool with both of these bucks and doesn't favor one over the other. If nothing else, it's refreshing to be among those who can understand the stress of trying to comfort magical teenage boys who occasionally try to blow up the planet and or murder someone. Toffee has yet to experience this but is always there to support poor Inky and Snowball to the best of his ability lol.
I honestly got the idea and just wanted to make a silly lil' sketch of these boys. I hope y'all enjoy them lol.
#neoninky#twisted wonderland#twst au#twst therapy rabbit au#night raven college#royal sword academy#noble bell college#magical therapy bunnies#inky art#malleus draconia#rollo flamme#neige leblanche#magical boy chaos#overblot gang
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Twisted wonderland dorms x esmeralda reader
One day the dorm leaders (jamil instead of kalim for this one) finds a magical stone with the power to show parts of the past of someone close to them they choose not to use it to respect there privacy of that person but shenanigans ensue and the stone is used and there shown there dear SO’s past
This is the Disney version of the hunchback of notre dame
Heartslabyul-savanaclaw-octavinelle-scarabia - pomefiore-ignihyde-diasomnia
scarabia
It was a very hectic day for the poor snake boy as the dorm leader had yet another banquet in the works which left jamil stuck in the kitchen slaving away over a hot stove as the day seemed to drag his mind often wonders to yuu
“I wonder what’s she’s doing?” He was cutting up some vegetables and humming a small song in his head he heard from you and preying that this day would just end so he could meet up with you
‘Thunk’
Just then he heard the sound of something dropping he looked around to see nothing on the table and fallen he looked around again suspicious he shook it of and went back to cooking
Once he was done and everything was set for tomorrow he went to check on kalim he entered into the main part of the dorm
“Hey-” as he enters he kick something and he bent down and picks up a stone it looks odd but something about it captivated jamil in a way he can’t describe
“Jamil what’s that” kalim was up close to jamil his eyes widen slightly but shakes it of a puts it in his pocket
“You stay here I need to go to the headmaster for a minute” kalim nods his head but something occurred to jamil and he sighs
“You’ll have to come along” at this kalim eyes widen with a sparkle
“Well let’s get going” kalim run in front of jamil who sighs, he was right about it being a absurdly long day
Once they got to the headmaster office and jamil shows him the stone he then goes on to explain that it’s a memory stone who shows the person holding the stone the memory of the person in their heart jamil immediately thinks of you
“Wow so we could see yuu past!?” Kalim said as they walked back to the dorm what they didn’t know was that a certain cat was listening in he heard the word stone and thought they meant the black stone
Jamil is definitely tempted your past is a mystery they only thing he know is that your something called a gypsy and that you and him dance A lot together but yuu didn’t pry him about his past so he pocket the stone
“Yes but they didn’t look into mine so I won’t with them” sadly fate had another idea….well more like a hungry cat had another idea
“Nyaaaaa!!” Grim suddenly jumped from a bush and on to jamil sadly for grim jamil spotted him as they left the office
“Not so fast grim” jamil slides to the left and avoids grim who flew right past him
“Nyyyyaaaa I want the stone!!!” Grim yelled and jumped up again this time Kalimantan joining in
“Kalim what are you doing” kalim eyes sparkled
“This seems like fun” he chuckles jamil is not 1000% done and wants to go find you sadly with having to look out for two people now he failed to notice a certain paw reaching into his pocket finally when he did see it
“Hey!!” Jamil runs up just a grim was about to eat the stone jamil grabs it and kalim grabs grim suddenly a blinding flash of light surrounded them then darkness
…………..
Jamil wakes up first and is on hight alert he immediately goes over the kalim and shakes him awake
“Mmmg five more minutes” kalim mumbled to which jamil sighed
“He okay” he then looked over to grim
“Mind explaining yourself?” Jamil crosses his arms and looks at the poor cat
“I thought it was a black rock” grim mumbles and pouts great just great he stuck here jamil looks around
There was a huge building with a round stain glass window and snow everywhere with a distance sound of low singing
“Where are we” kalim finally wakes up and is stood next to jamil looking at the building along with grim suddenly everything around them goes dark and a blue orb floats down every so gracefully
“Good evening” it said in a high pitched voice
“Who are you” jamil says getting straight to the point to which it hummed
“I’m the keeper of this stone here to show you yuu’s past now please be quiet while I explain the rules” it floats down towards the three just then three items appeared suspended in mid air it was a small wooden doll which looked like yuu the second one was a golden headpiece which looked like a dancers and the finale item was a necklace with a cross in the middle it looked like it was made of string
“Each one of these items holds a key peace of her personality” the orb flew over to the necklace
“Her kindness” then it flew over to the crown
“Her passion” then flew over to the doll
“And a darkness” jamil narrows his eyes at the last one what darkness
“Pick one item and you can see into her memory but be warned once you’ve chosen a item you can only see memories connected to her personality so what shall it be her kindness her passion or darkness” the orb giggled and flew up in the air and the the three turn to each other
Jamil has one hand on his hip and hand dance between his thin and indexed finger and has a ponder he can’t exactly get out of this situation so which should he chois honestly in this moment he wished you were here your presence alone calms him
“Sorry but times up” the orb says and fly up this shocked him he then grumble should have know there was a time limit kalim and grim look around in wonder just then the crown descends towards then and spins around a red dust surrounded then and now it was day time
“Woooow” kalim says looking around at the place
“So this is yuu’s home I’d definitely like to come here” jamil looks around for any signs of danger
“Kalim keep close” grim grumbles about wanting something to eat they then hear music and look to see yuu dancing with a instrument and jolly dancing around a hat
A little girl was about to run over when her mother stops her
“Stay away child they’re gypsies they’ll steal us blind” she grays her daughter away saying this
“But yuu would never do that” kalim says jamil sighed a shakes his head
“True kamil that’s very true” he keeps quiet and continues to watch the scene
Yuu continued to dance to the beat of the tambourine then a man approached with a horse and gave out a coin in the hat he looked at yuu with a smile and was just about to walk of when a whistle made yuu and the others start to pack up and run
Jamil and kalim looked confused as did grim
“Why are they running that looked like a lot of fun” kalim said with a sad smile jamil looked around wondering what made you so on edge
Jolly grabbed the hat with the coins in it but some fell out as he was running the goat stopped and called out to yuu, she stopped and ran back picking up some of the coins and putting them in the hat when two guards approached her
“That doesn’t look good” grim said with worry and kalim nod jamil looks at the scene when there from its not illegal to dance and play music in the streets so why are you in trouble
“All right gypsy” the guard grabs yuu hat
“Where’d ya get the money?” He asked accusatorially
“For your informationI earned it” yuu said snatching the hat back
“Gypsies don’t earn money” one said to yuu the other came up behind her and grabbed her by the shoulders
“They steal it” he said
Jamil clenched his fist at the man how dare they accuse you with no evidence and just on the fact your a gypsy
“Jamil what are they doing has yuu done something wrong?” Kalim asked worried for yuu
“She hasn’t done anything wrong those filth are judging her without any” kalim eyes widen then narrow grim watched the whole scene confused
“You’d know a lot about stealing” yuu said to the guards
“I thought they where supposed to help and protect people?” Kalim said and jamil fist tightened how dare they grim senses the tension and keeps his mouth shunt for once
“Troublemaker eh?” The guard grabs the hat from your hands
Jamil stomped forward only to phase through them Damn it he was so caught up in his anger he forgot this is a memory this….has already happened….but why does that piss him of more
Yuu grabs the hat back from him and the other guard from behind her holds her back yuu lifts her leg up and kicks the man in front
“Maybe a day in the stocks will cool ya down” one guard grabs yuu arm and other other grabs the other arm jolly sprang into action and head butted one guard then jumps back and kicks the other
“Have I ever said how much I like the goat?” Jamil said to himself right now he was giving the goat thanks which was rare as him and jolly didn’t get along well
Yuu then takes off running down the street and everything freezes and the scene changes to a stage and a man with blue purple and yellow yelled
“Dance La yuu” he throws something on the ground which turned into red smoke and yuu appeared
“Hey that’s like the stuff that surrounded us” kalim said but jamil was a little…..let’s just say…distracted
There yuu was in a red and purple dress which hugged every part of her body with a golden…crown?!
“Hey that’s the same crown the orb showed us?!” Grim said and jamil finally looked at your head to see that grim was indeed right
Yuu was dancing around kicking her legs up and spinning to music to what looked like a festival of people just then the noise was turned down and a voice clear as dat rang threw and the three look up
“Look at that disgusting display” a old man said looking at yuu with disgust and…something else which made jamil suspicious and creeped out next to the old man in purple was the man from the beginning of the flashback with a stern look on his face which didn’t reach his eyes
Yuu then skips to the old man and wraps and piece of fabric around his neck then shove his hat down his face she then skips off and the man looked enraged and tore the fabric of his neck in a huff
Yuu then spins around and does a front flip which lands in a spilt the she then hopes up and grabs and man spear sticks it into the ground and spins around it with her legs and and does one final bow and the scene freezes again and changes
Jamil gulped with red cheeks yeah you and him dance a number of time but definitely not like that kalim looks at jamil
“You okay?” Jamil snaps his head over to kalim
“I’m fine” just then the scene starts again
It’s the same place yuu was dancing in but this time yuu is in front of a man with a hunchback you voice booms out
“Ewww” grim said only to get hit in the forehead by jamil
“JUSTICE!!” Yuu said with a hand in the air and helps the boy up
“Mark my words gypsy you will pay for this indolence” the old man in purple said pointing at yuu
“Then it appears we’ve crowned the wrong fool” yuu said bowing and picking up a ‘crown’
“The only fool I see is you!” Yuu throws the ‘crown’ to the old man’s feet
“Captain Phoebus arrest her” the old man barks at the other man who clicks is fingers and points to yuu
The threes eyes went wide what exactly is going on in your world
Soon you where surrounded
“Now let’s see one two three four five six seven eight nine so there’s ten of you and one of me what’s a poor girl to do” yuu take out a handkerchief from your shirt you pretend cry and blow your nose and boom red smoke and your gone
“Yuu has to teach me that!!” Kamil said excitedly
“Noo!!” Jamil yells out if kamil could do that it would cause nothing but problems
“Witchcraft?!” The old man said and everything goes back to normal jamil looks around and sees he’s back where they disappeared from he walks kalim back to the dorm
by the time he gets back grim had disappeared probably to get food so he heads to your dorm he sees your outside dancing away with jolly at your feet he sneaks behind you and grabs you by the waist pulling you close you yelp but soon nothing it’s your boyfriend you chuckle
“Did ya miss me that much” yuu say slowly patting his head
“You have no idea” he said later on he explained what had happened
“I guess maybe Nows a good a time as any to explain” and so you did and to say the man was mad would be a understatement he nearly went as red as riddle when you told him about what that old man did he hugged you close after you finished telling him only the get head butted by good old jolly
“I take back what I said about you” he said to jolly which you looked at him confused then chuckled
——————-
Hope everyone is enjoying everything sorry it took so long this time also for the next one hope you like music
Not proofread

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The Outcast and The Angel Simeon x Reader
(Thank you @juhlydrawsblog for the title)
Summary: One self-filled prayer after the other, it seems as though that’s all anyone ever cares about. So when the words of you’re selfless prayer touch his soul, Simeon just has to know you
Warning: possibly OOC Simeon, Doesn’t really follow the plot of Obey Me, Simeon’s Angel ranking is changed, very much inspired by Hunchback of Notre Dame, angst, possible mistakes with religion writing, creepy guardian person (I don't know the name of someone who keeps a ward), not historically accurate clothes, set around the 1500 and 1600's, going with Obey Me being set in England, yes I know that Notre Dame is in Paris but the design is what I'm thinking of for this, will do my best to make this gender neutral, if there’s anymore I shall add
The market flooded with townspeople desperate to sell their stock, voices talking over one another in an attempt to negotiate what they want before the days end.
Two angels on the top of the cathedral cast their gaze on the humans below, silent in voice but many words are exchanged through their eyes, an agreement between the two of them.
These people are hopeless
"When the first bell of Evening Mass chimes come find me here." the ash blonde angels voice calmly spoke,
"I understand."
The toll of the bell cued the angel to leave, only a quill and scroll in his remaining. Townspeople scurried to the church, not wanting to miss their last chance to talk to God. Simeon picked up the items, wings fluttering while he dropped into the cathedral roof, preparing for the words of the people.
. . .
Here high in the rafters of the stone church sits an angel, doing his assigned task of collecting the prayers of the humans below him, finally obtaining silence as each one left. The sound of the church doors opening caused his hand to pick up his scroll, readying for another uncharitable request to God.
“I don’t know if you can hear me, or if you’re even there. I don’t know if you would listen to my prayers”
Simeon hands lowered his eyes drifting towards you who gazed at the cross in front of you, leaning against the stone pillar, uncertainty fixed your eyes.
“Yes, I know I’m just an outcast. I shouldn’t speak to you. Still I see your face and wonder, we’re you once an outcast too?”
Your fingered trailed behind you, running across the pews while your feet carried you. The falling sunlight that shone through the coloured windows reflected in your eyes, drawing Simeon in like a welcoming embrace.
His wings fluttered softly, following you from above, completely enchanted by you.
“God help the outcasts hungry from birth, show them the mercy they don’t find on earth. God help my people, we look to you still. God help the outcasts or no body will.”
He was taken aback from this request, he had sat on those rafters many times, but hardly ever had he heard someone pray for someone else without demanding something in return. Earlier’s prayers repeated in his mind, seeing just how different people could be.
‘I ask for wealth’
‘I ask for fame’
‘I ask for glory to shine on my name’
‘I ask for love I can possess’
‘I ask for God and his angels to bless me’
The selfless words spoke over them, drowning out the prayers in his head.
“I ask for nothing, I can get by. But I know so many less lucky than I.”
The angels feet barely made a sound when they touched the floor, his chest beating like a melody to your words.
“Please help my people, then poor and down trod. I thought we all were children of God.”
The cross loomed over you once more, falling to your knees as through the weight of it was pushing you down.
“God help the outcasts, children of God.”
You lingered there for a moment, tears falling down your cheeks. A gasp left your lips at the feeling of a finger gently clearing the tear from your face.
He is infront of you, eyes that held a gentleness as he knelt beside you, his hand never leaving it’s spot.
“Don’t be discouraged.”
In the blink of an eye you were no longer in front of him, slightly hiding behind one of the pillars you steadied your heart from the scare.
"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to startle you." His soft voice called to you, unmoving from his place, the fear of frightening you any further lingering in his mind
"I'm... I'm not supposed to talk to people." Stammering warily while pressing your hands against the textured stone separating the two of you
"Why not? his eyebrows furrowed with his hush tone
You stayed silent, fingers digging further into the pillar. His softness was like a rope pulling you in, but the warning of your guardian stuck your feet in place.
Further silence endured before a small breath of air left his lips, mind running fast with different approaches he could attempt.
"You're prayer... it's not often one hears a prayer like yours."
Your eyes widened with the words leaving him, your voice refused to come out while you hid your face with your palm, the strange man had not said it mockingly yet the impact was the same.
"I've never prayed before, there is no need to point out that I didn't do it properly."
"I don't mean to mock you. On the contrary, your words spoke to me like none before."
Against the voice in your head trying to lead you out and away from the man, your feet carried you past the pillar. There he stood, a warm smile on his face at your reveal.
"Well hello there."
“Who are you?” you asked, continuing to maintain your distance
“Simeon, it’s very nice to meet you.” a slight bow followed his words
“And, what are you doing alone in the church?” your eyes gazed with suspicion but were also filled with curiosity
“Not to be rude, but you came to be alone in the church aswell.” his answer was rewarded by the chuckle that escaped your mesmorizing lips
“You’re quite strange. But not wrong.”
The moon now fully risen in the sky shone in the skylight, alerting your attention. Though a strange conversation, neither wanted to stop listening to the other, with a bite to your lip you prepared to say goodbye.
“May I ask your name-”
“I must be off, it was quite nice meeting you Simeon.” his words interrupted by your rushed voice, your body no longer infront of him
“Will you be back tomorrow?” He asked, stopping your hand from pulling the door open
You pushed down the flutter in your cheeks, slightly turning to meet his bright eyes once more. The ghost of a smile playing on your lips as the thought of seeing this strange man again crossed your mind.
“Perhaps.”
Simeon stayed in place an extra few moments, eyes lingering on where you once stood. A smile on his face for a moment before his wings came back out, bringing him to where he had sat, your words replaying as though they were still being spoken.
“Perhaps is alright.”
~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~
Thank you for reading. If you have any requests just send them to me and I’ll try to write them to the best of my ability
It has been a long time since I’ve written an actual fanfic without abandoning the project, so I apologize for this not being too long, I hope you all enjoy this.
And remember you are a fantabulous human being and that is my opinion to which you can not change my opinion so better just accept that you’re an amazing person who is doing a fantastic job. Keep up the great work. Have a good day or night or whatever you’re reading this at
Thank you @juhlydrawsblog @obey-me-posts @poetofthedyingstars @siriuslyblackonback @syzxu @coffeeandtealol @somany-fandoms-solittle-time @a-rat-that-loves-cheese @nwaml for your comments and reblogs. They really helped with having the energy and love for this idea and helped with me not abandoning this idea!!! So yes, thank you once again
#obey me fic#obey me shall we date#obey me simeon#obey me simeon angst#obey me simeon x mc#obey me simeon x reader#obey me simeon fluff#obey me Simeon fic#obey me leviathan#obey me lucifer#obey me asmodeus#obey me mammon#obey me satan#obey me thirteen#obey me raphael#obey me michael#obey me fandom#obey me angst#obey me fluff#obey me x gender neutral reader#obey me x reader#obey me x mc#obey me solomon#omswd simeon
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Male Giant Bat: Dmitri
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A/N: This was the monster that was voted for and this is what I wrote! Yes, I was inspired by Hunchback of Notre Dame.
Relationship: male monster x female reader
The Painter and Her Muse
To think, you didn't believe you would take another foot in this forsaken city again.
That had felt like a cruel lie: one twisted into manipulating you to agree to, bound by this harsh fate for good.
The last time you stepped into the city, you had found it hard to leave, especially with a relative, breathing down your neck and pressuring you to find the right match and be bound to them in marriage.
You couldn't leave any quicker.
That had been five years before being there, and you had imagined you were more mature and less naïve than your sixteen self.
The city as soon as you had entered by train had been everything you remembered it being. The city grew in size and population, life had sprouted from genius rich men deciding to pay to factories and the age of industries, resulting in a bustling boon in everything technological.
