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raspberry-arev · 3 years

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After the Flood (a.k.a. bicci fic)

Hello friends! Some of you may remember that back in... er, who knows, I was writing a Bicci Proposal Fanfic. However, school and lack of motivation got in the way, and essentially, I forgot it existed. Until now. It's done, it's ready, it's here for you to read in whole! (I posted half of it before, but I can't find the thing.)

Characters: Jimmy Kaga-Ricci, Lister Bird, Rowan Omondi, OC (Abby Omondi), Angel Rahimi

Themes: older Ark, marriage proposal, coming out, grand gestures, The Ark Revival Tour, and peak Bicci romance (hopefully)

TWs: mentions of recovery from addiction, anxiety, food

Word count: 9k

JIMMY

It’s often impossible to pinpoint what exactly set off an event – or perhaps multiple – that changed your life as you knew it.

That was not Jimmy’s case, however. He remembered that Barbecue Saturday very well.

This time, it was Rowan and his spouse Abby who hosted. The two couples took turns and Jimmy was oh so grateful for it; the idea of managing Lister’s chaotic culinary experiments more than twice in one summer filled him with dread.

On Saturday morning, Jimmy and Lister packed up and drove all the way to the suburbs of London where Rowan and Abby lived. The sun was bright, everything gleamed buttery yellow, and Jimmy managed to talk Abby into letting him set the table and carry in all the food instead of her, which was quite an accomplishment. She was about as stubborn as her husband.

They rarely invited more than three extra people though. Being in the public eye in your formative years made you appreciate small gatherings of trustworthy people. And one of those proved to be Angel. Or, you know, Feresteh, but her nickname really stuck with them. From that time Jimmy nearly quit the band and Lister impaled himself and almost drowned in mud… yeah, call that a wild youth.

Over ten years later, they were hardly the same people.

After they decided to quit being The Ark for their own wellbeing and safety, Rowan kept his place in the music industry as a songwriter, producer and a solo artist. He went with the name Le Monde, a play on his surname as well as French for “the world”. It suited him. He was the world, never small, never just one thing.

Lister stopped being involved in music after a few collabs. While he was figuring out what to do next, he took a few modelling jobs, acted in music videos and got a small part in a sitcom. Jimmy used that time to get a college degree, but found he just wouldn’t be able to get the usual “college experience” he yearned for, and only got his diploma after doing classes long-distance.

Jimmy and Lister also got together. After many failed attempts at courtship and pretending being friends with benefits was enough… they got together. To Jimmy, it felt like it was inevitable; they have acted like partners long before it was official, they just needed to clean up their own messes before they could be a couple. It wouldn’t have felt right back then, but it did now.

Rowan was already at the grill preparing meat and wrapping camembert in shiny aluminium foil when Angel marched in, tall, elegant, beaming. Jimmy loved to see her again. Each time, she seemed a little more confident, more expressive, more… just more. She really did find her calling in the music industry, just as much as he found his tucked away in rural England with his boyfriend.

Yet, he was to be “tucked away” no longer.

At a certain point, their group fell momentarily silent; everyone was chewing their meal and soaking in the sun. Then Angel said, in an unfamiliar, cautious tone: “You see, I was talking to a couple of people…”

Rowan exchanged a quick look with Jimmy. “Go on,” he said.

“It’s gonna be ten years since you guys disbanded, you know.”

“I know,” Jimmy echoed.

“So. I was thinking. Hear me out, even if you think it’s bollocks…” Angel shot them a look, and then made a motion with her hand as if she was presenting them with something. “Have you ever thought of doing a revival concert?”

As Rowan did a theatrical “errrm”, Jimmy saw straight through his best friend’s bullshit: the two of them rehearsed this conversation. He knew Ro for most of his life, who did he think he was fooling?

His mind offered the answer quickly: Abby, perhaps. He wants to see how she would react, doesn’t he? Rowan would love to do a revival show like that, no doubt, but he valued his wife’s opinion too much to make a decision without her.

He felt movement on his left, and looked Lister in the eyes.

“Well,” said Lister, looking at him. “Wow, okay,” said Jimmy. Both were considering.

Angel swiftly picked up, “Just wanted to run this idea by you. Not because it’s me who would love to see you play once more – I mean, of course I would – but it’s expected to have an amazing turn-out.”

“Obviously, they’re The Ark,” Abby commented matter-of-factly.

“You’re right, Abby. So, guys? How are we feeling about this?”

It was bizzare. Normally, Jimmy would have expected to say he wasn’t at all interested – the boyband life was not for him anymore, tough luck – but recently, he felt a strong sense of nostalgia surge through him as the ten year mark got closer. He found himself reaching for his old guitar way more often, strumming at it, looking for something between the strings he could not reach.

Maybe he could do it just once.

What eventually came out of his mouth was… “I haven’t sung like that for a long time though.”

“You sing to me,” Lister contradicted him, his fingers intertwining with his. “All the time.”

Jimmy felt his face get hotter. “That’s hardly… Are you thousands of people?” He turned to Angel. “How many are we talking, anyway?”

She smiled a kind smile. “I don’t know, Jimmy, that depends on whether you three are up to it or not.”

Rowan cleared his throat. “Personally speaking, I think I wouldn’t mind, as long as we are just doing it once, and not trying for a comeback. I wouldn’t go there.”

“Same,” Lister nodded. “I love you guys, but I’m fine the way things are.”

“Right,” said Rowan firmly. “But… just this once, I mean, why not? We could use some extra money.” With this, he gently let his palm rest on Abby’s belly that swelled under her summer dress like a balloon. (Jimmy fought the urge to aww at them.)

Abby immediately assured him they were more than fine financially, but Rowan barely listened, clearly waiting for his former bandmates to say something. Jimmy felt Lister looking at him, unwavering. So he turned to him and asked, “What do you think? Cool or not?”

“I’m waiting for you to say.”

“Why?”

“Don’t want you to feel pressured or anything.”

“You shouldn’t… Just say what your opinion is!”

“You express your opinion,” Lister retorted, pretending to square his shoulders as a threat. Jimmy lovingly nudged him, and to stop being annoying to the remaining three people at the table, he shrugged, “It doesn’t sound so bad. One concert. I mean, we are still friends after all this time, so why not?”

“In that case, I would love to be the centre of attention again!” Lister exclaimed and gave Jimmy a boyish grin. “The crowd was deprived of my looks for too long.”

“Buddy, you were the drummer,” Rowan said. “Bold of you to assume anyone even looked at you with me and Jimmy jumping at the front.”

Jimmy snorted with laughter, but Lister was quick to defend himself. “Google all Lister Bird slash Reader fanfic and then we can talk about who got noticed, buddy.”

“Oi, you’re not even properly revived yet, stop fighting!” Angel called out, but laughter started bubbling from every direction before she even finished the sentence.

They had a proper business meeting about it in two weeks. And then another and another. When they announced the first date, the sales went through the roof. Jimmy had to get off of social media because the internet exploded with their names and faces. But he sort of found it a bit sweet, that so many people stuck around for them, like old friends that he never had the chance to talk to. One concert became three and then five, which was, honestly, more like a small tour at that point. Jimmy fought to call it After the Flood and won.

LISTER

“You really shouldn’t do that, you know. This bitch is hard to get rid of.”

Rowan tried to hide a small cough and put out his cigarette on the metal window sill next to him. “Hey,” he greeted Lister. “Didn’t expect you to come out here.”

“Yeah.” Lister found it hard to hang around smokers, and unfortunately, he met quite the number of them while they were in the process of rehearsing. “I wanted to talk to you.”

“What’s up?”

“Can we walk, like, over there? So… nobody can hear us through the door?”

Rowan eyed him suspiciously, but he followed him to the railing on the edge of the roof. There, he turned to him, seeming to fight himself.

“I’m really looking for a less shitty way to ask this,” he admitted eventually. “But… What have you done now, Lister?”

Lister felt a sort of numbed cramp seize his stomach for a second. It took a lot not to let anger overcome him. They were well over thirty, how the hell was Rowan still treating him like a fuck up? But no. This was more important than old grudges.

“Nothing! As of yet,” he assured his bandmate.

“Okay…?”

“Right. So. Erm. Nobody is here, right? Fine. I had this idea… you know, Jimmy and I have been together for a long time and I obviously care about him a lot, I always have, you kind of know that…”

“Yes, go on,” he pushed on gently.

“Fuck it. I want to fucking propose!”

A giant weight fell off his shoulders when he spoke those words aloud. It was like coming out all over again, god.

Rowan’s eyes twinkled. “Oooh,” he almost whispered, “and you need my help with that? I’m your man, tell me the plan!”

“There is none right now.”

“Oh, okay. I can still help if you want.”

This was another part Lister dreaded discussing.

“I… okay, so, I was thinking of… doing it on stage?”

His friend’s face changed rapidly.

Lister’s dream of a grand proposal to the love of his life in brilliant stage lights and the roars of the audience faded away. “That’s a no? That’s a no. Shit, forget it then.” He felt sick.

“Lister, I’m absolutely positive you mean well,” Rowan started. “But Jimmy would-“

Speak of the devil.

The door opened and out of it peaked Jimmy’s unshaven face. “Oh! There you both are.”

Rowan froze for a second. Lister was ready to improvise. “Alright, so how about I come by yours after practice and you transfer the files to me?” He smiled, but impaled Rowan with a meaningful look.

Fortunately, he caught on. “Oh yeah, yeah, that could work.”

“What files?” Jimmy inquired as he joined them, oblivious.

“Rowan has some of our old drafts still saved. I was thinking of squeezing in a drum solo somewhere, maybe with spoken word over it?”

“Sounds cool,” Jimmy smiled at him and slightly brushed the back of his hand with Lister’s. “Anyway, Dick the Sound Guy wants us all in there immediately.”

“Stop calling him that or I’ll have a Freudian slip at some point,” Lister laughed and guided Jimmy back into the building. Him and Rowan managed to exchange a subtle nod over the shorter man’s head.

JIMMY

As they were packing up that day, Jimmy tried incredibly hard to catch Rowan alone. Just like the old times when he needed to discuss something personal. And yet again, it involved Lister. Jimmy felt young and stupid again, but not really in a good way.

Finally, he managed to stop him while he was putting away the equipment. Lister was meanwhile in the office of their temporary new manager. “Ro, I need advice!” he whispered to his best friend.

“What about?”

“It’s Lister.”

“Oh dear Jesus, I’m having flashbacks.”

“Don’t be a dick, it’s important.”

“Okay then, tell me.”

“It kind of involves you too. Just… tell me if it’s a good idea.”

“Go on!”

“I want to, uh… I want to tell people Lister and I are a couple…” He took a breath. “Which means I would be coming out as gay as well, probably. I know that’s, like, a huge pile of drama, so if you don’t want me to complicate the tour, just say it, it’s honestly kind of irresponsible when I’m thinking about it now…”

“Jimbob. Easy.” Rowan waited for a second for Jimmy to wind down, leaning on a stack of five chairs, and then asked, “Are you really sure about it? Do you want people to know?”

Jimmy felt his thoughts humming in his head. He forced himself to say exactly how he felt.

“I know it’s gonna sound super dramatic, but I don’t want to die not saying it,” he explained slowly. “It became really important to me… I don’t know when. But it did. Talking about this part of me, too. I’m just worried about what Lister might say.”

“So I take it that you didn’t discuss this?”

“No way. I don’t even know how to start!” Jimmy exploded in loud whispering. “I should have talked to him a long time ago, but I just didn’t have the balls.”

