right so, the expected post concert blues have descended upon me and a few POV while I still remember stuff:

Pros-

Little freak (my fav. Also his reaction to people singing it) I'm thankful to the harry house gods that it was added

WMYB- The crowd was crazy. Literarily insane. He might have as well not sung it. We knew the words, the beats, the backup vocals, the melody, his little 'choo choo' hand gesture when he repeats 'you light up my world like nobody else'. The entire arena was wild. And I love that this still gets a bigger reaction to WS

The band wearing all read with a canadian flag badge made my heart squeeze. Such a nice touch for Canada.

WS is like overplayed to death by this point, but there were some cool watermelon color projections on the crown going on.

No gender reveal/breakup/coming out signs. They've become so disingenuous after the 4th show that I was really happy not to have any...he also didn't have as many fan interaction as he did in Europe...so maybe the signs existed and he just didn't address them.

Rainbow project was beautiful love. People responsible pulled it off amazingly. My pictures were crap because the colors were subdued whereas they were so vibrant in the moment and it felt surreal to be surrounded by a rainbow belt.

—

Not necessarily cons, just 'but why?':

No LU-especially because there was a fan project to light up the canadian flag. They made little ribbons instead of just colored paper so you know they went that extra step (and paid extra money), only for it not to make the cut. Also how can you cut LU. It's not my fav tbh, but it's one of those that you don't just leave out.

I loved the idea of the horns, but I feel like they needed to rehearse them more with his vocals. For some songs they were interfering with him starting to sing. Does that make sense? They were great for the music breaks (sushi), but when he'd pick up the verse again you'd still hear them loud and it's just a tiny irky thing. I need that sudden dramatic stop. BUT, i still love the inclusion of them. Just hope they synchronize them better for future shows. God I'm being so nitpicky.

Although I was sitting at the very back I still enjoyed every bit of it. I wish I was going tomorrow too, but money and inflation said no.

Leave America was super loud. I’m glad that it carried over across the pond and that stupid “project” some people wanted to replace it with never worked.

But I mean we are Canada and mostly hate America and we only got two shows. It still makes me laugh that they call this the Canadian residency when it’s only two shows.

one last thing to add though, I have no idea how he's gonna keep this up for all these residencies. That was A LOT of stage to cover. Running back and forth and round and round. I soooo appreciate him giving every side equal opportunity too see the face/ass but goddamn...hope these muscles are gonna be useful.

That is all!

Adding your pics of those beautiful lights:

Thank you!!!!! This was a fantastic concert review!!!!

Now, I learned what Leave America means to Canadians, and the horns need a bit of smoothing out and yes it sucks that Lights Up didn’t end up on the set list, it’s such a lovely song for the LGBTQ+ and allies crowd.

And good to know (also for those who worry) that a seat in the back still allows you to fully enjoy the show! 💜

Yardbirds Of A Feather

Robert Plant x Reader

Category: Fluff

Warnings: None 

Word Count: 3K 

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

Ethereal.

That was the only word that could nearly encompass Robert as he dominated the stage with his presence; his arms moving delicately in the air, his back arching through the higher notes, and the way he interacted with the audience as the music seemed to flow through him with every step he took across the stage. 

Seeing him from such a short distance almost felt like a religious experience. 

You smiled and leaned against one of the walls, hidden backstage in what felt like your own V.I.P spot. You had been a roadie for the band for nearly four years. Getting to know the rest of the boys and being talked into into their alcohol fueled misadventures more times than you’d care to admit had been one hell of a ride, and no matter how crazy, hectic and challenging that lifestyle had proven to be, you wouldn’t change it for anything in the world. 

Well, perhaps for one thing only. Something related to the curly-haired frontman who covertly turned to look your way and smiled goofily before turning to the roaring audience once more and lifting his arms. 

Robert and you had the best of friends since you were teenagers. After your family moved next door to his, it didn’t take long for him to come up to you one afternoon and interrogate you about your taste in music after claiming to have overheard Elvis Presley music coming from your room, in that extroverted and friendly way you had grown accustomed to. On the other hand, your first instinct was to bashfully blush and apologize for the noise. Since then, you had become practically inseparable. 

Despite your noticeably different personalities, Robert had a knack for reading people, and he knew it was just a matter of time until you came out of your shell. It only took one year of innumerable afternoons at either one’s house, the park, or all the local pubs; talking music, films, or literally anything. By now you were certain you knew each other better than nearly anyone else, and Robert was one of the few people you were a completely different person around, shedding that taciturn and somewhat reserved layer.

However, as time went by, you began to realize your feelings towards him had begun to change, without knowing exactly when or how. 

Suddenly, you’d feel especially tense and even coy when he did things such as putting his arm around you or playfully throwing you over his shoulders to carry you around; things you didn’t use to mind. At least not as much. You were no fool. Of course you knew what it meant and, moreover, you were aware of the consequences romantic feelings could have on your friendship, so you had decided you wouldn’t risk it. You’d wait until the strain you felt in your chest whenever he leaned in too close and the subconscious smile that crept onto your cheeks at the first sight of him in the morning disappeared as suddenly as they had appeared. 

However, back in the present, it wasn’t until he threw you a questioning look that you realized your eyes had been on him all along, even in the middle of Jimmy’s guitar solo that had the crowd going absolutely mad. Literally everyone in the venue, even some other roadies that stood next to you had their eyes fixed on Jimmy as his fingers strummed the chords of his guitar with dexterity. Everyone but you. 

“Shit”, you thought as you attempted to smile nonchalantly, waving at him awkwardly before retreating behind the stage, putting your hand over your eyes in a chagrined manner. 

You nearly crashed into Gage, a fellow roadie who was laboriously pushing one of the cases in which the equipment was stored. 

“Hey,” he greeted “Is everything alright?” 

You nodded and got behind the massive black rectangle, next to him.

“Yeah, I’m fine. Where do you want this?” 

He gestured towards the spot through which the band would be coming through when the concert was over, and both of you began pushing. By the time you got there, both of you were sweating. Fun aside, being a roadie was also exhausting. 

You reached your meant destination as Robert’s voice resounded through the venue and reached your ears.  

“I want to thank each and all of you for being here tonight! We love you, and good night!”

The multitude cheered, mixed exclamations of excitement and desolation for the end of such a wonderful show filled the air for several more minutes. 

You reached out your arms as the boys strode off the stage and made their way to the back while still waving at the crowd. 

Jimmy smiled at you and placed his guitar on your hands before receiving a paper cup filled with something that probably wasn’t water from another roadie.  

“Thanks, Y/n.” he said before pouring the contents of the cup down his throat. 

“Great job, guys,” You said, smiling kindly at Jimmy and nodding at Bonzo and John as they walked by. Then you turned your attention to Robert, who seemed to be ready to engulf you in a sweaty hug as he often did after his shows. 

However, this time he didn’t. 

Instead, he seemed to catch himself and pulled his arms back before patting you on the back with a smile before walking towards his band mates. 

Well, that was odd. He probably thought you hadn’t noticed, but you could definitely see him change his mind mid-second and decide otherwise hugging you. 

A new, frightening possibility invaded your mind as you carefully placed Jimmy’s guitar back in its case and left it with the rest of the equipment. 

“Was I too obvious?” You internally wondered, “Oh god. He knows. He definitely knows and he feels uncomfortable around me.” 

You furrowed your eyebrows and shook your head sternly, decidedly putting a halt to your anxious, overthinking brain. Robert couldn’t possibly know. He hadn’t said or implied anything, and you had made sure to hide your infatuation as best as you could. 

“Hey, Y/n!” Bonzo yelled, abruptly pulling you out of your thoughts. “We’re heading down to the pub, you coming?” 

You turned to Robert, who was busy lighting a cigarette and didn’t look up. No matter how much you tried to convince yourself, that brief moment of panic had made you feel paranoid, and you decided it was better to call it a night and not hang around Robert in that state, so jittery that it could be obvious something was up with you, and you weren’t a good enough liar as to take that risk, let alone with a couple of beers in you. 

On the other hand, you always went to the pub with them. You couldn’t just decline and expect none of them to think it was odd. 

“No, sorry. Not tonight, I’m…not feeling well.” you quickly put an excuse together and even cleared your throat a little so it was believable. 

“Oh, come on,” John protested, “You showed up to work, didn’t you? You’re fine!”

“I came to work because I love you guys,” you said with a soft chuckle, your eyes unconsciously drifting to the still oblivious Robert. Good lord, even that innocent phrase made your stomach churn. This was bad. “I just need to lay down. I’ll be as good as new tomorrow, I promise”

“Alright, see you tomorrow, Y/n.” John said disheartenedly before walking away, Jimmy and Bonzo following after saying their goodbyes to you. 

And so, you went to grab your things, relieved that your excuse had actually worked and you’d be able to walk out without raising suspicion. 

“Are you sure you’re alright?”

A voice behind you said apprehensively. Your body stiffened and you made your best effort to casually turn around, lifting your closed fist up to your mouth and faking another cough as you nodded. 

“Yeah, don’t worry,” you said with a smile. Robert didn’t return it. The blond singer just stared at you up and down, his lips pursed in a concerned grin. 

“Okay,” he finally said before nodding and going after the others, “I’ll see you tomorrow.”

The moment he disappeared behind the corner, you released a long, shaky breath you didn’t even realize you were holding. 

You sighed as you threw your key in the bowl next to the entrance before closing the door behind you. However small and hideously furnished, at the moment that hotel room was the coziest, safest place on Earth. 

You looked inside the mini fridge in search of something to drink, finding only a couple of beer cans. You shrugged as you took one and opened it, a pleasant fizzing sound emerging from it as your made your way to the couch before turning on the television, even though you knew you probably wouldn’t pay any attention to it. Robert’s odd attitude had planted a seed of uncertainty in your heart, and you were seriously struggling to pay it no mind.

“Alright,” a soft, tentatively hopeful voice in your brain whispered. “but what if he does feel the same way?” 

You even shook your head at the possibility. Or impossibility, would be a more accurate way of putting it. This was no longer Rob, the quirky teenager who wrote songs in his notebook and only dreamed of one day singing them to the masses. 

This was Robert Plant, The Golden God. Girls –beautiful girls– seemed to throw themselves at him wherever he went, or stared at him with amazement and even devotion from the pit when he was onstage. Perhaps he was even flirting with one of them at that very moment. 

“Seriously, why are you doing this to me?” You asked your brain out loud with a groan. You’d positively go insane sooner or later if you continued like this. Now you had actually begun to regret your decision of returning to the hotel in instead of going out with the boys and having fun, as it looked more and more cowardly with each passing minute. Sure, he’d be there but maybe the more naturally you acted around him, the faster your crush would disappear? 

It sounded logical to you. If you repeatedly acted as if nothing weird happened, then you would end up believing it and everything would go back to the way it was. 

“Yeah, right,” you said to yourself begrudgingly before standing up. You wouldn’t let some stupid, insecure thoughts ruin your night. 

Picking up the phone, you dialed the front desk to be met by a familiar beeping sound for a couple of seconds.

“Good night, how can I help you?” A lady answered in a sweet voice. 

“Hi, I know it’s late but is your room service still available?” you asked, picking up the small menu that laid on the nightstand. 

“Yes, it is, what would you like, Miss?” 

“I’d like a large pepperoni pizza, please.” 

After thanking her, you marched to the bathroom to take a quick but well-deserved shower. Not even five minutes later, right as you were walking out comfortably wrapped in a towel, a knock on the door made your stomach instinctively growl.

“Well, that was fast,” you thought as you made your way to the door and swung it open. 

However, instead of the room service person you expected, you were met by Robert’s surprised glance as he helplessly stared at you for the single second it took for both of you to react, you slamming the door shut on his face with a yelp and him repeatedly apologizing, immediately looking away even after you had closed the door. 

“What are you doing here?!” You asked, bewildered, as you made your way to your closet and found the oversized t-shirt you wore to bed, throwing it on as you hurriedly made your way back to the door, opening it to find the poor singer looking awfully flustered. 

“I want–” he stammered and cleared his throat, “I just wanted to see if you were still feeling better. I mean, if you were feeling sicker already.” 

He blinked a couple of times and shook his head bashfully, frustrated at his involuntary lapsus. 

“What about the boys?” you asked, furrowing your eyebrows in confusion. Robert just smiled and shrugged dismissively. 

“They can do just fine without me. How are you feeling?” 

“Golden!” you said, your voice raising almost an octave out of nervousness. Yeah, you were many things, but a professional liar wasn’t one of them. “Do you...want to come in?” 

He nodded and both of you stepped into the room. It wasn’t until then that you realized he had brought an acoustic guitar with him. After looking around the room, Robert finally deposited it atop the coffee table. The room probably seemed small compared to the much, much nicer ones the hotel where the band was staying at had, but he couldn’t care less. 

“I brought you chicken soup,” he announced, lifting the paper bag he was carrying. “Seemed to me that you were coughing earlier, and the cabbie said there was a small restaurant not far from here and...I hope it helps.” 

“Thanks,” you said, a warm feeling spreading through your chest as you gifted him with a sincere smile. Now you almost felt guilty about lying to them about being sick. 

“So,” he said, gesturing towards the T.V. “What are we watching?” 

“Oh, I wasn’t really paying any attention to it,” you admitted, to which he chuckled and settled on the couch. 

“You just needed some background noise?” he asked, familiarized with your habit that stemmed from your hatred of silence. “Don’t worry, I’ve got just the thing,” 

He patted the guitar case and then the spot next to him on the couch, which you settled in with just a little hesitation. 

“With what tale of vikings or Celtic legend will you grace my ears tonight, Rob?” you asked, to which he half-heartedly laughed. 

Your smile fell a little. There it was, those odd gestures that had become increasingly frequent and made you so uneasy. He pressed his lips together until they were just a thin line and took a deep breath before shaking his head. 

“None, really. I wanted to show you something I’ve been working on. Well, we’ve been working on, the melody is Jimmy’s but he said he wanted me to put words to it and...never mind, I’m rambling again.” 

You nodded in agreement with a shaky snicker as you brought your knees up to your chest and hugged them. Robert carefully placed his fingers on the strings and began to play, only to interrupt the melody after just a couple of chords. 

“It’s just...It’s not done yet, alright? This is just...a sample, if you may.”

“Quit stalling!” you said with an impatient laughter, shoving his shoulder playfully. He normally wasn’t afraid to show you the songs he wrote, so you knew there was something about this one. 

“Alright,” he said quietly before he began to strum the chords gently once again. He swallowed hard as he parted his lips and began to sing in that clear, whispering voice of his. 

“It is the summer of my smiles

flee from me, keepers of the gloom

Speak to me only with your eyes,

it is to you I give this tune…”

The melody was gorgeous, but that was no surprise. Jimmy had an amazing talent for those things. However, it was not the melody that had captured your attention. It was the lyrics, and the evident feeling with which Rob vocalized every one of them. He kept singing, humming during the bits he still had no lyrics for. 

“I’ve felt the coldness of my winter

I never thought it would ever go 

I cursed the gloom that set upon us, ‘pon us, ‘pon us

But I know that I love you so

But I know that I love you so…” 

He strummed all the chords one last time to close the song and stared at you nervously. 

“That’s...that’s all I have so far. What do you think?” 

“Rob, that’s beautiful.” You said, almost breathlessly. It really was. Even though to you his lyric writing ability was unbeatable, and this had been just a small display of it, he truly had something special there. “I can’t wait to hear it when it’s complete. I don’t know where you get all these beautiful words and ideas from.” 

“I do.” He blurted out. You looked at him and tilted your head, puzzled. He did? What was that supposed to mean? Of course he did, that was kind of obvious. However, as you looked at him inquiringly, he just kept staring back, like he expected something to fall into place in your head at any moment. Suddenly, he moved his hand forward and placed it on top of yours. 

“Y/n, I didn’t come here just to check in on you. I need to talk to you about something.”

Those words sent a jolt of electricity down your spine. This was it. He knew. What else could that possibly mean? You were about to blurt out any excuse to explain your recent behavior, try to dig a new way out of that situation, figure out a new escape plan; until you felt the warmth of Robert’s palm when his free hand cupped your cheek. 

Then, he so slowly began to lean close to you, closer than he had ever been, until his warm, musky breath hit your face. 

“I know where I get those words from. I’ve known since the day you got me that notebook and told me it was where many songs that’d go down in history would be written. And I’ve known since you fell asleep on my shoulder during that first flight to America, and you can’t possibly know how many moments of my life wouldn’t have been complete without you ever since. And before I start rambling again I need you to know, I love you Y/n.” 

“You do?” you asked, half expecting to wake up from whatever hope-fueled dream this felt like, but as that smile you loved so much that hadn’t changed in years tugged at the edge of his lips and his hand squeezed yours tighter, you realized this was all real.

“Me too,” was all you managed to say, breathlessly, overwhelmed by all the emotions coursing through your chest. 

It didn’t take him a single second to close the breach between your lips and his, bringing his other hand to cup your face as well before slowly letting them fall down your neck, finally settling them around your waist, pulling you closer and allowing you to carefully slide your arms around his neck. 

“I knew it was a bad idea to hold myself back,” he said with a chuckle after slowly pulling away from the kiss, resting his forehead against yours. “I just thought...I don’t know, you were acting so oddly around me lately that I thought you knew and you were trying to push me away, you know?” 

“I guess we are two birds of a feather, huh?” you said with an amused smirk. 

Robert didn’t say anything. He just smiled as he brought you in for another kiss, and you knew that neither of you would have it any other way. 

hii! i saw you’re a new writer and your style is frickin awesome!! could you write a tanaka x black reader who’s also a cheerleader on a lvl 4 team and it’s his first time seeing her compete?!?! please and thank you!

Tanaka Seeing His All-Star Cheerleader GF Compete For The First Time! (Fluff)

———————————

A/N: Thank you for resending this🥺🤍🤍🤍 of COURSE! Let’s go on a trip to the should-have-happened 2020 Cheerleading Worlds:

———————————

“Babe!!! I’m so excited to see you!!!” Your boyfriend exclaimed into the phone. You had to hold the phone a few centimetres away from your ear because his voice was just so loud when he was excited.

“Me too, baby. We are about to start warming up soon. Did you find a spot to sit? You’re not too far back, are you? Because you can buy a pair of binoculars-“

“NO NEED! Second row, baby.”

You gasped, surprised. “What?? But you came a bit late, didn’t you? Those seats would have been taken for hours!”

“Are you questioning the powers of your boyfriend, Y/N?! All we had to do was make our way to the front audience and before you knew it two seats just opened up—“

We. Oh, right.

You remembered that Tanaka had brought his best friend Noya to Florida with him for the Cheerleading Worlds. Being well aware of how your bf and his friend are together , you immediately understood how they were able to find two seats in the front.

“Now I get it. Nishinoya bothered the other girls so much they relocated...” You had seen it first-hand at outdoor concerts with Nishi and Tanaka. Nishinoya has become even more girl crazy since his friend got off the market, he really wanted a girlfriend so he could go on double dates with you two instead of feeling like the perpetual third wheel.

“Huh? What matters is that we got a spot, Y/N!” Called a distant voice that you knew was Noya’s.

You rolled your eyes even though they couldn’t see it.

“Babe, I’m so glad you came, you know that right? Thank you so much!!” Your heart swelled every time you thought about the fact that your man literally booked a surprise trip to Florida from Japan to see you at the biggest competition in your entire life! You found out he was here last night—in a hotel far away because they were all booked up for worlds—But, he was here nonetheless. He didn’t want to shock you at the actual competition in case it altered your mind.

“I told you I’d be there!” He said.

“Yes but I didn’t believe you!! It’s a 15-hour flight!”

“That’s exactly why I brought my Noya with me! We had a blast on the flight. I just can’t wait to see you compete!” Your boyfriend quieted then, and you could hear the smile in voice when he said, “Plus, Noya wanted to be here for [YBF/N aka Your Best Friends Name].”

Noya shouted: ‘shut up, Tanaka!” in the distance and you laughed.

This is the first time that your cheer gym has ever qualified for Worlds and when your team had been given an invitation the lot of you cried for a week straight. Your boyfriend had sent you a singing telegram in celebration. It was hilarious and you loved him for it.

“That silly crush still going strong, huh Yuu?”

There were sounds of bustling in the phone then you heard Yuu loud and clear.

“It’s not silly Y/N. I’ll tell you that for the last time!”

“Tanaka told me you just asked out the hotel receptionist last night!!!”

“Because YBF/N-chan rejects me every day! I gotta make her jealous somehow!”

You heard rustling again and and an ‘Ow!’ from Noya before your boyfriends comforting voice entered the phone speaker again.

“Babe. Don’t let Noya drag you into their drama again. I need you to focus on your cheer comp. You kill it out there. Tell them if they drop you they’re gonna hear from me and blow me a kiss if you can.”

You blushed. You felt so insanely happy every time he encouraged you because he knew you so well and he was the best at it. You literally adored the man.

After speaking a little longer, your loving goodbyes and hanging up, Tanaka left to get snacks for himself and Noya while Noya held their seats

Ryu loved junk food and he loved his girlfriend so today was a perfect day

He knew It was a great idea to surprise you in Florida for the most important day of your life because he wanted you to know that nothing was more special to him than your happiness

On the way to Worlds from the hotel, Tanaka had annoyed Yuu to no end because he had tried to empty out the gift shop in search for an after-competition present for you

Noya swatted everything out of his hands, telling him that you were not on your death bed so the ‘get well soon’ teddybear was a no no & that he’d look lame with it

Not caring but kind of listening, Tanaka settled on picking up a bouquet of yellow roses for you because that was your uniform colour and he got your favourite candy.

