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demivampirew · 4 years

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Keep Calm and Go to London chapter 16

Synopsis: This is the story of (y/n), a successful actress, musician, musical producer and songwriter. After battling depression and breaking up a long relationship, she seeks for a change of air, escaping LA for a while going to visit some friends in London and there she meets Henry. -Disclaimer: some chapters are mostly smut.

Previous Chapters:

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Triggers: SMUT ( s&m); use of slang and cursing words; mention of body image issues.

Disclaimer: I made this chapter as a challenge to myself. The idea was to write something inspired by songs and I’ve made a playlist with some songs which parts of the lyrics will be included on the chapter. At the end I’ll post the playlist in the order that the songs appeared. This chapter doesn’t contain vital information to the story (if so, I’ll talk about it again in another chapter), so if you are not into this type of stories, you can skip this chapter and continue with the next one.

Tag list: Here’s the incredible people who showed me support (thank you so much for that) and people who asked me to tag them too ☺️ (I think I will write a few chapters of this story, if you want me to tag you, tell me ☺️ ) @cavillanche @mary-ann84 @henry-owns-these-tatas @yespolkadotkitty @dancingwendigo constip8merm8 penwieldingdreamer iloveyouyen littlefreya wondersofdreaming alyxkbrl solariumss sweetybuzz25 @thethirstyarchive @agniavateira @honeyloverogers @hell1129-blog @lunedelorient @michelle-1185

-I've got a surprise for you tonight - you said to Henry as he was turning off the computer after playing games. - Do you? What is it about? - he asked, curious and amused. - If I tell you, it won't be a surprise, right? You replied grinning devilishly and gave him a quick kiss on the lips. - Hmmm... it's a Bond Girl type of surprise? - he questioned as he raised an eyebrow, smirking pleased by the idea. - Well, something like that. - you told him laughing. - Do I have to wear a suit or something? - Let me think... - you paused for a second- Oh... I know... Do you, by any chance, still have the shirt that you used on the video that you appeared with Simon for Vanity Fair to promote Mission Impossible? - you asked him, pouting like an innocent little girl. - The black shirt? Yes, I still got it. I'll put it on for you then. - he assured you, and you smile at him excitedly. - This is going to be a night you won't forget- you promised as you got closer to kiss him. - Oh, every night is a night that'll I never forget. I feel like I remember everything that we've done since I met you. - You're a smooth talker, aren't you Mr Cavill? - you finished as you kissed him.

The great thing about becoming confident with your body again was the fact that you felt free to show another side of you. The part of you which didn't care about anything that people might think and was not afraid to explore when it came to pleasure. When you were with your ex-boyfriend, the first years after you started dating again after a three-year break, you were this woman. You not only enjoyed sex but discover that you liked being in charge. The last years of that relationship, made you put that confident woman in a deep sleep because he failed in making you feel desire. There were periods in which you wouldn't even have sex because he was always "busy" with work. On one occasion, he completely ignored you, that was wearing sexy lingerie as if you were invisible. That affected you a lot. But now, Henry brought back that side of you. He made you feel beautiful and sexy all the time. He didn't shame you for your lust, he enjoyed it as well. His sexual side amused you a lot. He was shy, sometimes a bit too much, but at the same time, you could tell every time that you put yourself in charge of the situation that is was something new for him. He was clearly used to be the one to do most of the work in the bedroom. At first, you could feel that he was surprised by your dominance, by he enjoyed it too much and became his favourite thing. Let you choose the positions and all was something that he became accustomed to. But, he also knew that you were a sucker for his kisses, so he would use that against you to distract you and take the lead again. And you allowed him that because you adored the fact that he had the strength to take you as if you were light as a feather and move you in the position that he pleased at the moment. Between the two of you, there was no doubt that you were the one most comfortable with playing games and creating new situations for fun. This wasn't because he didn't have that on him, because as soon as you started something, he gladly played the role you assigned for him. It was mostly due to a lack of practice. Even though he admitted having one night stands on the past, he was mostly a man that preferred to exclusively being intimate with partners and his previous girlfriends apparently weren't too much into the idea of roleplay and other kinky stuff. You didn't know much about it, because he was a gentleman and respected the intimacy of his former lovers.

The night came. As soon as you finished getting ready, you texted Henry to let him know that he could come into the room. He opened the door and found a chair a few steps away from the bed. There was a note on it that read "Sit and close your eyes until you're told otherwise." He did as it was told. His heart was beating fast due to the excitement and expectation. Moments past and finally he felt the soft touch of your hands on his arms. Then, you grabbed both of his hands and put on a pair of handcuffs. You softly bite the lobule of his ear and his cheek. He laughed as an act of reflex due to the tingly sensation. "Keep your eyes closed" you ordered him as you walked away. Music started to sound in the room. It wasn't partying or romantic music. At first sounded mysterious, like the perfect for the soundtrack of a vampire movie. But, after seconds the tone change into metal. The seductive raspy voice of a woman invaded the room.

I'm the girl you've been thinking about The one thing you can't live without I'm the girl you've been waiting for I'll have you down on your knees, I'll have you begging for more. [ ... ] So how can this be, you're praying to me There's a look in your eyes, I know just what that means I can be, I can be your everything

I can be your whore I am the dirt you created I am your sinner, I am your whore But let me tell you something, baby You love me for everything you hate me for.

"Open your eyes", you ordered. He did that and saw you standing in front of him. You were wearing a black sleeveless latex bodysuit that had a plunging neckline and short boots with pointy heels. In your face, you had a lace masquerade face eye mask and a blood colour lipstick on your lips. Your hair was straight, tight in a high ponytail. You came closer to him. Slowly, place your index finger on his lips, locked eyes with him and grinning devilish. You turned around as the song finished and a new one started to play. You started to move to the sound of the music.

I must confess I'm addicted to this Shove your kiss straight through my chest I can't deny, I'd die without this Make me feel like a god Music, love and sex (Adrenalize me)

You moved sensually and slowly, touching your own body to the sound of the music and giving him looks, knowing how much he'd loved to be the one touching your body.

Get a little bit higher So we can fall 'til we bleed Push a little bit harder Pull me into the speed So tell me, can you feel this Come into my dream Are you ready to awaken? Are you ready to feed? 'Cause I need to feel Yeah, I need to say

You dropped on your knees and put your hands on the floor as well, classic doggy style position and moved erotically. You give yourself a few spanks, hard enough for him to listen to the sound of the collision of your hand with your butt, even with the loud music playing, and leaving red marks. You crawled to him placing your hands on his thighs and rubbing them. You could see that he was already hard. Lust and desire were visible on his eyes. He wanted you. He wanted you now. But the games were just starting. A new song was playing while you continue moving your hands up and down his thighs.

Is it sick of me To need control of you Is it sick to make You beg the way I do Is it sick of me To want you crawling on your knees Is it sick to say I want you biting down on me

Are you sick like me

Am I beautiful As I tear you to pieces Am I beautiful Even at my ugliest, you always say

I'm beautiful As you tear me to pieces You are beautiful Even at your ugliest, I always say You're beautiful and sick like me

As the song was getting closer to his end, you stood up again and way away from him, offering a nice view of your ass on the way and the stopped and moved your hips from side to side. The following song was from a different band, same style. This was music that Henry wasn't accustomed to, but he was still enjoying the game you were playing with him.

All I desire (Temptation) Keep climbing higher and higher (Temptation)

Adorable creatures (Temptation) (With unacceptable features (Temptation)

And trouble is coming (Temptation) It's just the high course of lovin' (Temptation)

And you can take it or leave it (Temptation) But you better believe it

As the song was playing its chorus, you got closer to him again, giving him a lap dance, close enough for him to feel the heat that your body emanated by not close enough to touch. You were driving crazy. You turned around and sit on his thighs, facing him. You kissed him and felt his desperation with the touch of his tongue with yours. You bit his chin and licked his Adam's apple. You touched the entirety of his chest. Then, you kneeled as you lift his shirt and lick and bite his chest, concentrating mostly on his nipples. He moaned louder than the heavy music playing. A new song started to play as you decided to end his suffering. Still, on your knees, you unzipped his pants and grabbed his member and started to please him with your mouth.

Beware the night Beware the night before the dawn Beware the dark when light is gone For there's a phantom lust to wake They wanna make you bend and scream They wanna take your hand and lead you in the light of Venus, girl Come let them take you for a ride Forget the lord and cross tonight And let your carnal lust prevail tonight Oh, demons come at night and they bring the end Oh, demons are a girl's best friend Oh, demons come alive and they take command Oh, demons are a girl's best friend

The song continued playing till the end, while you pleasured your boyfriend. This wasn't like other times, in which you did it slowly and tenderly. This time, you went fast and deep. Many times you went completely out of breath as you reached the base of his cock as this was inside your throat and your mouth. More than once you went as deep that you managed to licked his testicles while he was still inside of you. You took him out of your mouth, tasting the sperm coming out of him and stroking it. You stood up again and started to dance again to the music, giving him time to recover for another round.

