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purplesurveys · 2 months

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1845

What were you doing before you started taking this survey? I feel like a fool remembering how I thought Saturday was going to be a rest day, because today has been everything but. Before this survey, we went to pick up paint for my sister's room; I went to my dentist appointment; dropped by Feliz to get ensaymadas my mom needed to pick up; three different drive-thrus because by lunch we were all starving, only to be met by super long lines so we just gave up; then had homemade lunch at home.

Now it's 4:12 PM and I hardly have a weekend left because we'll still need to go to church tonight, then I have an all-day event for work tomorrow + a wrestling show to attend in the evening.

Do you live somewhere where it’s completely safe to walk alone at night? I do, because it's a gated subdivision. The moment I step outside of the village and into the main highway might be a different story.

Have you ever lived with someone who was a total slob? No, we like keeping the house tidy. Even at its messiest I'd say it'd still be considered relatively clean. A lot of households I've been to are super cluttered so I'm lucky my family didn't fall under that trap.

Would you rather be able to talk to animals or be fluent in every language? If you were fluent in every language surely that includes animal ones? < There we go, haha.

Does your kitchen have a pantry? Yes.

Do you live below your means? Or do you spend every penny you have? I live below it because after three years of doing exactly the opposite and spending money as long as I have it, I finally learned how unhealthy and unsustainable it is. I hardly touch my earnings now and my biggest current vice is just spending on food because I don't know how to cook.

What are some foods you enjoy cooking? I don't know how to cook and can't see myself enjoying it.

Have you ever watched Battlestar Galactica? Nope.

Can others often tell what you’re feeling by your facial expressions? Yeah I'm pretty transparent but that's also because I don't like keeping things in. If I'm happy you'll know it, if I'm pissed people will definitely recognize it.

Have you ever interviewed a job applicant at your workplace? Yes, it's a regular part of my role.

Did you ever skip class when you were in school? If so, was there a particular class that you skipped the most? I couldn't skip class because my mom liked seeing us off hahaha. If I did choose to be absent, it was with her permission.

In your opinion, what is it that makes someone a good person? Doing things with compassion and sincerity. I really look up to people who can be genuine at all times.

Are you happy with the life you’re living? It's mostly okay, but there are things I still wish could be different.

How do your political beliefs compare to those of your parents? I lean on the left-wing and my parents are neutral more than anything, but that said I wouldn't say we clash. They just don't care for the most part.

What do you think of the Baby Boomer generation? Ruins most things, but maybe that's just my experience with Filipino boomers. Insufferable.

Have you ever gone over 3 months without shaving/waxing your legs? I've probably done that before.

Are you high-maintenance? In some aspects but I wouldn't say it's my entire personality as I can be lax about other things.

What was the last non-fiction book you read? AJ Lee's autobiography.

Would you ever consider being a foster parent? No.

Are you able to crack any of your joints? Can't.

What’s your favorite movie genre? Drama and thriller.

What’s something that’s been on your mind a lot lately? My future at my workplace, saving up for a place to live, saving up for my US trip ten years down the line to fulfill my childhood dream of going to Wrestlemania. As for short-term – my birthday! Hahaha.

What was the last thing someone asked you for advice on? My mom asked me to help pick out a shade for my sister's room as she was still asleep when we went to the store and we needed to go by her request which was simply 'off-white' lol.

Have you ever kissed 3 or more people in the same day? No.

What’s your opinion on lottery tickets? Waste of money, or no? It's harmless if it's like one ticket. Just don't let it become an obsession.

What are some things that make others cry, that don’t make you cry at all? Wedding videos.

Are you a very detail-oriented person? Or are you better at seeing the big picture? Details. I need them.

Do you have any upcoming plans with friends? We've talked about Korea in 2025 but we'll see how that pans out. I'm definitely committed to prepare for it but I don't think they're at that point yet.

What was the last picture message you received, and from whom? Just something from work.

Have you ever swam in a saltwater pool? No.

What kinds of leisure activities did your family do together when you were growing up? We didn't have a lot. My fondest memories were going to the arcade and booking staycations in hotels, but even then they all mean a lot in their own ways.

What color suits you more: teal or black? I'd say black.

What continent do you live on? Asia.

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brainrattlers · 1 year

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Play It Cool - Tyson Jost (35/n)

Pairing: Tyson Jost x OFC (AJ)

Warnings: Language? It's 3am I can't remember honestly. Nothing graphic, but mentions of Damar Hamlin's injury.

Word Count: 2,929

Need to back up to Chapter 34? https://brainrattlers.tumblr.com/post/705091282371018752/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-34n

Start from the beginning at https://at.tumblr.com/brainrattlers/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-1n/p7no8u1hzuza

Author's Notes: AJ is feeling a little trapped in the extended stay hotel, and is taking a step toward finding a more permanent place for she and Tyson in Buffalo. Tyson's on a roadie, so while she's missing him, she's also enjoying a few things she doesn't get to when he's around. Short chapter this time around, especially after the really long one last week. I'm thinking I'll probably write a "What We Didn't See the First Time" extra to make up for this one's length.

It was an eventful journey back to Buffalo from Edmonton, but thankfully Tyson and AJ made it safely. Let’s just say there were a lot of phone calls and trying to find connecting flights that would eventually find their way to Buffalo once the airport there finally opened. (And yes, the two cooked dinner AND did the dishes together that first night home!)

The next morning, Tyson made it to practice with the rest of the team. Thankfully everyone had made it back safely. Those that were still without power were staying in hotels downtown. With the travel ban lifted, it was announced that the game against Detroit was not only on, but was welcoming fans if they could safely make it out.

The city had been through a lot in the last week - this was a glimmer of normalcy that was needed.

AJ decided to go to the game, as there wasn’t a whole lot to do at the hotel by herself. Donning her new hoodie she got for Christmas from Tyson, she found herself at KeyBank Center up against the glass for warmups, holding a simple piece of paper emblazoned with a symbol and a handful of letters.

TYSON ❤

With a wink and a tap of his recently kissed fingers of his glove against the glass, Tyson skated by, picking up a puck to shoot at Luukkonen. The lack of individual attention didn’t even bother AJ - it needed to be a good night, and she didn’t want to cause Tyson to lose focus. The team as a whole was putting in the work - they’d been off a week due to the storm - and needed to keep their eyes on the prize to get the W that night.

The Sabres were on their A-game the first two periods, scoring five, including an assist from Tyson. (And caught AJ’s glance, giving her a nod before joining the team at the bench to celebrate.) But the third period was a bit stressful with the Red Wings scoring three in a row. Thankfully an empty-netter by Okposo (and subsequent hat trick) solidified the Sabres win.

AJ made it back to the hotel first, shedding the clothes she wore out in favor of some soft sweatpants and tee, throwing the hoodie back on for warmth. Turning on Hulu, she turned on the new season of Letterkenny, catching a couple episodes before Tyson made it back home. Something in the intro of episode three made her absolutely squeal in delight.

The intro was a comedic play on NHLers’ names, fitting in with the new menu at the fictional MoD3an’s bar. Big names were thrown around, historic and current. Nate was in there, not unexpectedly. But right in the middle of it, Tyson’s name was mentioned in reference to something being served with Tyson Toast. AJ absolutely cackled and replayed the intro a few times, proud that her fiance had made his name known enough to make it into their skit. She was absolutely ecstatic to get to play it for Tyson when he did get home.

After the episode ended, Tyson dragged AJ to bed, knowing she’d probably try to stay up to watch the remaining few episodes, and all he wanted was a celebratory kiss and snuggles that night. He too was still decompressing from the trip to Edmonton and was lacking sleep. With the team leaving again the next day for the start of a three-game roadie, AJ was more than happy to curl up to Tyson’s back, draping her arm over his torso as the big spoon. She felt his body loosen up as he drifted off to sleep.

Not wanting to miss time with AJ, Tyson woke up early before practice, waking her up as well to make breakfast together. Nothing fancy, some oatmeal and fruit was shared between the two. A good night’s sleep followed up with a warm breakfast and a conversation about what was going to happen in the next few days for each of them left Tyson feeling rejuvenated and ready to take on the next few days.

“Big plans for while I’m on the road?” Tyson was genuinely curious as he knew AJ was getting a little stir-crazy around the hotel.

“If it’s okay with you, I’ve got a couple apartments and townhome viewings I’m hoping to set up.”

The smile on Tyson’s face was huge. He knew how difficult it was for AJ to feel okay putting roots down somewhere, considering all the upheaval for her the past couple of years. This was a big step for her. He nodded in excited approval.

The pair talked about what they were wanting in a new place, where the last place was weak, and budgets.

“Speaking of that, I’m thinking I might start advertising some freelance IT work again, see if I get any nibbles. It’s time I start contributing again.” AJ wasn’t feeling comfortable with how Tyson was just taking care of everything, and she was running out of her own money too. “I know you said you wanted to be able to just take care of me, but… you know I don’t work that way.”

