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gigabyte-flare · 11 months

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Hybrid

(A Gigabyte Flare One Shot)

Summary: The year is 2123. The latest craze to hit the market are Hybrids, humans genetically engineered to have animalistic traits, born and raised to be the perfect companion. Your mom convinces you to get one since you live alone in a big city, however you get way more than you bargained for

Word Count: 3.8k

Pairing: puppy!Leon Kennedy x fem!reader (afab)

Disclaimer: This story is a work of fiction. Actions depicted in this story are not condoned in real life. You are responsible for your own content consumption. If any of the following warnings trigger you, please read at your own risk. Minors do not interact, this story is 18+ only.

Warnings: Pet play, dubcon, oral (f receiving), somnophilia, sex [p in v], mommy kink, breeding kink

A/N: Finally hopping on the puppy!Leon band wagon! Huge shoutout to @nexysworld for creating the adorable puppy!Leon for this fic's banner and for her and @elfven-blog for enabling me to write a puppy!Leon fic. Also lightly inspired by the puppy!Leon POV series by Nekrophil/ABP0RNS on Twitter (go check them out, their artwork is *chef's kiss*) Enjoy!

“Hybrids, the latest craze in New Los Angeles for human companionship. Humans spliced with animal DNA and raised to be your best friend! Hybrids are the perfect addition to any household! Adopt your Hybrid today at your nearest--”

You abruptly change the channel, sitting in a living room with your mom at her condo.

“Those things freak me the fuck out…” you say, mindlessly scrolling through channels.

“Hybrids? Aw, really? I think they’re cute!”

You turn to your mom, giving her a disgusted look, “really? You don’t see anything wrong with those things?”

She shakes her head, “no worse than the cyber augmentations people get, sweetie”

You watch your mom ponder for a moment, her eyes suddenly widening, “you should get one!”

“What-- Mom, no!”

“You’re in that apartment all away across town all by yourself, it’ll be good for you!”

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How you got dragged out to adopt a Hybrid is beyond you. Your mom somehow convinced you to at least go and look at what they have available for adoption. You lean your head against the passenger window and watch the sights of the city. You mindlessly listen to your mom rattle on about how excited she is to look at the Hybrids and you picking out one, which finally draws your attention.

“Whoa hold on, Mom, I never said I was buying one! I just said I would look, that’s all!” you draw your attention back out the passenger window, “besides, I can’t afford one, you know that. I’d never have enough credits in my lifetime for something like that.”

“Hun, I’m going to help you with that, don’t worry. This is for your wellbeing, after all!”

“Great…”

The large neon sign proclaiming that it was the location of a Hybrid adoption center made your stomach sink. Your mom pulls the car into the parking lot, getting out and practically dragging you out of the passenger’s side to go into the building. The reception area is a blinding white, a stark contrast to the neon grunge of the city outside. The woman behind the desk greets both of you both with a smile.

“Welcome to the Hybrid adoption center! How can I help you ladies today?”

Your mom grasps you by your shoulders, pushing you forward, “my daughter wants to see the Hybrids available for adoption today!”

“Oh that’s fantastic!” the receptionist says, her smile still plastered on her face, “what kind of Hybrid are you looking for?”

You look at the receptionist with a confused look, “what do you mean what kind?”

“Well, we have different kinds that are spliced with different animals! However, our dog and cat Hybrids are our most popular, would you like to start with one of those?”

You look at your mom for a moment before shifting your attention back to the receptionist, “um… I guess the dog ones…?”

“Great choice! Now then, I’ll notify our active adoption coordinator and have her come out to take you to see what we have for dog Hybrids, have a seat!”

You and your mom take a seat in the waiting area. You lean forward, fiddling with your fingers as you both wait. Your mom was more excited to see the Hybrids than anyone. You just wanted to please your Mom and move on. You had no intention of adopting a Hybrid. The sound of a door sliding open makes you jump as a woman with a clipboard comes out to you and your Mom.

“Are you the two ladies here to see our dog Hybrids?” she asks enthusiastically.

“Yes we are!” your mom immediately answers, practically jumping out of her seat.

The woman motions for you both to follow her, you do so reluctantly. She leads you down a set of pure white corridors before coming upon another door that slides open. Both sides of the room were lined what you could only describe as cells and you see them, the Hybrids. You expected to hear barking for some reason, but that’s not the case here. They all are saying hello and grabbing the bars that keep them in their cells.

“They can talk…?” I ask.

“Yes! Hybrids are perfectly capable of human speech! Did you have something in particular in mind for a dog Hybrid?”

“You should get a male--” Mom interjects.

“Mom!”

The coordinator just laughs, “we have plenty of males to choose from, let’s take a look!”

The first thing you notice is all of them are naked, making this whole situation even more awkward. Hybrids were quite literally people with animal parts grafted onto them; it was quite unsettling to you.

“How is this even ethical?” you whisper to your Mom.

“Stop it!” your Mom scolds you.

Most of the Hybrids were much too… eager and hyper for you, making you a little uncomfortable. It wasn’t until you got to one of the last cells when a Hybrid actually caught your attention. He, of course, was nude like the rest, but he wasn’t jumping all over the place trying to get your attention. He was laying on his back, looking up at the ceiling. He had blonde hair and blue eyes and, admittedly, he was quite gorgeous; you were bummed he was a Hybrid and not a human. He finally notices you, rolling over and smiling as he grasps the bars on his cell.

His voice is gentle, “hi there! I’m Leon!” his matching blonde tail wagging back and forth.

Something you hadn’t noticed before was that all the Hybrids had two sets of ears, their human ears and their animal ears, “do they all have two sets of ears?” you ask.

“So their animal ears aren’t actually ears, they’re simply appendages meant for cosmetics. Their human looking ears are their actual ears.” the coordinator replies, “this is Leon, he just turned 21; he’s a very calm boy, very loyal and friendly, but protective, too.”

“Oh sweetie he’s perfect for you! Look at him! He’s adorable!” your mom exclaims before speaking to the coordinator, “she lives in an apartment all by herself.”

“Oh! Leon would be perfect for you! What do you say?”

Your gaze shifts to Leon, his pretty blue eyes practically pleading at you, his tail still wagging.

You let out a heavy sigh, you can’t believe you’re actually doing this, “I’ll take him.”

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The next few days were a blur, consisting of filling out paperwork and buying things Leon would need for when he comes home. Thankfully Hybrids eat the same things humans do, so you just have to make sure you buy for two instead of just for yourself. The day came for Leon to come home to your apartment and your first order of business was getting clothes on him, having him naked all the time was just way too weird. That was proving harder than you anticipated.

“No! It’s itchy!” Leon whines, kicking off the pants and underwear you had put on him for the fifth time before curling up on the floor.

At that point you conceded defeat, you were just going to have to deal with him being naked for now. You guessed it made sense, he’s probably been naked his entire life. You watch him as he plays with a rubber bone you had bought him, immediately noticing his canine teeth were much sharper than a normal human’s would be. You look over in the corner where you had a large crate set up, it was actually at the coordinators recommendation that you get a crate for him even though the idea of putting him in it made you really uncomfortable. You’d hope you wouldn’t have to use it.

Your attention returns to Leon, who’s still playing with his bone happily, sporting this new collar you got him. It was a blue leather collar to match his eyes and had a bone shaped tag that had his name on the front and your contact info on the back.

“Leon,” you suddenly call to him, holding your hand out, “wanna play fetch?”

Leon immediately perks up onto his haunches before crawling over to you with the toy in his mouth.

You tried your damned hardest not to focus on his very large dick, even flaccid it was quite large. Again, you curse that he’s not a human internally. He drops the toy from his mouth into your hand and you reach out, giving him a scratch behind one of his dog ears. His cheeks turn red, leaning his head into your touch.

“Aren’t you a sweet boy…” you say before tossing the toy gently.

Leon chases after the toy, picking it up in his mouth and bringing it back over to you for you to throw again. You do this a few more times before Leon decides he’s had enough, he climbs up onto the couch next to you, laying his head in your lap as he stretches out across the rest of the couch, his tail making a rhythmic thumping sound as he wags his tail. You run your fingers through his hair, looking down at him.

His blue eyes look up at you and he smiles, “I love you, Mommy!”

You feel your breath hitch at his words, but you quickly recover and smile back, “love you too, Leon.”

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“Leon, get back here right now!”

You never thought you’d be starting your day chasing Leon around the living room with a pair of boxers in your hands.

“Leon, come on! My best friend is coming over and I can’t have you running around naked, at least wear these boxers for god’s sake! I even cut a hole in the back for your tail, just get over here so I can put them on!”

“No! It itches!” Leon protests, somehow managing to stay one step ahead of you as he darts around the living room on all fours.

After a while, you manage to corner him on the couch, quickly slipping on the boxers, making sure to pull his tail through the makeshift hole you had made. He starts to pull them off when you scold him.

“Leon, no! Do you want to go in the crate?”

Leon stops, pulling the boxers back up and giving you the most pathetic puppy eyes, “no, Mommy…”

“Then they stay on at least until my best friend leaves, ok?”

Leon nods, climbing off the couch, grabbing his rubber bone before climbing back onto the couch to chew on it.

“Thank you… good boy…” you say before you work on cleaning up your apartment for your best friend to arrive.

About a half hour goes by when you hear your phone go off, a notification displaying that there is someone at the door. With a couple of taps on your phone, your best friend’s face appears on the screen.

“Hey there, I’m here!” she says, giving you a big smile.

“Hang on Hailey, I’ll be right there!”

You go up to your apartment door, push a few buttons on the key panel next to the door and the door slides open. Hailey, your best friend since you were kids, comes in and gives you a hug.

“It’s been too long! What is it that you wanted to show me?” Hailey asks.

You motion for Hailey to follow you into the living room, where you find Leon still contently chewing on his bone, the boxers thankfully still on.

“Is… is that one of those Hybrids?!” the shock is evident in Hailey’s voice.

“Y-Yeah… mom convinced me to get him; his name is--”

“Hi there!” Leon sits up, his tail wagging in full circles as he looks to your friend, “I’m Leon!”

Hailey leans over to whisper into your ear, “are all Hybrids that hot?”

You elbow her, “shut up! It’s hard enough to deal with as it is without you mentioning it!”

Leon looks between the two of you, cocking his head in confusion, his tail still wagging, now hitting against the couch.

“Listen, I’m pretty sure most people fuck their Hybrids, like, look at him, how could you not?”

“Hailey, no! That’s fucking weird.”

“You’re telling me that you haven’t at least thought about it?”

“We’re not talking about this, not in front of Leon.”

Leon, meanwhile, has returned his attention to his rubber bone, chewing it aggressively when he suddenly picks up an unusual scent, one he’s never smelled before. He stops chewing, flaring his nostrils as he sniffs the air. Whatever it was, it smells sweet, almost like a wildflower. He quickly realizes that it’s you that smells like this, even though it was so faint. He wanted to get up and stuff his nose into you to take in more of this sweet smell, however, he knew he’d get in trouble, especially with your friend being here. To his dismay, you and your friend went back into the kitchen to hang out, bringing that irresistible smell with you.

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In the dead of night, Leon is restless, tossing and turning in his plush bed that sat at the foot of your bed. The smell from the other day has only become stronger over time and it was getting to Leon’s head. The smell was making his cock hard, something he hadn’t really experienced until now. It is almost painful; just him simply running his fingers along his cock made him flinch. Finally, he couldn’t take it anymore, he sat up, carefully climbing onto your bed. You were laying on your back, sound asleep with your legs spread open.

Leon gently crawls his way between your legs, the intoxicating smell emanating from the spot between your legs; he notices a dark spot on your panties. Gently, he presses his nose against the wet spot, inhaling deeply as his tail wags back and forth.

That’s it… that’s where that smell is coming from…

He glances up at you, you’re still sound asleep. He gently hooks a finger on your underwear, pulling them aside to reveal your glistening cunt to him; it practically makes him salivate. He hesitantly runs his tongue over your slit, his eyes fluttering closed as he savors the taste of you. You suddenly stir, your hips shifting slightly as a soft moan comes out of you. Your eyes flutter open and you look down to find, to your horror, Leon between your legs, eating you out.

You blink a few times before shouting, “LEON!”

Taking his mouth off of you, Leon’s eyes widen as he pushes himself off the bed, letting out a soft whimper as you sit up and cover yourself with your blanket.

“In your crate!” you point to the bedroom door, your face beet red, “now!”

“Mommy… I’m sorry… I just--”

“GET. OUT!”

Leon’s puppy ears droop and his tail tucks itself between his legs as he crawls out into the living room. You follow behind him, making sure he puts himself in his crate before shutting the crate door behind him. Looking up and whining at you, his fingers grip the bars of the crate as he stares up at you, pleading to you with his blue eyes. Unfortunately, you simply shake your head at him and walk back into the bedroom, shutting the door behind you. Leon feels tears well up in his eyes as he grips the bars on the crate.

What did he do wrong? He was only doing what his instincts told him to do, why was that bad? Releasing his grip on the crate bars, he makes himself as comfortable as he possibly can in his situation, crying himself to sleep, your sweet scent still lingering in the air.

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You didn’t sleep a wink the rest of the night, between the sounds of Leon’s cries echoing through your bedroom door to just the thought of waking up to Leon eating you out disturbed you to your core. You finally get yourself out of bed, throwing on your pajama bottoms before walking out of your bedroom. You find Leon awake in his crate, his eyes red and puffy from crying all night. Upon seeing you, he immediately sits up, gripping the crate bars, his tail wagging so hard it was a blonde blur. Against your better judgment, you walk up to the crate, unlocking it to let him out.

As soon as you open the crate door, Leon bolts out, wrapping his arms around your legs, holding you tight. The fact that he buries his nose into you and deeply inhales doesn’t go unnoticed by you.

“Thank you for letting me out, Mommy! I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to upset you. I’ll be a good boy, I swear!”

You pry his arms off you and push him away, “Just… just go play with your toys Leon…” you say before walking into the kitchen to make yourself coffee and breakfast.

Once you have your coffee and breakfast, you practically collapse at the small dining table, rubbing your face with your hands. What are you going to do? You could start crating him at night, but something about that didn’t sit right with you. Suddenly, you feel something rest on your lap and the sound of something thumping against the floor. You move your hands away from your face to find Leon’s head resting in your lap, his tail wagging against the floor.

“What’s wrong, Mommy?” he asks, his blue eyes looking up at you, his puppy ears erect and alert.

“Nothing, Leon…” you say with a sigh, “you must be hungry. I’ll make you something to eat…”

You get up from the table and over to the stove where you make him some eggs and bacon. Once finished, you put them on a plate and set it on the floor in front of him and watch as he scarfs it down. You sit back down at the table and slowly pick away at your breakfast and take sips out of your coffee mug. You feel Leon rest his head onto your lap again. You look back down, finding him looking up at you longingly, his tail wagging insistently.

“What is it, Leon?” you ask, leaning back in your chair.

Leon doesn’t say a word, however, as he climbs up until he’s face to face with you, staring directly into your eyes, his tail still wagging. He lets out a soft whimper as he grinds his hips into the side of your thigh. You happen to glance down, greeted with his painfully hard member rubbing against you. Looking back up at him, Leon whimpers again, his hands softly caressing your arms.

“Leon… are you ok…?”

You watch as Leon swallows hard before he continues rutting himself against your thigh, his breath trembling.

“I need… to mate with you…” Leon finally replies, his grip on your arms tightening as he continues to grind into your thigh.

Your heart begins to race as very conflicting feelings begin to overtake you.

This is so wrong, you think to yourself.

That thought doesn’t stop you as you lean forward, giving Leon a gentle kiss on the lips, cupping his face in your hands. Leon deepens your kiss, his tongue dancing with yours before playfully biting your bottom lip. You stand up from the table, leading him back into the bedroom, shutting the door before you begin to undress. As soon as you're naked, Leon stands up on two feet, pushing you into the bed face first so that your backside is propped up. You feel yourself tremble in anticipation as you feel Leon climb onto the bed behind you. You flinch when you feel his cock caress your soaked slit, coating itself in your arousal before he pushes himself inside you.

“Oh… Oh god--!” you cry out as Leon’s length fills you completely, pushing into your g-spot almost immediately, your fingers gripping your sheets.

You hear Leon whimper as his hips begin to move into you. He starts out slow, but he quickly gains confidence and begins to thrust into you harder and faster, his hands gripping your hips so hard that you’re bound to have bruises later.

“Yes… oh yes, Mommy… you feel so good…” Leon moans as he pounds into you harder, “am I a good boy…?”

“Yes…” you reply in a breathy moan as your eyes roll back into your head, “you’re such a good boy, Leon… you fuck Mommy so good…”

You feel his hands grip your hips even tighter as he pulls your body to him, thrusting into you even harder, his loud moans and whimpers filling the room along with the wet sounds of your needy cunt taking him.

“Aaaaahhh… f-fill me up with your puppies Leon--!” you suddenly cry out, your pussy walls squeezing around his cock as he continues to thrust into you.

Leon growls in response, placing one of his hands onto your back to push you into the mattress as he fucks you relentlessly. His instincts are in overdrive, his thoughts completely overtaken by his burning desire to breed you.

“Oh my god… you’re such a good boy, Leon!” you praise him, completely drunk off his cock, your legs trembling as you’re filled with complete ecstasy.

You suddenly feel his cock start to swell inside you and you quickly realize he is knotting. It feels surprisingly good, making you feel full. You sit up on your knees, pressing your back against his chest as he continues to thrust into you. You wrap your arms around the back of his neck, nuzzling your cheek against his as his hands find their way to the front of your body, caressing your breasts as his chin rests on your shoulder.

“I can’t wait…” Leon starts, his voice rough, “to see your belly full of my puppies.”

You repeatedly moan his name, the word fuck and good boy as he pounds his cock into you, your legs starting to feel weak as they violently tremble. Before they give way, a sudden warmth fills your pussy as he pushes himself inside you as hard and deep as he possibly can, his hands gripping both your breasts tightly as he bites into your shoulder. You let out an animalistic moan as you also cum on his cock, your greedy cunt milking his seed deep inside your womb.

Both of you collapse onto the bed in exhaustion with his length still buried inside you, ensuring that not a single drop of his cum is wasted. His arms and legs wrap around you as his face nuzzles into the back of your neck. Your whole body is trembling, completely overwhelmed by how good Leon was for you. You reach back, running your hand through his hair and caressing one of his puppy ears, whispering softly to him that he is a good boy.

You’re going to get used to this.

#leon kennedy #leon s kennedy #leon kennedy x reader #leon kennedy smut #leon s kennedy x reader #leon kennedy x reader smut #puppy!leon kennedy #gigabyte writes

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melleonis · 11 months

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it’s 2015 and i am

sitting on my mattress on the floor in the spare bedroom of the chicago condo my friend’s parents bought for them with oil company money. both of us have undiagnosed and unmedicated adhd. neither of us clean. the wide, shallow bathroom sink grows a yellow-black film of residue and shaved hair.

i am trying to come to terms with being dead. the year prior was a cascade of horror, a chain of a hundred different sudden sickenings in the gut, and as far as the world and most people in it are concerned, i no longer exist - which would have been more than fine with me, except that time continues to pass.

until recently, porpentine had been writing a column for rock paper shotgun called live free play hard, reviewing free indie games. itch.io is in its infancy, but unity is ten years old now and really starting to come into its own, and this is the heyday of the so-called walking simulator - Dear Esther in 2012 to Firewatch in 2016. i never played most of the big names, the ones that attracted all that sneering gamergate hatred (Gone Home excepted) - after all, they cost money, and in 2015, i didn’t have any of that. so every porpentine article was a damp, fertile patch of sometimes-delicious always-free mushrooms. i play a LOT of itch.io games that year, and i’ve been missing them lately, so i wanted to talk about them here.

live free play hard is a decade old, at this point. links are dead. games don’t quite run the same on modern computers. twine games which once had music are now silent. these are some of the survivors.

their angelical understanding by porpentine, herself. ***STROBE WARNING*** and also for a text-based game this is an intense PTSD simulator. i considered linking others of her games here: neon haze (link appears to be broken), CYBERQUEEN (about which i’ve already said a lot) or howling dogs (which is arguably still her best), but i went with t.a.u. because, well, in 2015 a PTSD simulator was what i needed.