When the night just strikes through you And the night just spreads its legs and open up for you When the day is dead to you And the silvery starlight seductively glimmers through

Its Night... Night!

When the night just comes for you And its fingers just crawl and move deep inside of you When the light is drawn from you And you sear your lips and let the sweet poison come on through

Its Night Night Electric Night

The world lies silent The night burns of wrath

You got closer to him again. You planned to uncuff him but that'd be like unleashing a savage beast. You were not planning to give him power. You made him stand up and walk to the bed, still with both of his hands tight to his back. He sat on the edge of the bed, as you open the handcuffs, realising one of his hands and tightening the other to the bed. Then you grabbed a tie from the closet and used it to trap his other hand. You sat on top of him and softly press your body against his. You kissed, licked and bite his neck for a bit and later kissed on his mouth, biting his lips now and then. After that, you unbuttoned his shirt and scratched his chest and bite his nipples. He was more than ready for the second round. You pulled the panties part of the bodysuit aside and entered Henry's cock inside of you and began to ride him. You change the pace of your movements to the rhythm of the song playing at the moment.

She looks like the girl The girl you ever wanted She looks like the girl The girl who could Give you everything And kisses run like hell And she like it She's got the look That could kill And you see the greed in her eyes It is far too late [ ... ] Too late to run Too late to hide There is no escape When she is hunting you And she is hunting you Tonight She takes everything from you She is uses you With her Body of sin You are addicted to her touch And you lose yourself in her Dangerous smile

Henry was grabbing the tie with one hand and the chain of the handcuff with the other; he was desperate to touch you, to grab you and make you his until you scream his name. You then sat on his face, letting him taste you and pleasure you. It felt so good to have his tongue inside you as well as licking and sucking your clit. After you reached an orgasm, you sucked him again before sitting on his cock for one last time.

Just a little bit, just a little, bitch You've got a pussy, I have a dick So what's the problem? Let's do it quick So take me now before it's too late Life's too short, so I can't wait [ ... ] Just a little bit be my little bitch You've got a pussy, I have a dick So what's the problem? Let's do it quick So take me now before it's too late Life's too short, so I can't wait

The last song played and you moved fast to its beat. You could feel his big and thick member inside of you, getting in and out so fast that it hurt, but you liked the pain; it felt wonderful. When you saw he was about to release, you changed position and quickly put it in your mouth, sucking him until he finished, leaving your mouth full of his cum. You shallowed it and then decided to free him. He was exhausted. His heart beat so fast all that time, so as soon as he was able to catch a breath, he fell in a deep sleep. You laughed and left him to sleep as you went to the bathroom to take off your clothes and makeup, shower and then go to sleep with him.

Playlist:

In this Moment- Whore In this Moment- Adrenalize In this Moment- Sick Like Me Cradle Of Filth - Temptation POWERWOLF - Demons Are A Girl's Best Friend Deathstars - Night Electric Night Blutengel - Vampire Rammstein- Pussy

#henry cavill #henry cavill fanfic #henry cavill x reader #demivampirew

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what-big-teeth · 4 years

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Spark (Male Fire Elemental, pt. 1)

When graduate student Simone Price inherits her deceased grandmother’s house, she hopes to mend bridges that were long burned prior to the sudden passing by way of fond memories. But she soon learns two important truths. One, the cause behind those severed connections is still around. Two, the childhood fables her grandmother told her are more rooted in reality than imaginative fantasy.

Female Human (POV) x Male Monster [Part 2] [Part 3] [Part 4] ”It’s...charming, you know? Really rustic.” Mica carefully chooses her words and attempts a cheerful smile. When she fails, she settles on tucking a loose microbraid behind her deep brown ear. “Right, Mason?”

Mason hefts the large, black garbage bag full of cleaning tools off the ground, gives the old house a once-over from top to bottom, then snorts. Loudly. Mica swiftly elbows her twin in the ribs for “being rude”, but even I can’t stop my nose from scrunching up in displeasure.

She can dress up her opinion with as many euphemisms as she wants. But the truth is plain as day: Nana’s place has gone to the dogs.

The two story’s once brilliant white paint is a dingy, chipping mess that reveals the underlying dark decay. The windows, always transparent enough to see through when the curtains were drawn back, are caked with grime and rust. And the front door, a deep, beautiful burgundy my mind can still picture, has dulled into a paler shade of red. I wouldn’t be surprised if Nana’s little garden in the backyard has been choked by weeds and overrun with wild plants. It saddens me to see the current state of her home compared to when my visits were more common. That was before Dad suddenly severed all contact with Nana ten years ago, when I was only thirteen.

A warm weight settles onto my shoulder, fending off the morning’s autumnal chill. Mica wears a sympathetic smile.

“Are you alright, Simone?”

I’ll never be able to thank Mica and Mason enough for sacrificing part of their Thanksgiving break to help me out. But I can try by remaining as positive as possible.

“I will be,” I say. “Once Nana’s place starts looking like it used to.”

“It’s your house now,” Mason says, adjusting his grip on the garbage bag. Oddly enough, his words sound sad. “You sure you don’t want to do anything different with it?”

It came as a shock when Nana’s last will and testament bequeathed the entirety of her property and assets to me. Dad did all he could to contest the document, but his attempts failed. I’ll never forget the haunted look in his dark eyes when I asked him why he disagreed with my newfound inheritance.

“That place isn’t a home, baby. Not with what it’s got locked inside of it.”

I later refused to budge on the matter, even when he begged me to. After that, Dad told me to do as I wished, but to be careful and stay vigilant. I didn’t understand what he meant then and I still don’t. But I hope, with some hard work and lots of love, Nana’s house will be whole again. Then with time, Dad will come to visit and remember the good times before his mother’s passing.

“Earth to Simone,” Mason says. “Did you hear me?”

“Yeah, and I’m sure.” I fish out the front door key from my coat pocket and smile. “Let’s get to work.”

We hang our coats in the entryway. Once the buckets, brooms, and mops are divvied up among us, Mason works on doling out the cleaning solution. We then decide on who gets what area. Mason is quick to claim the upstairs, citing the possibility of rotten wood weakening the floor.

“I’d rather fall to the first floor and get hurt than see it happen to you two,” he says in an obstinate tone. “Especially since you two might end up worse off.”

“Always the gentleman,” Mica mutters, rolling her light brown eyes. “I’ll take the kitchen and dining room. Might be worth it to see what condition your Nana’s cookware is in.”

“Good idea,” I say. “Just be sure to yell if you find anything interesting.”

“Will do!” She grabs her broom, bucket, and mop,then leaves the foyer.

“Guess that leaves me with the living room and fireplace,” I say.

Mason replies with a hum I can’t discern, which is weird since Mica and I are fluent in Mason-ese. Always have been since we were little kids.

“Something up?” I ask.

His neutral expression doesn’t reveal a thing and that worries me. He’s always had a tell or two, even when he’s tried to hide something from me. Instead of talking, he just ties back his dreadlocks, grabs his share of the cleaning supplies, and walks towards the stairs.

“Call me if you need anything.”

I follow his old sneakers until they vanish from my line of sight. That was weird. But there’s no point in digging to figure out what’s going on. He’ll tell me when he feels like it.

After locking the front door and grabbing a broom, my feet guide me down the main hallway towards the living room. And my heart nearly breaks at the sight. Just about everything is covered in a thin layer of dust and cobwebs, including Nana’s knitting basket and needles. The floor and rug are worst off and I’m somewhat scared to tackle the fireplace. But if I don’t, no one else besides Mica and Mason will. Especially not anyone in town.

After asking for directions and mentioning our reasons for being here, nearly everyone bid us a swift farewell, claiming they had something to do. Only a few upfront people told us to leave the estate alone and head back home, claiming that a witch once lived there.

My grip on the broom handle tightens to the point of pain.

Nana was many things; a huge sun tea addict, an amazing storyteller, and a wonderful knitter. She may have used Black folk magic to help me with my childhood night terrors, but she wasn’t a—

“Ow!”

A thick wooden splinter peers up at me from my index finger alongside a bead of blood. This is why I told Mason we should’ve packed the plastic brooms instead. I lean the broom against the brick mantle, swiftly remove the sliver, and flick it into the dead fireplace.