Tyson felt a little down about it, because he really did mean it. He wanted to give the world to AJ so that she was free to do whatever she wanted. To him, her helping around the home as well as getting the old place packed and hauling stuff - that was more than enough contribution. He was going to have to accept the fact that she WANTED to contribute, that she felt useless just flitting about. She needed to have purpose in her own mind.

Tyson looked deep in thought, quiet, as he took in her words, finally letting it sink in that maybe her independent streak was a blessing in disguise somehow. It looked like he was staring at his empty oatmeal bowl. AJ reached across the table and touched his hand, bringing him to the present from wherever his mind was. His eyes met hers, nodding.

Trying to get the mood lighter again, Tyson shifted the conversations back to the new home hunt.

“Send me pics? Maybe some video? I wish I could go with you… stupid roadie.” Tyson was a little frustrated, but also knew that the roadie was part of his job.

“Of course, I want you to help make the decision too! Also it’s not like I’m going to just choose one on the spot and make you move in without seeing it in person first! I’m just going to get some ideas, and if I find one I like, we’ll go see it when you’re back.”

The corners of Tyson’s mouth were starting to crack into a smile.

Looking at the time, it was the point of the morning when Tyson was going to have to depart to practice, and then would head to the airport after. It was getting easier again for AJ, especially knowing she had things to do to fill the time, rather than watching TV and playing Fortnite aimlessly.

With a suit jacket over his hoodie and his backpack on his shoulders, AJ latched onto Tyson for a long hug. He rested his forehead on the bridge of her nose, knowing this was one of her favorite feelings. A soft kiss on the lips and the tip of her nose was the signal he had to get going. Whispers of “I love you” were shared before the heavy sigh from the two increasing the distance between them.

As Tyson walked out the door, AJ followed to the doorway, watching him head toward the elevator. He blew a kiss before turning the corner, smiling as AJ “caught” it and put it in her pocket for later.

Hearing the elevator doors close, AJ headed back inside, shutting the door. With a deep inhale, she picked up the dishes that were left on the counter and washed them out before the oatmeal became concrete at the bottom of the bowls. Looking around at the studio, she remembered just why she was going to contact property management companies to see some rentals. Pulling out her laptop, she started browsing what was available in a few areas of the city that the two had talked about moving to. Emails and phone calls were made, setting up a few appointments.

At nearly the same time, AJ’s stomach was alerting her to it being lunch time, and her phone buzzed alerting her that Tyson was finishing up with practice, heading to the airport.

Tyson: Wish you were coming to Boston. We could get some baked beans!

AJ: Don’t fahget to pahk the cah on Havahd Yahd. lol

Grabbing some lunch on the way to the first apartment appointment, AJ looked at the listing again, unsure if it was really what she would have been looking for, let alone Tyson. But she was going to keep an open mind. Touring the location with the management rep, she snapped a few photos and sent them to Tyson.

AJ: Location 1. <3 attachments>

Tyson: Hmm. You’re not saying much.

AJ: I didn’t want to sway you one way or the other.

Tyson: I think your lack of saying anything tells me a lot. I’m not feeling this one though. Getting ready to take off. If you look at any others, send pics still. I’ll see them when we land. ILY

AJ: (heart emoji)

One more location to look at that afternoon, and AJ was liking that one more than the first already. She even took some video and sent everything to Tyson’s phone, knowing he’d be landing soon - Buffalo to Boston is a short trip.

Tyson: This one is nice, and I think you like it because you sent video this time. Add it to the “check out together” list. On the ground, call you tonight babe.

While looking at places to live, AJ kept an eye open to businesses in the area to see what was there. Is it mainly retail? Food? Actual offices? Ideas were brewing in her head, but for now, just finding a place to call home that wasn’t an extended stay hotel was the priority. Before heading back to the hotel, AJ snagged some groceries, things that Tyson wouldn’t (or shouldn’t) eat. Getting to have ravioli with Alfredo sauce for dinner was a small reminder of why Tyson going on roadies wasn’t all bad.

Tyson called a bit later via facetime after coming back from dinner with a few guys on the team. He found AJ was on the sofa, buried in a fleece blanket, and could see her bowl propped on her knee.

“I see you’re eating likely something you wouldn’t eat in front of me, am I right?”

“Maaaybe. How’s Boston?”

The two chatted for a good hour before Tyson had to call it a night, needing to get to sleep early as the game was an early start due to it being New Year’s Eve. He could see AJ was struggling with something.

“You’re making that face babe, what’s wrong?”

It hit AJ hard that she wasn’t going to be able to kiss Tyson at midnight. The whole tradition of midnight kisses with the one you’ll spend the next year with was about to be broken.

“Going to miss kissing you at the stroke of 12… If I could get to Ottawa, I would.”

“You want me to get you a ticket to Ottawa?” Tyson was being serious, but knew she would turn it down anyway, especially knowing she had a few other rentals to look at. “How about… when I get home, we set a clock to 11:59, and have our own countdown?”

Leave it to Tyson to come up with something so simple, but effective, to make AJ feel better. With a nod and smile, he knew that things would be alright.

Wishes for sweet dreams and good sleep were shared, and the call closed out. Tyson laid in his hotel bed, staring at the ceiling, trying to figure out a way to make their faux New Years Eve perfect. Thoughts swirled around in his head, until he couldn’t stay awake any longer. He luckily had a couple days to think about it.

AJ couldn’t sleep for some reason that night, but got up early as rest was eluding her still. Hitting the gym, she pumped herself up to look at another apartment Saturday morning, getting her back to the hotel in time to watch the game. Photos of that location were sent to Tyson, but she knew she wouldn’t hear back until afterward, when the team would be packing it up and heading to Ottawa. (Don’t tell Tyson, but she might have slept through the game, honestly. She didn’t miss much, at least, other than an OT win. In fact, her watch vibrating against her wrist woke her up.)

Tyson: On the plane, heading to north. Hmm. This place looks okay, but I’ll let you decide if it is one I need to see in person.

AJ: I think I need to look at a couple more first, it might go in the maybe pile. Get some sleep!

And with that, AJ needed to figure out what she was going to do for her New Years’ Eve in. Queuing up a movie on Netflix, AJ ordered a pizza and settled in for the night. Falling asleep on the sofa again during the second movie she had playing, that damn watch woke her up again. Grabbing her phone, she found it was 11:58PM, and Tyson was trying to Facetime again.

“Couldn’t NOT see my babe at midnight!” Tyson’s eyes were blurry with sleep, as he set an alarm to wake himself up in time. He had opted to stay at the hotel rather than go out with some of the others on the team. “You ready to count it down?”

AJ laughed. Not her ideal midnight, but it was better than nothing.

And with the clock counting down 5 4 3 2 1, AJ could hear the fireworks going off outside of the hotel as the clock hit midnight. She leaned in and kissed the lens of her phone camera, and could hear Tyson chuckling a bit, following suit and kissing his screen too.

“I think I’ll still take that real kiss when you get back. Now back to sleep with you! I don’t want you struggling tomorrow night, er, I guess tonight. Kick some Senators butt tonight Jost.”

“Only because you told me to. Happy New Year, babe. Can’t wait to see what this year has in store for US. Sleep well babe.”

AJ did indeed sleep well, waking up almost around noon. Due to the holiday, she wasn’t going to be able to look at any other apartments that day, and instead had a lazy day. She crocheted a few rows on the blanket she was working on, she watched movies, she took a bubble bath. Throwing on a pair of pajama pants and Tyson’s burgundy hoodie, she readied herself for the game that evening. Unfortunately, even though Tyson had a few good chances to score, as did the rest of the team, it just wasn’t in the cards to win, resulting in a 3-1 loss.

Three more properties to look at on Monday, filling up a lot of AJ’s free time that day. She liked two of the three, and sent MORE photos to Tyson. He agreed on the two she liked as well, adding them to the list to check out together.

Speaking of Tyson, the team made it to DC, for the final game of the roadie. After the loss in Ottawa, they were hungry. Afternoon skate was intense, and a lot of weaknesses from the Ottawa game were addressed. It was a long day, and Tyson was happy to just crash for the night. Unfortunately, a bombshell was dropped that another pro athlete from Buffalo had collapsed on the field in Cincinnati, and it wasn’t looking good. It made for a long night as one of their own, even if it were a different sport, was hanging in the balance.

The next day, while the news wasn’t great, it wasn’t terrible either. The outpouring of love for Hamlin was incredible from all over the country, and world. The team had shirts made showing their support, wearing them as they entered the arena that evening. Washington continued the wave of support, offering up a moment of silence to honor Hamlin. The Sabres were playing this game for Damar.

And what a game it was - exciting as it was back and forth (although honestly if you’re playing in that game, it’s gotta be frustrating)... but Tyson tied it up middle of the third, eventually taking it to overtime. Tage scored his third, earning a hat trick and winning it in OT. A hard fought battle, but they were victorious in the end.

