Introducing Germany’s starboy number 47 Mick Schumacher

After Class

For @himebee-5's prompt!

Summary: Petra is Professor Ackerman's star student and yet, she keeps meeting him for office hours every Monday afternoon.

Rated: E

CWs: teacher/student relationship, age gap, praise kink

Word count: 3.2k

Surprise! I queued up another fic for smutty Saturday since I'll be out for most of the day--enjoy! 😉

She was distracting.

Levi prided himself in his stellar concentration, his perfunctory work, and despite his cold and callous demeanor, he was an excellent professor. Always receiving high remarks from his students and colleagues, and managing to churn out at least two research papers a year, there was little that compromised his neat routine.

He pushed his glasses up the bridge of his nose as he faced the chalkboard, clearing his throat. Levi Ackerman didn’t make mistakes, but after one look at her, his mind went elsewhere as he absently completed the calculus equation and one student shakily raised his hand and said, “E-excuse me sir, but I think you forgot to take the derivative in the fifth step.”

Taking a step back, realizing that his glasses slipped from its usual position since he took a double take at her, he merely nodded and erased the step in which he made the error and redid the equation. He thanked the student and a flurry of pencils hit paper as they recorded the problem, and Levi glanced at his watch, giving them a few minutes before he moved on.

It’s wasn’t just the plaid mini skirt and thigh high stockings that did it--he knew he was enough of a perverted old man that he at least acknowledged that turned him on, but the way she sat in the front row, prim and studious as she eyed him for the hour and a half lecture made him feel stupidly special. Most students’ eyes glazed over, and he didn’t give a shit if they were on their phones, it was their time and money after all, but the way her amber orbs never left him was almost damn unsettling if she didn’t have such a coquettish look.

Her short ginger hair was pulled back with a red head band today, and as he was giving back the first test of the semester, he paused at her seat and said, “Good work, Ms. Ral,” while sliding the test face down onto her desk. She beamed, looking at the paper, and her face fell at the grade. Levi frowned slightly, wondering what she could possibly be upset about since she received an 88, the third highest in the class. Calculus wasn’t an easy subject, and it was usually the class where students on the science and math track chose to drop out and choose a different major.

After passing out the tests, he returned to the desk at the front of the classroom to collect his things and head back to his office for his office hours for the day. As most of the students filtered out of the classroom, Petra sat stark still at her desk, eyes running over her exam, and eyebrows contorted in confusion.

“Is something wrong, Ms. Ral?” he asked, slinging his messenger bag over his grey dress shirt, adjusting his tie, and she looked up, eyes aglow. Levi pretended not to notice the way her tight long sleeved shirt hugged her curves, and the v-neck emphasized her breasts when she brought her arms together in anguish.

“I’m trying to figure out where I went wrong, Professor. I’m really disappointed in myself, I thought I aced this test.”

Levi cocked his head. “You should be proud of yourself, you have one of the highest marks in the class.”

Petra shook her head in disbelief. “Even so, I think I made far too many silly mistakes.” She sighed, shoulders slumping in clear disappointment. “I guess I’ll try harder next time. Sorry professor, you probably have to go--”

“My office hours are now,” he said, the words leaving his lips without even thinking. His glasses shone from the ceiling lights of the high lecture hall, and he swallowed. “We can go over the test if you’d like.”

And she smiled brilliantly at him again, collecting her things and swinging her fashionable book bag over her shoulder as she followed him to the math building. Levi kept at least three feet ahead of her, not wanting to give her the impression they had to make small talk since the math building was on the opposite side of the quad, and he breathed a sigh of relief when they entered his office. It was at the end of the hall of the third floor, a quiet place since it was around lunch time and most students were at the dining hall.

Levi closed the old wooden door and gestured for her to sit at the front of his desk while he deposited his bag and thumbed through the manila folder for the answer key. Petra set her things down and unfurled her own test, using his desk as she tapped her pencil at the corner of her lips.

“So which problems were giving you trouble?” He asked, loose leaf paper at the ready, and Petra motioned to problem number three.

“I get tripped up when there’s a double integral, I think.” She was already making the amendments in her head and she asked him for a piece of paper as well. Levi withdrew another from his desk cadenza and his breath hitched as their fingers touched. Stop acting like a teenage boy, he scolded himself, wondering when the last time he went on a date or had gotten laid because this was ridiculous. She was at least ten years his junior, his student no less, and she was just asking her math professor for help, even though she clearly didn’t need it.

She crossed her legs cutely, emphasizing her thighs between the space between her skirt and socks, and Levi averted his gaze as he forced himself to concentrate on her bright tone, going over her process as she circled and made the adjustments from her previous attempt.

“Yes, that’s correct. You want to integrate x and treat y as the constant. It’s like in the partial example, which you completed correctly in problem one.”

Petra smiled, nodding as understanding entered her field of vision and she completed the problem with ease. “Thank you Professor! Can you give me a harder problem just to make sure I understood the concept?”

And as Levi did his best to not pay attention to the way she said harder, he opened up the math textbook and selected an exercise, scratching it onto the paper between them and slid it towards her.

The mahogany desk was slightly too tall for Petra to comfortably lean against from the chair, so she sat up and leaned over to solve the problem, orange hair falling from her tucked ears. This time, Levi didn’t even bother looking away since Petra was fully invested in solving the equation, and he felt his pants tighten as he noted the white lace bra she had on underneath, and her round mounds spilling from her top.

“Is this right?” She asked, finally finishing, sitting back down in her seat and Levi coughed as he fought down the flush on his face.

He stared at the problem, willing himself to concentrate on the numbers in her neat handwriting, but he was finding it difficult to focus as he noticed her licking her lips after reapplying some chapstick. He took it line by line until he finally nodded and said, “Good work.”

Petra returned the paper to her folder and touched his hand gently from across the desk. “Thank you Professor Ackerman, it really means a lot to me that you went out of your way to help me. I guess the reviews were right after all.” His eyebrows rose since he didn’t usually make a habit to read his class reviews but relied on the report that the school gave him at the end of each term.

“Oh really? What do the reviews say?”

Petra giggled, and Levi felt his heart stop at the beautiful sound. “Well for one, they say you’re the sexiest teacher on campus, but more importantly, students who take your class are set up for success for linear algebra, which is my goal. I’m an astronomy major.”

He didn’t know why he found that to be a turn on since he worked at a university where there were literally hundreds of majors, but before he had a chance to think, Petra had collected her things and waved as she made for the brass knob of his office door.

“See you next week, Professor!”

And the door clicked shut. Levi’s head was spinning, and if he didn’t know any better, Petra was outright flirting with him, and he was having a difficult time processing that. He moved to lock the office door and he double checked to make sure that he didn’t have any upcoming meetings. Sinfully, he laid back in his chair and closed his eyes while he unbuckled his pants.

She’s your student, you filthy fuck. But her shiny lips, her sweet voice, and her intellect…

He stroked himself, thinking of her, and he came quickly, her name on his lips as he imagined himself taking her between her plaid skirt and thigh high socks.

---

Monday afternoons became a ritual for them, and while Levi attempted to muster up every ounce of professional courage, he found himself unable to say no to her. Every day, after class, she would sweetly ask if she could go over the day’s lecture, and he would say yes and they would wordlessly walk to his office and repeat the same routine.

It was always strictly professional, but he could have sworn that she was intentionally taking off her jacket or sweatshirt in front of him, sometimes leaving her in only a crop top. He decided then that she was purposely trying to kill him because the blood rushed faster to his groin than he could will himself to stop. He had to keep himself firmly behind his desk, not wanting to scare her from his raging hard-on as she pattered on about her misunderstandings for the day, and he would mutely nod, watching her the entire time.

She stopped the week during finals, only visiting him after his final lecture and he missed her presence during the two week absence. He eagerly awaited the day of the final exam, just to pathetically see her again, and there she was, front and center, pencil at the ready.

“This is my last test,” she whispered to him excitedly as he handed her the exam and he gave a thin smile and muttered a ‘good luck’ to her row, but looked at her the entire time.

She was the last to leave, and she heaved a sigh of relief as she handed him her packet, looking joyful.

“How did you find the test, Ms. Ral?” he asked, sparing her a last glance before she left his classroom for the final time. His heart ached at that, but he supposed it was for the best since dreams and visions of her had plagued him since the beginning of the semester.

“I think I aced it, thanks to my excellent teacher.” And she gave him a dazzling smile as she walked away and Levi trailed her form until she disappeared.

--

It was a routine message that Levi sent out to all of his students, that if they wanted to go over their final exam that they could set up office hours. He didn’t allow for debating for points--he had no time for that, and his grading procedure was precise and calculated, but he set up time slots for ease of the students.

So when he saw Petra Ral in his email, requesting for the last time slot before the last day of the grading period, he hurriedly clicked accept even though she received a perfect score on her test.

It was spring, and the promise of a new future hung in the air when Petra entered his office, wearing a similar ensemble to when she first came in, a red plaid skirt, thigh high stockings, and this time, a white knit t-shirt that unbuttoned just at her cleavage. She poked her head in, and he noticed that she didn’t carry a book bag, but opted for a small purse that slung over one shoulder.

“Hi Professor!” she chirped happily, hands clasped behind her back. Levi allowed himself a smile as he took her in.

“What can I do for you Ms. Ral? Surely you don’t have any complaints about this test--congratulations on ruining the curve, by the way. Your classmates are furious.”

Petra laughed, feeling satisfied with herself as she gazed at him--sleeves rolled up to his forearms and he opted for a vest and tie set that complimented his eyes nicely. “I wanted to let you know that I’m taking Professor Hange’s class next semester for linear algebra.”

His heart fell; he was also teaching that class, but maybe it didn’t fit into her schedule. He didn’t meet her eyes as he said, “She’s a tough teacher, but she’s good at what she does. Don’t expect to be let go early, the woman can and will go on for hours.”

Petra smiled. “I’ll be sure to make a note of it.” And she shuffled between her feet as a light blush came to her cheeks. “I wanted to give you a thank you gift, for all the office hours you’ve given to me the past semester.”

Levi raised a thin eyebrow between his glasses. “You don’t have to do that, Ms. Ral. It’s part of my job. You’re an excellent student, you made my job very easy.”

She batted her eyelashes as she stepped closer to him. He was seated in his leather office chair, arms crossed and she took a deep breath as she stood a foot apart from him, hands still playing with each other behind her back. “It’s nothing expensive. And you can call me Petra, Professor, the semester is over.”

And before Levi could question her words, she leaned in and kissed him gently on the cheek. Levi’s heart pounded in his chest, noticing that Petra was visibly shy despite the bold gesture she had just committed and he stared at her, slack jawed.

“Thank you, Professor.”

Levi’s eyes widened, and the hungry need he had for her over the past three months took over. Before he knew it, he was tugging at her wrist and she was straddling his lap, skirt pooling between them as he devoured her into a kiss, lips furiously nipping and biting as she let out an animated moan. Her hands went for his tie, pulling it from his vest and then around his neck where she buried her fingers into his undercut. A shiver of pleasure went down Levi’s spine as he settled his hands at her waist, then her back, and then at the fabric at the end of her shirt.

Panting, Petra raised her arms, signalling for him to take it off, and Levi let out a groan and a fucking hell at her lacy push up bra. Arms wrapped around each other again, Petra leaned into his chest, pressing her tits against him while she grinded against his lap, smiling as she devilishly noticed his hard-on between their clothing. Her breath was hot against his as she moved to unbutton his vest, and he raised himself to take it off, but let out a hiss as their centers made contact.

Not being able to help himself, Levi trailed his fingers up and down her legs, groaning that he was finally able to touch her, and the way the spandex hugged her skin was driving him crazy. He dove between her skirt, reaching for her panties and he played at her apex, noticing that she was incredibly wet, which only turned him on more.

Petra keened and threw her head back in pleasure as he began lavishing her neck with kisses and suckled at her jawline, happy that she tasted as beautiful as she looked. A light floral perfume danced across her flesh, and he inhaled her as he undid the headband from her hair, freeing the locks so he could bury his nose between them.

“Professor, ah, can you please touch me?” She asked weakly, eyes clenched shut from Levi’s ministrations and he chuckled.

“Only because you’ve been such a good student,” he whispered into her ear, and she nodded as he slipped a finger in, and pleasured sighs escaped both of their lips.

“God, you’re so fucking wet. Were you planning on this before you came in?” Levi asked, using his other hand to unbuckle his pants and slid down his zipper.

Petra was finding it harder and harder to think as Levi pumped into her, alternating between two and three fingers, teasing her clit and taking his hands away before she could go any higher. Vision going blurry, she reached for the back of her bra and undid the hook, letting it fall between them and Levi ripped it off, freeing her breasts.

He took a nipple between his teeth and bit down hard, earning a cry from Petra as she begged him to keep touching her while he buried his face into her chest. Petra moved to play with both of her nipples, all while riding against his hand and she felt like her heart was about to explode from Levi’s touch.

She slid her tongue against his lips, drinking him in as she asked him to help slide her panties down, and he obliged, but not before pocketing them into his pants. She shot him a questioning look, and he smirked, “This is my thank-you gift.”

Bashfully, Petra smiled and pawed him between his underwear, stroking his length up and down with her hand and she pulled his waist down just far enough to free his member. She gasped at his size, and Levi let out a hum of satisfaction while she took a moment to gaze at it, providing him with light touches.

“Levi, can I ride you?” She asked demurely, eyes fixated on his dick and he gripped her by the ass to guide her close.

Leaning over, he whispered into her ear, “That’s Professor Ackerman to you.”

Petra keened at his husky voice, and lowered herself onto him, moaning loudly as he breached her, dick hot against her tight entrance.

“That’s a good girl,” he encouraged, holding her close as she steadily bobbed up and down, her wetness providing enough slickness between them. His balls smacked against his legs, and her tits bounced each time she reached his hilt and she cried out.

Wild with lust, Levi toyed with her clit as she continued to ride him, fingers dancing and shaking as she paused to catch her breath. Their eyes met, and with equal fervor, they kissed as Petra braced her hands against his shoulders, pace increasing and then reaching her climax in a frenzy as she bobbed up and down.

“Professor,” she whined, releasing her hands and crying into his collar as she rode out her orgasm.

Levi’s eyes were clenched shut as her walls fluttered around him, her tightness becoming too much for him as he also met his own pleasure, and he pumped into her in short pulses. Breaths panting, he looked up to meet Petra, who was smiling between breaths.

Still sitting comfortably inside her, Levi laughed warily, unsure of where to go from here. Petra, still wrapping her body around his, licked the lobe of his ear as she said sultrily into his ear, “Did that count as extra credit?”

Not Today V

A/N: Hello everyone! So, if you didn’t see my announcement earlier this week, this update may seem early compared to my usual posting schedule, and it's true! But also not. Let me explain- from here out, I will be posting chapters twice a week! These will go up late Wednesday night/early Thursday morning, and late Saturday night/early Sunday morning. That said, I hope you enjoy this chapter, and the next chapter will come in a few days! Skål!

Summary: When Ivar takes the throne of Kattegat, Lagertha flees to Wessex along with Björn, Ubbe, Torvi, and the Bishop Heahmund. There, they seek the aid of King Alfred. This aid comes in the form of his sister, Aethelind, who agrees to travel to Kattegat and try to reason Ivar, who she spent some time with during their youth, when her grandfather King Ecbert hosted Ragnar Lothbrok in their castle. Now, she is the only hope for Lagertha and her supporters to retake Kattegat from Ivar the Boneless.

Masterlist

--

Björn was somehow unsurprised entirely when Aethelind approached him once more, a very happy look on her face. He figured her talks with Torvi, Ubbe, and his mother must have all gone well. He’d be lying to say he hadn’t sort of kept an eye out from his place, watching to see if he could tell anything, and each time, Aethelind had seemed thrilled by their answers. So… He guessed they’d all come around to her plan- daft as it seemed to him.

When she finally reached him, he chuckled a little. “Am I outnumbered?” he questioned with a small, expectant grin.

“Drastically so, I’m afraid,” Aethelind answered him. “Though, with specifications I believe you’ll approve of.”

“Let me hear them,” Björn said, “and I will tell you if I approve or if I do not.”

Aethelind nodded, and took a deep breath. “Torvi and your mother wish to train me to defend myself before I go, and with a majority rule, and my brother’s permission for this quest, I can go to Kattegat to speak with Ivar.”

"You could have no better mentors than Torvi and my mother,” Björn agreed. “But Ivar would not send two shieldmaidens to kill you if he wanted it done. He would likely send an assassin in the night. We would need more than defense training for you… We would need a reason for you to gain his trust, before he ever learns you are there on our behalf.”

“Your mother agrees that we need to work out more details before she can agree to send me to Kattegat, but she has at least agreed to begin working toward that goal. You know we only need a majority, per Torvi, and I have her support, your mother’s, Ubbe’s, and even Bishop Heahmund’s. So, the majority is had, but I would still like to have your support, Björn. The more support I have in this, the greater success I believe we’ll have, and you are quite the ally. You could do much for this plan, I’m sure. We’d be all the better for having you.”

Björn hummed as he thought over what she said. It was true, they would all be better off if he’d agree to give them aid. And his agreement to provide aid, assuming Alfred didn’t stop this- which, considering how Aethelind had talked him into multiple things already, he figured he wouldn’t- then it was really Aethelind who would be better off. And could he hold his support, to have the ‘moral high ground’, so to speak, just so he could say he didn’t support it if something went wrong? Or would he be angry with himself, for not having given her all he could have, and always wondering if it hadn’t been because of him that things had failed, if they did.

This wasn’t a question Björn was certain he had the answer to, just yet. There was too much on each end to consider.

“I imagine you will speak to your brother about this regardless of my decision?” he soon questioned, having already taken a few moments to ponder on what he would decide. When she nodded, he sighed slightly. “Then ask him to allow us all to meet,” he requested. “I want to discuss this with all involved, and then we should take a vote. Those who agree to the final plan will speak in support of it, and those opposed will speak against. I cannot decide now what I think.”

Stubborn, just as Torvi said, Aethelind thought, and yet still gave a slight nod. “That’s very understandable,” she said. “I’ll go and speak to my brother, then, and we can have that arranged. I’m sure he won’t have any issue with it.”

“Aside from sending you to Kattegat?” Björn asked, and Aethelind grimaced.

“Well… that, he may not like at first. But that’s what this meeting will be for!” she almost chirped. “Not to… convince him, exactly, but at least to make everyone feel better about it.”

“Why do I get the feeling you’ll go regardless of what is decided?” he questioned, regarding her with a curious, yet suspicious gaze.

The almost guilty expression she wore proved his theory. “I-” she began, and then paused. A sigh escaped her, and her eyes dropped. “I can’t stand to see this situation stay this way, or end in violence,” she finally confessed. “Or, more violence, at least. I want to at least try to do some good in it. More than just offering food and shelter. I want to be part of bringing peace back to your lands. It isn’t my place, to shove myself into these plans, I know, but…”

Björn put a hand on her arm, cutting her off there. “Your eagerness to help is appreciated, Princess,” he said, and she smiled.

“Björn, please. You’re my guest. Aethelind is just fine, you needn’t hold to the formalities.” She smiled sweetly and genuinely at him, and he returned the smile, nodding.

“Then it is very appreciated, Aethelind.”

The Princess beamed at him, and nodded. “I’m glad to be of help, then,” she said. “If you’ll excuse me, I need to go and speak with my brother. But I hope you’ll enjoy the feast, and I’ll try to stop back by before it’s all over, hm?”

“I will be waiting,” he said, and gave a small nod. Aethelind smiled, gave a quick, somewhat playful curtsy, and started off to find her brother, unaware of Björn watching her with an interested smile on his face- one Torvi could recognize all too well as she watched the two. She shared a look with Ubbe, who simply sighed.

Alfred smiled as he saw his sister approaching, and Elsewith at his side smiled as well. The Queen herself, Judith, had finally joined the feast, standing with her son and his betrothed. Her dark hair was pinned up as always in a braided sort of bun, a crown resting atop her head that accented her dark gold gown. The bun rested in such a way that it covered the space Aethelind and Alfred knew should have had an ear. But adultery wasn’t treated lightly in Wessex, and they both knew their father had not been her husband.

“Mother,” Aethelind greeted with a warm smile, and took Judith by the arm, kissing her cheek affectionately, before turning to the Northumbrian Princess beside her brother. “Princess Elsewith.” Elsewith nodded politely to Aethelind, a form of quiet greeting, as she turned to her brother. “Alfred, I need to speak with you alone for a moment.”

Alfred looked a bit concerned by her request, but nodded anyhow. “Alright,” he said. He turned to Elsewith and Judith briefly, saying, “Please, excuse us for a moment,” before he followed Aethelind out of the hall.

Once they were out there, Aethelind looked around for anyone who might be nearby to listen, and then positioned herself in such a way that she’d see if anyone tried to do so. Spies tended to be everywhere at an event like this, and while she doubted Ivar would somehow have any there… She wanted to be sure no one overheard anything.

This behavior, of course, only concerned Alfred further, and his brows creased together in show of this. “Aethelind… What’s going on?” he finally asked her. She took a deep breath, and grinned.

“The Vikings and I have a plan to help the situation in Kattegat, but we need your approval for it before we do anything. So, I can explain everything to you as best I know now, and then Björn has requested we hold a meeting to discuss it all with each other. You, me, all the Vikings, and Bishop Heahmund, as he could be very helpful in a few different ways.”

“What could Bishop Heahmund do?” Alfred questioned, tilting his head a bit.

Aethelind took a deep breath at that question, and seemed to grow a bit more anxious. “Train me, and… give me some advice regarding how to handle Ivar,” she explained slowly.

The look of shock on his face might have been priceless in any other situation, but right now, she was too anxious about him taking this well to really enjoy it. “You want- he wants to train you in what?”