The piled ash sparks with light and heat, singeing the cobwebs.

“What in the…”

“Simone!”

“Gah!” I wait until my racing pulse calms a bit then respond. “Yeah?”

“I found your Nana’s bundt cake pan,” Mica yells out, “but I can’t tell if it’s still usable.”

“I’ll be there in a moment!”

I look back at the fireplace. Nothing but cold ash. I shake my head and make my way to the kitchen, trying to recall where Mason keeps the mini first-aid kit in his pickup truck.

Midday sneaks up on us, warming the chilly house a few more degrees. Mica decides it’s the perfect time to break for lunch and Mason agrees.

“We passed by a burger joint on the main road,” Mica says, wiping off her hands. “Wanna give it a try?”

Even with the tempting prospect of a patty melt, my mind keeps drifting back to the fireplace. And what I think I witnessed.

“Sure, but do you guys mind going without me? I want to get more cleaning in before the day’s out.”

“Seriously?” Mason is quick to call out my attempt at an excuse. “We’ve been at it for four hours.”

Before Mica can chastise him for being, well, himself, I think up a compromise.

“What if I took an extended break instead? I won’t touch a broom, mop, or bucket while you guys are out and I’ll eat with you once you get back. Sounds good?”

“Sounds perfect!” Mica chirps up. She grabs Mason by his forearm and starts hauling him towards the foyer before he can object. “We’ll be back soon. A patty melt with onions and a small fry?”

“And a bottled water too, please!”

The front door slams shut, the sound echoing until the truck’s engine revs up. I let out a heavy sigh and plop down onto the couch, uncaring of the weak cushioning.

“Finally. I thought they’d never leave.”

I stop myself from launching off the sofa, but my feet still slip on the area rug. My ass slams onto the floor with a hard thud and a deep chuckle follows soon after.

“You’re not very graceful, are you?”

“Who—!”

A large, bright flame emerges from the ash piled in the fireplace. It twists and curls in random patterns until it settles into the distinctive outline of a humanoid face. It grins. I scramble away and slam into the opposite wall.

“What’s this?” it says. “A descendant of Abigail, afraid of me?”

No shit. Who in their right mind wouldn’t be? But, as the barely-calm-and-reasonable part of my brain points out, I won’t get any answers if I let my tongue turn into lead.

“Who are you? How do you know Nana?”

The flame…face…creature remains silent far longer than need be. Its eyes narrow.

“Don’t mock me, girl. You know very well who I am. Or did you forget Abigail’s tales all too quickly?”

The creature’s words slowly begin to make sense, as much as my mind begs them not to. Nana used to tell me all kinds of stories when I was little. But she’d always retell my favorite whenever I asked: the story of a fearless Black girl who trapped an evil flame spirit, thereby saving the town she lived in.

“Oh my god. That story was about you?”

“Cruel, isn’t it? Conditioning a child to believe a lie through a simple fable. All whilst I could hear and see everything. Abigail was always a manipulative, abusive wench.”

Hot, white anger floods my body, wrenching me to my feet.

“Like hell,” I hiss, stalking towards the fireplace.

The creature peers up at me, stunned and silent. Good.

“Nana would never harm anyone. But she sure as hell didn’t take shit from anybody. Ever. What did you do?”

The story always characterized the fire spirit as evil, but never gave a reason. So why not ask the source?

“Well?!”

“Simone?”

My gaze snaps up. Mason stares at me with brows furrowed with concern and confusion. My rage dissipates into nothing, leaving me drained.

“You alright?” he asks.

I glance down at the fireplace. The creature’s vanished. Leaving me to look like an utter fool.

“Uh, yeah! I was just…re-enacting a scene from my favorite drama! Nothing else to do while waiting for you guys to get back, right?”

Mason’s eyes narrow, the simple action screaming ‘bullshit’. “Not even looking at your phone?”

I jam my hand inside my back jeans pocket and pull out my smartphone. Surprisingly, there’s service.

“Not enough bars,” I lie.

Mason doesn’t look convinced in the slightest, but thankfully, he lets my horrible excuse slide. He holds up a large, white paper bag stained with grease. The scent wafting from the inside makes my empty stomach clench with anticipation.

“Mica and I will be in the dining room. Be sure to come and eat while the food’s hot.”

He walks off, the wooden floor creaking underneath his every step. With a heavy sigh, I start to follow.

“Perhaps you are more like Abigail than I first believed: utterly stubborn and foolishly brave.”

I stop moving. If the creature’s words were meant to insult me, they fail. Pride wells up in me and it takes all my willpower to not smile. It somehow notices and scoffs.

“To answer your earlier questions, past humans have called me a fire elemental. And one gave me the name Ignis.”

The creature...Ignis begins to recede back into the ash pile, but my mouth opens before it can vanish.

“Wait.”

He does, to my surprise.

“You weren’t awake before we arrived, right? Which means something made you come around.”

I carefully recall Nana’s story, then all of the related events leading up until now. My eyes widen.

“It was my blood on the splinter. That’s what woke you up. Because I’m of her bloodline.”

Ignis continues to sink further into the ash, but says one last thing.

“You have a sharp mind as well. How interesting…”

The fireplace goes dark, but I stand before it, staring.

I get it now. I understand why Dad severed contact with Nana ten years ago and never wanted me to inherit this place. Why Nana told me those childhood fables and willed her home to me.

But Dad’s still wrong. This house will be a home. But first, I have to finish what Nana started.

#monster boyfriend #monster/human #monster romance #fire elemental boyfriend #exophilia #there are tons of stories where MC/reader inherits a house #why not add another #my writing #female reader #fem reader

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noona-clock · 5 years

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Have You Heard? - Part 2

Genre: Office!AU

Pairing: Shownu x You

By Admin B

Part 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

As soon as you sat back down at your desk, you severely regretted agreeing to being Shownu’s mentor. Tracy had talked you into it before you’d seen him, and even though she’d told you he was dreamy, you hadn’t realized just how correct she’d been.

And she hadn’t even seen his forearms.

You had.

Honestly, the fact he had actually fixed the copy machine had kind of gone unnoticed (or, at least, undernoticed) because you’d been too distracted by his forearms.

You felt absolutely ridiculous.

And how were you supposed to tell this to Tracy? You knew she was expecting gossip rather than a mere play-by-play of the tour.

She would want to know what he was like, and the only thing about Shownu you could really remember right now...

Yep.

You guessed it.

His forearms.

(You could remember them, but you were also imagining what the rest of his arms looked like... Oh, dear lord.)

You had just barely unlocked your computer when a message popped up on your screen.

Tracy: So? How was it?!

You: How was what?

Tracy: THE TOUR. What’s he like?

Okay, thank god she was asking via message. You wouldn’t be able to keep a straight face if she’d asked you in person. Your cheeks would’ve gone red and would’ve continued to get even redder as the conversation went on.

You: He seems kind of quiet, but he was able to fix the copy machine.

In your head, you were screaming ‘AND HE HAS THE BEST FOREARMS I HAVE EVER SEEN!!!!!!’

Tracy: What?! Well, obviously, he is a keeper. You’re going to be his mentor?

You: I guess so? I told him to come to me if he has any questions, so that’s all I have to do, right?

You sure hoped so. Because if being a mentor included checking in on him multiple times throughout the day and eating lunch with him and just being around him constantly... you weren’t sure you could handle that. Especially if he had to replace the toner in the copy machine.

Tracy: You are hopeless. You know that if you don’t snap him up, someone else will.

You: What are you talking about? Why would I snap him up?

Tracy: Because you’re single.

You: ...So?

Tracy: I’m just saying!

You: Okay, lol. I have work to do!! Have a good day :)

Tracy: All right, party pooper. I can take a hint.

You chuckled softly to yourself and shook your head as you minimized the chat window. That wasn’t the first time you’d been called a ‘party pooper,’ and you were quite sure it wouldn’t be the last.

You were more than glad to report that the tour you gave Shownu was the most eventful thing which happened that week, Shownu’s first week on the job.

...Until Friday.

On Friday morning, just after clock-in time, a notification popped up on your screen.

You have been added to the SSV private group.

“...SSV?” you whispered to yourself. What in the world did SSV mean?

You clicked on the ‘Accept’ option, your brow furrowed in extreme confusion. And then your eyes scanned over the first message from one of your co-workers.

Simone: Holy heck you guys. He just walked by my desk wearing a sweater vest and I have never seen anyone look so good in a sweater vest. KEEP YOUR EYES PEELED, he has not arrived at his desk yet.

It took you a few moments to understand who, exactly, Simone was talking about, but really... it could only be Shownu.