It had been a real surprise, having stepped off the platform and swarmed with the smell of soot and coal filling your lungs. There was no way you could stay here for life: not with the harsh smells that would drown your lungs slowly.
It had been a mixture of old and new in the city: old architecture clashed with new and more prominent buildings, and there was a clear example in the cathedral you found yourself stepping in.
The halls were long and hallow, the large hall was dimly-lit, disguising its art with the promise of wax-dripping candles and soft organ music, droning the room as people came in and out. A mass seemed to of just ended, and when you walked to the front, you spotted the reverend speaking quietly with an elderly woman, speaking in kindness as she gave her thanks and shuffled away.
"Peace be with you." The reverend gave the sign of the cross in a wispy, calm voice, and you followed.
"And also with you, uncle."
All formalities dropped in the second as the ageing man embraced you gently, a smell of burning wax embedded on his cassock, old and fading. "It had been a long time since I saw you here."
"I know," you answered gravelly, pulling away from him. He had either shrunk with age or you had grown taller, for you don't remember ever having to bend your knees slightly to hug him, "it took a lot of willpower to return."
"Your faith is strong." He smiled, wrinkles and lines on his face were harsh and more prominent. "The Lord watches over you."
You didn't reply to him as he resumed his chatter. "How long are you staying here for?"
"A few months. My studies have asked me to find inspiration for an art project." Your jaw clenched in moments of thought. "Which is, to some regard, why I stand here. Is there any possibility of staying here with you?"
You pretended to not spot the way your uncle shifted from one foot to the other, a questioning look in his eyes. "You know, I would always give sanctuary to you, but I cannot this time around?"
You scoffed indecently. "This is all because I didn't say yes to that baker's son's hand in marriage all those years ago, isn't it?"
The reverend gave no expression for you to read, but his face remained its same level of calmness. "It has nothing to do with that. You know I didn't force you into that."
It sure felt like you did. You thought. "Is there any reason as to why I cannot stay here?"
His chin jutted out as if to speak, shutting as he replied, "The room is being refurbished. To make room for improving the bells."
"Of course," you muttered, ready to turn and leave, to find a hostel too cramped and expensive to remain in, but your uncle had continued in his broken promises. "There is art here you can look at, art forgotten about, stored above that I give full permission to get inspiration from."
As you looked around, more people began coming in, and when it dwelled what was happening, you could hear the slow chime of heavy bells, ringing outside for the hour.
"I must go, but you have my permission." He promised one final time as you left through the side, finding your way to where he spoke of.
The staircase was long and winded up a spiral that never ended, your legs grew stiff and sore, blood rushing to your head the higher you reached. If your uncle had been lying this entire time, you were sure to give him a piece of your mind.
When you reached the very top of the tower it was to note that the entire top part seemed cramped and dark. There was little to no light surrounding the small area, and certainly, it seemed that there was no presence of anyone living there.
How odd. You could only laugh, only believing that your uncle would lie to keep you from asking about the presence of someone staying up here when there were no signs of life anywhere.
It was also obvious there was no work being done on the bells, having taken a peak within the large room that held the range of bells, seeing no sight of it being cornered off. You were ready to turn and leave, to be rid of these frustrations. You wouldn't want to give up your time painting up here when all that was felt was falsehood.
From the shallow beams that supported the middle of the ceiling, the darkness shifted, a silhouette large enough to swallow you whole, moved, and when it did, you followed, turning with force as you came face to face with the culprit.
The darkness moved unnervingly, and you gasped at what stood in front of you.
He was at least 10-feet-tall, hiding in the darkness – almost haunting looking. His dimly-lit room was a stark contrast to his almost black fur, long and shaggy to his long legs and forearms, the fur tapering to be shorter closer to his chest and face.
Everything about him resembled that of a bat- but larger. His long, paper-thin wings were folded behind his hunched back, demeanour cautious yet careful– as if trying to make himself look as small and less intimating as possible. His long pointed ears were reaching to touch the ceiling, reared and showing the fear in his big wide brown eyes. His long face was decorated with small details: two large dots above his face that resembled eyebrows, and a leaf-shaped nose, soft pink in contrast to his dark brown colouring. It was almost a soothing feeling that dwindled the fear you had felt previously.
"Do not be afraid." He reached fretfully, extending the long claw-like tips of his wings towards you; as if in greeting or to stop you from freaking out. When noticed your gaze looking down towards them, he quickly retreated them from view. "I will not hurt you."
"I believe you," you calmed him immediately: shoulder relaxing with ease as he didn't seem as skittish. "You scared me, s'all."
His wings wrapped around the middle of his back, as if trying to hug himself. "It is not often I get visitors up here." There was a nervousness in his voice, a soft tremble that reverberated through the inside of the small walls.
"You live here alone?"
"No," his smile was clumsy but adorable as if he had spent hours trying to perfect it. You found it difficult not to mirror him. "I have the added protection of this sanctuary."
Your immediate reaction was to step closer to him in awe, "You know Reverend Clement?"
The bat's eyes lit up in surprise, maybe even intrigue. "He took me in when I was very young. Cared me as if I was his son."
How your uncle had never told you about him was interesting, to say the least. But, was there a reason as to why? Your uncle was an enigma in itself.
The room- his room- didn't hold much, even when the ceilings seemed not high enough to take in the fullness of his height. He was hunched most of the time, even when the roof was at its highest, and you came to realise there was not much there. There was a simple, makeshift bed, shelves upon shelves of books you wished you could delve into reading, and soft candlelight that grew in colour the brighter the room became for you to see in.
"You've been up here all this time? All on your own?" You asked.
"Well, not on my own," he smiled crookedly, "I had the bells to keep me company, oh, and lots of books!"
He was utterly adorable: the way his ears lifted with excitement the same way a dog would if praised, you couldn't help but feel utterly pulled to him, curious about him. It rather broke your heart to hear that he had grown accustomed to being alone most of his life.
You told him your name eventually after silence fell between you, apologising for awkwardly gawking at him. "Is there a name I could call you by?"
As if all the clumsiness had left his body, the giant bat leant forward in a charismatic, gentlemanly bow. "I am called Dmitri. It is very nice to meet you."
The light flickered over him once more, lighting the true height of him, and something within your chest fluttered, a feeling that you couldn’t place. “My uncle has a lot to explain, I suppose I can understand now why he didn’t allow me this room.”
Dmitri’s smile was shy yet warm. “My apologies, I hope it is not an issue for you.”
“No, it’s not. I’m only staying for a couple of months for my studies.” You pulled from your satchel some of the pencils and the cover of your books, watching how he peered inside. “I’m an artist.”
“You’ll… be back here, right? Will I see you again?” He asked.
You mirrored his smile, bright and contagious. “Of course.”
-
A steady routine fell after a few weeks and months had passed, you help spend days helping to move and organise his room and the entire part of the attic. You ate and shared your meals together that you bought from the market below: a large loaf of bread with an assortment of sliced meats and cheeses. You collected a large bag of dried berries and nuts that you learnt Dmitri had a fond love for, always happy to see how his face lights up in delight, eagerly wolfing them down and always keen to share some with you.
It didn’t take long for you to find your inspiration for work: murals and inspiration in the tower were plenty to help find the smallest of art. You found more and more of your crafts littered all over the place in Dmitri’s room, not that he complained.
It was only when you had drawn and painted and grew bored from the lack of change, did you come to your new friend with a question you hoped he wasn’t hesitant of.
“Can I draw you?”
Dmitri’s large brown eyes blinked owlishly, the scraps of his leftover sandwich seemed to be merely discarded as he looked back over at you, swallowing what remained from his meal. “You wish to draw me?”
“Yeah,” you laughed nervously, scratching the back of your head, fingers twitching around the pen and paper you carried. “It would only be me seeing this, no one else. You don’t need to say yes to this.”
“I’m just surprised, s’all,” he murmured, wiping his mouth. “I’m just not what you would say a good reference.”
“What do you mean?”
“Well, I’m far from looking like an Olympian as what is usually drawn. I’m far as natural as them.” His laugh was watery, grave and pitiful. “I mean, you should’ve seen me as a pup, all ears and a nose too big for my head. There is nothing that fetching about me then and certainly not now.”
“I find that hard to believe, Dmitri.” You soothed his disheartened comment, a hand running over the hairs of his arm as you sat down next to him on his bed, gauging his reactions carefully. Dmitri didn’t shy away from your touches, though you could feel how his body tensed uncontrollably, it relaxed with ease. His body was warm, fur soft as how you imagined a cloud to feel.
When he looked back at you, you swore you could see the moment his eyes seemed to break in disappointment, “Though, I’m sure you must get lots of suitors. You are,” his eyes shifted as well as the entire of his posture, nerves stopping his words from spilling, “you are very beautiful.”
Hearing his failing words did not stop you from saying what you had been wishing to say for weeks. “You’re beautiful too.”
Dmitri grew flustered under your soft gaze, body wriggling as if aflame. “But—I am not human, I cannot be,” he corrected himself when he caught your gaze, eyes darting back and forth, “You deserve so much better.”
“There isn’t anything better. There’s so much I admire about you, your intelligence, your charm, you certainly can hold a conversation better than most of the men out there.” He had snorted at your words, but he didn’t stop staring intently at you, digesting your words.
Dmitri soothed your hand with his own, caringly and delicately, eyebrows twisted in heavy thought. “I… you know I care about you dearly,” he murmured shyly. “But, I cannot—I am not—”
You interrupted him by stretching across to him, guiding his face closer to him, and before he could answer what you were doing, he was silenced with an audible gasp, as you pressed a chaste kiss to the corner of his snout, close to his mouth.
Dmitri’s mouth worked on its own accord, words mashed incoherently and sounds that were too inaudible to understand and were rather adorable to see his flustering.
You leant back to admire him, smiling softly. “Does that settle your worries?”
“You… you kissed me.” His words were soft, a clawed wing touching the place your lips had touched, his eyes growing gentle and tender. He was silent before he said, “Can… we do that again?”
Laughter bubbled from your lips as you tenderly embraced him to you, his folded wing wrapping around your waist gingerly as you found each other in a lover’s embrace, holding, touching, yearning to slowly understand each other through touch and taste.
Dmitri made a small squeak that didn’t go unnoticed by you, softly he felt himself grow more used to touching, a confidence building that suited him well.
When you pulled away from him, you couldn’t help the broad smile to stretch over your features, holding his hand gently in yours. “So, what do you think?”
“I think… I accept your offer.” Dmitri drawled softly.
You stood to full height, offering him to lay across his bed with a preferred book laid across his chest, lying lazily in a position that the both of you agreed on.
You got to work quickly, arranging your seat as you began with a basic sketch, and when you occasionally looked up to continue, your eyes would meet together in a tender gaze, turning away in timidness.
You finally finished when some minutes passed, scratching fine mistakes out as you presented your work to Dmitri. “All done.” You grinned.
What Dmitri was not expecting was the way you caught him: peaceful and relaxed, resting as if caught in a moment in stillness or heavy thought, a moment resting in forever on the sketched page.
The way his eyes lit up was one way of knowing he liked it, taking the page for further inspection. “It’s—remarkable.”
“I thought I would get you in a way that you wouldn’t see yourself, and more so how I see you.” You said, pointing to the smudged edges that merged with the background and his body. “I hope you like it.”
“I like it a lot,” he clutched it dear to his chest, smiling toothily. “May I keep it?”
“It’s all yours.” You laid on the bed beside him, a tranquil calmness that passed over the both of you as the bat followed you, taking a place beside you as you snuggled up close to him.
#giant bat monster#bat humanoid monster#exophilia#monster x reader#male monster x reader#giant bat boyfriend#reader x monster#female reader x male monster#male monster x female reader#my writing#itstheendofthegoddamnworld writes
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Author Question Tag Game Thing
Thank you so much for the tag @cobrafantasies !!!!
1. How many works do you have on AO3?
131 (ElisabethMonroe)
2. What’s your total AO3 word count?
863,403
3. What fandoms do you write for?
Marvel/SamBucky (I've got a few Buddie WIPs languishing)
4. What are your top 5 fics by kudos?
The Truths Beneath Our Ribs
The North American Superhero in a Domestic Situation
Tying Me to You
(never) Lost In Translation
A Conversion of Worry and Love
All fics I wrote while the show was airing. Please, casual fans, come back
5. Do you respond to comments? Why or why not?
Yes! But I am so behind right now :/
6. What is the fic you wrote with the angstiest ending?
Probably My Sunshine. I was rude with that ending. Though Stained and Sun Burst may give it a run for its money.
7. What’s the fic you wrote with the happiest ending?
Hmmm. Most of my fics have pleasant endings. Maybe Until The Last Rose?
8. Do you get hate on fics?
Knock on several pieces of wood, no. I've never gotten hate on a fic. Please, nobody take this as a challenge.
9. Do you write smut? If so, what kind?
Yes. I've discovered the hilarious pattern in my writing where Bucky is nigh on constantly giving Sam a bj. It's what Sam deserves. Other than that, I hope my smutty scenes are kinda sappy and lovey, for the most part.
10. Do you write crossovers? What’s the craziest one you’ve written?
For my own personal enjoyment, yeah. I came into fandom with SuperWhoLock, so there was a lot of cross over there and I write a Raven Cycle/X-Files crossover when I'm bored or unmotivated.
11. Have you ever had a fic stolen?
Hopefully not, but I used to get prompts stolen a lot when I RP'd back in ye olden days.
12. Have you ever had a fic translated?
Maybe. A few people have asked, but never followed up. I totally get it. That's a lot of work.
13. Have you ever co-written a fic before?
Not necessarily as a co-author, but I've done Bangs and had betas/artists that were essential to the process.
14. What’s your all time favorite ship?
Y'all know I love me some SamBucky, but I do hold onto MorMor still. It just scratches the itch in my brain.
15. What’s a WIP you want to finish but doubt you ever will?
So many. I think the one I most want to write but have the least confidence in finishing it is a Sam/Steve/Bucky Hunchback of Notre Dame AU. It's set in a future-Hydra Won world and has assassin and spy intrigue and so many identity issues
16. What are your writing strengths?
I always say dialogue on this question and I always hope it's true.
17. What are your writing weaknesses?
1) Remembering to describe things, but I think if I have time I'm pretty good at going back and filling in the gaps.
2) Getting out of the research phase. I love to read about things and make as full of a story as possible, but I often spend so long doing that, I either lose confidence or lose interest in the actual writing.
18. Thoughts on writing dialogue in another language in fic?
If you've read (never) Lost in Translation, you'll know I'll use it. If you read the comments on that fic you'll also know I'm bad at it and it takes a village.
19. First fandom you wrote for?
Technically Twilight but I don't really count that. Really really officially, it was Sherlock/MorMor.
20. Favourite fic you’ve written?
Currently it's Tell It to the Bees (and the birds). I also really like A Time for Dancing and i found something in the woods somewhere
Please, anyone who wants to do this, do so! I love reading responses to these kinds of things!
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👋 hello love your blog and toad content feel free to ignore this. Maybe it will give you some ideas idk
I just was on clock app and watched Esmeralda edits AND IT FITS SO WELL with Mortimer and reader concept like that scene where Esmeralda dancing on festival (?) (I don't remember how it's called) . Unfortunately I can't send an edit but THIS THIS SCENE I'M TALKING ABOUT p. s. I'm really sorry if there any mistakes english not my native language
First of all, sorry this took so long to get to 😭
Second of all, may I just say, your username is ELITE lmao 😂 easily in my top three favorite usernames I've ever seen, right along with dilf-hunter69, I believe it was
Y'all have easily twice the creativity I do lmao
Definitely a cool idea tho! There's lots of cross over for Quasimodo's story and Toad's, I honestly wouldn't be surprised if some of his character iterations were inspired by it all. I do love a good "sad, ugly mutant man gets picked by pretty reader character". Hm....
Ooooo you know what would be cool? Like a straight up au of sorts revolving around the hunchback of Notre Dame + X-Men 👀
This turned into a little blurb, so here you go :) reader is gender neutral btw!
Imagine being a mutant rights activist at like a rally or protest or something and of course the brotherhood are in the area, possibly fighting cops or whatever- something to get the X-Men's attention ig. To speed things up tho, Magneto has the team set sights on the bystanders, which includes you of course.
The rest of the brotherhood doesn't care so they do it, all humans are the enemy after all- even ones who claim otherwise. But... Toad's not so sure. He has reservations, but as usual it only takes a stern look from Magneto to put him in his place. He joins the fight and you and your fellow protestors scatter.
You run because you're getting chased- chased by Toad, it seems. In the rush and the panic, you fall, even getting trampled by the human stampede a little. Toad's on you in no time, and there you lay... Hurt and helpless. He could kill you right now and maybe earn some approval with his master.
Or...
He looks left. Then right. Then over his shoulder for good measure. No one is looking....
"Get up!", Like you weigh nothing at all, he flips you over and sets you on your feet to face him.
You look scared- but he's used to that. Besides, he's not sure he can even blame you. Fear is better than hatred at least. And anything's better than disgust.
In a moment of weakeness, a thought comes upon him; Is this really what he wants to be? Feared and distrusted, by actions of his own doing? As though his face isn't bad enough- isn't he just making things worse? You weren't here to fight or cause trouble after all. Quite the opposite, in fact.
Lost in his mind, he studies your face for a long time... Just about as much as you study his.
A minute well spent- he lets you go gently, sneering even as he does. Toad looks around one more time, backing away to save face until at last he turns to you, a growl of a whisper as his voice, "Go on- get lost, then!", he looks at the surprise in your eyes... Then looks away. He doesn't deserve even that.
"I ain't gonna hurt you... but thems all will if yo-"
Surprise is the least of all the feelings that wash over him when your arms interrupt his warning. Hung tight in an embrace across the back of his neck- Mort suddenly remembers... When was the last time he ever was hugged?
For a fleeting moment, he thinks to return the gesture. Somehow, this feels better then anything he's ever imagined. Better then he ever thought something was silly as a simple touch even could. Your waist is right there, too.
If he'd only move his useless limbs, then maybe he could just...
But the moment passes. And with a gentle, sincere smile- another in the line of first times for him today, you let him go with a hurried thanks before turning to run.
For a long while yet, just long enough to commit your wonderful face to memory... He watches you go. Something in his chest feels tight as he watches you run from him, all the way until you're out of sight.
"Toad! You fool... You let one get away!", from somewhere far away, Magneto growls and degrades- taking a break from the mayhem to round up his troops for the X-Men's approach.
