#so fascinating that this came from bobby of all people. bobby who got tied into cociane dealing because of laura.
Text
in twin peaks when bobby said what are you looking at? what are you waiting for? you make me sick you damn hypocrites make me sick. everybody knew she was in trouble. but we didn't do anything. all you good people. you wanna know who killed laura? you did! we all did. and pretty words aren't gonna bring her back man, so save your prayers... she would've laughed at them anyway. like oh my god she would have laughed at them anyways!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
#🍎#twin peaks#so fascinating that this came from bobby of all people. bobby who got tied into cociane dealing because of laura.#bobby who is violent. who was her jealous and vindictive boyfriend. but he was right he is the only person in the whole town admits it!#we all knew she was in trouble but we didnt do anything!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
3 notes
·
View notes
Text
no grave can hold my body down (i'll crawl home to her)
A jukebox soulmate au where your missing stuff finds its way to your soulmate.
ao3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/29147940
They say that there's someone who makes up the rest of your soul. That they're your perfect match and once you meet them, once you touch them, your wandering souls will be fused back together, whole and unbroken.
Luke's not sure who they are. But honestly, he just wishes his shit would stop going permanently missing. You lose something and it's sucked through some kind of hole in space-time to be found by your soulmate. Luke would really like to have a conversation with whoever came up with this system cause it sucks.
Cause he's a forgetful guy. His brain is always going a million miles an hour, with at least three different trains of thought chugging away and sometimes the tracks cross and there's a collision and all the passengers have to bail out and it's just a mess, okay? Keeping track of his stuff tends to fall by the wayside a little bit.
It's how he lost his favourite beanie. And don't get him started on the number of individual socks that have just poofed themselves out of existence. He always has to have a box of new guitar picks handy because as soon as it's not in his hand or clamped between his teeth, it's as if it never existed. He just hopes his soulmate appreciates them.
But it's a give and take. He'll reach into his pocket to find scrunchies, hair clips, endless bobby pins. Just generic stuff that tells him very little about who his soulmate is except that they probably have long hair. (Once, he found one long, dark hair curling around the folds of a scrunchie. He keeps it tucked between the pages of a notebook, stashed away on his bookshelf.)
(And yeah: they. He's spent a lot of time thinking about this. He's had crushes on all sorts of people and their gender never really made a difference, but his introspection also leads to a solid black ring resting on the middle finger of his right hand.)
One day, he opens his school bag to find a homework page that does not belong to him. He looks at it, front and back, scouring for a name, a hint, a clue, feeling a thing with feathers rise behind his ribs, reducing his lung capacity and making him draw in shallower breaths. But nothing. Just the slightly messy handwriting of someone who thinks faster than they can write. He sighs and stuffs it back in his bag, reluctantly retrieving his maths book. His frustrated sigh must have been audible because Reggie leans over from his own desk.
"Hey, you all right, man?' His eyebrows are drawn up together, lines of concern creasing his face.
"Yeah, yeah. Just soulmate stuff junking up my bag."
It's not always junk, though. A bracelet turns up on his bedside table. He starts wearing it every day. He refuses to take it off, even to sleep. Sheet music to an unfamiliar song is found wedged between his records. This particular item makes his heart beat faster, his chest tingling and warm. Because they're a musician too. It makes sense, of course. No way his soulmate could not like music. It's basically Luke's entire soul (or half soul, he guesses). But the confirmation makes him feel both calmer and more anxious. He wants to meet this person.
His favourite item to ever turn up is a photo. A woman and a little kid sit in a field, turned towards each other, faces pointed away from the camera. But he can see their smiles. He sleeps with it next to his face on the pillow the night he finds it because he doesn't want to look away. In the morning, he tucks it into the back of his song-writing journal where he keeps the rest of his heart.
At 17, he and his best friends are on the precipice of being legends. As he pulls his guitar from the case, a long, striped scarf flutters to the ground, the kind someone might tie in their hair or loop around their wrist. He ties it around his bicep for good luck. It makes him feel like his soulmate is there, by his side, cheering him on.
They meet a girl - Rose - who looks so familiar. Something about her smile. But he just can't quite put a finger on it. All he knows is that her presence is reassuring. Safe. He doesn't know her but he feels a tug in his chest that says family. The same tug he feels when he looks at Alex and Reggie and Bobby. (He's changed his mind, his half of his shared soul is made up of these three dorks and the music they make together.)
And then he dies. As darkness closes in around him, he thinks I'm sorry, boys and I'll never get to meet them.
---
"Flynn!" Julie whines. "I can't find my homework anywhere!"
Flynn rolls her eyes. "Did you check your school bag?"
"Yes," Julie bites out, not actually mad at Flynn, just at the situation.
"Your desk?" A nod. "Your dad's car? Under your bed? Your locker?"
Julie has to stop her. She knows from experience that Flynn'll just keep going. "Yes, it's not anywhere."
Flynn shrugs nonchalantly, a smirk pulling the corner of her mouth. "Well, guess it's gone to your soulmate then."
Julie groans loudly in frustration. She pulls her beanie (their beanie) down over her eyes and slumps back against her locker, trying desperately to not look like she's pouting but definitely pouting. Flynn just gives her an unimpressed look.
Julie breathes out harshly through her nose and resigns herself to retrieving the schoolwork she does have from her locker.
"Ugh, gross!" she exclaims, fishing a pair of boxers out from where they had appeared in the dark recesses of her locker.
Flynn's snort turns into a full belly laugh as Julie holds them away from her body, arm extended as if she were holding hazardous waste.
She chucks them back in and slams the door shut. "Come on, let's get to class."
Flynn follows, tripping over herself as she continues to laugh her way down the hall.
---
Julie isn't sure who her soulmate is or whether she knows them already. Of course, it's pretty rare to meet them in high school, but a girl can dream. Unfortunately, it seems that her soulmate is terrible at doing laundry because she'll often find individual socks lying on her bedroom floor and undies crumpled in the corner of her bathroom. The beanie that turns up is quickly added into regular rotation and if it isn't on her head, it's tucked into her bedside table. The muscle tank threw an interesting spanner in the works as it set her mind to imagining the kind of person who might wear something like that. (She might, maybe become a person who wears something like that. Occasionally. When the desire strikes her.)
She's fairly certain that they're a musician. She's constantly finding half-written lyrics strewn around her room in the most atrocious handwriting seen outside of a doctor's office. The lyrics - those that are legible - are beautiful. Occasionally they'll be lyrics to a Trevor Wilson song, though, which is a bit weird but she assumes they must just be a big fan. She appreciates their good taste.
Another hint is the guitar picks. She finds them everywhere: in her sock draw, between the pages of her school books, next to her toothbrush. One memorable time, she found a pick snarled in her hair. And all of them, every last one, are covered in tooth marks. As if her soulmate has a habit of chewing on their guitar picks. It's kinda gross. Even so, she collects them in a jar on her desk with the date she'd found them written on the back.
---
The boys turn up and her life is turned right-side up. She tells them to stay out of her room. Constantly. Boundaries, she reminds them. Alex and Reggie get it, they can respect her personal space. But, Luke. She knows he goes in there because he keeps leaving his stuff everywhere.
On this day she finds his flannel just draped across her bed, as if he's trying to irritate her. She snatches it up and storms down to the studio.
"Luke!" she shouts as she enters the studio, ready to tear him a new one. "What have I told you about going in my roo-"
She stops short because all three boys are ripping the place apart, looking for something. When he turns around to face her, she sees tears wetting his face that he quickly tries to swipe away. Her heart leaps into her throat.
"Luke, what's wrong?" she tries to ask but is interrupted.
"You found it!" His voice is a little watery but exuberant.
"I -- what?" she shoots him a quizzical look.
"My flannel. Well - my dad's flannel, but -" he cuts himself off, scrubbing his fist over his eyes.
Julie scoffs a little, gently. "Yeah, dude. You left it in my room."
His eyebrows furrow in that way of his.
"No, I didn't."
"Uh, yeah. You did."
"I haven't been in your room."
"Well, clearly you have," she says, shaking the flannel a little and holding it out to him.
"Thanks," he says softly as he grabs it, still looking at it with a bewildered expression. But he shrugs it on and uses the sleeve to wipe away what remains of his tears.
When Julie looks over at Reggie and Alex, they're exchanging a meaningful look that Julie can't quite read. When they notice her gaze, they both glance away, once again fascinated with the chairs on the ceiling.
Huh.
---
"Julie! Stop leaving your homework in my song-writing journal!"
"I didn't put it there!"
"Well who did, then?"
The patented Reggie and Alex LookTM makes an appearance.
---
"Hey! I used to have a beanie like that!"
"Uhuh."
"I did! It was my favourite until I lost it."
Julie nods but doesn't look up from her homework.
---
"Ew, gross, Luke! Why do guitarists chew on their picks?"
He shrugs a little sheepishly. "It just helps me think. Besides, if I put it down it just kind of … disappears into the void." He gestures vaguely at the aforementioned void.
"That's true," Reggie pipes up. "He's always got a back-up supply!"
Alex scoffs a little. "Yeah, but he's the only guitarist I know who chews on his picks."
"Well my soulmate chews on theirs," Julie puts in, "So Luke's not the only one."
She hears the implement in question clatter to the piano. When she looks at Luke his eyes are wide and a little sad. None of them had really talked about soulmates. She's not sure about the implications that being dead has on finding a soulmate. None of them had found theirs before they died.
Alex, however. He'd managed to literally run into his soulmate in ghost form, so who knows. She's not sure if there are any rules. Whether both parties have to be dead or if one can be alive.
(If she's honest with herself, she's spent a fair amount of time thinking about this. Thinking about Luke. She pushes the thought away when it pops up cause it's not possible but it always creeps back in. But they can't even touch so it’s a moot point. That longed-for skin-to-skin contact that bridges the gap between souls remains elusive. The silly daydream of a love-struck girl.)
---
"Julie," Flynn says worriedly as they sidle up to their lockers, "Where's your ring?"
"My rin-" she lifts her right hand to her face and studies her empty middle finger with distraught consternation. The space where delicate twists of black metal usually sit is bare. "My ring! I - I'm sure I put it on this morning."
"Yeah, I saw you wearing it," Flynn confirms, her eyebrows furrowing.
Julie can feel a tide rising in her throat, swelling up behind her eyes, each crash of the sea battering against her ribcage in a heartbeat tattoo.
A poof to her right interrupts her rising panic. She looks at Luke, eyes wide and watering.
"Julie! I came to bri- What's wrong?" he cuts himself off when he notices her distress.
"My ring is gone!" Her voice is tight, as if trapped in her throat.