“I get that, but… just bring it up. Like, theoretically. What if. I think he’s going to support you through it.”

“How could he?”

“What are you even saying at this point?

“You think he would like people sticking their nose in our personal business? I feel like it’s so unfair to him and his privacy… And I feel terrible about still wanting to do it… even though it’s inconsiderate. It’s all a fucking mess.”

“Okay, okay.” Rowan massaged his nose. He looked like he was trying incredibly hard not to snap at Jimmy and be at least somewhat encouraging. “Look, no spoilers, but I am going to say this. Lister absolutely will notbe mad and he will want to talk about the two of you if you give him the chance. That is all.”

“Wait, what? Ro, did he tell you something?”

“I am not talking!”

“Is that how you treat your best friend in a life crisis?!”

“You’re putting me in a life crisis, don’t you dare play the pity card! I swear, the two of you are a nightmare.”

“Rowan! Come back!”

LISTER

His visit to Rowan’s place was very brief, but it was enough for him to understand Rowan’s concerns. Eventually.

Lister explained that it didn’t feel appropriate for him to just whip out a ring in a restaurant: Jimmy was his love, his dream boy, as cliché as it sounded, and he wanted to do something that would measure up to all he was feeling. Which was… well, a whole lot. Like a “get down on one knee in front of thousands of people” lot.

And yet.

“It’s all great, and I’m sure there are people in the world that would love it, but we are talking about Jimmy.”

“Come on. I know, he’s private about… well, everything, but…”

“That, yes,” Rowan pointed at him while holding a can of coke, “but don’t you think this proposal on stage would be an anxiety-inducing situation? Because to me, that sounds like a lot of pressure and nerves.”

“He hasn’t had attacks since we moved and he went on those meds.”

“That doesn’t really –“

“Matter. Yeah. Yeah, I get your point, mate, he would die of shock. And everybody watching him. Fuck, I’m stupid.”

“No, you’re not,” Rowan grinned. “The two of you are just different… in some aspects. I’m sure you’ll figure something out.”

Will I? Lister asked himself as he was driving back to the hotel that Jimmy and him were staying at for the time being. This was the only thing I came up with, like, ever.

When he swept his key card over the sensor and the door to their suite opened, he was greeted by the smell of dinner. He took a look into their little kitchen and found his boyfriend sitting at the table with his laptop. He didn’t notice him for a second, so Lister came up behind him and hugged him tightly.

Jimmy yelped.

“Where’s the food?!” Lister shook him a little, imitating Batman.

“Your hands are so cold!” Jimmy protested, but there was a trace of laughter in his voice. “On the stove, you bully!”

Lister almost flew over there, looking under the lid on the pot.

“Pasta,” Jimmy shrugged. “I needed my comfort food, so that’s that for you.” Lister smiled and thanked him, because yes, he was starving. Pasta was Jimmy’s go-to meal to cook, as it was quick to make and he was a pasta-sauce prodigy.

While his dinner was heating up in the microwave, Jimmy made small-talk about the supposed unused lyrics Rowan and him exchanged. Lister found it hard to lie to him, so he just turned to playful teasing, telling Jimmy to stop sniffing around, he’ll hear it when the time comes.

“Oh come on,” Jimmy huffed. “I’m just asking! And it’s my show, too. Spill it.”

“Sorry. Totally gonna steal your spotlight.”

“Lister, just tell me what it is.”

“A song.”

“What song?”

“A song that you have to wait for.”

“Babe, what song?!”

Lister took him by the waist and pulled him against his body. “Are you trying to ‘babe’ me into telling you right now? Is that what’s happening? Right in front of my pasta?” He went in for a kiss, and Jimmy tried to murmur something against his lips… but then he gave up. They leaned into each other and kept kissing until Lister pulled away to open the microwave. He got himself a fork and went to sit down after the long day, but Jimmy stayed there, right next to the sink. Looking a bit like he was going to hurl.

Before Lister could ask if he’s okay, Jimmy sat down on the other chair with a determined look on his face.

“There is something I need to discuss!” he blurted out.

Lister cautiously dropped the fork back into the bowl. “Okay…? And it’s something to do with me, yeah?”

“Yep. A lot to do with you.” He was visibly nervous. He clasped his hands together, as if Lister would have not noticed. “I… I was thinking about this one thing, and I need your opinion about it.”

“Cool. Go for it.”

“It’s about our relationship.”

“Are you aware you sound very sinister right now?”

He wildly shook his hands as if he wanted to dry them off. “Sorry, didn’t mean to,” he apologized in a strained voice. Then he cleared his throat, sharply lifted his eyes towards Lister’s and exclaimed, “I would like to reveal that we’re together.”

Lister felt everything about his face go lax in shock. He opened his eyes round and wide, his mouth followed, and Jimmy looked like he would faint.

“I, er. I just. I thought about it and I think it’s a decent idea and – please say something, Lister, before I get a fucking heart attack right now.”

It must have been so hard for him to speak up. Lister thought of his proposal plans and felt his mouth slowly form a smile. “I think it’s… brilliant! Yes, I would really like to do that!”

“Wait, really?”

“This is – I didn’t think you would want to, when did you change your mind?”

Jimmy shrugged, grinning in a sheepish way that made him look much younger. And cuter. “I thought I just… wanted to be open about this part of my life. Figured it’s time to say we are together. But if you, like, don’t feel like it, then…”

Lister beamed. “I feel like it. If you do, I do, trust me.” He walked around the table and lifted Jimmy into a hug. He laughed, relieved.

This was when it dawned on Lister… it was not such an easy matter. Exciting, yes, but it would gather all kinds of attention. He leaned onto the table, grabbed his dinner and him and Jimmy started talking about the situation it would put them in. If both are truly okay with it, how much would they reveal, when is the best time to do it. They kept talking through the bathroom door and while they were changing into pajamas in their bedroom.

As they were laying down and Lister gestured Jimmy to crawl into his arms, they became quieter. “You know why I also want to say it?” Jimmy mumbled, lying on the soft linen with one eye open.

“I’m all ears.”

“If I have to see one more article about which model or actress you’re screwing, I’m gonna lose the remaining marbles that I have.” Lister started chuckling as Jimmy awkwardly added, “Which is, admittedly, not many. Most have been lost in my youth.”

“Oh no,” Lister laughed and turned Jimmy’s face upwards to his. “So this just in: my boyfriend is possessive. Fancy that.”

“I’m not, it’s… I am… Oh, you hated Jowan, stop being smug.”

“I know I did, we both know. But jealous Jimmy? That’s a rare sight.”

“It’s just super uncomfortable. It’s all women, as well.”

“Heteronormativity is a bitch,” Lister nodded. He snuggled closer and let out a breath, “Don’t worry though. I am exclusively your problem.”

Jimmy kissed him, smiling. Lister felt lightheaded. He closed his eyes and pressed his forehead against Jimmy’s. He loved this – he loved how much he felt for him after so long they have been together. It never ceased or faded away… because it was Jimmy.

Lister was pretty sure he would love him until his last day on Earth.

It was time to start looking for a ring.

JIMMY

Not much later, they had a team meeting scheduled with all the important people at their recording company that were involved with their tour. Jimmy and Lister announced their intention to come out during the tour, and with Rowan’s full support, it wasn’t too hard to win the producers over. Jimmy had anticipated the PR people would deem it overly risky to their image, but they were fairly chill. As Rowan had put it, “As if anything about The Ark was ever about pandering to conservatives.”

They agreed that their demographic is absolutely different, and before they knew it, they were being ignored while people were exchanging speculations about how it all could help them promote the tour.

“If they do it on, like, the second show…”

“…we could sell some extra tickets after… another wave…”

“…that would probably be a good time to release a single, something related to…”

Jimmy felt something in his chest sink. This is why they left. These people took something good, something from their hearts and souls, and wanted to turn it into money. Some part of him understood, that’s how business works, but mostly, he just felt really sad for them.

“Oi!” Lister exploded over the chatter. “Sorry, but we are still here, and – Could you maybe not act like this coming out is a marketing tactic?!”

The room went briefly silent.

Jimmy squeezed his hand under the table to say a silent thanks. Then he choked out, “That’s not why we’re doing it!”

Their producer looked at them over the top of her reading glasses.

“Of course it’s not, love,” she cooed. “But to say it bluntly, I think you need all the help you can get.”

After many weeks and many briefings, they had agreed on making the announcement on the third show. Right in the middle of tour. Everybody was nervous, expectant, but there was this air of hopefulness when Jimmy and Lister ended up alone together. The glimmer in his partner’s eye when their eyes met promised something… no, it was not living absolutely openly, they still wanted privacy. But it felt like they were sealing something.

This was not an easy coming out.

But they were in for it. Together.

LISTER

“Just so I know,” Rowan said as Lister was trying to take off his Doc Martens with all his might, “what did you tell Jimmy this time?”

“We’re still working on music.”

“We should really make something then, before you go. I am not gonna lie to my childhood best friend, y’know.”

Finally, the boot came off, and Lister got off the little cabinet in Rowan’s hall. Abby was already making tea, and when she saw him walk by the kitchen door, she just nodded at him. Lister smirked at her; she loved pretending to still be mad at him for taking Rowan to a strip club on his stag night. (Or was it dancing on the table at the wedding reception? Anyhow.)

Rowan sat him down in the lounge and started the conversation with: “So. The big reveal is getting closer. How are we feeling?”

“I – great, good. I’m fine, and Jimmy seems to be fine, so yeah, we’re fine.”

“But I assume that’s not what you need help with?”

“You assume right. I will need you to bear with me, though.”

“That sounds interesting,” Rowan retorted and flashed a smile at Abby who was bringing them two steaming mugs of earl gray. “And when I say interesting I mean impending doom, why thank you, Abby!”

“No problem.” She slowly leaned over, careful not to lose balance with her belly, and kissed him on the forehead. “I’ll be off for my swimming class then. You two behave, will you.”

As she was making her way to the hall, Lister jokingly remarked, “No goodbye kiss for me?”

She stopped in the middle of the room and exchanged a glance with Rowan. Rowan, stirring his tea with a teaspoon, said, “Please don’t kill him, I need him for the concert.”

“Come on, you guys, I was fully kidding. Goodbye, Abby,” he waved to her with a bright smile. “Enjoy your swimming stuff!”

“Thank you, will do.” She disappeared.

“Just a question!” he called after her. She came back with an eyeroll. “Is it, like, harder to swim when you are pregnant? Like, I don’t mean to insult you or anything, I’m just genuinely wondering.”

She, too, put aside her snarky façade for a second. “Actually, I go there because it’s relieving. The water makes you float, so the weight of the baby is taken off my back and legs for a little while.”

“Oh! That’s clever.”

“Thank you. The more you know, am I right?”

“You know what I was just thinking of?”

“Yeah? I really have to go.”

“When you’re swimming, you’re a human submarine for the baby.”

It seemed to take Abby a minute to realize what he was saying. Very slowly, she brought her palm to her forehead.

Rowan then didn’t make it much better by adding, “Since when does a submarine have water inside? That would defeat the purpose.”

Lister thought about it and then gasped. “So… right now, you are a reverse human submarine!”

Abby looked at them both, clearly lost for words. “I’ll just go…” She closed the lounge door behind her.

After a good ten minutes of Rowan half laughing and half chastising Lister for saying the things he says, Lister threw his hands up in the air and claimed they seem to have “traded their sense of humour for a marriage certificate” two years ago.

Rowan immediately followed: “Speaking of marriage, any updates on that? You and…?”

“Well, my friend, that is precisely what we need to talk about today.”

“Okay. The meeting is officially in session, go.”