No.... Not running from him, Toad thinks.
Running from-
Erik Lehnsherr mutters yet another insult under his breath, before issuing a new command, "Don't just stand there, go with the others! Charles' men will be here any minute!"
Even as the master of magnetism threatens and barks his orders- His pathetic pawn, this shell of a man, finds he can't help but look after the corner he saw you turn just a little longer... Toad watches. And he thinks. And at last, he turns, face pinched in bitter contempt.
Maybe... Even a Toad could aspire to something better, he wonders. Better then... This. Anything, would be better than this.
But for now-
"Yes... Master..."
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Sleeping Beauty Spring: "Sleeping Beauty" (1991 Golden Films animation)
In the '90s, Golden Films was one of the chief producers of direct-to-video animated "mockbusters" – knockoffs both of the latest hit films and of older classics by Disney and other studios. Well I remember seeing their films on video store shelves in my childhood: their versions of Cinderella, The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Pocahontas, The Hunchback of Notre Dame (which notoriously changes Esmeralda's name to Melody and has Quasimodo lose his deformity in the end), and two versions each of Beauty and the Beast and Snow White. One of their films that I didn't discover until recently, however, is their version of Sleeping Beauty.
While the opening credits say "Adapted from a story by the Brothers Grimm," the plot of this Sleeping Beauty is really a cross between Perrault's version, the Grimms', and other adaptations. It opens like the Grimm's tale, with a frog assuring the Queen that she'll soon give birth to a daughter. But after the Princess is born, the story follows Perrault by inviting seven fairies (rather than twelve) to the castle. These fairies are tiny, giggly, slightly goofy winged creatures, four female and three male, who, like Disney's Flora, Fauna, and Merryweather, serve as the main viewpoint characters throughout most of the story and provide comic relief. Their names are Hector, Wanda, Oscar, Jewel, Tinder, Cinder, and Lily. Meanwhile, the villainess is a flying sorceress (probably not a fairy, because she's human-sized) named Ursula, who, despite having a human flesh tone and wearing purple instead of black, looks and sounds like a screechy knockoff of the Wicked Witch of the West from The Wizard of Oz. She curses the Princess to prick her finger and die "someday, when you least expect it," but Lily softens the curse to a hundred-year sleep.
Although the King has all the kingdom's spinning wheels burned, the fairies still worry about Ursula and resolve to never let the Princess out of their sight. A comic montage follows, where the lively, playful Princess gives her fairy "babysitters" more trouble than they bargained for. But eventually, Lily makes the mistake of playing hide-and-seek with the Princess, and of course while looking for a hiding place, the Princess finds Ursula disguised as an old woman with a spinning wheel. After sadly laying their daughter to rest in her bed, the King and Queen are put to sleep in their own bed by the fairies, who go on to freeze the rest of the castle in place, sometimes in the middle of comical moments, a la the 1955 German film.
A hundred years pass, and during that time, thorn bushes – which grow naturally on the castle grounds, and which the King was shown complaining about in an early scene – grow into a forest of briars around the castle. Many princes try to fight their way in, but all fail. (Without dying, however – they're shown leaving afterwards). But eventually, the right Prince arrives. Ursula tries to stop him from reaching the castle, first by trying to drown him in a river, then by bringing trees to life to attack him, and then by blocking his way with walls of briars. But each time, the fairies thwart her with their magic. Then a chime of bells signify the end of the hundred years – at this point, Ursula has no more power to stop the Prince, and she vanishes in a rage. The Prince kisses the Princess, everyone awakens, and a royal wedding is celebrated, with the King and Queen remembering to invite Ursula this time.
As a whole, this is a reasonably charming Sleeping Beauty for young children – colorful and lighthearted, without the emotional depth or artistry of other versions, but not offensive either. The animation is far from sophisticated, but neither is it ugly. The same can be said for the musical score, which in classic "mockbuster" fashion, ends with a pop song, "Love Has Opened Your Eyes," over the closing credits. One interesting visual detail is that unlike in most versions, the Princess seems to age slightly in her sleep, as her appearance changes from childlike to more womanly. (Her dress also changes from pink to blue and yellow – did the fairies have a Disney-style color battle during the hundred years, I wonder?) The voice cast is uncredited, but from my knowledge of '90s cartoons, I'm almost certain that the tiniest fairy, Jewel, is voiced by Kath Soucie, and that Rob Paulsen voices Oscar, the chubby male fairy.
Not an essential Sleeping Beauty, but worth seeing.
@ariel-seagull-wings, @thealmightyemprex, @faintingheroine, @paexgo-rosa, @reds-revenge, @comma-after-dearest, @the-blue-fairie, @thatscarletflycatcher, @themousefromfantasyland
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Hi Claude, hope you're doin well! Just wondering, how long have you had your main OCs? What inspired them? How have they changed over time?
I'm well! I hope the same for you!
Tiefer I've had since 2008 and Jehan and his brother a year or so earlier.
A lotta things inspired them but I'll list some:
Strikethrough '07
The Hunchback of Notre Dame
The Catholic church sex scandals that dropped BIG in 2002 which coincidentally is when I started going through puberty 1.0 which totally didn't cross some wires
My dick
Whatever 『闇の末裔』 was doing
Questionable shotalite manga released in the 00s (hi Loveless)
Greek myths probably
They really haven't changed much. More like been massaged. I think they all became more pathetic meow meows.
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Songs that are so Thomas Andrews x Rose Andrews DeWitt Bukater coded in my head:
“king of the world, pt 2” - Ben Platt
Reason: it mentions Titanic…so yk.
“And he tells you you're the king of the world
That's just love on the Titanic
When you think you found forever
'Cause it seems like you can never get enough”
“In Your Love” - Tyler Childers
Reason: it’s a “star crossed lovers” anthem even though these two lived a long happy life together in my head
“We were never made to run forever
We were just meant to go long enough
To find what we were chasin' after
I believe I found it here
In your love”
“Top of the World” - Hunchback of Notre Dame the Musical
Reason: listenlistenlisten…just imagine the “Jack! I’m flying” scene but with Thomas and Rose, and these are Rose’s thoughts
“Seeing life from the top of the world
Nothing needs fighting
And no one needs pity
Thanks for giving this moment to me
When just for a moment things stop
Here at the top of the world”
“So Will I” - Ben Platt
Reason: HELLO? this song is so gentle, and Thomas is a gentle man, and the calm to Rose’s storm. And this song is just…so soothing for my anxiety.
“You say, "What if I don't catch the dreams
That I've been out there chasing?"
"What if when my fears show up, I'm too afraid to face them?"
Well, I can't fight your battles
But I sure can hold your hand and promise you
That the sky will still be up there
And the sun will always shine
The stars will keep on fallin'
For the ones who wish at night
The mountains won't start moving
And the rivers won't run dry
The world will always be there
And so will I”
“A Safe Place to Land” - Sarah Bareilles, John Legend
Reason: they are both each other’s safe place to land. that’s it.
“The ocean is wild and over your head
And the boat beneath you is sinking
Don't need room for your bags, hope is all that you have
So say the Lord's Prayer twice, hold your babies tight
Surely someone will reach out a hand
And show you a safe place to land”
“Remedy” - Adele
reason: the first part is Rose’s pov for sure, but the rest of the song can be either.
“I remember all of the things that I thought I wanted to be
So desperate to find a way out of my world and finally breathe
Right before my eyes, I saw that my heart, it came to life
This ain't easy, it's not meant to be
Every story has its scars
But when the pain cuts you deep
When the night keeps you from sleeping
Just look and you will see
That I will be your remedy”
“Make You Feel My Love” Adele
reason: okay so sorta takes place during that scene where Rose is like “Jack leave me alone” in the workout room but it’s Thomas Andrews and he is…yea.
“When the evening shadows and the stars appear
And there is no one there to dry your tears
I could hold you for a million years
To make you feel my love
I know you haven't made your mind up yet
But I will never do you wrong
I've known it from the moment that we met
No doubt in my mind where you belong”
“Run Away” - Ben Platt
Reason: yes. another Ben Platt song…I have a weak spot for any song that I can picture Mr. Andrews reassuring Rose that she can let her guard down.
“I love you more and more each day
To love is not to leave
So, hear me when I say
"I may not be wise
And I won't save the day
But look in my eyes
And know I'll always stay
And I won't run away"”
#thomas andrews#titanic#rose dewitt bukater#rose andrews#thomas andrews x rose dewitt bukater#thomas andrews x rose#Thomas x rose#will be adding to this#rose dawson#Mr Andrews
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||Heaven’s Light||
Summary: Leonardo does not believe he is capable of being loved, given how he looks. Amal doesn’t believe so. And wants to make him understand that he, as well as his brothers, will one day find love.
Pairing: Leonardo x AmalOC (TMNT)
Rating || Genres || Warnings: No rating just a general. Slight Romance. Fluff. No warnings.
A/N: Yay! My first Imagine here! I hope anyone reading it likes it! I just want to try out how things go. I’m still setting things up on my page, but this song from The Hunchback of Notre Dame came on and I just couldn’t help but associate it with the Turtles, specifically Leonardo. Also I’m just adding this gif just because, I’m not really picking a Verse for when it comes to TMNT, because I love all versions of them:3 Enjoy!
What day went by when siblings did not argue amongst themselves? The Turtles may be mutants but it didn’t stop them arguing with each other. At least three of them were doing so at the moment.
“Amal said not to play it!” Donnie’s voice was a little stern as he spoke the words, glaring at his other two brothers. Raph snorted.
“Yeah well, since when have we listened to Amal?” He crossed his arms over his plastron. Mikey smacked his lips, tilting his head as he hummed in thought.
“Since the time we accidentally knocked her out in the process of saving her!”
Silence followed his words, as all three brother cringed at the embarrassing first encounter they had with the girl.
“..........Well I know it wasn’t me that did that.” Raph was quick to declare, having made the argument before. Donnie rolled his eyes as he briefly looked away from his computer screen to give his brother a look.
“We don’t know who it was. And I would prefer it stay that way. We wouldn’t hear the end of it if she found out which one of us did that.” He added the last part in a small grumble, knowing how persistent the girl could get. He shivered at the very thought. Mikey nodded in agreement as Raph scowled.
“I still stand by the fact that it was Mikey.” He muttered under his breath, earning a cry of indignation from his younger brother.
Leonardo, the only brother not participating in the argument, glanced up from his shell phone. He had been informing the girl of his brother’s arguments. “She says we can play it.” He called out to Donnie. Mikey let out a silent yes, wanting his curiosity to be satisfied, while Donnie quickly punched a few commands into the computer to play the audio.
“Hope it isn’t that infernal music she listens to all the time.” Raph muttered, recalling when Amal had made them listen to some operatic piece because she claimed that they needed a little but of culture in them. Leonardo smirked slightly at his annoyed brother, having enjoyed how much it had irked Raphael.
The song began as soon as Donnie pressed play. It was soft. Not at all like the music any of them listened to. And yet Amal always told them to focus on the lyrics, even if you didn’t understand them. And so the brothers, standing around Donnie’s work space, listened attentively. The lyrics made Leonardo frown a little, a suspicion forming in his mind as to why Amal would want them to listen to this particular song. It had barely ended when he heard Amal approaching them from the Lair’s entrance.
“Oh good! You listened to it already! What did you think?” She questioned, depositing her gym bag on a nearby couch and removing her jacket. Leo turned where he stood, his heart doing a little lurch when he saw her. It had been doing that for awhile now, and was something he considered normal. Her gaze was open and eager to hear what they had to say about the song, which made him pause for a brief second.
“Well you know me Amal. I prefer figuring out how a toaster works rather then understand the deep meaning behind a song.” Donnie joked, earning an eyeroll from the human. Mikey had already bounded his way towards the girl and slung an arm around her shoulders.
“Sweet choice as always Amal. It was amazing. Mesmerizing. Fascinating. Hypnotizing.” Raph cut him off.
“And we have no idea why you made us listen to it. Usually you have a reason.” Mikey nodded, looking a little bummed. “Yeah dudette. No idea.”
Amal chuckled lightly, opening her mouth to speak when Leonardo’s hand on her shoulder stopped her. “Can I talk to you for a minute?” Curious the girl nodded.
“You keep listening to that track. If you figure out the reason, I’ll order pizza!” The bribe made them a little more eager as they turned to the screen once more, Donnie already hitting play.
She quickly followed after the leader, singing the song softly under her breath as she came to stand in front of him, mirroring his stance as she looked up at him. She had to look up, he was a lot taller then she.
“Is this because of the conversation we had a few days ago?” Leo asked, not bothering to beat about the bush. Amal shrugged. “I guess you can say its one of the reasons.”
Leonardo sighed, his shoulders dropping as his posture relaxed and he gave Amal a resigned look. “And I told you to drop it.”
A week or so ago Leonardo had dropped by Amal’s place for one of their routine hang outs. Just the two of them. It was nice to just chat without the chaos of his brothers around. They’d been sitting on her darkened balcony when she had caught sight of a couple having a romantic dinner on their own balcony. With candles and flowers and champagne and music. While she had cooed over the romance of it all, Leonardo had scowled and been indifferent about it. She had been curious. And was enough of a nosy and persistent person to finally get it out of him.
Leonardo did not believe in romance. Oh he believed in love alright. He loved his family after all. But that was familial love. The kind of love the couple on the balcony had? That was something neither he nor his brothers could ever experience. Amal had protested, saying they were all some of the best people she knew. And Leonardo had looked at her, long and hard and so sad that words died on her lips.
What he said next felt like a punch to her heart.
“And who would love someone who looks like us? Who looks like me?”
Even now, standing in front of him, tears burned behind her eyes, but she blinked them back and reached out to lay a gentle hand on his forearm. Feeling the rough skin under her own smooth fingers, Amal smiled gently.
“Leo. If April, Casey and I can accept you guys as you are, who’s to say someone else won’t? Believe me when I say there is someone out there, who, I am dubbing an Angel, will accept you for you and love you for you.” Her heart doubled in speed as she spoke, pouring every bit of conviction she could into her words. “Green skin and shell and all.” She added with a teasing smile.
Leonardo continued to look at her, with an intensity that had her biting her lower lip nervously. Her heart raced in her ears, and she feared he could pick up the sound with his ninja skills. What she wasn’t aware of was the war raging within him as he wandered if he was perhaps beginning to see his friend in a whole new light. Finally, he broke their gaze and looked to where her hand rested on his arm, covering it with his own hand and giving it a squeeze. He didn’t need to say anything, Amal understood. “You’re welcome.”
With one last smile she slipped from his grasp and walked over to the other three brothers, who were now arguing about their ideas, each claiming he was right.
Leonardo stood where he was, watching her walk with the grace of the dancer that she was, silently wandering if perhaps she was the Angel she had just spoken of.
But then that would be too easy.
And life was never easy.
#leonardo x reader#leonardo x oc#leonardo imagine#tmnt#tmnt imagine#teenage mutant ninja turtles#teenage mutant ninja turtles imagine
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i just rewatched the hunchback of notre dame....help my mind is being plauged with more au ideas ;v;
Yeah that is a tough au because I picture this au with wordgirl characters crossed over with other cartoon characters. It does have the amazing cheese ship but I can't decide whether to have Steven for Esmerelda's role and Amazo Guy being Phoebus's role. Or have Two Brains be the hunchback and wait for the amazing cheese ship in the sequel to this movie. Idk.
#wordgirl#wordgirl au#steven boxleitner#dr two brains#answered ask#melodythebunny#amazo guy#amazing cheese
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❀ 500 word Sneak Peak... ❀
Shushhh!!
Don't call me weird, but I was watching the Hunchback of Notre Dame, and that one song- 'Hellfire,' inspired me to write a priest fan-fiction! (Not of the villain of course! But, of a AOT character!)
not profread!
╔═══*.·:·.☽✧ ✦ ✧☾.·:·.*═══╗
The light wind blew the melody of sweet songs, light dancing around in soft fragments, the stained glass catching it, and displaying the colors on the marble floor.
Clean, white, pure, just like the women and men inside the sacred building. If not, they are here for just that, cleansing, white, and purity. Forgiveness for the sins they have committed.
A beautiful hundred foot ceiling above their heads, painted in the most rich of colors and pictures. Demonstrating the beauty and depth of what Christ has done for his people.
A stage decorated with soft pastel flowers, a white fabric draped over the stand of where Father preaches each morning of Sunday. Some bread and wine next to him when he did so.
And, today was a simple day. Just confessions. People repenting the sins they had committed since their last confession. However, there was something different about today.
Father was being observed by the Nuns of the church. Along with their novitiates. Sisters in training. Most were young, eighteen to nineteen, the oldest being twenty-four. They were always a delight to have over, along with politeness. Father never minded their company.
Quiet as a mouse and beautiful as a dove. Along with their dedication to their religion. Father loved the company of each one. Each of them huddled around each other, watching with eager eyes.
Father approached the next person, placing his hands together, and holding them around the cross by his neck. “For you, my child, are you ready?” His tone was soft, comforting, and warm. Just like a blanket fresh out of the Laundry.
“Yes.” It was breathy, almost nervous. Fingers pressed against the soft white fabric of her dress, trembling slightly. Father was used to that. She thickly swallowed, “Anything for my God and Savior.” He smiled kindly, nodding his head. Bringing their foreheads close, two slender fingers pressed together. Dark brown eyes peering into the girl's light blue ones, drinking up every emotion shooting through her body.
Nervousness, uncertainty, anxiousness, excitement, and eagerness. The eyes always reveal so much about the person, that’s why Father preferred to look into them. He always knew what type of person he was talking to just by looking into their eyes.
She looked up, watching as Father bent his knees to reach her height. He was so much taller than her, so much bigger. It was intimidating. The novitiates watch closely. Leaning closer in hope of catching Father’s voice again. Kind yet deep, intimidating but interesting.
All the women were practically leaning out of their seats. This priest in particular always causes this reaction with the novitiates, considering how young he was. A mere twenty-six years old.
His fingers gently pressed against her upper chest, “In the name of the Father,” her left than right shoulder, “and of the Son of the Holy Spirit," his eyes caught her's a final time, "Amen.” He backed up, watching the women.
The novitiates watched as the woman bent her head down, hands pressed together against her lap. Closing her eyes and staying still.
It was a way of separating the sinner to the saint. The blesser to the blessed. Father always was more than willing to help the sinners relish their sins. It was something he loved about his life, it made him feel closer to God.
It was his heaven. This was his heaven.