Flynn had cottoned on Luke's presence and had begun to move around to where he stands to prevent their peers from thinking Julie's well and truly gone off the deep end. (Julie thinks distantly how grateful she is for such a wonderful friend.)
Bafflingly, a bright smile splits Luke's face. "This ring?" And pinched between his pointer finger and thumb is Julie's ring.
Julie's entire body visibly relaxes and it's as if her spine contracts a couple inches, muscles no longer held taut by emotion, the tide pulls out.
"Where did you find that?" Her voice is practically a whisper now, adrenaline having sapped all energy.
Luke shrugs nonchalantly. "It was in my pick container for some reason."
Creases form on Julie's face but she gratefully receives the piece of jewellery. She slips it into its rightful place and when she looks up she realises Luke's eyes have gone wide. Her eyebrows pull up into a question.
"You -- no, sorry, nevermind." He shakes his head and takes a step back. Julie moves forward a step. Flynn glances around to make sure no one is watching.
"No, Luke, it's okay. What's wrong?"
He shakes his head again, eyebrows drawing together and the hint of a smile on his lips. Instead of answering, he reaches his right palm out to touch hers, letting their rings knock together.
"Oh," Julie breathes. She's not sure how she'd missed it before. Maybe just that it had blended in with all his other rings.
"Yeah," he says, bashful, "Oh."
Julie smiles at him and he smiles right back.
---
The Orpheum happens. And the boys are clinging to the last shreds of themselves and she's crying out Go, save yourselves.
But No music is worth making, Julie, if we're not making it with you.
And she hugs him. And she can feel him. The places their skin meet spark with some cosmic electricity but there's no time to dwell on it because she has to save Alex and Reggie too.
It isn't until later, when Reggie exclaims, "Hey, what's that on your back?"
She twists around, glimpsing the shape of a hand darkening the skin of her lower back. Her head whips around to look at Luke and she notices. "Luke, your shoulder!"
One hand flies up to his left shoulder, tracing over the darkened patch where Julie's palm had first rested against his skin. Their eyes lock.
"You're-"
"We're-"
She's not sure who's making which language-adjacent sound.
Alex is looking back and forth between them, a grin pulling across his face while Reggie's mouth hangs open in realisation. But they stay quiet. The see, told you so's will be saved for later.
Julie starts moving, crossing the room towards Luke. Luke seems to shake out of a stupor, surging towards her as well. They meet in the middle, her arms once again wrapping around his neck in a replay of their earlier embrace. His hands find their spot on her back.
"It's you, it's really you - " she's babbling. She continues to babble. Luke moves a hand up to smooth back her hair and gently places his lips against her forehead, finally causing her tongue to cease. The touch is so painfully tender it feels like a branding iron against her skin. They stay there for a century or so, just rocking to an inaudible beat, clinging to one another.
Finally, Luke tucks his chin so that he can rest their foreheads together, breathing the same air.
"You're amazing, Julie Molina. I would die a thousand times to find you."
She nods, unable to form words cause, yeah, so would she.
They pull back and her eyes slide over left arm, landing on the scarf tied there. "My scarf!" She tugs on it a little.
Luke chuckles, sliding his palm along her jaw. Realisation crosses his face. "Oh, that is my beanie."
His head whips up and around when loud guffaws break past stifling hands. Alex and Reggie have dissolved into borderline hysterics. He looks back at Julie whose eyes fill with shared mirth. A laugh bubbles up in his own chest, spilling over and out of his mouth.
And finally, surrounded by Alex and Reggie and Julie, his soul is complete.
13 notes
·
View notes
Text
Chapter 8: To the East and The Gold Rush
Waking up in New York City was nothing new for the former Vaudeville performer. Buster was accustomed to whichever time zone he was in. He had gone to the east coast for a business trip/vacation with his wife Natalie and they’re staying at the Biltmore Hotel. The couple had attended the premiere of Seven Chances at the Capital theater. They were accompanied by people more favorable to Keaton such as his father Joe, a friend from childhood, Lex Neal, and Nick Schenck, a brother of his boss Joseph. Knowing that the missus missed their children and her sisters dearly, he held her hand the entire event. The screening had a good reception. Keaton was glad that the movie was well-received, although he remained resentful. Natalie was grateful for his presence, but nothing had changed as they still sleep in different bedrooms based on her insistence. After a few busy days, the real vacation began. Now he will be spending a day with his better half.
Once out of bed, Buster puts on his robe and went to the sitting area of their suite to call room service. He saw that Natalie was already awake and sitting frantically on the couch, he said to her, "Good morning Nate."
The missus stopped what she was doing and replied calmly, "Oh Morning."
Her fingers tapped on her knee as she appeared agitated. Buster had not seen her in this state in a while. Natalie was staring at the door and he shot his eyes at it, "Are you waiting for the letter?”
She quivered when she said, “I haven’t heard from mother yet.” Peg was watching the Keaton boys back in California.
He sat next to her and reassured her, "The boys are gonna be alright. We've only been gone since last Friday."
The tears started to form in her eyes, “This is the furthest I have been from our sons. Robert started babbling.” She wrapped her arms around herself, “What if he says his first word and I won’t be there to witness it?”
Buster patted on her shoulder, “I don’t think that would be likely.” He added, “I’m sure Bobby won’t say a thing until he sees his ma again.” To his surprise, Natalie hugged him in gratitude. Buster hugged her back until she broke the embrace to dry her tears. He went to the phone saying, “I’ll order us breakfast.”
That noon Buster and Natalie had lunch with the folks that went with them in addition to the Governor of New York. Joe Keaton shared stories of performing shows as The Three Keatons, dealing with wife Myra’s absences due to maternity leave, getting in trouble with The Gerry Society, and the times they fled out of burning Buildings. The couple spent the day together except when Natalie went out to buy gifts for the boys while Buster was catching up with Lex and discussing the latest film project. When he returned to their suite the middle Talmadge was already there, rounding out the toys and the clothes. He was going to ask her how much she spent on them, but he didn’t want to start another argument.
She was in a cheery mood, “Got that letter back from mother. The boys are doing fine, they missed me. Dutch came over to cheer them up. She took them to the park for fun.”
Keaton hid his hands in his pockets, “Did that letter said anything about me? Did the boys miss me too?”
Natalie pulled a toy giraffe out of the bag, “It didn’t say anything about you. She usually didn’t acknowledge you in letters. I’m sure the boys miss you too. I can't wait to see their faces when they see what I got them."
What she said of the boys missing their father, Buster knew it might not be true. He wished to be a father, but had little time to spend with them because he was so busy at work. His fear arises with the thought of Natalie divorcing him and taking the sons away. He had to win her over to keep the family together. He asked her, “Nate, do you remember Coney Island?”
Natalie frowned upon taking a trip to memory lane, while neatly folding the boy’s overalls, “Why yes, it wasn’t long after Arbuckle made a short there. You took me because you wanted to include me and I obliged. You got us cotton candy to share, we rode on the carousel, and that one coaster you were begging me to ride along.”
Buster added with a narrow smile, “You were so scared that I held your hand the entire time.” he apologized for taking her to the coaster in the first place.
She concluded, “Then we finished the day with the Ferris wheel where we saw the bright spectacle and you pecked me on that cabin. It was a nice date.”
He sat gingerly on the bed, “I would be happy to take you to coney island again, but back then nobody could recognize me when I’m not with my folks, and then Roscoe and now if anyone took notice of me, that whole place would crumble.”
She looked at him, “If you weren’t able to take me, why bring this up?”
He took her hands, “We were both very happy. I missed the days when you were in love with me. The same woman who proposed to me from another coast. I know the old Natalie is still there when you hugged me this morning.”
She took her hands off him to cross her arms, “That was only because I missed our boys.”
He put his hands behind him, “I missed them too. I can’t imagine life without all of you. I will take back the times I was unfaithful to you.”
“Buster, I don’t care if you embrace another woman behind my back. Please don't entice me to be in bed with you again.” She pointed him out of the door, “Please let me be alone to change for dinner.” Natalie closed the door behind him after leaving her room.
Buster was puzzled about the unusual pairings in his life; his parents, Joe and Myra, Norma and Schenck, and Natalie and himself. None of them shared the same age group except for the latter. He wished that his wife wasn’t a strict catholic so she could be comfortable with taking contraceptives and not worry about getting pregnant again and he wouldn’t have to cheat on her. But that’s the way it has to be. If he failed to win back his beloved, there are still less than 3 weeks of vacation to go.
****************
The hopes of Gail being a screen actress were dashed when production was delayed after Sennett comedian Ben Turpin backed out of the upcoming project due to personal matters. Gail wanted to take his place, but was unable to due to a lack of a contract. Though Sennett knew she wanted prominent roles, he was unable to fill them because too many actresses sought her out. But instead, he had heard his former employee Charlie Chaplin just returned from filming in Truckee to film more scenes in his studio and is seeking extras. So he recommended she find work in Chaplin's upcoming film The Gold Rush, and Gail was fine with it just to gain film experience.
There at the Charlie Chaplin Studio, Gail is in the dance hall scene where Chaplin’s Tramp character dances with his love interest. She was busy dancing with a partner to watch the toothbrush-mustached comedian, but caught the part where he was tied to a dog and it chases the cat. She could laugh at this gag, but didn’t want to ruin a good take. The chestnut-haired woman across the hall seemed familiar. Gail didn't think she’s a famous actress. It must be on a tip of her tongue. Then the realization struck her, that was the same woman who was next to her onset of the seven chances. Their time between scenes was too busy to get them to chat. When everyone gets their lunch break, she located the woman eating with the other female extras in the studio courtyard.
Gail sat at the same table as them, “Hi you remember me?”
The woman paused figuring out, “Oh goodness, we were extras in seven chances. Sorry we didn’t get to be properly introduced.” The woman extended her hand, “My name is Eliza Smith.”
“I’m Gail Anders.” She shook it in greeting, “It’s good to see you again and I never got to thank you for saving me from the ridicule.”
“Don’t mention it. We actresses had to stick together.”
Gail and Eliza were talking while having meatloaf and salad. Their discussion consists of their start on careers, Gail’s experiences as a bathing beauty, Eliza’s acting resume, their celebrity encounters, and then the subject fell to celebrity crushes.
"For me, it's Charlie Chaplin of course. I have a crush on him since I was barely a woman. Hell, if I was a virgin, I'd have saved it for him. Are you a virgin, Gail?”
Gail almost choked on her food being asked that. She replied with a blush, “That’s a very personal question to ask.”
“That’s alright if you don't have to answer.” She raised her eyebrow leaning towards the raven-haired woman. “But tell me this is Buster Keaton the cat’s meow?”, When Gail couldn’t understand, Eliza rephrased, “Do you have a crush on Keaton?”