“First: am I the only one that was really surprised by Jimmy wanting to make us public? Because I really didn’t expect that at all.”

“Yeah, I guess he’s still full of surprises, huh?”

“That he is. However, Ro, I was thinking, and I still want to do a proposal. No – let me finish, it’s not that straightforward. I spent a lot of time talking to Jimmy about what he wants and how he sees the future, and you were super right in saying that I should never put him on the spot like that. Being so exposed to the public when we were kids messed with us in a big way, all of us.”

Rowan snapped his fingers in agreement.

“The idea is… It would be a proposal before a proposal. Like… I don’t know, announcing that I have the intention of proposing to him soon. And asking him if he is okay with that, you know? If he’s okay with the idea of saying yes. That way,” Lister gesticulated with his hands, “he’s not forced right there to say yes, the eventual real proposal can be sort of expected, which would calm him down a bit, but still a surprise, because when is it going to happen? I’m not saying.”

Rowan stared at him for about three seconds. “That was… a whole thing, buddy.”

“Thoughts?”

“I’m just trying to wrap my head around this. Wait. You want to do a proposal before the actual proposal.”

“Yes.”

“On stage. At the same time you are announcing that the two of you are together?”

“No! I mean, I don’t think so. I thought like, more at the end, maybe.”

“Proposal before a proposal…”

“It’s clever, if you think about it.”

“To me, it just seems very extra, Lister. Which I know is your trademark, but –”

“No, but listen. I want to propose to Jimmy. He wouldn’t survive a big flashy proposal, but I still want to make it a big deal, because it is. Ergo, I announce that I want to spend the rest of my stupid little life with him and ask him if it is okay to propose to him one day, likely soon.”

Rowan’ expression changed. “That does make sense,” he said. “For the two of you, especially.”

“Okay then: dear dad, do I have your blessing?”

“Never call me that again. But yes.”

“You are the closest to being a father out of all of us.”

“That is not what it sounds like and you know it.”

JIMMY

The first show was an explosion of feeling and memories. Nauseous with anxiety, burdened with expectation and weak in the knees, Jimmy ran into his first appearance on the stage the same way he would run into the middle of the highway. The lights and screams and colours almost blew him to pieces and then glued him back together. His first words addressed to the crowd and the earth-shattering screams that came in answer woke something in him, a force of nature. The gig was rather small compared to those they ended on ten years ago, but the crowd loved them to pieces and oh, he felt so alive.

The second show was slightly bigger, yes, and their fans didn’t disappoint. Plenty of pride flags were chucked at him, and he waved them and gave them to his mates and it made him even more excited about what him and Lister were going to do the next time round. These people stayed with them for so long, this sea of faces that looked toward him… for many of them, he would be the representation they need, again.

He remembered being a young trans boy, questioning if there is a life, a future, for him. Where were all the queer adults? The trans adults? How could he imagine adult life if he had never seen someone like him live it?

There he was, now. Adult. Gay. Transgender. A lot of time, he still knew very little about what he was doing, but he had a boyfriend who knew equally little, and together, they might be just what some queer kid in the crowd yearns to see.

LISTER

It was D-Day. Christ and Mary, it was, and they were going to say it. Finally. The staff have been informed, the security has been strengthened, they did everything so that some fan wouldn’t try and knock them the fuck out…, but he was still incredibly nervous. Minutes before the show, among all the rush and flourish, he caught Jimmy and pulled him to the side, apologizing to a couple of sound guys securing some cables on the ground.

“How are you doing?” he blurted out.

“I’ll die, but maybe in a good way. You?”

“Same. Or I’ll throw up, in a bad way.”

“Wait really?”

“No, I’m sick, but not the vomiting kind.”

“Anxiety! Welcome to the club!” Jimmy shouted as he was being ushered away under the stage so he could come up on a platform.

More pushing, more ushering, and he stood next to Rowan.

Their intro – a dramatic organ solo as light flashed through the artificial fog like sunbeams – was rumbling all around them. The crowd was losing their minds. He didn’t know how, but he still heard Rowan whisper:

“Lister, promise me you won’t do the other thing today!”

“Told you I won’t, stop being patronizing!” he snapped back, but then it was their time, and they were on a stage, coming up from behind Jimmy, each on every side, acting astonished as they supposedly came down from Noah’s Ark onto new land.

Listed dared to put his hand on Jimmy’s shoulder as they did so.

The show was on.

Here we go.

JIMMY

During the concert, he used every opportunity to interact with the audience that he had. It felt a bit manipulative at first – he wanted them to be up for a bit of talking, eventually – but then the feeling of guilt faded away. However complicated his relationship with the fans used to be, these people were the fans. They stayed loyal to them, they kept their music in their hearts, and came to this revival gig…

It would be okay, okay, okay.

When the last accords of the last song whizzed away into the night and he was thanking the crowd that stomped and cheered and waved signs in hope of an encore… he stopped at the front of the stage. Rowan strummed a few last cords on the guitar and fell silent.

He wished he had somewhere to sit down. His legs were shaking.

But he was not afraid. Not really.

“Now, you guys, these shows are very special for us. Because every single one of you, as we’re standing here and looking at each other, you have been waiting for so long…” His voice was drowned out by cheers. “For so long, you have not forgotten us, you came to our shows, you have been amazingly supportive, and I want to thank you, from the bottom of my heart!” He shouted the last few words as the sea of faces roared in joy.

When they calmed down again, he continued. “And because you are the ones that stuck with us… because of that, I would like to say a few things to you.

If you know about the days of my youth…” Pause as people laughed and shouted affirmations at him. “…you would probably remember that I was presumed to be in a relationship with a person that is standing on the stage with me, right now.”

It was good that only a few people cheered. But it made him sick to the stomach, still.

“Okay, no,” Rowan came in, and people applauded, and he pointed at them with a not-so-fake scolding look, “no, no, don’t you woo at me, young lady. This is so utterly not a thing! Jimmy has never left the friendzone!”

“Same here,” Jimmy laughed and patted Rowan across the back, maybe a little too hard, overcompensating. “Did you all, like, miss that Rowan came out as straight all those years ago?”

People were laughing. Nobody really cared, they just found it funny. Rowan claimed he was leaving it to Jimmy before “the PR team has me taken out”, and retreated a few steps, leaving Jimmy to face the crowd again.

Deep breaths, he told himself.

“What I wanted to say was that there was one thing that those people back then got right.” Breathe in, breathe out. “I am gay.”

Two seconds of silence and then an absolute thunderstorm of an applause. A rainbow pride flag landed at his feet and Jimmy took it, with meek laughter, and put it around his shoulders. He heard Rowan cheer and clap too, and for what felt like years, he couldn’t get a word in. He wished the whole world could be like this.

“I – gosh, thank you all, I’m not sure whether it was a surprise,” he finally managed to say, his voice breaking a little from surprise, “but yeah. I am a trans, gay man…” The hall exploded with joyous noise. “…and it’s not all that there is to me, but I’m here. And queer. Hello.”

He thought he was going to pass out. He had a clever segway prepared, but he couldn’t remember a word of it. This was the moment. He wanted to say it, but at the same time… How could he? It was so hard, why do things have to be so hard?

“The other… the second thing,” he said, gripping the pride flag. “It is that… wow, it’s hard. It’s that I am…” He felt himself turn around, and like a lost child call: “Lister?”

Lister climbed out from behind the drum set instantly. Nobody cheered, there were only confused whispers. Jimmy looked at him, asking for help without words, and he knew, as he always did. Jimmy found a place to look, above the crowd, beyond everything, as Lister stepped in and slowly took his hand.

“The second thing is that we are together,” Lister said, his voice steady.

And the crowd lost it.

There were people wailing in happy tears. Screaming at the top of their lungs. A dissonance of chanting their names, all at a different rhythm, before Rowan ran up to them and hugged them and spurred the crowd on, and they stood there wrapped in a pride flag, and Jimmy was kind of crying and leaning on Lister, and it was another half an hour of a pure mess, before they really left the stage with their ears buzzing and eyes wide.

Jimmy and Lister tumbled into a corner somewhere, and Jimmy had happy tears streaming down his cheeks and they were kissing and holding each other and shaking.

“Oh, I’m such a mess,” Jimmy laughed as he was smearing tears and foundation on his sleeve.

“And I love you so much,” Lister blurted out in a moment of raw honesty.

“Me too,” Jimmy took one of his hands and kissed the palm. “I love you so fucking much it’s unreal sometimes.”

LISTER

This was, hands down, the most jittery Lister got before a show. Ever.

Currently, he found himself sat at an old sofa in the dressing room, hands clasped and both legs involuntarily jumping up and down. Was it annoying? Likely. But he had to let his knees jump in such a vigorous way because if he hadn’t, his teeth might start clattering.

He hated that he couldn’t just be pumped and excited. He had to feel this unsettling, buzzing mess of an emotion. Anxiety, as Jimmy informed him. This is what it’s like for an anxious person, he said… except make it all the time and often for no real reason.

Lister shook his head a little.

His reason, too, was basically nothing. He knew. As if Jimmy would actually reject him or something…

Or would he?

Maybe he could? Oh God, maybe he could…

“Hey! You’re actually scaring me, what’s up with you?!”

Lister blinked in confusion. He saw Jimmy as he was making his way over. A half scolding, half worried look decorated his face.

He lowered his voice when he added: “The last time I saw you like this was when you had withdrawal symptoms. You can tell me if that’s what it is.”

“It’s not that. I’m fine,” Lister insisted. Crap, he was panicking too hard to actually come up with anything convincing. Come on, Bird, focus… He’s onto you…

“Actually,” Rowan’s voice travelled to them from the corner, “I just think we had weird coffee.”

“What? But you’re fine.”

“Yeah, well,” Rowan continued to make up a story, “we both got one, but I didn’t like the taste, it was too strong. Lister felt bad for throwing them out so he finished both of them, didn’t you?”

“Ye-Yes,” he finally caught on. Had to admit, Ro was impressive at this. Lister started to believe what their friend used to say: that he can lie very well, he just chooses not to. “I didn’t want to waste it. The coffee.”

“Lister,” Jimmy grunted in disbelief, hands on his hips. “That was a brilliant idea, you walnut! Look at yourself, you’re gonna be sick now!”

“I’m not.”

“You look it.”

“I’m just…” He rubbed his clammy hands together. “I’m just anxious I guess.”

“Well, no shit. Why do you think I avoid caffeine?” Jimmy sighed and dropped into a squat in front of Lister. He took Lister’s hands in his. “Seriously, are you okay? You’re not gonna have a heart attack, are you?”

“No, babe. I’m alright.” The last thing he wanted was for his boyfriend to be anxious too.

He looked down at Jimmy. The realization dawned on him, as he noticed that his partner dropped onto one of his knees to be more comfortable; very soon, the roles will be reversed. It will be Lister down on one knee, only Jimmy would be standing up in that case…

Okay.

Wow.

This is what true internal screaming felt like.

“You need water, as in now,” Jimmy decided and jumped up. “I’ll need you to drink at least three glasses before we start, that should help.”

He rushed out of the room to get hands on some water. Rowan and Lister looked at each other, the pretence gone.

“Alright?” Rowan nodded.

“I’m fucking choking, dude,” Lister replied.

It almost looked as if his friend was going to give him advice, or maybe say something generic and calming… but instead, Rowan let out a small laugh. Lister’s lips started twisting without him giving the command.

And then the two collapsed laughing. The pressure of this being the very last show and the knowledge of what Lister was about to do at the end of it were just the right recipe for hysterics.