CHYRZA by kitty horrorshow kh has probably Made It as an indie artist more than anyone else on this list? my metric for this is that there are two whole jacob geller video essays about her games. CHYRZA is pure tone: jittery unity platforming up desert monuments collecting audiologs. trust me, it’s really effective.

Bernband by Tom van den Boogaart this one still runs, but there’s a bit of slowdown in some areas. this is pure exploration through a very pixelly alien city: nightclubs, power stations, overpasses, late-night noodle bars. an empty chapel. a trumpet recital. the empty corridors and stairwells between everything. it’s stuck with me for all these years.

SABBAT by oh no problems this is the least subtle it is possible for a text game to be. it starts with animal sacrifice and gets really fucking explicit from there. as someone who had at the time cut a picture of baphomet out of the liner notes from a random black metal cd found in a des moine record store and taped it to my bedroom doorpost like a mezuzah, all i really wanted from SABBAT was the ability to have snakes for dicks, and buddy, it delivers. i remember there used to be a sort of sludgey doom metal soundtrack, but it doesn’t seem to exist anymore, and the credits link to a nonexistent soundcloud. so it goes.

HEARTWOOD by Kerry Turner hahaha man i’d completely forgotten about this game until i went back through the archives but fuck, it rules. it’s so simple. it’s pure sensation. i loved it then and i love it now.

Off-Peak by Cosmo D i think Cosmo D is still going strong these days! actually, i’m pretty sure i have unplayed games by them in my steam library, i should fix that. Off-Peak is a jazz exploration of the world’s most colorful train station. people are playing bespoke 2015 eurogames. a vendor is selling a bunch of sheet music that musicians have had to pawn, what with the way the economy is going. you understand. triplets stalk you. a man strokes a cow, menacingly. i would say it’s peak itch.io, but in point of fact it is, of course, off-peak itch.io.

anyway i lived, eventually, and went on to make art of my own, but it’s my belief - it’s my hope - that all my writing carries the spores these games and games like them put in me when i was dead and decaying and fertile ground for such things. i hope you play some of them. i hope you enjoy them. thanks for reading <3

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maddyhessesblog · 3 months

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Burlesque in Expression

Christina Aguilera - Express (Burlesque)

How is the film related to the social context of the country during production?

When the musical Burlesque was released in 2010 the United States was still recovering from the financial crisis of 2008. This global economic downturn significantly impacted various industries, even the entertainment business, which suffered from the rapid decline of consumer spending. Burlesque's central narrative is rooted in themes of chasing dreams and finding success despite difficult circumstances which naturally resonated with audiences when the film was released. Along with this, the emphasis of female empowerment and solidarity grew even more culturally significant in 2010 when the discussion surrounding gender equality and women’s rights was rapidly gaining momentum. The establishment of International Women's Day and the creation of the global UN Women's Agency occurred in 2010 during this heightened period of global activism. Burlesque’s main character Ali leaves her small-town life behind to chase her dreams of becoming a star in Los Angeles. Her relationships with the other female characters in the film are ones of sisterhood and community even after feuds and rivalries because the community is a grounding force in the performances. Another crucial part of the narrative is Tess' fight to keep her theatre from being turned into a condo, playing into economic disparity between the wealthy and the working, highlighting other culturally relevant notions permeating society in 2010. Urban gentrification and redevelopment projects massively underwent in several large cities including Los Angeles which lead to an upturn of displaced business and residents to make room for office buildings, parking structures, and housing developments, like condos.

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When it comes to Burlesque as a genre itself, however, it is a reflection of the social context of the time in which it is produced. In the 20th century burlesque was often a form of escapism during extreme periods of social and economic hardship like the Great Depression.

These shows portrayed performers through humorous themes and utilized social commentary that was specifically relevant to that era. Dances and shows would reflect on changing attitudes towards gender, sexuality, and societal norms which offered a space for expression that was not accessible to mainstream society.

Shows in the Progressive Era (early 19th to 20th centuries) were often satirical of political figures, social norms, and cultural trends. They often involved comedic sketches and musical numbers that parodied current events, public figures, and politicians. Focusing on Los Angeles specifically in 1990s, the Velvet Hammer Burlesque was known for an avant-garde style that blended traditional elements with prevalent social commentary. These shows revolved around themes such as gender roles, sexuality, and body image, all challenging societal expectations and norms.

Burlesque is a time where the audience can sit back and watch while the performers can exist in an entirely different world that actively operates to critique the state of the current world through song and dance.

In what ways are the performance spaces separated from the narrative spaces in the film?

Unlike other musicals, the numbers within Burlesque do not drive the plot forward in a contemporary sense but rather embody a more internal and emotional significance for the character’s development throughout the films: they are just performances which physically mirror the emotional perseverance of each character. Ali's performances relate to the central message of the film rather than the moments that make it up. She performs because she needs to be on stage. And Tess, the owner of the club, performs because she needs to save the stage so the show can go on. Her song "You Haven't Seen the Last of Me" is more profound and deeply reflective of her journey with the business and what it means if it goes away. For her the performing was never her reason for keeping the place running, it was about ensuring there was a space for stars to perform.

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How is spectacle integrated into the film’s narrative?

Spectacle is the essential feature of the narrative, however as described in the text the relationship between narrative and spectacle in this case is considered aggregate, meaning this relationship maintains a definite distinction between narrative and spectacle as two separate aspects of the film. The spectacle of putting on the performances is just one of the many layers of this relationship for this specific film. The performances serve as entertainment for the audience and a position of power for the characters, but these routines also work to explore thematic elements through the development of the characters.

Despite ongoing tensions among some of the girls within the club, the unifying force between them is the threat of losing the one place that makes them feel alive, that enables them to perform in the way they feel as though they were born to. In Ali's first performance "Something's Got a Hold On Me" she sings without a stage, revealing that a star can exist without a stage,but a performer relies on a stage to be a star. Once it becomes know that Ali's character can sing she gains even more recognition as someone to watch. This "star" quality separates her from the rest of the girls, playing into the Hollywood view of the more you can give, the more you'll make (and the more they'll take). A large component of the "spectacle" as mentioned in the text is the integration of the viewer as the "'internal audience" which "retreats into offscreen space', allowing the performance to be 'truly all for us'" (1982, p28). The contrast between narrative and spectacle consequently heightens the perception of both.

3:20

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What is the role of dance and movement in relation to the film’s narrative and spectacle?

Choreographed dance numbers serve as expressions of thematic elements, emotional sequences, and interpersonal relationships. Because of the wide range of dance whether it be graceful, energetic and comedic, or sensual, a variety of emotions are conveyed through several different routines. The routines serve several purposes: transfixation of the audience through elaborate dances and costume design, a platform for the performers to therefore captivate the audience and subsequently convey thematic elements and messages through these routines, which is a compilation of the elements that make up the Burlesque performances. And to exist in opposition, though unbeknownst to audiences, Burlesque is a reflection of those who come to watch. The songs act as a mirror for society to examine themselves in a medium that is laughable but digestible. It is unironic in it's irony, leaving the audience laughing, unable to distinguish who the joke was really and truly about. The effects of the two worlds of the backstage musical Feuer discusses is this sense of "double identification" both the inclusion of the creation of the spectacle itself backstage ,and the viewing of the spectacle as the audience.

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In what ways does impossibility within the film ensure the audience escapes from reality?

Within the film impossibility exists on stage so both the audience and characters live beyond the basis of reality. The dramatic costumes accompanied with music, lights, and props distort forms of reality for the characters and the audience as it creates a world of unlikely desires and imaginative ideas. This heightened reality where anything appears possible allows viewers to suspend belief and immerse themselves in this world of spectacle and fantasy. Because the characters’ main goals are to be apart of this show their desire to escape is almost more intense than those who pay to witness it. On a larger scale, the theme of impossibility and escapism is largely the central force of the film as it is designed around the main character leaving her small life behind to chase her dreams in Los Angeles.

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Questions:

Are there any other musicals that offer reflection, whether satirical or not, of current social and economic circumstances?

Considering that these musicals are backstage, would you argue that the narrative separation from spectacle is what makes the musical backstage, or is it the spectacle removed from the narrative? Essentially: what is the more significant component of this type of musical, would the narratives function if the music was incorporated differently?

Burlesque is an interesting case considering masculinity, but for the other musicals, what was the gender dynamic within the film? In the text it's made clear Berkeley's dancers were mainly female as they were "spectacles all on their own," how does this impact the musicals discussed today?

How central is escapism to the narrative of your musical? Would there be a narrative without this element, or what would the story morph into in lieu of it?

@theuncannyprofessoro

#oxyfilmmusical #Youtube

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moneyque · 4 months

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— monique mitchell, task OO3: p1.

𝙿𝙰𝚁𝚃 𝟷: 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙱𝙰𝚂𝙸𝙲𝚂

What is your full name?

Monique Ella Mitchell.

Where and when were you born?

May 23rd, 2000 in Canarsie, Brooklyn.

Who are/were your parents? (Know their names, occupations, personalities, etc.)

Michael Mitchell is an infamous drug distributor who owns several clubs throughout New York City. He can be described as stoic, over-protective, and intimidating. Monica Mitchell was a registered nurse before she passed away but was described as nurturing, loyal, and had a lot of sass & cheek.

Do you have any siblings? What are/were they like?

Monique is an only child.

Where do you live now, and with whom? Describe the place and the person/people.

Monique lives in her penthouse condo in Los Angeles, California by herself.

What is your occupation?

Monique is currently a socialite, influencer and a model.

Write a full physical description of yourself. You might want to consider factors such as: height, weight, race, hair and eye color, style of dress, and any tattoos, scars, or distinguishing marks.

Standing at 5’4 and a half, Monique has dark brown eyes as well as dark brown hair that runs past her shoulders. She identifies as black, race-wise, and weighs around 145 lbs. She has numerous tattoos scattered around her upper body— a symbol on the back of her neck, ‘MUSE’ underneath her collarbone, her ex-boyfriend’s name tracing her ear, & another small tribute to her former relationship on her hip, ‘get money or get lost’ on her forearm, the outline of a diamond on her finger, and ‘new york’ on her left hand. Her style of dress is definitely trendy/ahead of the trend, fly, anything and everything designer, flashy, revealing, and anything to show off her curvy figure.

To which social class do you belong?

She belongs to the upper class.

Do you have any allergies, diseases, or other physical weaknesses?

None.

Are you right- or left-handed?

Monique is right-handed.

What does your voice sound like?

Monique has a distinct New York accent mixed with her somewhat high-pitched tone.

What words and/or phrases do you use very frequently?

‘Stop playing with me.’ ‘Ode.’ ‘Girl.’ ‘Cute.’ ‘Weird.’ ‘Real.’ ‘Likeee.’

What do you have in your pockets?

Dior Addict Lip Maximizer in the color ‘Holographic Pink’ with a matching compact mirror to go with it.

Do you have any quirks, strange mannerisms, annoying habits, or other defining characteristics?

Monique has a habit of flipping her hair or touching it. She also rolls her eyes constantly throughout a conversation and is overall very expressive with her facial features to a fault. Monique is very vain, so any time she gets a chance to look at herself or admire herself, she takes it. Monique makes it a point not to wear the same purse/handbag two days in a row. Another defining characteristic about her would be the color pink being incorporated into every single aspect of her life in almost a childish manner.

𝙿𝙰𝚁𝚃 𝟸: 𝙶𝚁𝙾𝚆𝙸𝙽𝙶 𝚄𝙿

How would you describe your childhood in general?

Monique’s early childhood was a rough start for her. At the time, her father was still dealing with the loss of his wife/her mother as well as being a dope boy on the corner trying to bring in a steady income for his new born daughter. Initially, they struggled, living in the projects, surviving off of food stamps and a necessity-only lifestyle. Despite that, Michael always made sure Monique never wanted for anything. So, the transition from the projects to their penthouse in Brooklyn in her late adolescent years was somewhat smooth for her.

What is your earliest memory?

Monique’s earliest memory would be opening presents on Christmas at Sakari’s house, where she celebrated with both Sakari and Josiah’s family. Her father had just gifted her a Barbie DreamHouse, which sparked up her love for the doll/franchise.

How much schooling have you had?

Monique has been in school her entire life up until now, the highest point she reached being her B.S in Business and B.A Communication.

Did you enjoy school?

The only aspect Monique enjoyed about school was meeting up with her friends, or hanging out with them afterwards. She viewed school as mandatory and experienced a lot of pressure from her father to be a straight A/B+ student throughout her years in school.

Where did you learn most of your skills and other abilities?

Monique learned a lot from her best friend Josiah, as far as street smarts, gang life, and how to make money.

While growing up, did you have any role models? If so, describe them.

Monique’s father was her biggest role model. As well as Josiah. She also considered Barbie a role model to her, in the sense that she was perfect, very feminine, had it all, and could be whatever she wanted.

While growing up, how did you get along with the other members of your family?

Monique got along with her dad very well, he was one of her best friends up until she reached high school. Which is when she started to take note of how overbearing, overprotective, controlling, and stubborn he was, which ultimately led her down the path of deceit and dishonesty.

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Monique wanted to be rich.

As a child, what were your favorite activities?

As a young girl, Monique loved gymnastics, exploring the city and watching classic movies with her dad.

As a child, what kinds of personality traits did you display?

Monique displayed traits of resilience, sass, being outspoken, very saddity, and very adventurous.

As a child, were you popular? Who were your friends, and what were they like?

Monique was popular amongst her peers, throughout her childhood, mainly because she was always in the latest, had the best clothing, and appeared to live a lavish lifestyle. However, she always kept her friend group short. Her main friends were Josiah Reeves and Sakari Vaughn, but they grew to be like family to her. She kept very few close friends in school and mainly hung around the older crowd that she was introduced to.

When and with whom was your first kiss?

Her first kiss was from one of the boys in her neighborhood at the age of six.

Are you a virgin? If not, when and with whom did you lose your virginity?

Monique isn’t a virgin. She lost her virginity to her first boyfriend when she was 15.

𝙿𝙰𝚁𝚃 𝟹: 𝙿𝙰𝚂𝚃 𝙸𝙽𝙵𝙻𝚄𝙴𝙽𝙲𝙴𝚂

What do you consider the most important event of your life so far?

Monique considers moving out of the projects the most important event in her life so far.

Who has had the most influence on you?

Herself.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Monique considers establishing herself as a brand, a household name and being able to make money off of just being herself one of her greatest achievements.

What is your greatest regret?

Monique has no regrets.

What is the most evil thing you have ever done?

Monique sold her ex-boyfriend’s social security number and pushed a girl down a flight of stairs causing her to sprain her wrist.

Do you have a criminal record of any kind?

Monique has been to jail for stabbing a woman in the arm, but her father got her record expunged.

When was the time you were the most frightened?

Monique was most frightened during her first car accident during a speed race.

What is the most embarrassing thing ever to happen to you?

Her ex boyfriend’s mom walked in on them having sex when she was 16.

If you could change one thing from your past, what would it be, and why?

Monique would change how fast she grew up. Monique feels like she rushed into being a grown up, and faced harsh realities very early on. She feels as though she didn’t get to experience ignorance and innocence for long.

What is your best memory?

When her dad bought her a G Wagon, her first car, when she was seventeen.

What is your worst memory?

Being in school and finding out her best friend had gotten shot, and was in critical condition at the time.

𝙿𝙰𝚁𝚃 𝟺: 𝙱𝙴𝙻𝙸𝙴𝙵𝚂 & 𝙾𝙿𝙸𝙽𝙸𝙾𝙽𝚂

Are you basically optimistic or pessimistic?

Monique tends to lean towards the pessimistic side, even though she’s working on it, she finds it easier to see and expect the worst.

What is your greatest fear?

Monique’s greatest fear is her father passing away and letting her guard down and then being hurt by someone she loves or trusts.

What are your religious views?

Monique isn’t spiritual at all but believes in God.

What are your political views?

Monique shares liberal political views.

What are your views on sex?

Monique sees sex as something somewhat sacred to her but fun. She doesn’t have sex with just anyone, she’s very calculated with whom she shares her body but she’s also accepting of people who think differently when it comes to sex, and sex work in general.

Are you able to kill? Under what circumstances do you find killing to be acceptable or unacceptable?

Monique isn’t a killer but when she’s pushed to the limit, it’s no telling what she’ll do or is capable of doing. Killing is acceptable when it’s to protect one’s self or someone else, and is unacceptable when it’s senseless.

In your opinion, what is the most evil thing any human being could do?

The most evil thing a human being could do is maliciously harm the harmless.

Do you believe in the existence of soul mates and/or true love?

Monique does believe in true love and soulmates.

What do you believe makes a successful life?

To Monique, having a successful life is accomplishing what they want/set their mind on and acquiring wealth while doing so.

How honest are you about your thoughts and feelings (i.e. do you hide your true self from others, and in what way)?

Monique is usually very honest with how she feels or thinks, especially if she feels like she has the right to be or is justified in her thought process. If she has any doubts in her mind, she’ll keep it to herself and deliberate amongst her trusted friends and loved ones before communicating it.

Do you have any biases or prejudices?

Monique is biased & prejudice against men, in general.

Is there anything you absolutely refuse to do under any circumstances? Why do you refuse to do it?

Monique absolutely refuses to do anything that 100% comprises her self-respect or whatever she considers beneath her. She holds herself to a certain standard and any time that standard or boundary is pushed, she’s quick to attack the situation or retreat.

Who or what, if anything, would you die for (or otherwise go to extremes for)?

Monique would die for her father, only.

𝙿𝙰𝚁𝚃 𝟻: 𝚁𝙴𝙻𝙰𝚃𝙸𝙾𝙽𝚂𝙷𝙸𝙿𝚂 𝚆/ 𝙾𝚃𝙷𝙴𝚁𝚂

In general, how do you treat others (politely, rudely, by keeping them at a distance, etc.)? Does your treatment of them change depending on how well you know them, and if so, how?

Monique is very standoffish and keeps everyone at a distance but still is polite/kind and considers herself approachable. Her treatment of them changes depending on how she perceives them, if they are friends or closer, or if she wants to get to know them romantically/financially.

Who is the most important person in your life, and why?

The most important person in Monique’s life is her father because time after time again, he’s proven to be the most genuine, solid and stable person in her life.

Who is the person you respect the most, and why?

Monique respects her father the most, because of all the things he has risked and done for her to be where she’s at today. He could’ve just given up after his wife/her mother passed and stayed stagnant, and hindered her, but he’s put everything on the line to make sure she had what she wanted at all times and nothing/no one could supersede that.

Who are your friends? Do you have a best friend? Describe these people.

Monique’s friends are Asiah Porter, Josiah Reeves, and Sakari Vaughn. She views Josiah as her best friend.

Josiah is an older brother figure in Monique’s life, the second man in her life who took care of her, protected her and introduced her to the street life, fast money, and everything she’s known growing up. Monique sees Josiah as selfless, reliable, solid and loyal.

Sakari is the older sister figure in her life who’s always stuck by her side growing up. Sakari and Monique share similar home situations and upbringings which only brought them closer, as well as their fathers being close friends, and former business partners. Monique would describe Sakari as nurturing, soft-spoken, and not quick to express how she really feels.