Noya rolled his eyes but deep down he was so happy that his best friend had found the greatest love the two of them had ever seen

Seeing Y/N and Tanaka together made Yuu actually want to feel the kind of love his best friend felt for you and stop being such a player.

He had seen how much Tanaka had changed since meeting you, and it was incredible that his high-spirited best friend even had more notches to ascend

After retrieving the snacks, Tanaka returned to the stands and handed Nishinoya’s his order

They watched about 4 other teams perform before the announcer announced your team as next!!!

Tanaka cheered so loudly like a proud father

Nishinoya like a proud uncle

Your team ran on stage and you were holding hands with your best friend while waving to the audience

when you caught sight of your buzz cut baby in the crowd you pointed to him and blew him a big kiss

He pointed to his shirt with a huge smile and you could see that he was wearing a white t-shirt with your face on it in a cheer selfie

Omg lol

Honestly, Did you expect anything less?

Tanaka’s heart soared when you pointed him out, though he would never admit it, and his cheeks were hurting from smiling so wide!!!

He had never seen you perform not once before and he couldn’t wait to see you in your element!

When the lights shut off the libero and wing spiker started chanting your name in unison and whooping like they do while watching NFL.

Tanaka’s heart was beating through his chest because he was so nervous for you! Cheerleading was nothing like volleyball— while his volleyball team had 3 sets and over an hour to win a game, his beautiful girlfriend only had 2 minutes to leave everything on the floor that’s she and her team had been practicing months for and then it was all over.

Ryūnosuke watched as your team got into position.

His eyes glued themselves to you in a dance position to the far right

Since videotaping at the Cheerleading Worlds was strictly prohibited, he had practiced not blinking staring competitions with Noya last night so he wouldn’t miss a second of your performance!

He stood on his toes as to not let you out of his sight. He wanted to see your big ponytail all the way down to your toes. The whole nine yards.

Noya tried standing on the chair but he got hissed at so he jumped back down lol

Tanaka cheered one last time when he saw you take one last deep breath

“Game Time, Y/N! YOU GOT THIS BABE”

In a beat, the up-beat loud music started and you were going.

Tanaka was in awe of you and the incredible sport

Everything went so fast he was sure if he tried he’d have a heart attack from working to hard

He saw you whip your body backwards in series of difficult flips

He watched you jump into your bases hands and get tossed so high in the air that his heart stopped

He watched you stand tall in the air with only one guy holding you up while holding your toes beside your ear flexibly (partner stunts)

He watched the team move into a triangle and jump all at once hearing the crowd go:

“Hit! Hit! Hit! Hit! Pull!”

Then, he watched your team make a human pyramid! But it was so much more elaborate than the 3-person one he’d seen on tv shows:

What Tanaka expected:

Vs. What Tanaka saw:

Finally, he got to watch you in his favourite part: the sassy high energy dance at the end

Tanaka was flabbergasted because he never knew you were so much of an athlete (no offence meant, that’s what most people think before they witness competitive cheerleading)

When your team finished he cheered so loudly for you and so did Nishi

The energy in the crowd was unbelievable!!!

You looked out of breath and beautiful standing in your end position

To Tanaka, Cheerleading looked harder than volleyball!

And more dangerous.

It was like watching a Cirque de Soleil performance if it was on steroids and fast forwarded.....he loved it!!!

Tanaka wanted to run on stage when your team finished but he kept his cool and waited

After the comp and award ceremony (your team didn’t place) Tanaka was the first to run and pick you up into his arms in a big bear hug

He told you how proud he was of you and squeezed you and kissed your cheek

Even though you were sad, you couldn’t help but giggle in his embrace

All of your teammates were jealous of how cute you two were and how amazing your bf was to come all the way to America just to see you

Especially when Noya handed Tanaka who handed you the beautiful yellow roses and candy he bought for you

Everyone wished they had a boyfriend like yours as you took cute pictures together (some with Ryu kissing your cheek, giving you a piggy back, and the two of you kissing)

All pic credits go to Nishinoya who takes it way too seriously but you love him anyway

Tanaka explained to you how awesome you guys did and it literally made you forget about your loss and just smile

It was important you were happy because that meant you could enjoy the rest of the Florida trip with your best boy !!

Even Noya had a pretty great happily ever after on this trip because YBF/N was so impressed by the shirt he made with her face on it.

Go big or go home was definitely your bf’s best friend’s speciality and your best friend actually agreed to go on a date with him after seeing it

Ryu gave his Libero a thumbs up before leaning down to kiss you

He held you lovingly in his strong arms

All in all, you were ecstatic to have your man at your competition and Ryu was even happier than you to be there.

A New World Chapter 6: Drumming Along

First Chapter Previous Chapter

As the bell rang, signaling the end of her final class for the week, Ako couldn’t help the rush of excitement she felt. Finally, she would be able to leave her school books behind and get to let loose over the weekend.

There were so many things she wanted to do this weekend, and not nearly enough time to fit all of them in. NFO had a big content update coming, Edogawa Music was holding a sale on drum pedals, and a new cool ninja film was opening in theaters. Ako couldn’t decide what she wanted to do first. She wanted to do them all at once.

Ako pulled out her phone to check if any of her bandmates were free. She loved spending time with them and doing all sorts of things together. Rinko played NFO with her, Sayo had a great eye for the best instrument parts, and Lisa enjoyed the same films that Ako did. She sometimes hung out with Yukina too, but they didn’t really have an activity.

As Ako clicked into today on the master schedule, her heart sank. All of her bandmates were busy this afternoon, off living their university lives. The master schedule Lisa made was so convenient, but also super depressing.

It felt like they were always busy these days, without any time to hangout like they used to. Ako hadn’t played NFO with Rinko in weeks. She had only seen her other bandmates at practice and at one group meal.

Ako slumped forward on her desk dramatically, resting her head against its surface. It was cold against her cheek, a welcome feeling.

What was she going to do now? She could always go do things alone, but it wasn’t the same. There was some homework she could work on too, but that was extra boring and she could just do it later.

Everything was different this year and Ako didn’t like it. For a moment, she wallowed in her misery.

She looked over to the right, catching sight of her other friends talking next to her desk. Oh, how could she have forgotten them, even for just a moment? They were still in the same year as her; they didn’t have insane schedules filled with extra classes and projects and rehearsals that were at the worst times.

Ako sprung up from her chair, with the seat making a loud noise as it was pushed back. Rokka flinched, clearly startled by the sound. She clutched her guitar case, as if to shield it from danger.

“Are you alright, Ako?” Asuka asked, with one of her eyebrows arched. She was leaning against the neighboring desk.

“Fu fu fu.” Ako brought one hand up to cover her mouth. “More than alright! Through the overwhelming power within, I am compelled to seek your company!” If she had a spotlight, that would make this pose perfect.

Askua didn’t seem impressed. “Meaning?” She deadpanned.

“Do you wanna hang out?” Ako rephrased her assertion as requested, returning her hand to her side. She looked between Asuka and Rokka with wide eyes, hopeful that they would say yes.

Rokka, having recovered from being startled, nodded. “I heard Hello Happy World is playing in town today, we could go see them?” She spoke softly, phrasing it as a question. Her hands fidgeted on the handle of her guitar case.

“Oh, yeah I heard about that.” Asuka replied. “Near the shopping district.”

“Let’s go!” Ako always loved to see other bands, and anything was better than thinking about what her bandmates were up to. She scooped up her bag, heaving it over one shoulder.

The trio started walking towards the exit, passing through the hallways and stairwell of the school. Now that they were second years, they went to class on the second floor. Ako forgot sometimes, until she looked out the window and realized just how high they were.

Once they were out of the building, they walked to the market district. It was a warm enough spring day, with only a few clouds in the sky. The three second years followed the sidewalk towards the market. On the way they chatted about class, about the weather, and about bands.

Rokka told them that Raise A Suilen was still performing often. They had been playing around Tokyo, trying out some different venues and setups. Ako and Rokka were walking next to each other, with Asuka a step behind.

“Chuchu wants to become the best girl’s band in Tokyo.” Rokka explained as they walked. “She’ll find the stage where RAS shines the brightest.”

“How’s that been going?” Asuka asked, sounding genuinely curious. Ako was also eager to hear the answer.

Rokka sighed, scuffing one of her feet against the sidewalk. “Not great.” She admitted, frowning down at the ground. “Nothing seems to be good enough. She’s been so moody about it too…”

Ako wasn’t sure if she understood Chuchu’s, but she was certain that a couple of her bandmates would. “I’m sure she’ll find it.” RAS shined on every stage Ako saw them on, so she had not doubt that Chuchu would succeed.

“For sure!” Asuka’s response was insistent.

This brought the smallest hint of a smile back to Rokka’s face. “Yeah, you’re right.” She brought her hands up to her guitar case strap, straightening her back. “I was actually planning on coming today to watch the guitarist.” Her fingers tightened around the strap.

“Kaoru?” Ako was pretty sure she was Hello Happy World’s guitarist. She had gone to Haneoka and graduated along with Ako’s bandmates.

Rokka nodded, “Yes. There’s a lot I can learn from her.” Her eyes were cast straight ahead, looking out towards the distance. Ako glanced that way, but she didn’t see anything special. “I need to keep improving, so RAS can shine.” She looked so cool like this, like she did when she played guitar.

Asuka whistled, chiming in from behind. “That’s pretty impressive.”

Rokka’s head snapped back, her shoulders shrinking down. “Not really.” All her confidence from a moment before had faded.

“It sounds like fun.” Ako had spent a lot of time watching her sister, the best drummer in the world, play the drums. Almost everything she knew about the drums, she learned from her. Guitarists could probably learn the same way.

Ako wondered if she should do the same, during the concert today. The drummer for Hello Happy World was… Ako had to think for a moment to recall her name. She had blue hair and didn’t go to school with Ako. She had graduated as well, and oh her name was Kanon, Ako finally remembered.

The three stopped at a crosswalk, waiting for their turn to go. They were only a block away from the performance, which was being held at an outdoor stage. Hello Happy World seemed to play outside often, which Ako thought fit their style of music.

They crossed the street and soon reached the venue. A small crowd had gathered in front of the stage in anticipation of the concert. Many different groups of people were gathered there, from students to the elderly. There were even some small children, who stood in the front of the audience.

Ako and her friends found a spot in the middle of the crowd, where they were able to see the stage clearly.

They still had at least twenty minutes until the performance would begin, so they continued to chat. Asuka told a story about how Kasumi had recently been messing around with fireworks. She wanted to use them for Poppin’ Party performances, but didn’t know the best way to do it. Luckily, Arisa had been there with a bucket of sand to put out the fire.

Ako shared how Roselia was doing this year, that their practices were going well. She withheld the more unfortunate details, which involved the master calendar and lonely afternoons. The girls continued to talk while they waited.

A few minutes after the scheduled start time, the show began. The curtain onstage was pulled back, revealing Hello Happy World. Kokoro stood in the center of the stage, mic stand in hand. Kaoru, Hagumi, Michelle, and Kanon were all arranged with their instruments around her.

“We are Hello Happy World!” Kokoro beamed out at the audience as she introduced the band. “Lucky! Happy! Smile! Yay!” The crowd cheered at the signature phrase. “First up, Egao no Orchestra!”

As if on cue, Michelle hit the samples to start the song. The rest of the band followed, with the song blasting out over the audience. This song, like all their others, brought life to the crowd. It was full of spirit and cheer.

Ako glanced over at Rokka, who had her eyes locked firmly on Kaoru. The guitarist was alternating between playing and flourishing at the audience, causing some teenage girls near the front of the crowd to cheer each time.

Remembering what she thought about earlier, Ako looked over at Kanon. The blue haired drummer was entirely focused on her music, unlike Kaoru. Ako honed her ears in on the drums, listening to the beat.

The drum parts were quite different that the ones in Roselia’s music. This reminded Ako a lot more of a marching band, with tighter and faster drumming. Kanon kept her hands low as she played. She mostly drummed through the wrist, only bringing her hands up when she needed to hit the cymbals.

That was different than Ako, who tended to play with wider arm motions. It was interesting to see, perhaps something she should try next time she practiced. Especially for songs that stayed more on the lower drums, she could have better timing if she kept her movements smaller. Rushing was a problem Ako contended with regularly.

As the band transitioned into their next song, Ako kept watching. She watched as Kanon maintained the rhythm perfectly, how her smaller motions still made great drum sounds, and how her drums blended in with the rest of the band.

Next to her, Rokka had a notebook out and was hastily taking notes. Ako could see the word “fleeting” was written there at least one after Kaoru said it during an emcee.

Ako wasn’t going to take notes; she could remember what she saw well enough.

When the concert wrapped up, with the band members taking a bow in the center of the stage, Ako thought she should do this again. At just this one concert, she had picked up a couple things to try. If she saw more drummers, she would certainly learn more and more techniques.

Ako remembered all of her drummer friends, and started to wonder what kind of cool techniques they would show her.

Besides, with how busy her bandmates were she had plenty of time to spend watching bands. Her afternoons, which used to be full of Roselia practices, were free. Learning from watching other drummers would be a great thing to fill them with. This wasn’t a complete substitute for practice, but it would help her improve.

Then she could be the drummer Roselia needed.

Also, and most importantly, it was super fun!

Next Chapter

I Shouldn’t Live In NYC or Maybe I Should...

I love NYC. 

But there are very real reasons I shouldn’t live here anymore. Real is relative of course but you know what I mean. I feel like I just don’t like anyone - not the people here already, or the new people coming in, or the tourists spreading their germs. I am over it all. Packed streets with people wearing their masks the wrong way, teenagers that are not yours that you want to yell at, the smell (sometimes I yell at the smell too, I can’t lie).

What are some of the reasons? Well there are many. Sometimes I feel like too many to name but for you I will take a stab at it. A slight continued stab like getting shanked in prison.

I hate crowds. 

Despise them. They make me anxious and uncomfortable. I love concerts though so this makes zero sense and I’m ok with it. There is a difference between being in a crowded train and being in the crowd at a concert. One of these things just doesn’t belong here. It’s me. I’d rather not. Hard pass on the NYC crowds. 

I hate noise. 

It legitimately annoys me when my neighbors make what I feel is unnecessary noise. Stop with the half ass drilling and build whatever it is you decided to build quickly. The bouncing of any kind of balls before 9am isn’t necessary. Clean your BBQ quickly. And don’t do it at 7am. Seems like it isn’t much to ask - yet I have the balls to complain about noise in NYC. I mean I have other complaints like when leaves need to be shoveled from the concrete with a metal shovel or when the snipping of leaves is met by the face of someone who shouldn’t be in my window at any point, never mind when most normal human beings are sleeping. I hate bugs. 

And there are bugs here. Crawly ones and flying ones that I just don’t like. I despise being scared of bugs but NYC doesn’t need help in the big fear department. We have flying cockroaches for the love of all that is holy. I saw a murder hornet. Mosquitoes are vicious and will eat you alive. There are bugs that are long and have what seems like a million legs, with some even sprouting out of their ass. What are ass legs necessary for? I don’t even like ladybugs and have killed more than a few by “accident”. Anything that flies in the vicinity of my face is a goner. I hate bees, yes they are important but they can do their business the fuck away from me. I saw a god damned murder hornet -IN BROOKLYN. It’s completely unnecessary and if I wanted to be accosted by bugs I would have chosen to live in the damn South. I guess I really don’t know where I can go where there are NO bugs but I guess I can figure that out in time. I hear Aruba is nice.

I hate waiting. 

I am the most impatient person most of the time. And in NYC there is a lot of hurry up and wait. Which I cannot stand. I hate people who do not walk with intention or if they chose to do so it’s as if the whole sidewalk belongs to them. Just move in your slow space. When I can’t move at the pace I deem acceptable, I make sure to move to the side so others can get where the hell they need to be. 

I hate lines and rushing (though my anxiety dictates otherwise) that’s all we seem to do. 

Rush here. Rush there. Never stop moving. Rush to wait. It becomes a very annoying thing. I like punctuality and that does not exist - even with a damn reservation. Usually I sing wait wait wait wait wait (To Rihanna’s Work) and legitimately it can get me through. Sometimes. I hate traffic. 

There is so much traffic and it’s traffic of all kinds. If you aren’t dodging cars like a game of Frogger, you’re dodging bikes. It’s never ending. Traffic on residential blocks, on highways, on avenues. If it’s not the car and trucks or bikes, it’s the people. People traffic is very real, even in pandemic times, when regardless there is always someone standing, being or breathing too damn close to you.

I hate people. 

Yep. You read that right. NYC has people. Lots of them from all over the place. The sheer amount of people in NYC has kept me in my house and neighborhood during this quarantine. Since I dislike crowds it would make sense that people are apart of that. And now there are even more people for me to hate like the people you see on the news, hanging out outside of bars, maskless and inconsiderate. I’m talking about the entitled, the ones who fled when the City became too much for them to deal with. I don’t like them as much as they don’t like me. So we all don’t have to play nice.

So maybe I shouldn’t live in NYC. Not anymore. Born and bred doesn’t have to mean born and stayed. Maybe I have had enough and I’m sick and tired of being sick and tired of every one and everything. 

Then I think, what other state could handle me. I’m as opinionated as the people I come up against, and as hardened as the next bitch. And New York has made me that. It’s made me resilient and sometimes coarse. Sometimes soft and supple too - like the air after the rain cools down a summer day. It has made me cry, with pride, with sadness, in anger and in disbelief. It has helped me grow and feel acceptance, in the same way it has ostracized me yet still made me learn just how to be me without any apologies.

You have to be a certain kind of person to make it here. And the meaning of making it is different for every single one of us. You have to me a different kind of love and light. A different wave length that somehow vibrates at the length NYC demands at all times. I have slipped and it has always broken my fall. It’s been my everything and my nothing all at once. 

So I guess I will always love NYC - even with how expensive it is and will always continue to be, even with all its smells and people and bugs and waiting - it’s the only kind of life I’ve ever known and it hasn’t been so bad so far. I’ve made amazing memories, met and married my husband, had a wonderful child, I’ve decided to be a writer, to give in to the things that feel so NYC they make you cringe like pizza and bagels and great fucking live music. NYC teaches you how to love. That’s what it is. Sometimes it’s other people. Sometimes it’s yourself. Sometimes it’s the silence yet insane loudness that is this place. It taught me how to laugh - at myself and others - and for all that to be ok. It humbled me and gave me strength, and I don’t believe it always does both for everyone so I’m grateful for that.

NYC gave me my diagnosis, and each that followed, which made me feel both fear and relief all at the same time. It gave me the strength I never knew I had. It’s a bittersweet relationship, I guess. I am fiercely proud to be from NYC, especially Brooklyn, and it will always be a part of me - no matter where the wind blows me or where we end up.

It’s hard to just decide. It’s hard to figure out how to just be - but living here shows you who you are, good or bad. Maybe it doesn’t define you but it can show you what you’re made of. It’s a love/hate relationship for me. There are days when I wouldn’t want to live any place but here but then there are days that have turned to months that have turned to years when I’ve wanted nothing but to leave.

As I get older and try to figure out what I need for the REST of my life, I don’t want to ever look at my years in NYC as anything but the first half of my life. I’ve come to the realization that maybe the second half holds something totally different. 

Monsta X - Their S/O Surprises Them Backstage

A/N: Hello! This was requested by @tuggingatanangelsheartstring​ and I am sorry that this is going up now, I had a problem with viewing the inbox but it’s fixed now. 

I hope you like it.