You were definitely not the only one who had developed a crush on him over the past several days. In fact, you would say a very hefty percentage of your co-workers who were interested in men were interested in Shownu - whether or not they were single.

Tracy: WHAT. Sweater vests are nerdy no more, that’s all I’m saying.

Riley: /giphy hubba hubba

Charlie: okay seriously how can he even pull off a SWEATER VEST?!?! he is a god

You couldn’t stop yourself from letting out a somewhat distressed sigh before joining in the conversation, your fingers flying over your keyboard as you typed with annoyance.

You: Guys, he’s a human being - and our co-worker. Can we please be respectful?

You heard the soft thud of footsteps heading toward your cube, so you instinctively turned around. You may have just expressed your dismay with your co-workers, but... you were still curious to see this sweater vest.

Shownu passed by just as you turned your head, obviously noticing because he slowed his steps.

“Morning,” he greeted with that sweet smile of his, lifting a hand up in a wave.

Well, there it was.

The Sweater Vest.

And... yeah. He looked really, really good in it.

Granted, you had always been attracted to sweater vests. Most people saw them as nerdy, but you viewed them as classy.

And maybe a little bit nerdy.

But nerdy guys were cute!

Oh lord, now you were imagining Shownu in glasses... damn it!

“Hi, good morning,” you replied, realizing there might have been a few seconds of awkward silence in-between Shownu’s greeting and your response.

But, apparently, if there had been, Shownu hadn’t noticed.

“Happy Friday,” he added with a nod.

“Yes, indeed,” you chuckled. “Happy Friday.”

He gave you one last grin before walking the last few steps to his desk.

You heard him get settled in, letting out an ‘All right, let’s get to it’ sort of sigh and typing in his password to open his computer.

And when you shifted your gaze back to your monitor, you saw about ten missed messages from the #SSV group repeating the sentiment that you were no fun or you obviously needed your eyes checked and even some saying you were a Saint for being able to sit near him and still get work done.

You rolled your eyes to yourself as you clicked the button to mute the group and continued on pretending you did not have a huge crush on Shownu.

Oh, if only your co-workers knew what was going on inside your head.

Thank god they didn’t.

When it comes to work, you were the type of person who had a set lunchtime. You kept an eye on your clock every so often, your gaze shifting more and more as the clock got closer and closer to 12:15pm.

You’d been going to lunch at 12:15pm for five years, and you planned on going to lunch at 12:15pm for as long as you continued your employment.

You were a creature of habit, okay?

At 12:14pm that Friday, you were just about to push away from your desk and lock your computer when you heard a soft knock on your cube wall.

You quickly turned to see who it was, and your eyes landed on none other than Shownu.

“Hey,” you said with a grin, trying to hide your anxiety that he would keep you past your lunch start time.

“Do you have plans for lunch?” he asked with a slightly furrowed brow.

“I do not, I was just about to --”

Shownu lifted his wrist to look at his watch, and he tipped his head in a tiny nod. “Would you want to come down to the cafe? My treat.”

Whoa -- wait -- what?

Shownu was... asking you to lunch? Asking to treat you to lunch?

While you were taken aback enough to want to ask ‘why?’, you knew you shouldn’t.

You should just accept.

Now.

“Yeah, sure,” you answered.

Quickly, you locked your computer and grabbed your phone and security badge before standing up to join your handsome, sweet, nice, quiet co-worker wearing a sweater vest for lunch.

When the two of you got in the elevator, Shownu inhaled softly just as the doors closed.

“I, uh --” he began. “I noticed you go to lunch at the same time every day, so I wanted to make sure I caught you before you left.”

You could feel your cheeks warm, and you couldn’t help but let out a bashful chuckle. “I’m predictable, I know.”

“But it helps in situations like this,” he pointed out with probably the cutest little smile you’d ever seen oh my god.

“True,” you agreed with a nod.

You expected to make some more semi-awkward small talk the rest of the way down, but surprisingly, Shownu was silent.

Well, I guess it wasn’t that surprising. It didn’t take long for you to realize he was the Strong, Silent type.

Which just so happened to be your ideal type, but whatever.

When the elevator doors opened with a ding, Shownu held up one arm to usher you out. He even opened the door to the cafe for you.

A Strong, Silent gentleman.

Wearing a sweater vest.

You would really appreciate it if he would just stop being so perfect.

As the two of you were standing in line to order sandwiches at the cafe’s deli, you decided to break the silence.

“I like your sweater vest,” you said softly, resisting the temptation to reach out and take the fabric in-between two fingers.

“Oh,” Shownu reacted, looking down at his chest. “Thanks. It was a gift, actually. My mom got it for me for Christmas, but this is my first time wearing it.”

For your sake - and for the sake of everyone in the #SSV message group - you hoped it wouldn’t be the last.

And then you realized he’d said his mom had given it to him.

You were professional, but 1. you were still just a little bit shameless, and 2. you were at lunch right now. Technically not on the clock.

“Your mom?” you asked casually. “I figured probably your girlfriend got it for you or something.”

“No,” Shownu chuckled. “I don’t have a girlfriend.”

“...Boyfriend?”

You just wanted to make sure!

“Not one of those, either.”

You were about to respond, but the person in front of you in line finished ordering, so now it was your turn.

Once the two of you had placed your orders, you found a small table over near the windows while Shownu paid at the register.

You watched him, mainly so you could lift your hand and wave him over once he was done buying your meal, but also because...

I mean, honestly, had you ever seen anyone that handsome? Even from the back!

When he turned around, sliding his wallet into his back pocket, a small smile appeared on your lips and you wiggled your fingers to make sure he saw the table you’d picked.

As soon as Shownu sat down across from you, you realized you would have to force yourself to talk as much as you could. Walking with him and standing with him in an elevator was one thing, but sitting at a table face-to-face?

You knew it wasn’t, but it felt like a date.

And dates made you nervous.

Shownu made you nervous.

“So, why did you invite me to lunch?” you blurted out.

...Wow. Great question.

“I mean,” you added, stammering just a little. “I’m not -- thank you. It’s very nice of you, I’m just curious.”

A small smile tugged at the corners of Shownu’s plush, full lips, and his eyes crinkled adorably before he spoke.

“I just wanted to thank you for showing me around and kind of... being my mentor, I guess.”

“You’re buying me lunch for walking around the office and showing you where the bathroom is?” you asked with a soft laugh. “That’s not that big of a deal.”

“Well, it was to me,” he nodded. “It’s not easy being the new guy, so it was really nice to have someone offer instead of me having to keep asking people where things are. I really appreciated it.”

Your cheeks had warmed earlier in the elevator, but now they were simply ablaze at his words.

“It was my pleasure,” you murmured, hoping you didn’t sound as uncomfortable as you felt. “We -- we appreciate having someone who actually knows how to work our copy machine.”

Shownu let out a pretty hearty laugh at that, and you could feel your smile lighting up your face at the sound of it.

Whoever got to make Shownu laugh like that for the rest of his life was, to put it lightly, lucky.

One of the cafe workers arrived with your sandwiches then, and it was probably for the best. If Shownu laughed or smiled any longer, you were quite positive that your eyes would form into little hearts.

“Thank you again,” you said as Shownu was cleaning up the remnants of your lunch.

“Oh, you’re welcome,” he replied with a somewhat shy grin. He reached toward the nearest trash can, tossing in the sandwich wrappers and empty bags of chips. “I know it wasn’t a fancy lunch or anything, but --”

“I’m not that fancy,” you finished for him.

“Me neither,” Shownu agreed. “I’ve always been a simple guy, but is there really anything wrong with that?”

“Absolutely not!” you assured him.

Once the table was cleared, you began to head out and back toward the elevators. Shownu opened the door of the cafe for you, walking just a step behind you.

He reached out and pushed the elevator button, and as the two of you stood there waiting, Shownu turned to you and said, “You’re the first friend I’ve made at work, so I guess I just wanted to commemorate the occasion.

On the outside, you smiled back at him. You even laughed a little.

But on the inside, you were like ‘Oh, wow, awesome. He used the word “friend” that’s wonderful. I love it. Friends are great.’

Had you really been friend-zoned already?

Part 3

#shownu scenarios #shownu imagines #shownu au #shownu fluff #shownu fanfic #monsta x scenarios #monsta x imagines #monsta x au #monsta x fluff #monsta x fanfic #kpop scenarios #kpop imagines #kpop au #kpop fluff #kpop fanfic #shownu #son hyunwoo #monsta x

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afoolsingenuity · 6 years

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Bite Sized Books // Wallflowers: I Finally Read Some Lisa Kleypas

So, last month I finally read some Lisa Kleypas. Nick has been going on at me to read her books for a while and then Danya started in I figured I should probably go ahead and get reading, I did own two of the books in the series anyway so it made sense. I ended up loving the series and I’m not totally sure why I waited to read them. I figured a small handful of quick bite-sized review was appropriate in case anyone (like me) has yet to read them and needs a little convincing.