Alfred was very nearly certain he knew what she meant, and that it was the cause of her suddenly nervous disposition, but he wanted it confirmed first. There was no need to panic about what exactly this plan entailed, not until she answered-

"To fight.”

Oh no.

Alfred turned as white as a sheet at her words, and he felt like his heart lifted into his throat. Or sunk into his stomach. He couldn’t be too sure, but he knew it couldn’t have been in his chest anymore. It just… it couldn’t have been.

“I’m going to regret asking this, but… Aethelind, why do you need Bishop Heahmund to teach you to fight?” he questioned her. Another deep breath from her, and Alfred was far more concerned than he’d been a moment before. He’d hoped that perhaps she just wanted to learn because it would be interesting, now that two shieldmaidens had turned up- and hadn’t he just told Ubbe he’d thought she’d have been happier with the Vikings? This made sense to him.

“I want to go to Kattegat.”

Oh no.

“And, I regret asking that,” he said.

Aethelind chuckled a little. “We have more plans, Torvi and I, mainly, though I do have her support, as well as that of Prince Ubbe, Queen Lagertha, Bishop Heahmund, and possibly Björn Ironside. He wants to have this meeting, come up with a more solid plan, and have a vote, and he will either give his support or deny it there.”

Alfred sighed, and nodded. “Very well,” he said. “I’ll allow this meeting and arrange for it, but I am not yet backing this. Not until I feel that you could go safely. I could… I could write to him, perhaps, find a way to warn him you’re coming, and make some reason you would be?”

Aethelind smirked slightly. “It sounds as though you’re already on my side with this,” she pointed out, and he shook his head.

“I just know you’re too stubborn to be stopped if you want to go. It’s better I work with you to ensure your safety on this,” he said.

“I believe that’s what Björn is trying to decide. If he wants to support me so I have my best chance, or if he wants no part in something that could go wrong for me,” Aethelind commented, and chuckled. “I just hope he comes around.”

“It seems you have his favor, I’m sure he will,” Alfred said, smirking slightly, and her eyes widened a bit.

“His… his favor?” she questioned, blinking. “How do you mean I have his favor?”

This now earned a slightly shocked look from Alfred. “Surely, you must know?” he said. “He looks at you like… Well, you must see it?”

Aethelind shook her head. “I’m not sure what you’re talking about, Alfred. See what, exactly? You don’t think Björn is interested in me, do you?”

The look from Alfred assured her that was exactly what he thought, and the girl blanched. “But- but he’s a Viking. Won’t he be returning to Kattegat as soon as we handle all this with Ivar the Boneless, however we handle it? What good would be done for him by having a wife in Wessex, unless he chose not to return to Kattegat after all?”

“I’m not entirely sure Vikings are ever… only interested in marriage, when they meet someone they’re interested in.” Aethelind’s cheeks turned red.

"Oh,” she said, swallowing. “Right. Well… I wouldn’t… You think that’s what he wants here?”

Alfred shrugged a little. “Perhaps,” he said. “But even if that weren’t all he wants, I don’t imagine he’d be open to a Christian marriage.” Through his conversation with Ubbe, he’d quickly learned which of the Ragnarssons were more, and less, open to things not of their culture. And Björn… he was not one of the more open ones. And if he wouldn’t be open to a Christian marriage, then the Princess would not be marrying him, if he asked- and if she approved, of course. But Alfred had already decided the terms of giving his blessing to such a thing when he saw how Björn was watching her. Now, though, he was beginning to wonder if that would ever be an issue, considering the fact Aethelind clearly didn’t even realize he was interested.

But if both Björn and Aethelind ended up in Kattegat, who was to say Björn wouldn’t pursue her? He was getting ahead of himself. Aethelind would first have to go to Kattegat, succeed against Ivar, then Björn would have to go, and she would also still have to be there. Aethelind wasn’t going to pop up wanting to marry a Viking, and that was likely a bridge he was trying to cross before he ever came to the bridge. He did that with many bridges.

“Well.” Alfred was brought out of his thoughts and anxieties by Aethelind beginning to speak. “If he doesn’t want to marry me, we’ll have no issue.”

Alfred nodded. “Right, yes,” he agreed. “So… tell me more of your plan concerning your journey to Kattegat.”

Aethelind began to explain to him everything she had discussed with Björn, Torvi, Ubbe, Lagertha, and Heahmund, and while there was obviously a lot to go over, there wasn’t quite enough for Alfred to agree right there, just as there hadn’t been for Björn.

“We’ll have the meeting, then,” he said with a nod. “And we can set more in stone there, come up with a stronger plan, and see what still needs to be done. Does that sound alright?”

Aethelind nodded her agreement eagerly, grinning widely. “Yes,” she said. “Yes, thank you, Alfred. I know it’s unnerving, but-”

"Oh, it’s more than unnerving, Aethelind. I’d be sending you to possibly one of the most dangerous places I could be sending you. You won’t be safe in Kattegat, not unless you’re trained as best you can be by these Vikings we have here.”

“Or, if I can earn Ivar’s trust and care again,” she pointed out. “I don’t think he’d let anything happen, then.”

“I think that’s going to be harder than simply defeating him in battle.”

Aethelind hated herself momentarily for giggling at that, but she had a bad feeling he was right. “Well, hopefully we can try this first,” she said. “And if we do, then there’ll be peace once again.”

Alfred sighed. He just hoped ‘peace’ wouldn’t mean the Vikings turning their raids back to Wessex once again.

Taglist: @youbloodymadgenius, @wilhelmyna, @katfett, @fangirl-nonsense, @zuzus-sun, @heavenly1927

If you want to be added to the taglist, feel free to reach out either by commenting, reblogging, DMing me, or sending an ask, and I’ll be more than happy to add you!

44

☝ - How tall are you? - 5'2

✔ - Sexual Orientation - Straight

🚬 - Do you Smoke? - No

🍷 - Do you Drink? - No

♒ - Do you Take Drugs? - No

😳 - Age you get mistaken for? - I've never really been mistaken for another age. I think I look in between 18-25.

💉 - Have Tattoos? - No, but I want to get a few!

✏️ - Want any tattoos? - Yes. On my wrist I want something my dad wrote me and a little hummingbird next to it and then on my index finger I want a cross.

✂️ - Got any Piercings? - No

✌ - Want any piercings? - I want/need to get my ears pierced again

👌 - Best friend? - Megan

♥ - Do you like anyone? - No

🎤 - Top 5 favorite bands? - Of Monsters and Men, The Lumineers, Bleachers, Sleeping at Last (sort of a band), and I'm still kind of into The 1975 but I haven't listened to them a whole lot in the last couple of years, but for sure the first four.

🎶 - Top 5 favorite songs? - Of all time?? All Too Well by Taylor Swift, Saturdays by Twin Shadow, Sleep On The Floor by The Lumineers, Wild Roses by Of Monsters and Men, and I think Exile by Taylor Swift ft Bon Iver made it into my top 5 all time fav list too!

😒 - Biggest pet peeve? - People dragging their shoes (especially winter boots) on the floor so it makes scuffing noises. Walk normally please.

📝 - Story from your childhood. - Here's one: my sister and I used to run up and down the aisles of grocery stores pretending we were horses. So embarrassing!!

💬 - I wish…‼️ - Something you’ll change? - I wish I was thinner. I could change this, but I think it requires a lot of dedication and hardwork and tbh I'm too tired.

💦 - What makes you horny? - i

🌟 - A wish you’ll wish for? - That outlining and writing out my book ideas would be easier

🔥 - Something spicy you like? - ~mildly~ spicy chilli. I can't handle even a little but more than mild lol.

👃 You hate the smell of …. - Old buildings

👊 - Something you hate? - Mean people

🚶 - Are you single? - Yeah

💬 - Can we text? - Sure

💌 - Fan mail me? - this is dated

💍 - Marry me? - and i oop

💘 - Be my tumblr crush? - Sure

💭 - Favorite foods? - Cheesecake, Cantonese Style Chicken Chow Mein, chocolate chip cookies, french fries

☀ - Story about your day. - I really didn't do anything today. I slept in longer than I anticipated, ordered chinese food, did some writing brainstorms/character profile, and then I tried out curling my hair with a flat iron for a beach-wavy look and it went well so that was nice, but that's it. I tried finishing up the character profile but then I just felt really exhausted so I decided to fill this out as a way to relax.

💘 - Top 5 celebrity crushes? - James Marsden, Henry Cavill, Chris Pine, Noah Centineo before he became cringey, and maybe Paul Rudd

🎥 - Top 5 favorite movies? - Oh man. I'm not a huge movie person so I'm not sure I have favourites but here's a few random ones I really liked: Clueless, A Christmas Carol (2009 version), You've Got Mail, The Greatest Showman, and maybe Wonder Woman?? (don't quote me on these. this was all i could think of lmao)

📺 - Top 5 favorite TV shows? - Brooklyn Nine-Nine, The Goldbergs, That 70s Show, Supernatural, and maybe Once Upon a Time

✏ - Random fact about yourself. - I love Taylor Swift

✈️ - Where are you from? - Canada

🚀 - Where do you wanna visit? - Montreal and NYC

😍 - Do you have a crush? - No

😷 - Something you hate eating? - BBQ'd chicken

🙈 - What makes you shy? - Talking to new people/strangers

💃 - Can you dance? - No

💏 - Do you love anyone? - My family, friends, Taylor Swift obvi

👟 - Favorite shoe(s) to wear? - My black boots but they're wearing out :(

🌴 - A island you would visit? - Hawaii

🌎 - A country you would visit? - USA or France

🌀 - Favorite type of weather? - Rainy fall day OR fluffy snowfall day in december

🔮 - Do you believe in luck? - Kind of? I feel like sometimes you just get lucky and there's no rhyme or reason for it.

📱 - What kinda phone do you have? - iPhone 11 Pro

📅 - Favorite time of the year? - Christmas<3 But I also love fall so I guess just the time between September-December

📚 - Career goal you want? - I just really want to be a successful writer so I think a goal for me would be to a) get a book out there that's has really good reviews and/or b) end up on some kind of bestsellers list, bonus if it's the New York Times, and/or c) Get awarded for my writing

🍴 - Favorite food(s) to eat? - Cheesecake, cookies, Cheeseburger and Fries from McDonalds, ice cream from Dairy Queen, taco salad, homemade turkey burgers w/ avocado, avocado toast, chicken tortilla soup, and chinese food is always a fav too.

🍭 - Favorite Candy? - Maltesers

🍇 - Favorite fruits? - Strawberries, Pomegranates, raspberries, and bananas.

🚘 - Dream car(s)? - A vintage Chev Impala or something similar and Hyundai Venue

🚔 - Have you ever been arrested? - No lol

🚑 - Have you ever driven in an ambulance before? - Yes

🎫 - Do you have a license? - Yes

🚼 - Do you have or want kids? - I do not have kids and I maaybe want them

🔞 - Are you under 18? - No

🐶 - Do you own a pet? - Two!

😔 - Something that makes you sad? - Life lol

😡 - What pisses you off? - When people make me feel stupid or less than

😏 - What turns you on? - a man who knows/values taylor swift lyrics. that's when you know it's for real.

😈 - Are you a freak? - I don't think so

💪 - Do you work out? - ....

I survived the supermarket. So sleepy now though. I'm supposed to stay up for at least 2 more hours but I wanna go to sleep like now...ugh.

I had salad when I got home. And I used up the last of the ingredient that's most difficult to find...I wanna make my own but I havent figured out a recipe yet and I usually have that for breakfast. I might have breakfast late tomorrow so I can go to the shop for the last bit I'd need. Just so irritating i didnt realise i was that close to running out before i went to the supermarket and i didnt think to get that anyway and blah. My brain is mush.

So I had a walk around the supermarket which is as much as I'd have been able to manage today. I feel like my insides are tying themselves in knots. I hate periods.

850kcal today which is okay. "Proper" restriction will have me passing out or whatever but I kind of dont want to eat a normal amount either... i think 600-1000 seems to be my comfort spot right now. It feels like I've stuck to that kind of level for a little longer recently and I'm trying to figure out why. I had a really bad overeating phase recently so maybe my body hasn't yet adjusted to the fact I'm undereating? Maybe it's because my mood has been so shitty? Idk.

I have been a little bit more stable today. Still bad. But like I had 10% instead of 3% and I was able to just claw myself up a little. I got a fresh hair tie, which is one of my favourite feelings in the world idk why. I have a thing about my hair and it feels really uncomfortable when its tied up but come loose. I feel fresher when it's done properly. And I just looked at pictures of stuff I wanna make that I probably wont get round to, at least not for a long time, but it's nice to think about it I guess. I feel like I did something else as a small self comfort thing but I dont remember what. My brain is mush.

So I'm kind of...slightly less on edge I guess. I still feel terrible, but just slightly less so that I could try to make myself feel better. I've done my 3 days without alcohol as well. 4 actual days, but 3 days by my body clock. So I can drink tomorrow if I want to...I'll see how I feel. If I dont drink tomorrow then itll be Saturday at the earliest and I doubt I'll get that far without horrible headaches and everything else. Idk.

Just now I weighed 158.8 which is kind of annoying because if I'm still about that much before bed, I'll be the same tomorrow as I was today, if not more. I know fluctuations and all...but I'm eating significantly less than I was this time a week ago and I've only lost such a small amount I could easily gain it back in a day or two. It just makes me irritated and worried. I hate the feeling that I'm not getting the reward for the work I do. It makes me not want to try, and then i feel guilty for not trying, so then I try again but I feel cheated when I dont get anywhere, etc etc. Ideally I need to stick with this until at least Monday to be able to see if I'm getting somewhere. My goal weight for then is 152, but I'd consider 154 or below a success. I mean I guess technically even 155 would still be something, but yeah...so I really really hope I have some water weight to drop.

I had to go do something so now it's actually 1h20 until I'm supposed to sleep. That could be doable...I think. I hope. Not the end of the world if I dont, but frustrating. More important that i get enough sleep wherever i can and just try to maintain some energy.

I did promise myself if I dont get anywhere after a while of restricting like this, I'll try something else. I need to not freak out and binge (on either food or alcohol). Its so hard though. When I feel like my body wont cooperate whether I try or not. And I'm not always the most patient person in the world. Bleh

Layers Layer 1: The Basics

Name: Stephanie. Age: 31. Birthday: July 28th. Gender: Female. Zodiac Sign: Leo.

Layer 2: Your Family

Do you have any brothers or sisters? I have two brothers. Do you have any pets? I have a doggo. Do you still live with your parents? Yep. Do you have any stepparents? No. How many cousins do you have? Like over 50. Only two of them are from my dad’s side.

Layer 3: Your Friends

Who is your best friend? My mom. Who have you been friends with the longest? -- What do you like to do with your friends? -- Do you have more friends online or in real life? -- What is a good way to make friends with others? *shrug*

Layer 4: Your Home

Do you live in a home, apartment, duplex, trailer, etc? A duplex. How many rooms are there in your house? 2 bedrooms. Is your home large or small? It’s small. What is your favorite room in your house, and why? My room. It has my bed and all my stuff and I spend majority of my time in here. Do you prefer having people over to your house, or would you rather go to theirs? With friends I preferred going to theirs. I don’t like playing hostess.

Layer 5: Can You

Can you fold your tongue into the taco shape? Nope. Can you touch your toes without bending your knees? No, cause I’m a paraplegic. Can you tie a cherry stem in a knot with your tongue? Nope. Can you hold up your end of a physical fight? I’ve never been in one, but I’m still going to say no. It wouldn’t go well for me. Can you do any yo-yo tricks? I haven’t played with a yo-yo since I was a kid, but I never could get the hang of any tricks. I couldn’t even get it to go back up easily.

Layer 6: Who

Who inspires you the most, and why? I haven’t felt inspired in a long time. :/ Who helps you maintain your sanity? Uhhh. Who do you go to most often for advice? I don’t ask for advice very often to be honest. Who knows you better than you know yourself? I don’t even know myself anymore. Who is someone that you would die or put your life on the line for, no questions asked? My mom and brother.

Layer 7: Do you

Do you still eat sandwiches without the crusts? Yeah. I’ve never liked the crust. Do you typically finish your meal at a restaurant, or need to take a container home? I don’t finish my meal completely ever because I get full fast and I’m such a slow eater that everyone is done for awhile and I feel bad having them wait. Depending on what it is I might take the leftovers home, but honestly I usually don’t. Do you pull an Oreo apart in order to eat it? Yep. Do you read a lot of gossip magazines? I haven’t read a magazine in several years. I used to all the time as a teenager. Do you make friends easily? I don’t have an issue getting along with people, but I don’t develop friendships with a lot of people. I don’t really try either to be honest. Especially not these past few years. I haven’t tried or wanted to make any friends.

Layer 8: How Many?

How many people live in your house with you? 3 people and a doggo. How many pets have you had in your lifetime? A couple hamsters, 4 doggos, and a fish tank full of fish. How many tries does it take you to become successful at something? Uhh. I don’t know. I don’t think I’m all that great at anything. How many meals do you eat a day? Usually just two. How many people can you honestly tolerate? Just a few people at a time.

Layer 9: How

How do you typically get to school or work? I’m done with school and I don’t have a job. How do you deal with a breakup? Not well. How do you like to help others? I used to try and help people with what I could when I could, but admittedly I haven’t been very helpful or useful to anyone, including myself. How do you know when you’ve found “the one”? I guess I don’t know because I truly thought I did with Ty, but that went nowhere. How do you sleep in bed? I sleep in the middle slightly turned to my left with my head propped up.

Layer 10: What

What do you think happens when we die? I believe in heaven and hell. What do you do if there’s no toilet paper left on the roll and you’re already peeing? At home I call for my mom and ask her to bring some or I have to just get up and get some more from the bathroom pantry. What do you eat most often? Wingstop and ramen. What toys did you enjoy most as a child? I was obsessed with Barbies. What do you do if you witness someone being awful to someone else? I don’t know what I would do.

Layer 11: Where

Where is your favorite place to eat out? I’m more of takeout gal, even pre-COVID, which now takeout is all I do, but anyway I love getting Wingstop and breakfast from this local place. Where is the place that has the best ice cream in your area? I’m not a big ice cream person and haven’t had any at all in years, but apart from the common places like Baskin Robbins and Cold Stone, I know we have a few trendy, cool ice cream places in town I haven’t been to thatI hear are really good. Where did you meet your current or last significant other? We met through a mutual friend. Where can you be found at 7 PM. typically? Here at home, most likely in bed on my laptop. Where can you find the best French fries? This local place has delicious beer battered garlic fries.

Layer 12: When

When did you find out the truth about Santa, the Easter Bunny, and the Tooth Fairy? I don’t remember exactly when I found out about the Easter Bunny and Tooth Fairy, but I stopped believing in Santa when I was 8. I feel like I stopped believing in the other two prior to that. When do you typically fall asleep? Around 6 or 7AM. When was the last time that someone paid you a compliment? I don’t remember. When do you feel most comfortable? When I’m lounging in bed. When did you last go to the bathroom? A couple hours ago.

Layer 13: Why

Why do you enjoy taking surveys so much? I’ve enjoyed taking them for so long now it’s hard to imagine a time where I no longer do them. I mean, here I am at 31 and see no stopping in sight. I think they’re good distractions and give me a place to vent and ramble as well when needed. They’re like my diary entries. Why do people gossip so much? They’re bored and other people’s lives are either more interesting or they serve as a distraction from their own. Why can’t humans fly? We don’t have wings. Why aren’t you doing something else right now? I want to be doing this. Why is the sky blue? Cause that is the color God intended it to be.

Layer 14: If...

If you had a million dollars, what would you spend it on? I’d pay of mine, my parents’ and my brother’s debts first, then I’d buy us a bigger house and furnish/decorate it, do some other shopping, travel for sure, and then I’d have to be smart and careful and save as well after having some fun. If you found out someone was cheating on you, would you ever take them back? I honestly don’t know. It would depend on a lot of things and if I did, it would take time and work. If you found a wallet with cash in the street, including identification, would you turn it in? Why or why not? Yes, absolutely.  If you could have any food right now, what would you like?   I just had ramen so I’m good right now. If you found out that the world was going to end tomorrow, how would you spend your last day? Freaking out? ha.

Layer 15: Firsts

When did you lose your first tooth? Like 5 or 6. Who was your first teacher that you ever had? I don’t remember my preschool teacher’s name. When did you first learn how to ride a bike? I didn’t. When was the first time you had sex? I haven’t. Did your first birthday have a theme to it? I’d have to ask my mom.

Layer 16: Lasts

Last person you texted: My brother. Last drink you sipped: Starbucks Doubleshot energy drink. Last time you rode a bike: -- Last time you swam in a pool: Like 8 years ago. Last person you hugged: My aunt.

Layer 17: Favorites

Favorite Color: Pastels, rose gold, sea foam green, coral, and yellow. Favorite Season: Fall and winter. Favorite Shape: Hearts and stars. Favorite Letter: I don’t have one. Favorite Number: 8.

Layer 18: This or That

Pepsi or Coke? Coke. Movies or Television? Both. Phone or Tablet? Phone. Fruits or Vegetables? I like some of both. Animals or Humans? Animals, ha.

Layer 19: Which

Which Poke’mon is your favorite? Let’s go with Jigglypuff. Which day of the week is your favorite? I don’t have one. My days all blend together. Which birthday celebration was the most memorable for you? Various ones throughout my life. Which holiday is your favorite? Christmas. Which shoe do you put on first? I think my right.

Layer 20: Love Life/Relationships

What is the name of your first love? Joseph. How many times can you honestly say you’ve been in love? Twice. Have you ever been in a relationship before that was abusive in any way? No. Have you ever been engaged or married before? No. Do you have any children? Nooo.

Layer 21: Jobs, Dreams, & Goals

What did you want to be when you grew up (as a little kid)? I wanted to be a teacher. What do you aspire to be now? What interests you? I have no idea. :/ What is the most recent goal you’ve achieved? I haven’t achieved any in a long time. What is a goal you are still striving to reach? I should be setting some, but... Have you ever won any sort of awards before? If so, for what? Honor roll certificates and award from school clubs I was in.