A brief pause, a deep inhale, then
“Bless me Father Jean, for I have sinned.”
╚═══*.·:·.☽✧ ✦ ✧☾.·:·.*═══╝
#aot x reader#aot fanfiction#aot x you#writers on tumblr#smut with plot#priest#religious#mystery character#sneak preview#sneak peak
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So... Here's an introduction?
Greetings! You can call me Crunchy or Crunch :D
★ 21 y.o (surprised tbh that I made it this far)
★ they/them
★ asexual and maybe aromantic (I don't know, living is a confusing thing...)
★ asian✌��� not Japan/South Korea/China kind tho XD
★ obsessed with aliencore 👽
★ love art (in any kind), handmade, dolls (Monster High, Ever After High, Rainbow high)
Wanna make one thing clear to my mutuals, @strange-dusty-alien is my somewhat main blog, but I dedicate it to reblogging stuff I like from wonderful artists/creators. And I'm kinda ashamed to post something there bc some of mutuals there know me irl. So if you see like from that blog, it means I did it, for some reason my likes stay the same even if I change blogs 😭
Here I'll post mainly my own thoughts and stuff like handmade, maybe writing/drawing even
Fandoms (The list is gonna be huge so I'll redact it from time to time and it's not finished atm)
I think name the ones that left some kind of impact on me or I remember them dearly. Also I highlight current obsessions (but I can talk with you about all mentioned below).
Idk how to identify: Scooby Doo franchise, The Beatles, Love Händel from PnF, Hatsune Miku and other Vocaloids (main ones like Luka, Meiko, Kagamine siblings, Kaito, Gumi and Gakupo, I'm kinda basic 💀)
Series [NBC Hannibal, Good Omens, OFMD, Black Books, The Sandman, I'm not okay with this, Stranger things, ]
Movies [Wes Anderson movies, Scream 1-4, Stand by me, Like minds, The boat that rocked, Rocky Horror picture show, WWDITS, Spiderverse, Scott Pilgrim vs The world, Nimona, Klaus, The Aristocats, 101 Dalmatian, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Pocahontas, Coco, Inside Out, Turning Red, basically most of Pixar, IT (both old and new versions), LOTR, ]
Animated series [Metalocalypse, Steven Universe, Courage the Cowardly dog, MLP:FIM, Infinity train, Over the garden wall, ATLA, Scott Pilgrim takes off, W.I.T.C.H, ]
Anime [Death note, Death parade, Land of Lustrous, Classmates, Devilman crybaby, Terror in resonance, Another, Hellsing (old and OVAs), Hell Girl, Saint Young Men, Yuri on Ice, Free!, All saints street, Hells]
Comics/Manga/Books [The Sandman, Junji Ito's works, Stephen King's works, Tenant by Rolan Topor, 1984/451° Fahrenheit/Brave New World/We (dystopian stuff bc I was 'edgy'), Clockwork orange] basically I need to read more lmao
Games [Sky COTL, Little nightmares 1&2, The Arcana, Baldur's Gate 3, Animal crossing, Until Dawn, Spiderman by Insomniac games, Uncharted 4, GRIS, No Straight Roads, Astral chain, Gravity Rush, Unravel two, Dead rising series, Detroit: become human, Heavy rain, Lego Harry Potter]
Kin characters [Dream of the Endless/Morpheus, Peregrin Took/Pippin, Ice Bear, Courage, Shaggy, Stanley Uris]
Blorbos [Dream of the Endless/Morpheus, Julian Devorak, Astarion Ancunin, Rolan, Kakashi Hatake, Aizawa Shota] ฅ^•ﻌ•^ฅ
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AMBITION “For Better, For Worse” [ 4.12 ]♮Part 3
EXT. PARIS STREETS - DAY
Farkle and Isa are wandering the streets a few blocks away from the restaurant, allowing Isa to get a break from all the chaos. It’s clearly appreciated, Isa able to laugh and seem remotely more relaxed as they traipse through this corner of the city. Farkle has loosened up as well, tan suit jacket draped over his arm.
Rather than the rush of catching a fleeting moment together, this is what the two of them are about. This is why they gravitate towards one another; what makes being together feel like home. No pressure to perform, no outsized expectations. No need to put a box around them, because it defies definition.
But the day isn’t over, and the reprieve must end. As they approach the end of the block, Isa exhales, glancing over their shoulder back towards the venue.
Isa: I should head back. Riley will want help cleaning up.
Farkle: Do you want me to come?
Isa: No, that’s okay. You’ve done enough. Last thing I need to ask you to do is literally clean up my messes.
Farkle: I would hardly call this situation your mess. And besides, it’s not like that’s anything new?
The joke is made in jest, given their long history, but it stings just a little bit more than Isa wants it to. Because they know all too well they’re a handful, and with the sands shifting beneath their feet, how that reality reflects on Farkle feels more prevalent than ever.
So they pull back a bit, insisting they’ll be fine. He can go enjoy what remaining free time they have left before the reception. Farkle takes it in stride, shrugging.
Farkle: Maya will probably want help getting ready anyway. You’d think it’s her wedding.
Isa snorts, earning a smile from him. Easing the tension somewhat, the tide that Isa keeps seeming to raise despite their best efforts.
But they don’t want Farkle to walk away with nothing. They don’t want him to think they don’t value his presence, that his steady support today -- and for the last couple years -- doesn’t mean the world to them.
So they square their confidence and gift him something in return, standing on their tip-toes to give him a kiss on the cheek. Sweet, simple, surprisingly tender. Farkle is a bit caught off-guard at first, but when they pull apart, the smile on his face is even more effortless than before.
Isa: See you later.
It’s a promise. Farkle nods, then lets them slip from his grasp, watching them cross the street and head back towards the restaurant. They glance over their shoulder once to get one more look, sharing an awkward grin before bashfully turning away and picking up the pace.
Farkle doesn’t look away, thoroughly charmed. He waits until they’re gone from view to turn away, gazing down the street as the delicate orchestral arrangement floats in.
Song Cue ♫ ♪ “Heaven’s Light” as performed by Hunchback of Notre Dame Original Movie Cast Recording || Performed by Farkle Minkus (up to 01:39)
With the Notre Dame visible in the distance, Farkle begins his gentle soliloquy as he makes his way along the sidewalk on his own. He slings his suit jacket over his shoulder, walking at a leisurely pace. His delivery is light, unaffected, not overwrought or overcome with emotion. There’s a calm to him, a centered peace, that we haven’t really seen before. A sharp edge has been smoothed down; a storm surge settled.
While he sings through the first handful of lines, remarking on all the forms of love he’s witnessed over the years, we see reminders of what exactly as his cohort makes their own treks back to the hotel. He glimpses Shawn and Angela heading back with baby Naomi in tow; Jade and Nigel are returning, arms linked, sharing pieces of a French pastry.
Across the square, he spots Zay and Charlie, just coming back from their day out together. The duo long reigning as the pinnacle of romanticism in Farkle’s small world, clandestine as it may have been. Zay makes some quippy remark, and Charlie can’t help but laugh even as he shakes his head. Once they meet eyes again, Charlie leans in and steals a kiss, bowing to their natural magnetism and melting Zay’s bravado easily -- even if only for a fleeting glimpse.
They had a kind of glow around them
It almost looked like heaven’s light
Farkle always knew he was never going to have that. He figured it was an impossibility. Romance wasn’t in his cards; he didn’t fit the part. He was too gawky, too much, forever the ugly duckling in a world of swan queens. He embraced that reality long ago, basically made it a part of his brand -- it was just how things were meant to be. And when things with Jordan went so south, that essentially proved it. He accepted it.
But then, Isa De La Cruz.
But suddenly an angel has smiled at me
And kissed my cheek without a trace of fright
Somehow, Isa chose to look deeper. Isa sees him, all of him, and didn’t brush him aside. They stayed in spite of the scars and unsavory eccentricities; they tell him the truth, and see potential in him that he didn’t even see in himself.
Dare he dream it, they even care about him. They love him -- they told him so. In their own words.
It’s almost too good to be true. Farkle closes his eyes and tilts his head back, breathing in the city of love and letting in the sunshine. Enjoying heaven’s light shining on him, if only for a moment.
I swear it must be heaven’s light…
Then the music picks up, the bells of Notre Dame ringing in agreement and matching the unfettered joy on Farkle’s face. When they swell at 1:26, Farkle jumps and pumps his fist, finally letting the excitement escape. He spins and takes off at a run down the street, the camera panning up and away from him to take in the full beauty of Paris around them.
For a moment, as the bells toll triumphantly, we hang on the light of day.
Then, as the music dwindles away, the sun sets, allowing the night to settle in over the city…
INT. PARIS HOTEL - R&L ROOM - NIGHT
The wedding reception is about to begin, everyone getting the last finishing touches on their looks ready. Well, all except Lucas, who is showing up to this portion of the celebration essentially the same as he has for everything else. One ensemble is enough effort for him.
Instead, he’s focused on another mystery. While going through his backpack, he remembers the envelope his mother gave him before he left. He takes another look at it, reading the name on the front.
“Rach.” He doesn’t think he’s met a Rach, or a Rachel, so far on this trip. More than that, he can’t see how any of these people Jack and Eric have invited could have plausibly been people formerly in Grace’s life. He doesn’t see any southern belles traipsing around, let alone anyone who seems remotely like someone his reticent mother would mingle with.
Lucas: Couldn’t have given me a clue, mom…
The frown in his features is wiped away moments later when he sees Riley. She emerges from the bathroom in her new evening gown, a sleeker floor-length number in gorgeous light blue. She’s let her hair down again too, now back at her shoulders since she cut it around the New Year.
Goes without saying, but Lucas is blown away. Not that that’s new.
Lucas: Wow.
Riley tilts her head, smiling bashfully. His awe isn’t new, but it certainly never loses its luster. She shuffles out of the doorway and into the room, holding the straps together behind her neck.
Riley: Look, when Eric told me I could wear two separate dresses if I wanted to, what was I going to do? Say no?
Lucas: [ raising his hands in surrender ] No complaints here.
Riley: Hopefully it won’t be too much, like upstage them or anything, but I couldn’t resist. Could you -- ?
She’s asking the wrong person for reassurance on that front, since she’ll upstage anyone in Lucas’s eyes, but he can at least assist in her wardrobing. She gives him a smile over her shoulder as she turns to face away from him, allowing him to help tie the final knots on the dress. A couple quick loops -- easy for a technician -- and they’ll be good to go.
Only suddenly, Lucas doesn’t feel keen to go. It’s been such a hectic day already, asking a lot of him, and he’s in no rush to head off to another social drain. It’s much more comforting being here in the quiet with her. The one who has made getting through today -- and the last month, and the last four years -- manageable. When it’s just the two of them… and she’s so enticingly close…
So Lucas doesn’t follow directions. Instead of securing her straps, he leans in closer and presses a light kiss behind her ear. Gentle, undemanding…
But oh so inviting. Riley smiles instinctively at the gesture, at the way it sends anticipation down her spine despite its softness… then she melts a little more when he kisses her again, subtly releasing the dress straps and letting them dangle as his lips brush her neck.
Except they can’t do this right now. They have places to be. People are expecting them! Riley sighs, closing her eyes even as she states the obvious protest.
Riley: We really have to get going. We’re going to be late.
It doesn’t even sound half-hearted -- it’s barely-hearted. Lucas hums in acknowledgement against her skin, trailing down to the crook of her neck, but he doesn’t change moves.
Riley: Everyone will be wondering where we are.
Lucas: Maybe you.
Riley: [ with an eye roll ] Yes, and you. Jack and Eric will notice.
Lucas: They’ve got bigger things to be thinking about right now.
Riley: Yeah, but…
But what, Riley? All she has to do is say the word. If she wants to go, really does, then he’ll go. She knows that. Their fate is entirely in her hands.
And she chooses to be mature about it. They made commitments, and she should keep them -- no matter how tempting the alternate offer is pressed against her shoulder. She pulls herself together with an impatient little whimper and manages to shrug away from Lucas, taking a deep breath and turning to face him. She takes his forearms and holds him steady, giving him a look.
Riley: We’ll be late. We should go.
Well, if she says so. Lucas exhales but relents, nodding. He spins to grab his suit jacket from the back of the desk chair, starting to slip it back on and brace for social endurance again.
Which gives Riley just enough time to get another yearning look at him for herself. Dropping the pretenses of professionalism, left with nothing but the reality of the two of them and their shared peace.
And apparently, a second more is all it takes. Her resolve crumbles in an instant -- as if it was ever really there to begin with.
Riley: Oh, fuck it.
Lucas turns to look at her just as she gives in, reaching for his tie and pulling him into an impatient kiss.
INT. PARIS HOTEL - F&M ROOM - NIGHT
Maya makes an exaggerated kiss of her own, blotting her fresh lipstick on a napkin before touching up her appearance in the mirror.
Farkle: How much more nitpicking can you possibly do? You look perfect.
Maya straightens up and gives him a look over her shoulder, part-fond, part-dismissive. Flattery will get him nowhere in this case -- she’s not in a rush to look a mess!
Farkle: It’s the wedding of our high school faculty, not the Tony Awards. It’s not even the wedding, actually. It’s the reception.
Maya: Farkle, darling. Any event is a chance to impress. Don’t you ever forget that.
Farkle rolls his eyes. In any case, with debutantes in attendance like Rae M.G., Maya isn’t going to arrive sloppy. With her career in transition and always in motion, she has to consider all opportunities like this. Farkle seizes on that opening.
Farkle: Yeah, I was curious about that. You seem to be spending a lot more time with Josh.
Maya: And? We’ve worked together. You know all about “LolliPop.”
Farkle: Yeah, of course. And it was great. But I’m just wondering -- are you switching it up? After the retreat with Justin and Melissa, I feel like I haven’t heard anything about it. Which if you’re jumping to Josh full time, that’s chill, I think you guys make great music. I like him. I just feel like the other two had more cred, so --
Maya absolutely does not want to talk about them right now. She doesn’t want to talk about them ever again, if she can hack it -- and she does not ever want to tell Farkle about the retreat. So she quickly sidesteps the topic, breezily waving off his questions and claiming things are just in transition. Where she’ll land exactly, nobody knows, but she’s handling it. He need not worry about it.
Farkle raises his hands in surrender, not at all aware of how close to a bruise he pressed. Maya barely conceals it herself, taking a deep breath and pulling herself back together before she follows Farkle out of the room.
INT. PARIS HOTEL - Z&C ROOM - NIGHT
Charlie returns to his hotel room in a flurry, all dressed for the reception in a cute, classic ensemble of his own. He’s just remarking on how he ran into Maya and Farkle in the hallway, so people are definitely starting to head down, but he stops halfway through the sentence and the doorway when he sees Zay.
Charlie, breathless: Shoot.
Yeah, that about covers it. Zay looks sharp as ever -- since he never fails to impress in a fashion moment -- and the casual approach they’d taken to the early half of the day really disarmed Charlie’s best defenses. Zay tosses a look at him over his shoulder and grins at his speechless reaction. He finishes adjusting his cuff sleeves, then waves him off.
Zay: No need to be so dramatic. [ after a beat ] But by all means, keep looking at me like that. It boosts the ego, keeps me at full power.
Charlie laughs, a touch bashful, but shrugs hopelessly. It’s natural, he can’t help it!
To be fair, Charlie isn’t looking so bad himself… the two of them meet back together in the center of the room, Zay instinctively closing the space between them to affectionately nitpick Charlie’s clothes. Smooth the collar, straighten the jacket lapels… just lingering touches, it’s casual…
Zay: You’d think after a few years you’d get used to it. I know the history has been… you know, a shitshow, but surely you’ve seen me bring it enough times for the effect to lose its oomph.
Charlie: Definitely not, no. Try never. [ off his eye roll ] Honestly, I was thinking more about how nice it is.
Zay: To look at me?
Charlie: To be able to look at you. Without doubt. Without… the shitshow. [ a beat ] As much as I want.
He’s never going to look away again. Not by choice. And if Zay will always trip Charlie up just by being, then Charlie will never fail to return the favor the moment he opens his mouth. He may not think it, but his way of saying just the right thing with unabashed sincerity will get Zay every time.
It certainly does right now. Zay’s heart is beating markedly faster than it was moments ago, and the air suddenly feels thinner. Delightfully low on oxygen, the way it always does when the two of them get this close. The way they’re allowed to enjoy now, to indulge in if they so please…
Only one problem. They forgot to shut the door. Yindra zooms into the room without hesitation and interrupts the thirst, leaping in-between the two of them and throwing her arms around their shoulders.
Yindra: Woo, come on bitches, let’s go! Time to fucking party!
Yeah, all right. Zay looks about ready to throw hands, but that irritation softens to a smile when he locks eyes with Charlie and sees the amused grin on his face.
INT. PARIS HOTEL - LOBBY - NIGHT
Nigel is dressed elegantly for the evening as well, idly pacing the lobby in front of the main staircase. He tosses polite smiles to other guests making their way towards the ballroom where the reception is being held, but for now, he doesn’t follow. He’s clearly waiting for someone.
And she doesn’t keep him too long. Jade arrives at the top of the stairs moments later, earning an awestruck response of her own when Nigel turns and spots her. She beams and starts her descent, holding his gaze the entire way down in classic romantic cinema style.
That is, until she reaches the bottom. There, she steps on the tail of her own dress and stumbles, but Nigel dives forward and catches her just in time. He balances her upright and helps her down the last step, earning a grateful thanks from her.
Jade: For someone who wants to work in fashion, I sure still can’t walk in it. It’s a good thing I didn’t try heels with this too.
Nigel: [ without hesitation ] You look beautiful.
He means it. His tone is so bowled over, so certain in its delivery, it may very well be Shakespearean. That’s what makes him so darn charming; the natural authenticity that bleeds through every performance and endeared Jade to him in the first place back when they were fourteen.
And this is what makes her so hard to leave. Why telling her his grand ambitions feels so daunting; why the risk of ruining it all feels too great. Can’t they stay in this moment forever -- can’t the future stay comfortably at arms length?
For now, the answer is yes. Jade, oblivious to his nerves, offers him another smile.
Jade: Well, I’m going to need your steady hand to keep me on my feet, clearly.
Nigel: It would be my honor.
Speaking of, they’ve got an entrance to make. Nigel offers his arm to her, and Jade takes it, looping hers through his.