Jimmy didn’t bother to ask twice what the joke was, as long as they promised they weren’t laughing at him.

-----------------------------------

As the concert was coming to an end and the crowd was cheering and chanting for an encore, Rowan seized the opportunity and called: “Alright, friends, we would like to indulge you in a little experiment! Can you join me at the front, Lister?”

Lister got out from behind the drum set and jogged to meet the rest of the group. Jimmy smiled, but his eyes studied both of them suspiciously. “What is this?”

Lister lazily raised his arms with the palms of his hands towards the crowd. “I have to admit, we kind of didn’t tell Jimmy what this is about. Sorry, my guy.” People laughed. Rowan signalled someone backstage, as Lister added: “But just so you don’t feel left out, you can have this triangle.” A nervous assistant handed Jimmy the instrument and ran off again.

Everybody was jeering and whistling, but there was an air of anticipation in the air.

“Oh wow, that’s generous of you,” Jimmy grimaced.

“I know, right? Anyhow.” Lister took a step forward, trying to calm himself. He could do this. He had acting jobs, he could absolutely pull this off.

He was Lister freaking Bird! He was the fan favourite!

“Dear audience, allow me to tell you a tale,” he addressed the crowd in his best narrator voice. A couple of screams rose from the crowd, but everyone else was listening intently. Behind him, Rowan started strumming a little melody on his guitar – one they created especially as a backdrop to Lister’s talk.

“I know this is a little unusual,” Lister admitted to the sea of people, “I know that you’re used to stories coming to you via this man’s voice,” he pointed at Jimmy, “and this man’s lyrics.” Rowan. “I know that I am just a simple drummer in this arrangement. But today, I will do the voice and the words. Because, well… Talking all the time is the one thing I am actually good at.”

That made the crowd laugh. Good. Great.

“But now, on with the story!” he exclaimed and made a motion with his hands as if he was showing them a canvas.

“Picture this. We are all fifteen, stuffed into a tiny studio in London,” he smiled, as if nostalgic. His voice flowed out of him in a steady melody, like the hum of a river. “We all had that awkward long hair phase – yes, I see some true veterans in the audience today. Good,” he smiled at a couple of girls in the front who seemed to know exactly which haircuts he meant. He raised his hands again. “I am sitting outside the recording room, behind the glass. On the other side, there’s Jimmy. I can see him clearly, I hope you can too,” he said, keeping his dreamy smile. “The giant black hoodie. The fringe almost hiding his eyes. Jimmy waits for the cue, bouncing up and down,” he chuckled as he swayed up and down on his toes, “and then starts singing the interlude in our first album. It’s only about two lines that we need to record, but I remember wishing it lasted longer. Obviously. Because his voice is amazing.”

The audience started yelling and swooning at once. Lister was honestly more okay looking at them than if he had to look at Jimmy and see what his reaction is.

Now, here comes the real cliché.

“But then,” he paused with real embarrassment in his voice, “then he looked up from under his hair… at me, with those big brown eyes… and asked me, if he was okay.”

Breathe in, and:

“My friends, that was the moment I have fallen for Jimmy Kaga-Ricci.”

A roar of screams started rising from the audience, when Rowan strummed dramatically on the guitar, as if something tragic had happened. Lister shot a look at Jimmy and found him laughing. Surprised, but amused.

Thank fuck. I’ve never told him that before.

On the outside, he theatrically turned to Rowan and scolded him: “I was just getting sentimental here?”

Rowan shrugged and strummed a more positive jingle. Everyone laughed and clapped. Lister was starting to enjoy this, actually. He sighed and walked forward onto a prolonged platform where Jimmy was usually stood on.

“Well, maybe my trusty assistant was right with the sound effects,” he admitted jovially. “Because my crush absolutely did not like me back for years. Hey, but that’s not to throw shade at the guy,” he added quickly to prevent any pitiful reaction that would make Jimmy feel bad. “Because you have to consider that I was and still am a bloody mess of a person.” That amused the listeners. Lister turned round, as he exclaimed. “I am the creator of problems, the maker of terrible decisions. We can all agree that Jimmy is a lovely lad…” He had to pause for the overwhelming reaction in support of that statement. “Yes, he is, but inflicting my teenage self upon him, that would just not be right.”

Jimmy suddenly clanked the metal stick against the triangle in an absolute cacophony to draw attention to himself. “Excuse me,” he called to Lister, “could you stop insulting yourself? I would enjoy that.”

A girl somewhere below them screamed as if she was getting murdered. They exchanged a quick glance, as if to say a little yikes, but then Lister laughed it off.

“Sorry, sorry,” he continued. “Through it all, Jimmy was always here for me. He was one of my first real friends. He was understanding when I needed it most, and ready to kick my ass when I needed it most.” He smiled at his boyfriend and hoped his voice is not shaking. “Look at you, Jimmy! I’m being embarrassing in front of hundreds of people and you still haven’t walked off stage.”

Jimmy laughed and lightly hit the triangle. He was ever the professional, but his eyes glimmered in curiosity. Expectation.

Lister kept looking at him. Rowan was strumming a slightly different melody now, and if Lister did say so himself, the atmosphere was fucking perfect.

“What I want to say is…, I feel that we were together before we got together. We were always partners. A great team. Maybe you wouldn’t think the same,” he admitted to Jimmy, “but a girl can dream. Oh! A rhyme!” He exclaimed to a symphony of awwws and ooohs. People were laughing again, clapping here and there. “That will be the only time!” Lister made a face of feigned shock. “Or not? Wow, I’m unpredictable!”

“You’re hot,” Jimmy rhymed with unexpected confidence.

The crowd was screaming their heads off at this interaction. Even Lister was a little flustered. He came back to his bandmates and gestured toward Jimmy, who was still smirking a little. “And he can improv, what’s not to like, honestly!”

Now, there came the challenge. Lister took a deep breath and prayed to all deities that were listening for this to come off as more sweet than cringy.

His voice fell into a different rhythm. One he kept studying every possible minute from any good slam poetry or original poem reading he could find online.

“But now, if our audience permits,” he put one hand on his chest, turning directly to Jimmy, “I would like to address you. Because, dear Jimmy, although I love each face in the crowd, my friends, my family, those that are both… I can state loud and proud that the biggest part of my heart goes to you.” He grinned sheepishly at Jimmy’s stunned expression, when he added: “If not all of it.”

“I can only guess what goes on in that mind, whether you think this is suspicious or kind… I can’t know these things. But there is one thing I do know. That no matter how much we grow, what we lose and what we gain, through all the smiles and all the pain, I will love you. It’s as big and as small as this. And today was an opportunity I couldn’t miss. So, nobody panic, stay in your seats. It’s not what it looks like.”

He got down on one knee in front of his boyfriend.

Jimmy gasped in sync with the audience: “Lister!” He backed away.

“Oh no, mister, don’t panic,” Lister retorted. That managed to amuse Jimmy a little – that he would know this would be the reaction. The audience was still going absolutely wild. Another pride flag just about missed Lister’s left ear.

“As I said, it’s not what it looks like. And I’m sick of rhyming by now, so…” He reached for Jimmy’s hand. Pulled it down to his by the triangle and encouragingly pressed a thumb into his palm. “I wanted to tell you – in a way that means something – that I don’t see myself living my life with anyone but you. So I have a question. Can you imagine me proposing in the near future?”

Jimmy looked like he suddenly couldn’t speak any human language. The only thing that came from his open lips was: “Huh?”

He was trying not to panic. To explain it well. Better than he had to Rowan.

“I would like to start talking about marriage. With you. I’m asking your permission to… go pick out a ring, perhaps. And propose to you. One day.”

“You want to…” He was trying so hard to make sense of this situation. Lister could almost hear the wheels in his brain clanking and whirring. After a second, Jimmy blurted out about the last thing Lister expected. “You really want to marry me?”

He had to laugh. That sounded so bizarre! You have the wrong number, I don’t think you want to marry me, of all people. As if.

Covering Jimmy’s hand with both of his own, he answered: “Who else, Jimmy?”

As there was no instant reply, Lister felt the audience grow impatient.

This was the time to smooth things out. Make it amusing.

“Okay, I don’t want to stress you out. You can just think about it,” he ensured his partner. But I just wanted to let you know my, er, intentions.” Wow, great choice of words, Bird. But was there any better? He decided to make fun of himself a little when he sarcastically added: “Because this is the regency era, apparently.”

People were losing it. However, Lister was only looking at Jimmy now… and realized that the eyes of his boyfriend were welling up with tears as he looked down. Were they happy or sad tears? Shit.

“Oh…” Lister managed to say, when Jimmy dropped the triangle on the floor with a thud and shakily took Lister’s face into his soft palms.

His voice was trembling with emotion, as he answered:

“Allister Bird, I would love to marry you. I don’t think you even need to propose again.”

Before Lister could even register what he meant, Jimmy leaned down and gently pressed a kiss at his forehead. This was probably as close to kissing in public as Jimmy would ever allow.

Lister finally realized. He realized.

At the same time, Jimmy dropped down and Lister shot up. They embraced each other tightly, a mess of crumpled clothes and limbs and teary laughing, and Lister almost lifted Jimmy off the ground as he was happy-crying into the shorter man’s shoulder.

They heard Rowan screaming at the top of his lungs: “HE SAID YES, PEOPLE!” His voice was drowned out by the massive storm of excited screams that wouldn’t seize for good twenty minutes after.

But Lister and Jimmy didn’t really pay attention.

Paradoxically, although everyone could see them – and everyone would see them, as the news probably already travelled through the internet at the speed of light – it felt like this moment was theirs alone.

#osemanverse #osemanverse fanfic #alice oseman #jimmy kaga ricci #lister bird #bicci #rowan omondi #angel rahimi #oc #bicci proposal #i was born for this #iwbft #the ark #older ark #older au #proposal #engagement #grand gesture #fanfiction

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kemlyn · 4 years

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this has taken me a week. i cannot fandom on command. i have my loves, but the second i sit down to think about them in a more substantial way than *scroll* *reblog* *vaguely related tags* *draft* *eventual queue* it all leaves my mind. this is not ordered because it was hard enough just to list 'em

Rules: name your top 10 favorite characters from 10 different fandoms and then tag 10 people

1. darlene alderson & dom dipierro (mr robot) i would run away with either of them or both of them if they are into that

2. max & anne bonny & eleanor guthrie (black sails) pure pirate gold

3. kahlan amnell & cara mason (legend of the seeker)

4. ros myers (spooks) so badass they had to kill her twice & ruth evershed (spooks) i genuinely wept

5. violet 'vod' nordstrom (fresh meat) if you have seen it, you will understand. if not, tough. i can't explain her brilliance

6. catherine cawood (happy valley) & clare cartwright (happy valley)

7. DI vivenne deering & DS dinah kowalska & DS joy freers (no offence) i watched it just for them tbh

8. phyllis crane (call the midwife)

9. anne lister & ann walker & marian lister (gentleman jack) this feels like a cheat because they're not really fictional? but neither was anne bonny and i listed her so eh

10. violet crawley, dowager countess of grantham (downton abbey) i never did tell the story of how i binged all 52 episodes just so my friend had somebody to go to the cinema with. #10 on my list made it bearable

also here for oksana astankova/villanelle (killing eve), stella gibson (the fall), brienne of tarth (game of thrones), carol peletier (the walking dead), meredith grey & cristina yang (grey's anatomy), mared rhys (y gwyll) and god knows whoever else i've forgotten

tagged by @goodobservationshirley, the swine

#this skewed so british

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veryfineday · 4 years

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Sunday 30 September 1832

9 20/..