~Admin Angie (๑>◡<๑)

~~~~~~

Shownu 

It was always a bittersweet thing when your boyfriend’s group went on tour. On one hand, you can’t physically be with Shownu, however, on the other hand, you could always see posts of the concert on social media and acknowledge the glorious performances, especially of your boyfriend. And so, after almost three months without seeing your boyfriend, Shownu, you decided to consult with their manager and surprise Shownu backstage. It was towards the end of Shownu’s dance solo that you made your way behind the stage. Soon you heard the loud screams and applauds erupt from the crowd. Shownu was coming towards you but hadn’t acknowledged you. He had his head down, wiping the sweat from his eyes. You extended him a white towel and he took it without looking at you. 

“Great performance Hyunwoo, like always.” You commented with a happy tone. Upon hearing your voice, that he knew so well, he quickly turned around.

“(Y/N)??!” He called your name with confusion until he strides towards you with open arms. You couldn’t react quickly enough and so he engulfed you in an embrace and practically bear-hugged you, lifting you up a few inches from the ground. You accepted the hug, even in his sweaty state.

“I can’t believe you’re here. I missed you so much.” He mumbled into your ear. 

“I missed you too, my love.” You replied while wiping his sweat. “Now that you’re here, I’m not letting you go until the last concert of this tour.”

Wonho

You had arrived a bit early than expected and the only reason was that impatience got the better of you. You had texted Hyungwon last night saying that you wanted to surprise Wonho tonight after the concert. He had agreed and let security know you were coming. You were supposed to arrive during their encore, but you decided to come forty minutes before. In result, you had to hide behind curtains or other staff whenever your boyfriend came off the stage for an outfit change. You had succeeded in hiding from Wonho however not lucky enough to hide from other members. After an hour of you hiding, their concert was over, meaning that the members were making their way past you, with Wonho being last. You waited until Wonho was right next to you, to jump out from your hiding spot.

“BOO!~” You exclaimed.

“WAAA~!” Wonho jumped back a couple of steps, startled at your sudden entrance. He quickly looked at you and shouted. “YA!” He placed his hand and his racing heart. “Why do you have to scare me like that~” He whined and pouted at you. His members heard him and laughed at his response, all but one. 

“Aww, I’m sorry my darling.” You said with a quiet chuckle. “I just wanted to surprise you.” Wonho pouted at you one last time before opening his arms. You smiled and made your way into them. 

“Well not only did you surprise me, but you also managed to surprise Jooheon.” 

Minhyuk

Minhyuk is your boyfriend and you know that he’s a smart man. He knows that you have been missing him ever since you went a month without waking up next to him. He is aware that you’ll eventually come and see him and he’s right. But you couldn’t tell certain members of your plan, knowing that some of them would let it slip. So you told one member. Kihyun. You let him know of your plan and he helped you with any security problems. 

Throughout the entire concert, you were dressed up as a staff, thanks to Kihyun. You hide your face from the members by using your black baseball cap. You managed to help around like handing the members water or help fan them or occasionally touch up their hair. It was now the end of the concert and the group gave their bows. Minhyuk was on his way to his changing room when you walked behind him and wrapped your arms around his midsection. 

“I can’t go another month without you, my sunshine.” You mumble into his back. Minhyuk turns his head and observes you with a smile.

“Neither can I. How was the concert?” Minhyuk asks casually. 

“You’re not surprised?” You questioned with a small pout. Minhyuk shook his head. He wrapped his arms around you and lead you down the hall. 

He wouldn’t let you know now, but he was honestly very surprised to see you and very happy to have you in his arms again.

Kihyun 

When you found out that your boyfriend’s group was having a concert in your hometown, you purchased a ticket straight away. Him being on tour always made you feel lonely because you couldn’t see Kihyun in person and now that he’s coming here, you knew you had to go and surprise him. You texted Changkyun of your plans and he thought it was such a romantic idea and helped you. 

You arrived at the venue and took your seat. You would have liked front row but it would have given you away easily. Throughout the concert, you cheered just like the other Monbebes. You even cheered louder when you saw Kihyun sing his solo. You, along with most Monbebes, knew that Kihyun’s vocals are amazing. You were so lost into his song that you almost missed your cue to go backstage. You hurried out of your seat.

Once Kihyun finished, he went backstage. After taking out his earpiece, his eyes spotted your figure. His heart sped faster as he made eye contact. His eyes trailed down to your arms. A big smile appeared on his face as he saw you with a bouquet of red roses and a small plush teddy bear. 

“It’s a bit traditionalist but I know you like it.” You said as you extended the items to him. He took them in one arm and used the other to hug you tightly, kissing your cheek. “I missed you, my love bug.”

“I missed you so much more.” 

Hyungwon

Hyungwon was on tour and you missed him as much as he missed you. Sleeping at night and taking naps didn’t feel the same without him near. You wanted to go see your boyfriend and you were, however, you wanted to be a bit extra. Around two weeks prior to the date of your visit to Hyungwon, you decided to learn a dance and become one of the background dancers for one show. You learned it, you practiced it and you nailed it. You thanked Shownu a thousand times for being able to help you with the dance and keeping it from Hyungwon.

The night of the concert, you dressed up like the other background dancers, which consisted of loose black pants and a red undershirt with a long sleeve black mesh on top. The bottom half of your face was hidden with a black facemask. When it was time, you took your stance and danced. You had occasional parts where you had to dance next to Hyungwon. There was a moment where he met your eyes. He squinted at you before returning back to the song. After the song ended you went backstage with Hyungwon following closely.

He grabbed your arm and turned you around. He gently pulled down your facemask before breaking out in a smile.

“Hello, my prince. It’s been awhile.” You said with a kind smile. He pulled you close and hugged you gently to his chest.

“I’m finally going to get some good sleep now.”

Jooheon 

Jooheon missed you. Your boyfriend missed you very much to the point where it drove his members insane. Every day he would show them new pictures of you two together, complain about how you weren’t here, etc. His members didn’t hate you, it was just that they were having enough of Jooheon’s constant blabbering. They didn’t know what else to do to make him quiet down until Minhyuk told them, besides Jooheon, that he was going to call you so you could put an end to their misery. The members agreed and told him to call you asap.

Minhyuk called you and told you what was happening, you tried not to laugh but did anyway. You missed Jooheon too but not extremely bad. You discussed with Minhyuk about the details. When you came up with an agreement he cheered, thanking you nonstop.

Now here you were, waiting backstage for your boyfriend. When the concert ended the members walked off stage and headed towards the changing rooms. You were a distance ahead but you heard Jooheon say your name along with a few groans from his members.

“Jooheon, no wonder my ears kept turning red. You keep talking about me.” You casually said, walking towards him.

“(Y/N)!!” Jooheon yells your name and immediately laches his arms around you.

“I hear that you missed me, my honey bee.” You wrap your arms around his neck. He nodded.

“Yes indeed. Now I’ll stop complaining.” Jooheon said as his members cheered with glee.

I.M

You were running late and you hated it. You weren’t meant to but somehow you were held up by your friend. You were supposed to greet your boyfriend before the concert started but because of your friend’s small problem, you were arriving late. You realized how late you were when you found out that they were finishing their encore. Your shoulders slumped down knowing you practically missed the entire concert. However, you were determined to meet with Changkyun. You hadn’t seen him in a long time since he’s been on tour.

You two texted, called and video chatted whenever you both could. You told him that one night you would go to one of their shows and cheer for him.

Before meeting him backstage, you stopped by to use the bathroom. As you made your way to the backstage you saw your boyfriend come off the stage and walking with his members. He had a small pout on his face and Jooheon asked him about it.

“(Y/N) was supposed to meet me before the show but hasn’t.” He grumbled.

“I’m sorry, my king. I had to solve a friend’s problem. Can you forgive me?” You call out as you walk in front of him. His pout then turns into a smile.

“(Y/N)” He calls your name softly while bringing his hands to hold yours. “It’s better late than never.” He pulls you close and then whispers in your ear.

“But you can make it up to me later.”

~~~~~~

Rock Angel takes Japan; Queen x reader

*Author’s note*

Hello my fellow readers of my “Rock Angel” series I have yet another chapter for you and this time this comes from an actual event the boys of Queen got to experience in Japan 1975 so click the linked video to see and you’ll get an idea, especially during the tea ceremony. Anyways I am so happy more people are taking an interest in this series and loving it and as always tag list is always open. I’ve already done multiple parts already but they are more for the future so once I do include an introduction to another character, then I may or may not post the chaps. I’ve got done already in the past 2 days. Alright just one swear word but overall FLUFF enjoy my darlings :)

Taglist *open*:

@phantom-fangirl-stuff

@mr-badguymercury

@onebigfangirlworld

@labessieisallama

@starswin

@naturalswifty89

@isabella-bby

_______________________________________________________

*April 2nd, 1982*

        I had been invited over to Freddie’s place along with the other boys just to do a little catching up.  Ever since my big break out, I had recorded my single “Set it all free” plus my very first album which took about three months to finish up, had it not been for the boys coming over to help me I might’ve burned myself out and probably want to crawl in under a rock and die.

        My single had been recorded while the guys were still on tour and was released last October when I was still recording my first album.  I still have yet to hear the results of my single and I was getting worried that if no one world wide liked it, would they even like my first album.

        “Darling your as jumpy as a cricket, what’s gotten you so frightened darling?”

        “Guys, how long was it to hear the results of your first single?”

“Oh it was awhile love, the longest we had to wait was maybe 8-9 months.” Answered Brian.

“You worried about yours?” asked Deacy. I looked down shamefully and told them.

“I mean sure America loved the song, but what about the rest of the world? I mean….sure there are female singers out there now but—what if they don’t like me because it’s just me and not an entire band I’m performing with?”

        “Then fuck them.” Proclaimed Freddie.

        “I agree with Fred, you’re incredibly talented love, and we’re not just saying that because we’re your friends. We’re speaking as four musicians to another rising one. You sing what the world needs to hear but refuses to acknowledge it. Even if the world doesn’t love your music, we will always love it, as well as you.” Roger said as he came up behind me and wrapped an arm around me.

I smiled softly and placed my hands on his arm as I felt him kiss my temple and I thanked him.  Freddie’s phone soon rang and he picked it up and said.

“Freddie Mercury darling, oh Miami what a pleasant surprise, couldn’t resist hearing my voice could you?” We all rolled our eyes at Fred and soon he continued, “Yeah she’s right here, okay I’ll put her on,” he held the phone out to me and he said, “He wants to talk to you darling,” suddenly my heart began to speed up as I got out of Roger’s one armed hug and took the phone.

“Hey, Jim what’s up?” I held the phone close to my ear as I paced around and said, “Uh-huh, yeah….okay. Yeah, uh-huh okay thanks. Yeah you too, bye.” I then hung up the phone and I collapsed onto Fred’s couch right where Delilah was sitting.

“What’d he say love?” asked Deacy.

“Was it your single? Did you sell out?” demanded Freddie.  I remained silent trying to take what Miami had told me all in.

“(Y/n)? Love are you okay? Is it bad news?” asked Roger in pure concern as he looked at me with worried eyes.  I finally then decided to tell them by first asking a question.

“Tell me what it was like when you guys went to Japan back in ’75?”

“Ohh I still get tears remembering our welcome there. We just had no idea what to expect and the sheer amount of people that came to welcome us was just overwhelming.” Brian said.

“Why do you ask?” asked Deacy.

“Well you guys got some competition because my single just sold out in Japan. They want me to perform live in Tokyo, Japan!” The boys all cheered as Freddie picked me up spinning me around leaving me in a laughing fit as I embraced him as tightly as I could.

I was soon engulfed in a Queen group hug as they all cheered for me.  Once I was free Brian said.

“That’s incredible love, when do you leave?”

“Oh shit I gotta go home and pack! Jim’s hoping to get the first nonstop flight to Japan tonight. Sorry gotta cut this visit short you guys, I’ll call you as soon as I reach Japan bye!” I quickly raced out of Freddie’s house and got on my bike and revved it up before taking off back to my flat.

Once I got home, I began packing up for the week tour of Japan.  Packing all my clothes, hats, heath and beauty stuff, shoes and minor accessories like a couple of rings, my fingerless gloves, bracelets and necklaces.  When I was sure I had everything I heard a limo honk and I knew my ride was here.

Grabbing my suitcases and a couple of my guitars, I opened my door and soon my stage handler Hank came up and helped me pack up the stuff into the limo.  José my driver opened up the door and I thanked him as I stepped inside to see Miami sitting inside the back.

“Hello (y/n), so you got everything?”

“I’m pretty sure. Oh my god I can’t believe this is really happening. I mean the last time I went to Japan I was still your intern, now I’m one of your many clients.”

“It’s unbelievable how much has changed. And I couldn’t be more proud of you, I knew I chose right when I picked you. I knew you’d become more than just an intern to me one day.” I smiled at him and then Jim told José to get us to the airport.

We reached the airport and for the first time ever, I would get to experience a private airline where I am the star and not just part of the crew.  The limo stopped right by the plane that I would be taking all the way to Japan.

“Alright now just head on straight into the plane, I’ll take care of everything with the rest of the crew. You just find a seat okay love?” I nodded then our doors opened up and I went out first and raced towards the plane and quickly raced up the stairs until I reached the plane.

“Good afternoon Miss, I’m Captain Trevor and I will be your pilot for the nonstop flight to Japan. You will be in safe hands with us Ms. (l/n).”

“Thank you Captain Trevor.” I saluted to him before walking further in the plane and see the luxurious interior of the plane. I picked me a spot and one of the flight attendants came up to me and said.

“Can I offer you any refreshments Ms. (l/n)?”

“I’ll just take a water for now,” she nodded then went to the back room to get my drink.  Jim soon came in with a few more assistants who were going to help me get through the airport.

“You ready love?” asked Jim.  I nodded as I fastened my seatbelt and soon the flight attendants went over the basic checklists for safety procedures and within about 5-10 minutes we were taking off.

I was currently reading my old English-Japanese dictionary that I had to have for a class for my foreign language credit I still had to take and practiced some basic greets that I was going to say.  Hours ticked by and soon it was getting pretty late and there was still about 6hrs left of the 11hr flight so I decided to sleep the rest of the trip.

As I got myself situated, I pulled out my locket that I always kept around my neck and opened it up to reveal the picture of me with the boys at the Madison Square Garden show.  This picture was taken right after the concert after my first outbreak performance.

“I already miss you guys, I sure wish you could be here.” I closed the locket up and tucked it back under my shirt and covered myself up with my favorite blanket and soon fell fast asleep.

After six hours at 4am in the morning, we arrived at Japan.  Jim woke me up and I got myself woken up so that way I wouldn’t risk any embarrassing photos of me getting out.  I re-did my makeup and eat me some M&M’s to get myself woken up since they always did the trick for me.

Our plane landed right at Tokyo International airport right in the private plane landing parking lot.  I grabbed my bags and we all left the plane and headed on inside the airport.

We met up with the representatives of Japan as well as my translator.

“Ms. (l/n) I am Yamamoto Kaizo your translator, it is a pleasure to meet you. My daughters are big fans of yours.”

“Arigato Yamamoto, I’m honored. And I can’t wait to see all of Japan, my friends of Queen spoke so highly of this country so many times.”

“Come on (y/n) the car’s waiting to get us to the hotel to drop off your things, then we need to get you ready for the press conference.” Jim said.  I nodded then we all raced down the hallways out of the gates.

And as soon as I could be seen coming out of the gates all I heard were loud screams.  Over my security I saw hundreds of pictures from some of my photoshoots that I’ve been involved in, signs with my name saying “Welcome” or the word “Rock” with two angel wings sprouting out either side of the word.

Oh my god Brian was right, I felt like I was about ready to cry.  No other place in the world has ever greeted me like this, I mean it’s almost as if I were suddenly royalty to them now.  I waved to them and I wished that I could stop and sign autographs for them but I was on a tight schedule and they wouldn’t allow me as I was rushed out of the airport and into the car.

Crowds of Japanese fangirls and boys were trying to get through hoping to even catch a glimpse of me, press were snapping pictures like crazy and security was trying to keep them back as I finally got in the limo and was in the safe zone and the driver took off.

I waved to them and I saw some of the fans trying to chase after the car and I leaned back sighing deeply as I said.

“Wow that was….insane.”

“Life of a Rockstar love, I’m sure the boys have told you a lot about Japan” said Miami.

“That they have, okay now this press conference. What exactly do I have to do for it?”

“Alright, well first they’ll talk about a bit about your history and then we’ll open it up for a brief Q&A. Then they will present to you a platinum of your single just like they did with the boys when they sold out here back in 75, then they’ve invited you for a traditional Japanese tea ceremony where you will give Japan a thank you message and to help promote more people for coming to the concert which will happen tonight at the center of the capital right near the Tokyo tower.” I nodded and soon we arrived at the hotel where we quickly got checked in and I did a quick shower.

Once I was done and blow dried my hair up and straightened it out.  When I was presentable and cleaned up I redid my makeup and quickly raced out of my room and met Jim downstairs in the lobby and we left for the press conference together.

We arrived at the building at around 8:15am and the conference was to start at 9.  I was staying in the back room where I finally got the chance to meet my Japanese fans. Some of the girls were dressed up like me with the same leather jacket, long flapped jeans and having highlights in their hair.

I happily signed all their stuff and I was given so many presents like bouquets upon bouquets of roses red or white, Japanese yo-yos, a spinning top, painting of me as an angel holding a guitar shooting out bolts of lighting, just so many sweet gifts and I thanked them all in Japanese which all the girls were amazed and clapped for me smiling.

Finally at 9am sharp, the press conference began. I left the backroom and was guided towards the front and as soon as the doors opened and I walked onto the platform stage where a large table was set up for me, I was bombarded by flashes from cameras.  As I took my seat the press conference began.

As the conference went on just like Miami said, I told them about my process of making the single, what the song meant to me (without giving too much detail, even though I could publicly humiliate Adam at this rate but I didn’t want to.) and then what was next for me.

I was then given by one of the top record producers of Japan a large framed platinum cover of my single “Set it all free” to which we shook hands and we posed for pictures with it.  At around 11:30am the conference was over and I was then taken out to a park near the Tokyo tower where I would be taking part of the tea ceremony, just like the boys were.

We finally arrived at about 12:20pm and I was one hungry girl, but I still wanted to be respectful.  Women in traditional Japanese kimonos surrounded the blanket along with photographers and camera crew people.

I took off my shoes and I sat down on the blanket and one of the girls came over to me and set down my tea as another one was instructing me the proper way to drink their tea.

It was a nice spring day, the cheery blossoms were in full bloom, the wind was blowing at a nice, gentle breeze and I was given some cakes and tea.  All the while the photographers were getting pictures for their magazine and the camera crew were filming me.  I was talking to the girls asking them questions about Japan and what other traditions they partake in.

They were friendly and told me all the tea ceremonies they helped out in for the summer festivals, the cherry blossom festival, and they themselves told me this but these girls also gave my boys the exact tea ceremony they were giving me right now.

After the ceremony I was playing with some of my presents and taking pictures of the beautiful park for my own keeping so that one day I could look back on this and remember exactly what Japan had done for me. Finally it was time for my thank you message before I got ready for the concert tonight.

I stood where the camera people wanted me to stand and they emphasized to me repeatedly to not turn around, just look right at the camera and not look at anything else.  At first I was a little scared at the fact the man kept emphasizing it and looking me dead in the eye as he said it, so I did what he asked.

Once the camera started filming I gave my message to the people of Japan.

“Kon'nichiwa Nihon, watashi wa (l/n) (y/n). Hopefully I said that right hahaha. Anyways I just want to thank all of you for such a warm welcome to Japan. You all have been so kind and I can’t repay for making me feel so comfortable. Thanks for all the presents,” I said as I held up my yoyo, “And umm—”

Little did I know as I began my message, someone with shaggy blonde hair was photobombing me in the background going across the shot with his arms raised in the air.

“I hope you all come out to see the concert later tonight or any show that I’ll do in the near future. Heck I may just even move here.” As I continued, two men one with wild curly hair like a poodle and another with shorter poofy hair both came up behind me and crouched down so that they wouldn’t be seen in the shot.

The poodle haired fellow raised his arms up like wings while the other one kept his arms low, so the shot would look like I had two different wings in the back. Before peeking out on either side of me and making funny faces or sticking out their tongues.

For some reason I kept feeling someone was behind me so I quickly turned around and let out a squeak and laughed as did the rest of the crew.  I fell to my knees laughing and crying at the same time.  John picked me up and held me in his arms swaying me back and forth as Freddie came into the shot and he said.

“Come see this lovely angel perform tonight. She is a saint and a true angel. Let her grace you with her wonderful voice darlings. She has the Queen seal of approval.”  With that the camera shut off.  I turned and hugged Deacy as tightly as I could before I separated and I said.

“What are you guys doing here?”

“Did you really think we’d miss you making it as big as we did here in Japan?” asked Brian.

“Plus Miami called us and thought we’d give you a good surprise so—surprise!” Freddie said as he did the jazz hands at the end of his statement.

“Oh my God!” I cried out. “You lot better not have made me look stupid in that video.”

“Oh you wound us darling, why would we ever do that to you deliberately?” Roger said as he came up and wrapped his arms around me swaying me just like Deacy did earlier before playfully giving me a noogie and bopping my nose.  I shook my head at him as he hugged me closer to him before releasing me.

After the tea ceremony it was time to head to the concert arena and do soundchecks and get ready for my concert at 6pm. After going over and making sure everything checked out, I was now in my makeup room getting all pretty for my show when I heard the door knock.

“Who is it?”

“(Y/n) (l/n) Rock angel fan club, party of 4.” I heard Freddie’s voice say.  I smiled and said.

“Come right on in.” The boys entered inside my huge dressing room and Freddie made himself comfortable right on the couch.

“You nervous darling?” he asked me.

“A bit.” I admitted.

“Well don’t be, you’ll do great, you always bring the rock in Rock n roll, especially to the younger fans since you know how to connect with them.” I smiled at him and then I turned to see Brian holding up a long wrapped up present.

“What’s that Bri?”

“Just a little something for you.” He handed it over to me and I set it down on the table in front of the couch and I asked him.

“Can I open it now or do I have to wait till after the concert?”

“I’d really love to see you open it now.” He said. I knelt down and began to rip up the paper slowly.

“Come on love are we saving the wrapping paper just rip it off!” Roger teased which made me laugh as I took a big chunk of the wrapping paper and threw it at him which made the boys laugh.  After ripping the last of it off, there in front of me was a black case.  I looked up at Brian before unbuckling it and slowly opening it up and I let out a gasp.

Inside was a red special guitar.  At first I almost thought it was his own red special since it was the exact same pattern of red and black design but I noticed that at the red portion tattooed in black into the guitar itself was the word ROCK with angel wings on either side.

“Ohh….”

“It took a while to make it with the time I had, I…..was almost afraid I wouldn’t have it ready in time. Give it a go,” I delicately took the red special out of the case and adjusted the strap to my size and held onto it before giving it a gentle strum.

After giving it a couple of tunes and strumming it until finally it gave out a beautiful hum.

“Oh Brian this…..this is the sweetest thing anyone’s ever done for me.” I set my red special back in the case and sat up and hugged him tightly, burying my face into his chest.  “Thank you so much.”

“I’m glad you like it love, it would be an honor if you were to play with that red special tonight for Japan.”

“Of course, I’ll play it at every performance I’ll ever do. Ohh I love you guys I’m so glad you all came.” The boys soon wrapped me in a group hug as I happily wept and as we separated I whimpered out, “Fuck now my makeups ruined.” The boys laughed so Deacy guided me back to my chair, Brian took the wipes and wiped away any strays of makeup and both Roger and Freddie reapplied my makeup making me all pretty again.

A knock was soon heard and one of the stage crew members told me that it was showtime.  I grabbed my newly gifted red special and I put it around my shoulder and the boys and I walked out onto the stage.  I stood backstage getting myself pumped up as the boys gave me final words of good luck until finally a Japanese announcer came over the speaker and I heard my stage name being called and I came onto the stage hearing thousands of people scream my name.

