#and still manage to ride 11 miles in an hour

[yellobb]

Y’all I just found out about the 1904 Olympics marathon and I am losing my mind over how batshit insane it was. Buckle up y’all because this is one hell of a story

For some historical context, the 1904 Olympics were held in St. Louis and it was the first Olympics hosted in the U.S. It was paired up with the 1904 World’s Fair, so there was a hell of a lot going on in the city at the time

First, let’s meet some of our contestants:

American Thomas Hicks and four other Americans were all experienced marathoners

American Fred Lorz, who was able to compete after placing in a “special five mile race” sponsored by the Amateur Athletic Association. He did all his training at night

Ten Greeks who had never run a marathon before

Two South African men from the Tsuana tribe who were in St. Louis as part of the World’s Fair. They were apparently the first black Africans to compete in the Olympics, which is super cool. Less cool was the fact that they weren’t wearing any shoes

Cuban Félix Carbajal, a 5ft (1.5m) tall man who had fundraised his journey to the Olympics. This man got to New Orleans, lost all his money on a dice game, then had to walk and hitchhike his way to St. Louis. Mind you, that is almost 700 miles. He shows up to the race, having not eaten in 40 hours, dressed like THIS:

This man gets another bullet point because apparently his trousers were all the way down to his boots when he got there. Another Olympian took pity on him and cut them with scissors

Now for the race itself. It is in the 90s (32 degrees Celsius) and humid. For some god awful reason, they decided to start the race at 3pm, so it’s the hottest part of the day. The course is only 24.85 miles (40km) long instead of a standard 26.2, but that doesn’t mean this was an easier race. On the fucking contrary, it was hellish. I’ll let the Smithsonian article about this explain it because they do it much better than I ever could:

Now, I’ve never ran a marathon before, but I looked it up and the current recommendation is that water stations are placed every two miles.

The race is a go and things are off to a nasty start. American William Garcia almost becomes the first fatality of an Olympic event because he inhaled so much dust that his stomach was hemorrhaging. He was found unconscious by the side of the road by a local couple and had to be hospitalized. Apparently he would have bled to death if he’d been left for an hour longer.

But the dust isn’t the only issue. Apparently, Len Taunyane, one of our South African participants, gets chased a mile off course by wild dogs. He still placed 9th.

Probably my favorite participant is our boy Félix. Félix was stopping to chat with spectators in the middle of an Olympic race. At one point he stopped a car because he saw that the riders were eating peaches and asked if he could have some. They refused, but he snatched two anyway and ate them while he ran. He later came across an orchard and stopped to eat some apples, but apparently the apples were rotten, so he got stomach cramps and took a nap. HE STILL GOT FOURTH PLACE. That’s how much of a shitshow this race was, and we’re not even done.

Fred Lorz starts getting cramps around the 9-mile mark and decides to hitch a ride with one of the cars that is guiding them. He’d been leading the charge for a while and was a crowd favorite to win.

The other leader of the pack and favorite to win, Thomas Hicks, started having to use a support crew at the 10-mile mark. He was begging them for water, but they refused. He somehow managed to keep trucking along, though.

Seven miles from the finish line, Hicks’ handlers started feeding him egg whites mixed with strychnine, which is literally rat poison. There were literally no rules against performance-enhancing drugs yet, so this was apparently above-board.

Lorz gets out of the car he was riding in after 11 miles and just,,,, kept running????? He finished the race and was declared the winner. He was about to be given a gold medal when “someone called an indignant halt to the proceedings with the charge that Lorz was an imposter.” Lorz claimed it was all a joke and that he wouldn’t have actually accepted the award, but was still banned from competing in future marathons. That is, of course, until this decision was overturned in time for him to run in and win the Boston Marathon the next year.

Now Hicks had seen Lorz pass by. He was not doing too hot at all, but finding out that Lorz had been disqualified and he was still in the lead helped his motivation. He was given another dose of egg whites and strychnine with some brandy to wash it down, which, sure. Why the fuck not at this point?

At this point, he began to hallucinate. He started to believe that he had 20 more miles left to go instead of just two. He kept begging for food and rest, but his handlers just gave him more brandy and two more egg whites because of course he was. By the time he made it to the finish line, he was literally being carried by his handlers while his feet shuffled, but that was apparently good enough and he was declared the winner.

It took four doctors and a full hour for Hicks to recover enough to even leave the area after the race. He apparently lost eight fucking pounds during the course of the race. Hicks pretty much retired from racing after that (I wonder why) and became a professional clown, which really is just the cherry on top

Of the 32 people who competed in the race, only 14 finished. After everything, they literally almost removed the marathon as an Olympic event because it was deemed “indefensible on any ground but historic,” and honestly? After reading all that fuckery, I can’t even blame them.

Another note about Félix, because this man baffles me: apparently he was sponsored by the Greek government to compete in a 1906 marathon in Athens, but he never turned up. Newspapers in Cuba claimed he died, but he just??? Showed up a year later in Havana perfectly fine. Turns out he managed to get the date of the marathon wrong.

Sources:

#m rambles #long post #history #Olympics #st. louis #circa 1904 #the more you know #I just needed to share this with you all #I almost just linked the articles I read but I felt impassioned to type everything out #what a wild ride

[jakesullysleftnipple]

Mission With Miles

Chapter 11: Decisions, Decisions pt.2 : 

“Well come on Lyle spit it out already.”

He grumbled as he tied a secure knot in your bandages before standing in front of Lyle. He was slightly annoyed that he interrupted you and him but little did he know the information he was about to receive would change the course of this mission.

“While you were with y/n we managed to locate the na’vi threshold, It’s far closer and larger than we assumed.”

He took one of the spare tablets to pull the coordinates of their base. Miles took the tablet and looked, Lyle was right, with the right equipment and faster transportation they could be there in less than 2 hours. He smiled down at the screen, nudging Lyle with his free hand.

“Well I’ll be damned, This is better than good this is great, we still have time left in the day so let’s check it out. Make sure it’s legit”

“Yes sir, I’ll gather the rest of the squad and you can give orders from there, glad to have you back sir.”

He said with a smile, now returning to his team and helping them tie up the na’vi. As Miles was busy examining the location and the best way to get there you were sitting on an overgrown tree root processing what happened. They found their base..? You question yourself as you think of what to do or even say. You were against killing, it wasn’t right especially to those who don’t deserve it. You knew exactly what would happen if they got to that base and the thought alone made your stomach churn. It would be something you couldn’t handle let alone participate in. You stared back up at Miles with his back turned to you. Thoughts ran wild in your head as all possible outcomes of that played out. Even if you were captured and almost killed by the na’vi it didn’t feel right to harm the natives of this land. It wasn’t in your nature to be a killer. What could you possibly do to stop this from happening? What could someone like you do to stop miles? Then the idea that could be the key to leaving mostly unharmed came to mind. Convince him not to go there and just head back to home base! You convinced him to ride the dire horse and he seemed to have a soft spot for you. You can use that to your advantage to get him to take you guys home. It was the best and sensible option too, you were sore and weakened. You were in no shape to fight again. Finally, you broke the silence and started to enact your plan to get home. 

“Hey sir, don’t you think it’s best we gather the final sample and then go to the threshold? We’ll complete the mission and then have more good news to bring back.”

“That would be ideal, yes. We’ll get your sample and then head there alright? You’ll be good now won’t you, your wounds aren’t too bad hm?”

He asked as his hand wrapped around your forearm tenderly, again that softness returning as he looked at you. He did care, care immensely about you. A small smile crept on his face as he awaited your answer, his tail lightly whipping with curiosity. Your cheeks grew warm from his closeness and kind behavior, even if he was like this with you more it still made your heart race. You return the smile to him and give your wounds one final examination before nodding yes. 

“I’ll be fine sir, let's finish this mission sooner rather than later.”

“Couldn’t agree more y/n, let’s get going.”

He said in that sweet tone of voice as he gave your arm one more firm squeeze and let go of your arm to focus on the mission at hand. He gathered up his men telling him the game plan for the remainder of the mission. They would gather the samples and once secured they would advance to the na’vi threshold and raid it. Hearing and seeing the thrill the squad members felt from getting the chance to raid that na’vi base made you feel out of place. You didn’t feel the thrill they felt, you had a distaste for this plan. You couldn’t bring yourself to try and act like it either, so as the others cheered with Miles there you stood, away from the group just watching them in solitude. In the moment the feeling of true detachment returned to you, You weren’t like them. If it weren’t for Lyle coming to get you, you still would’ve been stuck in dissection. You snapped out of it and put on your brave face, no need to dwell on that feeling anymore…Right?

Again you and the team venture through the thick jungles of Pandora but this time around you weren’t acting like you were on previous trips. Quiet and reserved you were as you traveled alongside Miles, simply taking in all of the life this planet had to offer. Not only was it weird for you but for Miles too. He expected to see that happy and upbeat version of yourself as you rambled on about the wildlife but that wasn’t the case. He didn’t think much of it at first, In fact, he didn’t pay you much mind as he was busy with Lyle and catching up with him. You caught his attention from the lack of conversation the moment that he and Lyle’s conversation ended. So he stepped up and decided to ask you about it.

“You alright? Mighty quiet this time around.”

“huh?Oh yeah…sorry, just ya know, thinking to myself.”

“What about exactly? Care to share?”

Again with a soft-spoken tone, something about it expresses more than just a soft spot for you but concern. He gestured Lyle forward to give you both a bit more privacy. His tail gently rubbed against your leg, it wasn’t the first time it happened but he still didn’t know how to control it. You looked back up at him, nervously nipping at the skin on your lip thinking whether or not you should ask him this. A few more moments of silence pass before you finally get the courage to ask him a question that would interfere with his intel plan.

“Do you want to harm the na’vi because you want to or because it’s what you were told to do?”

He was stunned, what kind of question is that? He wondered to himself as he continued to walk forward but his mind was frozen. The question played on a loop in his head as he tried to decipher its meaning. It may have been a simple ask but it made him question his morals a bit. Before he dived down deeper in this mental rabbit hole he shook his head and just gave you an unsure smile. His eyes tightened and the smile he gave looked tight and tense. He was uncertain. 

“That is a uh…interesting question. Why do you ask?”

“..Just curious that’s all. Forget I asked.”

You mumbled the last bit of your sentence as you dismissively waved your hands. You cracked a nervous smile for me hoping you could shake the feeling you felt. But it didn’t help. Even more, the silence was exchanged between you both, you both wanted to speak but y’all were tongue-tied. Just as Miles was about to attempt to make conversation you cut him off and spoke again.

“I don’t want to stop this mission nor complete it unsatisfied. But seeing the way you act with me and then the way you act with your squad, it makes me think..what do you want to do?”

You waited for his response, hoping that he’d have a slight change of heart. He was a brutal and harsh leader but over the past few days, you’ve seen a side of him that most people haven’t. A side that was caring, mindful, and kind. You weren’t a killer, you couldn’t bring yourself to harm the natives or other inhabitants. That wasn’t in your nature and you thought for a second that Miles too didn’t want to either but did it because that was the only thing he was good at. The thing he was told to do. You inched closer to him slowly wrapping your small hand around his much larger hand. Gripping it a bit as you leaned closer to him, still awaiting for that answer you wanted. But right as you felt him about to speak Lyle came around again. This time to inform Miles they were close to the last stop point. You quickly retracted your hand and buried it into your pocket. Miles didn’t want you to let go, he loved the feeling of your warmth on his cold skin. But there were more important things at hand. He and Lyle once again chatted for a bit about the plans while you waited beside him.  You didn’t want to be a bother so you quickly told Miles you were going to the front of the group. He tried to pull you back or tell you no but got wrapped up back in his and Lyle’s conversation. You didn’t want to be a bother but Miles enjoyed it. Every second he could get to talk to you he enjoyed, you gave him a feeling of bliss he’s rarely experienced. He craved it, He craved you, but you felt like he didn’t. Instead of trying to convince him otherwise you decided to focus on the mission at hand while he stayed with Lyle. Now that you two were spilt up it gave miles time to ponder once again on that question you asked him. "Do you want to harm the na’vi because you want to or because it’s what you were told to do?” The question stung and lingered, he knew for a fact that he was doing his job. He knew his purpose as a colonel but did he enjoy it? Did he feel the same way as his human body felt about this? He was.. unsure. Now he had to figure that answer out for himself. 

The last stop 

“We’re here boss!”

Lyle shouted out as you entered the final stop before you headed to the final point, the discovered Na’vi threshold. You squeezed and pushed yourself forward through the crowds of people. And there it was, the final sample you needed. Binary Sunshine. Without hesitating you walked into the area that was bustling with these plants. It wasn’t as open as other areas were, and it was a bit cluttered but thanks to the formation of the plants there were small pathways you and the others could fit through while harvesting these plants. This area was thriving with all types of plants, some dangerous and some harmless, even so, this was what you needed to feel like yourself again. Your smile came back and your body shook with joy as you came in contact with the plants. You whipped your head around to speak but there everyone stood in confusion. They were expecting you to say something but you froze, the sudden attention and judging eyes made you stiffen. Your heart raced as you stammered your words together, making no sense. Your face burned bright red from embarrassment as your eyes frantically looked at their faces. Some were talking and others snickering at you. You could feel your brain and body shortcircuit as you tried to speak but it was no use, thankfully someone noticed your struggle. Miles did, he moved through the crowd of people toward you. Once in front of the group he gave you a small nod and rested his hand on your back. 

“I don’t take disrespect nor do I like it when my comrades are being disrespectful to someone new in our squad. Give them your attention or you’ll have to deal with me once we rotate back home. Understood?”

He snarled as he gripped the gun holster on his side while glaring at his group, his glare more harsh to the ones who laughed at you. In unison, all of them said “Yes Sir!” They patiently waited for you to give them instructions. Your body no longer shook but still was stiff from Miles. He gently rubbed your back, he looked down at you giving you a look that told you it was okay, and continued. You nodded and took a big and deep breath, you were still nervous but more confident thanks to him. 