As they begin their walk towards the ballroom, the bright, jingly intro picks up…
INT. PARIS HOTEL - BALLROOM - NIGHT
Song Cue ♫ ♪ “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” as performed by Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell || Performed by Zay Babineaux & Charlie Gardner
At first, it’s just Zay singing the iconic Motown tune, acting as the current musical entertainment at the reception. We’re close on him to start, briefly appearing as if he’s going to tackle this number solo…
Then Charlie enters the frame, stepping up to a second microphone that we can see from a profile shot of Zay. He slides into the Tammi Terrell lines smooth as silk, not a hint of his former infamous hesitation to perform. Likely because this setting is so safe, and the company so comfortable…
And because there’s no reason to hide. Not anymore. He can stand up there with Zay and do a duet, even one with the most blatant of romantic intent, and he knows the sky isn’t going to fall on him. It never was. The only thing keeping him from doing this before was himself.
Now?
There ain't no mountain high enough
Ain't no valley low enough
Ain't no river wide enough
To keep me from getting to you, babe
But anyway, enough of those guys -- tonight is about another pair of gays! Zay and Charlie continue to act as the accompaniment as we watch the reception get under way, Jack and Eric entering the ballroom together to great fanfare. In a quick montage of shots, they begin their rounds and engage with their guests -- sharing hugs, cracking jokes, and accepting more than ample congratulations. A few key cameos include HARLEY KEINER and MR. NORTON.
At the same time, interspersed throughout, we get glimpses of the rest of our ensemble at the start. Maya and Farkle are taking photos together at the floral photo wall; Josh and Morgan are racing each other to chug a glass of champagne. Jade and Asher are on the dance floor together, leaving Nigel to brave dancing with Dylan (who is having way too much fun torturing him with that task) -- but this is likely to be the rest of his life, so he better get used to it!
Meanwhile, not everyone is immediately enlivened by the revelrous mood. Isa seems a bit on edge, hanging close to the edges of the dance floor and clutching a glass of champagne like a protective shield. A few feet away, Yindra anxiously checks her phone, not able to be distracted by her friends currently busy at the mic and on the dance floor.
Nothing. No news, no messages from Reese or Jupiter Records. Yindra isn’t sure exactly what she wants to hear, but anything would be better than the relentless question mark.
She needs to absorb some of the vibe from Zay and Charlie, because they are electric onstage together. They’ve always had natural chemistry, and can harmonize well, but the freedom they’re toying with now allows their performance to truly shine. The magnetism is undeniable, and it’s the perfect way to kick-off what should be a exuberant night.
As they bring their number to a close, there’s a slight lull in the programming, because… somebody is a little late. It hardly occurs to most of the guests, but Zay and Charlie are more than aware of it considering they’re left filling the time. They exchange a tacit look, raise their eyebrows -- do they do another song? Crack some jokes? Zay covers the mic with his hand and leans across the stage.
Zay: If she’s one more minute late, I’m gonna start doing roasts.
Charlie shakes his head, but his impish grin isn’t very discouraging.
Thankfully for all, Miss Riley Matthews beelines her way in just in time, breezing through the crowd and jogging up the stairs to the stage. Lucas isn’t far behind, though he’s more than glad he doesn’t have to get right under the spotlight. He’s looking markedly more disheveled and hurried than he did before. Someone forgot to tuck in his shirt -- and where did his tie go?
Riley looks more put together considering her outfit has less pieces, but her hair is definitely hastily brushed rather than the lush style she had it in when she changed dresses. She’s got a glow to her, and up close under the stage lights, Zay and Charlie have a perfect view of the fact that she is notably more flushed than she usually is under normal circumstances. Wedding reception nerves, perhaps?
Yeah, fucking right. Zay and Charlie both have to work to hide their laughter as Riley sweeps in and takes the microphone from the former, welcoming everyone to the reception and quickly stepping back into hostess mode. She offers sincere, emphatic congratulations to Jack and Eric, then gives a brief overview of what the evening holds for them all while they celebrate the two newlyweds.
For now, the name of the game is to enjoy, enjoy, enjoy -- which the band encourages by kicking up a jazzy swing motif as Riley wraps up. As the three of them leave the stage, Charlie and Zay both immediately lean in to start picking on her, which she answers with light elbows into both of their sides.
Extricating himself from the dance floor, Farkle manages to catch up with Angela, still with baby Naomi in her arms. The two of them exchange a fond embrace and Farkle greets Naomi with a finger wiggle, before Angela engages him in conversation. How are things going? Does he like Los Angeles? She wants to hear everything!
Farkle: It’s… going. Could be better, could be worse.
Angela: How very measured of you. Not that I’d expect you to tell me how amazing it might be going -- you’ve outgrown that tendency to brag. You need to adapt a little more Maya Hart humility into your life again.
Which is to say, have less. Farkle laughs at that, stuffing his hands in his pockets.
Farkle: No, it’s good. I mean, all things considered. I have a promising lead on management --
Angela: The one from that first trip to Los Angeles? Before senior year?
Farkle: Yeah. I do think he’s serious about representing me, provided I don’t screw it up, which is nice. Like, I’m really grateful for that opportunity, let alone so soon out of the gate. [ a beat ] I’m just… trying to weigh my options. I like USC, and everything, but…
Angela: Thinking about NYC?
Farkle, surprised: How did you know?
Angela: Just a hunch. Like I said, you’ve grown leaps and bounds since you first wreaked havoc in my classroom, but Los Angeles isn’t quite your natural speed. Not that you can’t flex to fit, you’re more than capable. But you are a New Yorker down to your bones, kiddo. That city will always have more of your character, your grit. It doesn’t surprise me at all that you miss it.
Not to mention his heart -- on a number of levels. As spot on as Angela may or may not be, Farkle simply admits that he’s debating which coast he wants to invest more time in as he starts to build his career. He sees pros and cons to both sides, and the choice is harder than he expected.
Farkle: Especially with some… late-stage developments.
Angela: Well, you know what I’m going to tell you. Same thing I’ve said since our days in the black box theater together. [ adjusting Naomi more snugly in her arms ] Follow the people. Wherever you are, make sure you’re not going alone. I don’t necessarily mean to go where more of your friends are, not so literally. Just situate yourself wherever you’re going to be able to fall back, and know you’ve got your circle there to catch you.
That could apply equally to either place, she doesn’t know. But that is the advice she will always come back to lean on. And Farkle remembers it well -- her words of wisdom about having a team have stuck with him ever since. He offers a light smile.
Farkle: Thanks, Angela. I’ll try.
Angela: I know you will. You always do.
Speaking of community, it’s time for Angela’s moment to show off hers. Shawn comes to join them and claims his turn for baby hugging, as duty calls for her. She has a very important role this evening, which she’s eager to get to as she heads up towards the stage.
As she weaves through the crowd, she passes Isa, who we stick with for a moment. They still seem on edge, doing their best to stay calm, but the overstimulation is getting harder to ignore. But it’s such an important day, and they don’t want to miss a moment of it.
But their best sides aren’t necessarily showing. They catch a glimpse of Josh chatting with Maya at the opposite end of the room, leaning down to listen to her murmur into his ear. He glances in their general direction, and for a second, it feels like he’s looking right at Isa.
A chill runs down their spine. Are they talking about them? What are they saying? Is Maya telling him what a shitty friend they are -- or just confirming what judgments Josh has already made about his new in-law?
Farkle catches up to Isa again, starting to remark on the conversation he just had with Angela. In fact, they kind of had an interesting discussion…
Isa: Does Maya talk about me a lot?
Farkle: Huh? [ a beat ] Like, in general?
Isa: To other people. Does she tell Josh stuff about me?
Farkle: I don’t think so? You know Maya -- if you can have any relief, it’s that she’s far too concerned with herself to be wasting time talking about other people. Why?
Isa: I just… I don’t think Josh likes me very much.
Farkle: Why not? He barely knows you.
Isa: Yeah, but…
Farkle: And in case you forgot, you’re an acquired taste. [ with an elbow nudge ] You’re a bit to get used to. Like psychedelic rock. Or… aged cheese.
Sweet… but it doesn’t make Isa feel any more at ease. They manage a smile, only because it’s him, and at least there’s a modicum of comfort in his company.
Back onstage, Angela has made it to the microphone, fronting the band and gathering the attention of the crowd. She smiles bright, clasping her hands together.
Angela: First, could we just have another resounding, reverberating round of applause for the men of the night, Misters Jack and Eric Hunter-Matthews? Or is it Matthews-Hunter? Whatever, y’all will work that out later.
The room cheers and claps, rippling with laughter. Morgan, a wee bit tipsy, throws her hands up.
Morgan: Hunter first!
Cory smacks her hand down, shushing her. Eric and Jack shake their heads, but they’re all smiles as they look up at Angela from the ballroom floor.
Angela: I consider myself very fortunate to be linked to these two extraordinary men in many ways -- in-law in every way sans legal, for one -- but above all, as their friend. They have been wise mentors, deeply trusted confidantes in the ongoing battlefield of Adams Academy, adversaries to argue with and against, sometimes all in the same week. So I’ve had quite the unique privilege of watching their journey, and I can’t express how wonderful it feels to be here celebrating this moment with them. Jack, Eric, you work harder than anyone I know. You care more fiercely, for others and for one another. [ tearing up a bit ] And my God, do you deserve this. I wish you every single happiness to come as you move forward together.
Eric is tearing up a bit himself. He blows her a kiss.
Angela: And it is my great, great honor to be the one providing your first dance as partners tonight. I hope, like the two of you, it is unforgettable.
Perfectly cued up as only a wedding speech can be. With that, the band begins the orchestral arrangement, as Jack takes Eric’s hand and leads him out onto the now vacant space at the center of the dance floor.
Song Cue ♫ ♪ “Unforgettable��� as performed by Natalie Cole || Performed by Angela Hunter-Moore
Given the history, there couldn’t be a more fitting vocalist to share their first dance. In the highs and the lows, Angela really was there from the start, and it is beautiful to get to see how far all of them have come. Her silky alto pairs well with the jazzy romantic ballad, and with her recent stints on tour and singing some lullabies, she’s in top performing shape.
The moment though, of course, mostly belongs to Jack and Eric. They sway together under the lights, surrounded by their loved ones, torn between being swept away by the romanticism of the dance and trying not to laugh at how silly it feels to be the center of attention like this. Either way, they enjoy it, playfully twirling one another now and then and whispering to each other to make the other laugh.
Equally as endearing are the reactions of the rest of our ensemble as they watch the ceremonial tradition. Amy swipes tears from her eyes as Alan wraps an arm around her shoulder; Lucas and Isa seem torn between appreciating the sweet moment and feeling secondhand embarrassment. I mean, like… that’s like… their dads…
Yindra lightly hums along with the song as she watches with her arms around Nigel and Charlie, while Jade lip syncs to Asher next to her who is being swayed by Dylan hugging him from behind. Riley is doing the same with Zay, hugging him close and pressed cheek-to-cheek.
As we ascend into the final rendition of the chorus, Jack lightly serenades Eric while they dance, matching Angela’s notes. Quite sincere, just a tad mocking, because damn if it ain’t true that Eric has certainly made himself unforgettable in Jack’s life. Perfectly suited to the two of them -- and Eric still seems like he can’t quite believe it, that they’ve actually made it here and that the administrator he used to find so irritating and obstinate is the same man quietly singing him Nat King Cole at their very own wedding.
Life has a funny way of turning out not how you expect, but exactly what you need. And the kiss the two of them share at the end of the dance, to the applause of their guests, is very much needed.
As a fade transition moves us along through time…
INT. PARIS HOTEL - BALLROOM - LATER - NIGHT
Song Cue ♫ ♪ “L-O-V-E” as performed by Nat King Cole || Performed by Nigel Chey
The music also seamlessly floats into another classic from Cole, this time helmed onstage by Nigel at the microphone. His easygoing vocals fit effortlessly with the vibe, and it provides a lovely backing track as the festivities continue into the night. The crowd is starting to thin just a bit -- it appears Angela and Shawn have retired early with baby Naomi, for one -- but the celebration is nowhere near over.
Guests continue to mix and mingle, including Riley when she happens to bump into EVELYN RAND. The two exchange enthusiastic niceties about Jack and Eric, and Evelyn compliments Riley’s hand in the organizing of the whole event.
Riley: Oh, it wasn’t a big thing. I had a lot of help. Suffice to say, none of this would’ve been possible without Rae’s help.
Evelyn: That’s certainly not the way Jack and Eric have told it! I’ve heard all about the quick wedding planning stress from him in between board meetings. He gives you far more credit. Which, speaking of, another thing to give you high praise for -- talk about a successful campaign!
Riley smiles, bashful. Evelyn highlights how effective and sharp her strategies were for helping Jack get elected, and how savvy she demonstrated herself to be. Excellent people skills, a knack for outreach, masterful communication.
Evelyn: You really do have a talent for public organizing, miss thing. I know you’re enrolled at Tisch, but if you ever decide to pivot, be sure to give me a ring. I have some connections I could pass your name along to who could help figure out your next steps. New York never has a shortage of need for public works, that’s for sure.
Riley: … well, actually, I’m thinking I may leave the city. I might be in California --
Evelyn: Around Davis, I assume? [ without missing a beat ] Not a problem. I’ve got contacts up in that area too. Oh, they’ll love you. You’ll blossom wherever you plant yourself, I have no doubt about that.
It’s refreshing to hear someone express that faith. Riley smiles brighter.
Their conversation is abruptly interrupted, Zay and Charlie zooming over and colliding into Riley from behind. They claim they hate to intrude, but they really must steal Miss Matthews away. Emergency.
Zay: The dance floor needs her.
Charlie: Yes, and if we plebians don’t get the chance to dance with her majesty, well, we might just die.
Zay: Die, we tell you! Did you hear the man?
Riley bursts into giggles, looking at them over her shoulders. Did they get into the open bar, or what? Evelyn, amused, waves them off and sets Riley free.
No, Riley, they’re just high on the language of love! She lets them drag her by both arms back out into the crowd, grinning the entire way.
Along the way, they breeze by some of the Matthews. Jack has finished his dance with Amy and is now half-jokingly sharing one with Alan, while Eric is still busy with Elaine. And she is making the most of it, absolutely regaling him with stories about Jackie and still talking a mile a minute. It’s really hard to believe a man so measured and careful with his words came from a woman with a mouth like hers!
Hoping to spread the familial warmth, Amy turns her sights onto Isa. She approaches them and invites them to join her on the dance floor -- a little grandmother-and-grandchild bonding time!
Which is sweet, and everything, but Isa is just not in the best social headspace for that right now. They force a smile, politely declining.
Amy: Oh, come on. You’re just like Josh, so stoic and serious. It’s okay to have a bit of fun! [ nudging them lightly ] Just one dance, sweetie, it’ll be --
Amy clearly needs more practice with Isa, because their best intentions are just landing like an anvil. The pressure is more cornering than coaxing, and before they can stop themselves, Isa snaps back.
Isa, brusque: I don’t want to. No.
It comes out harsher than they intend. Amy is taken aback by the harsh refusal, not sure what she did wrong. Isa is embarrassed, but they’re not sure how to fix it, so instead they excuse themselves and retreat into the crowd.
As the scenery bleeds again, music ebbing into generic swing music and time tip-toes ever forward…
INT. PARIS HOTEL - BALLROOM - LATER - NIGHT
The crowd has thinned a bit more, but the mood remains overall buoyant as folks loosen up (and enjoy a bit more of the open bar). Riley and Charlie are still playfully dancing together, while Zay has been snatched away temporarily by Yindra and Nigel.
Jack and Eric are also back out on the dance floor, endearingly and embarrassingly trying to boogie with their high school and college friends. Lucas is watching from the sidelines, thoroughly embarrassed on Jack’s behalf at the spectacle but also bizarrely fond of it, too.
Rae: Absolutely humiliating, isn’t he?
Lucas jumps slightly, surprised he’s being addressed. Rae has come to join him, sipping a drink and eyeing Jack’s little circle with equally fond amusement.
Lucas: Wouldn’t catch me out there. Let’s just put it that way.
Rae: I figured as much. You seemed nervous enough just getting through that toast this afternoon. A performer you are not, I presume.
Gee, thanks. Lucas clears his throat.
Lucas: Did it show?
Rae: Well… [ with a teasing smile ] Not at all. You did fine. Jack loved it. I could tell he did. And I understand why. It’s cute, the dynamic you two have.
Lucas: Wasn’t always. Believe me.
Rae: Oh, I can imagine. I know all about your little permanent record of mischief at Adams. [ with a shrug ] But I always knew he would turn it out. Find a way to win you over -- and you, him, probably. Not that it would be hard. Jack is a certified softie. Even in college, he was the same.
Lucas: That’s how you met? Did you study abroad?
Rae: Sweetie, I’m American. Don’t let the long-standing international adoration fool you. But yes, we both ended up in Brooklyn at the same time. Luck of the draw. Bonded fast, though you wouldn’t think it at first. Me, all fiery and feisty and full of zest for life and Jackson all studious and stern and… full of responsibility. But we both had that spark, you know, that thirst to be something more. Ambition, I suppose. To be bigger than where we came from. I mean, not that that’s hard, both coming from podunk Southern sprawl --
Hold on a sec. Something about this is starting to set off a bell… Lucas frowns.
Lucas: You’re from the South?
Rae: Texan born-and-raised, baby. Try as I might to forget.
A woman around Jack’s age, or thereabouts, hailing from Nothingville, Texas… it feels crazy to consider, staring at the modelesque, worldly woman standing next to him, but Lucas can’t shake his instincts. He’ll feel stupid either way, so may as well bother to ask…
Lucas: Is your real name Rae?
Now he’s piqued her interest. She cocks her head slightly, quirking an eyebrow at the question. Intrigued by the question… but based on the shadow of a smirk on her lips, maybe not all that surprised.
Rae: As far as most of the world is concerned, it is. Past lives notwithstanding.
Lucas: Did you ever go by Rachel?
Rae: According to my birth certificate, perhaps. Why do you ask?
Lucas: It’s… this is going to sound crazy, but…
Like he’s going to be able to explain. He barely understands the task himself. Instead, Lucas lets the letter speak for itself, reaching into the inner pocket of his suit jacket and retrieving Grace’s envelope. He glances at it, confirming this lead is as good as any, before holding it out for her.
Lucas: I think my mom wanted me to give this to you. Maybe. Grace Kinsley?
Rae’s expression softens almost instantly when she sees the handwriting on the envelope. She always knew who she was talking to, curious to see how long it might take him to put any pieces together, but actual correspondence she was not expecting. She accepts the letter, turning it over in her fingers. After a beat, a bittersweet smile blooms onto her face.