Gail's eyes were looking both ways as she drank her cup of water to try to avoid the touchy subject, but Eliza noticed the signs. “Please It’s all in your face. Your gaze was fixated on the stone face as if he was the king of England.” She chuckled, “It helped when you “pretended to faint” in front of him.”
Giving in, Gail confessed of the time she started seeing Buster in the Arbuckle films. She thought he seemed charming and took interest in watching his films because of his fascinating past, then when she heard the news of his wedding, she was a bit let down, but was happy for him and then she talked about her two other encounters with Keaton. In conclusion, She asked, “Is it wrong to have a crush on a married man?”
Eliza dropped a bombshell, “Chaplin wasn't married when we dated.” Gail’s eyes widen and her jaw dropped hearing this “Really?!”
Eliza with a coy smile, whispered to her to avoid having others hear her “I met Chaplin when I started working in California. I took a job here as a part-time receptionist, but when he noticed me, He then hired me as an extra for his previous film, The Pilgrim. After production ended, we started a relationship. Spent countless nights with him,” she then frowned when she continued, “Then we broke up when he was seeing another woman, and another and another and another. But he did come back to me only for one-night stands and one of them happened while he’s married. Last I heard, if it's true, he has feelings for his leading lady."
She covered her face with her hand, trying to comprehend what happened, "Why are men so unfaithful to their wives?"
“Gail,” Eliza explained, “Men and women in Hollywood have unhappy marriages and have taken lovers. If Buster is one of them, you might have a chance.”
Gail stated, “But I have a boyfriend, I think I still do. And besides, I can’t see myself dating a married man.” Adding a final thought, “I would rather wait until he’s divorced.”
"True, but then where is the fun?” Before they finished eating Eliza looked Gail right in the eye and said, “I would recommend keeping this a secret. God knows what would happen to dear Chaplin if word got out.”
Gail returned to Lenore’s around 6 in the evening. Going inside she was surprised to see a finely dressed man talking with Sally and Lenore at the dining table. Upon noticing Gail’s presence, Lenore called, appearing to break away from her niece’s latest paramour, “Welcome home! We saved you fried cauliflower and turkey.”
The man said in his British accent told Sally, “I didn’t know you have a sister.”
The blonde chuckled, “She isn’t, this is my friend Gail Anders. I took her in when she moved from Nevada.”
The man stood up and bowed in greeting, “Sterling Thomas, my pleasure.”
As they shook hands, Gail said, “That accent, you must be British.”
“Yes, Edinburgh very nice place.” Sterling’s dark hair was slicked back.
Lenore brought over her meal, “Gail just came home from work and you should be leaving too, sir.” This prompted Sterling to grab his hat and approached to the front door despite Sally’s protests for him to stay a little longer
He replied, "We can meet again. I'm here quite a while." She kisses him before watching him leave.
As Gail started eating, silence went on between aunt and niece. She later broke it when asking Sally, “How did you two meet?”
“Both of us were in New York City. I went to a nightclub and he was there. Same story, different ending.”
“How did you find each other?”
Lenore added while crossing her arms, “I presume one of your nightly outings?”
Sally glared at her, "Well Auntie, we met somewhere, and I never felt lucky to bump into him again."
“How is Mr. Thomas any different from your last boyfriends?”
“He happens to be rich.”
The aunt gave her a sarcastic look, “Oh, so now you're a gold digger?”
Sally stood up fumed, “How is that any different from you and Uncle Stanley?”
Lenore stood up in retaliation, “Don’t you bring my Stanley-”
Gail also stood up to soothe this out, “Could you not fight? I had a long day.” Sally and Lenore agreed and the table fell into silence for the whole dinner.
After all that was going on around her, Gail would end the day by kindling herself to a good book. After losing interest in the middle of chapter four she switched to another book. It was a journal about her interest in Buster Keaton. She would write down about the movies she had seen and clipped off the news article featuring a movie review of his and just news about him. Gail turned to a page in which the subject was Our hospitality. A news article glued there featured a picture of Buster and Natalie both wearing pork pie hats for a publicity photo. It was interesting to see husband and wife on the screen together, but now it was bittersweet knowing that buster is probably cheating on his wife. If it was truly something that must be wrong between the two.
The next afternoon, Gail was making herself useful in the Sennett studio, modeling the swimsuits for the other bathing beauties. A crewmember notified her of a call from her residence. Gail answered the phone, the voice at the other end was Lenore.
“The telegram came from your mother.”
Gail has already known what was happening around her family; her sister Geraldine is having twins and her father is due to retire from ranch work. Judging from the woman’s sorrowful tone in her voice, it must be bad news.
“It’s your grandmother, she died in her sleep.”
Devastated, She covered her mouth as her tears began to form and a similar lump grew in her throat. Her whole body shook with the realization that the woman who got her to California is gone.
Buster Keaton and Charlie Chaplin around 1918
#buster keaton fandom#Buster Keaton#actor RPF#rpf fanfic#silent comedy#fanfiction#buster keaton fanfiction
2 notes
·
View notes
Text
Begin Again--Supernatural Story
Chapter 1
The music that flooded through the car did nothing for the frustration pounding at my head. I groaned and tightened my ponytail as Kaden took another left. It had been a stressful week, that's for sure. The number of demons seemed to have doubled overnight leaving me with no time to focus on my schoolwork. Kaden and I had decided to return to hunting full-time ever since the Devil's Gate was opened. No one really knew what had happened, but I had my suspicions. After hearing about all the weird stuff going in Nebraska, we headed straight there.
"So my guess is that these are the Seven Deadly Sins. I mean, Pride....Lust....what else could it be?" Kaden asked. We'd always had a very practical approach to hunting and never stopped studying the lore, even when we took a hiatus to focus on our schoolwork.
I nodded slightly, "I think you're right. Starving to death in front of a TV....eating yourself to death....I think we're dealing with some big bads here."
My best friend nodded, his blond hair falling in his face slightly. "And those FBI agents they mentioned? Do you think--"
I could tell he didn't want to bring it up so I just nodded, "For sure."
"So...." He looked at me cautiously, his blue eyes seemed to bore into mine, "you believe all the rumors, then? That the Winchester's opened the Devil's Gate?"
I shrugged, "As much as I hate to defend them....I don't think they would ever do something like that. Maybe they were just in the wrong place at the wrong time, you know? And knowing them, they won't stop until they've fixed it. So, yeah." I nodded resolutely, "Yeah, it's them."
Kaden didn't look too happy about that which was understandable given the circumstances. We had spent about two years hunting in a group with the eldest Winchester while Sam was away at college. I had also spent quite a few years hunting with the boys when we were younger. I can't say that I know them perfectly, but I know them well enough to know that they would do anything for their family. I had a crazy feeling that this whole Devil's Gate problem was actually a Winchester problem. "Well...if it really is them...just promise me you--"
"I'm fine, Kaden. It's been years. Water under the bridge." He didn't look convinced at my response but he stayed silent as we pulled up to the house. We were clearly late to the party. I exchanged looks with Kaden before we ran inside without a second thought.
D E A N
Not gonna lie, things weren't going the way I'd planned. Lust had somehow cornered me in a bedroom of all places and the holy water was only five feet away. I could feel her working her creepy magic on me but it wasn't anything I couldn't handle. I just had to get her to the bathroom. So I just pretend she's winning. I took a deep breath and leaned in for the kiss but I was quickly interrupted by the door slamming open. I could've taken the opportunity to get away from the demon, but I was far too distracted with what I saw.
The sunlight pouring in from the window was enough to make her brown hair shine. Her blue eyes were fierce and intense. My breath hitched in my throat, I hadn't seen her in years. Before either of us could move, Audrey had knocked Lust to the other side of the room.
Man, it is good to have her back.
She shook her head, "I knew it was the two of you behind all of this."
I flashed a smirk in her direction, "You know me, Sweetheart. I like a challenge."
"Screw you, Dean."
A low laugh came from the corner of the room, "Fascinating." We turned around to see Lust back on her feet, a mischievous look in her eye. "Can you feel that? The energy is almost palpable. And I can promise you that I had nothing to do with it."
She tilted her head slightly and my heart sped up. My throat dried as images flooded my mind of grabbing Audrey and pulling her to the bed behind us. Not the time, Dean. I can fight her. I squeezed my eyes shut and pushed the thoughts from my mind. We were too close to let Lust win now. I signaled to Audrey and we moved at the same time. Coming at her from both directions allowed us to catch her off guard. I left Audrey in the room to guard and dragged the demon to the bathroom.
The longer I was near her, the stronger the urge was to turn back and make a move on Audrey. It was as if she could hear my thoughts....she started laughing, "C'mon, Dean," She taunted, "You've wanted her for so long and she's right in the other room."
I fought against every bone in my body that screamed to act on my impulses by focusing on Sam. Everyone is counting on me downstairs. That was enough for me to finish the job. Thankfully, I could feel my heartbeat return to normal as Lust passed out on the floor. I took a deep breath and prepared to see Audrey again now that my mind was completely clear.
But she was gone by the time I came back. I groaned in frustration. The whole thing was just Lust messing with my head. That's so messed up.
I tied up the demon for good measure before carrying her downstairs to the main fighting ground. That's where I found Bobby, Sam, and.....Kaden? There were five bodies lying around them on the ground. I cursed under my breath. If Kaden is here....it must mean that Audrey had actually been there too. She probably just left before I had the chance to talk to her. I threw the demon into the pile and looked around, "Where is the last one?"
"Audrey's on it." Kaden answered, clearly unhappy to see me, "And I'm almost positive that you volunteered for Lust....so it must be Wrath that she's taking out."
His words stung. He's positive I volunteered for Lust? What a childlike thing to say. I glared back at him preparing to attack, but Bobby beat me to it, "Enough, boys. We've got seven demons to exorcise here."
I rolled my eyes and took a seat by Sam who weakly patted my back. He's the only one who really understood everything that had gone down. It was such a mess I could not be more grateful that at least one person understood. Bobby had started the first exorcism when Audrey walked in carrying a man bridal style. "Lucky number seven?" She announced with a weak smile and dropped him to the floor.
Sam smiled at her, "It's good to have you back, shortstop."
"We're not back, Sam. We're here to clean up your mess then we're gone. I have a life I have to get back to."
"I get that. I do have a quick question for you, though." I was super impressed at how Sam was handling Audrey's sass.
She must have been too because she just nodded at him to continue. He just went for it by asking her if she had ever heard of a weapon that could kill demons. Her brow furrowed and she tugged at a piece of her hair, "Like...besides the Colt?"
He nodded, "Yeah. Maybe...a knife?"