Asiah Porter is Monique’s former roommate, she met Asiah through Sakari and once Monique moved to L.A., they formed a strong bond. Monique views Asiah as her partner in crime and a listening ear whenever she needs one. To Monique, Asiah is often the voice of reason, has juvenile tendencies, and is very friendly.

Do you have a spouse or significant other? If so, describe this person.

Monique is single.

Have you ever been in love? If so, describe what happened.

Monique has been in love three times. The first time was with her first boyfriend, rapper Artist Dubose, who she dated for five years consecutively and thought she was going to spend her life with but they broke up due to both sides taking things too far and being disrespectful. The second time was with an on and off again situationship that ended up becoming more serious than she had originally intended it to be. She realized she was in love as she broke things off with him, due to internal issues. Lastly, Monique was in love with her ex-boyfriend of nine months, which also started off as harmless but eventually turned into something deeper. However, towards the end of the relationship, fights broke out that revealed issues with their relationship, resulting in her ending things with him.

What do you look for in a potential lover?

Monique looks for a provider, someone who's consistent, with a charming personality. Someone who shares similar traits to her father, someone who will defend her blindly whenever need be, someone who will cherish, reassure her, and exercise patience with her and not give up on her. She also looks to see if they trick.

How close are you to your family?

Monique is extremely close with her father, being that he’s the only family she’s ever really known or had. Monique is familiar with her mother’s side of the family but doesn’t have a close bond with them due to them not being as fond of her father and his occupation.

Have you started your own family? If so, describe them. If not, do you want to? Why or why not?

Monique hasn’t started a family and doesn’t wish to at the moment, simply because she’s currently too selfish to have kids at the moment. Pregnancy scares her.

Who would you turn to if you were in desperate need of help?

Monique would turn to her father or her best friend.

Do you trust anyone to protect you? Who, and why?

Monique trusts her father or Josiah just because they have shown her things in the past that make her feel comfortable with them doing so. Her father’s shielded and protected her, her entire life, treating her as if she was fragile and Josiah has fought for her many times before.

If you died or went missing, who would miss you?

Monique believes the entire world would miss her.

Who is the person you despise the most, and why?

Monique despises her entire block list, and people who don’t like her in general because she feels as though they’ve picked unnecessary problems with her.

Do you tend to argue with people, or avoid conflict?

Monique would 100% argue with someone and by no means avoids conflict.

Do you tend to take on leadership roles in social situations?

Monique leads herself in social situations, she wouldn’t try to control the crowd unless she’s being paid to host. Amongst her ‘peers’, she does her own thing or keeps her distance.

Do you like interacting with large groups of people? Why or why not?

Monique doesn’t mind interacting with large groups of people, she’s used to entertaining a large crowd because of her social position what she does for work, and who she is. She doesn’t necessarily like being around a lot of people, and if she had the choice, she’d stay by herself.

Do you care what others think of you?

Monique cares about how she's perceived, not necessarily about what others think of her. This means she cares about the impression she gives and the vibe she projects, but she doesn't necessarily care about how people personally interpret it.

@la-resources

#— ‘task.#— ‘character dev.#L.A task100

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agirlwithdemonblood · 1 year

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Celebrity Next Door - Chapter 1

Pairings: Jensen Ackles & Reader (Read as first person!)

Series Summary: Moving to a new location is difficult but living next to somebody you’d never expect to meet, and catching feelings? That’s damn near impossible to comprehend.

Chapter Summary: Day one of your new life doesn't go the way you thought it would.

**Jensen's kids will be renamed due to respect & Daneel is in the story as his ex but the way I portray her is in NO way how I think of her, I do not want to cause any harm or disrespect to the Ackles family!**

Series Masterlist here! Main masterlist here!

“You deserve a love that stays.

Even when it’s raining.

Especially when it rains.”

The sun beamed through the bay window of my living room, the sound of birds chirping and squirrels running around instantly filling my ears. It was something I was surprised to hear, yet something that filled me with so much joy.

Today is the very first actual day since I moved to Los Angeles, the city I dreaded becoming apart of. Maybe my judgments where based off the fact that I am from New York, I was-am very much a city girl. I enjoy the sounds of cars honking, people scattered everywhere, the city never slept. As much as I was excited about the new chapter of my life, there were obviously things that were going to take longer to get used to, things that I didn’t understand.

Like why was it always so damn bright here? You could barely leave the house without sunglasses because of the bright sky, bright buildings, bright houses, trees, everything was enhanced. Also, why were all the houses so huge? It’s ridiculous. I only need a bed and a bathroom and a tiny kitchen area yet they have me set up in a two bedroom mansion. Okay, it wasn’t a mansion, they listed it as a condo but still the amount of space was ridiculous.

But as much as I wanted to keep my stubborn ways about LA, I couldn’t complain about the sound of the birds chirping and the palm tree scattered road I lived off of, it was surprisingly peaceful in a total different way than New York provided me.

I rolled onto my side, checking my phone quickly and sighing when it read 10:00 am. I still had so much unpacking to do and nobody to help. These were going to be some busy first days. Pushing myself off of my not so comfy bed, I staggered to the kitchen to the one thing I set up yesterday, my Keurig machine. I leaned on the counter and waited patiently for that magical morning liquid to pour into my ready mug. My eyes glanced outside, squinting at the brightness that was shining inside, ready to beat down on me.

The coffee machine made a groan to let me know it was ready, I turned to grab my coffee cup but before my fingers touched the mug, a loud glass shattering noise filled my ears and I quickly dropped to the ground. I peeked over the counter as slowly as I could, when I noticed the cause. A baseball was sitting right there on my kitchen floor, glass scattered everywhere around it.

I shook my head and laughed lightly before standing up. That’s one thing I won’t miss about New York, having to duck down for dear life everytime a loud noise or screams filled my ears.

Moments later, the doorbell rang, nearly sending me into cardiac arrest. I took my time getting to the door, eyes peeking to try and see who was there but nobody was visible from the tiny side windows in the entry.

I hesitantly opened the door, my eyes instantly falling on a little girl standing on my porch, a guilt spread look over her tiny features.

I looked behind her and around the area, trying to figure out if there was an adult near her, but there was nobody in sight. I was surprised considering she looked like she was around 5 years old, but when I saw the baseball bat in her hand I understood now.

“H-Hi��” The little girl spoke softly, barely above a whisper.

I smiled and crouched down, meeting her eye level. “Hi there. Can I help you?”

She frowned as her tiny hands started fiddling with her zipper, instantly making me feel empathy towards her. “I… I accidentally hit your window with my baseball…. It’s in your house.”

I smirked and nodded, “You did eh? Was it an accident?”

She nodded and wiped her eyes, tears threatening to pour down if I did as much as raise my voice at her.

"What's your name Sweetie?"

Her eyes glanced up slightly, a light sniffle coming from her nose. "Katie."

“Well Katie, I'm Y/N, we should go get your ball right? Are your parents around?”

She looked beside the house like she was searching for something, before shaking her head. “My daddy is inside, my mommy isn’t around.”

I nodded and stood from my spot, “Alright. It’s okay. Stay right here, I’ll go get your ball alright?”

She smiled and nodded enthusiastically, sitting on the porch to wait for me to get back.

I couldn’t help but giggle at how adorable she was, I always wanted kids, especially a little girl, and even though I now had a broken window, I was looking forward to the fact that there were going to be children around, laughter and playing filling the street.

I crossed the floor carefully, mindful of the glass that was scattered across, before grabbing her ball and heading back towards the door.

She was still in the same spot, legs crossed, patiently awaiting my return. I smiled gently and helped her stand, closing my door and locking it- I still wasn’t sure of the safety of this area yet.

“Where is your house? I’ll bring you back to your dad.”

She turned to the side and pointed to the massive white house beside me, the one that is surrounded by a huge fence with the expensive looking lawn. I have been curious about this house since I pulled in the driveway last night. The realtor on the phone did mention that a few celebrities lived around this area, but she never specified how close and who it was.

I followed the little girl down my steps and right in front of the gate. She pushed it open and walked up the walkway until we were directly in front of her door. I lifted my hand to knock but she opened the door and pushed it open, stepping inside instantly. I waited at the doorway while she called for her father and suddenly nervousness filled me. What was I going to say? I dont’ want to start drama on my first day, but she could have been really hurt.

It took a few minutes but finally the little girl returned with a large figure I could barely see from inside the door. He approached the door and with every step he took towards the daylight, his face became more clear and my breath became more lost.

I knew him. Somehow I knew him, I didn’t remember his name but that face, he must be one of the celebrities that lived around here. As his green eyes shined into mine, it clicked and I tried my hardest not to pass out at the fact that my neighbor, the man who’s child broke my kitchen window, was Jensen Ackles.

“Can I help you?” he questioned, his voice hoarse and straight to the point.

I plastered on the most polite smile and attempted to pull myself together, I don’t know what came over me, he was just a person, like me. Why was my heart threatening to burst into my chest. I swallowed hard and stared into his eyes, “Hi… I just moved in next door, Your daughter accidentally threw a baseball into my kitchen window and she came over to-”

“Katie!” He shouted loud, not breaking eye contact. I jumped at the sound of his voice booming, the nerves filling me even more.

I spotted the little girl hiding behind the wall, her tiny body clearly filled with guilt. He turned and faced his daughter, crossing his arms towards her. “What did I say about throwing the baseball around? That’s the third time this damn month!”

Her eyes shot to the ground and her little lip trembled, if I knew the kid better or even knew him better I would have offered a hug or maybe even scolded him for talking to her that way, but I didn’t know anything about being a parent so it’s not really my place to judge. Still, I couldn’t help but mentally scold him for the stern, angry look on his face, or the fact that she was even playing outside alone while it looked like he just woke up from a nap.

The worst part out of all of this though was the way he was glaring into my soul, his arms still crossed, a deep frown on his face. It was like the very essence of my being was completely ruining his day.

He sighed and leaned against the doorway, his arms dropping to his sides, a slight ounce of vulnerability and apologetic on his face. “Is that it or is there anything else?”

My mouth dropped open and shut, his eyes darkened, silently telling me to shut up and leave him alone. I cleared my throat and looked down, “Uh nope, that’s it I guess.”

He nodded and started to shut the door, “Okay. Thanks, bye.”

With that, the door shut right in my face and I was left to stare at the wooden texture that replaced my very first celebrity encounter.

As I walked back to my own house, I couldn’t help but feel sadness fill me, it’s my first day and it already started rough, I don’t think I will like this place very much, if even at all.

---

I did my best to go about my day and an hour later I had almost all my boxes upacked, clothes were put away, and pictures were placed on the hallway wall. Well, picture-singular. Unfortunately I didn’t have many photos of my friends and family, we weren’t the photo taking type and that’s one thing that was for sure going to change because staring at the empty wall with the lone photograph of my family that was taken at a family reunion a year ago, I felt sad.

But when I looked around my new home, for the first time I actually felt slightly releved to have such a big place filled with light, all the drama and anxiety I felt this morning with my little meet and greet went away.

I grabbed my coffee from the table and stepped out onto the front porch, sitting on the swing that was build as part of the house. I took in my surroundings, watching the kids spread out all over the roads, some biking some rollerblading, others drawing on the sidewalk with chalk.

My eyes instinctively fell onto Jensen’s front yard, spotting the little girl, Katie, playing dolls beside a little boy who looked identical to Jensen considering they had the same fluffy hair and stern look spread on their faces. I looked back to their doorway and scoffed when Jensen was nowhere in sight.

I walked down the walkway to get my mail before I headed back inside when I heard my name being called, my heart instantly warming up.

“Y/N! Hi!”

I turned towards the voice and smiled towards Katie, her tiny hand was waving in my direction. I waved back and smiled. “Hi Katie!”

As I walked back to my house, I couldn’t stop the smile that spread across my lips. Maybe I wouldn’t hate this place as much as I thought I would.

Thank you for reading! I hope you liked it! Like, comment and repost!

#dean x castiel #deanwinchester #dean #dean x reader #dean winchester #supernatural one shot #jensen's smile #spn fic #supernatural fanfiction #supernatural #spncreatorsdaily #spns #spn aesthetic #spnfluff #jensenxyou #jensen x reader

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twistedmindtales · 10 months

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The Penthouse

Justin was a wealthy stock trader known for his extravagant lifestyle, reveling in the opulence that money had bestowed upon him. Now in his mid-thirties, he hailed from a modest family in a small town, he grew up with dreams that seemed far out of reach. Yet, even from a young age, Justin possessed an unwavering determination and an insatiable hunger for success. His analytical mind and innate ability to predict market trends led him to pursue a career as a stock trader.

Leaving his hometown behind, he ventured to Wall Street, immersing himself in the fast-paced world of finance. With relentless dedication and a sharp intellect, he swiftly ascended the ranks, accumulating a significant fortune and earning a reputation as a shrewd trader.

Charismatic and confident, Justin exuded an air of self-assurance that commanded attention. His belief in his abilities drove him forward, propelling him through high-pressure situations with ease. Ambition coursed through his veins, and he refused to settle for anything less than extraordinary. Setting his sights on ambitious goals, he pursued them with relentless tenacity, using his sharp intellect and a keen eye for opportunities to make calculated decisions. Though his drive sometimes manifested as arrogance, it stemmed from his unmatched confidence in his capabilities.

Yet, beneath his ambitious exterior, Justin wrestled with an insatiable hunger for more. The pursuit of success often left him yearning for greater heights, preventing him from fully appreciating his accomplishments. There was a constant fear of complacency lurking within him, driving him to seek the next big challenge. With his thirst for material wealth and status, Justin struggled to find true contentment. Once he amassed his fortune trading on Wall Street, he now purchased the tallest and most luxurious penthouse condo in the heart of Los Angeles.

It was an architectural marvel that offered breathtaking views of the sprawling city below, with its shimmering lights and pulsating energy. Perched high above the bustling streets of L.A., Justin’s luxurious penthouse exuded an air of refined elegance. From the moment one stepped into the grand foyer, they were enveloped in an atmosphere of unparalleled luxury and sophistication.

The entrance hall, lined with gleaming marble floors, bathed in the soft glow of crystal chandeliers that cascaded from the lofty ceiling. Intricately designed wall sconces dotted the walls, casting gentle light upon the exquisite artwork. Moving deeper into the penthouse, an expansive living area awaited, showcasing a harmonious blend of contemporary timeless aesthetics.

Floor-to-ceiling windows framed the panoramic views of the City of Angels, where the shimmering lights of the sprawling metropolis stretched as far as the eye could see. A state-of-the-art home theater system seamlessly merged into the walls, providing a sanctuary for cinematic indulgence. Adjacent to the living area, a gourmet chef’s kitchen beckoned, replete with sleek granite countertops, top-of-the-line appliances, and custom-designed cabinetry that housed an impressive collection of culinary treasures. A sprawling center island, illuminated by delicate pendant lights, served as the heart of this culinary haven, inviting guests to gather and witness the masterful culinary creations that would emanate from its depths, although Justin dined alone most evenings.

The master suite, a sanctuary of tranquility and indulgence, awaited at the end of a private corridor. Upon entering, one was greeted by an expanse of space adorned with plush, handcrafted furnishings. A king-sized bed, adorned with sumptuous linens and an array of meticulously arranged accent pillows, stood as the centerpiece, commanding attention. A private parlor behind a small inconspicuous door off the bedroom, adorned with rich mahogany bookcases and a custom-designed desk, offered a retreat for Justin’s intellectual pursuits. The ensuite bathroom, a masterpiece in its own right, boasted floor-to-ceiling Italian marble, cascading rain showers, and a decadent soaking tub that overlooked the breathtaking Los Angeles skyline. Ornate gold fixtures sparkled under the gentle glow of intricately designed chandeliers, adding a touch of regality to the space. Throughout the penthouse, an intelligent home automation system seamlessly integrated technology with the utmost sophistication. From the touch of a button, the ambient lighting would adjust, music would softly waft through hidden speakers, and motorized curtains would glide open, revealing the majestic vista outside.

The piece de resistance of Justin’s castle, a sprawling outdoor terrace awaited, beckoning Justin and his guests to bask in the glory of the city night sky. A sparkling infinity pool stretched towards the horizon, seemingly merging with the sky, while plush loungers and sumptuous seating arrangements provided the perfect setting for sun-soaked relaxation or elegant soirées under the stars.

Amidst the resplendent backdrop of his penthouse, Justin decided to host an extravagant gathering to commemorate the closure of a momentous business deal. The space was transformed into a scene of revelry and excess, as the crème de la crème of the business world mingled with glasses of champagne in hand. Guests, adorned in designer attire, oozed an air of self-importance as they engaged in spirited conversations, their voices laced with arrogance and thinly veiled competition.

Alexander proclaimed, “Did you hear about my latest acquisition? It’s a game-changer, I tell you.”

Penelope scoffed in response, “Oh, that’s cute. But let me tell you about my recent expansion into international markets. It’s only a matter of time before I dominate them all.”

“Please, both of you, step aside. My latest venture capital investment is the talk of the town. The future of Los Angeles belongs to me!” Maxwell said while popping his collar.

Amidst the cacophony of boastful declarations and competitive chatter, Justin’s weariness from the festivities and celebratory libations began to take its toll. As the night wore on, he found himself growing increasingly aware of subtle, yet peculiar happenings within his opulent abode. Whispers seemed to linger in the air as if carried by unseen forces, and shadows danced with mischievous energy. Drunk and disoriented, Justin’s senses played tricks on him. He couldn’t shake the feeling that the elegant paintings lining the walls observed the soirée with a mischievous glint in their eyes. The flickering candlelight cast elongated shadows that seemed to move of their own accord, adding an eerie touch to the luxurious ambiance.

Justin was the only one who seemed to notice.

As he stumbled through the lavish space, his steps grew unsteady as he encountered his reflection in a grand mirror. For a fleeting moment, he swore that his own reflection had smirked back at him, the contours of his face twisted in a sinister grin before returning to its familiar visage. Echoing whispers again floated through the air, carrying snippets of conversations long past or that may have never existed at all. A soft touch of a breeze suddenly tickled the nape of his neck, though no windows were open to invite such a draft.

Disoriented and increasingly unnerved while struggling to maintain his composure, Justin decided to retreat to the solace of his private parlor. The sanctuary offered a much-needed reprieve from the overwhelming presence of his self-absorbed guests and increasingly strange occurrences.

The room, shrouded in shadows, seemed to pulsate with otherworldly energy. The elegant furniture that once exuded comfort now loomed with an unsettling presence. The once-vibrant colors appeared distorted as if painted with shades unseen by mortal eyes.

Justin quickly burst through the small door leading to his bedroom and collapsed onto his bed, the weight of the evening and the inexplicable events pressing upon his weary mind. As he drifted between sleep and consciousness, his thoughts swirled with questions and trepidation. Was it the alcohol playing tricks on his senses, or had his penthouse become a stage for something far beyond his comprehension?

As the night wore on, and the final echoes of the gathering faded into silence, Justin’s exhaustion consumed him. Eyes heavy with weariness, he succumbed to a weighted slumber.

As the morning light filtered through the floor-to-ceiling windows, Justin groaned and reluctantly stirred from his alcohol-induced slumber. His head throbbed mercilessly, and a parched tongue clung to the roof of his mouth. Disoriented, he initially believed that the previous night’s unsettling occurrences were merely the byproduct of an overindulgent celebration.

Shaking off the remnants of his hangover, Justin rose from his bed and began to wander aimlessly through the expansive penthouse. The space, adorned with its lavish decor, appeared as it always had. Yet, a nagging sense of unease tugged at the edges of his consciousness, his only relief was seeing that his guests had all left and seemingly cleaned up after themselves.

As he moved from room to room, Justin’s footsteps echoed through the expanse, seeming oddly hushed against the plush carpets beneath his feet. He cast his gaze upward, expecting to see familiar ceilings, but something caught his attention. The height of the penthouse seemed subtly different—almost imperceptibly taller than he remembered.