Secrets of a Summer Night (wallflower #1) – Lisa Kleypas Published: 26th October 2004 Source: Purchased Genre: Historical Romance My Rating:

Annabelle Peyton, determined to save her family from disaster, decides to use her beauty and wit to tempt a suitable nobleman into making an offer of marriage. But Annabelle's most intriguing - and persistent - admirer, wealthy, powerful Simon Hunt, has made it clear that while he will introduce her to irresistible pleasure he will not offer marriage. Annabelle is determined to resist his unthinkable proposition... but it is impossible in the face of such skillful seduction.

Her friends, looking to help, conspire to entice a more suitable gentleman to offer for Annabelle, for only then will she be safe from Simon - and her own longings. But on one summer night, Annabelle succumbs to Simon's passionate embrace and tempting kisses... and she discovers that love is the most dangerous game of all.

The first book centres around Annabelle. There is literally no reason she should be a Wallflower. She is extremely pretty, she knows how to behave as a lady should and she’s good at faking a smile. Unfortunately, her family is poor and they are relying upon Annabelle to marry well to help support her family but the rich men? They are circling like sharks waiting for her to be desperate enough to act as a mistress to one of them. Those men include Simon Hunt. He doesn’t wish to marry but continually he is around Annabelle and can’t seem to get her out from under his skin.

I admit I was a little wary of the pairing. Annabelle could have potentially been unlikable, so confident in her looks searching for a rich man, but she was so sweet and nice and she had an attitude she didn’t always let folks see (unless she was with the Wallflowers who allowed her to be herself). And Simon may have been a working man (shocking, how dare he get rich from a hard days work) but him being unwilling to marry seemed a bit weird. All doubts were cast aside when they were together. Their little digs at one another were brilliant. And the care Simon showed when Annabelle was sick! I am a sucker for one half of a romantic pairing caring for the other when sick, I don’t know what it is.

I found this romance didn’t follow the path I expected. I expected them together and for a nice little HEA to happen. Instead, the two married but that was by no means the end because the end was when they admitted their care and love for one another. I even enjoyed how overly dramatic the book got. Turns out I love the OTT drama in this historical romance. I adored Annabelle and Simon not understanding their depth of care for one another until they almost lost one another. It was perfect.

It Happened One Autumn (Wallflowers #2) – Lisa Kleypas

Published: 25th September 2005 Source: Purchased Genre: Historical Romance My Rating:

It happened at the ball...

Where beautiful but bold Lillian Bowman quickly learned that her independent American ways weren't entirely "the thing." And the most disapproving of all was insufferable, snobbish, and impossible Marcus, Lord Westcliff, London's most eligible aristocrat.

It happened in the garden...

When Marcus shockingly - and dangerously - swept her into his arms. Lillian was overcome with a consuming passion for a man she didn't even like. Time stood still; it was as if no one else existed.

It happened one autumn...

Marcus was a man in charge of his own emotions, a bedrock of stability. But with Lillian, every touch was exquisite torture, every kiss an enticement for more. Yet how could he consider taking a woman so blatantly unsuitable...as his bride?

I went into this book with high expectations. I’d already been told by Danya and Nick it was good and Danya claimed Lillian and Marcus as her favourite couple. Thus, I was nervous to read because what if I didn’t like them?

I admit I found Lillian to be far too forceful a personality in the first book. She was very set in her mind and she very much stuck to her guns even when she was wrong. I wasn’t sure such a headstrong personality would appeal to me. I was wrong, she was brilliant. She was American and thus way too free and outspoken for British society but the fact she shook things up made her interesting to me. She was fun and just blew into things without much thought.

On the other hand, Marcus was stereotypically British, the perfect gent really. He was restrained and proper and although he was far more understanding than a lot of the British elite he was still stuck in his ways. He didn’t try and break too much from the elite and instead mostly blended except when it came to his business affairs. I didn’t like how he spoke about Annabelle in the first book and so I was a little wary going into this one. He was too quick to judge (much like Lillian) and so I was wary of both.

Turns out, two people who I potentially didn’t like trying to get together in a romance (whilst both being adamant they didn’t want each other) is a great recipe for romance. I thought they were hilarious, especially Lillian’s drunk scene that was hysterical. And when they did get together? Look, their path was never going to be easy and they were brilliant together. Once they were set upon each other no one else would do. They were perfect together.

The Devil In Winter (Wallflowers #3) – Lisa Kleypas

Published: 28th February 2006 Source: Purchased Genre: Historical Romance My Rating:

Evangeline Jenner stands to become the wealthiest Wallflower, once her inheritance comes due. Because she must first escape the clutches of her unscrupulous relatives, Evie has approached the rake Viscount St Vincent with a most outrageous proposition: marriage!

Sebastian's reputation is so dangerous that thirty seconds alone with him will ruin any maiden's good name. Still, Evie appeared, unchaperoned, on his doorstep to offer her hand. Certainly an aristocrat with a fine eye for beauty could do far worse.

But Evie's proposal comes with a condition: no lovemaking after their wedding night. She will never become another of the Viscount's discarded broken hearts - which means Sebastian will have to work harder at his seductions . . . or surrender his own heart for the first time in the name of true love.

This was one of the Wallflowers books which I’d heard most about. Everyone raved about how brilliant it was and how it was one of the best in the series. I think I may have to agree, Evie’s transformation from an actual wallflower (she was shy, retiring and had an overbearing family) to a confident woman who went after what and who she wanted was great.

It picked up right from the end of the last book with Evie approaching Sebastian and proposing marriage. What we saw of Sebastian in the last book did not shine him in the best light. I was wary of any romance involving him because although I’d like him up until the end as he may have been an inveterate rake but he was honest about it. Until he acted like a dick. I couldn’t see how he would redeem himself with this one. Turns out I need to get more imaginative because he most certainly redeemed himself.

Sebastian is utterly charming but he was also honest in his own way. He never hid who he was and so the relationship between Evie and Sebastian was brilliant. I knew he was a good egg as soon as Evie stopped stammering around him. If she could feel comfortable around him then he can’t be all bad. And seeing him slowly reform himself and become a hardworking gentleman running a reasonably respectable gambling club… well, I was all for that.

I loved that Evie stuck to her guns and made Sebastian work for her and her love. She didn’t let him off the hook simply because he was charming. The simple fact Sebastian was willing to sacrifice that which he loved to try and woo Evie (without realising that was what he was doing) was pretty damn awesome. my only complaint is we didn’t get more of Sebastian’s backstory. I feel like there could have been way more depth to him. That is my only grumble really, though.

Scandal in Spring (Wallflowers #4) – Lisa Kleypas

Published: 25th July 2006 Source: Purchased Genre: Historical Romance My Rating:

After spending three London seasons searching for a husband, Daisy Bowman's father has told her in no uncertain terms that she must find a husband. Now. And if Daisy can't snare an appropriate suitor, she will marry the man he chooses - the ruthless and aloof Matthew Swift.

Daisy is horrified. A Bowman never admits defeat, and she decides to do whatever it takes to marry someone . . . anyone . . . other than Matthew. But she doesn't count on Matthew's unexpected charm . . . or the blazing sensuality that soon flares beyond both their control. And Daisy discovers that the man she has always hated just might turn out to be the man of her dreams.

But right at the moment of sweet surrender, a scandalous secret is uncovered . . . one that could destroy both Matthew and a love more passionate and irresistible than Daisy's wildest fantasies.

The final one (apart from that Christmas book which I’ve not read) in this series is one I was nervous about. They’d all been so good and I questioned if Daisy’s book could possibly be as good. Especially as it seems to be a lower rated book in general. After all, this book follows on from three really good books.

I actually really enjoyed it despite all my doubts. Daisy was the youngest of the wallflowers and a dreamer. Far more likely to be found with her nose in a book than actually actively pursuing a future husband. It’s no surprise that her father becomes exasperated and gives her an ultimatum to either marry someone or she will be forced to marry Matthew Swift, a man who seems to go against everything Daisy hopes to find in a husband. Except, what she remembers of him is a little different to who he was when he came to England.