Tyson was never so happy to get home though after an emotional couple of days. Their flight wouldn’t be leaving until the next day as the Sabres would not be playing until Saturday against Minnesota (another reason to be emotional but that’s for the next chapter). But as soon as the flight touched down, Tyson was the first out of his seat, and trying to be the first off the plane so he could get to the temporary home and have his real New Years kiss with the woman he wanted to spend the rest of the year with.

Chapter 36 is at https://at.tumblr.com/brainrattlers/play-it-cool-tyson-jost-36n/n5yh59f4bs7e

#Tyson Jost #Josty #Tyson Jost x OFC #Buffalo Sabres #Colorado Avalanche #Play It Cool #NHL

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cmvlfoy · 1 year

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[ character bio - Cassie Malfoy; the most dangerous woman of all is the one who refuses to rely on your sword to save her because she carries one of her own. ]

Character Basics

Character’s full name: Cassiopeia Narcissa Malfoy Meaning of name: Cassiopeia; queen in Greek mythology, she who chooses to excel. Character’s nickname: Cass, Cassie Birth date: September 13th, 2004 Age: 27 Zodiac: Virgo

Nationality / Species: English, French, witch Languages Spoken: English, French Orientation: heterosexual Blood Status: pure-blood Army Affiliation: The Resistance

Physical appearance

Height: 5′1 Body build: petite Eye color: green Hair color: blonde Type of hair: extremely curly Glasses or contacts: Face claim: Aly Michalka Distinguishing marks: Predominant features: her light blonde curls Tattoos: Voice / Accent: posh, upper-class Usual fashion of dress: girly; lots of pink and glitter

Personality

Good personality traits: calm, compassionate, independent, intelligent, poised. Bad personality traits: brash, cunning, obsessive, over-critical, reserved. Personality Type: INTJ, “the Architect;” introverted, creative, love perfection. Character Label: The Queen Bee Patronus: Albino Peacock What would most throw this character’s life into complete turmoil: she’s always been terrified she’ll carry her mother’s blood curse, or that it’ll pass down to one of her kids If granted one wish, it would be: to erase her mother’s blood curse Character’s soft spot: her boyfriend, even when he’s annoying her Is this soft spot obvious to others: extremely Etc.: she has an obsessive personality and hyper-focuses on things

Eight Song Playlist

Kings & Queens; Ava Max Paris; Taylor Swift 7 rings; Ariana Grande Future Nostalgia; Dua Lipa Joan of Arc on the Dance Floor; Aly & AJ Lavender Haze; Taylor Swift Salute; Little Mix Break Free; Ariana Grande

Past

Hometown: Wiltshire, England Childhood: grew up in Malfoy Manor, sheltered from the public’s view of her family Dream job: healer Education: Hogwarts House: Slytherin

Present

Current location: muggle London, England Currently living with: her boyfriend and two children Pets: Daisy; golden retriever puppy. Occupation: potions professor at Hogwarts

Family

Boyfriend: Hugo Weasley Daughter: Ilsa Rosalie Malfoy-Weasley Son: Lucien Pascal Malfoy-Weasley Mother: Astoria Greengrass Relationship: she was close to her mother, but it became strained after the divorce. Father: Draco Malfoy Relationship: she has a strong relationship with her father and is very close to him. she’s always taken more after Draco in personality and how she acts. Twin: Scorpius Malfoy Relationship: she’s got a good relationship with her twin brother. Brother: Dylan Parkinson Relationship: he’s not her brother by blood, but due to the close relationship their parents had, they grew up like siblings and remained as close. Maternal Grandparents: Alden and Veda Greengrass Relationship: she has a positive relationship with them, but not terribly close. Paternal Grandparents: Lucius and Narcissa Malfoy Relationship: she’s very close to them both. Other important family members: Andromeda Tonks (grand-aunt), Daphne Greengrass (aunt), Teddy Lupin Potter (cousin), Iris Potter (cousin.)

Favorites

Color: pink Least favorite color: grey, black, anything dark Music: muggle pop, classical Food: Italian, she’s not picky as long as it’s vegetarian Literature: romance, historical fiction

Habits

Musical instrument: piano Sport: she played quidditch in school and did ballet when she was younger Spending habits: probably has a clothes addiction Smokes: no. Drinks: an occasional glass of wine, but nothing ever more than that Other drugs: no Extremely skilled at: flying, potions, horseback riding, fashion Extremely unskilled at: baking and cooking Nervous tics: she starts obsessively organizing things

Traits

Optimist or pessimist: depends, can be extremely pessimistic if she’s in the mood Introvert or extrovert: introvert Daredevil or cautious: cautious Logical or emotional: logical Disorderly or methodical: methodical Prefers working or relaxing: working Confident or unsure of himself: confident Animal lover: yes, in moderation

Relationships with others

Love interest: Hugo Weasley Best friends: Marcie Graves-Weasley, Dylan Parkinson, Lily Potter Close friends: Rose Weasley Exes: Alec Carlyle; Ilsa’s birth father. the relationship was extremely toxic and from a family with strong Death Eater ties. Cassie ended it before she found out she was pregnant. She never told him about Ilsa and Hugo adopted her.

Short Bio

To say that Cassie was sheltered growing up would be putting it lightly. Her father was fiercely protective, due to their family’s past, but she didn’t know why. She learned why Draco kept them sheltered right before they went to Hogwarts. Her grandfather’s past hit her the most since she’d always been close to Lucius. Cassie was also Draco’s shadow. She didn’t like either of her parents being disappointed in her, but it was taken to an entirely new level when it was her father. After her parents divorced, she latched more onto him. At school, she was unsurprisingly sorted into Slytherin. She excelled in her classes and played seeker, like Draco. She doesn’t much believe in blood purity and kept away from anything Dark Arts related because she didn’t want to interfere with the work her family had done to clear the Malfoy name.

#[ 𝗯𝗶𝗼 ]#[ 𝗺𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 ]#[ 𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗱 ]

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ladyxskywalker · 2 years

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comfort tag game 💐

tagged by the lovely @zinzinina 💕

no pressure tags 💌 @paper-n-ashes @hopeamarsu @clydesducktape @tlcwrites @artemiseamoon @mariesackler @writeforfandoms @honeymunson @justrunamok @pearlstiare @saradika @serkenobi @penfullofwordsaheadfullofstories

please make your own post, do not reblog 💌

comfort foods: pizza, my favorite chinese food, baked ziti, a grilled cheese sandwich with soup, fries, hot wings, linguine with mussels, spicy roast beef, a nice piece of chocolate cake, strawberry ice cream

comfort beverages: hazelnut or mocha coffee, earl grey or lady grey tea, chocolate shake

my comfort songs: a thousand miles from nowhere, I could fall in love, como la flor, always, the magic, this light between us, nutshell (live), bleed the freak, would?, no excuses, heaven beside you, hallelujah, wander this world, what a feeling, slow burn (aly&aj), slow dancing, all the pretty places [💌]

my comfort stories: (movie, book, fanfic): the holiday, ever after, you've got mail, the karate kid

my comfort characters: lorelai gilmore, regina mills, fallon carrington, klaus mikaelson, luke skywalker, obi wan kenobi, johnny lawrence, joe cruz, kim burgess, king francis & queen mary, henry de tamble

my comfort daydreams: kissing layne staley in 1993, falling in love with klaus mikaelson in a fictional world, sailing or seeing a waterfall, being in a field of wildflowers on top of a mountain, a meet cute where I am the leading lady of my own story

my comfort memories: one summer in college when me & my friends spent a perfect day together, playing catch under the brooklyn bridge, going to the beach, being little, going to concerts with my best friend joe & taking pictures with the bands, getting to go for a ride in his ford bronco with the top down, crazy parties at my friends' house when we first met that reminded me of beloved 80s movies

my comfort videos: (youtube, tiktok, etc.) orsara recipes, frankie cooks, carlo and sarah, recess therapy, the dodo, joewayyy, hnicholsillustration, selena live at the astrodome, alice in chains videos

my comfort outfits: (any season) my black sabbath shirt from their final tour with their picture on it, jeans, & black suede ankle boots, leather jacket; fall sweaters, sports shirts for my fave teams & players; cute fitted tops with jeans, or dressy shorts, strappy sandals, charm bracelets, my heart necklace, & matching ring 💕

my comfort friends: in my daily life, my best friends anthony, javan, & josh 💛🌼

my comfort activities: watching baseball with my mom, going to the park & getting pizza with my bro, having a drink at my new favorite bar, going to the beach, crocheting, listening to music & singing with my favorite songs, eating out at the diner

my comfort objects: (stuffed animal, painting, momento) my soft baby yoda, my tiny kittens stuffed animals I've had since I was little, my stuffed fuzzy hedgehog with a funny winter hat, my duckie that I've had since I was little, my brooklyn nets teddy bear that I call 'kevin bear' after kevin durant, a painting in my room that my best friend javan made for me, smooth rocks from the beach

misc. comfort things not listed above: cozy hugs & warm laughter, joking around & being silly, flowers in my backyard, my favorite sweatshirts, socks, & cozy blankets, baking cookies, going to the nature trails

#tag games #comfort tag game #feel free to tag yourself ! 💌#this was a lot of fun #& had me really thinking about everything for a moment #pxk queue #I'm sleeping now 💫

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dr-spencer-reids-queen · 5 years

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Anywhere You Go

Characters: A. J. Cook x Reader (platonic)

Word Count: 1,486

Warnings: fluff

Summary: A.J. offers you a proposition that you can’t refuse.