"That would be awesome, Sam. But there's nothing else I can think of."
"Alright. One last question....how would one get out of a deal with a demon?"
I glared at my brother and prayed that over the last few years our friend had become dumber than she used to be. He was being so on the nose, though, she was bound to find out. She leaned back against the wall and folded her arms, her hard-set gaze shifted between me and Sam. "Why would one of you ever make a deal with a demon? You two are dumb, but you're not that dumb." Her eyes locked to mine and she glared, "Dean." Then she just sighed, "Dean, why would you sell your soul?"
I ignored her question and jumped up to help Bobby with the demons' bodies. Very few had survived the possession. The longer I could avoid Audrey the better. She was literally going to kill me.
As Bobby and I walked away from the building I could hear Sam trying to talk her into staying to fight with us. I shook my head. If he was actually successful in that we wouldn't last a day. "You could just talk to her, y'know." Bobby grunted as we started digging the grave.
I snorted, "Yeah right, Bobby. You know I'm the last person she wants to see."
"Well, son. You're the one who keeps complaining about how you're running out of time. You should fix things with her before then."
"It's not happening, Bobby. She hates me and I have less than a year left." I shook my head, "It doesn't matter anyway."
He shook his head but didn't say anything else. We finished the grave and dropped two bodies in when Audrey's laugh rang out from the house. As we walked back, it was obvious that she was enjoying herself. My grip on the shovel tightened automatically as we stepped inside to see her and Sam. They were sitting together at the table, talking and laughing. I rolled my eyes and grabbed the next body.
"Y'know there are three of you. If you'd each grab a body we'd be done by now." Bobby growled at the two sitting down. I watched them exchange a look before Sam stood up and offered a hand to help her up. I scoffed and headed outside before I could make another sarcastic comment that would drive her away. This is ridiculous. She shouldn't be here anyway.
"If you don't mind me asking, how did y'all find out about this case? I mean, you were studying to be a doctor. What caught your attention?" This was the first time I had actually felt jealous of Sam's soft voice. He just understood people. He knew how to connect and he earned people's trust really quickly.
I heard a soft sigh escape from Audrey, "Yeah, well...no one really missed when the Devil's Gate was opened. Kaden took it as a sign that we never should have quit hunting. He's found so many cases that I think I might have to quit school for good."
Well, the two of them did have a lot in common. I finished my part of cleaning up and headed back to the Impala. Bobby talked to me about omens to look out for and he was off. I took a look at Kaden's car and laughed. He still drove a Ford Truck. White, of all colors. Weak. I placed a gentle hand on my baby and looked up to see the three stooges finally make their way over. "They're coming with us, Dean."
My heart stopped, "What?"
Kaden scoffed and headed to his truck while Audrey crossed her arms over her chest and lifted her chin in defiance, "I'm not thrilled about it either, pretty boy. But Sam needs all the help he can get."
I glared at my brother again before looking back to the other two, "Look. No one here is in immediate danger, and we work alone. So--"
"Dean, I'm not stupid. I know you made a deal. We might be able to help you figure it out."
"You can't just flash a smile at the demon and expect everything to be okay."
Anger flashed in her eyes, "Listen up, douch---"
Sam grabbed her arm and they whispered intensely to one another for a while. I rolled my eyes and flipped Kaden off behind my back. I knew he was sending me dirty looks, I could feel it. Finally, they finished talking and she went straight to the ugly truck without looking in my direction. "Come on, Dean. I worked on her for over an hour just to get you a shot at a second chance. Don't ruin this."
"Whatever, Sam. She hates me."
"No, she doesn't. Just...be gentle."
I groaned and stared at the sky for a good minute, "I cannot believe you brought those two back into this."
Sam just shrugged, "Maybe they can help. Let's just give this a shot."
I didn't say anything, I just got in the car and turned the radio on as loud as I could.
#begin again#supernatural#spn#spnfamily#dean winchester#sam winchester#castiel#dean winchester x ofc#dean winchester fanfiction#fanfic
1 note
·
View note
Text
Antique Champagne - Chapter 35 - Reaction
The more time she spent in her new room, even with how small it was, the more comfortable and lived in it became. After a while, it started to feel like home.
“It’s still a waste of caps,” growled Fahr.
Payne had shown up for work, right in the middle of an argument between Hancock and Fahr.
“It doesn’t matter, I’ve already given the guy the go ahead.”
Fahrenheit gave a frustrated grunt while running her pointer finger roughly across her temple. Shifting her glare to Payne she pleaded, “Please talk some sense into this ghoul.”
“What’s going on?” she asked.
“You should appreciate this, Payne.” He turned to her with a look that landed somewhere between smug and cheeky. “I found a traveling engineer who says he can install a system that can supply hot water to the State House!” He gave a wide smile. “Then Diamond City won’t have the market cornered on hot showers anymore!”
Payne had a hard time hiding her surprise. Hot water on demand was incredibly rare. It had been such a long time since she even thought about a warm bath on demand or hot shower, she had forgotten how much she missed them.
“Well… if it works here, then maybe it would work at the Rexford too. It might bring some more business in.” Fahr fiery glared leveled itself full force at her. “What? You saying improving the average resident’s hygiene isn’t a good thing for the town?”
“This whole thing is a waste of time and caps!” Fahr nearly growled as she left the room, no doubt to go nurse her bruised ego.
Hancock gave Payne a playful jab on the shoulder. “I knew you’d have my back! Let’s celebrate!” Hancock grabbed a couple of bottles from the bar.
The evening progressed just as Payne had anticipated. She had ‘celebrated’ quite a few of Hancock and Fahr’s disagreements. She found it easier to curb his benders when he stayed in; thankfully, that appeared to be his intention for the night. As the moon was well overhead, Hancock had settled on the couch. Payne had leaned lazily against the bar. He had been talking about his plans for upgrading the neon signs just outside the walls when he circled back around to the day’s previous argument.
“It’s a real maze out there, especially if you’re new to downtown. I think maybe a few more signs could help out with that.” He twirled an empty jet container in his palm. “But that new water tank, I think it could really elevate the town… take some of the stuffing out of the Great Green Jewel.” His words dripped with sarcasm. He let out a little huff. “I do kinda miss them, ya know? I never appreciated that warm and clean feeling until it was just out of reach.” Hancock turned to her. “Anything you miss?”
“Miss? Miss about what?”
“About out west. Maybe something that isn’t around anymore.” He stared absentmindedly at the cracked ceiling. “I dunno.”
Payne leaned back, shuffling through her memories. After a moment, all she could do was shrug. “Guess if I could, I would bring back proper ice cream. I could kill for a half way decent float.”
“Float?”
“Yeah. If you can find some half-decent vanilla ice cream, put a big scoop into a chilled glass. Fill it with an ice-cold Nuka-Cola. A lot of people preferred Sunset Sarsaparilla, but I never liked that stuff. Oh man, on a summer day it just hits the spot…or hit the spot.”
Hancock started tossing the Jet canister idly in the air, repeatedly catching it one handed. “What do you think you’d be doing if the world didn’t go to shit?”
“Easy,” Payne smirked. “I’d be dead.”
“Bah, that’s not what I meant, and you know it.” He playful tossed the canister at her. “I mean… did you have plans for the whole white picket fence, husband, 2.5 kids, apple pies… that pre-apocalypse whole shtick?”
She snorted. “Are you kidding me? No guy in their right mind would try and get hitched to me! I was the daughter of an ex-call girl-turned-independent brothel owner. The only men burning down my door were the ‘get the milk for free’ kind.” She pushed her hair back from her face. “Beside, that whole scene wasn’t really my style. Too much commitment for my taste.” She smiled. “Not that marriage vows meant a whole lot to the people frequenting our establishment. Many were men in loveless marriages trying to relive their glory bachelor days. No thanks.”
Hancock raised an imaginary glass and toasted her. “But you surely must have had your eye on someone!”
What was with this sudden interest in her prewar love life? “I had a few exes over the years, but nothing stuck. I’ve got a pretty open with the whole relationship thing. Most people don’t know how to handle that, even if they say their okay with it.” She shrugged.
“Amen, sister!”
Before she could start needling Hancock over his own proclivities, Fahrenheit appeared in the doorway.
“Turn on the radio,” she ordered.
Perplexed, Payne walked over to the relic sitting on an end table and turned the knob. The sounds of gun shots and a struggle.
“Oh my god, what’s happening?” Kent’s voice shook with fright.
A woman’s voice cut in. “On your knees, dirt bag!”
“Wha..What are you doing?” Kent let out a pained grunt.
“Sinjin, all clear.”
Another voice came over the radio. Sinjin. “This is the Shroud’s headquarters… so you must be the Silver Shroud’s little friend”
Kent stammered a muffled “Yes” in reply.
“If you want to see your friend alive, Shroud, meet me at Milton General Hospital.”
“Don’t do it, Shroud!” Kent yelled. “It’s a trap! Save yourself!”
BANG!
Kent cried out in agony. “Oh my god! Do it, Shroud! Do it! Oh, my knee!”
“Tick tock, Shroud,” Sinjin warned. “don’t keep me waiting. We’ve got business that needs finishing.”
“It just keeps repeating,” Fahr said.
Numb, Payne turned off the radio. The shock hit her like a 2 by 4 to the forehead. “What the fuck?” Payne turned to Hancock, who was now bolted upright.
“That gangster-wannabe asshole. Sinjin is going to pay for this with his blood.”
Recovering Payne asked Hancock, “How did Sinjin get Kent out of town? Did anyone see anything?” She turned to Fahrenheit.
“Irma’s beside herself with regret. She tried to stop them, but there were too many. I’ll find out who let this happen, how they got in.”
“Good. Fahr, send out runners, too.” A deadly kind of determination suffused Hancock’s words. “Find Nate. Make sure he is here as fast as possible.”
Fahr turned on her heels, already barking orders to the Watchmen nearby.
Payne could see dread seep into Hancock’s steely expression as the gravity of the situation hit her as well. Both of them feared for their dear friend’s life.
By early morning, every Watchman had been severely interrogated by not only Fahrenheit, but Hancock as well. The only thing anyone noticed was hearing a commotion in one of the alleys in town. When the guard went to investigate, no one was there.
The trio quickly converged on the alley with a gaggle of haggard looking Watchmen. They combed through the cluttered dirty back street.
They were nearly to the dead end when Hancock stooped down. He picked something up from a pile of rotting rags that had been pushed aside by what had been Bobbi No-Nose’s secret door. He rubbed his fingers over it, cleaning the grime of the small enamel pin.
Payne recognized it immediately. “That’s Kent’s. I gave it to him the first time we met.”