I think, after the drama of the first three books the calmer atmosphere of this book was appreciated. I mean, even the major drama at the end was a touch less dramatic and I liked that. What made this book great is that it was all about the competitive nature of the couple. Daisy is convinced that Matthew isn’t for her, even if he has miraculously grown hot in the time since she last saw him. He is far too rigid for her liking, but she is determined to prove him wrong and be better than him whenever possible.

Matthew, he was the one I truly loved. He had been head over heels for Daisy ever since he met her. He may not have always put things in the right way to her but he did love her. Even though he was in denial about it as he major secrets of his own. A secret I totally guessed but that’s neither here nor there.

This book was perfect really. Matthew and Daisy were great. I especially loved their competitive game of bowls. And the glimpses of the other ladies in their happily married lives. It was a great end to a great series and I have been informed I have to read the Ravenels series.

Have you read any of Lisa Kleypas’s books? And have you read any of the books in this series?

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#a fool's ingenuity #books

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davemerritt · 6 years

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Dave...how is your loaf winner this morning?

Two thousand and eighteen. It’s frightening how fast the years seem to be disappearing so quickly, but as always on new years eve (and now new years day) I take time to look back over the last 12 months and all the things that have happened that make me appreciate how lucky I am, even if the months do seem be passing by right in front of my eyes.

So no better place to start than January 2017 and to begin the new year in a traditionally festive fashion I went down to Saint Marys to watch Southampton. I rarely get to go to the football these days, simply down to cost more than anything, but when I do get to go it’s always a joy, even if we lose more than we win. Steve and I also made the most of the gorgeous winter sunshine by walking our way along the Purbeck coast. After completing my runs for charity I’ve still kept up and entered a few events in 2017, but an issue with my foot meant I couldn’t compete at the same level, however in January I dragged my friend Jack out to Pipley Woods in Bath and we took part in the ‘Mud bath’ event which was exactly what you think it was, a rather messy start to the year for running indeed. Back at work we had the pleasure of welcoming Jim Parkyn to the art department for one day to run a workshop. Jim is one of the team behind Aardman’s ‘Shaun the Sheep’ and a wonderful nice chap and the whole day was fantastic. On the social side of things I caught Seaway at the Fleece and went to a Q&A with David Seaman and Lee Dixon that was a great little evening for the Merlin theatre.

The Westway cinema has always had it’s rustic charm and I’ve always been a true believer in supporting it, but it closed it’s doors all of a sudden one day but thanks to a small group of people at S&B cinemas in Burnham the Westway was saved and a conversion took place that saw the cinema split into 3 smaller screens, meaning the building could have a wider variety of movies on offer. Since it reopened in 2017 I’ve been multiple times (twice in the last fortnight just in December) and it is a wonderful asset to the town. There is no pretention, no gimmicks, no ridiculous coffee and no sky-high prices and the town should be forever grateful. In February Jess was somewhat between jobs as her maternity cover at LTS came to an end and as a way to help pass the time whilst applying for new work she managed to find two little dogs that needed a walker and company during the week. These two little puppers are called ‘Diggory’ and ‘Pippa’ and I got to meet them this month and although Jess now sees them less than she did before, they are still a lovely part or her life and it’s hard not to fall in love with them if you ever got to meet them. Not too much was going on around my own theatre work at the start of the year but Frome College put on a production of ‘We Will Rock You’ which Steve and I took ourselves along to in support and what a night! Frome really does have some of the most unique and wonderful talent for theatre and shows like WWRY are the perfect celebration of that talent.

At the end of 2017 I was lucky enough to get some photos published in Vintage Life Magazine and in March I finally got hold of my physical copy. Whilst the photos are certainly not my best work, I am extremely pleased with what myself and my model were able to get in such a short time and I am proper proud to see my work in print. Whilst my foot was giving me issues, we got the small group back together and took to the Battle of Lansdown course again to get wet, muddy, cold (oh so very cold) and exhausted whilst having a good laugh. It was brilliant as always and later in the year we had the sister event to conquer. Lucy from work turned 30 in March and had a Disney costume party to celebrate. Jess and I decided to go as 101 Dalmatians with myself taking on the role of ‘Cruellea Dave-Vil’ and Jess the 101st Dalmatian. Jess is so good at doing make up and costumes and I think our idea went down very well.

Heading into April and Spring (probably my favourite season if you’re wondering) Steve, Emma and I (plus Buddy the dog) made the most of the rather warm weather and take a long walk all the way to Nunney, Whatley and back again. I took a week off work in March and Lamb came to visit and so, in true local pride fashion, I took her (and Jess) to Wells to see the Cathedral and City. I left uni 7 years ago and I really don’t see my Solent friends enough, but Laura and I always do try and see each other even, if it should be more regularly, and days like the one we took to Wells are so important. Amy’s Tri Art dance showcase of ‘The Golden Key’ was this month and I was lucky enough to be asked to take photos of the performance. I never really get to see live dance and this was a real treat and a genuinely pleasure to photograph; some of my favourite pictures I took this year were from that show. April was such a busy month in 2017 and regular events such as The Mells daffodil fair were coupled with exciting new celebrations with the wedding of Ben and Becky and a new arrival for my friend Craig after he became the father to a wonderful sweet young man called Fletcher. My Frome FM journey is still very much in full swing and in April we moved into what is now our permanent (and still being improved) new home and the Town Hall, it really is a stunning building and it’s great for FFM to finally feel like it belongs somewhere, especially somewhere that is such an important local landmark to the town.

Slam Dunk. I know I sound like a broken record, but truly May only means one thing and that is the best day of the music calendar for myself. Slam Dunk was another triumphant success and I already have my ticket for this year and it is with a wide smile that the South date has returned to the Saturday and at a new home. Whilst still in Hatfield the event is moving, this is exciting but I really hope the festival doesn’t lose it’s up close and personal feel that makes it so special, only time will tell… So after months and literally hundreds of applications Jess managed to secure a new job last month with the outdoor pursuit wear company ‘Orvis’ and I went to visit her at her store in Bath in May. Jess defied the odds and worked night and day to secure that job and I am beyond proud of her. She is happy and successful in her new job and I can’t tell you how amazing it is to see her land this dream role. It’s also great because I get the chance to buy lots of great practical outdoor wear too. Five months into the year and the boys and I managed to get the first poker game of 2017 up and running, we’ve somewhat dropped the ball on how many games we get together and play but when we do they are always a great night, so here’s hoping to more in 2018. This month I also went to the Cinderella awards (we didn’t take home any trophies but it was a good night) and Jess and I also took Pip and Dig, who were now like members of the family, down to Lyme Regis for the day that was just perfect.

As part of Jess’s new role at Orvis she organises free fly fishing 101 sessions and so in true support I rounded up a couple of good friends and headed over to Bath where a wonderful gentleman named Simon taught us how to cast, all about flies and other skills in fly fishing, it was brilliant and we all had a blast. My first Merlin challenge of the year came in the form of our 24-hour production that was ‘Soho Cinders’. This was a hard process but another great success for the theatre and just means that yet again we’ve set our own bar to meet with future shows. Jess has become quite the keen Muay Thai boxer and in June she took part in a boxing demonstration at the Bath Thai festival. This was a really great day but the event was on the hottest day of the year, so hot in fact that jess and the other boxers came away with blisters where the floor of the ring was so hot. Yet again though Jess did herself proud and put on a great display for young and old. A couple of party’s took place in June too where we celebrated Amy’s birthday as well as Martin’s surprise party at the Grain where we were treated to an up close show from up and coming band ‘Bad Sounds’, they’ve gone on the great things and looking at a very good future in 2018.