Author’s Note: If you have any requests, please send them in! this is unbeta’d and every mistake is all on me.

This is the December 5th fic for my 25 days of RPF Christmas with the prompt: “I don’t want to just see you once a year”

Feedback the glue that holds my writing together

Tags at the bottom

“Two hot chocolates for Y/N,” the barista announces. You get up from your seat and walk over to her to accept the drinks. After giving her a smile, you walk back over to your table and take a seat. Any minute now, your best friend A.J. Cook is going to walk through the double glass doors. It’s been about a year since you last saw her, and you’re so excited to see her now.

Every year, she makes it her priority to visit her family for the holidays. Christmas is the only holiday she won’t miss with them because it’s too big of a holiday to miss. Luckily for you, your family is such great friends with hers, which means you can also see her and spend time with her. When she’s not with family, she’s all around the world filming for either Criminal Minds, a new unnamed film she’s starring in, and doing interviews for those things.

You couldn’t be more proud of her, but you really miss her. Sure, you two talk on the phone at least six times a week, and you Facetime, but it’s not the same as actually being there. You two grew up side by side your entire life, so when her career started to kick off, everything changed. You’re not susceptible to change since it scares the shit out of you, and her moving away almost took the life out of you. You two did everything together and going from that to now, it’s been really hard for you. Of course, you never told her any of this because you didn’t want her to feel guilty for living her life and doing what she loves.

You always knew she would make it in show business because she couldn’t stop performing growing up. When you turned ten, she was the entertainment that provided a one-woman show she created on her own. Everyone absolutely loved her, and even though it took the attention off of you, you were so happy for her.

When you two were sophomores in high school, you came down with the nasty flu that stayed with you for weeks. A.J. didn’t like going to school without you, so she faked an illness just to stay home with you. You thought it was never going to work, but she convinced her parents with her phenomenal acting skills that she was truly sick. It was when your parents caught her bringing food up to you that they called her parents and told them what was going on.

In senior year, she landed the lead in the school’s production of Alice in Wonderland. She stole the show with her big smile, bright blue eyes, and innocent front that she showcased. Everyone loved her, and it was the production that set her career off. An agent was in the audience and watched her perform, giving her his card. The first semester of college without her was hard since she was busy doing auditions and filming commercials to add stuff to her resume.

Every time a new movie or show of hers came out, she’d invite you to the premiere, but she would be so busy with interviewers and her costars, that you kind of hung in the back. You’re so proud of her, but you wish she would take a step back and realize how much this is affecting you. Maybe you can convince her to take some time off if you tell her all the things she’s missed since you last saw her.

The door to the cafe rings and your best friend walks in. She looks around for you, and as soon as you two make eye contact, you’re both squealing and hugging each other tightly.

“I missed you so much!” she grins.

“I miss you more,” you chuckle and offer her the seat across from you. “I got you a hot chocolate.”

“With a dash of mint in there?”

“Do I ever forget?” you smile.

“How have you been? It’s been so long since we’ve seen each other,” she says and takes a sip of her drink.

“Too long, actually. Well, Garrett broke his arm and will be in a cast for the next few months.”

“What did your brother do this time,” she rolls her eyes playfully.

“He jumped off the roof and did a backflip into the pool. He didn't hurt his head or anything like that, just broke his arm. I swear, that boy gets dumber with age,” you laugh.

“At my work’s Halloween party, someone almost caught the snack table on fire. I keep telling them that having the pumpkins with candles inside next to the table is a bad idea, and now hopefully they’ll listen. Everyone started freaking out, and we had two guys dressed up as Spongebob and Patrick running around and freaking everybody out. I swear I don’t think I laughed as much as I did then.

“Oh, and your sister was just about to give birth in the backseat of your mom’s car on the way to the hospital.”

“What? No one told me that,” she says in disappointment.

“Yeah, your nephew wanted to come out right there and then, and we had to try and help her hold him in long enough. He basically popped out with the first push. It was gross, but he’s so cute,” you coo.

“I missed a lot of stuff,” she sighs.

“More things happened, but those are the main ones. What about you? What have you been doing this past year?” you ask. By the look on her face, you can tell she misses home. You can see the jealousy in her eyes that you got to experience all of this while she was away. However, she tries to push that down to tell her stories.

“First, I’m kind of sad that Criminal Minds is ending. I don’t think I’ll find a better cast then them. The last season comes out in January, and I know everyone is going to really like it.”

“Are we finally going to get answers on the relationship between Spencer and JJ? That confession was a big one.”

“It will be answered, yes. But I’m not saying anything else.”

“Fine, what else happened?” you ask, taking a huge sip of your drink.

“The movie I’m in now is just amazing, and the cast and I have this ongoing bet to see how and when our director will break the news to one of the editors. She’s pregnant, and she’s married to the editor guy. Me and a few of the guys think she’s going to wait until he figures it out for himself, but then a few other people think--”

“I don’t want to just see you once a year,” you blurt, effectively cutting her off.

“What?” she asks, her voice soft.

“I’m sorry. I miss you too damn much, Andrea. You only come down for Christmas, but then you leave like we’re nothing to you. I really wanted you there at my work’s Halloween party. I may work from home, but we all like to gather for the important holidays to get together and go over what we’ve been working on. That party was not fun without you. You’re my best friend, and I want to see you more often. Take a break, please, and come home.”

“Y/N, I miss you too. More than you think. You don’t think I want to come home and be with family? I want to so much, but I’m working on a film, and then there are interviews, and I have another project when this movie ends. I really wish I could stay,” she sighs.

“And I wish I could go with you. I don’t like being away from you all year. I want more than a few weeks with you.”

“Then come with me.”

“What?”

“You work from home, so I don’t see why you can’t work from my set. Come with me when Christmas is over. We don’t have to be apart any longer. It can be a whole new chapter for us. You can meet the cast, and I’ll introduce you to Matthew,” she sings at the end. Damn my silly crush on the elusive Dr. Reid.

“Well, if it’s for Matthew, then sure,” you joke, and she gives you a playful glare. “Do you really think this can work?”

“Yeah, when I’m filming, you can do your work, and then afterward, we can hang like we used to. I miss us.”

“I miss us too,” you smile.

“So, what do you say?”

“I’ll go with you,” you grin.

“Yay! I’m so glad! Oh, this is going to be so much fun! You’re going to love New York.”

“We’re going to New York?”

“And many more places. We’re going to have so much fun.”

“Yeah, we will. It’s us against the world.”

“Forever and Always,” she finishes.

wanna be tagged? add yourself to this document! if your tag doesn’t work, find out why!

@kendall-michele @practicallylivesonline @skylarraker @idkbutspencer

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tllgrrl · 2 years

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A Dash of This, A Dash of That: A follow-up to “A Pinch of This, A Pinch of That”

Bucky can actually cook.

If he’d tried that “I only have one arm. I’m gonna need someone to cook for me” shit with Ayo…let’s just say it took one look from her to make sure he never thought of trying it.

He may have been out of his head, but he wasn’t that far out of his head.

And there was no way Shuri…or Queen Ramonda herself…or T’Challa (Blessed be his memory)…would have allowed a grown-assed man to be treated like a baby for 2 months, let alone for 2 whole years.

In Wakanda, once he started to get his head back and got used to having one arm, part of his recovery was work, and he got to work making himself useful to himself, and to the community that welcomed him.

In addition to offering his supersoldier strength when needed around the village, one of the other ways he made himself useful was cooking not only for himself, but also for the community when called upon to help.

Or simply as a way to say Thank You, like when the garden he had on his plot of land yielded more produce than he could eat by himself, he would harvest it, put it on a cart, and go around to his neighbors offering fresh vegetables, and goat milk from his small herd.

Bucky made himself useful as part of his recovery.

Cooking, however, wasn’t exactly a priority after The Great Return from The Snap.

He had other things to deal with living in the States, back in Brooklyn: a trial and subsequent pardon for his Winter Soldier captivity, mandated scheduled therapy appointments for who knows how long, amends to be made, and basically staying off the radar, hoping to maybe someday return to Wakanda to live out the rest of his over-extended life.

Then, in the middle of John Walker/Flagsmashers/Zemo and everything else designed to upend his plans to lay low, he met Sam Wilson’s sister Sarah and her 2 boys…and along with flirting, his cooking skills also started to resurface in Delacroix, Louisiana.

Of course he’s not as good at cooking as Sarah, but between what basics he learned from his Ma, then from his time in the Ilizwe lomama (aka The Homeland aka Wakanda), and now spending time in the kitchen with Sarah…and also watching YouTube videos, and being immersed in the vaguely familiar flavors of Creole and Soul Food cooking of Southern Louisiana…he’s improving.