“..These plants are called.. Binary Sunshine or Penghrrap which translates to Danger Teller in Na’vi. In…Instead of just taking samples we’ll need the whole plant. So get the smaller plants, dig them up from the roots, and put them in their labeled pouches. Only take 10 plants, that should be enough.”

“Alright you heard em, get to work!”

The squad was divided into small groups and were each given pouches for the plants. Swiftly they collected the plants and packaged them up carefully there was something oddly amusing about seeing the usually hostile recom members carefully pick plants. You smiled and laughed a bit as you watched them work. Miles was too busy looking at you, seeing that happy expression of yours return felt like a relief to him. He rubbed your back once more before pulling his hand back from you to do something else. He leaned down towards you seeming to ask you something.

“What’s so special about these plants here y/n?”

He was taking an interest in the things you like, usually, you would tell him about them later but this time he asked you first, His voice was low was soft but full of genuine interest. He smiled at you and waited for you to ramble on about them. 

“Oh, like I said before they’re called Binary Sunshine or danger tellers since the leaves can change color depending on the surroundings. So if there is danger nearby it’ll change color and since they glow in the dark they’re like lamps.”

You continued to tell him about the plants, that nervousness dissipating due to how comfortable you felt with him. He listened attentively, keeping his eyes on you as well as his ears. Since there were others around he didn’t have to be so attivent to the surroundings. He enjoyed the sound of your voice and how happy it sounded every time you explained something new to him, it was one way he was able to calm down a little while on this mission. This interaction was soon cut short by Lyle once again. How inconvenient. Miles thought to himself as he stood back up fully and waited for Lyle's next words.

“We got all the samples, they’re packed and ready to go. Ready to make the next move boss?”

The air seemed to get thicker from his question. His tail stopped moving and his ears tilted back a little. Miles Squad stood behind Lyle as they waited for his next order. They smiled with anticipation, grinning in malicious excitement as they thought of storming the Na’vi threshold and taking it over by any means necessary. Miles stood tall and prideful as he thought of his answer. Figuring out the way to say this. You however weren’t thrilled by the question, because you knew the answer. It was inevitable, he was going to go to that Na’vi base and you’d have to pracitpate or lose your job…You all stood in tense silence as you listened for his next words.

“...We..We are heading home boys. We’ll heal up, tell General Ardmore of our findings, and bring more men out. That way we have a better chance at winning and taking control.”

More silence. Confused mumbles were exchanged throughout the group. Their thrilled faces switched to ones of confusion and disappointment. You were just as startled as the rest of them, mouth hanging agape as you looked at him. Lyle rushed up to him gripping onto Miles arm’s slightly. He looked at him in disbelief. 

“I thought we were going to their base sir, whats the game change??”

“Don’t step out of line Weinfleet. We still going, just need to get more men and get patched up. All you know is their location, you’ve yet to give me any numbers or what else they have there. So until then, we are going home.”

“…Understood sir.”

He was displeased with the sudden turn of events but he wasn’t going to argue. Lyle informed the other members of the changes of plans while also encouraging them that they would get to storm the base at a later date. Thankfully they were too disappointed and understood his sudden change. What they didn’t know was that you were the reason he changed his mind. While walking here he had plenty enough time to think of the question you asked him. He couldn’t seem to figure it out truly, there was some hesitance as he thought about storming the base yet he still wanted to. So he postponed the raid. If he still wanted to he could gather more men but if he didn’t want to he could get Lyle to do it. He was a great solider and a grea-

“Why did you change your mind?”

You interpreted his train of thought with a tug on his shirt and a puzzled expression. He looked down at you, being brought back to reality. Before he could answer your question he called Lyle and asked him to call in the dropship. Once that was handled he leaned down lower, a bit closer to you so only you could hear him. The look he gave you was tender, you asked yourself how can a man like him give anyone such a tender and sweet look. You clasped your hands behind your back as you nervously nipped the skin on your lip. If it wasn’t your red cheeks that told him you were flustered it was everything else. He smirked at you, his tail whipping back and forth as he continued to look at you with that tender, heartfelt expression. Then he whispers his answer. 

“You sure do know how to make a man change his mind, y/n.”

#miles quaritch #avatar miles quaritch #atwow fanfiction #atwow #quaritch miles #atwow x reader #avatar the way of water #avatar twow #miles quaritch fanfiction #avatar 2022

[chelleinyy]

The Difference Between a Gray and Coloured Photograph-2

CHAPTER II

The clock struck 12:00, and still, there was no response from her. Had Celine possibly turned down her invitation? Was the anger from their last heated encounter lingering, causing a rift between them? Because of their last meeting which was a dispute last year? Greta's heart pounded with nervous anticipation, dreading the possibility. She had been waiting in the hotel lobby since 11:05, the weight in her chest growing heavier with each passing minute.

Surrounded by unfamiliar faces, the elite of Concordia, Greta felt out of place. She should have been in Century Mile, alongside her fellow inventors. But no, ever since she disembarked from the ship two weeks ago, she had been whisked away to Wolf Street by her companions. If only it had been someone like Celine, Orville, or even Stanley who had found her first, then she wouldn't feel so disoriented and lost.

Fidgeting with her pocket watch, checking the time repeatedly, countless people passed by, offering their warm greetings, messages of hope, and adoration. Greta could only manage a nod and a murmured thank you in response.

"Ah, Miss Gundwood! It's delightful to see you here again this year!"

"Your camera has the potential to revolutionize the world of photography!"

"We're absolutely thrilled to have you, Miss. Hopefully, your camera will be the one to grace the shelves in mass production."

Each comment carried a mix of excitement and expectation, but Greta's heart yearned for one specific voice, the one she longed to hear above all others. She yearned for Celine's arrival, desperately hoping that their meeting would happen.

Her eyes darting to different directions, Greta tries to find someone to ask if there were any trains that were to leave Century Mile and make their way to Wolf Street. Perhaps Celine took one of the trains? It is not possible for her to ride a bone-shaker all the way to the hotel.

"Excuse me?" Greta called out to the bartender, who was engrossed in conversation with a man, their exchange carrying a hint of flirtation. The bartender turned his head upon hearing his name and made his way over to Greta, calling back to the man as he did so.

"Just a moment, Joseph dear! Sorry about that, Miss Gundwood. I was attending to Mr. Pryor there. What can I get you?" he asked.

Greta clasped her hands tightly together, trying to suppress the growing nervousness rising in her throat. "I was wondering if any trains are expected to arrive here today, particularly from Century Mile. You see, I'm expecting someone," she explained.

The bartender, who she now knew as Tucker from his nametag, rubbed his chin thoughtfully. He called out to the man across the bar. "I'm not entirely certain, ma'am. Joseph, mind telling me if any trains were due to leave Century Mile and arrive at the station today?"

"I reckon there might be, but the one at 11:05 could arrive around 12:00 or so. Century Mile to Wolf Street isn't a quick jaunt, y'know?" Joseph replied.

"Well, there you have it, Miss Gundwood," Tucker relayed the information. He turned back to Greta with a smile. "I've noticed you've been sitting here at the lobby bar for at least an hour now. Are you sure you don't want a drink?"

Greta waved off the offer, her nerves still palpable. "Oh no, thank you. I'm fine," she replied. With that, Tucker left her to continue his conversation. So, there was a train on its way. There was a chance that Celine might be aboard it. Greta held onto hope, knowing that while it wasn't guaranteed, the possibility remained that Celine was making her way to the hotel at that very moment.

The thought then suddenly struck Greta. What would she even say when they finally came face to face? After all, an entire year had come and gone since their last exchange, and it had concluded on far from pleasant terms. Winning the competition last year had come at a steep price. Celine, in the heat of the evening after the event, had stormed up to her without a moment's hesitation, unleashing a torrent of anger, claiming that Greta was undeserving of the prize. The words stung as Celine vehemently declared that the distinction between a gray and colored photograph held no significance whatsoever.

"To hell with her words," Greta muttered bitterly under her breath. In her staunch opinion, it was utterly senseless to witness the portrayal of happiness in a grayscale photograph. She had a passion for photography, believing it to have potential revolutionization if one no longer saw gray. A colorless world, they claimed, would be devoid of vibrancy and liveliness. If there was no room for innovation or any semblance of progress, what purpose would there be in capturing the world at its supposed pinnacle?

But then again, why did she even invite Celine to come anyway? Other than being lost, deep down, she didn’t want to say it. Greta missed Celine. Their time together before their feud was always so scarce, always being cut short. Sadly, it may be the same case to Celine as well, Greta only remembered the rivalry between them. Something genuine between them seemed to be lost, forgotten.

Celine, a woman of remarkable strength, far surpassing her own. Greta found inspiration in Celine's unwavering resolve, prompting her to cherish her independence even more. In Celine's presence, Greta felt a surge of inner strength. Whenever they attended conventions for inventors, whether in Germany or America, the landscape was dominated by men. In those moments, Greta couldn't help but feel slightly out of place. However, when Celine stood by her side, that unease evaporated.

Faint memories resurfaced of the times they collaborated on each other's inventions or the days they spent together in Concordia. There may have been a photograph of them together, but that seems lost as well. Despite the bitterness that lingers, a part of Greta longs for those moments once more.

Greta let out a sigh, her gaze fixed upon the polished entrance door, anticipating Celine's arrival. "Oh Celine, wherever you wander, I hope your path leads you to me," she mused, her words slightly tinged with longing. She cleared her throat, feeling the dryness caused by spending an hour at the lobby.

“Tucker, excuse me! Pardon the interruption, but could I trouble you for a Mint Julep?"

________________________________________________________________________________________

As the train whisked Celine away, she gazed pensively out of the compartment window. Glancing up at the clock above, it displayed 12:15. "I might arrive a little late, perhaps around 12:45 or so," she mused. Then something struck her, causing her stomach to sink. She hadn't sent a reply to Greta yet.

Her hand slapped against her face in frustration. "Damn it, she might not even know I'm coming. Well, let it be a surprise then," Celine muttered, trying to reconcile herself with the situation.

Leaning her head against her hand, she watched as the passing scenery gradually transformed, the rural town fading into the distance. Overhead, she caught glimpses of grand buildings, each exuding an air of opulence befitting the finest of Concordia. It came as no surprise, after all, as Wolf Street stood as the pinnacle of wealth and influence in the city.

How had Greta ended up there, of all places? As an inventor, she should have been in Century Mile. Could it be that her growing reputation had garnered the attention of the rich, inevitably drawing her to that esteemed locale?

Leaning against the window of the train compartment, Celine let out a soft sigh. "Regardless of the reason, it's rather amusing to imagine her in that place. I simply can't wait to see her," she whispered to herself. But there was that question.

What would happen if she did see Greta? It was bound to be awkward, no doubt. But for now, she decided to leave it up to chance, hoping that fate would steer their encounter in the right direction.

One thought remained steadfast in Celine's mind — she genuinely missed Greta. Despite the lingering bitterness, the mere thought of reuniting with her old friend brought a flicker of joy to Celine.

#criminal case #criminal case mysteries of the past #greta gundwood #celine georges #joseph pryor #bert tucker #chapter three will come out soon #where they finally meet up 🫶 #my fic

[golbrocklovely]

since i have nothing else to post right now…

here’s the last of colby’s tweets from 2020.

i don’t have proof that these are his tweets, but believe me, they are his.

if it’s bold and italicized, it’s someone’s tweet to him.