And with that the concert began.

I sang “Set it all free” and seeing all the Japanese girls bouncing up and down singing along to the song even though they probably didn’t know English, it made me feel so happy inside.  And by permission as long as I didn’t give too much away, I was allowed to do one song from my new upcoming album so I sang a song that I titled “So good.”

Which felt like the perfect song since it was all about shining through in the spotlight even after having the dream of reaching for your dreams, but you had to have the courage and strength to achieve them.

I also went ahead and sang a couple of my favorite Queen songs just to show my boys my love for them.  I sang my all-time favorite “Somebody to love”, my next cover song was “Don’t stop me now” and finally to end the show I did “You’re my best friend” and I even told the audience that I dedicated this cover to my boys of Queen.

After the end of the concert everyone cheered loudly holding up signs of my name or of my stage name.

“Arigato Nihon! You’ve been a great crowd!” I said into the microphone as I took my final bow and ran off stage.  I met up with the guys who each one by one embraced me and gave me a kiss of congratulations on either my cheek, temple, forehead or the top of my head.

The boys and I stayed in Japan for the rest of the week exploring all of Japan.  The boys taking me to their favorite places or restaurants they ate in years ago.  And I did a show in Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka.  To show my love for the boys, I had them come up on a couple of songs and I performed alongside them and let me tell you sharing the stage with them, that’s what truly made me alive.

And singing alongside Fred on some of their songs, it’s a blast and an honor when Freddie Mercury allows you to take the stage and sing a verse of a Queen song.

At the end of the short Japan tour it was time to go home.  The boys and I waved goodbye to Japan and took final pictures together of us both getting on and in the plane.  

Of course Fred high-jacked the camera and wouldn’t stop taking pictures of me all the while acting like a photographer telling me to show him the stuff and to work it like I owned this plane.

As we were now in the air, Deacy and Bri were already out like lightbulbs while Fred was reading through a magazine and I was sitting next to Roger now.

“Does it only go up from here?” I asked myself.

“So long as you keep giving the fans what they want, you’re already the talk of the world love, just make sure you don’t get a big head like Fred over there.” He whispered the last part which made me giggle softly.

“I promise Rog, I’ll stay humble and not act like a hysterical queen.”

“Good, cause god knows we don’t need another one.”

“Oh so you’re not talking about yourself?” I teased. He glared at me before flicking my forehead making me whimper out “ow! I was joking.” I rubbed the spot where he had flicked me and he smirked at me.

“Serves you right.” I rolled my eyes at him before letting out a soft yawn.  “You’ve had a long week love, you should get some sleep.”

“Yeah you’re right.” I then got myself comfortable by leaning up against his chest and he immediately brought my blanket back over my shoulders and wrapped his arms around me.  One hand stroking my head while the other wrapped around my shoulders gently stroking my arms with his thumb.

I could hear him softly humming “Somebody to love” all the while he’d kiss the top of my head every now and then until finally I fell asleep to Roger’s humming, the sound of his heartbeat and the gentle strokes and massages he was giving to my head.

(and in a crowd of people) you are the only one I see

(Inspired by this prompt in which Baekhyun buys so many of Yixing’s second album that he accidentally wins a place at a fan meet) 

pg-13/ romance, humour, slice-of-life, baekxing (cause you can never have enough of that ♡)

-

The lack of a certain person in his life for most of the year has turned out to be more of a struggle than Baekhyun could ever imagine. EXO's been busy promoting their new album and doing concerts, while Yixing-- oh, his Yixing-- has been busy with his schedules in China. The political conflict China and South Korea are (still) involved in isn't making things any better. What seemed to be a separation of a few months top is now slowly becoming a full-year one with only quick encounters in between that don't really count.

He's only seen Yixing in the flesh twice in the span of 10 months. Truth be told, both times were so fleeting he sometimes wonders if they were even real to begin with. Yixing never stayed for too long. Long enough to assure Baekhyun that he wasn't a figment of his imagination, but not long enough to make Baekhyun miss him any less. Knowing that he'd pack his things and leave in a day or two made Baekhyun miss him even more despite his presence.

-

 Distance makes the heart grow fonder, and Baekhyun feels like he's going crazy from this terrible Yixing drought which is at its worst after months of not breathing the same air with his favourite person. This, on the other hand, has led to Baekhyun's life mission of buying as many albums possible when Yixing drops his second album-- his second son as he so lovingly calls.

Baekhyun's pre-ordered ten copies each time from numerous Korean and Chinese websites. It took him half an hour to register an account and get the hang of ordering from Chinese websites. If it were for Yixing, Baekhyun would be willing to go through fire and water— anything, really. He's even getting on the other members' nerves so that they'll purchase extra copies of Yixing's album. The other members have tacitly agreed upon the tactic to simply show him a screenshot of a recent purchased Yixing album whenever he throws a fit.

-

Baekhyun proceeds to order a bulk of Yixing's album on the day of its release. He's even borrowed Suho's credit card for the sake (saying that it was an emergency). Baekhyun doesn't dare thinking about the moment Suho checks his credit balance and storms into his room, eyes filled with rage.

He remains unscathed until the third day. When Baekhyun comes home (with a couple of Yixing's albums purchased at some nearby stores in his bag) that afternoon, he's met with the other 7 members looking at him disapprovingly.

"Baekhyun," Suho says at length, taking a few steps closer. To Baekhyun this sounds like the start of hour long lectures he won't have the heart to remember. "We know you love Yixing. I mean, we all love Yixing. And Yixing loves you too," Suho clears his throat, falling into a long silence before continuing.

"But this seriously has got to stop. You've bought hundreds of copies of his album already. I doubt we have enough space for them. Jesus, you can probably make a castle out of those albums."

"Yeah, maybe I should," Baekhyun ponders despite Suho's death glare. Baekhyun can see Sehun, Kai, and Chanyeol doing their best not to burst out laughing from the corner of his eyes. "It could be Yixing's sleeping place when he comes back." Baekhyun beams from ear to ear just at the thought of it.

"You've even gone over the credit line, for god's sake!" Suho goes into hysterics, not even batting an eye. Without another word, he sticks out his hand demandingly. "Give me back the credit card, Baek. You barged into my room at 2am, crying and saying it was urgent. This is obviously not something one would label as an emergency."

Sehun and Kai snicker softly at the back, immediately covering their mouths when Suho turns around. DO kicks Sehun in the shins with a warning look while Xiumin only shakes his head. Chen's half-heartedly listening to Suho lecturing Baekhyun while checking his phone every other minute under the coffee table.

Baekhyun ends up having all his credit cards confiscated, even the one he hid under the floor tile just in case. He was already thinking of using it for this occasion, but Sehun (that brat) had to rat him out.

"It's only fair this way," Sehun said, shrugging his shoulders nonchalantly. "You sold me out last time I asked for a favour."

"It wasn't my intention. It just slipped from my tongue, I swear," he tried to defend himself only to receive Sehun's cold glance in response. If there's anyone holding grudges, it's Sehun. It's just bad luck for Baekhyun that he happens to be the one in the receiving end, especially during this critical period.

 Baekhyun refused to have dinner as an act of rebellion in the hope that Suho might show mercy and give him back his credit cards. This foolish action has resulted in not only a no-show of his credit cards, but also an empty stomach. That night, lying in bed with a foul mood and a grumbling stomach, Baekhyun receives a message from Suho himself (also known as the root of all his problems at this point).

 I know you're mad at me, but I am only doing this for you. I'm sure there are other ways to show how much you love and care about Yixing. If you come up with anything that does not involve buying another copy of Yixing's album, we're happy to help :)

 He knows it's in good faith and that Suho is actually doing him a favour by finally putting the brakes on his insane album hunt. For Baekhyun, doing this means a whole lot more than Suho can imagine. Love is blind, people say. If blind is buying as many copies of the same album as possible, Baekhyun's all for it. So he leaves the message on read because that's as petty as he can go and tries to fall asleep.

 -

 Yixing calls at an ungodly hour the next morning, stirring Baekhyun awake.

 “Morning, sleepy head,” Yixing says cheerily through the phone.

 Baekhyun groans, eyes still closed as he puts his phone above his left ear. “It’s 5 am, Mr. Zhang. Unlike you, I am enjoying my days off. Your timings are always the worst. Gosh, I hate you,” Baekhyun protests, burying his face into his pillow.

 “I know,” Yixing chuckles, filling the silence with his laughter.

 “I hate you,” Baekhyun groans louder, “I can’t even see the dimple on your cheek now. What’s the point of having you as my boyfriend now? You’re deliberately doing this to torture me, right?”

“Of course not,” Yixing says gently, heaving a sigh, “I’ve got to go now. It was nice hearing your voice though, I’m recharged for the day. I miss you.”

 “I miss you, too” Baekhyun says, making a kissing sound and hangs up. It usually takes them half an hour to truly get to the part where one of them has the audacity to hang up on the other. Yixing’s been much busier lately which is why Baekhyun has decided to become the stronger one and make things easier for his man.

He suddenly receives a notification from his email account. Blinking, Baekhyun proceeds to read the whole email, his mouth opening wider towards the end of the email. He lets out a strangled shriek when he reaches the final sentence.

 Byun Baekhyun has won a place to Zhang Yixing's next fan meeting in Shanghai.

 Chen and DO come storming into his room upon hearing his loud, shrill scream at the crack of dawn.

 "What happened? Is something wrong? Did something happen to Yixing?" Chen asks breathlessly, poking his head into Baek's room.

 "Just because you're up doesn't mean others should be as well, Byun Baekhyun. You can have your screaming sessions later in the day," DO mumbles threateningly, shoving Chen aside.

 "I love you two, a lot," Baekhyun sing songs, giving them a huge group hug and plants a kiss on their cheeks.

 DO steers clear of Baekhyun after the morning confession, while Chen announces he will be in his room for the whole day and does not want to be disturbed in anyway, even Xiumin is not allowed to interfere.

Even the others feel a weird energy coming from Baekhyun, who's been flashing his rectangular trademark smile non-stop for the whole day. (It's up to the point where Suho even considers giving him back his credit card in fear of Baekhyun going berserk.)

 -

 After weighing the options and whatnot, Baekhyun’s dead set on going. He’s going to make a surprise visit, go undercover, and get Yixing’s signature on one of the albums. Everything's going smoothly and nothing-- absolutely nothing-- can spiral out of control this time. Baekhyun's carefully double-checked his schedule to make sure that there aren't any clashes on the day Zhang Yixing (the love of his life) holds the fan meeting. The tickets are booked, his travel bag is packed. The only problem is explaining his sudden disappearance to Suho, who's got incredible skills and hawk eyes when it comes to this matter.

He's tried asking every single member to cover for him, but none of them seem remotely interested in giving a friend in need a helping hand. The thing is, Byun Baekhyun does not back down. In the face of challenge, he only emerges stronger and more determined.

 By the end of day, Xiumin concedes, agreeing to lie for Baekhyun.

 "What are you up to by the way?" Xiumin asks curiously, lowering the book he's been reading.

 "That's a secret," Baekhyun flashes him a grateful grin. "I'll send you pics."

 "If you get me into trouble with Suho because of this, I'm spilling the beans about that one time you—"

 Baekhyun hurries over to cover his mouth, "Bloody hell, are you planning to get me killed? Do not ever mention that when Suho is literally in the next room," Baekhyun hisses in whisper tone.

 "I don't think it will cause much trouble. It might land me a detention of 2 weeks, but I doubt that he'll do anything to you. I mean, you're the hyung,” Baekhyun adds.

 "Alright," Xiumin sighs, praying for dear God that he hasn't just signed up for hell.

 -

 Baekhyun sneaks out of the dorm at around 4 am in the morning with the help of Xiumin who calls him a cab and accompanies him down to the foyer.

 “Good luck, Baek. Whatever you’re doing, Yixing knows you love him,” Xiumin says, patting Baekhyun’s shoulders.

 “How did you—?”

“Whenever you talk about something that’s Yixing related there are hearts in your eyes. You’re normally a weirdo but when Yixing is involved you become a lunatic,” Xiumin shakes his head although the corners of his lips are slightly tugged up.

 “I’ll take it as a compliment,” Baekhyun grins, giving Xiumin a big hug.

 “Oh, and there’s something else,” Xiumin says at length, scratching the back of his head awkwardly, shoving a thick envelope into Baekhyun’s hands. “There are some letters I wrote for Yixing. I was hoping you could hand them over to him.”

Baekhyun grins, nudging Xiumin in the elbow. “Aww, I love that my man is loved,” he says, carefully placing the envelope into his bag.

Xiumin heaves another sigh, before taking out another thicker stack of letters from his bulging left pocket.

“The others know you’re going to Yixing’s fan meeting. They want you to hand over these letters as well.”

 Baekhyun is speechless for a split second. “How did everyone figure out?”

“Sehun connected the dots,” Xiumin says, chuckling, “Yixing skyped us yesterday when you were in your room wondering why you keep talking about his coming fan meeting 24/7. Sehun came up with the answer after the call.”

 “Does Suho know?” Baekhyun asks anxiously. The cab has finally arrived, coming to a halt in front of them.

“I’m not sure. He wasn’t with us yesterday so I guess he isn’t aware of you flying to Shanghai yet.”

“Alright, I’ll be back by tonight. Help me out guys. Keep in mind that I’m delivering letters and love to our Yixing.”

 Xiumin nods his head, signalling Baekhyun to stop ranting when he opens his mouth to say something else. With a cheery good luck and another supportive pat, Xiumin shoves Baekhyun into the cab and motions for the driver to leave.

-

After a two-hour flight, Baekhyun’s finally made it to Shanghai. In the meantime, he’s found a suspicious envelope in his rucksack when rummaging for his small notebook. He sees Suho’s handwriting at the front. A neatly “To Yixing” written at the bottom right with a heart drawn next to it. Baekhyun shakes his head laughing, making a mental note to tease Suho later when he gets back.

He takes a cab to the fan meeting location and plots his entrance during the drive. He doesn’t want to be recognized by anyone and draw the attention to him on this special day. He’ll just try his best and keep it cool. His goal is simple: getting a quick glimpse of Yixing, delivering him what would seem like a stack of fan letters and having his copy (one of his many ones that is) signed by Yixing. After that, he’ll get the hell out of there before Yixing or anyone figures out his true identity.

There are hundreds of Xingmis around, frantically talking about something he assumes to be Yixing related. His limited Chinese enables him to pick up on some certain phrases, but he’s not efficient enough in the language to contribute to the conversation. He almost slips his tongue, screaming yes, me too when he overhears a group of male Xingmis at the far back expressing their love for Yixing. Baekhyun’s standing in line, nervously fidgeting with the hem of his shirt, inching forward at the speed of a snail, trying his best not to do anything Baekhyun stupid.

In his head, he’s practicing his pose, the things he’d say. Baekhyun’s written an essay-long speech in Mandarin but he’s barely remembering the first few lines after the flight. Maybe he’ll just say a couple of things in Korean and pretend to be an exchange student. Number one priority when it’s his turn is to keep his head down and avoid eye contact at all cost. Even a split second will make him swoon and send him to cloud nine. He might not be able to contain himself and jump into Yixing’s arm.

He'll not only land in Yixing’s arms (which is in this case a dream come true, indeed), but also on the front page of the newspapers the next morning that will take China and Korea by storm (sadly). So Baekhyun balls his fists, bites his lips and takes a deep breath. He can do this, he can control himself for the sake of Zhang Yixing.

Easier said than done. The closer he gets, the more anxious he gets. The clearer his view of Yixing gets, the more he yearns to actually see him and have him smile back at him with dimples poking out from his cheeks and stars in his eyes. The mere thought of Yixing mouthing ‘I love you’ to him already makes his knees go weak.

 ‘Get yourself together,” Baekhyun shakes his head vigorously, taking in a deep breath. ‘You can do this.’

 With his head still down, Baekhyun pulls out the stack of letters from his bag and the album he wants to have signed. He’s only 5 people away from Yixing, and his heart is already on the verge of exploding.

 “Hello,” Yixing greets him cheerfully, looking a bit confused when Baekhyun does not respond or look up.

“Hi,” Baekhyun manages in Mandarin with an awkward wave. “I’m an exchange student from Korea. A big fan,” he mumbles, tripping all over his own words.

“Oh,” Yixing flashes him a genuine smile that radiates gratefulness and admiration. “Thank you for your support. It means a lot to me,” he says in Korean, taking the album from Baekhyun’s trembling hands.

“What’s your name?”

 “You can just write B.”

 “Just B?”

“Yes, just B,” Baekhyun feels his whole face burning up. He’s only stolen a few glances at Yixing whenever Yixing wasn’t looking straight at him. “I’ve got some letters for you,” Baekhyun says, placing the letters on the table.

“They’re not all from me though,” he quickly adds as Yixing’s eyes shoot up at Baekhyun at the sight of the pile.

“My friends love you, too. A lot even,” Baekhyun explains, cursing himself inwardly. If any of his members knew he said something this cheesy, he’d probably spend the rest of his career sleeping on the couch.

 Too embarrassed of what he’s just blurted out, Baekhyun shoves the album he’s been handed back down his bag, bows Yixing goodbye and darts towards the exit. In retrospect, attending this fan meeting isn’t such a genius plan. It did sound like one when he set it in motion though.

 -

Exhausted, he passes out in his hotel room and doesn’t wake up until a couple of hours later. Baekhyun heads back to the airport with a mixture of inexplicable emotions. A part of him is bothered that Zhang Yixing did not for a split second suspect him. He went along with it as if Byun Baekhyun was truly just some Korean exchange student meeting him for the first time.

His flight is delayed for almost two hours, and boredom is truly testing Baekhyun’s patience. Flopping down the couch in the waiting area, Baekhyun heaves a loud sigh. He truly hates himself for complicating things and overthinking the situation, but he can’t really help himself. Baekhyun observes the people around him, counts the number of ATM boots, reads anything that is within his own level of Mandarin. He does the silliest things to while away the time.

 He’s tempted to gate-crash Yixing’s after party or whatever is on his schedule and give him a big hug, taking the mic from the MC and just announce to the world that Yixing is his. Baekhyun cringes at his own thoughts and shifts to a less dramatized scenario. Anything would suffice at this point, even Yixing whispering Baekhyun’s name would have been a moment he’d be happy to die with.

“Passengers booked on flight BX 0710 to Seoul please proceed to gate 7 to begin boarding at this time. Please have your boarding pass and identification ready. Thank you.”

The sudden announcement pulls Baekhyun out of his stupor. Baekhyun stumbles forward, almost landing on his face. He walks towards his gate, fishing his ticket and passport out of his bag. Baekhyun freezes in his spot as the bits of Yixing’s handwriting flashes across his eyes. Baekhyun pulls the album out, carefully examining the message written beneath Yixing’s signature he did not see in his haste to get away just then.

The feeling is mutual, B ;) Love you x

As if that wasn’t enough of a surprise, Baekhyun is even more taken aback when he sees a familiar someone in jeans and a grey hoodie with half his face covered walking towards him. He naturally takes Baekhyun’s hand and slips his fingers into his.

“Well, hello there,” Yixing says in his heavenly voice with a half smirk Baekhyun can still see despite the face mask.

Baekhyun’s heart skips a bit, colour rushes to his cheeks. Baekhyun blinks, feeling like he’s awoken from some sort of trance. The end of the world is cancelled, the earth is still spinning on its axis,  and life— well life is all good again.

Can you save my heavydirtysoul?(Please say you can.)Twenty One Pilots concert story, 10/22/19

As I had missed my GA Floor seat show in June at home in Cbus due to my woeful injury,  I decided to buy tickets when the boyz announced their second leg and  stop in Cincinnati.  I mean, why not? Fangirling all over the place here. Of course, I was taking Jordan, as the summer of 2016 was the Blurryface summer and we played it out on our deck almost every night. I am secure in my vast music knowledge and boldly admit my love for Twenty One Pilots just as I do my more bizarre and obscure bands. Diversity is where it’s at, babies, ya like what ya like.

The brilliant blue October day arrived, and my preparations were made.  

First, I chose a hotel north of Cinci. I had a work retreat on the south side of Columbus the next morning, so shaving off those ends saved me time.

Secondly, I told the wayward Jordan “Meet me at XXX South High Street with your bags packed at 3:30 pm.” (referring to the event space I needed to be at the day after the show.)  Jordan: Huh? Where? Why?  Me: Just meet me there.

Third, I called the event space to ensure I could leave a car parked there overnight.

Fourth, I packed an overnight bag with 17 different outfits. I am not sure why.

 I left work and drove to the space I was to be at the next morning, and Jordy showed up VERY promptly. (Me texting her: It’s just past the bridge going over 71.  Her reply: I have GPS.)

 She tossed her bags in my car,  locked her car up, and off we went together.  She drove, as I needed to focus up with a call and verbal beatdown to  A T & T and a little light  bill paying. An hour and a half later we arrived at our Blu hotel in Blue Ash, freshened up, poured a Citron and G2, and called an Uber to US Bank Arena.