x L L

awake at five and from then to getting up lay thinking of Miss W[alker] at nine incurred the cross I really am getting much more in love than I expected to be again in fact she likes me it is evident and I think we shall be very happy together

breakfast with my aunt at 10 1/2 and sat talKing till 12 - then read prayers and sermon 11 mr. Knight in 55 minutes - then asleep till came upstairs after 1 and wrote the journal of yesterday, and so far of today till 2 20/.. - then called down to Dr. Kenny - He thinKs my aunt not looKing so well as when he saw her last, and her state precarious - but ten days will shew the effect of the combination of alteratives he is now giving her - if she is not then better - if the spasms are not subdued, he shall not thinK well for her - staid down stairs talKing 4 20/.. just gently named to Marian when alone with her that I really wished she would never again set at me as she did last night and she began roaring again saying we did not suit and she would go away etc. etc. this always annoys me and at last I am inclined to make it a rule never to mention Marian in any way to anyone –

from 4 3/4 to 6 40/.. wrote 1 page to Eugénies sister and 3 pp.[pages] and ends and under the seal, Chit Chat, to mrs. Norcliffe - as she is to be at home on Wednesday determined my letter shall be in readiness ro welcome her - should have written by return of post to Harrogate had I Known where she was - ‘I see you are so well satisfied, I make sure of papa and mamma being equally so, and of Esther’s being so happy, that I am determined my congratulations shall not be tardy’ - remember the house they are to have (mr. Temples, in malton) - ‘that all this will be a great comfort to you, is very clear; and, with all my heart, I am always glad of your having anything to give you pleasure - thank you very much for writing to me on the occasion’ –

mention the long letter I had written and was just sending when hers arrived - AsK if Bell is really to marry Dr. Travis’s younger brother - nothing would delight me more than to go to Langton now, but cannot for business - my steward died ten days ago - and ‘my aunt has been so far from well this last fortnight, that I should be uneasy to leave her’ AsK if Burnett got the parcel I sent her ages ago - all pleased with V[ere] my friends marriage with Lochiel and in very particular - mention that the younger children are now to take ranK as if their father had come to the title - shall mrs. N-[Norcliffe] again by hooK or by crooK before I go - uncertain now whether I shall be at Rome next Easter or not - as mrs. James Dalton has not written to me on the occasion shall not write my congratulations to her till after the ceremony – mention Eugénie - as ‘the person of all others to suit me’ - and may perhaps have her at last - asK if Richard (the groom at Langton) Knows of a good groom who could act as footman and liKely to be at liberty in January - almost determined to take an English groom and a courier too –

sent off at 7 my letter to ‘mrs. Norcliffe Langton hall malton and to ‘mademoiselle Pierre, at mrs. Swinley’s school, East cliff house, Brighton, postage paid’ - as follows ‘Shibden hall, near Halifax, YorKshire Sunday 30 September 1832. - mademoiselle - mrs. Lawton has forwarded to me the letter of the 18th inst. respecting your sister Eugénie, who, from all I have yet heard, seems very liKely to suit me; but I have not written to any of the ladies you mention for a character, because it seems from your letter that there is a doubt whether your sister will be at liberty in January or not - I want a clever lady’s maid who is at the same time thoroughly respectable and steady, obliging in her manners, neat in her person and habits, who has good health, and is sufficiently fond of travelling to make the best of everything, and have no objection to go outside, or to go to wherever I may wish - If your sister is such a person, and if, as mrs. Lawton seems persuaded, she has really profited by many advantages of birth and education, I feel certain that she would in a very short time understand my habits and wishes, and find her place as comfortable as it would be in my power to make it - I am etc. etc. A Lister’ –

Dinner at 7 5/.. - asleep - went into the other room at 9 - read over the Courier - came to my room at 10 20/.. - looKing over PicKle’s account till after 11 - fine morning - a little rain in the afternoon between 3 and 4 - then fine again - Fahrenheit 69 1/2º at

11 10/.. p.m. -

#anne lister code breaker #1832 #ann walker #Mrs. Norcliffe

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advancedh2osolutionsinc · 4 years

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Julz D.

15:54 09 Aug 19

I have used Advanced Water Solutions and their Reverse Osmosis equipment in my home for over two decades. The owner, Jay, has always been great to work...

Julian Dean

01:30 09 Aug 19

I have used Advanced Water Solutions and their Reverse Osmosis equipment in my home for over two decades. The owner, Jay, has always been great to work with, and his staff are skilled, professional, and easy to talk with. Tim recently performed the annual service on my equipment, and like Alanzo, he knows what he is doing and is happy to explain it all to me. One of the great things about their equipment is that it is a huge water saver because it uses a lot less to make the RO water than other equipment available. I have referred Advanced to family and friends all over the Santa Barbara and Ventura areas and like me, they stay with Jay and Advanced for years.

Lucia M.

11:58 26 Jul 19

I finally have great tasting, pure water!! My technician Rick did a really great installation job! Looks and works great. The sales reb Paul was very nice...

Lyn T.

10:58 21 Jul 19

Great customer service! Highly recommend this company to anyone looking at getting a water treatment system!

Karla P.

14:03 26 Jun 19

I've waited several weeks since getting everything installed to write this review, just to make sure things continued to work, and I'm excited to report...

Tyler R.

10:46 22 Jun 19

Your search for water treatment in Ventura County is over. Advanced Water Solutions is the company you want to give your business to. Last month, we had...

Sharonda Bolen

18:36 19 Jun 19

Best water drinking systems. For humans that care what they put in their bodies, especially water it's worth money. Think of your health and the health of your family.

Lisa Ehrnman

06:20 29 May 19

Advanced Water Solutions is by far the only water softener company I would ever use! The customer service is excellent and exceeded all of my expectations! Our water softener was installed within an hour and the water is fantastic! I would recommend this company to my best friend, my neighbors, my family and anyone who likes good customer service and an excellent finished product!Thank you Advanced Water Solutions!

Ann Van Cleve

23:16 17 May 19

I must say, I am very happy with my new water system. Advanced Water Solutions has been a wonderful experience. From the sales, by Paul and the installation by Timothy. Both of them were extremely nice and personable. Also, there is Paulette in the office that was very helpful to any question(s) I have had and feel comfortable calling with any in the future. So keep up the great job! I will recommend this company to friends and family.

Beverley Sharpe

21:28 03 May 19

When I read our municipal water company’s disclosure about the chemicals added to ensure our city water is safe, I was concerned about the monochloramine (which is a combination of chlorine and ammonia). My husband was on board with filtering our water and trusted Advanced Water Solutions because he knew some their satisfied customers. We chose an AWS125 water softener with a whole-house carbon filter. Alonso did our installation and he was terrific. His work was impeccable and he clearly explained what he was doing and how the system worked. After the installation, Alonso tested the water, which we watched, explained the results and patiently answering our questions. We are thoroughly satisfied with the complete filtration system.

Bobbi S.

19:29 25 Apr 19

Called them on Thursday, set up an appointment time that worked best for me on Monday and system was installed today! Rick, my installer, went above and...

Diego Sanabria

17:52 23 Apr 19

Tim came out to fix our water softener within hours of me calling and fixed the problem, quickly and efficiently! We ended up upgrading to a new water osmosis/carbon filter! Tim is so knowledgeable, kind, easy to talk to and I truly felt he cares in making sure we have clean water to drink! I am so glad we switched to Advanced Water Solutions for our drinking water and look forward to having cleaner, better tasting water... on top of the water softener that Tim rushed out to make sure was working properly. I feel confident in this company and I hope Tim's boss realizes they have a Gem of an employee, that represents you guys SO well!

Gary Rutledge

23:13 18 Apr 19

Rick did the install of our New Water System today he was in and out in less time than was scheduled, explained how to operate the system to me he was friendly and helpful. Thanks Rick!

David Seltzer

16:04 27 Jan 19

Everyone was very informative and answered all my questions. Rick did a great job installing and running through everything with me. Very happy with the outcome so far.

Nathan A.

07:03 18 Oct 18

We had a double tank water softener system and reverse osmosis drinking water system installed in our home last week. The salesman was very personable and...

Bruce Archer

14:36 17 Aug 18

Very welcoming and answered many of my questions

itsmetusher

05:52 14 Jul 18

Awesome and Very Fast... Thank You.

witwaltman

06:58 16 May 18

Advanced has been servicing our drinking water system for years, and we have the best tasting water. They keep a calendar and call us annually to change the filters. We have been pleased.

Sandra O'Meara

18:42 14 May 18

So Easy! So perfect! These guys are great! We are happy with our new water system and this company. Very straightforward and thoughtful.

Ryan Sandefer

19:23 12 Mar 18

Advanced Water Solutions has helped us with two commercial installations. Jay and his team are always professional and always get me the best prices. The system is fantastic as is the service! The few times I have had issues, a techninian was on site immediately. If you are looking for a company that does what they say they will do - then Advanced Water Solutions is for you.

K C H

21:06 28 Dec 17

Thank you

Tom Loge'

00:11 12 Sep 17

My long serving and rare Braswell Water Softener failed over the weekend. All the available water was salty with a capital T. Called this am first thing. They sent Danny out this afternoon. He was here 10 minutes checked a couple of possible causes. Very professional and knowledgeable. Had it nailed in short order. He explained thoroughly, had the necessary parts in the truck and was outta' here in 30 minutes. Very reasonable charges and I'm back in business. The way things are supposed to work but rarely does. Thank you Danny you're an ace! Thank you AWS. Well done all!

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We take great pride in serving our customers to achieve those reviews and a major reason for that is our dedication to service. We have dozens of options for rental, purchase, and financing to meet the budget of your family or business however Your Free Home Water Evaluation is the only way for us to know exactly what you need.

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houstonlocalus-blog · 7 years

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Never Settle: The Best of The Week

Jeezy. Photo: Uncredited/ICM Partners

Now that SXSW is over, we’ll get a bit of a slowdown as far as what’s happening around this city. Of course, that doesn’t mean that this week is slim as performances from Jeezy, Flogging Molly, and Louie Anderson will give you plenty to do while locals like Days N Daze, Astragal and more will make deciding what to do more difficult. Houston, here’s how to navigate the upcoming week.

On Wednesday you can get going with the punk infused Celtic rock of LA’s Flogging Molly at House of Blues. While it’s been fifteen years since these guys hit it big, they’re definitely due for a new album, and their live shows are always worth making it out for. Their 2016 single “The Hand Of John L. Sullivan” is hopefully a sign that a new album is on the way. The punkish folk of British six-piece Skinny Lister will be on as direct support and openers for the all ages show with doors at 7 pm and tickets between $35 and $55.

If you’re up for a laugh, then you could head to the first of three shows from the always hilarious Dave Chappelle at Revention Center. It’s been over a decade since Chappelle’s Show ended, but that doesn’t mean that the comic hasn’t been gearing up for a strong return. With a newly released special Deep In The Heart of Texas: Dave Chappelle Live at Austin City Limits, these shows should be worth it. There’s no word of feature act for the all ages shows with doors at 7 pm, 10 pm, or Thursday at 7 pm all with tickets for $69.50.

The Show Ponies. Photo: Daley Hake/Red Boot PR

At Walter’s you can catch the beauty of indie rock folk mixture of The Show Ponies. This five-piece makes music that’s like old time country folk with hints of indie rock flavor, and they’re so diverse that you can’t even pin them down to where they came from. Their latest releases are both from this year, including the beautifully crafted full length How It All Goes Down, and the band’s live release Jam In The Van. The straight forward rock of Houston’s Alex Riddle will be support and opener on the all ages show with doors at 8 pm and tickets between $7 and $10.