Despite a pretty miserable end of summer, we were treated to some scorching weather at the start of the season. To start the month of July though we celebrated Jess’s birthday and did so by going to Airhop (please go if you haven’t before, and take me and let’s play dodgeball) and then watching Despicable Me 3. I think it’s important to have a very serious and mature set of celebrations and I think Jess would agree. I had a little job in July taking photographs at the Writhlington Sports Awards evening which was actually really good fun and quite inspiring too, on the way home though I had my first ever flat tyre, but to my luck Roxy who was with me stepped up and despite being dressed all snazzy (I had a white shirt on, this was note the time to change a tyre) assisted in getting the damn thing changed. We also had the good fortune of a kind Samaritan passing who was a mechanic who offered to save us getting dirt on our finery and put Alice’s spare on, a very kind gentleman indeed and full praise to Roxy too. I’m really lucky to have the best friends surrounding me and in July a few of us took a day trip down to Portsmouth whilst the sun was still on our side and had a bit of blast on the coast. I got up to so much in July on the weekends so here goes a quick (this won’t be quick) round up; Firstly Anne encouraged myself and a few others, including Simon and Steve, to take part in the Frome Fashion Show. This might actually be one of the best things I did this year, as we (with full on nerves) strutted our stuff down the catwalk. I never thought I’d do something like that ever and all I can say now is that I can’t wait to do it again this year (if Anne will have me). Secondly The Rood Rampage, sister event to The Battle of Lansdown, took place and the same group who had beaten TBOL got even muddier and wetter running around, and through, Rood Ashton Lake. The Rampage might actually be the best running event I’ve ever taken part in and despite it falling on the same day as the Frome 10k I will 100% run it again this year, and hope that my team will join me once again. Next this month Jess, Sarah and my sister went to F.R.I.E.N.D.S fest in Cardiff which was good fun and also Steve and I took ourselves off to the Breacon Beacons for the day, which was good fun but the wettest day of the year, the rain though did mean that when we found Henrhyd Falls it was in full flow and so impressive. A real treat for Frome this summer saw Michael McIntyre come to the Merlin stage and perform a work in progress show, I was lucky enough to be in the front row and it was a very special evening indeed. Finally, in July I decided to go for my first ever audition and try for a part in ‘The Vicar of Dibley’. I was fortunate enough to land the role of ‘Hugo’ and can’t wait to take to the stage in my first piece of theatre outside of a musical.

The Kairos show of ‘It Shoulda Been You’ was starting to get real in August as we only had a matter of weeks before we had to put this show in front of an audience. It had been a great journey so far and there wasn’t long at all to go. Anyway, in August I had a couple weeks off work as the college wound down for the summer and whilst it’s lovely to shut down, I get massive cabin fever, so this year I decided I would fill my days as best as possible, so days out this year included a trip to Old Wardour castle, the Durdle Door, Dyrham park and a real highlight was the day I took myself to the Bombay Sapphire Distillery in Hampshire which was a great day out and for anyone that likes gin as much as I do, you should definitely go and treat yourself to a little hour or so there. In August there was a good meteor shower promised, and so, myself and a bunch of great friends braved the cloudy looking weather and took ourselves up to the top of Cley hill in the hope we might see something, and in true perseverance we did and it was a great evening. Great things in the town this month were the annual comic con and Ash taking to the stage at the Cheese & Grain. Jess’s new job role was in full swing and she had to travel to Scotland this month for work and whilst she did I had my troublesome foot seen to and therefore couldn’t wear any shoes for a few days, so whilst I felt sorry for myself she was off earning the beans in Banchory. August also saw the youth production of ‘Les Miserables’ at the Merlin and I cannot even express into words how good this show was, it was a showcase of pure youth talent and ultimately moving and breath taking from the young people of Frome. Another real highlight in August though was a little holiday we took with Jess’s family down to the south coast. We stayed in an air BNB on this beautiful old farm and we held a family sports day, went to the beach and they even threw me a little surprise early birthday party, speaking of which…

I turned 30 this year. 30. Now I know that’s not old, but my word it’s weird. It’s weird to still feel like I’m 22 and living the dream at uni with not a care in the world and my whole future ahead of me, but actually now I’ve hit this milestone I might not have the kids I thought I would or own a mansion and drive an Aston Martin, but you know what? I’m a very happy man, with a beautiful girlfriend, a bizarre and wonderful little cat, the best job, a fantastic life full of fun, music, theatre, football and th best friends you could ever imagine. Annual events in September of course were the cheese show and the carnival, but the biggest thing to happen this month was that we were to open ISBY at Cooper Hall and what a pleasure this was. The show got funnier every time we performed it, the music was wonderful, the venue stunning, the (sell out) audiences fantastic and I fell a little bit in love with Albert. I truly can’t get enough of the Kairos theatre group and can’t wait to see what we do next, but you’ll have to wait until 2019 to find out what that is. September is also the start of the new term at work and, as you all know, my job is one of the best things in my life and I’ve felt I’ve always evolved within work and been given exciting and new challenges and this year was no different as I was given more teaching responsibilities, this has been incredibly demanding but I am loving every second and get the chance to work with some of the best young artists, a true pleasure.

The next big Merlin challenge came in October as the autumn production of ‘Guys & Dolls’ came to the Merlin. Now we don’t often tackle a classic musical, but Director Daisy really did a marvellous job of making this show come alive. It may have been the most draining and demanding show I’ve ever worked on, but the result spoke for itself and again, The Merlin can be proud of the people that give countless hours to keep the theatre alive. This month I also got my first taste of golf again for the first time since Frome shut it’s gates, as Mr Hynds took me to Orchadleigh’s driving range, which led to a full round in November. A great gig this month was the chance to see The Rocket Summer at the Fleece where Bryce played the whole of ‘Do you Feel’ in full. For Halloween this year too, I decided to go to the party as Alan Partridge in full ‘Zombie’ wear. Nobody actually got the costume, but I was pretty pleased with myself.

4 years I’ve been lucky enough to be with Jess and to celebrate Jess booked us a nice weekend away across the border in Wiltshire visit the STEAM museum and getting outside over a lovely hill fort. If there’s one thing that tells you someone’s a keeper it’s that they get that you’ll love a trip up a grassy knoll and around a museum all about trains. As said last month I tried the driving range and in November I played my first round of golf in an age. I was a touch rusty to say the least, but it was brilliant to get back out on the course. This month saw the rehearsal process for The Vicar of Dibley pick up pace as well as a great gig at the Komedia in Bath to see Deaf Havana on their tour of ‘All These Countless Nights’.

So December. My last gig of the year was a trip back to one of my favourite venues, the Joiner sin Southampton to see Ryan Key of Yellowcard perform a solo show as well as a band new to myself, Normandie, play a great set. The main reason to be there though was to see Grumble Bee, a wicked solo project from the nicest man called Jack, I implore you to check him out and I’m sure you’ll like his music. Outside of the usual Christmas antics, December saw a nice birthday night out for Davey, Jason Manford took to the Grain stage in what was probably the best stand up I’ve seen live and I went to my first professional panto to see Aladdin at the Hippodrome in Bristol. December also always means the Christmas musical at my second home of the Merlin and this year we put on another original script in the form of ‘Hansel & Gretel’. It was a fantastic show and yet again there were some really unique set pieces and outstanding performances, including some beautiful contemporary dance from Amy’s Tri Art performances, that despite being so young, put on some stunning examples of live dance theatre that many in the audience would never have seen before, the future really is bright for the young cast and performers of the Merlin Theatre trust me, names like Patrick Withey, Conny Hunter, Georgie Rose, Cordelia Tarbrooke and Dylan Berry (to name only but a few) are sure to be regular features in our programmes and who knows, the West End some day…

It’s safe to say that 2017 has been a blast. I’ve done some wonderful things and have so much to be thankful for. I’m loving still being part of Frome FM, I spend most of my days giving all I can for the Merlin, I’m enjoying my football again as we’ve moved away from the horror that is the pitch at the Frome sports centre and I’m still loving my work. 2018 has a lot to compete with but there are still lots to look forward to. I’ll start the year the same way and go and see Seaway live, with lots of other gigs including, Don Broco, Lower than Atlantis, Tonight Alive, With Confidence, The Gospel Youth and of course Slam Dunk coupled with tickets to go to a night with Brian Blessed too. For Christmas Brillo got the family tickets to Harry Potter and the Cursed Child and I’ve got lots of things from the Merlin to work on including opening The Vicar of Dibley in February and I can’t wait to see ‘Saviour by the Amethyst’. Personally I’d like to take myself to the Edinburgh Festival this year, compete in a stack of running races and get as many little breaks away with Jess as I can. I’ve had a great year and I can’t wait to see what this one brings, so right now I’m going to finish watching the PDC darts final (come on Cross!) and bid you all a very happy new year

Album of the Year // Deaf Havana – All these Countless Nights (It’s a masterpiece)

Movie of the Year // Star Wars: The Last Jedi (Other highlights included Get Out, Lego batman and The Greatest Showman

Game of the Year: Tom Clancy’s: Ghost Recon Wildlands. Not the most polished of games, but a total blast none the less

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buzzandnova · 7 years

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Hallmark Channel Just Announced Their Christmas Movie Line-Up For December

1. ‘Mr. Christmas,’ November 5, 9 p.m. ET/PT

Starring Sam Page and Tara Holt, this classic romance flick sounds pretty fun:

“Tom Jacobs has built an entire business around helping clients find the perfect gift for their loved ones,” a blurb on Entertainment Weekly reads. “Since his company’s busiest time of the year is the holidays, he’s earned himself the nickname Mr. Christmas. When Tom’s good friend Paul comes to him asking for help in finding a gift for his girlfriend, Jenny, Mr. Christmas finds himself in a bit of trouble. The more he learns about Jenny during his research, the more he likes her, and the guiltier he feels being caught between his heart and his best friend. With Christmas rapidly approaching, Tom dreads his encroaching deadline as it will mean an end to his time with Jenny and perhaps an end to his only chance at being with his one true love.”