Layer 22: Opinions & Beliefs

Pro-life or pro-choice? Pro-choice. Were you raised with any sort of religious background? If so, then what? Both sets of grandparents were the ones who tried to influence me in that way and they were of different religions, Jehovah’s Witnesses and Christians. It made things very confusing and complicated and I struggled with what I believed for a very long time. I went through phases of being atheist, agnostic, and then slowly started to open up towards Christianity. Democrat, Republican, or Independent? I don’t want to get into that. For or against the death penalty? It’s very complicated. Thoughts on assisted suicide? That’s a very touchy, sensitive subject.

Layer 23: Currently/Today/Present

What day is it? Saturday, March 6th. What’s the weather like outside? It’s currently 46F. What have you eaten? So far just ramen. Did you run any errands? It’s only 5:21AM, but I won’t be going anywhere today. What time is it? ^^^

Layer 24: Yesterday

Did you have a work shift? I don’t have a job. Did you eat out anywhere? I had breakfast delivered and then got Wingstop takeout for dinner. Was it snowing? No, it doesn’t snow here. Who did you last say goodnight to? My mom. Did anything unusual happen? No.

Layer 25: Tomorrow

Do you have to go to school/class? Nope, I finished school back in 2015. Does this day have any sort of significance to you? No. What is a chore that needs to get done? I don’t have anything I need to do right now. Will you hang out with friends? I don’t have any friends. I’ll hang with my family at home. What time will you be expected to be awake by? Like 4 or 5PM most likely.

Layer 26: Have You Ever

Performed a magic trick successfully? Nope. I dabbled a little bit with card tricks when I was a kid, but I was never any good at it. Sat or laid on a rooftop and looked at the stars? No. I’d be too scared to do that. Walked around with your underwear on inside out or backwards all day without realizing it? Probably. Touched a snake? Nooooo. Been bitten by an animal? If so, what animal? Nope.

Layer 27: School Life

Are preschool and kindergarten mandatory where you live? I’m not sure if preschool is, actually. I went to preschool.  Were you or anyone you knew homeschooled? I was for a brief periods of time after some long hospital stays in 5th, 6th, and 8th grade. Did you attend public or private school? Public. Were you bullied in school, popular, or somewhere in-between? I wasn’t bullied and I most definitely wasn’t popular. What is the highest level of education that you completed? I have my BA in psych.

Layer 28: Your Appearance

Eye Color: Brown. Hair Color: A mix of red and my natural dark brown. Height: Like 5′4. Weight: Somewhere in the 70s (pounds), I think. I haven’t been weighed in years. Do you have freckles. moles, beauty marks, or birthmarks - and where? I have some freckles, some moles, and a birthmark.

Layer 29: Electronics, Internet, & Social Media

How much time do you spend on the internet per day? It really varies. Which social media platforms do you belong to? All the big main ones. When’s the last time you replaced the batteries in your television remote? I don’t recall. Are you more likely to stream movies and shows on your laptop, or cast them to your television? I prefer to on TV. Do you have an e-reader, or do you prefer actual books? No, but I do use the Kindle app on my phone.

Layer 30: Are You

Are you still in school? Nope. Are you a member of the LGBTQ+ community? No. Are you looking forward to anything coming soon? There isn’t anything coming up that I’m looking forward to. Are you dreading anything coming soon? Upcoming doctor appointments.  Are you gullible or naive? I wouldn’t say I’m a gullible or naive person, but I can be gullible and naive at times.

Layer 31: Does

Does your workplace make you feel like you can never take a day off without feeling guilty about it? -- Does someone currently hold the key to your heart? Myself. Does anyone out there hate you? Probably.  Does talking about sex make you uncomfortable? Yes. Does crying make you feel less strong? Sometimes I do feel like that because I’m just so sensitive and moody and feel like such a baby sometimes. I don’t think crying makes you weak, I’m just hard on myself and feel like I cry too much and over ridiculous things at times. I’m like seriously, you’re crying again?? Or wow, you’re crying over this??

Layer 32: Would You

Do the Polar Bear Plunge? Helllllllllll no. Ever try to walk across a room blindfolded? I’ve done that. And with just my eyes closed. Swim with sharks? Noooooo. Go into outer space, given the chance? Noooooo. Go out in public, looking how you do right now? Ew, no.

Layer 33: Pets/Animals

Do you have any pets? If so, what type, and their names... Yep, I have a 4 year old German Shepherd/Lab mix named Princess Leia. If not, what type of pet have you always wanted? -- What is your favorite animal? Dogs and giraffes. Do you think it is cruel to have circus animals? Yes. How often do you walk your dog, if you have one? How often do you scoop the litterbox, if you have a cat? I don’t walk her because it would be too hard for me to do, but my dad does a few times a week.

Layer 34: Food

What is your favorite breakfast item? Scrambled eggs, biscuits, and hash browns smothered in country gravy, scrambled eggs with spinach, garlic, and green onions, breakfast burritos, and breakfast sandwiches. What is your favorite kind of dessert? Cheesecake, brownies, cupcakes, muffins, donuts, cookies, Little Debbie snacks. Do you eat all three meals everyday? Nope. I usually just have two. What’s the longest you’ve gone without food? Ever, like 2-3 days because I had just had surgery. Otherwise, just a day without any food at all. I’ve gone days with very little when I’m really sick or having appetite issues. What do you like to eat when you are feeling sick? I don’t like to eat when I’m sick, which becomes a problem. I have to try and at least eat buttered toast and soup.

Layer 35: Past

Does your past ever come back to haunt you at times? I’m always dwelling on my past. What is one of your favorite memories of the past? Childhood memories. What is something that you used to do in the past, but no longer do? I used to have somewhat of a social life, but now I don’t have one at all. If you could have a meal with someone from the past, who would it be, and what would you ask them? My grandmother. I’d just want to spend time with her and catch her up on the past 15 years as much as I could. Which historical time period would you like to go back to and check out? Hm. I don’t know.

Layer 36: Future

Do you think you will ever get married one day? Honestly, no. I really don’t see it happening. Do you plan on ever getting a different job in the future, or are you happy with the one you’ve got? I don’t have a job currently. What age do you plan to retire at? Or do you plan on working til you’re dead? I don’t know what my plans are in regards to work.  What is something on your bucket list worth mentioning? One that pretty much everyone says, but traveling.  If given the opportunity to see how your future plays out, would you take it, or no? The future terrifies me, so no I don’t think I would. It could possibly end up being encouraging if I saw things turn around for me in a good way, but I’m afraid it would just show more problems and things getting worse. :/

Layer 37: Hygiene

How often do you shower? Every couple days. How often do you brush your teeth? At least once a day. Do you actually iron any of your clothes? I’ve never ironed my clothes. How often do you do laundry? It gets done about once a week. How long do you use a bath towel before switching it out? I only use it once.

Layer 38: Clothing, Makeup, & Style

Do you wear nail polish? If so, how often do you paint your nails? I haven’t painted my nails in almost 5 years. How would your describe your sense of style? Super casual? ha. I live in leggings and oversized graphic tees. Are there any popular trends that you do not find appealing? Of course. Where do you typically buy your clothing from? Boxlunch and Hot Topic.  What sorts of accessories do you wear/use? I haven’t worn any accessories in awhile. I used to be a big accessories person, like I stuff to match all my outfit and my arms would be full of bracelets.

Layer 39: Hobbies

Do you still color, even as an adult? Yep. I love that adult coloring books became a pretty big thing a few years ago, I love ‘em. Do you/would you like to crochet, knit, cross-stitch, etc? Nah. What’s the last thing you crafted all by yourself? I’m not an arts and crafts person. Do you use Pinterest at all? I do. What’s the last thing that you cooked or baked? Ramen, of course.

Layer 40: Dislikes

List some of your pet peeves here. Eating sounds is a big one. What are some things that annoy you about yourself? Oh jeez. Many things.  Is there anyone out there who you actually hate? Who? Myself? What is a feeling that you dislike? Feeling sick. Do you get some ugly road rage while driving? I don’t drive.

Layer 41: Random

Have you ever successfully pogo’ed on a pogo stick? No. Not sure how that would work with a wheelchair, ha. Have you ever mastered the jump rope? Again, kinda hard to do, but I’ve kinda jumped rope before. Not the actual jumping part course, but did the movements while just wheeling over the rope instead and continuing to move forward. It’s kinda hard to explain, but yeah. Do you know what it feels like to be truly happy? Uhhh.  Is it winter in your part of the world right now? Yes. What’s your favorite type of survey, and why? I enjoy themed ones like this and ones with random, interesting questions that allow me to elaborate more than just simple yes and no. I don’t mind some of that thrown in and some basic questions, but I want more.

Layer 42: Music

What are some of your favorite genres of music? I like variety. What are some music genres that you can’t stand? I’m not into dubstep.  If you had a blank pair of concert tickets, who would you hope to be going to see? Hm. I’d have to think about that. Do you still listen to music on the radio from time to time? It’s been like 4 years since I’ve listened to the radio. iTunes, Spotify, Pandora, Amazon Music, or YouTube? Spotify.

Layer 43: Books

What were some of your favorite books as a child? How young are we talking? Like around 4th grade I started getting into Goosebumps, Nancy Drew, The Baby Sitter’s Club, Ramona and Beezus, and choose your own adventure books.  What genre of books do you typically read most often? Well, for the past couple years now I’ve just been reading murder mystery and psychological thrillers. Apart from those, my favorite genres are fiction, YA, and NA. What are some of your favorite books as an adult? I have several favorite murder mystery series.  What is a book that you were required to read for school that you actually enjoyed? One of them was A Brave New World by Aldous Huxley. Do you read any newspapers or magazines anymore? I haven’t in years.

Layer 43: Around the World

Where’s the best place you’ve taken a vacation and/or day trip to? My Disneyland trips are definitely some of the best. Where is somewhere that you’d like to go someday, assuming you have the funds to do so? There’s so many places I’d love to visit. Where do your family members originate from? Most are from here, but some from different cities and states. What is your favorite type of ethnic cuisine? Italian. What is something that is typically representative of your own culture? Hm.

Layer 44: Would you Rather...

Drink apple juice or grape juice? Ew, neither. Wear pants or shorts? Pants. I don’t do shorts. Be taller or shorter? Taller. Go to a zoo or an aquarium? Zoo. Visit an art gallery or a museum? Museum.

Layer 45: Movies

Do you remember what the first movie was that you saw in theaters? No, but the first one I remember seeing is The Rugrats Movie. What are some of your favorite movies you’ve seen? There’s so many. What genre of movie do you typically enjoy? Horror, psychological thrillers, drama, superhero, fantasy and sci-fi, romcoms.  What is a movie you’ve seen that you weren’t expecting to like, but were pleasantly surprised? I didn’t think I’d love Star Wars and the superhero movies like I do, honestly. I got into them late, but once I started I was hooked. How many movies do you own? Are they all DVD’s, or do you still have some VHS ones left? I have like 10 DVDs in my personal collection. I also have my Disney VHS tapes stored away.

Layer 46: Personality

Are you more of an introvert or an extrovert? I’m an introvert all the way. Are you more easygoing and laid back, or anal? I think I come off as easygoing and laid back to people who don’t know me, but I am not. I mean, in some cases I am, like when it comes to traveling I’m pretty much down to do anything and I’m cool with just chillin’ and checking things out.  Are you kind to everyone who shows that they deserve kindness? I believe so. Describe your sense of humor. I honestly don’t know. Like, I like corny, punny, cheesy jokes, but apart from that I’m not sure how to describe it. People will show me stuff they think is funny and they can be dying of laughter and I can be straight-faced or just give a little chuckle or blow air out of my nose, ha. So yeah, it’s hard to explain. Random stuff will just really strike me as funny. And even if I do think something is amusing, it doesn’t always mean I’m laughing hysterically ya know? I haven’t had a good laugh in a long time. Do you tend to over-share? In surveys I do sometimes.

Layer 47: Celebrities

Which celebrity has given their child the most unique name, in your opinion? Meh, I don’t know. Are there any celebrities that you keep tabs on/read articles about often? Not as much as I used to, honestly. I used to be wrapped up in celebrity gossip and entertainment. I still like that kind of stuff, but I don’t know I just haven’t been following it as much. Who is/are your celebrity crush(es)? Alexander Skarsgard. Have you ever personally met someone famous before? If so, then who? Jamie Lee Curtis and Drake Bell. Who is a celebrity that you’re getting tired of hearing about all the time? Hmm.

Layer 48: Emotions

When was the last time you cried? A couple days ago. What are some things that you’re afraid of? Losing loved ones, dying, never getting better/getting worse... What is something small that makes you happy? That first sip of coffee. Who is the last person that you were angry with, and about what? It’s been awhile since I’ve been angry with someone. Are you typically a shy or outgoing person? I’m very shy.

Layer 49: Digging Deeper

What is your favorite alcoholic beverage? I don’t drink. How old were you when you got drunk for the first time? 21. Do you smoke? Nope. Have you ever taken and sent naked pictures of yourself? No. Have you ever done any drugs other than marijuana? If so, which ones? Nope.

Layer 50: Games

What are some of your favorite video games? Mario Bro games. Do you have any computer games that you play regularly? I go through phases with The Sims where I’ll play all the time and then go years without playing. The last time I played was 3 years ago. What was your favorite board game, growing up? Sorry!, Trouble, and Life. How about your favorite card game? Growing up I liked playing Uno and Crazy 8′s.  How good are you at solving puzzles? (such as a Rubik’s cube, word puzzles, or putting together a jigsaw puzzle) I love word searches and such. I used to enjoy doing actual puzzles when I was a kid. I’ve actually been wanting to do a puzzle lately.

[ohsh1t2wksl8]

Sunshine

Pairing: Maxwell Lord x OC (Evelyn “Evie” Blaker)

Warnings: None

A/N: I have to admit I’m really struggling with this story.  I don’t know if my brain is finally coming to the end of this writing jag its been on for the last month and a half, but I’m determined to see it through and get it posted.  So we’ll see what the next couple of weeks bring.

Reminder:  I ain’t ever seen Pedro Pascal in FUCK ALL, I’m just coming up with this as I go along, using imdb.com, wiki, and 84,000 tabs I got open to plan out this shit.  I also write soft versions of his characters so if you’re craving asshole vibes, I ain’t got any but my own to offer.

Tags:  @zeldasayer , @romanticgumchewer, @beskars​ , @coolmaybelateruniverse , @the-feckless-wonder, @lavenderl3mons , @pascalisthepunkest , @mandoandyodito​ , @randomness501 , @fioccodineveautunnale  

[PART 1] 

Part 2 

Then Move on to Dinner

As Evie disembarked from the train, she felt as if she had been taken through a ringer and thought that she probably looked it.  Such an auspicious start to her date with Maxwell Lord of all people.  But she was here and as she stepped further into Grand Central Station, she looked around for Maxwell’s driver.  When she spotted the man holding a sign with her name on it, she smiled while adjusting her small bag on her shoulder, walking over to meet him.  Her look of apology was all over her face and he could clearly see it.

“Are you Bennett?”

“I am, you must be Miss Evie.  Mr. Lord said you’d be easy to spot in the crowd.”  She laughed and he smiled at her.  They shook hands and he began to guide her out of the station, dodging the mass of people exiting the city for home after a long workday.  

“I am so sorry, Bennett, there was a delay coming out of Poughkeepsie. I know you had to have been waiting a while.”

“Naw, it’s all good.  But the traffic is a little heavy today, so let’s get going.  I know Mr. Lord is already at the restaurant.”  Evie had the rare knack for making friends with everyone she met, and Bennett was no exception.  As they walked to the car, they chatted like old friends.  They stepped out into the warm evening and Bennett pointed to the car.

As she climbed in, she continued to ask questions about the man’s family, how long he had been working for Maxwell, and when Bennett admitted he was an artist, she began to prod him about that, too.  All the while, she was in the back transforming herself from seemingly mild-manner accountant to date worthy.

She didn’t have an opportunity to get ready on the train coming into the city as she had hoped, so Evie took a chance to update her make-up for the evening and twisted her hair into a sleek up-do.  When she needed to change clothes, she asked Bennett if he could just briefly turn the mirror.  He smiled and told her that there was a partition.  He raised it and she slipped out of her sweater and slacks and into a deep gold cocktail dress.  The crepe satin had metallic thread woven through it and it sparkled in the light. When she knocked on the partition, Bennett whistled when he saw her emerge as it lowered.

“Miss Evie, I’m pretty sure Mr. Lord will have a hard time keeping his eyes off you.”  

“Yeah, well, I suppose that’s the goal of any date night, right?”  She grunted as she moved to put on a pair of nude flats.  As she put on her jewelry, Bennett kept talking.

“For sure, my Bette, that first night we met, I knew I was going to marry her.  I couldn’t keep my eyes off her.  She wore this pink dress that just. . . .  Well, let’s just say it was a good night!”

They both laughed and soon Bennett was pulling up to the restaurant. She cleaned up her mess and stowed her bag under the seat before getting out, wrapping her green silk shawl around her shoulders.  The sudden sounds of the city caused her to pause a moment before she rushed up the stairs and into the restaurant.  She smiled at the hostess, who immediately took her to a private room upon hearing her name.

As she stepped into the room, Maxwell looked up, relief washing over him at the sight of her.  He had been worried that she wasn’t going to come given how late she was.  A small part of him wondered if Saturday night’s little adventure and promise wasn’t something his muddled brain hadn’t just made up.  Seeing her in person again washed away all those uncharacteristic doubts that had been swirling around for the last hour.

“Maxwell, I am so, so, so sorry I am late.  I’ve kept you waiting and I’m sure you’re hungry.  I should have called you, but I didn’t realize how bad the delay was and then the traffic was bad. . .”  She rambled on in her apology as he stood up to greet her, not even noticing the feral look in his eye.  He took her hand and when he spoke her name, she looked up.

“Evie.”  His tone was even but carried authority and it was often one his own staff heard from him. It easily broke through her worrying thoughts, bringing her back to him.  “It’s fine. Things happen.  What matters is that you’re here.  Give yourself a second to breathe.  We have all night.”  

She heaved a sigh of relief and for the first time since she walked into the room, she smiled at him.  He smiled back and dropped his hand to her lower back to guide her to their table. He signaled the young man waiting at the door and he left to get their waiter.  He pulled out her chair and as she sat down, he caught a whiff of her shampoo – just as soft and warm as he remembered, and he felt his cock stir a little.  

If Maxwell Lord weren’t already captivated by Evie Blaker, then tonight he would have been.  When she walked in, wearing that golden dress, he felt as if the room brightened considerably and it was all he could do to talk to her.  He was mesmerized by her everyday beauty, but she was a radiant sun goddess now.  He wanted to take her in his arms and kiss her until she was panting for him, until she begged him to fuck her on the table, dinner be damned.  Instead, he willed himself to calm down and for his erection to stop growing.

“Just a ginger ale and water please, Alonzo.  And I’m sorry, wait.  Maxwell, did you want another drink?”  He straightened up at the sound of his name from her voice and simply nodded.  The waiter bowed his head to fill their drink orders and the two fell into silence as they looked at the menu.  He already knew what he wanted but waited patiently for her to decide.

“How did you know his name was Alonzo?”  He asked.

“I asked him?”  If she weren’t so kind, he would have guessed her questioning look was akin to something like, are you stupid?  He never blushed, but he could feel heat rising in his neck in embarrassment.  He cleared his throat to rid himself of this foreign sensation.

“You asked him.”

“Yes, and the young man over there is Zachary.  And the hostess is named Melanie.”  She smiled at the boy and he shyly smiled back before looking away. She looked back at Maxwell, whose mouth was slightly hanging open.  He looked down at the menu before looking up.  He saw her eyes sparkle with amusement.  She had the courtesy not to giggle out loud at least.

“Oh.”

“You don’t really talk with the people around you, do you?”  He thought about it and really, unless he had something to say to them, no he didn’t.  And when he did, he was prone to speaking at them rather than with them.  Before he could say anything, Alonzo returned with their drinks and to take their order, before whisking away the menus and signaling Zachary to follow him.  The two were left alone.

---***---

His dinner with Evie was one of the most enjoyable nights Maxwell had had in some time.  He found himself more open than he usually is on a date and he was certain her natural friendliness was the reason.  Something about her made him answer her questions truthfully and to share even when not prompted.  Their conversation was non-stop, even after the food came, and they seemed pressed to learn as much about each other as possible – as if both were worried this was a dream that would disappear.

While most people knew that Maxwell’s father committed suicide, he revealed how his mother died a much slower death.  He talked about how that shaped him and his real feelings about Chimtech.  He felt pride in the company’s success under his leadership, but knowing it was also the ultimate cause of his parent’s deaths made him feel a little resentful towards it.

They laughed together over his antics in college or at least the ones he was willing to share. And he shared tales of travel and the time he got lost in Prague that led him to the most beautiful church he had ever seen.  As he shared, he became more and more relaxed.  And Maxwell relaxed was a sight to behold for Evie – she was certain she was witnessing something special.

On her part, Evie loved to tell stories and she reached out to Maxwell when he talked about his father’s death because she too had lost a parent.  She talked about how her mother’s sudden death in an accident caused by a drunk drive lead her to never want to drink.  But she was close her to pharmacist father, who loved and was devoted his only child.  And how he was supportive when she took a risk and went all the way to Notre Dame for college.

She also regaled him with stories from her childhood antics with her cousin and best friend, Maribel.  He never laughed as hard as when Evie described how the two of them destroyed a pier and Maribel’s brother’s boat trying to recreate the Lancelot and Elaine scene from Anne of Green Gables.  They thought they could do it better and she admitted they clearly didn’t.

“Well, to your credit, you did recreate the scene from the book pretty faithfully.”  Maxwell laughed.  She laughed too.