Hancock’s eyes narrowed.
They all turned as the sound of rapidly approaching footsteps echoed off brick walls of the alley. An out of breath runner quickly turned the corner.
“The Shroud…” she huffed, “was about a half an hour north. He’s on his way.”
With a nod and wave, Hancock dismissed her. Turning back to Fahr he issued an order. “Check the warehouse and move all supplies still housed there to the backup storeroom. Brick this whole building up. Look for any other exploitable gaps in the security of our walls. Plug everything.”
Payne followed Hancock out of the alley, leaving Fahr organize the Watch and start securing the town.
Back in the Old State House, Hancock and Payne shoved extra ammo and meds into their pockets and pouches. In her room, she happened upon the veil she had worn the night she danced with Kent dressed as the Mistress of Mystery. Carefully, she pulled her hair back and tied it with securely with the veil’s strings before fitting her helmet over her head. Dread started to build up in the back of Payne’s mind like a backed-up pipe, looming on the edge of her thoughts. As she returned upstairs, Nate burst through the doors followed by a hovering rusted white robot.
“Hancock!” He called.
The mayor motioned him in. “We need to leave now, Nate, and we need to travel fast.” He looked to the Vault Dweller’s new companion. “Find an upgrade while you were out scavving?”
“Hancock, this is Curie. She’s quite the special Miss Nanny robot.”
“This must be Monsieur Hancock, I presume.” The robot wave one of its three arms in his direction. “Monsieur Nate has told me so much about you. It is a pleasure to meet such a fascinating specimen at last.”
Hancock seemed a bit taken by surprise by her flowery speech. “Um, thank you.” He shook his head. “As much as I would love to make your acquaintance, we really need to get going.” He turned to Nate. “I think it might be best if you leave your robot here.”
Curie’s arms whirled in annoyance. “I am the top of the line of RobCo technology. I assure you I am capable of this.”
“No offense, but if Milton General is like the rest of the hospitals around, there are a lot of tight corridors, dead ends and bottlenecks just screaming for traps full of Psycho-filled raiders. In my experience, your model’s jet engine a bit conspicuous and,” he pointed to the large circular sawblade attached to the end of one of her three arms. “I don’t fancy my coat, or any body part, getting on the wrong arm of that accidentally.”
Nate put a hand on Curie’s floating round chassis. “He has a point, Curie. I think I am going to ask you to stay here while we take care of this.”
Curie’s arms drooped as she sagged a bit closer to the floor in disappointment. “But there is so much left for me to see in this new world…”
“I know.” Nate gave her a little pat. “When I come back, we can head back out on the road. In the meantime, why don’t you see if you and Dr. Amari in the Memory Den have any research you can share. I’m sure the two of you can find some common ground.”
“As you wish.” Her eyestalks focused on Nate. “Please be careful out there, Monsieur. Until we meet again.”
#antique champagne#ao3#fan fiction#fanfic#fan fic#fallout#fallout 4#payne#sosu#fahrenheit#hancock#kent#sinjin
9 notes
·
View notes
Text
A lot of mob to digest
Title: “The Irishman”
Release date: Nov. 1, 2019 for a limited theater run; moves to Netflix on Nov. 27
Starring: Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, Joe Pesci, Jesse Plemons, Bobby Cannavale, Anna Paquin, Ray Romano, Harvey Keitel, Stephen Graham, Aleksa Palladino, Stephanie Kurtzuba, Jack Huston, Kathrine Narducci, Domenick Lombardozzi, Paul Herman, Gary Basaraba, Marin Ireland
Directed by: Martin Scorsese
Run time: 3 hours, 29 minutes
Rated: R
What it’s about: An elderly Frank “The Irishman” Sheeran recalls how he got involved with organized crime, his life as a hitman and his relationship with Teamsters leader Jimmy Hoffa.
How I saw it: Martin Scorsese’s “The Irishman” is undoubtedly an epic. It is big cinema and high art in every way imaginable. It features powerful performances from veteran actors we expect that kind of thing from. The story is well-written and engaging, and the conversations seem natural, as if they were happening at that moment. It is brutal at times and hilarious at others. It is a thorough study of relationships among largely terrible people and their victims, some innocent, some not. It is an outstanding movie.
But there’s just so much of it. Too much of it.
“The Irishman” checks in at 209 minutes, and for much of the movie, the time seems to move along just fine despite deliberate, comfortable pacing. But the minutes start to add up, the last fourth of the movie starts to drag and repeat itself, and by the end “The Irishman” seems like too much of a good thing. Add that to the feeling we have seen all of this before (a Scorsese film about the mob, with first-person narration, stark violence and time period specific music), and “The Irishman” seems less satisfying than it should have been.
Scorsese’s film is based on the 2004 book “I Heard You Paint Houses: Frank ‘The Irishman’ Sheeran and Closing the Case on Jimmy Hoffa” by Charles Brandt. It chronicles the life of Sheeran, a World War II veteran who was working as a truck driver in the 1950s when he became involved with the Buffalino crime family of Pennsylvania. Sheeran allegedly became a hitman for the mob and claims to have killed between 25 and 30 people, most notably Hoffa, a confession Sheeran made before dying in December 2003. His claim has both been corroborated by forensic investigations and disputed in several publications. Hoffa went missing in 1975, and his remains were never found.
“The Irishman” begins with an elderly Sheeran (Robert De Niro) recalling his story, and the film jumps around between time periods, with de-aging CGI helping De Niro (76) and Joe Pesci (also 76) as Russell Buffalino appear at least a little younger. De Niro’s Sheeran narrates, and his is a fascinating story whether you choose to believe all, some or none of it. De Niro is strong here (of course), in a measured sort of way, and the first third of the movie sets up his story and his involvement with the Buffalinos.
De Niro dominates early, but when Al Pacino enters the picture as Hoffa, the middle and latter parts of “The Irishman” belong to him. Pacino’s effort is more showy, perfect for portraying Hoffa, a man who was (at least in this version of him) odd, bigoted, either an idiot or a genius, demanding and unapologetic (which, according to this telling of Hoffa’s life, is the reason he was killed). Pacino is brilliant throughout, but he is riveting in a scene in which he is chewing out his underlings after attorney general Robert Kennedy came after Hoffa and the mob (his efforts ending when his brother, President John F. Kennedy, was assassinated, and in this story the mob is tied to JFK’s death). Sheeran is on the receiving end of the rant and threatens to stop working for Hoffa before being talked out of it. The middle parts of the movie are about the relationship between Sheeran and Hoffa, and that relationship eventually sours when Hoffa goes to prison and loses much of his power within the Teamsters (though he refuses to accept his fate).
Hoffa’s decline coincides with the part of “The Irishman” that seems to lose its early steam. The late stages of the movie find the key characters aging and dying in prison, and Sheeran confessing to a priest and being sad about one of his daughters, Peggy (Anna Paquin), not speaking to him. Hoffa had taken a young Peggy under his wing, and as an adult she seemed to sense that her father was responsible for Hoffa’s death or disappearance. The final act is when “The Irishman” starts to seem like a film whose parts are greater than its whole.
Scorsese is a master at getting great performances out of his cast, and this film is no different. Ray Romano is fun as Sheeran’s attorney, Bill Buffalino, as is Bobby Cannavale as mob hitman Felix “Skinny Razor” DiTullio. Jesse Plemons makes the most of limited screen time and delivers lots of laughs as Chuckie O’Brien, who Hoffa treats like a son but, according to his story, helped orchestrate Hoffa’s murder.
Scorsese, at 77, still has it. “The Irishman” will rank among his best work, and it is the product of a director who has been around the block a time or two but still has a younger man’s creative energy and vision. “The Irishman” is just a lot to digest in one sitting, and it is asking a lot of the audience to stay emotionally invested for that long. It plays more like a miniseries watched without breaks. It’s good stuff. It’s just too much good stuff.
My score: 83 out of 100
Should you see it? Yes. It’s worth a look if you have a lot of patience. Of course, that becomes less of an issue as it moves from theaters and onto Netflix, where you can watch it at your own pace.
#movies#movie review#movie recommendation#the irishman#martin scorsese#robert de niro#al pacino#joe pesci#crime drama#mobsters#oscars
9 notes
·
View notes
Text
So I guess 9x07 of ahs decided to come after my deeply angsty ass tonight...and my god, did it do it beauitfully!
Oh, god, this episode bruh...where do I begin?!
Well let's start with Benji! Just when I thought I couldn't connect or feel anything new for Benjamin after the 100th episode than I already processed, welp I ended up being 100% completely wrong...so freaking wrong! I felt it all for this man tonight...I felt everything I could possibly feel for him!
I felt that bittersweet happiness that he emoted after he said his final goodbye to his brother...and he did what he believed was the right thing (spoiler and tw ahead) for the first time in his life...by ending it forever!
That fucking logic hurt me deeply in my soul! I understood it on a gut level. It resonated with me...because for--I am going to get personal, but heck it was a very personal episode tonight--someone who's tried to end their life before, I can empathize with his logic of believing the people you love are better off without the burden of you!
He's thinking of what he believes is best for his son, protecting him the only way he had left and knew how to...he took it as a fool proof plan to defeat RR and end the horrors he started in 1940s by being forced to kill his own mother...who only ever wanted the same before grief and rage twisted her soul and intentions!
I mean that's some deep shit! And Miss Lily Rabe just decided to came for our souls tonight, huh?! Lol! Because how could I condemn her for what she's done! She lost her son in the worst way possible...let it fill her with rightful hate and rage and a call for justice and she unleashed her pent-up emotions in a horrifying way--i am seeing a recurring theme for the ladies of 1984!
And I kind of like how it tied into the blood curse of Camp Redwood! I've been wanting to know more about the camp's logic for keeping everybody who has died stuck there...and we got it and why it may not have been as intricate as some of Ryan's plot twists, I believe it worked beautifully! Sometimes simple is better...and The White Lady's hatred for the camp counselors of any kind is what has keep them there...not a moral thing per say was fucking brillent on his part! Plus Hello our little Friday the 13th easter egg so to speak lol!
And I will just say too that the writing was really on point this episode...for me at least! Ryan wasn't relying solely on soundtrack to get his point across on what we should be feeling...he let the shows composers and Lily and John's amazing acting do it for us and I think that was a wonderful decision!
And speaking of amazing acting, Lily and John both slayed it this episode...I mean their scenes together are what sold me on Ryan's twist! They broke my heart in two...I mean when Benji was giving his speak to the ghosts of Redwood even they were lowkey crying for him, except Montana...she didn't even bother to hide how deeply what he said touched her...and I think that she can relate to him deeply when it comes to losing a sibling that was in some ways your entire reason for existing!