 Our driver pulled up, we tossed our cardboard coffee cups in the trash, and hopped in. He looked back at us randomly asked, “Do you like country music?”  I diplomatically and cheerfully answered, “I do if you do!” He seemed to doubt my sincerity, as he wordlessly handed me his phone. I chose a 90s alt-rock playlist and, well…. Pearl Jam’s Jeremy came on first.  I believe this set the tone for the whole evening and led to my overall uninhibited abandon. Because here’s the deal—I have this thing where I have a primal need to sing Pearl Jam loudly and also in a PREEEEETY spot-on Eddie Vedder voice. I simply can’t not do it. So when  I began to bellow along in my Eddie voice, Mohammed turned the radio up so loud that my ears were bleeding, as if to urge me along. Still, I sang on. (OOoooh my jaw left hurtin’, OOoohhh dropped wide open…)

 Anyway, we got dropped off and headed to get food and drinks at the Holy Grail Tavern.  Both Jordan and I couldn’t stop looking at our attractive server.  It got so that we were laughing out loud when she whizzed past us because we (the server and me) were always accidentally locking eyes.  I said, “Oh my God she’s going to think – who is this perv staring at me?”  And Jordan said, “Well,  *I* get to see her as she walks away and she has a great butt.” This led us to the conclusion that we couldn’t stop looking at her because we, as a species, are so used to ugly being the norm  (“Have you BEEN to the BMV, Elaine?”) that we can’t stop looking at people who are attractive.  We drink them in like a scarce hidden spring in a dusty desert.   The server asked, “One check or two?”  as soon as we finished our food and apparently I spoke loudly and with a bit of shock: “Well I am HAVING another drink!”  

 We chugged away and then around 7 we headed out the door.  I was in a bit of a conundrum because I had already walked a great deal and I didn’t know what side of the stadium we were on, and I didn’t want to walk in circles for nothing, as BabyCalf and BionicTendon were a lil sore. Just then, (of course, because this is how things happen to witchy little me), a jolly man called from one lone open-air shuttle across the street: “Need a ride?”  And how!  Not only did we get a ride, we got the VIP drop off at the secret back elevator!  Up we went,  got scanned in, and found our kickass seats—basically 6 rows up from the floor.

 Once we knew where our seats were, we went up to the stuffed and crammed hallway overflowing with yellow and camo-clad Cliquers, and made our way to a hallway bar cart.  The windows behind the bar cart looked out to the open air terrace.  We figured we would go out and get some fresh air rather than wait in our seats, and asked the bartender, “Can we have someone let us back in if we go out there?” She said “No, but you can keep walking around the corner and come back in the main entrance.”  No problem! But was it? We soon found it was, as we wandered back up to the main entrance with our brazenly open containers and were told, “No re-entry!” by a shocked looking person who may as well have added, “You dumbasses!”

 “BUT! BUT! She said we could come back in this way!” I eloquently burst forth.

The ‘who are these stupid people’ gate attendant said with some ‘tude: “Who. Is. ‘She’?”

“The bartender!” I pouted.

“You can’t have open containers either!” he parried again, noticing our drinks.

“Well what do we DO!?” I demanded, my Scarlett O’Hara inconvenience bubbling up.

He sighed and pointed. “That guy in the blazer is the manager. Go talk to him.”

 Another witchy win: the plaza was empty except for the one, lone, blazered manager, talking to a cop! What are the chances he was right there?  I strolled up, my drink still blatant AF, and explained our predicament.

“No re-entry,” he said.

“Oh my God! We were clearly here! We had to get in to even be here with a drink in our hand. She told us we could go out on the terrace and walk around to get back in!”

“Who is ‘she’? And no open containers.” he chided.

 Amazingly,  our damsel in distress act got us back in and the manager bellowed “Let ‘em through!” to all the ticket attendants, and we sailed on through, triumphant. “Comin through!” I waved my hands. Back to our seats we went!

 MIsterwives opened up, and I get it, auburn-maned singer Mandy Lee has a wild falsetto that yips and yodels and leaps around, putting me in mind of Kate Bush’s vocal style. Their wavy, colorful set and lighting was bright and cheery with rainbow tones and pops of pinks and yellows. The highlight was their cover of Lizzo’s “Truth Hurts”.   Ballsy move!  They bopped, boogied and bounced with great gusto all over the stage and when they finished with a rollicking “Our Own House”  with its zesty horn riffs, the crowd was getting into it.  (Jordan and I happened to be sitting in the “Family Section” and felt chastened by the uncertain-faced teens at their first show, not quite sure how to let loose, and their basic and somewhat resigned parents – neither of which group had a drink in their hands. Jordan made several trips up and back, soaking these poor people with vodka as she sloshed her way back to her seat.)

 FINALLY – the main event! The arena seethed with anticipation when the curtain billowed back and forth, sooo close to unveiling the set and stage. Finally, in a burst of red lasers and flames, Josh and Tyler appeared on the scene and ripped right into Jumpsuit, performed as a car on fire burned behind them. JUMPSUIT! JUMPSUIT! COVER ME! He screamed at the close, as we all did.

 Visually, the evening was a treat for the senses.  Kaledoscopic shifting colors and shapes, lasers, catwalks, a B Stage…. Costume changes and bridges,  Josh Dun and his abs on full display, Tyler with his various hats and costumes and instruments,  a glittering swath of twinkling lights for the gentle “Neon Gravestones” shining like stars caught in a net: The production of this tour was top-notch and stunning, allowing for a visual orgy to accompany the talent of the hometown boys. I stumbled across a line that I think puts it perfectly:

“This wasn’t a band rocking out, despite how hard Dun plays the drums. This was a post-apocalyptic rapper-hero performing songs with his drummer-sidekick nearby, in the midst of lasers and explosions.” They really do have a kind of anime’,  lone-wolf kind of renegade vibe going, especially with the way their albums tend to run with storylines: The Blurryface character, and now the bishops and mysterious DEMA of Trench.

Their setlist was packed full of the goodies…. Stressed Out (“what’s my name?” Tyler would chant rhythmically.)  The frenetic insanity and staccato rapping of Heavy Dirty Soul. My favorite from Trench, The Hype, or as I say “The song with the best ukulele-backed bridge ever written.” God that song is tight! They shifted stages during the end of “Nico and the Niners” and returned back on the main stage by the time Holding On To You started….. ahhhh, where Josh does his perfectly timed backflip from the piano! Lean with it, rock with it. Swoon, y’all.   Tyler’s laid-bare confessions are what resonate, causing the band’s wildfire-like leap to global fame.

 Something that is becoming a bit of tradition with the duo is that every show, as far as I know, has always ended with Trees. It’s a euphoric communal outpouring to close the night, everyone jumping up and down singing “LA LA…. LA LA LA LA LA LA….. HELLOOOOOOO!”  It’s a soft start, a gentle and sad build, and then a sweaty screamfest at the end. PERF!

 As we made our way out the doors and across the plaza, we made up songs like “My momma needs to take an elevator because of her busted tendon” – Jordan, and “OOooh but I got ma fishnet stockings on, yeahh” -Me.  Jordan also stepped on my foot and I howled in pain as she knelt before with remorse, boozily patting and stroking my foot.

 Sooo we grabbed another Uber, and here’s where things shifts from a normal boozy concert night to one for the books. Our dude, Dean, pulled up with the license plate that began with LGR.  Our relationship began with my opening sentence: “Your license plate says LIGER, like Napoleon Dynamite.  It’s a lion—and a tiger!”  And bam! Merrily we roll along!

 I am not quite sure how this went from polite chatter to veering off the rails, but I will condense and recount what went down as best I can recall.

Jordan: She had her achilles’ tendon repaired!

Dean: Oh, I can fix that.

(Like, totally matter of fact. Oh, I can fix that.)

 Jordan: Really?  YES!

Dean: Sure. We’re all made of electricity.  We’re just made of electric particles and neurons. I consult all over to doctors because I fix people.

Jordan: Why are you driving an Uber?

Me: .

Dean: Don’t worry, I’ll fix it.

Me: …How???

Dean: Electricity.

Jordan: How do you know how to do this?

Dean: I’m just kind of brilliant with this kind of stuff.

 OK, so, I’m kind of brushing it off at this point, thinking I’ll ditch him when we arrive at the ol’ Blu. Dean says he’s going to find a place to park and he will be right in. Jord and I get out and stand outside for a minute as we watch him drive around the corner.  “Let’s just go in,” I say.  “Yeah,” she agrees, “I think he left.”  My brain was so jumbled with confusion I wasn’t sure what was going on.  Was he actually planning on coming up to the hotel room?  “Let’s get inside,” I said, relieved that he probably was just messing with us and took off.

 The automatic glass doors blew open to the lobby and we walked in. Right behind us, a dude with a bag of City BBQ carryout and a gray medical-looking case followed us in.

Jordan: What’s that?

City BBQ dude: This is my (blah, blah, blah.)  It uses electricity to heal injuiries. (He says a name similar to   something like the Electralux El Diablo 5000.)

Jordan: She tore her achilles!

City BBQ dude: Yes, this equipment will heal it.

ME: (whipping my head back toward him):  OH MY GOD!!!! MY UBER DRIVER JUST SAID THAT TOO!  WHAT ARE THE CHANCES!?

Like, seriously, I am thinking this guest of the hotel is maybe a doctor in for a conference, or whatever.  It was only through muddled bits and pieces clicking together in my brain during the ride up in the elevator and ending when the bbq-toting man did not go to his “room” but walked in OURS that I fucking realized…

This guy WAS MY UBER DRIVER.

Not 2 separate people, both coincidentally on a mission and willing to fix bodily injuries with a machine with the equipment on their person.

 I was so confused when faced with this reality it was like I was living in an alternate universe.  As I am sputtering around saying, “Oh my God, I never really saw your face in the car, just the back of your head” Dean is busily and efficiently placing electrodes on my ankles, calves, shins, even my goddamn glutes.  I find myself saying, “You know, my shoulder has hurt a bit lately too” and he briskly whips my arm around and jams his thumb right where it hurts, murmurs the word “Release…..” and then slaps an electrode on my shoulder. THEN he hooks Jordan up. “Is this a TENS unit?”  I ask. “Pfft.  This makes a TENS unit look like child’s play” he retorts proudly.

Jordan and I are now are standing next to each other looking like inmates of The Green Mile and sizzling with pulsating electricity.   Dean eats his corn pudding, yanking the current up and down based on our grunts of discomfort. My phone is in my hand at all times with the first two numbers of 9 – 1 punched in and on high alert.  But as he contentedly moves on to his green beans with his feet kicked up on the table in front of him, I have to admit he looks pretty harmless.  

 I think Dean the Electrode Machine was in our room until midnight, giving us confident tips on how to heal, saying he could bring his machine anywhere in the world, and I finally started giving signs of get-out-I’m-tired. In a gentlemanly way, he bid us adieu, as I babbled on about leaving him a big tip.  I mean, he invited himself to cure me, but isn’t his time and trouble worth something?  I tipped him 30 dollars and added him on Facebook.  

 Jordan and I try to get ready for bed but she then runs into a couple of questionable characters and starts talking to them. The three of them are standing outside (why did we go back outside? Perhaps to bid Dean adieu, I believe.) They start cooking up plans like long lost homies.  I say “Get upstairs” and take her arm.  (She can be hard to manage once she crosses that line.)  We get in bed.  It is nearing 1am. Jordan lays on top of me crying and blubbering “Promise me you won’t ever die.”   I say kindly as I smooth her hair, “I will though.”   We laugh about being electrocuted by our Uber driver.  I say I can’t believe he just invited himself to our hotel room.  She casually says with the air of a jaded and well-worn matriarch: “Please, Mom, everybody hangs out with their Uber drivers in their hotels now.” Then she gets up again and walks out the door.  I am fading fast but I manage to say, “GET BACK IN HERE! Where are you going?”  I close my eyes for a minute and I open them when I hear the door open again and Jordan puts her face right next to mine and whispers in a low, clear, concerned voice:

“Mom. There is a naked man sitting in the egg chair in the hallway masturbating.”

“Huh?” I whisper back.

She repeats it.

With STRANGE AND STOIC CALM considering my inebriated and disoriented state, I pick up the desk phone.  The next thing I know, I am whispering as calmly and clearly as Jordan did: “Hello. This is Room 303. I want you to know there is a naked man masturbating in the egg chair up here in the hallway.”

 DEAD ASS PAUSE on the other end. Finally: “Umm, ahh, ok, I… I .. uhhh… I’ll come check it out.”

Five minutes later the phone startles me out of my slip into slumber.  

“Hello?” I answer.

“He’s gone.”

“Gone?”

“Yes. The man. No man.”

“Okay.”

 It is 2:30 now and I don’t just fall asleep—I hurtle into it like a plane crashing into the ground, fading to black.  I don’t wake up until I hear something.  It sounds familiar.  It’s a ringing sound.  It’s that thing that makes you wake up. But where is it?  “Jordan,”  I hiss. “Huh?” she moans.  She bolts upright and grabs her phone and stares at it. “This is new,” she whispers.  “Make it stop!”  I cry. The ringing continues.  I realize it’s coming from my phone which is on the floor.  I remember how to make it stop.  It’s 6:45 am. I lay in exhausted torment until 7:15. Then 7:30.  Then with every ounce of strength I can muster, I get my ass up and get to the excruciating business of  getting my shit together and getting my shit together…( sayin’ wake up, ya need to make money!)  At 8:10 Jordan and I are both in the car with a cup of coffee.  You’re not hard core unless you live hard core, like Dewey Finn says.

 I sail up 71 without incident.  The coffee kicks in and I’m actually feeling pretty okay. At 9:49, I pull into the venue we are at for the day at work. Jordan’s car is safe and intact.  I find a parking spot, wave to my friend, and tell Jordy to wake up.

 She sits up, opens her eyes, retches, opens the door, and promptly vomits down the side of my car.

I squeal, then chant prayerfully: OMG PLEASE DO NOT PUKE IN FRONT OF MY CO-WORKERS!

 I don’t even see her leave.  She is gone, slinking away to her car, as I had practically pushed her out of a moving vehicle.

 So.  That’s my review of Twenty One Pilots and a little story thrown in to boot.  

 PS My foot doesn’t feel any better.

PSS Pics below of Tyler, Josh, me, Jordan,and Dean.

wroteuplikethis*

Having watched countless concert compilations on youtube, and having been to The Weeknd’s concert when he touched down in Singapore, I think it’s safe to say that when it comes to hip hop, there is a slight(and I use this carefully) disconnect in the hip hop concert culture, as compared to the crowd’s energy and hype in the US/UK/Canada/Holland etc. The recent A$AP Rocky performance at Marquee seemed to be a testament to that, as the crowd only seemed to know two songs Rocky performed, one of which wasn’t even his own song to begin with...goddamn ‘Plain Jane’.

Some of the performances that have stood out in those compilations have been Playboi Carti’s performances, whenever and wherever.

(Now, I just want to add a disclaimer that I’m not dissing Singapore’s concert crowds. And that I would love to have had the opportunity to fly over and catch my favourite artists live. But my bank account doesn’t let me, which pretty much sucks...)

Carti’s performances seem like the place where you’d...die...lit h a h a. He’s barely singing along to his own song, and seems to spend a large majority of his stage presence hyping the crowd up and screaming 10 of his 1026 ad-libs at any given point. The crowd vibes along, going completely ape-shit.

It’s raw. It’s animalistic. It’s loud. It’s in your face. It’s wild. The fact that Carti fans sing along to his snippets at concerts is amazing to me. A 30 second snippet completely changes the mood of the crowd, sending them into a frenzy, as evidenced by the countless concert recordings of Carti performing ‘Cancun’.

It’s in this raw energetic sphere that Carti absolutely thrives in. And that’s exactly where Carti’ sophomore release, ‘Die Lit’, exists.

‘Die Lit’ has also become kind of a comfort album. I was on a bus at night a while ago, and as usual, I felt this overwhelming urge to listen to ‘So Far Gone’ or ‘Take Care’(2 Drake albums notorious for putting one in their feels). As my thumb hovered over the ‘Drake’ artist arrow, something shifted and I found myself playing ‘Die Lit’. Granted, I was initially feeling kinda sad(what’s new), but ‘Die Lit’ weirdly put me at ease with my emotions. I didn’t think, I didn’t reflect and I didn’t feel, as I’d usually do with those two Drake albums(or other sadboi albums). ‘Die Lit’ allowed me to sink into the beats and Carti’s repetitive hooks that were catchy and easy to listen to.

The album art features a black and white photo of Carti jumping into a mosh pit while flipping people off and it serves as a perfect metaphor for what the album is about. The picture looks brash, unadulterated, insane, chaotic and yet, weirdly poetic, and the album itself, sonically, captures all those.

Die Lit opens with ‘Long Time - Intro’ with Carti talking about how he hasn’t ‘felt like this in a long time,’ while repeatedly ad-libbing in the background(pss, slatt, ooh, pow, pa, yeah). Some really nice synths on the instrumental that sound organic. Carti saying ‘I’d rather get caught with it than without it,’ is the highlight of the track. A fun track that serves as a nice opener to an enjoyable album.

I don’t know how many of you have watched ‘The Matrix: Reloaded’(reloaded is the second movie and it’s trash, so is revelations. only the first movie is fire and worth the watch.) but there’s this underground rave scene where people absolutely lose their minds and party like there’s no tomorrow(i mean they have to seeing as they’re living in a technologically dystopic world). The second track off ‘Die Lit’, ‘R.I.P.’, sounds like it could have been the perfect song to accompany this particular scene. If organised chaos was a song, it would be R.I.P......stripped back production, a slightly overblown bass that has a weird metallic quality to it and Carti’s flow over such a simple instrumental creates such an intense atmosphere, a chaotic one. At certain points, the song is literally just the bass line, one synth and ad-libs, and it somehow, fits into the whole ‘organised chaos’ idea. ‘I’m on demo lit, I’m on migo lit,’ raps Carti. He fits into the track perfectly, and finds the perfect gaps to spit his ad-libs. Him saying that he ‘bought a crib for momma, off that mumbling shit’ begets a sense of awareness of exactly what he brings to the table lyrically.

‘Lean 4 Real’ feels like a mellower ‘R.I.P.’. Slower but just as stripped back, the instrumental has an animalistic quality to it, probably because of the weird background synth that makes it sound like it was recorded in a forest at midnight. Skepta comes in with a reliable verse, countering Carti’s chaotic nature and giving the listener a sense of uniformity with his verse. Carti hops back on and re-hypnotises the listener by repeating ‘I’m on the beans 4 real, i’m on the lean 4 real.’ Simple in its execution, insanely good in its presentation.

Old Money picks up where Lean 4 Real left off, with Carti repeating ‘old money, new hoes,’ then throwing a bunch of ad-libs around, peppering the song with a few more simple rap lines. The bass kicks in with a vengeance through out the song, and Carti’s effortlessness is just put on display for one to enjoy.

Love Hurts(lmao) comes in with a jarringly metallic synth and a hypnotic bass line that just seems into every nook and cranny of your mind, creating a very dark and slightly hellish soundscape. This track genuinely gave me Stockholm Syndrome, as I found myself listening to this insanely jarring song on repeat. ‘Shawty want a rockstarrrrr okay!’ sings Carti, while Travis Scott comes in with a pretty good verse, encapsulating all that’s good with the entire track. His delivery fits the mood of the track perfectly, and the auto tune blends in gorgeously with the grungy vibe of the track.

Lil Uzi Vert and Carti can’t do anything wrong together and in the wake of wokeuplikethis* and left, right, Shoota becomes another song that strengthens their power couple status. Uzi flows on the track even before the beat drops, and once it does drop, Carti picks up where Uzi leaves it on this bouncy and slightly happier sounding track, with the shimmering synth creating an upbeat vibe.

Right Now and Poke It Out are pretty fun to listen to. Bouncy production, Carti’s effortless flows and Pierre’s and Nicki’s features are decent(Pierre’s is actually pretty good not gna lie...would write more but I really just wna focus on my faves).

I like Home(KOD) enough and it’s mainly cause Carti says ‘bring that money home, daddy waiting for it’ over and over and over again...

Fell In Luv’s production is something else man. Really simple lyrics from Carti(i mean did you really expect anything else?). Pierre’s production throughout the album has been special and Fell In Luv is no exception. The vocal sample is such a minor aspect of the song but adds so much character to the beat, and Bryson Tiller’s lofi feature(sounds like he recorded it on his iPhone) actually adds to the aesthetic of the track.

Foreign and Pull Up are pretty decent tracks. Not really my faves and felt a bit ‘filler-ish’.

Mileage has one of the funniest choruses I’ve heard in a while. ‘Molly cyrus, catching bodies, don’t care if your pussy got some mileage mileage....’ Carti dismantling the idea of slut-shaming in one line that’s who I stan uno. Chief Keef’s deeper voice lends a certain gravitas to what feels like a ‘higher pitched’ track cause of Carti’s voice and the production of the beat.

Flatbed Freestyle gives us a good look at baby voice Carti. The beat’s high synth and repeated bass create a repetitiveness that’s unrivalled by the other beats, and Carti literally starts of with ‘BUH BUH BUH BUH BUH BUH’. The beat and Carti compliment each other insanely well, and the track actually ends up being one of the most fun tracks on the entire album. ‘Beeh!’ is my favourite ad-lib after ‘Buh!’ on here. Baby Voice Carti really shines through on this track. He doesn’t sound annoying and doesn’t sound cringe. The Baby Voice is actually...here to save hip hop....

No Time is such an underrated track. Feels like a trap nursery rhyme instrumental, and the sleepy and shimmery xylophone type synth creates an innocent atmosphere as Carti sings about having ‘no time’. Gunna flows over the instrumental like he was born into it. He’s smooth and charismatic, and is perfectly positioned between two Carti verses, forming the perfect palate cleanser within the same song. Definitely one of the better beats on an album already stacked with excellent beats.

I honestly skip middle of the summer...don’t really fuck with it...

Choppa Won’t Miss is an absolute bop in terms of production, and Carti going ‘pew pew pew pew’ in the back is TO DIE FOR. I also just want to ask if anyone can explain the line ‘suck on my dick like a tick’ to me. Thug is pretty good as usual. Flows in and around the beat mans a fucking GOD among men.

R.I.P. Fredo interpolates the R.I.P. beat and sounds amazing sonically. Top is...decent I guess.