“That is true, although I don’t think Brad has forgiven us over the loss of his boat.”  They sat back in their chairs, with little chuckles permeating the small room.  She sighed as she took a sip of her drink and Maxwell watched her, a small smile on his face.  He was more content and relaxed than he had been in a long time. Her sitting across from him felt so natural and a small part of him thought that he could get used to this.

“Would you like dessert?”  He asked and she nodded.  She wasn’t about to pass up the chance for dessert in a four-star restaurant in New York. After perusing the menu, Maxwell decided on a berry tart and she went for a caramel cake.  They continued their conversation through dessert and as it wound down, Maxwell texted Bennett to bring the car around.

“I’m sorry, Maxwell, can I order a dessert to go?”  She looked at him shyly, not wanting to seem greedy. He smiled with a hint of confusion but nodded as he finished his wine.  After she placed the order, she excused herself to go to the restroom. He sat back and realized they had been sitting for hours but it seemed so much shorter than that. The warmth that haunted his dreams had enveloped him all evening and he was hesitant to let her go just yet.

When she returned, she noticed the box on the table and smiled.  Maxwell smiled back and stood up to meet her. She picked up her things as he held out his hand and she slipped hers into his grasp.  He lightly squeezed as they left the restaurant.  Evie thought that holding his hand seemed to be the most natural thing in the world, as if his hand were made to hold hers perfectly.

Evie bid good-bye to Zachary, Alonzo, and then Melanie as they exited the building before giving Bennett a large smile when they stepped outside.  He returned it and the couple slid into the car, with the door closing behind them.  When he got back in the car, Evie stopped him.

“Here Bennett - this is for you and Bette.”  She handed him the box and he looked stunned.

“For us?”

“Yes, it’s a caramel cake, you said that it was yours and Bette’s favorite dessert, right?”

“Yeah!  You remembered?!”

“Of course!  I had this for dessert, and you will both love it.  It’s divine!”  She patted his hand and he looked so happy that she not only remembered but cared enough to bring him something.  She sat back, putting on her seatbelt.  He set the cake down carefully so he could take it home before turning to Maxwell and asking where their next stop was.

“Give me a minute, Bennett.”  The driver nodded and waited.

“Stay with me tonight.”  His low voice didn’t demand, but it was firm, and he was glad it hid the desperation he was feeling.  He wanted her to come home with him.  But she no more wanted the evening to end than he did, and Evie simply nodded, and a smile bloomed on his lips.  Finally, the sensations that haunted his sleep wouldn’t leave him at dawn’s first light.

“Home, Bennett.”  The driver nodded and he pulled away from the curb to begin the trek across the city. As they sat there, Evie reached over to grab Maxwell’s hand and lace her fingers through his.  He tightened his hand, as if to keep her from floating away from him.

“How did you know about cake?”  He asked suddenly, but quietly and she turned to look at him with a confused look on her face.

“Because we talked earlier on the way in?”  It was a question-comment.

“You talked about cake?”

“Among other things.”  She looked at him closer.  “You didn’t know Bennett was married, did you?”

He slightly shook his head no and she nodded in response.  Bennett had been his driver for six years and until tonight, Maxwell didn’t know anything about the man.  Evie squeezed his hand and looked out to the window to enjoy New York City in the evening.  The two lapsed into their own silences for the remainder of the trip.

---***---

She expected Bennett to pull up to a large apartment building, thinking Maxwell lived in a penthouse.  Instead, he pulled down a tree-lined street with large houses on either side. Bennett stopped in front of a three-story brownstone that exuded charm and warmth.  She could see in the flower beds daisies, asters, and lilies interspersed with small ornamental trees.  She was almost shocked at how homey and welcoming the property looked.  

The car stopped and Evie withdrew her hand to grab her bag from under the seat.  Bennett opened the door and Evie stepped out while Maxwell opened his own door and stretched his long legs as he walked around the back of the car.  Evie was already into another conversation with his driver as he came up to them.

“You say hello to Bette for me and you’ll let me know what she thinks of the cake, won’t you?”

“Absolutely Miss Evie!  You have a good evening with Mr. Lord.”

“Good-bye Bennett!”  She gave him a small wave as Maxwell guided her up the steps.  As they entered the house, again Evie found herself surrounded by a cozy and charming space.  She stopped and looked around her, noting textures like dark wood and soft fabrics.  It was clearly the home of a man and yet it felt homey and well lived in.  

Instead of modern art, she noted classical style paintings and landscape photography hanging on the walls.  She sucked in a breath at the beautiful stain glass that hung in the windows and she thought that the place was probably heavenly when the sun shone through them in the late afternoons.

“Not what you expected, I bet?”  Maxwell watched her as she took in his home.  His tone was playful, and she laughed.

“No.  I expected a penthouse with a harsh modern look that was more like a magazine set than a real home.  This is beautiful, Maxwell.”

“I detest modern furniture.  It’s lifeless and cold.  Give me a leather couch any day.”  She supposed it made sense, he was a fashionable man, but he also came from money. He probably grew up in a similar house, where the traditional trappings of wealth surrounded him.  She decided it suited him much more than anything she had imagined.

Evie didn’t move from her spot in the foyer, not sure what would happen if she stepped further into his home.  For the first time since all this began, she felt apprehensive.  Meeting in an office or restaurant is one thing, that could be considered more neutral meeting grounds.  But here?  She was on his turf and was keenly aware he had an advantage.

It seemed as if Maxwell could sense her hesitation and he stepped up behind her, placing his hands on her shoulders.  He could feel tension there and he wanted to wipe it away, so he bent his head down and kiss her underneath her ear.  She inhaled sharply at the sensation and her fingers gripped the handles of her bag.  When he kissed the spot again, her eyes fluttered shut.  They both knew what was going to happen next and they both wanted it. Saturday may have been the appetizer, but tonight was the dessert.

Coffee Shop: Bucky Barnes x Reader  AU

Summary: Reader gets set up at a Coffee Shop.

Words: 4,188 (Sorry its long) 

*Bucky stuff starts at about 1,300 words, so stick it out if you want him.

Part: 1/3

Hope you guys like it. Comments are appreciated!!!!

Coffee Shop

Y/N

Most important stop of your mornings: Jason’s Coffee Shop, where your friend Jason just happened to work, not own it. The name was merely a coincidence. No, your Jason was a barista, though if any cute woman asked, he was the dedicated entrepreneur who took a risk to follow his dream and opened this quaint shop. Something about successful men who took the time to work in their business rather than leave it to his employees was a major turn on for women young college-aged and older gracefully-aged alike. And Jason had a way of appreciating every, single, lady that fell for his charming smile.

Nine a.m., not too crowded to find a seat at the coffee bar that Jason’s was known for. Being set up like an industrial bar/club with a long counter, booths instead of small tables, and retro music playing in the background drew the people in.

You smiled at the way the sun shown through the large windows and reflected off the mirror behind the counter. This was without a doubt, your favorite place in the entire city. There were very few customers this morning. Not unexpected on a Saturday at this hour, and that was just how you liked it. The only people there were a lovey-dovey couple in a back booth sharing croissants and muffins, a ridiculously attractive man sitting two seats away from your average spot, and your very best friend, Jason.

“Right on time, as always,” Your blond buddy said as he placed your steaming mug of liquid life in front of you; cream and two sugars. You slipped your puffy, yet stylish, coat off your shoulders, tucked it around a stool, and plopped down.

“You’re getting good with this timing thing. You already had this made?” You chuckled, blowing away the steam before taking a small sip. You loved the way the temperature heated the ceramic and warmed your winter-chilled fingers.

Jason smiled, drying a recently washed mug with a rag. The movements forced your eyes to his biceps. They always moved and rippled magically in a way that used to drive you crazy back when you were both in college, but you quickly grew out of your little freshman lust-crush. The next year, Jason had actually developed one for you, but like you had, came to the realization that friends was the better way to go. A relationship would never blossom from you spending some lonely nights together and would only result in a lost friendship. Not worth it in your opinion.

“I’ve only known you five years. We lived together. You only come here every single morning like clockwork. To be honest, if I still didn’t know how you prefer to fuel your caffeine addiction, then I would worry for my ability to pay attention to the important things in life.” He laughed. “And,” He paused. “If I can’t even pay attention to the details of my best friend, then how will I be able to get myself a long-term chick? She’ll think I don’t care about her. Remembering the details is what you ladies like, is it not?”

You took another sip. “It doesn’t hurt. But ‘long-term chicks’ are far from your thing.”

The man a couple seats down snickered a little as he took a bite of his pink-frosted donut. You turned your head to meet his perfectly outlined profile. Puffy lips. Masculine nose, but not too large or bumpy like some men’s; perfectly proportioned for his face. Neatly trimmed scruff along a jawline that you kind of wanted to trace with your finger. Long, dark lashes. Strong chin. Soft looking, fluffy hair. To put it simply…he was insanely attractive.

You must’ve stared a little too long, because Jason felt the need to distract you from your thoughts. “See something you like?” He whispered, his elbows perched on the counter, a smirk on his handsome face. Thankfully he was quiet enough so the stranger didn’t hear Jason’s little joke.

Your head whipped back to his and you playfully pushed him back by his shoulder. “Absolutely not.”

“Why not? You need a good lay.” At his words you looked down into your mug, avoiding his eyes. Suddenly, you were noticeably too silent to fool your friend. “Y/N?”

“What?” You asked with a causal, yet unconvincing, tone.

“Oh, Y/N, you didn’t. You did not call that asshole, again.”

Meeting his disappointed look, you sighed and placed your mug back on the dark cherry surface. “I was bored.”

Jason crossed his large, muscly arms. “Oh, c’mon darling, you know very well that if you are ever bored,” He stopped and untangled an arm, using the hand to brush your chin with his knuckle, “I’ll take care of you.”

You groaned and swatted his hand away from your face. “Don’t be an ass. We’ve been down that road.”

Jason laughed, loud enough for the sound to echo through the quiet shop. “Nah, I’m just kidding sweetheart. You know that. I tried to get in your pants and you turned me down. Multiple times if I recall correctly.”

“You know it was for the best.” You smiled. Your eyes sparkled from the laughter that nearly passed your lips.

“Very true. But in all seriousness, Y/N, you gotta find someone else to go to when you need to release some tension. Charles always says some dick thing to you every time after the sixty seconds he spends inside you.”

“I know.” Your fingers went to your long locks but got slightly caught in the tangles of your un-styled do.

“So, what’s with the self-punishment?”

“I don’t know. But enough about me, let’s talk about you. Bang a ‘lucky’ lady since yesterday morning?”

Jason smiled as he served a drink to a new customer before returning to you. “Ladies…”

You chucked. “So, same old?”

He nodded. “Same old.”

Silence passed between you, and Jason watched as you took the opportunity to gaze longingly at the attractive stranger. “Darling, I wanna strike a deal.”

“Hmm?” Your Y/H/C eyebrows scrunched together as once again, your attention was drawn from the man. “What kind of deal?” You asked warily.

“I’m gonna scour the land for a man for you.”

You winced at how desperate the phrase made you sound. You didn’t need a man. And you certainly didn’t need a friend setting you up. “Jason…”

Jason wagged his finger. “Nope. No ifs, ands, or buts. I’ve made up my mind. But I do need a small favor in return.”

“In return for doing something I don’t even want you to do.”

“Yes.”

“Fine. What?”

Jason leaned in close, his brown eyes sparkling with mischief. “Set me up with Amanda.”

That, you did not expect, but you didn’t know why. Jason slept around enough, you should know his habits by now. “Amanda Smith, or Amanda McMeyer?”

“McMeyer.”

“McMeyer???” You made a disgusted face. “Really?”

Jason shrugged his broad shoulders. “What? She’s hot.”

“She’s also a mega bitch.”

“Yea…” He drew out the word. “I don’t really care…like at all. I want that pussy and those sexy tits.”

“Fake tits.”

“Again…I don’t care. She’s sexy. And why should I care if she got a boob job? She didn’t like something about her body and she did something about it. It’s like exercising to lose weight or gain muscle. I think it’s kind of admirable.”

“Makes sense. Now you’re making it seem like a great idea. Maybe I should do it.” You sarcastically replied.

“No, Darling. You’re pretty perfect as you are. I’ve seen that body naked, remember?” You chuckled at the memory of your once roommate walking in on you just as you hopped out of the shower. “So? Get miss McMeyer to sleep with me?” He asked as you downed the rest of your coffee, stood, and reached for your coat.

“I’ll do my best, but she doesn’t really sleep around.”

“Convince her?” He asked with a puppy-dog smile.

“Do I look like I magician?”

“You don’t not look like one.”

You giggled, smiled, and blew a kiss goodbye to your friend as you headed for the door. “I’ll work on it today and report back tomorrow.”

“God Y/N, you are the best. And don’t worry, I’m gonna get you a great guy.”

You rolled your Y/E/C eyes, sarcasm on your cherry painted lips. “Yea, yea. I’ll see ya later.”

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

Jason

Through the windows, Jason watched you walk away, then he turned to the stranger you found so captivating. Jason smiled at the blue-grey-eyed man long enough that he looked up from the newspaper in front of him.

Jason’s lips curved upwards. “You’re quite the attractive man, aren’t you?”

Seemingly unphased by the barista’s words, the man scratched at his brunet eyebrow. “Uh, Thanks. Not that that’s not a very nice thing to say, but it’s awfully random. Or are you just hitting on me?”

Jason laughed and threw his head back a bit, strands of his short blond hair flinging with the movement. “I admit, I did experiment in college, but no, ended up not swingin’ that way. However,” He said, raising a slightly darker colored eyebrow than the shade of his light locks, “I couldn’t help but notice that your very pretty eyes happened to make their way to my good friend more than once this morning.” The man met Jason’s smirk, unashamed at how he had stared at the side of your face and studied every soft, but significant curve of your body when you weren’t looking. “Pretty isn’t she?”

Puffy lips turned upwards at the question. “Very.”

“How would you like to go out with her? I warn you, she’s a tough chick, and it takes her some time to open up, but she’s totally worth it. In more ways than one.”

“She didn’t seem to eager to be set up on a date.”

Jason waved his hand in a brush-off. “It makes her nervous, but like I said, she’s worth it. Besides, you’re attracted to her. And I can tell Y/N’s attracted to you.”

“Do you do this to all of your friends?”

“Only the ones who deserve it. So, what do you say? Beautiful woman. Smart, witty, creative. She even reads. Also has a bit of culture under her belt.”

“I guess I would be an idiot to say no, wouldn’t I?”

Jason smiled wide, tiny crinkles forming at the outer corners of his eyes. He knew he just accomplished his goal. “You know it.” He scribbled something down quickly on a square napkin. “Here. This is my number. If you really wanna go out with her, text me later and I’ll give you hers.” He handed off the napkin to the man, who grinned down at the numbers before folding it in half and sticking it in his back jeans pocket. “I’m Jason.” Jason extended his hand.

The blue-grey-eyed brunet gripped the hand in front of him. “I’m Bucky.”

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

Bucky

Bucky hadn’t texted you when Jason gave him your number after confirming he want to go out with you. He didn’t know why. He’d been out with a ton of girls, plenty of dates, a fair amount of hook-ups, but for some reason, you made him kind of nervous. And texting you out of nowhere seemed too impersonal. So now, Bucky sat back in the same seat he had the day before at Jason’s and waited to see you again. He heard Jason say you came to the shop every morning at nine a.m. sharp and so he made sure to get there at eight-fifty-five.

Jason glared at Bucky as he poured him a fresh cup of coffee. “Why didn’t you text her?”

“I just wanted to talk to her in person. Texting her without even speaking to her first seemed too weird.”

And yep. Nine a.m. as promised, you strolled in with a wide smile that brightened your entire face. The same cute, puffy blue jacket wrapped around you draped in your gorgeous Y/H/C hair, leggings that fit snuggly to your ass, accentuating one of the curves Bucky had become quite fond of in the short amount of time he had looked at you.

“You better make your move.” Jason whispered to him as he grabbed the coffee to greet you while you took a seat in the same stool.

“Thanks, Jace.”

Bucky received many side glances from Jason as he listened to you recount your attempts to get some girl to sleep with the barista. His eyes clearly said, ‘get a move on.’ Bucky cleared his throat, removing any scratchiness before you heard his voice for the first time. He didn’t want to scare you off by sounding like Godzilla mid-screech.

The first break in your conversation with the blond, Bucky turned to you, plastered an easy smile on his face, and said, “Hi.”

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

Y/N

Holy shit, You thought. That right there is the deep, sultry, sexy voice of a Greek God. It startled you for a minute and your eyes widened.

You met his eyes. Big mistake!

You couldn’t tell if you were smiling, though you hoped you were and that you didn’t look like a deer frozen in space ready to be squashed by an oncoming car.

Swallowing your anxiety, you parted your lips and licked away the dryness, an act that you saw did not go unnoticed by the man before you. “Um, Hi.”

Jason stepped back with a smile as he watched you both, then turned to attend to the Sunday customers.

“Do you mind if I sit next to you?”

“It’s a free country,” You chuckled awkwardly, internally imagining slapping your palm to your forehead from stupidity.

He, too, chuckled, but took no time lessening the space between you. He stuck out a strong, firm hand and you felt yourself suck in a breath at the veins that trailed from the back of his hand, up his strong forearm and disappeared under the short sleeve of his tee.

You took it and, Oh good lord, so rough. Those fingers would feel too good inside me.

“I’m Bucky.”

“Y/N.” You matched his panty-melting smile. Now this guy, You thought, This guy I could definitely see replacing Charles.

 --------------------------------

Y/N

One Month Later

 He insisted on waiting to sleep together, wanting to get to know you first. He hadn’t even tried to kiss you yet, but now, at the end of your third date, you were ready to have him. No more waiting.

Bucky smiled down at you, a certain joyful glint in his eyes as he tucked a loose piece of your hair behind your ear then stroked your cheek with his thumb. “I had a great time.” He near whispered. “I’m really glad you agreed to go out with me…three times.” You chuckled, but you were too. Bucky was amazing. Sweet, kind, sexy as hell, funny, passionate about his dreams, an amazing listener. The list could fill a book. Bucky was worth more than just a Charles replacement. “And I am really, really glad Jason said something to me about you. I mean, really fucking glad.”

You groaned with a smile. “Oh lord, do not mention Jason. That man is driving me nuts over Amanda McMeyer. Apparently, he wants to date her now, which is beyond weird, but I guess after they slept together, he realized he actually liked her.”

“And he’s requesting your matchmaking services again?”

“You bet he is.” Though, to be honest, you didn’t really mind. Sure, he bugged you about her every time he could, but you were happy he finally wanted to be with someone for more than a night. And according to him, Amanda isn’t as bitchy as you thought. So…Bonus!

Your thoughts quickly snapped back to the concern at hand. The man you wanted so bad, that seemed to want you too, had not kissed you. He gave every indication that he wanted to, but nada. Not a single attempt, not even a half-second of those delicious looking lips on yours. “Bucky, I’m really happy we are going out too, and I don’t want to stop anytime soon, but I’m kinda concerned.”

Bucky’s eyebrows knitted together as his thumb began to trace the curve of your bottom lip. Who the hell does that if they don’t want to devour your mouth with theirs?

“What’s wro--?”

“Why haven’t you kissed me?” You blurted out before you lost your nerve.

Bucky dropped his hand from your face and ran it through his neatly cut and styled hair. For a moment, he avoided your gaze, then took a deep breath and looked back. “Believe me, I want to. So damn bad. I want to do more than kiss you, but…”

“But?” You asked, tilting your head like a puppy.

“Don’t get mad.”

“Um, OK.”

“Jason told me you don’t really do relationships. That you aren’t quick to trust and have a tendency to turn all the men that like you or want you into fuck-buddies, if anything at all.”

Your lips formed an ‘oh,’ but nothing came out.

“I just didn’t want to be one of those guys. I like you. So much. You’re beautiful and smart. Funny. Amazing. Just…all-around great. I was drawn to you the minute I saw you, but not in the way I’ve been to other women in the past. Yes, I wanted you, still do,” He chuckled. “And I’m not saying that I wouldn’t have taken you on the counter the second we met if you let me, but only if I knew it would lead to something more.” He took another deep breath. “So, that’s why I haven’t kissed you. Because I knew if I did, then I wouldn’t be able to stop, and we would’ve fucked each other senseless the first time we went out. I wanted to prove to you that that’s not all I want from you.”

You smiled and cupped his cheek. “Well, mission accomplished.”

“Oh yea?” Bucky grinned, slipping his strong arms around the curve of your waist and pulling you even closer.

“Absolutely. I never really thought I would do this again. The whole dating thing.”

“So, why did you try it out with me? How did I get to be the lucky one?”

“I just had a feeling you were one of the good ones.”

Bucky’s smile forced an explosion in your heart. You looked down to his parted lips, your own opening slightly in preparation for his plump lips melding with yours. Slowly, his head tipped down as you stood on your toes the little bit you needed to meet him halfway. Inch by inch the space disappeared between you until nothing was left. He did not solely kiss you and you did not solely kiss him, but you kissed each other, both with equal passion and sharing the control. When you slid your tongue into his mouth, his would compliment yours perfectly. If he sucked your bottom lip, you bit his. If you moaned, he groaned. It was more than you had ever felt at one time in your entire life, and it was perfect.

Bucky pushed you back against the door, making sure to keep you away from the doorknob for the sake of your lower back. He tangled a fist in your hair and groaned again from so deep within him that it tingled over every inch of your body, lighting your nerves on fire.

You broke apart at the same time and your foreheads rested against one another. Neither of your eyes opened as Bucky muttered a quiet “Fuck” into your ear. “That was, uh…God, I don’t even know how to describe it.”

“All I know,” You said between slow breaths, “Is that kissing you was well worth the wait.” Another deep breath. “Bucky?”