Rae: Kinsley, huh?
Lucas nods. Knowing, but not quite understanding, how much it means to hear Grace owning that name again. To no longer be chained to the entity that stole her away in the first place.
Rae: Thank you. Please tell her I can’t wait to read it, and I’ll be sure to get back in touch soon. It’s very, very good to hear from her. [ a beat ] I’m sorry for your loss.
She doesn’t say his name. That’s not really what she means, anyway. Kenneth is the footnote -- the greater tragedy is the lives they didn’t get to lead instead.
Lucas: So… you knew Grace? Were you friends?
Rae: Once upon a time. Feels like another life. But yes. [ bittersweet ] Best.
So she was close with his mom, at one time or another… and she was apparently close with Jack too. And she’s a well-off artistic socialite with little qualms about pulling favors and more than a dime of disposable income to spare on a whim, considering how efficiently she pulled this together for Jack and Eric…
Suddenly, like lightning, it hits Lucas in a flash. It clicks together. He knows, even before he knows.
Lucas: It was you. You got me into Triple A.
At first, Rae lets him hang in suspense… then she cracks a smile, giving herself away.
Rae: I wondered how long it might take you to figure it out. Jack has said you’re damningly clever, but I know you didn’t have much to go on. I could only drop so many casual hints before it started to get weird.
Lucas: You paid my tuition.
Rae: I may have pulled a few strings. Put in a word with Jack. [ with a pithy shrug ] Hardly a dent out of my pocketbook.
This woman he’s never met, who he never even heard of until this trip, negotiated his entrance and paid his way into the school that changed his life. From halfway across the globe, for no recognition. For nothing in return. It’s a stunningly bold display of kindness, a selfless charity you don’t see every day.
Lucas stares, trying to wrap his head around it.
Lucas: My mom never mentioned you. She never told me about you. You didn’t even know me. [ off her subtle nod of acknowledgement ] Why would you do that for me?
Rae inhales a deep breath, considering that question. It’s been years since she seriously contemplated it, since the opportunity to do so was in her lap.
Rae: Friendship is a funny thing. One of the weirdest forms of love, in my opinion. Romantic love, it has these conventions, these rules, that make it appear sensical. And it has clear barriers -- when it’s over, it’s over. At least, by conventional wisdom. But friendship… it’s never been quite so clean-cut. Not to me. Unless you make an effort to kill it dead and good, they don’t ever really die.
She helped him because she wanted to help Grace. It didn’t take a second thought. It didn’t matter that they hadn’t spoken in years; it didn’t matter that they were thousands of miles apart. It didn’t matter how things ended back in Texas, or that she never did hear from her after trying to get her on that train until this moment arose when she needed her again.
Rae: Grace was my best friend. I still care very much about her. When you love someone, there is no why. [ looking at him ] Don’t you have folks who you’d do just about anything for? Without hesitation?
Lucas pauses. It seems like such a daunting question, such a bold thing to ask of him. Of anyone. To be that vulnerable, to love that hard.
Then he lets his gaze drift back to the dance floor, finding his people again. Dylan and Asher have now joined Riley and Charlie, the little group of them chattering excitedly and full of infectious joy.
He finds them, and the answer is supremely simple.
Lucas: Yeah. Yeah, I guess I would.
Rae glances at him, gentle smile on her face.
Now that they’re done frolicking about with their friends, Dylan and Asher have business of their own to attend to. It’s time for them to take the stage and act as entertainment for the evening. Dylan jumps up and takes one of the bass guitars from the band while Asher adjusts the front microphone to his height.
Asher: Again, shoutout to Principal Jack and Mister E. Both for letting us crash your wedding, and for everything you’ve given to us at Adams in the last few years. We hope the ones to come are everything you deserve and more.
Dylan: Now to pay our wedding crasher junk fee, we’re going to slow things down here for a minute to give all the lovebirds in the room another chance to be gross and romantic and stuff. And if you’re single, or anti-PDA, or just a hater -- kindly get over yourself. It’s a wedding. Peace and love.
With that, the lighting softens a bit to muted purple and blue hues, effectively setting the mood. Asher nods over his shoulder to the band maestro, kicking off the enchanting slow dance tune.
Song Cue ♫ ♪ “So Close” as performed by Jon McLaughlin || Performed by Asher Garcia (feat. Dylan Orlando)
Asher takes the lead vocals here, his soft but emotive tenor an effective vehicle for this romantic number. Dylan mainly backs him up as support, as usual, occasionally offering light harmonies and carrying the backing band on his bass line.
But while they always do manage to set an excellent scene, Dasher aren’t the stars of this sequence by any means. No, the much more compelling action is on the dance floor. Many of our main ensemble pair off for this slower serenade -- Jack and Eric making first moves, naturally, but Jade isn’t far behind with Nigel. Riley guides Lucas onto the floor with no words and little to no effort.
Before the performance gets in too deep, Isa makes it there too. Farkle arrives by their side in the shadows and leans over to murmur in their ear.
Farkle: Stable enough for a dance?
The invitation is easy, slightly teasing, no expectations. More than understanding of the pressure they’ve been under today, totally open to the possibility that it’ll be a no. But he offers a hand anyway, because it would feel criminal not to. Not when today, the two of them have felt heaven’s light.
And with him, Isa can handle it. For him, it’s a yes. They find themselves smiling, albeit shyly, and placing their hand in his. Mirroring the smile, Farkle leads them out onto the dance floor.
By the time we reach the dramatic orchestral swell halfway through, we achieve a rare AMBITION milestone -- all of our main pairings together. We take a long, sweeping tracking shot through the crowd, spending a romantic beat with each one of them in the midst of the dance. Riley and Lucas. Zay and Charlie. Farkle and Isadora; Jack and Eric. Jade and Nigel, and of course, Asher and Dylan themselves, as Dylan steps forward and spins Asher around from behind during the musical interlude.
Once Asher is back on his feet and back at the microphone before the bridge, the magic is disrupted somewhat by reality. On the edge of the dance floor, shrouded in shadow, Josh receives another text on his phone. He prepares himself to ignore another overly excited message from Floyd, but it’s not from him.
It’s from Justin.
“Hey man, hope you’re doin well! Just wanted to reach out ahead of the gate let you know that since you severed from Global, any of the stuff you worked on while here is automatically going into our vault. Might be making some retroactive credit changing too. You know how it is, legalese. Anyway, just wanted to give you warning so that you’re not caught off guard, but I would really recommend not getting all tangled up in fighting it if I were you. Probably not a good idea for your career to get super litigious when you’re already starting over again. But you’re smart, I’m sure you’ll be back on top in no time. Lots of love bro”
Josh honestly might throw up. He figured he would be able to just walk away from them, from Global Beat, and not have to ever face it again -- let alone so soon. And for them to basically insist on taking any scraps he had left to his name and all he had to show for the last four years… as if they didn’t already take enough credit from him…
It’s retaliation. Plain and simple. Justin doesn’t know for sure that he knows, but just in case, this is a pretty surefire way to shut him up. Him, and potentially, his career.
It’s too much. He thought he was handling it okay, holding it all together, but this unexpected attack basically slices him open. He’s holding on by a thread…
And naturally, Cory finds a way to snip it.
Cory: Jeez, Josh, texting work again? You really can’t sacrifice one second of your “career” to enjoy one of your siblings’ celebrations? We call Eric a workaholic, but --
Just like that, Josh snaps.
Josh: You know what, Cory? Go fuck yourself.
Morgan: Whoa --
Cory: Jesus, what the --
Although most of the dance floor thankfully misses their little explosion, Amy and Alan certainly don’t. They exit into the shadows and join their sons, giving them a warning glare.
Amy: What on Earth is going on --
Josh: [ still to Cory ] I get it, you think I’m a selfish brat. You think I’m an uppity asshole for leaving home to go do something out of my place. For trying to be something. Anything. I hear you -- maybe I am. But at least I tried. [ cracking ] At least I fucking tried --
He turns away before he truly breaks, spinning and storming out of the ballroom. Cory looks genuinely stunned, not expecting his brotherly sniping to be taken so strongly. Amy and Alan exchange concerned looks, then go after Josh -- but not before shooting Cory a disappointed look on the way.
Cory: What the hell did I say?
Morgan shakes her head. The orchestra concludes vamping, allowing Asher to slip back into the belted line of the bridge.
Oh how could I face the faceless days
If I should lose you now?
And then we sweep through the end, spending one more luxurious moment wrapped in the surrealism of all of our couples intertwined. Together. So close to reaching that famous happy end…
So close, and still so far…
As the number concludes and applause ripples through the crowd, the protective spell is broken. One instance, Isa is soaking up the moment, letting Farkle hold them close and enjoying the incredulous capacity to find calm in all this chaos… and then they wake up, aware again of the crowd and the noise. The many eyes in the room -- and how many of them have now noticed how cozy they and Farkle are capable of being these days.
Many pairings on the floor continue to stay close, and Farkle seems content to do the same. In fact, he seems to think this might be a good time to bring up something he’s been thinking about…
Farkle: Isa, I’ve been --
Isa: I need water.
Oh. Okay then. Isa gives him a tight smile and extracts themselves from his grip, slipping away and desperately heading for the drink table. Anything to get away for a second, to give their head the chance to screw back on straight.
Farkle lets them go, awkwardly left alone on the dance floor.
At the same time, Jack cuts in with Lucas and Riley, asking if he can steal the former for a second. Riley is happy to oblige, stepping back.
Jack: Think I could go for some fresh air. Fancy a walk?
Honestly, that sounds like a brilliant idea. Lucas nods, following him off the dance floor.
INT. PARIS HOTEL - LOBBY - NIGHT
Josh has fled into the lobby, trying and failing to pull himself back together. His resolve has been pierced, and he can’t hold back the emotion anymore. Tears are falling before he can stop them; he can’t ignore the rubble of his career crushing him.
Amy and Alan aren’t far behind him. They are full of concern as they catch up to him, back in mom and dad mode instantly despite how stilted the dynamic has felt between them all at times since Josh moved away for school.
Amy: Josh, honey, what happened? What’s wrong?
Josh recoils from the question, shaking his head and hiding his head in his hands. He doesn’t want to confront it -- he doesn’t want to face them. To face the truth.
But he can’t be strong forever. He can’t keep pushing through on his own. Alan frowns, crossing his arms.
Alan: Talk to us, pal. What’s going on?
Somehow, it’s the “pal” that breaks him. The nickname from his father, who has never been the best at articulating his emotions, but has a tone of tenderness unparalleled when he really cares. When the moment really counts.
Josh’s face twists into a frown, and he surrenders.
Josh: I’m finished. I left Global Beat.
Naturally, this elicits shocked reactions. Amy and Alan are filled with questions -- how? Why? Did they fire him, or did he quit?
Amy: They didn’t fire you, did they? With how hard you worked, surely they wouldn’t --
Alan: If they hurt you, you can take action. Like I said, there are labor protections. I know your role didn’t have a union, but there are still --
Josh: No. No, I -- I left. I had to leave. It wasn’t -- [ shaking his head ] I couldn’t be there anymore. I didn’t want to be that.
But now he has nothing. He wasted all this time, all this energy, and it feels like it was for nothing.
Amy, aching: Josh, sweetie…
Alan: Why didn’t you talk to us about it?
Josh: Because… because I didn’t want to let you down. I put all this -- I created all this distance between us, trying to do this thing. To prove to you that I could do it, that you didn’t have to doubt me. Or worry. I spent all that time and… [ voice cracking ] and I failed. I failed.
Amy shakes her head.
Amy: You didn’t fail. You’re just getting started. So you had a setback, I’m sorry. But you’ll figure it out. You don’t have to prove anything -- least of all to us. [ choking up ] We just want you to be happy. That’s all we care about.
Josh: I just wanted you to be proud of me.
Amy: We are. Josh, of course we are.
Alan, quiet as ever, doesn’t have any additional words of wisdom. But his actions do him one better.
Without hesitation, Alan steps forward and wraps Josh into a hug. Tight, secure, the kind of embrace he hasn’t gotten to share with him since they dropped him off at school all those years ago.
At first, Josh isn’t sure how to respond… then he bursts into sobs, collapsing into his father and returning the embrace. Holding on tight. Like he’s a kid again -- the kind of vulnerability he hasn’t let himself have in ages.
Alan: I am proud of you. I am so proud of you.
Amy echoes the sentiment, joining the embrace and cradling Josh’s head.
Just like that, the walls between them come down -- a far more welcome rubble at their feet.
EXT. PARIS HOTEL - GARDEN - NIGHT
Jack and Lucas are taking their stroll, walking leisurely through the gardens the hotel has in the back side of their lot of land. Despite their uncharacteristically sharp attire, the mood between them is easy, hands in their pockets and pace unhurried.
Right now, they’re discussing the whole Rae-Rachel reveal of it all. Lucas still wants to know why Jack didn’t just tell him about the connection in the first place, rather than him having to go through this semi-Nancy Drew-esque journey to learn it. Jack chuckles, then shrugs.
Jack: Wasn’t my secret to tell. And be honest -- if I had told you this random woman you didn’t know across the Atlantic in Paris was footing your bills, do you think that would’ve made… a shred of difference to your behavior? Am I really supposed to believe you would have given one solitary shit about that fact at the same time you were spreading mayonnaise on my floors?
Lucas: … touché.
Point is, Lucas learned when he was meant to learn. Even if he had never met her, or found out the truth, it wouldn’t have made much of a difference. What matters is that he made the most of that opportunity in the end. They made it here. Both of them. Even though it wasn’t easy.
And now, more than ever, Lucas is aware of how grateful he is for that. That Jack didn’t dump him on his ass; that he didn’t give up on him, even when he had every reason and right to do so. He gave him patience, and granted him grace, even when he didn’t necessarily deserve it. He’ll never be able to repay him for that -- that is worth far more than the cost of tuition.
All he can offer for now is his words. As they stop by one of the fountains, taking a moment to take in the quiet din of Paris, Lucas tries to express it.
Lucas: I’m glad I could be here for this. With you.
Jack: Me too. And I hope you know how much I appreciate what you said at brunch today. That you took the time to say something. I know it wasn’t easy for you. It meant a lot.
Lucas absorbs that, nodding. He hopes the toast made it clear enough, but just in case, he reiterates it now.
Lucas: I’m really happy for you. Really.
He means it. Jack knows he does. He offers him a smile, patting his shoulder affectionately.
Jack: Thank you, Lucas.
They spend another moment of shared content quiet in the garden, enjoying their fresh air.
INT. PARIS HOTEL - BALLROOM - LATER - NIGHT
The slower pace has carried on inside, Frank Sinatra playing through the sound system while couples continue to sway on the dance floor. Alan spins Amy under his arm, the two of them sharing a brisk kiss; Harper laughs softly with Stella as they move together. Dylan leans close to whisper something in Asher’s ear, then grins and accepts a kiss on the cheek.
A few feet away, Zay and Charlie haven’t strayed. They’re comfortable in the safe embrace of the dance floor, of one another, more natural swaying together than anyone else. They’ve drifted closer in the course of the evening, essentially hugging at this point, Charlie resting his head against Zay’s shoulder. It’s gently intimate, effortlessly peaceful -- and feels like a miracle, considering how impossible being together like this in public just a year ago.
It’s a miracle, and Zay doesn’t want to lose it. He can’t lose this. Not again.
Zay, softly: Charlie.
Charlie lifts his head, pulling back so they can lock eyes. He raises his eyebrows curiously, inviting him to go on. Zay just takes him in for a breath, not sure if he wants to disturb the perfection of this moment…
Zay: Tell me how you feel about the tour.
Charlie: Zay…
Zay: Please. I know you don’t want to influence me, or interfere with it. I get that, and I respect it. I love that you care enough to even think about it like that. [ off his light smile ] But I can’t make my choice without you. I’m not saying you’re the deciding factor, in either direction, but if I’m going to make an informed, considered decision about what I want to do next, that’s part of it. That’s essential knowledge to me.
Charlie tilts his head, torn between reluctance and fondness.
Zay: Because if you’re okay with it, whether I go or not, okay, we can work with that. We’ll figure it out. But if -- if me leaving has any chance of fucking this up again, for good, I need to know that. Because Charlie… [ with weight ] my career is my future, but so are you. I want you to be part of my future.
Regardless of what happens, he doesn’t want to make the choice that crushes that possibility entirely. They’re not going to be Romeo & Juliet, death by piss-poor communication. He won’t let them.
Charlie absorbs that, taking a deep breath. Hard to, when he’s suddenly a little light-headed.
Zay: So, please. I’m asking you. [ touching his face ] Please talk to me.
After a moment, Charlie nods. Searching for the words… man, where’d all the oxygen go?
Finally, he sighs, surrendering.
Charlie: Of course I don’t want you to go, Zay. If it were simple, I’d want you to stay. I want to be together -- really together. All the time. No compromise.
That’s what Zay figured -- and was hoping for, since it’s how he feels too. In the simplest translation, at least they agree on that.
But he also figures Charlie has more to say, and he does.
Charlie: But I want this for you, too. These people see how good you are, and that’s what I’ve been hoping for. It’s your dream, and I want you to go do it -- and I would never, ever forgive myself if you didn’t because of me.
It was that way when they were in high school, and it’s still that way now. The details may have changed, but his stance hasn’t. In fact, that feels like the greater danger -- that he stays for Charlie, and it all falls apart again anyway.
Which, again, Zay suspected. The simple answers are off the table. They usually are.
Zay: So… what, then? Where’s the part where it all finally works out?
That earns a laugh from Charlie, albeit a quiet one. He thinks for a moment, trying to figure out how to say what he’s thinking. He knows if his words ever matter, this conversation is one of those times.
Charlie: Obviously, I don’t want you to be hundreds or thousands of miles away. I don’t think either of us wants that. But we’ve worked with less ideal circumstances before. We’ve already torn ourselves up once or twice.
Zay: Yeah, and I’d really, really like to not do it again. [ insistent ] I want you. I want the relationship, the commitment, all of it. I want that with you. That’s what I don’t want to risk.
Charlie: Me too. But if that’s what you’re afraid of --
Charlie shakes his head, almost incredulous… then he scoffs a laugh.
Charlie: Zay, I’m disgustingly, achingly, hopelessly in love with you.
Even though it’s no secret anymore, the words still make heat rise to Zay’s cheeks. Only Charlie Gardner is capable of making him bashful…
Charlie: I’ve been in love with you for years. I haven’t stopped -- even when we fought, or split, or were thousands of miles apart. Nothing made it fade before. In all honesty, I genuinely cannot fathom a version of reality where I don’t. I love you. That’s not going to change whether you’re right in front of me, or sweating it out at Turner, or off touring in Wyoming.