Carti created something timeless and fun by sticking to what he knew. Insane production from Pierre and an insane beat selection helped Carti create one of the better albums of 2018(okay i will not play into the 2018 aoty meme).

An album that I enjoyed vastly in 2018, and am still enjoying in 2019, it has snuck into my all time favourite albums list. Carti worked to his strengths and the reception the album received is testament to that. While Playboi Carti may not be for everyone, and especially not for hip hop purists, the effortlessness and simplicity create amazing soundscapes within and across songs. Carti is definitely an acquired taste, and I’m really glad I got into his music.

*^!

My Danish God - Lars Ulrich

Hey guys so this is my first time posting my writing. This is a Lars Ulrich fic i wrote for the wonderful @jessyulrich Sorry it took me so long to post it and I really hope you enjoy it lovely :) If anyone wants we to write something like this for them or wants me to start posting short fics message me and let me know.

(Sorry if this isn’t great guys like I said it’s my first time posting my writing and I also am really bad at proofreading, plus I know the formatting is horrible and the story isn't spaced out at all but I apologize😬)

**this takes place during the load era *warning* this contains smut and unprotected sex

————————————————

Jessica took one last look at herself in the mirror making sure she looked absolutely perfect. It was her first Metallica concert and she had been waiting so incredibly long to see them. She had passes to go and meet them afterwards making the night even more amazing than it already would be. Something was in the air…she could feel it, this was going to be the greatest night of her life. In the large crowd Jessica felt herself being pushed from all sides as she giddily waited for the 4 legends to take the stage. She couldn’t help but think about how amazing lars was. Since she could remember he had always meant so much to her he was, in her opinion, the best in the band. Not to mention he was insanely sexy, especially with his tight leather pants and dark eyeliner. Just watching how into it he got while playing made her want him. Everything about Lars made him seem like a complete god to Jessica. She was awoken from her trance suddenly by a group rowdy guys pushing around her, before she could say anything she heard a loud voice “ hey fockheads be more careful, you’re pushing this gorgeous little lady here all over,” As she looked up Jessica came face to face with her danish god, mr. Lars Ulrich whom she hadn’t even seen get on stage. “ Th-thank you m-mr. Ulrich,” Jessica couldn’t help but stutter as she staring helplessly at her favorite person. He smiled sweetly at her before James nudged him to keep moving as the rest of the band swarmed the stage. Jessica was still in shock as the band started playing creeping death All through the concert she had her eyes on lars. It wasn’t until they started devils dance that he looked back. It was as if time froze as they stared at each other, only breaking eye contact when Kirk walked between them blocking her view. She couldn’t believe she would be meeting them in just under an hour. What would she say to him?…what if he wouldn’t even want to talk to her? So many different thoughts raced around in her mind that she didn’t even realize they were onto their final song before the encore. She decided to try to catch his attention once more before she got to meet the man she had always wanted. The guys ended their set and walked around the stage acknowledging all the fans. Jessica look right up into the face of Lars handing her one of his drumsticks, she smiled and bit her lip nervously. As he watched her do this lars smirked and threw her a wink. Just watching him do that little gesture made Jessica weak in the knees and even more turned on than before. They finally walked off stage and the large crowd of people started thinning out but still Jessica stayed where she was. She needed to collect herself before heading back to meet these Godly creatures. She stood in the thick line of amped up fans just waiting to meet the guys, this wasn’t really what she had hoped for but at least she was meeting them. Screams of excitement erupted from the front of the line as the guys started signing things and taking pictures with fans. It was almost Jessica’s turn when she made eye contact with Kirk just a little ways ahead. “ Dude, thats her that’s the girl lars was going on about,” he realized hitting Jason who then got lars’ attention. He immediately made his way over to her, there was a second where they both just stood looking at each other mesmerized. Jessica spoke first, she mustered up her courage “ Lars you’re an amazing drummer i love how into the songs you are when your playing, would you mind singing this?” She handed him the drum stick he had given her earlier. He quickly grabbed it and signed it with a little message before handing it back to her “ Of course my darling, after you meet the other guys go to that guard over there and show him this…he’ll know what it means and what to do,” He kissed her hand looking her up and down before moving to the other fans and practically running to his dressing room. Jessica walked over to the guard still in shock that she met the band that had meant so much to her for so long. Once she found him she simply smiled and handed him the drumstick, he just smirked and brought her down a long hallway until she reached a door with a picture of a drum set that had “Ulrich” written under It. The guard pushed the door open and pushed her in after. Once inside jess took a look at the nice couch and many chairs they had set up in the dressing room. As she eyed the chairs she spotted the sexy drummer sitting in a comfortable looking arm chair with his legs crossed drinking a beer. “ Well hello my love I’ve been waiting for you, That rough crowd didn’t hurt you did they beautiful?” His voice seemed deeper and sexier than normal. Dumbfounded by his words Jessica simply shook her head no watching and he slowly stood up from him seat. “ Good, I wouldn’t want anything to happen to you, what’s your name sweetheart?” He smiled pushing Jessica’s back to the door closing it at the same time and looking deep into her eyes. “Jessica, my name is Jessica” She smiled and took a deep breath staring into his deep, dark lined eyes, they quickly flicked down to her lips as she chewed on them nervously. He slowly leaned in even closer just inches away now. “ Don’t be nervous my love I’ll take care of you alright…” Jessica barely even had time to think before his perfect lips were upon her own. She nearly forgot to kiss him back for a second but quickly snapped away from her trance. She was kissing the man of her dreams in his dressing room…it was actually happening. Before she knew it he had swiftly moved them to his large couch. As they continued to make out she felt his hardened member press against her leg, she felt her becoming even wetter and moaned into his mouth feeling him smile against her lips. Lars reached down and cupped her bottom, squeezing and smacking it lightly. Jessica reached down and palmed him erection through his tight leather pants, this time it was his turn to moan into the kiss. He started traveling down her neck leaving sloppy wet kisses before stopping to suck and nip at her collar bone. He quickly slipped his hand into her lose fitting jean shorts feeling the wetness pooled down there. “ Well fock Jessica if I had known you wanted me this bad I could’ve just found us a nice room by the meeting area instead of making you wait…” She moaned as he ran his fingers over her slick center. He bit his lip as he started to slowly rub her clit making her moans louder. She leaned in close to his ear whispering “ i want you…no I need you to fuck me…right here right now baby,” That was the only cue he needed before he practice ripped off both their shirts and her shorts before she started working on his right leather pants. Once the had rid themselves of all their clothing he positioned himself at her entrance and pushed himself inside her agonizingly slowly. He bent down and caught her lips as he started to move himself and pick up pace. “ Fock Jess you feel so good baby…” He groaned as she cried out with pleasure arching her back. He smirked and started sucking and nipping at her exposed collar bone and breasts once again. She felt her core tighten as she cried out. “ oh fuck…fuck Lars…shit yes baby…keep going I’m goin-” He cut her off by kissing her once more quickly trying to get his mind off wanting to let himself release. “ Yes jess…Fock…cum for me baby…let go, c'mon..” He groaned out as he felt her tighten around his cock. Jessica started crying out louder as Lars reached down to rub her clit as she reached her climax. Her orgasm washed over her whole body as she writhed underneath lars. As soon as she released herself on him he knew he couldn’t hold it any longer…lars pounded himself into her once more before letting himself go as well. Panting sweaty messes, he pulled out of her and laid next to Jessica wrapping her in his arms. There were only two thoughts in her mind…the first being that she couldn’t believe this had actually happened but the second being that she was suddenly very self conscious of how she was compared to others he’s had. He left gentle kissed along her cheek and jawline before sighing. “ That was amazing my princess…it’s never been that good, maybe I’ll try to see if we can have you come around with us,” He chuckled lightly stroking up and down your sides as you two snuggled closer together and began drifting off to a peaceful sleep. “ Goodnight my sexy princess,” That was the last thing Jessica heard before she slipped into a slumber as well. “ Goodnight my danish god,” She managed to mumble her response as he pulled her closer to his chest. She was right…this certainly had been the best night of her life and she knew she would never forget this as long as she lived.

Relentless | Calum Hood Series Pt.12

                                             Part T W E L V E 

Request: Being the cousin of Ashton Irwin was exciting, especially when invited to their tour to hang out with his best friends. You found yourself becoming fond of Calum Hood, who finds you annoying from your constant appearance. But what would happen if you stopped giving him that attention?

Word Count: 3k+

A/N: im alive, still! ((thankfully)) here is chapter 12 for yall ! its a bit steamy so, sexual warning (?) i guess. brace yourselves, bc this was something beyond me. hope you guys enjoy ! :] x

Parts: one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, seventeen, eighteen, nineteen, twenty. [DONE]  

                                                    I M A G I N E 

Tokyo, 23:40 P.M.

“The parties here in Tokyo are amazing!” Taka, the lead singer of One OK Rock, gushed. He, along with his band mates, were touring you guys down Tokyo, the busiest and biggest city in the world (though it still fights that title with the Big Apple). The tall buildings were brightly lit with screens of commercials and Japanese icons. You couldn’t help but become fascinated with it. 

“I love the clothing they sell here!” You squeaked. The boys let you go shopping right after the concert, allowing you to fantasize over the clothing. You were able to purchase this white t-shirt with a Pikachu outline on it in black. Over it, you bought a gray kimono with camellia flowers on it. As for your pants, you got a regular pair of black pants with this pastel red heels with full wedges. They were comfy, cute, and ornate with flowers. 

“So I see,” Taka said with a soft smile. “Might I say, you look very beautiful in our fashion, Y/N.” You blushed at Taka’s kind words, having Calum growl a bit as he held your waist tighter. “We’re going to one of the nicest hotel in Tokyo– the Park Hotel.” 

“The party is going to be totally sick!” Michael entertained as he slide his guitar to his front. He began to tune his acoustic a bit while everyone walked and talked. You were curious at Michael as everybody crossed the street to the next block. “Y/N, we’re actually collaborating in a song with these guys.” 

“Really? All 8 of you guys are singing 1 song together?” 

“It’s not like we dominate the song,” Ashton says as he weaved his hands together to hold it behind his head. “But we sing the second verse and harmonize with them. We also helped write it since we’re signed together.” 

“I’d figure you guys would have 12 since you’re also signed alongside Hey Violet,” you teased.

“Yeah, but they were busy,” Calum quickly responded. You shrugged, taking this excuse as Michael tested all the strings so the chords were right. 

“Let’s sing a bit of it for her, yeah?” Michael asked happily, having all 8 boys nod as they stopped and formed a circle. You wound up being placed in the middle of them, for some reason. But you watched as Michael counted down before strumming. “At the second chorus, guys!” 

“Can you hear me? I’m tryna hear you!” Taka sang, staring straight into your eyes as you watched him sing. “Silences strikes like a hurricane–” everybody joined in to harmonize, having you fascinated at how loud and strong they sounded. 

“Take what you want, take what you want and go.” Luke began singing after the chorus, repeating the same lyrics as he tapped his foot. His voice was strong and a bit tired from the concert, but it was still as lovely as ever. 

“Still remember a time when you felt like home?” You turned to find Michael singing, watching as he strummed passionately. His green eyes were locked on yours as he sang beautifully. No matter what, there was nothing that could exhaust that boy. 

“Can you hear me? I’m tryna hear you–silence strikes like a hurricane!” You turned to hear Ashton singing, having him pat your head with his large hand. “I’m singing for you, you’re screaming at me! It’s hard to see your tears in the pouring rain!” All the boys then began harmonizing in ‘oh’ as you watched them sing. 

“Finish it, Calum!” Luke encouraged, having you turn over to your boyfriend. He offered his hands out, having you take them as Michael slowed his strumming pace. He looked into your eyes with his almond ones, seeing the adoration flow out of them. 

“Take what you want, take what you want and go…” Calum sang, having you blush before he went to plant a kiss on your forehead. Before you all knew it, people around you were clapping ecstatically. Several fans were going insane as their phones flashed several photos of you guys. 

“This is why we don’t randomly perform on the sidewalk, Michael!” Ashton somewhat scolded the bleach-haired boy, receiving a sheepish smile from him before going to take a selfie. You giggled as Calum placed his chin on your head with one arm wrapped around you. 

“Let’s have a lot of fun, okay?” Calum asked softly, his hands cupping your cheeks to turn your head to face him. You watched as he leaned his forehead against yours and looked into your eyes. There was a sudden twinkle in his almond ones, having you blush from his wild intensity. 

“O-okay…” you whispered, having Calum smile to get one out of you as well. 

23:55 P.M.

“5SOS and One OK Rock has entered the building!” Taka announced as you all stood in front of the open doorway. You were all on the top floor, which is known to have several pools, amazing service, and the best view of Tokyo. Plus, it was rumored that someone had a stage installed in the Penthouse Suite just for the party. 

“The guests of honor are here!” Someone shouted into a mic, having you giggle while watching the boys cheer right in front of you. You’ve watched them grow from those losers in the garage to rock stars on stages all over the world. Your eyes were threatening to create tears until you felt a tug upon your hand. 

“Huh?” You hummed, looking to see Calum glance at you from the front.Before he can speak, his phone suddenly began to ring. You watch as he fished out his phone and took a second to look before hanging it up. He then looked back at you again, his gaze kind and inviting.  

“C’mon,” Calum beckoned softly. “Let’s go in and party.” 

Tonight by the Jonas Brothers began to blast through the suite as everybody was having a ball. People were playing all sorts of games like beer pong and taking several body shots. It was insane how energetic this party was in comparison to Niall’s back in Dublin. 

“Y/N, baby, let me take a few shots off you!” Calum was beyond wasted. It was completely different from Niall’s party. He was practically swinging around with back to back beers, having you worry over his health. But he seemed to be having a blast, and you didn’t want to spoil it. 

“Okay,” you obliged, having him quickly pick you up to lay you down on the table by the living room. One of the many living rooms, anyways. You blushed as Calum slowly lifted your shirt up right before your breasts. Flushing, you watch as a mere stranger comes over and pours Vodka into your belly button. Moving away, you watch as Calum gives your belly a hungry lip lick with eagerness in his eyes. 

“Are you ready, princess?” Calum cooed seductively, having you jump from his lust as he suddenly latched his lips around your belly button. His tongue dipped into your belly button first, tracing circles in it as the Vodka spilled out a bit. But, he soon began sucking, the liquid being taken from your belly button. You couldn’t help but feel turned on by his suckage upon your stomach. Your skin was bound to turn red as he was sucking like he’d do when giving hickies. 

“Yeah, Hood!” People cheered him on as you shut your eyes embarrassingly. Although you trusted Calum, you couldn’t help but shy up from all the eyes locked on you. You suddenly felt the heat of his mouth disappear, indicating he unlatched his lips. You open your eyes, seeing as Calum gives your belly a kiss before looking over at you and giving you a wink. 

“Isn’t my girlfriend just beautiful?” Calum slurred, draping his shoulder carelessly on another person as he pointed at you. “Look at her– she’s as red as an apple! My new favorite fruit is her right now.” 

“Can we take a shot off her?” Another boy, fairly handsome, requested from your Maori king. Calum gave him a stupid face, looking immensely sour at the man who suddenly got nervous. 

“Ask me that ever again, and nobody will be able to recognize you after this party,” Calum threatened with a growl, having the man put his hands up while shyly escaping the crowd. The people around nervously chuckled as Calum pulled down your shirt and helped you sit up. 

“Please don’t get violent, okay?” You softly spoke to Calum, pushing yoru face against his chest as you wrapped your arms around him. He wrapped his arms around you in return, causing warmth in the loving embrace. The brace felt like it lasted years, but it came to a quick end when someone was yelling that Luke Hemmings was dancing his drunk heart out. 

“Oh fuck, Luke is dancing? This is the end of the world, honestly,” Calum snorts as he grabs your hand and leads you towards the source everybody was running to. Before you knew it, you were introduced to a side of Luke you’ve never seen before. 

On a large, runway stage, stood the blonde boy with blue eyes. His blouse-like shirt flowed with his movements while his skinny jeans restricted them. But nonetheless, he was moving in ways that you’d never imagine you’d ever see before. Luke was all smiles and pure energy in his eyes as he shook his ass on that stage. 

“Holy shit!” Calum exclaimed, letting out a laugh as he brought the both of you closer to the stage. Luke was dancing to Applause by Lady Gaga, having you cup your mouth to cover your laughter. He began clapping as he walked down the stage, having everybody clap with him as he sang the song without a mic. 

“I live for the applause, applause, applause– I live for the applause-plause, live for the applause-plause!” Luke shouted as he clapped his hands strongly together. “Live for the way that you cheer ‘n scream for me, the applause, applause, applause–!” 

“Luke is something else,” you let out a sigh as you dropped your head in your hand with pure defeat. 

24:32 P.M. 

Several people took a stab at this new Lip Sync Battle they created at the party. You thought it was absolutely silly, but loved the happy vibe they gave off from being so carefree. You then stopped giggle when Calum rushed on the stage and declared it his turn. 

“Calum, please–!” You tried, but Calum was far too drunk and glowing to even dare pay attention. 

“What song, mate?” The DJ called out. 

“Imma take Grind On Me!” Calum cheered, having the large crowd cheer with him. Before you knew it, you were being pushed forward to the stage as more people began packing the area. As soon as someone heard that Calum was performing, the party shifted from the other areas to see your Maori boy perform solo. 

“Your boyfriend is crazy, you know that?” You heard in your ear, turning to find Michael right by your side. He gave you a playful smirk before diverting his green eyes back to his band mate. “He’s really doing this…” 

“Trust me, I can’t believe it either,” you say quietly, smiling widely as you watched Calum beckon at someone for something. Before you knew it, a chair was crowd-surfing, making it to the stage as Calum reached to grab it. “What the fuck is he doing?” 

Calum sets up the chair at the front center of the stage, which is where you were stood by. He straightened it to perfection, dusting off the cushion before declaring it perfect. He then scanned the crowd, spotted you, and beckoned you over with his index finger. 

“E-eh?” You squeaked, pointing at yourself as a spotlight was shined on you. Everybody around you backed up and moved away to allow you to go to the stage. You turned to Michael, who offered his hand to you to guide you. Shyly, you take the tips of his fingers and allowed him to take you. 

“Let loose and have fun,” Michael assured with a smile, as he grabbed your waist and lifted you on the stage. Calum grabbed your hands as he did, helping you safely on the stage as you stood above everybody around. 

“Sit down, m’lady,” Calum seductively purred in your ear, feeling a sudden shudder trickle down your spine. With you practically froze, Calum grabbed your shoulders and sat you down on the chair. Once you were sat, Calum bent down to put his lips near your ear. You suddenly felt a nip at your earlobe, having your heart stop immediately. “Enjoy the show, love.” 

Speechless, you wait as the music begins to play and Calum was already starting his drunk improvisation. As the beginning music plays, Calum swayed his hips a bit before standing to your right. You watched in awe as he extends his other leg to the other side of you and slowly takes a seat on your lap. 

Baby grind on me

Relax your mind, take your time with me

His crotch was firmly placed upon yours, having you flush up immediately. But Calum refused to let you hide it, as he grabbed your chin and directed your face towards his. You locked eyes with him as you felt his hardening cock grind into your crotch. 

Let me get deeper shorty, ride on me

Now come and sex me til yo’ body gets weak

You never thought Calum was able to move like this. He swayed his hips like he’s been dancing all his life in pure secrecy. The way he moved them along with the beat was far too sexy than you could ever imagine. And feeling his hardening dick against you, you could feel yourself get hotter each time he grinds. 

His hands escape to grabs the wooden part of the backrest of the chair as he begins to grind harder. You snapped out of your frozen state to quickly grab his waist with your hands. You could hear the crowd go insane, with flashes going off and videos likely being taken. But you didn’t mind, and you doubted that Calum did, too. 

“Mmph, baby…” he moaned into your ear, feeling your body grow goosebumps all over. You took over at his face to see his cheeks flushed, his bottom lip between his teeth, and his almond eyes full of lust. You could hear his panting by your ear, hearing it so raw and raspy that you thought it’d be the death of you. 

But then again, everything Calum did was the end of you. 

Quickly, as the chorus repeated itself, Calum removed himself from your lap, having circulation return in them. He swiftly walked over behind you and gently took the chair to lay it down on the stage. With you still in it, you found your torso lying down with your legs up and bent. Screams emerged even louder this time as Calum put his legs on either side of you again, but with his knees now on the stage. 

His crotch was now pressed against your lower belly, while still managing to be able to dig into your cave. You looked up, fully blushing, as Calum stared at you with this incredible intensity. You could see him sweating, both from being turned on as well as the energy he was putting in for this. But you could tell that he was not planning to stop anytime soon. 

“You drive me insane like this, babygirl,” Calum spoke softly to you, his eyes dimming a bit as he stared at you. The both of you were practically panting, him from his grinding and you from being the one receiving the grinding. You then watch as Calum began to bite his bottom lip and biting off some dried skin. 

Without breaking the gaze, you took out your lip balm and took a dollop of it out. With the lubricant on your index finger, you reach up and wipe it slowly along his bottom lip. From left… to right… It felt smooth, like smearing butter on soft bread. Calum’s breath halted from your gentle touch, having him suddenly grab your wrist. The tip of your finger was still lightly touching his bottom lip. 

“Do you like touching my lips, baby?” Calum asked, only audible to you as you looked into his brown eyes. 

“Yes…” you practically breathed that confirmation out, feeling your cheeks burn with blood. He quickly sits up a bit and grabs the both of your wrists. You watch as he rose his crotch from your body and slammed your hands down on the stage. It was still overwhelming to you to think that he was doing this in front of so many people. 

“Do you like my lips against yours?” Calum growled, lowering his face down to you as he lightly brushes his nose on yours. 

“Y-yes…” 

“Do you want them on yours right now?” 