Puzzled, Justin’s eyes traced the walls, searching for clues. The crown molding that had once elegantly framed the rooms now stood slightly higher, accentuating the lofty ceilings. The custom-made furniture, which had once fit perfectly within the space, now appeared ever so slightly dwarfed against the expanded dimensions of the penthouse.

With a furrowed brow, Justin continued his exploration. The windows, once offering a mesmerizing view of the Los Angeles skyline, now seemed to be positioned higher, as if the penthouse itself had been lifted closer to the heavens. The breathtaking panorama appeared distorted, the familiar landmarks below appearing minuscule against the backdrop of the city.

Every corner he turned, every detail he observed, heightened Justin’s unease. The grand chandeliers that had once graced the ceilings now dangled at an uncomfortably greater distance from the floor. The art pieces that had once adorned the walls seemed to shrink in proportion, lost within the expanse of the newly elongated space.

His heart quickened, and a sense of apprehension settled within him. It was as if the penthouse itself had undergone an inexplicable transformation, stretching upward in defiance of the laws of physics. The very architecture of his sanctuary seemed to mock his attempts to find normalcy, whispering an unsettling truth—that the events of the previous night were not merely the delusions of an intoxicated mind. Justin reached for his phone only to find that he was not receiving any service at these new heights. He rushed towards the elevator, and it was as if the elevator car was thirty floors below and completely unreachable. The door that lead to the emergency stair exit was now covered and was like it never existed at all.

Bewildered, Justin couldn’t shake the lingering feeling that he had stumbled into an altered reality, where the dimensions of his penthouse exceeded the boundaries of normalcy and he had lost all contact with the outside world. The once-familiar dwelling now loomed with an eerie grandeur, leaving him to question if he had unwittingly stepped into a twisted realm where the laws of space and perception were forever changed. With each passing day, the frequency and intensity of these disturbances escalated, unsettling the very core of his being. Shadows danced on the periphery of his vision, objects shifted position when his back was turned, and eerie sounds reverberated through the halls, chilling his soul.

One fateful night, Justin awoke to a chilling realization that his once-familiar sanctuary had been irrevocably altered. His disheveled state of mind was met with a surreal scene, as his bedroom had undergone a profound transformation. The meticulously arranged furniture now adorned unfamiliar corners, and his bed had inexplicably migrated to the opposing wall. Paralyzed by fear, he grasped at straws, attributing this bizarre occurrence to the mischievous antics of his affluent companions—a high-stakes prank orchestrated by those who reveled in his fortune. But this was no prank, and his friends seemed light-years away.

Nevertheless, the passage of time shattered Justin’s fragile illusions. The ethereal metamorphosis within his home grew increasingly extreme, plunging him into a maelstrom of disorientation and despair. The very architecture of the walls seemed to shift and contort, defying the laws of physics and reaching unimaginable heights nearing the edge of the Earth’s atmosphere. Mysterious symbols and cryptic markings etched themselves onto surfaces, their enigmatic origins eluding comprehension. The once-secure walls now seemed to harbor an otherworldly force, tightening its grip on Justin’s sanity.

The anxiety and fear made him pass out on the floor and when he awoke, he was no longer confined to the familiarity of his fancy penthouse. Instead, he found himself confined within a sterile, antiseptic chamber devoid of windows or discernible exits. The stark white walls offered no solace, their pristine surfaces mocking his predicament. Trapped and alone, Justin’s heart pounded with trepidation, his breath hitching as he realized that he was now at the mercy of an otherworldly presence.

These extraterrestrial beings, tall and slender with elongated limbs and piercing black eyes, conducted their clandestine observations upon Justin. Their elongated fingers probed and prodded as if dissecting the secrets of his very existence. Terror coursed through his veins, pleading eyes beseeching for mercy, yet the enthralling gaze of the aliens remained impassive, oblivious to his desperate cries which seemed to have no actual sound.

Justin found himself subjected to a series of bewildering and unsettling experiments. Initially, the alien beings conducted physical examinations, meticulously analyzing his body from head to toe. Their touch was precise and clinical as if they were studying an intriguing specimen. They scanned him with advanced devices, emitting faint hums and glows as they delved into the intricacies of his physiology.

As the days turned into weeks, the experiments took on a more invasive nature. Justin was subjected to strange devices that emitted eerie lights and emitted low-frequency vibrations. The aliens seemed to be testing the limits of his endurance and resilience, pushing him to the edge of his physical and mental capabilities.

They probed his mind, delving deep into his memories and thoughts, seeking to unravel the intricacies of human consciousness. Justin’s thoughts and emotions were laid bare, his innermost secrets exposed to these otherworldly beings. It was an invasion of privacy that left him feeling vulnerable and violated.

The aliens, driven by an insatiable curiosity, continued their relentless exploration. They exposed Justin to bizarre environments, altering gravity and atmospheric conditions to observe his reactions. They manipulated time itself, subjecting him to accelerated or decelerated experiences that distorted his sense of reality.

Through it all, Justin’s pleas and protests fell on deaf ears. The aliens seemed incapable of understanding his distress, their motives and intentions were shrouded in enigmatic silence. He became a mere pawn in their pursuit of knowledge, a specimen trapped in their inscrutable experiment.

The sense of dread that had initially consumed Justin grew with each passing day. He realized that escape was futile, and a profound sense of hopelessness settled over him. Days turned into weeks, and any glimmer of hope flickered like a dying ember. The confines of the alien vessel became his prison, the relentless experimentation an inescapable torment. He witnessed the boundaries of his endurance crumble, consumed by the unshakable certainty that he would never again witness the embrace of the outside world. Dread constricted his every thought, the lingering fear of forever languishing within the clutches of these inscrutable beings—an existence devoid of all hope and devoid of the life he once knew.

#horror #scifi #short story

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avacoleman · 4 months

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when the lights go out || a firstprince fic

summary: Henry Fox’s career is in crisis and his dating life isn’t faring much better either. After a chance encounter with a charming man becomes memorable for all the wrong reasons, Henry throws himself into his next assignment: writing the memoir of a beloved C-list actor. Henry, however, knows Alex best for the role he played as his random, awkward one-night stand. Henry enters their professional partnership keen on keeping their relationship just that. But after Henry confesses that their hookup was less than spectacular, Alex concots an arrangement that Henry is unable to resist. In addition to ghostwriting Alex’s life story, Henry will teach him a thing or two about satisfying a man. As they spend months out on the road together, they must decide if the connection between them is yet another story worth telling.

chapter 7/8 || rated e || read on ao3 updates every tues. and fri. *

Los Angeles, CA Day 1 They trade one sunny coast for another and Henry has mixed emotions, the likes of which he’s never experienced before. It all, as usual, is linked to his uncertainty over what comes next. He can now count on one hand the amount of days he has left in Alex’s company. He feels grateful for the time they’ve been able to share, but knowing that he’d soon have to part ways has made this all so bittersweet. Henry supposes he’s become spoiled on this tour by Alex’s company, the knowledge that there was always another city to accompany him to. The cold hard fact that this was officially the end of the line settled like an uncomfortable weight on his chest any time he allowed himself to dwell on it. He tries to cling to the good where he can.

Even after a delayed flight out of Miami, Henry saw the upside to it, getting more one-on-one time with Alex as they hung around the gate, trading music and stories back and forth. For all of the physical elements they’d breached while out on the road, it was this genuine friendship with Alex that Henry loved the most.

It’s been a bit uncanny though just how easily they’ve slipped back into a normal routine with each other after that night of their final lesson in Miami. They haven’t spoken about it since; neither of them has even come close to crossing that line now that they’ve finished with Alex’s syllabus. Henry figures that’s probably for the best. Safer even.

They head straight to the Crescent Valley lot from the airport after making it out of the absolute labyrinth of LAX with just enough time to spare.

Seeing the cast together again is a treat and Henry enjoys every bit of watching them film B-roll for the special. Henry wishes Pez could see it all now, but he reminds himself that his best friend will join him during the actual reunion. Alex had been gracious again and secured a spot for Pez alongside him.

Henry sits back and watches the photoshoot the cast does on different sets from the show, admiring their ability to go through outfit changes and touch ups to their hair and makeup. They take it all in stride and it allows them to wrap within a few hours.

It’s a surreal feeling after that to be alone with Alex again, to have him all to himself and journeying back to his place. Henry can admit he’s curious what home in L.A. looks like to Alex, this man who he’s known to be such a nomad over the last three months.

Alex’s condo is a gorgeous unit with floor to ceiling glass windows that bathe the entire space with natural light.

“I bought this at the start of season three,” Alex says as they stand now in the kitchen.

Henry cranes his neck back to take in the high ceilings.

“It’s more space than I really needed at the time. Hell, even now. But I don’t know. I just kinda fell in love with it.”

“I can see why. It’s incredible, Alex. Truly,” he replies, looking at Alex again.

Alex smiles. “I gotta say, it’s kind of trippy seeing you here.”

Henry laughs. “How so?”

Alex shrugs and takes a seat on one of the stools at the large island in the center of the space. Henry takes a seat beside him, their bodies turning toward each other. They're close enough that their knees just about touch.

“I guess after spending three months in hotels, it’s surreal having you in my actual place. It’s nice though, don’t get me wrong. It’s really freaking nice. You got to see my home in Austin and now here. It’s like the last puzzle piece snapping into place, you know?”

Henry doesn’t actually know what to do with that statement. He wishes he could actually fit into the grand scheme of Alex’s life, that he could be an essential piece to complete the picture.

Alex grows quiet, his eyes a bit soft. He rests a hand on Henry’s knee. His thumb brushes back and forth lightly, his lips parting. It’s been days since Alex has touched him this intimately before. It’s downright jarring and confusing how sudden this all feels.

Henry tenses and moves back.

“I think we should stop,” Henry blurts out.

Alex’s face falls for a moment before he schools his features as he pulls away.

“Oh.”

Henry sighs and rises from the stool, tucking his hands in his pockets.

“It’s just that we’ve tackled everything. There’s nothing left on the syllabus. I go home in a few days and with that, we’ll be back on our own coasts for good. I’m practically done with the book. I…I don’t think we should complicate things now.”

Alex doesn’t say anything, but it’s so clear his mind is racing.

“What are you thinking?” Henry asks.

Alex blinks twice and shakes his head.

“It doesn’t matter. Wasn’t that a term in the agreement? One person wanting to stop was reason enough. You even went ahead and gave me your explanation as to why, though you didn’t have to. I respect that. You’re right. The lessons are over. I shouldn’t have done that. I’m sorry.”

Alex stands. “I was out of line,” he says as he moves around the island.

Henry is quicker and he gently grabs hold of Alex’s wrist.

“I never quite mastered the art of mind reading in the months we’ve been together. Please talk to me.”

Alex looks down at where Henry is holding him and back up to his face.

“What is there to say?” he asks softly. “You made a great point. We go back to the real world in a couple of days. The smart thing to do would be to start preparing myself for that instead of clinging to whatever this has been these last few months. It wasn’t actually real. I can see that.”

Henry lets go of Alex as if he’d been burned.

“I’ve deeply enjoyed my time with you, Alex. I don’t want to give you a false impression nor do I want to make you think I’m somehow just biding my time, watching the clock until I’m meant to return to New York. I have felt the presence of our time together slipping away each and every day and I’ve loathed it. If I had it my way, this tour would never end and I could stay in your company just that much longer.”

Alex’s bottom lip quirks, his eyes looking glassier with unshed tears.

Henry stands immediately, framing Alex’s face with his hands.

Alex blinks and looks away, but Henry sees the tear race down his cheek. In that quiet cry, Henry understands everything at once.

“When did our lessons stop being hypothetical for you?” Henry asks, lowering his hands.

The muscle in Alex’s jaw flexes twice.

“Can I plead the fifth?” Alex asks, sniffling before turning those beautiful brown eyes back on him.

Henry shakes his head.

“We’ve both done enough dodging, don’t you think?”

Alex pulls in a breath, squaring his shoulders.

“Arizona,” Alex says.

Henry stares at him, his jaw dropping a bit as he grapples to make sense of what he’s hearing.

“Alex, that was day one of the lessons.”

Alex simply shrugs. “I know. But kissing you again, it brought me back to the night we met…the way we connected right off the bat. I felt that same spark when we kissed in Phoenix and I thought, I don’t know. It seemed like you got so lost in it. I thought you might’ve felt it too.”

“I did,” Henry says quietly, rubbing his face. “Christ, Alex. Every bloody second, it’s been real for me because it was real since New York. I’ve traveled with you, falling for you all over again in every single city. But, I…,” he sighs.

“I don’t know where this leaves us though. You don’t date outside the industry.”

Alex's face falls.

“That was my preference at one point in time. It isn’t a law. Things change and they should. They already have.”

Alex’s eyes water again as he lets out a deep sigh.

“The night we met…I felt something I never really have. That didn’t just up and go away after you left. I really like you, Henry. Sometimes I think I may even–,” he stops short and takes a breath.

Henry’s heart slams against his chest over Alex’s unspoken words.

Alex swallows hard and blinks twice.

“I don’t mean to complicate things and I sure as hell do not want to scare you off. But I can’t lie anymore. To you or to myself. I won’t.”

Alex searches his eyes. “Do you want to be with me?”

Stunned, Henry looks away. It feels like too much, the question too big and yet too exact.

“I don’t see how this could work. We don’t even live in the same time zone.”

“That’s not what I asked. It’s a simple question. Do you want to be with me?” Alex repeats slowly.

Henry glances back at him then. Alex is being so brave right now. It’s both admirable and terrifying the way he’s able to put so much of himself on the line. Henry knows he ought to do the same.

“Desperately,” he answers truthfully, seeing no other alternative. “But I fear it might not be as simple as you think it’ll be– though I want it to be. I wish that it were.”

Alex opens and closes his mouth, color draining from his face.

“Henry. Henry, please don’t do this.”

Henry lets out a breath.

“I’m not doing anything. I’m only being realistic.” He looks around himself.

“We lead such vastly different lives. Being on tour with you was exciting and fascinating, but also illuminating. I don’t know how or even if I could fit into your world beyond this moment.”

He dares to step a little closer, needing his next set of words to be heard clearly.

“But, Alex, please do not misconstrue that with what I feel for you. Never in my life have I felt this drawn to a person. I don’t expect that I ever will again.”

Alex puts a hand to his mouth, rubbing harshly against his jaw.

“Then why are you doing this to us? I don’t understand you. We’ve been at this for months now. We want the same thing. Why isn’t that enough?” he asks, his hand dropping.

“It seriously kills me to see you do this to yourself especially.”

His eyes are so intense, a perfect cocktail of frustration and sadness. Henry can’t look at him for long.

“At some point, Henry, you need to accept the fact that there’s so much waiting for you, if only you allowed yourself to actually experience it.”

His tone isn’t malicious, but the truth of his words cuts deep all the same.

“I’m not naive or stupid,” Alex continues. “I fully get that long distance would be difficult as hell, but I also fully recognize that you and the relationship we could have would be worth it. What we have matters to me enough to want to try.”

Henry’s head snaps back towards him.

“It matters to me too. That’s not fair.”

“Isn’t it?” Alex demands. He closes his mouth and steadies himself.

In all their time together, Henry has never seen Alex like this before, this indignant. The fact that it’s directed towards him makes Henry uneasy though he can’t deny it’s more than warranted.

“You’re cutting us off at the knees without so much as putting up a fight, without even making an actual attempt and for what? You don’t think I’m scared? I’m fucking terrified by what I feel for you. But I want whatever is on the other side of this feeling because I know it could be incredible if we let it be. All I’m asking is for you to trust me. To trust us.”

Henry shakes his head and looks away again, his eyes stinging. He looks around at Alex’s condo, the life he’s built for himself here in Los Angeles. For the times Alex would be away, he could be in any city across the country at any given moment. In just a few months’ time, the revelations in his memoir would be out and he'd have no shortage of far more interesting people vying for his attention while Henry continued drowning in his insecurities.

Yet here it was now, Alex telling Henry he wanted him. Alex was right. That should be enough. That’s all Henry has wanted to hear for months now, after all.

But Henry could do the right thing now, no matter how difficult, to spare them both the inevitable heartbreak down the line when they accepted love wasn’t enough.

Henry simply wasn’t the kind of person people ultimately stayed around for. Perhaps he’d be wiser and walk away before Alex could.

“I should go,” Henry says, wiping unseemly at his nose, nodding to himself.

Alex's face falls as he rakes a hand through his hair, his curls sticking out wildly at the ends. He looks nothing like the leading man on screen, the heartthrob that’s won over millions on television. He looks vulnerable and scared and Henry despises himself for reducing Alex to this.

“Please don’t. Let’s just talk it out. I’m not trying to pressure you,” Alex says quickly, voice panicked. All his upset from moments before fizzling like a fire being extinguished.

Henry shakes his head and looks at him.

“You aren’t. You’re saying all the right things and I know you mean them. I do. I care so much about you, Alex. I need you to know that. You deserve so much more than I could give you.”

“I just want you, Henry. I don’t care about anything else. You have to see that.”

In truth, Henry does. If anything, that’s what scares him most of all.

“I need to think. I need…,” he trails off, desperately looking around again. It feels like the walls are closing in.

“Time. Time away from me especially,” Alex supplies quietly.

Henry’s heart breaks.

“It’s not like that.”

Alex holds up a hand.

“I get it. Or at least I’m trying to.”

It’s a kindness Henry doesn’t feel deserving of at all.

Alex moves back, resting against the edge of the counter, his arms crossed to his chest like a barrier to protect himself. Henry can’t believe just how quickly he’s managed to become something Alex needs safety from.

“Maybe you really should go,” he says quietly.

Fresh tears prick Henry’s eyes at the gentle dismissal.

“I’m in no position to ask anything of you, but please, don’t hate me. I’m so sorry.”

Alex shakes his head and looks back at him then. There’s no malice or ire.

“I could never. You know that. We can talk when you’re ready.”

His tone is detached and whatever walls they’ve allowed themselves to lower over these last few months feel as if they’ve been reinstalled, built stronger this time around. There’s no fight in Alex anymore. It’s a deeply sobering and troubling realization.

“I promise, we will,” Henry says softly.

At least that’s something he knows he can make good on in time.

He looks at Alex again and his heart breaks just that much more. It doesn’t look as if Alex fully believes him. Henry can’t fault Alex. He knows he hasn’t given him a reason to.

~*~*~

The Uber back to the hotel the publisher arranged for him feels like the loneliest journey Henry has ever taken in his life, far worse even than leaving England for a new life in New York.

This isn’t how he pictured his first day in Los Angeles to go. Right about now, he and Alex should have been taking on the city, with Alex showing him around like a personal tour guide to all his favorite places.

It wasn’t supposed to end with Henry feeling as if he’s about to throw up, his stomach twisted into knots in the backseat of a stranger’s car, driving away from Alex instead of to him.

He fights back tears, having enough presence of mind not to sob like every cell in his body is demanding he do. No, that can wait. He’s already embarrassed himself enough for one afternoon. He doesn’t need an audience.

Mercifully he makes it to the hotel and gets checked in. The second the door to his room shuts behind him though, Henry loses it completely.

He isn’t sure how long he stands there, struggling for breath as he sobs, but he pulls himself together enough to seek out something to tether him.

He fumbles for his phone, overtaken for a moment with a thought to call Alex, to tell him he’s made a mistake, to grovel if he has to in order to set things right.

Instead, Henry pulls up Pez’s name in his favorites and clicks to FaceTime him as he steps further into the room, abandoning his carryon at the door and taking a seat on the edge of the bed.

Pez picks up mere seconds later.

“Hello, hello!” Pez greets brightly, his face falling immediately as he looks at Henry.