Thursday you should consider heading to the big room at White Oak Music Hall when the crusty sounds of Houston’s Days N Daze host their album release and tour kickoff show. These guys have toured the globe, they have a pretty rabid fan base, and their last album, Rogue Taxidermy, should be enough reason to see what they’re up to this time. The thrash punk of San Antonio’s So Unloved will provide direct support while the skate ska punk of Houston’s FUSKA will go on prior. The Ballistics will also be on hand to bring their crazed punk to life and The Real McCoys will open the all ages show with doors at 7 pm and tickets between $10 and $12.

Mucky Duck will host back to back sets from Austin’s Bob Schneider. Schneider has been a Texas staple for a good while now, he always seems to bring something new to each show, and his latest release Best of Frunk 2015 is definitely the singer songwriter stretching his legs, The 21 & up shows are at 7 pm and 9:30 pm with tickets between $28 and $30.

If you’d rather get your noise music fix, then you could go to Sound Exchange to catch the Exchange of Noiz show. Hosted by Spike The Percussionist, the show will have sets from Painful Vigil, Astrogenic Hallucinating, Kai/Ros, The PackRat Show, SquareCircleSquare, In The Pouring Rain, and The Rotation of An Object In Relation To Itself. The all ages show is 100% FREE and it gets going around 7:30 pm.

King Woman. Photo: Uncredited/Hexagram Booking

At Walter’s you can get scared by the black metal of Belgium’s Oathbreaker. This four piece makes the kind of music that sounds like dying bodies falling from a burning plane, they’re rumored to be insane live, and last year’s Rheia is pretty intense to say the least. San Francisco’s King Woman will bring their doom drone metal on as direct support while the somber and engaging punk of Kentucky’s Jaye Jayle will open the all ages show with doors at 8 pm and tickets between $12 and $14.

Out in The Woodlands you could catch a super intimate living room set from JPKS. Also known as Justin Peter Kinkel-Schuster of The Water Liars, the Arkansas singer songwriter plays tunes that are a road weary chill kind of vibe, and his latest Constant Stranger from last year is pretty solid. Adam Torres will open the show with doors at 8 pm and tickets for $20 with more information available here.

If you can, you’d do yourself a service by heading to Leon’s Lounge to catch an intimate set from Houston hip hop duo Dirty & Nasty. While it’s definitely time for these two to drop a new album, their live shows and album Sons of The Queen are both worth experiencing. The chopped and screwed instrumental hip hop of Houston’s Purple Bastard will open the 21 & up show with doors at 9 pm for the 100% FREE show.

Friday you should head to Bohemeo’s for the Counter Coven Open Mic and Art Market. I’ve been to one of these and I’d be lying if I said that there wasn’t always something surprising in store. The all female lead event will feature a guest speaker talk from Ann Christensen, as well as open mic sets from Vicki Tippit of Black Kite, Bevin, and Dallas’ Lauren Belmore. The all ages event gets going around 5 pm and it’s 100% FREE with more information here.

Louie Anderson. Photo: Uncredited/Courtesy of Artist

Over at Warehouse Live in the ballroom you can catch one of the greatest comics of all time when Louie Anderson swings by to perform. Anderson of course is now known more for his hit show Baskets, but you should know that the Midwest comic has also been in films like Coming To America, he’s authored three bestselling books, and he’s been on pretty much every late night talk show around. His last album, LIVE from 2013 is a true riot and he rarely performs in venues like this, so the show is a real treat. There’s no word of feature act or host, but the seated all ages show has doors at 7 pm and tickets between $30 and $34.

If you like the sultrier side of things then you could go to the studio at Warehouse Live for another edition of Kiki Maroon’s Burly Q Lounge. The monthly vaudeville based show features burlesque, comedy, music and more, and is definitely worth making it out for. The 18 & up show has doors at 7 pm, it’s seated, with tickets for $25.

Satellite Bar will host the pop punk of LA’s The Dollyrots. While the band has sweetly tinged group and dual vocals on most songs, their punky riffs are also super catchy and their latest release Family Vacation: Live in Los Angeles is pretty solid. The garage punk of LA duo The Two Tens will be on as direct support while the bluesy sounds of Austin’s The Coattails will open the all ages show with doors at 8 pm and a $10 cover.

Astragal. Photo: Uncredited/Courtesy of Artist/Facebook

Rudayrd’s has the indie rock meets guitar rock sounds of Houston’s Golden Sombrero over for their album release party. Aside from a strong live show, these guys just dropped their sophomore release Defensive Indifference, and boy is it a doozy. Complete with plenty of hooky riffs, they’re an up and coming band everyone needs to see sooner than later. Houston’s sultans of catchy guitar rock, Brand New Hearts will also be on hand while the dream pop indie rock of Astragal will open the 21 & up show. Seriously, Astragal could be your next favorite band as they have hints of post punk and new wave in their music, and they’re like if Bauhaus made a Wire album. The show has doors at 9 pm and an $8 cover.

At Numbers you can get a chance to be in the documentary, Friday, I’m In Love: Numbers Nightclub Documentary when the legendary club and the filmmakers will host an evening to catch dancefloor footage. Of course, this is “Classic Numbers” night so you’ll have the ability to dance the night away while helping the filmmakers and having a blast. Normal cover applies and it gets going around 9 pm.

On Saturday at Love Park you can spend the day with the Heights Kids’ Day of Music. The all day family friendly affair features up close and personal embraces with instruments, two stages of local music, the Opera in The Heights singing station, and much more. The FREE to attend event has more information here, and runs from 10 am to 2 pm.

Comrades. Photo: Uncredited/Facedown Records

Downstairs at White Oak Music Hall you can get your metalcore fix when Georgia’s Norma Jean brings their popular screamy sounds to town. While these guys weren’t really my thing, their latest album Polar Similar from last year is pretty legit. Mixing metal riffs with scream heavy vocals, their crazy live set should be worth catching. The post hardcore of North Carolina’s He Is Legend is on as direct support and the punk infused sounds of San Diego’s Capsize will go on beforehand. The intensity of Colorado’s Comrades will open the all ages show with doors at 6 pm and tickets between $18 and $22.

Walter’s will host the pop punk of Massachusetts’ Four Year Strong. Mixing emo, screamo, and pop punk, these guys have been making fans since they started in 2003. They’re here in support of an upcoming album, and they dropped a new holiday track last year called “Somewhere in my Memory” that was pretty solid as far as holiday songs go. The hardcore meets pop punk of San Francisco’s Set Your Goals will be on as direct support while New Jersey five piece, Can’t Swim will go on beforehand. The crazed energy of Ohio’s Light Years will also be on hand where Chicago’s Sleep On It will open the all ages show with doors at 6 pm and tickets between $20 and $22.

At The Secret Group you can celebrate the 100th edition of Bootown’s Grownup Storytime with a special event. The all ages evening gets going with a special pre-show featuring members of the LA and Boston Grownup Storytime lead by JJ Johnston. This is followed by two sets of the show at 7 pm and 9 pm, as well as an after party dance session. The show has doors at 6:30 pm and 9 pm and tickets are between $20 and $40, the latter being a VIP option.

Later on you can get your dance on at Red Alert: Danscendentalism. The 21 & up show features DJ sets from Wrestlers, Portal Walker and more and is hosted by Mills McCoin and Marini Van Smirren. RSVP gets you in for FREE, though it’d be cool if you gave them a donation with doors at 7 pm and more details here for the charitable event.

TAME, the Aspiring Me. Photo: AF The Naysayer

Over on Center Street, you can get turnt up with the hip hop of TAME, the Aspiring Me at the fourth Bounce and Turn party. While he’s the son of Houston rap legend Big Mello, TAME has been grinding since 2010 and his latest drop from this year 98 Briargate & 11 Almeda is pretty fire. NOLA born turned Houston transplant Retrokash will be on beforehand as well as DJ sets and more for the warehouse event with doors at 8 pm and a $10 cover.

Upstairs at White Oak Music Hall you can get down when Houston’s Tax The Wolf returns to perform. One of the more intriguing local acts from about seven years ago, these guys were known for energetic live shows and their 2010 album Hold the Sun still holds up. The chill rock of Houston’s Vodi will be on hand as direct support while the funky good time jams of Handsomebeast will open the all ages show with doors at 8 pm and a $3 cover.

Sunday you can head to Continental Club for their Reggae On The Rail event. The early evening affair features a DJ set from Kool Emdee who will spin your favorite dub, dancehall, and reggae classics. Things run from 5 pm to 9 pm and it’s only $5.

MOTHS. Photo: Uncredited/Courtesy of Artist

Satellite Bar will host the interesting alt rock sounds of Philly’s The Spirit of The Beehive. These guys kind of sound like Sonic Youth meets Dinosaur Jr, and their latest album Pleasure Suck should sound great in person. The experimental thrash math core of Houston’s MOTHS will crazily be on as direct support while Fight Me will go one beforehand. The post punk of Austin’s GLYDE will also be on the show and the psych punk sounds of Houston’s Bernie Pink will open the all ages show with doors at 7 pm and a $10 cover.

At House of Blues you can get your hip hop fix when Jeezy swings by to drop a set. Now that he’s dropped the “Young” from his name and grown up, Jeezy should bring plenty of swag to his set and his 2016 release Trap Or Die 3 definitely proved he can up his game. There’s no word of support or opener, but that could change on the all ages show with doors at 7 pm and tickets between $45 and $69.50.

Tuesday you can catch the legendary mind of Dick Gregory over at Improv. Gregory is easily one of the most important cultural figures in comedy. Breaking the color barrier in comedy, Gregory is a civil rights activist who’s still crazy funny and not to be missed. The St Louis comic is an act everyone should experience, and the 18 & up show has doors at 7 pm and tickets between $30 and $40.

If you’d rather catch another set of legends, you could swing by Mucky Duck to see two sets on the same bill from Al Staley and John Staley. Members of the classic rock band Spirit, these two will perform the broad range of tracks from their storied careers. The second set will feature a backing band to rock the house. Houston’s Evelyn Rubio will open the 21 & up show with doors at 7:30 pm and tickets between $20 and $22.

That’s about all that’s happening around this week. No matter what you decide to do, remember that getting home safe is in everyone’s best interest, so please, drink like an adult.

Never Settle: The Best of The Week this is a repost

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raspberry-arev · 3 years

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After The Flood - pt.1

@opalpower13 thank you for sending me a suggestion that inspired this!! There will be a part two :)

It has been 10 years since the famous British boyband, The Ark, disbanded for personal reasons. Jimmy and Lister have been a couple for a long time now, and as the trio of friends starts their small revival tour, they both realize there are things they need to say - to each other, to the fanbase, and to the world.

Characters: Jimmy, Lister, Rowan, Angel/Feresteh, OC Abby (Rowan’s wife)

Tags: Bicci, Older Ark, Proposal, Coming out ... no Frowan this time sorry

Length: 3.6k words

JIMMY

It’s often impossible to pinpoint what exactly set off an event – or perhaps multiple – that changed your life as you knew it.

That was not Jimmy’s case, however. He remembered that Barbecue Saturday very well.

Over ten years later, they were hardly the same people.

Rowan was already at the grill preparing meat and grilling camembert in shiny aluminium foil when Angel marched in, tall, elegant, beaming. Jimmy loved to see her again. Each time, she seemed a little more confident, more expressive, more… just more. She really did find her calling in the music industry, just as much as he found his tucked away in rural England with his boyfriend.