if it’s in (), that’s just me commenting lol

added bonus: if they have a * next to them, that means it’s been deleted

~~~~~~~~~~

Oct. 1 - love doing things for myself

Oct. 4 - i’m in so much pain. sos

fan: u ok?

poison oak. everywhere …. everywhere.

Oct. 5 - i like the simple things

Oct. 7 - less is more

Oct. 10 - i wanna make you happy

how am i so busy during the day but still manage to find 2 hours to mindlessly scroll through tik tok? i can’t be the only one

Oct. 14 - i care too much

Oct. 15 - somehow it wasn’t enough

Oct. 18 - fan: I CANT BE THE ONLY ONE WHO ALWAYS WONDERED WHAT COLBY SMELLED LIKE..I WANA KNOW WHAT COLOGNE HE WEARS

mayonnaise

(i hate this man so much lmao)

Oct. 19 - Justin Bieber’s new song made me tear up, that dudes been through so much. no one could even imagine what that’s like.. achieving everything and being in the biggest spotlight at such a young age.

Oct. 20 - @/samgolbach: less than 6 months ago i broke my back. and i decided to take that as a challenge to get healthy again. and today i ran the fastest mile i’ve ever run. so yes, i might be an idiot but i’m a determined idiot 🤘🏼🏃🏼

🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼 that’s an insane accomplishment ! i remember when it was a struggle to stand up out of bed

new day, same cycle

Oct. 21 - my mom is texting me all the young pictures of me and it’s bringing me memories i didn’t know i had

Oct. 25 - panic attacks late at night are the worst

Nov. 1 - @/colbybrockscar: reminder that it’s no nut November!!! @/ColbyBrock doesn’t even have to try. He’s got this shit in the bag. It probs comes out like baby powder if he tries

did my car just roast me ?

Nov. 4 - this is scary

cuties! all 3 of you! (reply to fan in merch with friend and cat)

Nov. 6 - @/GracynCarr: I can’t believe the audacity of a high school tweet to pop up on my timeline lmao.. miss u tho @/ColbyBrock :)

hope you're well xx

Nov. 8 - so much talent thank youu love (reply to fan's art)

fan: Um. So I tweeted this to you before but alot has also changed since then sooo wanted to say thank you 🖤 🖤 @/ColbyBrock

proud of you, and good luck with your dreams darlin 🖤 you can accomplish anything with the right mindset and hard work. i believe in ya

time flies, and i’m so scared of losing my youth. it’s inevitable i know, but damn makes you wanna cherish every moment you got

Nov. 11 - i hate when nothing is wrong but nothing feels right

Nov. 12 - the person who makes you forget about the rest of the world

Nov. 13 - today marks 6 years since we posted our first YT video on the MAIN S&C account .. 🖤 what a wild ride

Nov. 14 - promise you i’m a good waste of time

Nov. 15 - @/katstuartmusic: “sunday is my funday” - colby brock 2020

🥂💁🏻‍♂️💁🏻‍♂️

fan: Colby u get drunk off of one white claw

fight me

other fan: my money is on mags

round house kicks to the face don’t feel too good

(is it bad that i like when colby gets weirdly violent with us sksksks)

Nov. 16 - the Why Dont We dudes are some of the nicest people in LA

*Nov. 17 - @/gabytriana: It’s out! Sam and Colby were so much fun to work with, and despite what Colby said, I did not hate him when we first met! 😆 Both he and Sam are super kind, smart, generous entertainers who know how to tell a good story! I love them both!! Happy Book Birthday, @/samandcolby

hahaha thank youu so much for all the hard work ! so excited it’s finally here

(interestingly enough, colby didn't delete his tweet… gaby did)

Nov. 19 - went to a Pyschic Reader tonight. my mind is blown. im not a skeptic anymore, video coming tomorrow

fan: Get ready for religious people to freak out

the psychic i talked to was religious, i’m not sure how but i think the two concepts can exist at the same time

Nov. 21 - hard to trust

fan: @/ColbyBrock hey, i love u lots

love you 🖤

Nov. 23 - fan: imagine if @/ColbyBrock responded to this

could you imagine

Nov. 24 - fan: lmao okay so my friend put this together when I FINALLY received Colby's reaper merch yesterday and I had to laugh, I am actually stupid. But I thought it was a lil funny so y'all can see it too then xx

hahahha love it. thank you. you’re not a sack of potatoes in my eyes

Nov. 27 - happy b day @/SamGolbach you know this and imma save the sappy shit for your big 25th bday but i wouldn’t be here without you. you’re the most intelligent, deep thinking dude i’ve ever met and i feel pretty damn lucky to be able to call you a business partner AND best friend

Nov. 28 - take it easy

Nov. 30 - should i hop back on tik tok?

Dec. 2 - @/aaron_doh: At least I got a photo shoot out of it 😄

whaaat. dude i wish you a speedy recovery

Dec. 3 - it’s hard to move on

Dec. 5 - a nice escape is all i need

welp. i guess i’m a lightweight

Dec. 9 - miss you

Dec. 14 - all the baggage that comes with me

Dec. 15 - been workin hard for you , announcement tomorrow

fan: omg are you pregaganant

how'd you know

@/samandcolby: announcement tomorrow… 2021 will be the best year of our lives (and probably most difficult)

fan: are we getting married?? is that why?

yes

i hate how having anxiety makes me nauseous. it’s the worst feeling

Dec. 16 - it’s all about living in the moment and making every. second. count.

fan: yeah @/ColbyBrock how much are you charging for tattoos…

free for you

Dec. 18 - big tool pic but i’ve been workin hard

@/mannymua733: we absolutely do not mind

hahahaha

(god damn… this pic is still so good lol)

also cold weather always makes me want a special someone to spend time with. cuddle buddy is neeeeeded

fan: okay but can we just take a second to appreciate how hard colby’s been working in the gym because dayum

thank you sweeeetheart

fan: HELP COLBY IS TRENDING

yoo i love you guys 🥺

Dec. 20 - got tatted last night and i barely remember

how i feel this morning (pic of him floating)

fan: you’ve seen elf on the shelf… but have you seen cole in a hole? (@/ColbyBrock)

i’m mad i laughed at this

Dec. 23 - why’d ya have to change on me

so bittersweet saying goodbye to my childhood home of 18 years… i’ll only be back to kansas to visit and sleep in hotels from now on. strange feeling, but so happy for my mom and dad for taking a chance and moving

it’s like i don’t have a real “home” anymore. since i move so much anyways it’s hard to find a spot to actually call home

fan: i just want to say that colby has helped me through so much this year. i had a tough year as many others did but you’ve seriously have helped me through so much. i love you so so much @/ColbyBrock

awh that’s why i make videos in the first place. for people like you

Dec. 24 - addicted to you

my mom and i are the weirdest duo on the planet when we’re together i swear

fan: Make a video with her for Christmas

my whole family despises being on camera 💔

Dec. 25 - fan: momma brock is the sweetest ever

she’s my favorite woman in the world

Merry Christmas friends ! 🖤

i wish i could have face tats for like one week but it doesn’t really work like that huh

Dec. 26 - everyone’s battling their own demons

Dec. 28 - fan: Colby drinking wine but he's such a lightweight that he's probably drunk, lmao @/ColbyBrock

🤫🤫🤫

fan: the vibes are fucking ethereal i’m guessing @/ColbyBrock

you got it

#colby brock #cb tweets #personal #text

[dabblingreturns]

So I'm testing out welbutran...(I don't know how it's spelled) and it's supposed to be a really good ADHD/depression drug. It's supposed to make dopamine flow and cascade more easily in ADHD brains so that it's easier to start things and more enjoyable to do them. (Reading this out, I should definitely stay away from slot machines)

Anyways my current cocktail of medication isn't working as well as it used too. It still works....but 4 years I to a global pandemic I find it hard to do activities. Thr barrier to entry are just higher. And my brother is on welbutran ( still no idea how to spell it) and it seams to be working for him.

But my doctor said, "it may give you anxiety or it may work. "

And I said "let's try it"

And I'm three days in and I'm not anxious...

Instead I'm irritable.

But it has occurred to me the irritability is just anxiety turned outward....

Anxiety is "something is wrong and it must be my fault" but irritability is "somethings wrong and its not my fault"

So that's an improvement right?

But its also interesting to think about.

My brother has very little patience for me. And I do think of him as a more irritable person.... I've never been sure if it's a gender socialization thing or just a him thing. Bit this is the drug that works for him. And he is the one with the most practice managing irritability while still maintaining relationships. I never learned to to that.

Irritability feels like a very masculine response to the same issues that cause anxiety. But girls are taught to apologize for things both in and out of thier controll.

Boys arnt taught the same things.

I was punished at 12 for going off to explore the hills gor a few hours with a friend and not notifying an adult. But the next year my 9 year old brother was celebrated for his and his friends spontaneous 30 miles bike ride. I whent less then a mile from home to look for rocks for two hours. My brother called from a reservoir 11 miles away on a pay phone and got praise...

Maybe this drug works better for him because he isn't as worried about inadvertently hurting the people around him.

But I have always been taught that my actions and inaction have great and terrible consequences. And that my personal safety was something that I was in controll of.

So yeah I'm very irritable right now. But I've got to say, its way better than being anxious....so we will see how this drug works ourt

#mental health #gender roles #double standards #medication #that incident when i was twelve of being punshed for exploring is one of the reasons i felt isolated and traped as a kid. #irritability #anxiety #welbutrin

[type1cyclingdan]

A week in my life as a type one Diabetic

With my job, I can be away a fair bit as I cover the entire South from Yaxley down to Exeter. In total, I look after 11 sites, Health and Safety. With being diabetic this makes life a little harder as I have a lot more to plan for when I am away, I have to ensure that I have plenty of diabetic supplies, Needles, Tester kit, Insulin and I have to ensure that I can keep the spare insulin cold so have to carry an electric cool box.

This week I have been away, starting on Tuesday morning with a 5 hour drive down to Exeter with no real sleep as my levels kept going low in the night so ended getting up at 02:30 and leaving the house by 03:45. I spent two days completing the site H&S inspection in the Exeter site, and then yesterday drove to Newport to do the same.One of the many good things about my job is that I can take my bike and get some training done on new roads, where I live is flat but most of the time pretty windy in Exeter and Newport it is bloody hilly. I got out on the bike in Exeter, doing 27 miles and 2372ft of climbing, which in that short amount of riding is pretty hard for me as I am still a little over my best riding weight. As I was in Newport for a couple of nights I managed to fit in a couple of rides, again 27 miles for both and 1677ft for both rides.Throughout all 3 rides my levels stayed steady creeping up a little as I was pushing pretty hard especially up some of the steep hills.

Friday is a rest day and I am driving home and looking forward to seeing the wife and kids, and seeing what Carla has done to the house in my absence as she has been decorating.I will also be able to start adding deadlifts and weighted squats to my training as my Olympic Barbell was delivered while I have been away so looking forward to seeing the strength gains that is going to bring to my cycling. A couple of hard sessions have been planned for the weekend as I am not racing. So it will be interesting to see how I get on after some hard days in the hills.

Also got a new Athletes Plant based cook book to read as I really need to start adding a few more healthy options to my diet as currently I live off of Whole wheat pasta Beans roasted veg and sweet potato.Things seem to be better this week with controlling my levels even though I am away from home and have done a bit of training which is really good but it does seem to change weekly and sometimes daily. The other thing that I have noticed lately is that I could eat something one day and my levels not spike, then eat the same food the following day, and my levels fly up, which can be frustrating. As it would be nice to be able to find foods that help with training and are consistent in how they affect my levels, but this is just one of the many challenges that I will have to conquer to achieve my goals.

As ever set huge goals and keep trying and never give up as the only way you ever truly fail is if you give up.

#keeptryingnevergiveup #keep going #wegoagain #believeandachieve #giantpropel #giantbikes #giantpropeladvancedpro1 #typeonewarrior #T1D #type one diabetic #InFliteTypeOne

[strongitsalifestyle]

Northern California Trip

Baby’s first trip 3 days

San Francisco, Yosemite & Napa Valley

My son was 7 months on his first plane trip. Here’s what we did on the trip. We took a light stroller and a car seat that we were worrying about getting damaged. I carried him on my lap since he was only 7 months old. We took the car seat for the limo ride to Napa Valley. We took the stroller on the hop on and off bus it was very easy to manage. I took the carrier to the Yosemite trip.

July 9-13 2015

Checked in to our hotel, Hotel G San Francisco 4 star hotel located just steps away from union square best shopping and dinning. Today, this one-block plaza and surrounding area is one of the largest collections of department stores, upscale boutiques, gift shops, art galleries, and beauty salons

Day 1 July 10

San Francisco: Winery Tour with Champagne

We took a private limo for a 6 hour trip to Napa valley pickup 10am from Hotel G.

Here were our stops:

Sterling: Perched over 300 feet above the historic town of Calistoga, Sterling Vineyards offers the best views of Napa Valley. Long regarded as one of Napa Valley's “must see”.

Trefethen: Trefethen Family Vineyards is a winery in Napa Valley. It was established in 1968.

Lunch stop: V. Sattui Winery has everything you need to create the perfect picnic. Grab your favorite wine & food and enjoy the picnic grounds at our St. Helena winery.

Day 2 July 11 Yosemite National Park

Full Day tour from San Francisco

We merry at pier 39 and board a charter bus to take us to Yosemite.

Baby’s first hike was Vernal Fall Footbridge. The best part was he fell asleep in his carrier as I walked up the steep hill pulling my mom behind me.

Distance: 1.6 mi (2.6 km) round trip

Elevation gain: 400 ft (120 m)

Difficulty: Moderate

Time: 1-1.5 hours

Vernal Fall footbridge: A mile from the trailhead, the Mist Trail crosses a footbridge from the north to the south bank of the Merced River. You'll get your first sight of Vernal Fall here, as well as pleasant views of the river both up and downstream. There are also bathrooms and potable water on the far side of the bridge. It's generally the first breath-catching point for hikers on their way to the top of the Mist Trail or Half Dome.

You'll find an excellent view of Vernal Fall from the footbridge at 0.8 miles (1.3 km). About 0.2 miles (0.3 km) beyond the bridge, the Mist Trail and the John Muir Trail diverge.

Difficulty: It's a short hike, but it's still a stretch to call it easy. There's enough climbing here to make you sweat.

Day 3 July 12

Hop on/off bus, Alcatraz & Pier 39

Hop on Hop off bus

Fisherman’s Wharf, on the northern waterfront, is one of the city's busiest tourist areas. Souvenir shops.

Chinatown: The oldest Chinatown in North America

PIER 39 is a 45-acre waterfront complex that is a gathering place for millions of San Francisco locals and visitors. In addition to its 12 full-service restaurants, 90+ shops and popular attractions, PIER 39 is home to a five-acre waterfront park and a 300-berth marina. PIER 39 is known for its spectacular views of San Francisco Bay, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Bridge and Alcatraz, as well as the world-famous California sea lions hauled out on K-Dock.