“My God. You look as if someone has passed on. Henry, what on Earth happened to you?”

“Pez, I ruined everything,” Henry says, his throat feeling so tight from keeping in his tears.

Henry feels homesick seeing Pez’s bedroom in the background, his posters of various pop stars and fashion icons in collages above his bed.

What Henry wouldn’t give to be back in New York now, to be somewhere familiar and safe. Instead he’s stuck in this lifeless hotel room feeling cut off from everyone he loves most.

“Alex…we…,” he trails off before a heavy sob overtakes him.

If this were anyone else in the world seeing him like this, save for perhaps Bea, Henry would rather die. But Pez has seen him through so many upsets. This one won’t be any different.

“I got scared and I took off and...he says he doesn’t hate me, but he most certainly should. I broke his heart. I know I did. God, Pez, if you’d seen his face.”

Pez looks anxious but he doesn’t push Henry to hurry along. He gives him his undivided attention and once Henry trusts himself to share, he launches into the full story of the afternoon.

Pez’s face grows concerned the more he talks and Henry thinks it says something about this story that Pez is uncharacteristically quiet.

“Everything was perfect. I don’t know why I did this,” Henry says, confusion coloring his words.

Pez lowers his gaze, his lips pinching together.

“What is it?” Henry asks.

Pez pulls in a breath, his cheeks puffing up before he lets the air out.

“I say this with absolute love. You are my nearest and dearest friend in this chaotic and beautiful world. You know you are like family to me.”

The preamble makes Henry nervous, but he knows he deserves whatever harsh truth Pez is gearing up to bestow.

“You’ve always had it in your head that you don’t deserve good things. When things feel too good to be true, it scares you. It’s almost like, you need to pull the rug from under yourself before someone else does,” Pez says, not unkindly.

Henry sits back and lets those words wash over him. It’s a fact. He’s always known that about himself, as much as he hates it.

“I don’t mean to do it. I can’t help it.”

Pez looks sympathetic.

“I know, darling. You’ve been hurt before by people you trusted. I’m no psychologist, but I don’t think it’s hard to see where it stems from.”

His brother’s and grandmother’s faces spring to mind. Henry squeezes his eyes shut for a moment, trying to block them out.

“Perhaps this time around, you might find yourself keen to do things differently. Seeing you guys, even from that little time in Denver and the way you talk about him…the fact that he wants to give this a fair shot…Henry, this could be so beyond amazing. There’s life outside your comfort zone.”

Henry runs a hand through his hair. He’s never been good at taking chances. His life has been a study in complacency.

“But what if something goes wrong?” he asks, searching Pez’s eyes on screen.

“On the severe off chance that it does, you’ll deal with it then. But right now? Hazza, I’ve never seen you like this over a guy before and I got just a taste of it. Darling, this man could give you a whole lifetime of happiness for all you know. It sure sounds like he’s willing to try.”

Henry’s eyes well up again, a sour feeling tight in his throat as he tries to keep from crying.

After a moment, he loses the battle. He allows himself to feel the hurt, to truly shed tears over the utter mess he’s made of things.

He wipes at his face, chewing on his bottom lip as he looks at his best friend. There’s no judgment or ridicule in Pez’s eyes and Henry wishes they were actually in a room together now.

“Henry, my love, my moon, my stars. Can you promise me something?”

Henry sees his confused face in the little window on the corner of his screen. Pez licks his lips, his eyes softening.

“Please don’t lock yourself away. Don’t go dark. I’ll be with you in just a few days’ time. Please try to hold on until then.”

Henry wants to be able to swear an oath, but the way he’s feeling now, he’s not so sure he will even have the strength to stand, never mind get back to aligning himself to Alex’s Crescent Valley schedule for the homestretch.

Dread courses through him just thinking about having to cross paths with Alex soon.

“It hurts so much, Pez. Everything hurts,” he says, a complete non-answer.

He can tell Pez realizes this too, but he must sense Henry doesn’t have much fight left in him. He doesn’t push the point again.

“Because it matters. You wouldn’t be feeling this much pain if it didn’t. Question is, what will it fuel you to do next?”

~*~*~

Los Angeles

Day 2

Though he hadn’t actually promised Pez anything, Henry does his best to uphold his best friend’s wishes the next day.

Every inclination Henry has is to stay holed up inside his hotel room, to pass the time by watching the sun cast shadows throughout the day until nightfall.

In all fairness, that is what Henry allowed himself to do after hanging up with Pez, but today, he’s determined to let go of at least one bad habit and not isolate himself.

He takes a shower first thing in the morning and makes a point to eat and get dressed in something other than joggers. Henry collects his phone and laptop before heading out into the world. It’s a strange thing wandering around a city he’s never been to before by himself, but it’s also pretty freeing too. He’s just another face in the crowd.

He sets up shop in a quaint coffee shop he happens across. He opts for a window seat, able to observe passerby as he nurses an Earl Grey. As his laptop comes to life, his phone buzzes on the tabletop, the screen lighting up with an incoming message that’s quickly followed by another.

Alex

you don’t have to respond to this message. i know you need more time and honestly? so do i.

Alex

i just wanted to say that, for what it’s worth, i hope you’re okay. i’ll see you soon…if you’re still planning on coming to the set

Henry stares at the screen, his heart twisting at the messages.

No matter what, the book ranked supreme. Whatever personal drama he was responsible for causing to unfold, Henry held fast to keeping his word. He wouldn’t let anything impact their professional dealings.

He’d see Alex for the filming in two days. There’d be little to say to Alex– if anything at all.

He could survive the awkwardness. After today, he only had to endure a few more days in California until he’d be back in New York, able to put this whole unexpected whirlwind behind him.

Henry sighs and sets his phone down again, opting not to reply.

He puts on his headphones and drowns himself in music and writing. He takes another pass at his most recent edits to Alex’s book but he knows it’s ready to go. He makes a mental note to find a shop in the area to print it out before closing the doc entirely and takes a look at his drive.

It’s truly a graveyard of unfinished pieces, stories he loved but grew discouraged by before fully completing them.

Henry opens up his favorite, his mind swimming with the memory of the promise he made to Alex, that he’d return to his original writing and pursue it in earnest this time around.

In a way, it almost feels like honoring the dynamic they were building.

Henry dives into it headfirst, fueled by the desire to keep his word in some capacity when it comes to Alex.

He’s interrupted an hour or so in when he gets an incoming call. Henry grabs his phone and sees Shaan’s name on the screen before he answers quickly.

“Hi, Shaan. How’s everything?” he asks, tearing his eyes off his screen.

The coffee shop is relatively empty; there’s no one in close range to him that he’d be disturbing by taking this call.

“Everything is brilliant or at least I thought you’d know that. Have you checked your email yet?”

Intrigue seeps through Henry enough to make him switch over on his browser to his inbox where an email from Shaan from thirty minutes ago sits right on top. Henry double clicks on the offer, his eyes catching first onto the insane figure at the bottom. It’s twice what he’s receiving for Alex’s book and yet he feels not even a fraction of excitement over it. He tries picturing himself working with this other actor, a name he actually does recognize as the man has been on the same procedural for half of Henry’s life.

Henry doesn’t even feel an ounce of interest nor can he even fake it.

“So? What do you think?” Shaan asks.

Henry frowns and looks out the window, trying in vain to muster up something to say. But Shaan reads his hesitancy for what it is.

“You’re really done, aren’t you?”

Henry closes out of the tab with his inbox and looks again at his own writing.

“In one sense, yes,” he says. “I can’t write for other people anymore. I’m losing myself too much.”

“Is everything okay with you and Alex? I thought things were going well on the road. Your passes have been impeccable.”

Henry bites on his lip. Technically things are far from fine with Alex, at least personally. But professionally, at least he can be honest and say, “I think he and I have been amazing together for his book. That’s actually what’s giving me this push now.”

Henry sighs.

“It was always going to come to this at some point. This new offer is incredible, but I just…I can’t wonder what if anymore. I still want to write, but I need it to be my words plus my name out there.”

Shaan is quiet on the line and Henry wonders if he’s somehow managed to break his agent’s brain. The amount of money being offered here is such a clear indicator that Henry is truly carving out a lane for himself with ghostwriting. But it’s not fulfilling. It hasn’t been for quite some time now with the exception of Alex’s book.

“I understand. I’ll decline the offer,” Shaan says. “I do hope this means you’ll get something to me soon that’s all your own then?”

Henry smiles. “I was actually just in the middle of that before you called.”

“I won’t keep you any longer then. Get back to work,” he orders, but Henry can hear the mirth in the command.

He’s ready to end the call when he hears Shaan speak again.

“Henry?”

Henry puts the phone back to his ear.

“Yes?”

“Pardon the sentimentality, but, I do hope you know that I’m quite proud of you.”

“You’re getting soft on me, Shaan,” Henry teases, but he soon grows serious. “I do though. I can’t even begin to tell you how much that support means to me.”

~*~*~

Los Angeles, CA

Day 4

“I feel like a bonafide star right now,” Pez says, completely looking the part with his cat eye sunglasses that he moves smoothly to rest atop his head.

He puts his hands on his hips and looks at the reserved seats in the front row of the stands with their names on it.

Ever since Pez arrived late yesterday afternoon, Henry has felt so much more settled. They spent the evening exploring Los Angeles, popping into different shops along Sunset Boulevard where Pez came across the very shades he’s donning now. Being out and about had been enough to take Henry’s mind off his troubles for a little while longer.

But today, there could be no avoiding the elephant in the room and Pez was armed at the ready with a well-needed pep talk before they arrived here at the studio for the reunion filming.

They take their seats as excited fans in the audience around them settle in too. The buzz is so reminiscent of the crowds at cons that, for a moment, Henry feels as if he’s right back on the road with Alex.

For the millionth time, Henry’s mind conjures up a montage of their time together on tour. These last three months haven’t had any shortage of good moments. But it’s these last three days that have put it all into such a tailspin.

Before Henry can spiral any further, the reunion gets underway. A video plays with some of the most popular, fan favorite moments of the series. Each time Alex’s face pops up on the screens, Henry’s heart twinges a little. The video ends with the final shot of the series, the Crescent Valley signage appearing as the video fades to black. The audience cheers and gives an enthusiastic round of applause that somehow gets kicked up twenty notches when the lights come up and the cast is seated on the soundstage.

Henry immediately locks his sights on Alex. It’s been three days and every moment, both waking and asleep, has been consumed with thoughts of him. He looks incredible, perfectly at ease among his castmates and before a crowd. Henry is all too familiar with this public side of Alex. He plays the part so well, Henry wonders if the other version of Alex even wonders or even cares to know if Henry is in the crowd tonight.

The reunion is an absolute treat. The cast recounts their favorite scenes and arcs on the show and divulge behind-the-scenes secrets. They share never before seen footage that hadn’t made it onto the show. In many ways, it’s truly a love letter to the fans. He can feel that with each tidbit that gets offered up, in every thoughtful answer to questions they receive from the show's creator who acts as host.

Alex’s eyes find Henry’s for the briefest of moments as they wind down and Henry instantly feels the air get knocked out of him. His skin tingles, his blood rushing so loudly in his ears that he can barely hear any of the closing remarks the actors are now saying.

He jumps a little in his seat when the audience begins to clap. Henry blinks twice and looks over at Pez who eyes him quizzically before looking back towards the soundstage.

Henry follows his lead and joins in the applause as the cast waves at the in-studio audience and to the cameras until they wrap.

All around him, people are getting to their feet, talking amongst themselves about the in-depth discussion with the cast but it all sounds like static to Henry as his eyes trail after Alex as he leaves with his castmates.

“Shall I see you later then?” Pez says.

Henry snaps his head back to his best friend.

“What do you mean? I thought we would go back together.”

Pez scoffs. “If you think I’d allow you to leave here without speaking to Alex, then clearly you’ve lost your mind somewhere in this city. I of course, being the generous person that I am, would help you find it. But only after you work your way backstage and talk to that man. We go home tomorrow, Hazza. This is your only chance to do this face to face.”

Henry frowns.

“So, as I’ve said, I’ll see you later, honey bunny. Ta.”

Pez gives him a kiss on each cheek before leaving without another word. It’s truly amazing how anxious Henry feels without Pez beside him. He’s practically been a human security blanket since they met years ago.

He knows Pez is right. This isn’t the kind of talk he wants to do over the phone. Alex deserves far better than that, especially after the way Henry left him a few days ago. Even if this time away from each other has somehow hardened Alex’s heart, Henry is ready to face the consequences of his actions.

He makes his way backstage, following the same path Alex and the cast just made.

A few members of the crew recognize him from his first day on set and let him through without incident.

Henry winds down the corridors towards the cast greenrooms. He hadn’t gone back here that first day, but the helpful signs guide him. He can hear chatter behind a few closed doors along the way, but he doesn’t pay attention to any room for longer than a second as he searches for Alex’s name.

He finds Alex’s designated room at the very end of the hall. He leans in close to the door, trying to gauge if Alex is still in. It’s silent but as Henry gets ready to turn away, he hears a heavy sigh on the other side of the door.

He knocks quietly twice.

“Alex? Are you in there? Might I come in and have a word?”

There’s the sound of rustling and footsteps and within a few breaths, Alex appears before him.

Henry’s heart sinks a little. Alex’s face is indifferent, closed off even. It’s as if he’s looking at Henry without really seeing him. For the cameras and fans just moments before, he was his usual vibrant self. Alone here now, the mask is completely off and shattered.

Alex searches his face, the only real indicator that he’s presently registering Henry’s appearance at all.

These last few days have clearly taken their toll on him.

“I thought you might’ve left already,” Henry says pointlessly.

Alex’s eyes haven’t stilled. After a moment, he blinks twice and shakes his head.

“I probably should have, but I needed a minute. Everyone is going out to celebrate in a bit. I’m not sure I’m feeling up for it though.”

Henry frowns.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to spoil this for you. These past few days…I’ve acted horribly.”

Some folks a few doors down laugh about something, clearly in a happy mood. The contrast to Henry and Alex now is staggering.

Henry glances toward the sound of their merriment and back to Alex, looking past into his dressing room.

“Come in,” Alex says, stepping back so Henry can enter.

Henry looks around the room. There’s a clothing rack with a few of the outfits Alex wore during the promotional filming yesterday. There are a few floral arrangements spread throughout the room too, clear markers of just how much there is to celebrate now.

“I should have gotten you flowers to commemorate. But maybe you’ll like what I’ve brought instead.”

Alex’s brows furrow as he leans against the vanity, his arms crossed over his chest. Henry isn’t quite sure how to gauge what Alex must be thinking or feeling about his presence here. But the fact that Alex permitted him into his greenroom is at least somewhat promising.

Henry flips open his messenger bag and takes out the bound manuscript he had printed right after he left the coffee shop a few days ago, eager to hold this project in his own two hands.

Alex’s eyes widen, a soft breath pushing past his lips.

“Is that really…is that our book?”

Henry smiles as he steps forward and hands it over. Alex takes it from him, staring in awe and thumbing through.

“It’s your book, Alex. It’s your story. I just helped put it on the pages.”

Alex looks up at him.

“It was a partnership from day one,” he says and Henry hears the double meaning in it.

Henry concedes the point, his hands gripping the strap of his bag for something to do.

“I’ve actually received an offer to do another,” he says.

Alex looks up quickly at that, his hands clutching the manuscript tighter.

“Is that right? What’d you say?”

Henry smiles tentatively.

“That I want to end on a high note with your memoir as I leave ghostwriting behind.”

Alex sets down the manuscript and stands up straight.

“Are you saying what I think you’re saying?”

Henry can feel his face warm up a bit as he nods.

“You were right. I’ve been depriving myself of a lot of things out of fear and it’s holding me back. Truthfully, it’s been rather debilitating most days. That’s no way to live and I’m tired of it. Of myself really,” he says.

“So, I’ve set about making some proper changes. I told Shaan thanks but no thanks on that offer and I spoke to him about wanting to query my original fiction. I went back to a few of my works in progress and I feel hopeful. Confident even that I might be able to make something worthwhile with them.”

Alex smiles at him, a genuine affectionate thing that Henry doesn’t feel worthy of but he basks in it.

“I’m so proud of you, Henry. Seriously. I can’t wait to be first in line to buy your books.”

This stuns Henry for a moment. For all that they’ve been through these last few days, it touches his heart to know Alex would still want to support him, that he’d remain in his corner.

“First I need to actually turn something in to go on submission. We’re getting a little ahead of ourselves here,” he says, aiming to keep things light a little while longer. He’s all too aware of the elephant in the room.

Alex waves him off.

“I’m speaking into existence. It’s bound to happen for you. You were given a gift. This is meant to be. I know it.”

“You and the universe,” Henry says, more so to himself.

Alex shrugs nonchalantly, crossing his arms again almost defiantly.

“Some things are destined. I stand by that.”

“Like, maybe, you and I?”

The words fall from Henry’s lips so quickly that for a moment he doesn’t realize he’s actually uttered them aloud until Alex’s previously warm eyes shutter. He stands ramrod straight and falls silent as he stares at Henry.

Henry’s heart beats faster, but doesn’t lose his nerve. He can’t afford to. Not anymore.

“As I’ve said, fear and, admittedly, insecurity have been plaguing me for far too long. I've stood in my own way. I’ve held myself back from opportunities because I haven’t felt deserving of them. Doing so in my career was bad enough. Now with you…,” he trails off, arms falling to his side.

“I’ll never forgive myself for the way I acted back at your place. For months now, I’ve been dying to hear that you feel deeply for me, as I do for you. Yet still I froze when it proved itself to be real. It felt too good to be true and so I convinced myself that it was.”

Henry frowns.

“I’ve become something of a professional at blowing my life up. I don’t want to do the same with yours. There would be no coming back from that.”

Henry’s lips quiver, but he steels himself, forcing himself to keep going.

“In your text, you said you needed time. If you aren’t ready to talk about us now, I’d completely understand. Maybe now isn’t the best time to speak of this, but I didn’t want to leave here without at least trying. I know that makes me horrendously selfish. I swear I’m not trying to be. I only wish for you to understand. To know that you’ve done nothing wrong. I hope you haven’t been placing any blame on yourself.”

Alex avoids his gaze. Henry didn’t think it was physically possible, but his heart sinks even further.

“Oh, Alex.”

Alex looks at him. “I thought I came on too strong.”

Henry shakes his head.

“Not at all. You don’t know how much joy you brought me. I got in my own head and spoiled it for both of us. That wasn’t right.”

Henry sighs and looks around at all the flowers Alex has been gifted. This should be a happy time in his life, yet now he was spending almost an entire week troubled and filled with doubt.

“I feel like I’m overshadowing and ruining your reunion excitement with all my foolishness.”

Alex reaches for his hands.

“Keep talking. You aren’t wrecking anything, I promise.”

Henry brushes his thumbs back and forth across the backs of Alex’s hands. He marvels at the smoothness of Alex’s skin, not to mention the warmth.

He feels water begin to well in his eyes, his throat constricting.

“I need to know what you’re thinking. You’re annoyingly good at damn near everything,” Alex says, though his voice trails off a little.

“Except for letting people in,” Henry concludes.

Alex gives his hands a gentle squeeze, subtly urging him to talk.

“Think of it as an area of improvement.”

Henry recognizes his own words from their very first day of this tour being playfully tossed back at him. Henry smiles a little in spite of himself.

“I guess…I know that I’m worried I won’t be worth the effort at some point. I know you mean what you say now, but so much is in store for you once this comes out,” he says, tipping his chin towards where the manuscript sits.

“My life feels as if it’s in limbo, a no man’s land. You have everything in order and here I am just floating. I…truly do feel like a ghost sometimes. Apt career on my part, I suppose.”