And while we didn't get too much of Benji and Bobby's relationship...I feel like Bobby was probably Benji's only friend...someone despite his jealousy of, understood and listened to him! I see the recurring themes you are sending out there, Ryan Murphy...and tonight, just know that you have my full support of it haha!
(Warning for those who are anti Montana, dark xavier, or xantana...this is their little section but I won't be sticking on them much because there wasn't much of them tonight...which I actually liked but anyways...)
And I guess Montana just runs the ghosts of Camp Redwood now...I mean in her words: Choice! I believe that 100%...and I don't need to explain why lol...but I also like that while they are scared of her and they should be...they also subtly in some ways look to her for or to know how to express compassion! I mean, I love my girl but she is Montana (who hasn't shown much of it besides those two times with brooke in ep 2 and again with xavier in ep 5) and while I know that all of Camp Redwood was crying at Benji's speech, they all tried to hide how much it affected them...all except Montana! She so to speak openly weep for him...and showed him that she understood and felt for him by once again offering up one of her homeboys off as tribute to take him to his mother...
And tbh, I don't know how I feel about that...It could just be Montana always trying to adapt to what people need and crave from others as a way to get what she wants...or she does it because deep down that's who she is: always giving up who she truly is to be what people need her to be!
Richard wanted a ruthless sex kitten...she gave that to him, but that was to get him to do what she wanted...but it still in a way makes my point lol...anynhow, Chet seems to be seeking something of a sister/mother type figure and she's given that to him, by looking out for him and keeping him in check...Xavier wants to have control over his situation, she gave him that (tho my xantana loving ass still thinks there is more to it than that but that's for another day)... Ray wants someone to take his moral conflicts out on, well she lets him bitch her out as he cleans up her kills... and everyone in Redwood wants to leave, she hatches a whole ass plan to maybe help release them from it...and Trevor wants what could have been, so well you know...and I ain't mad because we all know Montana lives for variety and no matter how much she loves someone, she'll never be 100% faithful in a sexual manner, so who knew I'd come to a day i'd be cool with that, but she has never lied about that part of her...and in some ways, she remains me a lot of Brian Kinney from Queer as Folk, who was very similar in that belief...and I swear it's so nice to see a woman in media allowed to be that sexually open and not condemned for it by the people around her who matter...
But we will see, Xavier has been known to be a jealous boy when it comes to Trevor...so who knows how that will turn out?!
And look I know I may be reaching, but that's what I've come away with for her this ep. and I'm just airing it out there haha!
And that leads me to Brooke and her whole debacle this episode:
Not only do Donna and Brooke need a freaking hug after this episode, but I truly thought I couldn't love Brooke more after last ep...and I was pleasantly wrong on both beliefs lol!
I loved her struggle to trust Donna and her motives for helping her...all understandable! Donna and the entire lot of those she's blindly trusted have fucked her over, but I love that here her trust wasn't misplaced. Donna only ever wanted to fix what she's caused...and she never wanted anything else from her. She gave back to Brooke what Brooke gave to her: trust and understanding.
I mean she was so in sync with what Brooke was trying to do with rushing her with the truck...not for a moment did Donna believe she was trying to kill her and I adore it! I seriously thought for a moment that Brooke was going to let her trauma and need for revenge allow her to become Montana 2.0 but she didn't! Brooke has completely stuck to what she believes is right these last two episodes and I 100% love her for it.
And I also liked that entire roller rink scene...and it's underling purpose! Donna let her experience some of what she missed in 80s while in prison...and thank you Ryan Murphy for having one character in 1984 actually in a way healthily air their traumas in a safe place...with a trustworthy (ish) person...and in return get almost a heathy response on how to cope with it!
I forever will give you kudos for that, but I also understand this is ahs and this is also a homage to 80s slashers and the main final character always returns to their greatest horror...and for Brooke that's Margaret and Camp Redwood, but my girl Donna decided to fuck it all and be a ride or die bff for a bitch...and I stan it so hard!
I love how we are getting ahs' verison of a positive female relationship...i'd never thought I'd see the day haha! Ryan just giving everyone something this season!
And Dylan's character, Bruce (?) is it bad I want to see more of him, even tho he's clearly psychotic and probably be looking to end Brooke's life after what she did...which I cheered her on the whole way as she did it...but yeah, please give me more of Dylan's insane character! Please and thank you...as if we didn't have enough chaos going on with only two episodes left, I also want Dylan's brand to be added to the mix haha!
And to Margaret, I still only have one thing to say...
I mean Lavinia said (@scienceandmischief for pointing it out her name to me! Thanks so much ❤) that Margret was already unhinged...Lily's character just nudged her in the direction she wanted to go...she still needs to pay for what she's done and hopefully my wifey Brooke will be the one coming to collect...but I am fascinated by a few things. Has Margaret's fanatic religious talk...been her deep down way of trying to atone for what TWL awoken in her and the things she's done?! I mean I don't know if it really matters at this point with her...but it still makes my brain wheels churn.
#ahs 1984#i really really dug this episode...it was really deep and in the right way that its fallen flat with in other eps#and i wasn't excepting it...so maybe i was blown away buz my exceptions were already so low#but who cares#i think this will end up being my fav episode this season with the 100th being my second#it just really surprised me in the best ways possible#but i undertand if thats just me#but i love it lol#and i love how brooke said bi rights this entire ep...you cant tell me that just men appoarched her fine behind in thay rollee rink#you just cant
7 notes
·
View notes
Text
The Punisher - ‘Roadhouse Blues’ Review
What an interesting bipolar premiere.
Half of it was a lovely, well-acted glimpse into Frank Castle as a calm, protective, somewhat normal and even romantic traveling man. The second half was a violent return to "an asshole who couldn't stay out of trouble."
I thought Jon Bernthal came off as incredibly attractive in the first half. He radiated adorable-ness and was so sympathetic, with his hard life fully reflected in his face ("rough road") as he was learning to take life one beer at a time. Yes, they gave us the cliché pick-up where Frank rescued Beth the beautiful bartender from the asshole who was hitting on her, but I liked it. Frank even chose not to hit on Beth himself because she'd just been hassled. It was Beth who came on to Frank. Lovely performances by Jon Bernthal and Alexa Davalos.
It was so easy to see Frank having a future with Beth. She was just lovely. A woman who seemed to be concealing her real self behind her long brown hair, Beth taught music and tended bar to make ends meet while raising her hockey-loving little boy Rex alone – remember Frank teaching his daughter to play the guitar in season one? The romantic interlude was fragmented, pretty bits of sex, nothing uncomfortably prolonged. The best part of it was Beth asking Frank about his scars. Frank even told Beth about losing his family without getting into the painful details, suggesting that he really was healed enough to start moving on and living his life. It was so nice that two hours out of town, Frank decided to turn around and come back for Beth.
Which is where the damsel in distress came back in. We never did learn her name, although I'm guessing we will. Frank bumped into her twice before he realized that she was in trouble when the bad guys (or actually, mostly bad women) followed her into the ladies room. I don't have a lot of patience for extended fight scenes but this one, the bathroom followed by the barroom, was well choreographed and far from boring. I was most struck (pun intended) by Frank taking his opponents' head in his hand and slamming them into – well, pretty much everything. Frank was simply incapable of walking away when he saw a young woman in danger. He had to intervene. Guess he's a dog off his leash now.
The episode began in media res with a bloody Frank and the damsel in his van running away from the bad guys, so I spent most of the episode thinking that Beth had died. I was glad that they didn't fridge her; Frank did get her to the emergency room. It's interesting that we were also misdirected with the damsel, thinking that she had picked the lock to Frank's motel room and that he was about to catch her in it. I also liked that the third time the damsel had the opportunity, she was smart enough not to run away from Frank.
(Not that running away from Frank Castle is a bad thing. If I weren't in trouble, I'd run to the other side of the country to get away from Frank. But if I were in trouble, I'd glue myself to his side.)
There was set-up for not one but two villains. The first was the Russian with all the thugs who was after the damsel for some unexplained photographs, which he seems to have gotten from her laptop. We didn't get much about him except that he was giving orders to the local cops, and he had everyone else she was working with killed, which is why the damsel was in distress in the first place.
And of course, there was Billy Russo, still in a coma in the hospital. That was a fascinating, hideous mask he was wearing, but who would put something like that on his face? Was it Madani, who now seems to have a problem with alcohol? Billy woke from his coma after Madani left his room, unless he had been awake already. I liked that shot of his eyes opening behind that mask. I wonder how many episodes until we see his naked face?
Bits:
— How many people died in that bar? I was sorry to see Ringo the bouncer go. That's a lot of death for the cops to cover up.
— The Russian picked up Frank's wedding ring engraved with "To Maria from Frank."
— The damsel called her contact, the guy tied to the chair, from a pay phone that had a skull decal on it.
— I don't usually rave about the music in an episode, but it was terrific, and not just because practically every lyric could have been about Frank Castle. The artist was singer/songwriter Shooter Jennings. His name was on the cheap marquee outside of Lola's Roadhouse.
— Janis Joplin's classic "Me and Bobby McGee" was playing during the barfight. Another good musical choice.
Quotes:
Beth: "You got the 'man of mystery' thing down, I'll give you that."
Female thug: (to Frank) "Dumbass. You're so far over your head you can't even see the light."
Frank: "There's more of them out there."
Damsel in distress: "And what? You're just some Good Samaritan who couldn't stand by?"
Frank: "I'm just an asshole who couldn't stay out of trouble, that's all."
Damsel in distress: "Will there be more of them?"
Frank: "I hope so."
That's too bad. I was halfway hoping that maybe Frank was ready for a little peace in his life, even if it would make for a boring second season.
This premiere was terrific, and I can't wait to see the rest of the season. Four out of four skull decals,
Billie Doux loves good television and spends way too much time writing about it.
#The Punisher#Frank Castle#Billy Russo#Dinah Madani#Marvel#Marvel Cinematic Universe#MCU#The Punisher Reviews#Doux Reviews#TV Reviews
12 notes
·
View notes
Text
Croatoan- Part 1
Pairing: Dean x Reader
Word Count: 1,939
Warnings: Typical Supernatural violence, angst, language, minor character death, blood, you know the usual,
Author’s Note: I do not own anything from Supernatural. All credit goes to their respective owners. Please, if you want to be tagged for this series, let me know and I’ll add you! If you want to be tagged for my other fics, I’ll add you! I want to hear what you guys think about this. If you want something requested, send it in!
Feedback is the glue that holds my writing together.
Tags at the bottom
Urban legends, bedtime stories, monsters under the bed: they are all things you hear about but never really believe. You hear about them from your friends and you think about them all the time, it never really leaving your mind until one day, you finally do some more research.