Golden Gate Park: Explore the four-level Rainforest, the Steinhart Aquarium, and state-of-the-art Planetarium.

The Golden Gate Bridge is a suspension bridge spanning the Golden Gate, the one-mile-wide strait connecting San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean.

The Painted Ladies

Colorful Victorian and Edwardian houses, many of which feature three or more colors. The most famous ones—there are hundreds of houses—can be found in NoPa, the Lower Haight, Haight-Ashbury, and Cole Valley neighborhoods. But there’s one row, in particular, so iconic that it’s simply referred to as “the Painted Ladies” (or sometimes “Postcard Row”): the houses of 710-720 Steiner Street at the corner of Hayes Street. These gals have appeared in an estimated 70 movies, ads, and TV shows including, yes, Full House. You can’t enter the Painted Ladies (real people live there), but you can get a great view and a photo of your own from the east-facing hillside of Alamo Square across the street. 

Palace of Fine Art

Local architect Bernard Maybeck's pièce de résistance, this Greco-Roman rotunda is one of the only surviving structures from the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition.

You will feel like you have stepped onto a movie set watching the swans skim across the reflections of the Greco-Roman columns and rotunda of the Palace of Fine Arts. Originally constructed of wood and burlap for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exhibition, the structures were so beloved they were preserved and rebuilt in the 1960s. Bonus: The Palace is an easy, descending walk from the also-picturesque Lyon Street Steps.

We took a ferry to get a view of Alcatraz, we were unable get tickets. All sold out. Alcatraz is a small island was once a fort, a military prison, and a maximum security federal penitentiary.

We grabbed a bite to eat in Little Italy: Nestled between Fisherman's Wharf and Chinatown is a neighborhood known as North Beach. The neighborhood is San Francisco's “Little Italy,”.

The San Francisco cable car system is the world's last manually operated cable car system and an icon of the city of San Francisco

We did not make it to the redwood forest, I do recommend you add this to your trip!

July 13 back to NY

[imwritesometimes]

got myself a stationary bike. my brother and I put it together last night. in 2 days I've ridden 22 miles. and I actually kinda like it?!?!?

#posting this here cause ngl I'm pretty proud of myself but lol I have no one to tell irl sooooo #I don't really have any 'goals' here other than like be active! at least a few days a week #cause I'm getting older and certain helth issues run in my family #so I just put on an ep of like dateline and go and you know what #it's not awful I kinda dig it #I can ride the bike watch a dateline look at my phone a little bit check in on the giga pets #and still manage to ride 11 miles in an hour #overall I really just genuinely don't hate it which is like all that matters

[softbobamilktae]

The Strings of My Heart [10] - Playing Adult

← Chapter 9 | Chapter 11 →

Pairing: Zoro x Jupiter

Genre: fluff, angst, f2l

Word Count: 2.2k

Warnings: mentions of adoption and teen pregnancy

Summary: Zoro’s moved to sunny California for college to escape from the life of fame for a little while. But when he loses his violin case in the second week of school, he’s sure his college experience has just gone up in flames. What will he do when, despite all odds, his case is returned to him?

—————

“Hey, Zoro, we should go see the Statue of Liberty while we’re here!” Jupiter smiled. She was trying to come up with some idea on how to get out of her mom’s hair.

“Oh. That’s an idea.” Zoro vaguely remembered his mom talking about the statue when he was little. They’d meant to make a trip to see it when he was nine, but that had totally fallen through after the airport incident.

“What do you think?”

Zoro nodded. “Let’s do it. When can we order tickets?”

They wound up going two whole days later because of how many people were visiting the statue. The fact that they’d even been able to order tickets had been a miracle. Jupiter’s siblings had all wanted to join them, though, and her mom threatened to lock them out of the house if they didn’t take the kids, so Jupiter and Zoro ended up taking seven kids with them.

“Your parents really drive this huge van around?” Zoro asked as he and Jupiter buckled her two youngest sisters into their car seats.

“Well, we rarely all go somewhere, but yes,” Jupiter replied.

Half of her was shocked that her mother had just given Zoro the keys to the car. She knew her mother had figured out who he was, though. And none of the girls had clued her into the fact that Jupiter and Zoro weren’t dating. She knew this because her mother had said, ‘you made a good choice getting a rich boy. We know he’s not just after you for the money.’ Her comment had made Jupiter want to roll her eyes. It was always just about the money to her parents.

◇◆◇◆◇

Jupiter was starting to regret this trip when they had to walk two miles with all the kids. Stella and Venus were at least old enough to stay with Zoro and Jupiter, but she wasn’t sure about the boys. Thankfully, Bella and Aurora had been willing to let Zoro carry them, so they didn’t have to worry about misplacing the two toddlers.

Somehow, they managed to make it to the boat with all seven children still with them. Zoro had kept the boys engaged in conversation, and Stella and Venus had been glad to stay with them. Zoro sat down with the five younger kids while Jupiter took Stella and Venus to get some snacks.

While they stood in line, Jupiter smiled as she watched Zoro tickle Aurora, making her giggle. A gentle nudge dragged her attention away from the pretty boy. A lady who appeared to be around thirty was smiling at her.

“Your husband and kids are cute.”

“Uh…oh, thank you,” Jupiter replied almost automatically. It took her a few moments to process what the lady had said. “Wait what-” When she looked up, the lady was gone. She and Zoro didn’t look that old, did they?

Venus snickered. “Your husband. You have a husband!”

“Shut up. That didn’t happen.”

“Jupiter is married~”

Jupiter growled at her. “Be quiet!” She looked over at Zoro again to find him looking at her. He smiled, and she smiled back out of reflex.

“You smiling at your husband?”

Stella smacked Venus’s head finally. “Jupiter asked you to stop.”

The ten-year-old stuck her tongue out at her sister.

◇◆◇◆◇

The museum was quite a bit bigger than Jupiter had been prepared for. She didn’t want to lose the boys, and Venus was gearing up to start some trouble. They’d already decided not to go to the top simply so they could keep their sanity intact. They wandered around the museum for about half an hour before Jupiter decided she’d had enough. Mars and Pluto were ripping each other’s hair out, and Bella was near a meltdown.

The boat ride back was much less eventful than the first. Sirius sat on Jupiter’s lap while the other four older kids peacefully sat around them, and Zoro still had the toddlers. They managed to make it back to the car without much fight, and it seemed to Jupiter that this hadn’t been the best idea. She didn’t know what she’d expected today to be, but it wasn’t this.

“Boys, get buckled!” Zoro exclaimed before sliding the door shut.

Jupiter was about to open her door to climb in when Zoro grabbed her hand. She startled a bit, confused.

“What is it?” she asked.

“I need to do something before I lose the guts.”

“Wha-?” Jupiter was cut off by Zoro’s lips brushing hers. She gasped.

His hand was still gently grasping hers, and there were a few inches of space between them. She couldn’t breathe. She couldn’t think. Was this a dream? Or was he actually kissing her?

He pulled away all too quickly, opening his mouth to start speaking. But Jupiter wasn’t about to let him speak. She grabbed his collar and pulled him back down to her height, planting her lips on his again. After a few more breathless seconds, she finally let him go.

“You…I…” Zoro stammered, a grin slowly lighting up his face. “Jupiter?”

“I’ve been waiting six and a half months for you to kiss me.”

She watched as pure shock fell over his face. “Really?”

“Hey! Lovebirds! We need to go if we’re going to be home in time to make dinner!” Stella exclaimed, startling both of them. “‘He’S nOt mY bOyFrIeNd.’ Yeah, sure he isn’t. Now, we need to go.”

◇◆◇◆◇

The rest of the night found the two of them in a shocked silence. They made dinner, then served everyone, and they cleaned the kitchen all while saying nothing to each other. It was only when Zoro was drying dishes that Jupiter spoke up.

“So…what was that? Earlier?”

Zoro was silent, and she watched as his face turned bright red. She crossed the kitchen, taking the towel and plate from his hands. She set them on the counter before grasping his hands.

“I’ve liked you since that first time we talked in the cafeteria,” she admitted. “You were so sweet to me, and I’d never had someone be that nice before. You’ve never gotten mad at me for anything I did. And you invited me home with you, and you’ve put so much trust in me. I don’t know why you trust me so much…but thank you.”

He pushed a piece of her long, dark hair behind her ear. “You proved you were trustworthy the moment you returned my violin case to me.”

She smiled up at him, leaning into his touch. After a moment, she spoke again.

“So…what does this mean?”

He shrugged. “We’re dating now?”

“Do you want to be?”

“Yes.”

She smiled. Then she stood on tiptoe to kiss him.

“I think I like having a boyfriend.”

He laughed.

◇◆◇◆◇

“I want to move Noah back here.”

Zelda cringed. “Luna, I don’t think that’s the best idea.”

“Why not? I can take care of him now. And Kohen wants to meet him. You said I could have him back when I was ready.”

“When we made that decision, we thought you’d take him back in a year or so when you graduated. He’s almost five now. It seems a bit cruel to take him away from the people who have raised him for the past five years, doesn’t it?”

Luna sighed. “But, Aunt Zelda-”

“I want you to go talk to your aunts and uncle. Go ask them if they’d go back to their old families now if they were given the choice. Ask Soph how she would’ve felt if she’d been forced to go back to live with the parents who abandoned her when she was two. I have no problem with Noah getting to know you and Kohen, but I don’t want to send him to a country that he doesn’t know to live with you and a man he’s never met.”

“I…yeah. Ok. I get it. Thanks, Aunt Zelda.”

The line went dead, and Zelda sighed. She didn’t want to disappoint Luna, but she remembered how hard it had been for her three youngest siblings when they’d moved in. They’d been living with their grandparents before, and it had taken over a year for them to be entirely settled into their new family in the Singers’ house. She didn’t want to do that to Noah, and she could help it this time.

◇◆◇◆◇

Zoro and Jupiter were itching to escape when the week was over. Jupiter was tired of her sisters and her mother teasing her about Zoro, and Zoro was just ready to go back to his apartment.

“So, how bad was that?” Jupiter asked as they sat at the airport. “Is New York as bad as you remember it being?”

Zoro laughed. “No. What about you?”

“Well, if I’m being honest, you made this trip way more tolerable. I don’t know what I would’ve done without you. Thank you for coming.”

He smiled. “Of course. I’m glad I came too,” he nudged her shoulder with his and grinned.

She returned his smile.

“You ready for school?”

Jupiter groaned. “Don’t speak of school! I don’t want to think about all the English papers we’ll have when we get back.”

Zoro laughed. “We can survive two more months before summer.”

“I sure hope so.”

◇◆◇◆◇

Luna knocked on the door to her aunt’s house. Part of her was nervous to have this conversation. She knew the response she was going to get, and she knew what choice she needed to make.

“Luna! What are you doing here?” Sophie asked after answering the door. She was holding her German shepherd by the collar as he wagged his tail.

“Do you have a bit of time to talk? I had something I wanted to ask you about.”

“Sure! Come on in! Ann just got up from her nap, so she’s a bit fussy.”

Luna followed her aunt into the living room, where her two-year-old cousin was sitting on the floor eating an applesauce packet. Sometimes it shocked Luna to remember how much younger her cousins were.

“Would you like anything to drink?”

“No thank you,” Luna replied as she sat on the couch. “I called Aunt Zelda yesterday about Noah. I wanted to move him back in with me. She said she didn’t think it was a good idea. And then…she said to ask you how you would’ve felt if you birth parents had wanted you back.”

Sophie took a seat in the recliner in her living room. “Well, this situation is slightly different from mine. Noah does know you, right?”

Luna shrugged. “I haven’t seen him in person since he was six months old. We Skype sometimes, but not very often. So, yes, I think he knows who I am, but I’m not his mother to him.”

“If my parents had wanted me back, I don’t think I would’ve wanted to go. I don’t remember them at all, and I’m not sure I ever did. I spent a year in the system, and I remember how awful that was. Your grandparents have been the only parents I’ve ever known.”

Luna nodded. “So, I shouldn’t take him back, then? I wanted Kohen to meet him, and I had this perfect little family in my head.” Her eyes were filling with tears.

“I think you should start over. Noah has a family now. You should marry Kohen and start a family with him now as adults. You can have another baby, and you can have the joys of raising that baby together.”

“Will it be the same?”

“No. It will be a whole new experience. You know, I had Leo alone. And I’m glad I got to raise him, but it was the hardest time of my life. And then I met Kyler, and he’s been a good dad to Leo, and now to Annabelle. But it was a lot different having Annabelle than it was having Leo. I had my husband there to support me, and I didn’t have to work half the time to pay my bills.

“Noah’s old enough to be starting school this year, and you’d have to handle that on top of getting to know him. Would that be worth it for either of you? It would be more like adopting a kid than having your son back in your life.”

“Yeah…you’re…you’re right. I just wish there were another way. I wish I could’ve been able to get to know him better, or even had the time to raise him myself when I had him.”

“Well, that’s in the past. You know none of the rest of us would’ve been up to raising a kid. I think you made the right choice talking to Zelda and Tae. They’ve given him a good home, and he’s close enough that you know someday he’ll get to know you.”

Luna nodded. “Thanks for giving me your opinion. I think Aunt Zelda and Uncle Tae are going to adopt him. I need to let that go. I made the decision of not having him in my life when I first decided to give him up.”

Sophie nodded. “If you’re serious about Kohen, go talk to him. You’re plenty old enough to be married, and it’s better to get married before you start having kids.”

“I’ll think about it.”

—————

Chapter 11 →

This is part of the Dad!BTS series that can be found here

Sophie’s story is further explained in this story and this story

Series M.list

A/N: time to introduce some new characters 🤪

It would be greatly appreciated if you reblogged the story if you liked it!

Taglist: @jiminie-and-his-pinky-finger @jinnie-forthe-winnie @oh-its-jennyyy

#softbobamilktae original stories

[chaoticdean]

(click on the banner for HQ, Tumblr somehow keeps fucking it up)

31 days and close to 39k words written later, here’s my Suptober20 master post! I can hardly believe that I managed to write everyday for a month, and I once again want to thank all of you for tagging along and being the nicest cheerleaders in the whole damn world. 💜

A special thank you to @winchester-reload​ for hosting this massive challenge and being the nicest gal around ✨

LINK TO THE SERIE ON AO3 | LINK TO MY TUMBLR TAGGED POSTS

(individual posts under the cut because this is a very long fucking post)

#1 — On the road again