“Pl-please…” Before you knew it, he smashed his lips against yours graciously. You could feel your strawberry lip balm get smeared upon your lips as he kissed you hungrily. Even the flavor was dropping into your tongue as he broke into your mouth with his. You let him dominate as you were far too turned on and weak to even try. 

As he kissed you, you felt him pull back slightly. Not all the way, but enough to know that his lips weren’t desperately smashed on your lips. Squinting with one eye, you watch as Calum rose his left leg cautiously. He was balancing himself with his right as he brought his foot between your legs against the seat of the chair. With one motion, he quickly pushes it away, allowing your legs to fall stretched out and flat on the stage. 

The crowd was eating this performance up, having your heart pound even faster. It was practically hammering against your chest as Calum brought his crotch back down to yours. His dick was rock hard, feeling it very easily upon your oozing flower. You desperately wanted him, feeling his boner just as desperate to be inside you. 

“F-fuck–!” Calum growled, pulling his lips away from yours as he tried to grind on you deeper. You tried closing the desperate cause for no friction as you bucked your crotch against his. He cursed a bit again, having you writhe under him from how sexy he sounded. Finding this pleasantly repetitive, you finally noticed that the song was only a repetition of the chorus. 

“Calum! Calum! Calum!” The crowd chanted his name, encouraging his sexual movements being used upon you. But you noticed Calum growing tired, seeing as this performance should come to an end. You wrap your arms around his moist, hot neck and wrapped your legs around his waist. He takes note of the indication and stands up with you clinging onto him. 

With Calum back on his feet, you placed yours on the stage. You were suddenly pulled in for a warm hug, feeling Calum’s pants upon your chest as he embraced you. As the music slowly faded away, all you could hear was the incredible loudness of applause and cheers for you and Calum. 

“Um, wow!” Demi Lovato suddenly came to the both of you on stage with a mic. She was looking gorgeous, as usual. You couldn’t even get starstruck due to how much shock you were from Calum. “Where the hell did that come from, Calum?” 

As Demi handed Calum the mic, he held it to his mouth and simply stood there. Whistles and cheers were still being chanted as Calum looked at the crowd. He touched the microphone to his lips, and slightly parted them. But before he can utter any words, a sudden hiccup emerged from his mouth. 

You couldn’t help but giggle as everybody else joined in the laughter. 

this was… steamy. fuck, okay. please tell me whatcha think, loves? tell me right here aha xx thank you all for this amazing support during this crazy time in my life rn. i appreciate the patience and the support from yall bc ik i dont deserve but i really love it so much xx 

prompt- Chloe takes max to a punk concert, they get into a mosh, max punches Chloe out

Hella Thrashing

“Ready for the mosh pit, shaka brah!”

No, she was in fact so not ready.

Max realized her mistake all too late once she and Chloe arrived at the punk concert out of town. Sure, Max has seen concerts before but they were all behind the safety of a screen as she watched live recordings in preparation for this. Well that was stupid since no amount of hours watching could have possibly prepared her for the hellhole she so willing jumped into. She’s seen bigger venues in videos but that didn’t mean she could handle the smaller but still dauntingly large ones. Did she already mention the insane amount of people? It was amazing and suffocating at the same time. There’s seriously too many people crammed in here and she could have sworn that there’s more people here than there is in Arcadia Bay.

And Chloe wanted them to dive headfirst then swim right in until they were near the stage which was the only place where she could actually see the floor.

“I don’t know about this, Chloe.” Max confessed with her left hand consciously rubbing her right arm. She looked just as much as she felt and she felt like a defenseless human being about to get tossed into a pit filled with more humans than she’s comfortable with. Even worse, it’s a mosh pit. “I think it’ll be safer to just chill here in the back.”

“And miss out on all the fun? Lame!” Chloe scoffed at her as if she expected this reaction. She probably did. But it’s not like that’s going to stop her. “We came here to thrash. We didn’t drive out here for an hour just so we could quietly admire the view of the backs of people clearly having a good time. While we’re busy staying safe and boring, they’re punk and living dangerously!”

“Well living dangerously is kind of like the leading cause of not living. Literally.” Max joked and she hoped that with enough charm, Chloe would buy it. Of course hope and expectations were two different things and she’s learned so far to lower expectations around people especially when it came to Chloe and good decisions.

“Stop being so chickenshit, Max. It’s just a concert. It’s not going to kill you.” Chloe clapped her on the back encouragingly and then started dragging Max by the hand into the crowd of people. Max may have planted her feet on the ground but damn, Chloe’s packing guns with that incredible grip strength. “Besides, you asked for this. I know this isn’t exactly your scene but you’re the one who begged me to take your bony ass here. So sue me for being such a good friend.”

“Best friend.” Max corrected with a smile.

Chloe flashed her a toothy grin. “And best friends make stupid decisions together all the time.”

They dive deeper into the crowd and it’s kind of mind-blowing how they could possibly squeeze through barriers made of people when it looks like there’s hardly enough space to breathe. Max is pretty sure she’s made enough physical contact to last her a lifetime’s worth. They got a lot of glares and hand gestures for shoving in between people. Max ducked her head all throughout with muttered apologies while Chloe held her head high as if she owned the place and returned comments with her own colorful vocabulary. The deeper they headed, the more people there was seemingly cemented by their numbers. Once they got close enough to the stage and stopped, Max thought she could finally breathe in relief. Oh, how naive she was. They didn’t call it a pit for nothing. She could barely move in there and it was so hard to breathe. In th midst of Max’ suffocation, she worried about how worse it would get once the actual thrashing started.

“Is it…” She wheezed and then she had to gather her breath to yell loudly enough because not even she could hear herself. “Is it always this… intense?”

“You wish!” Chloe barked out a short laugh. “The show hasn’t even started yet. Don’t tell me you’re already quitting on me because I busted my ass just to get this spot and I’m not giving it up until the concert’s over.”

As much as Max wanted to tell her that she may have reached her limit long before that, she knew how much Chloe had looked forward to this. She’s not going to ruin this for her. And besides, as much as Max wasn’t into it, she was kind of looking forward to this too. Hanging out with Chloe always resulted in fun- reckless and bordering illegal fun but fun nonetheless. “Are you kidding me? I came here to thrash!”

What was it that Chloe said before? Best friends make stupid decisions together. Yeah, that one.

The band was loud. There was no other way to describe their music since Max could barely listen to the finer details when the speakers blared way too much than necessary. She honestly couldn’t tell if the music was that good but holy shit did she feel awesome. It was unlike anything she’s ever experienced before. Even the shy hipster Max could hear her inner punk calling or more like shouting. She could kind of understand why Chloe would like going to these kind of events. It really was something. Everyone was just full of life, too much life even, and it felt like there was literal energy in the air that even Max felt the buzz in her head. It was a low grumble at first but by the second song, it had everyone roaring.

“Aw, yeah! Let’s hella thrash!” Chloe whooped and that was the closest thing to a warning that Max was going to get before chaos ensued.

The whole world started to move but that made it sound like it was tame. No, this was no tame slight movement, this was wild thrashing and bodies colliding. With every hit, it energized the people and pretty much everyone around her were overcharged batteries dishing out at each other. And poor Max was being swept by the mosh pit that’s become like a force of nature, uncontrollable and unrelentling. She even got shoved to the side at some point, her arm out and ready to rewind, but before she could regain her bearings, someone had pushed her again. And that’s how Max accidentally clocked someone in the middle of a mosh pit.

When Max turned around to check on her partner and then turned again to check just who she decked, it’s only then that she connected the two.

“Holy shit! Chloe!” Max swore out loud as she dove after her fallen friend courtesy of her fault. “Sorry! I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to! There was just so many things happening at once and I panicked and-” She rambled on just spouting what came in to her mind. She wasn’t thinking at all, she was just talking and apologizing. It even took her a second to remember that she had time powers and make everything better. She raised her hand. “You know what, I’m just gonna-”

“Don’t!” Chloe hissed as she grabbed onto Max’s arm tighter than usual. Her voice was so low and easily drowned by the noise but Max heard the seriousness in her tone loud and clear. “Just. Don’t.”

“I’m so sorry, Chloe. I didn’t mean to. I swear it was an accident.” Max apologized again because one, she honestly meant it and two, she’s never heard Chloe with that tone before at least not at her. She did not want to incur her best friend’s wrath. “I fucked up. I’m going to rewind and make the pain go away, okay?”

Chloe’s grip on her tightened and as she pulled her in, she ordered, “Don’t you dare rewind that punch.”

“What? I already feel bad about it. I swear I’m going to tell you about it after I rewind! I just don’t want you to end up sporting that bruise.” Max half-explained and half-pleaded. She seriously messed up and Chloe didn’t want to let anyone of them forget. Max bit her lip as her eyes begged her to reconsider. “I fricking punched you, Chloe.”

“And it was one hella punch.” Chloe answered with that same deathly tone. And then the punk did the wildest thing and smirked devilishly. “You do me proud, Mad Max.”

Max blinked, confused. “What?”

“Cute. You seriously don’t know how a mosh works.” Chloe laughed, it was such a relief to hear that and easily the tenion was lifted. She then not so lightly punched Max at her shoulder. Max winced. Well that actually hurt. She was about to whine about it but then remembered that she did punch Chloe just seconds before. Chloe just laughed harder at Max’s face and gave her a clap on the back for good measure. “There. Now we’re even.”

“Wowsers.” Max let out a relieved breath and even found herself smiling again despite her nerves. “We just punched each other. Does that mean we’re bonded for life now?”

“Totally. Forever.” Chloe readily answered and even hit the sore spot again much to Max’s annoyance and pain. She was definitely enjoying this. “Now that we’re bonded, our first post-bonding activity is you helping me get back in there.” She gestured to the mosh pit that looked more like a storm of violence. “I’m going to fucking kick that asshole who groped me. I know the bastard’s in there somewhere. Come on, Max. Let’s fucking raise hell.”

“You mean hella?” Max quipped with a pun that she may have been saving for a while now.

“Did you just say my patented word? I am such a good bad influence on you.” Chloe’s grin was absolutely dazzling and her purpling bruise brought out her teeth quite attractively. “Welcome to the mosh pit, sistah!”

It was the most awesome mosh pit Max has ever gotten in to. Hella hardcore. She’s not going to another one anytime soon though since Chloe could get pretty intense and violent when given the chance. 

Besides, she’d rather crash at the after-party than thrash.

Party Days - 04/2016 - Section 35

I was supposed to go see Justin Bieber as soon as I landed back in California. Gabriel got tickets and wanted to take me. Daddy Bieber and Daddy Gabriel? That was something that I could get used too.

Only it didn’t happen.

 “Your flight is delayed four hours,” the lady said to me, as I approached the front desk. I rolled my eyes a little at her. It wasn’t her fault. There wasn’t anything I could even do anyway. But that didn’t stop me from getting a little mad.

Justin fucking Bieber?! Come on airlines. I got things to fucking do. People to see. Boys to make out with. Music to dance too. Liquor to drink.

I took a deep breath and got a drink. The countdown to my twenty first was rapidly approaching. I had two more weeks and then I would be able to order an overpriced drink at one of the lounges in the airport when something like this happens.

 I finally landed and took an uber back to my house. Savannah ran downstairs to meet me. We screamed so loud we probably woke up the whole university. We started walking upstairs and she was updating me on what was going on. I was updating her on things that went on in Florida. It was weird to go to Florida without Savannah.

 Trevor and Mike met us like twenty minutes later. Mike was this guy that Trevor plays darts with. He’s in his late 20s, but that didn’t stop him from being dope. Mike had become someone I genuinely like talking to. He’s funny as fuck. He makes jokes about everything, and him and his girlfriend are couple goals.

They brought beer. I couldn’t stop looking at myself in the mirror. I couldn’t really enjoy my haircut when I was in Florida, because the humidity made it almost impossible to look good. I really liked the way it shaped my face, and I looked darker than usual. I drank a few beers.

Brittany made her way over to my house, and then so did Gabriel. I wrapped my arms around Gabriel, and he held me tight. Truthfully, I didn’t know what was going to happen between us, but there was a huge part of me that wanted to find out. There was something here, especially for me. I’m just hoping I don’t fuck anything up trying to see where this takes us.

Gabriel told me all about the concert. I was getting more insanely jealous as he told me about Justin. It didn’t take long for me to wish I would have left a day earlier. I should have been here. I should have been dancing with Bieber.

We all started drinking and arm wrestling. I felt like I was home. In this moment, this is the most feeling of “home” I’ve ever had. I’ve found myself with peace all the time, taking control of my own house. I made my own rules here. I paid rent and I paid the utilities. I was growing up. I just needed a job so I could cut David out of my life.

We all ended up getting pretty trashed and singing on the back patio until like three in the morning. Passing the camera around, and posting snapchats. I’ve kind of made my place into a trap house, but not in the sense of dirty. I keep it clean. Well by that, I mean Savannah keeps it clean. This is where people went when they wanted to just forget about a few things. This was the place to go if you wanted to have a few drinks, and laugh harder than you’ve laughed in a long time. This is where I’m supposed to be.

The partying continued for a few days. Katherine and Ashley started coming over daily too. It was pretty much where everyone came after work or school. I didn’t mind it. I really didn’t like being alone. For the most part, I really only wanted people at my house on Tuesday and then the weekends. I thought that it would have helped me with school. School. I felt like I hadn’t heard that word in a while now. I was going to have to start going back so I can play catch up. I didn’t want my teachers to give up on me.

I didn’t want to fail.

Gabriel and I were getting closer. We went to this Mexican restaurant after class one day. It was our sober date. I wanted to get to know him better. I knew a lot about him, but it was stuff you learn about someone after you spend so much time with them. We talked about our families and where we’re from. He told me about how hard it was to come out, and that he cried when he finally accepted he was gay.

I honestly had no idea that he viewed sexuality like that. Sometimes it’s hard for me to relate about coming out, because everyone knew I was gay. I felt like they were more shocked about me saying I wasn’t gay for so long. Coming out wasn’t a huge deal to me. I liked listening to him talk though. Gabriel is a very smart. There was something about him that made me place him on a higher pedestal than most people. I thought he was special. He was different. Gabriel was an emotional guy, with a huge heart. He cared about people, but he also worked his ass off to get to where he was.

 I looked at him sitting across from me. Everything felt so natural with him. I didn’t have to force conversation, or rush anything. Everything was so smooth. I usually didn’t like eating in front of people that I go on “dates” with. I used to think that if people saw me eating, that they would think I’d get fat and wouldn’t be hot anymore. It’s kind of dumb, but it’s because I watch what I eat because of when I used to be fat. If I didn’t have my looks then I’d have to rely on my personality, which wasn’t that great in my opinion.

We ended the day just talking more. I wasn’t sure what Gabriel saw in me, or if he even saw something in me. 

 I told Savannah about how the day went. Savannah was great at listening to me, because she knew that I liked Gabriel a lot more than I let on. The only thing that was throwing me off was when it happened. There wasn’t an exact moment, we just kind of floated in this direction. I didn’t know what to do. I didn’t want to mess up our friendship. I valued having him in my life, and I know that dating me wouldn’t be easy. I’m so bipolar. I’d probably make him start going crazy.

That leads me to the night I had a party. It wasn’t just a kickback, or a small party in my room. It was shoulder to shoulder throughout my whole apartment. There was loud music, bitches twerking and my anxiety going through the roof. I really wanted to enjoy it, but there was a huge piece of me was worried about someone breaking or stealing the TV. Nothing that was out here was mine. My roommates owned all of it. They bought it.

 I sat outside on the ledge talking to some guy named Tony. He’s friends with one of the guys that lives next door. Tony was cute, but I didn’t think that he was gay. Even if he was, he wasn’t really my type. Plus, I wanted to see if I could be able to date Gabriel, and still have guys flirt with me and not make moves on it. I wanted to see if I could be loyal.

 I kept hearing the music louder, more people coming. The funny thing about this apartment complex is that these parties happen a lot here. They usually end with the cops coming, kicking everyone out. All these drunk teenagers and college students spill out into the streets. Which is where the real fun is. I usually sit on my balcony, and watch all the drama that happens below after a party gets shut down. I’ve seen countless guns, fist fights, and just random bitches yelling. I didn’t live on the safest part of Fresno - but it was far from ghetto. It was just a university that had some gang violence here and there.

Not tonight though.

Tonight everyone was literally cramming into my apartment. I went inside, and climbed over people through the couch. Savannah locked herself in my room. She didn’t want to always party. I respected that. I kind of felt bad, because I had told Savannah that this is going to be where she can grow too. I told her that I only party on certain days, and that we would both figure out who we wanted to be.

 I’ve been having kickbacks almost every single night. She doesn’t want to partake sometimes, so she’ll sit in my room and wait for everyone to leave. I was a shitty roommate towards her sometimes, and I always feel a little bad about that. Some of my friends started being rude to her, and I shouldn't have let them come over if they were going to act like that to someone that was living with me.

Gabriel was talking to this girl and he pulled me over. I forget if it was a close friend or a cousin or something. We all took pictures together. I kept feeling my heart beating faster. I wanted to drink, but I didn’t want to stop being aware. This was dangerous territory for me. My roommates have been cool with letting Savannah live here. They were cool with my nonstop drinking and kickbacks. I didn’t want to really lose them when they saw how many people were standing in our apartment right now.

“I took a deep breath, and Trevor must’ve noticed something was wrong.

“You want it to end?” he asked. I nodded my head, as I almost got consumed by the crowd of drunk bitches.

“Everyone get the fuck out,” Trevor yelled, loudly. It was so aggressive that I was even tempted to leave the apartment. As people started pouring out of the apartment. I had to partake in the crowd. I was a little bitch.

“This is a lame ass party,” I mumbled with some girls beside me. We all walked to the door, and then I shut it.

Emptiness.

 Nothing was gone or broken. I felt relieved about that. I was mad that I wasn’t able to enjoy myself, but if this was to ever happen again, I would have to remove all the valuable items for the night.

 I took a deep breath, and then Trevor, Gabriel, Katherine, Ashley and I continued drinking. My phone vibrated and two of my friends were downstairs waiting for me to let them in. I grabbed my keys to go let them in. Katherine came with me.

There were still a bunch of people just standing in the hallway. I guess nobody knew where to go. I ended up seeing my friends and then two other people that were standing at the door. Being the drunk guy that I am, I introduced myself. The girl was Cierra and the guys name was Dom. Dom was tall, slim and hella gay. He looked good though. I really don’t know what it was, maybe it was the anxiety, maybe it was the alcohol or maybe it’s the fact that I have no control. But we both leaned in to kiss.

 I kiss strangers all the time, it’s not a big deal to me. The part that was a big deal to me was that I was trying to be serious with Gabriel.

 I realized that I didn’t think I could. I wasn’t ready.

Dom put his hands on me, and his tongue slid into my mouth. That’s when the reckless side of me really kicked in. I slid my hand down his body, until it went into his pants. He’s black, and fits the big dick stereotype.

“Let’s go,” Katherine said, saving me from making more mistakes. Dom got my number and I headed back upstairs.

As soon as I got to my door, I realized how much I hated myself. I don’t say that lightly, I mean I really hate myself sometimes. I literally have things going for me, and throw them away. I have something that could have been real, real feelings with someone that’s been super amazing to me and I threw it away for what? Some guy that I just met downstairs. I didn’t want to open the door. I didn’t want to hide it from Gabriel, but I didn’t want to tell him.

That didn’t become my choice anymore though.

Katherine was telling everyone that she found me making out with some stranger. She wasn’t snitching on me. I don’t think she knew how serious I wanted to be with Gabriel. A part of me decided I should stop saying that we were so serious, considering I couldn’t even take myself serious. I could see that he was a little hurt, but he hides it well. He made jokes, laughed, drank more. A small part of me really wanted to believe that he would just let it slide. I fucked up one time.

 I fuck up all the time though. My life decisions and choices need some work, and they’re going to take time. I make mistakes though.

Everyone eventually left, and Savannah and I sat against the wall in my bed. I told her how bad that I fucked up with Gabriel.

“He said that if you did anything more with that guy than just make out with him, then he’s done,” Savannah said. The thing that really sucks now is that I’m stuck. I can’t just retract wanting to date. I can’t call it off, because I’m the one that made such a huge deal out of it. If I just tell him that I changed my mind, then our friendship isn’t going to be the same.

 I sat there, losing myself in endless thoughts and regrets. I took another shot of the vodka that we had, and I let myself fall asleep. Maybe things would be better in the morning.

Relentless | Calum Hood Series Pt.10

                                                   Part T E N 

Request: Being the cousin of Ashton Irwin was exciting, especially when invited to their tour to hang out with his best friends. You found yourself becoming fond of Calum Hood, who finds you annoying from your constant appearance. But what would happen if you stopped giving him that attention?

Word Count: 4.5k +

A/N: ahhh im sorry in advanced! this isnt extremely jealous!cal but it is there! i hope you all arent disappointed in me ahaa i really hope ya’ll enjoy this and please get it to 100 notes, as usual ! xx

Parts: one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, seventeen, eighteen, nineteen, twenty. [DONE]

                                                    I M A G I N E 

Dublin, 19:35 P.M. 

The Jeep full of you and the band finally began pulling over by a large home. It was lovely from the outside, seeming lavish with beautiful stone tiles and sugarcane plants. But it was extremely lively with bodies hanging around it, music blasting from the windows, and lights of all sorts beaming out. 

“Hey, you okay?” Ashton asked softly, poking your cheek to capture you from your mind. You look over at him and nod, half-assing that to him. You were unable to convey how nervous you were. There are several famous bodies with net worths higher than your intuition. 

“Just a little nervous,” you muttered, staring distantly at the crowd. But then Calum slipped his hand into yours and gave you a light squeeze. You turned over to him, being greeted with one of his warm, reassuring smiles. 