Yet, he was to be “tucked away” no longer. At a certain point during their cook-out, their group fell momentarily silent; everyone was chewing their meal and soaking in the sun. Then Angel said, in an unfamiliar, cautious tone: “You see, I was talking to a couple of people…”

Rowan exchanged a quick look with Jimmy. “Go on,” he said.

“It’s gonna be ten years since you guys disbanded, you know.”

“I know,” Jimmy echoed.

He felt movement on his left, and looked Lister in the eyes.

“Well,” said Lister, looking at him. “Wow, okay,” said Jimmy. Both were considering.

“Obviously, they’re The Ark,” Abby commented matter-of-factly.

“You’re right, Abby. So, guys? How are we feeling about this?”

Maybe he could do it just once.

What eventually came out of his mouth was… “I haven’t sung like that for a long time though.”

“You sing to me,” Lister contradicted him, his fingers intertwining with his. “All the time.”

Jimmy felt his face get hotter. “That’s hardly… Are you thousands of people?” He turned to Angel. “How many are we talking, anyway?”

She smiled a kind smile. “I don’t know, Jimmy, that depends on whether you three are up to it or not.”

Rowan cleared his throat. “Personally speaking, I think I wouldn’t mind, as long as we are just doing it once, and not trying for a comeback. I wouldn’t go there.”

“Same,” Lister nodded. “I love you guys, but I’m fine the way things are.”

“I’m waiting for you to say.”

“Why?”

“Don’t want you to feel pressured or anything.”

“You shouldn’t… Just say what your opinion is!”

“In that case, I would love to be the centre of attention again!” Lister exclaimed and gave Jimmy a boyish grin. “The crowd was deprived of my looks for too long.”

“Buddy, you were the drummer,” Rowan said. “Bold of you to assume anyone even looked at you with me and Jimmy jumping at the front.”

Jimmy snorted with laughter, but Lister was quick to defend himself. “Google all Lister Bird slash Reader fanfic and then we can talk about who got noticed, buddy.”

“Oi, you’re not even properly revived yet, stop fighting!” Angel called out, but laughter started bubbling from every direction before she even finished the sentence.

LISTER

“You really shouldn’t do that, you know. This bitch is hard to get rid of.”

Rowan tried to hide a small cough and put out his cigarette on the metal window sill next to him. “Hey,” he greeted Lister. “Didn’t expect you to come out here.”

“Yeah.” Lister found it hard to hang around smokers, and unfortunately, he met quite the number of them while they were in the process of rehearsing. “I wanted to talk to you.”

“What’s up?”

“Can we walk, like, over there? So… nobody can hear us through the door?”

Rowan eyed him suspiciously, but he followed him to the railing on the edge of the roof. There, he turned to him, seeming to fight himself.

“I’m really looking for a less shitty way to ask this,” he admitted eventually. “But… What have you done now, Lister?”

“Nothing! As of yet,” he assured his bandmate.

“Okay…?”

“Yes, go on,” he pushed on gently.

“Fuck it. I want to fucking propose!”

A giant weight fell off his shoulders when he spoke those words aloud. It was like coming out all over again, god.

Rowan’s eyes twinkled. “Oooh,” he almost whispered, “and you need my help with that? I’m your man, tell me the plan!”

“There is none right now.”

“Oh, okay. I can still help if you want.”

This was another part Lister dreaded discussing.

“I… okay, so, I was thinking of… doing it on stage?”

His friend’s face changed rapidly.

“Lister, I’m absolutely positive you mean well,” Rowan started. “But Jimmy would-“

Speak of the devil.

The door opened and out of it peaked Jimmy’s unshaven face. “Oh! There you both are.”

Fortunately, he caught on. “Oh yeah, yeah, that could work.”

“What files?” Jimmy inquired as he joined them, oblivious.

“Rowan has some of our old drafts still saved. I was thinking of squeezing in a drum solo somewhere, maybe with spoken word over it?”

“Sounds cool,” Jimmy smiled at him and slightly brushed the back of his hand with Lister’s. “Anyway, Dick the Sound Guy wants us all in there immediately.”

JIMMY

Finally, he managed to stop him while he was putting away the equipment. Lister was meanwhile in the office of their temporary new manager. “Ro, I need advice!” he whispered to his best friend.

“What about?”

“It’s Lister.”

“Oh dear Jesus, I’m having flashbacks.”

“Don’t be a dick, it’s important.”

“Okay then, spill.”

“It kind of involves you too. Just… tell me if it’s a good idea.”

“Go on!”

“Jimbob. Easy.” Rowan waited for a second for Jimmy to wind down, leaning on a stack of five chairs, and then asked, “Are you really sure about it? Do you want people to know?”

Jimmy felt his thoughts humming in his head. He forced himself to say exactly how he felt.

“So I take it that you didn’t discuss this?”

“No way. I don’t even know how to start!” Jimmy exploded in loud whispering. “I should have talked to him a long time ago, but I just didn’t have the balls.”

“I get that, but… just bring it up. Like, theoretically. What if. I think he’s going to support you through it.”

“How could he?”

“What are you even saying at this point?

“Wait, what? Ro, did he tell you something?”

“I am not talking!”

“Is that how you treat your best friend in a life crisis?!”

“You’re putting me in a life crisis, don’t you dare play the pity card! I swear, the two of you are a nightmare.”

“Rowan! Come back!”

LISTER

His visit to Rowan’s place was very brief, but it was enough for him to understand Rowan’s concerns. Eventually.

And yet.

“It’s all great, and I’m sure there are people in the world that would love it, but we are talking about Jimmy.”

“Come on. I know, he’s private about… well, everything, but…”

“He hasn’t had attacks since we moved and he went on those meds.”

“That doesn’t really –“

“Matter. Yeah. Yeah, I get your point, mate, he would die of shock. And everybody watching him. Fuck, I’m stupid.”

“No, you’re not,” Rowan grinned. “The two of you are just different… in some aspects. I’m sure you’ll figure something out.”

Will I? Lister asked himself as he was driving back to the hotel that Jimmy and him were staying at for the time being. This was the only thing I came up with, like, ever.

Jimmy yelped.

“Where’s the food?!” Lister shook him a little, imitating Batman.

“Your hands are so cold!” Jimmy protested, but there was a trace of laughter in his voice. “On the stove, you bully!”

Lister almost flew over there, looking under the lid on the pot.

“Oh come on,” Jimmy huffed. “I’m just asking! And it’s my show, too.”

“Sorry. Totally gonna steal your spotlight.”

“Lister, just tell me what it is.”

“A song.”

“What song?”

“A song that you have to wait for.”

“Babe, what song?!”

Before Lister could ask if he’s okay, Jimmy sat down on the other chair with a determined look on his face.

“There is something I need to discuss!” he blurted out.

Lister cautiously dropped the fork back into the bowl. “Okay…? And it’s something to do with me, yeah?”

“Cool. Go for it.”

“It’s about our relationship.”

“Are you aware you sound very sinister right now?”

Lister felt everything about his face go lax in shock. He opened his eyes round and wide, his mouth followed, and Jimmy looked like he would faint.

“I, er. I just. I thought about it and I think it’s a decent idea and – please say something, Lister, before I get a fucking heart attack right now.”

It must have been so hard for him to speak up. Lister thought of his proposal plans and felt his mouth slowly form a smile. “I think it’s… brilliant! Yes, I would really like to do that!”

“Wait, really?”

“This is – I didn’t think you would want to, when did you change your mind?”

Lister beamed. “I feel like it. If you do, I do, trust me.” He walked around the table and lifted Jimmy into a hug. He laughed, relieved.

As they were laying down and Lister gestured Jimmy to crawl into his arms, they became quieter. “You know why I also want to say it?” Jimmy mumbled, lying on the soft linen with one eye open.

“I’m all ears.”

“Oh no,” Lister laughed and turned Jimmy’s face upwards to his. “So this just in: my boyfriend is possessive. Fancy that.”

“I’m not, it’s… I am… Oh, you hated Jowan, stop being smug.”

“I know I did, we both know. But jealous Jimmy? That’s a rare sight.”

“It’s just super uncomfortable. It’s all women, as well.”

“Heteronormativity is a bitch,” Lister nodded. He snuggled closer and let out a breath, “Don’t worry though. I am exclusively your problem.”

Lister was pretty sure he would love him until his last day on Earth.

It was time to start looking for a ring.

#bicci #rowan omondi #jimmy gaga ricci #lister bird #iwbft #i was born for this #fanfiction #osemanverse fanfiction #osemanverse #alice oseman #proposal #request

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advancedh2osolutionsinc · 4 years

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Advanced Water Solutions offers state-of-the-art drinking water systems expertly designed to give you the best water at an affordable price without ever having to buy bottled water again. With a virtually unlimited supply of great-tasting water, you’ll use it for just about everything!

Rental Special

Now through March 31, get FREE professional installation of an EcoWater reverse osmosis drinking water system, no payment the first month and just $25/mo thereafter.*

Purchase Special

Now through March 31, get FREE professional installation of an EcoWater reverse osmosis drinking water system and 20% off the entire system.

You’ll Use Your Water for More than Just Drinking…

Wash Produce, Soak Beans, Water Plants, Make Better Coffee, Tea, & Mixed Drinks.

With a virtually unlimited supply of refreshing purified water, you no longer have to use tap water for important things like washing fruits & veggies, making soup, water plants, and pets, and of course, making your favorite drinks!

With a drinking water system from Advanced Water Solutions you can give your family, pets, & plants the best so that they can be as healthy as you.

Advanced Water Solutions offers multiple home water filtration options including our Reverse Osmosis (RO) System which provides high-quality water with affordable rental or purchase options. This state-of-the-art filtration system will improve water quality for well or municipal water supplies and we include professional, courteous installation.

Some of the features of a drinking water system from Advanced Water Solutions include:

Sediment prefilter to remove dirt, sand, and silt.

Carbon Block filter to remove chlorine taste and odor.

High-volume, semi-permeable membrane that rejects up to 98% of most dissolved solids in your water.

Automatic shut-off control to balance production of filtered water with your needs.

Most importantly, you’ll have your local water professional helping you get the high-quality water your family deserves AND the service to back it up for years to come.

Fill out the form below or call 805-833-5881 for more information & a free quote!

Let us show you how we can transform your life with fresh, healthy drinking water in your house.

I'd Like Advanced Water to Help Me With*

Free Water Test & Evaluation

Whole Home Water Filtration

No Salt System

Well Water Treatment

Commercial Water Treatment

Request Service

Water Softener/Conditioner

Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water

Rent To Own

Bottleless Water Coolers

Salt Delivery

Other

Name* First Last

Email*

Phone*

Comments/QuestionsWe promise to never share, rent, or sell your information.

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Local California Reviews

Advanced Water Solutions of Ventura & Santa Barbara Counties

4.7

Based on 26 reviews

See all reviewsWrite a review

Advanced Water Solutions

5.0

Based on 24 reviews

See all reviewsWrite a review

Tim Lister

19:49 23 Feb 20

Jackie Williams

22:26 18 Feb 20

Deb H.

17:29 12 Feb 20

Let me first say, I don't know why I didn't get this done YEARS ago! We have wasted SO much $$$$$ on bottled water and bags of ice!! The cost is so...

Tracey powers

23:50 06 Feb 20

Okay I guess

Pat M.

05:46 23 Jan 20

I have a Water Demon who follows me to every property I purchase!! Thankfully, Jay has banished the Demon!!! He provided all the answers to my WHY WHY...

Ping P.