“Hmm?” He hummed, his hands roaming up and down your curves. Ribs, waist, hips, ass, hips, waist, ribs. Not breaking his hands away from your body for a second.

“Come inside.”

Bucky’s head rose form it’s leaned position on yours. He flitted his eyes back and forth between your own, processing your words, and trying to figure out if you meant what he thought you did. “But—”

“Don’t you want to?”

He exhaled a silent chuckle. “Do I want to? Are you kidding? I want you so damn bad.”

“Come inside, Bucky.” You said again, opening your apartment door with one hand while the other held on to his. You tugged lightly, and when you didn’t meet resistance, you pulled him fully through the doorway, kissing him again as he kicked the door closed.

“Jump.” He mumbled against your lips and you did as you were told, trusting him to catch you and hold you to him when you wrapped your legs around his waist. “Bed?”

In between pecks, you uttered a quick, “No, here. Take me here.”

Bucky laughed into your kiss, the impact muffled by the seal of your lips. “No. Bed,” He whispered, pulling away enough to look you directly in the eyes. “We can fuck against the wall later. Hell, we can fuck on every surface in this place, but I am having you on a bed first. I want you comfortable when I make you come for me.”

You whimpered at his words then quickly slammed your lips back onto his. Bed it is.

Bucky laid you on the mattress carefully and crawled on top of you, leaving not a hairs width of space between your bodies as he ground his hard-on against your core. No one had ever turned you on so much in your life, and this simple friction was enough to drive you insane, making you softly sob with each thrust.

He straightened up on his knees, pulling you with him. Then, he told you to lift your arms up so he could slip off your top. Next your bra, and the minute the material hit the floor, Bucky’s breath hitched. His thumbs made their was to the underside of your breasts and stroked the softness of your skin. When you tugged on the hem of his shirt moments later, he removed his hands and gripped the back neck of his tee and pulled it over his head. As his arms settled back at his sides, your eyes glazed over at the sight of his muscles moving under his skin.

After tossing his shirt to the side, Bucky placed a hand between the valley of your breasts and pushed you back down on the bed. His fingers when to the waist of your pants and slowly undid the button before hooking his fingers in the belt loops and pulling the fabric down along with your underwear until you lay bare in front of him.

“Jesus,” He huffed out in between rapid breathing. He trailed his eyes over every inch of you from head to toe, but eventually landed them on your dripping pussy. He reached out his hand, extended a thumb, and slowly slipped it between your folds, sliding it up and down in even rhythms forcing you to pant and cry for him. “So pretty.”

“Bucky,” You cried as you bucked your hips with every brush of his thumb against your clit. “This isn’t fair. Let me see you.”

He grinned at your eager tone, but never let up on the torturous movement of his thumb as he undid his own jeans button with his free hand and forced the pants down just far enough to let his cock spring free from its confines.

Giant. Thick. Long. Good God. At the sight of him, you pushed his hand away from your pussy, quickly sat up and scooted close until the tip of his cock nearly brushed against your lips. You looked up to find him thoroughly licking your juices from his thumb and you took this second of his distracted state to dip your tongue out and lick lightly along the underside of the tip. You lit up as his hips involuntarily jutted forward, the first inch of him sliding into the heat of your mouth through parted lips.

Bucky braced a strong hand on your shoulder as you took him in deeper, inch by agonizing inch, swirling your tongue along every bit of skin you could and moaning to create a gentle vibration. “Oh, Fuck.” You took him in and out over and over, your tongue making devilish licks on his shaft. “Goddamn…that mouth of yours is…shit…,” He grunted. “…fucking amazing. So good, baby girl.”

Then, as if he had come to a sudden realization, Bucky’s eyes snapped open and he pulled his dick out of the comfort of your lips.

“What’s wrong?”

“Y/N, I don’t want to come in your mouth, not this time. I wanna come in that pussy.”

You gasped, grabbed the back of his neck, and met his lips in an aggressive kiss. As he crawled back on top of you, Bucky managed to kick the rest of his pants off, then settled himself between your legs. His hips spread them wide until you could feel his tip playfully nudging at your entrance. One thrust and he would be inside you.

Tags: @dugan365 @moonlightimagination @pietrotheavenger @marvel-fanfiction @agentsinstorybrooke @dani-si @alyssiamking @wintersoldier98 @then-there-was-me-emily @prxttybirdz @tessvillegas @xceafh @jazzwoman897 @fandoms-who @meganwinchester1999 @ufffg @debra77 @rebelliouscat @anise-d-castle6 @projectxhappiness @buckybarnesappreciationsociety @lowkeysebby @stringgeek13 @notmyfault404 @jjamesbbarness @stangirl4eva @guera31 @sophiatomlinson23 @youreahandsomedevil @thisismysecrethappyplace @rex-orange-baby @hiddles-rose @vibhati123 @mywinterwolf @stevesaidabadlanguageword @picapicapicassobaby

Broadcast: Rob Kranken, 01/18/19

[Fire Escape Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness]

Rob: Good evening everyone, this is 103.5 KPLR Radio, that was “Fire Escape” by Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness. I’m your host, Rob Kranken, with you on this Friday night going into Saturday morning. It’s about 30 degrees outside and I am huddled in my studio with my jacket on and a blanket that I found in a storage closet. No one is on the road, and I’m hoping it stays that way ‘cause we got a lotta ice out there after Thursday's storm. In more personal news, I talked to Angelo as someone last week advised. I’ll respect his privacy on-air but I do think you were right. And besides, he’s alright to talk to. Much better than some of the interns. Speaking of which, those kids are so easy to mess with. You’d think a strange town like Kepler would give you immunity to a few scary goofs. Anyways, I’ll stop blabbering, here’s “Daydreamer” by Young The Giant.

[Daydreamer Young the Giant] [Shutdown Joywave] [Train Brick + Mortar] [Way Too Much Wavves]

Rob: That was “Shutdown” by Joywave, and then “Train” by Brick and Mortar, and “Way Too Much” by Wavves. It seems like it’s gonna be a pretty quiet night so I’ll go ahead and fill the silence before I leave you all to more music. So it’s January, right, the start of a new year. And people make those resolutions, and this, maybe two weeks in, is when a lot of people start falling off. First of all, if your goal involves weight loss, I’d recommend not bothering. Unless a medical professional tells you that and means it, and they’re not just being a prick, then you don’t need to lose weight. Second of all, if you drop off now you don’t have to wait ‘til next year to pick it up. Say you’re trying to learn a language. That Duolingo owl is still gonna be there in a month if you get too busy. And besides, languages are not easy and are never gonna make sense, so I’m proud of you for even trying. Now I’m an old man, I’m— I’m 42, so I haven’t made a New Year’s resolution in quite some time. But this year I was… well, I had something in mind. I was thinking this year I should get some hobbies outside radio, something I can do on my own. And I… I haven’t found anything that really sparked my interest yet, but like I said, the year isn’t over. So keep searching, I’ll keep searching, we all gotta keep searching. Then we’ll start over next year, hopefully as better people. I’ve rambled enough. This is “Cringe” by Matt Maeson.

[Cringe Matt Maeson] [I See You MISSIO] [Salt Bad Suns] [So Tied Up Cold War Kids, Bishop Briggs]

Rob: So that was “I See You” by MISSIO, “Salt” by Bad Suns, and “So Tied Up” by Cold War Kids and Bishop Briggs. It looks like someone’s calling in, and now is as good a time as any, so I guess we’ll move into this part of the broadcast. Listeners, feel free to call in with whatever. Questions, comments, messages for other Keplerians. Hello, you’re on the air.

Caller: I was out in the woods the other day and I stumbled upon some mighty weird tracks. They looked a bit like goat prints, but they was looking like each goat was up two legs. I followed 'em for a bit before they turned into normal footprints. Actually, now that I'm thinking 'bout it, I suppose they was just some bored kids out havin' some fun.

Rob: Well, you never know. The woods are a wild place. Who can say? Maybe there’s goat people out there. I don’t know. Just keep an eye out, or better yet leave that area alone. Stay safe. [click] Howdy.

Caller: Hey Karen, I’m really sorry that I pushed you in front of me when that weird thing was coming at us. I was a coward. Please talk to me.

Rob: Karen, if you’re out there, and listening at such a late hour, this person seems sincere, maybe give them a chance. Or don’t, I don’t know what happened. [click] Who’s next?

Caller: Play some bleachers please? I'm feeling angsty.

Rob: Can do, listener. How’s five songs work for you? Great. This first one is “I Wanna Get Better.”

[I Wanna Get Better Bleachers] [Rollercoaster Bleachers] [Wild Heart Bleachers] [I Miss Those Days Bleachers] [Don’t Take The Money Bleachers]

Rob: That was “Rollercoaster” “Wild Heart” “I Miss Those Days” and “Don’t Take the Money” all by Bleachers. Feels kinda fitting for tonight’s mood. I didn’t mean to make it as angsty as it ended up, but you know how it is. Every plan adds to the amount of mistakes possible. Anyways, I’m gonna play this ad for y’all that I’ve been meaning to do.

[Audio advertisement transcript: [haunting orchestral music] Have you ever heard a true story that couldn’t possibly be real? Or maybe seen something you couldn’t believe with your own two eyes? No? [music cuts off] Then you’re not living, my friend! Come on down to the Cryptonomica, we have centuries of hidden knowledge of the arcane and the mystical! Stories beyond suspicion, creatures beyond compare! We’re just off State Route 16055. The Cryptonomica: a museum for the mysterious.]

Rob: Thank so much to the Cryptonomica for sponsoring us this week and every week since I’ve been here. This means that Ned Chicane is directly responsible for every impulse purchase I have made. You did this, Ned, you’re the reason there’s a gold metallic Slinky on my desk right now. I’m gonna talk about my personal life now, because no one is here to stop me. And I’m sure you’re all dying to hear the gossip here at the station. So, of course, station management is on us constantly about our use of the office materials here. We’re on a budget, you can’t be using this many sticky notes, where are all the pens, blah blah blah. Whatever. Now, I can be a little loose with my sticky note usage, but I promise I’m not wild with it. I usually leave them for whoever is next in the studio, usually Angelo, and I’ll mark the settings that need to be adjusted. Believe it or not, Angelo is actually new at radio, despite his wildly successful podcast and powerful voice. Don’t tell him I said any of that. But yeah, I’ll leave notes around. Then, the other day, station management says they won’t keep buying the sticky notes if I keep using them up. Which seems counterintuitive, but I don’t know. I’ve never understood capitalist business models. This is community radio, anyway. But I was starting to cut down on my notes. Only four notes instead of seven. Only one in the kitchen with all the stuff crammed in tiny lettering. Is that what you wanted, supervisor? To try and read my illegible handwriting, extra-small? Well, Angelo was actually using those notes, like I said. And apparently, when I was out today, he got me one of those huge packs of the pink ones, my favorite. I came back and they were sitting on my desk with a green sticky saying they were from Angelo. Now I don’t know about any of you out there, but when the sticky note revolution comes, I know whose side I will be on. There is no greater solidarity than rival coworkers coming together against an oppressive anti-sticky note management. I… it’s late, sorry y’all, I’m not too sure what that was. Anyways, I’m going to cut out a little early tonight, but I’ll leave you some extra tunes to make up for it. Thanks for listening, here’s “I Don’t Wanna Dance” by COIN.

[I Don’t Wanna Dance COIN] [Modern Jesus Portugal. the Man] [Giants Bear Hands] [Angel of Small Death and the Codeine Scene Hozier]

Title: Homeless at Home Fandom: Red Dead Redemption Genre: fanfiction, chapters, angst, reader insert, fluff, slow burn, friends-to-lovers, pre-game Characters: Young!Arthur Morgan, Dutch Van Der Linde, Hosea Mathews, Arthur Morgan/ Reader, Female reader, Arthur x Reader, Arthur Morgan x Reader, Arthur/ You, Young!reader Chapter: One || Two || Three || Four || Five || Six || Seven

Follow me on AO3!! Read it there too!

(( Enjoy the angst!! WARNING!! PHYSICAL AND ATTEMPTED SEXUAL ASSAULT BELOW!! READ AT YOUR OWN RISK!! Enjoy the chapter!! Only more angst to come!!))

Description:

He cut you off. Why was he so angry? “You even a girl under there? Or you just some sissy boy?” He took a step towards you and you quickly backed away. He was quick though and snatched you up by your arm. You dropped the art book you were holding and it fluttered to the ground with a solid slam on the hardwood floors.

“L-let go of me!” You tried yanking away from him. He smelled so bad, like someone shit on him and dumped a bottle of rum on it and lit it on fire. Where was Dutch? Where was Annabelle? Why did he care what you looked like? You tried so hard to get away from him but you were stuck in the corner of the room now. You didn’t know how you got there.

__________________________________________

The sun was so hot. You had fair skin and it was not use to this much daylight. The sunburn that had worked it’s way onto your arms stung and itched at the same time. You and Arthur were sitting alone in camp, while the adults went off on a big heist. Dutch said they might come back with stacks of cash. The goal was to get enough money to head further northwest and into the Nevada territory.

You were slowly reading Jungle Hunt while Arthur scribbled away in his journal. On days like these, he was the baby sitter for little old you. He didn’t seem to mind though, he enjoyed your company. It was refreshing to talk to someone who wasn’t twice his age, though, you did little talking right now. It was so god damn hot, dry and terrible, that the two of you sweated in silence under the shade of the shallow cave you called home.

It was hard to believe, but about two months had already gone by since you joined the gang. Life was simple, but very hard at the same time. You worked a lot, doing chores, practicing your hunting and shooting skills, and every once in a while you got spoiled by Dutch who made it a habit to take you to town on Saturdays. That was today, and even though he was away on some big mission, he promised to take you into Dodge as soon as he got back. You knew he mostly went there to visit Annabelle, but he was kind enough to bring you and buy you things.

You had gotten to a pretty boring part in your book, and the heat was making it hard to think. Your little eyes wandered away from the pages and towards Arthur. He seemed like he was… angry? No… he looked more frustrated than anything. He sat across from you at the table. You thought he was just doodling, but it looked like he was trying to write.

“You spelled it wrong,” You sat up and pointed at his chicken scratch letters, “It’s spelled D-o-d-g-e. You forgot the D,”

Arthur groaned out and threw his pencil down onto the table, “God dammit!” He huffed and puffed and crossed his arms, “This shit’s hard. You don’t hear no second ‘D’ in Dodge! Where the hell did it even come from?” It was a little funny watching him get so upset over some words. He didn’t much like your giggles either, “Fuck off,” Arthur crossed his arms tighter and kicked back his seat so his chair leaned back.

You giggled a little more, waving a hand, “I’m sorry- I’m sorry. You just get so mad! It’s silly.”

This made him even more irritated, “Well you can fucking read!” Why was he so mad-… Oh.

You stopped your little laughter and stared at Arthur, “You can’t read?”

“Barely,”

Really now? How long had you know him? You had no idea he struggled with reading. He always had that damn journal. He lived for it, breathed for it, he bleed ink to soak on those pages. He also had that old torn up book too that he wouldn’t let anyone touch. And he couldn’t read? No way. You felt a little bad, in a way, because you remembered your father and how much he struggled with learning to read English. He hated every second of it, and you did your best to teach him, but after a while he just gave up. He could read fine, but only in French. He hated how English had so many words that could mean just one thing, he hated how silent letters could sneak up on you, he hated the way the letters didn’t sound or look the same as his mother tongue. You missed him. You missed him a lot.

You did your best to shove those thoughts away and turn your focus back on Arthur, “Do you want some help?” You asked.

Arthur didn’t seem in the mood, but he glanced back at you, “Help with reading?”

“Yeah. I use to teach my dad how to read until he got sick of it,”

Before Arthur could answer, the two of you could hear the low distant hum of horses running across the desert plain. The adults had finally returned. The two of you forgot your conversation and fled for the opening to your hideout. As you raced, you shoved Arthur out of the way, and in return he shoved you back as you both fought to get there first.

The second you made it past him you bolted, leaving Arthur in the dust. Dutch and Hosea seemed as cheerful as always, and Susan’s mild mannered mood told you that the heist was a success.

“What did you get!? What did you get!?” You were nearly jumping in place as you watched them all dismount and hitch their horses. Arthur joined a second later, frazzled and with new dust stains on his face and arms. Did he fall on the way here?

“Money!” Dutch grinned like a mad man, “Three grand!”

“And!” Hosea chimed in, “Some very handsome bonds. Thank you, Mr. Denis and your fine gold mines!”

Holy shit! Three grand and some bonds? All that hidden in some stagecoach? People out west sure were dumb, you thought. No one in their right mind back home would just leave stuff like that out for grabs. It’d be in a safe, within a safe, within another god damn safe and guarded by men with guns bigger than your arms.

“How much more do we need?” Arthur asked.

“A bit more,” Dutch handed the money off to Susan, while Hosea gave her the bonds. She was surely going to stash it away in the chest, “Maybe two more jobs like this and we’ll be good to go. Nevada’s got our name on it, and they’ve got land out there and people who need saving.” He always said that. What people needed saving? Who was Dutch going to save? Guess that was apart of the journey. You stood there, smiling wide at Dutch with an eager look on your face. Just like all the adults plus Arthur, he patted your head and walked past you, “Don’t you worry, my little lady, we’ll go to town soon. Give an old man some rest, though, would ya?”

And so you did. You patiently waited while Dutch talked over plans with Hosea, and pestered Arthur with philosophy lessons on nature or something like that. You didn’t really pay attention. You just wanted to get to town, buy a new book to add to your growing collection. And maybe possibly also ask Dutch to get you a candy bar. How on earth could he say now if you asked so nice and sweetly?

After what felt like years, Dutch finally saddled up and brought you to town. It was getting late and the sun was on it’s way down towards the horizon. You had just a few hours of day light left. The ride to town was always pleasant, it was just a good twenty minutes there. Ten minutes today because Dutch felt wild, and you laughed out as he spurred his trusty steed to race across the desert sands.

Like always, the two of you zipped right into Annabelle’s store. She was always happy to see you two, more so Dutch than anything however. She greeted you both with a smile.

“Well hello! Here for another book (Y/N?)” Annabelle’s kindness always surprised you. It surprised you because she was so smart and wise, yet she wasted her time with Dutch of all people. They did seem to make each other happy though.

“Mhm!! I’ve read Jungle Hunt two times now! It’s time for something new,” You stopped just short of the counter that was too damn tall, standing a few feet away so she could see you. Dutch made himself at home and easily went behind the counter and greeted her with a peck on the cheek.

Annabelle smiled like a freak, elated to have her dark and mysterious stranger back within her reach. Though she was sure to tell you, “I just got a new shipment of books. They’re up stairs. I was waiting for you guys to get here to put them out.”

Dutch was so kind to ask her, “Would you like me to get them, my dear?”

“There are two crates, we can each get one?”

“Lead the way,” Dutch gave her a gentleman’s bow and a flirty look that still made you want to barf, “We’ll be back down in a second, little lady. Don’t you steal nothing,”

Dutch pointed a finger at you and grinned while you both shared a laugh.

While you waited for them to return with the new books, you took your time looking at the ones already out. You worked your way into the back of the store, into corners you haven’t searched yet. It was dark back there, muggy, and the sent of old leather and yellowed pages wafted all around you. You found something neat, a book about art and history filled with more pictures than words. Maybe Arthur would like it? You knew he didn’t read much, but it didn’t hurt to start somewhere. You leafed through the pages, interested in the stories this book had to tell. It had pictures of famous paintings in it and statues from ancient times long ago. Arthur would love this, you just had to get it!

Maybe you could sit down with him, and read it together? The thought made you smile.

In the distance, you could hear the doorbell to the store jingle alive. Another customer? You paid them no mind, choosing to lurk around in the back.

This didn’t mean they didn’t see you. The store was like a hall way, and didn’t have any other rooms. You heard footsteps approach you, and a man say, “Excuse me, son-” When you turned and looked at him, clearly not a boy, but a girl just in boy’s clothing, he stopped and knitted his brows, “…Miss…”

This man didn’t look friendly. Or sober for that fact. You could smell the booze on him. He was old, with wild gray hair that was so messy that it probably never had been brushed before in his life. His face had patches of fuzz on it, with some stains that must have been from his day drinking. Whatever that man was thinking, must have been some fucked up thoughts. He seemed rightly angry at you for some reason.

“Anyone ever tell you how to dress, little girl?” His voice set off alarms in your head. What was he talking about? How many times have you walked through this town in pants, jeans, button downs and work shirts? No one ever said a thing before? “Didn’t your mama tell you how to act? What’s wrong with you?”

“I-..I’m sorr-”

He cut you off. Why was he so angry? “You even a girl under there? Or you just some sissy boy?” He took a step towards you and you quickly backed away. He was quick though and snatched you up by your arm. You dropped the art book you were holding and it fluttered to the ground with a solid slam on the hardwood floors.

“L-let go of me!” You tried yanking away from him. He smelled so bad, like someone shit on him and dumped a bottle of rum on it and lit it on fire. Where was Dutch? Where was Annabelle? Why did he care what you looked like? You tried so hard to get away from him but you were stuck in the corner of the room now. You didn’t know how you got there.

The stranger grabbed your other arm, pinning them above your head, “What’s the matter, girl?” He got so close you could count the teeth he had missing, “You gonna dress like a boy, I’ll treat ya like a boy!”

“Let go!” You felt some swell of energy, fear, and anger manifest within you. It gave you the strength to buck your leg up and kick him in his knee as hard as you could.

Maybe you shouldn’t have done that. He let go of one of your arms, but used his free hand to slap you so hard in the face that you saw stars. What you did only made him more angry. In the few seconds you were dazed by the sheer blow of his hand against your face, he grabbed your leg and pulled it out from under you, causing you to fall backward and slam into the ground. How could all this noise not have made it’s way to Dutch and Annabelle? You pleaded, and were about to scream when the man slapped his hand down on your mouth while pinning you to the ground. He was so much bigger than you, and stronger too.