The thrilling quest of gouda cheese — wc ~ 900 — Castiel is in charge of grocery shopping today, which could be a great thing if Dean could stop making him run back to the store multiple time. When his boyfriend decides they’re suddenly in urgent need of a special cheese, Castiel in turn decides he’s had enough.

AO3 | Tumblr post

#2 — Earth

A plastic and cardboard affair — wc ~ 1.2k —  In which Castiel suddenly becomes hyperaware of the looming environmental catastrophe ahead and decides to start changing things in the bunker, and Dean... Well, Dean is sleepy, AND HE JUST WANTS TO CUDDLE.

AO3 | Tumblr post

#3 — Demonic

Demonic skills — wc ~ 1.4k — Before Cas, Dean could always count on his abilities in bed to get him out of conversations he didn’t want to have. Now, though, not so much. (also known as “post-coital pillow talk with Cas”).

AO3 | Tumblr post

#4 — Branded

Etched into my bones — wc ~ 500 — Against all the odds, Dean is the one who suggests it. He claims it’s just a mean to an end, but Cas knows better. After all, he’s the one who gets to witness the man behind the hard shell he shows to the world every single day, and he’s grown to love the soft side of Dean Winchester. 

(Darkest Roads!verse)

AO3 | Tumblr post

#5 — Daydream

Dr. McHandsy and the curious case of the white lab coat — wc ~ 1.5k  — They’re on a case and undercover, and that’s reason #1 why Dean shouldn’t be sitting here drooling over his partner. But really, who thought putting Castiel in a doctor outfit would be a brilliant idea?! 

He’s gonna kill Sam.

AO3 | Tumblr post

#6 — Mask

A study in scotch and pampering — wc ~ 1.3k — If anyone had told Dean Winchester years from now that he’d be content letting his husband paint his face with foreign matter (not that kind of foreign matter, you kinky bastards) that smells like coconut and feels like whipped cream, he would’ve had the biggest laugh out of it. Nowadays, though, if that’s what it takes to get Cas to talk, he’ll do it in a heartbeat.

AO3 | Tumblr post

#7 — Domestic

The shirt in the dispute (and other laundry feuds) — wc ~ 2.1k — It all starts off with a sordid affair of mixed laundry, and somehow it’s World War III in the Men of Letter’s bunker (or the one where Castiel messes a batch of laundry up, and Dean’s Led Zeppelin shirt bites the dust)

AO3 | Tumblr post

#8 — Heartless

Ohio and the open secret — wc ~ 1.5k — Dean desperately tried to get Sam to pass on this case, hoping to finally get some alone time with his boyfriend for the first time in a while, but his giant moose of a brother decided to tag along anyway. Now they’re stuck in the same bedroom in Ohio, and Castiel is about to lose it, so Dean takes the matter into his own hands.

(it doesn’t go as planned)

AO3 | Tumblr post

#9 — Electric

Ocean waves — wc ~ 1.2k — It’s been 5 years now, and somehow they figured out their shit. A house on a the shore, a ring on their fingers, and despite everything Dean still wakes up to find Cas wrapped up in a panic attack on random nights, doubts and anxiety eating him alive. But they aren’t alone in the panic anymore.

AO3 | Tumblr post

#10 — Sweet Rides

Home is wherever I’m with you — wc ~ 600 — Until a few years ago, Dean didn’t have any home. He grew up in shitty motel rooms and inside the Impala, on the road and in-between schools. As he finally allow himself to fall into Castiel’s arms, he reflects on all the places he can call home, now.

AO3 | Tumblr post

#11 — Rock & Roll

Sharp Edges — wc ~ 1.6k — Castiel told him he loved him right before getting swallowed up by the Empty. Sam asked him to talk to someone, anyone really,, but words won’t come out, and how is he supposed to tell anyone how it feels to lose everything? So he writes. Letters on napkins, motel notepads, paperback books. He writes as he goes through every steps of grief, until finally there’s a light at the end of the tunnel.

AO3 | Tumblr post

#12 — Rewind

Leading me, going home — wc ~ 900 — Dean and Castiel reflects on their past and what they would say to their past self if they had the opportunity to rewind. (also known as “Castiel uses too many Harry Potter quotes, which gets Dean to prevent him from ever binging the movies again”)

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#13 — Ladies

The promise in the cocktails — wc ~ 800 — When a joke involving colorful cocktails designed to put his brother into misery turns into a promise for more steamy nights with Cas, Dean thinks he might have won the lottery (and God bless strawberry daiquiris).

AO3 | Tumblr post

#14 — Fun & Games

A fever and the whipped boyfriend — wc ~ 1k — Being in love with a being as old as the Earth is all fun and games until said ex-angel gets sick for the first time of his entire (overwhelmingly long) life and turns into an actual, honest to god, gigantic baby. Lucky for Cas, Dean turns into perfect boyfriend mode. 

AO3 | Tumblr post

#15 — Third Eye

The blonde-haired witch and the little push — wc ~ 2.8k — It’s not the first time Dean’s ever had to listen to someone referring to Castiel as “his boyfriend”, but it sure as hell is the first time he has to sit through a diner listening to a witch referring to Cas as his husband without even batting an eyelash, like it’s the most normal thing in the world.

Which would be fine if it didn’t cause actual shivers to run down his spine.

(or the one where a friendly witch gives Dean the little push he needs)

AO3 | Tumblr post

#16 — Switch it up!

The spices in the suit — wc ~ 1.7k — Dean doesn’t know when he started taking advices from Sam when it comes to his love life, but after tonight he thinks he might be more mindful of Sam’s wiseness in the future. Especially if it gets him all the way to the backseat of the Impala with a former angel in his lap.

AO3 | Tumblr post

#17 — Autumn invading

Storms never come to stay — wc ~ 1.6k — Dean finds Cas in the wood behind their house, hours after they had a fight. They’ve been together for a long time now, yet fears still run deep. 

(Darkest Roads!verse)

AO3 | Tumblr post

#18 — Dark & Stormy Night

The wayward gang and the questionable cocktail — wc ~ 1.9k — Castiel comes back to the bunker after a day on the road to find the wayward gang scattered over the map table for what appears to be a cocktail night. Sam wanted piña colada, but Dean Winchester bartender extraordinaire decided to go for something darker and stormier...

AO3 | Tumblr post

#19 — Pour one out

As days fade (and night grows) — wc ~ 1.9k — Castiel wakes up alone and cold, and decides that he’s had enough of Dean shutting him out. They’ve lost Jack, but it doesn’t mean they have to lose themselves too. 

AO3 | Tumblr post

#20 — Home

The fire in my bones — wc ~ 1.1k — It’s not a secret that Dean Winchester isn’t particularly good with words, but when he fucks up and unintentionally hurts Cas, he knows he has to do better.

AO3 | Tumblr post

#21 — Fear

If I let you go, would you hold on? — wc ~ 1.6k — Castiel gets hurt on a hunt trying to protect Dean, and Dean is tired of having to wake up everyday not knowing if they’ll both be alive the next morning or if one of them is going to sacrifice himself to save the other. Finally, he makes a choice that will set he course of their future together.

AO3 | Tumblr post

#22 — “I cursed the gloom that set upon us, but I know that I love you so...”

Just a little rain — wc ~ 800 — Leave it to Led Zeppelin and Dean’s slow dancing skills to soothe the pain of letting your kid leave to tour the world.

AO3 | Tumblr post

#23 — Favorite

You feel like the sun on my face — wc ~ 700 — Dean awakes to Castiel sliding into bed after he just came back from a hunt, and somehow it’s kind of the best feeling in the world.

AO3 | Tumblr post

#24 — Family business

Wherever we are is where I wanna be — wc ~ 1.4k — It took them a few months, but once Dean and Castiel decide to move across the country and into a home of their own, everything falls into places. 

AO3 | Tumblr post

#25 — Villain

The blue tie in the bathtub — wc ~ 1.2k — Dean has been a pain in the ass all day, so Castiel decides to drag him into the bathtub and tie his hand up the shower rail before teaching him a lesson.

AO3 | Tumblr post

#26 — Walk of shame

And I would walk 500 miles — wc ~ 1.3k — The one where they think they’re being subtle, but they’re actually being really loud (and Sam happens to have functioning eyes, too.)

AO3 | Tumblr post

#27 — Banquet

Drunk on love — wc ~ 800 — Dean’s analogies are usually spot on, but maybe he’s had a bit too much whisky to be clever tonight (or maybe the fact that Castiel’s mouth is currently glued to his throat is preventing him to think clearly, who knows?)

AO3 | Tumblr post

#28 — Hellscape

Adventures in Christmas shopping — wc ~ 500 — Castiel wants to go Christmas shopping, and Dean being a very whipped thoughtful boyfriend decides to tag along. It doesn’t go well.

AO3 | Tumblr post

#29 — Fragile

Anytime you reach for me — wc ~ 700 — A look into what sex used to mean to Dean before Cas, and how his world has been turned upside down ever since he got in bed with a former angel of the lord.

AO3 | Tumblr post

#30 — Dress-up

Entertainment in soapy water — wc ~ 800 — Castiel just went down the garage to see what Dean is up to, but when he catches a flash of red right above the waistband of Dean’s shorts, it seems like his boyfriend might have dressed up just for him to see.

AO3 | Tumblr post

#31 — Carry On

Scar tissue — wc ~ 1.6k — There are arguably a few things that Dean dislikes more than anything else in the world, but nothing compares to what it feels like to wake up in an empty bed in the middle of the night, and the insane bolt of fear laced with anxiety than runs through Dean’s chest when he realizes he’s got no idea where Castiel is.

AO3 | Tumblr post

#suptober20 #masterpost #jus writes #I've just spent the entire afternoon preparing this #so help me god if the links don't work I might have to kill someone @ tumblr #destiel ficlet #deancas ficlet #destiel #deancas #writer of destiel #dean/cas

[novacomette]

You can also read it on Fanfiction Press or AO3

Check the Masterlist

After calling off her wedding and questioning her life choices, Elain makes the choice to undertake her dream and travel the road near her hometown with a handsome biker and his group. From there on out, she'll encounter the beauty and dangers throughout her journey.

Previous: Chapter 2

Next: Chapter 4 (WIP)

Life is a Highway - Rascal Flatts

Chapter 3: First Run

Elain still couldn't believe it. She felt like she was stuck in a dream and she wished she didn't wake up from it. If it weren't for the sounds of roaring engines, the people chatting loud enough for the others to listen and the redheaded guy she was holding onto, it was proof enough that she wasn't dreaming.

She took in the wind on her hair, face and skin, making sure to memorize the feeling. She glanced around as the trees and objects moved quickly, now behind them. She could only think of Einstein's Relativity Theory she learned from a science show a week ago before the screen went static. She pulled herself from her thoughts and focused on how she was going miles and miles away from the town, feeling like she was going to float away.

They’d rode about 209 miles before stopping near a sandy clearing. Cassian got off his crimson scrambler in a hurry and ran behind some trees. “Gotta pee, gotta pee, gotta pee!” It took Elain all of her will to not snicker but it didn't last long when Mor laughed at him, making herself chuckle before covering her mouth in an attempt to hide it.

“That’s what happens when you don't go to the bathroom after you've drunk a large coke, Cass.” Mor said with a smirk. Amren didn't seem to hide her own smirk, smaller than Mor’s but devious enough to mock him.

Elain glanced at Lucien when he shook his head with a chuckle. He then faced Rhysand. “How long until the next stop then?”

“Next town will be about 345 plus miles from here, so.. maybe five and a half hours.” He said while stretching his back before glancing at Azriel. “What time is it?”

Before Azriel could even say a word, Elain answered him instead. “11:45 am.” Lucien turned to her with raised brows. She pulled away and shrugged as if it wasn't a big deal, not to mention that they were pretty far from where they left. “I checked my phone before we left, it was 7:45 am so-”

“You’ve been counting the whole way?” Rhysand asked but Elain chuckled.

“No, I checked my phone again when we stopped and Cassian had to.. you know.” At this, the band laughed, even Azriel was chuckling at her joke. Just as they calmed down a little, Cassian returned, zipping his pants back up. Just then, an idea popped on Elain’s head. “Oh! Before we go, is it ok to take a selfie with you guys? I really want my sisters to know my whereabouts.” She got off Lucien's bike, a bobber she realized, her legs wobbled a little but she managed to stand. Her sisters probably think she was still in town so it was valid to surprise them.

Cassian was the first to ask. “You got sisters?”

Elain nodded with a wide smile. “Two. My older sister Nesta and little sister Feyre. They’ve been traveling longer than me and I want them to know that I'm out and about.” She held her phone up, and made sure everyone was on their rides. “Ok! Everyone smile and say, Compass!” And as she said that everyone obliged as she took the picture. Elain glanced at it and smiled brightly. Cassian and Mor were holding both of their hands in front of them, doing the ILY gesture, Azriel just did a salute gesture but had the faintest of smiles, Amren just glared at the camera with her chin up, Rhysand only smirked while resting his arms on his hd handles, and Lucien, sitting on his bike next to her, gave a mild but genuine smile. “It looks great!” She said as Mor walked to her and peered over her shoulder.

“You gotta send us that selfie later!” Mor exclaimed. “We can exchange phone numbers once we get to our next stop.”

“Of course. That would be best.” Elain nodded then sent the picture to her sisters on their group chat with a comment.

Elain: Guess who just stepped out of the nest! These fellas agreed to let me join their band! :D

Once she sent the message with the photo, she hopped on Lucien’s ride and held onto his jacket instead of his torso. She didn't want him to think the wrong idea and she thought he probably had someone waiting for him already. “Alright! Let's go!” She said with a lot of enthusiasm, making Rhysand chuckle.

“The lady just roared. Let's go.” He smirked as they proceeded with their journey. Lucien made sure she was holding on so she wouldn't fall and injure herself. Instead, she was looking at the forest view, her expression joyful and bright. He couldn't help the smile that quirked up his lips as he focused on the road in front of him.

During the next hour, they left the forest sight and entered the more prairie ground with small isolated buildings, which Elain realized were farms, something she usually wished to see ever so often but rarely did since she was stuck in one simple apartment. She crossed that off her bucket and made a mental note to add a new one on her phone when she saw the corn crops: Visit a Corn Maze. They briefly stopped to buy some homemade food from a farmer’s stand and Elain’s taste buds went on a flavor rampage, drawing a squeaky moan from her throat, when she tried the milk and honey pie and was for certain that she would pinpoint it as one of her newly favorite foods of all times. Lucien chuckled at her reaction, making her cheeks flush slightly in embarrassment.

They spent almost 25 minutes on the road when they came across a river, stopping on the edges of a bridge, to which Elain couldn't help but peer down to the water and gasped in excitement. “There are turtles here.” Mor peered down next to her and chuckled when one of the turtles flopped to the water when the small floating log was pretty much full.