And one of the results is…

Sam goes in for his third helping of collards, and all eyes at the dinner table are on him. He looks up from the serving dish.

“What…?”

Sarah looks from Sam to Bucky, whose eyebrows are threatening to invade his hairline.

“Momma!!” Cass and AJ point at Sam.

“Uncle Sam’s gonna eat all the greens,” AJ grumbles, dropping his hand, sitting back in his chair and folding his arms.

“Yeah! Too bad there’s not gonna be any left.” Cass says, looking at Sam with the biggest Puppy In The Rain eyes ever, while AJ gives Sam the Cyborg Stare & Squint he picked up from his Uncle Bucky.

“Sam!” Sarah laughs. “We want seconds, too! Save some for the rest of us, please!”

“Listen. I don’t know what you did this time, but this right here? You put your ankle in it! Cass, AJ, come on, get some of this.”

He dishes up some collards onto each of the boys’ plates.

“And you,” he side-eyes the supersoldier, “are a bad influence on these kids. Got AJ up in here doing your Terminator Stare thing. I’ll just have some more of that mac and cheese instead. Sarah, you want some more? Buck?”

“I’m good,” Bucky grins. “I’m going back in on the chicken, though. It’s delicious, Sarah.”

“Me, too!” both boys chime in. “I’ll have some more mac and cheese, too!!” says Cass, rubbing his hands together like he’s seen his Uncle Sam do when food is yummy.

“Sis, your greens usually taste like Nana June’s and Mama’s with a little sumpt’-sumpt’ secret that you won’t share with me. There’s something different about these, though. I can’t quite put my finger on it, but they’re delicious. Next time, you need to double up that recipe!”

Sarah glances over at Bucky, who is busying himself with his piece of chicken. He glances up at Sarah, then at Sam, then back down at his own plate, smiling to himself.

Sam picks up his glass of sweet tea. “I think everyone should thank the person who fixed tonight’s dinner.”

“Thanks, Momma!”

“Thanks, Sarah.” Sam says, raising his glass to her.

“Thanks, Sarah.” Bucky takes her hand and kisses it, then raises his glass.

Then Sarah raises her own glass. “You’re welcome. And I’d like to say a special Thank You to the person responsible for the greens. Thank you, James.”

“Wow! Cool! Thanks Uncle Bucky!” Cass and AJ chatter with excitement, peppering him with questions:

“What else can you cook?”

“Who taught you how to cook, Uncle Bucky?”

“Did you cook way back in the Old Timey days?”

Bucky chuckles at their enthusiastic curiosity. “Thanks, fellas! You really like ‘em?”

“Yeah!” the boys say in unison.

Sam, still holding the serving spoon and dish, just sits there, unable to process what he's just heard.

“Hey, I thought staring was my thing” Bucky grins as Sam glares at him.

“You…cooked these greens?” Sam says looking at Bucky, then at Sarah, then back at Bucky.

“Yes, I did, Samuel. You’re welcome. I’m glad you like them,” he deadpans.

“And you actually seasoned them! I mean, this isn’t just salt and pepper. This…this is…”

“A special blend I made with spices from— Wait. What? Why are you surprised? I was in Wakanda for 2 years. Do you think I was on a vacation? That I had people cooking for me and waiting hand and foot on a grown man perfectly capable of—

Sarah, tell your brother that I…I know about seasoning, Sam!”

“Sam. Come on, now.” she chuckled. “Of course he had learn how to—“

“Oh! So, he spent a little time in Wakanda and he came back Spice Panther?!” Sam laughs, pleased with his joke.

Sarah and Bucky look at each other, then at Sam, and together declare:

“Actually…it’s Spice Wolf.”

Cass and AJ both giggle as Sarah and Bucky chuckle and continue to enjoy the meal.

Sam stares at them both…and puts the rest of the greens onto his own plate.

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charlleyx · 25 days

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Jemily Fan Fiction

Jareau-Prentiss : Case Histories

This is my first 'case' in my series of Jemily one shots and multi-chapter instalments. They are all connected but won't be in any order. They will be all about the relationship between Emily Prentiss and Jennifer Jareau and the life they create together. It was span years of time. Some may follow loosely to some canon events but it should all become clear as you read and any changes I hope to explain in my writing as it comes up.

They will vary wildly in length and rating. Some will be short, some like this one multiple long chapters, some two shots and so on. Some will be rated T and some will go all the way to E. Some will contain smut, some will be fluff, some angst, some a mix of some or all of the above.

This is the first one I am posting

What happens when JJ decides on the 25th anniversary of her older sister's death that she will take Emily, her wife and their two young daughters to spend the long weekend with JJ's mother, Sandy. Will it help JJ's mother deal with her grief? Can a strained relationship between JJ and her mother be healed with the help of JJ's daughters presence. What will happen when before the anniversary date actually hits, JJ and Emily get called away on a case? Is leaving their young daughters with Sandy a smart move or could tragedy be lurking around the corner yet again?

The Case Of : Tragedy Strikes To The Day

Chapter 1 : Homecoming

Chapter 2 : Duty Calls

Chapter 3 : Trust Instincts

Chapter 4 : Finding Strength

Chapter 5 : It Comes In Waves

Chapter 6 : Let Me Hold You

Chapter 7 : Connections Strengthen

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itsmyblogandillreblogifiwantto · 4 years

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The new cast member.. Part 1

A/N: Hi everyone, this is a new mini series where reader is cast as the new agent on Criminal Minds, and Matthew has the biggest crush on her! I’m not sure how many parts I’ll do yet, but hopefully more than three!

Everyone placed their votes over the next month and you won, the crew just needed to get hold of you to ask you, if not, they’d go with the runner up, Jodie Comer.

Flashback

“Okay guys... We’re halfway into this series and we will start to film the next one in two months, but we need your input. After the departure of Agent Smith, we need a new agent and would like all of you to vote for who you’d like to be casted.” The director, Simon, began, “Obviously, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to please all of you, but we have had letters from fans with suggestions.”

“Those suggestions are Jodie Comer from Killing Eve, Y/N Y/S/N who’s a comedian from the U.K and has a Netflix special, Ellen Page from the Umbrella Academy and Phoebe Waller-Bridge from Fleabag.” Daniella, Simon’s assistant said, reading from her laptop.

“Isn’t Y/N Y/S/N the one you have a crush on?” Shemar whispered to Matthew.

Matthew’s cheeks flushed, “No.”

“Your cheeks say otherwise.” Kirsten said squishing his cheeks, unlike his character, Matthew loved PDA. “So cute.” She added.

“We can all vote for her if you want Matthew.” Thomas said sipping his coffee.

“She’s so funny, I think she has a gig here next month. We should all go.” A.J suggested to everyone on the table.

“She is. Matthew and I watched her comedy special on Netflix and I wet myself laughing.” Paget said as Matthew’s cheeks continued to flush as he sunk into his seat.

“I’ll sort tickets.” Daniella said, looking at her laptop. “Anyone who wants to go let me know by the end of Wednesday.”

“I don’t even think Y/N Y/S/N has an agent, so she is probably the easiest of the four to get hold of.” Matthew finally said.

“Are you going pretty boy?” Shemar asked Matthew with a smirk.

Matthew nods, “Yeah. Like Paget said, she’s hilarious.”

“And you totally have a crush on her.” A.J said as Matthew’s cheeks went red again as he sipped his coffee.

One month later, you are in California for your week run at a comedy venue whilst the cast and crew are getting in their seats whilst you are backstage going over your jokes again. It’s your last day of the show but you are here for a week more to explore the city.

“I can’t believe we get to see her live, one of the ushers said the venue was sold out for the entire week!” Kirsten said, all excited, just like her character, Penelope.

“Anyone want a drink from the bar?” Joe asked

“Sure, I’ll give you a hand.” Matthew said getting up. “Everyone want their usual?” He asks

They all nod.

At the bar

“Are you excited Matthew?” Joe asks, as he sips his beer.

“Yeah. I’m a bit nervous too, for some reason. I feel like I’m the one about to go on stage.” Matthew laughed to himself.

“It’s because you like her, we all know.” Joe said as Matthew sips his beer, rolling his eyes as he pays for the drinks as Joe paid for the ones at dinner.

“Ladies and Gentlemen, the show is going to start in 10 minutes, if you’d all like to go the bathroom, get a drink from the bar, go for a cigarette, whatever, I don’t care, just be back in 10 minutes. Oh, and exclusively for my last show here, I’m doing a 30 minute Q&A after the show so if you tweet your questions to me with the hashtag #asky/nshit , my Twitter name/handle is @Y/T/N and I will answer some of them at the end of the show, as well as talking to you lovely lot who have questions but don’t have social media.” You say through the intercom.

“My girlfriend saw the show yesterday, she said she wet her pants, she felt like our baby was going to come out there and then.” A guy said to his friend at the bar.

“That’s reassuring.” Matthew said to them as he joined Joe and went back to their seats

“Group selfie!” Kirsten said once Joe and Matthew got back into their seats and posted it to Instagram with the caption, “Team Criminal Minds on a night out seeing the hilarious @Y/N !!”