You ask your parents about it and they always say it isn’t real, that you have nothing to worry about. So, you forget about it for a few months. Until it comes up again and the cycle starts all over again.
That’s how kids live their lives. Always knowing the unknown but never being afraid because they know it could never be real. However, with the way you grew up, those nightmares came true and you had to face them every single day.
You didn’t get to have a shortcut in life. You didn’t have parents to tell you otherwise. All you had were guns and rock salt to protect yourself with.
And that’s all you needed.
But that never stopped you from looking up some of the world’s greatest mysteries because with what you knew, anything could be true. You got to digging around and much to your pleasure, you came across the Croatoan Mystery. You thought that was very fascinating and have been obsessed with it ever since.
How could someone leave a ton of people on some island, only to come back 3 years later and have no trace of anyone ever lived there?
“Sweetheart? Are you in there?” You looked at Dean who was at the counter of the gas station, buying some food and beer.
“Yeah, sorry, just thinking, I guess.” You said, shrugging.
“Is this about the last hunt we went on?” He asked, keeping it vague for the cashier.
“You two hunt? What kind of animals do you hunt?” The cashier asked you with a smile. You looked at him and gave him a tight smile.
“Deer mostly.” Dean grabbed his change and took the beer and the jerky he bought.
“I hunt them too. Once I got a moose but don’t tell anyone.” He said with a laugh.
“We won’t. Thank you.” You said, walking out of the gas station that was right across from the motel you were staying at. Dean immediately opened the bag of jerky and started to munch on it.
“Damn, this is good. You want some?” He offered.
“No, Dean, I don’t want any. Are you just going to ignore what happened with that demon? You were going to sell your soul without any consideration of who it might affect?” You asked, walking with him.
“Look, I was trying to get her on our side. I wouldn’t do that to you.” Dean said, looking at you while you two walked.
“Why don’t I believe you?” You looked at him with a sigh.
“Believe what you want but that is what I’m sticking with.” Dean said, walking ahead of you.
“Dean, please, wait,” You reached out and grabbed his arm, making him look at you. “I love you so much and I know you want John back. I know you miss him but this isn’t what he would have wanted. He did this to save his son who he loves. It would kind of defeat the point if you died trying to bring him back.”
“Yeah, I know you’re right. You’re always right.” He muttered. You smiled and stroked his cheek before pulling away. Dean grabbed your waist with his free hand and leaned down to kiss you but you stopped him.
“You know I hate jerky. I am not getting that taste on my tongue.” You teased, pulling away from him and walking to the motel room. You slid the key in and opened the door, frowning when you saw Sam on the floor, holding his head in pain. Dean walked up behind you and saw Sam as well.
“Sam, are you okay?” You asked, rushing to him. You got on the floor and moved some of his hair that was damp with sweat, away from his eyes.
“We have to go. Rivergrove. Another vision.” Sam said, squeezing his eyes shut. You looked up at Dean who was already packing his things. Well, that beer would have to wait to get drunk. Right now, you had another case to solve.
It was late at night and you’ve barely gotten sleep. Sam was so sure that Rivergrove was the place that he needed to be. You didn’t know what his vision was about because he wasn’t talking. You tried 2 times to get him to talk. Maybe third time is the charm.
“Sam, please tell us what your vision was about. You do want our help, right? I can’t give it to you if you don’t tell me.” You said, scooting closer to the seat.
“Fine, there was a dark room, a few people inside, and Dean was there, holding a gun. One of the guys in the room kept pleading with Dean that it wasn’t inside him but Dean shot him anyways.” Sam said with a sigh.
“What was in him and who was it?” You asked, looking at Dean who kept his eyes on the road.
“I have no idea. I don’t know what half of these visions mean anymore.” Sam said, looking at the GPS.
“And how are you so sure we are heading in the right direction? Aren’t there two Rivergroves in this country?” You asked.
“There was a poster on the wall of Crater Lake which is in Oregon.” Sam answered.
“Okay, there was something inside of him. Was he possessed? Your visions are always tied to the yellow-eyed demon somehow. Did I exorcise it? Any black smoke?” Dean asked.
“No, nothing like that. You just shot him.” Sam said, biting his lip.
“Maybe he had a good reason.” You said.
“Yeah, I hope so.” Sam said quietly.
“What does that mean?” Dean asked, looking at his brother. When Sam didn’t say anything, Dean scoffed. “Sam, I wouldn’t kill an innocent man.” Sam looked at his brother with his eyebrows raised.
“Hey, he wouldn’t!” You defended your boyfriend.
“Fine! Look, we don't know what it is. But whatever it is, that guy in the chair's a part of it. So, let's find him, and see what's what.” Sam said, leaning back in the seat, closing his eyes.
“Fine.” Dean said, looking back at the road. You sighed and laid down in the back seat, closing your eyes to see if you could get a few hours of sleep before you had to go to work.
“Sweetheart, wake up.” Your eyes fluttered open and you looked to see both Winchesters stare at you from the front seat.
“Can’t we leave and say we took care of the problem?” You joked.
“No, that would be cheating. Come on, Sleeping Beauty.” Dean chuckled, getting out of the car. He helped you out and you took in your surroundings. You were definitely in Crater Lake. You were parked in front of a wooden shop with a man who was cleaning a rifle outside of it.
Sam and Dean walked to him and you followed, looking around the town.
“Good morning, sir.” Sam said politely.
“Good morning, what can I do for you?” The man said with a smile.
“My name is Billy Gibbons and this is Frank Beard and she is Margaret Wells. We’re U.S. Marshals.” Dean said, taking out a badge. You wished you brought yours along but luckily, he didn’t ask for yours.
“What’s this about?” The man lost his smile.
“We’re looking for someone.” Dean said, looking at his brother for help since Dean didn’t have any idea who this kid was or what he looked like.
“A young man in his early twenties who has a thin scar right below his hairline.” Sam said, remembering his vision.
“What did he do?” The man asked worriedly.
“Well, nothing. We're actually looking for someone else, but we think this young man could help us.” Sam said.
“He’s not in any kind of trouble. We think you might know who he is, Master Sergeant,” Dean said, smiling at the man. You looked at the man and saw a tattoo on his arm that represented the Marines. “My dad was in the Corps. He was a Corporal.”
“What company?”
“Echo-2-1.” You loved how proud Dean was of his dad.
“So, can you help us?” Sam asked.
“Fine, Duane Tanner’s got a scar like that. But I know him and he’s a good kid.”
“I believe you. Like they said, he isn’t in any kind of trouble. Where does he live?” You asked, stepping in.
“With his family, up in Aspen Way.”
“Thank you for your help.” You said, turning around and walking with Dean and Sam back to the car. On your way, you looked up and frowned when you saw a telephone pole with the one word you’ve been thinking about lately.
Croatoan.
“Dean, Sam, look at this.” You walked closer to the pole and examined it. They followed you and frowned when they saw the word.
“What the hell is a Croatoan?” Dean asked. You and Dean both stared at him with your mouths open.
“Dean, don’t you know the story of Roanoke, one of the first English colonies in America in the late 1500s?” You asked, not believing your ears.
“Yeah, Dean, didn’t you pay any attention in history class?” Sam asked.
“Didn’t need to.” Dean shrugged.
“Well, story goes is that an Englishman named John White came to America to start a colony. I’ll spare you the details but he eventually left to get help from England but ended up coming back because of the war in Spain 3 years later. When he came back, the whole town was wiped out. It was like no one ever lived there. He left behind over a hundred people but they were all gone and there was no trace of anyone ever living there. The only thing he found was the word Croatoan carved into a post.” You said, pointing to the word on the pole.
“So, you think that’s what’s going on here?” Dean asked, looking at his brother.
“Whatever I saw, it wasn’t good, that’s for sure. But what do you think could do that? I mean, there had to have been some explanation why those people disappeared.” Sam said.
“Well, no matter the answer, your visions always are tied to the yellow-eyed demon. Maybe we should call Bobby or Ellen for help?” Dean suggested.
“Let me call Jo. I haven’t talked to her in a while,” You pulled out your phone but frowned when you didn’t have any bars. “I don’t have any service.” Dean and Sam took out their phones to check. It was the same thing with theirs.
You looked around and spotted a pay phone and hastily walked over to it, picking up the phone. You frowned when you heard the “out of order” beeping. You tried again but you always got the same result. You hung up and turned to the guys.
“The line is dead. You know, if I was going to wipe out an entire town, this would be my first step.” You said, sighing.
“Okay, then I guess the only thing to do is visit Duane.” Dean said, walking back to his car. You looked at Sam and sighed, getting into the car. You looked back at the shop where the man with the rifle was and didn’t see him there. You had a feeling that was bad but you ignored it for now.
The Queens:
@maddieburcham1 @ginamsmith @mogaruke @whit85-blog @inlovewithbja @spn67-sister @kdfrqqg @jarpadandjensenaremyheroes @roxyspearing @supercalifragilistic26 @mishamigose @cobrakai1967 @essie1876 @wishedworld @crispychrissy @laqueus-ludovicus @nostalgic-uncertainty @jerk-bitch-and-an-angel @potterhead1265 @starswirlblitz @untitled39887 @ta-n-ja @deans-fallen-angel-boy @scarletluvscas @notnaturalanahi @tahbehonest @stay-in--place @dreaminofdean @posiemax @donnaintx @mikey1822 @alexandriajanae4 @li-ssu @just-another-winchester @obsessivecompulsivespn @emoryhemsworth
Dean Beans:
@akshi8278 @mega-mrs-dean-winchester @winchesterandpie @spn-dean-and-sam-winchester @tahbehonest @carribear31 @tacklesackles @oreosatmidnight @not-naturalfangirl @missselinakitty @iam-a-cutiepie @kristendansmith @milo-winchester-4ever @jensenackesl @codyshany316
Series Rewrite Junkies:
@helllonearth @amyisabellal @deanwnchstr @caseykitten6 @roxalya19 @quixoticcat @supernaturalblogging @notmoose45 @crowleysminion @mina22 @tahbehonest @hadleymcallister2177 @destielsangels @spnhybrid @oreosatmidnight @valerieshubin
#Supernatural series rewrite#Croatoan#dean winchester#dean winchester angst#dean winchester x reader#spn series rewrite#dean x reader#dean x you#dean x y/n#dean#dean angst#dean fic#dean winchester fic#dean winchester fanfiction#series rewrite#series rewrite masterlist#dean winchester series rewrite#season 2 episode 9#s2e9#s2e9 spoilers#spoilers#spn#spn spoilers#supernatural#supernatural spoilers#sam#Sam Winchester#sammy#bobby#bobby singer
88 notes
·
View notes
Photo
Start Here, Stories of First Encounters
Let me just say this right off the bat, I’m giving this 6 of 5 Stars! First of all, the editors and my co-authors deserve the 5.5 of 5 Stars. This is my favorite book this year, cheesy for me to say, but it is! I’m giving a half star more for my own story because I’m very proud of this, okay? :P I’ll talk more about that on a separate blog post, haha.