14:16 11 Dec 19

I had Advanced Water Solutions install my whole house water filtration as well as an under sink reverse osmosis system. I've had them for 6 years and moved...

April B.

13:28 11 Nov 19

Advanced Water Solutions are pros. A local company that is knowledgeable about the VENTURA water and one that will provide the proper, quality service for...

Alina D.

09:32 01 Nov 19

I waited a few months before writing this review. Advanced water installed a water softener, reverse osmosis system, and fixed one of my water main pipes...

Rudy Cobos

17:55 26 Oct 19

Nicholas Falcone

22:27 25 Sep 19

Nicholas F.

15:23 25 Sep 19

Advanced Water Solutions (AWS) exceeded our expectations! From the first phone call to final installation, AWS lived up to the stellar reviews we read...

Suzanne Y.

17:00 19 Sep 19

This is a great quality company to work with. Friendly, honest, came one day to review and quote water filtration/softening system, came back the next day...

Julz D.

15:54 09 Aug 19

I have used Advanced Water Solutions and their Reverse Osmosis equipment in my home for over two decades. The owner, Jay, has always been great to work...

Julian Dean

01:30 09 Aug 19

Lucia M.

11:58 26 Jul 19

I finally have great tasting, pure water!! My technician Rick did a really great installation job! Looks and works great. The sales reb Paul was very nice...

Lyn T.

10:58 21 Jul 19

Great customer service! Highly recommend this company to anyone looking at getting a water treatment system!

Karla P.

14:03 26 Jun 19

I've waited several weeks since getting everything installed to write this review, just to make sure things continued to work, and I'm excited to report...

Tyler R.

10:46 22 Jun 19

Your search for water treatment in Ventura County is over. Advanced Water Solutions is the company you want to give your business to. Last month, we had...

Sharonda Bolen

18:36 19 Jun 19

Best water drinking systems. For humans that care what they put in their bodies, especially water it's worth money. Think of your health and the health of your family.

Lisa Ehrnman

06:20 29 May 19

Ann Van Cleve

23:16 17 May 19

Beverley Sharpe

21:28 03 May 19

Bobbi S.

19:29 25 Apr 19

Called them on Thursday, set up an appointment time that worked best for me on Monday and system was installed today! Rick, my installer, went above and...

Diego Sanabria

17:52 23 Apr 19

Gary Rutledge

23:13 18 Apr 19

Rick did the install of our New Water System today he was in and out in less time than was scheduled, explained how to operate the system to me he was friendly and helpful. Thanks Rick!

David Seltzer

16:04 27 Jan 19

Everyone was very informative and answered all my questions. Rick did a great job installing and running through everything with me. Very happy with the outcome so far.

Nathan A.

07:03 18 Oct 18

We had a double tank water softener system and reverse osmosis drinking water system installed in our home last week. The salesman was very personable and...

Bruce Archer

14:36 17 Aug 18

Very welcoming and answered many of my questions

itsmetusher

05:52 14 Jul 18

Awesome and Very Fast... Thank You.

witwaltman

06:58 16 May 18

Advanced has been servicing our drinking water system for years, and we have the best tasting water. They keep a calendar and call us annually to change the filters. We have been pleased.

Sandra O'Meara

18:42 14 May 18

So Easy! So perfect! These guys are great! We are happy with our new water system and this company. Very straightforward and thoughtful.

Ryan Sandefer

19:23 12 Mar 18

K C H

21:06 28 Dec 17

Thank you

Tom Loge'

00:11 12 Sep 17

Next Reviews

* 2-year minimum agreement on the rental special

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advancedh2osolutionsinc · 4 years

Text

Benefits of Soft Water - LP

New Post has been published on https://www.advancedwaterinc.com/soft-water/

Benefits of Soft Water - LP

Save up to 40% on energy costs for water-using appliances AND 75% on soap and cleaning chemicals, when you have soft water from Advanced Water Solutions!

Discover the Benefits of Affordable, Reliable Water Softeners & Soft Water in the Central Coast Area

What are the benefits of soft water? If you live in Ventura or Santa Barbara county, our experience shows that you most likely have hard water in your home. That includes homes both on city water or a well. As a homeowner, it seems like there is always something to do to keep our house clean and presentable. However, with hard water we never realized how much time and money we were wasting each week.

Here are a few of the things we learned and think other homeowners, like you, might appreciate.

Some Benefits of Soft Water In Your Home

Having soft water saves you money. According to a study by the Battelle Institute, you use up to 75% less soap and fewer cleaning products with soft water. Considering the soap and detergent aisle is the most expensive aisle in the grocery store, your budget will immediately reflect the savings!

Your plumbing will last longer. Hard water can cause a build up of scale from mineral deposits. Over time, pipes and fixtures can clog, water flow can diminish, and water pressure can be reduced. This doesn’t happen with soft water. Soft water is low in mineral content and therefore doesn’t leave deposits in the pipes.

Your hot water heater will last longer. Scale and lime build-up created by minerals will not take place if your water is soft. This adds life to your hot water heater. Also, if you have deposits in your hot water heater, the University of New Mexico found it will cost up to 29.6% more to heat the water that your family does use.

Diminished razor burn and less dry, cracked skin: Soft water causes the razor to glide more easily across the face. This, in turn, causes your razor blades to last longer. Hard water minerals can also build up on your skin. You know that “squeaky” clean feeling after a shower? Well that’s not the feel of your natural skin. Often it’s the result of minerals bonding with your soap to stick to your skin.

Water-using appliances will last longer. Whether it’s your coffee pot, humidifier, or hot tub, your hard water is causing a build-up of minerals and reducing the life of these products.

Water Softeners Soften the Water Throughout Your Home

IN THE KITCHEN…

✔️ Shiny, spotless dishes and glasses

✔️ Sparkling-clean sinks

✔️ Longer life for plumbing and appliances

✔️ Cleaner dishwasher with no scale buildup

IN THE BATHROOM…

✔️ Cleaner fixtures with no soap-scum buildup

✔️ Stain-free sinks, tubs, and showers

✔️ Softer skin and more manageable hair

✔️ Use less shampoo and conditioners

IN THE LAUNDRY…

✔️ Wash is fresher, cleaner, and brighter

✔️ Longer life for washing machine

✔️ Use less detergent

✔️ Softer clothes

ADVANCED WATER SOLUTIONS OFFERS RELIABLE, AFFORDABLE WATER SOFTENERS & WE HAVE THE HIGHEST LOCAL YELP RATINGS!

License #764570

Get A Quote Now

Let us show you how we can transform your life with fresh, healthy water running through your entire house.

Pricing Form

*We respect your privacy and promise to never share your information.

I'd like pricing on the following (select all that apply):*

Home Water Evaluation

Drinking Water/Bottleless Water Cooler

Air Purifier

No Salt System

Water Softener/Conditioner

Whole Home Water Filtration

Rent To Own

Name*

Email*

Phone*

Location*Choose CountyVentura CountySanta Barbara CountyProudly serving Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties

I am interested in a free home water test*

Yes

*We respect your privacy and promise to never share your information.

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Local Ventura & Santa Barbara County Reviews

Advanced Water Solutions of Ventura & Santa Barbara Counties

4.7

Based on 26 reviews

See all reviewsWrite a review

Advanced Water Solutions

5.0

Based on 24 reviews

See all reviewsWrite a review

Tim Lister

19:49 23 Feb 20

Jackie Williams

22:26 18 Feb 20

Deb H.

17:29 12 Feb 20

Let me first say, I don't know why I didn't get this done YEARS ago! We have wasted SO much $$$$$ on bottled water and bags of ice!! The cost is so...

Tracey powers

23:50 06 Feb 20

Okay I guess

Pat M.

05:46 23 Jan 20

I have a Water Demon who follows me to every property I purchase!! Thankfully, Jay has banished the Demon!!! He provided all the answers to my WHY WHY...

Ping P.

14:16 11 Dec 19

I had Advanced Water Solutions install my whole house water filtration as well as an under sink reverse osmosis system. I've had them for 6 years and moved...

April B.

13:28 11 Nov 19

Advanced Water Solutions are pros. A local company that is knowledgeable about the VENTURA water and one that will provide the proper, quality service for...

Alina D.

09:32 01 Nov 19

I waited a few months before writing this review. Advanced water installed a water softener, reverse osmosis system, and fixed one of my water main pipes...

Rudy Cobos

17:55 26 Oct 19

Nicholas Falcone

22:27 25 Sep 19

Nicholas F.

15:23 25 Sep 19

Advanced Water Solutions (AWS) exceeded our expectations! From the first phone call to final installation, AWS lived up to the stellar reviews we read...

Suzanne Y.

17:00 19 Sep 19

This is a great quality company to work with. Friendly, honest, came one day to review and quote water filtration/softening system, came back the next day...

Julz D.

15:54 09 Aug 19

I have used Advanced Water Solutions and their Reverse Osmosis equipment in my home for over two decades. The owner, Jay, has always been great to work...

Julian Dean

01:30 09 Aug 19

Lucia M.

11:58 26 Jul 19

I finally have great tasting, pure water!! My technician Rick did a really great installation job! Looks and works great. The sales reb Paul was very nice...

Lyn T.

10:58 21 Jul 19

Great customer service! Highly recommend this company to anyone looking at getting a water treatment system!

Karla P.

14:03 26 Jun 19

I've waited several weeks since getting everything installed to write this review, just to make sure things continued to work, and I'm excited to report...

Tyler R.

10:46 22 Jun 19

Your search for water treatment in Ventura County is over. Advanced Water Solutions is the company you want to give your business to. Last month, we had...

Sharonda Bolen

18:36 19 Jun 19

Best water drinking systems. For humans that care what they put in their bodies, especially water it's worth money. Think of your health and the health of your family.

Lisa Ehrnman

06:20 29 May 19

Ann Van Cleve

23:16 17 May 19

Beverley Sharpe

21:28 03 May 19

Bobbi S.

19:29 25 Apr 19

Called them on Thursday, set up an appointment time that worked best for me on Monday and system was installed today! Rick, my installer, went above and...

Diego Sanabria

17:52 23 Apr 19

Gary Rutledge

23:13 18 Apr 19

Rick did the install of our New Water System today he was in and out in less time than was scheduled, explained how to operate the system to me he was friendly and helpful. Thanks Rick!

David Seltzer

16:04 27 Jan 19

Everyone was very informative and answered all my questions. Rick did a great job installing and running through everything with me. Very happy with the outcome so far.

Nathan A.

07:03 18 Oct 18

We had a double tank water softener system and reverse osmosis drinking water system installed in our home last week. The salesman was very personable and...

Bruce Archer

14:36 17 Aug 18

Very welcoming and answered many of my questions

itsmetusher

05:52 14 Jul 18

Awesome and Very Fast... Thank You.

witwaltman

06:58 16 May 18

Advanced has been servicing our drinking water system for years, and we have the best tasting water. They keep a calendar and call us annually to change the filters. We have been pleased.

Sandra O'Meara

18:42 14 May 18

So Easy! So perfect! These guys are great! We are happy with our new water system and this company. Very straightforward and thoughtful.

Ryan Sandefer

19:23 12 Mar 18

K C H

21:06 28 Dec 17

Thank you

Tom Loge'

00:11 12 Sep 17

Next Reviews

Cleaner Dishes Softer Laundry Great Tasting Drinking Water

CALL FOR A FREE WATER EVALUATION

805-385-4740

Phone: (805) 385-4740 Email: [email protected]

1031 Factory Lane Oxnard, CA 93030-7200

Hours of Operation: 8:00 AM-5:00 PM M-Th 8:00 AM-4:30 PM F

0 notes