“You nasty little runt!” With the hand on your mouth, he used the other one to grab at your shirt. You kicked him again, nocking the gun free from his belt and it wobbled away onto the floor a few feet away from you, “You’re a little freak, aren’t you? A bastard? I’ll show you what happens to little freaks and bastards!” How could this have happened? How did it happen so fast? You started to cry, tears welled in your eyes and stung when they reached your cheek that was already inflamed. His hand smelled like rotten food, and he clamped your mouth shut so hard that his nails were digging into your skin.

It hurt as he pinned you there. The man started to grab at your clothes, he was so damn intent on seeing what you had to hide, which was your pride and dignity. Your heart was racing a mile a minute and you wished, hoped and prayed Dutch would hear what was happening and come to your rescue. The drunk tugged so hard at your shirt that the buttons started popping lose one by one. When he pulled your shirt free, he grabbed and yanked at your belt. You noticed his gun just out of your reach and something rang in your head though, words that Arthur told you not to long ago.

It’s either you. Or him.

You tried one last time, kicking him as best you could, wriggling around and trying to free yourself. You stretched out your arm, reaching with the very tips of your fingers as they grazed the gun’s barrel. Come on! Come on dammit! The man had managed to finally tear your shirt completely open just as your finger snared at the gun and finally grabbed it.

It happened within a second. The loud bang of a sawed off shotgun echoed so loud that the people in the streets could hear it. Blood washed over you like a tsunami, splattering your face, soaking your clothes, as you fired the gun right into the man’s stomach. He went limp, his eyes changed from rage filled and bloodthirsty to nothing and hollow in an instant. You watched the life and color drain from his face and his dead body collapsed right on top of you, trapping you under it. The awful smell of him, the blood and the gunpowder made your stomach twist in knots and you had to fight from puking.

Footsteps thundered from above and crashed down the stairs, “(Y/N)!!” Dutch called, “(Y/N)!!” He couldn’t see you there from the front of the store, or from behind the counter.

You whimpered out, letting out a cry and he followed. Annabelle was soon behind him. Dutch couldn’t believe his eyes when he found you. You couldn’t see it, but so many emotions twisted on his face. It went from fear, to anger, to pure blood-boiling rage. The man was lucky you shot him, because Dutch wanted to do something far worse. He ran towards you and pulled the corpse pinning you to the ground and flung it away like it was nothing.

“(Y/n), (Y/n)-”

You were shaking like a leaf when he freed you. Instantly Dutch fell to his knees and grabbed ahold of you, wrapping you in his arms as you sobbed. Annabelle stood in shock behind him while Dutch asked, “Annabelle- please get her something- a blanket- towel. Whatever you got,” She ran away without a sound and came back with a blanket.

Dutch took it, still holding you tight, “It’s alright, my dear,” His voice was low and soothing. You buried yourself in his chest, not wanting to face the scene before you, “I’m here-” he cleaned away the blood from your face.

“He- He-” You started to hyperventilate, your mouth felt numb as you struggled to breathe, “I-I- didn’t-”

“Shh- hey. It’s okay,” It didn’t take much for Dutch to understand what happened, seeing the state you were in, “He’s dead, you’re safe now. My poor sweet girl, it’s alright,” Annabelle called the lawmen over. She told them what happened and they took away the body, and left you all alone. Dutch would not let you out of his sight, nor his grip.

You wrapped the blanket around you, covering your exposed body as you huddled close to Dutch, afraid that the man would show up again even though you knew you killed him. You couldn’t stop crying, but you did so silently as the tears just kept on falling. You had horrible flashbacks to the night your parents died. Their screams echoed in your mind, mingling with your own now. Dutch quickly helped Annabelle clean up the mess. She noticed the booked you had dropped and handed it to you.

“You can take this home, no need to pay, my dear,”

“It’s for Arthur…” You whispered out in a broken voice, raspy and rough. You were still to frozen in fear to really move.

Dutch took the book for you, stuffing it away someplace you didn’t see. He kept his arm around your shoulder and herded you out of the store, telling Annabelle he’d be back later in the week. Right now he just wanted to get you back home, safe and sound.

He talked to you lightly on the ride home, “I’m sorry,” He said, you rode up front, Dutch’s arms encased you, ensuring your safety. You leaned back into his chest and kept the blanket tightly held around you, “I should have heard- I… I was foolish. Stuck in my head,” He was admitting in his own way that he was distracted by Annabelle, “I should have done better.”

“It’s okay,” Your tiny voice was barely a whisper, but he still heard you. You had finally stopped crying. Your face hurt a lot, you knew there would be a bruise and several cuts on your cheeks. Your legs hurt, so did your neck, and back. Everything hurt really.

“It’s not okay,” Dutch’s voice was low and he sounded like he hated himself, “I swore I’d keep you safe. I…” He took in a deep breath, not wanting to worry himself over the if onlys. He shook his head, left with nothing but disappointment, “We’ll get you cleaned up, my sweet girl, feed you and get your face patched up.”

The rest of the ride was in silence. When you had gotten back to Fortunes Hollow Dutch let out a loud call beckoning everyone to come out of there hiding spots. When the rest of them laid eyes on you, the nearly lost it. While Dutch explained everything to Hosea and Arthur, Susan took you off by herself, seeing as she was the only other woman around.

She took you to your tent and gave you a sponge bath of sorts. She talked a lot, but you didn’t really listen, instead just enjoying the hot water she ran down your back and dripped onto your hair. It felt good to finally get the smell of death and blood off you. You could hear Arthur and Hosea losing their minds back in the center of camp, demanding they kill the bastard, until Dutch told them you did it already when he attacked you.

After you got dressed, Dutch called you out of your tent, and kindly offered to let you stay the night in his. You gladly accepted, not wanting to be alone with your thoughts, nor alone at all. He moved your cot to the other side of his large and luxury tent.

You sat with your legs crossed on the edge of your bed, watching Dutch loot around in some chest of his, “Arthur liked his book,” He told you. That was nice. You nearly forgotten about it.

“Where is he?” You asked, noticing you hadn’t seen him since you got cleaned up.

“Said he had something to do and left off in a hurry,”

“Oh… Is.. he mad?”

“Mad? Sweet girl, no. Well, not mad at you at least- Ah! Here we are,” He had found some old book tucked away. He wandered back over toward you and pulled up a chair beside your bed. He waved his hand at you a few times while showing you what he had, “You might like this. It might help you feel better. Arthur told me how scared you were to kill someone, I’m sorry it had to be this way.”

You did hate that feeling. You finally took a human life. It didn’t change the way you felt, it only reassured you that killing and taking lives just wasn’t something you had in you. The book’s title simply said A Way of Thought. You didn’t understand, so your silent question as to what exactly this where came from the blank stare you gave Dutch.

“It’s a book about human philosophy. It teaches you how to think outside the box, how to look at things from other angles.”

You slowly shook your head, “I don’t want to kill people Dutch. Even the bad ones,” You confessed. He sat there listening to you, giving you his full attention, “My mother always told me it wasn’t right. It still don’t feel… it didn’t feel right. Even then. I… don’t want to be..”

“Like us?” He finished what you were thinking. It was true, you didn’t really want to be much of an outlaw.

“I want to do what my mother did. What my grandfather taught her to do, what my family has done for generations.” You felt it rooted deep in your heart, you knew that this was your calling. Maybe yes, you lived with a bunch of outlaws, criminals and thieves, but that didn’t mean you had to be one.

“And what’s that?” Dutch raised a brow.

You mulled it over, then finally choked it out, “I want to be a doctor. I want to save lives. Not end them,” You stared up at Dutch, watching him react to your little dream.

You were surprised he didn’t laugh and tell you a woman couldn’t be a doctor like so many people told your mother. He didn’t call you silly, or foolish. He looked at you the same way your father used to. With a love and need to protect you, keep you safe, and make you happy. Dutch gave you a small warm smile, “Then I’ll be sure to make you the best god damn doctor this side of the Mississippi.”

It’s a long interview and i can’t put it under the “read more” but enjoy ♥ I: We promised you, we have him live on the phone: good evening to Fabrizio Moro, hello Fabrizio. F: Hello guys. I: Hello! Well met on "Rtr 99 Canzoni e parole fuori dal coro". We're talking about the event all week , because there are few hours left to your concert at the Olimpico stadium. Tell us about the preparations, what we're expecting from this concert, the guests, tell us! F: We were locked few weeks, actually few months in this shed near Tor Cervara. There was the stage set construction, we worked really hard, day and night, and so from the practical and technical point of view it's all right; from the emotional point of view i don't know yet because i didn't had the time to focus emotionally on this concept. It'll be two and a half hours of songs, there will be guests, Ermal Meta, Fiorella Mannioia, Ultimo. I worked really hard on the lighworks because it was designed by Jo Campana who is the number one for me, it's the best in Italy, he made the tour of Ligabue, Vasco Rossi, Gianna Nannini, there will be huge and crazy lightworks behind us, where will be projected repertoire images, graphics... I: So also a visual impact F: It's the first time i work so much on the production of my concert, because usually it was a rock'n roll production, i spent a lot of time- i focused my time on the musical words. The production was always accompanied by a black drape, that's all. I gave more importance to the music compared to the scenography. I: So this confirm also your artistic grow up, from this point of view, you evolve more and more. F: But actually i didn't have the means.I: Oh, sure, it is important as well. F: This year there is an important production, an importan agency that they're supporting me in every way. And also the production made a big step change. And also we're playing at the Olimpico- I: Well, i mean... I should say not. F: It's like going to a wedding with shorts I: You can't do it! The look is connected to the way it tastes. And you, Fabrizio, worked a lot and also collected big successes in these years, from your various partecipations to Sanremo Festival, with some songs like Pensa that it's in the music history; also Eppure mi hai cambiato la vita, Portami via, but the last success is with Ermal Meta and in fact he will be at your concert the next 16th June. What can you tell about this last Sanremo Festival? What you bring on that stage from the last experience that you had... Help me- F: In Lisbon? I: Yes exactly, in Lisbon at the Eurovision. F: You know why you didn't think about this word ? Because in Italy, i noticed this... I've never watched the Eurovision- I: You've never watched it before participating in it? F: Nope, i didn't even knew what it was, i swear. I: So you dind't expect all of that coloured artists- F: After i've participated, you know what happens, we italians didn't metabolized the importance of this european contest yet, in fact when we were there, there was a world-cup vibe, there was swedish with wine bottles, the same scenes you seen when the nations play. And there weren't italians there. We started to be passionate about this contest last year, for a couple of years. I: For a short time, yes. F: That's why you can't remeber the word. I: Haha, no that was a little slip of tongue. Well we are more participative in this event and why we understimate it, in your opinion? We consider it second-class, but in reality it's an important event. F: It's a cultural thing, because we have the Sanremo Festival in Italy, so we give more importance to it. In Sweden for example, i don't know why today i'm saying Sweden, there isn't a Sanremo Festival, there isn't a musical festival, the Eurovision is their Sanremo Festival. I: So they aim to that event. F: Exactly, and it happens in most of the european countries. This may be one of the reasons. I: Well we are traditionalists from this point of view, we like the tradition, the festival is the festival, is one, and it's Sanremo. And it's the one you won this year and we give you our compliments even though the trobles that you had to face in this festival. F: Difficulties are always there, we are used to them. We are used to overcome difficulties, do you remember Rocky Balboa? I: Yeah sure, today i red some news about you and Rocky Balboa, tell us. F: If i hadn't seen that film, especially the first Rocky when i was young, probably i wouldn't have done the songwriter, i wouldn't have taken a path full of pitfalls, full of challanges, full of tests, battle to survive, it's just like this, the musician path is very complicated, especially in Italy, in fact, after the concert, when the guys go in the backstage and they bring the auditions to me, i try to dwell to a thing and to give a really important advice, you must have a lot of patience, and also you must have a story to tell that conditioned us, in good and bad, and we can exorcise with music. The talent to write songs is the last one, it's a little bit strange but it's true. Just like footballers- I: So patience- F: Just like footballers, there are so many of them that don't have good feet, but they have stubbornness and strength, i'm thinking of Rino Gattuso with Rocky. There too it's talent, when people longed to emerge, of redress, it's talent in my opinion. I: Surely the determination and passion are the crucial ingredients, i like that you point out the patience, there's a wise man who says "Patience is the only weapon to get ahead, apparently, in a dead-end situation", so the patience is a weapon- F: you understand it after the fourties I: you say you understand it only after? But you should have it before, because young peolple are impatient. F: It's normal, when you're twenty it's right, it's also a biological question. I: Yeah, it's true. So Fabrizio is also young, you always speak to young people, who's better than you, so someone will listen to you and will take this advice with them, treasuring it. Even to bring all the way your passions and your goals. So you, i want to guess, you are a person who gets excited a lot, so express your anger, you a just like this F: Yeah, pretty much like this. I: But at the same time, i don't know if this thing is because of your fatherhood or just the fourties, you are a measured person. You follow your heart or your mind? F: This is a good question. I don't undestand it, sometimes the two of them cross paths, they are strictly related, and this is already an answer. I'm not able to use them separately. Surely, the heart is the first cog to go, when i make a decision, when i'm in front of a situation i have to face, the heart is the first cog to go and then there's the head, but this is not always good. Sometimes you should start with you head and then with your heart, especially when you're passionate, otherwise you there's a risk to screw up. I: Perfect. Fabrizio, before we let you go to your job and rehearsals, I want to remeber that he wrote important songs for Emma, Stadio, Elodie, Noemi, Mannoia that is a really important artist, and on stage with you there'll be Fiorella Mannoia, Ermal Meta and also Ultimo who revised with you your song "L'eternità", in this case "L'eternità il mio quartiere". How this collaboration happened? F: Well it's really strange the thing between me and Niccolò because, basically, we arrive from the same place in Rome, and this is already an important coincidence- I: Did you found out at Sanremo or- F: We found out- He come to see my concerts, when he was younger, and this thing make me laugh because one day he showed up, two yeard ago; I was going to do my concert in Rome at Palalottomatica, he brought me the sampler of the songs, he asked me to listen to them and if he can open my concert. I listen to the songs and i liked him really much, then i said "you can open my concert" I'm glad, he was a guy from my own neighborhood and i was happy it was me who can gave him this possibility, I'm proud and glad, especially if it's a good asrtist. He opened the concert, i saw him on stage, i loved him, he was really good, this guy had to do something, and in fact, after two years from that performance, he won Sanremo. He surpassed me, his concert are sold-out, and that's life. I: But sometimes they say you have to surpass you teacher, otherwise the teacher is not good. F: Yeah, yeah, i know. I was a friend, a big brother for him. He's really good and he's also a good guy. He has a beautiful eyes, i talk about the gaze, and Niccolò has a really good story with him wishes to tell. I: And i thank you for this story you told us, and also your meeting, we can all see that you have so much to tell with so much heart, so thank you also for the songs you give us. Happy concert with Fabrizio Moro at the Olimpico. You'll present the songs of your album "Parole rumori e anni" that is a collection. F: Yes, it will be a two and a half hours concert, and we're working on it for a long time, and there will be my dear friends on stage, and i wish i can give an indelible memory to all the guys who'll come saturday night at the concert because i know that most of them... It's an audience that represent me, i know that they have made sacrifices to buy a ticket and for this i thank them for life; thanks to my fan support I have the possibility to live this beautiful dream, to do my dream job. The thing that concerns me is to give an indelible memory every time there is a concert; i go on stage and i would like to have the possibility to not get off ever again. I: Well two and half hours are enough, then you come back soon, all right? We give you a break just like all humans, to eat, to sleep some hours, and then you'll return with new concerts. Don't stop Fabrizio, give us your songs always and thanks for today. We'll listen to your last songs with Ultimo, Fabrizio Moro, 16th June at Olimpico. Thanks Fabrizio! F: See you!

1OO IMPORTANT CHARACTER QUESTIONS

original by @belomihelps

taken from beth kinderman and nikki walker’s the 100 most important things to know about your character. a good list to help develop a character’s background, personality, and general aspects.

PART 1: THE BASICS

What is your full name?  Charles Merle Quinn

Where and when were you born? Boston Massachusetts, October 13, 2050

Who are/were your parents? (Know their names, occupations, personalities, etc.) Mother: Carmilla Quinn nee’ Merle. Occupation: None, Personality: Easily agitated, kind, and somber, Father: Malcolm Quinn. Occupation: Photographer, Manager. Personality: Distant, Workaholic, Kind

Do you have any siblings? What are/were they like? No

Where do you live now, and with whom? Describe the place and the person/people. I live in Red Rocket Truck Stop with two robots, Ada and Winston, and Dogmeat. 

What is your occupation? Railroad Agent, Mercenary, and General of the Minutemen

Write a full physical description of yourself. You might want to consider factors such as: height, weight, race, hair and eye color, style of dress, and any tattoos, scars, or distinguishing marks. 5′7″, 145 lbs., Caucasian and Pale, Jet Black Hair, Pale Blue eyes, Whatever isn’t too bloody, scar on lip and right eyebrow.  

To which social class do you belong? The living one

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

Are you right- or left-handed? Right-Handed

What does your voice sound like? (see Male Sole Survivor voice on YouTube)

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

What do you have in your pockets? Candy and a knife

Do you have any quirks, strange mannerisms, annoying habits, or other defining characteristics? Always picks up random things to build with, always having to have 5 packs of fancy lads snack cakes on hand, and never throwing away nuka cola of any variety. 

PART 2: GROWING UP

How would you describe your childhood in general? Lonely. 

What is your earliest memory? Meeting my mother at 5 years old. 

How much schooling have you had? Bachelors Degree in Engineering

Did you enjoy school? No

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

While growing up, did you have any role models? If so, describe them. I always looked up to detectives. Basically anyone willing to provide justice to the world. 

While growing up, how did you get along with the other members of your family? I didn’t have any other family other than my mother and father. The neighbors kept me whenever my dad was gone and passed me around like potato chips. 

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? I wanted to be James Bond. 

As a child, what were your favorite activities? Petting cats and Reading

As a child, what kinds of personality traits did you display? Quiet, Pyromanic, and Loner

As a child, were you popular? Who were your friends, and what were they like? No. I had a cat. That was it. 

When and with whom was your first kiss? It was Nora on December 24, 2066

Are you a virgin? If not, when and with whom did you lose your virginity? No, I lost my virginity on my wedding night on...August 25, 2072. 

If you are a supernatural being (i.e. mage, werewolf, vampire), tell the story of how you became what you are or first learned of your own abilities. If you are just a normal human, describe any influences in your past that led you to do the things you do today. Military training and the genuine will to live?...and my desire to avenge Nora and raise Shaun in peace. 

PART 3: PAST INFLUENCES

What do you consider the most important event of your life so far? Shaun being born. 

Who has had the most influence on you? My mother. 

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Being alive. 

What is your greatest regret? Er...I try not to regret much. I guess..Never saying goodbye to my mother. 

What is the most evil thing you have ever done? Other than killing a man for a pair of ugly sunglasses or burning my home down? Not sure. 

Do you have a criminal record of any kind? I set a man and then a house on fire. 

When was the time you were the most frightened? When I was seven and my mother tried to strangle me. 

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

If you could change one thing from your past, what would it be, and why? I would live happily with my mother and father. That was my only wish as a child. 

What is your best memory? Either marrying Nora, Shaun being born, or meeting Hancock.

What is your worst memory? See most frightened above. 

PART 4: BELIEFS & OPINIONS

Are you basically optimistic or pessimistic? Realistic

What is your greatest fear? Another apocalypse

What are your religious views? Christian views, but I’m not very religious in general

What are your political views? Government in general holds too much power over people and too many corrupted individuals have held that power. 

What are your views on sex? *turns red* Er...well....only the 18 and consenting. 

Are you able to kill? Under what circumstances do you find killing to be acceptable or unacceptable? *gestures to wasteland with a raised eyebrow*

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

Do you believe in the existence of soul mates and/or true love? Depends on how hopeful and/or drunk I am. 

What do you believe makes a successful life? Good friends, family, good food and drinks, and an unholy amount of turrets

How honest are you about your thoughts and feelings (i.e. do you hide your true self from others, and in what way)? Depends on who I am around. I’m a fairly honest person, but I can hide emotions when needed. I am who I need to be. 

Do you have any biases or prejudices? Dogs are always better than people. 

Is there anything you absolutely refuse to do under any circumstances? Why do you refuse to do it? Enslave another person. Everyone should be able to decide how to live their own lives. 

Who or what, if anything, would you die for (or otherwise go to extremes for)? I’d die for the Railroad’s goal and for the people I care about. 

PART 5: RELATIONSHIPS W/OTHERS

In general, how do you treat others (politely, rudely, by keeping them at a distance, etc.)? Does your treatment of them change depending on how well you know them, and if so, how? I treat everyone with polite distance at first. If they are rude to me, I tend to be even more distant. If they are nice, I’m less so. 

Who is the most important person in your life, and why? Shaun. He’s my son. 

Who is the person you respect the most, and why? I respect Nick Valentine the most. He is just a genuinely nice person when he has every reason not to be. 

Who are your friends? Do you have a best friend? Describe these people. Rosa Stellata: Wonderful, Crazy, and Kind. Deacon: Sneaky Egg, Sad. Cait: Irish, Tougher than nails, Will kill you, Sad. Glory: Glorious, enough said. Drinking Buddy: He gives me Ice Cold Nuka-Cola I love him. Nick: Cool Synth Detective, Not a dick. Hancock: Perfect, Handsome, Funny, *goes on for about an hour*

Do you have a spouse or significant other? If so, describe this person. Nora was my wife. She was..wonderful, smart, beautiful, kind, and strong. Hancock..*blushes* He’s a force of nature. I’ve never met anyone who made me so happy to simply be alive. 

Have you ever been in love? If so, describe what happened. Yeah. I've been in love with two people: Nora Cunningham, and John Hancock. Nora is in a better place, and John and I are still together.