Alex’s brows knit together. Concern etched into his beautiful face. He cups Henry’s cheek and Henry greedily leans into his touch.

“Well, I can see you,” he says.

“Thank God for that.”

Alex smiles, his thumb brushing the apple of Henry’s cheek.

“All the same,” Henry continues, “I go back to New York for good tomorrow. There will be three thousand miles between us. Sometimes I worry…proximity has played such a key role these last three months. Soon you’ll have scores of men added to the mix who are far more along with themselves, with their careers. They’d be vastly more interesting and perhaps better suited for you than I.”

He stops himself, realizing how pathetic he must sound. But from the way Alex looks at him, it’s clear the other man isn’t judging or pitying him.

“Hen, I could live on the goddamn moon and I would still want us to try. You mean everything to me. I don’t care who comes out of the woodworks when the news breaks. And I sure as shit do not care that you’re still figuring some things out. You’re currently talking to the poster child of that. We literally worked on a book together about that very same thing.”

Something changes in Alex’s eyes. They grow fiercer as he lowers his hand from Henry’s face.

“I swear to God, I want to cage fight anyone that’s ever made you feel like you aren’t worthy because there is nothing I wouldn’t do for you. There’s nothing I wouldn’t do to be with you, do you understand me?”

“I do. I just…I don’t know why or even how I managed that.”

Alex swallows hard, his eyes softening again. He looks vulnerable and already it makes Henry’s heart ache.

“Henry, I love you. I love you so fucking much. You don’t even see how freaking exceptional and rare you are. I wish that you would. But I’ll be here to tell you every damn day if I have to because it won’t ever stop being true.”

Henry blinks twice and tears fall from his eyes immediately.

“I clearly have some things I need to work on. But I promise, I am in this with you, Alex. I love you too. Terribly. I’ve never felt like this about anyone before. I meant what I said the other day. You’re unmatched. You’ve had my heart for quite some time now and I know that you always will. It’s terrifying and exciting all in one breath and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

The look of relief on Alex’s face makes Henry hate himself for ever making him worry or doubt his place in Henry’s life. He feels grateful now to at least be able to demystify Alex’s fears.

“So much of my life feels up in the air right now, but not my feelings about you. You’re one of the few things I feel sure of anymore,” Henry continues.

Henry leans in closer and touches his forehead to Alex’s. Alex hugs him at once and Henry sighs softly in the comfort of his arms.

It’s only been a few days since he last held Alex, but Henry has missed everything about this level of contact. He buries his face against Alex’s neck, breathing him in and clinging to the warmth of his body.

It hadn’t actually been New York he was missing when he’d called Pez the other day. It’d been here, the safety of Alex embracing him. Here in his arms, nothing can touch him, not even his traitorous, sabotaging mind.

Alex pulls back to look at him and Henry’s eyes sting with unshed tears, his mind racing with all the words he’s been keeping in since they last spoke openly.

Alex doesn’t give him a chance to say anything just yet as he leans in and kisses him. Henry’s heart jumpstarts, goosebumps rising on his arms as he kisses Alex back.

It’s still slow and sweet, but there’s an undercurrent of longing and anxiety coming from Alex. Henry answers it in kind with reassurance, imbuing the kiss with a wordless promise that Alex will never have to be without him again.

They break apart but stay close enough for their foreheads to touch. Henry keeps his arms wrapped around Alex as the man drapes his arms over Henry’s shoulders and combs through his hair lightly. It’s a simple gesture, but it lights Henry up.

There are still a million things he needs to say. Above all though, an apology seems most pressing.

“I’m so sorry.”

It hardly feels like enough.

I’m sorry I ran that day. I’m sorry I hurt you. I’m sorry I almost ruined everything. He hopes Alex understands all that this encompasses.

Then again, he always seems to.

Alex sighs and Henry feels the slight tremble in his hands as he continues to stroke his hair soothingly.

“I’m just glad you felt safe enough to come back.”

Henry runs a hand up Alex’s chest, to the key that dangles near to his heart.

“I’m always going to find my way back home to you.”

#rwrb fic #red white and royal blue #firstprince #henry fox mountchristen windsor #alex claremont diaz #userthai #tusersonia #tuserpaige #usernicholas #usersteen #tusersilence #userjamiec #iuserzoe #uservalentina #kimmy writes

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loloschive · 4 months

Text

╰┈➤ ❝ is she the girl from the video?❞

0.1 THE LIVE

wc: 2.03k

JUNE 13TH, 2020. 09:34PM

BENEATH THE SOFT GLOW OF AMBIENT LIGHTING, the dance studio floor becomes a canvas of motion— a sleek, polished hardwood masterpiece eagerly awaiting the poetry of footwork. it’s more than just wood; it’s the silent partner in a dance romance.

and in whitney joy’s case, it led to a breakup. A terrible breakup. for she was, so fucking tired of dancing for the day.

“you did well.”

her instructor approached her with a satisfied smile and a bottle of water, which in whitney’s eyes looked as if she was extending a lifeline to quench her thirst. the studio, now a sanctuary of tranquility, resonated with a sense of renewal as the refreshing ambiance envelops both the exhausted dancer and the departing echoes of her peers.

in the gentle aftermath of an electrifying performance, whitney catches her breath, each inhale a rhythmic echo of the steps she just executed. calming her heart, she gracefully retrieves her scattered belongings, the soft glow of the studio lighting casting a subtle radiance on the remnants of her artistry. the dance shoes, now in her hands, murmur the tale of the choreography.

with a determined gaze, she departs the studio, the click of the closing door harmonizing with the fading echoes of mats being rolled up—a seamless transition from the dance floor to the outside world, carrying the essence of her performance.

“ah” the girl looked ahead and there stood her head body guard jeremiah.

“sorry to keep you waiting jer”

the man only let out a small chuckle, opening the car’s side door for the girl “it’s alright hun, don’t worry bout me. everything alright in the studio tonight?”

the girl smiled fondly, recounting all she’s accomplished tonight. “yea,” pausing to take a sip of water , ”u remember that part in virgo’s groove? (yes, that virgo’s groove) i finally figured out the direction i wanted to take. god, when concerts are resumed, i’m gonna be so stoked to perform that”

jeremiah smiled proudly at the girl- no- young woman as she continued to give a play-by-play at how her practice went; whether it was describing the stage lights they chose, or the new dancers who joined, even down to the panelling in the floor being replaced.

they spoke in delicate murmurs as the car drove through the illuminated streets of los angeles, the city lights casting a vibrant glow on the bustling boulevards. the palm trees lining the roads sway gently in the warm night breeze, while the distant murmur of the city’s nightlife adds a rhythmic soundtrack to the journey.

about ten minutes later, they arrived at her complex. jeremiah exited the car first, doing a thorough sweep around the exterior, checking for any hidden cameras, misplaced items, or visitors. once deeming it safe to enter, he returned to her side of the car and opened it. leading her to the door, she gave the man a quick hug and a wave goodbye, and entered the condo.

the tired girl wearily locked the door, the weight of the day still lingering. in the soft glow of the hallway light, a pair of luminous eyes peer from a cozy corner.

the cat, sensing its owner’s arrival, gracefully stretches and pads over with an air of deliberate nonchalance.

the owner, feeling the gentle nudge against her leg, looks down with a faint smile. “hey there, cutie” she says, crouching down to greet the feline friend. the cat, tail held high in contentment, responds with a soft purr and s delicate head-butt against the owner’s hand.

as the owner sinks into the couch, the cat jumps up, claiming it’s favorite spot on their lap. “missed you too, hun.” suddenly, she felt vibrations on her stomach, that definitely weren’t coming from her feline. “andd i stink, and i’m hungry. so lets go take care of that first, alright?”

carrying the cat like a swaddled baby, the girl walked upstairs, carefully watching her step to ensure she didn’t fall. the girl collected her necessities for a shower, taking out her phone to queue up some music. 10:05pm.

hmm, still pretty early. she thought.

“hey, you think i should go live, bee?”

the feline—bee— only responded with a meow.

JUNE 13TH, 2020. 10:42PM

“hello my honeys! how are you all?”

the young star smiled gleefully as she watched the numbers rise and the abundance of hearts appear on her screen.

“as far as i go”-she grabs her phone, panning the camera to her waist to show her attire- “i got out of my dance practice about an hour ago, took a shower and decided i’d chat with you guys and answer some questions while i eat”

“oh! and before i forget,” the star cleared her throat, “today i’m eating an acaí bowl. you guys suggested that i try it the next time i came to L.A. my manager went out this morning and put it in my fridge, isn’t she the sweetest? also, the colors are so pretty” she put her container up to the camera, rotating it while making “ooh, ahh” noises. snorting, she put it back down on the table.

“alright, enough of that and time for your questions!”

“will we be getting a dance cover anytime soon?”

“ah, that’s a good one. as y’all know, my last dance cover was almost a year ago. honestly, it all had to do with me not being satisfied with the material out on the market. it just wasn’t what i was motivated to dance to.”

“but,” she paused ,” i will say, a song came out 4 months ago that spoke to me. and i just-so-happened to use it during my session today. completely enjoying it.”

tiny7forlife: OMG

winniestan23: IS SHE FR

not.thepooh: YALL WE MADE IT OUT THE TRENCHES A COVER IS COMING

lowkhater08: WHAT SONG?? WHO WAS IT??

“i can’t tell yall the song or the person, that would ruin it… buuuuttt i can give some hints”

whitneycoutoure: this bitch think we’re dora the explorer or sumn shit

hbicwhit: girl do we look like sherlock???

DDGisahoe: doing all of this extra shi when she could’ve just told us SMH

never.that: yall ungrateful as hell yk she gotta be extra!!

iluvwhit: here she goes w/ a damn speech

she rolled her eyes at her fans. they could be so sassy. “anywho. i’ll describe it.”

“first of all, i wanna start out by saying the entire album was amazing. seriously. i truly feel like this artist is constantly evolving. normally, when you’re in the game for as long as they are, you start to slack off. you’re not as experimental anymore. you get comfortable. and although there’s nothing wrong with that— it just gets boring as a listener.

ngl, when you guys find out what song it is, you’ll think I’m ridiculous for having this reaction to it. but honestly, when i first heard it i cried.

‘how did she cry to a song like this? it’s a sexy song thats perfect for grinding, she’s so sensitive’ well, it’s a simple reason— i empathized with the artist.”

“as y’all know, i was thrust into the entertainment industry at a young age. luckily, i had parents who were very involved and wanted to ensure both my well being and my safety. unfortunately though, i missed out on alot of things.

i feel excluded from my peers at home. even myung-hee & cleo. they experienced things that i didn’t get to. i’ve never been to an amusement park without cameras following me. i haven’t had late night ice cream with friends without the promise of collecting content. it becomes so unbearable that you can’t live life without it translating into money.

“in this particular song, the artist expresses satisfaction of their achievements, while listing the differences between them and their friends. a very guilty, almost shameful tone, takes over the first and second chorus.

i also view it as them showing just how valuable time is, and that they understand that the time in their youth was basically lost. because they spent that time working towards where they’re at now, instead of living how their peers would at that age. that last bit is just how i interpret it.

the second verse, is about how they still feel as though they’re a child. because they haven’t completed the full “simulation” if ya will. they question, that even through the success, if they’re doing things right. just general anxieties about life and their career.

the bridge, is basically where they make the decision that from here on out, they will change. and the third and final chorus, is where it truly struck me yall. because the tone, the overall mood changed to hopeful and determined. they changed the “ i can’t” to “i will”

as you guys know, i’ve been on this self discovery journey this past year. one of the goals i wrote down was to live for myself, and essentially take back my own life. so, you can understand why i broke down like an idiot in my bathroom after hearing this. it also didn’t help that i had the shower running, so the steam just worsened my headache, but alright”

“since you guys like to snitch on me” she playfully cocked an eyebrow, staring down at her phone “ i’ll just say this ahead of time so the artist can understand what i’m saying”

“thank you for capturing the confusion young stars have. we’re put in a situation where we’re forced to grow up with adults that we essentially, have to leave our peers behind. many say ‘oh you’re young and successful, it shouldn’t matter’ but it matters now that you’re unable to do those things in peace. i’m never not thankful for where i’m at in life— i don’t have to worry about bills, student debt, what i’m gonna eat and where i’m gonna stay. but damn, do i wish i my shot at childhood once again” [spoken in korean]

liarx3: WTF

beebeestan:SHE SPEAKS KOREAN??

number1honey: yall fake as hell if u didn’t alr know that ngl😭😭

looking at the chat, she smiled. “well, you guys have probably figured who i’m referring to, but if not you’ll find out either via twitter or whenever i post the cover!!”

“i’m gonna call it a night on live, i’ll see you guys when i do, alright?”

after bidding her fans a heartfelt farewell to the livestream, the young celebrity, bathed in the soft glow of her room, ends the broadcast with a genuine smile. as she tapped the screen to conclude the virtual interaction, a sense of contentment and exhaustion finally settles in.

as she makes her way to her bed, the phone in hand vibrates incessantly with notifications - a testament to the fervor of her dedicated fans.

upon reaching the bedside table, whitney places the phone down, its screen lighting up with a dazzling array of messages, likes, and emojis. the room is filled with a soft hum of admiration as the celebrity, now clad in comfortable sleepwear, slides under the covers.

as she lies her head on the pillow, the phone continues to buzz, a symphony of digital appreciation. with a fond smile, the celebrity glances on last time at the glowing device before succumbing to the quietude of the night, leaving her fans enthusiastic expressions to serenade the room.

A/N:

hope you all enjoyed it! this has been sitting on my mind ever since golden was released, and i’m glad i’ve finally just said f it and did it!!

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realtyhubph-blog · 2 days

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578 SQM Commercial Angeles near Holy Angel

Own a piece of prime Angeles City. This spacious 580sqm property is within walking distance to Holy Angel University, malls, schools & more. Perfect for development or investment! Inquire now!

LOCATION 📍 Brgy San Jose, Angeles City Pampanga Philippines FEATURES TYPE: Lot with Old Improvement📐 Lot: 578 sq.m Floor: 175 sq.m✅ Old House with small commercial space in front✅ Title Status: On-hand, has pending extrajudicial settlement POINTS OF INTEREST Holy Angel University • Tollhouse Main • Holy Rosary Parish • SM Telabastagan • NEPO Mall Complex • Rockwell NEPO • Veloce Tower Mall…

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sebsgirl71479 · 1 year

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Shoot your Shot the Trilogy

Sebastian Stan x Curvy Actress Reader

Word count: 2,815k

A/N: I had a request for a lovely reader for a continuation of this mini series so here it is @ozwriterchick thank you for the idea.

Warnings: Fluff, cussing, sexual themes 18+ no minors tiny bit of smut (I’m getting better lol)

It was the morning after the best night of your life. You woke up and looked at the alarm clock on the bedside table, it was only 7am but you felt amazing. All of a sudden you felt Sebastian playing with your left hand. You looked down and he was fiddling with your engagement ring. With a big smile on your face you turned over to face him. He was already looking at you with an equally big smile.

“Good morning my beautiful fiance, did you sleep well?” “Yes, Dragostea mea (my love) probably the best sleep I've had in a while and it's all because of you.” Sebastian rolls on top of you and starts kissing you all over making you giggle. His now long hair tickling your neck, you love his new hair gives you something to hold on to. When he starts sucking and biting your neck and shoulder you let out a soft moan and he starts grinding his hard cock into the apex of your body.

“Hmmm Seb baby I really want to finish this but I have to pee. I'm sorry.” “Ugh, okay but as soon as you're done we are finishing this in the shower.” “Sounds like a plan to me.” After a very long and steamy shower you both get out and get dressed for the day. You settle on a cute sweater dress and long knee high socks since it's still a bit chilly in California. Sebastian loves it when you wear those socks, it gets him all riled up but he's trying to control himself. It's a lazy day for the two of you so you head into the kitchen to make coffee, while Sebastian gets things out of the fridge for breakfast. After eating your breakfast, you and Sebastian go finish your coffee on the back porch looking out onto the LA skyline. With your head laying on his shoulder you feel content, safe, happy, something you never thought you would ever have.

“Baby I don't want to pack my stuff back up to stay at my place. How about we stay here the rest of the time we are here and I can just go check on my condo if I need to?” “You know what I like the sound of that. Besides, I want to stay in this happy bubble of ours for as long as we can.” “Oh my gosh! Seb how are we going to handle the critics choice awards? They're gonna notice the ring.” You both turn and look back out to the city thinking of how to navigate the red carpet. All of a sudden Sebastain turns to you with a sly smile. “Draga mea (my dear) I want the whole world to know you are mine forever and what better way then to show everyone on the carpet. What do you say?” He takes your hand and kisses your ring finger with so much adoration in his eyes it makes you want to cry. “Let's do it. Watching everyone freak out will be the best thing to see.”

He laughs at your excitement and takes out his phone to call his manager to let her know the good news and that they will show off the ring while walking the red carpet. But just so they don't have to answer the same questions multiple times he told her he won't be doing any on camera interviews so they can just enjoy the moment. When he comes back he extends his hand to you and you place your hand in his and brings you into his waiting arms. You both head back into the house and head to the living room to watch tv and waste the day away. You end up catching a marathon of Friends for a few hours. Thinking back to the Variety interview he did with Jennifer Aniston he really is a little bit like chandler like he said. You start to giggle thinking about it, this catches Sebastian's attention.

“Angel what's got you laughing so much, it's just a commercial?”

“I was just thinking about when you did your interview with jennifer last year and watching friends you really are chandler.” You can't stop laughing now. Sebastian starts to laugh and hides his face in your hair feeling a little embarrassed but not to where it's bad. He inhales your scent from the shampoo you used and he knows that he is home, your his home. He can't wait to marry you. After watching your marathon. You both fell asleep on the couch, Sebastian lying lengthwise with you laying on top of him. When you first did that you were worried your weight was too much for him but he told you he loved it and to never feel any less about yourself. Sebastian showing you how cherished you were was one of the reasons you first fell in love with him.

You never realized 4 days could go so quickly when you and Sebastain are so wrapped up in your engagement bubble. You both woke up a little later than expected on Sunday morning but it was good which meant you were not rushing to get ready for the awards by 4m. You had to push Sebastain out of the bathroom so you could take a proper shower without distractions. It took a good 10 minutes or so to finally get him out with the promise of a mind blowing BJ when you finished. That made him look at you with such lust in his eyes he couldn't hide his hard cock poking from his sweats. You went up to him and placed your hands in his hair and pulled him lightly to you in a passionate kiss. Sliding your tongue into his mouth you heard him moan and that gave you the go ahead to slide your hands down his back to grab his ass a little. That made him kiss you harder and then you brought your hands to graze his erection and give a little tug. A few seconds later you broke the kiss both of you panting and heaving chests.

“You baby, you are a very bad girl, you better get in that shower before I won't let you and we skip the show.” “Yes sir as you wish.” With a wink over your shoulder you start to take your robe off and just before it reaches your hips you close the door on him and he lets out a frustrated groan. “I LOVE YOU!” He yells through the door. With a bit of a giggle you yell back just as loud because of how loud the shower is. “I LOVE YOU TOO SEB!” You took your time in the shower making sure you did a whole body sugar scrub to have that glowing skin and did a little trim job where it needed it. You couldn't do that with Sebastian in the shower no way. Once you got out of the shower you dried off and started with your face creams and the perfect body lotion that smelled like roses and bergamot. You left your hair in the towel since the hairstylist was coming soon to style your hair.