To begin, I want to thank the editors (and our PM, Hi Mina!) for coming up with this anthology. The intros by Ron and Brij, in itself, were already strong messages to those who are looking for contemporary romance that represents Filipinos of this time, LGBTQIAP or not. It perfectly put out the reasons behind the conception of this anthology, as well as the hope that this sparks a flame towards more Queer Romance and Queer HEA in Philippine Literature.
1. In the Moonlight by Agay Llanera
This was a sweet start to set the tone for the rest of the stories. It’s an awesome sequel to my other favorite, Another Word For Happy. And like what I said in my review for AWFH last year, Caleb seems to have been made after my own heart.
I wish I was exaggerating, but the indecision, the awkward reaction to ‘the kiss’, the hyperawareness to the smallest of things, IT ME! When I was Caleb’s age, at least. LOL. And I’m sure a lot of gay people (maybe not even gay people, everyone, really) will find it relatable one way or another.
What Caleb is better than me, though, is his courage towards the end of the story. He did something I never would’ve been able to do. And I hope when others read this, they’d be inspired to be braver, too.
2. Come Full Circle by Bobbi Moran
I love me some slow burn romance and huhu, the slow burn in this one killed me (in a good way!).
This short felt quite episodic as the characters are shown through different stages of them finding themselves – and eventually, love – but that slow progression allowed me to really root for them to be together at the end.
I found the attention to detail fascinating (especially the architectural ones when Alana and Marion went on a holiday) but what I loved most about this is the accuracy of tiptoeing in a relationship when one is still unsure where the other one stands. I mean, relationships are already complicated without the whole guessing-and-hoping-the-other-one-plays-on-the-same-team narrative, but add in sexual confusion (and tension!) and you’re in for a wild, but nonetheless more interesting, ride. This story tied to a full circle satisfyingly.
3. Gorgeous by Motsie Dapul
This is probably my first F/enby romance and it certainly lived up to its title. This might also be the first fiction story I’ve read using the singular they/them pronoun and while it took me about a minute to re calibrate my [faulty] sense of grammar, it wasn’t jarring and it told Jays and the MC (I’m not 100% sure she was named, I need to reread the story, stat!)more genuinely for me.
It is also somewhat a variation of the enemies to lovers trope which is always interesting. I’m happy to note that there is grovel. :)
I think what I want to focus more about this story is how something that happened years ago, something that seemed small and irrelevant to you, might mean a whole different world to another person. And simple things like words said haplessly, or actions that weren’t well thought of in our youth, could still impact us as adults no matter how much we’ve changed in the time in between.
This story tells and awesome story of discovering one’s self, discovery of love, and acceptance of the MC’s past, present and future with Them. :)
4. Shipping Included by Danice Sison
Can this be any cuter?? <3 <3 <3
I will admit that I didn’t get all the KPop references but I know those who are knowledgeable (and obsessed) with oppas will appreciate and enjoy this.
Done in alternating POVs between the protagonists, David and Kiko, the story’s strength lay on the well-rounded characterization of the heroes, as well as the kids who made their meetcute extra cute! There is a glimpse of what it must be like to be a Filipino KPop fan while also focusing the spotlight on those who don’t share the dedication but support their loved one’s hobbies nonetheless.
The Kuya and Tito may not be in their girls’ fandoms but Kpopocalypse gave them (all of us, really) a different reason to swoon and make fingerhearts at each other.
5. Delubyo by Barbie Barbieto
This is beautifully written.
This was the first work from the author that I’ve read and I loved it so much, it made me seek out her other work. Haha. The style and flow of words are smooth and easygoing, it hooked me up real quick.
Add to that is Pebbles’ odd four-month relationship rule which I thought was mean at first, but actually makes so much sense and is understandable from someone who’s constantly afraid to put her heart on the line. Still, I don’t tolerate it. (I loved this so much, I’m super invested and I want to have a talk with Pebbles bec huhu, the poor ex-girlfriends! LOL)
I love the progression of her feelings towards Gabrielle, told brilliantly somewhere in the middle of the story – after that awesome beginning! It made the ending such a relief and a source of immense kilig!
6. The Other Story by H. Bentham
*sly grin emoji*
7. Blooms and Hues by Ella Banta
I loved the softness of the themes in this short story, reminiscent of Gay YA fiction I used to devour in college (from foreign authors like Brian Sloan, Alex Sanchez, John Hall, etc.) and the short films I still find on YouTube from time to time.
It is a lovely addition to this anthology, despite not being heavy on the romance like the other stories, especially since being queer in this country, love, relationships - and matters of the heart in general - are less likely to be this soft and dreamy. (At least during my time as an actual young adult. IDK, maybe kids these days are allowed this gay tenderness we weren’t given access to. It wasn’t even such a long time ago, I mean…anyway, that’s not what this review is all about. I got distracted. lol)
The artistic MC and LI are adorable. And flowers! I’m never not in love with stories where flowers come into play.
8. Another First by Yeyet Soriano
I admit that I felt scared to continue with this once it was established that Jess, the MC, is in a long term relationship at the beginning of the story. I dislike scenes with messy break-ups due to cheating, but I soldiered on and was greatly relieved that this didn’t go that way.
I liked that the characters acted like the adults that they are and that this did not turn into a rehash of popular love-triangle telenovela plots. I especially loved the part where things had to settle down and fall into place for all characters (Jess, Lili and even Matt) separately at first – on a personal level – before the romance could be resolved. It showed a healthy depiction of self-discovery and acceptance a little bit later in life.
9. Luck from the Skies by Katt Briones
This one I’ve actually read before the book came out and ugh, rereading it second, third and fourth time did not make it less wonderful! The characters have supporting roles from Katt’s other book, Chasing Mr. Prefect, but the timeline here is before that book’s time.
I liked the fictional artista/modeling angles and the progression of friendship between Chan and Asher towards a romantic ship (#ChaSher5everr!!!). The rainy weather theme is also very Filipino and how it plays in the advancement of the plot is just brilliant! And kilig! So kilig!
Sab is defineitely a scene stealer (I love bestfriends!) but since the romance was so strong in the first place, she didn’t overshadow my boys. LOL.
Also, prepare to crave bulalo!
10. Lemon Drop Friday by Brigitte Bautista.
“Here goes [Brij] again, making a mess [with my heart]”
When I was reading the review copy and got to this point in the book, I stopped for a full day before I started this story. Part of me knew I would breeze through it and I didn’t want the book to end just yet. And I was right.
Brij did it again! Made me fall in love with her mastery of words and then made me cry because this was so good and so satisfying.
I was highlighting passages throughout the book (for review notes) but with this one, I couldn’t even stop to highlight words, I just wanted to fully immerse in that universe and feel the love, and the fear of rejection, and the ultimate HEA where these messy girls finally, finally got together!
I have a favorite quote (aside from the mis-quote above. Lol)
“If she looked at me a tad longer, she would figure it out.”
Argh! MY HEART! I loved Tala’s POV so much! It’s quirky and funny and honest and SO relatable. I’m done talking about this because I WILL SPOIL IT FOR EVERYONE so please get the book and read it! :P
To end, again I want to thank everyone who worked (and continue to work hard to promote) this book! I cannot fully express into words how important this is to me, as well as to others who might need these stories in their lives (whether they know it or not). I hold this dear this not because it is among the first queer books from #romanceclass, but more because all were written with wonderful skill and heart. Each story offers something unique for the reader who might be reading queer for the first time as well as someone looking for themselves in the written page,
We yearned so much to be represented well. We craved for stories we can connect to on a deeply personal level. We waited for our happy endings, in fiction at the very least.. This is definitely the beginning of us getting all that. And more.
Blurb:
There’s a first time for everything. Gatecrashing a KPop concert with an oppa in a business suit. Taking shelter from the storm with the girl you’ve been meaning to shake off. That kiss that blurs the line between friendship and something more. A one-night stand (or, is it?) with your best friend from across the hallway.
Dive into these 10 stories of first encounters – unapologetically queer, happy endings required, with a smattering of that signature #romanceclass kilig. Whether you’re recalling your own firsts or out there looking for one, there’s a story in here for you.
So, go on.
Turn the page.
Start here.
Edited by Ronald S. Lim and Brigitte Bautista. Featuring short stories by Agay Llanera, H. Bentham, Ella Banta, Danice Sison, Yeyet Soriano, Barbie Barbieto, Katt Briones, Bobbi Moran, Motzie Dapul, and Brigitte Bautista. This anthology contains M/M, F/F, F/NB romance stories with happy endings. Some stories have a high heat level.
Release Date: January 27, 2018
Book Cover Design: Dani Hernandez
Additional Photography: Alexandra Urrea & Chachic Fernandez
Buy Links:
Pre-order Start Here on Amazon: bit.ly/rcStartHere
Order Start Here on paperback (PH only): bit.ly/StartHere-PrintPH
Add Start Here on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/37880247-start-here
Author links:
Katt Briones: @kttbri (Twitter& IG)
Ella Banta: @gabbie_ellaine (Twitter) , @ellamaepot (IG), gabrielluna.wordpress.com (blog) , https:// www.facebook.com/ ellabantawriting/ (FB)
Agay Llanera: http:// amzn.to/ 2k2gj34.(Amazon)
Yeyet Soriano: @ysrealm (Twitter & IG) @Yeyetsorianowrites (FB), www.yeyetsoriano.com (blog), [email protected]
Danice Sison: @hastyteenflick (Twitter)
Bobbi Moran: [email protected]
Motzie Dapul: FB.com/atemozzarella, FB.com/atemozzarellastories, @atemozzarella (Tumblr) , mozzarellastories.wordpress.com (blog), motzie.dapul@ gmail.com.
Barbie Barbieto: @barbiebarbieto (Twitter), barbiebarbieto.com (blog)
H. Bentham: this is me. heh.
Editors:
Brigitte Bautista: @brijbautista (Twitter & IG), brijbautista.wordpress.com (blog)
Ronald S. Lim: @tristantrakand (Twitter), [email protected]
1 note
·
View note
Last Seen Blogs
myrosepetals
All you need is love
marlow-lucas-blog
Speaking in tongues
martinaadiroosblog
winx power you
psirome
Untitled
mrkaoticpanda
Mr.KaoticPanda