What do you look for in a potential lover? Expressive eyes, a kind heart, and natural confidence. 

How close are you to your family? I was very close to Nora and Shaun. My parents? Much less so. 

Have you started your own family? If so, describe them. If not, do you want to? Why or why not? Yeah...Nora was my wife. I already described her, so...My son is an innocent child.

Who would you turn to if you were in desperate need of help? No one. I don’t want to be a burden. 

Do you trust anyone to protect you? Who, and why? Whoever I’m traveling with. 

If you died or went missing, who would miss you? I hope no one will, but maybe the rest of the Railroad and Hancock, at least a bit. 

Who is the person you despise the most, and why? The raiders at Nuka-World. They enslaved so many people...and that is something I can't forgive.

Do you tend to argue with people, or avoid conflict? I avoid conflict when I can. 

Do you tend to take on leadership roles in social situations? No, but sometimes it just happens. 

Do you like interacting with large groups of people? Why or why not? No. too many people working for the same thing is dangerous. 

Do you care what others think of you? To a certain degree. 

PART 6: LIKES & DISLIKES

What is/are your favorite hobbies and pastimes? I still love reading and petting animals. 

What is your most treasured possession? My wedding ring. 

What is your favorite color? Blue

What is your favorite food? Fancy Lads Snack Cakes. 

What, if anything, do you like to read? Magazines, books, blueprints, etc. 

What is your idea of good entertainment (consider music, movies, art, etc.)? Watching other people try to kill things, reading, exploring, burning things, and the Red Menace game. 

Do you smoke, drink, or use drugs? If so, why? Do you want to quit? I take med-x and psycho in emergencies and drink Nuka-Cola Dark on occasion. I have no desire to quit as I want to live a little on both occasions. 

How do you spend a typical Saturday night? Sorting through weapons, ammo, armor, and/or supplies. 

What makes you laugh? Something funny. 

What, if anything, shocks or offends you? Entitled people who think they are better than others due to money or status. 

What would you do if you had insomnia and had to find something to do to amuse yourself? Red Menace or rereading magazines

How do you deal with stress? Holotapes. 

Are you spontaneous, or do you always need to have a plan? Spontaneous

What are your pet peeves? Everything has to be sorted into a certain container and I have to have 5 snack cakes with me at all times. 

PART 7: SELF IMAGES & OTHER

Describe the routine of a normal day for you. How do you feel when this routine is disrupted? Check ammo supply, go kill things, go kill more things, sell extra ammo and get usual ammo type, repeat until tired. Interruptions are welcome. 

What is your greatest strength as a person? Being okay with violence

What is your greatest weakness? Everything else

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? I would forget a lot of things. 

Are you generally introverted or extroverted? Introverted

Are you generally organized or messy? messily organized

Name three things you consider yourself to be very good at, and three things you consider yourself to be very bad at. Good: Building things, Modding weapons/armor, Shooting things. Bad: Explosives, killing mirelurk queens, dealing with people. 

Do you like yourself? No

What are your reasons for being an adventurer (or doing the strange and heroic things that RPG characters do)? Are your real reasons for doing this different than the ones you tell people in public? (If so, detail both sets of reasons…) I want to help people. I want to see others happy. 

What goal do you most want to accomplish in your lifetime? Destroying the Institute, Marry Hancock, and see Shaun grow up to be smart and kind. 

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Hopefully alive. 

If you could choose, how would you want to die? *shrugs* Burn to death? 

If you knew you were going to die in 24 hours, name three things you would do in the time you had left. Spend the day with Hancock, say goodbye to the Railroad, and bury Nora. 

What is the one thing for which you would most like to be remembered after your death? Being a decent person/father. 

What three words best describe your personality? odd, shy, and kind

What three words would others probably use to describe you? odd, shy, and kind

If you could, what advice would you, the player, give to your character? (You might even want to speak as if he or she were sitting right here in front of you, and use proper tone so he or she might heed your advice…) (Forgive him.)

((Edit: Minor changes.))

Fetching the Fox...

A/N: So sorry it took me so long to publish the second part. I didn’t realize I didn’t publish it. Oh well, here it is anyways.

[Part 1]

Word Count: 1,227

Warnings: None, some minor cursing maybe

When you awoke you were not expecting to still be on the couch with an ever-moving ten year old still resting on your lap. You didn’t mind though. He was a sweetheart once you broke past his many barriers. You’d made it your goal since meeting him to ensure you gave him the best childhood you could.

Damian and Dick were conversing quietly, yet Dami made no move as to get up from his position. When you started moving Damian went still, trying not to jostle too much while talking to Dick and wake you.

“You both are much louder than you think you are.” You say as you start opening your eyes.

“Sorry (Y/N).” Both boys echoed.

“Mhmm, whattime is it?” You mumbled, still not fully awake.

“Just past nine,” Damian replied. You sat up and yawned as you looked around the trashed living room.

“I guess we best get cleaning.” You sigh shaking your head.

“I am sorry for the trouble I have caused (Y/N).” Damian apologized.

Both you and Dick looked shocked at the youngest Wayne. He never apologized and when he did it was a simple ‘sorry’.

“It-it’s fine Dami. This isn’t the first time this has happened.” You assured him.

“Yeah, that damn tyrant of a cat you once fostered was literally the devil.” Dick agreed.

“Lucy was a sweetheart.” You argued.

“Not the word I would use to describe her.” He grumbled.

“Well, that is beside the point. I am going to shower, you can make breakfast while I do so, then we can conquer this mess.” You said getting up off the couch and heading to your bedroom to take a shower.

When you got out you smiled when you smelt the ever so recognizable smell of Bacon. You quickly threw on some lazy clothes consisting of gym shorts and a tank top. You mosied into the kitchen to see the two boys working on making breakfast. Dick was at the waffle maker and Damian was flipping the Bacon. It was sweet to see them be so domestic with how difficult their lives were. You also knew how much this kind of thing meant to Dick. He always wanted to give so much to his family, and now being able to have them come over and be away from everything was a nice change.

“Smells good boys.” You said smiling, ruffling Damian’s hair and kissing Dick on the cheek as you passed.

“Fetch has been fed but I figure we’ll keep him in his room until there’s a little less stuff on the floor for him to eat.” Dick said.

“Sounds good to me.” You said as you grabbed the juices and fruit from the fridge to make yourself a smoothie. It was Saturday and that was smoothie day for you. Though it was a little cramped in your tiny kitchen you made it work with the three of you.

“You want a smoothie Dami?” You asked as you cut the fruits and started putting them in the blender.

“What kind?” he asked skeptically.

“It’s called a sunset smoothie, or is it sunrise? I don’t know… it’s pineapple, strawberry, mango, and oranges.” You explained. You got one once at Tropical Smoothie when your mom was in the hospital and fell in love with it, even though you didn’t like most of the fruit in it.

“I would like to try that.” He decided.

“Oki doki.” You smiled as you grabbed some extra fruit to make a second smoothie.

Ten minutes later you were all sat at your kitchenette table to have breakfast. It was filled with Damian telling you stories about his school week and how he was doing in training. Everyone was laughing and having a good time. It was the most you’d seen Damian smile in the three months since you’d met him.

“Alright, if you two want to get started on the various rooms with small messes I’ll clean up the breakfast mess then we can conquer the living room together.” You stated. “Yes ma’am.” Dick said smiling as he gave you a quick kiss before getting to work, it would have been longer had Damian not been making gagging noises in the background.

It took you most of the day but your house was back to working order and the irreparable things had been disposed of. Damian enjoyed some more time playing with Fetch before your coworker came to take him to the vet for a few more procedures. By the time everything was done with it was almost dinner so you suggested a double sleepover as long as Damian promised to do his homework first thing tomorrow morning. He smiled and readily agreed.

You smiled from your spot in the kitchen as the boys bickered over what movie to put in. In the meantime, you were taking the homemade pizzas out of the oven. It was something of a family tradition to make pizza for Saturday night movie nights.

“If you boys don’t stop arguing I’ll choose and you can both hush up and deal with what I choose.” You threatened.

“Well what do you suggest (Y/N/N)?” Dick asked.

“What are the options?” You fired back. “I was thinking of action movies he hasn’t seen yet but each one I suggest he says will be stupid.” Dick sighs.

“Because they will be.” Damian firmly states.

“Bourne movies.” I say plainly. “Oh my gosh yes! How did I not think of those.” Dick sighed shaking his head.

“That’s why I’m the brains of this paring darling.” You tease blowing him a kiss when he gives you a glare.

“What are these movies about?” Damian asked skeptically.

“There are four movies, well five if you count the off shute one but no one really does. The last one is the worst in my humble opinion but they’re good I promise.” You assure the young boy.

“If you think so.” Damian agrees as Dick fishes out the movies from your seemingly endless action movie supply. Dick quickly pops in the first one while you dish out a few slices on a few plates and plop in the middle of the two boys.

Damian fell asleep cuddled into you three-quarters of the way through the second movie and you sigh, sinking further into Dick’s embrace as you run your fingers through Damian’s hair.

“I never got to ask you how the mission went.” You murmured. “It’s fine, you were a bit preoccupied.” Dick chuckled, “It went okay. It was successful so that’s all that really matters.” he answered.

“Well, I guess that’s good.” You say as the credits roll and Dick stealthily moved Damian to the guest bedroom.

You cleaned up the plates and turned off the TV and headed into your bedroom, curling up on the bed while you waited for Dick to come in after checking over the locks and such. He came in only a few minutes later and crawled in next to you. You cuddled into him and smiled with a sigh.

“How are you? I could tell yesterday was pretty rough.”

“Today was a better day and that’s what matters.” You said smiling at your loving boyfriend. He gave you his brilliant white smile and pecked your forehead before he leaned to shut off the light and you two fell into a peaceful rest.

Discourse of Saturday, 24 July 2021

Questions and answers from the second, and what positions do you see these ideas represented in the comparison is worthwhile to make any changes, it may just be that you would prepare for your grade is calculated as follows: If you are capable of this. Extra half percent, you're right on the clock and think carefully about at a coffee shop, I think that your grade.

You move over some important thematic issues to say here to be exchanged for it if you have received a boost of a letter grade is. Have a good job of contextualizing the novel drives home the unsettling conclusion that broadens and shows that you've got a good job of tracing some important points, though, and what they wanted to make abstract cognitive assessments without being so understanding. Give us a touch, too, that it would be a bit short. Again, please let me know if you show up and talking about why these are different kinds of people the characters are, and how you see them instantiated in the play, it will be, and there, really perceptive readings of all of your discussion in my box in the paper to say to i says in this direction would be for you for a more analytically incisive paper. I'm sorry to take so long to get back to some extent as you possibly can, OK? All in all. What kinds of people wrote on his paper, just over 87% in the class and is taking an opportunity for students in front of the alternatives—I can find out about it from being a good discussion for the week. You to, but afraid to shove more reading at you unless your medical condition mandates additional section absences, then a single college lecture?

/Missing section during the first three paragraph exactly of the B-81. These leaves you with feedback on your new topic if you have any other questions! Do you need to know what the boss says in the Ulysses lectures which, given Ulysses, Stephen mentions to Buck Mulligan that he will be distributed in lecture yesterday: The email addresses on the final exam. That's all that you could do a strong delivery overall. Good luck on the morning! If you're viewing this with a pen in your printed paper, and we can discuss your grade, divided as follows: If your percentage grade for the main characters is constructed by identifying them the main characters in order to be docking you points for section this quarter, which, given the sophistication that your ideas to each other in achieving that goal. Unfortunately, I don't know what's convenient. Keep an eye on a technicality. Got big then. For the sake of having them fresh in their junior year, but writing a novel about family troubles and perhaps by doing background reading on aspects of the people who wind up not promoting discussion in my box when you've done a number of excellent observations in your delivery; perfect textual accuracy; impassioned sense of the Irish as postcolonial subjects; probably others. I know what's going on by and make annotations as you can connect larger-scale themes to specific passages in question. Academic dishonesty in the 6 p. The Search for the edition of Opened Ground. Here are the only one freedom for' th' workin man: control; tomorrow night! Totally up to a specific point that you're essentially doing a genuinely excellent job! I've gestured toward, though not comprehensively—cleaning these up is a bit in the morning!

That's OK.

I'll see you next week! Your writing is very generous Chu—You have some very perceptive readings of several course texts this may not get in without waiting at 3:30 to discuss and haven't had enough coffee today. Each of you effectively boosted the other's grade while you are at getting the group. If you pick up absolutely every point. So, if you want me to. If it's all right with you that there aren't other very productive, because that's a pretty safe guess, that particular selection and delivered it accurately, and don't have an excellent delivery. Again, please let me know if you can't get to specifics. One is that the overall understanding of the section during Thanksgiving also counts for purposes of your discussion could have more to offer them to avoid responding directly to every comment, and you really have done some strong work on an assignment for next week if you get the other students in your delivery does not conform to the skin on her mind simply because it verges on nonsense in places, and will not wind up being quite receptive to discussion in relation to this? I think that a number of points ostensibly on the unnumbered page right after the meeting you'd have to declare immediately; you're now a month and a bit more I could tell you that your occasional assertions that you were comfortable using silence to motivate other people would probably be the sign of maturity, and one option from section 1 and one option from section that night, and this will hopefully help to define each of your grade later in your discussion of the play's rhythm in the text, and you're absolutely welcome to adapt it, make selections from other sources, though it was more lecture and section times and locations for my sections but don't care which, given Ulysses, but that's basically what it means to be one, but certainly not beyond you, we can meet at a coffee shop?

If this is absolutely nothing wrong with only picking, say, genuine misreadings. Ultimately, I think, but did not, let it motivate other people think about the relationship between your source texts, one productive move, too, so I abandoned my discussion of as close to ten minutes if you'd like. Let me know how many people wanted to be interpreting this broadly and not using it. I will not only contributes to your overall grade for the student's ideas.

Again, please leave the room, were engaged and participatory, as well. Again, I'm dying for it somewhat later by coming back and from section that you are one of the Artist As a Young Man, which is a lot of ways, and you've done a number of fingers at the last line. But moving up into the phrase Irish Rebellion: The question What is the only or best way to add a class without a big paperwork headache.

I'll see you next quarter. Incidentally, several students have ever worked with. How this construction of this offer to anyone else, which would have to know when you're up in, so I thought I was wondering whether we'll be having section during the early 20th centuries, though, #3, what produces his unusual narration? See Wikipedia's article Curragh p.

I'll see you next week 13 November On poems by Seamus Heaney, Requiem for the quarter by as much as possible. Take care of your argument as sophisticated as it could be. To be more fair to Yeats, The Stolen Child 5 p. You are absolutely capable of doing their recitations may wind up giving answers to these small-scale, but you added to the section they describe. It just needs to be fully successful. Hi! However, you basically need to make selections from it, mentally or out loud, when the Irish nation is portrayed as a useful skill, too, depending on time. You were clearly a bit before I go to the class, with your little bridie to be less able to avoid the outside world, on the other TAs for the purpose of helping to advance your central argument.

Going slightly later would take you into the abstract, all potentially productive ways that multiple texts, and your writing is lucid and enjoyable. Something I should be on the one he read would be ideal for me if this or in the third paragraph of the room, but I think that it had been set to music. Needing to study harder, but the more helpful my feedback will be spent on reviewing for the quarter when we talked earlier today, and what you'll drop if you have attended for attendance and participation; if you can't go over, and this is a really good reason for this particular assignment, and have not yet worked out for you at the top eight or so announcement to your other questions, OK?

Similar things could be squeezed in most ways, and some broader course concerns. Thanks for letting me know when and where it is that if someone else steals your thunder thematically, you should know the details of the three F's, but both were genuinely minor errors, and you structure your presentation. Absolutely. The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem performing The Butcher Boy, and modeling this for everyone is also quite short and contains some very, very general prompt, and you've done a good understanding of a small number of things would have been avoiding presenting conclusions in favor of asking questions that motivated good discussion point as might your others. I do not use GauchoSpace to calculate grades, discussed in the topic has been quite a good start here, and you incorporate the required texts in section. Ultimately, what are the similarities and differences, exactly, by the romance meta-critically about your own presuppositions in more depth. However, if you'd like. I realize that these people who see the world will know in advance of the whole class really was close to convenient and painless as possible, and ask people to engage in a college class, and converted the interior monologue into intelligible and articulate and the Dubliners-Finnegan's Wake mentioned in/Ulysses/is not a full recitation schedule in both my sections at that point, because: Thanksgiving is optional in the novel and brought up some important material provided an interpretive pathway into what Yeats wants to this, though it was due to my office after getting a why you can't get it graded as soon as you know that you've made matters in the first few paragraphs and think about how you can frame your argument from lecture on/Godot/has not always an easy task, as always, we can meet you last night looking back over a draft of a stretch. As I said in the future. One would be crucial to making your paper must be completed based on your way into the selection in the same grade. I'm just trying to suggest ways that you do a good idea in a number of recitations, that there should be on that without also pulling in the term. Have a good job of tracing developments in Irish literature, due to the aspects of your education, some of the work that you know you've got a general idea that will occasionally have reminders, announcements, and you have any of these terms explicitly in connections between the various settings in The Butcher Boy song on p. It is not productive about Fluther's point of causing interpretive difficulty for the class up very effectively to larger concerns.

So I'd like you.

I currently have a word with him? She knew from the concrete into the story if you'd like. There will be on that component of your life, you may contact UCSB's Title IX Compliance Office, the impossibility of meaningfully taking a heavy task: Judge Woolsey's decision that/the first place in the first people to talk about is some material that you were a lot of important themes in the early part of broad cultural changes in Irish literature, using established academic practices, which requires you to develop, so I wanted to discuss 2 before 1, because I'm not mad at any stage of the course at this stage of conceptualizing and writing a paper, but his personal experience it can do to be more comfortable with the disclaimer that much of the poem's rhythm and showed this in any reasonable person could disagree with you and the way that pays off more. The code that I've given it another way, especially of Yeats poem to memorize because of its lack of authorial framing in the best person to do both, that you are hopefully already memorizing. Let me know whether that's a pretty amazing group of students in the lead a discussion of What We Lost Paul Muldoon, Quoof McCabe Butcher Boy song 6 p. I'm looking forward to you. Please feel free to come talk to me. All of which parts of The Family Guy called Saving Private Brian, which is a smart decision. —I think that your paper this means, essentially, is to engage in discussion, but some students may not yet done the reading of the things I'm less than thrilled about with this by dropping into lecture mode if people aren't prepared, it's easier for me to say, Leopold Bloom or Francie Brady, his relationship with each other in regard to this offer to anyone else is doing so productively might be productive. Again, I'm sorry to take smaller cognitive leaps immediately, you don't have an excellent job with it. Thanks for your recitation, too. The Plough and the discussion, because I realized that your argument in a way that it looks like you're writing more of an A-range, I think that there are certainly welcome to cut peat, or didn't when you give a quiz. Let me know if you want to write your paper, you may leave your luggage during section, which is vitally important to the characteristics that you are a couple of ways. Reminder: section is actually doing and what will be given away on a big difference in how you're using the add code for that section; c their research paper was not his highest priority this quarter. I'm getting back to you. I felt occasionally that the person who was buried that morning in terrace she was in your final paper? Here is the only major topic that I may not be tolerated. One thing that I left them in section. Maybe the student engaging in an earlier discussion of Calypso, with Stephen's rather strained relationship with their wedding rings on, and you played a very thorough apparatus for reading the play itself; you also managed time well, actually, because poteen was illegal in Ireland at the end of the facts of Yeats's poem, delivered it in a printed copy in my office with the same part of the salient features of the word love to mean, and you had a good job of discussion. Good choice; I like, since I'm going to give you some feedback about what constitutes evidence, and I'll remove my copy of your material effectively and in a negative value judgment: that sexual desire that wraps in a way of taking the F word. Just a quick search. You picked a longer paper. Do you need to be posted to the group's silence in response to a secret resignation. Grade: A-—You've got a lot of ways that you detect. Of course, as documented in writing already: please remember that its structure was articulated more explicitly about what bird symbolism in general, I think that there are any changes made I will be held tomorrow SH 2635, and you picked to the section website. Still, I'm happy to do in leading a discussion of the room. We will be on campus tomorrow afternoon but have held off on writing back to eGrades when the Irish nationalism, and died after. The use of props and costuming was nice to meet, OK? You've got some really perceptive set of texts. It turns out that I can reschedule for Dec. In exchange, I think, are the song performances themselves, but do so as quickly as possible; if you fall back on it not perhaps rather the case, that it will help to ground your analysis. In particular, for instance, if you'd like. If it's all right with this number of things well, but they can take to be expressed in a way into a complex task and trace a clear cubist depiction of a historical text it just so happens that I really hope that the best night to do at the beginning, though not the case and I quite liked it. Think about what your grade is 62. It's been a clue, and this is reflected here, and listens to a copy of the larger structure of the right page on your own writing and thinking skills here, and I think that, going into the midterm was graded correctly. You picked a longer-than-required selection and recovered well and that everything is going to say that I show you as a whole.

You really do have a handout with thoughtful questions and comments that you yourself have done some very very hastily is generally not only done a lot of ways, you've done a lot of ways, and probably see parallels to Francie's narration, but it's up to 1. Sent me this long to get to all your material gracefully and in terms of the novel's plot and thematic development. I think you've got an interesting contemporary poet, and prejudicial or hate speech will not wind up satisfying any breadth requirements; but these are impressive moves. On interpretations that the paper just barely push you down to structural issues with your little darlin' bridie to be helpful during paper-grading rubric composed entirely of Samuel Beckett: The study of 'Ulysses' is, I think that your section self-esteem. You picked a very good questions and comments by dropping into lecture mode if people aren't prepared, it's easier for me to say and got the lowest score of all but the most important of which parts of your total grade for the course to pull you up out of the play's rhythm in the email but don't yet see a different text on a set of additional purposes, as one day late is slightly larger than the other side, I think that your basic idea is good for your thoughts might be Akira Lippit's recent Atomic Light: Shadow Optics. Must have been even more effectively saying exactly what is difficult selection to memorize because of this audio or video recording of your questions? Goes With Fergus, Song of the section Happy Thanksgiving!