Meanwhile backstage, you hear your phone ping, you only have your notifications on for your favourite Instagrams, Twitters and texts.

You look at the photo Kirsten just uploaded and liked it, “Enjoy the show guys, I certainly enjoy yours! Thank you for coming!” You comment on it, trying not to glance at your favourite, and crush, Matthew.

“2 minutes Y/N.” The stage manager smiled at you. “The bar said they’ll bring you up a glass of water and a beer during the interval too.” He said

“Thanks Tommy, you’ve been awesome this week for my first time in America. I’ve left you and the team a present in your office.” You said with a smile

“Oh my god! She replied guys!” Kirsten squealed at her phone as Matthew glances at it with a smile.

You walk on stage after introducing yourself, with a little crowd work and then you start.

“And that’s why I don’t take my Grandma out for dinner anymore.” You say finishing the joke as everyone is left in stitches and crying of laughter. “Okay everyone, little 15 minute break so I can scream into the void, and you can all get another drink, cigarette, have a quickie, whatever … and then I will be back to for the Q&A so there is still time to tweet me a question or think of one and I’ll pick on you in the second half!” You say and walk off stage leaving everyone laughing and clapping.

“Her material is so clever, she swears but it’s not offending anyone.” Shemar says.

“Have you asked a question Matthew?” A.J asks

“No. I can’t think of anything.” Matthew lied

“Are you single? Asking for a friend. #asky/nshit” A slightly tipsy Paget tweets

“No don’t tweet it...” Matthew said trying to grab Paget’s phone off her.

“It’s gone lover boy.” Joe laughed

“I need a drink.” Matthew groaned

“Coming right up.” Thomas said and went to the bar with Shemar and Kirsten

“Delete that. Please.” Matthew pleaded to Paget

“Nu-uh. It’s time you got out there Matthew.” Paget winked

15 minutes later the show starts again, as does the Q&A

“Okay so first question, from @TomS89, what is your favourite TV show? Oh that’s easy… Criminal Minds.” You smile, winking at the cast but choose not to say they’re in the audience.

You go through a few more questions, “Ha this one made me laugh from @pagetpaget Are you single? Asking for a friend. Paget, I’m a single pringle. Your friend can talk to me as long as he’s cute.” You smile, wondering who her friend could be.

You continue your questions for the remaining 20 minutes, overrunning slightly as you were thanking the team at the venue for everything that they did for you. “Thanks guys! I’ll hopefully be back soon! If anyone has any recommendations for what I should do, please tweet them to me, I’m here another week.” You say, bow and walk off stage and the lights go back up as everyone applauds.

“My cheeks hurt laughing from laughing so much.” Kirsten said, as Shemar wrapped his arm around her waist as Matthew looked down, wishing he had someone special to do that to.

“Do you mean your ass cheeks or your facial cheeks?” A.J asked laughing

“Both.” Kirsten laughed

“Anyone up for a drink at the bar down the road? We don’t have filming tomorrow.” Thomas suggested

“Sure.” Everyone agrees and heads to the bar.

“We should have tweeted asking if she’d join us at the bar.” A.J said nudging Matthew

At the bar

“Is that… No way...” Kirsten said, with her jaw dropping.

To be continued!

Taglist: @pumpkin-goob , @jpegjade , @andiebeaword , @hopebaker , @hotchsbabygirl , @hercleverboy , @cupcake525 , @gubetube , @aperrywilliams , @cosmic-psychickitty , @marleyhotchner

#criminal minds fic #Matthew Gray Gubler #shemar moore #Thomas Gibson #paget brewster #kirsten vangsness #aj cook #joe mantegna #Matthew Gray Gubler fiction #Matthew Gray Gubler fluff #my fics

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panther-of-shadows · 5 years

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Too late, JJ

#jennifer jareau #emily prentiss #penelope garcia #aaron hotchner #spencer reid #derek morgan #david rossi #aj cook #jemily #jeid #criminal minds #mentes criminales #s01e22 #i have a huge crush on her actually #crush #crush quotes #fictional characters

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forasecondtherewedwon · 3 years

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Guest Side Story

Fandom: The Falcon and the Winter Soldier Pairing: Bucky Barnes/Sarah Wilson Rating: T Word Count: 3214

Summary: Sam told Bucky not to flirt with Sarah. But this is her house, so Bucky's pretty sure she makes the rules.

Bucky’s missed white lies. Ones that don’t hurt anybody.

“Is that cigarette smoke I smell on your coat, James Barnes?” “No, Ma. ’Course not.”

“And you’re sure this dame knows it’s my arm she’ll be on?” “Sure, Steve. She’s been after me to fix the two of you up for weeks.”

Stuff like that.

Past few years, Bucky’s either been transparent or a brick wall, all lies or all truth. Which one he loses more sleep over just depended on the day. The most human thing, he’s learning, is to work with a little of both: fact and fiction. Give something here, hold something back there. Lying doesn’t have to be mean-spirited and telling the truth doesn’t have to make him feel hollow and guilty. Maybe you can only realize this kinda thing when you find your way home, even if the home isn’t yours.

Bucky’s standing in the kitchen listening to Cass teach him how to fish. It’s purely theoretical, no gear involved, just the overexaggerated motion of Cass’s arm as he mimes casting. Laughing, Bucky lightly grabs the boy’s elbow before it can collide with the refrigerator on an especially big swing. Cass downsizes his demonstration without pausing the excited flow of his instructions.

AJ catches Bucky’s eye; from the look on his face, he’s beginning to suspect that Bucky might already know how to fish. While Cass is focused hard on his hands pretending to show how to fit live bait onto a hook, Bucky smiles at AJ over the smaller boy’s head and raises a finger to his lips. White lies. Let Cass believe he’s the expert.

When Cass is winding down, Bucky moves around him with a grin, carrying an empty plate to the sink.

“I got it!” AJ declares, whisking it from Bucky’s hand and pumping a squirt of dish soap in the center while his other hand runs the hot water.

Cass slotted the Pop-Tarts the plate lately held into the toaster for him (no better end-of-the-day snack, Bucky was told) and now AJ’s cleaning up. They’re a hospitable family, all day long. No phoniness, no insincere offers of help that they’re hoping Bucky won’t take them up on. He actually had to race the kids to the shed to store a toolbox earlier. On the boat, Bucky has room to put in the effort for the Wilsons, but inside the walls of their home he’s not allowed to do a damn thing because he’s a guest. Per square foot of property, he doesn’t think he’s ever been treated this well in someone else’s house.

“Fine,” Bucky concedes, “but I’m doing all the dishes tomorrow—breakfast, lunch, and dinner. And don’t get up early to drink a glass of orange juice and try to wash it before I’m awake, ’cause I’ll be listening.”

The boys giggle and Bucky leans against the counter, hovering while AJ hands the plate off for Cass to wipe dry and pretending not to listen to Sam and Sarah talking in the next room.

…But there isn’t a full wall separating the kitchen from the living room and Sam knows Bucky’s hearing’s good, right? He doesn’t think they’re discussing anything that private and if Sam’s annoyed with him later for what he supposes Bucky might’ve heard, Bucky’ll just offer up another white lie and swear he couldn’t hear a thing. And Sarah… Sarah wouldn’t think any worse of him if she knew. Bucky imagines she’d have a lot of compassion for his frequent urge to give Sam a hard time just for the hell of it. He flicks a quick glance over his shoulder, just to see her, and concentrates on what they’re saying, giving himself vague permission because he overheard his name.

“This was your idea,” Sarah’s saying. “You brought the stray cat home, just like when we were kids.”

“Don’t compare him to something cute,” Sam complains. Bucky’s mouth tenses to keep his smile from spreading too far.

“He is a guest in my home, Sam, and he’s more than earned it after the work he’s been putting in with the boat.”

“And what about the work you’ve been putting in watching him do that work?”

“Sam. Grow up.” Sarah’s voice is playful and Bucky almost turns, wondering what her expression looks like.

“So you’ve just been appreciating his skill with a wrench and some sandpaper,” Sam says skeptically.

“If I’m also appreciating his shoulders in that shirt— if—” she emphasizes when Sam tries to interrupt, “—it’s nobody’s business but mine.”

“Ok, you definitely can’t have him sleeping on the couch.”

“What do you think I’m gonna do? Try to sneak him to my bedroom after lights out? With you listening, trying to catch us? Uh uh. Your sister is a grown woman with two children, a home, and a boat she couldn’t manage to sell, and she can lust where she damn well pleases.”

Bucky snorts out a laugh and AJ gives him a funny look. Kid’s too perceptive.

“He’s tricky,” Sam lectures. “You can’t see it, but I do. I’ve been around him a hell of a lot more. You think he smiles like that at everybody? If he smiles at me at all, I gotta assume he just looked up and saw a meteor hurtling towards where we’re standing and is only smiling because we’ve got seconds to live and I won’t be able to tell anybody.”

“You are hilarious.”

“No, I’m not.”