“Lemme borrow your phone, Elain.” Mor said as Elain obliged, both posing for a selfie. One normal and another with funny faces. Soon after, Cassian joined inthe fun as he hugged the girls with a wide smile then another where the girls shared his shades. “This will go to our yearly album.” Mor commented, making Elain smile. When she turned her head, she was stunned to see the other end of the river, with Lucien staring at what seemed to be orchids, the red of his hair contrasting with the green of the wilderness. For once, she wished she had Feyre's ability to name any sight before plastering it in a portrait. What she did manage to do is snap a photo of him before he turned to her with wide eyes.

Elain smiled and waved her phone. “If you’re not a fan of photos, I'm sorry to say that you gotta go through me if you wanna delete it.” She said smugly, making Lucien chuckle.

“Unfortunately, that would be Azriel. But if you assume such things, then I suggest you hide your phone while sleeping.” He said and gave her a secret wink. Elain snorted before hopping up behind him.

“We’ll see.” Elain said simply. That was one detail the Archeron sisters have in common: They all love a good challenge. She managed to send the photos to her sister’s group chat before they hit the road again.

Elain: Saw a bunch of turtles and we took funny pictures. Having fun thus far! ^^

She then sent the photo of Lucien privately to Feyre with a question attached.

Elain: You don't have to answer right now but you got any good labels for this photo? Please and Thank you.

None of them answered yet but Elain could understand if they were busy and traveling. The sun was almost setting, giving the sky a combination of oranges, yellows and purples. Elain was starting to feel quite sleepy but she fought it bak to prevent herself from falling backwards, to the hard pavement, or falling forward, against Lucien’s back. Obviously, she didn't want to end up in one of those two situations so she stared over the colorful sky. She then realized that they were slowing down and turned to a small town with luckily a gas station, few roads of houses, a motel and a minimarket that was still open. The gang settled their bikes in the parking lot before walking towards the motel. Elain trotted behind them.

“So, who’s gonna be roommates with who?” Mor asked her cousin as Rhysand made a long hmm before answering.

“Knowing Amren, she’ll take a room to herself.”

“Naturally.” Amren said bored as she walked ahead. Rhysand shook his head.

“Well, pick a partner then.” He said with a shrug.

Cassian snapped his fingers. “I'm either sleeping with Az or Mor. If I sleep with Mor, Azriel will sleep with Lucien.”

“Not sleeping with him!” Both Azriel and Lucien said, barely in sync, causing Elain to chuckle.

“How about.. Rhys and me, you and Az, and Elain with Lucien?” Mor suggested and Elain froze. She never slept with a guy. Aside from Graysen. Then again, she considered it for a moment before Lucien spoke.

“Guys, shouldn't we let her choose her roommate instead?” He asked. Well, at least he’s modest.

“Lucien and I can share a room. One of us can sleep on a couch or on the floor.” Elain said, not minding the fact that she could sleep on the floor or on a couch. She did it most of the time when she couldn't even get herself to sleep on the bed properly. Lucien frowned, as if he figured her thoughts.

“You’re not sleeping on the floor.” He said and Elain scoffed.

“Couch then.” She shot back.

“You’ll take the bed and I'll take the couch.” Lucien debated. The two now glared at each other.

“A bet then..” Elain held her chin up in challenge as Mor and Cassian gasped. Lucien raised a brow, unamused. “A game of poker.. Whoever wins gets the couch, the loser takes the bed.. If you have cards, that is.”

Mor was the one who ran back to her bike before coming back with a box of cards. “We carry them around always.”

Lucien scoffed and smirked. “Make it a bit more interesting, Lady.”

“Winner gets the couch and ten bucks while the loser gets the bed and invites everyone for drinks. How's that?” Elain crossed her arms.

Lucien smirked as the two shaked their hands in agreement. “Challenge accepted.” Was all he said. Certainly, he could beat her in poker, right?

He was WRONG. Lucien hand no fucking idea how in God’s name she was beating him in poker. He was running out of options and she was still wearing an expression so unreadable that he had him reconsidering every option and every turn on his head.

“Are there any snacks?” Elain said Rhysand too casually, as if she wasn't even playing. She was smart, he had to admit, it was like she was a fawn in hiding while he was the predator looking for her and yet cant see her. It wasn't long enough before Lucien lost to her when they placed their cards down, she had a full house.

“How?” Was all he could say.

Elain smirked. “You owe me ten bucks and a drink, Fox.~” Lucien almost shuddered when she said that while Cassian and Mor cheered for her. Of course, a bet was a bet. Lucien ended up sleeping on the bed while Elain slept on the couch. Next time, he’ll beat her at poker next time, he thought to himself as he dozed off.

#elucien #elain x lucien #cassian x nesta #nessian #acosf #acotar #romance #modern au #feyre x rhysand #feysand #gwyneth x azriel #gwynriel #motorcycle au

[princesspiratecat]

The Rise and Fall of the Shepard Family Part 18: Winter 1082  

Part 1& Part 2

Part 3 & Part 4

Part 5 & Part 6 & Part 7

Part 8 & Part 9 & Part 10

Part 11 & Part 12 & Part 13

Part 14 & Part 15 & Part 16

Part 17

The little hovel that Gwendolyn now called home was very quiet and very cold. Since it was of such a shabby construction, the wind seemed to howl right through the walls, and the rain pooled up on the floor beneath her feet.

Marcelle’s servant came as promised a few days later, and brought a dog to keep Gwendolyn company. When she realized how grateful she was for the companionship, it was a cold reminder of just how pitiful her life had become. Once she had been on the arm of Frances, being introduced to the upper crusts of Grimsby and eating fine foods, drinking wine. But now on the whim of Marcelle, her only companion around for miles was a dog, and she was scraping buy with stale bread, stinky cheese and whatever else from the Allard pantry that nobody seemed to want. It was humiliating, and she guessed it was Marcelle’s way of letting her know that she was nothing more than rubbish in his eyes. 

When the snow fell, the servant didn’t come for well over a fortnight, and she was forced to search around the property for spare kindling and scraps of wood. On a particularly cold day when her fingers went numb and her stomach grumbled, she collapsed on the floor and sobbed, until the energy drained out of her.

“Why am I being treated this way? Why have I been ignored and silenced?” She couldn’t work out if Frances knew where she was, or if all had been Marcelle’s doing. Had Frances also been sent away? Or had he just accepted everything because going against his father was something he was unable, or unwilling to do? 

She turned all the events that had happened between them over in her mind, and she tried to search for answers, but none came to her. Only one truth really remained when every possibility and scenario had been played out, again and again. She whispered her feelings to the walls of her hovel, which felt like a prison that night.

 “I would have fought to be with you even if you had no money. I would have taken you with nothing but the clothing on your back. I would have taken you any way you came to me, if only you loved me enough to come.”

Her heart ached for him so much. But he was not coming, and the next morning she knew that she only had herself to depend on. His promises of protecting her and loving her been said without thought. He could not protect her, only she could protect herself.  

She forced herself out of bed and into the cold, dry air and focused her mind to sustaining herself. Her father had raised her to be self-reliant after all, and that’s what she would become. 

She built a trap, hoping to ensnare a wild animal with some meat on it’s bones. And luckily she had learned enough about herbs on her rambles with the Allards to distinguish which was poison and which was safe to eat. After several hours she found some mushrooms and berries that weren’t completely frozen. And she chopped down a small tree that had been growing in the yard for later use.

By the time the servant arrived when the snow melted, she knew that she could survive alone if she wished to, and she no longer had to depend on anyone. She went on to make a regular habit of providing for herself by trapping hares and pheasants and collecting whatever she could find to eat. She wasn’t going to be made desperate by such a man as Marcelle. 

She could get through all of it, it was true. But her mind wouldn’t rest until she really knew what had happened, and she was tired of asking herself. It had been three months and still it was the questions that kept her awake at night and gnawed at her more than anything else. Did Frances still love her? Would he still accept her now? Was he going to marry someone else? 

Eventually she decided she would rebel against Marcelle, despite the threats he had made when he had brought her to this little hole. She had nothing to lose that she hadn’t lost already. 

At night she turned her mind to a plan. She made two possible plans in her head. Either she would bribe the servant to get more information about how far  she was from Grimsby, or she would steal his horse and ride out alone, if she could manage it. Both seemed risky, but she knew she had to do something, and information was vital if she were to find him.

Three more days until she could carry out either plan. 

Don’t forsake me just yet. 

#New Foundations #sims 2 stories #sims 2 challenges

[mynameischalie]

Modest Mouse at the Ommegang Brewery in Cooperstown, NY 8/7/21

Over the weekend I decided to double down and see Modest Mouse again in Cooperstown, New York on Saturday night with my brother and his friend. We traveled four hours to get to the show and here’s what happened.

We arrived to a PACKED parking lot outside the brewery and made our way in with our lawn chairs. After standing in a long line we made it into the venue which was basically an open field in Cooperstown that were accompanied by beer tents and food trucks. The Districts, the opening band, were finishing up their set so I decided “Let me get some drinks for my friends and I”. You had to stand in line just to get beer tickets and then get back in another line to redeem them. No worries, until I was handed a 10 oz beer cup which was ridiculous given the length of the lines and the price for beer. Can you say rip off? 

The sky was clear and it was a beautful summer Saturday night! Modest Mouse took the stage at 8 pm and opened with 3rd Planet. I was rocking out accordingly just enjoying the vibe. They then roll into “Fuck This Acid Trip” off their newest record which didn’t do anything for me but whatever. Then the frontman Isacc Brock asked us “Do you guys like electricity?” Well, there’s thunder 20 miles away so we are going to leave for right now and be back later. Modest Mouse leaves and the venue tells us please evacuate the venue and go back to your cars. Mind you THERE IS NO LIGHTNING and the sun is shining. Is this real life? An extremely drunk guy takes the mic and repeats “People for your safffffffftreyyyyyyyy) please goooooooo back to to cars” Everyone in the crowd begins looking at each other and we are being ushered out by the brewery’s help as they said it will just be a 20 minute delay and will resume after 20 minutes.

8:40 comes still delayed, 9:00 comes still delayed, 9:30 still delayed... it started getting really sketchy. I was making small talk with lots of the people there who were extremely nice. There was no transparency from the venue at all. The crowd was growing restless and the energy started rising. Meanwhile, people are starting to leave racing out of the parking lot. Is there not going to be a show? I have a 4 hour drive home! Will I get a refund? All thoughts going through my brain.

10:00 pm no announcement..... 10:15 pm you guys can come back in as the thunder seemed to miss us. ARE YOU F’N SERIOUS?? We come back in and Modest Mouse takes the stage again at 10:30 pm. The sound is really bad you guys, the band stopped multiple times and kept pointing at the mic and the guitars so they obviously were not thrilled with the sound. I did manage to hear “Convienent Parking”  a song they haven’t played since 1997 live so there’s that!

I managed to stay till 11 pm (which was 12 songs in) before I said to my brother and his friend there’s 5,000 people here and we got a 4 hour ride back home. Lets go. (I saw the show in Philly on Thursday which was insanely better) and I left 3/4 into the show.

I can honestly tell you this was the most disorganized concert  I’ve ever intended in my time going to shows and Ommegang gets a big failing grade. Their communication was non exsistent and I would never again return to that venue to see a show. I will say it was memorable in the aspect that when people say “What’s something crazy you saw at a show” I’ll immediately tell them about how a venue had a band stop playing for 2 hours because of “thunder” even though it was sunny and bright outside with not one drop of rain.

I was reading reviews online and people said it took them over an hour to get out of the parking lot leaving the show so at least I avoided that mess, right?

[rezdogsyonder]

Changing

Pairing: Peter Parker x Tall!Reader

Summary: Peter has found his soulmate but does she feel the same? Basically a soulmate au but different

Warnings: kidnapping, drugging,

A/N: Peter is aged up. Also I changed his powers just a tiny bit just one thing and the rest is the same.

This peice is unfinished and it will remain unfinished because I’m leaving tumblr and will not be returning. If you wish to continue this you may.

*********

Fuck. Not right now. Not today.

That’s all you can think as you’re nearly late for your first day as an photographer. It isn’t the first place you wanted to work for but you need the money. Well probably not a “real” photographer. You’re not hired for the job on a regular basis, but for their front page photos of Spider-Man. It’s cool, Spider-Man won’t let anybody else take his photos.

Well, it’s not really your first day but it’s the first day that Jameson is actually considering you as his official Spider-Man photographer. Before you usually would email him asking if he needed more photos and now he is finally now telling you that you’re going to be the official photographer for the weekly Spider-Man pieces.

You have started a blog for the hero and hopefully it will gain traction and maybe you’ll get to make an income from it. But for now you have to sell your photos to the Daily Bugle.

The rent is due Friday and you get a check from the gas station you work at that day, it won’t be enough to cover it though. But with a check after each batch of photos you provide will put you way over the green this pay day.

You’re rushing about your medium sized 1 room apartment. This place was a gem, the only reason this place was as cheap as a studio is because a billboard was directly across from the extremely large windows. Lighting up your entire apartment. It didn’t bother you much, it saved on electricity from never having to turn on the lights and all you needed was blackout curtains in your room.

You are not changing shirts but you squeeze into a pair of black pants. The grey boyfriend cardigan getting tucked in the back, but it doesn’t deter you from running to the bathroom and vigorously brushing your teeth. You’ll have to forgo the entire makeup routine but you have time for foundation and mascara.

Rushing back into your bedroom you pull a pair of socks from the top drawer of your dresser and look at your alarm clock. 9:42. 18minutes till you’re late. Well you know in Jameson’s eyes you are already late but he screams at you no matter what.

Your second shoe is tied, you got your purse and it has your wallet, phone, and keys already. You run out of your room and in the hallway of the complex. Fuck, locking these doors seems to be the longest part of leaving. 3 locks, self installed with the extra long screws. Never needed this much security before but some blind asshole next door seems to always be getting into fights. Like what the fuck, how hard is it to not fight someone, and then he leads them here.