You slipped on your robe and left the bathroom to see a pouty Sebastian sitting at the end of the bed. He gave you those beautiful blue eyes that make you weak in the knees and jutted out his bottom lip. “Hey there handsome, why the long face, did you miss me that much?” Sebastian just nodded his head and gave you his hand. You walked over to him and stood between his legs. You looked down at him and he was just admiring you as he rubbed the outside of your thighs. You bent down to give him a peck on the lips while also slowly kneeling on the floor in front of him. You both didn't say a word, you didn't have to, you were both so in tune with each other. He laid back on the bed and you already saw the prominent bulge of his cock in his sweatpants. You hooked your fingers into the band and started slipping his pants off. He lifted his hips to help you along the way.

His cock was already leaking pre cum and your mouth started to water. He propped himself on his elbows to watch you a little. “For being just a good boy I'm gonna make you feel so good baby.” You raked your fingers up his thighs and rubbed his hips a little to make him relax. You licked a thick strip from the bottom of his shaft to his leaking slit and he fell back on the bed with a loud moan. Wrapping your mouth around the tip and sucked it lapping up his cum. “Oh god baby, you know how much I love that mouth of yours.” You hum a little and his eyes roll back really trying to keep it together before he cums too fast. You're bobbing your head up and down and taking him as far as you can while using your hand to pump the rest of his huge cock. You let go of his shaft and take a deep breath in through your nose and suck in your cheeks to take him all the way, all while you tug on his balls a bit. “Holy shit y/n!” That’s what did him in and he shoots his cum down your throat and you lap up everything he gives until he brings his hand to your chin telling you he’s sensitive. You look up at him and open your mouth to show him you took down everything. He brings you up on the bed and smashes his mouth to yours in a kiss that would make you fall to your knees if you were standing. Once you both break the kiss the doorbell rings letting you know Sebastian's stylist and hair and make up have shown up.

“Saved by the bell baby, and just in the nick of time.” “Draga mea that was amazing. What did I do to deserve you?” “All I did was ask you out on live television.” You both start laughing and then the bell rings again and almost forgot about who was at the door. Sebastian gets up and fixes his hair and pulls up his sweats, but not before you give him a pat on his butt on the way up. He gives you a look over his shoulder like you're gonna get it all you do is shrug your shoulders and tell him. “You have a great ass Seb. How can I not smack it every once in a while?” He just shakes his head and goes to let everyone in the house.

Everyone comes into Sebastian's bedroom to set everything up while he takes a quick shower. You greet Seb’s stylist Michael with a quick hug while the MAU gets her makeup setup. You decide to connect your phone to the Bluetooth speaker in the room and put on your 90’s RnB mix on your Spotify. You're bopping to some Brandy when Sebastian comes out of the bathroom ready to get dressed. He comes over and gives you a kiss on the forehead saying a quiet ‘I love you’ before speaking to Michael about his suit for the night. You look through the mirror at him and smile just thinking that you will marry that man soon and how lucky you are at this moment.

The suit Michael picked out for Sebastian was amazing, he looked so sexy and you convinced the hairstylist to not slick back his hair this time and left it a little fluffy on the top. You went with light makeup and winged liner and nude lip. Your hair was in a side sweep with a crystal barrette to hold it up and soft waves to your hair. Thank goodness you write NDA’s for the stylist because if they noticed the ring they didn't say anything but even if they did they still wouldn't and couldn't say anything to anyone. The car was on its way and would be at the house in 5 mins so it gave you enough time to get your earrings in and spray on a little perfume. “Printesa, are you ready the car is out front?” “I’m coming, Seb.” You put a few mints, your cell phone and a few more essentials in your clutch as you head for the door.

Sebastian can't stop looking at the deep V neck of your dress showing how great your boobs look in it. “Hey mister eyes up here.” “Sorry baby you just look so damn beautiful and sexy in that dress.” “Well you look pretty sexy yourself there, Michael did another great job.” With a soft kiss to your lips Sebastian took your hand and led you to the waiting car. Another 45 mins in traffic and you made it to the Fairmont Hotel. Your leg was bouncing so much that Sebastain had to put his hand on you to calm you down. “Y/n everything will be alright, remember we aren't doing any interviews. Just walking the carpet and getting our picture taken. If they notice the ring just show it off for a second and we head down the line. I love you so much baby. I'm right here, don't let go of my hand.” “Okay Seb, thank you for easing my mind. I love you too.”

Just then the door opens and Sebastian gets out and fixes his jacket and he leads you out of the car and you start to walk to the red carpet. You meet up real quick with his manager to make sure his requests are met before we walk the line. You hold your right hand in Sebastians left and start walking. You make your first stop for the cameras, trying to listen to the photographers as to where they want you to look. All of a sudden a photographer yells out “Y/N what is that beautiful piece of jewelry on your hand?” That's when the crowd and photographers go crazy. You look at Sebastian and he gives you his megawatt smile and kisses your temple. “Go ahead and show them printsesa. I want them to see how you are mine now, forever.” “I love you so much Seb.” Just then while you're still looking at Sebastian you lift up your left hand and the ring starts to sparkle with cameras flashing.

You only hold it there for a few seconds so they can get a good look at it then you start walking back down the line. When you get to the middle Sebastian spots Lilly and he asks if it is okay if he takes a few pictures with her. You let him know it's fine she's his co star for goodness sakes. While he takes a few pictures with Lilly you are being asked questions by the photographers but you let them know you're not answering any at the moment. You walk a little further and by then he’s done with Lilly and rejoins you on the carpet for a few more pictures and you head on into the hotel for the show.

“You did fantastic y/n I'm so glad we didn't stop for interviews, less stress.” “Yeah it was so much better and it was all because I had you by my side baby.” He gives you a hug to try and calm your nerves a little and it helps. Just as you get to your table Lilly comes over to you and gives you a hug and kiss on the cheek. “Oh my gosh y/n congratulations Sebastain told me when we took pictures, let me see this ring.” You show her your beautiful engagement ring and she gives you another hug before you feel a tap on your shoulder and turn to see Seth. He gives you a small hug and gives his congratulations as well. You both take your seats at the table and get ready for the show to start.

Sebastian didn't get the award tonight but it didn't matter. Being in the same building as all these other fantastic actors and actresses showed him that he is worthy of being here and being a damn good actor. But in his eyes he was already a winner, with you as his fiance and more movies on the horizon for him his life is only going to get better. And all because the woman laying in his arms tonight had the guts to step out of her comfort zone and ask him out on live TV. It will be a story he can't wait to tell their kids some day.

Taglist: @christycurlswrites @buckyalpine @frostironfudge @altagraye @allandoflimbo @peaches1958

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daebakinc · 1 year

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Pretty Woman Finale

Pretty Woman AU

Pairing: Kihyun x Reader

Word Count: 2.6 K

Synopsis: Rich business man, Kihyun Yoo finds himself lost driving in Los Angeles. Stopping for directions he meets you, a prostitute on Hollywood Boulevard. What starts as a one night stand soon becomes a weeklong proposition, as Kihyun needs arm candy for his visit in the city of angels.

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

~Admin V

You had trouble sleeping in your own bed. Partly because there were so many possibilities for you now and your mind was playing any and all ideas, and partly because you were spoiled by the Baverse mattress and couldn’t get comfortable.

As you lay awake, you worked out your plans for the next day. First, you’d have to stop by the library and use the computer to look up housing in San Fran. The idea of renting a car to get there seemed more comfortable with all your newly acquired belongings than toting everything on a bus.

Checking out schools for completing your G.E.D. was also on your list. You’d work on the job situation once you got there. The school could have programs to help you with that.

And Kihyun. You couldn’t stop yourself from thinking about him. His heartbroken face when you told him you weren’t going to spend the night with him. The way he nodded at the door when he screamed for K.Will to get the hell out. How his lips felt against yours the night before when you kissed him again and again.

At some point you’d finally dozed off. Frantic knocking on your door woke you. Looking at the clock it was a bit after 10a.m. The landlord must’ve been antsy for the rent. Sifting through the envelop from Kihyun, you grabbed what was due, but when you opened the door, it wasn’t the landlord standing before you.

His shoulders relaxed when he sighed with relief. “You’re here.”

Your jaw fell slack. “Kihyun? Aren’t you supposed to be on a plane to Korea?” You glanced around in the hall. “How do you know where I live?”

“Changkyun. When I was checking out, he casually mentioned that the limo driver took you home yesterday.” He took a deep breath. He must’ve run up all the flights of stairs to your floor.

Gesturing for him to enter your apartment, he took another breath of relief.

Facing you, he continued. “I’m an idiot.”

You smiled to that. “Yeah?”

He was flustered. It was clear there was so much he wanted, needed to express but didn’t know where to start. “You said this week changed everything for you. It changed everything for me as well. It just took me longer to realize it.” He began pacing in front of you, his words spewing out quickly. “Never, not in a million years would I have bought Honey Bear Records to save it. I was on the path of destruction and had absolutely no intention of ever getting off of it. But you,” he ran his fingers through his hair and looked you in the eyes. “You showed me I still have a heart. I don’t have to be the villain I’d turned myself into.

“When I told you I wanted to put you up in a condo and see you, that wasn’t my intention to have you waiting for me; waiting for money, waiting for me to use you. That was old me. How I dealt with past relationships. They’ve always been about me using them when I needed them.” He cringed at himself when he heard what he’d just said.

Stroking his arm to let him know it was okay and you weren’t running from him, you encouraged him to continue.

“I like who I am with you. And, it will be a learning process. I’m sure that I will still do and say things to fuck it all up, but I can’t let you go.”

Mouth agape again, you could only stare at him.

His confidence was back as he squared his shoulders and took your hands in his. “I can’t go back to South Korea, not without you. I don’t care if we stay here in Los Angeles, or even here in this apartment.” You noticed his grimace as he looked around but he quickly recovered to a face of sincerity. “I don’t care where I am, as long as I’m with you.

“I can understand if you don’t want me buying everything and doing everything for you. You’re a self-made woman and I respect that about you. But I do have money, and I don’t see why it can’t be used if it will help you.” He went back to pacing, seeming to have said something he hadn’t meant to.

“What’s wrong, Kihyun?”

He stopped and focused on you. “You’re not my personal prostitute or beck-and-call girl. I know you’re not.” Taking a deep breath, he stepped closer and looked into your eyes. “But I want you to be mine.”

Your heart beat sped and you felt a blush in your cheeks.

He lifted your chin with his fingers so you were looking him in the eye. “You said yesterday you wanted me to love you. Love you for you. I . . .” He took a sharp inhale, but it didn’t stop his lip from quivering. “I . . .” he tried again.

You couldn’t help the wide grin that spread across your face. “I love you, too.”

Though he looked comforted, it didn’t stop another tremble of his lips and you saw tears sitting in his eyes. They closed when you leaned up and pressed your forehead against his.

“You don’t have to say it back if you’re not ready. We’ve only known each other a week after all.” You kissed the tip of his nose.

Sighing, he pressed away from you to look at you. “It’s not that.” His voice was squeaky and it pulled at your heartstrings. He’d finally slowed down his words. “When I’ve said it before in past relationships, I never meant it. Not like I mean it now.” The tears overwhelmed him as they now trickled down his cheeks. “I’m scared,” he breathed.

Carefully, you held his face in your hands. “You don’t need to be. I am yours.”

When he smiled, you couldn’t help yourself from giving him a soft, chaste kiss. He pressed back, and the two of you took the moment to just savor the feeling, the closeness. Pecking his lips a few times, you pressed one more smooch before leaning your forehead against his again.

Kihyun caressed your cheek. “I don’t deserve such a pretty woman.”

“Then you’re quite a lucky man.”

Six Months Later

You pulled your brand-new, sleek, cyan blue Dodge Viper in front of Honey Bear Records. Yes, you were a self-made woman, but you also needed a car. And with Kihyun offering to get you such a lovely one for passing your G.E.D., who were you to refuse?

Walking into a studio, Hyunwoo was sitting in the back of the room on a couch. He looked up when he heard your footsteps. “Hey, how’d the test in music production go?”

After retrieving the test in question from your bag, you handed it to him. His face instantly lifted. “Yeah! Look at you, big time college girl!” He gave you a high five then you plopped down on the couch next to him.

“How’s our boy doing?”

Both of you turned your attention to the front of the room. Jooheon was sitting in front of the sound board and recording equipment. Behind the laminated glass, Kihyun was in the zone, warming up his voice before the music started.

You couldn’t hide your smile as you watched him. He was so passionate as he got into the music. Then his lyrics started.

I can suddenly feel something has changed I am becoming an adult I don't hate myself Even when I see my weakness I tended to get anxious Thinking about me after a few years Rather than how I feel today I was like that at that time

I feel like I will miss those foolish Days, which made me work harder The days when I was young and cheerful And the heart that was pumping so fast after dancing hard I feel like the sky is beautiful nowadays

His voice cracked and he indicated for Jooheon to stop the music. Once he had a few swigs of water he kept repeating the note he couldn’t seem to get right.

Jooheon spun around in his chair toward you. “Queen! Tell me you aced the test!”

Getting up you handed it to him.

His face beamed when he looked at you. “That’s my girl.”

You nodded your head in the direction of Kihyun. “How many takes has he been doing for this one?”

“Just a few. You know he’s a perfectionist, so if it doesn’t sound the way he wants it, we start over.”

It was part of his passion for the music.

A mischievous smile appeared on Jooheon’s face. “You know, now that you’re here, I’m sure if he were to relieve some of that frustration, he’d be able to get his notes right.”

“Jooheon,” Hyunwoo warned, embarrassment causing him to blush.

You couldn’t help but laugh. “Is that so?”

Hyunwoo got up and slapped the younger man in the shoulder. “Please excuse him. All this time in the studio has clearly deprived him of oxygen to the brain.” He pulled Jooheon from the chair and pushed him towards the door. “Go get some fresh air.”

Jooheon laughed and faced you. “I’m gonna get some coffee, you want your usual?”

“Yes please,” you couldn’t help but laugh with him. Once he was out of the room, Hyunwoo looked apologetic.

“Though I don’t agree with my partner’s exact suggestion,” he then motioned toward Kihyun, “I do think he could use a bit of a break and some words of reassurance.” The blush was still present as he bowed. “I’ll give you two some time.” He too left the room, leaving it to just you and Kihyun.

Knocking on the studio door, Kihyun looked a little surprised to see you.

“Hey,” he smiled. He looked through the glass and noticed the others were gone. “Where’d they go?”

“Coffee break. Jooheon heavily hinted you could use a release.”

His face turned red. “What did he say?”

You closed the distance between the two of you. “Oh, just that you might sound better if you let some of that tension go.”

The blush was gone and his confident power took its place. “What did you have in mind?”

Smiling, your hand reached down to touch him through his pants. “I was thinking blow job.”

A smirk formed on his face. “And what if you screaming my name will relieve the tension?”

Before you could answer, the studio door flung open. Both you and Kihyun watched as Jooheon walked in, hand over his eyes. “I forgot I had the headphones and the sound still on. Don’t mind me.” It was very clear he wasn’t at all ashamed of interrupting and he even peaked through his fingers at one point, trying to catch any action. When he dropped the wireless headphones in the chair, and made sure all the sound equipment was off, he left. Kihyun and you burst out into laugher. You each laughed so hard you had to sit on the ground until you calmed down.

When you were both back to normal breathing patterns, Kihyun moved so his back was against the wall and pulled you into his arms. He played with your hair as you played with his fingers. The laughing worked to get rid of his stress.

Looking up, you smiled at him. “The song is very pretty from what I heard.”

He smiled back at you. “You think so?”

“I’m very biased, of course, but yes.”

His grin widened. He looked from your eyes to you lips then bent down to kiss you. The musk of his cologne mixed with his sweet tastes made your head spin. You kissed him back until you felt breathless. If it were up to you, you’d never stop kissing him. When he bit against your lip, you couldn’t help the low groan it caused.

Shifting your position, you turned to better face him, crawling in his lap. You deepened the kiss as you breathed him in and he slid his tongue into your mouth. Your new spot in his lap allowed you to grind against him, feeling his growing hardon against your growing wetness.

Kihyun’s hands snaked up your back, under your shirt to unhook your bra.

You jumped when your phone vibrated in your back pocket. He grabbed it for you and you both looked at the screen. It was Jooheon.

He put it on speaker. “Wasn’t it your idea for her to help me blow off some steam?”

Jooheon laughed. “She ordered a coffee. I just wanted to know if it was safe to bring it in to her.”

“Unless you want to clean up the love stain we’re about to make, I suggest you and Hyunwoo leave the building. Now.”

There was stunned silence on the other line, and before Jooheon answered, Kihyun hung up.

He then held you as he again shifted your positions so that you were on your back and he hovering over you.

“A love stain, huh?” you chuckled.

“A big one.” He brushed hair from your forehead.

“Well, I hate to break it to you, but I don’t have a condom.”

“That’s not funny.”

“Well, I’ve changed my profession. I no longer have need to carry around a buffet of safety.”

The sad, puppy pout you gave made you crack up with laughter. You reached into your bra and retrieved a condom. Old habits die hard.

His pout was replaced with a smirk. “You’re going to be punished for that.”

Matching his smirk, you replied. “I better be.”

Kihyun nipped at your nose. His face switched from playful to serious. “I love you.”

Your hand reached to caress his cheek. “I love you, too.”

He leaned down to kiss you again. It was short lived as you pushed him away. “If Jooheon and Hyunwoo are going home, how are you gonna finish recording when we’re finished?”

“Didn’t you have a production test today?”

“ . . . Yeah?”

“Then maybe you can give it a shot.”

You pushed him off so you could sit up. “Are you sure? I’m still unsure about some of the equipment. I don’t want to mess anything up.”

Brushing a stray hair behind your ear, he gave an earnest smile. “The best way to learn is trying. I can help, too.”

He sounded certain, but you weren’t as confident as he was. “I just don’t want to mess it up. I know how you like everything. I don’t want to get lost in the equipment.”

He grinned wider and shook his head. “We’ll figure it out together. I promise to be on my best behavior and not snippy like I am with Jooheon. And if we get lost in the equipment, I do recall getting lost in Hollywood is how we both ended up here.”

Finally convinced, you smiled back at him. “Okay. But now I’m not in the mood to create a love stain with you.”

He jokingly groaned, but you could tell he was also more interested in getting back to the music. Helping you up, you both left the sound booth and sat in front of the recording equipment. Luckily, you did know a good portion of what to do, and what you didn’t Kihyun handled.

With everything ready, he went back into the other room. You spoke into the intercom. “Are you ready for the ride of your life?”

Shaking his head while chuckling, he gave you a wink. “Let’s do it.”

The End

#kihyun #yoo kihyun #monsta x #kihyun fics #kihyun scenarios #monsta x fics #monsta x scenarios #kpop fics #kpop scenarios

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typingtess · 10 months

Text

The settlements from the LAPD were what their lawyer promised – life-changing money after a life-changing encounter. Devin and Jordan Rountree were given separate settlements. That was a suggestion from their lawyer Ted Hoffman – two settlements, two recorded settlements for LAPD and two marks on the two officers' records. There was a written apology from Chief Davis with promises for retraining and changes.

Chief Davis promised its was a life-changing encounter.

Not changing LAPD. Or not changing much. For all of the Chief's talk about change, they were mostly promises, not much more. There were updates to protocols, a push for increased liaison officers between LAPD and the federal agencies working in the city. Training manuals were put under review.

Officer McNeil was put on a desk after he was retrained. He was three-years away from retirement. Under advice from his union lawyer, McNeil found a paper pushing job at Parker Center. For the rest of his career, he'd review security protocols at SoFi, Angels and Dodgers Stadiums and other large arenas for sporting events, concerts and other gatherings. He already lined up a security gig at the new Intuit Dome that began the day after his 50th birthday. He wasn't endangering that opportunity.

Officer Dubrons was retrained by LAPD and moved out to Topanga Division. 15-years away from retirement, Dubrons couldn't find as cushy a landing. He started sniffing around with several federal agencies but whenever he started getting some traction in the interview process, things would shut down suddenly. One friend at a three-letter agency said it wasn't the agent they pulled over but someone much higher in the chain of command who made it clear Dubrons was a hard no for any federal agency. Dubrons figured he's put in his time before retiring to some smaller department looking for a guy with big city experience.