2. ‘A Song for Christmas,’ November 11, 9 p.m. ET/PT

Featuring Rebecca Tobin and Kevin McGarry, A Song for Christmas is a classic story of two people from two totally different worlds falling in love:

“Pop superstar Adelaide Kay is so fed up with her controlling manager that she sneaks off the tour bus after their latest squabble. Though exhilarated to be free, she finds herself stranded in the freezing cold of a Pennsylvania winter, with no money and no plan. A local family, the Lapps, take her in. They know the true meaning of the season, even if they’re close to losing their dairy farm. No one in the family recognizes Adelaide except Dillon, the oldest son. He figures she’s the ticket to fast cash and plots to snap photos of Adelaide around the farm and sell them to the tabs. What he doesn’t plan, however, is their mutual attraction. As they get to know each other, Dillon has two realizations: Profiteering from invading Adelaide’s privacy is wrong, and his uptight girlfriend is not the one for him. When Adelaide performs a song, which Dillon’s kid sister wrote, a lot of money is earned which aids the Lapps and other strapped farmers.”

3. ‘Engaging Father Christmas,’ November 12, 9 p.m. ET/PT

Erin Krakow, Niall Matter, and Wendie Malick star in movie where everything doesn’t go as planned:

“It was supposed to be the perfect engagement. What could be more romantic than a Christmas proposal in a bucolic Vermont inn? Ian has it planned perfectly, or so he thinks. Miranda, an interior designer, returns to where she met Ian, a dashing former attorney who now runs the little hotel in the quaint town of Carlton Heath. After doing some digging to learn about her family roots, Miranda had traced her lineage to Carlton Heath. Though it’s Christmas, Miranda had always done her best to distance herself from the holiday; her mom, an actress, had died while performing a holiday play. Ian has carefully planned every aspect of Miranda’s visit so he could make the most romantic proposal. Too bad the best-laid plans often go awry – even during Christmas.”

4. ‘A Joyous Christmas,’ November 18, 9 p.m. ET/PT

Although there’s very few details, this sounds like a modern take on A Christmas Carol:

“Joy may be down-on-her-luck, but her humanity is intact. She jumps to the aid of a stranger, rescuing the woman from a terrible accident. The woman who nearly died is quite successful and learns a great lesson from her accident: Helping others is the key to true success and could be the path to finding true love as well.”

5. ‘A Bramble House Christmas,’ November 19, 9 p.m. ET/PT

Get ready for tears with Autumn Reeser, David Haydn-Jones, and Teryl Rothery:

“While settling his father’s estate, Finn Conrad becomes suspicious as to why he left a nurse $50,000. His dad knew her for less than two months before he died. Just before Christmas, Finn wants to reclaim what he considers his family’s money, so he goes undercover to investigate the bed-and-breakfast the nurse has recently taken over. When Finn meets Willa, he discovers she’s not a conniving gold digger at all. She’s the single mother of a sick boy who needed an operation. Finn’s dad paid for the operation and financed Willa’s dream of running the Bramble House B&B. Though Willa and Finn are protective of their hearts for different reasons, they fall in love — until she discovers his true identity and why he was there. Now Finn must gain Willa’s trust to make this a Christmas to remember.”

6. ‘Christmas Homecoming,’ November 26, 9 p.m. ET/PT

Seriously, it wouldn’t be Christmas if there weren’t tears, this time with Julie Benz and Michael Shanks.

“A military widow, whose faith in Christmas has lapsed, rents an apartment to a handsome Army Captain, recovering from an injury in battle, and whose faith in Christmas is inspirational. As they team up to save the town’s military museum with a Christmas fundraising event, these two ‘wounded birds’ find themselves falling in love — and being healed by the magic of Christmas.”

7. ‘A Gift to Remember,’ December 2, 9 p.m. ET/PT

Ali Liebert and Peter Porte fall in love after she knocks into him with her bike and knocks him into a coma. A classic romance story:

“Darcy’s lifelong love of reading has led her to the perfect job, working in a small Manhattan bookstore. A real romantic, Darcy won’t settle for some man simply because of his job title or bank account. No, she insists on being swept off her feet. One day, while bicycling to work, Darcy crashes into Adrian, a sharply dressed gentleman walking his dog. Knocked unconscious, he’s rushed to the hospital where he falls into a coma. Deeply shaken, the guilt-ridden Darcy takes the dog home, waiting to reunite him with his owner. As she learns more about Aidan — a world-traveler, a devoted man of letters — Darcy realizes he could be the one she has been waiting for. That is, until he comes to and Darcy discovers she has created a fictional world for a very real man. Will she still fall in love?”

8. ‘Angel Falls,’ December 3, 9 p.m. ET/PT

Rachel Boston and Paul Greene attempt to reignite the Christmas spirit of a small town:

“Angel Gabriel (Rachel Boston) – Gabby – gets a special assignment and is dispatched to the town of Angel Falls. The town has lost its Christmas spirit and Gabby is charged with the task of helping the residents recapture it. Along the way, she befriends Jack Avery (Paul Greene), the Volunteer Fire Chief, who’s initially skeptical about her plan to revive the local Yuletide cheer. Determined, Gabby takes a job at the local church as the volunteer coordinator and sets about her business of recruiting residents to get the town’s holiday back on track. ��In the process of bringing back beloved Angel Falls Christmas traditions, Gabby has a surprising revelation about herself and her own dreams that set her down an unexpected path.”

9. ‘Unbridled Love,’ December 9, 9 p.m. ET/PT

Details are still to be announced, but it has an evil stepmother:

“Evil stepmothers don’t only lurk in castles, tormenting helpless children. Sometimes, they’re on ranches, tormenting adults. A year after her father died in a fire at their Oregon ranch — a fire accidentally caused by her stepmother, Mae — Sarah has finally found her footing, turning the family homestead into a successful dude ranch. Still, Mae is pushing to take it over, seeing it as a potential goldmine. Meanwhile, Graham, a Hollywood superstar, wants to use the ranch as the location of his next movie. Sarah isn’t inclined to allow it. During a long horseback ride through the moonlit mountains, Graham explains why this project is so dear to him. That and a soulful kiss make Sarah relent. But all does not run smoothly once the movie starts. Graham and his costar, Simone, had been involved; Sarah has fallen hard for the handsome star. Still, she won’t allow jealousy to cloud her professionalism. When Simone’s horse runs wild, Sarah saves her. And when Sarah’s evil stepmother, Mae, also runs wild — suing Sarah — Simone, in turn, saves Sarah.”

10. ‘Karen Kingsbury’s Maggie’s Miracle,’ December 10, 9 p.m. ET/PT

According to the official logline:

“Megan spent one unforgettable summer with a boy when they were teens, and she’s never forgotten his magical definition of love. Now a high-powered attorney in New York and the single mother, her young son unexpectedly connects them again, but it’s not until Christmas when Maggie finally gets the miracle — the love — she’s longed for.”

11. ‘The Christmas Cottage,’ December 16, 9 p.m. ET/PT

Again, there’s no details on this one, but it sounds like a classic romance:

“Still only in her mid-twenties, Lacey Quinn has already given up on love. Her heart’s been broken too many times, and now she concentrates on her career as an interior designer in Raleigh, North Carolina. When BFF Ava Callahan asks Lacey to be her maid of honor, she must take on a few responsibilities, including making sure the Callahan family cottage is perfect for the honeymoon. Legend has it that if newlyweds spend their first night there, everlasting love and happiness follow. Lacey isn’t sure she buys into that notion. Still, when she finds herself snowed in there with Charlie, Ava’s brother, Lacey has to reconsider if the little house may hold some romantic magic after all — especially at Christmas.”

12. ‘When God Winks at You,’ December 17, 9 p.m. ET/PT

Kathie Lee Gifford takes a look at the origins of Christmas:

“Executive Producer and author of the When God Winks book series SQuire Rushnell presents this true story demonstrating that God communicates with us, making incredible things happen in our lives every single day. Viewers will begin to recognize god winks in their own lives, both past and present. Through these tangible signposts from God, we receive personalized messages that reassure us, stop us from worrying, chart our path in life and help us keep the faith.”

Hallmark Channel Just Announced Their Christmas Movie Line-Up For December was originally published on Buzzing Lives

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