Once the doors are locked and you’re out of the building you look at your phone. 9:44. 16 minutes to go around 2 miles. Well broadway cuts across, so probably less, but anyways you gotta run it. Now you’re not the most fit person, but you are able to push yourself more than what others would think you’d be able to.

Dodging people and avoiding running into the road, you make it to the first turn. Basically a straight shot now, but it seems as though people are wanting to be in your way today. You would love a bike right about now. Though you’d have a really high chance of getting hit by a car. But it’s right about the same risk since you are not stopping at the do not walk signs.

One car almost did hit you, but it braked in time but not without you slapping the hood as you went by. Not on purpose but from loss of balance. Well you probably would have slapped it anyways. Your face burns from the run, and the heat, it is the end of summer but it is still pretty hot out.

Oh god, this is awful, you’re just a more than halfway and you nearly ran into an old man and his wife outside of m&m world.

“Sorry!” You shout back but it’s not very loud and sounds winded. You won’t stop though.

Just a couple more turns. Just two more turns. Just one more. You keep telling yourself that you’re almost there, legs straining the muscles from the over exertion.

You get into the building and run to the elevator. You know you probably look unprofessional right about now but you don’t care. You just need to catch your breath.

You press the right floor and dig through your purse. The small mirror being a lifesaver as of recently, since being late is seeming to become a common ovccurance. You pat your forehead with the sleeve of your cardigan. You don’t look too bad, but not the best. You check the time, 9:58. Not bad, you’ll be just 1 minute early. The elevator ride giving you just enough time to breath properly.

The elevator doors open to the busy floor, and you go over to Jameson’s assistant, not even reaching her desk before she points her pen behind her to his office.

“L/N!” He immediately shouts, “Where are those photos?” He is still looking out the window behind his desk.

“Right here sir,” you pull the envelope out of your purse holding it out for him to take it. Which he does, ripping the lip of the envelope and begins examining your photos.”

“850. Tell Betty on your way out.” He plops you’re photos on his desk.

“850? That’s not my rate, there are 12 photos there.”

“These just aren’t worth your usual rate. 850.” He argues back, you’ve seen this before, had you been any smaller or even sitting he would have put his hands on his desk and leaned towards you to seem intimidating, but right now he looks like a child with his hands balled at his side.

“65 per photo or I go to The Post.” You won’t back down. That’s nearly a thousand, and you don’t want to let it go, even if it is less than 200 more than what he offered but you need it.

He stares at you, he’s turning red now in the ears. You collect your photos calling his bluff.

“Fine,” he grumbles, he presses a button on the small speaker on his desk, “Betty, write out a check for L/N for 975.” He released the button and you put the photos down. “Get out of here, she’ll call when we have another piece.”

“You’re a peach,” you smiled as you back out of his office. “Hey Betty, how’re you doing this week?”

“Just fine, but his wife wants me to control his anger as soon as his meds are sorted. Not looking forward to that.” She finishes filling out the check on her computor, and with one last click that is so familiar to you now, you know she printed it.

“Jesus, I do not want to be here for that.” You step back four steps to the printer and rip off the receipt at the bottom that she needs to keep and hand it to her. “Good luck, because you will need it. Thanks, see you next week!” You wave bye as the doors close.

Letting out a sigh of relief, and tucking your check into your wallet. You’re glad you won’t have to worry anymore. With this check you’ll have four or five hundred more than you’ll need for rent, meaning you won’t have to scrape by for grocerys.

You better hurry though, you have an hour till your next shift at the gas station and you still need a shower.

**********

The hours are going by slowly, with few customers to keep you distracted. Just 4 more hours and you get to call it a night. It has already been 6 hours since you clocked in and there had only been a handful of customers, making the day uncharacteristically slow.

Your phone begins vibrating on the small fridge below the counter, the shift managers name on the display screen. Seeing as there’s no customers you think it is fine to answer.

“Hello? Debby?” You greet subconciously.

“Y/N I have some bad news.” She pauses, “the person who is supposed to relieve you is refusing to come in. She quit.”

“What am I supposed to do? I’ve been here since 11:30, I don’t think it’s allowed for me to work past 1. Wasn’t her shift supposed to last till 8?”

“Yes I know but you are legally allowed to work till 4:30, and that is when I’ll take over because I cannot find another person to cover her shift. It’s only alright because I’m switching your shift tomorrow with Alex and you’ll have the day off to recuperate. Then it’s your usual day off the next so I think that’s enough time to get back to normal.”

“So I’m leaving at 4:30?” Disbelief evident in your voice.

“Yes, I’m sorry, I would get there now but John doesn’t come home until late tonight because he took the graveyard shift at his job and I can’t leave J.C. alone.”

“Yeah I understand, family comes first.”

“Thank you, you’re the best. See ya later.”

“Yeah, see you.”

You put down your phone and mentally prepare yourself for another 11 hours.

**********

Three red bulls, and a seasonal pumpkin spice coffee from the dispenser and it was almost midnight.

Many more customers has came in after the call, the universe seemingly wanting to tire you out further. Then it began slowing down again after 9. The time you were supposed to be going home if Patricia didn’t fucking refuse to come in.

It was about that time that a young man came in, wearing a dark suit but without the blazer. Sleeves rolled up to his elbows. Light brown hair and pale skin, he looked breathtaking. He quickly rounds to the back grabbing three of the big bottles of water.

“Just these for me...” he trails off as he sniffs, then he looks up and makes eye contact with you.

You two are staring at each other for a few seconds, his stare becoming unbearable and you look away.

“Ok sir... that’ll be 5.97.” You still feel his gaze. Refusing to look up, you bag his things. You hear his card slide through the machine.

“Thank you sir, have a nice night.”

“Yeah... you too.” And with that he was gone. Leaving you to think about this stranger for the rest of your shift.

**********

As promised, Debbie came at 4:30. You left to walk home. It was nice living basically across the street from your work. A short walk, but you still felt a sense of unease.

Looking all around you, you don’t spot any suspicious people. Not even one heading in the same direction as you. You let out a small sigh as you cross the road. But it does nothing to calm your nerves.

You’re trying not to seem panicked as you try to get through the door to your building but it might be obvious with how you’re shaking.

Past the door you let go if your breath that you didn’t know you were holding. Finally able to calm down. You walked to apartment, using the elevator instead of the stairs.

Once at your door your heart beat seems to have gone back to normal, but before you even put your key in the door you feel the hairs at the back of your neck stand up. You don’t know what it is, maybe it’s just a chill.

Unlocking all the locks you go inside, greeted by the bright pink fluorescent lights. You shut the door behind you and drop your bag on the floor. Too tired to care. Moving to go into your room, knowing that you’re not going to change into pajamas either.

Well probably take of the pants. Yeah, jeans are never comfy.

Shoes kicked off, pants off, bra off with some difficulty from your long sleeves, blankets pulled back and you’re ready for bed. You’re getting in when you hear a creek in the living room, but you don’t see anyone so it’s maybe the upstairs neighbours.

You turn around once more to lay down and you feel a pinprick at your neck. You slump over and you feel hands at your shoulders, picking you up in their arms.

Eyes won’t open, and you are quickly losing consciousness.

“Shh, you’re safe with me.”

*********

Your head is pounding, that’s what wakes you up. You still feel groggy and it makes your eyelids feel incredibly heavy. You want to sleep for more but your eyes keep fighting to open.

Once they do you are met with a room that is not your own. Everything is white, except the headboard which is a light grey, matching the bedside table. You look around, about 6 feet from the foot of the bad is a back door and there’s a bathroom to the left of the bed with the door wide open.

You run to the closed door, you grasp the handle but you get a head rush and are unable to turn the handle for a good 5 seconds. It’s no use though, the door was locked, and it doesn’t seem like a regular lock. It seems more advanced, it’s a regular handle but it’s warm, and doesn’t have any keyhole. It’s also not as big as a hotel handle, like the ones with the scanners. Irrelevant, but your mind is running a million miles an hour and you’re trying really hard to not panic.

You realize that you aren’t wearing your pants but a pair of sweats were at the edge of the king bed. You quickly pull them on. Your kidnapper has already seen your ass, but it’s a little bit comforting. Your bladder is full and it is more apparent now than a couple minutes ago.

They aren’t here yet, better be quick. You half jog into the bathroom it has a large sink and a nice looking shower, but you don’t want to use it due to there being no lock on the bathroom door and the shower door is glass. Not even one of those blurred glass doors, it is crystal clear.

You had already peed and we’re washing your hands when you hear a small beep and the locks opening. You’re drying your hands when you hear a knock at the door. You don’t answer.

Another knock, you stared at the door, a low sigh is heard and the door swings open.

It was the man from last night, except now he was covering his eyes with his hand.

“I swear I’m not looking but please come out right now.”

“... alright.” You’re voice is a little rough and just above a whisper.

“Thank you.” He turned around leaving the door open and you follow.

“Come with me.” he waves his hand over the lock and the beep is heard again.

He leads you through the door into a long hallway, when he turned to the left so did you. There’s no point in running when he would catch you in less than 2 seconds.

You pass by 4 doors, one on your left and three on your right. The fifth door on the right you entered and it was an office.

“Sit.” And you did, he sat behind the large desk and leaned forward with his elbows on it. “I need to tell you something that would be hard to hear. Hell, hard to believe, but just know that everything I’m telling you is true.”

You nodded when he paused and looked at you. You felt so out of place and uncomfortable. Heart beating so fast and hard, it feels as though it’s bursting out of your chest. Your hands slightly shaking and feet tapping where you sat on the edge of this obviously expensive chair.

“I’m going to be frank with you alright? You are my soulmate.”

You freeze, “wait... what?” You didnt believe it, he was right. He’s crazy. Soulmates were a rare thing in this world. How would he know? He only knew you for 5 seconds so why does he know? Why would he take you?

“We are soulmates. I felt it when I first met eyes with you, I know that you did too. I took you here because, to put it simply, you would be safe. There are many people after me and if they learned of your existsence they would find you and use you against me.”

“H-how do I know your not lying?” You stare at the lines in the wood of his desk, refusing to look up. When you look him in the eyes you feel the same pull that you did back at the gas station. You hear rustling and you glance up for just a second, then you look back when you realize it’s just his arm that he wants you to look at.

He begins rolling his sleeves like the way you saw last night. Or was it even still the next day? You don’t know. Not seeing any clock or any windows since you were at your home.

Beautiful lines are spread across his forearm and you realize it wasn’t there before. “Can you look at your arm?” His voice is gentle, like he’s trying to be comforting.

You stare at his arm as you pull your sleeve up, then you look down at a blank arm. You pull up your other sleeve just as roughly and see the same tattoo that he has. You touch it gently as though it’ll smear if you are as rough as you were two seconds ago.

“Mine showed up a little after I stepped out of that store. I guess you didn’t notice yours.” You rub at yours and it won’t come off, and the skin isn’t raised as though you have a regular tattoo.

“What does this mean?”

“This means that you are now mine.” You feel tears welling in your eyes.

“So I can’t go home?”

“No, and some things are going to change.” You look at him wide eyed, fearful for the changes that he has in mind.

“So I’m sure you have heard of the powered people of New York, and I am telling you that I am one of them. Not only that, but I am a member of the avengers.” He pauses, you feel his eyes on you and you can only assume he is trying to gauge your reaction. “But I didn’t achieve my abilities through government testing or anything of the sort. I was bit by a mutant spider and I gained the spiders abilities.”

“You’re... Spider-Man?”

“That’s right. Now that you’re here, I will have to give you the same abilities I have so that we will be on equal grounds.”

“How are you going to do that?” You look up at his face.

“I will bite you of course.”

#avengers #marvel #avengers fic #marvel fic #peter #peter parker #spiderman #soulmates #soulmate au #dark!peter #dark!peter parker #dark!peter x reader #dark fic #dark fandom #dark fanfiction

[daleisgreat]

Speed

Today’s entry will mark the first official 4K home video release I am writing about. I already own a few other 4K UHDs, and a couple of months ago, I watched my first 4K video at home with 2001’s The Fast and the Furious. However, I already covered that movie’s BluRay release here several years ago, so I will not be dedicating another entry for it, other than to say that the 4K upgrade pops and makes it look like a new release. Today’s entry is for 1994’s Speed (trailer). Before diving into this movie, I noticed one of the tracks from this film’s score repeatedly used throughout sounds awfully like one of the main themes I primarily associated with the Metal Gear Solid franchise. I have no idea if this was pointed out before, and I just overlooked it all these years, or maybe I am grasping at straws. Click or press here to take a listen and decide for yourself. 1994 was a hell of a year for Hollywood movies primarily transpiring from a highway with The Chase, Speed, and the OJ Simpson Bronco chase….oh wait (although I highly recommend the ESPN 30 for 30 on it, simply titled: June 17th 1994). The majority of Speed has a straightforward premise: serial bomber and local madman Howard Payne (Dennis Hopper) planted a bomb on a bus rigged to explode once the bus drops below 55 miles per hour. Police officer Jack Traven (Keanu Reeves) is alerted to this by the bomber himself to exact revenge on Traven after successfully rescuing hostages from an elevator Payne armed at the beginning of the film.