Zay: … I hope we’re not going to Wyoming. Is there even anybody out there? I thought it was just a bunch of corn.
Charlie: The point is, I’ve gotten plenty of practice loving you even while apart. Wherever you are, it doesn’t matter. [ cupping his face ] I love you. I’ll still love you. So if the only thing holding you back is the fear that if you go, I’m gone, then forget it. I’m not going anywhere.
If he has true faith in anything, it’s that. No doubt. He knows that he’s Zay’s.
Charlie: So when I say that all that matters is whether you want to do this tour or not, I mean it. That’s what I mean. Whatever you decide to do, I will support it, as long as it’s what you want. Okay?
In this case, he said all of that exactly right. It was precisely what Zay needed to hear to actually face making the decision on his own. He nods, offering a delicate smile.
Zay: Yeah. Yeah, okay.
Charlie returns the smile, pulling Zay closer and pressing his forehead against his. They stay close, wrapped in the peaceful embrace, soaking up the easy closeness of right now.
Panning away from them, we find Riley, who bumps into Farkle on the dance floor again. As they intended to catch up, he extends a hand in invitation.
Farkle: You able to spare a dance for a beast?
Riley smiles at the throwback. She gives him an affectionate nose crinkle and accepts his hand, letting him lead her deeper into the crowd.
The camera continues to move along, landing with Isa. They’re currently in conversation with Zachary, Ruby, and Eric, grateful for the chance to ground to reality. After the dance with Farkle, it’s felt a bit difficult to shake off the adrenaline. God, how is it so easy for someone who used to simply be their gawky best friend to make them such a mess?
Yes, that little slow dance they shared didn’t go unnoticed. It’s what Ruby wants to know all about, playfully touching Isa’s shoulder.
Ruby: Should we be planning to have Farkle over more? Is he going to be a more frequent visitor?
Isa: Um… I’m not sure. He probably would’ve come more before, but things were… different.
Zachary: He seems like a great friend. I can see why you’re fond of him.
Isa: … did I say --
Ruby: Well, I guess the better question is will we see him again? If he ends up back in New York, will you bring him along when you visit?
Eric: Whoa, slow down. Is Farkle moving back to New York? [ to Isa ] You didn’t mention that.
Zachary: In all fairness, you’ve been a bit preoccupied.
Isa: I don’t know. I don’t know if he is.
Zachary: He said a couple of times during lunch --
Eric: I didn’t realize he wasn’t happy with Los Angeles --
Ruby: Well, after seeing certain things this evening, I’m starting to get a better impression as to what may be changing his mind.
They’re all just chattering, Ruby especially, but the conversation is making Isa’s head spin. The mere prospect that Farkle would come back to New York, let alone that he would do it for them… it’s too much to comprehend right now. It’s making that rush in their veins feel worse, more volatile.
Isa: I’m going to get some air.
Isa doesn’t wait to be excused, spinning away and starting to move through the ballroom. It’s starting to feel overwhelming, like it’s towering over them and closing in at the same time. They’ve pushed themselves hard the last couple of days, and the resilience is starting to crumble.
Naturally, that’s exactly when everyone seems to want their attention. Dylan tries to catch up with them first, falling into stride beside them.
Dylan: Um, are we going to talk about whatever is going on with you and Farkle? I didn’t want to say anything before, but I did notice a certain sweater when you got home --
Isa: Not now, Dylan. I -- I can’t right now.
Based on their brusque tone, Dylan gets the message, backing off. In fact, he seems a bit concerned, but they’re moving away from him quicker than he can react.
Next, they get a callout from Morgan, who is chatting with some of Eric’s friends and Josh near the drink table. She gestures Isa over enthusiastically, claiming they would certainly be able to settle this debate about a movie they’re having…
But Josh is there, and that makes Isa even more reticent. So they turn away without responding, continuing to stumble their way through the crowd.
Then, like thinking of the devil herself, they bump right into Maya. The two of them trip over themselves a bit, Maya snapping in her usual sharp fashion.
Maya: Jesus, can’t you watch where you’re going? I’m wearing bright red, it’s not like I’m hard to miss.
Isa is shutting down so fast, they don’t even have the capacity to bite back. Once Maya recognizes who rammed into her -- and acknowledges the stony expression on their face, one they know pretty well after years of friendship -- she softens considerably.
Maya: Isa. Are you okay?
They can’t do this. They can’t face her right now. It’s all too much. Isa pushes past her without responding, continuing their desperate exit. Maya spins and watches her go, mirroring Dylan’s earlier concern but even less sure whether she should go after them or not.
Back with Riley and Farkle, they’re both enjoying their playful slow dance together. Certainly not as cozy and intimate as some of the other folks on the dance floor right now, but it’s sweet. And it’s nice to spend some time together, since they’ve spent all year long on opposite coasts.
Riley: Well, maybe not for much longer. [ considering it ] Though I guess it actually wouldn’t make too much of a difference, would it? Northern California is basically a whole other realm from Los Angeles.
Yes, that is factually true, but that’s not what Farkle catches on. He grows more reserved at the reminder of Riley’s grand plans, both from his own anxiety and how he knows he screwed up by telling Lucas about it. He should just let it go. He should keep his mouth shut.
And yet, his judgment slips out anyway.
Farkle: Have you really thought all of that through?
Riley: What?
Farkle: The move to California. That whole thing. Are you sure it’s really a great idea?
Riley shifts into something more defensive herself, sensing she should be on guard. As she often needs to be when it comes to Lucas -- it wouldn’t be the first time. Although they continue to dance as if nothing is wrong, the tone becomes noticeably tenser between them.
Riley: Yes, I’ve thought about it. Do you think I’d make such a big jump without giving it serious thought?
Farkle: No. I don’t. That’s sort of why --
That’s why it caught him by surprise. Because it feels so sudden. But it’s not sudden, not to Riley.
Riley: I’ve spent plenty of time thinking about it, yes. I’ve considered my options.
Farkle: I just want to be sure. Because making a leap like that -- just for someone else --
Riley: It’s not just for him. It’s about what I want, too. Other opportunities.
Farkle: You have amazing opportunities in New York. Now. And if you haven’t even talked to him about it --
Riley: How do you know I haven’t?
Oop. Yikes. Backtrack, Farkle, backtrack. He clears his throat anxiously.
Farkle: I’m just looking out for you, Riley. I don’t want either of us to make decisions we’ll regret.
Riley: You know, I don’t know why everyone has suddenly decided they need to be so concerned about me. I’m not sure what’s changed to make people doubt my judgment.
Farkle: Nothing. It’s not you. It just seems… like… I mean, it’s a big commitment --
And Lucas isn’t a stable horse to bet on. Not to most people. Not to Cory; not to Topanga. Not to Evan, or Zay, or any other number of people who think they’re protecting her, when all they’re doing is broadcasting their own insecurities and prejudices.
And frankly, Riley is fucking sick of entertaining their judgments.
Riley: [ with soft defiance ] I love Lucas.
Farkle: But is that enough?
Is that worth risking everything you’ve got, uprooting your entire world? To put your trust, your fully devoted faith, into someone who can break it?
Farkle truly wants to know, because against his better instincts, he’s contemplating the same thing.
Before Riley can respond either way, they’re distracted. Farkle sees Isa making their desperate escape over Riley’s shoulder, immediately growing worried. He disconnects from Riley and swiftly excuses himself, going after them.
Farkle: Isa --
Riley’s left dumbstruck in his wake, confused about him and Isa and even more turned around about having to go so hard on defense so suddenly. It’s a palpable relief when Lucas comes to join her, reappearing at her side after his refreshing walk with Jack.
Lucas: Sorry it took me a minute. I’m amazed this place is still this packed. [ noticing her expression ] Hey. You all right?
Now that he’s there? Riley gazes up at him and finds her peace, smiling and taking his arm to anchor back to reality.
Riley: Never better.
The disruptive energy seems to ripple throughout the venue, settling with Jade and Nigel next. They’re swaying together on the dance floor, Jade keeping up casual conversation about how the reception has been and how cool it’s been to be in Paris.
Jade: It might be cool to spend some time living here. You know? France is a huge city for fashion, so maybe I could find a way to build it into my career. This or Italy -- or hell, why not both? I mean, the influence on the couture market alone…
But Nigel is mentally on another plane, so consumed with how he’s going to manage to tell her about his plans that it’s now all he can think about. She’s daydreaming about these international leaps, just distant twinkles in her mind’s eye right now, without realizing just how close she’s treading to the very real leaps her boyfriend is determined to make.
So, as if she’s lit a fuse, Nigel combusts.
Nigel, blurting: I’m going to London.
At first, it doesn’t register. Jade thinks he’s playing along, offering his dream scenario.
Jade: Oh, for sure. That would be great too. You could hit up the West End, and I could do a stint with --
Nigel: No. Now. Well, not now now, but -- I’m going to try to transfer. To a school in the UK. Next year.
They stop dancing. Jade stares at him, evidently surprised. It’s hard to tell what’s more stunning to her -- that he has these plans at all, that’ll put even more distance between them… or that he made all of them up in his head without a word to her.
The two of them stand frozen on the dance floor, locked in that moment of sudden confession.
At the same time, Josh at least seems to be feeling a bit better after his heart-to-heart with his parents. He’s brave enough to turn his phone back on, not expecting much -- so it’s a big surprise when he’s suddenly flooded with texts.
From Phelps: “omg, did you see the shit about Floyd? this is insane bro”
From Brian: “DUDE. FLOYD??? WHAT IS GOING ON”
From Andrew: “bitch why does this actually slap lmfao?”
Josh goes through about seven different emotions as these texts flood in -- confusion, dread, and fear to name a few -- before clarity is offered by messages from the enigmatic man himself.
“Okay so sorry this all happened when you had such big plans, I should’ve coordinated better!! But I took your advice and really really worked hard to bring The Very Best Day to life and I got so excited I couldn’t wait. It’s live now on socials!!! Took a page out of Maya Hart’s book and made a video all by myself and everything 😊 Can’t wait to talk about it more but I hope you have the best time at the wedding. Tell ur brother happiest congratulations!!!”
Oh God. Josh immediately opens up said socials, not able to dive into the song itself but certain if all his friends are texting him about it, it must be blowing up. He braces himself for the worst, certain he’s going to witness Floyd’s public cringe stoning in the digital town square.
But it’s not that. It’s far from it.
People are loving it. It seems to have hit some niche that triggers a jackpot once every blue moon -- a perfect blend of sincere, lack of self-aware joy that makes for a perfect, ironically beloved storm. It’s the new “Friday,” the next “Gangnam Style,” an accidental but wholly authentic earworm of “Never Gonna Give You Up” memetic proportions.
It’s a hit. Somehow, with his adorable, tone-deaf pipes, Ernest Floyd stumbled on an instant cult classic.
Josh goes back to his thread with Floyd in shock, at a loss for how to even respond. Then he realizes the last text message he didn’t get to before, the most recent one Floyd sent him after the song started to gain viral traction.
“Oh and one more thing -- JUPITER RECORDS WANTS A MEETING!!! I said you were part of the package no matter what, don’t worry, but I’ll hopefully have more to share soon”
So kindness pays off. Josh didn’t have to tolerate Floyd and his blatant lack of pitch -- he could’ve tossed him aside or given up on him at any time, just like multiple people advised him to. He could’ve told him how he really rated him, could’ve torn his infant career to shreds, as so many people in the industry seem to revel in doing.
But Floyd loved the work. He cared about the creativity, with a wide-eyed, genuine optimism that Josh used to have too. That he didn’t want to lose, even when it was hard. Even when it felt like the entire industry machine was guaranteed to flatten him under its generic, formulaic wheels.
And now, here they are. Still in love with the craft, still hanging onto their souls -- and now Josh has a foot in the door with Jupiter Records.
Josh: Holy fuck. Holy fuck!
He can’t help it -- he breaks into gleeful laughter. He rushes through the crowd to find Amy and Alan, running into them on the dance floor where Morgan has joined them and is picking on their old-people dancing.
Alan: Good grief, Josh, what’s the matter? It looks like you’ve seen a ghost.
Josh, out of breath: My career isn't dead. My career’s not fucking dead!
Amy: Josh, language. [ give it a second ] But oh my God?
Morgan, excited: What the fuck does that mean?
Josh does his best to explain, but he’s really hard to comprehend through the adrenaline and excitement and breathlessness. He gives up after a few tries when it’s clear none of them have any clue what he’s talking about, promising he’ll explain more in-depth later.
Josh: But I’ve got a path. I think I can make this work.
Morgan: Hell yeah, baby bro! Way to go!
Amy and Alan cheer him as well, genuinely happy for him. And you can feel it -- for once, there doesn’t seem to be any unaddressed tension plaguing their familial bond. Morgan and Josh exchange high-fives, and then he accepts a tight hug from his mother.
Amy: Oh, I’m so proud of you. I’m so happy it worked out.
Alan: Even faster than you thought, too.
Josh: Yeah. Yeah. And now I’ve got to -- I’ve gotta plan. And I need to tell -- have you seen Maya?
They shake their heads. Not recently. Josh exhales, claiming he’ll catch up with them later. Right now, he needs to track down Maya and tell her the news.
As he darts off, to the bemused fondness of his family…
INT. PARIS HOTEL - COAT ROOM - NIGHT
Isa pushes through the door into the cramped cloak room, seemingly the only secluded reprieve they may be able to find right now. They try to catch their breath, but it’s coming out ragged, like they might hyperventilate. They tighten their hands into fists, screwing their eyes shut and bracing against the tension, but they can feel the panic building in their spine.
They’re gonna shut down. They’re gonna have a shutdown tonight of all nights, when it’s important to one of the people they care about most.
Isa: No. No, no --
Farkle: Isa.
Farkle manages to find them, stepping into the coat room and shutting the door behind him. Isa spins to look at him, and it’s like their body doesn’t know how to react. It’s partially a natural relief to see him -- on the other hand, he is about the last person their brain can stomach trying to process right now.
Farkle: What’s going on? Are you okay?
Isa: Yes. [ out of breath ] I mean… yes. [ shaking their head ] No. I don’t know. It’s all too --
Farkle: Hey, it’s okay. Deep breath. I mean it, deep breath in. Come on --
He breathes in slowly, demonstrating and encouraging Isa to do the same. He may not be autistic, but he’s had more than his fair share of panic attacks in the last few years. Not only that, but he doesn’t talk down to Isa. He’s not telling her what to do. His delivery is sincere, surprisingly level -- he’s right there with them, offering himself as an anchor to at least get back to calmer waters.
And Isa trusts him, more than most, so they comply. They force themselves to inhale a long, deep breath, shaky as it might be. Farkle nods, then encourages another one. With each one, the tightness in Isa’s muscles relaxes just a little bit more.
Farkle: That’s better. Honestly, I didn’t realize how much I needed that, too. [ a beat ] Are you --
Before he can finish, Isa caves to their instincts, stepping forward and collapsing into Farkle. Pulling him into a tight embrace, holding on like a life raft and using his lanky frame to ground themselves.
At first, Farkle is unprepared, but he adjusts fast. He lets Isa hide their head in his chest and gently touches their back, not applying too much pressure but signaling it’s okay. He’s there.
For a few more breaths, they simply stand in that embrace, letting Isa find balance in whatever form they can get it. Once their breathing has slowed to something closer to normal, Farkle speaks again.
Farkle: What happened? What pushed it too far?
Isa finds they don’t want to answer. How are they supposed to tell him, when he is a big part of the reason everything feels so turned upside-down? For better, or for worse? That they can’t even determine whether they like it more than the dizzying feeling because it’s all coming at them at once.
Isa: It’s just… the party is a lot. All the -- noise, and crowds, and stuff. I’m trying to push through it, for Eric, but --
It’s not that simple. This isn’t either, which is why Isa feels compelled to pull away. They put some distance between them, settling down on the crate against the wall to help the room stop spinning.
Farkle may not be an expert at emotion, but he is pretty good at decoding Isa. And he can tell that they’re not telling him everything, even if what they’re saying out loud is the truth. He wants to help, to be there for them, but he can’t do that if they won’t let him.
Not to mention, he’s been letting Isa hold him at arm’s length for weeks, and it’s sort of driving him insane. Now that they’re alone, now that they have a second to talk, maybe he can finally get some clarity.
Farkle: I don’t think it’s just about that.
Isa: … what do you mean? You know I get overloaded. Sometimes.
Farkle: I know. And I know today has not been easy for you. You know I get that. [ a beat ] I just noticed that when we danced together, earlier, you seemed okay. And when you pulled me aside at the brunch, you were -- I mean, things felt good then. You seemed like yourself. But when we went back inside, and the dance ended, that’s when you… when it got --
Isa: I don’t think I can talk about this right now.
Will they ever? Talk about it. Farkle does his best to curb his frustration, but his patience is running thin.
Farkle: I think we need to. Isa. Because I feel -- the way I feel about you is a lot, but not knowing where things stand is making me crazy.
Isa: [ weakly aiming for humor ] Making you? As if you weren’t already?
Farkle: And if I know you like I think I do, I bet that’s part of it. Isn’t it? That you don’t know what we are. How to explain to people what we are. [ off their silence ] So let’s figure it out.
Farkle is adamant, and so painfully earnest, approaching them again and dropping down to his knees next to them. Willing to work through it all, to put everything out on the table and make their commitments.
If that’s what Isa wants. And that’s the question. They hooked up -- they keep kissing him and seeking solace in his presence. They told him, albeit with lowered inhibitions, that they loved him. But is that the truth? Is that what they want to say?
And if they do, is it worth the potential consequences that follow?
Isa winces, hiding their head in their hands. It’s too much…
Farkle: Come on, Isa. Please. Talk to me --
Isa: What did you mean about leaving Los Angeles?
Farkle: What?
Isa lifts their head, locking eyes with him.
Isa: You told Zachary and Ruby “if” you stayed in Los Angeles. Since when were you planning on leaving?
Farkle: I… I’m just thinking about stuff. I haven’t decided anything.
Isa: Because you never said anything about that before. I never thought you’d come back. [ uncertainly ] But then we… have our thing, and suddenly, you’re coming back?
Farkle: If you think this is about you, then that’s --
Isa: Isn’t it? [ staring him down ] And if it is, well -- don’t you hear how crazy that sounds?