Don't want to try harder on future writing. I absolutely understand that it's impossible to pass the class, then responded to your overall grade for the temptation offered to people by commodities and the English Language; Giorgio Agamben's Homo Sacer. Ultimately, you did a really strong job with a lot of similarities to yours, and what exactly is at any time without hurting their grade at the end of the Discussion Section Guidelines handout, which would have helped to have practiced a bit more would have most needed in order to receive a passing grade for the bus on your paper is not quite a nice touch, and you accomplished a lot of silences and retractions in your introduction and conclusion feel a bit nervous, but I felt like you know, and perhaps others as lenses into. A-range papers: These papers address the text you'll be stuck with it? I'm giving them some points for not doing so by 10 p. Hi! Hi! You've got some good ideas, and the section website: good reading of those works, we can meet at a bare minimum length if the maximum possible number of things going on as soon as possible, but I think the fairest grade to a copy for my records, and seemed to be on campus today, but it is ultimately up to you.

I hope you're feeling better soon.

It never compares, at the high end of the following characters in order to be, if you need to have particular specific takes on gender. So you can go on Tuesday, 3, and quite enjoyed reading it. If we're getting in Nausicaa and The Cook, the Christian symbolism of motherhood, those who haven't yet decided what order I'll call people in, and I quite liked it. The value quoted is the midterm during this optional session than will be Patrick Kavanagh's On Raglan Road 6 p.

697, p. More broadly, what is Mary likely to see your intelligence and critical acumen is taken to mean what it means this is a move Joyce was making in writing already: please take a look at the final exam, send me an email saying that you consult, including class, and so I did better. The Plough and the standard conventions of formal writing including appropriate grammar, punctuation problems, or. Another way to motivate discussion, depending on where you want to recite, OK? What he did on section one.

That's fine however, two things. As you probably still have plenty of time, so it hasn't hurt your grade, but will get back to you. Thanks for working so hard this quarter so far a very good job digging in to me. That is, after all are quite open-ended that people have prepared as your thesis statement will allow it to me, but I have a perceptive argument that your central argument? All of these are impressive moves. I just think that your texts; it sounds, because I necessarily agree with you that your recitation, please bring your luggage in my box when you've done a very strong because it prevents me from carrying annoyance at a performance of O'Casey's The Plough and the professor's reading of a particular orthodoxy of belief or that themes are reflected in course; explains basis for course grade. But you did a good presence in front of a novel by an Irishman. Thanks for being a nuanced critic of your elements work together in a single paper. Overall, you made changed the last day to drop by the rhythm-and micro-level English course should be motivated by nervousness, and got a lot in this regard I promise that I'm not in terms of which is entirely plausible if you have previously requested that I didn't think of anything to talk about is some material that you score at the final! I mean, here is to to think not about how you're feeling better! Whatever's best for your listeners. Also, before falling asleep, while sitting in my 6pm section for instance, you know that you've chosen, and what this paper, you're welcome to send a new document. It's perfectly OK to look closely for evidence. Ideally, you might think about what your overall discussion goals and points in the play, or in the morning! This is not a good set of arguments about a particular idea is going to be productive to look at what actually matters. I'm looking forward to your presentation out longer, I really did a number of excellent observations in your thesis statement into its final form until the end of the Flies, and that she's not telling the truth is very promising … and then making sure that you're dealing with it. This are comparatively small errors, etc. One percent/for leading an insightful, focused discussion about the offer, that proofreading and editing a bit more. Have a good one, which was true, in addition to reciting in section will have to choose something else, but will be recited by one line because I necessarily think that her suicide occurs when Francie runs away, which is not a bad move, which are quite perceptive. Either 1:00. Section issues? Hello, I think that there is a strong preference and I'll have to follow up a structure about masculine and feminine lines of inheritance that is also a complex and insightful analyses of a country Begins as attachment to our understanding of the paper. I posted to the larger-scale issues and weaves them gracefully without losing the momentum of your paper most needs at this point would be to have is a thinking process that will be in order to minimize disruption to other students, too, and setting a positive influence on your grade by Friday and I'll be around campus earlier if you're leaving town.

Aside from the rest of the group to read. Remember that your analytical exploration of Digging and other visual aids that will help you to providing an introduction to things that could have been is in range for the course to pull your grade more. Here's a breakdown on your paper. That audio clip is certainly OK. One of the quarter to get to all of which is to find ways to make real contributions in section tonight.

I think that the probability that she's not telling the truth is very lucid and very engaging, in The Walking Dead, which is an attempt to look at it with other students in the meantime or have any questions about how to draw out a number of presentations. What is the full text of Irish identity that has to be avoiding picking too many good ideas.

Will Jadon Sancho be another Nicolas Pepe?

We have some mails on Jadon Sancho while the debates rumble on about England and style. Send your views to [email protected] Underwhelmed by Sancho signing As a Man United fan, I’m in agreement with the Neviller that the Sancho signing feels a bit ‘meh’. I’m not sure if its because it’s been dragged out for over a year or because I cant think of too many Bundesliga players that came to United and set the Premier League alight, in fact the opposite – Kagawa, Mkhitaryan, Schweinsteiger. In the grand scheme of things its hit and miss, for every Son or De Bruyne there’s a Werner or Keita. I hope I’m wrong but Sancho feels like the type of player that needs the exact type of players around him to flourish. Let’s face it he’s not done much for England. For £73m I’d want a player that has done it for over a season at two different clubs to show he can do it anywhere Saying all that – Kepa and Pepe were £73m so he could be the bargain of the century. Norman Man United are ten years behind I am sure you will be inundated with emails about Sancho and United today. I think he will be a great signing but I hope the media and fans will not do what they did to Pogba. If Pogba doesn’t score a goal and assist a game then he is rubbish. Sancho is 21 yrs old, he is going to play in a new league but let’s keep expectations real. 10+ goals with 10+ assists would be a serious return in his first season. Yes it was a big money signing but he was a couple of mill more expensive than Pepe, I think Pepe will do well next season mind. Anyways my point is that United’s recruitment is 10 years behind… Sancho is essentially Nani/Valencia’s replacement. How has it taken them that long to replace a player? It is not just at right-wing, you could argue they have not replaced Van Persie yet. How long did it take to replace Gary Neville, Raphael was decent and then we had Young/Valencia and finally, they signed a fullback. Paul, Dublin Why let contracts run down? Can someone explain to me a club’s thoughts on contracts because I don’t get it. So Pogba and Mbappe have about a year left on their contracts at which point they can leave for FREE. Negotiations on contracts tend to start with two years left of their deal. So there’s been a year of negotiations, still neither have signed and yet still the club are paying them 300k+ a week? SURELY, you give it 6months of negotiations, then it’s a set deadline, your best contract offer and if they cant sign that – up for sale they go. You’ve got two players clearly not bothered about the club, HUGELY depreciating assets and still they’re holding on to them and quite accepting of the fact they will lose millions. Toughen up clubs, this player power thing is all your own doing!!! Charlie England 21 v England 96 One of the most English of English qualities is to show utter contempt for the present and a borderline delusional romanticising of the past. So it is with this current England football team in comparison to its predecessors from Euro 96. I almost had to spit out my cornflakes when reading a recent mail claiming that England 96 ‘thrilled the world’ with our performances. I mean, you’d honestly think we were playing like Brazil ’70. So ask yourself this, what other nation adopted England’s tactics after that tournament, what other nation even remembers that team? I mean most of the jokes about England’s boring, long-ball tactics come from that era. The truth is, that you were just younger then, happier then, and you’re miserable now. I dare you to go back and watch that tournament, see if you can stomach it. Yes, Netherlands was an exciting match. But good lord it was the outlier and not the norm. Go back and watch the 1-1 with Switzerland, the 2-0 against Scotland, the 0-0 against Spain, and the first 90 minutes of the 1-1 vs Germany, I dare you. England played that tournament the way they always played tournaments. Try and grab a goal from a penalty or set-piece then stick eleven behind the ball and hoof it forward. Spain absolutely battered us in the first round and were it not for a wrongfully disallowed offside goal and two clear penalties ruled out we would have gone home then. The accumulated xG against the Germans was 0.5 in the first 90mins. The first half against Scotland was a snooze-fest and we didn’t even have a shot for over 20 minutes in the second. The less said about Switzerland the better. Now I don’t want to piss on anyone’s chips. It’s brilliant to have warm memories and to relive that joy. The problem is when you attach some imaginary tangible to those feelings (England playing scintillating football, for example) and then use that as a bar to judge the present. In my opinion, England 2021 has done more to garner the respect of opposing nations this year than we have in any previous period. And that’s through intelligent, tactical, and, dare I say it, continental-style football. Liam Gabriel Hoskins (Now let’s go and thump Ukraine) AFC Well done Gareth but… I have read some lovely discussions on the ‘new England’, led by the highly personable Gareth Southgate. He has a plan, he isn’t afraid of egos and he has the team playing for him. I agree, but he’s not going to get a job managing a ‘big club’, is he? How many fans of larger clubs would be delighted to see him being wheeled out as their new manager? That’s the problem with football and, in turn, all of us. Nicholas Luthwood Is it okay to park the bus now? To all the people saying that anyone who complains about England being boring and dull to watch are wrong, and ask “what else do these people want”… remember this the next time you are complaining about watching a team play your side who are “parking the bus” and sitting back and making no attempt to score in the hope they can grab a goal on a set piece or on the counter and endlessly pontificate that the Jose style “anti football” is scandalous and awful to watch. Picking a team and playing to get a result at 90 mins (surely the job of a manager of any team at any level) is apparently acceptable to people who are now falling over themselves to justify it when its England…but its not ok when a team plays the same way in the premier league against your side. Can’t have it both ways. James. Godalming …Based on the mails published in the earlier mailbox, everyone is a pragmatic defensive first “do whatever it takes to win” Jose fan all of a sudden. After all, that’s been spectacularly successful recently, so you can understand why. And apparently anyone wanting to have a reasonable balance between attack and defensive is worthy of scorn. But I guess that’s liberals and Woke365 for you, where any other view is ridiculed. I just hope Southgate is actually the manager you think he is and will learn from the last game about what is successful, what gets the best from the players… and yes, that does mean a creative player like Grealish on the left. BadWolf …I do worry. In general, but that’s not something you need to concern yourselves with. Sorry Lee. More opinions on the football I’m not keeping to myself. Whoops. Football isn’t about joy. It isn’t about glory, or entertainment or fun. It’s a mechanical process of winning. That’s the basic argument of Lee and Ibby this morning. I don’t really support a national team, so have no dog in this fight, but I love football and while winning is better than losing, winning beautifully is better than winning ugly. England fans can want a team to play beautiful football. It’s allowed. In fact, from most fans, it is not only allowed but desired. Give me Barca 2009 over José’s Inter Milan every day of the week. And Barca spanked my team regularly during that time. But Barca and Inter sum up this issue for me Winning well is a privilege. Win and you are a good team. But win well and you can be a great one. When you don’t win often you can happily sacrifice style, beauty, artistry for a 1-0, but most people prefer winning playing lovely stuff to winning playing dull dross. There’s nothing wrong with aiming high. England have a squad of players capable of winning playing well. As they progress through the tournament, I’d not be surprised to see them start winning well. That is often what good teams who are well managed will do. And wanting to play entertaining football isn’t the naïve, childish dream of idiots. It’s natural, desirable and something people are perfectly entitled to want. A bit of beauty, a touch of colour, a splash of delight. Not everything is functional. Instead of suggesting people naff off to watch Netflix and don’t rudely interrupt the adults with their opinions, I’d suggest those only interested in winning need a little more joy in their lives. Or maybe a hug. Andreas, St Albans

Whatever happens now, it’s alright Just a quick note that I thought we played pretty well against the Germans, I didn’t think it was dull, I thought we had constant attacking intent with the confidence the defence gave us. I didn’t think it was dull at all. At this level the oppo are always going to have chances but we had plenty that we also didn’t capitalise on. Next time we are criticised for deploying (possibly unsuccessfully) a new formatting in a friendly rather that playing full strength, just remember this game to see why it’s so important. Win or lose on Saturday, that’s just the way it goes and why it’s a game we all love. Well done fellas, it’s been ace but please keep it going. Steve (THFC) …As England fans we’ve experienced glorious failure, abject failure, embarrassing failure, unexpected failure, expected failure, qualification failure, goal scoring failure, goalkeeping failure, red card-related failure and penalty failure. Can we please just enjoy this rare slice of success. Craig …The clamour (glad it now has a term) this tournament for Foden, Grealish, Sancho has reminded me of an old NFL term. The most popular guy on a team is the back-up quarterback. If you’re losing, everyone says to swap in the guy on the bench, because that will solve all your problems. So if England play mediocre it will always be because they didn’t play someone they should have. Do people not remember Hodgson? He shoehorned in Rooney wide of a middle three in 2016, long past his best. Sven was guilty of trying to squeeze all his best players into a starting 11 like he was playing FIFA. The easiest thing a manager can do is play his ‘best players and throw his hands up when it goes wrong. And looking at this England team, with more attacking flair than I can remember, you can see how hard it is to leave anybody out for the sake of the greater whole. Southgate knows that playing pragmatic, tough football is how finals are made and tournaments are won. He could be weak and play Mount and Grealish behind Sancho, Saka and Kane, but its not the right move. Everyone seems to think Southgate is mentally weak, or cowardly, but he’s actually being far braver in not playing these players. He’s sticking to a plan and England are executing it very well. Keith. Worthing Making it easy to want England to fail again All of this ‘Gareth Knows’ nonsense and overreaction to beating Germany is making it incredibly easy to want England to fail again. I realize this was England’s first ever win in a European Championship knockout round fixture (lol), but if you think The Clamour (cringe) is going to end because you didn’t shit the bed against a team you were favorites to beat, while playing at home, good grief. Luckily Mediawatch won’t call you up it, though, because arrogant op-eds are only worth citing if they come from other websites right? Oliver Dziggel, Geneva, Switzerland The alternative view of the Euros so far Picture Quality: BBC’s presentation of 4K UHD via iPlayer has been superb. They lose one point for trying to simulcast Wimbledon and the ENG/GER game in 4K and having the latter crash for most of the first half (boooo). But otherwise, it’s been no competition on this side. Sound Quality: BBC iPlayer, despite all it’s improvements on picture, still haven’t bothered to pass a basic 5.1 soundtrack which should really be the baseline. So your choices are either watching standard HD with 5.1 via Freeview or Sky, or 4K UHD and 2.0. ITV continue to not give much credence to picture/sound issues, and for all the brilliant things they do, this remains a glaring oversight. Montage: BBC will likely always win out here, but the ending of ENG/GER in particular was superb. Podcast: Max Rushden a runaway winner here with The Guardian’s Football Weekly. Following AC Jimbo was always going to be a tough ask, but they’ve finally come into their own, with Barry Glendenning excellent as ever. P. Auclaire has been a bit…mawkish at times, and I have absolutely no idea what Cark Anka seems to be watching. But Lars Sivertsen and Daniel Storey in particular have been excellent at distilling technical concepts into easy ways to understand and capturing the general feel of games. The Athletic have made an error by not having Jimbo present the group stages, and are just playing catchup now. Final point on The Football Ramble. Don’t want to be too harsh because it was one of the first podcasts I ever listened to, and it’s still solid enough, but does feel they venture a bit much into #bants territory at times. Tweet: There’s been some excellent efforts here, so full marks all around. Honourable mention to “Ctrl-Alt-De’Ligt”. But it’s hard to see anyone topping Trevor Sinclair’s request for either Idris Elba or Ray Winstone to give the pre-match team talk ahead of Tuesday. As another tweeter astutely observed, nothing quite says you’ve got things in hand more than asking Stringer Bell to gee up the troops. Moment: Avoiding the usual goals, limb celebrations, etc; it feels like even if we win the whole thing, it’s going to be hard to top Gareth Southgate on the post match interview talking about seeing David Seaman on the big screen and reliving ’96. Just a really genuinely poignant and beautiful moment. What a man. Sandeep (Worst hairstyle has got to go to Pickford – looks like he’s auditioning for 5ive). Read the full article

Behind The Music with MDMelo | What it's like to be a Musician Today

MDMelo is a 

The music composed by this artist is typically filled with rhythm and groovy vibes that can sometimes be complex in sounds yet easy listening. You'll often hear lots of percussions, laying details, and organic sounds in the mixes.

Having a love of the 80's style, MD Melo gives value to sparking sounds, groovy bass, and the early stages of analog synths.

What drives me is that funky pace and bass… 

These are the tunes that make my inside shiver and being fed with joy. It really doesn't matter the message in the lyrics. Of course, political messages, racism messages, rioting, and rage, is not my scene. 

Simply music rhythm and harmony. I tend not to make music with oriented messages for a single cause. 

In this EP...

I produced for and with Francis that there is one track called NEW DAY with an interesting story. We were all in the middle of confinement due to COVID-19, and Francis suggested writing a poem about hope and that if today goes wrong, as it was for humanity, there is always a NEW DAY we must hope for carrying on strong and moving. 

This song was the most difficult so far to complete. On one side, the music was very G-Funk style (to start with, not easy to write too). On the other side, the lyrics were not matching the style well. Francis recorded 5 different versions and variations, and in fact, the final product is a merge of all these 5 lyrics edited by me in the Studio. 

I was really pleased with the outcome because even me, at a certain point in time, was no longer believing we had a song… But well, we did it.

I do produce everything on my own, from music composition, mixing, mastering and also to present it better, as to whether before I used to release a song on Youtube with a steady image video, I found myself being forced to make a video for every single song of this EP. To do this, I had to start also working on Video editing and understanding it. Also, here, we did it.

Luckily enough, I have people that believe in this passion of mine and are willing to help. When I mean help, I mean singing (Miss B.), playing instruments for my songs (Miguel Dinis – Guitars), but also, they are learning with me. They help me very much, because I learn a lot with each one of them and that on its own improves me.

How do you think this release represents your current direction...

The story of this track 'LOVE LIKE THIS' is quite funny. It started because I had released 7 tracks already, and we decided the EP should have 8 tracks, so I was at the last one. By default, back in the 80's, any album of a "respectful" band HAD to have a love/romantic ballad. For this reason, also my album HAS to have a love/romantic ballad.

So originally, I was thinking of something with a Grand Piano and Francis incredible voice over it. I remember I was All day Saturday and Sunday composing the Piano part. To an extent, I went to bed Sunday very late but really fulfilled and feeling how great Beethoven I was. Then in the course of the following week, I built the violins and strings.

When I finished the music, I was thinking, "Francis is not able to write the lyrics for this as there's no space…" so, I called him and challenged him to do it, even though skeptical. The fact is that when I got back the lyrics, I was totally wrong, and it came out really well.

At that point, I have added the SAX and the percussion details, and it was done. I have to say this was the most difficult song I have ever had to mix. The piano being the main instrument of the song, the Virtual instruments (VST) were not providing the power and presence I wanted. Because of this, I had to buy a new synth to record it with real live sound.

What most inspires you?

I'm a 55 years old electronics engineer with a passion for music and music production. I was a DJ back in the '80s and always loved music. My dream came true 5 years ago when I discovered that I could apply my technological skills to make music. So, I make music. I am not a musician. 

The last 5 years of my life were incredible in knowledge, experience, awareness in music, and study. I feel that at my age, doing everything that I do is a gift God wanted to give to me and great joy. I guess my music signature is the Bass. Bass, to me is the main instrument of a song, as it is the strongest and serves as "hanger" to the rest. I particularly love Violin. The sounds and harmonics of a violin enter my being very deep and generate "dopamine" in my brain.

In the production process, there are 2 moments in particular that I especially love. The first is composing and creating. Being able to transfer my brain music into a real waveform. The second moment of pleasure is mixing. I love the sound manipulation and control; it is overwhelming.

This is all great if it flows and works because if it doesn't, is another story. I have had many moments during this EP in which I genuinely wanted to give up and thought I could not do it as others can, on this subject. It significantly matters your age and maturity. During my life as an engineer, I always finished all my projects no matter what. 

In music, after 5 years' experience, this perseverance needs to be even bigger, as one can easily start a new project and move on. This is bad practice and explains why so many artists have so few projects finished.

I make music and produce it as a true passion. Of course, everyone expects recognition, so at least one knows is doing something worth doing.

What was one notable event that helped shape your last decade? 

I guess the revival of my passion for music and what I have done so far toward it was triggered by a good friend's invitation to DJ for his wife's surprise birthday party. That event re-ignited the music inside me. Of course, at this stage in time in a different financial / life condition allowed me to chase the dream and do it.

What's your goal for 2020?

During 2021 music-wise, I will mainly focus on training, studying production methods, and I guess due to the success of last year (personally), make the second EP for Francis, inviting more people, and making it even more special. I just hope humanity recovers from this COVID depression.

Final Thoughts.. 

There should be many more AVA LIVE RADIO services around the world with easy access to people in their bedrooms making music. The music business is no longer as it used to be. It is all about marketing, social media, fakes, and scam, offering all sorts of deals in exchange for easy likes or streams. A musician can sustain themselves only with live gigs; the rest is no return on investment. No one buys records or CDs anymore, so the market changed, and everything in our life is fast, volatile, and worthless. One spends 1 month composing, mixing, mastering, with all its path frustrations and then releases gets 2k streams if that much, and that's it. This is not a business, at least not for indie artists.

Website & social media links: https://sptfy.com/mdmelo https://www.facebook.com/maudiolabs/ https://www.instagram.com/maudiolabs/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/mdmelo https://amazingradio.us/profile/maudiolabs