From there, for the middle hour of this nearly two-hour film, the action almost entirely takes place on the bus. Traven makes a grand entrance onto the bus by commandeering a Jaguar and having its owner (Glenn Plummer) take the wheel so Traven could heroically leap onto the bus and save the day. It would not be that easy of a rescue mission as Payne has eyes on the bus, and Traven has to play by his rules and get him his $3 million ransom to disarm the bus. Without question, the middle hour on the bus is the best part of the film. The opening half-hour is an excellent appetizer with the elevator hostage crisis that Traven and his partner, Harry (Jeff Daniels), successfully foil. However, once the action shifts to the bus is when Speed takes off. Shortly after taking control of the bus, one of the passengers freaks and inadvertently shoots the bus driver, and a fellow passenger, Annie (Sandra Bullock), takes over the wheel. Throughout the film, Annie and Traven have wonderful chemistry, and I could not help but root for the duo throughout. Every couple of minutes, there is a new potential conflict to overcome to keep the bus going over 55mph. The film wisely peppers in brief dialog exchanges to let the movie breathe just enough before the next hurdle makes itself present.

The film's standout moment is the major obstacle for the bus to overcome when it encounters a stretch of unavoidable highway under construction and missing a hearty chunk of the road. Traven’s solution is that since that stretch of a road is on an incline, they may clear that gap if they build up enough speed! That epic stunt hits all the right notes, and I got goosebumps all over again re-watching it, and odds are, I bet you did too if you have seen this movie. If you have not, then watch this scene and see for yourself by click or pressing here. A lot of the critical discussion in the aftermath of this movie was if that jump was realistically possible. The best thing I can do is to compare it to another film, Road Trip, which is likely a better indicator of what could happen when attempting such a feat. Once the middle bus portion of the film is over, there are still about 20 minutes left where Traven tracks and chases down Payne in a subway station. The movie felt over once the bus portion had such a satisfying conclusion that it almost feels wrong to keep sticking with the film by this point, but I recommend you do since there is a satisfying payoff in the form of Payne’s demise. I have to share a story now when I first saw this film at around 13 or 14 on VHS. My dad’s VCR had what seemed to me at the time was a revolutionary feature where if I kept pressing the pause button repeatedly, it would slowly, frame-by-frame, play the film in super slow-motion. At that age, I thought this was a fantastic way to get the most out of the biggest stunts in action scenes. My favorite moment exploiting this feature was seeing Traven and Payne wrestle around on the top of a subway train until Payne was not watching his field of vision, and a warning light lead to his sudden beheading. I slow-motion replayed that sequence countless times in my awkward, early teenage years. Suffice it to say, Hopper plays the out-of-his-mind bomber perfectly, going so far as to make sure he receives his appropriate cinematic comeuppance.

The director ensures the many passengers on the bus maximized their minutes to the point I where it feels like you are right there with them!

Two audio commentaries are the only extra features of the 4K disc in this 4K/BluRay combo pack. One is with the director, Jan de Bont, and the other is with producer Mark Gordon and writer Graham Yost. Props are to whoever decided to subtitle the commentary tracks. I very much appreciate it! I first started to bounce back and forth between the two commentary tracks, but Bont was way too relaxed and had too many pauses to hold my attention, and I finished up with his track within five minutes. However, Yost and Gordon are very much engaged from beginning to end and have fun cracking jokes and sharing memories throughout. Some quick takeaways I got from them were how they wanted to film a major scene outside of a sports arena, dealing with critics poking holes at how unrealistic their stunts were, and how watching the movie felt very different at the time of the commentary recording just two months after 9/11. The BluRay disc contains the remainder of the bonus features. Inside Speed is a four-part feature lasting just under an hour breaking down the visual effects, stunts, and location sequences, but half of it also contains an HBO First Look special hosted by Dennis Hopper that hits all the right kinds of cheesy mid-90s EPK nostalgia that it is worth checking out. Aside from 12 minutes of extended scenes and a Billy Idol music video that seems totally off base with the tempo of the film, there are a couple of Action Sequences mini-features breaking down some of the stunts. I highly recommend watching the one dissecting how they did the bus jump, as it shows raw footage of what really happened when they shot it, and showed footage of some of the specific safety measures they instilled to make that stunt as safe as possible and had some eye-opening interviews with the stunt driver before and after.

After watching that old VHS copy nearly a dozen times, Speed wound up being one of my favorite action films I got burnt out early on and never bothered upgrading to a DVD or standalone BluRay. Watching it again in 4K all these years later breathed new life into it for me. I am not an expert at breaking down video quality by any means, but watching the 4K disc on my 4KTV gave the impression of this having far more current production values. The editors somehow managed to remove all the old film grain defects for a smooth 4K upgrade. If you have not seen Speed yet, then it has everything you could want out of a mid-90s action movie with explosions, gripping thrills and stunts, dramatic rescues, plenty of zinger one-liners…..and a Billy Idol theme song. Pardon me while I attempt my best Dennis Hopper impression here, “Pop quiz, hotshot, which 1994 blockbuster that takes place primarily on a bus is a perfect candidate for beer and popcorn movie night at home?” Other Random Backlog Movie Blogs 3 12 Angry Men (1957) 12 Rounds 3: Lockdown 21 Jump Street The Accountant Angry Video Game Nerd: The Movie Atari: Game Over The Avengers: Age of Ultron The Avengers: Endgame The Avengers: Infinity War Batman: The Dark Knight Rises Batman: The Killing Joke Batman: Mask of the Phantasm Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice Bounty Hunters Cabin in the Woods Captain America: Civil War Captain America: The First Avenger Captain America: The Winter Soldier Christmas Eve The Clapper Clash of the Titans (1981) Clint Eastwood 11-pack Special The Condemned 2 Countdown Creed I & II Deck the Halls Detroit Rock City Die Hard Dirty Work Dredd The Eliminators The Equalizer Faster Fast and Furious I-VIII Field of Dreams Fight Club The Fighter For Love of the Game Good Will Hunting Gravity Grunt: The Wrestling Movie Guardians of the Galaxy Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2 Hell Comes to Frogtown Hercules: Reborn Hitman I Like to Hurt People Indiana Jones 1-4 Inglourious Basterds Ink The Interrogation Interstellar Jay and Silent Bob Reboot Jobs Joy Ride 1-3 Justice League (2017 Whedon Cut) Last Action Hero Major League Mallrats Man of Steel Man on the Moon Man vs Snake Marine 3-6 Merry Friggin Christmas Metallica: Some Kind of Monster Mortal Kombat Mortal Kombat Legends: Scorpions Revenge National Treasure National Treasure: Book of Secrets Nintendo Quest Not for Resale Old Joy Payback (Director’s Cut) Pulp Fiction The Punisher (1989) The Ref The Replacements Reservoir Dogs Rocky I-VIII Running Films Part 1 Running Films Part 2 San Andreas ScoobyDoo Wrestlemania Mystery Scott Pilgrim vs the World The Secret Life of Walter Mitty Shoot em Up Slacker Skyscraper Small Town Santa Steve Jobs Source Code Star Trek I-XIII Sully Take Me Home Tonight TMNT Trauma Center The Tooth Fairy 1 & 2 UHF Veronica Mars Vision Quest The War Wild The Wizard Wonder Woman The Wrestler (2008) X-Men: Apocalypse X-Men: Days of Future Past

#random movie #speed #keanu reeves #Sandra Bullock #jeff daniels #dennis hopper #glenn plummer #jan de bont

[haikyuu-philia]

Can we have a Tsukki scenario where the reader is just as sarcastic as him? I mostly see the reader being overly sensitive and stuff. Also, I'm new here and look forward to reading your works

This ended up being longer than it was supposed to, but now it’s too late anyways XD

As in introverted and overly polite person, I had my struggles writing two sarcastic people at the same time. Yet, here we are, with this piece filled with not-so classical romance!

Also a very late welcome to the blog - I’m happy to have you here :3

Another Love Language | A Tsukishima x fem! Reader Scenario

Words: 1336

-----

People were gathered all over the place. Even though this hall had been reserved for participating teams only, there was nearly no empty spot to be found. Boys and girls wearing jerseys in all colours of the rainbow had taken over, creating a noise by simply talking to each other that could be compared to an earthquake. 

As most of his own teammates had been awake way too early this morning, Tsukishima was now able to call himself one of the few lucky ones with an actual corner to sit at. He taped his fingers in advance while Yamaguchi tried not to stare at the crowd, which would sent his heart rate up to unknown heights.

Nishinoya and Tanaka had left several minutes ago to meet some friend from a girls’ team. With every announcement Asahi seemed more pale, Kageyama fiddled with his fingers to properly stretch them. The trio of Daichi, Sugawara and Ennoshita was casually chatting with each other. And Hinata was absolutely nowhere to be seen, probably causing a ruckus at the toilettes as usual. 

What a time to be a member of Karasuno.

A glance at his phone told Tsukishima that the first match would start in an hour. So the warm-up would be due in about thirty minutes. Actually he had been checking his messages, but nothing new popped up in his inbox. 

Positively speaking this meant that Akiteru had found his way to Tokyo without any issues and was most likely sitting at his assigned seat by now. Tsukishima rested his back against the wall as he starred at his feet. 

The room might be crowded and loud, but he still managed to understand many parts of different conversations. Some people were standing pretty close to the area of his team anyways, closer than he appreciated. He rolled his eyes at their behaviour. 

„Aren’t these boys from Karasuno? The team that was known as the fallen crows?“ He heard a boy whisper from a few meters away.

Not only had this guy attracted Tsukishima’s attention, seemingly the rest of his teammates was listening as well. No one made eye contact as the stranger continued to speak without noticing that the victims of his theories were already planning their comeback. 

„Do you really think that they are strong enough to beat someone here?“

In absolute sync all member of Karasuno present were looking up to stare at the culprit with a blank expression on their faces. Once he had understood that their eyes were directed towards him, he froze immediately. He broke out of his paralysis by jumping when another person approached him from behind.

„Yeah, because I would totally think of the team that kicked Shiratorizawa, the current champion, out off the competition as weak," a female voice commented on his question from earlier. 

Yamaguchi and Tsukishima changed their mimics by the time the sarcastic remarks had reached their ears. The latter couldn’t decide whether to sigh or to hold his breath, though a smirk appeared on his face nevertheless. Of course he would recognise the voice of his own girlfriend from miles away or in the middle of a thousand people. 

Supporting his upper body with his hand he rose from his place, becoming the target of his team members’ curiosity.

In the meantime the boy, who had been called out by you, had retreated into the ocean of unknown faces. Obviously yours stood out even more to him. On the contrary spotting a tall blond guy in a black-orange jersey hadn’t been the hardest task for you to fulfil either.

When Tsukishima and you walked towards each other, the eyes of the other Karasuno players were practically pinned to your boyfriend’s back. Only Yamaguchi happened to know what exactly they were witnessing. For the rest it looked like the first-year approached a random girl who had just roasted someone for them.

„I thought I told you that you didn’t have to come,“ he said with one of his eyebrows raised. „What are you doing here?“

„Playing soccer, of course,“ you shot back with a grin wrinkling your cheeks.

So far you had only seen him in his volleyball attire on pictures, not in reality. On the ride to the stadium his older brother Akiteru had shown you plenty of them and had been blabbering endlessly about Kei’s career as a middle blocker. 

But nothing could have prepared you for the moment when you actually got to see him in his jersey. Number 11 of Karasuno, a regular. 

„Hellooooooo Tsukishima! Would you mind to introduce us to this lovely girl you are talking to?“

Suddenly Sugawara had popped up next to the two of you, starling your boyfriend for the minority of a second. Not much to Tsukishima’s surprise Daichi stood right behind the setter, eyeing you with an innocent smile. 

„Ah, you must be Kei's teammates. Nice to meet you! I won’t occupy him for long, just making sure that he is in usually high spirits.“ You proceeded with telling them your name, school and grade. 

After that you looked at your boyfriend to finish your introduction as you certainly didn’t know how much his team was involved in his love life. 

„She is my stalker in disguise of a fan," he responded to your nonverbal plea.

A chuckle left your mouth while you crossed your arms in front of your chest and leaned onto your lamppost of a significant other. Even with your body putting weight on him, he didn’t move in inch. So you stood securely.

„Nah, I am more of his personal reminder that his heart of stone is able to feel love.“

Sugawara and Daichi introduced themselves, exchanging glances with one another in between sending approving looks your way. Together with you Tsukishima returned to his former resting spot where Yamaguchi greeted you as well. Out of the Karasuno bunch he had been the only person to officially have been told about the change of his best friend’s relationship status.

Though, Sugawara had to admit that he had indeed had a suspicions until today. 

Sitting next to each other with your backs facing the wall, you more or less leaning onto him again, the missing boys of the team returned one by one.

At first Nishinoya and Tanaka did not believe their eyes that a third girl had found their way to them before Tsukishima clicked his tongue at them. They went on with jumping up and down, probably attracting Hinata in the end. 

Not less excited, the orange-haired boy had sparkles in his eyes as he cooed, „I didn’t know you had a girlfriend, Tsukishima! Please teach me your methods, please, PLEASE!“ 

Time went by in the speed of a spiked volleyball, so the announcement to prepare for the first match came faster than expected. Several parts of the crowd inside the room started moving, gathering or walking out to the gym already. 

Tsukishima put on his sports glasses, you did your best to distract Yamaguchi from the upcoming adrenaline. Not that it really worked, but internally he was glad to have someone that was talking to him about something else than facing strong teams. In this case how your boyfriend would look stunning in glasses with a pink frame.

„You should go back to your seat. Akiteru is probably waiting for you,“ he advised you once Coach Ukai had told the team to get together. 

Now was your moment to leave - In the battles he was about to fight on court you couldn’t do anything but watch from afar. For sure you were intending to clap and scream until your hands and throat would be sore, maybe annoying a specific middle blocker of Karasuno in the process.

One last time Tsukishima turned around to send you off.

„Break a finger, Kei!“

He gave you a thumbs up, the corners of his lips slightly poking towards the ceiling. Then he switched back to his serious mode in order to crush their opponents. 

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Posted: April 9th 2020 | Requests: Open | Match-ups: Closed

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