But it was a life-changing encounter for the survivors.

With her settlement, Jordyn's medical school costs were largely covered. The little that was left over got her a studio condo near the campus. Devin wanted her to share a house with him – save that leftover money. No, she wanted her own place. It was time to be Jordyn and Devin, not Jordyn with Devin. When medical school was over, if she was leaving for a different city or a different part of Los Angeles, she'd have her degree free and clear and real estate to either rent out or sell. Dr. Jordyn Rountree would be on her way.

With Fatima's uncle Navid's help – Navid ran the third largest real estate firm in Los Angeles – Rountree found a fixer-upper. Three bedrooms, two bathrooms ranch, built in 1951, it looked good on the outside. Inside, both bathrooms were never updated and looked every minute of their 72-years. One bathroom had carpeting. One bedroom had paneling that probably looked great in the early 60's when it was put up but really didn't work now. There were mirrored walls in the living room and small bedroom – that would have to go. The kitchen was updated in 1977 – just in time to miss the avocado green period of American Kitchens.

While Navid had a dozen condos that were in turnkey condition lined-up, Devin wanted a house, he wanted a house in a good neighborhood. Navid's firm sold house on the block with all the bells and whistles for twice what Rountree was willing to pay. A little sweat-equity and some time, he'd have what Sam told him was the first investment in the rest of his life.

It was life-changing money after a life-changing encounter.

#NCIS: Los Angeles #NCIS: LA #head canon #NCIS Los Angeles #ncis la #devin rountree #jordyn rountree

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thesmokingguns · 2 years

Text

City of Angels Chapter One

The bed was a King sized which was good because as I sat in the middle of it, two curly haired devils with their fathers intense eyes laid against me. Pajamas washed in Dreft that smelled the same as the onesies I had brought them home in, years ago. Everytime their father would pull their small little pajamas out of the drawers he would look at me, teasing me how I yearned for another.

He wasn’t wrong.

“Mama, tell us the story again.” Sweet little Bennett spoke with a lisp. His s’s coming out with long sounds that I cherished. My eyes fluttered down to him, squeezing him tight against me as I kissed his hair, tickled his belly.

“What story?” I played dumb, the little giggles of him and his twin sister Bernadette made my heart fly up. My two B’s. Bennie and Bernie, my sweet babies.

Nights like this as we snuggled up in the bed, my darling children all curled up close with me was everything. Motherhood seemed to be what I was meant to be in life. Having the little against me, getting to take care of them and shower them with all the love in the world. My heart was overflowing.

“Mama.” Bernie giggled, her head tucked against me as I laid back on the bed, two little ones crawling up and making sure to spread over me like a blanket. “The story of you and Daddy!” their little chins were pointy as they stuck against me and I wished that they could stay this little forever, to be this excited to hear me tell the most important story of my life.

The story of how their father and I met wasn’t the fairytale that I painted it to be. But at three a love story shouldn’t be filled with monsters so I painted over the horrors and held them closer reminding myself that getting through all the monsters, slaying the beast had led me to this moment, here with my children.

And that was worth it.

“”A not that long ago in a place that's far enough away there was a princess who was going to a ball. At the ball there were going to be many Princes and Princesses but on that night she hadn't expected to meet the one who was her happily ever after…”

July 1989

Axl’s condo in Hollywood was the place to be tonight. Everyone that he knew or had met even once had been invited to the housewarming party he was throwing for himself. As a member of his band and one of his oldest friends Izzy had to come, despite his desire to stay at home and write the song he had been working on in his head he had shown up, glancing at his watch several times in the ten minutes that he had been there. He just needed to see Axl, hand him the present, some expensive bottle of wine that Izzy had asked the man behind the counter of the stove several times if he had rang it up correctly, so he could leave.

The red haired singer was moving through his home, the easy smile on his face as he gave hugs and shook hands as he saw all these people who he had welcomed into his life and would be part of his future.

“Enola.” her head turned, her hair fanning out as she looked at who was calling her name. The glass bottle of beer in her hand was half warm, the two sips she had taken from it not enough to keep it fresh. As Axl made his way over, pushing through people to get to the dark haired girl Izzy spotted him and his way the fuck out of this party.

Two men, pushing their way to this central figure who was stepping out of the crowd of women she was with and making space. Axl was wrapping her in his arms, not noticing the way she tensed for a second and letting the redhead swing her off her feet, twirling her around once before placing her back on her feet.

“You came!” She was hit or miss with invitations and preferred silence at times, even though she tried to push herself sometimes the wall was still up. A wall that Axl never seemed to realize was there. “Do you need another drink?” he was reaching for the full beer, the small frown on his face as he took the full warm beer from her hand.

Before he could comment on it he was met with Izzy who was flushed with annoyance and pressing a bottle of wine into his arms. Axl looked down at the bottle with its french name in gold swirling font, his friend looking furious from the idea that he spent so much money on something that his friend would probably never drink or worse would pop to impress some girl on Izzy’s dime.

“Nice place.” Izzy was trying to keep his word count low as he thought about how he could get out of talking to him and leave. His eyes glanced beside Axl and paused, the girl with the dark hair seemed to be having the same idea as Izzy, using the distraction to move away to a group of girls before she was sliding from his view.

Axl’s head snapped from the bottle up to offer Enola a glass and realized she was gone, worse was the way that Izzy was looking after her with that look on his face that Axl had only seen a scattering of times. The sort of look that he absolutely did not want to see with the girl Axl had been pursuing since she popped up at a party a month ago. He had put in actual work with Enola and he wasn’t going to let the guitarist get in the way of it.

“Who-”

“No.” Izzy looked at Axl as he shook his head at him, the look on his face hard set as he watched his guitarist with pursed lips, “Stay away from her, Izzy. She is not your type.” At this Izzy knew that she was exactly his type.

But Izzy held up his hands, knowing better than to show Axl he had any serious interest in her because then it would become some competition. Izzy wasn’t interested in fighting with the lead singer but he was still intrigued by the way that lilacs wafted in the air from the way her hair had twirled as she spun. It was fresh and new, not the vanilla lotions or coconut suntan lotion that was prevalent in Southern California.

“You don’t have to stay.” Axl was staring at him, mad that Izzy had shown up now and saw Enola because he was possessive of her already. Maybe it was because she was so hard to pin down.

Axl had been trying to get to know her deeper but Enola was so surface level. She never gave him her phone number, he had no idea where she lived or where she was from. She seemed to know everyone at the parties but no one could pinpoint where they knew her from or when they had been friends. She would just show up, this fresh breeze with her denim jeans and slightly heeled white boots. She never smoked and barely drank, but she laughed loud with everyone and seemed to understand what fun was. And Axl was hooked by the calm lavender colored energy that she exuded.

Enola was the first person that Axl met and really thought that he wanted to have this relationship with. The first girl who didn’t throw herself at him because of his band name and wanted to hook up with him. She laughed with him and was so easy going when they talked. The realness of her always shocked him because he forgot there were women like that still around.

The idea that Izzy had glimpsed her and already knew she was special was infuriating to him.

Izzy smirked at the lead singer, looking at him with the sort of expression on his face but with this new thought of how he wasn’t going to go anywhere until he met the girl who was beside them a moment before.

“I have nothing better to do, might as well enjoy the free food and booze. But you have a lot of guests, Axl. You should probably greet them.” Izzy was slinkering off now, searching for the girl whose name he didn’t know.

And Axl was being rushed by guests knowing that he couldn’t keep an eye on the man. All that he could hope was that he didn’t find Enola.

The smell of lilacs had Izzy turning and weaving through crowds, leaving conversations in the middle of discussions as he tried to search out the mystery girl that he was looking for. His mind was on the small glimpse of the person he had seen. The way her dark hair had fanned out and how he had been so curious to see more. Was it his curiosity leading him towards her or was it something else?

Enola slipped out of the apartment, her white boots had a scuff on them from some clumsy idiot stepping back on her foot as she tried to navigate the maze of bodies out of Axl’s apartment. Sitting down on the landing she pulled the boot off, having a lady Macbeth moment where she was using her t-shirt to press on the boot to get the spot out.

“When lilacs last in the dooryard bloom'd, And the great star early droop'd in the western sky in the night, I mourn'd, and yet shall mourn with ever-returning spring.” her head turned at the first lines of the poem, scanning the man who was coming towards her. He seemed as surprised as she was by the words of Walt Whitman that had just poured from his lips.

Pulling the boot on and standing up she looked at the stranger, the way he seemed calm and yet uncomfortable in her presence. She was beautiful in this different way. It was the round shape of her brown eyes, the splattering of freckles on your soft skin, dark hair wild and untamed in silky strands. She could be any girl in America and yet here she was outside of his lead singers apartment.

“I’m Izzy.”

“I’m leaving. Goodbye.” she turned, the click of her heels boots as she bound down the stairs. He watched her, the way her hair bounced with each step as she moved out of the apartment. He was shocked at her quick departure, unsure of what to do. If he chased her it would be stranger.

“What’s your name?” he called after her, watching her stop, eyes flashing up to look at him and this sort of smile that was on her face. Something about the way her lips turned up and she was seeming to bloom with this mischievous smile that was on her face had Izzy’s breath catch in his throat. She threw her head back and laughed, her fingers waving as she took off running out.

The only thing Izzy heard was the slam of the front door.

His head rested against the metal bar and he should have been upset but he touched his long fingers to his lips, touching the smile that he hadn't realized had made its way there. He didn't have her name but now he had a mission to find it and find out so much more about the lilac girl.

Taglist: @ayablackwood @rocknrollsoul76 @greeneyezblackheart @lady-jane3 @rocketgrrrl27 @slutforstradlin @theoutsiders25 @fispapercrafter @bbyamberx @brezeblog @samanthasgone @aggressive-slytherin @clover270 @grayxiu @another-obsessed-with-duff @badfvith @bia003 @queenbae18 @axl-roses-rose @d-ahliaa@beebemarie @guns-n-roses-gal @themoonbelongstome @pinksweetgirl18 @cemmia @bieberhoodforever

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subliminalbo · 6 months

Text

10 Years of Subliminalbo [ 1 ]

Fleur-de-lis 1: Adriana's Entrancement Annotated [ 2 ]

Adriana [ 3 ] looked out among the crowd gathering on her balcony and she smiled. There wasn't another supermodel in sight [ 4 ]. You see, tonight wasn't about the business, it was just pleasure. Most of her guests thought that this was a simple housewarming party. Adriana had a lot of homes in a lot of cities, what was so special about this unassuming Los Angeles condo? But after modeling for eighteen years, Adriana didn't get a lot of opportunities to be herself. That's why she'd invited only a handful of guests, personal friends unrelated to the industry [ 5 ].

Adriana floated in and out of conversation with her guests until she spotted a woman standing at the railing, overlooking the Los Angeles skyline.

"Excuse me," Adriana approached her. "Are you with somebody?" She didn't mean to sound rude, but she had been strict about the guest list and she hadn't expected to find strangers are [ 6 ] her own party.

"It's beautiful, isn't it?" The woman asked, her eyes trained on the lights dotting the landscape [ 7 ]. "I've always loved this view. Pardon me," she turned her attention to Adriana and extended a hand. "Elena Maxwell [ 8 ], I'm a friend of Miranda's."

Adriana frowned. Though she was friendly with the other Victoria's Secret models, Miranda Kerr was the inevitable exception [ 9 ]. She was the type of woman who only saw enemies. For Miranda, Adriana Lima was the biggest threat to her rising star. "I'm sorry," she said. "I didn't invite Miranda."

"Oh, I know," Elena replied. "Actually, I invited myself. My people have been trying to reach out to you for months and we haven't heard a word from your agent, so I just had see you personally. I'm the CEO of Fleur-de-lis lingerie, and I think you'd be a great fit for our growing roster of models." [ 10 ]

"Excuse me?" Adriana was growing more and more flustered by this woman's presence. Not only had she invited herself to a personal event, but now she was talking business, trying to pull her away from the company that had treated her so well for so many years. These were the kind of shifty politics that made Adriana want to get away from the fashion world for just one night. Adriana knew of Fleur-de-lis, Miranda had recently left Victoria's Secret to work with them. It was a welcome change, but not soon after they'd begun reaching out to her too. Adriana had been firm with her agent: she wasn't interested in modeling for another company. That was the end of that. "I'm sorry, but you're intruding." [ 11 ]

"No, I'm sorry," Elena smiled and placed a cold hand on Adriana's shoulder. "I just wanted to see if you were as beautiful in person as you are in all of those photoshoots."

Flattery would get Elena nowhere. Adriana was finished with this conversation. She turned around to signal for her bodyguard to escort Elena off of the premises.

"Okay then," Elena said, slipping on a pair of sunglasses. "Bring the light." [ 12 ]

"You're going to have to come with me, ma'am," Adriana's bodyguard took a firm hold of Elena's arm and pulled her away from the balcony. She didn't fight back. She moved with the man as he took her toward the door, but the man stopped short as the sound of helicopter blades silenced all of the voices from the party. Everyone, including the bodyguard, looked to the sky as the helicopter hovered above the hillside condo. [ 13 ]

"What is this?!" [ 14 ] Adriana shouted before the entire balcony was flooded in a bright, piercing glow from the helicopter's spotlight.

Adriana knew there was something wrong as she looked into the light. Warm, tingling waves washed over as her body numbed, and her mind soon followed. I need to look away [ 15 ], Adriana thought. She managed as best she could to speak, but was startled when out of her mouth came, "Need...look...way..." She tried again but this time only a long, hollow grunt escaped. [ 16 ]

The rest of Adriana's guests stood there frozen, their heads cocked up to the sky, entranced by the blinding light. Elena smiled as the bodyguard's grasp loosened, his arm falling harmlessly away.

Meanwhile, Adriana's world was narrowing. She lost focus on everything around her. The light, that was all that mattered now. [ 17 ] She could hear someone moving around her, but she couldn't to turn her head to see. There was a small part of her, whatever part was left fighting, that hoped someone had arrived to save her. And then Elena spoke in her ear. Her words echoed through Adriana's mind [ 18 ]. The light is pleasure. The light is comfort. The light is peace. You want to look into the light.

And she did. Adriana no longer felt the urge to look away. She only wanted to be drawn in. A wave of pleasure washed over her [ 19 ] as she gave in to its power, her mind completely washed clean of its useless thoughts. The light wouldn't leave Adriana permanently brainwashed [ 20 ], but Elena could fix that as soon as she got her back to the Fleur-de-lis office in downtown LA. She took Adriana's hand and as she led her from the condo, dozens of Elena's men slipped in through the front door to handle her guests [ 21 ]. For them the night was over. By the time they awoke in the comfort of their own beds, they would have no memory of this night's bizarre turn of events, and Adriana Lima would already be deep into her orientation as a model of Fleur-de-lis. [ 22 ]

[ 1 ]. My first mind control story was posted to Deviantart on November 23rd, 2013. At the time my username was thedude11111 and that was what people would know me by until the switch to Subliminalbo in 2016. Fleur-de-lis started as a single 250 word story (the original text was lost forever in a 2017 rewrite that expanded the setting) to act as a companion to the manip. I don't like this story very much. I write about fictional people for a reason, but I'm using the original text mostly to dunk on my younger self.

[ 2 ]. Before fictional college towns and mind controlling goo, I wrote about Victoria's Secret models. My Deviantart era is an ongoing source of embarrassment for me, but one which I find a little difficult to hide from. I was eighteen years old and I liked supermodels and mind control. Around 2019 I decided to semi-canonize Fleur-de-lis by fictionalizing all of the models and recontextualizing it around the universe I've built. If this story feels familiar to anyone, it's probably because it's the first half of Fleur-de-lis #1: An Orientation, which is a slightly better proof edited version. Despite the update, The original Fleur-de-lis remains a bizarrely popular series over on Deviantart. I have no plans to bring it to Tumblr in its entirety, but you can read the full series collected on PDF over there.

[ 3 ]. Celebrity stories were big on Deviantart in 2013. Outside of the gross ethics of writing fantasy mind control smut about real people, I always found the situations to be limiting. Even today I have a hard time returning to write new chapters of the remixed series because the stakes are just so damn goofy.

[ 4 ]. Another limitation of writing about real people was having to come up with these little plot details that felt true to life. I used to run a modeling blog (my secret shame) and the community was full of gossip about which models hated who, so I kind of characterized Adriana as this consummate professional who is desperate to get above the bullshit. It's a hyperbolic look at the modeling world that is just flavor, but it's not good flavor? Like, I really don't care about these characters.

[ 5 ]. I build up this party like it has some big significance and just completely drop it by the end of the paragraph. My 2013 work ethic on full display, just shitting something out and never looking back. Made worse, of course, by the fact that this paragraph survived the 2017 rewrite (and is mostly in tact in the 2022 remix. I suck so much sometimes).

[ 6 ]. Happy to see this typo survived the 2017 rewrite too.

[ 7 ]. The focus on the LA skyline is an allusion to the movie Heat for absolutely no reason whatsoever.

[ 8 ]. Even before CSU and its growing roster of evil mind controlling ladies, I preferred female villains in these stories. It's not as much a femdom thing as it's simply more palatable to me. I've never wanted my characters to be confused for self-inserts.

[ 9 ]. Miranda Kerr left Victoria's Secret in 2013 on supposedly bad terms as her marriage melted down, famously leading to Orlando Bloom vaulting a couch to punch Justin Bieber in the face as Leonardo DiCaprio cheered. Sometimes life becomes a mad lib.

[ 10 ]. The conflict of this series is mostly about contracts, which is part of the reason I find the stakes so stupid. It actually really bums me out how much energy we waste in 2023 talking about business decisions like this. Consider the copious amount of Endgame theories that speculated on the deaths of characters based on whose contracts were expiring. Just a real staring into the abyss type stuff to me.

[ 11 ]. Ah! Gross! I don't even know what to call these kinds of run-on paragraphs, but they still show up in my writing from time to time. A long stretch of unbroken exposition bracketed by unconnected dialogue. To me it all screams, "I need to fill out space." Just painful to read.

[ 12 ]. I think Elena is supposed to be talking into an earpiece, but I don't make a single reference to it in this version of the story. It kind of comes off like this is just a thing she says before she does evil shit.

[ 13 ]. Kind of a clumsy sequence of events. Not a fan.

[ 14 ]. I'm not one hundred percent certain that this isn't an allusion to Professor Quirrell's "what magic is this?" line from The Sorcerer's Stone film. For whatever reason the line reading always stuck with me. Anyway, trans rights are human rights.

[ 15 ]. Okay, I am one hundred percent certain that the inner dialogue here is a reference to Jukebox's "I Need to Wake Up"

[ 16 ]. I like to think that I've gotten better at writing mind controlled people lmao

[ 17 ]. Inductions have always been a weakness for me. There are a few that I've written over the years that I'm proud of, but overall I still find that the vast majority of them happen way too fast.

[ 18 ]. A first appearance of a Subliminalbo cliche: conditioning "echoing" in someone's mind. Still comes up in probably four of every five stories that I write.

[ 19 ]. Subliminalbo cliche number two.

[ 20 ]. In early stories I would go out of my way to explain the mechanism of the mind control. These days I'd trust that the reader can work out for themselves that Adriana is only mesmerized here without me saying it directly.

[ 21 ]. Always imagined these men coming in like Sylvia Christel's cleaners in No More Heroes.

[ 22 ]. In the absence of actual smut, I close the story out with the promise that Adriana is going back to the evil corporate headquarters to be brainwashed. Some painful telling instead of showing.

#inside hypnoball #subliminalbo

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