“It’ll be okay,” Calum said quietly. He gives you a gentle peck upon your cheek as the boys begin to hop out the car. Music exploded into the car once they opened the door. “Just stay by me and it’ll be just fine.” 

“Okay...” 

Hesitantly, you left the car and waited for Calum to come by your side. Once he did, the Jeep pulled away and Calum wrapped his arm around your waist. The music was loud and surrounded the entire place. Calum began guiding you inside while greet people along the way. You were definitely sure you saw Hayley from Paramore grab Calum’s arm briefly before you two entered the home. 

“Oh shit, it’s Calum fucking Hood!” Yelled the owner of the voice who you never thought you’d see in the flesh. Harry Styles, wearing a blouse of roses and black skinny jeans, said with a large smile. Pulling his curly hair back, he gives Calum a side hug while rubbing his back enthusiastically. “You boys came awful late, yeah?”

“Michael didn’t want to seem like a loser and said we should be ‘fashionably late,’” Calum said with a sigh, sharing a laugh with Harry as you watched in awe. It was insane to see one of the One Direction boys at a party this far from England. But then again, what do you expect from a worldwide sensation like One Direction? 

“What the hell did you guys do to pass the hours then?” Harry asked, genuine curiosity in his green eyes. 

“Isn’t it obvious? We watched some Glee and fucked,” Calum joked, getting a harsh laugh from Harry as he covered his face with his free hand. 

“I’ve fucking missed you, mate!” Harry says, planting a kiss on Calum’s cheek as they shared another laugh. His attention was then handed over to you, who stiffened and became breathless. “Who’s this lovely glass of water here, lad?”

Did Harry Styles just call me a glass of water? 

“Hold your horses, Styles,” Calum began, playfully shoving him away as Calum held you tighter. “This is my girlfriend, Y/N. She’s also Ashton’s little cousin.” 

“Oh really?” Harry replied, eyeing you up and down as he offered you his hand. You widened your eyes, looking over at Calum as he reluctantly gives you the OK. With hesitance, you placed your small hand in Harry’s large on. He then brought your hand over to his lips and placed a gentle kiss on the top of it. “It’s nice to meet you, Y/N. You’re very gorgeous.” 

“Th-thank you...” You choked out, having it barely audible as you were still in awe over being in the presence of Harry Styles. Goosebumps spread all over your arms from that kiss, still feeling the light chapped, but smooth lips on them. Harry chuckled softly from seeing your shocked expression. 

“She’s never really met many celebrities other than us,” Calum amuses, having you blush even more as some Panic! At The Disco began to play. “And she hasn’t been touring with us, so this is just a matter of firsts for her.” 

“That’s actually quite charming then,” Harry began, giving you a smile as he released your hand. “No worries though, Y/N. I’m just as dorky as Calum and them.” You found that very hard to believe, but you took his word for it. With your lips still slightly parted from shock, Calum goes and lifts your jaw up by the chin. 

“Anyways,” Calum says with a chuckle as he turns back to Harry. “Where’re the other lads? I was hoping to see Horan right when I entered through this door.” Horan? As in... Niall Horan? 

“He’s over at the back, by the pool,” Harry said, jabbing his thumb over to the back of the house. “D’you guys want any drinks, by the way? Might as well get yourself buzzed now that you’re here.” 

“Let me get a beer,” Calum spoke in his ear as someone rose the volume of the music. “I’m gonna share it with her.” Harry obliged as he disappeared into the frenzy of people. Calum guided you over to the side so you were no longer by the entrance. 

“Calum, why can’t I have my own?” You asked, more in curiosity than sadness. 

“Because I don’t trust myself if I get wasted,” Calum began as his lips were only inches from your ear. “I also don’t know how much you can tolerate before you make a bad move you might regret.” 

“That’s understandable,” you replied, giving him a warm smile as he gives you a quick peck on the lips. It warmed your heart that Calum was not only worried about you, but also himself. He seemed so cautious already, and you two just started dating. It seems like he doesn’t dare want to make a mistake. 

“Alright, c’mon. Let’s go find the rest of the dickheads.” Calum held you by your hand as he began guiding you through the crowds. You kept passing familiar faces, those that are splattered on TV and the internet. You tried not to freak out while Calum finally led the both of you to the backyard. 

There were cliques of people all over the backyard, sat in all the seats and on top of the tables. A series of empty beer bottles were ornate all around the pool. People were already swimming in the pool, with bottles in their hands as they held conversation. Lights were blaring everywhere by the DJ, who was on top of the hill that held a waterfall. It spewed out water into the pool, like in that one High School Musical movie. 

“Yo, Hood, over here!” A voice screamed, having you look over to see Luke waving his arm at the two of you. Calum guided you through, shaking hands of multiple famous faces before reaching the destination. You looked to find Luke and Ashton sharing a laugh with Niall and Louis Tomlinson. 

“Shit, Hood, how goes it?” Louis started, his voice fairly raspy but excited as he goes to give your boyfriend a big hug. You let go of Calum’s hand to let him hug Louis back. 

“Oh, don’t think I’ve seen you before.” Looking over, you see as Niall’s blue eyes dart into yours. You were starstruck again, feeling yourself stiffen up as your heart raced. “Are you a groupie?” 

“I-I...” You tried, but your words failed you. Luckily, Ashton rushed to your side and placed his arm around your shoulders. 

“This is my little cousin, Y/N!” Ashton said proudly. “We’ve invited her for part of the tour as her ‘study abroad’ program for her studies.” Niall smiled, now informed of the situation. He suddenly opened his arms to you and grinned. 

“Nice to meet ya, Y/N!” Niall began, waiting for you to fall into his arms. You felt your stomach churn, having you look over at Ashton for reassurance. 

“Is this okay?” You asked, having Niall chuckle. 

“Of course it is, c’mere!” Niall answered for Ashton, having you shyly enter Niall’s arms as he gave you a tight squeeze. He smelled nice, wearing a not-so pungent cologne. You reluctantly wrapped your arms around him, still in shock that you’re even in contact with Niall. 

“This is really just... wow!” You began, pulling away to stare at Niall. “I’ve listened to all your stuff and have been to a couple of concerts, but I never thought I’d meet you guys-- I’m just so!” You couldn’t formulate your words properly from the shock of just meeting 2 members of One Direction. 

“Aw, that’s so kind, thank you!” Niall said, getting such a polite smile from him as your cheeks continued to burn from shyness. Suddenly, an arm wrapped itself around your waist as you looked over to see it was Calum. 

“So I see you’ve met my girlfriend, Niall,” Calum began, a touch of what you believe to be jealousy rung in his words. 

“Wow, really?” Niall was amazed as he took another good look at you. “You’ve really scored, Calum. She’s absolutely beautiful, without a doubt.” 

“Th-thanks... wow...” You breathed, still unsure how to take this all in. “I’m really rocking this strong case of starstruck.” Everybody laughs as you give them a shy, small smile. 

“You’re starstruck?” Louis popped up in front of you. He bent down enough so his face was just a fair few inches away from yours. “I’m out of breath to see Calum with a very beautiful girlfriend.” You blushed, having Calum tighten his grip on you. 

“Thanks,” Calum said for you. “But now I feel like my jealousy is gonna explode if she goes and meet Liam now.” Everybody shares a laugh, with Calum joining in. But seeing in his eyes, he still had this sort of jealousy in his eyes. 

“Calm down, I’ve still got Eleanor by my side,” Louis teased with a cheeky grin. “And Liam is off with Cheryl playing beer pong, I think.” Everyone shared another laugh while moving on to another conversation topic. Harry came over and passed the opened beer to Calum. 

“Thanks, mate,” Calum said as he began clinking his glass with the rest of the boys. “Oh, Y/N-- Niall is the host of this party.” 

“Oh! Thank you for inviting me then!” You chirped shyly, having Niall laugh a bit. 

“Have you seen Michael?” Calum asked Ashton. 

“He’s with Crystal, playing beer pong,” Ashton informs, having Calum nod before he squeezed your hip lightly. 

“We’ll see you guys around, yeah?” Calum began, waving them away as you could barely raise your hand. You never thought that One Direction would be so kind to you. Especially with the audacious compliments in front of your boyfriend. 

“Where are we going?” You asked Calum while he dragged you back inside the lovely home. He stays mute, turning into a hallway that led into the living room. A large tennis table was ornate in the middle of it, with a large crowd around it. Calum shoved the both of you through to find what was expected. Liam Payne and Cheryl, playing against Michael and a pink-haired beautiful.

She’s quite beautiful, you thought, watching the two play with such focus. Michael quickly shot his ping pong ball into Liam’s cup, having the crowd scream in enjoyment as Michael puts his arms up in success. Calum guides the both of you behind Liam, seeing as he taps him behind the shoulder. 

“Mm?” Liam hummed as he gulped down the contents of the red solo cup. His brown eyes widened at the sight of Calum, putting the cup down to hug him. As he did, Cheryl came by and greeted you with a smile. 

“I assume you’re Calum’s girlfriend?” Cheryl asked politely. 

“How’d you know?” You asked, a bit in awe as you looked at the beautiful brunette before you. 

“Well, your hands are together, aren’t they?” Cheryl said with a fond smile, having you look down to see that. Calum was hugging Liam with one arm, refusing to let go of your hand. “It’s quite cute. What’s your name?”

“I’m Y/N,” you say politely, feeling your starstruckness mellow down as you finally met another girl. “You’re Cheryl, right? You’re really beautiful.” 

“Aw, you’re so sweet!” Cheryl says as she gives you a gentle tap on your shoulder. It was exposed after all, as you were wearing a white, off-the-shoulder shirt. “You’re a button yourself.” 

“And I thought I was going to get jealous from all the boys.” The two of you turn to see Calum and Liam staring at the two of you. Calum gave you a light squeeze of your hand. “Now I’m gonna get overworked by girls complimenting my girlfriend, too.” 

“It’s alright, mate,” Liam tries to reassure. His oak eyes study you for a moment before he gives you a warm smile. “She is beautiful, you should be happy that other people see what you see, Cal.” 

“Well, yeah, I guess,” Calum replies with a mutter, still overprotective as he pulled you over and leaned your side against his. His arm was back around your waist as he kissed your temple. “Still can’t help my jealousy though.” 

“Understandable,” Liam replies as he takes Cheryl in his arms as well. “What’s your name, love?”

“Y/N...” you breathed, your eyes completely wide to see Liam in the flesh and as well calling you beautiful. The One Direction boys would be the end of Calum Hood soon. “You’re Liam P-Payne...” Your cheeks flushed pink as the other three laughed at you. 

“Y/N!” A voice suddenly called for you, turning over to see the other side of the tennis table. Michael waved and gave you a wide smile, having you return it.  C’mere!” Calum says goodbye to Liam and Cheryl for the both of you before going to the other side to meet Michael. 

“Crystal!” Calum cheered, letting your hand go before going to the pink-haired girl a hug. Although it might’ve stung your heart a bit from jealousy, it was okay. Calum’s previous speech reassures you all the time, knowing that he very much loves you. Michael decides to go over to you and gives you a warm hug. 

“I just saw you, y’know,” you began, giggling as Michael gave you such a warm embrace. “You’re acting like we haven’t seen you in years.” 

“Calum has taken you ever since he got you,” Michael says, his voice semi-joking. “I’ve missed your constant appearance.” 

“Aw, Mike!” You say sympathetically, pulling back to ruffle Michael’s hair. “You’re adorable, I miss you as well, Mikey. But I’ll be on tour with you guys for most of the time, so I’ll be seeing you practically every day.”

“I know that,” Michael mumbled, looking down at you with this surprising shine in his eyes. His forest green eyes seemed more intense than usual, having you ponder this random intensity. His hands were rested on your shoulders, having you look up at him in this confusing gaze. 

“Hey.” The two of you looked over to see Calum holding Crystal’s arms. “Mind if I can share a dance with your woman, Michael?” 

“I do mind, but because it’s you, I don’t,” Michael says with a chuckle, having Calum roll his eyes as the two walked over to where the other people were dancing. Maps began playing, having you and Michael stand awkwardly as you watched your lovers get close and dance. 

“Well, shall we dance as well then?” Michael suggested, having you shrug before giving him a gentle nod. 

20:09 P.M.

It’s been a few minutes now and several songs have passed. Yellow began to play, the slow melody causing a few people to take a seat while others grabbed their dance partners close. Michael politely kept a distance from you as he held you a little more above your waist so he didn’t seem disrespectful. 

“You know it’s okay to hold my waist, right?” You said with a snort, your hands around Michael’s neck. “We’re childhood friends after all.” 

“I know,” Michael mumbled, his green eyes dimming a bit. “I just prefer it like this.” 

“Okay.” A few seconds pass, and a voice finally starts to sing in the song. The two of you slowly danced in a circle in simple 2-step motions. As you did, Michael seemed a bit bothered, with a tiny sad glimmer hinted in the shines of his eyes. They were directed towards Calum and Crystal, who were a little more closer than the both of you as she rested her head on his shoulder. 

Look at the stars, look how they shine for you

“Do you feel it?” Michael began again, going a little closer to you to speak more at your ear. You picked up your head a bit and looked up at Michael, seeing as his eyes were back to lock onto yours. 

And everything you do... Yeah, they were all yellow

“Feel what?” You asked softly, small shatter happening around you as the peaceful song resumed to play. 

“His love.” Silence emerged in your mind as you looked into Michael’s eyes. He was talking about Calum, wasn’t he? You bit your bottom lip a bit and nodded, giving him that as you answer as Michael nodded in return to take it. “Make sure to remember this feeling as much as possible.” 

“Hm?” You were puzzled, unsure as to what Michael was getting at. 

I came along... I wrote a song for you

“I know that the both of you just hooked up, but it’s obvious that love is at it’s strongest at the beginning for most cases,” Michael said lowly, diverting his eyes down to the floor as he spoke. “So I want you to remember this feeling very well.” 

And all the things you do, and it was called yellow

“Why are you telling me this?” You asked softly. You weren’t angry or upset with him. Genuine curiosity sprouted in your mind while in this conversation with the bleach-haired boy. The music continues as the conversation stood still between the both of you. 

“So that when there ever comes a time when you think you don’t feel it,” Michael began, raising his eyes once more to introduce you to that small hint touch of sadness. “Remind yourself of that feeling so you understand the difference of being loved properly and not.” You looked into Michael’s eyes, his sadness wiped away with genuine care. 

Your skin, oh yeah your skin and bones

Turn into something beautiful 

You know, you know I love you so

“Thank you, Mikey,” you said softly, getting a genuine smile from Michael’s lips. You went up and gave him a tight hug, feeling his arms wrap around you in return to create the embrace. His hand safey placed itself in your head, weaving into your hair slightly. It felt warm and safe, knowing how much Michael cared about you. No matter what happens, you’d know that Michael would be there, ready with his arms open and his warm smile welcoming. 

You know I love you so...

“Hurry up and finish your damn bottle, Harry!” Liam demanded as Harry began chugging his Murphy’s bottle. You all cheered him on as he had a bit of beer streaming down the curve of his lips and down to his chin. It began dripping down to the carpet, having you all laugh as he lets out a loud burp. 

“You’re fucking disgustin’ mate!” Niall yelled as he playfully waved the air in front of him. You with the entirety of 5SOS and 1D were sat in a circle with Cheryl and a few more party goers. Everyone wanted to play a bit of Truth or Dare, hence initiating this. 

“At least he emptied it, yeah?” Louis joked, everybody laughing again as he nudged Niall. Harry wiped the streaming beer away as he rubbed his hands together in preparation for the game. As Liam announced the rules, Calum pulled you over between his legs, forcing you to pull your legs together from this new seating arrangement. Thankfully, you had shorts on so it was much easier to do so. Calum’s arms wrapped around your belly as he held you close, feeling his torso from your back. 

“Alright, who wants to be the lucky bastard to go first?” Liam announces, having Luke wave his hand like a little kid in class trying to participate. “Alright Hemmings, here.” Liam places the bottle in the middle of everybody, having Luke stretch out from his comfortable seating as he spun the bottle. It landed on Niall. 

“Oh, the lucky host gets the first go!” Calum cheered happily, having you giggle from his immense excitement. Niall’s eyes go a bit wide before laughing while looking at Luke. 

“I dare you to chug these 3 cans of beers here in under 2 minutes,” Luke says as he glanced over at the beers behind him. He tosses them to Niall, who gladly takes them as Louis takes out his pocket knife to make a hole in the first one. 

“Let’s go, Niall!” Harry screamed, initiating the start of the dare as Niall begins to down the can. It was so hyper and explosive, the energy of the game. Calum was as well into it, but couldn’t help peck a few kisses against your neck. He’d rub his fingertips against the spine of your back, seeing the way you contort your body slightly from the light, but strong motion. 

In the end, Niall drank those beers in a minute and 42 seconds. 

Everybody continued the game, all the fun in it as they did ridiculous dares. From Cheryl kissing another girl to Ashton giving a bad lap dance to Louis. You loved the atmosphere, even while Calum kept passing dares for you that involved doing things with other people that wasn’t him. 

“Calum, it’s you,” a girl beside him announces as Calum looks past you to see the bottle pointed at his foot. He shrugs and let’s out a ‘can’t be helped’ as he looked over at who spun it. It was Harry, of course. 

“Truth or dare, loser,” Harry asked, having Calum stick his tongue out at him as he thought for a good moment. 

“How about truth?” Calum said, almost suggestively, as he held you tight. Everybody else groaned a bit, as they didn’t enjoy truths. They were typically boring at most parties. 

“Hmm...” Harry thought, tapping at his chin as he stared up at the ceiling. But then his green eyes darted back down to you and his lips suddenly formed into a smirk. “Tell us your real feelings about Y/N. And be honest.”

A frenzy of ‘ooo’s began as all the girls stared at Calum eagerly. Even the boys seemed interested in what Calum has to say. You blushed, looking behind at Calum as he studied your face closely. He held a stern face, but his lips slowly curved into a soft smile before turning back to the circle. 

“My real feelings?” Calum repeated. “I’d have to say that I adore her with every single atom of my body. If you’re asking for my real feelings, that’s the only real response I can give you. Nobody here would ever get to understand my feelings for her with mere words. Not even lyrics to songs dedicated to her could do justice over my love for her. I wish I could tell you guys, though. But let’s just say that my love for her is unconditional, unreasonable, and inexplicable.” With that, Calum finishes by placing a cheek against the back of your neck.

Silence stilled in the circle before Ashton chirped in. 

“Well shit,” Ashton began, staring at the both of you with a heavy gaze. “Fuck me, I’m glad my cousin isn’t dating so much of a dickhead.” 

“Pardon you!” Calum spat as he wrapped his arms around you tightly while everybody else laughed. Everyone continued the game fine, but as for yourself, you were too busy thinking about Calum’s words. They meant so much to you that you were in disbelief that you could even breathe. He always knew how to make you breathless, and these were the kinds of moments where you couldn’t even imagine how he was even yours in the first place. 

22:15 P.M.

It was barely late, but the night was not as young as it once was. The game of Truth or Dare lasted a little under 2 hours, exhausting everybody from the new facts everybody learned about one another. But Calum decided that being in the house too long was choking. So he led the both of you outside to the pool, which was practically vacant. Few couples were there as well, sharing either sentimental conversations or heated kisses. 

“Are you having a good time, love?” Calum asked softly into your ear as he kissed your cheek. You nod, swishing your feet slowly in the pool as Calum grabbed your waist and pulled you closer. He places your legs over his sloppily, the tips of your toes now touching the water. 

“Yeah, it’s been really nice,” you respond softly, leaning your head against Calum’s shoulder as he rubs your shoulder. “Everybody was so nice and accepting of me, it was so wild. Especially One Direction, that was a roller coaster on my heart.” 

“Same here,” Calum said with a low chuckle. “Although I really wanted you to meet them, I was very jealous when they complimented you so much.” 

“There’s no need to be,” you tried reassuring Calum, rubbing his knee a bit with your hand. “I’m only set on you.” 

“I know that, baby,” Calum responded softly, planting a soft kiss on the top of your head. “And I’m glad everybody acknowledges how gorgeous you are, because you are. I just get a little insecure.” You give his shoulder a kiss before leaning on it once more. 

“I’m all yours, Calum, I promise.” 

The both of you allowed silence to swallow the conversation, having you appreciating one another’s company. Calum then stops leaning with his other arm and sits up a bit. He takes you into both of his arms to give you a real hug. One warm and full of love. He rubs your arm slowly, admiring the smoothness of it with his calloused hand.

“I love you, Y/N,” Calum whispers on your head. You felt those plump lips against your scalp, feeling him give you another light squeeze. “I love you so, so much.” At that moment, you felt all sorts of elated and excited. Not only because of how he loved you, but how he was going to show you it as the two of you develop your new relationship. 

You felt the sparkle strongly there as your eyes noticed a large star in the sky. In that vast universe, there were little freckles of stars on them without knowing where they’ve come from. But here was this large star, shining much brighter than the rest as it looked down at the both of you. 

It looked a little more yellow than just a simple white dot. 

You felt Calum rest his head against yours, his breathing a little heavier than just a moment ago. He was likely taking himself a small nap, with his arms still tightly around you. A few quiet snores escaped his nose as your pairs of feet floated on the chlorinated water. Giving focus to that star once more, you smile and close your eyes as well. 

I can feel it, Michael. I feel properly loved by him, I promise. 

ahhh this was so long wth ! im so sry that it ended up so long, but i lost a bit of control aha. please do tell me whatcha think right over here. thank you all for the support, it is insanely amazing and i love it so much. i might not be able to write as frequently now due to class, but i will continue writing. for ya’ll xx