“You’re telling me your friend is charming. That’s what you’re describing. Don’t I deserve to be charmed? Where else is he gonna sleep, huh? With you? In one of the boys’ little beds while they share the other one? Because I know you’re not suggesting we skip the pretense and put him right in with me.”

Sam lets out a noise of obvious frustration.

“Time to intervene,” Bucky tells Cass and AJ, leaving them to swap confused shrugs in the kitchen as he saunters into the living room.

“Hey,” Sam greets stonily, arms crossed over his chest.

Just for fun, Bucky decides to be all the friendlier.

“It’s so great of you to put me up. Thanks, Sarah. This beats a hotel by a mile.”

“Our gourmet kitchen does offer an impressive range of sugary cereal,” she jokes. “I might even cook you boys a special breakfast tomorrow before you head back to the dock.”

Bucky’s grin widens.

“Oh yeah? I wouldn’t wanna—”

“No, it’s no trouble—”

“Well, that would be—”

“Both of you stop it,” Sam orders.

“Sam, go outside,” Sarah orders right back. “Play some tag with your nephews.”

“Sarah, I’m beat. We’ve been working on that boat all day.”

“Mhmm, you and the rest of the neighbourhood. You worked all day and you come home and there’s still two kids to entertain. But guess what?” She smiles deviously at her brother and throws a few fake punches at his stomach. “You’re Sam Wilson, the Falcon! Looks like you’re special after all. Me and Bucky here know you’ve still got some gas in the tank. Go on.”

Sam looks fairly planted to the spot as he glares from his sister to Bucky, but he eventually moves with a lurching step.

“I’m gonna be right outside,” he warns.

Bucky sidesteps out of his path and says nothing, though it’s hard to resist the instinct to egg him on.

“We’re gonna have a super-secret discussion about which towels he can use,” Sarah goads at her brother’s back.

Sam ignores her, corralling his nephews in the kitchen and guiding them out the door into the fading daylight with a hand on each of their narrow backs.

“Great kids,” Bucky observes.

Sarah nods, watching her family disappear, then turns to him.

“We’re not really gonna talk about towels.”

“No?”

Bucky’s eyebrows rise in surprise and delighted anticipation until Sarah grabs a folded blanket off the back of the couch and passes it to him.

“We’re making up the couch.”

“Oh.”

This is ok too. Actually, really nice, standing next to Sarah and unfolding the blanket as she stuffs a pillow into a clean case. Her eyes find his already on her and he swears he almost blushes; he’s been smoothing out the same crease in this blanket for a good thirty seconds with no result, just watching her easy movements, the way she flips her braids back when they fall forward over her shoulder.

“I hope you’re comfortable,” she says, lingering once they’re done.

“I woulda slept on the floor. A closet, even, like Harry Potter.”

“You read Harry Potter? Don’t tell the boys—they’ll be bugging you to play wizards with them.”

Bucky laughs and shakes his head.

“Nah, I just watched the movie.”

“Which one?”

“There’s more than one?”

“You really better not bring it up then,” Sarah advises. “They’d try to tell you everything at once.”

“Yeah, wouldn’t want to get in out of my depth.”

It feels like a significant look they exchange after his words. Bucky wants it to be—he thinks he does—but he feels awkward, romantically clumsy. Heartstrings tied together like shoelaces, waiting to trip him up. He’s been telling himself she’s only being kind, but after eavesdropping on her conversation with Sam, he knows she’s interested. In his shoulders at the very minimum. Was that right? His shoulders? Just in case, Bucky does his best to square them. Can’t hurt.

He’s fucking ecstatic when Sarah does glance down briefly, her gaze returning to his face with something flustered in it. Sure, she’s a mom and she runs a business, but it’s like she told Sam: she deserves to be charmed. Bucky’s not entirely sure he’s doing it right though.

“So,” she says, “Sam was just being a pain when he tried to convince me you can’t sleep on the couch because you’ve got a bad back, right?”

Bucky sighs but keeps smiling. It’s natural in her presence.

“I’d say that’s him making old-man jokes about me.”

“I apologize for my brother and his bad manners.”

“Ah, he’s not totally wrong,” he concedes, perching on the arm of the couch. “These last few birthdays have required more candles than you could fit on a cake.”

“Then you just have to get yourself a bigger cake.”

Bucky laughs.

“I guess optimism’s pretty much a family trait?”

“We work at it. They say you need to take the good with the bad, but they don’t tell you that means creating the good out of nothing a lot of the time, if you want any at all. The Wilsons worked that out some time ago, so we mostly do alright.”

“It’s a good feeling to be around,” he tells Sarah earnestly. Clearing his throat, he gets to his feet. “Feels good, being around you.”

“We’re… I’m happy you could stay with us.”

The light’s softened in the room and her voice has gone with it. Bucky shifts on his feet.

“It’s a pleasure to be here,” he assures her.

Sarah’s eyelashes flutter when she looks from his mouth to his eyes. Probably too try-hard to bite his lip now. God, Sam thinks Bucky’s so suave with Sarah, but it feels like he’s only got one move and it’s fucking smiling. Some Casanova he is. Sarah, meanwhile, is beautiful and authoritative and generous and moving closer to toss the pillow he’ll rest his head on tonight onto the couch.

“Anything else you need to be comfortable?” she asks, gaze slipping from one of his eyes to the other. “Another pillow? Pajamas?”

“I’ve got some, but…”

“But?”

Sarah gives him a questioning look and Bucky starts summoning the courage to make a move. He’ll touch her waist—no, take her hand. He’ll cup her sweet face so there’s no doubt what he means.

“But,” he picks up, “if I get cold in the night…”

There’s longing in her eyes, Bucky knows it, but Sam bangs in the screen door right then, one nephew squealing where he’s been slung over Sam’s shoulder.

“Well,” Sam announces loudly to the house at large, “that’s it! No more gas in the tank! Everybody get to bed!”

Sarah appears sorry as she steps back. Bucky almost reaches out to pull her in, to take another shot with another lousy line. Shit, he’s bad at this.

“There are more blankets in the hall closet,” she says, and slips away.

“Thank you,” he calls after her.

Sam walks past, Cass still dangling upside-down over his back while AJ runs ahead, and watches Bucky like a hawk (or some other bird of prey) as he digs through his overnight bag. What’s Sam expecting him to pull out? A strip of condoms? Bucky extracts a green toothbrush and holds it up with an expression of fake wonder. Sam rolls his eyes and heads off down the hall.

They are going to bed early, barely 9pm. That’s probably late for the kids though. Bucky’s pleasantly weary after a day outdoors, more working than talking, feeling like part of something as the Wilsons’ community came together to repair the boat. Seeing Sarah throughout. Flashing Bucky a smile while she spoke to a neighbour, grasping his outstretched hand to let him help her aboard so she could see their progress, checking Sam’s work like she’s his foreman while Bucky grinned and watched the siblings good-naturedly pick at each other. Sam was probably out like a light and Bucky should be too.

He’s not.

He can’t get to sleep right away, but it’s peaceful to lie here on the couch, on his back, while the house gets dark and darker. Sarah left the nearest window cracked for him and a gentle breeze washes in with the chirp of insects. Bucky’s already looking forward to being woken by the sun streaming through in the morning. It’d be good to get from now to daylight in a single stretch of sleep; that’s what he fantasizes about while he lies on his back: no nightmares. His head’s propped up by the pillow he tells himself smells like Sarah, though it probably just smells like her laundry soap.

It’s hard to put his finger on what’s missing, why he can’t fall asleep, until he hears the soft shuffle of footsteps on carpet. They’re too close together to be Sam’s—either hesitant or made by child-sized feet. Bucky cranes his neck around, expecting to see someone walk past on their way to the kitchen for a glass of water. His gaze roams over nothing for a minute, then he slumps back as the footsteps retreat. Maybe it was Sam after all, getting up to look in on his nephews or something. It’s the sorta thing Bucky would do if he were an uncle; he’d treasure the time with those kids, try to remember everything about his visit so he could hang on to it when he found himself half a world away, in Berlin or Riga or Madripoor.

He’s settling, trapping the blanket against his chest with a heavy hand, when he hears the footsteps approach again. Then back away seconds later. Slowly, Bucky starts to smile to himself. It’s Sarah. Can only be her. She’s either trying to psych herself up to come in here and talk to him and failing, or trying to resist venturing down the hall and succeeding.

On her next attempt, she gets closer, and Bucky sits up, kicking the blanket aside, and drops his feet to the floor in anticipation of her rounding the corner. He’s nervously gripping the couch cushion on either side of his knees when she does.

“You sneaking past Sam?” he asks quietly.

Sarah jumps, pressing a hand to her chest.

“You scared me. I wasn’t sure you’d be awake.”

Bucky shrugs, dreamily fixated on her smile. One of her neighbours turns on their porchlight and now Sarah can probably see his smile too.

“Couldn’t sleep,” he says.

“Shoot. Did you need something else?”

Kinda funny how she’s pretending she was coming out here for another reason and is just making a detour for him. He knows better, but he’s got enough remnants of being a gentleman not to call her out on it.