Farkle, defensive: Whatever choice I made wasn’t just about you. There are a lot of things I miss about New York. You said it yourself, before I left, that I’m so damningly New York --
Isa: But you left. You still left. And it seems like it’s only now, after we… after I… that you’re suddenly thinking about turning it all around.
Farkle: That’s not --
Isa: What about the stuff you have going on out there? The agent, and USC -- if you’re dipping just because of me, because of “us” --
Farkle: Well, would that be such a terrible thing?
Would it be the worst thing in the world if he was coming back for them? Because they’re his best friend, and safe, and potentially something much more than that? Isn’t it worth giving this a real chance, to figure out what they’re made of? It’s not like New York is at all short on opportunity.
Isa: I’m really not in the headspace to --
Farkle: But I need to, Isa. I need to know. [ delicate ] Am I out of my mind?
Is he holding his breath for something here that isn’t going to work out? Is it so wrong for him to want to put his stake in the two of them, along with whatever else he decides to pursue?
Maybe not. But Isa doesn’t know. They can’t make any guarantees, and despite how strongly their heart may feel about him, their brain can’t seem to catch up and make sense of it.
Song Cue ♫ ♪ “If I Didn’t Believe In You” as performed by The Last Five Years Original Off-Broadway Cast || Performed by Farkle Minkus (feat. Isa De La Cruz)
[ Lyrics specific to characters -- follow along here! ]
Farkle does his best to figure it out, though. He launches into one more gently desperate plea, begging for a shred of clarity and certainty as to what exactly the two of them are. Because they’ve been dancing around one another for months, years, and they are one of the most important people in his life. He wants this to work, for them to be fundamental in his life. He wants them.
But if Isa doesn’t want that too, then what is he -- what are they -- even doing?
Where Jamie originally sings about a book publishing party, Farkle opens by reiterating what Isa has been willing to disclose. The wedding is overwhelming; there’s so many people. And he acknowledges that, but he knows there’s more than that. There’s more tearing up their mind, and if they don’t speak on it, if they can’t talk this out, then they’re dead before they even get off the ground. They need to let him in.
Did you think this would all be much easier
Than it's turned out to be?
Well, then talk to me, Isa
Talk to me…
And Farkle believes in them. He does. He believes in Isa’s ability to power through, to confront the hard stuff. They’re the toughest, most resilient person he knows. And even though this… thing they’re on the brink on -- the feelings and intimacy and commitment -- is scary, terrifying even, he believes they can handle it. He’s ready to handle it.
If I wasn't certain that you'd come through somehow
The fact of the matter is, Isa
I wouldn't be standing here now
Isa, on the other hand, isn’t so sure. During the brief musical interlude, they try to articulate it.
Isa: But how can you know? How can you believe -- what if this doesn’t --
But Farkle doesn’t want to hear doubts. He doesn’t want doubts. He wants them, together, and wants Isa to be brave enough to want that too.
So he launches into the second verse, emotion growing in his voice as they progress through the semi-argument. Okay, sure, maybe they’re right and things will go to shit. Does that mean they shouldn’t even try? If Farkle didn’t think they had a chance, he wouldn’t have fallen this hard -- he wouldn’t be standing here trying to get his faith in return.
Things, when I met you four years ago, I knew
It never took much convincing
To make me believe in you
And maybe in better circumstances, with a good night’s sleep and less sensory stress, Isa could hear that. They could see the reason, or at least admire the risk, in taking this leap with him. But right now the walls are up, and their sense is low on self-preservation mode, so all they can see are the shadows.
Isa, worked up: But what if it doesn’t work? All the ways this could go -- and what if that’s just what you’re running from? What if I’m just the safer alternative to the unknowns of L.A.?
Farkle: [ with a scoff ] Are you serious? Running from? Why does it have to be running away? Can’t we be running towards something?
Don’t we get to be happy, Isa? Farkle is reaching a breaking point, wondering why every path he seems to take in life hits a dead-end. No matter how passionate he is about it; no matter how badly he wants it. His high-school era dreams that drove him to madness. His first serious relationship that drove him into the ground.
Now Isa, one of his favorite people in the world, can’t seem to see how he’s worth the risk of favoring too. Considering everything the two of them have been through, he can understand their reservations, but God, doesn’t that mean they deserve it even more?
Isa turns away, increasingly clamming up. Farkle needs answers, but they can’t give them to him right now -- not when they’re like this. And the more he pushes, the further away they drift. The higher up the defenses go.
But Farkle is so lost in his own desperation, he can’t realize that. He can’t accept it. So he digs in deeper, dropping down next to Isa again and practically begging. Taking their hands and pleading for relief, for the uncertainty to come to an end.
But you know what I think?
I think you'll be fine!
Just hang on and you'll see
It’s like they’re being cornered, and it’s even worse when it’s the one person they want to be able to show up for. Isa wants to give Farkle what he wants, to have the right answers, but their brain is just static right now. It’s just screaming escape. So they do, pulling away from him and marching in the other direction. Farkle grimaces, the frustration in his voice turning his vocals into a bit of a growl.
But don't make me wait till you do
To be happy with you
But Isa is hitting their melting point too. They whip around to face him again, cutting him off.
Will you listen to me?!
Their efforts towards defense have failed, so Isa reacts to gain space the only way they have left -- they lash out. Instinctively, protectively, saying whatever they have to say to get Farkle to back down. Him chasing them back to New York isn’t going to magically solve all their problems; they can’t be his placebo panacea. They can’t make him tougher, or braver, or mend his broken wings.
And if he’s so willing to change everything about his life to follow them, he certainly expects the same of them.
I will not fail so you can be comfortable, Farkle
I will not lose because you can't win
It’s like they slapped him. Taking all of his affection, his complicated feelings, and reducing them to a scapegoat -- painting his desire for them as some frantic, ill-conceived excuse to run from his prospects in Los Angeles -- is a low blow, especially given his past struggles with insecurity. And for them to have arrived at that conclusion through this conversation, when they both went into it with nothing but good intentions towards one another…
How did this happen? How did they end up here? The fight spun out of control so fast, it’s like they’re on a different planet.
Which is exactly what Isa is terrified of. This is exactly what they dread -- what they don’t want Farkle to become used to. They care about him, but they don’t know if they’re equipped to give him what he needs. Not yet.
If only any of that had been put into words. If only this conversation happened at a more opportune time. Instead, they’re just left with new wounds. Isa knows they misspoke, that they didn’t mean what they said, but they can’t seem to unclench their jaw and take it back. Farkle turns away from them, trying to reel in his reactionary emotions.
He cares about Isa. He knows this is hard. He doesn’t want to fight. But if this really is how they feel… if all of this pining, and planning, and prioritizing is for nothing…
So he gives it one last shot. He slips into the final verse, softer and more fragile than before, trying one last time for Isa to level with him. For them to find some way out of this wreckage without total destruction -- where they can still hold onto each other.
If I hadn't believed in you
I wouldn't have loved you at all
As the piano slowly ebbs away, echoing those final notes, Farkle makes his own shaky request. He tries to meet Isa’s eyes, but they avert their gaze, dropping it to the floor.
Farkle: I just need you to tell me, Isa. Please. [ voice cracking ] Please… look at me, and tell me what you did over the phone. Tell me that I’m not losing my mind. That this is worth something. [ with weight ] That it’s real.
God, do they want to. In their soul, in their heart of hearts, Isa is screaming it. They love him; they care about him. They want to risk it all -- it’s worth that and more. It is the realest thing they know.
But right now, they’ve shut down, and all there is in their head is the static. When they finally manage to speak again, it’s barely a murmur.
Isa: I can’t.
That’s that, then. That’s Farkle’s answer, whether he likes it or not.
Even though it feels like the sky is collapsing, Farkle manages not to crumble. He swallows the hurt, blinking back tears, nodding and backing towards the door.
Farkle: Okay. Cool. [ wobbly ] Thanks for letting me know.
Isa screws their eyes shut, holding back tears of their own as Farkle opens the coat room door and flees. Isa presses their palms to their eyes.
That went so wrong. That went terribly, terribly wrong.
Isa: Fuck!
INT. PARIS HOTEL - BALLROOM - NIGHT
Isa’s absence has started to become noticeable, Eric picking up on it. He finds Dylan and Asher in the slowly thinning crowd and asks whether or not they’ve seen them. Once Dylan confirms he did, but they didn’t seem in the best shape, Eric only grows more concerned.
Eric: I knew today would be overwhelming for them. I should’ve… I would go look for them, but I can’t exactly leave. And we’ll be wrapping up soon --
Asher: Don’t worry, Mister Eric. We can look for them.
Dylan: Yeah, we’ll take care of it. Promise.
Eric nods, thanking them. To make good on that promise, they both immediately start their search, exiting the dance floor.
Josh finally manages to locate Maya, running into her on the opposite side of the dance floor. They spin around one another at first, Maya immediately picking up on his heightened energy.
Maya: You’re chipper. [ examining him ] How many times did you visit the open bar?
Josh: I’m not drunk. I’m euphoric. [ taking her shoulders ] We’re fucking saved!
He gives her the quick lowdown, that Floyd’s sudden success may have given him an opening to reenter the playing field. His career isn’t dead in the water just yet. If Jupiter Records is willing to give him a chance, then they might be able to go much further than Global Beat ever would’ve let him -- and without having to kowtow to Justin Miller.
Maya: Holy shit. Josh, that’s epic.
Josh: I know! And I want you to come with me. I want you to be my client.
It’s mutually beneficial for both of them. Maya is a star, and she’s already got street credit -- Josh has the means to get them back in the game. If they give him an opportunity to show off a portfolio before they make an executive decision, putting her front and center is the wisest decision he could make.
And he gets her. He wants her to succeed, just as much as he wants his own. They share a musical synchronicity that they’ve never found with anyone else, and it’s already made some sweet music. If they partner up for real, provided this shot works out… who knows what they’ll be able to accomplish.
Maya processes that, trusting the sincerity in Josh’s eyes to combat the new anxiety she feels creeping up her spine at the prospect. Not sure whether she wants to take that leap back into the belly of the beast or not -- but sure she’d be in much better hands with him.
Mostly, though, she wants to share this development. She squeezes Josh’s arms.
Maya: I have to tell Farkle.
Naturally. Josh nods, gesturing her on to go find him. As soon as she’s gone, Riley and Lucas approach, getting wrapped up in the excitement too as Josh eagerly tells her the news.
INT. PARIS HOTEL - HALLWAY - NIGHT
Farkle emerges from the coat room in a flustered daze, stumbling in any direction that provides a fast exit. He’s using all of his willpower not to start crying. Not now. Not another breakdown on a night that belongs to someone else.
Is this how he’s destined to be his whole life? Too excitable, too naive? Moving too fast, falling too hard? Never looking before he leaps; never learning his lesson.
He’s an idiot. He’s so, so stupid.
Isa, off-screen: Farkle, wait --
Farkle hastens his retreat, happening to ram into Maya just as she’s sliding around the corner to find him. She starts off excited, ready to tell him about what Josh said, but it only takes her an instant to clock the barely concealed anguish on his face.
Maya: What happened?
Farkle: I have to -- I just have to go. I have to --
He shies away from her touch, pushing past her and continuing his rushed exit. Maya spins to look after him, bewildered.
Farkle: Give Jack and Eric my best, okay? I’m happy for them. Truly. They -- [ choked ] they deserve this.
He doesn’t wait for her to respond, covering his mouth and disappearing around the corner. Maya starts to go after him.
Maya: Farkle. Farkle?!
She can’t make sense of it. Farkle was in such a good mood this trip -- needlessly anxious, sure, but that’s par for the course -- and now this. What the hell could’ve possibly happened in such a short span of time?
Maya turns back around, and instantly, she finds her answer. She faces the coat room just as Isa steps out into the hallway, equally flushed and scanning for Farkle. Knowing this got all twisted up, desperate to make it right.
But Farkle is gone. There’s only Maya. The two of them lock eyes, not saying a word, but Maya understands. She guesses what must have happened immediately. The ashamed look on Isa’s face confirms it.
Isa had his heart. And naturally, they broke it.
And with it, whatever good will the two of them might have been rebuilding. This? Done for good. Maya frowns, signaling her disappointment with more impact than any words ever could.
Then she leaves Isa behind, following after wherever Farkle ran off.
Perfect. Just perfect. Isa cusses under their breath and runs a hand through their hair, tugging on it lightly.
INT. PARIS HOTEL - LOBBY - NIGHT
Things are just going swell in all directions. Jade is making her own hasty retreat, pulling on her shawl as she heads for the revolving doors. She runs into Yindra on the way, who spins her around and asks where the hell she’s going.
Yindra: Party isn’t over yet, is it? I thought we were getting ready for the send-off thingy.
Jade: Yeah. No, I just -- I need some air.
Yindra: What’s wrong?
Jade: Nothing. I just… I need to think.
She continues on without further comment, leaving Yindra to worry. She starts to go after her, but then she’s distracted by her phone lighting up in her hand.
All she can read is the subject and first line of the email on her lock screen. But that’s all it takes to stop her breathing.
“ATTN: Girl Group Membership | JUPITER RECORDS”
It could be an offer… or a rejection. It could be the beginning of her career, or yet another dead-end. Based on the rollercoaster of an experience so far, she isn’t sure which one she’d rather see.
But she won’t know until she reads it. After a shaky breath, she unlocks her phone.
“Dear Yindra…”
EXT. PARIS HOTEL - GARDEN - NIGHT
Yindra was right about the fact that they’re gearing up for Jack and Eric’s send-off as newlyweds, so the search for Isa has become more urgent. Dylan has looked all over the main ballroom area to no avail, ending up outside the doors to the garden when he’s run out of other places to go.
That’s exactly where he manages to find them.
Isa has escaped into the night air, crouched down on the steps to the garden and hunched over with their head in their hands. They hoped the fresh air would help, but it’s doing nothing to stifle the oncoming panic attack. They’ve fought it all day, and now, it’s crashing down with a vengeance.
Dylan jumps into action, jogging down the steps to join them. They start to ask what’s wrong, or if they should get Eric, but Isa simply shakes their head. Frantic, repeating the same devastated declaration into the ground over and over.
Isa: I ruined it. I ruined it. I ruined everything. I ruined it --
Isa is clearly in no state to be celebrating, that’s for sure. Dylan has no clue what happened, or what they think they’ve ruined, but that hardly matters. He ventures a comforting touch on Isa’s back to let them know he’s there, that he’s not going anywhere. That they’re not alone.
The send-off will have to proceed without them. And it does, the chipper and upbeat orchestral lead-in sharply contrasting with their despondent image…
INT. PARIS HOTEL - LOBBY - NIGHT
Song Cue ♫ ♪ “A Tough Act To Follow - Reprise” as performed by Curtains Original Broadway Cast || Performed by AMBITION Ensemble
The joy returns as the remainder of the ensemble assembles in the lobby, lined up like a parade route from the ballroom to the main staircase. They cheer and sing the opening lines of the reprise as Jack and Eric emerge from the ballroom and running between them, the guests tossing rice and glitter at them as they make their way.
When they make it to the base of the staircase, where Elaine, Amy, and Alan are standing, each man takes a moment to exchange an embrace with their parents.
Then they turn to face one another again, taking on the soft duet together. Calling back to their original rendition of this number a season ago, only with even more weight to it now. Eric offers his hand and Jack takes it, locking their fingers together.
If you hold my hand and let the music start
Let the curtains part
Let the spotlight glow…
Then they ascend the staircase, walking hand-in-hand up into a grand goodbye -- and into the rest of their lives as partners. Partners in every sense, now including legally. The ensemble sings them off as they reach the top of the stairs, sharing one more soft, romantic kiss.
We’d be a tough act to follow, I know!
And there’s no doubt they will be, forevermore.
INT. PARIS HOTEL - Z&C ROOM - NIGHT
As the revelry comes to a late end, Charlie is back in his hotel room. He’s stripped out of his suit jacket and is starting the task of packing, mindlessly carrying on conversation as he goes.
Charlie: Was it just me, or was there like, not enough food at that thing? I mean, no disrespect, I get that they’re working on a teacher’s budget. I am not judging that. But if they weren’t going to invite all of us to the fancy brunch -- I’m just saying, if I get married one day, there is going to be a whole feast. Because I am weirdly so hungry. J’ai très faim, vraiment.
He’s really just filling the quiet, rambling as he does, so he’s more than prepared for a quippy remark from Zay when he rejoins him. But Zay doesn’t seem in the mood for jokes -- he’s got a thoughtful expression on his face, brow crinkled lightly.
Charlie: You okay?
When Zay does speak, it’s cautious. Like if he opens his mouth, and says what he’s thinking, he knows he’ll never be able to take it back.
Zay: I know what I want to do about the tour.
Charlie matches his energy swiftly, straightening up and meeting his eyes. He widens his own, impatiently waiting to hear whatever his decision -- and their future fate -- might be.
Well? Zay holds his gaze, taking a deep breath.
Whatever the future holds, we’re about to find out.
END OF EPISODE.
[ ← Last (Part 2) ] [ 412 Hub ]
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Italian film icon Gina Lollobrigida dead: ‘Hunchback of Notre Dame’ star was 95
Italian screen legend Gina Lollobrigida has died. She was 95.
She passed away on in a Rome clinic on Monday, her lawyer Giulia Citani said.
Lollobrigida made a name for herself as an actress in the 1950s and 1960s, starring with icons such as Humphrey Bogart, Rock Hudson, Burt Lancaster, Tony Curtis and Frank Sinatra.
Over her long career, she starred in projects such as “Crossed Swords,”…
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'Choose me, or the fire'
Yay it's finally done I'm so excited!
I hope no one is offended by Nightmare using the term Gy*** it's a direct quote from the movie and I mean nothing bad by it. I hope that is OK with you guys. It's not considered a slur in my country anyway.
Now that I've got that out of the way. This was super fun! I am so proud of the fire. Thank you all for all your support.
Based of the art work by @zu-is-here . Thanks for all the support @zu-is-here ! This is fun.
Original dream, nightmare and cross belong to jakei95 and jokublog
#The Anomaly of Notre Dame#The Anomaly of Notre Dame au#Cross over#Dropping this off before I head to the hospital#Such a hard choice for poor dream#Spit in his face! Spit in his face! Spit in his face! Spirit in his face!#Dream#Nightmare#Cross#Undertale au#Undertale cross over#Utmv#Undertale multiverse#Hunchback of notre dame cross over#Hunchback of notre dame unmv cross over#Frog art#My art
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