“Nah. It’s nothing to do with you.” Bucky stares at her a few seconds and changes his mind. “You know what? Actually, it is you.”

“What is?” Sarah asks with a hushed, confused laugh.

“The reason I can’t get to sleep. Sarah…”

But she smiles and does what he did to the boys earlier—holds a finger to her lips.

With the confidence of a woman at ease in her own home and her own body, she steps forward. She wore a yellow t-shirt today, but the one she wears now is pale pink. It’s loose and worn and reveals the strong, elegant curve of her shoulder when she moves and it slips. Gazing up at her, Bucky shifts until he feels the back of the couch. His hands hover in the air as Sarah digs one knee, then the other, into the cushion on either side of him. She lowers herself onto his thighs.

Moving slow like the hour, deep like the black sky, Bucky runs his hands up her back.

Sarah’s palms land on his shoulders and, smiling, she confesses to him, “I like these.”

He’s smirking when she ducks her head to kiss him.

Now that he has her here—on his lap, in his arms—Bucky forgets every way he wanted to touch her earlier. How he was gonna woo her with tender contact applied just right. Well, thank god for Sarah. She sets the pace of the kiss and, when his hands go still at her upper back, reaches around to bring one of them back down to her waist. He can feel that there’s no bra beneath her shirt.

“Rusty,” he breathes when their mouths slide apart.

“You were on that old boat all day,” she reminds him. “You know I’ve got patience for rusty.”

Still, Bucky wants to do a little better, prove that maybe he’s what she had in mind when she decided he was worth smiling at. He cradles Sarah closer, pulling her in, dipping his fingers into the valley of her spine when she arches into him. They kiss firmer, then faster. At her quick nod of encouragement, he moves his hands to her hips. Lower.

“Sarah?” Sam slurs sleepily from down the hall. “You outta bed?”

Sarah presses a hand to Bucky’s chest and pushes off his lap, other hand over her mouth to muffle her laughter. He chuckles too.

“As the Falcon, timing is one of his greatest strengths.”

“And as his sister,” Sarah counters, “it gets on my last nerve.”

“Well, I didn’t wanna say that, but…” Bucky grins.

“Sarah?” Sam calls out again.

She sighs.

“Is he trying to wake the boys?” She takes a step away from the couch, wearing a regretful smile. “I better go.”

Bucky catches himself before he can blurt out I’ll miss you. Overeager fool.

“See you in the morning?” Sarah checks, something shy about her now, but not in a bad way. Cautiously hopeful, Bucky thinks. He’s been feeling that way himself.

He gives her one more smile for the road.

“You bet.”

#my writing #tfatws #tfatws spoilers #The Falcon and the Winter Soldier #Bucky Barnes #bucky x sarah #Sarah Wilson

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ryttu3k · 2 years

Text

Listing my TBR! Italicised books I own. Last updated - 30 December 2023. Current total - 81.

Future releases that will be day-one reads (2)

Muir, Tamsyn - Alecto the Ninth (The Locked Tomb #4), due 2024 - *HEAVY BREATHING*

Tingle, Chuck - Bury Your Gays, due 16 July 2024

Series (13)

Butler, Octavia E - Parable of the Sower; Parable of the Talents (Earthseed #1-2) - classic cli-fi

Leckie, Ann - Ancillary Justice; Ancillary Sword; Ancillary Mercy (Imperial Radch #1-3) - wildly award-winning AI-heavy space opera

Mejia, Tehlor Kay - We Set The Dark On Fire; We Unleash The Merciless Storm (We Set The Dark On Fire #1-2) - queer dystopia

Wells, Martha - Artificial Condition; Rogue Protocol; Exit Strategy; Network Effect; Fugitive Telemetry, System Collapse (The Murderbot Diaries #2-7) - one of the best robot protags around. Most novellas, aside from Network Effect

Standalone Fiction (60)

Anthology - Bioluminescent - lunarpunk

Anthology - Bound In Flesh - trans body horror

Anthology - Fighting For The Future - solarpunk meets cyberpunk

Anthology - It Keeps Getting Better - positively queer sci fi

Anthology - Longsummer Nights - paranormal romance, much of it queer

Anthology - Luminescent Machinations - queer bodies and technology

Anthology - Made to Order: Robots & Revolution - as does this

Anthology - Other Terrors - inclusive horror

Anthology - Out There: Into The Queer New Yonder - futuristic queer SFF

Ancrum, K - Icarus - thief gets his heart stolen

Angus, Callum - A Natural History Of Transition - short story collection about transitioning and transformation

Aoki, Ryka - Light from Uncommon Stars - found family in space, ‘Good Omens meets A Long Way To A Small Angry Planet’

Baldree, Travis - Bookshops & Bonedust - set in the same ‘verse as Legends & Lattes!

Basu, Samit - The City Inside - dystopia in a future Dehli

Basu, Samit - The Jinn-Bot of Shantiport - many robots

Candon, Emma Mieko - The Archive Undying - tfw you’re the favourite of an AI god

Carey, MR - The Book of Koli - planty post-apoc

Chen, Mike - Vampire Weekend - vampire babysits mortal relative

Clarke, Susanna - Piranesi - self-discovery through Spooky Houses

Dunn, Mark - Ella Minnow Pea - does fascinating things with language

Edgmon, HE - The Witch King - features a trans witch king of a fae kingdom

Fellman, Isaac - Dead Collections - queer vampire library romance

Fowley-Doyle, Moira - Eyes Guts Throat Bones - nice messed-up short story collection

Gibson, William - Neuromancer - literally the first cyberpunk

Hackwith, AJ - The Library of the Unwritten - unfinished books in Hell and the characters that inhabit them

Harlan, Kathryn - Fruiting Bodies - queer horror about mushrooms

Hoffman, Ada - The Outside - AI-heavy plot with autistic protag

Ishiguro, Kazuo - Klara and the Sun - robots!

Jackson, Shirley - We Have Always Lived In The Castle - gothic and mysterious

Jamieson, Trent - Day Boy - what happens when vampire servants grow up

Johnson, Alaya Dawn - The Summer Prince - radical art and queer, polyam romance

Kelly, Anita - Love & Other Disasters - lighthearted queer romance during a cooking competition, NB PC

Lake, Joss - Future Feeling - future magic with trans protags

Lamb, Sacha - When The Angels Left The Old Country - queer Jewish historical fantasy

Lemberg, RB - The Unbalancing - got it on the shelf!

Lukens, FT - In Deeper Water - princes and pirates

Mandel, Emily St John - Sea of Tranquility - time travel and metaphysics

McLemore, Anna-Marie - Lakelore - dreamy lake fantasy with two NB and neurodiverse protags

McQuiston, Casey - One Last Stop - time-travelling queer romance

Newitz, Annalee - The Future of Another Timeline - time travelling SFF

Pinsker, Sarah - A Song For A New Day - illegal concerts in dystopian settings

Polydoros, Aden - The City Beautiful - mystery with Jewish mythology

Quills, Coffee - Blasted Research - poly relationship in a post-apoc wasteland

Robinson, Kim Stanley - Aurora - AI generation ship

Roehrig, Caleb - The Fell of Dark - queer vampire mystery

Scalzi, John - The Kaiju Preservation Society - protecting ‘the universe’s largest and most dangerous panda’

Shelley, Mary - Frankenstein - you know what this one is about

Skrutskie, Emily - Bonds of Brass - the author basically went "what if I wrote Poe/Finn but it wasn't terrible?" and I deeply respect that

Sonderby, Kaia - Failure to Communicate - xenolinguistics with an autistic protag

St Hogan, Carter - One or Several Deserts - collection of queer bodies on the margins

Sterling, Isabel - The Coldest Touch - queer vampire + psychic romance while also solving mysteries

Stephenson, Neal - Snow Crash - if Neuromancer started cyberpunk, Snow Crash codified like... a lot of it

Thomas, Morgan - Manywhere: Stories - Southern queer stories

Weir, Andy - Project Hail Mary - listen I goddamn loved The Martian

White, Andrew Joseph - The Spirit Bares Its Teeth - author has owned my ass since Hell Followed With Us

Wigmore, Rem - Wolfpack - sequel to Foxhunt

Wilde, Oscar - The Portrait of Dorian Gray - technically this is SFF

Wilkes, Ally - All The White Spaces - mystery in Antarctica, features trans PC

Wong, Khan - The Circus Infinite - circus on the moon, ace MC

Wuehle, Candice - Monarch - former beauty queens vs the deep state

Nonfiction (6)

Anders, Charlie Jane - Never Say You Can't Survive - storytelling when the world is on fire

Gay, Ross - The Book of Delights: Essays - optimistic and hopeful

Nezhukumatathil, Aimee - World of Wonders - the natural world is neato

Pollack, John - The Pun Also Rises - nonfiction entirely about puns this is a requirement

Pullman, Philip - Daemon Voices - on crafts

Sheldrake, Merlin - Entangled Life - mushrooms!

#to do list #tbr #books

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